Chicago’s native twee band The 1900s have been a bit quiet lately. There have been some lineup changes since their last release, and several of the band members have been working on other projects. But they’re back! Their new album, Return of the Century, comes out tomorrow (take a listen to a song for yourself) is more of that sparkly, moody pop that they do so well.
Being from Chicago, there’s certainly a lot of options when it comes to food, music, venues and jukeboxes, so we got the 1900s to curate a few places you should definitely check out on your next visit to the windy city.
What’s your town’s nickname?
Big Shoulders?
What’s your nickname for your town?
I just call it Chicago. “Chi-town” is gross.
Why do you live there?
Every few years I decide to not move away because it’s wonderful.
Did you grow up there? If not, what brought you there?
Grew up on the southwest side with Irish people.
What’s the weirdest thing that has ever happened to you there?
The Taste of Chicago flooded in the early 90s. Water was running like a river down the street and a baby floated by holding a giant turkey leg. And then a year ago, a lady at the back of the bus sang a song that went, “Jesus, I love you. I know what you want, but I’m not that kinda girl. Jesus I’m ON to you! I’m ON to you!”
What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
The Chicago River, Joffrey Ballet, The Loop
What is your favorite local event or festival?
Chances Dances is a thrice-a-month queer dance party, happening at three different clubs. It’s wild and sweaty.
What is the best time of year to be there?
Summer. the summer holiday celebrations are fantastic and life-threatening.
Who is your favorite local celebrity?
The ’85 Bears
Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
Margaritas at Tecalitlan, Wednesday nights.
Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
John’s Pizza on Western. Nothing newer than 1987, mostly older than 1965. And the thin crust is amazing.
Do you play music there? If so, where is your favorite place to play?
I like to play in my friends’ yards or at The Hideout. And call me 50, but Millennium Park is great!
Does where you live influence your music?
Chicago is inspiring. The sports are amazing, the weather is dramatic, the people are strange.
What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
The home of an acquaintance is my favorite place see a show. I just saw an incredible Sweet cover band at a birthday party in my neighborhood, and a Black Flag cover band played in Stacy’s basement over the summer.
What is your favorite local band?
Bloodyminded.
What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
I end up at Feed more often than a vegetarian should. I like the spinach salad, and house-made fries on the side. Your date will eat a whole chicken for 11 bucks.
What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
Both Permanent Records and Reckless Records hauled ass to track down an emergency copy of INXS‘s Kick for me last Christmas.
What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine, website or blog)?
Wassup!
What is your favorite local shop?
I am loyal to Very Best Vintage and Western Paint & Hardware.
If you could live anywhere else, where would that be?
A farm in mid-to-west America.