URBANA -- If Athens, Ga., can have its Athfest and, if Austin, Texas, can have its South By Southwest Music Fest, why can't the Midwest have an indie rock fest all its own?

During the 1990s, Juliana Hatfield was the It Girl for alternative rock. More accessible and cooler than Courtney Love, Hatfield had a knack for penning clever songs with her group Blake Babies. She was an indie sensation that girls wanted to emulate and boys wanted to date.

In an age where digital music is becoming the norm, independent record stores are feeling a squeeze.

The second installment of the newly launched "Local Music Showcase" series presented on Saturday at Towle Community Theatre (5250 Hohman Ave.) by Northwest Indiana's Thunderclap Recording studio, will help area flood victims.

?When: 8 p.m. Saturday at The Conservatory, 8911 N Western. ?Why: If you?re looking for tight, techno, alternative music, go hear Aliens vs. Robots. Q: Tell me about your musical origins. A: David (bass): Well, Chris, indie rock music has always been our favorite genre. The Strokes is the one band that really got us wanting to play music. Q: Is music the easiest way to express yourself? ...