Nina H.
Yelp
It's been years since my last concert and I've been itching to see a live show. Many opportunities have come and gone over the years; but I told myself this was the year. As it happens, Lollapallooza 2017 was in town. I briefly considered attending (very briefly) however I wasn't willing to shell out a ridiculous amount of cash to be standing outside for several hours in unpredictable weather. Nor did I have the inclination to be packed in like a sardine next to sweaty people, ankle deep in mud. Or get hit on. Or get groped. Nina doesn't play that. August weather in Chicago can be a hit or miss. Actually, I take that back. Anytime in Chicago is a hit or miss!
Having considered all that, I looked into the Lolla after-shows and lo and behold, Pham was performing. He was opening up for Crystal Castles at Lincoln Hall and I was totally stoked! I begged my husband to join me and when he agreed; we booked our tickets and counted the days until that night.
Lincoln Hall is a small venue which, as anyone knows, is a great place to see a live performance. What they lack in size, they make up for in quality. The acoustics are terrific, the furnishings are modern, and the facilities are clean and well kept. All this is accentuated by the doormen who act as greeters instead of gatekeepers (highly unusual for a small club.)
Arrive at least 30-45 minutes prior to show time. They open their doors an hour prior. This window should allow you enough time to grab a quick drink and scope out a spot. As we were grabbing a drink by the bar, guess who decides to show up? Pham! I was 5 feet away from him and as he was passing through, I shook my husband and said, "Oh my god, that's Pham!" I was overcome by excitement and wanted to approach him to take a picture. Unfortunately, I was a bit was star stuck and couldn't move. My lack of initiative left me feeling like a complete wuss. By the time I was about to go over to him, he had already walked away. See folks? Small venues are worth visiting, especially if your chances of meeting a performer are highly likely!
Shaking off the moment, we moved upstairs to the 2nd floor balcony and managed to get seats in the center. There was a bar on the second floor, so grabbing a drink was convenient. Overall, the high energy concert was amazing. I bought tickets to see Pham but Crystal Castles was freaking amazing too! Ben, who's never heard of Pham or Crystal Castles enjoyed both of their sets!
Parking is free on the streets for night shows and most of all, tickets will not cost you and arm and a leg. Check Lincoln Hall's calendar of shows because sometimes they offer free concerts on select nights! I would come back here for future concerts and Pham, if you're reading this; I hope you come back to Chicago! Maybe this time I'll say hi!