WALTZ KING
It is worth noting that Andre Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra aren’t heavy listening, but you find another ensemble as completely dedicated to pure entertainment in the form of waltzes. The music is pretty and lilting, and more than competently played.
All waltz, with a bit of schmaltz
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday
Where: Allstate Arena,
6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont
Price: $45-$65; 847-635-6601, 312-559-1212
BRING THE NOISE
We know what music is supposed to be, as a subjective exercise, and yes, not everybody is into high-volume guitar excess with people screaming in the background. But they should be. There is an astounding show Thursday at the Empty Bottle, featuring Tokyo psychedelic rockers DMBQ. Its music is essentially a meltdown that channels the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Iron Butterfly, filtered through a contemporary sensibility. As if that wasn’t enough, Yakuza is also on the bill, with its arty, delectably multi-layered metallic soundscapes. And you get the brilliant Dark Fog, to boot. This show is too cool for words, but we found them. Now go.
Virtuosity and guitar abuse
When: 9 p.m. Thursday
Where: Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave.
Price: $8; 773-276-3600
