White Rabbits burst forth with their 2007 debut album Fort Nightly, a crunchy and tight rocking blend of Indie Americana Rock'N'Roll. Off their latest release, It’s Frightening, the band settles deeper into a groove that fits their sound perfectly, producing an album that is already in the running for many year end "best of" lists. Producer Britt Daniel, the lead singer and guitarist of Spoon, stamped his sonic influence on It’s Frightening, which gave the band a deep, rich sound and showcased a promising band worth checking out, if you haven’t already.

Insider Info: Sometimes during a weekday show, all I want to do is grab a beer and sit and enjoy the band. Although I’m fairly certain the show will be packed, if you want a laidback spot to watch the band, head over to the edge of the stage towards the back of the venue. There are a few stairs where people usually sit and hang out during the show. I usually grab a Woodchuck cider on draft, and park-it on the stairs during a weeknight show.

Everyone is entitled to some sort of experimentation in his or her lifetime. When trying things out of the ordinary, it's nice to have a hand to guide you through to the other side. Once you're there, then you can decide if you liked it and if you'll try it again. Of course, I'm talking about musically experimenting. mewithoutYou is the perfect trial group for all those looking to branch out. This band uses classic instruments such as the harp and the accordion in new ways. It may be strange at first, but that's okay. Developing a taste for alternative things might be daunting; it's the experience that is worth the risk.

Insider Info:  The show starts at 6:30 PM, but doors open at 6:00 PM. Due to the fact this is an all ages show, expect it to fill up quick and the 21-and-overs to flood the bar areas. If you want a front row view from the balcony, get there early. Tickets are $13 in advance and $15 at the door.

Chicago's own American Alternative Rock Band, Wilco, has influenced aspiring musicians around the globe. I would suffice to say no band has used this influence in such an apt way as the up-and-coming Chicago artist's, Twilight Revival. While being compared to Jeff Tweedy is never a bad thing, Twilight Revival has taken a previously-cornered market of music and made it their own. Having recently been signed to Mile Long Records and on the heels of their new Americana Rock-inspired record Parlor, their sound is being passed between embracing fans everywhere. Parlor may be a finalist in your search for the perfect summer soundtrack.

Insider Info: Although the Harmony Grill is always the top suggestion for anyone venturing out toward Schubas, don't be afraid to try new things. Flat Top Grill is right across the street and is just begging to be discovered. For those of you who don't know, it's a make-your-own stir-fry place with outstanding vegan and vegetarian options.

Nightclub scene impresarios LGN Group, Tony Macey, and Outfit Events are teaming up this Thursday to host DJ Mad at Manor. DJ Mad is slated to perform his hit song "Put Your Drinks Up" and DJ the evenings party. His sounds are the perfect way to get this party started. If you go to any of these events you are bound to hob-knob with celebrities – past guests include Akon, Kid Cudi, Vince Vaughn, and Jessie Palmer, to name a few. Be sure to catch the free shuttle bus over to RiNo for the after party where guests will receive free tickets to the premiere of Bruno.

Insider Info: Kick-off the night early and enjoy a VIP cocktail reception hosted by Snow Queen vodka from 10 to 11 PM. Ladies receive complimentary admission and men have free cover before 11pm ($20 after). DJ Dante the Don from Outfit will also be guest spinning on Thursday. To get on the VIP list or to reserve a table, email reservations@manorchicago.com or call 312-475-1390.

Few people actually know that HERSHEY'S Chicago is the home of a HERSHEY'S Magnificent Chocolate Works Machine. This contraption was built to create customized mixes of HERSHEY'S products -- think Kit Kats with Twizzlers or Jolly Ranchers with Reese's Cups. On July eighth, swing by this Michigan Avenue hot spot and create your own customizable mix with professional NASCAR driver, Kevin Harvick.

Insider Info:  2009 marks Kevin Harvick's ninth season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Currently, he holds eleven wins, five poles, 56 top-five, and 120 top-ten finishes in 286 starts. Harvick drives the #29 REESE'S RACING show car and has over $60 million in his NASCAR career earnings. The #29 show car will be parked in front of the HERSHEY'S Chicago from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Chocolate and sports will mix again on November first, at the HERSHEY's sponsored Hot Chocolate 15K at Montrose Harbor.

Celebrations for the Fourth of July span an entire week no matter where you live in America. Why not incorporate all the seasonal things we Chicagoans love so much this time of year -- outdoor patios, baseball games, fabulous food, and of course, good weather? Come out and enjoy the festivities this year at The Fifty/50. They will be throwing down and showing their patriotism all week and you can too with select 40oz. beers that are only $5 with a different theme each day. Wednesday is a highlight night this week with a beer dinner filled with tasty bites for only $25. This Friday, The Fifty/50 gets things started early by showing the Cubs vs. Brewers game outside on the big screen where you can enjoy a 40oz. Mickey's. Sunday will feature half-priced biscuits and gravy with Schlitz-infused Bloody Marys sure to help those who enjoyed the 4th a little too much.

