Photos by Andy Argyrakis

Throughout much of the 1980s into the ‘90s, London’s Loose Ends consistently reached a global audience with its impeccably-produced blend of sophisticated soul and flashy funk.

In fact, the trio originally comprised of vocalist/guitarist Carl McIntosh, singer Jane Eugene and keyboard player Steve Nichol even made American history as the first African-British band to ever top the Billboard R&B chart, which was a place where they would frequently reside.

Nowadays, McIntosh continues fronting one version of the group with two other latter day members, while Loose Ends featuring Jane Eugene offers her take with a large supporting cast, the latter of whom came to the chic City Winery for a double header that concludes with a sold out show on Friday, January 13 (though a waiting list is available).

As far as a crowded opening night was concerned, it was basically what a Loose Ends listener would’ve wanted and then some, featuring the primary singles, key tracks from the Eugene-era albums and a few surprises.

The longtime co-leader and her immensely talented accompanists were always on point, whether it was the danceable “Stay A Little While, Child,” “Gonna Make You Mine” or “Watching You.”

“You Can’t Stop The Rain” shifted towards the slower side and incorporated Ann Peebles’ “I Can’t Stand The Rain,” while practically everything performed expanded beyond the recordings to adapt a vivacious improvisational spirit.

Towards the end of the 75-minute night, Eugene asked the audience if they’d rather hear “Hangin’ On A String (Contemplating)” or “Slow Down,” but as each was met with equal roars, she bartered to do both if everyone rose to their feet.

They did exactly that and hung intently on every word as Loose Ends featuring Jane Eugene definitely had the “Magic Touch,” to quote another notable track, and appeared more than happy to share it with a soulfully satisfied City Winery.

For additional information on Loose Ends featuring Jane Eugene, visit Twitter.com/Jane_Eugene.

Upcoming concert highlights at City Winery include Loose Ends featuring Jane Eugene (Jan. 13); Maysa (Jan. 14); Midnight Sun (Jan. 15-16); Erthe St. James (Jan. 17); Eight Blackbird (Jan. 18); CeCe Peniston (Jan. 19); TC Carson (Jan. 20); Rahsaan Patterson (Jan. 21); Bubbles And Beauties Drag Brunch (Jan. 22); Songs Of Elton John: 1969-1975 (Jan. 22); Jon B (Jan. 23-24); Brian Courtney Wilson (Jan. 25); Damon Williams (Jan. 26); Kevin Nealon (Jan. 27-28); The Prince Experience (Jan. 29); Miki Howard & Glenn Jones (Jan. 30–Jan. 31); The Hamiltones (Feb. 1); Thomas Allen (Feb. 2); Back 2 Mac (Feb. 3); Such (Feb. 4); Anthony David (Feb. 5); J-L Cauvin & Kevin McCaffrey (Feb. 7); BLKBOK (Feb. 8); Howard Hewett (Feb. 9); Pat McGee, Alice Peacock & Chris Trapper (Feb. 10); Wine & Crime (Feb. 11) and Eleri Ward (Feb. 12). For additional details, visit CityWinery.com/Chicago.

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