Shiprocked It's not a new event but Shiprocked, hosted by Scott Weaver, is a staple of the Plaza Midwood scene. It's a weekly destination for everybody in the area who bounces around the neighborhood spots because there's always something interesting going on. Not only is the party lively but it's top notch people-watching. For those not in the mood to dance the night away or catch an impromptu drag show, have some brews and lounge on the patio. Free, Snug Harbor, www.snugrock.com. (McCray)
JK & The Lostboys JK & The Lostboys, while not all that long in the tooth they formed in 2008 when singer/songwriter Justin Keller and drummer Casey Courter formed the band for a school charity show have already made a goodly sized dent in the sheet metal of Southern auto-pop, releasing their first EP, Street Lights & Avenues, earlier this year. This band cites as influences Ben Harper, Dave Matthews Band, Corey Smith, Jack Johnson, and John Butler Trio. All of which, to these ears, make JK RIYL (Recommended If You Like). With Drew Dixon. $5, The Evening Muse, www.theeveningmuse.com (Timothy C. Davis)
\
Lightning Bolt Rhode Island's Lightning Bolt (Brian Chippendale, drums; Brian Gibson on a severely effed-with bass guitar) has making a righteous post-rock Free-influenced noise for almost 15 years now, when both attended the Rhode Island School of Design. An art school background has influenced the work (and the thinking) of many a rock 'n' roll band over the years, and Lightning Bolt is no different: think Frank Gehry after about five tabs of acid. Super loud and aggressive and still smart amidst it all, this is the kind of show that has the potential to be talked about long after the ringing in the ears has subsided. Highly recommended. With Human Pippi Armstron, Battle Beast. $8-$10, The Milestone, www.themilestoneclub.com (Davis)