Alex Vans and the Hideaway are playing an extra special show this Friday at Iota as a Mega Band! The band now features 9 pieces, including a full horn section and backup singers (and will include such talent as Will Rast and Margot Macdonald). Alex says the new setup “really brings the songs to life the way they are on record, plus a few surprises.” For my part, I can’t wait to see 9 pieces on Iota’s stage. Joining Alex and The (now much harder to) Hide Away will be These Animals (a NYC band releasing a new cd), and (playing their farewell show) D.C.’s Kid Architect . Doors at 9. --Natan Press