Machine Head, Finger Eleven, Peter Frampton & Etta James

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Fri. Sept. 7, 10pm The Blank Club 44 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose 408.29.BLANK $7 Stout City Rockers LOCAL ROSTER: The people organizing the Stout City Rockers show have made a singular promise to the concert-going public: "If you are a fan of local music," reads the press release, "the Stout City Rockers are going to get you wet." The means by which they moisten you are unclear, but the means by which they will rock you are easy to see in the photo above. The Stout City Rockers are an all-star band of local heavyweights--the "Top Gun" of the local rock scene, if you will--who share a dedication to make Dave Miller happy. While pleasing Mr. Miller should be one of the mandatory "dues" to be paid by anyone trying to make the local rock scene, we think members of the Odd Numbers, Whiskey Sunday, the Shitkickers, Lars Frederiksen & the Bastards and many, many, many more are doing it because Miller is a local legend, not to mention the nicest guy (and Metro receptionist) you'll ever meet. With some help from his friend Randy Burke up at Stout Recording Studios in Oakland, Miller managed to enlist the monsters of the local scene to play original Miller tunes, filling a 13-track CD with gritty punk romps, poppy rock & roll ditties and even a of couple earnest acoustic ballads. The album, titled Found Alive, is a piece of local history, as collectible as it is available for purchase at the show. What can't be packaged up and taken home, though, is the show itself--a one-off celebration of Dave Miller's songwriting prowess and the musical talent of some of the people who continue to make the local music scene one worth seeing. Speaking of which, show up on time to see the Stout City Rockers video premiere.

Wed. Sept. 5, 8pm The Improv 62 S. Second St., San Jose 408.280.7475 $10

Hip-Hop Showcase UNDERGROUND SAVVY: The first Wednesday of every month, the Improv transforms itself from a comedy club into a venue for local underground hip-hop. Brought to you by StreetSav Entertainment, this month's showcase will feature performances by Sydal, Marc Price, Jay Roc and HRO, Savzilla, Anita Fixx, Massive and Sleez, plus special guest host Tavares Daize of KSJS-FM (90.5).

Wed. Sept. 5, 7pm 12 Galaxies 2565 Mission St., San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $26.50

Soulive JAZZ CRESCENDO: Soulive comes all the way from New York to bring some contemporary funky jazz to San Francisco. The trio consists of Eric Krasno on guitar, Alan Evans on drums and Neal Evans on the organ, bass, keys and clavinet. Different horn sections have traveled with Soulive, giving them a distinctive, old-school sound. Fans of Curtis Mayfield and Earth, Wind & Fire and today's hip-hoppers make up Soulive's diverse fan base. DJ Motion Potion supports.

Wed. Sept. 5, 8pm The Catalyst 1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.1336 $18-$20 BUY TICKETS

Machine Head ROBOT HARDCORE: Machine Head, hailing from Oakland, has been a favorite of hard-core metal heads since Burn My Eyes was released in 1994. The band suffered a difficult setback when lead guitarist Phil Demmel left. Apparently "real life" was calling and he was unable to commit to the band. Demmel rejoined a year later and the band continued making music. They released The Blackening this year, which was positively received by critics and fans alike. For a heavy dose of metal, don't miss out on this Catalyst show. All Shall Perish and I Shot the Sheriff support.

Thu. Sept. 6, 8pm Warfield 982 Market St., San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $25-$27.50 BUY TICKETS

Rilo Kiley INDIE DOMINATION: Redhead Jenny Lewis has done something few child actors have managed to accomplish: to become known for something other than her pre-pubescent past. Lewis grew up in Los Angeles and starred in tween films such as Troop Beverly Hills and The Wizard in the '80s, and continued acting into her teens. But in 1995, at the age of 19, she teamed up with Blake Sennett (also a child star; see: Salute Your Shorts and Boy Meets World), Pierre de Reeder and Dave Rock (recently switched out for Jason Boesel) to form Rilo Kiley, a twangy, swaggering alt-country group. Since then, the quartet has released four full-length albums, and its newest, Under the Blacklight, hit stores Aug. 21. The 11-track album is a bit of a departure for the band, treading into lighter Yeah Yeah Yeahs territory on "Moneymaker" and "Close Call" and taking a cue from Nelly Furtado on the dancy tune "Dejalo," projecting a more forceful sound and wider musical range with copious use of synth and canned beats, while previous albums teemed with floaty guitars, mellowed drums and much softer vocals from Lewis. Still, with similar acts such as the Shins and Arcade Fire gaining ground in the pop arena, and having recently garnered acclaim with their last album, More Adventurous, the indie darlings are likely to continue on their merry way to complete media domination (-ation, -ation, -ation). Catch them live at the Warfield with openers Jonathan Rice and Grand Ole Party.

