For some reason, this episode of the short-lived Jon Lovitz cartoon, The Critic, has been on my mind lately. As a lover/historian of the The Simpsons, it’s a bold statement to declare this episode one of my all time favorite animated TV programs. The episode finds S&E breaking up, only to be reunited by Jay Sherman, the title critic. I remember even feeling a little weepy when Siskel & Ebert were singing to each other from their balconies. A lot has changed since this episode aired, but nothing will taint the legacy of these two iconic Chicago broadcasters. I have been fortunate enough to meet both Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert in my life, and I’ve always felt truly honored to say so.

Here are the dates thus far for the Pet Lions Fall Tour.

8/27/11- Chicago, IL – Schubas, Chicago (w/ Houses)

9/04/11- Chicago, IL- Ravenswood Remix Festival

9/15/11- Champaign, IL – Canopy Club (w/ Santah)

9/16/11- Galesburg, IL – Knox College

9/17/11- St. Louis, MO – The Heavy Anchor

9/18/11- Bloomington, IN – Rachael’s Cafe

9/19/11- Grand Rapids, MI – The DAAC (w/ Sleeping in the Aviary)

9/20/11- Washington, D.C. – The Velvet Lounge

9/21/11- Brooklyn, NY – Bruar Falls (w/ Celestial Shore)

9/22/11- Manhattan, NY – Piano’s

9/23/11- Columbus, OH – Kobo Live

9/24/11- Cincinnati, OH – MidPoint Music Festival, Artworks

9/25/11- Milwaukee, WI – Frank’s Power Plant

10/07/11- Madison, Wisconsin – University of Wisconsin, The Sett