Now Here This - Week of May 7, 2012

The good news is that your weeknights are wide open to clear your DVR. The bad news is that you might have to clone yourself to catch all the worthwhile shows this weekend - though the options are slimming up rather quickly.

Friday, May 11
Maps & Atlases @ Metro
$16 - 9pm
Opening: So Many Dynamos, Sister Crayon

 

 

Their debut, Perch Patchwork was a stunningly brilliant listen, but Chicago's Maps & Atlases blew it away with their sophomore album, Beware And Be Grateful, last month. Consider this your last chance to hear the nimble guitar work and sneakily poppy goodness of the band at a venue this small. It will not be long before the rest of the world realizes just how mind-blowing this band is, both live and on album. If you only make it to one show this week, we demand you to make it this one.

Saturday, May 12
Grouplove @ Metro
SOLD OUT - 8pm
Opening: Reptar

 

 

If you were to make a second show this week, and own a time machine that could take you back before it sold out, this would be our pick. Cali indie popsters Grouplove blew us away with a stellar early day set at Lollapalooza last year, so your money is well spent on the strummy bliss of tracks like "Tongue Tied" and addictive "Colours" alone. The addition of Reptar's brand of jittery pop weirdness as the opening act makes it worth standing outside the venue for, in the hopes of obtaining a spare ticket. This pairing has the makings of indie pop heaven.

Dax Riggs @ Beat Kitchen
$10 - 10pm
Opening: Young Jesus

 

 

With the Grouplove and Reptar show sold out, Dax Riggs is a fine replacement. The former Deadboy & The Elefantmen and Acid Bath front man has a knack for explosively blending blues and rock, with the irresistible wail of his vocals possessing an unshakable pull. It has been two years since his last solo outing, Say Goodnight To The World, so we have to imagine you will get an earful of some new tracks at the show as a bonus.

The Right Now @ Lincoln Hall
$10 - 9pm
Opening: Derobert & The Half Truths, DJRC

 

 

If you are looking for something a little different, Chicago indie soul outfit, The Right Now return to Lincoln Hall with a new album in tow, The Right Now Gets Over You. The darker album, with tracks marked with cheating and fed-up characters, should work well with Stefanie Berecz's rich vocals and the full-bodied sound of the band. We were fans of their debut, so color us interested in the new disc too.

Looking ahead to next week
Wednesday, May 16 - Active Child @ Lincoln Hall $15 9pm Opening: Balam Acab, Superhumanoids
Thursday, May 17 - Rocky Votolato @ Schubas $15 9pm Opening: Kevin Long