Canasta is a veteran Chicago band who has survived a handful of musicians. This necessarily isn’t a bad thing; it speaks truth in their new release,The Fakeout… Opening track, Becoming You, states: “This time it’s awfully clear to me / that this will be my final chance.” Sorry Canasta, but this will not be my last chance to listen to the entire record. The Decemberists should book up Canasta before it’s too late. The opening arrangements inBecoming You keep you locked on a journey through constant harmony. With chromatic changes and perfectly placed string solos leading the listener to an ever compelling choral outro. Then… Mexico City slaps you in the head. A perfect soundtrack. Hear a peak:
I had the luxury of sitting down with Canasta band-members, Matt Priest and Ryan Tracy. After Matt ordered a delicious “fried salami” dish, we discussed the Chicago music scene. For any new Chicago musicians, there is much to learn from your elder peers. Matt explained, “No matter how hard you’re working on your craft, someone else in Chicago is working just as hard as you are.” Ain’t that the truth! Don’t ever expect someone to do the grunge work for you. After the interview, Ryan and Matt literally met fellow band members to flier Chicago. A band that works together, stays, and plays well together. Canasta is one that plays with heart, and keeps your ears tuned together until the end.
Free Download: Reading the Map Upside Down
I sincerely hope to see this lineup stick together and hit the road. They are a band to keep in your auditory rotation and one to see live over and over again. Canasta releases The Fakeout… this Saturday, February 26th at Old Town School of Folk Music [4544 N. Lincoln Ave]. This concert is a triple-record-release show with Canasta, REGO, and Sewing Pattern. The concert starts at 7:30. Tickets are available now for $13 (members) and $15 (general public).
By: Otis Thompson
Tags: Chicago, digital download, free download, Local Music, New Music, Upcoming Show
