Uncommon Ground, Stomping Ground for Uncommon Artists

Tasty chai. Their menu at the restaurant is fantastic -- everything's fresh, and most is organic and local too. Mmm.

Last night I ventured down to Uncommon Ground, a ridiculously cool and beautifully green Chicago restaurant featuring some talented musicians. Their atmosphere is lovely -- low lighting (candles + sparkly decorative lights), fall and Halloween items scattered around, and gorgeous original artwork.

The painting hanging in front of our table displayed these big, puffy, white clouds and dreamy-looking tropical birds floating around in bubbles. It was earthy and unreal. Quite dreamy!

Sweet signage outside along 

Even the gorgeous bathroom decor -- with its mosaic mirror and tree ceramics lining the walls -- made me smile.

But the real treat? Calming, relaxed music in a seriously sweet venue. I had never heard her before, but Shuling recommended we come down to check out Kelsey Wild, an NU student and very talented folk singer/songwriter who can also jam on the guitar and piano. Kelsey really belted it out, and her clever lyrics, subdued charm, and hilariously cute shiny shoes and bright orange socks gave me warm fuzzy feelings. I was so happy when Shu gifted me the EP (Wishing Well) featuring each song we listened to, so now I can enjoy her tunes at home.


In case you're wondering, she played: Wishing Well, Fun, Ghost Song, Salt, and The War. 


Bravo, Kelsey! If you'd like to find out more info, check out her website (link above on her name) or her contact page here.

 

Next up it was Landon Smith, a guitar-strummin' guy from Texas who reminded me a lot of Matt Nathanson and Dave Barnes and a little bit of Brett Dennen. He told some great stories about surviving broken equipment, growing up sorta cross-eyed, and performing in front of fans who were convinced he was weeping. Don't worry, Landon, we believed you: sweat dripping in the eyes is no fun; believe me, we Bikram yogis know it! Anyway, thanks for the awesome entertainment, wise words, and wicked talent in front of that mic!


One of the songs Landon played featured his friend Matt Jones, another artist at the show last night. We missed Matt's set since we arrived a bit late, but I loved their collaboration song called "Enjoy the Ride' (it's apparently featured in a teen flick that I hadn't heard of but, according to Landon, is "killin' it overseas!") Keep up the film work, guys. :)


Check out some of Landon's music and silly videos with Matt here. I know I'll be listening 'til I've got lyrics like this memorized:


I will love you as much as I want you to love me... 
(from "Roseanne," a song inspired by Landon's real family members)


Some are scared are living without somebody by their side
You won't control your future; ask anyone who's ever tried
You may not get where you're going... so enjoy the ride.
(from "Enjoy the Ride," the collaboration between Matt and Landon)


Thanks for the great show, guys! Keep in touch and let us know when you're in Chi-town again. Best of luck in your travels & namaste.