Wednesday, August 20
Agnostic Front at Canal Club
If ever the world needed a force for battling evangelicals and religious fundamentalism, it is now. Unfortunately, Agnostic Front, loud, fast and furious as they may be, can't do it all. They can, however, fulfill their mission, started in 1980, to keep punk rock real. With Madball and Jasta. Tickets are $15. Showtime for unbelievers, 6:45 p.m.
Thursday, August 21
The Gibson Brothers at Ashland Coffee and Tea
The tight as a tick vocal harmonies of the Gibson's can be attributed to playing music together in upstate New York since they were wee lads. They harken back to the golden era of the Stanleys, or the Louvins, but they also bend modern material to their will, including a song by Tom Petty. Tickets are $16 in advance, $21 at the door. 8 p.m.
Friday, August 22
Shooter Jennings at Toad's Place
There might have been a time when Jennings chafed at being born of country royalty, the son of Jessi Colter and Waylon. But he seems to have made his peace with it. With his band the 357s, he has decided to "put the 'O' back in country." His daddy would have been proud. Opening are Boss Kean's Ditch. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. 9 p.m.
The Cured -- A Cure Tribute Band at The National
Fed up with their favorite band not playing the old hits, four guys and one girl decided to form The Cured. Their ultimate plan is to lure The Cure to a remote location, and under murky circumstances, take their place. Some plastic surgery might be in order, but if you keep you eyes closed, they sound like their heroes. With the Palominos, At the Stars and MT Rose. Tickets are $12. Showtime 8 p.m.
Saturday, August 23
Sara Evans at the National
Evans first record was called Three Chords and the Truth, and was hailed for its somewhat traditional sound. Since then, she's moved into the Nashville mainstream and a more pop sound. She's also become something of a country hoochie mama, casting off the denim skirts for plunging cleavage and sexy outfits. A grateful nation salutes her decision. Cedar Creek opens the show. Tickets are a whopping $42.50 in advance, and $45 at the door. Showtime is 8 p.m.
Antlers at Gallery 5
NY's Antlers plays ghostly, ambient music made mostly in -- where else? -- attics. They will be playing with Rorschach Records (based here in Richmond) label mates, The Catalyst. Des Ark will are also on the bill. Showtime is at 7 p.m.
Sunday, August 24
Special Ed and the Shortbus at Legend Brewery
Ride the Shortbus, which means consuming tasty alcoholic beverages while listening to whackgrass. Another Sunday night bluegrass event. Free. 6:30 p.m.
Monday, August 25
Karoake at Cary Street Café, it's the best thing for you tonight. Free. 9 p.m.
Tuesday, August 26
Beres Hammond at The National
Jamaica's Hammond is a mix of Barry White and Al Green, which means he can come on strong, but then close the deal as softly as closing your eyes. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. 8 p.m.