Devon Kay & the Solutions (with Big D and the Kids Table)

Devon Kay & the Solutions play Ace of Cups on Wednesday, October 21, with Big D and the Kids Table joining them on the bill. The Chicago band brings a full horn section to the stage, and they've built their sound around a mix of punk, folk, ska and power pop that they call 'cosmic gumbo.'

That description fits the lineup. On top of Devon Kay on vocals and guitar, there's Jacob Horn on trombone, Ian Terry on trumpet, and Brian Toms on saxophone, with Jake Levinson on bass, Joram Zbichorski on keys, and Castle Trees on drums. It's a seven-piece band, and the horns are a central part of what they do, not just something added on top.

They've spent time on the road, touring the US with Less Than Jake and opening for The All American Rejects. They've shared stages with hardcore bands and theatre troupes alike, which lines up with the way they pull from different styles. There's also a bit of a story behind their discography: they were signed to Pure Noise Records and later dropped, a blow that reportedly inspired a ska EP released through Bad Time Records out of spite. That particular record leans into the ska side of the mix, and you'll likely hear that energy come through live.

With Big D and the Kids Table on the bill, the night leans heavily into the ska-punk tradition. The show is at Ace of Cups, 2619 N High St, and starts at 7:30 PM.