Sound check: Bush makes an event of album-release livestream; West Fest Chicago goes virtual
Bush's big show
Gavin Rossdale and '90s alternative rock-radio anchor Bush teased the new album, “The Kingdom,” a few months ago with the release of “Flowers on a Grave.” But this weekend it's time for the grand unveiling. And Bush is playing it up. Taking the stage for what is being billed as a “full-production virtual arena show,” the band will celebrate the release of the new album with a free, livestreaming gig. Catch all the post-grunge heat — along with a special purchase price for the new album during the concert — at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at bushofficial.com. And did I mention it was free?
Virtual West Fest Chicago
West Fest Chicago is normally a hot ticket for catching area music, with a lineup dedicated to programming by the Empty Bottle and one for the popular House DJ Stage. But organizers aren't letting the pandemic get them down. Sure, the crowds can't gather, but West Fest Chicago lives on through virtual amenities this summer. Now through next Wednesday, July 22, West Fest will be offering some of the elements you've come to enjoy, but from a distance. Peruse the virtual vendor portal for specials on merchandise and food from some of your favorite West Town small businesses. In lieu of Pet Fest, Canine Crews will provide fun dog videos between musical sets and present a midday puppy fix on the @WestFestChicago Instagram page at noon Thursday, July 16, and Tuesday, July 21. And don't forget the music! The virtual version of the fest offers two nights of streaming artists: Empty Bottle Presents Ric Wilson, Automatic, Choir Boy and Mother Nature from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 17. The Chicago House DJ Stage livestream presents Mark Farina, Diz, DJ Heather and John Simmons from 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 18. Proceeds from the fest ($10 suggested donation) go to the West Town Chamber of Commerce, Empty Bottle Presents and My Block My Hood My City. For details, visit westtownchamber.org.
Truck stops
Earlier this summer, Toronzo Cannon had two FitzGerald's shows postponed for circumstances outside his (and the venue's) control. Let's hope the Chicago blues legend can make this third one stick as he settles into the pickup truck for FitzGerald's Community Truck Concert series. The show is slated for 3-5 p.m. Saturday, July 18, somewhere in the north Oak Park area (TBA closer to the show), but it can also be streamed live at the FitzGerald's Facebook page.
Side Street's battle
Side Street Studio Art's summerlong Battle of the Bands is nearing the finals as Walrus Filter and Midsummer are up for votes in the penultimate challenge in the preliminary round. Visit sidestreetstudioarts.com/battleofthebands to hear the contenders and pick your favorite.
• Brian Shamie is a Daily Herald multiplatform editor and local music junkie. Email him at bshamie@dailyherald.com, find him on Facebook or follow him on Twitter (@thatshamieguy) or Instagram (@chicagosoundcheck). Brian also keeps tabs on the Chicago-area music scene at chicagosoundcheck.com.