FRIDAY, JANUARY 25

The Music Tapes Present The Traveling Imaginary @ 40 Watt Club: Longtime E6er Julian Koster's whimsical crew is back in town, and they've brought a circus tent with them. Yep.

Utah, Grim Pickins and the Bastard Congregation, In the Lurch @ Caledonia Lounge: Help Utah celebrate the release of its awesome new album. The other bands ain't half bad, either.

Thre3style U DJ Competition @ Manor: Five local DJs battle for a cool $1,000 and a spot opening for Tina T at Club La Vela in Panama City, FL.

Jonathan Byrd @ Hendershot's Coffee Bar: Dromedary member and folky singer-songwriter performs a set of his cleverly worded originals.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26

Freelance Whales, Hundred Waters, Il Abanico @ 40 Watt Club: NYC and Florida's buzzy indie scenes collide on a varied but solid bill.

Kyshona Armstrong, Drew Kohl, Young America @ Hendershot's Coffee Bar: Kohl's fine new album showcases his Dylanesque delivery and knack for folk melody.

The Dream Scene, Quiet Hooves, Bubbly Mommy Gun @ Farm 255: Javier Morales' new album as The Dream Scene is nearing completion. From what I've heard thus far, it'll be an instant classic.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27

Ed Roland and The Sweet Tea Project @ Melting Point: Read our Q&A with Collective Soul frontman Roland, and catch one or several of his Sunday shows through Feb. 17.