A few years ago I had the privilege of seeing a rare reunion of Small Brown Bike through a window at a sold out show.   That night, the boys from Marshall, MI brought enough energy to overflow Kraftbrau and spill out to those of us watching from the outside.  These guys are known for their dominance around the turn of the millennium emo-post-hardcore-punk scene.  Along their label mates on No Idea Records (i.e. Hot Water Music) Small Brown Bike breathed fresh life and energy into a tired punk genre.  I’m excited to say that I’ll have another chance to see these amazing musicians (hopefully from the inside this time).

The Casket Lottery is a similar story from Kansas City:  Midwest kids rocking the world, breaking hearts with a hiatus, and triumphantly returning to blow our minds once again.  I don’t have the same personal connection with these guys as SBB, but I know they will be phenominal.  Just watch this live video and you’ll get it:  (oh, btw: the drummer was also in the Appleseed Cast for a while)

Acting as our local representatives, Kalamazoo’s own MINUTES will be starting off the show tonight.  If you haven’t seen them yet, you’re missing out.  They’ve had a spot in my top 5 local bands since their formation in 2009.   Here’s two videos, because their radness can’t be contained in just one:

The Strutt.  9pm.  $14.  The best thing happening in town this whole month.  Seriously, if you’re into punk, post-hardcore, or generally great music, this show is a must.