JackpotDonnie.com - News, Media, and More!

Sorry...We've Moved!

2010-03-07T00:07:00.001-06:00

Thanks for stopping by our old blog. For the new site, just go to the official website at http://www.jackpotdonnie.com. Thanks!

"Chicago Rocks" - MaybeHip.com

2010-02-09T11:25:00.000-06:00

NEW MODE EP - Album Art!

2010-02-04T21:52:00.002-06:00

Setlist: 1/15/10 - Mickey Finn's - Libertyville, IL

2010-01-18T09:45:00.003-06:00

On the Mend
2nd Chance
Can't Stand Losing You
New Mode
See We Rollin'
Someday
Resignation
Use Me Up
Room to Improve
Sex On Fire
Renegade Revolutionary
Take On Me
Down Under
Wrong Way
Agent Estimation

"New Mode" EP Set for March Release! (2 Tracks Available Online NOW)

2010-01-05T11:04:00.003-06:00

"New Mode" is Jackpot Donnie's second official release, featuring 7 brand new tracks. The track list is as follows:

1. On the Mend
2. Room to Improve
3. New Mode
4. Ponzi
5. Renegade Revolutionary
6. Daybreak
7. Oblivious Sunday

We're currently finishing up album artwork and putting together all of the final touches. The official release date is March 27, 2010!

In the meantime, please stop by our MySpace or Facebook pages to hear two songs from the album, "On the Mend" and the title track, "New Mode." We're very interested in your feedback, so drop us a line on our Facebook wall to let us know what you all think!

2010

2009-12-31T17:00:00.002-06:00

Hey everybody :)

I just wanted to take a minute to wish all of you a happy New Year!

JPD had a very productive and fun 2009, but we're thoroughly focused on making 2010 our best year to date. We've got a lot of fun stuff planned...

More suburban shows
New Chicago venues to explore
LOTS of new music
- "New Mode" EP arriving in March
- Followed by more new tunes this summer

Thank you - all of you - for supporting this band! We do what we do because you make us feel like our music makes a difference, and we couldn't ask for more than that. Keep checking our sites for updates on all things JPD!

Hope you all have a safe, yet KICKASS NYE! We're anxious to see you out-n-about in 2010!

Cheers,
Adam, Brian, Dave, & Matt

Setlist: 12/11/09 - Durty Nellie's - Palatine, IL

2009-12-12T10:17:00.004-06:00

On the Mend
Room to Improve
Down Under
Ponzi
New Mode*
Obladi Oblada
Second Chance
S.F.E.
Take On Me
Your Love*
Renegade Revolutionary
See We Rollin'
So Lonely

*first time played

Durty Nellies show this Friday!

2009-12-07T13:02:00.003-06:00

Hey kids!

We have a show this Friday at Durty Nellie's in Palatine. This is a great chance for our friends in the suburbs to experience a Jackpot Donnie show, and it's a great venue for those of you who reside in Chicago looking for something different to do. Come one - come all! This is probably the last show of 2009, too. We'll try not to cry too much on stage.

WHERE: Durty Nellie's in Palatine, IL
WHEN: Friday, December 11, 2009
WHO: Jackpot Donnie! We're opening for Second Hand Smoke, the PREMIERE Sublime tribute band.
COVER: $6

We hope to see you there!

Cheers,
Adam, Brian, Dave, & Matt

TRACKING IS DONE!!!

2009-11-16T10:34:00.007-06:00

Hey all!

So the band just had a really long, but very productive weekend! We basically locked ourselves in the studio for about 28 hours and recorded 3 brand-new songs, plus one short 2-minute interlude. We feel really good about these new songs, which seemed to write themselves all at once.

The first song is called "Big Grey Sky" - a somewhat dark, alternative rock song. We also wrote an upbeat reggae song called "New Mode." Then Dave brought in a really chill reggae jam that started as an interlude, but once we put lyrics to it and found some great harmonies it became a complete song - now called "Oblivious Sunday." Lastly, we took a bassline Dave wrote almost 7 years ago, and made it into a fun little jam which will be used as an interlude - we're calling it "Saturday."

All in all, we're really happy with these new songs! And once they're packaged together with the 6 that were already recorded, we think this album will be something special :)

As always, thanks for listening and supporting us! Stay tuned for a record release date, and information on shows coming up in 2010!

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

Goose Island 10/30/09 - Sublime Cover

2009-11-06T10:04:00.000-06:00

Halloween Report!

2009-11-03T14:02:00.003-06:00

Well, ladies and gentleman...you came, you costumed, you danced, and you rocked! Thanks to all our amazing fans for making this year's Halloween celebration the best yet! We've got a nice tradition of Halloween shows going, and we plan to keep it up for the next 12 decades. As long as you keep up with the tremendous support! We love you!

