Strata, Morrissey, Del, Britney Skye, The Used & The Donnas

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Wed. Sep 19, 9pm Great American Music Hall 859 O'Farrell St., San Francisco 415.885.0750 $17 The Donnas PALO ALTO GRRLS: We've got a soft spot for the Donnas, an all-girl rock band from Palo Alto that made it big. They often get tagged as a punk band because of the noticeable Ramones influence on their early stuff, which is full of simple, trashy, playful goodness. Now they've got more in common with KISS, AC/DC and David Lee RothÐera Van Halen, exchanging the loose and jangly nonchalance of their youth for a tighter, heavier, more glamorous '70s stadium rock sound that still manages to be lots of fun.

Wed. Sep 19, 9pm The Blank Club 44 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose 408.292.5265 $5

Guards of Metropolis BEYOND ABBA: The two ladies in Guards of Metropolis are from Norway, a cold and faraway land where most people in metropolitan areas speak perfect English, which explains why, when they rock out with two California natives, you'd never know their native tongue is Norwegian. They sound more like Garbage than ABBA, infusing chugging pop rock with ethereal electronica action while spewing out clever and politically cogent lyrics like "You spout philosophy/ but don't know left from wrong." It's what pop punk should be, but rarely is. Show up early for The All Nighters.

Thu. Sep. 20, 10pm Cardiff Lounge 260 E. Campbell Ave., Campbell 408.374.7477 No Cover

Foxy 4-Year Anniversary SOULFUL HOUSE: It's one thing for a club to last a few years without significantly changing its format (or its name), but it's almost more impressive that Campbell's Cardiff Lounge has managed to keep its FOXY party going for four years—apparently Campbell loves its vibe and soulful house music. The upcoming Foxy Anniversary Party will be hosted by Bobby De La Cruz, and feature FOXY resident DJs Federico Zabala, Frank Zacarias, Judd Xavier, Roger Moorehouse and Wen Davis.

Thu. Sep. 20, 7:30pm Montalvo's Garden Theatre 15400 Montalvo Road, Saratoga 408.998.TIXS $20-$50 buy tickets

Medeski, Scofield, Martin & Wood THIS ONE GOES TO ELEVEN: Contemporary jazz nuts have probably snatched up most of the tickets for Medeski, Scofield, Martin and Wood, especially since the power trio incorporated guitarist John Scofield, which is kind of like taking a delicious hot fudge sundae and incorporating Count Chocula, making it almost excessively (but definitely more) delicious. Known for their sprawling and exploratory improvisations at their lives shows, MSM&W never play the same gig twice, but expect some extra pyrotechnics at this show, where Scofield's virtuosity on the guitar is bound to propel the bass, drum and keys trio ever higher.

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Fri. Sep. 21, 6pm Shoreline Amphitheatre 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View 408.998.TIXS $26-$46 buy tickets Arcade Fire TRANSCENDENT SPECTACLE: The Arcade Fire has shouldered an unreasonable weight of expectations with its sophomore release, Neon Bible, as indie faithful hoped it would storm the Billboard chart like a latter-day Nevermind. The band's confounding response has been to get its goth on, with singer Win Butler channeling his inner Peter Murphy and the eight-piece band creating a dramatic chamber-folk sound that suggests Bauhaus arranged for strings. The album has disappointed many who were eagerly awaiting Funeral Part 2, but who can blame the group for trying something new? Wasn't that the modus operandi of the indie movement to begin with? Despite the critical backlash, tickets for the group's subsequent live dates have been scarce, with good reason: no independent band's live act rivals the Arcade Fire's for sheer spectacle and transcendent bombast.

Fri. Sep. 21, 9pm Avalon Nightclub 777 Lawrence Expwy., Santa Clara 408.241.0777 $20

Del tha Funkee Homosapien HEIROMANIAC: Ever since Del pretty much single-handedly gave hip-hop fans an alternative to West Coast gangster rap in the mid-'90s, there's been no shortage of demand for the Oakland-born flow-master. In 2001, Del's collaboration with the Gorillaz on the chart-topping single "Clint Eastwood" solidified his position as the leader of decidedly nongangster hip-hop talent. Whether he's performing with Heiroglyphics or as a solo act, Del's lyrical talent and keen social awareness keep fans enthralled in and out of the studio. Also on tap this evening are rappers Devin the Dude, the Coughee Brothaz, Bukue One and Santa Cruz's Serendipity Project.

Fri. Sep. 21, 9pm The Catalyst 1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.1336 $26-$30 buy tickets

Steel Pulse U .K. ROOTS: Hailing from Handsworth in Birmingham, the U.K.'s largest Caribbean community, Steel Pulse (named for the winner of the 1972 Irish Derby) started out in the company of punk-rock bands as part of the Rock Against Racism movement, sharing bills with the Adverts, the Slits, Billy Idol and the Clash. Subsequent gigs with Burning Spear and a 1978 summer tour with Bob Marley turned them into superstars. The explosive Handsworth Revolution is considered a landmark in the evolution of British reggae, and the band won a Grammy for Babylon the Bandit in 1986. The U.K.'s most highly regarded roots reggae band, tonight Steel Pulse brings its inimitable spiritual awareness and political message to town.

