Audrye Sessions

San Jose International Mariachi Festival

Rodrigo y Gabriela

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Tue. Jul. 3, 3pm Discovery Meadow Woz Way at W. San Carlos St., San Jose 408.539.2188 $10.49 BUY TICKETS Day on the Meadow TMBG, MILF: Back in the day when geeks and dorks were just geeks and dorks, they found consolation in the witty, sophisticated, yet ultimately nerdy songs of They Might Be Giants, who headline this year's Day on the Meadow. In a land of prefab dance groups and moldy rock bands, TMBG have made a career out of being smart and funny musicians who have the talent to do things like turn on any radio station and jam on whatever song happens to be playing--a throwaway gimmik, yes, but one that most bands couldn't hope to cop. Fountains of Wayne, whose ode to the reign of the MILF, "Stacy's Mom," co-headline, with support from local outfits Kung Fu Vampire and Jade of Days, along with Madina Lake and DJ Scotty Boy. Rock out and enjoy awesome food while supporting EHC LifeBuilders programs for homeless youth.

Wed. Jun. 27, 9pm San Jose Skate The Blank Club 44 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose 408.292.5265 $8

U.S. Air Guitar Championships MULLETS AND AXE MASTERS: So, we were totally okay with Guitar Hero 1 & 2 being smash hits for video game consoles; seriously, who cares that a bunch of wannabe rocker dweebs and glass-eyed stoners are doing Eddie Van Halen impersonations in their parents' basement all in the name of living out long-dead fantasies? But creating an entire U.S. tour showcasing mullet-haired masters of the air axe is akin to giving your unconditional blessing of marital consent to your little brother and his virtual girlfriend... But it's happened and now we're just waiting for the new Fox reality show.

Wed. Jun. 27, 8pm The Fillmore 1805 Geary, San Francisco 415.346.6000 $25 BUY TICKETS

Feist INDIE DIVA: Former Broken Social Scene chanteuse Feist has had the kids going nuts with the release of The Reminder, a twee gem of understated pop, cabaret grandiosity and Harry Smith Anthology folk obscurantism. Her solo work is rather removed from the sound of the Canadian indie pop collective that first brought her to the public's attention, as The Reminder finds Feist indulging in songwriting studies in miniature. They're minimal and sparse pieces that are buoyed along by a transfixing voice that somehow manages to evoke both Cat Power and Billie Holiday--all without any sense of artifice or calculation.

Wed. Jun 27, 7:30pm Paramount Theatre 2025 Broadway, Oakland 208.998.TIXS $45-$90 BUY TICKETS

Lauryn Hill HIP-HOP DIVA: Soon after she killed you softly with her song in the mid '90s with the Fugees, Lauryn Hill launched a solo career that quickly her unprecedented adoration from fans and critics that had somehow evaded her prior to the release of her debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. After Miseducation went platinum, it was pretty clear that Ms. Hill's success in the Fugess wasn't a fluke--rather, the new Queen of Soul actually seemed better off on her own. Unpretentious and musically diverse, the album proved that she was not only as good a rapper as any female hip-hopper, but that her vocal talent extended to an impressive singing style. Engaging audiences with social and political dialogue, Hill presented an intriguing collection of songs that appealed to a wide range of listeners. After solidifying her role in the merge of hip-hop into the mainstream, Hill took home five awards at the 1999 Grammy Awards. Today, Hill stands as a prominent figure in the history of hip-hop music.

Wed. Jun 27, 7:30pm Saratoga Mountain Winery 14831 Pierce Rd., Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $35-$42.50 BUY TICKETS

Rodrigo y Gabriela METAL FLAMENCO: When Rodrigo and Gabriela play their acoustic flamenco version of Metallica's epic instrumental, "Orion," it suddenly becomes clear how much flamenco and heavy metal have in common. Both are played at dizzying speeds, full of flurrying arpeggios, and are often built on dramatic minor chord progressions. But more important than all the technical similarities is the simple fact that when Rodrigo and Gabriela play flamenco, they fucking rock. Rodrigo's solos are as impressive as anything Kirk Hammet's done, but it's Gabriela's furious hands--often pounding the body of her guitar like a djembe--that propel Spanish folk music into the hallowed halls of rock greatness. (Mike Connor)

