With school, work, family, and your unhealthy obsession with pelicans, who has the time to find out about the best shows happening in Champaign-Urbana? No need to fear, because the editors at Smile Politely have taken care of it.
When: Friday, July 17 @ 8 p.m.
What: David Howie
Where: Bentley’s Pub, free (21+)
This local mainstay has been producing good music for a long time now, under various names and bands. His music is melodic and poppy but it rarely comes off as saccharine or forced. It should be a good time.
When: Saturday, July 18 @ 9 p.m.
What: Battery: A Tribute to Metallica
Where: The Canopy Club, $8 cover
This could be awesome or hilarious. It cannot be both though, so it’s a crapshoot.
When: Sunday, July 19 @ 8 p.m.
What: Heartsfield
Where: Rose Bowl Tavern, $15 in advance
One of the pioneering bands of Southern rock, as well as a forerunner to alt-country, Heartsfield has been around since the early ’70s. Despite being based out of Chicago, their music has a distinct Dixie flavor.