Fall is becoming quite a musical journey for me. Last week I was back in Rosemont, but not for softball.

My friends and I went to Joe’s Live to see Chase McDaniel. Joe’s is a great venue in Rosemont’s ever-growing entertainment district. The area has become a legitimate destination rivaling Chicago’s hot spots. Food service varies, but Bub City next door has a full menu. There are also plenty of other great dining options nearby.

Nashville-based country artist Madeline Consoer was the opening act. Her story-telling lyrics came alive with her raw, powerful voice. She was the perfect warmup for McDaniel.

After graduating from Louisville, Kentucky native McDaniel pursued his dream in Nashville. A singer-songwriter, McDaniel hit the top spot on Billboard Digital Sales, an iTunes Country singles charts. McDaniel played a great set, enjoyed by all, especially my friend’s wife who was given drumsticks from Austin Hafer.

It was a fun night of music with friends. While softball originally opened my eyes to all Rosemont has to offer, I quickly realized it is an underrated alternative to Chicago’s entertainment areas, with far fewer traffic issues.

— John Wroblewski, online writer