Mission Giant
The new album, "Brotherhood of the Plug" is just as awesomely invocative of apocalyptic robot invasions as ever. "You're in Love" is an instant favorite; "Water Wings" had an Eno-esque quality, and "Scared Shitless" really delivers what the title promises.

Imagine having a pool party; you look over and DEVO, Kraftwerk, Wes Craven's DEADLY FRIEND, Ron Mael, D.A.R.Y.L., and the ghost of John Ritter are in the hot tub. Someone turns it up too hot, and next thing you know, you've got soup. But it's the most ridiculously fun soup ever. Let it simmer for a while. It tastes better the second day.

Centro-matic tour
Fresh from Europe, the boys are back in town. Your town! Check centro-matic.com for dates.

.357 Lover
Corn Mo has gotten the band back together. If you thought watching Mo perform all by himself was good, then you'll be blown away by his back up band, .357 Lover, and his keyboard shennanigans and arena-rock stage presence. Catch them at Parkside Lounge on Thursday, February 26.

Love Bites
Cathy Cervenka is the host with the most. The most metal-riffic, lighter-waving, drop-to-your-knees 80s power ballads in one night; more hairspray and leather than on the Monsters of Rock tour. And it's over. So if you can't wait until next Valentines, day, go to cathyland.com and check out her other upcoming gigs. Meanwhile, check back here for photos.

***