Who's playing music, when and where, in and around the city this week

Live music and more, tonight through Thursday, compiled by Shaun Brady, Tom I Nardo, James Johnson, Sara Sherr and Jonathan Takiff.

Hoots and Hellmouth: Philly's fired up acoustic stompers are celebrating the release of "The Holy Open Secret." With The New Familiars plus The Mural and The Mint. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9:30 tonight, $15, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com

JJ Grey and Mofro: Southern rock 'n' soul bluesman and his snappy, brass-endowed show band offer a funk attack at once "heritage" and contemporary. Yeah, he's listened to Tony Joe White and Otis Redding, but kin to the Black Keys, too. Sharing the bill - Karl Denson's Tiny Universe. Trocadero, 10th and Arch street, 8 tonight, $24 (18+), 215-922-LIVE, www.thetroc.com.

The National: Pounding, dramatic anthems pour forth from this granite-solid crew, fronted by the brooding baritone Matt Berninger. With Colin Stetson. Electric Factory, 7th and Willow streets. 8:30 tonight, $24, 215-336-2000, www.livenation.com

Avett Brothers: This North Carolina-based, tight-harmonizing, banjo and guitar driven "grungegrass" trio sure puts a smile on with their contrast of old timey tunes and introspective, contemporary lyrics like "Paranoia in B Major" and "Me and God" - the latter admitting "sometimes I use curse words when I pray." And, when in waltzy ballad mode, they do evoke the piney laments of brothers past - Louvins, Everlys and Flying Burritos. Expect previews from their album collaboration with Rick Rubin, due out in August. Trocadero, 10th and Arch streets, 9 p.m. tomorrow, $24/$26, 215-922-LIVE, www.thetroc.com

Dark Star Orchestra: Didn't get your fill of the Dead at those surprisingly strong Spectrum shows? This well-regarded tribute band is ready to turn on your love light, Sugar Magnolia, with a faithful re-creation of a classic GD show. Tea Leaf Green lights up first with their jamming originals. Electric Factory, 7th and Willow streets, 8 p.m. tomorrow (all ages), $25, 215-336-2000, www.livenation.com.

A Camp: Nina Perrson, best known as former singer/songwriter/keyboardist for Swedish exports The Cardigans, is now doing very well, thank you, fronting this new band project with hubby Nathan Larson (Shudder To Think) and Niclas Frisk (Atomic Swing). While oft veering into darkly sardonic lyrics, Perrson's beguiling vocals and pop hooks work with the band's full-bodied, Phil Spector-ish productions to keep a listener constantly on their wavelength. A Camp's North American album debut, "Colonia," is one of 2009's very best. Gentlemen Reg and Blame the Patient share the bill. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9:30 p.m. tomorrow, $12, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com.

Young Love: Horny dance-pop hound has the tunes to light a fire, or at least get you swaying to the beat. Nashville's Paper Route and Philly's own Liam and Me share the bill. North Star Bar, 27th and Poplar streets, 9 p.m. tomorrow, $10/$13 (adults only),215-787-0488, www.northstarbar.com.

Kat Edmonson/Kate Schutt: There's been a boomlet in wiley women jazz/pop singers/instrumentalists. Here's a double dose for your listening pleasure. At once languid and piercing, the aptly named Kat works some cool changes on standards like "Summertime" and "Angel Eyes," and modern moodies like The Cure's "Just Like Heaven" and The Cardigans'(!) "Lovefool," which she serves as a two-tempo samba/ballad. The Chadds Ford-spawned (then Canadian transplanted) Schutt has a breathier, bluesier, yet equally intimate vocal sound, a stronger focus on originals (she won a John Lennon Songwriting Prize) and plays guitar with hipster panache. Upstairs at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St., 8 p.m. Sunday, $10, 215-222-1400, www.worldcafelive.com.

Buckethead: Progressive funkmetal guitar master opens fire with his splashy instrumental stuff, sure to include excerpts from his latest "Crime Slunk Scene" album episode. With Wolff opening. TLA, 334 South St., 8 p.m. Sunday, $14.74 (each in a four pack), $19.50, $22.50, 215-922-1011, www.livenation.com

Jessica Lea Mayfield: When she opens her mouth, out pops this dark, commanding, alt-country spirit. Think Neko Case meets Kathleen Edwards. Also of note is opening act Among the Oak and Ash, a new collaboration 'tween Josh Joplin and Garrison Starr. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9 p.m. Sunday, $12, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com.

Moya Brennan: The haunting voice of Clannad makes the Angel dance. Ashley Davis opens. Tin Angel, 20 S. 2nd St., 7:30 p.m. Sunday, $20, 215-928-0978, www.tinangel.com.