Here's the setlist from the show:

Super Mario Bros. Theme*>
S.F.E.
On The Mend
Room To Improve
Santeria
Scarlet Begonias*
Badfish
Wrong Way*
What I Got*
Ponzi
Daybreak
Rumble
Same In The End*

*first time played
Videos will be coming soon, so keep your eyes open!

FREE Halloween Show 10/30/09 - Goose Island Brewery, Chicago, IL

2009-10-12T15:24:00.003-05:00

The Chicago Roots Collective presents a FREE HALLOWEEN SHOW with Jackpot Donnie, The Future Laureates, and Band Called Catch.

Come in costume to the Goose Island Brewery in Wrigleyville on Friday, October 30. There will be raffle prizes and costume contests.

We love our fans, and we're happy to provide a FREE show to everyone on one of the funnest nights of the year. Don't miss out!

Setlist: 9/19/09 @ The Cubby Bear, Chicago, IL

2009-09-21T09:39:00.004-05:00

Many thanks to all of you who came out to enjoy the Chicago Roots Collective's first band showcase. We had an amazing time, and the crowd was EASILY one of the best we've ever had the chance to share music with! Here's what we played:

On the Mend
Renegade Revolutionary
Ponzi
Down Under
Room to Improve
Full Bloom
So Lonely
See We Rollin'

We might have some free live downloads of the show in the near future. Stay tuned.

Cubby Bear Promo Video

2009-09-18T10:09:00.000-05:00

Cubby Bear - Chicago Roots Collective Show - September 19, 2009

2009-08-23T16:41:00.002-05:00

Mad Props to Dancing Artists!

2009-08-19T12:56:00.003-05:00

Hey folks! It's been a while, hasn't it? I don't have a whole lot to say today, but I wanted to share a video with ya'll. The man cutting rugs in this video is an artist named John Dinser. You may recognize his work from the cover of our album, "Music Nightly." And this video is especially appropriate, considering I've been on a serious Michael Jackson kick ever since the King's untimely demise. Check it out!

I wish I could dance like that. Dinz, if you see this...give me lessons!

The CRC & September 19th!

2009-08-14T16:05:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying the last couple months of summertime!

The band has been working on the foundation of our new EP, and based on what I've heard so far - it's gonna be some of the best music we've ever put out into the universe ;)

Last week Dave and I went to a meeting for the Chicago Roots Collective (an alliance of 10 bands from Chicago, of which JPD is a member). The meeting was about the Collective's showcase at the Cubby Bear in Wrigleyville this September...

This is going to be a BIG big show! Every band involved is starting to get REALLY excited about it. We'll be doing several ticket pre-sales and cool promotions for the event. But I thought I'd give you some basic details - SO MARK YOUR CALENDARS...

When: Saturday, September 19th
Where: Cubby Bear (Wrigleyville)
Cost: $10 cover
Start-time: as soon as the Cubs game in St. Louis is over (should be around 6pm)

Be sure to join the CRC's facebook page for updates on the show, and the Collective:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/CHICAGO-ROOTS-COLLECTIVE/101225093687?ref=ts

Until next time...

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

Become a fan of Jackpot Donnie on Facebook

2009-08-06T18:34:00.001-05:00

Jackpot Donnie on Facebook

PERFECTION!

2009-07-24T10:42:00.006-05:00

I will forever remember this day: July 23rd, 2009.

I sat at my work desk yesterday, and listened to the White Sox on the radio - and what I heard was legendary.

Mark Buerhle threw a perfect hame! The 2nd no-hitter of his incredible career, as well as the 2nd perfect gamein White Sox history (first since 1922). Only the 18th perfect game since the creation of the great game of baseball!

Think about these interesting facts about Mark's perfect game...

1) Mark is only the 16th pitcher to throw a "perfecto" since the year 1900.
2) Only 6 players - EVER - (including Mark) have thrown both a no-hitter AND a perfecto.
3) 18 of the 27 at-bats in the game were under 1 minute in duration.
4) Mark was technically only on the field for 32 minutes out of the entire 2 hour and 3 minute game.
5) Both Mark's no-hitter and his perfecto lasted EXACTLY 2 hours and 3 minutes, and involved the same home plate umpire
6) Only 2 other guys, besides Mark, have the following accomplishments (all as members of one team): 1 no-hitter, 1 perfecto, & 1 world series win. Those 2 players? CY YOUNG AND SANDY KOUFAXAnd lets not forget that Mark also SAVED a world series game, AND has was credited with an All-Star game victory.
7) The man who caught Mark's perfecto was Ramon Castro, whom Buehrle had never thrown to before.
8) In the history of no-hitters, no pitcher did it against a better offensive team. The Rays, as of yesterday, ranked 3rd in the major leagues in runs scored - and were also amonth the elite in On Base Percentage.
9) And most impressive - Mark is the ONLY PITCHER IN THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL to throw 2 no-hitters in which he faced the absolute minimum amount of batters in BOTH games. Let me say that again....THE ONLY PITCHER IN HISTORY!
10) Oh, Mark is the first pitcher to have the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES call to congratulate him directly from Air Force One. Ridiculous.

