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James Iha

James Iha hasn’t exactly kept a high profile since the disbandment of the original Smashing Pumpkins lineup in 2002, but the release of Iha’s Look To The Sky earlier this year offered ample proof that the guitarist still has plenty to offer. Going it alone, Iha demonstrates a restrained and meditative songwriting style that stands in stark contrast to the Pumpkins’ amped-up, grunged-out arena rock sound. Iha’s atmospheric soundscapes and overt Brit pop, new wave and indie influences better suit him and, if nothing else, the record will raise a few impressed eyebrows for fans used to watching Iha play second fiddle for so many years. (Appearing at Schubas on November 20) –text: Ryan Bray

Om

Chants and metal and music, Om-my! Get it? Bad jokes aside, these guys had to postpone their initial North American tour but now are ready to take on Chicago for a magically ear-splitting experience. Though Om is often stereotyped as a stoner metal band, they run on much more of a deeper level. They’re theatrical by nature with their most recent album, Advaitic Songs, consisting of hypnotic chants backed by symphonic production (listen to “Addis”), basslines that weigh heavy vibrations on the eardrums (in a good way), and Al Cisneros’ sinister voice. They’ve received a good deal of critical acclaim as of late and it’s easy to see why. So much has gone into Advaitic Songs that to call it “stoner rock” would almost be an insult — unless of course you want to call it that. But you can argue about that after they come into town and blow all the adjectives right out of your mind. (Appearing with Daniel Higgs at Empty Bottle on November 17) –text: Lisa Mrock

Katie Herzig

For an artist who was once so painfully shy that she confined herself to backing vocals and occasional drums, Katie Herzig broke free to center stage as her former band Newcomers Home broke up in 2006 — leaving her to finally take on a solo career. Herzig has gone on to become a surprisingly accomplished artist as “Free My Mind” was one of the most requested tracks on top 10 radio while her music is being used everywhere from commercial advertising to television shows to movie soundtracks. Herzig’s poppy sound still shows some of her bluegrass roots in her writing of recent tracks such as “Make a Noise” or “Wish You Well”, but her true power comes from her ability to make songs with deep memorable words delivered in her wispy, gentle voice that are also danceable (“Hey Na Na”, “Free My Mind”.) Throw in her simple good looks and this is one triple threat we wouldn’t mind tangling with. (Appearing at Schubas on November 16) –text: Jyn Radakovits

Grimble Grumble

Known for their lo-fi psychedelic space rock, Grimble Grumble has been freaking out the Chicago indie scene since the early ‘90s. With a garage rock base and a Pink Floyd rock ’n’ roll soul (the band is named after a Pink Floyd song), this at times bluesy 4-piece plays beautifully composed and serenely cinematic trance music that is wonderfully transportational. It’s a Midwestern answer to sounds similar to Air or Thievery Corporation with a bit more of a jam band rock and roll vibe. With loose compositions that are both uplifting and tranquilizing, Grimble Grumble would be right at home in a Sofia Coppola film as the soundtrack for a break-up that is somehow hip and enlightening without ever getting too painful. Imaginary break-up hipster film soundtrack seekers: Look no further than Grimble Grumble. (Appearing with Whales at Empty Bottle on November 15) –text: Abby Yemm

James Iha

Om

Katie Herzig

Grimble Grumble

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