Music events: McHenry's Smoking Popes play Double Door

The original slacker

J. Mascis brought a dose of guitar pyrotechnics and laconic wit (not to mention earsplitting volume) to the indie-rock world in the late 1980s via the great rock band Dinosaur Jr. Mascis takes a break from that band with his recent solo record, “Several Shades of Why” (Sub Pop), which combines his sleepy, low-key singing (which prompted some to label him “a slacker” artist) with quieter pop songs. J. Mascis performs with Kurt Vile and the Violators at 10 p.m. Friday, April 1, at Subterranean, 2011 North Ave., Chicago. $18. Go to subt.net.

The legacy of Styx

Dennis DeYoung, the former lead singer of Chicago prog-rock band Styx, will perform the many hits from that band (“Come Sail Away,” “Lady,” “Mr. Roboto”) in a special “unplugged” show at the new Viper Alley club in the suburbs. 8:15 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Lincolnshire. $65. Go to viper-alley.com.

Release party

McHenry County rockers the Smoking Popes have cultivated a devoted following for their intense brand of punk-pop and the heartfelt vocals of singer Josh Caterer. The band's new record, “This Is Only a Test” (Asian Man) brims with driving songs that chronicle the up-and-down life of a high-school student. The Popes will celebrate the release of “Test” with a special show this weekend in Chicago. The Smoking Popes perform with the Arrivals at 8 p.m. Sunday, April 3, at the Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee, Chicago. $15. Go to doubledoor.com.