It seems like every year, someone from this newspaper writes an impassioned plea for students to stay in DeKalb for the weekend.

Well, since that has already been done this semester, let’s just call this a counterpoint to going back to your parents house every weekend. Stay for these shows, see some incredible bands before the semester ends and get your laundry done some other time. Please, do not let the fact that you’re in DeKalb make you think that great bands don’t come out here.

FRIDAY, NOV. 12: BRIAN POSEHN at OTTO’s NIGHTCLUB: If my colleague Troy’s interview with Brian Posehn in Monday’s paper somehow failed to convince you to go check out the comedy show at Otto’s, hopefully you will reconsider. Having an enormous talent like his come to our town is a big deal and for a night filled with awesome jokes, be sure to catch Posehn at Otto’s on Friday. Tickets are $20 in advance.

SATURDAY, NOV. 13: MARITIME at THE HOUSE CAFE: Maritime is essentially a who’s who of ‘90s indie rock, featuring members of the Dismemberment Plan and The Promise Ring. They are the type of band that someone can see, not know any of the songs, and have a blast. Be sure to show up early for the supergroup Kid, You’ll Move Mountains. Tickets are $8 advance and $10 at door.

FRIDAY, NOV. 19: THE HOLD STEADY at OTTO’s NIGHTCLUB: I nearly wept for joy when I found out one of the greatest contemporary rock ‘n’ roll bands was passing through on their fall run through the country. As an avid Hold Steady fanboy, I highly, highly suggest not missing this performance for the world, or you run the risk of getting into them after they break up and lamenting this for the rest of your life, and that’s pretty heavy stuff to live with. Tickets are $17 advance and $20 at door.

SATURDAY, NOV. 20: DEALS GONE BAD at THE HOUSE CAFE: As a closeted ska fan, Deals Gone Bad should be a lot of fun to watch. Ska shows are at their best at The House Cafe, with the friendly environment and The Takeouts and Turbo Vamps! opening. Make sure to catch local favorites Danger Boy, too. Tickets are $10.

SUNDAY, NOV. 21: SKELETONWITCH at OTTO’s NIGHTCLUB: First and foremost, how brutal of a name is Skeletonwitch? I was beyond excited when I heard the name, only to find out that they can shred with the best of them. If you call yourself a metalhead and aren’t at this show, you are either a poser or a metalhead afraid of bands not containing pretty boys with asymmetrical haircuts and tight jeans. Either way, come to the show and get your riff on. Tickets are $12.