BONUS TRACKS

Well, we've done it, my friends. We've survived "The End of the World" (apparently, the Mayans just ran out of ink), and we are coming to the end of yet another year to look 2013 in the eye. In all honesty, things are quieting down in anticipation of the New Year celebrations, but we've got one more weekend to go -- so here are the highlights to help you enjoy. As for New Year's Eve, check out this week's Soundcheck column for info on all the biggest parties and shows. It's been a great year and we've already got a lot to look forward to in the New Year. In the meantime, here are a few of the highlights to finish it up strong.

Thursday, December 27

If you're looking for a rock show and a lot of fun to start your weekend early, make sure to stop in at The Vanguard to catch The Bad Engrish with Out Of Time, Violent Affair, Wreckage Squad, and Brave Boys for a low-dough, $5 show to kick things off. If you're in more of an indie-rock mood, check out Electrician and Duke of Norfolk at Soundpony. And if you're looking to relax another night, kick back with Ben Neikirk at Hunt Club.

Friday, December 28

The punk rock moves to Soundpony as the weekend really get underway for a three band lineup of Streetlight Fight, TeddyJackEddy, and Dirty Mugs that will be one of the most fun shows of the weekend. Of course, you can never go wrong at Mercury Lounge, where Red Dirt Rangers will make you feel at home and keep the tunes flowing all night long, and Jay Falkner Trio steps up to bring some fun to Crow Creek. And if you're looking for a couple of Tulsa's rising bands, check out All About A Bubble and newcomers Bruce Flea at The Vanguard. Finally, the Dustin Pittsley Band begins to wrap up the year with a show at The Shrine that will surely be a highlight of the weekend.

Saturday, December 29

Mercury Lounge follows up with Barrelhouse Revelers to wrap up strong while Mike Hosty Duo holds court at The Shrine, both at the corner of 18th & Boston. Looking downtown, Klondike 5 closes out its year with one more night of eclectic bluegrass jams at Soundpony and Hunt Club holds a going away party for Able the Allies with Josh Sallee and Jason Ferguson as the band prepares to move to California.

Sunday, December 30

Sundays are usually quiet, but this weekend is unusually sedate as everyone rest up for their NYE celebrations. If you still need your music fix, however, you'll always feel at home at Colony with Paul Benjaman & Friends for his weekly jam session. You can also stop in to spend the evening with Brandon Clark's "Sunday Service" at Mercury Lounge, where you never know who might just stop in a play a few tunes to mix things up.