Today’s Concerts in the ‘Burgh: The Zombies, Al Jarreau, Lucinda Williams, That 1 Guy (Wed., 10/14/15)

1) Fans of The Zombies’ album Odessey & Oracle have waited almost 50 years to hear the songs live. Why so long? When the British psychedelic group released the album in 1968, it sparked virtually no interest, and the band disbanded. The decision proved to be a premature one. A year later, “Time of the Season” was released as a single and became 1969’s surprise hit. Odessey & Oracle developed an underground following, and Rolling Stone now counts it at 100 on their “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” list. The Zombies were part of the British Invasion, which included groups like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Hits included “She’s Not There” and “Tell Her No.” After their break-up, singer Colin Blunstone had an acclaimed solo career. Keyboardist and songwriter Rod Argent formed another group, simply named Argent, and played arenas. For the Zombies’ show at Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, the four original, surviving members will be joined by new members to play not only Odessey & Oracle in its entirety but also cuts from their new album, 2015’s Still Got That Hunger. 8 p.m. 510 E 10th Ave., Munhall. (CM)

2) Does Al Jarreau have fun when he sings? One might as well ask if the Pope is a hot ticket when he tours. Jarreau’s upcoming concert in the MCG Jazz series is a hot ticket, too, because he doesn’t merely sing a song. He slip-slides inside it, wriggles around in it, takes it on an excursion that can range from deep-sea diving to high-note scat—and just when you think he’s given it everything he’s got, he tops it with the next song. Jarreau grew up in Milwaukee, then moved around the country building a career that has come to include 23 albums, six Grammy Awards, and fans in places from Albuquerque to Amsterdam. His MCG Jazz appearance is sold out but you can try the online waiting list or aftermarket ticket sales. Two shows, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, 1815 Metropolitan St., Manchester. (MV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMJ_-5lVw1s

3) Lucinda Williams brings her well-seasoned voice to the comfortable confines of the Byham Theater. Her songs hit the sweet spot between blues, country, folk, and rock. She’ll be singing about her “Joy” (video above) and “Car Wheels on a Gravel Road.” Her song “Passionate Kisses” was covered by Mary Chapin Carpenter in a recording that won the 1994 Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, and was also named song of the year.  Williams’ voice has a slightly rough, yet very melodic tone. She is touring in support of her 11th studio album Down Where The Spirit Meets The Bone. The release is William’s first on her own Highway 20 Records label. Opening is Buick 6. 8 p.m. Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Cultural District.

4) That1Guy is just that—one guy. His real name is Mike Silverman, and his instrument, The Magic Pipe, redefines the concept of the one-man band. Sprinkle in some esoteric lyrics and a churning baritone, and you’ve got one guy who could give Beck a run for his money in originality and sheer weirdness. He tours relentlessly; he is a fixture on the international festival circuit (Electric Forest, Big Day Out, and the Montreal Jazz Festival, to name a few), and at the world’s largest performing-arts festival—The Fringe in Edinburgh—he has won the Tap Water Award for best musical act. His collaborations with Buckethead as The Frankenstein Brothers have certified That1Guy as one of the most freakish men in music today. Freakishly awesome, that is. 8 p.m. Club Cafe, 56-58 S. 12th St., South Side. (CM)

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