Elle King in Concert at Stage AE; Blues Traveler Plays Rivers Casino (Rescheduled); Mr. Smalls Host Eels (Sat., 4/27/19)

1) Elle King’s “Ex’s & Oh’s” was a genre-crossing success on many of Billboard’s charts: adult top 40, alternative, and rock. That single abounds as much with hooks as it does double entendres, and it appears on her similarly infectious debut, 2015’s Love Stuff. She was soon known for her sultry vocals, sharp lyrics, and outlaw image. Her Pittsburgh performances included an appearance at the third annual O Starry Night concert at the Petersen Events Center. The event celebrated a particular type of celestial body—the pop star—and included a headlining performance by Matchbox Twenty’s Rob Thomas. King followed up Love Stuff with her sophomore album, Shake the Spirit, in 2018. She is also a talented guitar and banjo player, and her songs draw as much from bluegrass as they do from indie rock. Tunes such as “Wild Love” incorporate electronic music too. She will perform at Stage AE. Barns Courtney opens. Doors open 7 p.m. 400 North Shore Dr., North Shore. (CM)

2) John Popper, who is known equally for his harmonic prowess and harmonic bandoliers, leads Blues Traveler. The band, which started its journey in Princeton, New Jersey in 1987, touches on blues, folk, psychedelic, and southern rock. The group’s top hits are “Run-Around” and “Hook,” both of which appear on 1994’s four, its fourth (and breakthrough) album. Founding member and bassist Bobby Sheehan died in 1999 of an accidental overdose, but the rest of the band continued to honor their friend and bandmate. Popper and company continue to release music. 2015’s Blow Up the Moon was a collaborative effort with every track featuring other artists, like Plain White T’s on the song “Nikkia’s Prom.” Blues Traveler’s latest album is 2018’s Hurry Up & Hang Around. They also tour regularly, and live performances of songs often transform into jams. Their latest tour takes them to the Rivers Casino. 8 p.m. Rescheduled to August 29, due to a band member’s injury. 777 Casino Dr., North Shore. (EC, CM)

3) What the heck are Eels? “Before I sputter out” ring any bells? If you’re thinking, oh, right, one of many  ’90s one-hit wonders, you’re right … to a point. First, the single is titled “Novocaine for the Soul” from their debut album, 1996’s Beautiful Freak. And yes, the song shimmers with that pop sheen that coated seemingly every alternative rock song released in the second half of the ’90s. But Eels are more of an indie-rock band who, yes, had one big hit but offer so much more, including 12 studio albums to their name. (A personal favorite is the slick “Souljacker Part I.”) The sole constant member (and primary singer/songwriter) is a man who goes by the mysterious moniker “E.” Eels formed in 1995 in Los Angeles, California. Their latest album is 2018’s The Deconstruction. Eels will perform at Mr. Smalls Theatre. 8 p.m. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. (CM)

A Riverhounds forward takes a shot on goal as a defender closes fast. Photo: Chris Cowger.

4) One of Pittsburgh’s hottest sports teams takes the field tonight—The Riverhounds. The squad takes on the Nashville SC at 7 p.m. at Highmark stadium. See some good soccer action up close and in person. 510 W. Station Square Dr., Station Square.

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