BRIDGEPORT — For two gloriously noisy hours, there will be absolutely no quiet in the Richard J. Daley branch of the Chicago Public Library.
"Punk Rock and Donuts" returns to the library, 3400 S. Halsted St. on Jan. 31. The music begins at 2 p.m. and will last through 4 p.m.
Organized by library director and former punk rock singer Jeremy Kitchen and his pal, sound engineer and bassist Kenny Rasmussen, the concert is part of the library's push for "increased community empowerment ... to provide arts and culture to people in the neighborhoods," Kitchen said.
It's also a way for kids and older 9-to-5 workday punks — they're out there — to catch a show at reasonable hours, "so people don't have to go a wild drunken show at midnight," Kitchen said.
Free coffee and doughnuts will be provided by Jackalope Coffee and Tea House.
Headlining is Radar Eyes, a four-piece psychedelic garage rock group that "stands as an excellent reminder of the inspired chaos that two guitars, bass and drums can still stir up," according to Tribune rock critic Greg Kot.
Also on the bill are Den, a self-described weirdo noise punk band, and Toupee, which Kitchen describes as "damaged art punk."
The library will remain open for patrons during the show.
Kicthen said last year's inaugural concert went off without a hitch, with no complaints from library dwellers.
"In fact a lot of the patrons came to watch," Kitchen said.
Still, if you're looking for some solitude, Kitchen recommends heading down to the nearby Canaryville, McKinley Park or Chinatown library branches.
But if you're looking for a low-key punk show, if such a thing even exists, Kitchen recommends coming out to the library for an afternoon of free fun.
"Bring the kids," Kitchen said. "And bring earplugs."
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here:
