When T.S. Eliot wrote “April is the cruelest month,” he wasn’t thinking about what passes for spring here. But this time every year, Gossip Wolf breeds lilacs and grudgingly mixes memory and desire—while listening for new jams that sound like warmer weather. Singer-songwriter Danielle Sines and her beach-ready jangle-pop project, Impulsive Hearts, reliably provide! Last month, Sines and the band (drummer Dan Julian, bassist Doug Hoyer, violinist Jess LeMaster, and saxophonist Fallon McDermott) dropped the sun-dappled four-song cassette MeToo: A Benefit for Resilience, proceeds from which will support Chicago nonprofit Resilience, which helps victims of sexual violence. Impulsive Hearts will have copies at their free Empty Bottle show on Monday, April 22, with Bike Cops and Gal Gun.
Beloved Avondale bar and venue Reed’s Local just turned five, and beginning Thursday, April 18, it celebrates with Reed’s Fest 2019. Gossip Wolf loves pretty much all the 14 acts set to play across its three nights. “Flower punks” Flesh Panthers kick off Thursday, warming up for the likes of Mama and Lasers and Fast and Shit; Platinum Boys headline Friday’s bill, which also includes Das Dotz (formerly Jen & the Dots); postpunks No Men close out Saturday, alongside Salvation, Bow & Spear, and more. Music starts at 8 PM every night; admission is a $5 donation per show (or $10 for a three-night wristband). v
