Musical Showcase
Benjamin Metzger, a local music teacher, organized an exciting lineup of bands that includes some of his students. The Hub Billiard Club & Music Hall, 4060 Austin Blvd., Island Park. thehubbc.com Free. 7 p.m. March 26.
Michael W. Smith
Famed Christian music singer Michael W. Smith, the proud owner of three Grammy Awards, is bringing his tour to Westbury, where he’ll be singing hits from his latest album Sovereign. Smith, who has sold more than 15 million albums worldwide, is the epitome of an artist who sings from the soul while managing to take everyone’s breath away. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $39.50. 8 p.m. March 26.
Blackhawk & The Outlaws
It’s more than 20 years since Blackhawk—then a three-man band—released its self-titled album, which rocketed up the charts before going platinum. Now down to just the two members, country musicians Henry Paul and Dave Robbins are on track to release another studio album. The due will be joined by The Outlaws, the four-decade old Southern rock band intent on reliving the glory days. Rockin’ Country Tour. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20-$45. 8 p.m. March 26.
Annie Minogue Band
It was as if Annie Minogue was destined to be a singer/songwriter. Growing up in New York City, Minogue learned to appreciate music from her father, a professional musician. But Minogue paved her path, releasing her debut album Home in 2000. Her music—a blend of rock, pop and blues—has aired on a number of TV networks and radio stations as she’s turned a childhood dream into an inspiring professional career. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com Free. 8 p.m. March 26.
By Default: The Work of Jeffrey K. Fisher
This award-winning local artist had displayed his mesmerizing work across the covers of many books and magazines, as well as posters, murals and advertisements. His client list has included Readers Digest, Doubleday, Harper Collins, Smithsonian and Newsday. Come realize the supreme beauty that is this visionary Long Islander’s creations. Come feel their power. Come revel in their intimate, emotional and electrifying gorgeousness. This is his first solo show. Gallery North, 90 North Country Rd., East Setauket. gallerynorth.org Free. 5 p.m. March 27.
Piano Concert
To translate raw human emotion into song is not merely a gift, to do so is a true transcendental miracle. Martin Kasík ranks among the foremost Czech pianists of the present time, and he will surely meld the worlds of life and love, passion and pain, while melodically painting an endless barrage of colors sure to heal the mortal woes of all in attendance on this truly magical evening. The award-winning performer has take the stage in many major concert venues throughout the world, and now he plays LI. Amen, dear readers. Amen. Grace Auditorium, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Rd., Cold Spring Harbor. cshl.edu $20. 6 p.m. March 27.
Barry Manilow
Legendary Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter Barry Manilow is bringing his “One Last Time” tour to The Old Barn—where he’ll be serenading Long Islanders with such decades-old classics as “Copacabana.” Grammy Award-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz will join Manilow as a special guest. Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale. nassaucoliseum.com $14.75-$244.75. 7:30 p.m. March 27.
Karla Bonoff
When this truly original singer/songwriter was a teenager growing up in southern California, she learned how to play guitar from Frank Hamilton of the famed folk group The Weavers. She had a lot of close calls with fame early in her career: a demo done by Doors’ engineer Bruce Botnick, an album recorded for A&M with a track produced by the Mamas & Papas’ Lou Adler. Neither was ever released. But the connection she made eventually led Bonoff to Linda Rondstadt, who used three of her songs, “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “If He’s Ever Near” and “Lose Again,” on her 1976 ablum, Hasten Down the Wind. This tribute to her talents enabled Bonoff to get her own deal with Columbia Records, and the rest is history. Soon she was opening for James Taylor and Jackson Browne on tour, and going on to work with Bonnie Raitt, Wynonna Judd, John Prine, J.D. Souther and other great artists. Regarding her life’s work in music, Billboard Magazine called Bonoff one of “a breed of singer/songwriters whose earthy anthems of soul-searching, heartache and joy touched souls in a way few can muster today.” Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org $35-$40. 8 p.m. March 27.
Lewis Black
Nobody channels his anger to better effect than this caustic comedian, whose well-reasoned rage percolates through his pores the way an athlete sweats. This guy’s ill-humor is a tonic for the troubles of our time. He rants, he raves, he ravages against the hypocrites on a righteous rampage—at full volume when all cylinders are clicking—like a man possessed. And he clearly is, which makes us all the more appreciative to see what makes him tick and what ticks him off. West Hampton Beach Performance Arts Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach. whbpac.org $95-$150. 8 p.m. March 27.
