As you may have heard, Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters are performing Friday, July 12th at the Petrillo Music Shell during the Taste of Chicago.
Here are 10 reasons why you should be there.
1. A Band of Diverse Musical Backgrounds
I think it’s safe to say most people are a bit familiar with Robert Plant, but the Sensational Space Shifters bring a number of diverse musical backgrounds to the table that make not only for a memorable show, but a quality one too. With musicians like Britpop guitarist Liam “Skin” Tyson, West African percussion-influenced drummer Dave Smith, and Gambian fiddler Juldeh Camara (only three of the ten members), this performance will be the outcome of a number of different inspirations and influences throughout music history and regions.
2. Experienced musicians.
Though all of the musicians bring a unique perspective and talent to the table, all of them also have one important aspect in common: experience. With the large amount of training, collaboration, creation, and performing under each of these musician’s belts, this concert promises to be smooth, enthralling and impressive.
3. They’ve Been Performing Together for a Year
After a year of touring the world, Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters are used to performing live together and have created some space to have fun. Seeing them at this point would be smart—they’re at that point where they’re still relatively new but understand one another on stage.
4. Robert Plant is Back.
In a recent Rolling Stones article, Robert Plant admits that with the Sensational Space Shifters, “I’m able to get the ‘R.P.’ voice back out there again… I don’t have to be so concerned about making sure I am in harmony with anyone else since I’m mostly singing alone this time”. Though Plant’s harmony with Patty Griffin in Band of Joy was undoubtedly enjoyable, it’s pretty exciting that Plant feels his vocals are now unrestricted.
5. The Crowd
An audience has a large impact on a concert-goer’s experience. With a lead-singer that reaches across all generations and a band of different styles, Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters will bring a diverse array of music-listeners to the Petrillo Music Shell. Piling a bunch of music-enthusiasts into one space makes for great conversation and friendly interactions.
6. An Unbelievable Deal.
Though the $25.00 seating area tickets are sold out, the FREE OF CHARGE lawn area is just as good and you’ll be able to see and hear perfectly. It’s not often you can see high-profile, legendary performers at no cost, so take advantage of this opportunity and make your way over!
7. Yes, they play Led Zepplin.
Here’s the one the Led Zepplin die-hards have been waiting for—they DO play LP classics, but with a worldy twist! Instead of replaying songs like “Going to California”, “Black Dog”, and “Heartbreaker” verbatim, each member brings of bit of their musical expertise to the table. The songs are rethought and reworked, making for an experience that will simultaneously satisfy your nostalgia and your craving for something new.
8. Lone Bellow is Opening.
See them while you can, they’re getting quite popular. The trio of talented indie/bluesy musicians Zach Williams, Kanene Doheney, and Brian Elmquist all harmonize together beautifully and they’re currently sweeping the music scene. If you haven’t heard of them yet, you will soon.
9. Food
Before and after the show, you’ll be surrounded by Chicago’s best food joints. 35 restaurant vendors will be set up just a few feet away from the stadium, waiting for you to taste some samplers and savor some sweets. I know I will be enjoying Franco’s Ristorante’s Italian Ice Combo… more than once.
10. ROBERT PLANT WILL BE THERE.
Enough said.
For a look at a live performance, see the clip below!
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