The arguable originator of the post-punk/pop-punk genre has maintained consistent popularity since breaking through in the early 1990s. They released their 12th album, “Revolution Radio,” last October. See them at Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, on Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $26-$104. For more information, call (513) 232-6220 or visit www.riverbend.org.
Donald Fagen and the Nightflyers
Donald Fagen was the co-founder and lead vocalist for the popular 1970s soft rock band, Steely Dan. Now, with his new band, The Nightflyers, Fagen will be performing songs from his solo albums, the old Steely Dan hits, and a few surprises. See them at the Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati, on Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $39.50-$125. For more information, call 513-232-6220 or visit www.tafttheatre.org.
Gov’t Mule
Originally a side project of The Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule has released 11 studio albums and multiple EPs and live albums since the mid-1990s. Performing in a Southern rock jam band style, they released a brand new studio album, “Revolution Come…Revolution Go,” last June. See them at the PNC Pavilion at Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati on Aug. 24 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $21-$69. For more information, call (513) 232-6220 or visit www.riverbend.org.
Cincy Brew Ha-Ha
It’s time once again for Cincinnati to host the biggest craft beer and stand-up comedy festival in America. Over 75 comedians will perform on four stages while you select from over 120 craft beer options. The comedian lineup is TBA at press time. Check it out at Sawyer Point, 705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, on Aug. 24-26. Fest hours are 5 p.m.-midnight Thursday and Friday, and 4 p.m.-midnight Saturday. Beer wristbands are $5 and beers are $1 each. For more information, call (513) 352-6180.
Grand Funk Railroad
This enormously popular 1970s rock band is best known for their hits, “We’re An American Band,” and “The Locomotion.” They haven’t released a studio album since 1983, so you’ll be sure to hear all of your old favorites. See them at the Lawrenceburg Events Center, 777 Hollywood Blvd., Lawrenceburg, Indiana, on Aug. 25 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25-$80. For more information, visit www.hollywoodindiana.com.
“Last Poet Standing IV”
This head-to-head competition will pit spoken word performers from all around the Midwest against each other. Come see who has the most fiery storytelling and wordplay to knock their opponents out at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, on Aug. 25 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $26. For more information, call 513-621-2787 or visit www.cincinnatiarts.org.
John Mayer
The popular guitarist and singer-songwriter released his seventh album, “The Search For Everything,” last April. See him at Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Dawes will open. Tickets are $36-$133.50. For more information, call (513) 232-6220 or visit www.riverbend.org.
Jungle Jim’s Grilling and BBQ Festival
Jungle Jim’s is closing the summer with this inaugural festival celebrating one of the summer season’s signature delicacies: sweet or spicy BBQ sauces slathered over grilled or smoked meats. Sample the variety, chat with experts, enter the ping pong and cornhole tournaments, and stick around for the after-party, which includes craft beer and live music, at Jungle Jim’s International Market, 5440 E. Dixie Highway, Fairfield on Aug. 26 from noon-10 p.m. Tickets are $15 (adults) and $2 (children). For more information, call (513) 674-6055 or visit www.junglejims.com.
Taste of OTR
This is the fifth anniversary for Taste of OTR, the festival that showcases the food, craft beer, and shopping of this revitalized and vibrant downtown neighborhood. The Tastes also includes live music and a VIP experience that will allow you to sample select food and spirits in a private setting. Check it out at Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, on Aug. 26 from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. General admission is free. VIP tickets are $25 or two for $40. For more information, visit www.washingtonpark.org.
Hidden Valley Fruit Farm Festivals
This local fruit farm likes to throw a party whenever their fruits ripen. This particular festival is called “The Grape Escape” and will include hayrides, train rides, barnyard animals, a bounce house, and crafts in addition to homemade grape treats that range from juice to donuts. Check it out at the Hidden Valley Fruit Farm, 5474 N. State Route 48, Lebanon, on Aug. 26-27 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Parking is free. For more information, call 513-932-1869 or visit www.hiddenvalleyfruitfarm.com.
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