While you search out the best place to throw some beads in celebration of the start of Mardi Gras, don't miss some of these killer shows happening Tuesday in town.---

There's a wide range of styles to choose from this eve, starting with the gypsy-folk of A Hawk and a Hacksaw, which blends the duo's New Mexican roots with style learned while they lived in Eastern Europe. That show is at The Urban Lounge, and should be a killer. You can read our interview with the duo right here. 

Over at The State Room, an equally intriguing musical attraction comes in the form of the Portland Cello Project, an ever-evolving crew of cellists who attack pop songs from the likes of Kanye and Britney with some classical moves, and collaborate with other performers regularly; tonight, they'll play with Laura Gibson, who will also do her own set to open. Again, almost a guaranteed killer.

If you're looking for something a little more aggressive, consider a trip to In The Venue, where Lords of Acid will bring their industrial-techno blend to life, led by singer DJ Mea. If you're looking for folks willing to do what it takes to get those beads out of your hand, this might be your best bet.

We're not lacking in non-musical options, either. The Main Library is hosting Jennifer Jordan at 7 p.m., when she will discuss The Last Man on the Mountain, her work detailing the first death on a K2 ascent. Over at Westminster College at 7 p.m., author Steven Solomon will discuss his work, Water: The Epic Struggle of Wealth, Power and Civilization. And the Women's Voices Festival continues at the Main Library at 7 p.m., when Dr. Angela Smith will lead a discussion on Women's Voices in Film.

And what about Fat Tuesday? Well, Gracie's is having a special party, but the details are unclear beyond "drink special and free swag" promised on their Website. Fat's Grill has BBC3 playing and a "Mardi Gras costume party (costumes optional)." The Bayou, another place you'd expect something special for Mardi Gras, does have Swamp Boogie playing, to go along with their regular menu of Cajun-influenced fare. And the High West Distillery is celebrating all day long, starting at 2 p.m., with live music from Dr. Swamp and the Zydeco Zombies and a special Cajun-themed menu for the day, including cocktails.