Two Way Street Coffee House is Chicagoland’s most beloved folk and acoustic music venue, presenting weekly concerts and community events for over 50 years!  The show starts at 8pm (CT) and the doors open at 7:30pm. (Suggested donation $10).  We will also host this concert virtually.  You may access the livestream on www.twowaystreet.org, on our Facebook page or on our YouTube channel.

On Friday, October 3, 2025 Two Way Street Coffee House Friday Night Concert Series presents Cooler By the Lake and Victoria Storm as part of our Local Artist Showcase.

Cooler by the Lake

Cooler by the Lake is an acoustic folk band from Chicago whose sound is as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer night. Forged in the near west suburbs, the band began as a group of friends playing at local festivals, farmers markets, and community benefits, and quickly grew into a spirited ensemble.

Featuring the voices, flute, fiddle, guitars, and upright bass of Stephanie Kay, Stephanie Rath, Betsy Backes, Jean Bacom, and Terrence Keleher, Cooler by the Lake blends thoughtful harmonies and acoustic arrangements that feel like a front porch singalong. Each member brings a unique artistry and style, creating music that is both heartfelt and uplifting.

With a shared passion for their community, the band often lends its music to support local nonprofits, celebrating both the folk tradition and the spirit of Chicago.

Victoria Storm

A Chicago-based singer-songwriter, Victoria Storm weaves intricate stories of love, loss, and human connection into every note. With influences ranging from Jane Siberry to Brandi Carlile, her sound captures the heart and soul of personal experiences, delivered through haunting melodies and thoughtful lyricism.

​Her third EP, released in 2025, delves deep into themes of emotional resilience, sisterhood, and the passage of time. The title track, “Butterfly Wings,” released as a single in 2021, explores the bonds of friendship in the face of depression. “This Old House,” another powerful single from the EP, touches on the intersection of long-term love and grief. November 2024 brought us “A Place in This World” – a raw, introspective look at empty nesting and witnessing the struggle towards adulthood. “Tomorrow’s Already Now” is a poignant reflection on the restlessness of insomnia. The EP closes with – “The Wind Knows My Name” – a heartfelt cover of Fairground Attraction’s1980s ballad, featuring beloved Chicago pianist Bradley Williams.

Each song on the EP embodies Victoria’s masterful ability to craft relatable narratives that resonate with listeners across generations.

If you can’t join us in person, you can still tune in virtually to catch the show! Make your donation HERE to Cooler By The Lake and Victoria Storm.  Visit www.twowaystreet.org for more information.