The Singer and the Song: Orillia, Tobin Bawinkel, Eddy Green

The Singer and The Song features three full sets of music for dancing, drinking and listening, with the exciting bonus of a new song from each band, written from a word prompt given in advance.

The artists also pay tribute to Chicago’s music roots by covering a song by another local artist, present or past.

At its heart, this series is a showcase for the incredible songwriting talent of the Chicago music scene, with an emphasis on Country, but including the broadest definitions of Americana.

The monthly event is often hosted by the show’s curators; Brandon Good, Lawrence Peters, and Matt Gandurski, each a key player in Chicago’s music community.

Orillia

Under his moniker Orillia, Andrew Marczak follows the long tradition of folk music’s more progressive stewards, commanding audiences with his unique bracing tenor and skeletal arrangements.  His debut self-titled record, which was tracked completely live, acoustic, and straight to tape at Jamdek Recording Studios in his hometown of Chicago, marries the quotidian poetry of Sam Shepard with the direct, sparkling twang of 90s alt-country.

Andrew’s sophomore record FIRE-WEED is out 10/24 on Far West Records (Lefty Parker, Red PK, Penknife)

 Tobin Bawinkel 

Tobin Bawinkel is a Chicago-based singer, songwriter, and storyteller best known as the frontman of the internationally acclaimed Celtic punk band Flatfoot 56. For over two decades, he has toured the world, delivering anthems that blend the grit of punk rock with the soul of Americana and folk. Raised in a musical family, Tobin developed an early love for honest songwriting and energetic performance, crafting music that speaks to themes of faith, resilience, and redemption. With Flatfoot 56, he’s released several celebrated albums known for their driving bagpipes, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful sing-along choruses. His solo work offers a more introspective glimpse into his artistry, pairing acoustic storytelling with reflections on hope, struggle, and the human experience. Whether performing on festival stages or in intimate rooms, Tobin’s warm, weathered voice and authentic spirit invite listeners to find connection and courage through his songs.

Eddy Green

Eddy Green, a celebrated Americana artist hailing from the small town of London, Kentucky, is a musician whose sound effortlessly blends the roots of Southern Appalachia with the depth of traditional folk, country, blues, and Motown. His music is a soulful journey through life’s highs and lows, expressed with masterful storytelling and compelling melodies that captivate audiences across the world.

Eddy’s influences are vast and eclectic, with icons such as Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Tom Waits, John Prine, and Lucinda Williams shaping his musical identity. He also draws inspiration from artists like Ry Cooder, Taj Mahal, and Steve Earle, whose storytelling abilities have impacted his approach to songwriting. From the haunting narratives of Townes Van Zandt to the lyrical sharpness of Chris Smither, Eddy embraces a wide range of styles, but always with the aim of delivering songs that are authentic and relatable.