Music notes: Viper Alley hosts a British Invasion

Rock with an accent

One of the multitude of New Year's Eve shows happening this weekend features two tribute bands that bring to life the titans of the British Invasion. American English will perform songs of The Beatles, while Hot Rocks tackles the music of The Rolling Stones. Both tribute bands have become known for their energy, attention to detail and faithfulness. The show takes place at Lincolnshire's Viper Alley, and while all reserved seating is sold out, there were still some standing-room tickets available at press time. Hot Rocks and American English perform starting at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Lincolnshire. $20 for general admission/standing room tickets; viper-alley.com.

Alt-country new year

The Old 97s emerged from Dallas in the early 1990s and became one of the leaders of the “alternative country” movement that exploded mid-decade. The band will bring its energetic live attack to the annual New Year's Eve Rock 'N' Roll Ball at the Montrose Room in Rosemont, which will feature live music on three different stages. Tickets for the show were still available at press time. Shows begin at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at the Montrose Room, located inside the InterContinental Chicago O'Hare hotel, 5300 N. River Road, Rosemont. Tickets start at $75; montroseroom.com.

Bluegrass upstarts

Interested in a rootsier New Year's Eve? Then check out acclaimed live bluegrass band Cornmeal at Durty Nellie's. The Chicago-based group has turned heads with its dizzying live shows and its willingness to push the boundaries of bluegrass and roots rock. A variety of ticket plans are available for the show, from simple general admission to a “cocktails with band” package. Show begins at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, at Durty Nellie's, 180 N. Smith St., Palatine. Tickets start at $20 (general admission); durtynellies.com.