If you haven’t heard Nada Surf since their 1996 hit "Popular" (or maybe more recently, while you were watching The O.C. and sobbing) you'll be happy to learn that the group is still turning out remarkably solid alt-rock anthems. Hear the band perform breezy power pop tracks from its new album You Know Who You Are. (Thalia Hall, 1807 S Allport St, 8pm. $25, $30 balcony)
2. Get tricked
Be mesmerized by illusions designed by actor-magician Dennis Watkins during the performance, Death & Harry Houdini. This episodic biography is returning to the stage after a three-year absence. (Chopin Theatre, 1543 W Division St, 7:30pm. $30)
Kerry James Marshall confronts race directly in his paintings by incorporating black people into scenes that would historically exclude anyone who is not white. The MCA's latest exhibit examines the past 35 years of Marshall’s work. (Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, 10am. $7 students, $12 adults)