Beach Fly is up first. They play a hilarious song about a monkey stealing a mango right out of their hands. It’s full of monkey sounds and it’s very fun. Afterwards they play “Thinking Of You”. It’s a fantastic reggae rock love song with a smooth groove. It shows that this young band has a lot of potential. 

Next up is Coyote Island. Early on they play “River” from their 2024 album Holy Illusion. This excellent reggae rock track features a great solo by the lead guitarist. “Ain’t nothing left to hide when we are free!” This band is also on their way to great things. 

Surfer Girl takes the stage last. They are thrilled to be headlining in Chicago for the first time. They opened for The Elovaters and Shwayze at the Bottom Lounge last year. They play “Evil” from their 2022 album, Sunrise. “Evil walks my way sometimes / But I’ve seen where it’s coming from / So I give it hell but let it run / Even if I press rewind / I can’t fix everything I’ve done / So I might as well be giving love.” This song has such a great vibe that takes the audience away to a warm tropical beach. This surely won’t be their last headlining show in Chicago.

Cost of a ticket: $25

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Exceptional Value

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Quinn Delaney