Thu. Jun. 28, 5:30pm St. James Park First & St. James Streets, San Jose Free

Malo LATIN ROCK: Malo hits the stage this week at San Jose's Music in the Other Park, part of a concert series that's managing to deliver big-name acts in international music genres free of charge. With searing electric guitar riffs from Carlos Santana's lesser known brother Jorge, and the legendary Arcelio Garcia handling lead vocals, Malo is a fitting choice for yet another crowd-pleasing day in the park. The group is best known for its 1972 hit, "Suavecito," which reached No. 18 on the Billboard charts, as well as appearances alongside rock & roll heavies like the Rolling Stones and Queen. Mixing Latin rhythms with rocking guitars and a full horn section, Malo produces a wall of sound so thick, you'll be wiping it off with a squeegee. Get ready for a not-so-average day in the park with Malo and openers La Ventana.

Thu. Jun. 28, 6-9pm Ladies Singles Party 349 S. First St., San Jose 408.947.1975 Usual Cover

Ladies Singles Party HUNTRESSES: Hunters--San Jose's newest upscale gay bar and club--is throwing an event for all the "huntresses" in the South Bay. 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 loosen things up with $3 X-Rated Martinis and $2 beers. Extending the ladies' night theme, go-go girls will be dancing. If you haven't had the chance to visit this hot new nightspot, now is the time.

Thu. Jun. 28, 9pm Popscene 330 Ritch St., San Francisco 415.263.0365 $7-$9

As Tall As Lions UNTAMED: New York's As Tall As Lions come through the Bay Area to make a stop at Popscene atthe Thursday nightclub event. The mellow indie rock band has been selling out shows across the nation for their summer tour as fans jump on the gravy train. Even when As Tall As Lions pick up the pace of their songs to a dance tempo, there's still enough melody to make anybody's sweet tooth fall out. Before and after the band performs at Popscene, if you've been lucky enough to get past that huge scrutinizing bouncer at the door--is he one of the toughest in SF, or what?--DJs will be spinning indie, dance, rock, '80s and all the stuff that makes scene kids move their bodies.

Thu. Jun. 28, 9pm The Caravan 98 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose 408.995.6220 No cover

Nate Kavanaugh & The ReplaceMatts LOCAL FOLK: No one ever needs a reason to go to The Caravan, one of San Jo's truest dive bars. But now you have one. Locals, Nate Kavanaugh and the ReplaceMatts, are rolling in to play some ironic folk rock and drink some beers on Thursday night. Kavanaugh's friendly demeanor and inside jokes come across in the indie rock as downright lovable. Matt Keegan rocks the guitar and Matt Delong mans the drums--and no, Delong, despite what the band's "Abe Lincoln" song says, doesn't look much like the 16th president.

Thu. Jun. 28, 9pm Avalon 777 Lawrence Expwy., Santa Clara 408.241.0777 $15-$20

L.A. Guns STILL GUNNING: Forming in 1983 and going through lineup changes like days of the week, LA Guns is back on the touring circuit with Tracii Guns, Paul Black, Jeremy Guns and Chad Stewart. The oldies but goodies are going to shake the Avalon Nightclub on Thursday night with some straight-up sleaze rock--we're talking glam black hair, smeared eyeliner and black nail polish (yes, that's what men do for sleaze rock). The LA Guns are still playing balls-to-the-wall cock rock carried over from the '80s. All you young 'uns who were born when the LA Guns were being formed can get a taste of what dear old mom and dad were listening to when you were conceived.

Thu. Jun. 28, 9pm The Rockit Room 406 Clement St., San Francisco 415.387.6343 $10

Orphans of Aliens SCI-FI: Influenced as much by supernatural phenomena and science fiction as hard-rocking punk, Orphans of Aliens plan to send the Rockit Room into musical orbit. Lead vocalist Rob Corvey sings intergalactic rock with tunes such as "Decaying Orbit" and "Into the Sun" over heavy guitars and slow, rhythmic drums. Supporting acts on Thursday night include the Sweet Revenge, Sputterdoll, Hit the Switch and Radio Suicide. Leave your spacesuit at home: Orphans of Aliens and the rest of this slamming lineup will melt faces through even the thickest armor.

