ROCK AND ROLL—DECONSTRUCTED
This month, Talk of the Town is turning up the volume with a theme that riffs on “rock and roll”—literally. We’re visiting legendary music landmarks, rolling into foodie favorites like sushi and burritos, and digging into the history of one of the world’s most venerated stones. Plus, we’ll highlight local shops where you can bring home a bit of geological glam.
Rock and roll has left its mark around the world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love a good beat, these music landmarks are worth the pilgrimage.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland – Delve into decades of music history in a striking lakefront landmark designed by noted architect I.M. Pei. In addition to thousands of items on display—from clothing to instruments—you’ll find feature films, videos, interactive kiosks, and, of course, plenty of music.
The Beatles Story, Liverpool – Dive into the lives of the Fab Four in their hometown. This museum features authentic memorabilia, immersive recreations of key locations in the band’s career including the legendary Cavern Club, and rare recordings that trace the band’s rise from local act to global phenomenon.
Graceland, Memphis – Elvis Presley’s estate offers an intimate glimpse into the King’s world. Tour the place he called home, walk the gardens where he found peace, see his gold records, marvel at his car collection—and feel the enduring energy of the man who shaped a generation.
Sun Studio, Memphis – Just a few miles from Graceland is The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Stand in the very spot where Elvis first recorded, listen to recording session outtakes, and hear inside stories about early legends like Ike Turner, Carl Perkins, and B.B. King.
ABBA Museum, Stockholm – While more pop than rock, this museum celebrates the group that won the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest. Along with costumes and memorabilia, there are interactive exhibits including a hologram stage where you can become the fifth ABBA member.
Looking for a fun, low-fuss way to entertain? Roll with it! This month, we’re spotlighting rolled-up eats that are perfect for casual gatherings. They’re easy to prep, easy to eat, and packed with global flavor.
Start with crowd-pleasers like Maki Sushi and Burritos—both endlessly customizable and always a hit. Add playful options like rainbow veggie Pinwheels or smoked salmon roll-ups for color, crunch, and variety.
For something guests might not have tried, serve up Taiwanese Beef Rolls—savory scallion pancakes wrapped around tender braised beef, hoisin sauce, and fresh herbs. They’re crispy, chewy, and bursting with umami.
You can also keep things light with fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls, stuffed with shrimp, rice noodles, and crunchy vegetables, or go crispy with golden, snackable Filipino Lumpia. Both are perfect finger foods with big flavor.
And don’t forget dessert! A classic Jelly Roll—a soft sponge cake spread with jam and spiraled into a sweet swirl—adds a nostalgic and colorful finish to the spread.
Whether served on a platter or as part of a DIY “roll bar,” these tasty global bites keep the party rocking—and the good times rolling.
You’ve probably heard of the Blarney Stone and Plymouth Rock. But one ancient stone has quietly played a starring role in centuries of royal drama: the Stone of Scone.
Also known as the Stone of Destiny, this roughly 330-pound slab of sandstone was used for centuries in the coronation of Scottish—and later British—monarchs. Legend claims it once served as a pillow for the Biblical Jacob and traveled from the Holy Land to Ireland, then to Scotland. In the 13th century, it was seized by King Edward I, taken to England, and placed beneath the specially-built Coronation Chair in Westminster Abbey. It became the symbol by which the kings and queens of England would also be crowned as monarchs of Scotland.
Repatriated to Scotland in 1996, the Stone returned to Westminster Abbey briefly in 2023 for the coronation of King Charles III. Since March 2024, it has been on exhibit at the new Perth Museum in Scotland.
Want to learn about a different kind of rock? Best known for their kids’ classes, School of Rock also offers an adult program for those looking to improve their musical skills or pick up an instrument with no prior experience! You’ll find locations throughout Chicagoland.
Skip the music merch and explore some actual rock stars—at local shops where crystals, fossils, and gemstones take center stage.
Start with a visit to Dave’s Down to Earth Rock Shop in Evanston. Part natural history and fossil museum, part mineral and crystal boutique, this family-owned shop has been a local gem since 1970. In Andersonville, On the Rocks is an urban oasis for anyone fascinated by minerals and fossils. Along with their curated collection of crystals and rocks, you’ll find jewelry, home décor, and unique gifts. And in Lombard, Crystal Earth Rock Shop is a welcoming spot packed with minerals, geodes, agates, and fossils along with a wide variety of other products like herbs, candles, incense, and jewelry.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual energy, scientific curiosity, or just something shiny, these shops will rock your world—no amp required.
