Empty Out Your Wallet

By Julene McCoy in Arts & Entertainment on Nov 3, 2006 2:00PM

Well, it’s that time of year again. We’re done with Halloween costumes and on to the more pressing question, “How are we ringing in the New Year?” We know our readers aren’t chumps and bought their Raconteurs tickets for the 30th at the much cheaper rate than the New Year's Eve show. Here are a few more choices for that evening that holds so much promise, but usually just ends up being expensive with someone crying uncontrollably.

Poi Dog Pondering is a collective of musicians who play acoustic soundscapes with influences from every genre. The band has become Chicago’s very own since they relocated here in 1992 from Texas. Poi Dog is the more earthy choice for this year’s festivities. Tickets on sale noon Friday.
Dec. 31, Vic Theatre, $40-$45.

Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings will ring in the New Year with soul and funk stylings. Ms. Jones hails from the same hometown as James Brown (Augusta, GA) – must be something in that water. The Budos Band is opening with their soulful instrumentals. A good choice for getting that groove on for New Year’s Eve. Tickets on sale noon Friday.
Dec. 31, Park West, $30, 18+.

The Redwalls don’t want us to ring in 2007 with only one evening’s worth of shows. They have the whole weekend covered at Schuba’s. Friday’s openers are Probably Vampires and Ultra Sonic Edukators, while Saturday night they play with the 1900s and The Firebird Band. New Year’s Eve has Catfish Haven starting off the festivities. Tickets on sale now and going fast.
Dec. 29-31, 10:00 p.m., Schuba’s. Friday & Saturday shows are $15 and 18+, while Sunday night is $20 and 21+.

We believe that ringing in 2007 with the right band brings fortune in the new year. There’s no reason to stay home when these choices and more are out there for the reveling.