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Fri. Jun. 29, 7pm UC Berkeley Greek Theatre Gayley Rd. and Stadium Way, Berkeley 510.642.9988 $40-$150 BUY TICKETS True Colors Tour: Cyndi Lauper TIME AFTER TIME: Cyndi Lauper's True Colors tour is a huge nostalgia affair, featuring Erasure ("Chains of Love") and Debbie Harry ("Heart of Glass"), but also the Dresden Dolls, the Gossip, the Misshapes and comedian Margaret Cho. It's also about embracing your and/or others' gayness, riding on Lauper's official statement that "We should all have the right to live with the same dignity, opportunity and safety. It shouldn't matter what anyone's sexual orientation is." True enough, so we won't bother to point out the sexual orientation of the thunder-stealing act on this tour, The Gossip. They're a three-piece dance-punk band from Arkansas led by larger-than-life frontwoman Beth Ditto, a belting, sweating, mascara-smeared diva with more onstage charisma than Marilyn Manson, and more politically outspoken to boot; Ditto wrote "Standing in the Way of Control" in response to Bush's pitifully misguided attack on gay marriage.

Fri. Jun. 29, 8pm Johnny V's 31 E. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.947.8470 $5

Rivals STRAIGHT OUTTA GILROY: Rivals are like an atom bomb that is constantly seconds away from explosion. Their hard-hitting brand of underground punk grabs you right by the throat and smacks you around. One of the best bands on the local hardcore scene--straight outta Gilroy--Rivals always throw down a maniacally intense live show full of ripping anarchist anthems, blazing chords with deep hooks that just don't let go. The band is fronted by Matt Reed--a true punk rock vocalist if ever there was one. Along with Zack Alves, Jim Azevedo and Tom Jordan, Reed and Co. consistently blast musical conventions to dust and always leave the crowds wanting more. They're hitting Johnny V's tonight with Red Tape, Bound to Break and Battle Flask.

Fri. Jun. 29, 9pm Vault 81 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.298.1112 Usual Cover

Social Club @ Vault BANK ON IT: Feeling social? Every fourth Friday of the month Vault Ultra Lounge in San Jose gives beautiful South Bay folks the chance to expand their social circles. Come dressed to kill, and if you don't have threads, either of the two fashion shows featuring local designers should cover you. Bring your crew to this sexy party featuring DJ Donovan in the main room and DJ Francisco Murgia playing some hot Top 40, hip-hop and house. Friday night is the perfect opportunity to bust out of your shell and join the debauchery that ensues while partying in this chicly converted bank.

Fri. Jun. 29, 7pm Slim's 333 11th St., San Francisco 415.255.0333 $12 BUY TICKETS

Harry and the Potters ROWLING ROCK: These guys are onto something just as all the Harry Potter books are--kids love them and indie rockers can't resist their kitschy appeal. Currently on their summer tour, Harry and the Potters are playing multiple libraries, museums and teen centers along with a few more adult-friendly venues like Slim's. A synthesizer and guitar are all they need to play songs like "Save Ginny Weasely" and "Phoenix Tears" while still winning over audiences of all ages. The Friday night show at Slim's also features Jurassic Park IV: The Musical.

Fri. Jun. 29, 9pm Cuccini 72 N. Almaden, San Jose 408.287.1737 Usual Cover

Miss San Jose Grand Prix Semi-Finals EYE CANDY: San Jose sure knows how to pick 'em. A bevy of beauties compete at Cuccini for the title of Miss San Jose Grand Prix, which entitles the winner to move into the international finals of the 2008 MOOD Brands Face of Champ Car competition. Enjoy the eye candy as the women model in their five evening gown and swimsuit choices while DJs spin for club goers looking to dance. The top three ladies will join the winning driver of the San Jose Grand Prix on the podium, which will be watched internationally by more than 170 million people. See the glamour, glitz and grace of the racing world at Cuccini on Friday night.

