New Year’s Eve options: Stay at home and watch a tape-delayed Ryan Seacrest kill time before the ball drops with a bunch of horrible bands (Maroon 5, I assume) or mosey on down to the Showbox and party with Pickwick. Need I say more? Pickwick has established itself as one of Seattle’s best live acts thanks to its tight instrumental grooves and singer Galen Disston's powerful, soulful wailing. While we’re eagerly awaiting the band’s long-gestating first LP (after a series of EPs), a New Year’s Eve bash will help hold us over. (Incidentally, after two killer sets at this year’s Family 4^th at Lake Union, Pickwick is quickly becoming a go-to holiday band.) The festivities take place at Showbox at the Market with Portland’s Radiation City and local up-and-comer Tomten opening. Tickets go on sale on Friday, September 21, at noon at showboxonline.com.

Additionally, attendees can preorder a swag bag for $50. The bag includes two drink tickets (champagne!), party favors, and a show poster signed by the band.

Pickwick
Dec 31 at 9, Showbox at the Market, $22–$250 (on sale Friday, Sept 21, at noon)