Gregory Isaacs: The "Cool Ruler" of Jamaican reggae ballads and protest legend comes round again on his "Brand New Me" tour with the Live Wyya Band and special guest Lionize. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St., 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, $27-$37, 215-222-1400, www.worldcafelive.com.

Rock Plaza Central: Toronto novelist and wobbly/whiney singer/songwriter Chris Eaton fronts this edgy six-piece, alt-Americana ensemble. Fans of Will Oldham, Van Morrison, Tom Waits and Bright Eyes will dig 'em. With Suckers, Strand of Oaks. Manhattan Room, 15 W. Girard Ave., 8 p.m. Thursday, $10, 215-739-5577, www.themanhattanroom.com.

X: Legendary L.A. punk band fronted by John Doe and Exene marks the spot, again. With Steve Soto and the Twisted Hearts. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St., 8 p.m. Thursday, $28-$38, 215-222-1400, wwww.worldcafelive.com.

Introducing The Turntablistic DJ Razor Ramon Release Party: Join the man himself as he celebrates his latest release along with DJ Roxy and DJ Ultraviolet. The first 15 people get a free album, so get there early. Hosted by The One and Ethel Cee. Medusa, 27 S. 21st St., 10 tonight, $5, 215-557-1981, www.medusalounge.com.

The Hustle: Hip-hop band features Kuf Knotz at the helm rapping, with singer La Ru backing him with her soulful vocals. They'll be joined by Greenville, N.C., band Blount Harvey, who feature a similar singer/MC duo in Rudolph Lyrics and TyKee. The Fire, 412 W. Girard Ave., 9 tonight, $7, 267-671-9298, www.iourecords.com/thefire.

Roc-A-Fella Records vs. Native Tongues: Discographies do battle as two of the greatest hip-hop collectives of all time go head to head courtesy of DJs Emynd and Sammy Slice for a mash-up sure to please hip-hop heads and partygoers. Fluid Night Club, 613 S. 4th St., 9 tonight, $5, 215-629-3686, www.fluidnightclub.com.

Gillie Da Kid: Former Cash Money Records artist and industry veteran is one of Philly's best-kept secrets. Also on deck, a host of promising young talents, including Loose Kannons, Hae Sloane, Trademark and more. Hosted by Killah Karin. Crocodile Rock, 520 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 6 p.m. tomorrow, $17 advance, $20 day of show, www.crocodilerockcafe.com.

Beat Garden Presents Last Saturdays: Hosted by Big O, this monthly party/show will feature performances from Clean Guns, Jawnzap7, Curly Castro, Fel Sweetenberg and Poesh Wonder, while DJ Cru-Cut keeps things moving between sets. Liquid Charm, 1207 Race St., 9:30 p.m. tomorrow, $10, 215-557-0208, www.myspace.com/liquidcharms.

'Jay Stay Paid' Album Release Party: The late J Dilla was one of the greatest hip-hop producers, and his timeless music lives on in the hearts, souls and ears of fans throughout the world. This party will celebrate the release of his posthumous album, with local DJ Rich Medina providing the tunes. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 Frankford Ave., 9 p.m. Monday, $5, 21-plus, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com.

iStandard Producer Showcase: Hosted by J Hatch and Don Di Napoli, this two-night event will feature a range of national talent competing in front of a panel including Tekneek, Bad Boy Records A&R Skid and G-Unit A&R Tony G. Featuring music by Drawzilla and performances from 2ew Gunn Ciz, Clean Guns and Sic Osyrus, this event should have something for hopeful producers and regular hip-hop fans. Fluid Night Club, 613 S. 4th St., 8:30 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, $15, two-day pass $20, 21-plus, 215-629-3686, www.fluidnightclub.com.

Vaste Aire: Abstract Harlem-based rhymer gained fame with Cannibal Ox and their cult classic release, "The Cold Vein." Vaste has shown since that he can do it on his own. With Just-1 and Born Visionz. Crocodile Rock, 520 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 7 p.m. Thursday, $12 advance, $15 at the door, 610-434-4600, www.crocodilerockcafe.com.

Bicycle Shorts: As part of the Moore Gallery of Art's exhibition series, "Bicycle: People and Ideas in Motion," Secret Cinema will show rare retro educational films on bike safety, as well as bike-focused documentary, drama, and a musical short. Moore College of Art and Design, 20th and Race streets, 8 tonight, $7, 215-965-4099, http://www.thesecretcinema.com.

Walter Schreifels: The former member of Gorilla Biscuits, Quicksand and Rival Schools joins McRad and Metroplex. The Khyber, 56 S. 2nd St., 9 tonight, $10, 215-238-5888, www.thekhyber.com.

