EVEN IN BLACKOUTS
All good things come to an end, but some end before their time. Even in Blackouts, Chicago’s premier acoustic punk band and the post-Screeching Weasel combo led by John “Jughead” Pierson, will play its last public show after what he calls “seven years of struggle and the most amazing life-changing times” Friday at Reggie’s Rock Club, 2109 S. State, after opening sets by Glittermouse, Highball and Let Me Run starting at 6 p.m. Tickets, $7. Call (312) 949-0121; www.reggieslive.com. — Jim DeRogatis
More club shows after the jump …
MISSY HIGGINS
The beguiling Australian singer-songwriter has spent the last year touring with the likes of Ben Folds and the Indigo Girls. Now, after captivating legions of fans, she’s headlining a tour in support of her new album, “On a Clear Night.” Also on the bill: Justin Nozuka and Lenka. At 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield. Tickets, $25. Call (312) 559-1212; www.ticketmaster.com. — Mary Houlihan
PATTY LOVELESS
The title of Loveless’ new album, “Sleepless Nights,” seems the perfect fit for these hard times. The songs found here — country music classics — cast a spell when interpreted by the talented singer. Highly regarded Nashville songwriter Jim Lauderdale will open both shows. At 7 and 10 p.m. Saturday at the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln. Tickets, $34-$38. Call (773) 728-6000; www.oldtownschool.org. — MH
KARAN CASEY
The former vocalist with the Irish band Solas, Casey has roots in Irish traditional music. But in recent years, she’s expanded her repertoire to include American folk and jazz, a perfect match for her gentle, crystalline vocals. Chicago multi-instrumentalist and singer Kathleen Keane opens at 8 p.m. Wednesday at Space, 1245 Chicago, Evanston. Tickets, $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Call (847) 492-8860; www.evanstonspace.com. — MH
MATT MAYS & EL TORPEDO
On the sophomore release “Terminal Romance,” the Canadian takes a leap forward with his songwriting. Together, Mays’ band makes good use of its diverse influences, from the Who to Neil Young to Bruce Springsteen. The Minneapolis Henrys and Parentheticals open at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. Tickets, $8. Call (773) 281-4444; www.beatkitchen.com. — MH
MILLY’S (ALMOST) ALL KIDS REVUE
Brigid Murphy, impresario behind Chicago’s venerated “Milly’s Orchid Show,” has spun a special show for the next generation of eccentric music lovers, set for 3 p.m. Sunday at the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln, featuring a host of performers. Tickets, $21-$25. Call (773) 728-6000; www.oldtownschool.org. — JD
