Preach Freedom
Freedom Must Be!
(Self-released)
The Rusted Root percussionist offers up 13 tracks of classic, consciousness-raising reggae. The songwriting and production make this one sound genuine, not cheesy like so much latter-day Jamaican-style music; an all-star cast of Pittsburgh musicians (Colter Harper, Poogie Bell, Geña) helps out.
PREACH FREEDOM CD RELEASE with THE FLOW BAND. 9 p.m. Thu., Nov. 15. Frankie & Georgie's, 4832 Forward Ave., Squirrel Hill. $7. 412-422-5027
The Armadillos
Better Off a Stranger
(Self-released)
New old-timey goodness from the repeat CP Readers' Poll faves; over a span of 11 tracks, the four-piece takes on everything from corruption in politics to homemade booze. Austin Vanasdale and Sheila Liming trade off on vocals, lending a nice balance.
THE ARMADILLOS CD RELEASE with THE BEAGLE BROTHERS, LEANN GRIMES. 9 p.m. Fri., Nov. 16. Thunderbird Café, 4033 Butler St., Lawrenceville. $5. 412-682-0177 or www.thunderbirdcafe.net
Chip DiMonick
The Sign of a New Generation
(Self-released)
Five new tunes from Chip DiMonick's eponymous four-piece party-rock outfit. Metal guitar riffage, good vocals and an anthem in the form of the title track. This isn't challenging stuff — unless you count the challenge of figuring out whether you can feel OK listening to "When the Drunkest Girls Wear the Shortest Skirts" — but it's not supposed to be challenging, just fun. Cock-rock fans (and Pittsburgh has its share) will enjoy for sure.
CHIP DIMONICK CD RELEASE with THROUGH THESE WALLS, AFTER THE FALL. 10 p.m. Sat., Nov. 17. Hard Rock Café, 230 W. Station Square Drive, Station Square. $5. 412-821-7625
