Bugging out with Bugsy at Schubas
Article and photos by Itzel Rosas
On a cool summer evening, Schubas Tavern filled up with fans eager to hear Bugsy perform live. Originally from Minneapolis, this indie-punk quartet has performed in Chicago several times, but tonight’s show would be one to remember.
The show began with the 1st act, ++ (plus plus), an up-and-coming band from Chicago. Despite only having 5 songs out, their performance demonstrated their sound perfectly. Abigail and Dove’s shoegaze vocals blended together with Ethan’s drums, while local techno DJ, Hunter, operated a synth in a new and ethereal way that leaves listeners craving for more. Their melancholic lyrics began the night with the promise of an organic show like no other.
By the time SCAM LIKELY was to follow, the crowd had dispersed to the edges, where many were sitting. That is until a sharp screech called the attention back to the stage; lead singer Charlee cleared their throat stating into the mic “hey guys, we’re SCAM LIKELY and I hope y'all are ready to dance.” They played songs like Nosebleed, which showcased Charlee’s incredible vocals, and Watch Your Step, where guitarist Denzel masterfully dominated a solo. A sonic juggernaut, SCAM LIKELY invoked audience members to come towards the stage and begin punching the air along to the rhythm. The Milwaukee based band told the crowd they’d be moving to Chicago in two weeks, who roared in appraisal. With their provocative lyrics and fierce sound, it'll be no surprise if they acquire new fans after the incredible show they put on.
The third act of the night were The Knee-Hi’s, a female duo local to Chicago. They came on stage all dolled up, ready for their unexpected performance. While the night had consisted of hard rock with lots of screaming, these girls transported the audience to a 50’s prom. The music played homage to the doo-wop genre, and mixed with their darling outfits, it felt as if the show took place inside of a gymnasium in the suburbs rather than Schubas Tavern in the middle of Chicago. All of a sudden they switched gears and played a cover of Bad Reputation by Joan Jett. The rest of their set consisted of taking original songs like Make You Mine and Crush, and screaming them out to be more upbeat than the original recordings. This decision enabled the audience to go wild to the fast paced music.
Bugsy came on stage to We Are Who We Are by Kesha. Though it was hard to tell they were going up, it got the crowd to come back to the center of the dance floor as the members huddled on their last night on tour. They opened up with their song recluse, a song from their most recent EP, where base player Shannon snuck out into the audience which got everyone hyped up. After a couple more songs they decided to switch things up by playing some unreleased songs. As lead vocalist Emily harmonized woefully with Shannon, the crowd hushed down, eager to listen. Bugsy continued to play a terrific set with not only the crowd jumping into each other, but also themselves as guitarist Griffen propelled off an amp several times, landing close to the other band members. They closed with soup. By this time a mosh pit had opened up in the front; everyone was riled up, breathless but satisfied by a long night filled with music and dancing.
Stream bugsy on Spotify below...