Nov 26, 2025 at 7:30 PM · · $56 Thalia Hall, Chicago, IL Thalia Hall, Chicago, IL Tickets from $56
Algernon Cadwallader
22 concerts
Genre: Rock, Punk
Trying Not to Have a Thought, out September 12 via Saddle Creek, isnt just Algernon Cadwalladers first album since 2011s Parrot Flies, its their first with the original lineup since 2008s Some Kind of Cadwallader. Shortly after that debut, drummer Nick Tazza and guitarist Colin Mahony departed; Algernon broke up in 2012 and stayed dormant until their feverishly anticipated 2022 reunion.
Theres a certain magic to this original form, says vocalist-bassist Peter Helmis. No one expected new music, but as they rehearsed, ideas emerged, and the seeds of Trying Not to Have a Thought took root. Im kind of hearing in my head what this persons already doing, recalls guitarist Joe Reinhart of their rekindled chemistry.
Written across two retreats, Washingtons Snoqualmie and Pennsylvanias Poconos, the album was tracked at Pachyderm Studios and Reinharts Headroom in Philadelphia. Rather than sounding forced, its warm, lively, and effortlessly hooky. Fans will recognize Algernons DNA, yet the record feels uncoupled from trends: Joan of Arc and Pavement in a blender is where we end up, Reinhart jokes.
Lyrically, Helmis moves from abstract prose to explicit themes: grief (Hawk), protest (Revelation 420), capitalisms failures (Million Dollars), and the MOVE 9 tragedy (Attn MOVE). The title reflects resisting mental overload amid chaos and the bands instinctive bond. This is just what comes out of us when these four people get in a room, Helmis says.
Press photo - Scott Troyan
This event is 17 and over. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 17 years of age will not be admitted to this event, and will not be eligible for a refund. Ticket Fee includes 1% City Amusement Tax.
thaliahallchicago.com
1807 S Allport St, Chicago, IL 60608, USA
Aug 16 · Sat, 10:00 PM
Thalia Hall - Chicago, IL
Aug 27 · Wed, 8:00 PM
Sep 21 · Sun, 6:30 PM
Sep 23 · Tue, 8:00 PM
Sep 26 · Fri, 8:00 PM
Sep 29 · Mon, 8:00 PM
Oct 1 · Wed, 8:00 PM
Oct 2 · Thu, 8:00 PM
Oct 3 · Fri, 8:00 PM
Oct 5 · Sun, 8:00 PM
Aug 13 · Wed, 9:00 PM
Sleeping Village - Chicago, IL
Aug 24 · Sun, 5:00 PM
Aire Rooftop - Chicago, IL
Aug 24 · Sun, 8:00 PM
Aug 31 · Sun, 10:00 PM
Outset - Chicago, IL
Sep 12 · Fri, 6:30 PM
Arts Center - Chicago, IL
Sep 14 · Sun, 7:00 PM
City Winery Chicago - Chicago, IL
Sep 19 · Fri, 11:00 PM
Reggies Chicago - Chicago, IL
Sep 23 · Tue, 7:00 PM
Bottom Lounge - Chicago, IL
Sep 25 · Thu, 7:30 PM
Chicago Symphony Orchestra - Chicago, IL
Sep 28 · Sun, 7:30 PM
Epiphany Center for the Arts - Chicago, IL
1 concert
10 concerts
4 concerts
By clicking “Accept”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. You can view our privacy policy here. Accept
Don't have an account? Sign Up
Forgot password? Click here
By proceeding, you agree with our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy