Great voices and great lyrics
by KCM on 11/24/25Garcia's Chicago - ChicagoRating: 5 out of 5A great duo with great songs and lyrics and their voices blended well. Will definitely see them when they come through Chicago again!

Venue
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Ruby Diamond Auditorium
Add-Ons
Club Access
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Sam's Burger Joint
Venue
Husband and wife duo Shovels & Rope possess an undeniable chemistry that they bring to the stage with them every time they perform. Their stylish brand of alt-country incorporates elements of rock, folk, and even punk, and their eclectic live shows bring it all to life as they belt out songs like "Birmingham" and "The Devil Is All Around" in perfect harmony. Equal parts anthemic and heart-rending, Shovel & Rope's passionate performances never fail to get ticket buyers grooving on the duo's must-see tours.
BACKGROUND SNAPSHOT:
Shovels & Rope is Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent, two South Carolina-based musicians who began collaborating in 2008 on what was intended to be a one-off album titled Shovels & Rope. The duo quickly realized they had both musical and personal chemistry, and in 2009 they were married. They made their sophomore outing as Shovels & Rope in 2012 with O' Be Joyful, an impressive slice of country folk that topped Billboard's Heatseekers Albums Chart and earned them the title of Emerging Artist of the Year at the 2013 Americana Music Honors & Awards. Shovels & Rope continued to delight in 2014 with their third album Swimmin' Time, following up the release with a series of rousing performances on the road.
FANS WHO BOUGHT TICKETS SAY:
"Shovels and Rope was amazing. Their love and connection informs their amazing chemistry on stage. Highly recommend seeing them live!"
"Cary Ann and Michael are fantastic! With only two people, they have an undeniably full sound. Their chemistry on stage makes for a tight, highly energetic live show that pushes the rock-country envelope."
"One of the best shows I have seen in years! If you haven't seen them yet you are missing out!"
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A great duo with great songs and lyrics and their voices blended well. Will definitely see them when they come through Chicago again!
From a cave to a quarry, these two never fail to impress. Been watching for years, and looking forward to many more shows. First time at this venue, and it provided a unique experience (can bowl while you listen) that was casual yet cozy; pretty much anywhere felt like being right up next to the stage. Will go again soon.
I love this band--great energy, great songs, great voices, much talent. I go see them every time they are in town if I am able. I was introducing a friend to this band, and realized it was hard to pick a favorite song because there are so many I love--Birmingham, Evil, Coping Mechanism, St. Ann's Parade. I really love all of them!
I have been a fan of S+R for close to 20 years now & they never disappoint. They played some new songs, some favorites from the past, & the show was fabulous! They are amazing performers & the chemistry between them is a gift to experience. So grateful that this wife & hubby duo exists!
Great show 10/10 Good mix in the setlist Upper deck seating was great
Expensive parking close, but worth it.. ,................................................
This was the first time I've seen S&R live. They played some of their known tunes and a lot of new tunes. Surprisingly, I found the amount of unknown material enjoyable. Usually you want to hear what you know. Their vocals were spot on with some the harmonizing was just so good it could break hearts. Trent had some real highs on the guitar also. The chatter between tunes was priceless, with a lot of good laughs. Great stage presence.
Great show and venue! Shovels & Rope always puts on an amazing show!!
Shovels and Rope did not disappoint! In addition to a wonderful performance, The Riviera is a beautiful venue with great concessions, amenities, and friendly as well as helpful staff. The oblynthing I could be picky about was that the floor seating was a bit cramped and the chairs could have been a bit more comfortable.
Two charming and talented singers! Loved the concert!