Though not the first lead singer of UK punk legends, The Stranglers, Paul Roberts stayed with the band from 1990 to 2006, yielded six albums and extended their string of Top 40 hits through 2004’s “Big Thing Coming.” Known as a manic performer with a commanding stage presence, Roberts is currently in the middle of a low-key acoustic tour. Presenting an aural overview of his career, which also includes time fronting the group Soulsec, this concert is an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with one of British punk rock’s most riveting frontmen. Paul Roberts: Thursday, May 28, 8:30 p.m., Brick By Brick, 1130 Buenos Avenue; 21 and up, $8 cover, www.brickbybrick.com Way Cool Jr. is a tribute to ’80’s metal that replicates a band that may have been found along Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip 25 years ago, including wigs to get the full effect. What sets them apart is their playlist. While including the obvious Guns & Roses, Bon Jovi and Poison anthems, they also manage to include lesser known but worthy material from the likes of Iron Maiden, Dokken and Firehouse. If you are a fan of hard rock, Way Cool Jr. is the ultimate live jukebox. Way Cool Jr.: Saturday May 30, 9 p.m., 710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave.; 21 and up, cover TBD, www.waycooljr.net Sven-Erik Seaholm is a gifted engineer, arranger and tunesmith whose mark can be heard on albums by a diverse group of artists, including Veronica May, The Beat Farmers and Via Satellite. However, it’s as a songwriter that he truly shines, penning dozens of classic songs from horn-drenched rockers (“It’s Coming Back”) to introspective balladry (“Seven”). Though he often performs with his band, the Wild Truth, the best way to experience Seaholm’s music is at a solo acoustic gig such as this, where his songs are stripped down to the essence of melody and rhythm. Sven-Erik Seaholm: Thursday June 4, 9 p.m., Hennessey’s, 4605 Mission Blvd.; 21 and up, no cover, www.myspace.com/svenseaholm A mainstay around Southern California, jazz guitarist Vic Moraga has begun to make major inroads into San Diego. Moraga’s virtuoso playing has won him accolades from his peers. However, it’s his versatile songwriting that has made the biggest waves. The winner of a 2008 ASCAP Publishing Award in the jazz category, he also took home a 2006 award for Best Children’s song. Moraga also has two albums and several compilation album appearances to his credit. With a voice that recalls a big band crooner and an arsenal of “hook” filled jazz tunes, Moraga’s music is the perfect way to enhance your dining experience. Vic Moraga: Thursday June 4, 6:30 p.m., Turquoise Café Bar Europa, 873 Turquoise St.; 21 and up, www.vicmoraga.com  Although the band Stranger is classified as a reggae combo, their sound is more expansive than that. Infused with hip-hop, jazz and even electronica, Stranger’s sound is both exhilarating and a dance floor filler. The Chula Vista-based, seven-piece band will celebrate the release of its new, self-titled EP with a performance at Cane’s. The setting for the show is an excellent match of venue and music. With doors that open right onto the waves of Mission Beach and Stranger’s refreshing take on island sounds, this concert at Cane’s may be just about the perfect way to spend a summer night. Stranger, Friday, June 5, 9 p.m., Cane’s Bar & Grill, 3105 Ocean Front Walk; 21 and up, $12 cover, www.myspace.com/strangerband