Sound. Light. Action. Energy. Live music, whether performed to 10 patrons in a coffee shop or 60,000 fans in a stadium, generates a creative atmosphere that begs to be photographed. Often overlooked, the venue can have a profound effect on both the performers and audience so having been on both sides of the stage, my eye is drawn to capturing the energy of the spectacle as it unfolds within a space.
The Aragon Ballroom in Chicago is a very special venue. Once a classic dance hall from the early 20th century, it has become one of Chicago’s signature live music venues that still maintains its vintage vibe just steps from the L on the North Side. When I lived in the city, I caught performances by Moby, Neon Trees, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, My Chemical Romance and New Order. Below are images I captured of the My Chemical Romance (2011) and New Order (2012) shows with the iPhone of the era.
