The Transference

The Transference is an indie rock/power pop band from Chicago. Dark themes get paired with playful lines and reflections on inter- and inner-connectedness. Because if we’re going down, we might as well have some fun and love people as best we can.

Initially started as a handful of demo songs written in the middle of the pandemic after the breakup of a previous band, The Transference was founded by singer/songwriter/keyboard player Laura Hollingsworth and former bandmates Alex Karan (drums) and MJ Johnson (bass).

Featuring evocative lyrics layered over pop rock rhythms; the band's pop sound doesn't lack for complexity or attention to detail. Lush harmonies and melodic lines from lead guitarist Justin Wheeler and vocalist Andrea Santiago weave in and out between synths, vibraphone, harmonium, pedal steel, and more. Like an easter egg hunt; the band's playful lyrics and attention to detail make songs worth a second listen.

Midamerican Elevator

 Midamerican Elevator is fronted by Paxton Long and Beni Yuzawa, whose harmonies float over arrangements influenced by 90s nostalgia, shoegaze, and indie rockers such as

Courtney Barnett and Snail Mail. Their songs feature a busy rhythm section, with guitars traveling between sparkly counterpoint and regenerative drive. Since forming in 2020 amid COVID lockdowns, the band has become well-known throughout the Chicago music scene. They'll be recording their next album at the beginning of the summer, culminating in a release at the end of the year.

Sponsored by: Lyon Communications and Patrick Duffy, Baird & Warner - North Center