Positively State Street

MEDICINAL MELODIES: The soul-soothing, mind-altering, and emotionally positive benefits to music are an overly effective medicine capable of providing some good, should its awe-inspiring power be harnessed the right way. It’s no wonder, then, that the Glendon Association-an S.B. nonprofit whose mission it is to empower the community by addressing the social problems of suicide, child abuse, violence, and troubled interpersonal relationships-will host its third annual Singers in the Round Benefit Concert. The Glendon Association has assembled a talented group of singer/songwriters spanning genres from rockabilly to bluegrass, indie contemporary to funky alternative pop. Acts include the overwhelming talents of Jude, Jonathan McEuen, Zach Madden, Jeff Sparks, Emy Reynolds, and the commercially successful AM. Come out and help make a difference at SOhO this Sunday, October 28, at 8 p.m.; a silent auction to benefit the association begins at 7 p.m. Call 681-0415 for details. -Jessica Hilo

MISS PORTUGAL: Fado is a distinctly Portuguese genre of music characterized by the sweeping, melodious pathos expressed lyrically about Portugal’s rural poor and their connection to the sea. Even though the art dates back to the early 19th century, a beautiful and soulful woman named Mariza carries on the tradition with a flair and understanding all her own. She can simultaneously seduce and sadden, exalt and exile, all with the power of her amazing contralto voice. No matter the subject matter of a song, Mariza rivals any modern diva in stage presence and her uncanny ability to inspire the most powerful emotions in her listeners. Experience the power of her Portuguese blues at the Lobero Theatre this Friday, October 26, at 8 p.m. Visit lobero.com for ticket info. -Tyler Vickers

PICKING A ‘CYDE: In November ’92, SlimKid3 (Tre Hardson), Fatlip (Derrick Stewart), Imani (Emandu Wilcox), and Bootie Brown (Romye Robinson) burst onto the burgeoning rap scene straight off the streets of South Central Los Angeles with their debut album, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde. Since then, the roguish rappers have earned themselves one gold record, one top-10 Billboard hit, a slot at Lollapalooza, and spots on numerous film soundtracks. In the late ’90s, Fatlip left Pharcyde and SlimKid3 followed suit soon after. Since then, Imani and Bootie Brown have been recording new music under the Pharcyde name, even bringing their beats to UCSB’s Extravaganza just two years ago. But fans looking to hear Pharcyde’s trademark rowdy rap-rock sound with a sweet, stream-of-consciousness twist should check out original members SlimKid3 and Fatlip when they grace the SOhO stage on Wednesday, October 31. Tickets to the 8:30 p.m. show are only $13 for those who come in costume. Call 962-7776. -Mollie Vandor

SANTA BARBARA SONGBIRDS: Every third Thursday of the month, Santa Barbara County songwriters have the opportunity to flaunt their vocal tail feathers onstage when Jensen opens its Mainstage to the Santa Barbara Songwriter Showcase. This is the latest venue in town to offer an all-ages concert for such intimate events. On Thursday, October 25, Michael Fracasso and Bob & Wendy are lined up to rock the house. Fracasso will light up the night with his astonishing high tenor voice. Look for Bob & Wendy-a couple who have been a part of the Central Coast music scene for more than a decade-to jam and harmonize sweetly over expressive guitar work. Advanced tickets are recommended and are available by visiting myspace.com/sbsongwritershowcase. The show kicks off at 7 p.m. at Jensen Guitar & Music Co. (2905 De la Vina St.). -Bianca Calhoun

FOLK TALES: On Saturday, October 27, music buffs and casual fans alike are invited to enjoy an evening of alternative tunes in celebration of Halloween. Trinity Backstage will bring nationally renowned poet, guitarist, and folk lyricist Richard Berman on board to play an intimate show unlike any other. Hailing from Massachusetts, Berman incorporates lively storytelling with meaningful, expressive songs about the human condition. The show starts at 8 p.m. at Trinity Coffeehouse (1500 State St.). Call 962-2970 for details. -Aly Comingore