The Lonesomes are from Portland, Ore., but they have roots in the Chicago area. I know lead singer Phil Favorite from our days at The Daily Illini, but haven’t had a chance to see him play for a long time. The group’s new CD, Quick Fixes & Power Trips, is a solid alt-country record that sounds at times like the Drive-By Truckers or Son Volt, with some nice guitar licks. Check out the Lonesomes on myspace.
Another Daily Illini alum, Phil Rockrohr, also played at the Elbo Room with his band, the Lifters, playing some from the new CD, Thru the Haze. Rockrohr plays a blend of power pop and old-fashioned rock. The new song “Thinking of You” may be one of his best, with a very catchy chorus and some loud guitar chords. Check out Phil Rockrohr on myspace.
SEE PHOTOS OF THE LONESOMES AND PHIL ROCKROHR & THE LIFTERS.