And your ears shall hear…

It’s a sad thought that a bomb could be what unites us in today’s world. This is the divisiveness our president has created, both globally and domestically. When discussing a Smiths cover band in Chicago, though, it brings joy. “If it’s not love, then it’s the bomb that will bring us together,” Morrissey wrote for The Smiths’ 1986 single, “Ask.” Released in October 1986 and included in compilation albums like Louder Than Bombs, the song is known for its upbeat sound, which contrasts with its dark lyrics from the Cold War era.

The Bomb That Will Bring Us Together features Robert Nanna from Braid and Hey Mercedes, along with guitarist Rodrigo Palma from Saves The Day. The G’Man Tavern was a great venue for the show, with enough people to feel lively while still allowing us to dance and get a drink at the bar.

While record covers danced across video screens, they played songs from every album and era. The second set even included Morrissey solo stuff like “Why Don’t You Find Out For Yourself,” and “Certain People I Know.”

The band was great at playing Morrissey’s solo songs, and I expect they’ll include more in the future. They also played his popular single “Tomorrow,” which is challenging for any band to perform.

Everything was great, and it was a unique way to revisit material I had never seen live. For instance, their cover of “Barbarism Begins at Home” was fantastic, and only The Smiths have played it. I wish I knew the names of the bass player and drummer because they deserve recognition, especially for this song. The rhythm section was excellent, and the bass line was pulsating. If anyone knows the other members, please comment below so I can update this post.

“Shoplifters of the World Unite” and “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” were two of my favorites from the first set. Fun fact: I performed “Heaven Knows” with the McHenry West Jazz band for the ’88 Talent Show during my freshman year of high school, which was a great moment. But now I’m just dating myself.

As a fan who never saw The Smiths live, ‘Bomb is a great way to relive the memories from my teenage years. They recently performed at City Winery and continue to play as a cover band. If you’re a fan considering attending, I highly recommend this band. They are the closest you’ll get to the original, and the crowds and venues are friendly.

I was happy to say hello to Rob, who is in the picture above. He was great, letting me ask questions and chat. Guitarist Rodrigo Palma was gracious as well, going over the setlist and his guitar rig, which helped bring all of Johnny Marr’s fretwork to life. Even my wife, who doesn’t usually like Moz or The Smiths, had a good time out with friends. If it’s not The Smiths, then it’s the BOMB.