Blues to Blackstreet
These talented local musicians return to one of their favorite Long Island venues to serve up what they do best, their unique blend of blues and jazz with a twist. Featuring the sultry elegance of June Eysel on vocals and the virtuoso chops of John Vop on electric guitar, they’re joined regularly by Rob LaMonica on drums, Paul Gilmore on bass, Arno Hecht on sax, and Joe Roberts on keyboards. From the back streets to the boulevard of blues, this band will take you where you wanna go, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the ride. They won’t let you down, they’ll give you a lift. Treme Blues and Jazz Club, 553 Main St., Islip. tremeislip.com 10. 8 p.m. March 27.
Big Shot
The only Billy Joel tribute band featuring musicians, namely Mike DelGuidice, who have actually shared a stage with the most famous Long Islander, The Piano Man himself. Big Shot schedules tour dates around Billy Joel’s monthly Madison Square Garden concerts. A true fan, DelGuidice guarantees a proper homage to his idol. Free buffet and two-for-one drink specials 6-8 p.m. The Emporium, 9 Railroad Ave., Patchogue. theemporiumny.com $7 before 8 p.m., $10 after. 10 p.m. March 27. Also playing at Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall. 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. Muls.com 9 p.m March 28.
Moody Blues
Talk about classic rock—what about classical rock! When Days of Future Passed hit the FM airwaves in 1967, the Moody Blues broke ground with a fusion genre that combined the latest in electronic instruments, the Mellotron, with the classical performers of the London Festival Orchestra as their back-up band. The ambitious songs these English musicians composed were almost metaphysical in their approach, certainly bordering on the psychedelic and the profound. One song might invoke the universe, the next be a meditation on love. “Nights in White Satin” may be the most romantic rock epic every recorded. Thinking way ahead, they called one of their albums To Our Children’s Children’s Children; getting mystical, they titled another On the Threshold of a Dream. If any group of visionaries ever cracked the secrets of time travel, it would likely be them. So take a trip down memory lane with the Moodies, and remember new recollections you never had before, whether from “10,000 Light Years Ago,” or “Tuesday Afternoon.” Timeless Flight-The Polydor Years. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $49.50-$79.50. 3 p.m., 8 p.m. March 27-29.
Volunteer Fair
Those looking for a chance to volunteer will be able to meet with representatives from local nonprofits looking for help. There will be about 20 organizations in attendance, including Bide-a-wee, Family Service League, Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society, Literacy Suffolk, Make the Road NY, New York Blood Center, Options for Community Living, Special Olympics and United Veterans. After all, research has shown that those who volunteer have lower mortality rates and lower rates of depression than those who do not. SO what are you waiting for!? There are so many amazing causes and people who need your help! Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Rd., Holbrook. sachemlibrary.org Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 28.
The Enchantment of Spring
One of the best-kept secrets of the Nassau County Museum System, this South Shore gem is loaded with exhibits featuring the inhabitants and wonders of the absolutely gorgeous and fascinating nature preserve named after a grand Native American sachem. Turtles, rabbits, even a Red-Tailed Hawk–this magical forest is home to so many precious creatures and flora. It is a must-visit. Children of all ages are invited to participate in native plant and bird watching trail walks, guided by a local naturalist, followed by a live animal presentation. Light refreshments will be served. Tackapausha Museum and Preserve, 2225 Washington Ave., Seaford. nassaucountyny.gov/parks Free with museum admission. 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. March 28.
The Crystals & Shirley Alston Reeves “Up Close & Personal”
The original sexy songstress from The Shirelles and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Reeves is bound to amaze, fascinate and inspire. This will undoubtedly be one of the best opportunities for fans to catch her up close and personal, and this intimate performance will unquestionably be memorable. Wow. Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue. patchoguetheatre.org $28. 3 p.m. March 28.
10,000 Maniacs
Natalie Merchant may no longer front the alt-rock quintet from upstate Jamestown, but the group is still producing albums and performing their hits, including “Because The Night,” “These Are Days” and “Candy Everybody Wants.” Give ’em what they want, and rock out among the resident penguins, seals and walruses in the process! Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center, 431 East Main St., Riverhead. longislandaquarium.com $35-$75. 7 p.m. March 28.