The debate will rage for some time as to whether Mark is the best pitcher in the history of Chicago baseball. But if you ask me, I'll say that no other pitcher will ever reach the legendary status that he achieved yesterday afternoon.

Congrats Mark!

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

Setlist: 7/11/09 The Abbey, Chicago, IL

2009-07-12T13:36:00.002-05:00

On the Mend
Pell Mell
Muster Buster
Can't Stand Losing You
Room to Improve
Ponzi*
Daybreak
Renegade
Off the Record
SFE
Agent Estimation
Hard to Handle

*first time played

Abbey Show - Saturday, July 11!

2009-07-07T12:50:00.003-05:00

Come out to the Abbey this Saturday night, July 11. Print out the flyer above to save at the door.

$6 w/flyer! 21+ JPD takes the stage promptly at 10 PM.

TELL THE DOORMAN THE CODEWORD "SUBLIMINAL" TO RECEIVE $5 ADMISSION!

Don't miss our big Chicago show of the summer.

NEW BEGINNINGS!

2009-07-03T11:00:00.006-05:00

This week has been one of the more productive ones the band has had in some time!

Earlier this summer, we began writing new music - tinkering with old riffs - and generally focusing on finding the new music we want to showcase in our new EP (to be released this fall or winter). But sometimes the writing process gets stalled. And in our case, we got really busy planning our show in Boston (which was awesome!!! - pics and video coming soon), and we lost some writing time because of it.

This week though, we went back to the drawing board with one previously unfinished song that Dave wrote (called "Ted's Dancin"), and we finished it Tuesday night. But we also started writing, and basically finished, 2 OTHER brand new songs. One is an absolutle ROCKER that Brian wrote which is still untitled. And there is another groovy one that we'll either be calling "Ponzi or "Weekend w/ Bernie" - I'll let you figure out the subject matter of that song for yourselves.

And the more I think about the 3 new jams, along with other semi-new songs like: Daybreak, Set it Right, and On the Mend, I can't help but be incredibly excited to hear what the finished EP will sound like. Those six songs listed above are all so incredibly unique to each other, and all have so many different stylistic influences, that almost any type of music appreciator should be decently entertained at SOME point in the EP's duration. At least I would hope so!

Either way, the band is ROLLIN right now and kickin-out some cool tunes. I'm excited for you all to hear them!

ROCK/ROLL
~Matt

More Cartoons!

2009-07-02T11:49:00.005-05:00

And this one is topical! To be perfectly honest, I miss Michael Jackson. I'm not going to spend my entire blog post in tears, lamenting the loss of our Ultimate King of Pop (in fact, I do have pressing issues to discuss), but before I get to those, you should watch this cartoon. Apparently, the Jackson 5 had their own cartoon show back in the old days, and apparently it didn't make much sense. There's some animation of the Jacksons dancing, but the focus is primarily on a psychedelic horse. What could be better? (The song kicks ass too!)

Anyhow, let's get down to brass tacks. Jackpot Donnie is making their glorious return to Chicago in 9 DAYS! We would really love for people to join us at the Abbey Pub on July 11th, at 9 PM, for booze and an unusual amount of great rock music. We've got NEW MUSIC and HOT GROOVES to debut, and we're getting really anxious. Personally, I really can't wait. I feel like the italian sportscar that is Jackpot Donnie is running on all cylinders right now, and we're ready to show this Lamborghini off! Plus, we're playing with a band called Green Sugar that will knock your socks off, with their dual-drummer, home cookin' action!

I say this a lot, but it is going to be a REALLY fun night, and I'm going to be dancing onstage like a foolish maniac. Or like Michael Jackson. Or, more likely, Tito Jackson.

RIP King. (Not Elvis, damn it!)

Request Jackpot Donnie on Fearless Radio

2009-06-08T15:00:00.002-05:00

Everyone should visit the Fearless Radio website and request our music!

Click the "Request Music" link on the right hand side, and then search "Jackpot Donnie."

Click on "S.F.E." - it's that simple!

