We did the homework so you don’t have to. Check back each week for the scoop on bands you can’t miss at some of Chicago’s hottest music venues.

Black Lips

This garage band from Atlanta ventures up to Chicago to play its psych-rock sound at The Empty Bottle in Ukrainian Village this month.  Teaming up with Sean Lennon, the Black Lips dropped its latest studio album entitled “Satan’s Graffiti or God’s Art?” earlier this month, which has been well received from devoted fans and music critics alike.  The new album features artist Yoko Ono performing some background vocals. Though she won’t be joining them at The Empty Bottle, the album itself is worth a listen.

Whether you’re a fan of the Black Lips or not, the low-priced ticket value would be worth it to check out the critically acclaimed garage-punk band.

Big Freedia

New Orleans queen of bounce music Big Freedia returns to Chicago this month to perform at The Empty Bottle.  Using the deep bass sounds of hip-hop coupled with hyped-up EDM tunes, Big Freedia’s concerts are not for sitting and listening, as the artist has become known for getting every member of the crowd on their feet dancing.  In 2013, Big Freedia broke the Guinness World Record for leading the biggest twerking crowd. Whether you’re a twerker or not, this month’s concert is the place to be to celebrate The Empty Bottle’s 25th anniversary.

Local H

Another anticipated return to The Empty Bottle this month, Illinois rock band Local H are also back to celebrate the music venue’s anniversary.  While the band may not be world-renowned artists, vocalist Scott Lucas, bassist Matt Garcia, drummer Joe Daniels and lead guitarist John Sparkman have certainly made a name for themselves in the state since forming the band in Zion, Illinois during the late 80s.  For any alternative rock fan looking to catch a glimpse one of the genre’s best local artists, The Empty Bottle is the place to be on the last weekend of May.