Chris Connelly meticulously chooses his song selections each year for the annual performance of Sons of the Silent Age, a band he co-founded in Chicago in 2013. As he gets ready to pay tribute to David Bowie, Connelly immerses himself in the essence of the artist before considering the visual transformation of makeup and costumes. He believes that adopting the persona of Bowie, whose real name was David Jones, allows for a more genuine performance.
The ensemble is notable for its skilled musicianship, featuring many accomplished artists from Chicago’s music scene. This year they will perform at the Metro on Saturday, January 11, showcasing not just Bowie’s well-known hits but also some of his more obscure works, reflecting the depth of his catalog.
Sons of the Silent Age is more than a mere cover band. Drummer Matt Walker explains that they reinterpret Bowie’s music rather than just replicate it from the recordings, making each performance a unique and interactive experience. Their commitment to exploring Bowie’s innovative musical styles has made their showcase a beloved event in Chicago’s arts scene, held annually close to Bowie’s birthday.
Connelly and Walker share a deep admiration for Bowie’s “Berlin trilogy,” which experiments with electronic and ambient music and has left a lasting impact on various genres. Their passion for the artist was solidified through memorable personal encounters with Bowie during their respective music careers.
In addition to the performances, the band often invites special guests, enhancing each concert’s vibrancy. This year, actor Michael Shannon is set to open the show as John Lennon, a testament to the eclectic nature of their events.
As a mainstay in Chicago’s January music calendar, Sons of the Silent Age is not just a tribute to David Bowie; it represents an ongoing exploration of his artistic legacy, allowing new and old generations to appreciate the unparalleled contributions he made to modern culture. This celebration embodies the spirit of innovation that Bowie championed, showcasing how his influence remains relevant and inspiring.
Overall, the performance promises to deliver a memorable experience that honors Bowie’s groundbreaking work while forging its own path in the musical landscape.