A decade ago, wacky ska preceded bling-bling rap as an ostentatiously decadent musical movement. With choreographed horn sections inflating their ranks like air-filled cheeks, groups in this sub-genre traveled in trailers instead of tour vans. But brass is a luxury metal that ska bands can no longer afford. Downsized players don dingy suits and hold signs reading "will blow for food," "honk if you're horn-y" or "tromBoner for hire." Madcap to the end, bless their souls.
Once an octet, the Aquabats have slimmed to a five-piece and ditched ska for zippy synthesizers and sci-fi guitar leads. But even without tooting trumpets, this group could out-goof Gallagher. All of the song titles on its recent release, Charge!!, end with exclamation points, much like lines of dialogue in a MAD movie parody. Live, the masked Aquabats wear matching wetsuits and toss party favors into the audience. Even in tight-budget times, zaniness dies hard.
Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10; call 618-274-6720 for more information.
Find everything you're looking for in your city
Find the best happy hour deals in your city
Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%
Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city
