Cory Phillips may fall under the category of singer/songwriter, but he’s not a mere, sensitive soul brandishing an acoustic guitar. Performing at RT’s Longboard on Aug. 12, Phillips’ music is pure groove with elements of soul, funk and pop. It is well-constructed and dripping in song hooks. Song titles like “Alright Tonight” and “Woman” give an inkling to Phillips’ romantically minded sonic creations, radio-friendly tunes that are not too far from Jamiroquai and other rock/dance favorites. Most crowds at small venue gigs just stand in front and watch the band. With Phillips, there’s a talent that should get guests dancing within the first few notes. Cory Phillips performs at 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12 at RT’s Longboard, 1466 Garnet Ave. 21 and up. www.myspace.com/coryphillips The members of hard-rock heroes Mower have been busy of late with side projects. Looking to have a little fun with their musical influences, the band’s Dominic Moscatello (vocals) and Chris McCredie (bass) have put together a new band, F.O.A., performing their favorite punk rock classics. Appearing at the 710 Beach Club on Aug. 13, the music may have shifted a smidge. But rest assured that F.O.A., like its root band, Mower, still delivers a loud visceral thrill that will ring your ears for days after the show. F.O.A. performs at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13 at the 710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave. 21 and up. $5. www.myspace.com/mower Anyone who likes their night out a bit more active than just watching a band will want to check out the JD All-Stars, appearing at Tio Leo’s on Aug. 13. Part of San Diego’s growing salsa-music scene, the band is celebrating its 10th anniversary with this show, though they originally went under the name Orquesta Rico Tumbao. Whether you go to hit the dance floor or simply take in the wonderful tropical rhythms, this is the perfect combo to shake up the most jaded of clubgoers. JD All-Stars perform at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St. 21 and up. Cover TBD. www.facebook.com/pages/JD-All- Stars/108742589193142 A truly engaging performer, Afro-Brazilian musician Angela Patua’s sound is hard to pin down. She performs at Café Bar Europa on Aug. 16. At times, Patua’s music is just voice and percussion. At other times, accompanied by ukulele or acoustic guitar, she uses her commanding stage presence to seal the deal. Sometimes reminiscent of Nico, Odetta or Nina Simone, Patua’s music is clearly from the heart, guaranteed to move the listener. While not as smooth around the edges as typical coffee house fare, anyone wanting to expand their musical horizons and thoughts on song arrangement will find much to enjoy in Patua’s tunes. Angela Patua performs at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 16 at Café-Bar Europa, 873 Turqouise St. 21 and up. www.theturquoise.com/wordpress Country music seems to be on a major upswing locally these days. All manner of new combos have emerged in recent months, including one of the best: Three Chord Justice. Appearing at the annual Concerts on the Green on Aug. 14, the band mixes covers and classics like “Act Naturally” and “Big River” — all played with skill and passion. All six musicians are stellar, but it’s the combo of frontwoman Liz Grace’s vocals and guitarist Tom Wolverton that clinch it. If you like your music with a bit of twang and pedal steel, you won’t want to miss Three Chord Justice. Three Chord Justice performs at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 14 at Concerts on the Green, Kate Sessions Park. All ages. Free. www.pbconcerts.org