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A key force in the emerging Chicago laptop music scene, Venue was known for their raw, high-energy performances that defied the static image of early computer musicians, incorporating synchronized video projections and Chris May's dynamic stage presence.
Starting in 1999 by Chris May and Zak Marcom, Venue bridged the gap between electronic experimentation and rock energy, finding a home in dive bars, art galleries, and nightclubs.
Their self-released 2002 EP "<a href="spotify:album:2Mf1KxtWc6br41cUQf0DqE" data-name="Caught On Film">Caught On Film</a>" earned them a Diesel U:Music award for the single "Suckers," bringing them wider recognition and placing them in the so-called “Electroclash” movement of the time.
Albums like "<a href="spotify:album:5UU3LSuDji0RnpUAun2d8A" data-name="One Without A Second">One Without A Second</a>" (Brilliante Records), featuring vocalist Katja Blichfeld and producer Brock Manke, showcased a compelling tension between catchy, stylized pop and emotionally charged electro that defined their sound. Several tracks explored an experimental approach, pushing the boundaries of vocal processing with vocoders, multi-chain effects, and a nod to the industrial sound of the early 90s.
Later releases, including singles, "<a href="spotify:track:0KwXhMWMUOLc2QzdN6xOeI" data-name="Can't Stay">Can't Stay</a>," and “<a href="spotify:album:3cZZ5gWmcefcnfPeTfQFyF" data-name="Desiréena">Desiréena</a>,” saw a refinement in songwriting, incorporating acoustic instruments and a focus on personal and introspective lyrics.
Starting in 1999 by Chris May and Zak Marcom, Venue bridged the gap between electronic experimentation and rock energy, finding a home in dive bars, art galleries, and nightclubs.
Their self-released 2002 EP "<a href="spotify:album:2Mf1KxtWc6br41cUQf0DqE" data-name="Caught On Film">Caught On Film</a>" earned them a Diesel U:Music award for the single "Suckers," bringing them wider recognition and placing them in the so-called “Electroclash” movement of the time.
Albums like "<a href="spotify:album:5UU3LSuDji0RnpUAun2d8A" data-name="One Without A Second">One Without A Second</a>" (Brilliante Records), featuring vocalist Katja Blichfeld and producer Brock Manke, showcased a compelling tension between catchy, stylized pop and emotionally charged electro that defined their sound. Several tracks explored an experimental approach, pushing the boundaries of vocal processing with vocoders, multi-chain effects, and a nod to the industrial sound of the early 90s.
Later releases, including singles, "<a href="spotify:track:0KwXhMWMUOLc2QzdN6xOeI" data-name="Can't Stay">Can't Stay</a>," and “<a href="spotify:album:3cZZ5gWmcefcnfPeTfQFyF" data-name="Desiréena">Desiréena</a>,” saw a refinement in songwriting, incorporating acoustic instruments and a focus on personal and introspective lyrics.