Near the beginning of The Interrupters sold-out show at the House of Blues in Chicago, vocalist Aimee Interrupter said, “Thank you for being out here tonight. This is so awesome. Are you ready to dance?”
Before Aimee, the brothers Bivona – Kevin (guitar), Justin (bass), Jesse (drums) – and trombonist Billy Kottage (formerly of Reel Big Fish) could even show the crowd how it’s done by skanking across the stage, the entire venue had already exploded into cheers and movement. The Interrupters came in hot, opening the ska-punk party with “Take Back the Power,” “Title Holder,” and “Judge Not” and it only got more fiery from there. Later, “She Got Arrested,” “Gave You Everything,” and “She’s Kerosene” also appeared on the hit-filled set-list.
Audience members weren’t the only one’s who were fans of The Interrupters as Laura Jane Grace called them “one of the smartest bands right now” during her 45-minute set earlier in the night. Part-storytellers, part-stand-up comedy, the performance found Grace sharing a collection of songs from her solo and Against Me! catalogs including new ones like “Dysphoria Hoodie” and “Tacos and Toast” as well as hits like “Black Me Out” and “Pints of Guinness Make You Strong.”
An extended rendition of “I Hate Chicago” – featuring a hilarious description of Gary and Miller Beach, Indiana – and an anthemic “White Crosses” were further highlights of her set.
“This is a song about St. Augustine and it is also – make no mistake about it – very much a pro-choice song,” Grace said introducing the latter track.
Chuck Ragan – of Hot Water Music fame – was also on hand to open the night with an acoustic set that included “Bedroll Lullaby” and much more. He also took time out to thank fans for supporting him and Hot Water Music for the last 30 years.
Before the night was out, Aimee gave fans a hint that the band may be returning to Chicago sooner than later so this was just the start of more great musical memories to come.
Check out photos from The Interrupters’ show – featuring Laura Jane Grace and Chuck Ragan – below and click here to pick-up tickets to future tour dates. More information can be found at Wearetheinterrupters.com.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)
