Gaslight Coffee Roasters • Chicago, IL

Date: 08-16-13
Location: 385 N Milwaukee Ave
Words & Photographs by: Luis Valdizon
Website: gaslightcoffeeroasters.com

In our everlasting search for the best stores, eateries, coffee shops, brands, attractions, etc., during our travels, we look for the mainstays in every town we visit. We look for the places that not only belong in their surroundings, but enhance them. Case in point: Gaslight Coffee Roasters in Chicago, IL. Their location on the corner of an intersection in the bustling Logan Square fits perfectly with the artisanal urban aesthetic of the shop. Their staff is well-known to be experts at what they do, and they deliver their services in an unpretentious, yet beautiful environment. We stopped in on a cold October day and ordered some warm drinks and muffins. We've visited a lot of cafes on tour this year, but from the quality of service and hospitality to the baked goods and drinks, Gaslight is hands-down one of the most superb in the country.

Chicago, IL • Play Me, I'm Yours

Date: 07-04-13
Location: 871 N Wabash Ave
Photography by: Luis Valdizon
Words by: David Morris
Website: streetpianos.com

Aside from performing and seeing fans, traveling is one of the main perks of touring. Seeing different places, soaking up different cities and cultures is something that i've always dreamed of. Recently while on tour we stopped in Chicago to explore. After grabbing some tea (yes, for once we chose tea over coffee), we stumbled upon a piano in a public park. It was just sitting there. One of the tea shop employees stopped to explain that the piano was part of "Street Pianos--Play Me, I'm Yours." A global art initiative to encourage artistic expression and bring music to public forums all over. I sat down to mess around. I only know a few basic chords on the piano, but began to play and hum some melodies. A few people stopped to show their appreciation. It felt good to just live in the moment and vibe out. After looking into the initiative I learned that more than 800 pianos have been installed in 34 cities across the globe. How cool of a concept is that? It's like, instead of an artist going on tour, the instrument is going on tour. Giving everyone a chance to steal the spotlight. Brilliant. That IS music. That IS art.

Whether you are pianist, musician, or just a fan of music, learn more about 'Street Pianos--Play Me, I'm Yours' by visiting the link listed above.

Chicago, IL • Wrigley Field + Giordano's

Date: 05-30-13
Location: 1060 W Addison St. Chicago, IL
Photographed by: Luis Valdizon
Words by: David Morris

During some of our midwest tour dates last month, we stopped in Chicago to stay with a friend who happens to live next door to Wrigley Field. Having never been to the Friendly Confines, my expectations and excitement level were both at an all-time high. After scalping tickets for a day game (for $15 a piece), purchasing some refreshments and choosing random seats, we sat and enjoyed a game of good ol' fashioned American baseball at one of MLB's most iconic stadiums. The experience did not disappoint--how can you not enjoy a place with so much history? After the Cubs won, we stopped at Giadorno's in celebration to check out some of Chicago's finest deep-dish pizza. All I can say is, I can't wait to get back to Chi-town this fall.