Hot IQs, in hindsight, were destined to flame out. Their brainy, catchy dance- rock and indie anthems aren’t the watered-down sort, and that’s part of what makes them so excellent. The former Radio 1190 kids have gone on to become icons in the local scene, and we hope they’ll continue making music individually after their final Bluebird Theater show tonight. With Bad Weather California and FOMA. $10. Also ending this weekend: American Relay plays its last Denver show at 3 Kings Tavern on Saturday. $6.
Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood are classic rock legends essentially coasting on their reputations instead of releasing new music and reinventing their personas (Winwood’s “Nine Lives” notwithstanding). As either’s recent Denver performances prove, however, they’re still a blast live. Sunday at the Pepsi Center. $49.50-$150. Ticketmaster.
Phoenix is the toast of the hipster kingdom, which helps explain why its Thursday show at the Bluebird is sold out. Is the French pop-rock band’s “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix” all that and more? Not really. But Phoenix is certainly fun live, so get in if you can.
John Wenzel: 303-954-1642 or jwenzel@denverpost.com
