alt-J Plays Benedum; Shrine Circus Comes to Consol (CPs Thurs., 4/2/15)

1) At a time when rock n’ roll is becoming less a part of the mainstream, it’s nice to see a rock band like alt-J playing venues like the Benedum Center. Part of the band’s success has to do with their incorporation of the mainstream. Early singles like “Fitzpleasure” take a cue from dub step; “Hunger of the Pine,” meanwhile, samples Miley Cyrus. The latter single comes from the group’s sophomore album, 2014’s This Is All Yours. It received a 2015 Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album. Such accolades are part of what have helped to propel the band from Leeds, England, to venues like Mr. Smalls, and now to the Benedum, all in less than eight years. 8 p.m. 237 7th St., Cultural District. This event has SOLD OUT, tickets may be available on re-seller sites.

2) When I was a kid, my grandma Edith took me to see the Shrine Circus. It was my first opportunity to see several animal and human wonders up close. They were all there, elephants, tigers, clowns, acrobats, and the ringmaster. The Shrine Circus is a Pittsburgh Shriners’ fundraiser to support the 22 Shriner Hospitals for Children across North America. This is a great opportunity for family fun and to help out a great charity. 7 p.m. Runs through Saturday. Consol Energy Center, 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

3) Mario’s East Side hosts Team Trivia Night every Thursday. Win, place, or show and your team will earn Mario’s gift certificates. Play against the Miller Lite Girls, and you could even win Miller Lite trinkets and giveaways! Feed your brain after the long winter season. 8 p.m. 5442 Walnut St., Shadyside.

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