Things are starting to pick up again in the world of live music in Chicago.  December through early February can be a little slow, but as spring approaches, we find ourselves with more and more to choose from.  This weekend Passion Pit returns for their biggest Chicago headlining show ever, a band from Brooklyn gives it away for free in Evanston, and some alt rock icons make a stop at The Vic…

Passion Pit, Matt & Kim, Icona Pop @ UIC Pavilion, Friday, February 22

It doesn’t seem like it was that long ago when Passion Pit was having to cancel shows due to Michael Angelakos’ self-described “mental health issues,” but after putting on a couple of fine performances at Lollapalooza (after-show gig and festival set), we haven’t had too much to worry about with this band.  Coming off of a headlining gig at Madison Square Garden, the band is riding pretty high at the moment, and they bring their arena-sized act to Chicago this Friday night for a show at UIC Pavilion.  Also, showing up ASAFP that night is recommended.  We wouldn’t want you to miss Matt & Kim or Icona Pop.  Tix here.

XRT Free Sample Show w/The Lone Bellow @ SPACE, Saturday, February 23

What’s better than taking in some up-and-comers at one of the nicest spots around on a Saturday night?  Doing so for the low, low price of $0.00!  That’s right, the XRT Free Sample series continues this Saturday night with Brooklyn’s The Lone Bellow at SPACE in Evanston.  First come, first served, and doors are at 9:30 with the show beginning at 10.  More info here.

EELS @ The Vic Theater, Saturday, February 23

EELS (or Eels, or eels) have been around forever and they’ve just given us album #10, Wonderful, Glorious.  E and the gang would love to see you at The Vic on Saturday, and while I usually try to post a video of the band’s most recent work below the little writeup, I’m going back to the beginning this time.  I hope the band doesn’t mind…  Tix here.