d.r.u.m.

Upcoming shows in the Houston area:

Thu Mar 27

Common at Hush Night Club
Show starts at 11; Tickets are $30(general)/$60(VIP).

Fri Mar 28

Les Claypool and Tim Fite at Warehouse Live
Show starts at 9; Tickets are $23.

D.R.U.M. and Zwee at Dan Electro's Guitar Bar
Show starts at 10; Tickets are between $5 and $10.

One Tribe Nation at the Meridian
Show starts at 8; Tickets are $15 advance/$25 day of show.

Southern Culture On The Skids and Country Fried at the Continental Club
Show starts at 9; Tickets are $15.

The Western Civilization at Walter's On Washington
Show starts at 9; Tickets are $7 over 21/$10 under 21.

Find out what's going on the rest of the weekend

One of the events I look forward to most in Houston every year is the International Festival. This year's iFest (the 37th edition) aims the spotlight on Africa, and it's scheduled to take place April 19-20 and April 25-27 in downtown Houston. Rather than focusing on one country this year (as is typically the case), diverse performances and activities are planned to highlight the "three journeys of Africans: original human migration out of Africa, the tragedy of forced migration out of Africa, and the cultural journey back to Africa and globalization." This year's performance schedule was released today and includes the likes of The Wailers, Trombone Shorty, and Bettye LaVette, as well as cultural events such as Ethiopian and Kenyan fashion shows.

More iFest info after the jump

Upcoming shows in the Houston Area:

Thu Jan 31
Dan Dyer at McGonigel's Mucky Duck
I first discovered Dan Dyer when Doughnut and I were checking out a set by New Orleans artist Sam & Ruby at the 2006 Voodoo Music Festival. He joined in for several songs during their set, and added a lot to their total sound. I am interested to see what his solo set is like. Show starts at 7:30; tickets are $10.

John Evans and Southern Backtones at the Hard Rock Cafe
This is a benefit concert for Star of Hope. It features two up-and-coming rock acts that are making big splashes in the Houston music scene. Apparently they are also going to have Jimi Hendrix's guitar there. Show starts at 6:30; they are asking for a suggested donation of $5.

Fri Feb 1
Big Daddy Kane, Kool Moe Dee, Whodini and Willie D at the 610 Arena
I am not really sure whats going on with this one. I can't seem to find too much information about it. It looks like a great old-school hip-hop show. What could be better than that. Please let me know if any of you have any more information about this show.

Christopher Lawrence at Rich's
Rich's downtown nightclub brings in another world renowned DJ for Houston's dance scene to enjoy. Make sure you always know where your drink is though. Show starts late; tickets are $15.

Sat Feb 2
Blue Mountain at Continental Club
This alternative country band broke up in 2001, and are currently on their reunion tour. They feature Wilco bassist John Stirratt's twin sister Laurie on bass and vocals. Show Starts at 10; Ticket prices at the door.

Check Other at The Mink
Local Houston MC crew Check Other bring their fresh hip-hop sound to the Mink. This should be a pretty fun party featuring a couple DJ's and a midnight set by Check O. Show starts at 9; tickets are $7.

Digital Underground at Scout Bar
Here is another good old hip-hop show for you. Upside - They are taking a two year hiatus from the road. Downside - They are playing in Clear Lake. Show starts at 8; Tickets are $15.

The Fiery Furnaces at The Proletariat
The Proletariet are closing their doors this weekend with a bang. The Fiery Furnaces will assuredly finish it off right. Local Houston acts The Dimes and Elaine Greer support. Show starts early; Ticket prices at the door.

Spoonfed Tribe and D.R.U.M. at Fitzgerald's
Dallas favorites Spoonfed Tribe bring their tribal-rock sound to Fitzgerald's upstairs. Local reggae/afrobeat band D.R.U.M. open up the evening. Show starts at 8; Tickets are $10.

White Williams and Rings at Walter's On Washington
Many good things are going to come of this guy in the next couple of years. He has been compared to, and has ties to Dan Deacon, which says a lot. If you want to get down, this is the place to be. Show starts at 9; tickets are $10.

Yonder Mountain String Band at Warehouse Live
If you did not pick one of those other five shows, make your way over to Warehouse Live for a nice healthy does of some faced-paced newgrass. These guys are a treat for anybody who has never seen them. We have a nice little interview lined up, so stay tuned for the feature. Show starts at 9; tickets are $20.