Catch up on the music news you may have missed with this week’s edition of On the Radar.
Muse announce 2019 Simulation Theory world tour
Days before the release of their eighth studio album, Muse revealed dates for their 2019 world tour. The North American trek kicks off February 22 in Houston, Texas and wraps up April 10 in Boston, Massachusetts. After the trek, the band will then tour Europe starting May 26 in Prague to July 26 in Madrid. The band will also make a special appearance in Chicago for this year’s the Nights We Stole Christmas. The band will play the Aragon Ballroom with Jungle and Barns Courtney on December 9.
Tickets go on sale November 16 at 12 pm local time. Those who pre-ordered Muse’s new LP Simulation Theory will have first access to tickets starting November 13 at 10 am. Check out all the announced dates here. The tour will also feature an Enhanced Experience Package that gives you access to an exclusive Mixed Reality Pre-Show Party powered by Microsoft. This includes an interactive photo experience with memorabilia from the band’s latest videos, a VIP poster, and three original virtual reality games inspired by songs from the album.
Simulation Theory is out now.
Spice Girls announce 2019 reunion tour
It’s official: The Spice Girls are reuniting for a 2019 tour! The girls recently announced their six-date UK tour starting June 1 in Manchester and wrapping up June 15 in London at Wembley Stadium. So far, no mention on whether they’ll play the States, but hopefully we’ll get some insight soon. Check out all the dates here.
Unfortunately, not all girls are returning to the stage. Victoria Beckham aka Posh Spice will not be a part of the tour. She has opted to sit out the reunion to focus on her fashion business.
News of a reunion first broke in February with the group saying “The time now feels right to explore some incredible new opportunities together. We all agree that there are many exciting possibilities that will once again embrace the original essence of The Spice Girls, while reinforcing our message of female empowerment for future generations.”
Earl Sweatshirt reveals first new song in three years
Earl Sweatshirt spent the last week teasing new music with a set of weird videos. Finally, on Thursday (Nov. 8) he shared his new song “Nowhere2Go,” which premiered on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 radio show on Apple Music. The track marks his first new material since 2015’s I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside.
Earlier this year, Earl Sweatshirt canceled his European tour due to issues with anxiety and depression. He returned to the stage last month for a performance at the Mac Miller tribute concert. He also made an appearance at Camp Flog Gnaw, an event held by his former Odd Future mate Tyler, the Creator. Recently, appeared on Vince Staples’ surprise new LP, FM!
Upcoming Shows
Jack Black and Kyle Gass are back as Tenacious D and will play two sold-out shows with Wynchester at the Riviera Theater on November 13 and 14.
Catch Elvis Costello and The Imposters at The Vic Theater Wednesday, November 14. You can still grab tickets here.
Playboy Carti hits up the Aragon Ballroom Thursday, November 15. Make sure you get tickets here so you don’t miss out.
The one and only Jack White plays the Aragon Ballroom with The Nude Party November 19. Hurry and get tickets because you don’t want to miss this one.
Chicago Artist Spotlight: Neak
Hip-hop artist Neak recently released his latest single “For My City” and it’s a smooth yet thought-provoking track. He lays down his poetic flow over a fusion of jazz and funk that gets you moving. Neak commands your attention as he raps about life in the city as a black man, going through bad relationships, and how to keep your head up when everything tries to beat you down. Listen to the song here.
Being the son of Robert Kelly from R&B/Gospel group The Kelly Brothers means music is in Neak’s blood. He’s been creating his blend of rap, jazz, and funk for nearly a decade and shows no signs of stopping any time soon. Never afraid to tackle heavy issues, his songs feature lyrics dealing with the hard realities of life and addresses the issues affecting his community. Neak’s music reminds us how important it is to make your voice heard, especially during this time of political strife. Check out Neak’s full discography here and make sure to follow him on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.