Mipso Plugs In At Chicago’s Thalia Hall [Gallery]

The Americana quartet Mipso returned to Chicago’s Thalia Hall last Thursday to play what the band described as one of “our favorite venues on this green earth.” Following the release of their sixth studio album Book of Fools earlier this year, Mipso is in the thick of an expansive national tour that will extend into early 2024.

Formed at the University of North Carolina in the early 2010s, the band quickly established a staple sound, composed of soulful harmonies, jazz and strings, which ultimately introduced some modern flavor to Billboard’s Bluegrass charts.

Book of Fools feels like a new chapter for Mipso. After nearly a decade of touring, the pandemic forced the band to finally take a break, giving them each time to explore new sounds, pursue solo endeavors and experiment with new ideas. When they returned to the studio to write and record their sixth LP, they found their everlasting chemistry to be fueled even more.

The first thing long-time fans are likely to notice on the new record is the addition of electric guitars and synthesizers - a first for the quartet. Book of Fools introduces a more live-rock band sound and groove-driven tracks.

Hearing some of these tracks live for the first time brings new energy to the setlist, while older songs offer a comfortable stability. The result is a perfectly balanced live show, which was on display at Thalia Hall Thursday evening.

For Mipso tour and ticket info, click here. Check out our show gallery from Chicago’s Thalia Hall, below: