Centerstage - Chicago's Original City Guide

From the Music Editors:

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So yes we know it’s fourth of July weekend, and yes, we fully understand the type of jostling it’s going to take to get down to Grant Park. But if there were any reason to battle the madness, this would certainly be it. Headlining what should be one of the biggest events of the summer will be UK hybrid band The Heavy, who dabble in everything from country and R&B to rock, ska, reggae and beyond. They'll be a perfect way to cap off the Taste, but if you're wise you'll get there early for a who's who of local soul aficionados. JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound and Mr. Greenweedz (of All Natural) are both stalwarts in the scene, and have been leading figures in the local soul revival movement. Complementing them on stage will be soul legends Ralph "Soul" Jackson and Renaldo Domino, who if not for the folks over at Rabbit Factory and Numero Group (both local independent label specializing in funk and soul gems) would have fallen between the cracks of obscurity. Add the East of Edens Soul Express into the picture and what you'll have is one of the most soulful ways to celebrate Independence Day. Early arrival is highly recommended. (J. Min)