Neal Francis Plays Hometown Show At The Salt Shed in Chicago 2025 Front Row Music News

29 Nov, 2025 John Kosiewicz Alternative, Concert Reviews, Indie, Latest, R&B, Rock

Neal Francis - Photo credit: John Kosiewicz

Neal Francis Return to Zero Tour 2025

On November 29, 2025, Neal Francis played one of his biggest hometown shows at The Salt Shed in Chicago. Despite a Midwest snowstorm that the day, fans turned out in force, eager to see him perform. The Chicago-born singer-songwriter-pianist returned with his highly anticipated third studio album, Return To Zero. The show was promoted as featuring a 20-piece ensemble, setting expectations for a full-scale spectacle. This Salt Shed stop on the Return To Zero tour offered fans a chance to hear songs from his new album alongside classics from his earlier work. Supporting acts included The Heavy Heavy and The Dead Bolts, adding depth and variety to the night’s lineup.

The Show

The Dead Bolts

Opening the night were Chicago locals, The Dead Bolts. I’ve known these musicians for seven years, and it’s been exciting to watch their growth. Fans were already calling their names as they arrived early to see them play, a testament to their loyal following. Over the last couple of years, they’ve gained traction, performing two headline shows at the Metro and one at Thalia Hall. Their set kicked off with “Promised Land” and included “Breaks,” “Blood and Water,” and a new song, “Skint.”

The Dead Bolts’ sound blends rock, Americana, and blues-rock, with grit that resonates with local fans. Their recent album highlights the band’s development, balancing melodic hooks with raw Chicago energy. Fans wanting to follow this rising band can check their website at thedeadboltsmusic.com. The band’s performance set the tone for the night, showing their experience and hometown pride.

The Heavy Heavy

Next up, The Heavy Heavy took the stage for the winter tour kickoff in Chicago. I first saw them at Mile of Music in 2023. Check out photos from The Heavy Heavy’s 2023 Mile of Music performance here. They brought the same vibrant energy to The Salt Shed. Their set included “Parakeets,” “Lemonade,” “Dirt,” and a cover of Father John Misty’s “Real Love Baby.”

The Heavy Heavy’s retro, psychedelic rock blends folk, soul, and harmony-driven 60s/70s rock. Their melodies and intricate arrangements contrast nicely with the local grit of The Dead Bolts. Fans can follow the band’s tour and updates at theheavyheavy.com. The Salt Shed crowd appreciated their polished performance, which built anticipation for the night’s headliner.

Neal Francis

When Neal Francis took the stage, the energy shifted immediately. Opening with “How Have I Lived” and moving through songs like “Already Gone,” “What’s Left of Me,” and “Problems,” the band created a dynamic soundscape. Tracks from Return To Zero, including “Need You Again” and “Broken Glass,” highlighted intricate arrangements and rich instrumentation.

The set included fan favorites like “Very Fine, Pts. 1 & 2” and “Changes, Pts. 1 & 2.” Each song displayed Francis’s musicianship, with layered harmonies and pulsating grooves. The audience responded enthusiastically to classics like “Can’t Stop the Rain” and “Sentimental Garbage,” and to newer tracks such as “BNYLV.” The encore—“Don’t Wait,” “Back It Up,” and “150 More Times”—ended the night with high energy.

Visually, the promoted 20-piece ensemble suggested a rich stage presence. Brass, strings, keys, and backing vocals enhanced the songs without overwhelming them. Francis’s piano work remained central, tying the band together while giving each musician room to shine. The show captured the spirit of Return To Zero, mixing disco, rock, and soul seamlessly.

A Night to Remember at The Salt Shed

Neal Francis’s hometown show confirmed his rising stature in modern soul and rock. The combination of The Dead Bolts’ local grit, The Heavy Heavy’s retro flair, and Francis’s groove-heavy spectacle made the night unforgettable. Fans left The Salt Shed with music on their minds and a sense of Chicago pride. The Return To Zero tour proves Francis continues to evolve while staying true to his roots.

For more coverage of Chicago concerts, visit Front Row Music News.