Three didn’t I read a really good review by a guy I trust reasons to skip on over to the Lincoln Hall…

1. You are right, you read the glowing-est of glowing reviews for Woods‘ Songs Of Shame and, damn, if that guy wasn’t on to something. At the time Woods played a pretty packed in-store at Permanent Records but now they are headlining the Lincoln Hall. Can the United Center be too far off? Probably. But still, Woods is a fine fine band that you should check out. Don’t just take it from current me, me of a few months ago knows what he was talking about.

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New York’s Woods have quietly been releasing lo-fi records on tape, vinyl, cd, whatever to varying degrees of success, but their newest release Songs of Shame not only fully realizes all the power and charm that lo-fi can and used to offer but might be the best release so far this year. It recalls early Built To Spill albums such as 1994’s There’s Nothing Wrong With Love but mixed in are OhSees-esque haunting vocals and, yes, a Camper Van Beethoven lean on middle eastern vibes.

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Yep, it’s Lolla weekend. So this edition of Weekend Diversions will be short and sweet. Here we go…

The Warlockss

San Francisco’s The Warlocks, inexplicably hated by Pitchfork (seriously, search for them and you’ll find all 2’s and 3’s), are playing 2 nights at the Empty Bottle, Thurs, Aug 6 and Fri, Aug 7. So someone must like them. If you haven’t heard their druggy, shaggy, mopey haze and like that kind of bending, sighing sort of thing, check them out. Don’t let those wannabee taste makers tell you what to think (not all of us need to know what Radiohead had for breakfast). – Ross Meyerson

9:00. Friday, 8/7. Empty Bottle. $10. 21+

Bird Talk

Chicago’s Bird Talk may blandly label themselves as indie and rock on their myspace page, but you’ll hear some new wave flourishes amongst their 90’s underground sound. Live, they bring a ton of energy and a pinch their cheeks charm and, if you’re lucky, Jumpy’s glasses might come flying off. Nervous Fingers, another local favorite, open, bringing their Feelies like jangle with them. – Ross Meyerson

9:00 PM. Friday, 8/7. Beat Kitchen. $8. 21+

Woods

Woods play their only Chicago show this Sunday, Aug 9th at my favorite local record store, Permanent Records. Yes, Woods only stop is an in-store but look at it as a win-win: not only do you get to see some fine lo-fi, charming, early Built To Spill-esque indie rock but you’ll probably also walk out with a ton of sweet vinyl. The show is at 6pm but maybe get there a bit early to browse.. – Ross Meyerson

6:00 PM. Sunday, 8/9. Permanent Records. FREE.

Finally, don’t forget all the Lollapalooza aftershows!

See you at Grant Park. Don’t forget to follow us on twitter: @loudlooppress!