Arriving at the end of the party-hearty 1980s was a stroke of bad luck for Jackyl. No matter what, though, Jesse James Dupree has stuck to his guns.

Robert Lamm’s sophisticated deep cut recalls a period when Chicago was one of the preeminent jazz-rock ensembles – not just a rock band with horns.

As oldies recast in soul-jazz bliss, ‘Eight Track II” is one of those good ideas from Dave Stryker that deserved another go around.

Now featuring one-time Motley Crue frontman John Corabi, the Dead Daisies may have found their best lineup on their third record.

Armando Perez discusses the new project by the Chicago-based funk band Esso Afrojam Funkbeat, and how the issues facing immigrants shape their work.

Forebrace’s ‘Steeped’ captures the essence of live performance with a sense of atmosphere, the odd tweak and squeak – everything which makes live music good.

Wicked Realm should be proud that they can make these songs come alive. Prouder still should be Milwaukee for being able to call them our own.

“Angel Don’t Cry” should have been the leadoff single from 1984’s ‘Isolation,’ showcasing Toto’s new lead singer.

Donny McCaslin’s ‘Beyond Now’ is an astonishing show of talent and indefinable music which crosses boundaries and merges them – yet retains his jazz influences.

The night was a success. The concert had been enthusiastically received. But was it Yes?