With work, family and new websites to enjoy, who has the time to find out about the best shows happening in Champaign-Urbana? No need to fear, because the editors here at Smile Politely have taken care of it. Here are the must-see shows of the week:
Thursday January 15: Vanattica — Canopy Club, 8 p.m., $5 before 9 p.m. / $7 after
Local hard-rocking pop punkers Vanattica are headlining this Thursday night at Canopy Club. The group’s distinct, overdriven sound has earned them praise resulting in a nomination for indie band of the year at Musiqtone.com, and two dates at this past summers’ Warped Tour. Fellow Champaign-Urbana acts Missing the Point and Eureka Sky also perform.
Friday January 16: Us2 (music of U2, unplugged) — Canopy Club, 9 p.m., $5
What does this country need more than anything in this time of economic turmoil? That’s right, acoustic renditions of U2. If the entire world could just join hands and sing along to a stripped-down version of “Stuck in a Moment,” everyone might just be able to work out their problems. Help make the world a better place this Friday night.
Saturday January 15: Me, Him and Charlie Miller — Bentley’s Pub, 10 p.m., free
Bentley’s Pub in downtown Champaign has started booking some local talent, and this Saturday the funk trio known as Me, Him and Charlie Miller will fill the bar with their organ-filled psychedelic tunes. Check out “The Sunshine Man” on the band’s Myspace page. There’s nothing quite like a super-freaky spaceman sing-talking about “planetary love.” Not quite sure if Miller, Him or Me holds down lead vocal duties, but whoever it is he’s got some sweet pipes.
Sunday January 18: The Great Cover Up — Highdive, 9 p.m., $7
The first night of the longtime Champaign tradition features some first-rate local acts playing as completely different bands. But who will they disguise themselves as? You’ll have to be there to find out. Though the set times may be subject to slight change, here is Sunday night’s lineup:
Beat Kitchen (12:35-1:00am)
Mike Ingram Band (11:55-12:20am)
Curb Service (11:20-11:40pm)
Brother Embassy (10:45-11:05pm)
Kilborn Alley (10:10-10:30pm)
Delta Kings (9:35-9:55pm)
PogGun5 (9:00-9:20pm)
Check out more details at the Highdive’s website.