The Jordan Years / The Congregation / The Skinny @ Subterranean, February 1 '13

Nine of us piled into a five-seater car on a snowy, blistery night, and headed for the Subterranean for a fun show put on by The Jordan Years, The Congregation, and The Skinny. The Skinny was already playing when we arrived around 9:30 PM, and showcased skillful chemistry as well as the most complex songs of the night, with psychedelic rock chord progressions and clear jazz influences. All proficient musicians, they put on a good show but didn't need to employ any stage antics in order to do so, which I greatly appreciated. I wish there'd been a larger crowd to add some energy to the room.

The Congregation, led by Gina Bloom's powerful soul-inspired voice, reminded me of a raucous 60s soul/rock wedding band, the sort that gets everyone dancing. Some may take the comparison to a wedding band as an insult, but I write it as a true compliment - a band that can get everyone moving is always a good one. Sometimes, Bloom overpowered until the brass and sax would jump in, but perhaps this was due to the acoustics of the venue. She, along with guitarist Charlie Wayne, appeared as the musical centerpieces of the band. 

The Jordan Years also has its roots in soul, but with a darker sonority and more instrumental intricacy than most soul offers. Wes Restless, whose solid falsetto took me by surprise, had an impressive dynamic range and fine control over his chords. One of the best musicians that night was the organ/keys player, whose name I can't recall and is unfortunately not mentioned on their website. His solos were everything a good solo is - virtuosic, melodic, developed, and confident without trying too hard. 

The Subterranean is a laid-back, Chicago-styled neighborhood venue, with vintage dark wood, no pretension, lots of Big Ten folks, and cheap beer. There are three floors: the first is a hall for DJs and spinning, the second is at the main stage level with the main bar in back, and the third is a gallery with high ceilings, a smaller bar, and has good views of the stage and main floor. Acoustics aren't always the most balanced, but the stage isn't far up from the main floor, which is nice for bands and their fans. I would be careful if wearing heels/drinking while playing there; the twisty and narrow staircase to the green room looks perilous.