Insider Info: Greg Mohr and Scott Weiner, owners of The Fifty/50, welcome everyone to swing by and discover some of the hidden gems of this hotspot. One such find would be the wonderful seasonal wine list. For those who do not yet know him, Mr. Weiner is more than just a charming host, he is also a Sommelier. If beer isn't your thing this week, you can also get a super good glass of wine at this spot on the strip. Whether you enjoy a good glass of wine or a 40 of beer, get to The Fifty/50 early each day for good drinks, great people, and the giveaways this week.

After a long week we all wind down in different ways. For some a cocktail is just what the doctor ordered, for others hitting the sweets counter can make the drama of the day drift away. Now, we all have the luxury of combining the two loves of cocktails and sweets at More. More has been one of the many additions to the cupcake scene in Chicago, and they kick it up a notch on Fridays with the Cupcake Happy Hour. Each Friday More takes your favorite cocktails and puts it into sweet treat form. From Champagne inspired treats to aged "rum and cokes" there's a flavor for every cocktail lover.

Insider Info: While most cupcakes run $5.25 a pop (and well worth it), More offers complimentary offerings of each cocktail treat, which can help in your decision making when you take home a six pack. And since the cocktail flavors aren't available on the More website here's a list of rotating options to help you know exactly which cocktail you're looking for on Friday night. Past cocktails sweet treats include: Camembert Sauternes, Champagne Brie, Chocolate Guinness, Cuba Libre (rum and coke), Margarita, Pina Colada, Strawberry Belini, and Bloody Mary. Get the best of both worlds on Friday, cocktails AND sweets!

If spending July third sweltering in the crowd at the Taste of Chicago's fireworks display doesn't seem appealing, consider checking out the SALUTE exhibit opening at the Flat Iron Arts Building. SALUTE features the work of a number of veteran artists and focuses on the ways that their experiences have influenced their art. The exhibit opening also coincides with Wicker Park's First Friday gallery openings, which only adds to this patriotic affair.

Insider Info: The Flat Iron Arts Building is home to an artist residency known as the Flat Iron Arts Project. Since the 1980's, the project has helped to revitalize the Wicker Park neighborhood's artistic community. Each monthly event provides an opportunity for art lovers to catch a glimpse of the Flat Iron residents' current work in addition to a slew of additional Wicker Park gallery’s latest offerings.

There has been a lot of talk about Pride in Chicago over the past couple weeks. So while we have everyone's attention, even if exhausted from partying in Boys Town, get out this Friday evening to go see the straight forward, ghostly urban tableaus of local artist, Ray Pride. Pride literally photographs the everyday by selecting a chicago-esque image for his daily blog. Even after your visit to this exhibition, Pride's daily blog makes it easy to follow his new work and every day Chicago.

Insider Info: When you visit the gallery, really take a look at the space itself. Imagine having a private, arty party there some evening. Many people get the idea that renting out a gallery is a cool, cheap idea, but more often than not, it can be a complicated and restrictive option. The group at the Architrouve has solid experience hosting a variety of events and can accommodate up to ninety people with the inclusion of a charming exterior garden space. They also offer a range of food and beverage options.

I have never been more claustrophobic than when I went to the 3^rd of July fireworks celebration. However, the city does put on an awesome show, so instead of braving the massive crowds, head for the water.

The Mercury Skyline Cruise (www.mercuryskylinecruiseline.com) is offering a 3-hour cruise with skyline commentary and WFMT radio simulcast for $40. Shoreline Sightseeing (Shorelinesightseeing.com) has only one cruise left, a 1-hour lake cruise for $45. And for the ultimate in fireworks enjoyment, the Tall Ship Windy (www.tallshipwindy.com) is offering dock-side hors d'oeuvres, a dinner buffet and cash bar for $99 per person.

Insider Info: 

The fireworks show starts at 9:00 p.m. on the 3rd and ends at 9:20 p.m. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can watch the fireworks from the Museum Campus or anywhere in Grant Park. My advice though is to buddy up to someone with a rooftop deck.

To celebrate the return of warm weather, Garfield Park Conservatory is hosting outdoor entertainment and dancing in the Bluestone Terrace gardens. All five Wednesdays in July will feature a different theme. Starting this Wednesday, guests are invited to salsa dance with Samuel Del Real. Garden-lovers will especially appreciate the July fifteenth program when the Conservatory opens its doors to visitors to paint, draw, and photograph the collections to musical accompaniment.

Insider Info: Even if you don't make your way to the Conservatory for Summer under the Stars, try to take advantage of their other Wednesday programs. Wilderness Wednesdays, the third Wednesday of the month, demonstrates to visitors how to enjoy the outdoors with activities such as sleeping bag yoga and trail marking. Wild Wednesdays, the last Wednesday of every month, is an informative wild animal presentation including hedgehogs, bats, and foxes.