by Tim McMahan, Lazy-i.com

No big national shows going on this weekend that I’m aware of (except for maybe Toadies Saturday). In fact, not much going on show-wise at all.

Tonight is, of course, Benson First Friday, so expect the usual crowds in and around Benson wandering from bar to bar.  While you’re wandering, check out Brad’s Corner at 62nd and Maple. This month singer/songwriter John Klemmensen joins Brad Hoshaw and Matt Whipkey. Klem is coming from opening for Matthew Sweet last night in Lincoln.

Over at The Sydney Omaha’s favorite outlaws The Filter Kings open for The Willards with 24 Hour Cardlock tonight. Cost is probably $5 and it probably starts at around 9.

The Waiting Room has Ft. Worth alt-rock band Toadies tonight with Ume. $20, 8 p.m.

Weird show of the weekend is tomorrow night (Saturday) at The Down Under, 3802 Leavenworth. The place ain’t exactly known as a music venue, but whatever, right?  The line-up is Dumb Beach, Fire Retarded, Stomach and Kool 100s. I could have sworn Digital Leather was on this bill but they’re no longer listed. Anyway, free show, starts at 9.

Also tomorrow (Saturday) record store Almost Music, 6569 Maple (consider it west Benson) is hosting a gig with John Klemmensen and the Party, Curt Oren and Omaha legend Dereck Higgins. $5, 8 p.m. Get some vinyl while you’re there.

Over at fabulous O’Leaver’s Birmingham, AL, band Dead Fingers (featuring Taylor Hollingsworth of Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band) headlines. The always amazing McCarthy Trenching opens. $5, 9:30 p.m.

Finally, the second showcase for Omaha Girls Rock happens at The Waiting Room. It’s always a good time. 5:30 p.m. and free.

That’s what I got. If I missed anything, put it in the comments section. Have a great weekend.

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Read Tim McMahan’s blog daily at Lazy-i.com — an online music magazine that includes feature interviews, reviews and news. The focus is on the national indie music scene with a special emphasis on the best original bands in the Omaha area. Copyright © 2014 Tim McMahan. All rights reserved.