Hendrix’s Legacy Sound at Benedum; “Gentle Giant” Plays Carnegie Library Music Hall (CPs Thu., 3/20/2014)

1) Some of yesteryear’s artists go through cycles of fading away and reappraisal, but Jimi Hendrix, a psychedelic mirage in the form of a man, has remained wildly popular since his death in 1970 with those of all ages. To satiate this ever-multiplying fan base, the Experience Hendrix Tour has recruited widely respected guitarists to interpret Hendrix’s work and trek across the U.S. in eight different incarnations since 1995. Among those who will be banging out Hendrix classics at the tour’s stop at Benedum Center today are Buddy Guy, Zakk Wylde, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Jonny Lang, and Dweezil Zappa. Also part of the show, former Hendrix sideman bassist Billy Cox. It may be way too late to stand next to Jimi’s fire, but you can still enjoy the experience. 7:30 p.m. 237 7th St., Cultural District.

2) Don Williams got the nickname “Gentle Giant” for his soft baritone, sentimental songwriting style (think of a country-fied James Taylor with song titles like “I Believe in You” and “You’re My Best Friend”), and his six-foot height. But Williams is also a giant in terms of influence, with a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame and 17 No. 1 hits on the country charts. The 74-year-old has attempted a “farewell tour,” but retirement hasn’t really suited him. He’s back with a new album this month and a show at the Carnegie Library Music Hall tonight. 8 p.m. 510 E. 10th Ave., Munhall.

3) With his awkward, gangly persona, stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia tells mortifying autobiographical stories, mining from his Catholic school experience, his struggles as an up-and-coming comic, and a sleepwalking disorder that has put him in more than a few near-fatal situations. His storytelling style of comedy (which occasionally veers into heartfelt poignancy) has made him one of a handful of comedians to regularly appear on “This American Life.” He’s also done a one-man play off-Broadway, but tonight Birbiglia is at the Byham Theater for his Thank God for Jokes Tour 7:30 p.m. 101 6th St., Cultural District.

4) One of the more surprising stances Sen. John McCain found himself defending in 2008 was his love of ABBA. “You’re a no-class guy if you like ABBA,” he ranted, “[then] why does everybody go see Mamma Mia? Hypocrisy! Rank hypocrisy!” It is true that no matter how music elitists sneer, the disco-ish Swedish band’s music is eternally popular in secondary products, like the musical Mamma Mia and ABBA Mania, a tribute act that has played all over the world since 1999 and comes to the Palace Theatre today. With a stage show that recreates the glitz of the late ’70s and a set list of mega hits, it’d be enough to cheer up the grumpy senator. 8 p.m. 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg.

Share on Social Media