Dick Dale @ Double Door

Yep, the king of surf guitar Dick Dale plays tonight at the Double Door. 'Nuff said. Opening acts: Frank Bang's Secret, and Stash. Doors open at 8:00, show's at 9:00. It's a 21+ show. Tix are $15, and can be purchased through the Double Door Website. Double Door: 1572 N. Milwaukee. (773) 489-3160.

Double shot of Thomas Frank

Thomas Frank, probably best known as the author of What's the Matter with Kansas?, will be in town for two events tonight. First, he'll be speaking at the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations, giving a talk on his book called "Examining the Red State Midwest." The lecture starts at 6pm, with discussion and a book signing to follow. More information and registration here.

Then, after that rather straitlaced affair, the busy fellow heads over to the Hideout for a homecoming party. (Chicago cred check: Frank did his PhD at U of C, has written for the Reader, and edits the locally-based journal, The Baffler.) Details on the site are sketchy, but the event is meant to get under way at 9pm, and performances by the Waco Brothers, Kelly Hogan, and others are promised. The Hideout, site of the upcoming Gapers Block 2nd Anniversary party, is located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave.