Weekend Music Outlook

I don't know about you, but I can't stop watching the Hurricane Katrina coverage on TV and the Internet. The destruction of an entire city is mind-blowing, but the continued chaos and seemingly nonchalant response from our so-called leaders is just dumbfounding. However, at some point you've just got to turn off the TV, go out and enjoy the fact that we live in a city that is almost 600 feet above sea level and well-removed from any sort of insane tropical weather phenomenons. With that in mind, here's some recommendations on where to go out this extended weekend...the live rock scene is naturally a bit slower due to the holiday, but for some reason, there are a lot of great events for those who like electronic music and/or like to dance. Here's a quick run-down: Tonight (9/2) WLUW and WNUR electronic gurus Chris Widman and Dave Siska join forces again at Sonotheque...this time presenting Berlin-based electronic producer Monolake along with Chicago's very own Kate Simko. Show starts at 9pm, cover is the usual $10. Saturday (9/3) Saturday night at SmartBar, Meiotic Promotions presents French electronica artist The Hacker, best known for his work with electro diva Miss Kittin. The Meiotic Soundsystem DJs open, show starts at 10p, admission is $10...and, of course, SmartBar is always open 'til 5a on Saturdays. Sunday (9/4) You won't find a better dance party than at a taping of the legendary cable access music show Chic-A-Go-Go, and this weekend they'll be taping their annual Halloween episode. If you've ever wanted to come down and shake your ass with Ratso and Miss Mia, this is the weekend to do it...the Halloween episode is a fan favorite (who doesn't love doing the 'L' train to the theme from Ghostbusters???) and the crew always pulls out all the stops. Plus, this year they've managed to snag local indie-rock phenoms The Ponys as the headlining musical act. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one... The festivities begin at noon at the CAN-TV studios, 322 S. Green St. Go to www.roctober.com for directions and more info on how to participate. As always, this is a free all-ages event. Monday (9/5) If you're not wore out from the long weekend, there's still more great DJs and dancing to be had on Monday night! John Herndon, of Tortoise fame, will be spinning at Danny's (1951 W. Dickens Ave) and over at the revamped Lava Lounge (859 N. Damen), they're featuring a full night of DJs spinning music from the UK's grime scene. (And of course, RFC will keep you posted on any upcoming Hurricane Relief shows organized locally...nationwide charities helping the cause can be found here.)