CARTOON JUNKY

2009-06-05T14:06:00.003-05:00

I am a HUGE sucker when it comes to animated features. I've loved cartoons all my life, and I STILL laugh like a 5yo on a sugar-high when I see some funny little animated guy doing something just HILARIOUS. So naturally, I saw 'UP' last weekend and I totally loved it! Not only because it was a goofy cartoon, but because it was just a really well-done movie.

So in the interest of pretending I'm John Cusack from High Fidelity, I'm gonna list my Top 5 Disney/Pixar movies of all time. Feel free to comment on these, or debate with me if you feel like getting a verbal beatdown - because these ARE the best :) My Top 5 are (1 being my favoritist):

1) UP
2) Wall-E
3) The Incredibles
4) Toy Story
5) Finding Nemo

Now, I'm sure you're thinking that I practically already named every Pixar movie, but you would be wrong in thinking that. I left off Cars, A Bug's Life, Toy Story II, Madagascar, and Ratatouille to name a few. So THERE!

But seriously, go see 'UP' - it was a terrific. "Doug" is the coolest ;)

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

Summer?....Yes, Please.

2009-06-02T16:29:00.003-05:00

My summer is about to kick off next week!

I've decided to express my hopes and dreams for the summer not in words, but in song.

Enjoy.

"See We Rollin'" Live at The Abbey - 2/21/09

2009-05-30T18:49:00.001-05:00

"Uplifter"

2009-05-29T10:30:00.002-05:00

This week, 311 was streaming their brand new album "Uplifter" on their MySpace page, and I spent all day Tuesday and Wednesday listening to it, over and over...

Most of the guys in the band and I have been diehard 311 fans since at least 93, and I'm constantly pleased with every new album they come out with for one reason or another (Uplifter is their 9th studio album - not including a greatest hits, a live album, and the Omaha Sessions). Although they've clearly lost the ability to REALLY throw down the heavy metal, there's still plenty of good hard rock on the new album, and most of the music is really well done. The singing also continues to get better and better - especially the harmonies (they're using a lot more 3 and 4-part harmonies which sound amazing). The older these guys get, the more they seem to be perfecting the chill, groovy, reggae/jazz that they're so so good at. My current top 5 songs on Uplifter are as as follows:

1) It's Alright
2) Two Drops in the Ocean
3) Never Ending Summer
4) Golden Sunlight
5) Daisy Cutter

Those 5 are the most radio friendly, I think - but just like with any 311 album, the weakest song on the album could end up being the BEST song when you see them live. Either way, I'm just glad 311 continues to make music and explore new sounds and styles with every new album. Go check it out when it's released on June 2nd!

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

"Set It Right" Live at The Abbey - 2/21/09

2009-05-28T08:55:00.002-05:00

Soundtrack of My Week

2009-05-27T12:29:00.002-05:00

Greetings! Dave here, and I've had a song stuck in my head for the past 4 days. So, since I can't humming it to myself, I thought I'd make it the soundtrack of my blog post this week.

Just some more proof that musical trends are cyclical, and the electro-cheesy sounds from the 1980's, against all odds, are coming back with full force. Hopefully this time around, people will remember and appreciate that pop music can truly be groovy and awesome, not just unoriginal retread crap, like The Jonas Brothers and Beyonce. These guys are called Solid Gold, and they're from the fabulous city of Minneapolis, which is a place you should definitely consider visiting.

In other news, Jackpot Donnie is busy preparing for our very first roadtrip and road gig, in beautiful Boston, Massachusetts. We've got a whole slew of new cover songs (and original songs too!) that will make appearances once we return home to Chicago and start playing shows for our amazing fans. So, until then, seek out NEW MUSIC, and JPD will be anxious to see you on July 11th at the Abbey Pub!

Online Interview w/Junior's Cave Magazine

2009-05-25T11:36:00.002-05:00

We did an interview with a cool music site called Junior's Cave. You can read it in its entirety at http://www.juniorscave.com/JackpotDonnie.html

To boldy go...

2009-05-22T10:00:00.003-05:00

So, last weekend I dragged my girlfriend to go see the new STAR TREK movie. She was hesitant, to say the least, but in the end I think she was as glad to have seen it as I was...
I wouldn't say that I'm a "trekkie" or anything like that, but I've definitely been a fan of the show and the old movies for some time - and the new movie did NOT disappoint!

I actually liked the plot of the movie - which some that I talked to thought was merely setting up more movies down the road. That was obviously part of it, but it was still crafted well. The dialogue was slightly more clever than previous Treks, but not thoroughly stimulating by any means. The actors were all really good in their roles (the person that cast this movie did a great job). And the special effects, well, they clearly made the movie. EASILY the best special effects of any Star Trek movie I've ever seen.

