Botanical Roots Outdoor Concert Series (Botanical Conservatory)

Fridays, 7:30-11:30 p.m. until September 5th

“Looking for live music in a great atmosphere? We offer a fresh breeze, a great view, and the sweet sound of “roots” music by regionally and nationally known performers. The Conservatory’s outdoor Terrace Garden comes alive with the upbeat music that speaks to the soul of a hip, urban lifestyle. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and local opener begins at 8:30. All ages are welcome. The $5 cover charge (age 12 and under FREE) includes admission to the gardens. Cash bar and food available.”

The first concert of this season will be tomorrow night featuring the group Gizzae:

“Hailing from the beautiful Caribbean island of Dominica, the Ancient and Holy Lands of Ethiopia, and the South Side of Chicago, comes the award winning reggae music of Gizzae. Rocket, Ruphael, Clem, Asrat and Ralph have over 100 years of musical experience collectively and 4 Grammy® awards playing Reggae music professionally with such acts as: The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Ziggy Marley, Third World, Toots and Maytals, Burning Spear, Carly Simon, The Talking Heads, Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, Chachi, Sam Ghansah, Moja Nya, Dallol, Rude Beat Society, The Mighty Baron of Trinidad, Bell Combo and many, many others. Working and playing with such a vast array of musical styles and talents has enabled Gizzae to create a unique blend of Roots Reggae. Gizzae’s brand of reggae is always backed with strong guitar riffing, pads and ambient vibes from the dual keyboardists. Some songs are heavily influenced by Soca and Calypso and other genres such as jazz and even rock. Just when you think you’ve heard everything Gizzae has to offer, the band instinctively and seamlessly transitions into blues reggae finale to satisfy the organ and guitar solo fans. Formed in 1992 after the breakup of Dallol (Ziggy Marley’s Touring Band) and Moja Nya (New York), Gizzae soon became a fan favorite in the Chicago and Midwest reggae scene.”