Tom Nevers Head is a Chicago-based folk and rock band with a strong emphasis on Scottish and Irish music, sea shanties, and other various folk traditions.
We originally assembled on a lark, to arrange and perform some old pirate songs at a party, resolving that after that one last job we would go our separate ways and be out of the game forever. But old habits die hard, and three years down the road we’re still at it, shifting focus a bit along the way. We play music that comes from the sea, or from places associated with the sea; Ireland, the outer Scottish isles, Quebec, Brittany. Sometimes we play songs from places that have nothing to do with the sea. Occasionally some originals slip into the rotation.
David Becan (also of Into the Light Carol Anne) plays fiddle and bouzouki, his sister Sarah Becan (accomplished comics artist and founder of Shortpants Press) plays accordion and mandolin. Scott Balmoos (also of Into the Light Carol Anne and Akasha) plays guitar and harmonium. Brandon Pool plays upright bass and percussion.
We’re currently peforming the first Saturday of every month at the Small Bar in Logan Square, 2956 N. Albany.