Umphrey’s McGee Play Stage AE; Linden Grove, An Entertaining Spot in South Hills (Thurs., 1/11/18)

1) Progressive rock jam band Umphrey’s McGee, from the Fighting Irish town of Notre Dame, Indiana, will be in concert at Stage AE. Influenced by the likes of the Grateful Dead, Yes, King Crimson, and Pink Floyd, their unique sound can be heard in the songs “Wizard Burial Ground” and “Mulche’s Odyssey.” They will perform the day before the release of their 11th album, It’s Not Us. Don’t worry, though; a few songs, such as “The Silent Type,” are already out. The album marks their 20th anniversary. Guitarist and vocalist Brendan Bayliss got the idea for the record during a Cubs game. A week after the Cubs won the World Series in 2016, the band members entered Chicago’s I.V. Labs Studio. Umphrey’s McGee, who performed at the first Bonnaroo Music Festival, are known for their live shows: all solos and bright lights. Big Something opens. Doors open 7 p.m. 400 North Shore Dr., North Shore. (RH, CM)

2) If you like history and having a good time, then Castle Shannon’s The Linden Grove is the spot for you. The short line Pittsburgh-Castle Shannon Railroad started it in 1872 as an amusement and picnic area set among a stand of linden trees. Its aim was to draw more people to ride the train out from Pittsburgh (similar to Kennywood Park starting as an end-of-the-line trolley destination). Linden Grove continues as a venue for dining, entertainment, private parties, and banquets. The Grove features a happy hour Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m., an oldies dance Wednesday nights from 7  to 11 p.m., karaoke on Thursdays, and some of Pittsburgh’s best dance bands on Fridays. A DJ spins top 40 hits on Saturdays. Menu highlights include chicken parmesan, lemon herb salmon, New York strip steak, burgers, salads, pizza, wraps, and wings.  Let’s keep the Grove rocking into 2072! Monday – Wednesday: 5 – 10:00 p.m., Thursday:  5 – 11:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday:  5 p.m. – 2 a.m. 1100 Grove Road (off of Rt. 88), Castle Shannon. (RH)

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