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Here's an abridged, holiday version of this week's music calendar. If you like Latin-rock, you're in luck. Tonight, Grupo Fantasma and their funky horn section returns to the Continental Club. Nearby, at Warehouse Live, Vallejo will be playing. Del Castillo visits Warehouse Live tomorrow night. Two good choices for Saturday: R&B songstress Erykah Badu performs at Arena Theater and Austin's Asylum Street Spankers - always a fun show - return to the Mucky Duck.......

Looks like it's going to be slim pickings for awhile, folks. A reader informed us last week that all late night shows are in repeat mode for the duration of the writer's strike. Bummer. Recommended viewing this week includes any TV appearances by Alicia Keys, and Nicole Atkins' (pictured) wonderful Letterman performance in case you missed it the first time around. Monday -CBS, 10:35pm: The Late Show with David Letterman, Ryan Adams Tuesday -ABC, 7am:......

Tonight, catch Soviet-born Regina Spektor and her unique "anti-folk" style at Warehouse Live. Tomorrow, catch Houston's own pop/rock outfit Prodigal Son at Rudyard's. Friday night is a tougher choice: you have Grupo Fantasma at the Continental Club (see our interview with them and win tickets), Ghostland Observatory at Warehouse (more details on them tomorrow), or if you're a club-goer, you may want to catch Paul Oakenfold on his "Greatest Hits" tour at Planeta Bar......

Houstonist interviewed Beto from Grupo Fantasma this week, in preparations for their show this Friday night at the Continental Club. The large, Austin-based band, who puts on a hell of a live show, gave us some insight into their music and other work that they are doing. If you'd like to see Grupo Fantasma Friday night, we have a pair of tickets just for you. Send us an e-mail with your name and phone number......

Ah ... Spring is in the air. With spring comes festival season! The International Festival begins its two-weekend stint on Saturday, bringing a wide range of musicians. This weekend, George Clinton headlines, but you can also catch Ruthie Foster, Grupo Fantasma, and more. Another annual tradition (well, a 14 year tradition) is Buzzfest sponsored by 94.5 KTBZ. This year's line-up for the rock station (notice that we didn't say "alternative?" -- there's a reason......

The concert week begins with the Toys for Tots benefit at the Mucky Duck, lots of good local acts and a great cause. The weekend starts with a party, courtesy of Grupo Fantasma at the Continental Club. If you prefer holiday music, check out Mannheim Steamroller at the Toyota Center the same night. Local boys (and girl) Skyblue 72 go on stage at Rudyard’s Saturday night, and the alternative/blue/rock outfit The Black Keys come......

Tuesday For those who yearn for the days of the progressive rock of the 80’s and 90’s, Queensryche is back, touring on their new concept album Operation: Mindcrime II. We’re sure they’ll throw in their mainstream hit, “Silent Lucidity.” 8 p.m. at Verizon Wireless | tickets and info Wednesday And for those who like your rock a little more hardcore, Sparkle Motion will fill the void for you. Houston’s Born Liars open. Not a......