Uke Hampton Festival
Ukes, not nukes! That’s the ticket for some scrumptious strumming. It’s a music festival, and it’s filled with the tickling notes of utterly incredible ukuleles and their plucky performers. The ukulele may be a small stringed instrument, when compared with, say, a cello, but it turned Tiny Tim into a giant pop star. Who knows what it will do to the folks making music with their ukes on Saturday night in the Hamptons? Think big, think ukes! Fun uke fact: A “D” chord on the guitar translates into a “G” chord on the ukeler! Imagine that! Wild! The Stephen Talkhouse, 161 Main St., Amagansett. Stephentalkhouse.com $15. 7 p.m. March 28.
Bowling for Singles
Bowling is a sport. Bowling is an art. Bowling can be cathartic. It can also bring two completely unsuspecting hearts together through the shared, communal experience of hurling very large (and very heavy) spheres down a wooden lane toward glory–or misery. In a way, this entire act can be interpreted to symbolize the paths of these lucky participants. Bowling requires strength and skill to successfully navigate and achieve its goals. Together, you and the ball take the plunge down the aisle (as in “walking down the aisle”), moving toward uncertainty while always hoping for the best. Yes, you most definitely want to stay on a straight course, occasionally maybe veering to the left or right, though always returning to the center. You want to stay out of the gutter, for sure. But you most certainly also want to realize that this bowling, this life, this love, this relationship, if you will, is a two-way street, and we both need each other to make it not only work, but last, long past the frozen pizza and flat soda from the shoe rental counter is closed. Hopefully, just maybe, if we do this right, we’ll find true love. And hopefully, just maybe, it can last forever. The Singles Association of Long Island is hosting this event for singles ready to mingle…while bowling. Social gathering to follow at Empress Diner, 2490 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow. South Levittown Lanes, 56 Tanners Lane, Levittown. levittownbowling.com $7 per game, $4 for shoes. 7 p.m. March 28.
The Get Up Kids
Gushy, poppy emo at its most infectious, these Missouri rockers will have you up and dancing along–or crying in your beer, thinking back to the last time you saw her, the last time you spoke, the last time you laughed together before it all went up in flames. With special guests PUP & Restorations. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20-$40. 7:30 p.m. March 28.
Mary Gauthier & David Wilcox
Two artists whose will will make you laugh, whose lyrics will make you cry, and whose performances will ensure you leave the show smiling! Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington. landmarkonmainstreet.org $37-$188. 8 p.m. March 28.
John Pizzarelli Big Band
In celebration of Ol’ Blue Eyes’ 100th birthday, this renowned jazz guitarist/singer/songwriter and bandleader will be revisiting some of Sinatra’s most glorious tunes while adding his own mesmerizing, melodic, simply awe-inspiring stamp. Come celebrate the Frank Sinatra Centennial, all Big Band-Style. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvrd., Brookville. tillescenter.org $53-$83. 8 p.m. March 28.
H20
No, not the seminal hardcore band! This is a reception held for a fascinating art exhibit celebrating–you guessed it, that magical natural elixir that hydrates us and from which nearly every life form on this planet has both spawned from, and primarily consists of, water! “Long Island is surrounded by water,” the curator writes. “We celebrate the magic around us.” Next time you enjoy a cool, sparkling glass, reflect upon its healing powers and evolutionary significance to all of life! Cheers! Phoenix Gallery, 139 South Country Rd., Bellport. brookhavenarts.org 1 p.m., March 29.
Springtime Spectacular
An afternoon of family-fun with a wide variety of nature and music activities for people of all ages to enjoy, including “Planting A Pizza Garden,” “Let’s Drum with Jonathan Duda” for ongoing drumming workshops, live animal presentations, photo opportunities, musical performances with the popular teen rock band Pursuing JC, outdoor trail activities for all ages, outdoor bubbles, springtime crafts and destination family-walks to the beach and pond. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point. thesandspointpreserve.com $25. 1-3 p.m. March 29.
