Risker’s music fluctuates between electro-psychedelic/experimental albums and psych-folk songs. From the dream-soaked harmonies of “Moon” to the neopsychedelic/garage rocker “Won’t You Meet Us In Vegas?”, Risker’s continuous genre shifting is inspired by dual desires to 1) experiment with soundscapes made possible by modern recording techniques, and 2) craft melodies, lyrics, and structures pared down to their most basic elements.
Frequenting open mics, serving as an engineer’s assistant at a recording studio, and an active participant in Chicago’s DIY music scene, Risker has spent the past decade developing her sound and honing her recording/engineering skills. In 2015 and 2016 Risker was awarded two independent artist grants from the city of Chicago, resulting in two 2016 releases: Big Forever and Soft Moons. In 2017, Risker was again awarded an independent artist grant from the city of Chicago, marking 3 consecutive years Risker has won the highly competitive award. The funding went towards recording a new psych-folk album with engineer Dave Vettraino of Public House Sound Recordings, which was released in 2018.
Live music, comedy & open-mike nights are showcased at this laid-back neighborhood watering hole.