Nick Hennessey and Maceo Vidal-Haymes—best known as the core duo behind genre-bending outfit the O’My’s—are hyperactive in Chicago’s music scene, collaborating with like-minded folks and pushing their sound with each and every project they release. Their brand-new fourth full-length, Trust the Stars, walks a thin line between funkiness and grittiness while serving up a fresh take on rock ’n’ soul psychedelia. “Nothing Much,” which features Chicago singer Jamila Woods, is breezy, whispery soul, while “Skipping Stars,” featuring rapper Pink Siifu, is space-rock–kissed funk.
The O’My’s are celebrating Trust the Stars with a record-release show at Metro, and they’ve curated a vibe-stuffed lineup for the occasion, including gifted singer-songwriter Shawnee Dez (also a Reader staffer who hosts the biweekly culture podcast The Sit Down). Frsh Waters is a hungry, charismatic west-side-repping rapper known for his work in Pivot Gang. Last month he had a great feature on the collective’s latest single, “Who at the Door?,” and joined Pivot Gang front man Saba for an exciting performance marking the tenth anniversary of Saba’s solo album Comfort Zone. Rounding out the bill is improvisational, experimental artist Sparklmami, whose multicultural blend of neosoul, jazz, and pop makes for stimulating performances. This eclectic night promises to remind us of just how blessed we are that so many talented artists call Chicago home. It really must be something in the water.
The O’My’s Shawnee Dez, Frsh Waters, Sparklmami, and DJ Coco Nico open. Wed 11/27, 8 PM, Metro, 3730 N. Clark, $25, $20 in advance, 18+