Go to There: October 17 - October 22

By Frank Krolicki

Each week we give you our thoughts on some shows worth checking out around Chicago. Check out this week's selections below, and get out to see some live music!

White Rabbits

Wednesday, October 17th: White Rabbits, Save the Clocktower at Lincoln Hall (9 PM, 21+, $15) 
I remember being pretty transfixed by the sound delivered by Brooklyn's White Rabbits at Lollapalooza this summer, yet I couldn't help but feel their jagged indie rock would pack an even bigger punch at an indoor gig. You can find out for yourself at Lincoln Hall tonight, and be sure to get there early for electro-pop locals Save the Clocktower (who we've covered frequently here on WCR).

Thursday, October 18th: El Ten Eleven at Lincoln Hall (9 p.m., 18+, $12 advance, $14 at door)
Consider doubling down at Lincoln Hall this week and heading back Thursday to catch instrumental "power duo" El Ten Eleven. Apparently, they don't like being called experimental, ambient or post-rock, but you can explore some of their music here and let the sounds do the describing. Beacon and Bastardgeist will open.

Friday, October 19th: Black Prairie at Schubas (10 PM, 21+, $12) 
Featuring members of the Decemberists, Portland's bluegrass-influenced Black Prairie will be in town on the back of the September release of their second album A Tear in the Eye Is A Wound in the Heart. Check out the video for "Nowhere, Massachusetts" here. Shelley Short and Darren Hanlon open.

Saturday, October 20th: Smoking Popes at Double Door (8 PM, 21+, $15) 
When it comes to notable music releases to come out of Chicago in the '90s, Smoking Popes' Born to Quit no doubt ranks among the top. Saturday night's your chance to see the band play the album in its entirety.
 
Sunday, October 21st: The Shams Band, Quarter Mile Thunder, My Blue Valentine, Jenny Dragon outside the Empty Bottle (11 AM, $5 suggested donation) 
Do you want to miss the Empty Bottle's first ever outdoor block party featuring live music and food trucks? I'm sure you just answered to yourself with a firm "no." The bands listed above will be playing from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., so get out and take in what's likely to be one of your last opportunities for outdoor fun until Spring.

Monday, October 22nd: Heartless Bastards at Metro (9 PM, 18+, $17)
The bluesy garage rock power of Erika Wennerstrom and her fellow Heartless Bastards is undeniable. Take a look at the new Wizard of Oz-inspired video for "Marathon," a track from the band's most recent album Arrow.