I first discovered the avant-garde rock band Extra Life in the late 2000s when Dan Friel, then of Parts & Labor, recommended their set at a small Brooklyn festival. I was immediately struck by the commanding presence of Extra Life’s front man, Charlie Looker, who delivered solemn vocals and medieval melodic cadences with a muscular intensity that reminded me of a cantor at my childhood synagogue. Despite the sparse performance I witnessed, with only Looker on guitar accompanied by a violinist, I was intrigued to explore their recorded music further.
Extra Life’s sound is anchored by a heavy trio of electric guitar, bass, and drums, characterized by unpredictable spasms and odd meters that complement Looker’s vocal acrobatics. Their recent fifth album, “The Sacred Vowel” (Last Things), sees the band slightly softening their sound, incorporating chamber-music warmth into their austere dirges with the addition of piano parts by Looker and violin and viola arrangements by Timba Harris of Secret Chiefs 3. The epic title track showcases Harris’s sensitive strings, adding a dramatic sweep to the lurching rhythms that feels expansive enough to accommodate an entire orchestra.
Extra Life will be performing alongside Anatomy of Habit and Imelda Marcos at Beat Kitchen on Tuesday, November 12th at 8 PM. Tickets are priced at $15 for 17 and older.
In addition to their upcoming performance, Extra Life has garnered attention for their innovative approach to art-rock, blending elements of classical music with avant-garde rock to create a unique and captivating sound. Their ability to seamlessly weave together intricate melodies and complex rhythms has earned them a dedicated following in the music scene.
As a journalist covering music, I have had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of Chicago’s music scene firsthand. From underground indie bands to established artists, the city’s vibrant music community continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Extra Life’s upcoming performance at Beat Kitchen is just one example of the diverse and dynamic talent that Chicago has to offer.
For music enthusiasts looking to expand their horizons and explore new sounds, Extra Life’s performance is not to be missed. With their genre-defying approach to music and dynamic live shows, they are sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the innovative art-rock sound of Extra Life live in concert.