Steve Israel
The recently re-elected congressman from Huntington will be discussing and signing copies of his book The Global War on Morris, which is billed as a satire about a pharmaceutical sales representative who is targeted by spies. Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset. Price of book. 2 p.m. March 29.
Swingtime!
The Jive Aces, known for their superb musicianship, high energy, original songs and fresh arrangements of swing/jive/R&B classics, join The Tinseltown Jitterbugs, a troupe of high-energy swing dancers, along with Hollywood vocalist Makinna Ridgway. Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center, Westerman Stage, One South Ave., Garden City. aupac.adelphi.edu $35-$40. 3 p.m. March 29.
Remembering Things Past
A discussion will be held on the theme of this art exhibit, which features foreign-born artists working in America. The artists in this exhibition all came to America at different stages in their lives and incorporate past interests, memories and experiences of their home country into their artwork. The variety of their forms and subject matter reflect the uniqueness of their experiences. Islip Art Museum, 50 Irish Lane, East Islip. Islipartmuseum.org Free. 4:30 p.m. March 29.
Long Island Food and Film Feast
An enchanted evening highlighting our local food, the people who produce it and the difference it can make. Each of eight short films will be paired with the food featured in the film, prepared by iEat Green and Slow Food North Shore, along with a guest speaker, providing a glorious, local, seasonal and informative feast. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. CinemaArtsCentre.org $50 members, $60 public. 6:30 p.m. March 29.
Lions Lions
These hardcore hellraisers from Boston are headlining this nuclear sensory assault on the minds and souls of all those in attendance, capping off an evening of intense, glorious rock from an arsenal of bands that everyone reading this post should get to know, immediately. Warming up the crowd are Everyone Dies In Utah, One Year Later, I Still Believe In Heroes, After The Outbreak and Critical Era. Amityville Music Hall, 198 Broadway, Amityville. amityvillemusichall.com $12, $14 DOS. 5:30 p.m. March 29.
Mephiskapheles
Officially back from an unofficial hiatus is this Lowe East Side-based mock-Satanist ska band that was among the most memorable from the genre’s 1990s revival era. And they’d better play LI, since it’s where the brassy sextet played their first-ever show in ’91. Bonus: They’re reportedly working on a new album! Will they play cult favorite “The Bumblebees Tuna Song”? One can only hope. Skank the night away, fellow dance freaks! Opening the show are The Shipwrecks, Samurai Pizza Cats [great band name, btw], Flak Jacket and Crisis Crayons. Revolution Bar and Music Hall, 140 Merrick Rd., Amityville. Revolutionli.com $12, $15 DOS. 6:30 p.m. March 29.
New Found Glory
These bubblegum pop-punklers are out sharing their emotional brand of power-chord-driven tunes on their “Sleep When I Die Tour” with opening acts Turnstile, The Wild Life & Turnover. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20.50-$40.50. 7 p.m. March 29.
George Winston
One of the most recognized solo pianists in the world will perform his “Summer Show” featuring spring and summer songs, including melodic folk piano songs from his recordings, Vince Guaraldi’s Peanuts pieces, those inspired by the New Orleans R&B piano tradition & the Harlem stride piano tradition, and songs from his upcoming album, Spring Carousel – A Cancer Research Benefit, scheduled for release in 2015. West Hampton Beach Performance Arts Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach. whbpac.org $20-$50. 8 p.m. March 29.
Marc Peyser & Timothy Dwyer
These two authors will speak and sign their new book Hissing Cousins: The Untold Story of Eleanor Roosevelt and Alice Roosevelt Longworth. Vivid, intimate and stylishly written, Hissing Cousins finally sets this relationship center stage, revealing the contentious bond between two political trailblazers who short-circuited the rules of gender and power, each in her own way. Book Revue, 313 New York Ave., Huntington. Bookrevue.com Price of book. 7 p.m. March 31.
Dawn Upshaw and Gilbert Kalish
Singer Dawn Upshaw and her longtime collaborator, pianist Gilbert Kalish, bring a deeply engaging recital to the stage. Staller Center, 100 Nicolls Rd., Stony Brook University, Stony Brook. Stallercenter.com $48. 8 p.m. April 1.
Compiled by Spencer Rumsey, Rashed Mian, Jaime Franchi, Timothy Bolger & Zachary B. Tirana III
