Lucero in Concert at Mr. Smalls; Jergel’s Hosts The Balcony Big Band (Mon., 10/24/16)

1) At their core, Lucero remains a country-punk outfit, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t evolved their sound since forming in 1998 in Memphis. Adding Rick Steff on keyboards certainly helped. He’s played with musicians as diverse as Hank Williams Jr. and Cat Power. In 2009, they released their first album with a horn section: 1372 Overton Park. Their latest, 2015’s All a Man Should Do, was their first album to include a cover song. This fact might not seem too noteworthy except the song is “I’m in Love with a Girl.” Big Star, also from Memphis, first recorded the tune in Memphis’s Ardent Studios. Then 44 years later, Lucero covered it in that same studio with drummer Jody Stephens, the last surviving original member of Big Star, on backing vocals. A lyric from that song also serves as the title to All a Man Should Do. Like Big Star, Lucero never really broke into the mainstream despite some great recordings. They definitely have a following, though, for whom they will perform at Mr. Smalls. Cory Branan opens. 8 p.m. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. (CM)

2) The Balcony Big Band,  with Slippery Rock Jazz, is hitting only high notes in a Monday night performance at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. The 18 member group makes a big, beautiful sound. Get in some Monday relaxation with good music. 7 p.m. No cover. 285 Northgate Dr., Warrendale.

3) ) It’s Global Mondays at Cappy’s Cafe in Shadyside with imported bottled beers for only $3. While there, team up an import with a bowl of their scrumptious chili. 5431 Walnut St.

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