Thu. Sept. 6, 9pm Hunters 349 S. First St., San Jose 408.947.1975 Usual Cover

Huntress @ Hunters THE HUNTED: Hunters--San Jose's newest upscale gay bar and club--is throwing an event for all the local "huntresses." Lavender Liaisons, a group that fuels lesbian matchmaking in the South Bay, will be hosting the event with hors d'oeuvres and dancing. Drink specials will help loosen things up with $3 X-Rated Martinis and $2 beers. Extending the ladies' night theme, go-go girls will grace the stage. If you haven't had the chance to visit this hot new nightspot, now is the time.

Thu. Sept. 6, 5:30pm Music in the Park Market St. and Park Ave., San Jose Free

Finger Eleven TWICE THE BIRD: Why the extra finger? Maybe it's because the guys from Finger Eleven needed something to help them stand out, because, let's face it, their music ain't exactly one-of-a-kind. But hey, there's nothing wrong with going from a solid funk-rock group to a generic alternative metal band, as long as the ends justify the means. And in this case, when the ends arrive in the form of a record contract with a paycheck fatter than Phil Margera, who can blame the Canadian rockers for taking the path most traveled? Their latest single, "Paralyzer," is so overplayed on commercial radio, you can't help but sympathize with the DJ who has to listen to it a million times a day--talk about a dirty job. But for all the pop-rock lovers, you'll be glad to learn that Finger Eleven is playing a free show at Cesar Chavez Park.

Thu. Sept. 6, 9pm Slim's 333 11th St., San Francisco 415.255.0333 $15 BUY TICKETS

Sage Francis SPOKEN WORDS: Sage Francis' show at Slim's is the last time he'll be seen in the United States until his European tour is over. Francis is part poet, rapper, activist and humorist, making him one of the most versatile artists in the music scene today. His performance at Slim's will be a spoken-word set. For those who have never seen spoken word, Sage Francis won't be a disappointing break-in. His energy and intensity on stage add to the power of his lyrics. Bernard Dolan supports.

Thu. Sept. 6, 9pm Taste Ultra Lounge 87 N. San Pedro St., San Jose 408.885.1016 Usual Cover

LUX @ Taste LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL: Thursdays can be boring, but each week Taste provides a public service by striving to eradicate mid-week monotony with LUX, often called the South Bay's biggest Thursday night party. Drinks will flow while premier DJs keep partiers on their feet. LUX features an outdoor BBQ and bar, plus no cover charge for ladies all night. All three dance floors will be open, so come prepared with your best dance moves.

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Fri. Sept. 7, 9pm Vault Ultra Lounge 81 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover GUEST LIST Ladies Night @ Vault OH WHAT A NIGHT: Savage and Top Notch Entertainment come together to bring Ladies' Night to Vault. This premier back-to-school party is hosted by Teddy, as seen on MTV's 8th and Ocean. All ladies get in free until 10:30pm, so don't miss your chance to get a picture with this reality star-turned-actor and model. Jason Dee and Slick D. will keep the party hot with their spinning skills.

Fri. Sept. 7, 6pm S. First St., San Jose 408.271.5155 Free

South First Friday BAUDELAIRE'S NIGHT OUT: Art, music and flaneuring break out all over the SoFA District and beyond for the monthly art-walk happening. Anno Domini opens Hope Leaves by Michael Page and welcomes Radio Randone, Schande and the Mumlers for live music by the murals. GreenRice Gallery hosts Metamorphosis, a group show about recovering from breast cancer. MACLA features breakdancing from Hip-Hop 360. The Museum of Quilts & Textiles welcomes Afghan drummers and a "knit-in" sponsored by Afghans for Afghans. More live music is on tap at WORKS/San Jose, where TSAE Labs and Noka perform. Kaleid features sound by Astronout. SJICA and Space47 are also open late.

Fri. Sept. 7, 8pm Montalvo's Garden Theatre 15400 Montalvo Rd., Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $25-$35 BUY TICKETS

Loudon Wainwright III MR. FUNNYMAN: Unlike some funny songwriters, Loudon Wainwright has an unusual ability to sound poignant rather than gimmicky--a perfect match for Judd Apatow's hilariously sincere sleeper hit, Knocked Up, for which Wainwright contributed his song "Daughter" and helped with the score. This is a guy whose song "Lullaby" has lyrics like "Shut up and count some sheep," sung from the point of view of a lover caught in a late-night spat. He's also got a song about his son Rufus being a "tit man," which, in hindsight, couldn't be further from the truth. Kinda funny, though.

Fri. Sept. 7, 9pm Vivid Ultra Lounge 8 S. First St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover

Vixen @ Vivid NAUGHTY SCHOOLGIRLS: This naughty schoolgirl party has a catty twist--ladies who arrive before 11pm wearing schoolgirl skirts get in free and will receive a pair of cat ears. More than 200 gift bags will also be given away throughout the night. As always, Vivid will feature the best DJs spinning Top 40, commercial house, hip-hop, reggaeton and Latin house. Ladies, bust out those naughty skirts and come ready to party.

