OT hosts Japan Benefit: 2 Days, 14 Bands

Some often say America is heartless, insensitive, and ignorant. While that's true, I'm always impressed by our sense of community and compassion in the wake of global natural disasters.

This Friday and Saturday, March 25 and 26, 14 local bands will pack the stage at the Ottawa Tavern (1815 Adams St.) in the name of raising money for those devastated by the recent record-setting earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Along with the bands donating their time for the relief effort, the OT will donate their entertainment costs to Red Cross, and collect an additional $10 suggested donation at the door. A collection is also being taken for bags of rice, which will be donated to ISOH/Impact.

The two nights see an eclectic gathering across the local rock scene, with Friday's line up consisting of People Being Human, A Minor Solution, 33 1/3, Sangsara (pictured), and Frank & Jesse.

Saturday's stage boasts The Staving Chain (featuring Dooley Wilson), Hemline Theory, Prayers for Rain, and more TBA.

Come out this weekend and do three things: 1. Be a good human, 2. Rock out, 3. Prove to the world that we're not so bad after all.

The Benefit Show for Japan takes place at the Ottawa Tavern, 1815 Adams St. on Friday & Saturday, March 25 & 26. Starts at 7 p.m. www.otavern.com