CHICD: Tideshift, Avantist, and The Band Royale at Schubas

My goal is to see one show per week. Yes, I might be that annoying friend that just has to tell you about the thing you missed, but I’m also catching every great show in the city of Chicago–with plenty more ahead of me. Welcome to the Chicago Concert Dispatch.

At the time of this show, it is 23 weeks into the year and I have seen 39 shows.

Tideshift specializes in hard-hitting music overlaid with sustained, soaring vocals by frontman Richie Pistol. The bassist throws himself so completely into the music, he’s basically a blur the entire time he plays. Feeding off that kind of energy was a great way to kick off the night. Tideshift is relatively new to the music scene here, about to record their first album with Chicago’s Audiotree. Although you cannot go listen to any tracks right now, they are tightening their sound by playing live shows around town. Get a chance to check them out and become a fan on the ground floor!

Watching any of the four brothers that make up Avantist, you’ll find an intensity that is great in a live performance. But it would be difficult for anyone to hold a candle to vocalist Fernando Arias. His voice and body emote the intention of each song with ferocity. Watching him move, gesture, and belt into the mic is the highlight of the show.

There is a looseness to Avantist’s performance, room to deviate and ride out an impulse. When Fernando starts to riff on a popular tune, his brothers will pick right up and go along with it. It feels kinetic. I especially love their songs “Tidalwave,” “Human Driver,” and “Deep Red Love,” all of which were played and enjoyed by all that evening.

<a href="http://theavantist.bandcamp.com/album/terasoma-ep">TERASOMA EP by Avantist</a>

The Band Royale has a decidedly relaxed, rolling sound. The highlight of their set is “Stranger Things.” There’s just something about that song that is above and beyond the others.

Their sound is tight and crafted with passion. I love the vocals–Joel has great control and timbre. Guitarist, Zach, closes his eyes and feels out what he’s playing. Of this four piece band, the bassist, Marc, is definitely having the most fun performing, moving to the beat he is thrumming out. The drummer, Nate, cannot seem to stop smiling, so maybe it’s a toss up.