Fri. Sept. 7, Sat. Sept. 8; 7:30pm Warfield 982 Market St., San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $50 BUY TICKETS

Underworld ELECTRONICA UNLEASHED: British electronic duo Underworld exploded after their song "Born Slippy NUXX" was featured in Danny Boyle's Trainspotting. Their newest album, Oblivion with Bells is set to be released next month, and the band has launched a world tour to support its launch. After their U.S. tour, Underworld will be traveling everywhere from Bratislava to Tokyo. Don't miss this chance to see them before their tour takes them out of the country.

Fri. Sept. 7, 7pm The Fillmore 1805 Geary, San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $20 BUY TICKETS

Brandi Carlile FOLK POP: Seattle folk-rocker Brandi Carlile's raw, emotional lyrics and unique voice have made her famous by landing several of her songs on Grey's Anatomy. Carlile wasn't signed until 2004 and her quick entry into mainstream popularity has been impressive. The Story, released this year, reached 92 on the U.S. pop charts--not too bad for a folk-pop alt-country artist. A Fine Frenzy opens.

Sat. Sept. 8, 7:30pm Mountain Winery 14831 Pierce Road, Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $40-$45 BUY TICKETS

Richard Thompson Band AXE MAN: After founding the '60s folk-rock group Fairport Convention, Richard Thompson decided to leave the band after the release of their fifth album, taking his British-rock-meets-Celtic-folk sound along with him. As a solo artist, Thompson encountered a few initial bumps in the road, the biggest pothole being the dismal record sales of his first record, Henry the Human Fly. Though critics adored Thompson's brilliant instrumental work, the LP gained the distinguished title of the worst selling album in the history of Warner Brothers Records. Ouch. But Thompson persevered, and went on to create some fascinating works that displayed the sophisticated eclecticism of his music, while record sales improved considerably. Steadily releasing a barrage of albums that range from earthy folk ballads to abstract rock-concepts, Thompson maintains his exploration into the depths of contemporary music traditions.

Sat. Sept. 8-23, 8pm California Theater 345 S. First St., San Jose 408.437.4450 $66-$88

Opera San Jose OVER THE EDGE: To kick off its 24th season, Opera San Jose presents Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor, a tale of high-Gothic tragedy mayhem, set in Scotland and derived from Sir Walter Scott's 1819 novel The Bride of Lammermoor. This tale of warring Scottish clans in the 17th century zeroes in on the emotional vortex that engulfs young Luda when her brother cruelly condemns her to an arranged marriage that cleaves her from her true love and pushes her right over the edge into insanity--no wonder Scott suffered from a debilitating cramp during the writing of the novel. This dual-cast production features Rochelle Bard and Khori Dastoor in the lead role.

Sat. Sept. 8, 7pm Mexican Heritage Theater 1700 Alum Rock Ave., San Jose 800.MHC.VIVA $15-$50

Jose Federico Osorio MASTER OF ROMANCE: The son of Mexico City's renowned pianist Luz Maria Puente, Jorge Frederico Osorio began his musical studies at the age of 5, later enrolling in the musical conservatories of Mexico, Paris and Moscow. Throughout his career, Osorio established himself as a premier concert pianist, performing with a number of the world's most prestigious orchestras, including Spain's RTV Orchestra, the Warsaw Philharmonic and the American Philharmonic Orchestra. Besides his touring work, Osorio also recorded several notable classical albums, which feature works by composers like Mozart and Brahms, as well as Mexican composers Carlos Chavez and Manuel Ponce. Enjoy an evening of classical piano played by one of the greatest living masters.

Sat. Sept. 8, 8pm Sunnyvale Community Center Theater 550 E. Remington Dr., Sunnyvale 408.733.6611 $20-$25

Led Ka'apana ALOHA SPIRIT: How many slack key guitarists can you name with multiple Grammy nominations? We've got one--Led Ka'apana. The Hawaiian slack key legend first captured audiences as a kid on the Big Island with his guitar mastery and baritone vocals. Soon he graduated from backyard barbeques to big-time venues, touring with his first band Hui' Ohana. His popularity soared as the group went on to produce 14 bestselling albums, leading the way for a '70s renaissance in traditional Hawaiian music. With an illustrious career that spans four decades and a lifetime of music, Led continues to bring the Aloha spirit on tour as a solo artist.