All-in-all, I thought it was a solid movie - and it definitely has re-"energized" the franchise (har har). I'm pumped for the next one! Beam me up - J.J. Abrams ;)

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt

Chicago Roots Collective - Logo Design Contest

2009-05-21T09:09:00.003-05:00

Calling all artists!

We've recently joined the Chicago Roots Collective, a group of like-minded Chicago musicians that are trying to create a larger sense of community in the Chicago rock scene. You can check out our website here.

We're a new organization and we need a snazzy logo. This is where you come in. Check out the contest information below!

"The Chicago Roots Collective wants YOU to design our Logo! Winner will receive one pick from several prizes including a cash prize of $200. Others that place within the Top 10 will receive a free pass to our first CRC show at The Cubby Bear on Saturday, September 19th, 2009.

The Chicago Roots Collective is a collaboration of musicians working together to get their music heard. We value community and want to reach out to our combined audiences to find the best artists out there. If your logo is selected, your work will be posted all over our MySpace, event posters, CD's and press releases. Find out more about the music and bands at www.myspace.com/chicagorootscollective.

Rules for contest:

All submissions must be sent to chicagorootscollective@gmail.com

Submissions must be sent first in .jpg/.gef. When selected, a .pdf file will be requested.

Submission deadlines are June 20th, 2009. The winner will be announced once all designs are seen and discussed by members of the CRC.
Top 5 winners will get to pick from one of the following prizes (top winner picks first):

$200 Cash prize
4 FREE tickets to The Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival in December (www.cbbfestival.com)
3 sets of Merchandise Pack from all 10 bands (including CD's, attire and more!)

Top 10 winners will receive a FREE pass to our first CRC show at The Cubby Bear on Saturday September 19th, 2009.

Not an artist? If so, please forward to any friends that would be interested.

The Chicago Roots Collective looks forward to viewing your submissions and wishes everyone the best of luck!

Committing to the Indian

2009-05-19T23:27:00.003-05:00

Stayed up late tonight to watch the Hawks OT loss to the Red Wings. That one really hurt.

What makes it even worse is that I want to hate the Red Wings just as much as I did twelve years ago, and this group isn't even unlikeable!

Wait a minute...that in itself makes me hate them even more.

Go Hawks!

Show Diary: MS Benefit 5/9

2009-05-11T14:36:00.005-05:00

Despite what might have been our worst week of practices in years, we pulled off a decent gig on Saturday. It was a trip to play a gig at our old high school. We unloaded our gear in the fieldhouse, and we got to drive our cars around the same gym that I had to run laps in as a P.E. student. If I could have done that in high school I would have had much better times on the mile.

The sound was shitty because it was a big fieldhouse, and everything we played was bouncing all over the walls which made for a challenge. I could hear my guitar and Matt's voice, and that was about it. Plus, I think there actually were a lot of people there, but since the room was so big it always felt kind of empty. Regardless, my guess is they made a lot of money for the MS Foundation, so it was well worth it.

We played our new song, "On the Mend," and it went over really well. I am really excited to record this song. It's catchy as hell - always in my head since we've finished it.

Other highlights: eating dinner at Moon Doggies (best cheese fries ever), playing the same stage from 11 years ago at The Battle of the Bands, making my mom and dad come see me at high school again, selling way more CDs/t-shirts than we ever do in the city, loading out BEFORE 9:30 PM, and going to Grandpas for the Hawks game after the gig. Yes, the same Grandpas where JPD played their first real gig as a band back in 2003.

Hawks rule! Back to practice tomorrow for our big Boston gig...

BWise

Setlist: 5/9/09 MS Benefit Concert - Glenbrook South High School

2009-05-10T01:12:00.000-05:00

Intro->
Rumble
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
Daybreak
Shakedown Street
On the Mend*
Use Me
Set It Right
Could You Be Loved
See We Rollin'
Everlong

*first time played

Tortilla Soup for Old Men

2009-05-06T13:18:00.002-05:00

Hey folks, Dave here! As a special Wednesday treat, I am going to disregard standard paragraphical formatting, and deliver this blog-post in the style of a Top 5 list.

5. Went to the Allstate Arena last night and watched a bunch of old men play music. They called themselves The Dead, and they charged $100 for a ticket. I bought a ticket for $15, because I am enthralled by bargains. I hope I can play a glowing bass guitar when I'm 70 years old, like Phil Lesh.

4. Happy Birthday Dad! You were born in 1945, so that makes you 64 years old today!

3. I woke up early today, so I could make my homemade tortilla soup. It smells like a sexy cantina in my kitchen right now, and if you're interested in some Patron body shots, I'm your man.