Hell Under the El: Punk rock at the diner with The Tommy Griggs Band, The Basement Snakes and S.W.A.K. Diner at the Plaza, Front Street and Snyder Avenue, 9 tonight, $5, all ages, 215-755-7899, www.myspace.com/hellunderthel.

Clean Your Bean: A night of live music, DJ's, art, food and drink, with Rickey Rude, DJs Carlo Flamingo and Modesta, and art by Don McPartland, Matt Green and Kate Bosco. 10th Street Laundromat, 1141 S. 10th St., 8-11 p.m. tomorrow, free, all ages, 215-463-3100,

http://10thstreetlaundromat.com/

US Air Guitar Championships: You've been practicing your Angus moves on Guitar Hero - now here's the chance to bring them out of your living room. The Khyber, 56 S. 2nd St., 9 p.m. tomorrow, $15, 215-238-5888, www.thekhyber.com.

Death Vessel: The man behind the country-folk outfit Joel Thibodeau has a strikingly high, feminine voice. Chapel of the First Unitarian Church, 2125 Chestnut St., 6 p.m. Sunday, $10, all ages, www.r5productions.com.

Bluebond Guitars 20th Anniversary Concert: Ike, The MLM's, The Cutbacks, the young students and many more help the South Street music store celebrate. Proceeds benefit the Bluebond Music Education Fund. The Trocadero, 10th and Arch streets, 6 p.m. Sunday, $10, all ages, 215-922-LIVE, www.thetroc.com.

Secret Chiefs 3: The post-Mr. Bungle project is as experimental as expected, spanning a zillion genres, including Middle Eastern and Bollywood music. Kayo Dot opens. Sanctuary of the First Unitarian Church, 2125 Chestnut St., 8 p.m. Sunday, $15, all ages, www.r5productions.com.

Crystal Antlers: Touch and Go's scuzzy garage-punk band jams with Philly groups My Mind and Best Friends. The Barbary, Frankford and Delaware avenues, 6:30 p.m. Monday, $10, all ages, www.r5productions.com.

Grant Hart: The legendary Husker Du drummer and album cover artist plays with Doomed to Obscurity and Trained Attack Dogs. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9 p.m. Tuesday, $10, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com.

Love Is All: The Swedish post-punk band is a must-see live act, with their irresistible rhythms, keyboardist/frontwoman Josephine Olausson's joyful Bjork-like vocals, and their unusual cover choices. Cold Cave opens. Kung Fu Necktie, 1248 N. Front St., 8 p.m. Wednesday, $8, 215-291-4919, www.kungfunecktie.com

Martin Bisi: He's recorded classic albums for Sonic Youth, John Zorn, Swans and Dresden Dolls. With Kohoutek, Empty Shapes and Grass Widow. The M Room, 15 W. Girard Ave., 8 p.m. Wednesday, $8, 215-739-5577, www.themanhattanroom.com.

Viva Voce: The guitar-drums duo of Anita and Kevin Robinson does a lot with very little, veering from post-rock to dream pop. Cut Off Your Hands opens. Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9 p.m. Wednesday, $10-12, 215-739-9684, www.johnnybrendas.com.

Natalie Portman's Shaved Head: Jokey Seattle electro-pop band writes odes to beards and side ponytails. Philly's sassy hip-hop/dance band Gang opens. North Star Bar, 27th and Poplar streets, 8 p.m. Wednesday, $10, 215-684-0808, www.northstarbar.com

Disappears: Chicago's next big thing in underground rock includes ex members of 90 Day Men and The Ponys. With Sunshine Recorder and Faux Slang. Kung Fu Necktie, 1248 N. Front St., 8 p.m. Thursday, $8, 215-291-4919, www.kungfunecktie.com

Dark Horse and The Carousels: Philly garage-punkers play one of South Philly's coolest venues. With Univox, Last Tide and Radio Eris. Connie's Ric Rac, 1132 S. 9th St., 8 p.m. Thursday, $10, all ages, www.conniesricrac.com.

Sunny Jain: Count drummer Jain among the numbers of first-generation Indian-American musicians equally versed in jazz and South Asian music, able to wholly integrate both influences. Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th Street & Ben Franklin Pkwy., 5:45 and 7:15 tonight, free with regular museum admission of $14, 215-763-8100, www.philamuseum.org.

Lafayette Gilchrist & New Volcanoes: Baltimore-based pianist and his funk-jazz group, a heavy-duty blend of Monk and hip-hop. Chris' Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom St., 8 & 10 p.m. tonight, $15, 215-568-3131, www.chrisjazzcafe.com.