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Sun. Sept. 9, 9pm VooDoo 14 S. Second St., San Jose 408.286.VODO $10 GUEST LIST Hip-hop Showcase feat. Rasco CUTTING EDGE: Rasco of Cali Agents headlines VooDoo's hip-hop showcase, a show dedicated to putting established Bay Area artists together with up-and-coming hip-hoppers. The result is interesting and fresh shows that help strengthen the NorCal rap scene. Rasco, hailing from San Francisco, uses methodical beats and razor-sharp lyrics that have made him a Bay Area favorite. Poeticali Disturbed, Peaseuere, Sean Blak, Tauares Daize and Infinity the MC & Douja Lounge join Rasco. The whole enchilada is presented by local horror-hop master Kung Fu Vampire, so you know this show will be nothing short of cutting edge.

Sun. Sept. 9, 7pm Kuumbwa Jazz Center 320 Cedar St., Santa Cruz 831.427.2227 Free

Sound Horizons IX YOUNG AND RESTLESS: Santa Cruz's New Music Works specializes in music that skirts boundaries. Its mandate encompasses both the works of master iconoclasts like John Cage and the pieces of the future by young composers. For this free concert, New Music Works showcases compositions by students from Santa Clara University, Stanford, Cabrillo College and even Santa Cruz High School, to be performed by the New Music Works Ensemble, conducted by Phil Collins.

Mon. Sept. 10, 7:30pm Mountain Winery 1431 Pierce Road, Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $37.50-$60 BUY TICKETS

Peter Frampton SUBURBAN LEGEND: Not many people know who invented the "Talk Box," but use it now and you'll instantly be accused of biting Peter Frampton, the British guitar hero who used the device to legendary effect on Frampton Comes Alive!, which became the bestselling live album of all time. It has since been eclipsed by Garth Brooks' Double Live, mostly because Brooks himself has commissioned the construction of entire cities (or "Brookstowns") made out of Double Live albums. But Frampton's influence is still more pervasive and his inclusion in pop culture barometers like The Simpsons, Family Guy and Wayne's World have already assured his immortality.

Tue. Sept. 11, 7:30pm Mountain Winery 14831 Pierce Road, Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $39.50-$57.50 BUY TICKETS

Etta James and the Roots Band AT LAST: There are few jazz or soul performers of the past five decades with the marquee value or the cultural impact of Etta James. Beginning with her '50s work with Johnny Otis and the Peaches, James has paved the groundwork for any number of soul archetypes--the sassy, brassy woman, the firebrand performer, the singular blues belter who hits the stage and lays it down just like it is. There are few performers that equal James' stature in American music, or who have lived--and emerged intact--from such a storied life or tumultuous career. In the early '60s, James truly came into her own as an iconic performer, particularly with the 1961 release of At Last for the Chess Records label, a release that would become a seminal album in the annals of soul and R&B music.

Tue. Sept. 11, 8pm The Fillmore 1805 Geary, San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $37.50 BUY TICKETS

Los Lonely Boys TEXICAN FLAVOR: Tex Mex rock at its finest comes from these boys from San Angelo, Texas, who have been causing quite a commotion on the pop charts, landing plenty of success with their Grammy-winning, eponymous debut album. Now touring in support of their highly anticipated sophomore follow-up, Sacred, the three hermanos of Los Lonely Boys have once again struck gold, climbing to the top of the Billboard charts and surely admiring the view. With a unique blend of classic rock and a cultural flavor they call "Texican," Los Lonely Boys have captured a devoted fan base that crosses oceans and borders. Get ready for a rock & roll fiesta presented by the one of the biggest Latin rock bands since Santana.

coming up

Wed. Oct. 24-Sun. Oct. 28 HP Pavilion 525 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.287.9200 $56-$153 BUY TICKETS

Disney on Ice: High School Musical COOL KIDS: Disney might have even surprised itself with its High School Musical series. High School Musical 2 debuted earlier this summer and was watched by more than 17 million viewers, making it the highest-rated basic cable broadcast ever, and landing the star, Zach Efron, on the cover of Rolling Stone. High School Musical 3 will supposedly be made into a movie, but for now, fans of this cult hit can satisfy themselves by attending the ice version, which version promises to have all the drama, singing and flair of the original, except live on ice--what could be cooler?

Tue. Nov. 6, 6:30pm HP Pavilion 525 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.287.9200 $39.50-$50.50 BUY TICKETS

Maroon 5 THIS LOVE: Grammy Award-winning Maroon 5 is back in action after a hiatus that followed their 2002 Songs About Jane album. Maroon 5's new material has been blowing fans and critics away--it's sexier and better than ever. The music world has seen tons of artists infusing soul into their music, but Maroon 5 excels at it, making them heartthrobs for many adoring female fans. Funky beats and Adam Levine's unique vocals are still what set Maroon 5 apart from other alternative rock bands. The HP Pavilion might be a huge venue, but Maroon 5, The Hives and Phantom Planet will undoubtedly fill it up with fans and beautiful music.

--This week's newsletter by: RO, DB, GW, CT, MC

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