Fri. Sep. 21, 9pm Vivid Nightclub and Ultralounge 8 S. First St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover

Britney Skye @ Famous PORN QUEEN: Vivid Nightclub calls its "Famous" night "The place to be and be seen," but it also might be the place to see more than you might have expected to see, unless of course you're already a fan of the evening's celebrity guest, Britney Skye. A glance at the spelling of her last name and a quick Google search confirmed the truth of at least half her epithet, "Porn Queen," but she's also an Ultimate Fighting Championship swimsuit model. See for yourself if you like, but don't try looking her up on the internet at work. She is, in the internet parlance of our times, "NSFW."

Fri. Sep. 21, 7pm Nova Hall 37 N. 27th St., San Jose 408.661.4433 $12-$15

Adema KORNY: From behind the shadows of Central Valley rockers Korn and Videodrone comes Adema, Bakersfield's latest rock experiment gone right. Armed with a haunting brand of melodic hardcore and a rousing stage show, the six-member band quickly assembled a devout army of fans across the state. Touring in support of its recently released fifth studio album, Kill the Headlights, Adema is sounding as badass as ever, which is a good thing considering the group picked up lead singer Luke Caraccioli just two years ago. Also taking part in the hard-rock mayhem tonight are The Moderna Complex, Aroarah, Daybreak Ends and Breva.

Fri. Sep. 21, 9pm Vault Ultra Lounge 81 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose 408.298.1112 Usual Cover guest list

True Religion Party @ Vault Pious Denim: Fashionistas and club-goers alike should prepare to unite for a party that's bound to be as sexy, comfortable and hip as the featured True Religion Jeans. Hosted by the Karma Couture Boutique of Morgan Hill and Savage Entertainment, this event promises a visual feast of hot clothes and jeans that are rapidly gaining popularity throughout the country. The only thing more enticing than the jeans might be the eclectic beats of the two world-famous DJ's, DJ Ron Reeser and DJ Reece. Always bringing some of the best music to the radio and club scenes, San Francisco DJ Ron will keep the main room of this event going all night with his renowned blend of funk, disco and house. DJ Reece, the pride and joy of Amsterdam's music scene, will be filling the back room with his groovy, seductive blend of tech-house and trance. Warm up the night with a delicious cocktail while checking out DJ David Q's opening act or the debut performance of DJ Bo.

Sat. Sep. 22, 9am West Valley College 14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga 760.212.7472 $25-$50

BassQuake 2007 ACE OF BASS: If you play bass, or just like to listen, you're not going to want to miss BassQuake 2007. The event brings some of the country's top bassists together for a daylong extravaganza featuring live performances, hands-on instruction and giveaways. Among those taking the stage are Bay Area bass kingpins Michael Manring and Joel Smith, as well as out-of-towners David Dyson, Rhonda Smith and Kristen Korb. For more bass than a hip-hop beat tape, head to Saratoga's West Valley College this Saturday.

Sat. Sep. 22, noon-8pm Broadway btw Hamilton & Main, Redwood City 650.780.7253 No Cover

Our Town Downtown FAMILY FRIENDLY: Redwood City is celebrating the recent renaissance of its downtown with a second annual community celebration, featuring five stages for live music, food and drinks from local restaurants and lots of arts and crafts from local artisans. The family-friendly event will encourage young and old to participate in art projects and sidewalk drawings and learn about local history through plays and courtroom reenactments. There will also be historical displays, skateboard demos, carriage rides, a pumpkin walk, a bounce house and a farmers market.

Sat. Sep. 22, 6pm Shoreline Amphitheatre 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy., Mountain View 408.998.TIXS $19.50-$49.50 buy tickets

Summer Send-Off CLASSIC SHOWCASE: Send the summer off right with a classic-rock showcase that includes legendary bands like the Steve Miller Band, the Doobie Brothers, the Greg Kihn Band and Big Brother and the Holding Company. How did promoters get all these big names under one roof? Let's not forget the year is 2007, not 1967. Still, fans young and old alike will revel in the rock & roll greatness of yesteryear when the killer lineup of musicians comes to Shoreline Amphitheatre. The '60s left quite an impression on pop culture, and bands like these were right at the forefront of the revolution. So whether you're reliving the past or just acquainting yourself with your parents' record collection, Saturday night will bring you some of the best tunes the Age of Aquarius had to offer.

