Strange, experimental, and surely nothing like you’ve ever seen or heard, The Residents is an experimental music group and an arts collective. They have made groundbreaking steps in adapting multiple genres, while also deconstructing and commenting on the nature of western music. Not only do they make many, many songs, but they have also produced multiple art films, several being in museums. From the beginning, the band has done whatever they can to create as much art as possible, all consistently great, and perfectly weird. Members of the band don a masked persona, as they would like people to focus on their art instead of their identities. They are known for dressing in tuxedos with tails, with eyeballs and top hats for heads, although they change their personas every once in a while.

Starting in 1972, the band has a long history, and has never stopped creating since. They have released over sixty albums, with music videos, movies, and other art projects to go along with it. With so much work to go over as a newcomer, the band suggests starting with their documentary, Theory of Obscurity, as a starting place to get a feel for the band’s vision. Of course if you’d rather go straight to the music, The Residents recommend their popular albums, Duck Stab, and The Commercial Album. Of course there is always the method of going in chronological order either backwards or forwards for the full experience. 

Being a fan of this band is more than just listening to their music, it’s combining the experience with all their work, which in turn creates an intimate appreciation for the work they create. Be sure to experience their music live next year, and catch up on their work in the time being!

The Residents

Friday, May 7th, 2021

Doors: 8:00PM

Show: 9:00PM

21+

$35 general admission

Lincoln Hall

2424 N Lincoln Ave

Chicago, IL 60614

More information here

Purchase tickets here