Winter quarter has only just begun, and that means classes are still relaxed enough to see your favorite music artist in Chicago this month. Take advantage of that smartphone you just got over the holidays and check out these apps that will make your concert night easier and more rewarding.
onTour - Concert Finder(Android; free)
Before embarking on your concert adventure, you first have to find an artist to see. You may already know who you want to see, but if you need some ideas, the onTour - Concert Finder app for Android will point you in the right direction. This app not only allows you to find shows, but you can also buy tickets and get directions to the venue with it. You can also import your favorite artists from Last.fm and use the app for recommendations. If you are an iPhone user, check out BandMate: Concert Tipster ($1.99), a similar app.
Double Door (iOS; free)
If you’re one of those faithful devotees to a certain venue, some of them have apps. The Double Door in particular has a great app. You can find out about upcoming events and buy tickets directly from the app. You can also share events on Facebook and Twitter, and on the night of the show you can use this app for directions to the venue. But perhaps the best feature of this app is the virtual lighter for all those slow jams.
Ride the L - CTA (iOS; free)
Now that you know who to see and where to go, you need to find your way there. Even if you’re a public transportation aficionado, you would benefit from the scheduled train arrival times that the app delivers to your phone. Its clear system map and trip planner features will get you to the venue with plenty of time to spare. If you are an Android user, check out Transit Tracks: Chicago (free).
SoundHound (Android, iOS; free)
You made it to the venue and you didn’t even get lost! Good job. But now you have a dilemma: the opening act is currently playing a song, and you think you’ve heard it before but you have no idea what it’s called. It’s time to break out the SoundHound app. In as little as four seconds, this app will identify the song you’re listening to. You can also use it if you have a tune stuck in your head after the concert and hum into the speaker to identify the song. It also has a feature called “LiveLyrics,” which allows you to see the song’s lyrics on the screen in time with the music, further enhancing your concert experience.
GrubHub Food Delivery/Takeout (Android, iOS; free)
The show is over and you had a great time, but now you’re hungry. That dining hall meal you scarfed down at 5 p.m. has definitely worn off. Use the CTA app from earlier to board the next train back to Evanston, and as soon as you get back you should change into pajamas. Wanna know why? Because your midnight meal will be delivered to your door after you order it from the GrubHub app. This app lets you search restaurants open nearby and order delivery or takeout. You can save your payment information and addresses as well, so that means you can order faster and get your food sooner.
Seeing a concert in Chicago is not only a great way to ring in the new quarter, but it is also very easy when you know how to use your resources.