Big band, Dan Navarro, Pokey LaFarge, Cash Box Kings, Lunar Ticks to chase winter blues at The Venue

A live music performance hot spot, The Venue highlights some of its February acts coming to downtown Aurora.

Dan Navarro performs solo at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11. He is a songwriter, performer, voice actor and recording artist. His last name is known because of Lowen & Navarro, the famous duo that recorded and toured relentlessly until 2008. Navarro has stayed busy solo, releasing records and touring as a solo act. He’s written songs for The Bangles, Pat Benatar, had his music placed in feature films and serves on the SAG-AFTRA board. Premium seating costs $25, and general admission $20. All ticket prices increase by $5 at the door.

Album Covers presents Neil Young & Crazy Horse - “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere” at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12. The Venue’s Album Covers series returns after a three-month break to perform a Neil Young classic album. From the opening track of “Cinnamon Girl,” this was the record that truly broke Neil Young as a solo artist. Patrons also can expect an additional set of Neil Young classics. Playing will be Scott Tipping, Adam Gardner, Ryan Anderson and Mike Holtz. Tickets cost $20 and $15.

The Pete Ellman Big Band will continue its weekly jazz residency series on Tuesday, Feb. 15. The opening set will feature Metea Valley High School musicians, followed by the headliner. General admission costs $5. The series is sponsored by the Fox Valley Music Foundation.

Pokey LaFarge brings his traveling show to town at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17. He’s been seen on “The Late Show with David Letterman,” collaborated with Jack White, and found himself acting in a film for Netflix. While his music has deep roots in early blues recordings, LaFarge uses the influence as a springboard for delving into all kinds of uncharted waters. He is touring on his latest release, “In the Blossom of Their Shade.” Tickets cost $25 and $20.

The Cash Box Kings, Alligator recording artists, will return at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, as part of The Venue’s new Burgers, Blues & Brews series. The Venue has partnered with local craft brewery Gillerson’s Grubbery to bring the goods while presenting some of the best blues on the planet. The Cash Box Kings musicians are known from coast to coast for their high-energy performances. Tickets cost $20 and $15.

Lunar Ticks will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19. Hailing from Chicago, Lunar Ticks is an eclectic blend of experimentation, alternate music and jams. The musicians are part Flaming Lips, part Grateful Dead. Every show is different, while pulling from their expansive list of original music. Brian Lirot & Friends will open. General admission costs $10.

[COVID-19: All patrons will be asked to show proof of vaccination along with a photo ID to enter. Masks are required at all times except while consuming beverages in ticketed seats.]

Information and schedule can be found at themusicvenue.org. Refer to the individual show pages for current entry requirements for the concert you plan to attend.

The Venue is owned and operated by the nonprofit Fox Valley Music Foundation; learn more at foxvalleymusicfoundation.com.