Legendary Guitarist Richard Thompson Plays Arts Fest; Stage AE Hosts Flogging Molly and Gogol Bordello (Fri., 6/12/15)

1) It’s hard to find anyone who disagrees that Richard Thompson is one of the best guitarists of all time. He’s collected a swag of awards over the course of a career spanning more than five decades, released more than 40 albums, and toured with artists including Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan, and Wilco. Also an acclaimed songwriter, he’s written music for Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, Don Henley, and others. But despite the trophy cabinet full of accolades, he proves he doesn’t take himself too seriously with this infectious cover of a Britney Spears’ pop song. This drums and guitar version of “Oops I Did It Again,” (admit it, you know all the words) deserves to have at least a couple million more YouTube views for its virtuoso guitar work and medieval vibe. If he plays it at Point State Park you bet the crowd will be singing along. June also marks the release of his latest solo album, Still, produced by Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy. It doesn’t drop until June 28 but fans can get a taste of what’s in store with the first single, “Beatnik Walking”. Thompson performs at Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival with the Electric Trio, including bass player Taras Prodaniuk and drummer Michael Jerome, the power trio line-up which featured on his 2013 album Electric. 7:30 p.m. Free. Dollar Bank Stage, Point State Park, Downtown.

2) Forgive passersby of Stage AE if they momentarily forget they’re in Pittsburgh; this evening promises a trifecta of world music. Sharing equal billing are Flogging Molly and Gogol Bordello, two bands with devoted live followings. Flogging Molly will provide the Celtic punk; Gogol Bordello, Gypsy punk. Flogging Molly has Dave King, an Irishman who sings of exile, drink, and his father’s death when Dave was only 10 years old. Gogol Bordello has Eugene Hütz, a frontman whose mustache (and charisma) rivals Freddie Mercury’s. Commercial peaks for Flogging Molly include 2008’s “Float.” For Gogol Bordello, listen to 2010’s Rick Rubin-produced “Immigraniada (We Comin’ Rougher).” Openers Mariachi El Bronx will provide, well, mariachi. Doors open 6 p.m. 400 North Shore Dr., North Shore.

3) Our battlin’ Bucs take on the Philadelphia Phillies tonight in a 7:05 p.m. game. It’s also Free Shirt Friday, with the first 20,000 fans receiving a Pirates T-shirt. Tailgate before the game at the Friday Night Block Party featuring live entertainment, food and beer options, games and more. Let’s hope the Pirates make the Phillies have a quiet ride home on the Turnpike. PNC Park, 115 Federal St.,  North Shore.

4) Dancing Queen will put people on the dance floor at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. The disco/funk band takes the stage at 9 p.m. 103 Slade Ln., Warrendale.

5) Good Fridays at the Warhol is a weekly party at the museum, featuring art exhibits, music, and cocktails in the high temple to Andy Warhol’s numerous talents. Half-price museum admission. 5 – 10 p.m. 117 Sandusky St., North Shore.

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