Gerald and Eddie Levert at the Landmark Theater
As the son of O’Jays great Eddie Levert, Gerald Levert enjoys a rare R&B pedigree. But with nine solo albums in his discography (not to mention collaborations), the younger Levert has surpassed the accusation that he’s just riding daddy’s coattails. So when both Leverts perform at the Landmark Theater Wednesday, Jan. 12, the atmosphere will be one of celebration rather than gimmickry. Expect some duets and plenty of solo material, including Gerald’s signature slow jams. But it won’t be all doo-wop and crooning. Gerald’s latest recording — “Do I Speak for the World?” — is a Marvin Gaye-esque endeavor at social commentary that sees the teddy bear moving beyond romance and into politics and religion. Tickets are $48.50 at www.ticketmaster.com. — Nathan Lott
River City Blues Society’s Fifth Anniversary
The Blues Society, dedicated to preserving the proud and muddy sound of American music, celebrates its fifth birthday at the Canal Club Saturday, Jan. 15, with performances by EG Kight and Michael Burks. Kight, the “Georgia Songbird,” is a con-temporary of Bonnie Raitt and k.d. lang, and with the release of her fourth album, “Southern Comfort,” the songbird’s circle is getting a little wider. Delta bluesman Burks had a guitar in hand from the age of 2 and moved from his native Arkansas to chase blues festivals nationwide. His newest release, “I Smell Smoke,” puts his guitar skills in sharp relief. These skills are on display as he headlines along with the “Georgia Songbird,” starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12-$15. 643-2582. www.thecanalclub.com. — B.R.
Young Mike Brick and the Music-Grinders at Shenanigans
Where do these kids come up with these names, anyway? This one should give a little hint that these guys are having fun with the music, something countrylike and rootsy and even a bit gospelized, but not committed to any of them. They’re mixing it all up and laughing at the results, at the lyrics and at the audience taking them seriously. But amazingly, this musical mess works pretty well, especially when the fiddle comes in. Tap your feet with a chuckle. They play at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $5. 264-5010. — B.R.