Chicago’s Dream Version claims a wide variety of influences in their music. As it turns out, combining punk, surf, girl group and dance music inspirations will make for pretty solid indie-pop music. Dream Version’s four members met as elementary school teachers in the city and recently released their first single “Hard of Hearing” b/w “Escape Your Escape”.
“Hard of Hearing” is a fantastic 90’s throwback, complete with punchy guitars, fuzzy keys, and impressive vocal melodies throughout. Anytime you can utilize “Sha-la-la-la’s” as backing vocals, you’re doing something right. The track’s almost a capella bridge – backed by the steady thump of fuzz from the keys – is a refreshing change a pace before the song roars back to life for its second half.
Dream Version is celebrating the “Hard of Hearing” release at the Beat Kitchen (2100 W Belmont Ave) this Saturday, 4/19. The 17+ show kicks off at 6:00 PM with support from Varsity, Moxie Motive and Owel. Tickets are just $8 and can be picked up at the door or online in advance of the show.