A Tribute to Harrison Ridley: Yes, indeedy, musicians and fellow jazz aficionados gather to honor the longtime WRTI DJ, who passed away in February. Attendees are encouraged to bring short written reflections, some of which will be shared from the stage. Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz, 736 S. Broad St., free (donations encouraged), 3 p.m. Sunday, 215-893-9912, www.clefclub.org.

Sci-Fi Philly: Brooklyn-based avant-chamber-jazz quintet Floriculture Music; Anomalous Warmth, a local trio comprised of members of Shot x Shot and Sonic Liberation Front; and saxophonist Jack Wright sits in with trombonist Daniel Blacksberg's trio. Gojjo, 4540 Baltimore Ave., 8 p.m. Sunday, $5, www.scifiphilly.com.

Liebesfreud: This local string quartet, which mines the depths of the repertoire on some superb instruments, offers Tchaikovsky's extended "Souvenir de Florence." The four-movement work, composed while visiting the city where he often spent the winters, was originally written for string sextet and is filled with his typically robust and soaring melodies. Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 S. 18th St., 5:30 tonight, free, 215-545-4302, www.liebesfreud.org. (Galleries for the Stanley Lechtzin exhibit open at 4:30 p.m.)

Savoy Company: This Gilbert and Sullivan company, founded in 1901, continues its tradition with the popular "Pirates Of Penzance." Dan Rothermel conducts in his 29th season of G&S classics. The show, probably the company's final one at the Academy, will be directed by Roberta Morrell, formerly of the famed D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with a new design by the great illustrator and cartoonist Arnold Roth. Academy of Music, Broad and Locust streets, 8 tonight and tomorrow, $10-$50, 215-893-1999; and 8:30 p.m. June 12 and 13, Longwood Gardens, Route 1 in Kennett Square, $25, which includes admission to the gardens, 215-735-7161, www.savoyshop.com.

Philadelphia Boys Choir: Jeffrey Smith leads the young voices in popular songs and a few operatic arias, and the world premiere of Robert Cohen's "Noah." Another world premiere is by Ranaan Meyer, the gifted bassist from the hot group Time For Three, who'll join in his piece "This Is Our World." Irvine Auditorium, 34th and Spruce streets, 2 p.m. tomorrow, $25-$50, 215-222-3500, www.phillyboyschoir.org.

1807 and Friends: The ensemble wraps its season with Dvorak's Sonatina in G and Rachmaninoff's flowing Cello Sonata. As a finale, they'll offer the familiar Beethoven "Archduke" Piano Trio. Academy of Vocal Arts, 1920 Spruce St., 7:30 p.m. Monday, $17, 215-438-4027.

New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players: The chamber quartet performs String Quartets by Debussy and Mendelssohn (Op. 11), plus Aaron Copland's Two Pieces for String Quartet. Episcopal Church of the Advent, Washington and Franklin streets, Cape May, N.J., 8 p.m. Tuesday, $20, 800-275-4278, www.capemaymac.org.

Brian and Joshua Kovach: This father-son musical legacy will each solo in works with string quartet, consisting of violinists Beverly Shin and Carlos Rubio, violist Kathleen Overfield-Zook and cellist Naomi Gray. Clarinetist Joshua Kovach will solo in one of chamber music's greatest glories, the Mozart Clarinet Quintet. Pianist Brian Kovach will take to the keyboard for the Piano Quintet by American composer Edgar Stillman-Kelley, a work that has been unfairly neglected since live radio performances with the composer's wife in 1936. Jacobs Music, 1718 Chestnut St., 7 p.m. Wednesday, free, 215-568-7800.

Philadelphia Orchestra: Charles Dutoit takes the podium in a quartet of audience favorites. One is a work written for the orchestra, Rachmaninoff's glowing Symphonic Dances. Ravel's sumptuous post-World War I take on the crumbled Austrian empire, the throbbing "La Valse," was given the most sensuous reading imaginable by Dutoit several seasons back. French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, famed for tackling pianistic challenges, solos in two of them: Ravel's brooding Piano Concerto for the Left Hand and Liszt's keyboard juggernaut "Totentanz" ("Dance of Death"). Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center, 8 p.m. Thursday and June 6, plus 2 p.m. June 5 and 7, $39-$125, 215-893-1999, www.philorch.org.

Bay-Atlantic Symphony: Jed Gaylin leads the orchestra in Haydn's "Trauer" Symphony (No. 44) and Wagner's "Siegfried Idyll." Christina Castelli is the soloist in Mozart's Fifth Violin Concerto, nicknamed the "Turkish." First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, 500 Hughes St. in Cape May, N.J., 8 p.m. Thursday, $25, 800-275-4278, www.capemaymac.org. *