The Chicago Record Report for November 2024 showcases some of the latest local music that has captured the attention of the Reader staff.
Alkilith, Thy Dark Majesty
Zak Kiernan, under his minimalist dungeon-synth project Alkilith, released the EP “Thy Dark Majesty” shortly after organizing the Great Lakes Dungeon Siege in Fort Wayne. The EP exudes a serene solemnity with an antique air, providing a shot of pure ambient bliss.
Blinker, Stinker
Blinker’s new EP features dejected piano ballads and indie rock that reflects on everyday musings. The track “Care” critiques mass consumerism disguised as “retail therapy,” especially fitting for the holiday season.
Cassius Tae, Moments in Desire
Despite releasing his first full-length project in 2015, rapper Cassius Tae’s profile does not match his talent. His new album, “Moments in Desire,” showcases stunning production, gospel influences, and raw lyrics drawn from personal experiences.
Annalee Koehn, Tools of an Unseen Hand
Visual artist Annalee Koehn blends Americana, country, folk, and rootsy styles in her album “Tools of an Unseen Hand.” The album features a unique fusion of traditional and modern sounds, creating a captivating listening experience.
Meth. and See You Next Tuesday, Asymmetrics
A collaborative split release from Meth. and See You Next Tuesday showcases a unique experiment where the bands traded drum tracks to create their own material. The result is an album filled with frantic violence and dense, intense music.
Mother Nature, Caps n Stemz
MCs Klevah and TRUTH, known as Mother Nature, deliver eclectic hip-hop with enlightening beats and empowering lyrics in their EP “Caps n Stemz.” The tracks exude wisdom and charisma, creating a welcoming and inclusive vibe for listeners.
In addition to these releases, November saw the launch of several other local music projects:
– Bleak End aka Bernie Bleak, Sunt Lacrimae Rerum: A Complete Discography
– Bosses, Many Worlds
– Cilic, Cilic
– Kieran Daly, Two Pieces for Fixed Media Pitched Instruments Voice Zero Build
– Double A, Heavy Hitters
– Earthburner, Permanent Dawn
– Ifeanyi Elswith, Gyaltingz
– Ghetto Blaster, Gimme the Good Ol’ Daze
– Graphics, The Great Unconfusing
– Honey Dijon, Cunty
– Kasia, From Kasia, With Love
– Pat Leary, Live at Midnight Tea
– Molder, Catastrophic Reconfiguration
– Ro Moore, Neon Brown
– Morpho, Morpho Season
– Orillia, Orillia
– Pet Peeves, Slapstick in the Birdroom
– Psalm One & Optiks, Is This a Safe Space?
– Silver Abuse, Ruff Kutz 2012-2014
– SiP, Leos Ultras
– The Slaps, Mudglimmer
For live music enthusiasts, upcoming concerts in Chicago are not to be missed. Stay tuned for more updates and recommendations from the Reader staff.
Jamie Ludwig, the associate editor and branded content specialist at the Chicago Reader, curates the latest music releases and concert recommendations. For more information, contact Jamie at jludwig@chicagoreader.com.
