Nice Tix: Shellac's quality finish (to the year)

Welcome back to Nice Tix, where we scan this weekend's on-sales so you don't have to. The big buzz is Shellac scheduling a gaggle (okay, six) shows in a row at Hideout December 13-16. Anyone who saw Albini and crew headline last year's Touch and Go Block Party knows how imposing (and effing loud) this band can be live, so playing on such a tiny stage is going to make the floorboards rumble. Buy tix here, and read a fine review of Excellent Italian Greyhound that my pal and colleague Mike Wolf at Time Out New York wrote here.

A few more best bets for the week:

The Bird and the Bee (Schubas, November 28) After releasing a great long-player last winter (read our review here) and serving as an opening act for others, the L.A. pop duo comes to town in a headlining slot. (On sale now)

M.I.A. (House of Blues, November 21; Vic Theatre, November 23) She's got her visa back, the new disc is filled with back-to-front bangers (read our review here) and she raised hell at Lolla. These are sure to sell out, so get 'em quick. (Both on sale Saturday at 10am)

Pharoahe Monch (Metro, September 29) Pharoahe has put out one of the smartest hip-hop albums of the year (read my chat with him here). It'll be nice to see him headline; his brief Rock the Bells set left everyone wanting more. (Free with RSVP)