The heat wave is over. That means you can ditch that ugly jerk that you've been sleeping with just for their air conditioning, and head out to see some shows! There aren't too many choices this week, but what we're lacking in quantity we certainly make up for in quality. So, quit surfing craigslist for free window units, and head out to some rock 'n roll shows.

Mark Kozelek at Highline Ballroom at Highline Ballroom Friday June 13th at 7pm

Remember the bass player from Almost Famous? You might have to go back and watch it, because, if I remember correctly, his only line was: "Come on guys, can't we just get some BBQ or something?"  Well, if that's all you (sort of) know the man from, you're missing out. His old band, Red House Painters, created the kind of music you hear playing in during a suicide scene in an indie movie. And I mean that entirely as a compliment. Lately, Kozelek is doing much of the same: beautiful sad-sack music to kill yourself to. Check it out.

Mission of Burma at Bowery Ballroom Saturday June 14th and Sunday June 15th at 8pm

In the wake of all of those recent indie rock reunions, it's safe to say that Mission of Burma was one of the pleasant surprises. Not exactly popular during their original stint, the band gained notoriety after their demise for their melding of guitar rock with tape loops and Gang of Four-type song structures. Their recent shows have gotten rave reviews, and this weekend, the band will play its two most acclaimed albums in their entirety. Saturday is Signals, Calls, and Marches and Sunday is Vs., so get your ass out of the internet cafe and go see one of the bands that influenced almost everyone in your iPod.

Ted Leo and the Pharmacists & Variety Shac at Maxwell's Monday June 16th at 9pm

Ted Leo and the Pharmacists might just be the best touring band in the U.S.  There's something about his voice, his lyrics, and his incredible hooks that earned them a spot on Lush Life's permanent rotation. Maybe it's because they're the perfect a mix of Thin Lizzy and Joe Jackson with The Clash's politics. Or, maybe it's because they make music to blast from the speakers of your Zipcar on the way to the beach. Either way, this is a show worth braving the PATH.

Still out promoting last year's Living With the Living on Touch & Go Records, he's playing a hometown gig at Maxwell's this Monday, and it will surely be an true all ages mess of sweaty bodies.