2. Jackpot Donnie has got a show this weekend at Glenbrook South High School, of all places. I didn't go to school there, but the other three "men" in the band did. Notice how "men" was in quotations? (It's cause I think those "guys" are sissies!)

1. A challenge for our readers, wherever you may be: Comment this blog-post with suggestions for songs you'd LOVE to hear JPD cover in concert. We need suggestions, because we simply don't know what "cool" is. Clearly, my idea of cool is putting words in quotes.

Until next week...Watch Demolition Man.

Dia de los Muertos

2009-05-05T12:47:00.004-05:00

Brian here. Happy Cinco de Mayo, which, did you know, is not the Mexican Independence Day? No, no, my friends...that's September 16th. I think today is actually celebrated in Corona commercials far more than it is in Mexico.

But I am looking forward to a fiesta this evening in Rosemont. I'm off to see The Dead tonight! I've had this show on my calendar for a long time now. From all accounts I've heard, the shows have been fantastic, although I wish I was in New Jersey to see Branford Marsalis jam with them. His performance on Eyes of the World on "Without A Net" is what made me fall in love with them in the first place.

Regardless, the dancing shoes are bustin' out tonight!

BWise

"Daybreak" Live at The Abbey - February 2009

2009-05-04T08:31:00.001-05:00

THE HAPPS...

2009-05-01T15:19:00.008-05:00

What's crackin kids?! Matt here, just checking in with yous, as all of the guys in the band will be doing more often, starting in May. There's a lot goin on right now for JPD, and we want to keep our people updated on a regular basis - and also have some old fashioned goofy fun with this whole blog deal ;)

As some of you know, our drummer extraordinaire (Adam Campbell) is now also a recording engineer...um.....aire - as well as a business owner! "Mammoth Studios" is close to being open for business, and let me just say - as a bandmate of a guy who owns and operates a recording studio, nothing could be more BADASS! I get teased often for acting like this studio is my new "clubhouse/treehouse," and you know what??......FINE BY ME! The place is awesome - and it has a spiral staircase (even more awesome)! And lets not forget about the sweet old, BALDING, lady who runs the bar down the street and sells us beer-to-go (escalating awesomeness)!

We've all been helping out when we can (after work, and sometimes on the weekends), but Adam has been a madman about this place - in the BEST way possible. The guy has been working almost nonstop to create a place where musicians will feel comfortable recording their songs, and overly pleased with the finished product. It's incredibly cool to see Adam take this step because he went to school for it - he LOVES doing it - and, he's GREAT at it! Some of you probably remember a small mix that Adam did for the band (including tracks like S.F.E., Resignation, and Art of Mixing Colors - all before Music Nightly was released). Adam did that in our old practice space (basically a 20 x 10 room), with old microphones, and a tiny sound board. Now he has control of 64 tracks, in the same studio where we recorded our album.

Within a few weeks, we'll be throwing LOTS of recordings at you guys! Everything from a recorded practice, to us playing some of our favorite covers, podcasts, as well as some fun lil cpu-jams that I'm sure Adam and Dave will be playing around with from time to time, as they did back in the practice space days. And obviously we're already preparing to record our next EP which will most likely be finished later in the fall. In fact, last night we just put the finishing touches on a brand new song called "On the Mend, " which I wrote :) and which could very well be on that EP because we think it sounds pretty cool!

Anyways - I know Adam is planning some sort of house warming party in the coming weeks to celebrate this new beginning for our band, but more importantly for Adam, so I expect to see a bunch of you there! Until then - stay up! Keep smilin, laughin, and livin-it-up :) I'll check back with you guys again soon.

ROCK-ROLL,
Matt

Chicago3Media.com Interview and Video

2009-04-24T14:18:00.003-05:00

We were interviewed by Chicago3Media.com outside the Elbo Room before our gig on April 17...check 'er out.

Elbo Room Pictures

2009-04-22T20:38:00.008-05:00

Thanks to Evan Rosler for these photos from our Elbo Room gig on April 17.

MS Foundation Benefit Show - 5/9/09

2009-04-19T15:56:00.003-05:00

Come out to our alma mater, Glenbrook South High School, on May 9 to support this great cause. Jackpot Donnie will share the stage with Tiffany Eugenio and Breakers Broken, as well as several other great acts.

Elbo Room - Friday, April 17

2009-04-14T14:04:00.005-05:00

Jackpot Donnie returns to Elbo Room on Friday, April 17. We will be joined by our frriends from New York City, Mercury Landing. You'll want to show up in time to see one of the best up and coming bands out of New York, and of course, stick around for a little Donnie, if you please.

This will be our last Chicago show until the summertime, so we hope to see everyone out in full force! Tell your friends.

21+ $7 at the door. JPD closes out the night after Mercury Landing.

