Isis
Though often relegated to the much-maligned heavy-metal genre, the music of Boston’s Isis is aimed at those who use their heads for something other than banging. The band’s songs touch on themes inspired by everything from 11th-century Islamic-mystery-cult-founder Hassan-i Sabbah to the philosophy of English utilitarian Jeremy Bentham. They are also heavier than fuck, which should make the Isis show at Richard’s on Richards tonight (November 15) as ear-busting as it is thought-provoking.

Liz Carroll & John Doyle
Chicago-born Liz Carroll is a master of Irish fiddle music. A former all-Ireland champ, she plays in the style of the old country, and writes many of her own tunes, which have titles like “The Potato on the Door” and “The Man With One Kidney”. Carroll’s technique combines contemporary fire and ancient soul. For several years she’s been performing with former Solas member John Doyle—a guitarist from Dublin with mercury in his veins. Catch this duo on the cutting edge of Irish tradition when Carroll and Doyle headline at St. James Hall this Sunday (November 17). Sláinte.

Stone’s Throw anniversary your
Chris Manak is more than just one of the leading DJs and producers in the world of underground hip-hop; the man better known as Peanut Butter Wolf is also the founder of Stone’s Throw Records, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. To mark that milestone, Manak is hitting the road with some of the label’s impressive stable of talent, including Madlib, Karriem Riggins, J.Rocc, Percee P, Guilty Simpson, and MED. For those who dress to impress, we recommend a vintage Charizma & PBW T-shirt for the Monday (November 19) show at Richard’s on Richards.

Mark O’Connor
Violinist Mark O’Connor has inherited the mantle of late swing-jazz legend Stéphane Grappelli—and he’s added some new colours and trimmings from other styles. A two-time Grammy winner, the Seattle-born artist is equally at home playing jazz, country, bluegrass, folk, and classical music, and can slide and glide effortlessly between idioms. When O’Connor swings the bow at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts on Saturday (November 17), he’ll be joined by bassist John Burr and guitarist Frank Vignola, performing tunes from the 2005 release Mark O’Connor’s Hot Swing Trio Live in New York. Even though you’ll be seated, don’t let that stop you from bringing your dancing shoes.