Concerts and tunes to check out

I've decided the only two things my future children need to worry about in relation to the security of their college funds is my propensity for iTunes and Ticketmaster.

I'm headed to Rusted Root tonight. I haven't seen these granolamiesters live since I was in high school. Check 'em out if you're in KC - tickets are only $24 before Ticketmaster breaks out its 7 iron and beats you upside the wallet.

While I'm in Chicago, the Katie Todd Band will be at the Sheffield Garden Walk. Playing in the afternoon for free - very cool. I've been waiting to see her live for a long time, and am excited by the possibility.

And as if next weekend won't be fun enough, I'm going to cap it off Monday night with Okkervil River at the Jackpot in Lawrence. I'm just getting to know this band and am diggin' their unique sound and storytelling. Sort of a rougher Old 97's, or more polished Arthur Dodge.

Ben Harper will be at Starlight on August 25th. His newest album is one of his best in my opinion - looking forward to this if my concert budget isn't busted by that point. He's playing with Damian "Jr Gong" Marley, so if you're looking to make a few extra bucks, take a backpack of Funyuns to sell at a premium price.

Have a great weekend, and if you're at the Rusted Root show, I'll be the guy not wearing a hemp necklace.