Portastatic November 21, 2006

Portastatic is the solo project of Mac McCaughan, who is also known for his work in Superchunk and as co-owner of Merge Records. Started in the early 90s as a lo-fi side project and musical foil to Superchunk, over the years, Portastatic has evolved into a credible artistic entity of its own. A showcase for McCaughans expansive songwriting skills and interests, the last few Portastatic recordings have included an instrumental film score (Looking For Leonard, 2001), a collection of Brazilian tropicalia covers (De Mel, De Melão, 2000), and a collaboration with two of the Chicago jazz-scenes most respected members, Ken Vandermark and Tim Mulvena (A Perfect Little Door, 2001). Hows that for diversity and range?

Norfolk & Western
Norfolk and Western is an indie folk/rock band from Portland, Oregon that includes as part of its stage set-up and sound ensemble a turn-of the-century Victrola Grammaphone. The band consists of core members and couple Adam Selzer (band founder, guitar, lead vocals) and Rachel Blumberg (drums, keyboards, backing vocals) with rotating cast members Tony Moreno (guitar, banjo, accordion, found sounds), Amanda Lawrence (viola), Dave Depper (bass, vocals, piano), Cory Gray (trumpet, piano), and Peter Broderick (violin, banjo, saw, mandolin, theramin, and accordion). Norfolk and Western began as the recording project of Adam with friends including M.Ward playing various instruments, and evolved over time to become the fully orchestrated band it is today. In the early days Norfolk and Western's sound was whispery, intimate, elegant folk music laced with creaky old instruments and atmospheric sound collages.

Corrina Repp
A voice this warm, this intimate, this emotive is a rare occurrence. Few singers ever possess the strength and beauty that comes so naturally to Corrina Repp. A gifted vocalist, Corrina ia also an innovative guitarist whose atmospheric playing is a perfect foil for her gorgeous singing. She can also breathe fire.

Admission is $8.00

Official Website: http://www.theflyinganvil.com