The Chicago Independent Venue League shouldn’t have to push back against the Live Nation handouts in the Lincoln Yards development—but the city doesn’t protect its own treasures.
This free fest is a constellation of international stars—including Afrobeat scion Seun Kuti, rambunctious Cape Verdean accordionist Bitori, and Afro-Venezuelan flame keeper Betsayda Machado.
Other notable shows this weekend include Birds of Avalon at Ronny's, the Vibrators at Reggie's Music Joint, Of Montreal with Janelle Monae at the Riviera Theatre, and Caribou with Emeralds at Metro.
Saturday's jazz marathon features an impressive cast of local players, including Ernest Dawkins, Nicole Mitchell, Willie Pickens, Dana Hall, Robert Irving III, and Dee Alexander.