Raleigh
Matt Keating
The Pour HouseA conversation several years ago with a local singer/ songwriter/ band leader type elucidated this unofficial rule of music criticism: When you have an artist who displays smart lyrics and a careful craftman’s skill, an Elvis Costello comparison is mandatory. It’s safe to say, then, that Matt Keating has quite a collection of Elvis Costello comparisons (and probably some Freedy Johnston comparisons for good measure). And he’s amassed those over 20 years of making music, occasionally threatening to break bighis “McHappiness” should have been a hit and not just because of the line “a quarter life with cheese”but carrying on at the cult-fave level. This early show starts at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $5. Rick Cornell
Raleigh
Lyle Estill
Quail Ridge Books and MusicAs the founder of Piedmont Biofuels in Pittsboro, Lyle Estill is well-versed in the world of alternative resources. In fact, his first book, Biodiesel Power: The Passion, the People and the Politics of the Next Renewable Fuel, chronicles the emerging industries and the tensions between different market groups. His new book, Small is Possible: Life in a Local Economy, takes his story beyond the gas pump and into the community. Using newspaper columns, blog posts, letters and essays, he illustrates how a small Southern town can find solutions to its own problems and produce “hometown security.” Some have even christened him the “Wendell Berry of Chatham.” Anyone interested in sustainability, local economy, small business and local foods will want to show up at 7 p.m. Jessica Fuller
Carrboro
Sic Alps
ReservoirThe chassis of Sic Alps’ burnt-out Chevy comes caked with resin and upholstered in distortion. The squiggly, garage-born clatter swerves like Velvets-lined “Semi-streets” within a hazy, neo-psychedelic horizon. The San Francisco duo dangles ’60s Brit Invasion melodies like Calder mobiles, then stomps through the arrangements to make them ring and waggle in the haze. Tonight, lo-fi, atavistic swagger comes accompanied at 10 p.m. by Minchia and Jokes&Jokes&Jokes. It’s free, but donate kindly. Chris Parker
Cary
Carolina Railhawks
Wake Med Soccer ParkIn a big soccer weekend in Cary, the Carolina RailHawks Men (including striker Connally Edozien, pictured at right) play the Puerto Rico Islanders, the USL’s second-place team, Friday night at 7:30 p.m. The real fracas, however, may well be Sunday‘s 4 p.m. “friendly” against the Mexican first division’s Rayados de Monterrey. Expect a packed house, a salsa vibe and all the soft tacos you can eat. Stick around afterward to catch the RailHawks Women’s season finale against the Richmond Kickers Destiny at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.carolinarailhawks.com for tickets and scheduling info, including for the men’s under-23 team, which plays today.