Fri. Jun. 29, 8pm The Warfield 982 Market St., San Francisco 415.567.2060 $28.50-$26.50 BUY TICKETS

Two Gallants, Les Claypool HOMETOWN BOYS: Two San Francisco bands make a hometown stop on their summer tour that's sure to excite local fans and pack the house with an exuberant crowd. Two Gallants just released a new album earlier this month on Saddle Creek Records entitled The Scenery of Farewell. The duo play a folksy indie rock worthy of a front porch in the South but without the twang. Les Claypool headlines with funkadelic rock that steps things up and could very well turn The Warfield into an all-out dance fest. Support local music and check out a hometown show that exposes the soul of San Francisco rock.

Fri. Jun 29, 9pm Vivid 8 S. First St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover

Famous @ Vivid NOT JUST FAMOUS--MYSPACE FAMOUS: Apparently fame today is based on how many downloads you get on Myspace, so as one of the Top 10 most downloaded girls on Myspace, Krystal Blue is pretty gosh darn famous. As a Myspace celeb she's followed the path of those like her and come out with an album of dance music that will surely get its play at Vivid's Friday night Famous event. Myke Famous is also celebrating his birthday VIP style to the boppin' Top 40, house, hip-hop and reggaeton played at Vivid. There's more than enough fame to go around on Friday night, so add some more friends on Myspace, gather your entourage and get Famous.

Sat. Jun. 30, 5pm Sleeptrain Pavilion 2000 Kirker Pass Rd., Concord 408.998.TIXS $23.75-$39.25

Honda Civic Tour: Fallout Boy SCENE STEALERS: Due to some "personal issues" within Fallout Boy, the headlining band of the Honda Civic tour, several of the shows scheduled for the beginning of the tour had to be moved from May to June. Hopefully the divas figured out their issues and have pulled it together to come out strong on the last leg of the Honda Civic Tour. The tour features five bands that thrive on pop-punk loving prepubescents and skater kids. Fallout Boy is joined by +44 (a band featuring Mark and Travis from Blink 182), The Academy Is..., Paul Wall and Cobra Starship. For those who are going to the show, it is highly recommended to get there early to get a good seat and see the awesome opening bands.

Sat. Jun. 30, 7:30pm Agenda 399 S. First St., San Jose 408.287.3991 No cover with dinner

Kat Parra NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH CAT POWER: A protoge of Patti Cathcart (of the romantic jazz duo Tuck & Patti), Kat Parra trained her voice right here at San Jose State University. She also discovered her aptitude for singing in foreign languages--particularly Spanish--which she explored during her five-year tenure as the singer for Charanga 9. Parra has since chosen to focus on Afro-Cuban, Peruvian, South American folklore and Sephardic music, but don't be surprised when standards pop up in this chanteuse's diverse repertoire.

Sat. Jun. 30, 9pm The Catalyst 1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.1338 $18-$22 BUY TICKETS

Y&T CONTAGIOUS: These Bay Area hard rock veterans are, as the cliché goes, truly big in Japan (they signed to a Japanese label in 1995 and their guitarist, Dave Meniketti, is a highly respected solo artist back east). The foursome of Meniketti, Phil Kennemore, Leonard Haze and John Nymann brings back the FM radio staples like "Mean Streak," "Summertime Girls," "Rescue Me" and the eventual set closer "Forever." Eric Martin Band also performs.

Sat. Jun. 30, 9pm Angels Ultra Lounge & Cabaret 400 S. 1st St., San Jose 408.885.9588 Usual Cover

Crème de la Crème CREAMY FILLING: If you're not the crème de la crème, the best of the best, the cream of the crop, you might be better off going to another San Jose ultra lounge or staying home, because Angels' first Creme de la Creme event is only for--well, you get the idea. Hip-hop, rap and alternative artist Zion-I will perform live and get things all hyphy with Alliance DJs Kleen and Exrated. Get on the guest list to get in free before 11pm for the premiere of Creme de la Creme and don't forget to put on your thizz face.

