Westcott Theater

Before the campus becomes a ghost town for Thanksgiving break, there will be a surge of life in the next week, providing alternatives to final papers and projects.

Tuesday is especially notable with at least six major speakers, concerts and performances in Syracuse. Make plans to attend at least one of these and keep yourself safely distracted from studying for a night.

“Intimate” is probably the best way to describe former Soul Coughing lead singer Mike Doughty’s most recent artistic endeavors. His latest record, Sad Man Happy Man, is a collection of pared-down acoustic offerings that lean heavily on his scratchy, emotive vocals and syncopated guitar work. Lyrically, Doughty combines the quirky wit of his Soul Coughing days with the sage observations of his three previous solo efforts, touching on everything from breakups to heroin addiction (Doughty himself is a recovered addict).

Known for catchy, precise instrumentation and often ridiculous song titles (“Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco® Twister,” and "Hey! Is That a Ninja Up There?"), Minus the Bear is like that fun-loving, indie guy that you’d want to have a drink with.

This week may be your chance to buy them a beverage. The Seattle-based quintet is making a stop at The Westcott as part of its current national tour. But make sure if you get drummer Erin Tate a drink, you go for the high-end tequila.