10,000 Maniacs to headline Eyes to Skies

Alt-rockers 10,000 Maniacs will perform July 2 as part of Lisle's three-day Eyes to the Skies Festival in Community Park, organizers said Tuesday.

Formed in 1981 in Jamestown, New York, the group and its original lead singer, Natalie Merchant, produced hit singles that included "Trouble Me," "These Are Days" and "What's the Matter Here?"

After Merchant left the band in the early '90s, the group continued to record and tour with Mary Ramsey as lead singer. The band will step into the spotlight at 8 p.m. on Eyes' opening night at the festival's main stage, 1825 Short St.

Now in its 33rd year, Eyes to the Skies will be held Thursday through Saturday, July 2-4, and feature hot-air balloons, music on two stages, two food courts, a craft fair, three nights of fireworks and a children's area. Carnival rides will be available from July 1 through 5 at the park.

General admission is $8 and includes all live music. For details, call (630) 541-6095 or visit www.eyestotheskies.org.