About the Artist

Chicago-based multi-instrumentalist Tommi Zender recently released his first record in 15 years “More Songs About Time” (May 2019). Zender teaches at the beloved Old Town School of Folk Music and privately, as well as doing session & performance work with many excellent Chicago musicians you probably know. He often plays intimate solo/duo acoustic shows in the Chicago/midwest area. 

————–

Jeff Elbel of Illinois Entertainer calls the new album “a fertile union of sonics and sentiment that forms a satisfying set worthy of repeat play…this album should resonate with music lovers” (8 out of 10). 

Sound Opinions co-host Jim DeRogatis says “…a talented craftsman with an appealing wit and energy”.

Chicago cultural writer/artist Mark Guarino says “The record I keep circling back to these last few weeks is “More Songs About Time” and “Zender is a tunesmith whose discography isn’t long, but it’s certainly packed for value.”

————–

The 45 is a Chicago-based post-punk/new-wave quintet founded by Len Kasper, a long-time bass player better known for his work on Chicago Cubs broadcasts. The band features several accomplished Chicago musicians, including Dag Juhlin (Slugs/Poi Dog Pondering/Sunshine Boys), Gerald Dowd (Robbie Fulks, Not-Ready-For-Naptime-Players), Liam Davis (Frisbie, Justin Roberts, The Diff and a 3-time Grammy-nominated producer) and Matt Spiegel (Brother Brother, Tributosaurus). The 45’s debut, self-titled record is due out in 2020.