Almost every article about the band talks about Nada Surf's mid-'90s hit single "Popular" and the unlikelihood that what appeared to be a one-hit-wonder band would transform into such a dependably vibrant musical entity. So let's start there. The band kept a relatively low profile after that single so when they released the stunning, and deeply emotional, Let Go in 2002 it came as a shock to many. No one doubted the group's musical talents before but this was a stirring collection of songs showing the band working well outside of its regular comfort zones. more ›

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There aren’t too many big names in town this weekend. Mike (nee M.) Doughty will be at Park West after a free in-store at Borders on Michigan and Son Volt will prevent several people from accidentally seeing the atrocity known as The Fantastic Four by performing at The Vic on Saturday night. (Chicagoist thanks them for this gift to humanity). Anyway, we’re giving full vent to our indie leanings this weekend. Thanks, in part, to... more ›