From the Minnesota Daily (Minneapolis), February 21st, 1992 Course of Empire's self-titled debut album is the first record I've ever heard that made a convincing argument for having two drummers in the band. Their gut-busting music thrashes without sounding like a permanent seizure and the lead singer Vaughn Stevenson can pull his voice in tight to his breast for a gripping melody when the music demands it. Surrounded by atmospheric guitars and tasteful keyboards, Course of Empire's music goes beyond hard-edged but never feels abrasive. Rumor has it that they pass out drums to the audience for part of their set, but the best thing about this show is that it is a legitimate national act at the Uptown for free!! Third Eye opens. Sunday, February 23rd at the Uptown Bar, 3018 Hennepin Ave. No Cover. (Salisbury)