For my alternative and rock music fans, not to worry, a new discovery has been made (well, new to me that is).

Music has always been a significant part of my everyday life, so I decided to register for a music class this quarter that discusses the history of Chicago’s music scene in hopes of becoming more in touch with the city’s musical culture. I am required to attend two concerts or music events within the quarter, as I must write a five-page analysis on my thoughts. When searching for concerts to attend, I found that I was unfamiliar with almost every artist in this city considering I rarely attend local performances. After days of researching unknown artists with the goal of finding a performance that I would at most not dread watching, it hit me. I began scrolling through pages of concerts at Chicago’s Bottom Lounge, a venue for underground music located in the heart of the city, and I came across a band called The Early November. If I’m being honest, the only reason I viewed the link was because I love the month of November. I later learned that they were exactly what I was looking for-an American rock band. Coming from a Red Hot Chili Peppers fanatic, as well as a lover of all things Green Day with a deep respect for the more recent generation of The Strokes and Fall Out Boy, I was intrigued to dabble with the sound of a new electric guitar. Little did I realize I was going to be in for far more than I expected after purchasing a ticket.

The moment I stepped foot in the Bottom Lounge, I knew it was going to be a wild night. There was a flood of people across the floor with drinks in hand, hyped up and ready for the show. I met many fans of The Early November, as well as fans of The Movielife, another band that happened to be performing that night. After listening to The Early November’s set list days prior to the concert to familiarize myself with their music, I was ecstatic to find that they put on an exceptional live performance. The crowd was fully engaged, dancing and singing along to every song and creating a mass of upbeat energy that flowed throughout the room. I truly enjoyed the variety of their music, particularly noting the range of a more heavy and electric sound in songs such as “Tell Me Why” and “Narrow Mouth,” to a softer, more acoustic feel in the songs “Outside” and “A Little More Time.” In respect to the pieces themselves, I have found myself blasting “Tell Me Why” on repeat during my favorite minutes of my day; my car jam sessions. The song references a person who has lost someone, finding their self constantly searching for answers. The lyric in itself sparks notions of the confusion of a wanderer, and is paired with an electrifying combination of guitar and drums. Vocalist Ace Enders transitions his voice throughout the song, with both softer and louder moments to emphasize the despair he feels. On Spotify, this song gives me chills, but live? It is simply breathtaking.

After my experience with The Early November at the Bottom Lounge, I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to see this band perform live. It became more than a requirement that I needed to fulfill, and in turn I have gained a new respect for these artists in their entirety. I highly encourage both rock and alternative fans to listen to their work, as well as anyone who feels a strong connection to their lyrics. The Early November put on one hell of a show, and I will surely be seeing them the next time these New Jersey natives pay Chicago a visit.