photo: courtesy rep3
Live on stage at Do Division 2012.
In case you haven’t checked your calendar lately, heads up: It’s almost June. That means the neighborhood summer fest circuit is ready to fire up. Do-Division, one of the premiere editions, provides the opening ceremonies this weekend, taking over 10 blocks of Division Street (from Ashland to Leavitt) in Wicker Park.
Now in its 7th year, 2013 welcomes the first-ever Do-Fashion area with runway presentations showcasing the latest collections from a number of Division Street boutiques. The main attraction though is always the music, and like most other years curators Empty Bottle Presents and Subterranean/House Call Entertainment have pieced together an eclectic lineup of local and national acts. The cost: just a $5 donation.
Here’s our picks for the top 7 can’t-miss acts:
Jeff the Brotherhood
Nashville duo’s latest Hypnotic Nights is a hazy garage rock gem produced by The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach. Brothers Jamin and Jake Orrall honed their craft in Chicago while the former attended Columbia College, adding a ‘90s Million Yen kick to their rock cache. Sunday at 8:45 p.m.
Helado Negro
Brooklyn electronic artist fuses his Ecuadorian culture into three mostly Spanish-speaking albums that are universally enigmatic. His name translates to black ice cream, which is perfect for this dark but sweet treat. Saturday at 4:00 p.m.
Brown Bird
Plato and Eastern European gypsy culture raise the barn on this American gothic duo hailing from Rhode Island. Look for lots of tambourine and open-jawed guitar riffs. Friday at 7:15 p.m.
Tilly and the Wall
A live clog dancer adds to the fun of this spirited indie pop band from Omaha. Spacey classic rock, psychedelic undertones and girl group grit make their show a non-stop pep rally. Saturday at 8:45 p.m.
The Ragtones
If Jim Morrison collaborated with Jack White during The Great Depression, it might hit close to this dark roots rock act from Chicago. Their influences range from civil wars to witch trials, with accompanying film reels for added ambiance. Get there early for this one. Sunday at 3:45 p.m.
Joan of Arc
Seminal Chicago indie rock band rose from the ashes of Cap’n Jazz’s breakup in the mid-‘90s, and founding member Tim Kinsella has been inspired ever since. Their abstract style hasn’t always been the easiest to get along with but with 15 albums of material, there’s a lot to love in this set. Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Torche
Heavy feedback and padded guitar riffs will amplify the night and set the stage for Chicago’s Disappears to headline after. Revered Miami quartet has released three albums that intelligently mix metal, punk and hardcore influences. Friday at 7:00 p.m.
Get the full lineup and schedule here.
The Do-Division Street Fest & Sidewalk Sale runs Friday, May 31 through Sunday, June 2 along Division Street, from Ashland to Leavitt. Hours are: Friday 5-10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 10 p.m. $5 suggested donation.
Selena Fragassi is a contributing music critic for Chicago.