Jackpot Donnie on Twitter

2009-04-03T15:32:00.002-05:00

Yes, we are on twitter.

This article from the Chicago Examiner proves it, too!

Check it out and sign up to follow us.

Live at The Abbey 2/22/09 - "Rumble"

2009-03-27T22:06:00.000-05:00

Four Live Tracks Available For Free Download

2009-03-10T22:39:00.006-05:00

There are now four tracks available for free download right here on our website. Just use the Music Player in the right hand corner, and click the download link next to the song title!

The songs were recorded live at The Abbey on February 21, 2009. JPD has been back at Southside Studio, where they recorded "Music Nightly," mixing and mastering the tracks.

Two of the tracks feature new material from the band: "Daybreak" and "Set It Right."

Also featured are live versions of "Rumble" and "See We Rollin'."

Coming soon: video to accompany the audio! Stay tuned...

Download the tracks today and enjoy!

Underground Lounge 3/14/09

2009-03-10T08:02:00.003-05:00

Come get your St. Patty's Day drink on with Jackpot Donnie, Ghosthouse, Breakers Broken, and Tiffany Eugenio. This should be a great night of music in Wrigleyville. Plenty of drink specials are available, so bring your friends and get ready for a raucous St. Patrick's Day weekend!

Podcast of Fearless Radio Appearance 2/19/09

2009-02-23T09:17:00.002-06:00

If you missed Jackpot Donnie's appearance on Fearless Radio's "New Music Binge," you can listen to the podcast by going here.

Abbey Pub - $3 Discount w/this Flyer

2009-02-21T10:09:00.003-06:00

Just click the image and print it out. It will get you $3 off at the door tonight!

See you at the show!

Rumorville. Is Matt Going Solo??

2009-02-19T22:17:00.002-06:00

Be on the lookout for the new solo album from JPD frontman, Matt Love.

Jackpot Donnie on Fearless Radio

2009-01-26T14:46:00.003-06:00

Jackpot Donnie will be on Fearless Radio's "New Music Binge" on Thursday, February 19 from 6-7 PM. The band will be in-studio for interviews, live performances, and playing some of their tunes over the air.

To listen: Visit fearlessradio.com and choose LISTEN NOW.

To call the band in the studio dial (312) 224-8273.

IM us during the show @ "fearlessradio00" on AIM & Yahoo; "fearlessradio" on MSN.

Feel free to call in or IM to interact with the band over the air. The show will be released as a podcast at a later date.

The Abbey Pub - 2/21/09

2009-01-14T16:13:00.006-06:00

Jackpot Donnie returns to The Abbey Pub on February 21st with Parts Per Million, Farkus, and Molehill.

21+ - IF YOU PRINT THIS FLYER YOU CAN BRING IT IN TO RECEIVE A $3 DISCOUNT.

$6 WITH FLYER, $9 WITHOUT.

Here is a link to the Facebook event. RSVP and then invite your friends...repeat as necessary.

We Need Your Help!

2009-01-04T17:26:00.001-06:00

SPECIAL PROMOTION:
We're now offering a special deal to all of you at all of our shows. We are asking all of you to help us out in one simple way: bring us more fans!

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If you bring TWO PEOPLE who have never seen JPD before, we will give you a FREE CD.

If you bring THREE PEOPLE who have never seen JPD before, we will give you a FREE T-SHIRT.

If you bring FIVE PEOPLE who have never seen JPD before, we will give you a FREE T-SHIRT AND CD.

If you bring TEN PEOPLE who have never seen JPD before, we will give you TWO FREE CDs and TWO FREE T-SHIRTS (and we will bow down before you in infinite gratitude).

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We want to continue to build our fanbase and thank the people who make it happen at the same time. Hopefully, we'll be giving away a lot of CDs and T-SHIRTS at our Bottom Lounge show!

Here's a link to the Facebook event page for our Bottom Lounge show on January 10.

Highlights from 12/20/08 - Logan Square Auditorium

2008-12-23T19:09:00.000-06:00

Bottom Lounge - 1/10/09

2008-12-20T09:59:00.008-06:00

Help Jackpot Donnie kick off 2009 at one of Chicago's best new venues: The Bottom Lounge.

Here is a link to the Facebook event.

Logan Square Auditorium - 12/20/08

2008-12-09T14:02:00.001-06:00

We hope to see everyone come out to the Logan Square Auditorium on Saturday, December 20 for the second annual "G-Stock." There's a great lineup of bands throughout the whole night. It's a big room - so come show your support! Not to mention, it's a charity event...tis the season.

