If you'll remember, back in November the hard-working gang at the Paradox announced that they'll no longer be hosting shows at the all-ages University District venue. It was a bummer to hear, but the bad was balanced out with some good when the 'Dox guys added that they are going to begin working with a variety of local venues (including the Vera Project) to continue supplying the all-ages community with the rock and roll.

And what's more, there are plans to not only keep on with their recording studio, but also launch a record label and magazine! All very exciting news, indeed, but there's one thing they'll need in order to see out these high hopes, and that's your support.

The last two shows at the Paradox Theatre take place on Friday and Saturday, January 31 and February 1. Both are benefit shows to raise money for new ventures--Friday's being for Bandoppler Magazine and the Artist Reformation Project, and Saturday's for Paradox Theatre Productions.

Of course you should go to the shows to, you know, give support to the all-ages music community, blah, blah, blah, but you should also go because the Paradox has filled the weekend with some pretty amazing local music.

On the 31st, Damien Jurado is joined by the Prom (swoon!), the lovely new local band Dear Darling, Euclid, and the Ben Kennedys. Not only will the low-price admission buy you that big helping of sweet sounds, but you'll also receive a free subscription to the new Bandoppler Magazine. Well worth your $12, I'd say.

And on the 1st (because you're not 21 yet so you can't go see Portland's Panther lay it down at the Kincora Pub), you really shouldn't miss Gatsby's American Dream, Suffering & the Hideous Thieves, 14 Days of Terror, the Sweet Science, and my personal favorite for the night, Rocky Votolato (whose handsome photo can be seen above).

Mr. Votolato recently made the gutsy (and smart!) decision to pursue his music full-time, which means he's had a lot of time to work on new material (and record a new album), brush up on old favorites, and ensure his live performance is going to be topnotch.

"My new material is all over the board--more country, more indie rock, more folk.... I'll definitely be trying out a few new songs at this show," says Rocky. "And it's really sad to see the Paradox go. Seattle's best venue is disappearing, but I'm really honored to be playing the last show there."

Yup, it's the last show at the Paradox--ever. So go give thanks to the hard-working volunteers for their years of great support, and wish them well on all their new endeavors. MEGAN SELING