5/14/10: Today’s Tips: Friday

By Sara Ayers On May 14, 2010

MUSIC: Captain Squeeze and the Zydeco Moshers @ the Midtown Tap and Tea Room, Albany. Greg Speck straps on his accordion and suddenly he becomes – ta da! – Captain Squeeze, gathering together the forces of the Zydeco Moshers to celebrate the release of their fifth CD, “Fine People Everywhere.” 7:30pm. Free.

MUSIC: Melba Moore @ Proctors, Schenectady. A member of the original Broadway cast of “Hair,” Moore played the part of Dionne, but 18 months after opening she took over the lead role of Shelly from Diane Keaton – becoming the first black actress to replace a white actress in a lead role on Broadway. In support of her latest R&B album, “Book of Dreams,” Moore hits the stage tonight to raise funds for the Hamilton Hill Arts Center. 8pm. $25.

MUSIC: Mark Erelli @ The Linda, Albany. The fine New England singer-songwriter celebrates the release of his new album, “Little Vigils.” (Read CD review here.) With Eric Margan of the Red Lions opening the show with a solo set. 8pm. $15.

MUSIC: Fred Eaglesmith @ Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs. If you don’t already have your ticket for this one, well, you’re out of luck. The show is sold out.

MUSIC: The Britton Brothers Band @ YOURS, 145 Barrett St., Schenectady. Unfortunately, the Nippertown debut of this sax-and-trumpet-led jazz band of brothers will have to wait. Tonight’s performance has been cancelled due to illness.

MUSIC: George Mann @ the Altamont Village Hall, Altamont. Pro-union singer-songwriter Mann celebrates the music, work and life of the late great Utah Phillips in concert. 7:30pm. $5-$10 suggested donation.

MUSIC/DISCUSSION: “Doc Cheatham: A Portrait in Jazz and Latin” @ Union College’s Emerson Auditorium, Schenectady. A multimedia presentation featuring performances by Ray Vega with Ray Alexander, Erik Johnson and Pete Sweeney. 7:30pm. $15; seniors $10.

MUSIC: Williams Handbell Choir @ Williams College’s Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, Williamstown. Performing on a five-octave set of Schulmerich handbells, this student-led group performs both traditional and contemporary pieces, from old favorites like “Amazing Grace” and “Shenandoah” to the works of Handel, Lady Gaga, Lennon and McCartney, Holst, Joplin and Rachmaninoff, as well as pieces composed specifically for bell choir. 8pm. Free.