We get a nice '80s mod-rock meets '00s indie-rock buzz off of Linus the Band, playing tonight's Kaleidoscope party at NextDoor. The band — if it's not kidding on its MySpace page — wants you to think "hook-heavy pop and eternally good disposition of The Beatles in an indie haze, laced with the alterna-rock of The Strokes." Meet them somewhere in the middle tonight, after doors open at 9 p.m. Free before 10 p.m., $7 after. 21 and over. 43 N. Hotel St. 548-6398.

— Derek Paiva

KEEP CLEAN

GYM GERM FIGHTERS

It's happened to most of us. We head to the treadmill or dumbbells at the gym to find them sparkling with sweat — someone else's. Yuck. Don't let that be your excuse not to work out today. Instead, bust out Handlebuddies, personal hand grip covers that wrap around almost any fitness equipment, from cardio machines to free weights. Eliminating direct skin-to-surface contact, Handlebuddies protect you from other people's germs. Two pairs, one large and one small, come in a carrying pouch with a removable belt. Velcro fasteners allow for a custom fit. Price: $20 plus shipping. To order: www.handlebuddies.com.

— Paula Rath

FINAL WORD

"It smells like a rotten egg wrapped in a giant turd."

Mike Rowe | host of the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs" (6 tonight), on working in a tannery, to TV Guide