And now three holy-smokes-I’m-back-on-the-daily-diversion-wagon to party like it’s Saturday night and head on over to the Empty Bottle tonight…

1. Wednesday, Shmednesday. The week’s half way over, and when you’re a working stiff, that’s reason enough to celebrate with booze and local music. Today, we point you in the direction for one of our favorites around these parts: The Empty Bottle. For Chicago indie rockers The Laureates take the stage tonight to not only entertain, but educate you in the ways of fun, clever guitar rock. Also, if you’re new to The Laureates, perhaps you should check out their official website where they’re still offering a boatload of covers for free download. See, last year every month they offered a cover song (ranging from the Rolling Stones to the Breeders to ELO) for download – and they’re still up if you feel inclined to use up some space on your precious harddrive. My personal fave? Their rough-around-the-edges take on REM’s “Gardening At Night.”

2. Of course, there’s more. And, of course, you’re well studied in the ways of Chicago’s Lionlimb after reading Ross Meyerson’s review of their 7″ Lacerations back in October. Oh, you didn’t read it? Well, to summarize for you, Lionlimb play pop that digs into some alt-country leanings – meaning piano, pedal steel, etc. – but this ain’t your mama’s county. No, sir. Lionlimb are simply alternative, but alternative as a whole, not as a prefix before another categorizer. Their songs are sharp, somewhat familiar and musically sound. Good stuff, to put it more concisely.

3. Finally, also playing music tonight are barreling, Brooklyn post-punkers Shark? (Yep, question mark included). And also from Crooklyn are indie poppers Sundelles. So, come on out tell all your buddies you’re there for the New York bands, but really listen your local noise makers.

9:30 p.m. Wednesday, 3/9. The Empty Bottle. 21+. FREE (with RSVP).