The air at Legit Dogs + Ice was electric on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as the popular “Car Con Carne” podcast hosted another of its signature live episodes. The taping for episode 1057 was a glorious hodgepodge of indie music, sharp comedy, and puppetry, proving once again that some of the most memorable cultural moments happen in the most unassuming of places. The evening featured a diverse lineup that included the musical stylings of Glory Days, the introspective tunes of Heligoats, the rock sounds of badcandy, and the comedic genius of Eric Oren and the one and only Chad the Bird.
The night was a testament to the vibrant and varied arts scene, bringing together a crowd eager for an authentic and unpredictable entertainment experience. And this episode delivered in spades.
Kicking off the musical portion of the evening was Glory Days. While the name might evoke images of a certain New Jersey rock legend, this band brought their own unique energy to the stage. Their performance was a perfect appetizer for the eclectic evening, warming up the crowd with their engaging sound.
The energy shifted to a more introspective and wonderfully weird place with Heligoats, the musical project of the talented Chris Otepka, also known from the beloved indie band Troubled Hubble. Fans were treated to a special performance that included the Troubled Hubble classic “14,000 Things to Be Happy About,” a song that felt both nostalgic and perfectly suited for the intimate setting. Otepka’s intricate lyrics and heartfelt delivery were a clear highlight for many in attendance.
Adding a solid dose of rock and roll to the proceedings was badcandy. Fronted by the compelling Alex Subak, the band ripped through a set of their visceral, personal songs. Their modern post-rock edge, with hints of gritty garage rock, provided a welcome jolt of energy and showcased the depth of their debut album, “Regret.”
The evening wasn’t just about the music, however. The comedy offerings were just as strong, led by the high-energy and physically dynamic Eric Oren. The Chicago-based comedian, a student of Second City and Improv Olympic, had the audience in stitches with his wild and smart observations. A full video of his set from the night, which has since surfaced on YouTube, is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a comedian who can command a stage with both sharp writing and a captivating presence.
And then there was the bird. No, not just any bird, but the illustrious Chad the Bird. The felt-and-googly-eyed creation of puppeteer and voice actor Josh Zagoren, Chad the Bird, offered his unique brand of “avian op-ed.” Known for his regular appearances at Chicago’s “The Paper Machete Live Magazine,” Chad’s timely and often surprisingly profound commentary on the absurdities of modern life was as hilarious as it was insightful.
“Live at Legit Dogs – Episode 1057” was more than just a podcast recording; it was a celebration of artistic diversity and community. It was a night where rock anthems, folk melodies, and cutting comedy could all share the same stage and feel perfectly at home. For those who were there, it was a reminder of the magic of live performance. For the rest of us, it’s a fantastic episode of “Car Con Carne” to add to our listening queue.
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