Weekly Agenda: Time to blow shit up real good

How is Madison supposed to compete with Summerfest, “the world’s largest music festival,” happening right down the road in Milwaukee, especially since it inevitably absorbs many of our local acts into its melee? Blow shit up real good, that’s how. Enter Rhythm And Booms on Saturday at Warner Park, which includes the Midwest’s largest fireworks display. Of course the annual event has music involved: This year, Road Trip, Super Tuesday, and Creedence Again will all be playing marathon two-hour-plus sets on the 94.9 WOLX Stage. But the real draw is the food, beer, and massive, raw-power patriotism boner machine of jet fighters flying overhead and insane pyrotechnics shot in time to rousing movie scores, questionable Aaron Neville selections, and as always, the money shot, “1812 Overture.” All jokes aside, the fireworks will be unquestionably amazing even if the music is a little lacking (with the exception of Michael Jackson’s shamelessly awesome “Man In The Mirror.”)

But solid options exist for catching a glimpse of the Rhythm And Booms spectacle from a safe distance and seeing some truly great music at the same time. Justin Townes Earle and Dawes will play the Terrace on Saturday, offering some rustic, understated Americana in contrast to the loud, shiny blast-fest going of in the sky. Earle—son of country outlaw Steve Earle—comes by his ragged, twangy charm honestly, and Dawes blends rambling verses smoothly into lofty, harmonious choruses on top of wide-horizon folk rock. It adds dusty authenticity to songs like “When My Time Comes,” off Dawes’ debut album, despite the group’s youthful exuberance. Get there on time for an opening set from good-time guys The Nod.

Fireworks and outdoor fun don’t suit everyone, though, and there’s no need to feel obligated to participate. Staying inside and watching Pyroklast devastate its instruments across a crusty punk set at the High Noon Saloon on Saturday should be plenty fiery. Somewhat lighter but nonetheless offensive, Screamin’ Cyn Cyn And The Pons will be totally losing their shit all over the Frequency on Saturday. The theatrical pop-punk won’t tear your head off, but the insane costumes should be just as retina-searing as the fireworks far above.