In memory of former Beatle and songwriter George Harrison’s birthday, on Feb. 27, Dizzy’s will host a performance by The Benedetti Trio, featuring guitar virtuoso Fred Benedetti, alongside his vocalist daughters, Regina and Julia, plus multi-instrumentalist/bassist Jeff Pekarek. Benedetti is a spectacular guitarist – turned loose on the Beatles catalog, it’s wonderful to hear his deft arrangements of classic songs such as “Something” and “Here Comes the Sun.” The show includes material from Harrison’s entire career, a catalog of songs that were pretty much all hits, but what adds a bit of magic to the show is the close interaction that only bandmates, who also happen to be family members, can have. Fred Benedetti: Friday, Feb. 27, at Dizzy’s, 4275 Mission Bay Drive, starting at 8 p.m. $15. All ages. www.dizzysjazz.com.
The Pacific Beach Library’s winter concert series comes to a close on March 11 with a performance of classical music from the Kensington Trio. Featuring violinist Natalka Kytasty, cellist Yuri Kytasty and pianist Ronald Morabello, the group was formed in 2001, with a repertoire that includes Haydn, Schubert and Debussy, as captured on their 2004 live album. With no admission charge, this is a great opportunity to introduce interested youngsters to the charms of classical tunes and music in general. The naturally quiet setting of a library is a wonderful location for contemplative sounds such as this. Kensington Trio: Wednesday, March 11 at Pacific Beach Library, 4275 Cass St. 7 p.m. All ages. No cover. www.pblibraryfriends.org.
Music has returned to the Kona Kai on a regular basis. Shows take place in Vessel’s Lounge with acts ranging from jazz to rock, with artists usually in acoustic mode. Upcoming performers include bluesman Tomcat Courtney (Feb. 27), guitarist Hank Easton (Feb. 28) and singer Jesse Davis (March 14). Additionally, their signature Sunday afternoon Singer-Songwriter Showcase, hosted by Shawn Balch, will continue. Located right next to the Kona Kai’s private beach, Vessel’s is a terrific respite from the hectic world. The addition of a live music soundtrack only makes it better.
Music at the Kona Kai: In Vessel’s Lounge, at the Kona Kai Resort, 1551 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island. www.resortkonakai.com. A homecoming show for indie pop-rock quartet Social Club will take place 9:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at the 710 Beach Club. The band will be freshly returned from an appearance at the Envision festival in Costa Rica. where their epic Talking Heads punk and electronica-tinged tracks, such as “Loosen Up,” proved a welcome contrast to the prevalent deep house DJs at the event. One of the most promising bands in San Diego at the moment, Social Club is currently in the studio wrapping up a follow up release to their debut album, “Gamma Rays,” but for full effect, their live performances can’t be topped.
Social Club: Saturday, Feb. 28, at the 710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave. 9:30 p.m. 21 $10. 21 and up. www.710bc.com.
Is there any band more storied in the history of San Diego music than the Farmers? It’s various members have been a part of a string of legendary groups dating back to the 1960s including Glory, The Penetrators, The Jacks and many more. When their talents are combined, there is no better bunch of bar room rockers. The band plays rootsy R&B tinged rockers, ranging from original stompers like “Walking Back to Lakeside” to revved up covers of favorites such as the Yardbirds “For Your Love,” all crafted to keep a dance floor jumping. If you’re into local music and haven’t caught a set from the Farmers, make this show a priority
The Farmers: Saturday March 7, at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island. 7 p.m. $12. 21 and up. www.humphreysbackstagelive.com.
