When Ben Harper, Dhani Harrison (the son of Beatles guitarist George Harrison) and Joseph Arthur announced the formation of Fistful of Mercy, I knew little of the latter two musicians' histories. As a big fan of Harper's previous work, however, I thought a trip to see the self-proclaimed "super-group" at Sixth & I Historic Synagogue would make for a worthwhile evening. more ›

For a musician to find continued success on a solo level, as well as with a number of different accompanying bands, speaks volumes about the talent possessed by the individual. Ben Harper, despite rarely crossing into the mainstream with heavy radio play or a number of chart-topping hits, has done exactly that. more ›

Monday >> Ben Harper recorded Lifeline in a studio in Paris, directly after his European tour. As a result he and the Innocent Criminals have put together an album from the heart and at the top of their game that captures his signature modern take on classic soul music. Kick back with them and Piers Faccini tonight at the Warner Theater. $40, 8 p.m. >> Canadian post-punk instrumental rockers, Do Make Say Think have moved... more ›

MONDAY >> You scream, I scream, we all scream for British and 70s-inspired rock. Double your pleasure tonight at the Black Cat, as The Points (Fredericksburg's answer to Kings of Leon) and The Cuts (think The Cure meets The Thrills) work the back stage. $7, 9 p.m. >> We caught The Parachute Musical a while ago, opening for Deleted Scenes (who you may have seen at last week's Unbuckled). They turn out impressive piano pop,... more ›

(From DCist contributor Amanda Mattos) To play in D.C. this week, you apparently have to have played at Bonnaroo, been involved with a movie star, or started your career here. MONDAY: >>After a 2004 tour with the Blind Boys of Alabama, and countless appearances on mix CDs burned in dorm rooms, Ben Harper (at right) alights the 9:30 Club with friend and cohort, Tom Freund. The two recorded the album Pleasure & Pain together in... more ›