Western Elstons, Deacon Blues in concert lineup at The Venue in Aurora

The Western Elstons musicians will bring their blend of honky tonk, country and rock and roll to The Venue stage in Aurora at 8 p.m. Friday, March 25.

Hailed as one of Chicago’s best kept secrets, The Western Elstons are a who’s who of Chicago music. Members Scott Ligon and Casey McDonough both belong to NRBQ and The Flat Five, a news release stated. Drummer Alex Hall has played with the likes of JD McPherson and Robbie Fulks. The ensemble is rounded out by the great Joel Patterson on guitar. The music is old school, hot and infectious. Premium seating costs $20, general admission $15. All ticket prices increase by $5 at the door.

Deacon Blues plays the music of Steely Dan at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 26. The vocals, the horns, the intricate rhythm section are all represented with Deacon Blues. Tickets cost $30 and $25, respectively.

The Pete Ellman Jazz Big Band will continue its weekly residency series at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 29. The opening set will feature Wheaton College student musicians followed by the headliner. General admission costs $5. The series is sponsored by the Fox Valley Music Foundation.

Upcoming events

The lineup continues with Soulkeeper Gerald McClendon delivering a Motown dance party at 8 p.m. Friday, April 1. And Mr. Blotto returns at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 2.

Rock Talk Lecture Series Part III: The Altamont Music Fest presentation will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 3. Rock Talk is a successful series The Venue has been offering for free, organizers note, adding that music professor Mark Plummer from Aurora University has a vast knowledge of popular music and an interesting and exciting delivery. Patrons can expect to learn about what happened at The Rolling Stones Altamont Festival, as well as more about the acts that participated such as the Grateful Dead or Jefferson Airplane.

The Venue currently recommends, but no longer requires, masks and/or proof of vaccination for entry, unless specifically requested by the performing artist as noted in the individual show details online.

The Venue, owned and operated by the nonprofit Fox Valley Music Foundation, can be found at themusicvenue.org.