331 Club: Thursday, June 26 – 9:00, FREE

My favorite part of local band Black Audience will be playing a solo show at the 331 Club this Thursday, I am talking about the enormously talented blues and gospel singer Jayanthi Kyle. Not only will this show be free, but there are three other acts on the ticket, including folk singer Suzanne Vallie. Throw in a $2.50 drink special (tba) and you have a recipe for good times. Get there early because the tiny club fills up fast. [Jon Behm]

Hips Don’t Lie: (MySpace)
Jayanthi Lyke: (MySpace)
Suzanne Vallie: (MySpace)

The Cedar Cultural Center: Friday, June 27 – 7:00 doors, $15

I remember, quite some time ago, reading an interview with Hayden and not really finding myself all to interested in pursuing his music. He seemed quiet, a bit introspective, and somewhat apprehensive in answering the questions…in other words – thoughtful, and as a huge metalhead at the time, it didn’t really push my buttons. But after starting with a similar Canadian alt-folk sound as Tegan and Sara the singer/songwriter has quietly developed an international presence, combining a traditional sound with his unique voice – he’s certainly won me over. Not familiar with his music? The starting point for me has, and may always be, “Tree’s Lounge” – don’t miss this show! [Chris DeLine]

Hayden: (Official) (MySpace) (Wikipedia)
Haley Bonar: (Official) (MySpace) (Wikipedia)
Haley Bonar “Big Star” (mp3)

Twin Cities Pride Festival – Pride in Concert: Saturday, June 28 – 5:30pm, $8-$10, 18+

Hopefully the weather will cooperate. If it does, expect to see some quality R&B nostalgia from “still-got-it” stars En Vogue and Deborah Cox. This is just one of many events for TC Pride going on this week. For more information, click here. [Kyle "El Guante" Myhre]

En Vogue: (MySpace) (Wikipedia)
Deborah Cox: (Official) (MySpace) (Wikipedia)
Sunshine Behavor: (Official)
Sick of Sarah: (MySpace)
DJ Red Richard: (MySpace)

Dakota Jazz Club: Saturday, June 28 – 7:00 & 9:30, $44-$55

I will gladly set my usual lack of passion for Jazz music aside for the Latin and Afro-Cuban rhythms of the talented Escovedos. And, of course to be in the presence of Sheila E. Just a warning, though – I’m pretty sure they won’t be performing “A Love Bizarre.” They were playing music together long before Sheila met and was discovered by Prince, or before her turn in one of my favorite movies, Krush Groove, alongside all sorts of Rap pioneers. The Jazz scene of today might not be “The Glamorous Life,” but what it might lack her classic pop singles department, it makes up for in the lifelong passion of their brand of Jazz, and her amazing drumming. [preview by guest contributor Jen Paulson]

Sheila E.: (Official) (MySpace) (Wikipedia)