Meat-Eaters’ Paradise

At the world’s largest barbecue contest, it’s only natural that, after a while, all the meat slabs and drumsticks start to taste the same. This year, though, at the American Royal Barbecue, you can cleanse your palate between bites of brisket with a serving of local rock and roll. For a promotion called Smoking for Cancer, the folks at PopFreeRadio.com have teamed up with the American Cancer Society and a slew of local businesses to offer barbecue eaters a side of song. Five local bands will perform at the Smoking for Cancer tent tonight, including the Abracadabras at 9, Rockesh at 10, Walter Alias at 11 and Select Five at midnight. On Saturday, Distance to Empty plays at 1 p.m., Caesura 2012 at 9 p.m., and Tripp Algiers at 11. Also on Saturday: Pop Free Radio personality Chronic the Hedgehog cuts his hair at about 2 p.m. Actually, a stylist from Satoraum Salon will wield the scissors for Chronic and any other longhairs willing to chop it all off for Locks of Love, which uses the hair to make wigs for children who lose their hair to cancer treatments. Single-day admission to the event, which opens at 3 this afternoon, costs $10. There’s no additional fee to hang out with Chronic and crew. Donations — of hair and dollars — are encouraged. The American Royal Complex is at 1701 American Royal Court. Call 816-221-9800 for information. PopFreeRadio.com American Royal Barbecue Locks of Love American Cancer Society
Fri., Oct. 5; Sat., Oct. 6, 2007