It was a weekend of high culture: a lovely wedding in Grant Park (not mine) and a fabulous CSO performance in Millennium Park that featured Savion Glover tapping the Duke Ellington suite, River. It was also a weekend of rock culture: the ever-so-awesome Hideout Block Party. My only gripe: The sound for Brit band Bloc Party (who played the Block Party) was pretty weak; having seen them a few months ago at the Congress, I can attest what a strong live band they are. That didn’t so much come across, but, heck, it was still great.

Now I’m off to Europe for a three-week sejour in Italy and France. Check back for updates, and, hey, if you have any suggestions of places to check out in Northern Italy or in Paris, post ’em here.