Squirrel Flower celebrates 10 years with two intimate shows in the attic of Metro

Photo via Alexa Viscius

A monthly search of shows at various Chicago venues revealed few standout options, except for a punk show at the Salt Shed, a couple of DJ sets at Subterranean, and a 10-year celebration of Squirrel Flower at Metro. The last one stood out—Squirrel Flower, a.k.a. Ella O’Connor Williams, had been a familiar name for years but never seen live. Her music first resonated in high school, during an era of discovering small local artists and embracing indie aesthetics.

Williams’ music initially captivates with an alluring voice that sets her apart. Over time as her artistry evolved, the depth of her lyrics and growth as a musician became even more apparent.

Metro hosted the show on Feb. 2, 2025, but the ticketing website listed the venue as the Top Notch Theater. Despite years of attending Metro shows, this was an unfamiliar name. It turned out to be a small, worn-down stage in the attic of the building, separate from Metro’s main stage and Smart Bar. The intimate setting featured only a tiny stool, two lamps, and a disco ball.

Photo via Alexa Viscius

Williams entered in winter gear, mentioning that the weather had slightly warmed since earlier in the day. The acoustics were flawless, allowing her voice and guitar to blend seamlessly. She welcomed the audience, explaining her intent to celebrate 10 years by performing songs in different keys, revisiting old material, and inviting a few guests onstage.

Throughout the set, she shared the stories behind her songs. One, written during the pandemic, had been sent to an ex via email. With a self-deprecating laugh, she remarked, “It was very cool of me,” before launching into “Iowa 146.”

Some of the most memorable moments included guest appearances: Alynda Segarra (Hurray for the Riff Raff) joined for “Not Me,” and Sofia Jensen of Free Range accompanied her on “Door’s Open.”

Although Williams has been releasing music under the name Squirrel Flower for a decade, her artistry continues to evolve, signaling that this milestone is just the beginning of an even brighter future.

For those looking to explore more of Squirrel Flower’s music, her discography is available on Spotify, showcasing a decade of growth and artistry. Williams also posts on Instagram and her website for updates on new releases and tour dates.