Sat. Jun. 30, 8:30pm Bottom of the Hill 1233 17th St., San Francisco 415.621.4455 $10

Audrye Sessions CD RELEASE: Lead singer who emotes onstage with liberal use of falsetto: check. Chick-on-bass action: check. Lullaby-land tunes that teach your body to sway like branches in the breeze: check. Oakland-based Audrye Sessions lays it all out, tucking away a little rock between spacey, ambient jams. With music that's mostly toned down, the quartet turns up the energy onstage, creating a balance ripe for both the moody and the gung-ho. Audrye Sessions heads into San Francisco tonight to celebrate the release of its second full-length, Braille, which the band self-produced. San Jose ambient rockers Day One Symphony and fellow Oak-town indies Push to Talk also open this all-ages show. (Claire Taylor)

Sat. Jun. 30, 9pm Fahrenheit Ultra Lounge 99 E. San Fernando St., San Jose 408.998.9998 Usual Cover

MASH @ Fahrenheit HOT FATIGUES: We know you've been looking for an excuse to wear those camo pants out at night for a while, and now Fahrenheit is giving you a reason to blend in--okay, maybe if you were in bushy terrain--with their camo-themed MASH event. DJ Solarz from the Rock-It Scientists will be mashing things up on the turntables with dance, hip-hop, rock and Top 40. As if it wasn't obvious, the night will feature mash-ups, those lovable musical mixes of our favorite songs blended into one another and the attire featured in the 1970s sitcom about the army. To really light things up, hand grenades--as in the delicious drink--will be only $5 all night. It's not often that you get an excuse to wear camo and get your war party on, so take advantage of Fahrenheit's MASH party before the mottled pattern goes back out of style.

Sat. Jun. 30, 10pm 1015 Folsom 1015 Folsom St., San Francisco 415.431.1200 Usual Cover

Andy Moor LESS IS MOOR: British trance artist Andy Moor is slated to spin an exclusive three-hour set at one of San Francisco's premier clubs: 1015 Folsom. Though DJs often don't get the credit they deserve, Moor is a true musician. He learned his first piano piece at the age of 5, mastered six instruments by his 11th birthday, and began spinning records when he was just 13. Now in his mid-20s, Moor is considered one of the most prominent DJs in the world. Precise beats, floating melodies and dreamlike vocals characterize Moor's style, but seeing the act live brings it to a whole new level. Bring some comfy shoes--this extended set will leave even the most seasoned dancers and trance aficionados satisfied.

Sun. Jul. 1, 12pm Shoreline Amphitheatre 1 Amphitheater Parkway, Mountain View 408.998.TIXS $29.99 BUY TICKETS

Warped Tour ALL-DAY ACTION: Where to start? As usual, the Vans Warped Tour targets its audience with shotgunlike precision, packing the tour with enough bands (more than 50!) to satisfy all the skaters and skater wannabes, or pretty much any fan of contemporary punk and hard rock. Headliners include Bad Religion, Pennywise, Coheed and Cambria, the Used, the Vandals, Tiger Army and, of course, the Circle Jerks, who are only playing three shows (in California) on the tour. Along with the dudes in Bad Religion, Pennywise and the Vandals, the Circle jerks are also old enough to be most of these other bands' dads. The future of their figurative progeny is dubious--populated with some cookie-cutter emo and screamo acts from Alesana to Yellowcard, this year's tour certainly has its fair share of duds. On a sunnier note, Buck-O-Nine and Pepper mix punk with ska and reggae, reminding us that formulas pioneered by the Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Sublime still work. And so does the all-day, multi-stage, jillion-band format, as long as you remember to hydrate.

Sun. Jul. 1, 12pm Discovery Meadow San Carlos St. and Woz Way, San Jose 408.294.2100 x444 $9.85-$15

Kihncert TRIBUTE FEST: This year's Kihncert is a crowd-pleaser--while you may only recognize the Greg Kihn Band ("Jeopardy") and Foghat ("Slow Ride"), you'll also at least recognize the bands to which the other three acts pay tribute. Aja Vu does a mean Steely Dan, Wild Child reopens the Doors (gratuitous Jim Morrison histrionics included), and Evolution rocks the Camaro-fueled drama of Steve Perry (and whoever else was in Journey).

