Sister Hazel   

Performing at: House of Blues-Chicago

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Gainesville, Fla.'s Sister Hazel have made a career of one song -- 1997's 'All for You,' from the group's major-label debut, 'Somewhere More Familiar' -- but what a song it is. First recorded as an acoustic number on Sister Hazel's self-released debut LP, 'All for You' was redone with the whole band and became a huge hit for the jangle poppers, who are hugely influenced by such kindred spirits as early R.E.M. and Let's Active. Now no longer on a major label, the group has carefully tended its fanbase, and its new record, 'Chasing Daylight' (recorded in the same Memphis hotel room as 'Somewhere More Familiar'), will not disappoint hardcore followers. The guitars shimmer, the drums crack, and Ken Block's heavenly vocals can still curl your toes. Sister Hazel shows are not for people who expect microphone twirling and kneeling guitar solos, but if you want to sway gently and thoughtfully, and occasionally hop up and down, you couldn't possibly do any better. -- Andrew Beaujon