Kinetic Playground – Chicago, IL

This card, designed by Mark Twain Behrens, is a promotional piece for a series of performances at Ron Russo’s Kinetic Playground in 1969. Measuring approximately 4¼ x 7½ inches and printed on salmon-colored light card stock, the card features a striking design that reflects the psychedelic aesthetic of the late 1960s.

The Velvet Underground is listed towards the bottom of the card, scheduled to perform with Spirit on January 24th and 25th, 1969. However, there is some ambiguity surrounding these dates, as other sources suggest the band performed at the venue a week earlier, on January 17th and 18th, 1969. If you have any details clarifying the exact performance dates, it would be invaluable in confirming this schedule.

The card also includes an impressive lineup of artists slated to perform during the venue’s concert series. These include The Byrds, Muddy Waters, Fleetwood Mac, Albert King, Linn County, Buddy Rich, Genesis, Tim Hardin, Jeff Beck, and 10 Years After. Each band is featured in distinctive lettering within the intricate design, which radiates an unmistakably countercultural vibe.

With a mix of legendary blues, rock, and experimental acts, this promotional piece captures the Kinetic Playground’s commitment to presenting cutting-edge and diverse musical talent. Its unique aesthetic and historical significance make it a sought-after artifact among collectors and fans of 1960s music culture. If you have more information regarding the Velvet Underground’s confirmed performance dates, it would provide further insight into the history of this iconic venue.