Everybody loves an anniversary, and we’re celebrating a big one: The first anniversary of Illinois Soul! In 2024, Illinois Public Media launched Illinois Soul, a new radio station serving the Black community, to “amplify Black voices, music, and culture throughout central Illinois.” We are proud to partner with Illinois Soul in their important mission. Come enjoy a free pre-performance reception in the Lobby at 6:30pm with R&B music, appetizers, cash bar, and giveaways, followed by a ticketed concert featuring the celebrated techno-soul group Loose Ends. Happy Anniversary, Illinois Soul, and here’s to many more to come!

When Loose Ends emerged out of the London soul underground in 1980 with the single “In the Sky,” the group was so far ahead of its time that today its sound is as refreshing and vibrant as ever. Their vibe signaled the dawning of a new age of synthesizer and rhythm machine-driven grooves, channeling the Islands and the lushest, jazziest of soul – as much of a splash down into Caribbean Sea as the Milky Way.

Today, original lead vocalist/songwriter Jane Eugene leads a United States-based edition of Loose Ends that is carrying the blue-flame torch with pride and much success. Loose Ends and its infectious international sound sit comfortably in the middle of various styles and generations. This now classic band in its own right connects the dots to all top-shelf Soul music, creating a vibration that reverberates within a listener with 360 degree intensity.

Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 7:30PM in the Tryon Festival Theatre

See the Krannert Center website for more details and to purchase tickets.