Walking along Broadway Street in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago, the distinct sight of the Riviera theater cant be missed. A vintage venue which this past weekend held Moe's name highlighted on their marque to entice those passing. The weekend was certainly started with a rocking good time with not only Moe performing but the loved Chicago band Cornmeal kicking off the music. Cornmeal's upbeat, bluegrass tunes followed by Moe's jam sensations and progressive movements made the evening pure bliss. The music began with a surge and pulsed throughout the evening.

Cornmeal stepping onto the stage to many adoring fans that have loyally followed these musicians through their growth. In their home town of Chicago, this band came out and beat the crowd with a consistent flow of strings and percussion. The feeling and power behind the members coexisting on stage is undeniable. A delight not just to hear but to move to as well, whether it be with a knee slap or a simple heel-toe, you cant deny the urge to shake it. Incredible lyrics which perfectly matched the music behind the words. The band also has a way of stunning you with an experience of smiles and genuine appreciation for those who enjoy the music they share. Performing a shorter opening set Cornmeal had a way of awakening the attendees. The melodies drifted from the stage with such passion and unison. Some songs that were performed to bump up the energy in the Riv were songs such as , "River Gap" and "Feet on the Ground." They played fabulously for the short time they were on stage. Concluding their set with the song, "Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow," this band left the crowd awe inspired as they awaited the Moe to hit the stage.

Sepping out to the stage greeted with cheers from the crowd you could tell from the get go that Moe was excited to be playing in the Windy City. This band has created quite the following for themselves throughout the duration they have been playing together. The past couple of decades the jam band scene has grown extensively, not only in the way which jams are incorporated into the music but the additional gear acquired to put it forth. Moe is certainly a band that has grown with this genre to exceed expectations of those coming to rock out. Bursting into the music the band came out with a phenomenal display of lights and enticing musical notes being played together. The first set was started with the song "Skrunk." Activating the funk in the venue the music was groovy, something you couldn't resist moving your feet to. The jam sensation in which the guys project through their music is truly moving and just fun, from the start the band came off very calming and laid back. Music which just makes you have a good time when listened to, this feeling continued into the evening throughout the sets played by Moe.

The first set flowed sensationally, the music was triggered by great musicians coming together to form something phenomenal. Continuing into the tunes the songs, " Captain America," and "Tailspin" were performed. Hooking those in attendance with funky, jam, dance music which made spinning and twirling completely acceptable. Treating the audience to a wonderful collaboration of musicians during the songs, "Shoot First" and "Shake your Hips," members of the band Cornmeal joined the stage. A blend which mixed rock jam with some sweet string movements. A great balance on stage throughout the duration of the two bands playing together. As the set beat on the music grew deeper into impromptu style playing and more detailed rock sessions.

Sweeping through the first set the music was still flowing smoothly into the audience. As the set came to a close with the song, "George," those in attendance couldn't help the craving for more Moe. After set break the guys came back out with a bang. Playing together for as long as Moe has, they truly have a way of pulling every sound from their instruments together. Rocking into the second set with "Cathedral," the tune really was re energizing to the joint. The set progressed with intense jams and intricate solo's, including a very impressive display by the bands drummer, Vinnie Amico. Playing songs like, "Crab Eyes," and "32 Things." The band really knows a lot about the breakthrough in their jams and genuinely develops great melodies that can reach out to the crowd. Encoring this swift movement of music with the song, "Wind It Up," the band drifted off stage as the crowd drifted into the city streets thinking 'Gimme some Moe.

Overall the show was a success. All the things that were craved in a jam- rock- progressive concert were met, great lights, fabulous music and of course great company with fellow dancers and ragers. On top of it all to begin with such a hometown delight such as the band Cornmeal truly wrapped this evening up and put gratitude in your heart to those musicians who get on stage and make it happen.

03/05/10 (Fri) Riviera Theatre - Chicago, IL

Set 1: Skrunk, Captain America, Tailspin, Shoot First* > Shake Your Hips* > Lazarus > Armageddon Jig > George

Set 2: Cathedral, Time Again, Brent Black, Lost Along The Way > Crab Eyes, 32 Things, E: Wind It Up

Setlist taken from Setlists.com

To see more photo's from this Moe. show check out Jackafunk's Flickr Gallery via this link; http://www.flickr.com/photos/37099565@N02/sets/72157623588636708/