Sat. Sep. 22, 9pm B4Twelve Lounge 412 Emerson St., Palo Alto 650.296.9582 $10

Clique UPSCALE ONLY: The former site of Fanny & Alexander's has been revamped into the new Bistro 412 (a.k.a. B4Twelve), and now hosts DJ nights Thursday through Saturday. Tonight's edition of Clique requires upscale attire and celebrates Mony's birthday. DJ Solarz spins dance, Top 40, mash-ups and house in the main room while Francisco Morguia keeps movers warm on the outside patio with smooth house, electro and dance.

Sat. Sep. 27, 9pm Britannia Arms: Cupertino 1087 S. De Anza Blvd., San Jose 408.252.7262 $5

Surrender to Pink III: Rockin' Divas GIRL POWER: Head out to the Brit tonight for "Surrender to Pink III: Rockin' Divas," an evening of female-fronted or solo female rock acts from across the Bay Area. The Dystrict, with members residing in San Jose, San Francisco and Santa Cruz, recently opened for Brandi Carlile and Mandy Moore at their Metro Music in the Park appearances. Usurper Vong of San Jose, Santa Cruzian Sarah Jane and San Francisco's The Landing also perform.

Sat. Sep. 22, 6pm San Jose Skate 397 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose 408.226.1155 $10 (includes skating)

Strata SKATE OR DIE: Once in a while, powered by talent and utter determination, a group from the South Bay emerges from the local horde of mediocre garage rock bands to rear their shiny heads and shout, "Listen to us, we don't suck!" Right now, that group is Strata. The artsy alt-rockers are already celebrities in their home town, but if all goes well, it won't be long before their name is broadcast nationwide. So get off your butt and head down to San Jose Skate this Saturday to see Strata before it's too late or before you can't afford their ticket prices anymore.

Sat. Sep. 22, 9pm Vivid Nightclub and Ultralounge 8 S. First St., San Jose 408.279.4444 Usual Cover

Funky Funk ALL DRESSED UP: Tonight Vivid hosts FunkyFunk, a night to dress to the nines and dance into the early-morning hours. Women are required to wear cocktail dresses and preferred attire for men is collared shirts and blazers. This all-star evening of DJs features Def Con, Devious Dave, Pone, Calvin and Teddy Rockspin making the floor pound with mash-ups, New Wave, old school and freestyle tracks.

Sun. Sep. 23, 6pm The Saddle Rack 42011 Boscell Road, Fremont 510.979.0535 Usual Cover

No More Kings THANKS, '80s: Calling themselves a "Thank-you letter to the '80s," it's no wonder indie-funksters No More Kings are striking a chord with fans of that generation. With references to Knight Rider, The Karate Kid and The Muppet Show, the band's self-titled debut is a nostalgic embodiment of the era of excess, both lyrically and musically. Funky bass lines and clever pop-hooks converge in an appealing mass of energetic melody that's as fun as a game of Pac-Man. Well, maybe not that fun, but you get the idea.

Sun.-Mon. Sep. 23-24 & Wed.-Thu. Sep. 26-27, 7pm Fillmore 1805 Geary, San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $50 buy tickets

Morrissey CYNICAL CROONER: Since members of the Smiths disbanded back in 1987, the spotlight has been cast on band leader Morrissey, and for good reason. The English-born vocalist not only launched himself into a formidable music career in his own country, but captured an enormous American fan base that would project him to the level of cult icon. Known for his darkly poetic lyrics and brooding singing style, Morrissey's 2006 release, Ringleader of the Tormentors, was his strongest in years, and production by glam-rock legend Tony Visconti certainly didn't hurt. Smiths diehards and Morrissey followers will no doubt drink up the indie rock hero's cynical crooning as he heads to San Francisco for a four-night stand at the Fillmore.

Mon. Sep. 24, 6pm The Warfield 982 Market St., San Francisco 408.998.TIXS $25 buy tickets

The Used PLATINUM STATUS: Utah rebel rockers the Used bring their post-hardcore fury to San Francisco's Warfield this Monday night, and we're all glad they decided to make it. Overcoming poverty and drug abuse during their early days was no walk in the park, but the band persevered in a major way, achieving platinum status for their first two albums. Their third studio effort, Lies for Liars, was released in May of this year, and was an instant hit thanks to an abundant supply of raw energy and an emo-tinged sound that first made the band famous five years ago.

Tue.-Wed. Sep. 25-26, 8pm Great American Music Hall 859 O'Farrell St., San Francisco 415.885.0750 $16 buy tickets

Low SLOW-CORE: Sometimes great rock & roll doesn't have to be the fastest, or the loudest, or even the most complex stuff to hit your ears. Standing in quite the opposite of the aforementioned qualities is Low, a band content with delicately stroking your senses, one note at a time. Perhaps the brightest of the so-called "slow-core" bands to come out of mid-'90s anti-grunge scene, the Duluth, Minn. trio takes a minimalist approach to songwriting to produce a kind of euphoric dreamscape not unlike a drug-induced hallucination. Of course, the band is called Low, not High, so don't worry, your neurochemistry is totally safe.

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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: MC, CT, GW, SP PD, JJ & RO

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