There are few social outlets for residents of the North Shore here in Chicago, outside of the occasional charity event or Forest & Bluff social extravaganza (who doesn't want to be on the cover of that shit magazine?). Luckily, for those of us unaccustomed to the high life, there is some good music coming our way. Tonight, and tonight only, Nashville export Ron LaSalle brings his blues knowhow to Gorton Community Center (400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest). Combining the longstanding tradition of delta blues with some stellar vocals, LaSalle brings his gravelly voice and experience to Chicago with a satchel of soulful tunes to boot. This is something Willie Nelson would dig.
The nickname "Bohemian Bluesman" doesn't quite do LaSalle justice. He's got a knack for the emotional content not found this side of Dan Hicks. Those familiar with Hicks might double-take at such a statement, but as LaSalle can certainly attest, sometimes the best medicine for the down and out is a good time. The blues, as a genre, encompass those "On the Road" tunes that epitomize the need to move on down the road. LaSalle invigorates those of us who long for the path less taken. Check him out tonight, at 7 and 9 p.m. at Gorton, and take advantage of the rare occurrence of a man who has seen, lived, and heard the blues. And go home happy.
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