This band, featuring a constantly rotating cast of over 35 Chicago bluesmen (hence the 'mystery' moniker') traffics in rough-and-tough blues that slips into jazz territory every once in a while. The mystery revealed this week 'round is unsung shredder Osee Anderson, a burly Chicagoan who got his start on Alligator Records sessions as Lonnie Brooks's lead and rhythm guitarist. Three self-produced records later, Anderson pays respects to his mentor, Willie Dixon, with attention to speedster percussion, glossy keys and off-mic wails. His sound is neatly summed up by the title of his debut LP, Old School, Nu School. (Gavin Paul)
In an earthy, James Taylor sorta way, Jimbo Delta, a.k.a. Jim Parks, gives winks to the region his moniker suggests with clean resonator guitars and the vocal range of a young Johnny Cash. After training at Weed's Tavern and opening for Chuck Berry, Dr. John and Bo Diddley on occasion, Parks considers himself to be true Americana, something the lazy river strings of his debut long player, Hypnotized (2002), certainly reflect. But new tunes in the works flash electric-guitar effects and tried-and-true pitter-patter blues beats. Either way the man's got a natural knack for blending new sentiments with old traditions. (Gavin Paul)
For those in search of '30s-style, Django Reinhardt-influenced Gypsy jazz, look no further than Alfonso Ponticelli and Swing Gitan. Playing with a section of two guitars, violin and upright bass, Ponticelli swings without the aid of percussion. His group's string melodies and harmonies allow Ponticelli to shine on a twangy lead guitar, weaving in and out with nimble fingers and crack precision. If you've sought the Roma sound in Chicago, you've likely seen Ponticelli at his weekly stint at Green Mill or city institutions such as the Field Museum, the Cultural Center and Millennium Park. (Scott Morrow)
Wednesday, May 21 at 9pm Venue: Green Mill Tickets: $7
Not to be confused with the country-playing Nashvillite of the same name, this blind, N'awlins-bred guitarist/vocalist draws throaty soul charm all over speedy electric licks. Down in Louisiana, he's a favorite on Bourbon Street, holding a 14-year residency at the Old Absinthe House. You probably know him as the voice of Kenny Wayne Shepherd's number-one album, 10 Days Out: Blues From The Backroads. But Kenny, 34 years younger than the "Braille Blues Daddy," was just paying homage to the man who started his career; he was just a young 13-year-old scrapper when Lee invited him on stage to play. Lee's 10-album deep catalogue brims with his trademark epic wailing style. (Gavin Paul)
Even though this is a Rock 'n' Roll tour headlined by Kid Rock and the Twisted Trucker Band, don't be surprised if fans walk away raving about Rev Run's performance. The always outspoken preacher was not only the first (along with DMC and Jam Master Jay) artist to successfully cross over to another genre with Aerosmith back in '86, but he was also the sole connection in Run DMC's relationship with Adidas; sparking the shell-toe revolution in the mid '80s. This walking slice of history may have gained a few pounds over the years, but his performances are still full of the same energy that turned Run DMC into a household name. If that still isn't enough, check out the official after-party at celebrity hotspot Enclave, where early arrival and RSVP are recommended. (Jeff Min)
Friday, May 23 at 7pm Venue: Sears Centre Tickets: $13-$53
Longshot's moniker is more than appropriate, considering he's a blue-collar MC who's looking for a shot at the big time. His recognition of his long odds have allowed this hip-hop chameleon the creative freedom to rap over beats ranging from club bangers to exotic breaks. Longshot's delivery, similar to that of Talib Kweli, is crisp and precise enough to impress any fan still repping the golden era of hip-hop. His performance at Morseland will be in preparation for his solo release, Addicted, due out later this year. Guest producers on the album include DJ Rhettmatic, Del tha Funky Homosapien, Panthro and many others. Check out his MySpace and download a free mixtape featuring some of his newest tracks. (Jeff Min)
Saturday, May 24 at 10pm Venue: Morseland Tickets: $5
Many fans of bebop, modal jazz and jazz fusion surely regard May 26 as a national holiday. On what would be the 82nd birthday of Miles Davis (a former resident of Alton and East St. Louis, Illinois), Velvet Lounge is holding the annual tribute to the legendary trumpeter/composer. Robert Irving III, a pianist who played with Davis in 1980 after his six-year hiatus, performs with drummer Charles Heath and an unannounced guest trumpeter. Head to Velvet Lounge to catch parts of Davis' expansive catalogue performed live. (Scott Morrow)
