DeKalb showgoers have their own ‘March madness’

By Connor Rice

I’ve got March madness.

While I don’t follow college basketball, this month still has so much to offer someone like me. The next 24 days are jam-packed with enough awesome concerts and events to keep me plenty excited to stick around DeKalb and take it all in.

So, if your roommate’s NCAA pool has you bored to tears, here are my picks for the coming weeks.

WHAT: The Tossers (w/ Sleeping Under 47 and the TurboVamps!)

WHEN: 9 p.m. Friday, March 11

WHERE: Otto’s, 118 E. Lincoln Highway (21+)

COST: $12

WHY: A friend of mine once described the Chicago-based Tossers as the band that everyone who loved Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly should have been getting excited about. I couldn’t agree with him more. The Irish punk band will be returning to Otto’s this week with support from local heroes Sleeping Under 47 and Chicago horror punk favorites the TurboVamps!.

WHAT: Open Mic at the House Cafe

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. every Monday night

WHERE: The House Cafe, 263 E. Lincoln Highway

COST: Free

WHY: Who can say “no” to a free show by local artists? This weekly event hosted at the House Cafe is always packed to the brim with under-the-radar talent. Stop in and (assuming you are of age) have a drink. Maybe you’ll see someone you know.

WHAT: Henry Rollins

WHEN: 8 p.m. Thursday, March 31

WHERE: Otto’s, 118 E. Lincoln Highway (21+)

COST: $22 in advance, $25 at the door

WHY: I’ve said it once, and, much to Tony Martin’s chagrin, I’ll say it again: I am beyond excited for this performance. ‘80s punk legend Henry Rollins will take the stage at Otto’s at the end of the month to rant and rave about everything from turning 50 to the state of global affairs. Come witness his almost stand-up-like approach to telling you why the world is in serious trouble. Even if his work isn’t for you, it’s still going to be worth the price of admission to see me start crying like a fanboy when he greets the audience.