Sun. Jul. 1, 2:30pm Dinkelspiel Auditorium 471 Lagunita Dr., Stanford 650.725.2787 $28

Basie and Beyond DRUM AND BASIE: Led by the silky-smooth vocals of baritone singer Jamie Davis, the Count Basie Orchestra continues to uphold the legacy of the deceased bandleader, credited with defining the Kansas City swing movement of the 1940s. The style of jazz marked the transition from traditional big band music to the freeform bebop sound, an evolutionary leap in the progression towards the improvisation-based jazz of the 1960s. Davis himself is more than worthy of carrying the Count's effervescent torch, and with a backing by Stanford's own Fred Berry as well as a fully orchestrated brass band, the program is solid enough to please any jazz aficionado. This exciting tribute to Kansas City swing happens this afternoon at Stanford's Dinkelspiel Auditorium.

Mon. Jul. 2, 7pm Shoreline Amphitheatre 1 Amphitheater Parkway, Mountain View 408.998.TIXS $40-$78 BUY TICKETS

Kenny Chesney 10-GALLON HAT: The day after Warped Tour, the Shoreline Amphitheatre will go from punk rock haven to country showdown, probably the two greatest polar opposites you can find in the world of rock. Straight from Gallatin, Tennessee--wherever that is--Kenny Chesney is touring through the Bay Area with Sugarland and Pat Green. Known for his good looks and deep country singin' voice, Chesney draws thousands of cowboys and cowboy wannabes to his shows to get a taste of what a real Southern boy's singing is like. Whatever you do, don't forget your 10-gallon hat, ya'll.

Mon. Jul. 2, 6:30pm The Warfield 982 Market St., San Francisco 415.567.2060 $30 BUY TICKETS

Deftones METAL OPUS: Hard-driving and experimental, the Deftones are one of the most musically innovative rock and metal bands who have wholly separated themselves, stylistically speaking, from contemporaries like Korn or Staind.The Deftones are technically better, more fluid and harder. The group's latest release, Saturday Night Wrist, continues the same hard, poetic and deep ethereal experimental bent of previous offerings while still pushing the metal envelope. Dir En Gray and Fall of Troy kick off the night and ensure a show that will leave the audience with a face full of metal.

Mon. Jul. 2, 7:30pm Saratoga Mountain Winery 14831 Pierce Rd., Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $49.50-$70 BUY TICKETS

Steve Winwood TRAFFIC JAMS: In the music biz it seems that, more often than not, veteran performers lose some serious marbles along the long and winding road of rock stardom. The excitement, the passion, the youthful intensity--it all fades away as aging, years of drug abuse, and the pressures of staying hip to an ever-changing public eye take their toll. The fervent lifestyle of the working musician is about as stable as a five year-old's temper. But of course there are exceptions--Mick Jagger still bounds across the stage like he did 30 years ago, and Steve Winwood is still belting notes in octaves most vocalists can only dream of reaching. Though most remember Winwood for his lead role in the '70s rock sensation, Traffic ("Dear Mr. Fantasy" being their most notable single), his career as a solo musician sparked quite a fire in the '80s with chart-topping hits like "While You See a Chance" and "Higher Love." Winwood's distinct voice and remarkable song writing yielded constant radio play, a couple Grammys and that impossibly difficult position few pop stars ever achieve: longevity. Now will someone just bring him a higher love, already?

Tue. Jul. 3, 5:30pm Frost Amphitheatre Stanford University 650.725.ARTS $22-$44

Big Bad VooDoo Daddy KINGS OF SWING: Big Bad VooDoo Daddy never scored a big crossover hit like the Squirrel Nut Zippers ("Hot") or the Cherry Poppin' Daddies ("Zoot Suit Riot"), but their reputation as mainstays in the L.A. lounge/swing scene scored them a cameo in Swingers and an appearance at Superbowl XXXIII, neither of which hurt the band's already sizeable following. Neither did crossover stabs like "I Wanna Be Like You," a swinging, Latin-infused cover of the anthem of Disney's The Jungle Book, and their hoppin' alcoholic single "You & Me & the Bottle Makes 3 Tonight." They also play popular originals like "King of Swing," "She's Gone" and "You Known You Wrong," and do a nice job covering Cab Calloway's call-and-response classic, "Minnie the Moocher."

