CRITICS’ PICKS
FOLK ROCK
What: The Neil Young Show Where: The Rubber Boot Club, 1605 Store St. (underneath Swan’s Hotel) When: Friday, 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 at Lyle’s Place or eventbrite.ca Why: Tributes to Neil Young aren’t unusual, as the celebrated singer-songwriter remains one of Canada’s most adored artists. But not all of those paying tribute are worthy of your time. The Neil Young Show is special in that regard: though the Victoria group of musicians behind the show rarely performs (which is a bonus; most popular tributes wear out their welcome within months), the quintet sounds like a well-rehearsed outfit. Their first club show in almost three years will put the skills of singer-guitarists Phil Shaver and Dylan Stone, bassist Sean Thompson, bassist Kirk Borger and pedal steel player Ray Mohr to the test, but past shows have proven the band is capable of handling Young’s vast catalogue. — Mike Devlin, Times Colonist
SKA/REGGAE
What: Phonosonics with Anthony Shackell and Amy-Lynne Toth Where: Vinyl Envy, 1717 Quadra St. When: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7) Tickets: $8 at Eventbrite.ca or $10 at the door
Why: Victoria party favourites Phonosonics will take to the comfy confines of Vinyl Envy to celebrate the release of their new EP, Reggae Don’t Pay the Rent. The band’s mix of ska, reggae and rocksteady is the perfect complement to a night of sunny weather, and should have no problem turning the Quadra Street record shop with an 80-person capacity into the friendliest dance party of the weekend. — MD
FLAMENCO
What: Music Without Borders featuring Paulina Izquierdo and Josué Tacoronte Where: Northern Quarter, 1724 Douglas St. When: Saturday, 9 p.m.
Tickets: $10 (suggested donation) Why: The duo of singer Paulina Izquierdo and guitarist Josué Tacoronte meet at the crossroads of contemporary jazz and traditional folk, and infuse their artistic amalgam with a twist of Mexican and South American flavour. Izquierdo and Tacoronte (who hail from Querétaro City, Mexico) will deliver a sizzling set highlighted by Tacoronte’s flamenco guitar and Izquierdo’s stunning voice, with material that includes selections from their new recording, Ya Dios Dirá. — MD