Nick D – Jim Ryan, The Chicago Philharmonic & The Big Test

In this jam-packed music-heavy episode, Nick talks with the Executive Director of The Chicago Philharmonic, Terell Johnson, about the upcoming “Batman in Concert” event, featuring a screening of the classic 1989 movie, with a live orchestra accompaniment, plus a preview of other great music events involving the Philharmonic. Then, music journalist Jim Ryan joins Nick to talk about his terrific interviews with Creed Bratton, Mike Watt, and Al Franken, and to review the live performances of Adam Ant, The English Beat, and the surprisingly cool Olivia Rodrigo. They also preview Lollapolooza 2024, and chat about upcoming concerts and interviews.  Finally, Esmeralda Leon and Nick taste some more Ukrainian snacks, after Nick gives Esma a big test that challenges her knowledge of the region. And more details are given about Nick’s upcoming film series: “Nick’s Pix” at the Classic Cinema’s Lake Theater in Oak Park, Illinois. [EP234]