Chicago Vinyl Connection celebrates one year of bringing independent record sellers, vintage vendors, and music lovers together with today’s latest edition of their nomadic gatherings of good times dealers. Thousands of new and used albums will be for sale this afternoon at Chicago Vinyl Connection 010 from a long list of locals, including South Rhodes Records, Beverly Phono Mart, and Shady Rest Vintage and Vinyl. Your shopping will have a soundtrack courtesy of DJs Backpack Beatz, Kida Darling, Nosha Luv, and Elijah Horton. Plus, there is a raffle boasting special prizes from all of the vendors, including Marz Brewery, the hosts of the event. It’s free to attend (bring cash because you’ll want to buy records!) and happens from noon-5 PM at Marz Community Brewing Company’s Taproom (3630 S. Iron). (SCJ)
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Summer in Chicago offers no shortage of music opportunities. We mentioned it on Friday, but today is the last day for Ruido Fest in Union Park (1501 W. Randolph). Associate editor Jamie Ludwig describes the festival as “intentional and visionary” and praises its “eclectic international lineup”. Hip-hop legends Cypress Hill are headlining! There’s plenty more to check out at this expansive and all-ages festival with a focus on Latin alternative music, including Goyo, Maldita Vecindad, Angelfuk, and more. Single-day passes cost $105.74 to $260.24. Gates open at 12:45 PM today and you can see the full music lineup on Ruido’s website. (MC)
They’re back and they’re taking over this time! Robot Riot, Chicago’s premiere (and only) robot fighting competition league is back with their first in-person (in-robot?) event since 2019. Robot Riot features tabletop-sized robots, many made by the human “coaches” that accompany them, vying for victory by destroying the other machines that get in their way. It’s cog to cog combat, and if you feel inspired to join the fun but haven’t yet created your own R2D2 or Number Five, the organizers will have “loaner bots” available for you to try. The competition happens from 2-5 PM today at Metropolitan Brewing’s tap house (3057 N. Rockwell) and is open to all ages. Beer and food will be available for sale. If you’re planning on bringing your own little world destroyer out of the garage and into the ring, give the Robot Riot folks a heads up by emailing [email protected]. (SCJ)
Looking for some musical fun without making it an entire day? Check out Peaches at Metro tonight. This electroclash pioneer drew on the histories of riot grrrl and homocore to create a groundbreaking sound and stage show that challenges gender and sexual norms. She’s celebrating the 20th anniversary of her debut, The Teaches of Peaches, which contributor Monica Kendrick argues is “more important than ever.” Tickets are $40 ($35 in advance), and you must be 18 or older with proof of vaccination. Show starts at 9 PM with Sophie Powers opening. (MC)
