JAPANESE NOIZE: Remember that part in “The Shawshank Redemption” when Andy plays the opera record over the PA system and all the prisoners marvel at the song’s beauty even though they don’t understand any of the words? Well, that’s kind of like Japanese death-metal group Dir En Grey, only part of its beauty probably has something to do with the band’s goth, “Final Fantasy”-like attire. The group plays the Metro with openers Digital Mindy. 3730 N. Clark St.; Wrigleyville. 6 p.m. $22.50 in advance. $25 at the door. All ages.
SUCK IT, FIVE PARAGRAPH ESSAYS: The Book Cellar begins a new reading series benefiting the Howard Brown Health Center. Essay Fiesta showcases humorous non-fiction essays, but the reading event also includes a raffle at the end. 4736 N. Lincoln Ave.; Lincoln Square. 7 p.m.
TAKE A CHANCE: One of the better LGBT events outside of Boystown, the hipster dance party Chances Dances goes down at Subterranean. Expect great music and a lot of American Apparel outfits. 2011 W. North Ave.; Wicker Park. 9 p.m. No cover. 21 and older.