Tue. Jul. 3, 9pm Johnny V's 31 E. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.947.8470 $5

Last Chordz THREE FOR THE MONEY: Old school rock & roll, cheap, strong drinks, and a dark dive bar make for a perfect Tuesday night. Somewhere between punk and metal sits Last Chordz, a Santa Cruz trio living the dream of sex, booze and rock & roll. Joining in on the fun are the Law Abiding Citizens of San Jose, whose screaming metal vocals will make you want a Ricola, or another Jack and Coke. The Dead Ringers also perform, bringing garage and punk rock straight from San Francisco. Three rockin' bands, five bucks and a good excuse to get tipsy on a Tuesday night.

Tue. Jul. 3, 5:30pm Saratoga Mountain Winery 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $50-$85 BUY TICKETS

Moody Blues MOODY VIEWS: Visiting Saratoga's Mountain Winery is worth it without a legendary rock band performing; 360-degree views of the valley below combined with great food and wine make this one of the best venues in the Bay Area. Throw in the Moody Blues, a band that has been rocking for more than four decades, and you've got an unforgettable evening all lined up. Though still not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Moody Blues continue to top polls of groups that the public believes should be inducted.

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Tue. Jul. 13, 9pm Vivid 8 S. First St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover

Mario Lopez @ Vivid SAVED BY THE BELL: Finally, a real celebrity known for his acting skills on Saved by the Bell, his charismatic hosting of entertainment news program Extra and his amazing dancing on Dancing with the Stars. Mario Lopez brings his dimples to Vivid for a VIP party like one we haven't seen yet in San Jose. Advance tickets can be purchased to party in the lap of luxury with Lopez up close and personal while he gets his drink on. Perhaps a lucky someone will have the chance to experience Lopez's dancing skills first hand, with Vivid's Top 40, hip-hop and Latin house bumping all night long. Besides, who didn't want to party with Slater when watching his high school sitcom?

Sept. 26-30 various San Jose venues 408.998.TIXS or www.ticketmaster.com

San José International Mariachi Festival SAVED BY THE BELL: THIS YEAR'S San José International Mariachi Festival is still three months away, at the far end of the dog days of summer, but that doesn't mean that mariachi fans should dawdle. Tickets have already gone on sale and will likely disappear in a hurry, because the festival features not only two big names--Linda Ronstadt and Los Lobos--it features them together. On Sept. 29, at the Noche de Serenata Gala, at SJSU Event Center, pop chanteuse Ronstadt will join forces with seminal L.A. rockers Los Lobos. In one sure-to-be-memorable moment, Ronstadt will perform the traditional mariachi version of the hit "La Bamba," and then Los Lobos will rev it up with a dose of modern electrified zip. That concert also boasts Ronstadt's brother's new group, Santa Cruz River Band, Mariachi Cobre and Tlen Huicani. Other events at this year's festival include a slew of workshops and master classes, a student showcase concert (Sept. 27 at the Mexican Heritage Plaza), a conference for music educations, a Mariachi Day at the Children's Discovery Museum (Sept. 29), a two-day (Sept. 29-30) Feria del Mariachi on the Arena Green in downtown San Jose and, finally, a Mostly Mariachi concert on Sept. 30, at the HP Pavilion with Marco Antonio Solis and Mariachi Sol de Mexico. Among the many bands in attendance will be Mariachi Azteca, Mariachi la Reina, Mariachi Sol de Mexico and Mestizo. San Jose's Los Lupenos will also get a turn in the spotlight. (Al Roberts)

Sun. Jul. 17, 8pm The Fillmore 1805 Geary, San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $25 BUY TICKETS

Smashing Pumpkins ZEITGEIST: After nearly a seven-year hiatus, Smashing Pumpkins are heading back to the stage. In the early '90s, Billy Corgan and company almost single-handedly defined the alternative rock genre with their seminal release Gish that was followed up with the even more stellar sophomore release, Siamese Dream. If you followed the Smashing Pumpkins from there on out, it seemed as though the Chicago based foursome wholeheartedly traded in their scathing, alt-rock fire for some cool goth duds and a whole slew of disappointment. Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin are all that's left of the original lineup and we believe that the Pumpkins just won't sound the same without guitarist James Iha and D'arcy on bass, but, a string of 10 shows at the Fillmore lasting until early August, says otherwise.

--Capsules that were taken from the Metroactive Club Newsletter were written by: RO, AL, GW, SL, DB, MC, PD & GS

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