MWA Approved: Taken By The Sun, Huntsmen, Dead Sheriff, & Queen Buzz at The Empty Bottle – 3/5

This is the second of three benefit shows in support of Eric Plonka, guitarist of Scientist, Chicago’s best jazz/sludge/punk/noise band.

Eric sustained major injuries recently when he fell from a 12 foot rooftop during a construction job, leaving him with 2 broken wrists and a broken back. His friends in the Chicago music community are coming together to help him get back on his feet and do a little rocking in his honor this Wednesday night at The Empty Bottle.

This “Night of Back Breaking Music for a Man with a Broken Back” starts off with Queen Buzz. They’ve been described as part Garage Rock, part Glam Rock, part Post-Punk, and all heart. The four-piece have some deeply rooted ’90s influence but appeal to just about any generation. On top of that, they don’t look half bad in wedding dresses.

Dead Sheriff make their triumphant return to the stage this evening. Though they may have not played since May of 2013, these young ruffians are sure to have you stomping your feet and refilling your glass as they blow you away with their raw, honest, real rock & roll.

Taking us into the later hours is Huntsmen. The four-piece have an EP coming out in may and will be bringing these new tracks to life at the Bottle. They might sound like your average post-rock band at first but hints of heavy metal, prog rock, and even some blues find their way into the mix This is of course before they crumble into noisy, stoner-metal breakdowns that leave you wondering what this sorcery was that you just witnessed.

Capping the night off is Taken By The Sun, a post-metal band that combines elements of jazz and ambient in their punishing fusion of doom and sludge. Their self-titled EP came out last fall and proves these guys are more than just a “metal band”.

Doors open at 8:00 pm, Show starts at 8:30 pm, it’s 21+ and it’s all going down at The Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Ave). RSVP on Facebook and grab a ticket for only $8, the proceeds will go to help Eric & his family pay for hospital expenses and help get him back on stage. Eric will be on hand enjoying the tunes so be sure to wish him well if you make it out!

For all the suburbanites out there (or city-dwellers with cars), a third benefit show is being held in Eric’s hometown of Kankakee on April 26th. Friends and family will be on hand and it should be a fun one, more info here.

If you can’t make the show but still want to lend your support for our fallen musician, consider a donation to the Eric Plonka Fundraiser, every little bit helps!

Taken By The Sun | Hunstmen | Dead Sheriff | Queen Buzz