GRAHAM ROCKINGHAM’S BEST BETS

SHANIKA MARIA

Kojo Damptey presents Bloom, an all-female revue of local talent, featuring Hamilton singer-songwriter Shanika Maria, Miuza, Obuxum, plus DJ Seema and DJ Stylo Starr. At This Ain’t Hollywood, 345 James St. N., a good place to escape from the election, on Thursday, June 7, 8 p.m. $10.

POLKA DOGS

The Polka Dogs made a name for themselves in the early ’90s blending brassy tuba with traditional folk instruments like banjo and accordion. After a long hiatus, the group’s original members have reunited with a new CD. They play the Artword Artbar, 15 Colborne St., on Thursday, June 7, 8 p.m. $15.

TEENAGE HEAD

Forty-three years later, Hamilton’s pioneering punks return to Westdale Secondary to be inducted into the school’s Wall of Distinction. The band played its first concert in the cafeteria in 1975. On Friday, June 8, they’re playing the auditorium. Opening set by fellow inductee Charly Chiarelli. 6:30 to 11 p.m. $20, not available at the door. Get them in advance at the school office.

SIMPLE PLAN

The Burlington Sound of Music kicks off with a ticketed all-day rock concert Saturday, June 9, at Spencer Smith Park, headlined by Montreal pop-punks Simple Plan (8:20 p.m.) and Sublime, with Rome (9:45 p.m.). Also performing are the All-American Rejects (7:05 p.m.), Everclear (5:45 p.m.), Rainbow Butt Monkeys, (4:40 p.m.), Tonic (3:25 p.m.), Eve 6 (2:20 p.m..) and Not by Choice (1:15 p.m.). Tickets at soundofmusic.ca.

KIP MOORE

American country star Kip Moore headlines a second ticketed day at the Burlington Sound of Music Festival on Sunday, June 10, at Spencer Smith Park. Other country acts include Lee Brice (7 p.m.), Chad Brownlee (5:30 p.m.), Emerson Drive (4:15 p.m.), Madeline Merlo (3:15 p.m.), Cold Creek County (2:15 p.m.) and Leaving Thomas (1:30 p.m.). Tickets at soundofmusic.ca.