Smile Politely

The Overture: November 22-28

The Overture is a rundown of live music and performances happening in and around Champaign-Urbana each week. All of the information is as accurate as we can publish; however, all shows and performances are subject to change at any time. Thank you for understanding.

Did we miss something this week? Have a show coming up you think we should know about? Email us at music@smilepolitely.com with the details.

MONDAY, November 22nd

Bones Jugs

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 5:30 p.m.

Everything from banjos, guitar, and kazoos, to jugs, foot percussion, and other instruments, you’re always in for fun with Bones Jugs.

Parkland Jazz Combo

Parkland College Second Stage Theatre // free // 7 p.m.

The Parkland College Jazz Combo will perform a blend of classic and contemporary jazz alongside special guest Jonny Beckett who will be joining the combo on saxophone. 

The Urbana Hootenanny

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 8 p.m.

Every Monday at the Rose Bowl, come hang out with some great musicians. A sort of open mic meets song share, you can expect a variety of music and performers.

TUESDAY, November 23rd


Image from Rose Bowl Tavern’s Facebook event page. 

Church Street Ramblers

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 6:30 p.m.

Playing jazz from the early 20th century, Church Street Ramblers will get the toes tapping, with songs by legends such as Fats Waller, Louis Armstrong, and other greats.

WEDNESDAY, November 24th

Jose Gobbo & Sam Peters

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 5 p.m.

Jazz musicians Jose Gobbo and Sam Peters started playing around Champaign-Urbana in 2014, but both eventually moved to different areas. They’re back this Wednesday, bringing you some wonderful jazz. 

Danksgiving

NOLA’s Rock Bar // $10 // 6 p.m.

A giant lineup of some of the best hip-hop from the area. There are too many performers to list here, so check out the Facebook event for all of the information. DJ Belly will be DJ-ing and there will be some live art from Fred Laamar. This is one for the books. 

Mid-October

Clark Bar // free // 6:30 p.m.

Alternative and indie rock duo Mid-October hits the Clark Bar with some orginal tunes as well as some covers.


Image from Dan Hubbard’s Facebook page.

Dan Hubbard

►The Castle Theatre // $23 adv, $25 door // 6:30 p.m.

Celebrating 20 years of Dan Hubbard, he brings a full band on Wednesday. He’ll be supported by Brett Newski & the No Tomorrow, as well as Leah Marlene. 

Kilborn Alley Blues

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 9:30 p.m.

Hitting you with some tasty licks and southern fried soul, you’re always in for a great time with Kilborne Alley.

THURSDAY, November 25th

Ian Shepherd and Friends

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 8 p.m.

Drummer Ian Shepherd teams up with other talented local musicians to bring you a turkey day treat of jazz, blues, funk, and rock.

FRIDAY, November 26th

Kavi Naidu

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 5 p.m.

Saxophonist Kavi Naidu will be performing original compositions, deep jazz cuts, and other classics.


Image from Terminus Victor’s Facebook page. 

Terminus Victor, Fiona Kimble & The Modest Means, The Falbonauts

Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 // 8:30 p.m.

Terminus Victor always hits hard, so be ready to headbang. Joined by The Falbonauts, playing some new music, as well as Fiona Kimble & The Modest Means. Kimble hasn’t played in C-U for 3 years but is coming back with a full band. This is a stacked night of music. 

The Recombinants, Joshua Powell, My Gemini, the Gregg Brown Band

nightshop // $7 adv, $10 door // 8:30 p.m.

Sludge-pop, indie rock, psychedelic, and folk, and more await you at nightshop on Friday night. Some great bands for a great cover price. 

SATURDAY, November 27th

Turino Family Band

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 4 p.m.

Matt, Tom, Shannon, and Claire come together as the Turino family band to play some wonderful music. Ranging from folk to Cajun to fiddle music, you are in a for a treat.

Mid-October

Huber’s // free // 6 p.m.

If you missed alternative and indie rock duo Mid-October earlier in the week, head to Huber’s on Saturday to hear them play. 

Goodbye Cruel World

nightshop // free // 9 p.m. 

A dark and brooding night of industrial, goth, synthwave, and darkwave music awaits at nightshop. Black attire is strongly encouraged. 

DJ Belly

NOLA’s Rock Bar// free // 10 p.m.

Looking for some late night Saturday fun? DJ Belly has you covered, spinning beats at NOLA’s through the evening, so come out and bring your best dance moves — it’s going to be a party. 

SUNDAY, November 28th


Image from Rose Bowl Tavern’s Facebook event page. 

T.J. Quintet

Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 3 p.m.

JaKobe Henry on trumpet, Toby Miller on drums, Kyle Hunt on trombone, Mitchell Maftean on bass, and Jon Raymond on piano bring original tunes as well as traditional pieces of jazz. 

Vexing Hex, Leviticus, Bury Thy Wicked

nightshop // $7 adv, $10 door // 8:30 p.m.

Nightshop brings three great rock bands, ranging from heavy metal and hard rock to psych and trance. You may need some ear plugs — it’s going to get loud. 

Top image from Dan Hubbard’s Facebook page. 

Music Editor

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