The Toasters Pop Up at Club Cafe; Devils vs. Pens (Tues., 1/26/16)

1) Formed by a bunch of New York City comic book store employees in 1981, The Toasters may have done more than anyone to transform ska from the Jamaican-ized take on American R&B of the ’60s into the fierce, jumpy punk subgenre it is today. They did this not just through their own discography but from the swell of bands that signed with their Moon Ska Records, the first U.S. label specializing in ska. Their last album was 2007’s One More Bullet. Club Cafe has the honor of hosting The Toasters as the marquee act, with The Pressure and iNCO FidO supporting. 8 p.m. 56 – 58 South 12th St., South Side. (EC, RH)

2) The Pens face off against the New Jersey Devils tonight in a 7 p.m. game at the Consol Energy center.  It was nice to see Pens winger Phil Kessel contribute the two final goals in the recent game against the Flyers. Hopefully he will continue to light up the scoreboard. 7 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

3) Few bars boast a volcanic interior, but Lava Lounge naturally does. Booths nestled among faux-rock formations beneath red lighting create an atmosphere both warm and private. Forget hole in the wall. A hole in the floor also provides subterranean seating for imbibing spelunkers. The cavernous decor and the house cocktails make this watering hole a favorite along the East Carson drag. There is a dance floor, too, and each day features a different theme, from ‘80s nights to live music. Taco Tuesdays are a popular night for one great reason: 85 cent tacos, both meat and veggie, from 5 p.m. to midnight. This night also sees $4 margaritas from 4 p.m. to midnight, plus their usual weekday happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. The friendly staff, anything but volcanic, awaits your order. 2204 E. Carson St., South Side. (CM)

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