Music has always been an integral part of human culture. It has the power to transcend language barriers, bring people together, and evoke a range of emotions within us. And when it comes to live music, there is no better way to experience it than in a beautiful and iconic venue. In Chicago, one such venue that has stood the test of time and continues to host some of the best musical acts is the Aragon Ballroom.
Located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood, the Aragon Ballroom has been a staple in the Chicago music scene since its opening in 1926. Over the years, it has hosted countless concerts, events, and even served as a filming location for popular movies like The Blues Brothers. And amongst all the performances, one that stands out is the headlining show by the indie-folk band, Head and the Heart.
In this article, we will take a closer look at this iconic band and their unforgettable performance at the Aragon Ballroom. So grab your headphones, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of Head and the Heart at Aragon.
Overview of Head and the Heart
Formed in Seattle in 2009, Head and the Heart is a six-member band consisting of Josiah Johnson (vocals, guitar), Jonathan Russell (vocals, guitar), Charity Rose Thielen (vocals, violin), Chris Zasche (bass), Kenny Hensley (keyboards), and Tyler Williams (drums). Their sound is a unique blend of folk, pop, and rock, with heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies.
The band gained popularity after their self-titled debut album release in 2011, which was produced by Sub Pop Records. Since then, they have released four studio albums, with their latest, “Living Mirage,” dropping in 2019. Their music has been featured in popular TV shows like “How I Met Your Mother” and “Chuck”, and they have performed at major festivals like “Coachella”, “Bonnaroo’, and “Lollapalooza”.
Head and the Heart’s music is known for its raw and emotional lyrics, which often touch upon themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Their live performances are equally powerful, with the band’s energy and chemistry shining through on stage.
The Making of a Musical Masterpiece: The Aragon Ballroom Show
On May 22, 2014, Head and the Heart took the stage at the historic Aragon Ballroom as part of their “Let’s Be Still” tour. The show was a homecoming for the band, as it was their first time performing in Chicago after signing with Sub Pop Records.
The Aragon Ballroom, with its grandeur and majestic architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the band’s soulful and intimate performance. As soon as the lights dimmed and the band stepped on stage, the audience erupted into cheers and applause. The energy in the room was palpable, and everyone knew they were in for a night to remember.
Setlist
The band opened the show with “Homecoming Heroes,” a fan favorite from their second album, “Let’s Be Still.” They then went on to perform a mix of songs from all four of their albums, including “Lost in My Mind,” “Rivers and Roads,” and “Down in the Valley.”
One of the highlights of the night was when the band slowed things down and performed an acoustic version of “Another Story,” which showcased their impeccable harmonies and musicianship. Another memorable moment was when they brought out a surprise guest, Chicago-based rapper Chance the Rapper for a special rendition of “Shake.”
The night ended with an encore performance of “Sounds Like Hallelujah” and “In the Summertime,” leaving the audience in a state of pure euphoria.
Head and the Heart’s Setlist at Aragon Ballroom
| Song | Album |
|---|---|
| Homecoming Heroes | Let’s Be Still (2013) |
| Ghosts | The Head and the Heart (2011) |
| Another Story | Signs of Light (2016) |
| Lost in My Mind | The Head and the Heart (2011) |
| Shake (with Chance the Rapper) | Let’s Be Still (2013) |
| Down in the Valley | The Head and the Heart (2011) |
| Gone | Living Mirage (2019) |
| Sounds Like Hallelujah | The Head and the Heart (2011) |
| In the Summertime | Let’s Be Still (2013) |
Why the Aragon Ballroom is a Must-Visit Venue for Music Lovers
As mentioned earlier, the Aragon Ballroom has been a Chicago landmark for almost a century now. It was built in 1926 by brothers William and Andrew Karzas, who were inspired by the grand ballrooms of Europe. The result was a stunning venue that combined elements of Spanish, Moorish, and Art Deco architecture.
Over the years, the Aragon Ballroom has undergone several renovations and changes of ownership. But one thing that has remained constant is its commitment to providing a unique and unforgettable experience for music lovers. Here are some reasons why the Aragon Ballroom should be on every music lover’s bucket list:
Historic and Iconic Venue
The Aragon Ballroom is not just any old concert venue; it is a piece of history. The intricate details and ornate decor make you feel like you have stepped back in time. From the grand chandeliers to the stunning balconies, every corner of the ballroom exudes old-world charm.
The venue has also been featured in popular movies like The Blues Brothers and Ocean’s Eleven, adding to its iconic status. And for music lovers, there is nothing quite like experiencing your favorite band perform in such a historic setting.
Intimate Atmosphere
Unlike some of the larger concert venues in Chicago, the Aragon Ballroom has a capacity of only 5,000. This allows for a more intimate concert experience, where you can get up close and personal with your favorite artists.
The venue’s layout also adds to this intimacy, with the main floor divided into different levels, creating a tiered effect. This ensures that no matter where you are standing, you have a good view of the stage.
Great Acoustics
One of the most important aspects of any live performance is sound quality. And the Aragon Ballroom does not disappoint in this department. The ballroom’s high ceiling and unique architecture provide excellent acoustics, making it the perfect venue for musical acts of all genres.
Whether you are standing in front of the stage or sitting in the balcony, the sound quality is consistent throughout the room. This ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the music and enjoy the show to its fullest.
Conclusion
Music and memories are intertwined, and there is no better way to create unforgettable memories than through live music. And when it comes to experiencing live music in all its glory, the Aragon Ballroom is a venue that truly stands out. From its historic charm to its impeccable acoustics, the Aragon Ballroom provided the perfect setting for Head and the Heart’s powerful and emotional performance. It was a night that brought people together, evoked a range of emotions, and left a lasting impact on everyone who attended, reminiscent of the energy and passion of a Babymetal concert. So whether you are a die-hard fan of the band or simply love live music, make sure to catch a show at the Aragon Ballroom for an experience like no other. And who knows, you may just end up witnessing a performance that will stay with you forever.