A warning was posted on the doors of the Aragon Ballroom Monday night informing all who entered that there would be "excessive" use of strobe lights. It was the first of LCD Soundsystem's two-night stint in Chicago, so a big stage production and some epileptic seizure-inducing lights were to be expected. But while we were prepared for a strobe explosion, we had no idea we would see such levels of sweating, dancing and rocking out that hard for a sustained, 90-plus minute set. We suppose with James Murphy leading the party--and LCD's electro dance-punk beats to propel him--superhuman feats of dance suddenly become possible. more ›

The Spandexxx party, curated by the Moneypenny DJ team, has resumed in a familiar space with a new name, Beauty Bar. While they soft launched with a party there last month, we consider tomorrow's bash to mark the night's true return to form. Why? For starters they've brought Team Bayside High -- that duo of DJs currently ruling the Chicago scene sprinkling fun around them wherever they go -- onto the bill. Secondly, and even more importantly, they're bringing in musical guest Free Energy. more ›

Evoking even stronger love vs. loathe reactions than Chicago's music powerhouse, Pitchfork, NYC's Vice Magazine has been slinging irony, controversy and fashion Do's and Don'ts for a decade and a half. Now housing a record label, and frequent supporters of club nights and band gigs nationwide, Vice Magazine celebrates their 15th Anniversary in Chicago with DFA's Shit Robot spinning effect-heavy nu-disco and a live performance from Philly electro rockers, Tigersapien, this Friday night at Sonotheque. more ›

The week's mass exodus of Chicago's indie rock and electronic musicians (and fans) to Austin for SXSW is a blessing in disguise. With local talent checked out for a long weekend, this is a great opportunity to support the many touring acts stopping through Chicago. We've already touched on one of our favorite rock picks, so here's our rundown of your weekend in electronic music. more ›