India.Arie at the Landmark Theater
It’s the emphasis on the “neo” part of neo-soul (which is to say, the integration of hip-hop into a heavily R&B sound) that gave us notice of India.Arie five years ago. Plus those two years she spent in the studio, of course. And here we are celebrating her new album, “Testimony: Vol. 1, Life and Relationship,” which went gold just a few months ago and gives hope to a whole generation of neo-neo-soul singers, whatever that might be. She plays Sunday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. $37.50. Call 262-8100 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Scott Weis Band with bonus racing team!
Scott Weis and his band have spent hours practicing and perfecting their brand of guitar-driven blues. And for a limited time only, they’ll be performing here for your listening pleasure. But wait! Act now and get the chance to meet the Scott Weis racing team from the National Hot Rod Association at no additional cost. How much would you be willing to pay for this musical/hot-rodding extravaganza? $75? $100? For all this and more, it’s only $10 at Alley Katz. Get your tickets before it’s too late! (Too late being after Saturday, Oct. 7, 10 p.m.-2 a.m.) 643-2816.
Herman’s Hermits in Glen Allen
The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen kicks off its 2006-2007 Music Connections Series with the British Invasion band Herman’s Hermits. While musicians of that time period might not be remembered for their well-thought-out band names, Herman’s Hermits has certainly contributed timeless hits such as “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” and “Wonderful World” to the musical canon. They play two shows Saturday, Oct. 7, at 5 and 8 p.m. $40. 261-6200.
Sparta at Alley Katz
El Paso may not be the place you think of as birthing a somewhat moody indie rock band, much less one where a former Richmond musician might end up. But there’s more than cheap prescription drugs coming out of that border town. Keeley Davis, of Denali and Engine Down, made his way into the Western desert, where he signed on as guitarist for the band, made of members of At the Drive In, which has built up an unstable sound, moving between weepy and screamy in a very few guitar strokes. Sparta plays Monday, Oct. 9, 6-11 p.m. $13-$15. 643-2816.
Particle at the Canal Club
The members of Particle want you to be happy. Why else would they play in a jam band that sounds like an odd cross between Pink Floyd and Funkadelic? Particle plays Friday, Oct. 6, at 8:30 p.m. $15-$17.50. 643-2582. S