Chicago-based band The Rhythm Rockets present “The Ladies Who Sing the Blues” August 18 at ICC

       The Rhythm Rockets, a Chicago-based jazz/rhythm and blues band, will be the inaugural act for the 2012-13 Illinois Central College Guest Artists Series when the group performs in concert August 18 at 7:30 pm in the ICC Performing Arts Center in East Peoria.
       The Rhythm Rockets have delivered over 100 performances a year with their brand of vintage style rhythm and blues since 1996. The group’s repertoire concentrates on songs influenced by the sax-driven, jump rhythm and blues bands of the late 1940s and early 1950s. In keeping with that style of music, the Rhythm Rockets’ performances reflect the diversity of jazz and rhythm and blues for which Chicago is famous. Using the same instrumentation, the original arrangements and a vintage look, the band delivers a stylish, upbeat education in music history. The band’s high energy brings a unique style of American music to the stage. Whether it is their original compositions, their matchless arrangements of old classics, or their version of a more obscure tune, the Rhythm Rockets present it in a hip format that will appeal to all.
       Their show, entitled “The Ladies Who Sing the Blues,” pays tribute to the women pioneers of rhythm and blues. The show highlights music made famous by influential women who dominated the charts during the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.
       Fronted by southside Chicago veteran vocalist Nicole Kestler, the band rises to the top of the heap with a style that only a female vocalist can bring to the music. Kestler moves effortlessly between torch ballads by Dinah Washington and Ethel Waters, then into up-tempo jump numbers by Ruth Brown and Etta James. Other members of the group include Dave Downer (guitar), Mark Fornek (drums), Justin Kierans (baritone sax), Sam Burckhardt (tenor sax), Mike Bielecki (tenor sax) and Lou Marini (upright bass).
       The Central Illinois Jazz Society is the highlighted Community Partner for this ICC Guest Artists Series performance. The community partner program highlights a different, local organization during each Guest Artists Series performance.
       Tickets cost $25 ($15 for students).
       For more information, call the ICC Performing Arts Center at (309) 694-5136.