Just because school isn’t in session doesn’t mean that the world stops turning in DeKalb. If you’re going to be in the area, here are some picks for upcoming shows from DeKalb Scene staffers.

Chris Krapek, Staff Writer: .38 Special at CornFest, Aug. 27

There will be shows that come and go this summer, but none can beat .38 Special going all ‘Merica on everyone at CornFest. The Southern rockers are easily the most anticipated act since Chingy changed DeKalb forever in ‘06. Just wait ‘til they play “Caught Up in You.” This city will explode.

 

Jerene-Elise Nall,Staff Writer: Widows Peak Music Festival, May 20-22

Summer is all about outdoor music festivals. This year, Widow’s Peak is one to really look forward to and happening just a stone’s throw from DeKalb. Only 45 minutes away in Earlville, Ill., the incredible assortment of bands will include not only local acts, but also bands from far and wide (including one group with members from Australia). This eclectic yet suitable mix of folk, bluegrass, punk blues and gypsy jazz is definitely worth the short trip.

“The grounds are beautiful, the people are awesome, the tickets are inexpensive and the music is phenomenal,” said David “Chewie” Rothenberg, former member of Clifton Roy & Folkstringer. “Plus it’s only two hours or less from Chicago, Rockford, Madison, Quad Cities, Peoria, Champaign and Bloomington/Normal. You feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, but you don’t have to go too far to get there.”

 

Connor Rice, Entertainment Editor: The Employees play “Unemployed” at Otto’s, May 20

While the band Secret Colors may be headlining, the real highlight of this show is going to be The Employees. The group will play its upcoming concept album “Unemployed” in its entirety. The band has promised a stage show with costumes and wild lights. This is going to be one for the books. Make sure you show up when the doors open so you don’t miss local heavy-hitters Torque Padroni and Machine Gun Moses.

Troy Doetch: Company of Thieves at Otto’s, June 10

In the weeks after releasing their sophomore album “Running from a Gamble,” the literate indie group Company of Thieves will return to DeKalb on June 10. Though their hit single quoted Oscar Wilde, guitarist Marc Walloch told me in November that their new album will be more influenced by Radiohead than Victorian literature.