The Temptations and Four Tops in Concert at Heinz Hall; Arizona’s Lydia at Mr. Smalls (Sun., 3/11/18)

1) On a scale of 1 to 10, how much Motown do you want? You say 11? Try The Temptations and the Four Tops in concert together at Heinz Hall. They’re two of the great male vocal groups who recorded for Berry Gordy Jr.’s record-breaking, record-making company in the 1960s and ’70s. The Temptations joined Motown in 1961, but struggled to break through until their 1964 single “My Girl” went to no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. Then came a cavalcade of hits in evolving sounds and styles—from sweet ballads to rollicking turn-it-up numbers like “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” through psychedelic soul and social-message songs, capped by the remarkable “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” Meanwhile, the Four Tops signed with Motown after semi-success on various other labels. They shot to big-time success with a series of riveting, rocking love songs: “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” and more. Both of these Detroit groups are in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and both still tour, with lineups that include founding members Otis Williams of The Temptations and Abdul “Duke” Fakir of the Four Tops. 7 p.m. 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District. (MV)

2) Indie rock trio Lydia, from Gilbert, Arizona, are coming up north to The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls. 2015’s Run Wild was their last album, but be on the lookout for a new one this summer. Their sound contains electronic flourishes familiar to much indie music, but what sets them apart are the driving piano lines used in some of their songs. Soft Gondola opens. 8 p.m. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. (CM)

3)  Tonight at the PPG Paints Arena our Pens face off against the Dallas Stars. The Penguins hit the road next for an away game Wednesday night against the New York Rangers. 7:30 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

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