Reilly Downes & Friends — live event
Reilly Downes, affectionately known as the Sad Cowgirl of Chicago, is an Americana artist whose music intertwines heartfelt storytelling with the rich traditions of her Texas Hill Country roots. Her songs delve into themes of love, loss, and resilience, characterized by soulful melodies and poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Beginning her career as a session musician in Nashville, Reilly lent her evocative voice to some of Americana’s most cherished singer-songwriters. In 2022, she stepped into the spotlight with her debut solo album, Spent, which topped Americana charts and garnered acclaim from outlets like The Boot. Her haunting rendition of “Wicked Game” further showcased her ability to infuse classic songs with raw emotion, earning radio play and a feature on Spotify’s “Vibes” playlist. After a quieter 2023, Reilly returned to the stage in 2024, performing alongside artists such as Jaime Wyatt and more. Described as “small but mighty,” her powerful voice and compelling stage presence have captivated audiences, leading to recognition at festivals and features in Rolling Stone. Reilly Downes continues to carve out a unique space in the Americana genre, offering music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Rachel Swain doesn’t mind when people two-step to her pain—she welcomes it. Raised on the sounds of country, bluegrass, and soul, Swain’s powerful voice and poignant songwriting have earned her recognition in the Americana scene over the past two decades. A native of Austin, Texas, and later Houston, Swain grew up surrounded by music, learning to play fiddle, guitar, and bass, and honing her skills in projects ranging from indie rock to 60s French pop. With an unmistakable sound that’s rooted in her Texas upbringing, Swain's music is as gritty as it is tender, capturing the full spectrum of human experience. Her upcoming full-length album is set to cement her place as one of the most exciting voices in Americana music today. Iris Marlowe is an alternative-country songwriter that uses her love of classic country music to create cinematic songs that paint a southern gothic landscape. Her latest album ‘Where the Devil Bid the Owl Goodbye’ features songs driven by adrenaline and the yearning for the Wild West. Iris creates country music for the eccentrics and folks that are looking for something unique in the country music landscape. QueerCountry Bandwagon plays queer songs by country artists, country songs by queer artists, and gender-bending Americana tunes. They have been gigging regularly since 2024, playing Dorothy Downstairs, Cafe Mustache, Dyke Nite Chicago, Sapphic Before Sunset, the Lavender Prairie Festival, Stoned at the Jukebox and the Queer Social Club’s “Swappin’ Boots” country-dancing event.
Starts: 2025-05-03T19:30:00Z
Ends: 2025-05-03T21:30:00Z
Where: 4146 North Elston Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60618, United States
Price: $18.03