Live Music Calendar

Tuesday
25 years ago, the English Beat was becoming a pioneer in the British ska/punk movement. The band also spunoff several other more successful bands, including General Public and Fine Young Cannibals. Vocalists Dave Wakeling and Ranking Roger team up again, playing such hits as “Save It For Later” and “I Confess.”
9 p.m. at the Meridan | tickets and info

Wednesday
The man behind Dashboard Confessional, Chris Carrabba, has made the young girls swoon (and tattoo artists rich) for the past five years. They’re moving closer to the mainstream with their latest release Dusk and Summer.
Music: "Don't Wait"
8 p.m. at Verizon Wireless | tickets and info

Steve Poltz may have reached his 15 minutes of fame nine years ago when he co-wrote (and appeared in the video for) “You Were Meant for Me” with Jewel, but his talent far surpasses that. You can catch the singer/songwriter tonight at the Duck, with A.J. Croce (yes, Jim’s son).
8 p.m. at McGonigel’s Mucky Duck | info

Thursday
Arizona’s The Format’s first single was aptly titled “The First Single,” and its their simplicity that makes them good. File with Fountains of Wayne -- it’s pure pop fun. The band is looking for a new label for their newly released and critically acclaimed CD Dog Problems.
8 p.m. at Numbers | info

Friday
Quickly becoming an indie-pop favorite (especially in France, believe it or not), Denton, Texas’ Midlake hits you with catchy pop pieces and quirkiness reminiscence of The Flaming Lips. Robert Gomez opens.
Video: "Young Bride" (Midlake)
9 p.m. at the Proletariat | info

Saturday
Whether he’s performing native African or South American music, or any of his solo or old Garfunkled hits, Paul Simon is truly a legend not to miss.
7:30 p.m. at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | tickets and info

Influenced by Hank Williams and other traditional country artists, James Hand brings his original tunes to the public on his first CD release The Truth Will Set You Free – his debut CD at the age of 53.
10 p.m. at McGonigel’s Mucky Duck | info

If you're into more modern country, then you may want to check out Nashville's happiest couple. Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's Soul 2 Soul tour rolls into Houston tonight.
8 p.m. at the Toyota Center | tickets and info

Pictured L to R: English Beat; Dashboard Confessional; Midlake; Faith Hill & Tim McGraw.