ART What: The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver opens its much-anticipated exhibit of the famous Young British Artist Damien Hirst. Why: Even while Wall Street tumbled, Hirst's formaldehyde-preserved cows and tiger sharks sold for multiple millions in London. Bonus: Today's public reception begins almost a full year of Hirst's work at MCA. Details: Fri 10 a.m.-10 p.m. MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St. For more information, call 303-298-7554 or visit www.mcadenver.org.

MUSIC What: Metro Denver Partners pulls together the best of Denver's indie rock performers for its Empower concert. Why: The lineup features big local names such as Joshua Novak and Ian Cooke. Plus, win door prizes from Pandora Jewelry, Pablo's Coffee, and Ink Tattoo. Bonus: The concert celebrates the 40th anniversary of Metro Denver Partners, a nonprofit dedicated to tutoring and mentoring at-risk kids. Details: Fri 8 p.m. Oriental Theater, 4335 W. 44th Ave. $20. For more information, call 303-777-7000 or visit www.metrodenverpartners.org.