Though its future might have seemed questionable just a few months ago, especially amidst the shaky landscape of festivals in Chicago, North Coast Music Festival will return for its second year, again in Union Park on Labor Day weekend, September 2-4. With a bent distinctly different than other Chicago-based fests like Lollapalooza and Pitchfork, North Coast's return is surely welcome to music fans looking for more electronic, hip-hop and jam in their festival experience. Our reports last year were wholly positive, as North Coast put a nice cap on a festival season full of different experiences. For those looking to re-live that experience, or to experience it for the first time altogether, North Coast tickets will go on sale April 16th, the same day the lineup will be announced. more ›

But where does Chicago's club scene stand in 2011? It's a complicated question, but one that needs consideration. While electro still has some presence, and the wobbly side of dubstep is going strong, prepare for a significant movement from talent buyers and venues in 2011. As music sites and publications have proven, there's been progress in electronic music, specifically over the past few months. Ed Banger Records is essentially just an afterthought these days, while labels like Night Slugs and R&S have ushered in some of the most exciting stuff we've heard in years. The overall focus will shift from bangers and freneticism to more traditionally-inspired sounds. Dance music will become about actually dancing and there will be a legitimate focus on the groove. Elements of juke, bass, techno, disco, house and grime will permeate, while distorted, grating basslines will become far less prevalent (aren't we due for a new Justice album?). 2011 will be the year we disassociate "rage" with "club" and enter a new frontier of footwork. more ›

There's always a beer tasting around town, and if you don't think so, you just aren't looking hard enough. Tonight's tasting, from 6-8 p.m. at Binny's South Loop (1132 S. Jefferson St., 312-768-4400), will focus on strong ales and barleywines. This is definitely not for session beer lovers. more ›

Beer, Beer, and MORE BEER. Speaking of, if anyone knows where in Chicago we can get a bottle of some Feldschlosschen Dunkle Perle (pictured), we'll will trim your toenails (okay, maybe not - but dinner's in it for you). Let's see what's in the hopper, foodies! more ›