Heading to Lollapalooza this weekend? Whether you’re from Chicago or just in town for the summer music classic, some expert local advice can totally improve your overall experience. That’s why I sat down with J2K (Josh Young) of hip hop/EDM duo Flosstradamus who’s not only from Chicago, but also headlining Perry’s stage on Thursday night of the festival.
Check out our conversation below where we chat about some of his favorite local businesses, thoughts on Lolla, and where you just may find him grubbin’ down while he’s in town.
DW: You’re a Chicagoan and Curt hails from Michigan. How did you guys come together as a duo?
J2K: We met through mutual friends that brought to our attention that we shared musical styles.
DW: From dive bars to massive stages you guys have seen your fair share of venues. Do you have a favorite place to play a show in Chicago?
J2K: We used to do a monthly party at the Abbey Pub. We would set up in the middle of the dance floor. We loved being right in the middle of the energy of the crowd.
DW: How does it feel to be coming back to your hometown and playing one of the most iconic festivals in the business?
J2K: We love playing Lollapalooza! This one will be historic. We were some of the first djs to play the first Perry’s stage. This year we will be coming back to headline that same stage. It has grown quite a bit since we first performed on folding tables.
DW: You guys are definitely no strangers to the internet. What was the last thing you used Yelp for?
J2K: Every city we land in we Yelp to find the best coffee. Using the images to see what the drinks look like to decide on if it’s legit.
DW: Performing in front of hundreds of thousands of fans builds up quite the appetite. Got any favorite local eats you plan to enjoy after your set?
J2K: I’ve been craving a oatmeal shake and a side of fried yucca from Irazu!
DW: You’re a fan of Doritos Locos. Have you heard about the Taco Bell Cantina that opened in Chicago? It serves booze!
J2K: Haha I have! Fortunately I gave up fast food, but I’ll definitely wind up there one of these late nights.
DW: Your sets sometimes go until the wee hours of the evening. What are some late-night spots you hit up when in town?
J2K: San Soo Gab San. It’s my late night Korean BBQ spot. Best in town.
DW: You guys got started at Town Hall Pub.
Have any other favorite bars you’d recommend hitting up before heading to Lolla?
J2K: My favorite neighborhood spot is Scofflaw. Awesome cocktails and their burger is fire. Also the bar at Bavette’s is a vibe.
DW: In your opinion, what’s Chicago’s best kept secret?
J2K: Pequod’s Pizza. Locals only.
DW: When you’re not playing music in Chicago which neighborhood would you guys most likely be found?
J2K: Humboldt Park or Logan Square.
DW: Besides seeing a Flosstradamus show, what’s something about Chicago you’d tell your fans to make sure they hit up Lollapalooza weekend?
J2K: Check out Pilsen. It’s close to downtown, yet couldn’t be further away culturally. It’s like taking a step into Mexico City. Nuevo Leon is a great Mex restaurant, and Halsted Street has some incredible
art galleries!
Be sure to show J2K some love on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Insta) and don’t forget to find Flosstradamus this Thursday night at the Perry’s Stage!
