Two Hexagon benefit shows spread the love this weekend
If you're feeling romantic, sexy, and socially benevolent this Valentine's Day weekend, then there's a pair of shows at the Hexagon Bar that just might satisfy all your compulsions.
On Friday the 13th, the Hex will host 13 bands each playing 13-minute sets, and the evening's revenue will go toward replacing the venue's sound system. The concept falls in line with other multiple-band blitzes that the Hexagon throws on a semi-regular basis, like their recent 24/7 show (two dozen bands playing for seven minutes each) and the 12/12 Fest (12 bands, 12 minutes, on Dec. 12). Among other bands, Military Special, Economy Team, Marvelle, and Zyklon B Kool will appear on stage, with the night capped off by a special, secret 14th band. (We suspect it's U2. Anytime there's a benefit show somewhere, odds are likely that U2 will show up and headline. It's how Bono rolls.) While tailored for the charity-minded, thriftsters—the music scene's equivalent to "freegans"—will be attracted by the absolute lack of cover charge.
Then, on Saturday the 14th—popularized in recent years as "Valentine's Day" (and subsequently despised by some as such)—there's the Turn On The Heat benefit sponsored by Minneapolis Family and Children's Services. Headlined by Jenny Dalton and Solid Gold, it's a show meant to raise funds for renters who are unable to pay their heating bills this winter. All proceeds go to purchasing thermostats and training volunteers to monitor and report lack-of-heat violations.
Attendance will likely mitigate any typical V-Day feelings of guilt from eating too many chocolate truffles and Sweethearts… alone… in the bathroom… with a bottle of whiskey… damn.
