Saturday Aug 14, 2010

The Ark: Marcia Ball

This Austin-based blues singer and pianist who grew up in Louisiana plays a knock-down honky-tonk style of piano that blends the orneriness of blues with the sweet rolling rhythms of New Orleans R&B. One reviewer called her “the secret love child of Miss Manners and Little Richard, sitting demurely at the keyboard while blowing the joint apart.” She is also a splendid singer, with a husky, sultry vocal attack at once biting and seductive. Like Bonnie Raitt, she moves easily and convincingly between rousing rockers and emotive ballads. A big favorite with local audiences. $30. [venue info]

The Blind Pig: Eastern Blok

Nationally acclaimed Chicago-based Balkan fusion quartet led by guitar virtuoso Goran Ivanovic. Advance tickets; $8. [venue info]

The Circus: Killer Flamingos

Rock ’n’ roll covers and originals by this popular, veteran band from Dearborn. Cover, dancing. In the Cavern Club. [venue info]

Conor O'Neill's: Michael May & the Messarounds

Jazz-inflected blues and blues-rock by this veteran local quartet led by vocalist and blues harpist May. [venue info]

Crazy Wisdom Tea Room: John Churchville

Local tabla player, accompanied by several musician friends, who plays Indian classical, light classical, fusion, and folk music. [venue info]

Espresso Royale: Acoustic Open Jam

Herb David Guitar Studio hosts an acoustic instrument open jam in a relaxed atmosphere. Bring your guitar, mandolin, etc., or just sing along. 8-9:30 p.m. [venue info]

Goodnite Gracie: DJ Mixwell

Dance party with this DJ. [venue info]

Guy Hollerin's: Measured Chaos

Detroit blues and rock ’n’ soul quartet. [venue info]

The Habitat Ultralounge: JoyRide

Popular Flint dance band. [venue info]

Inverness Inn: Misconduct

60s-80s rock cover band. [venue info]

Live at PJ's: “Plastic Passion”

Josh Burge hosts this monthly retro dance party with an eclectic mix of everything from New Wave, Britpop, and postpunk to acid house, goth rock, and industrial. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. [venue info]