Hideout Block Party, Friday

One of my favorite musical events of the year - the Hideout Block Party & Onion A.V. Fest - officially ended summer and welcomed fall in Chicago a few weeks ago. The two-day event might be the most chill of all the city's festivals, and for that reason alone I love it. There's one stage, great beer, nice people, and always a killer lineup. On Friday, I got there in time to catch The Handsome Family (perhaps you're familiar with them from True Detective), Hamilton Leithauser (formerly of The Walkmen), and indie darlings Death Cab for Cutie. My favorite of the three was Hamilton (pictured above), who never seems to disappoint me live. For more of my photos, head over to Do312.

It was a stormy Friday. 

The Handsome Family 

The rainy stage didn't stop Hamilton Leithauser and co.

Death Cab for Cutie closed out the first night of the fest. 

It was one of Chris Walla's final performances with the band.  

Stay tuned for Saturday photos!

Arcade Fire, Devo and Dan Deacon

Last month I photographed one of my favorite live bands, Arcade Fire, at the United Center for one of the final shows of their massive, internationally-acclaimed "Reflektor" tour. They brought Devo and Dan Deacon along with them, both of whom are excellent entertainers in their own right. More photos, as well as a brief recap I wrote about the night, can be seen/read over at The Vinyl District. 

Devo, crackin' that whip.

Dan Deacon staged himself in the middle of the crowd and proceeded to curate a full-on dance party for his set. 

Arcade Fire forever!!