Prog-Rockers Kansas in Concert at the Benedum; Jergel’s Hosts Southern Rockers 38 Special (Fri., 9/30/16)

1) “Dust in the Wind,” “Carry on Wayward Son,” and “Point of Know Return” are all mega hits from progressive rock band Kansas. Yes, Kansas is actually from Kansas (Topeka), where the musicians started out as a garage band but were soon discovered and went on to become a huge success in the ’70s. Kansas is now celebrating the 40th anniversary of the sextuple-platinum Leftoverture album, and it’s good to see they are still creating new music. The group will be at the Benedum Center for a show including songs from their newly released (Sept. 23) album The Prelude Implicit—along with all the tracks from Leftoverture. 7:30 p.m. 237 7th St., Cultural District. (RH)

2) Jacksonville-based rock band 38 Special was formed in the mid-‘70s by friends Don Barnes and Donnie Van Zant (brother of Lynyrd Skynryd lead singers Johnny and the late Ronnie Van Zant). Although Donnie left 38 Special a few years ago, Barnes is still there on lead vocals and multi-instruments, and the group hasn’t eased off the gas at all. 38 Special’s genre at its inception was something that wouldn’t sound out of place on Dazed and Confused’s soundtrack—kind of a southern-style rock ‘n’ roll. However, their sound has shifted and evolved considerably. For example, compare 1978’s “I’m A Fool For You” with their breakout hit “Hold On Loosely,” only three years later (which was their first major hit and remains their biggest hit to this day). The difference is notable—but what each entry in 38 Special’s library has in common is that every song showcases their outstanding ability to rock out. Which they’ll be doing at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. 8 p.m. 285 Northgate Dr., Warrendale. (EC,RH)

3)  “This must be the place,” David Byrne of Talking Heads fame once sang. You’ll be singing the same tune upon entering Sienna Mercato. The restaurant’s first floor, Emporio, offers four different gourmet meatballs—classic beef, spicy pork, vegetarian, and chicken—and nine sauces, ranging from marinara to gluten-free spinach-almond pesto. You can have your meatballs alone or on a bun, and with or without cheese. The second floor—Mezzo—features pastas and wood-fired pizza. Pizza varieties include traditional margherita as well as more exotic fare, like clams. Mezzo also has desserts and charcuterie (plates of cured meats, artisan cheeses, and preserves). Il Tetto, the rooftop beer garden, caps off  the Sienna Mercato experience. The garden has 30 beers on tap, cocktails, and smaller dishes. Whether it’s sunny or snowing, patrons can always appreciate Pittsburgh’s skyscrapers, thanks to the garden’s retractable glass roof (awesome, right?). Don’t worry, an elevator is provided should all that food and drink impede mobility. 942 Penn Ave., Cultural District. (CM)

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