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The ball drops in Times Square. People on TV are singing. Fireworks go off in the distance. Strangers are kissing. You're already in your pajamas when you and your dog, wearing matching party hats, exchange a glum look as the remote slips from your fingers and falls between the couch cushions. Is this how you want to celebrate the start of a brand-spanking-new year?

Anyone who says that New Year's Eve isn't worth the hype is just a loser in denial - it's like when ugly people say that true beauty is on the inside. Let's face it: New Year's is a big deal, and since it only comes around once a year, no amount of planning is too much to ensure a smooth and festive transition from old to new. The Weekly Volcano posted a guide to South Sound New Year's Eve parties three weeks ago. It's been constantly updated, including Masa's DJ party, Varsity Grill's live band karaoke and burger contest, and Morso's Spy Party.

What has caught Bobble Tiki's wooden eye is the return of the Duchess of Downtown Stage during First Night Tacoma - Angela Jossy's third year running her stage. Located on the hidden stairway between Commerce and Broadway, next to Mad Hat Tea Company, this stage is cool with its mini amphitheater seating and overhead viewing. Hot food vendors and local art will be close by.

Oh, and the three bands on this stage are killer.

Death By Stars kicks it off at 7:30 p.m. Guitarist Patrick Galactic recently rolled his car, but the show must go on for this electro-psychedelic three-piece.

Big Wheel Stunt Show, hot off its show tonight at Jazzbones, will rock a new song New Year's Eve, as well as dust off many an old BWSS classic, beginning at 9 p.m.

Back from recording in Nashville, SweetKiss Momma hits the stage at 10:30 p.m. showcasing its new songs - but still carrying the band's rootsy, Southern soul rock sound.

"I scoured all my lands for the bravest, the handsomest and the most rockinest knights in all the land and awarded this honor only to the most worthy," says Jossy with a laugh.

No, it's true. These bands do rock the good looks.

DUCHESS OF DOWNTOWN STAGE, MONDAY, DEC. 31, 7:30-11:30 P.M., NO COVER, 1113 BROADWAY ST., TACOMA

LINK: First Night Tacoma

LINK: South Sound New Year's Eve parties