This is one of those weekends when you can start partying right NOW, and never stop 'til Monday morning. Here are the best things SLC has to offer for the next couple days.---

First, though, a quick shout-out to the Local First Utah crew for throwing one whale of a wing-ding Thursday night. The 4th annual benefit party at the Rico's Warehouse was a blast, thanks to a slew of local restaurants serving up delish grub, stellar tunes from the Joshua Payne Orchestra, and a fine bunch of folks hanging out. I've been to a lot of these types of benefit parties, and this was easily among the best, if not THE best, I've been to. So, nicely done. 

I used the Local First party as a preamble to Lukas Nelson's gig at The State Room, and while I'm not doing a full-on review of the show, I'll simply say this: That kid can play his gee-tar like a mofo! Seriously. He's got his dad Willie's voice, for sure, but the 21-year-old clearly grew up worshipping Stevie Ray Vaughan more than his old man's country music. He's definitely one to watch.

Now, on with the good stuff, starting Friday night:

The Pioneer Theater Company kicks off its run of Dracula Friday night, as does the Egyptian Theatre Company in Park City. Gotta love dueling vampire tales a week out from Halloween. And over at the Masonic Temple, its a Halloween-themed art, music and fashion show, An October Evening.

Weeds star Kevin Nealon headlines Friday at Wiseguys in West Valley City, and on the music tip, the electronic/eclectic Jonsi of Sigur Ros brings his solo tour to the Complex, while electro-pop duo Sleigh Bells headlines at Urban Lounge.

Also Friday, Motion City Soundtrack and Say Anything play the Avalon Theater, The Fresh & Onlys play at The Woodshed, Th' Legendary Shack Shakers play The State Room, Street Dogs play In The Venue, Matt Costa plays The Complex and the amazing Peelander-Z (pictured) headlines at Burt's Tiki Lounge. A seriously crazy Friday, right?

Saturday

As you recovery from Friday night's festivities, consider checking out the Epic Brewing benefit for the Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective, or the Downtown Music Block Party and barbecue Saturday evening.

Then, of course, it's more great music. Kilby Court hosts one of my favorite new bands, The Henry Clay People, while the Weepies have a sold-out show at The State Room. The excellent Morning Benders headline at The Urban Lounge, and you can read our interview with the band right here.

Sunday

Not exhausted yet? Go to the State Room for the power-pop goodness that is The Apples in Stereo.

And turn on the heater at your house--it's going to be winter come Monday morning.