Adieu, Republicans

Despite the great weather and verdant scenery, Miami is about to become a slightly less awesome city. The rising indie rock band Awesome New Republic is moving to New York in search of greener musical pastures. “There’s a huge pool of amazing musicians available to us there. We’re recording a new album and we don’t want to half-ass it,” explains singer/drummer Michael-John Hancock. Fans can wish the band a fond farewell tonight at Awesome New Republic’s Last Waltz. “It’s not the last time we’re going play here; this is just our going away party. Jesse Jackson and the Dead Hookers’ Bridge Club will play, and we’ll put on some music in between,” says Hancock. The Republicans will begin with an acoustic set of newer material, followed by what Hancock describes as “a big ole rock and roll throwdown.” The show begins tonight at 8:00 at Churchill’s/Sweat Records, 5501 NE Second Ave., Miami. Admission is $5. Call 305-758-5862, and get details about ANR’s moving sale, which will include a car and well-loved musical equipment, at www.myspace.com/awesomenewrepublic.
Sun., Feb. 12, 8 p.m.