A Live Set That Brought It All Back

This Sound Opinions bonus episode delivers a vivid live-review snapshot of Alejandro Escovedo’s recent Chicago performance, alongside brief notes on the Mekons and the show’s community-support message. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit the thrill of seeing Escovedo in a pared-down trio format at the Square Roots Festival in Lincoln Square, underscoring how a minimal band lineup — guitar, keys, and drums — can still generate a full, electrifying sound. The episode highlights the resilience of a veteran artist who has overcome serious health challenges, including hepatitis C, and continues to turn in career-defining shows decades into his catalogue. Listeners get context on Escovedo’s long career trajectory: from early punk days with the Nuns to alt-country contributions with Rankin’ File and the True Believers, then a prolific solo path that includes roughly 20 albums since 1991. The conversation touches on his Bloodshot Records era and the collaboration with producer Chris Stamey, calling out A Man Under the Influence as a personal and creative high point. The hosts play a clip of “Velvet Guitar,” unpacking its Velvet Underground nods, Cassavetes-inspired themes, and the song’s insistence on artistic persistence — a fitting emblem for Escovedo’s stubborn, heartfelt career. Beyond the main act, the episode serves as a micro-guide to live music culture in Chicago. There’s a shout-out to the Mekons’ rare multi-member stage shows and practical festival tips for catching great bookings at Lincoln Square. The show also weaves in a public radio reality check: Sound Opinions asks listeners to support independent media via Patreon, explaining how memberships fund bonus content and help sustain programs in a challenging funding landscape. For fans searching for Alejandro Escovedo live reviews, album recommendations, or setlist highlights, this episode is rich with long-tail search value: Alejandro Escovedo live review Chicago, A Man Under the Influence album insights, Velvet Guitar song meaning, and Bloodshot Records era highlights. It also offers social media notes — Greg Kot recording video clips that resonated online — and sponsor mentions like Goose Island Beer Company, tying music, community, and local culture together. Whether you’re researching Escovedo’s discography, planning to attend local festivals, or looking for thoughtful music criticism, this bonus episode blends personal concert reaction, historical perspective, and practical listening recommendations. It’s a compact but detailed listen for anyone exploring veteran artists who keep redefining themselves and for those invested in sustaining independent music journalism.