House of Vans is treating Chicago and the Brooklyn to some pretty kick-ass shows between now and the end of August and last week was Chi-town’s turn with a special presentation by Princess Nokia and supporting acts Jpegmafia and Glittermoneyyy.
Located just west of downtown Chicago, House of Vans on Elizabeth St. is an indoor skate park that doubles as a music venue for special events like this curated summer concert series. The concept behind this series of events is that HOV chooses the headliners and the headliners have the freedom to choose their supporting acts for their event. Princess Nokia and guests are the second of these events in Chicago and future dates and performers are listed below!
On the heels of a controversial cancellation in Mexico, Princess Nokia played a strong set at HOV and expressed strong concern for her fans and concert-goers. She entertained with all her usual hits, invited a guest that fit the part to dance by her side during her performance of Tomboy and capped the night off with a taste of emo covers from artists like Blink 182. Nokia’s concern for her fans couldn’t be more evident as she made her voice loud and clear to ensure patrons were safe and that women, people of color and the LGBTQ community were respected, both by security and others.
Princess Nokia also took time to explain about her recent reflection over worldly matters (reason she offered on social networks for that Mexico cancellation) and her empathy, especially with the suffering in Puerto Rico, all while reminding fans how lucky they are to live with the rights and privileges that they have but not without hinting that there is still a great deal to be done.
An energetic and exciting performance also came from Jpegmafia. A newcomer to my ears, Jpegmafia threw down on all sides of the stage, above and beyond and from inside the crowd. With an incredible amount of energy, Jpeg blew the crowd away. Jpegmafia’s presentation reminded me of the H09909 show I reviewed not too long ago. (H09909 if you’re reading this and your politics match, Jpegmafia would be a dope opener for you all). Born in New York to Jamaican parents and a current LA resident, Jpegmafia has been described as “Trap music’s subconscious.” More than obviously not a fan of Morrissey, Jpeg’s lyrics are politically charged, his delivery is in your face and his history is reflected in his verse.
Opening act Glitter Moneyyy warmed up the House of Vans evening with some female power on stage. Described as sexy, politically pissed off, and destroying the patriarchy, these women aren’t timid and they aren’t afraid to speak their minds, even if it offends you. Nominated and runner-up to The Chicago Reader’s “Best New Band of 2017” and “Best New Musical Act” by Hustle Bones, the group draws influence from notable greats like Run the Jewels, Beyoncé and “the drunkest girl at the party.”
The remaining dates and acts for House of Vans in Chicago are below. More details on supporting acts closer to date:
June 21, 2018 – Iceage feat. The Black Lips, Mary Lattimore and Torture Love
July 12, 2018 – The Dead Milkmen
July 27, 2018 – Unknown Mortal Orchestra
August 8, 2018 – Wolf Parade