The weekend starts tonight with Pop Noir at The Echo as part of the Hell Ya! party. It's free if your over 21 and $5 if you're only over 18. Also recommended is Paper Pills at the Knitting Factory and Transistor's James Brown Tribute at the Grandstar.

I might be saving up my money and energy for New Year's Eve, but if I decide to go out tomorrow, it will most likely be to attend Vendetta Valentine's gig at the Knitting Factory. They will be playing the Alter-Knit Lounge.

On Saturday, Cute Phase is playing its final show of 2006 at Blues House Cafe in Whittier. The band said via MySpace that this will be its last all age coffee house show. Plus, Par Avion is reuiniting at the Moutain Bar. I mistakenly took the e-vite I received for a New Year's Eve party, but apparently, it's the night before.

As for Sunday, we're undecided on plans, but are leaning towards Chinatown where Transistor, Underground and Atomic are throwing a bash at the Grandstar with only a $10 cover.