THIS IS AN ALL AGES SHOW! If you've always wanted to experience Jackpot Donnie, but haven't been able to get in because of those pesky bouncers, now is your chance! If you're interested in promoting the show for the band, send us an email at fanmail@jackpotdonnie.com

Are you on Facebook? Here's a link to the event.

Highlights from 12/6/08 - Underground Lounge

2008-12-09T13:58:00.001-06:00

Thanks to everyone who came out on a cold, crappy Chicago night.

Underground Lounge - 12/6/08

2008-11-20T09:23:00.005-06:00

JPD, Speak Her Language and Andy Metz take over Wrigleyville at The Underground Lounge.

21+ Show, $8 cover at the door

Underground Lounge

952 W. Newport Ave.

Chicago, IL

A Brief Slice of Langley

2008-11-19T14:38:00.005-06:00

This, my dear comrades, is the first time I have ever blogged.

I must confess that I have thought about doing it. I've spent hours tossing sleepless in my bed, debating the pros and cons of blatantly exposing myself to the internet, but until this moment I've never mustered the guts to actually do it. So, as soon you're done applauding my soul-shattering bravery, I do have real business to discuss with you.

Jackpot Donnie has a show coming on December 6th, at a little place called Underground Lounge. For those in attendance, it will be a special event, for it will be an intimate gathering with a slight flavoring of THEME. We've chosen two of our favorite bands to play with us, Speak Her Language (whom some of you have certainly marveled at in the past) and our new friends, Ital Conquerors (current holders of the Lords of Island Vibrations championship belt).

In the immortal words of my fellow patriot, John McCain: "My friends, there will be reggae, my friends." And it is going to move you, physically, psychically, spiritually and literally.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "This has got to be the greatest blog I have ever read! I yearn for weekly updates from this dashing and witty man!" Well, I have heard your call to action, and I plan to respond with vigor! I will return as often as I possibly can, because my mind NEEDS to spew countless tons of verbal dioramas onto your computer screen, like a horse-hoof needs iron shoes.

So, until next time, my glorious comrades, I leave with you this:

Halloween Show - 11/1/08 - Elbo Room

2008-11-10T11:21:00.005-06:00

We had a great time playing the Elbo Room on Halloween weekend. Thanks to everyone who came out. We saw some great costumes. Heck, even Gumby and Jesus showed up...together!

That's how you know it was a good time.

Abbey Pub 9/27/08

2008-11-06T22:34:00.002-06:00

Here are some highlights from our gig at the Abbey last September.

Official JPD Blog Launch

2008-10-24T09:31:00.005-05:00

Jackpot Donnie has decided to enter the blogging world!

Quite frankly, we've been unhappy with the trouble of updating websites and doing the things that bands need to do to be successful in the 21st century. None of us are technical wizards. We've even had to deal with people hacking into our website. Honestly, who does that? So, what we've decided to do is to use this blog as a way to tell you what's going on.

We'll announce upcoming shows, post video/audio/media files, drop in with updates, and basically keep you in tune with all things Jackpot Donnie.

Keep checking in for all the updates, and feel free to drop us a comment.

We've predated a few posts to give you some content to peruse for the time being. Enjoy.

Elbo Room 11/1/08 - JPD takes on the 80s!

2008-10-22T12:31:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, November 1, JPD will be playing at Elbo Room for a Halloween weekend show. This year's theme: the 80s. The band will be in costume, there will be plenty of 80s covers, and hopefully, there will be plenty of fans dressed in their favorite 80s get-ups. Of course, if you have another Halloween costume, that would be fine, too!

Details and tickets can be found at the Elbo Room website or our MySpace page.

Windy City Rock Review - "Music Nightly"

2008-09-19T15:11:00.000-05:00

Our album, "Music Nightly" was reviewed by Windy City Rock, a local music blog. You can read the review here:

http://windycityrock.blogspot.com/2008/09/jackpot-donnie-music-nightly.html

Videos from Excalibur 6/10/08

2008-07-03T13:39:00.002-05:00

These videos were from a private event at Excalibur last June. Again, apologies for how raw the footage is. This was a pretty great show to play. There was one crazy bastard who was "making it rain" by the end. For all the fans out there, we would like to announce that we officially approve of those who "make it rain," and encourage the throwing of any and all paper currency on or near the stage.

"So Lonely"

"Rumble"

"Renegade Revolutionary"

Video Footage from Elbo Room 5/16/08

2008-06-26T10:28:00.001-05:00

Sure, the footage is crude, but we thought you might enjoy these clips from Elbo Room last May. The videos, in order, are "Room to Improve," "Use Me," and "Full Bloom."

Purchase Jackpot Donnie Music

2008-04-18T15:11:00.001-05:00

Please use our secure online store. You may order MP3 files or CDs!