Music notes: Bret Michaels rocks Lincolnshire

Still rockin'

Next to the boys in Bon Jovi, former Poison frontman Bret Michaels may be the most enduring star of the “hair-metal” era that existed more than 20 years ago. When not recording music and touring, Michaels is a hot property in the reality-television world. He's also become a prominent spokesman for the American Diabetes Association. Well done, Mr. Michaels ... rock on! Bret Michaels performs at 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Lincolnshire. $40 (general admission); viper-alley.com.

Holiday rock

Suburban resident Josh Caterer, leader of power-pop band The Smoking Popes, has just released an EP, “The Heart of Christmas.” Next week, he'll perform a special acoustic set that will include Popes tunes and Christmas favorites. Joining him will be a fellow suburban native — Scott Lucas of the band Local H. 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Schuba's Tavern, 3159 N. Southport, Chicago. $12; schubas.com.

Alt classics reissued

Smashing Pumpkins, the band led by DuPage County native Billy Corgan, has just reissued its first two records — 1991's “Gish” and 1993's “Siamese Dream” — in box sets packed with extra material. Each set includes remastered sound, a bonus disc of unreleased/alternate tracks and a DVD featuring a live performance at Chicago's Metro. These albums are nothing short of essential for fans of the 1990s alternative era. The Pumpkins' weird mix of punk, 1970s arena rock and psychedelia holds up well even 20 years later. Full details on each release are available at the band's website, smashingpumpkins.com.