Rock around the city
by Dan Lobring
THE FIRESIDE BOWL
Most punk Chicagoans would argue that if you have not been to the Fireside Bowl, then you do not know what punk is. What is more rock ‘n’ roll than an old bowling alley turned into a ska/punk/emo hangout, even if it is mostly for those with multiple piercings in multiple places?
On most nights, the lanes at the Fireside Bowl may be silent, but the tattered bowling alley at 2646 W. Fullerton Ave. is anything but quiet. Since it first started hosting shows in the summer of 1994, the Fireside has become an outlet for punk, pop, ska, metal and experimental music from Chicago and all over the world.
The Fireside is notorious for having shows nearly every night of the week. It hosts big name bands like The Promise Ring in addition to newer local acts like The Explanation, an up-and-coming band from Chicago.
Nevertheless, what makes the Fireside Bowl a true original is that it is the only such venue in Chicago with the primary goal of presenting this sort of music to fans of all ages. For many area teenagers, the Fireside is a bustling alternative to a night at the local mall.
Sadly, officials at the Chicago Park District have confirmed recent rumors that the Fireside will close. Although there is no set date, the building will eventually be torn down to expand a local park.
"I’m going to be deeply saddened when the [Fireside] isn’t around - when we’re not on the road, I’m usually here," said Matt Skiba of the Alkaline Trio, a nationally known Chicago punk band. Skiba compared the Fireside to Gilman Street, the Berkely punk shrine that famously nurtured Green Day and Rancid.
Fireside Bowl
2646 W Fullerton
(773) 486-2700
There is a $6 cover for most acts. Bands play next to the ball returns on lanes one and two. It is usually a young crowd: 18-22.
THE ASHTRAY
There is hope on the horizon. One new venue capable of carrying the Fireside torch is the old Louis Bar, also known as the Ashtray, on Campbell St. near Wicker Park. It has only been putting on shows for a few months now, but the independent spirit is there.
"I’ve lived here since the New Year, but they’ve been putting on shows now for a year and half," said Todd, an aspiring musician and producer. The old bar serves as a place for shows, but also as a modern day punk rock commune, where several band members live.
You can usually catch bands like The Symptoms or The Explanation gracing the stage. E-mail Todd for more information on booking and upcoming shows.
The Ashtray
1659 N. Campbell (Brown Metal Door)
Shows are cheap for the entertainment and atmosphere, $5-$7, crowd age: 18-30.
THE EMPTY BOTTLE
For those of you over 21 who want to avoid the kids, check out the Empty Bottle. Since 1992, the Empty Bottle has been a hole-in-the-wall club in the Ukrainian Village (just south of Wicker Park) where you can drink cheap beer and play pool, all while catching some great local and/or national bands in a more intimate venue.
Keep your eyes peeled because "if you look for the sign that says ‘Empty Bottle,’ you'll probably miss it," said Chris Lathrop, a frequent customer. You will have better luck finding the neon "Dancing" sign that dwarfs the club's name. The Empty Bottle is located at the corner of Western Avenue and Cortez Street in Chicago.
The Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
(773) 276-3600
Très cool college aged kids and older neighborhood folks. Prices for shows range from $3 - $12.
PHOTOS:
Outside the Fireside Bowl.
The Explanation at the Punk Mahal.
Todd from Sinewav Studios with The Explanation.
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