(ROCK) It's unclear whether Robert Christgau's characterization of these Minnesota titans' new record as "literature with power chords" was meant lovingly, but he was right on the money. Separation Sunday is a thrilling record of sex, drugs, and suburban despair, and by all accounts, the Hold Steady are even better in person. The happy throng will be there for the great U.S.E, so show up early. (Crocodile Cafe, 2200 Second Ave, 441-5611. $10/$8 adv, doors at 8 pm.) SEAN NELSON