Nightlife notebook: Crystal Method is coming

By TOM HORGEN, Star Tribune

Last update: December 18, 2008 - 5:12 PM

Crystal Method is coming

Big-beat electronic duo the Crystal Method hasn't released a proper album since 2004's "Legion of Boom." But now it's back on the road, warming up for a new album that's set for release in early 2009. The two have been testing songs from the upcoming still-unnamed release during these DJ sets. Tonight's show is at Epic. The guys have been staying relevant, too: After Barack Obama's acceptance speech, they remixed their old song, "Now Is the Time," with vocal snippets from the president-elect. (10 p.m. today. 110 5th St. N., Mpls. $20. 18 and older. 612-332-3742. epicmpls.com.)

Partying on Christmas

When the in-laws become unbearable this Christmas, it's time to escape to a bar. Here are two suggestions. First stop at the 331 Club in northeast Minneapolis. The corner bar is doing its annual gift exchange, in which bargoers can bring in an ugly sweater or fruitcake to swap for someone else's crappy gift. (5 p.m., Thu. 331 13th Av. NE., Mpls. 612-331-1746. 331club.com). Afterward, head over to the Triple Rock for its annual Christmas Staraoke, where common folk can step onto the punk club's stage to embarrass themselves on a whole new level. (9 p.m. Thu. 629 Cedar Av. S., Mpls. Free. 21 and older. 612-333-7499. triplerocksocialclub.com.)