Bluesman Earl Thomas, appearing on Nov. 26 (2 p.m.) at the Pacific Beach Library, is one of the most dynamic performers to ever call San Diego home. Thomas is both master showman and storyteller, with a terrific band and a great repertoire that includes everything from classics such as Etta James “I’d Rather Go Blind,” unexpected deep cuts such as Elton John’s “Let Me Be Your Car,” and original material that’s every bit as good. If you are a fan of blues or R&B, this Sunday afternoon concert will be the perfect way to wrap up this year’s Thanksgiving weekend.
Earl Thomas: Sunday, Nov. 26 at Pacific Beach Library, 4275 Cass St. 2 p.m. All ages. No cover. pblibraryfriends.org. Anyone who enjoys jazz will want to hear Mission Bay High School’s top band, The Preservationists. Led by MBHS music director JP Balmat, the lineup in the band has changed often in it’s decades-long existence, but each player is always a standout, with the young musicians in the group celebrating jazz’s roots. This month, they will perform three gigs; Nov. 23 at the House of Blues (9 a.m. and noon) and Nov. 24 and 25 at the annual Thanksgiving Jazz Festival held at the Town & Country Hotel. San Diego has become known worldwide as a great town for jazz. Mission Bay High school’s acclaimed music program is one of the reasons.
The Preservationists: Friday, Nov. 23 at The House of Blues, 555 Fifth Ave. 9 a.m. and noon. All ages. missionbaymusic.com. With 37 albums in his discography, it’s only natural that legendary guitarist Carlos Santana has numerous tribute bands playing in his honor. Lucky for San Diego music fans, the longest-running and best such group is local. Viva Santana, who perform at Humphrey’s Backstage Live on Nov. 18, was founded in 1987. The band plays the right notes, but crucially also captures just the right laid-back feel inherent in Santana’s music. Viva Santana plays all the hits including “Smooth,” “Black Magic Woman” and “She’s Not There,” but with tunes from a 50-year career to choose from, the set-list possibilities are practically endless. Viva Santana: Nov. 18, at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. 9 p.m. humphreysbackstagelive.com. Funk fans unite! On Nov. 19, Tio Leo’s will host an afternoon (4 p.m.) set from Lutryal & The Minneapolis Sound Machine, sure to keep the dance floor filled. The Orange County-based group specializes in the music of Prince and his related groups, with this performance set to include a set of music by the Time. This show promises to be sing-a-long fun, with classics such as “Let’s Go Crazy” and “Kiss” amongst the tunes to get the biggest response. This is a great way to prepare for the next day’s Monday morning blues.
Lutryal & The Minneapolis Sound Machine: Sunday, Nov. 19 at Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St. 4 to 6 p.m. 21 and up. Cover TBD. tioleos.com. On Nov. 24, Dizzy’s will host a special album release show from pianist Joshua White. Accompanied by bassist Dean Hulett, drummer Dan Schnelle, and saxophonist Josh Johnson, White will perform music from his new album, “13 Short Stories.” One of San Diego’s leading musical lights, White is best known for his brilliant improvisational playing. Anywhere he puts his hands on the keys he finds magic. The album is indeed a “must have” addition to any worthy jazz collection, but make sure to take in a live set from White, where his performances are both inspiring and mesmerizing.
Joshua White: Friday, Nov. 24, at Dizzy’s at Arias Hall, 1717 Morena Blvd. 8 p.m. $20. dizzysjazz.com. Hard rock fans won’t want to miss “Riot at the Brick” taking place on Nov. 25 at Brick by Brick. Ear plugs may be in order for this night of ear-splitting, adrenaline-charged tunes. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., with 11 up-and-coming bands taking the stage, including Smarter Than Robots, Di Vad, The Danger Field and Hand Drawn Tree. While none are house hold names just yet, this is a great opportunity for fans to check out the scene’s current crop of rising stars in one sitting.
Riot At The Brick: Saturday, Nov. 25, at Brick by Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave. 6 p.m. 21 and up. $10. brickbybrick.com.