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Ben

@better_red

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I don't know half of you half as well as I should like.
🎸🎤 @96_cougar
🎸 @twoguntimandtheblanks
🎨 @fatman_inthe_bathtub

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Last month a rug theft happened. On Saturday night let's see how this all shakes out. The penultimate Cougering is upon us.

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♌️⚗️🍄☀️

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Recording

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Party @ rock bottom

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Hello Everyone and welcome back to issue 35 of Hidden Gems! Today we are getting fast and down right catchy as I bring you an exciting garage rock/Chicago punk band. The song “Big Sean” by 96 Cougar.

This song is from their 2025 sophomore album Forklift Rodeo. If you are not familiar with this band, this song is an excellent jumping off point. It carries western accent, as does most of their stuff but it packs a mighty punch. With twangy guitars, catchy bass lines and bombastic drums, this audio sensation will catch you punch dancing in the middle of your line dance. It also flaunts mildly humorous lyrics that singer Ben rambles off at that punk speed we all know and love.

I have enjoyed songs off of both of their albums and their two EPs. So there is a lot to love and listen to. But this song is truly a rip roarin’ good time and is a ball of energy from beginning to end.

Happy Listening,

-OT
#chicagopunkscene #chicagopunk

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The time has come to rock. Real rock moments guaranteed. Only rockers need attend the mayhem. Can you pass the test?

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I don’t think Hank done it this way.
Tim - Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Ben - Lead Guitar
Sean - Bass
Brian - Drums

Photos by Alex ( @donalex420 )

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Lately (I've been busy)

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A few of our favorite dyes of 2025! Last slide is a close up of “Mushroom Jerry.”

Keep an eye out for more postings after Christmas 👀👀👀

This year, I learned I much prefer ice dying over liquid. Even for a simple swirl. It’s just so cool!! I can’t wait to learn and grow more in our tie dye journey in 2026!

Which style do you prefer?

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Grateful Dead: 60 🥀⏳♈️🍄♌️ (Gel)

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A moment of Silence for the Wild Illinois Cougar population.

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🥣 JULY 12 🥣 LIARS CLUB 🥣 MATINEE BBQ GIG 🥣

💰 $15 ENTRY INCLUDES A COPY OF THE 7 INCH VINYL, BBQ PLATE, RAFFLE TICKETS FOR VINYL PRIZES AND A SWING AT THE PIÑATA !💰

🌭3PM-7PM 🌭NO PUNK TIME 🌭BANDS 3:30 🌭

Featuring performances by @nightfreakchicago @watermelonpunk @96_cougar and @doomzday_slutz .

🎨 Each entry receives a translucent red copy of the 7 inch, limited to 100 copies. Only available at the release show with hand screen printed covers by @take.back.the.ali and @sirbobos 🎨

Doors at 3, bands at 3:30, bands over by 6:30!!!!

Flyer by the golden boy @_sneezeweed_

Video by @sirbobos

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