Reilly Downes & The Acid Cowboys
Reilly Downes, affectionately known as the Sad Cowgirl of Chicago, is an Americana artist whose music intertwines heartfelt storytelling with the rich traditions of her Texas Hill Country roots. Her songs delve into themes of love, loss, and resilience, characterized by soulful melodies and poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
Beginning her career as a session musician in Nashville, Reilly lent her evocative voice to some of Americana’s most cherished singer-songwriters. In 2022, she stepped into the spotlight with her debut solo album, Spent, which topped Americana charts and garnered acclaim from outlets like The Boot. Her haunting rendition of “Wicked Game” further showcased her ability to infuse classic songs with raw emotion, earning radio play and a feature on Spotify’s “Vibes” playlist.
After a quieter 2023, Reilly returned to the stage in 2024, performing alongside artists such as Jaime Wyatt and more. Described as “small but mighty,” her powerful voice and compelling stage presence have captivated audiences, leading to recognition at festivals and features in Rolling Stone.
Reilly Downes continues to carve out a unique space in the Americana genre, offering music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Lydia Cash
Lydia Cash grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. She moved to Chicago on a whim in 2013, and her love for the city has since become a wellspring of inspiration for her music.
Listening to Lydia Cash’s newest EP, “Blush,” feels almost like reading a secret – the five songs are beacons of authenticity where she reveals the innermost workings of her heart’s loves and losses. Each song is a unique confessional, a portrait of a moment in time, poured out of her like the best bottle of wine on a back porch. Heartache, new romance, and introspection are all common themes that are held together with threads of vulnerable moments– a shared cigarette, a head on a shoulder. Her delicate melodies, enrapturing voice, and a pedal steel twang showcase this native Alabamian/Chicago transplant’s dichotomy of grit and sweetness. So grab a glass, lean in, and let her stories find you, wherever you are.