About a year ago, I caught up with local folk group The Giving Tree Band as they recorded their first ever green album, "Great Possessions." By green, I don't mean recycled packaging. The band went all out and traveled to the Aldo Leopold Center in Baraboo, Wisconsin - a facility that celebrates the finest in eco-friendly living. Here's a quick rundown of what the band went through to ensure their earthy cred:- Used energy generated by Leopold Center to power any instruments and electronics needed for mixing.
- CD's produced using renewable wind power.
- Packaging created using 100% biodegradable materials.
- Guitars made from naturally fallen or reclaimed woods, with a non-toxic finish.
- The band camped each night and biked 10 miles to and from the Leopold Center each day.
The band will put on a free CD release show in Lincoln Park on Tuesday, September 15th at 6 p.m. in Lincoln Park at Clark & Armitage, in conjunction with the first annual Carbon Day. I profiled the band on "metromix" as they were finishing the album last October.....
"Great Possessions" is available in Chicagoland Best Buy stores or you can buy it online here. You can preview a few of the tracks on their website, at givingtreeband.com.
If you're a fan of relaxed folks, you'll love these guys. Here's a few of their recent performances, starting with our exclusive first look at the new track "Teaspoon of Sugar."
And one of my favorites, the Giving Tree's homage to Michael Jackson, the quirky yet classy "Hillbillie Jean."
And finally, one more take on the band's latest creation:
Know a local band with a great story? I'm always looking for compelling features on the WGN News. Leave a comment and let me know!
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