In case you didn't know, you've been given an extra day of life in the form of "Leap Day" today. Don't waste it. And to help make sure you don't, Omaha's entertainment mafia has put together a jam-packed night of shows. Here's the round-up:

-- An unofficial Leap Day celebration is taking place tonight at The Waiting Room with the long-awaited return of The Monroes. Seems like forever since these fun-lovin' farm boys have been on stage. Joining them will be street-fight punkers The Coffin Killers, School of Arms, and the night's headliners, Ladyfinger. $7, 9 p.m.

-- Meanwhile, there's a rock show going on downtown at the new Antiquarium Record Store featuring Box Elders, Yuppies, Mr. Wizard and Time Falcon (quite possibly the best-named band in recent memory). The show is free, but donations will be accepted for Yuppies' and Box Elders' tour funds (So don't be a cheap-ass). The show also is a great chance to check out the record store's new location, if you haven't already (they moved last June). The address is 417 S 13th St., right next door to the 415 Lounge. Buy some vinyl while you're there. Show starts at 8 p.m.

-- While you're downtown, you might as well swing past Slowdown Jr. for Scott Severin & The Milton Burlesque, with The Whipkey Three and The Black Squirrels. $7, 9 p.m.

There's also a couple great shows tomorrow night. The one with the highest profile: They Might Be Giants at Slowdown with Oppenheimer. If you don't have tickets, you're out of luck, since it's SOLD OUT. No tix? Check out London-based freak folk phenom Alessi at The Waiting Room with Jake Bellows (of Neva Dinova), Midwest Dilemma performing as an 8-piece (including tuba), and the always provocative Honey & Darling. $7, 9 p.m.

Let me know if I missed anything by posting it on the webboard. Have a good weekend.

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