Forgotten Tracks Revived After 40 Years: A Dream Realized Through Music and Charity

They say you should never give up on your dreams—and this story proves it. Spanning decades, it starts in 1985 and arrives in Highland Park, where long-lost music tracks have been brought to life thanks to famed producer Steve Albini.

Chicago-based band The Generations, founded by musician and philanthropist Rob Stepen, will host a special charity performance at 28 Mile Distilling Company in Highwood on Saturday, December 28, 2024. The event will benefit Joey’s Song, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting epilepsy research.

This charity concert follows the triumphant release of The Generations’ debut album, Alternate View, in October 2024. Produced with the legendary Steve Albini at Electrical Audio in Chicago, the album breathes new life into songs written and recorded nearly 40 years ago.

Event Schedule

7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.: Arrival, Networking Reception, and Introduction to the Charity

8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Joey’s Song Presentation by Founder Michael Gomoll

8:45 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.: The Generations Live Performance

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Joey’s Song, combining the power of music with a meaningful cause.

Event Details

WHEN: Saturday, December 28, 2024 TIME: 8:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

WHERE: 28 Mile Distilling Company 454 Sheridan Road, Highwood, IL 60040

TICKETS: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Purchase tickets at www.RobStepenMusic.com.

The Generations: Past, Present, and Future

Founded in 2023, The Generations seamlessly blends nostalgic ’80s rock with modern influences. Their debut album, Alternate View, is the culmination of founder Rob Stepen’s journey through the vibrant 1980s Chicago rock scene.

The story behind the album is as remarkable as the music itself. Two tracks—“Have You Seen My Heart” and “Your Way”—were recorded in 1985 but lost for decades, rediscovered only in 2023. With the help of Steve Albini and Taylor Hales at Electrical Audio, the tracks were restored and mastered by Bob Weston at Chicago Mastering Service before being pressed at Third Man Records in Detroit.

The album captures the essence of the ’80s while incorporating a fresh, modern sound, appealing to both nostalgic and contemporary audiences.

For more information about The Generations, their music, or upcoming performances, visit www.RobStepenMusic.com.

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