Chicago, IL – It is considered one of the best small rooms in Chicago, if not one of the best in all of North America. The former Schlitz “tied house” that is known as Schubas Tavern, has been a destination for music acts from around the world for over 35 years. This week it played host to a couple of Welsh music artists with folk singer Tom Jenkins and headliners Cardinal Black.
Folk artist Tom Jenkins was first up for the evening, delivering an unforgettable performance with his warm voice, rugged sincerity, armed with his acoustic guitar and harmonica. Tom showcased songs from his most recent release, When the Coal Dust Settled. The album features not just songs about his coal mining home town, but the album art also displays generations of his own family who have also worked those same mines. Jenkins’ storytelling shone through heartfelt lyrics and authentic melodies, as he wove tales of working class grit and rural beauty, blending delicate fingerpicking with rich, evocative lyrics, drawing the audience into tales of Welsh valleys and working class resilience. His warm vocals and skillful guitar work created an intimate atmosphere with a genuine connection to his audience, and his evocative songwriting made his set a moving celebration of folk music’s enduring power.
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Next up were headliners Cardinal Black, who brought their heartfelt, blues-tinged sound to the intimate sold out Schuba’s Tavern in Chicago, delivering a performance that was equal parts raw emotion and polished musicianship. Frontman Tom Hollister’s smoky, powerful vocals set the tone from the opening, even while he was battling a sore throat. Their setlist featured songs from their recently released album Midnight at the Valencia, which has been highly reviewed and praised for its rich, layered sound and introspective lyrics. “Keep on Running”, a driving, groove heavy track that immediately drew the crowd in with its uplifting chorus and crisp guitar work from Chris Buck.
“Holding My Breath”, the bands most recent single, showcased their dynamic control, moving from delicate verses to soaring crescendos that had the room swaying. The subtle interplay between bass and drums gave the song a steady pulse, letting Hollister’s emotive delivery shine. One of the night’s most affecting moments came with “Adeline”. Stripped back and aching with vulnerability, the ballad allowed Buck’s tasteful, melodic guitar lines to weave seamlessly with Hollister’s voice, creating a hush over the crowd. Wrapping up their set, Tom Hollister talked about how “Tied Up In Blue” had been used as first dance wedding songs, saying that while he appreciated that – they probably didn’t listen to the lyrics very closely. The sultry, blues-drenched number highlighted the band’s chemistry and Buck’s masterful soloing as equal parts restraint and fire.
By the end of their set, Cardinal Black had transformed Schuba’s into a smoky late night club, leaving Chicago fans both satisfied and eager for their return. This was modern soul rock at its absolute finest.
Cardinal Black Setlist:
Ride Home
Keep On Running
Holding my Breath
Terra Firma
Adeline
Breathe
Jump In
Morning Light
Your Spark
Tell Me How It Feels
Warm Love
Tied Up In Blue
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Show Date: August 12, 2025
