EMMIE’s Lollapalooza Aftershow Recommendations
The Head and The Heart photographed by Morgan Winston
WORDS BY MORGAN WINSTON, PHOTO EDITOR (2017)
This year Lollapalooza’s official aftershows boast more than 55 performances with over 110 featured artists. Spread throughout the venues in downtown Chicago, these shows will allow for pass-less fans and those who couldn’t make it to all of the overlapping sets to see their favorite bands. With so many shows to choose from, though, deciding which ones to go to can be overwhelming. Below is our list of aftershow recommendations.
→ Wednesday, August 2nd: Temples w/ Declan McKenna
As one of the few aftershows to still have tickets available, this U.K-powered show is sure to impress. We included opener Declan McKenna on our list of “Top Ten Underdog Acts” for this year’s fest, and here’s another chance to catch his music. Temples have evolved quite a bit since the release of their debut album Sun Structures in 2014. The production on the new record is infinitely better and their psychedelic rock should make for a wonderful aftershow.
→ Thursday, August 3rd: Whitney w/ Kevin Devine
Chicago’s own Whitney is sure to be a favorite at Lolla next weekend. I will personally attempt to see them both during the day and at this aftershow at Thalia Hall. Light Upon the Lake has become one of my favorite albums of all time and Julien Ehrlich’s voice haunts me daily (in the best way). After touring throughout 2017, I’m sure this band will be energized to perform in their hometown.
→ Friday, August 4th: The Lemon Twigs w/ Bunny
One of the more coveted aftershow acts is definitely The Lemon Twigs. This partnership of brothers Brian and Michael D’Addario blew up this year after the release of Do Hollywood in late 2016. Their eclectic pop rock is infectious and will pair well with Chicago’s Bunny. Frontwoman Jess Viscius’ haunting voice and softer grunge vibes is sure to mesh well with fans of The Lemon Twigs.
→ Saturday, August 5th: Grouplove w/ 888
Many people who are unaware of the joy that is Grouplove only know their song “Tongue Tied,” but this band has come far since that release back in 2011. Their third studio album Big Mess is a triumph of growth and experience for this band. The lyrics are more refined and the production is a fine-tuned marvel. I’m anxious for this show after hearing about the amazingly chaotic stage presence this band has.
→ Sunday, August 6th: The Head and the Heart w/ The Walters
I am completely hooked on everything that The Head and the Heart has released. Their just plain good folk music is exactly what we all need in this messed up world. Their uplifting vibes will be a great end to the craziness of the festival. They have also pulled an unsigned Chicago band to open for them. The Walters have found success thus far without a label and are sure to impress at this show.