The English Invade Chicago

The English band The The is really a front for singer and songwriter Matt Johnson. Being a longtime listerner like so many, hopes were high for a long awatied appearance in Chicago.

It began with a movie screening of The Inertia Variations at Logan Theatre with a behind the scenes look of the artist the night before. Fans had wanted to see what the musician had been up to since he last toured 18 years ago. The documentary focused Johnson trying to write a song. The humor was dry and the content drawn out.

The next night on Sept. 22, Johnson and his band packed the Riviera Theatre. The balcony was so full that additional people were denied access. The venue was problematic and needs some updating. The second floor allows no sight lines and the ground floor towards the back has the same problem. Many diehard fans were disappointed to not be able to see the retro visuals on the stage.

Johnson sounded great, but wanted to avoid the limelight. He told people to not use their cell phones and didn't want to be photographed.

The songwriter was so far ahead of his time back in the day that his lyrics still resonate well in 2018, but this "Beat(en) Generation" is ready for more fresh music and a sunnier attitude for those that have had such loyalty for his work over the years.

The complete opposite a few days later was Anne-Marie, another English singer on a big tour. Lincoln Hall is a more intimate venue that the Riv, and ran like a smooth oiled machine.

Known for radio hits like Clean Bandit's "Rockabye" and "Friends" with Marshmello, Anne-Marie brought strong vocals and charming banter along for the ride.

She joked often with the crowd and fans brought her present and roses. She sang "Happy Birthday" to one person onstage and was obviously grateful to everyone that attended. The song "Perfect" was a standout with lyrics that resonated with her young crowd.

After opening for Ed Sheeran, this was a rare opportunity to see her in such a small setting. She signed autographes for a few people before leaving the stage and promised to return soon.