3/3/11: Today’s Tips: Thursday

MUSIC: Aficionado @ Hudson River Coffee House, Albany. On Friday, Aficionado is hitting the road and heading on down to SXSW in support of their recently released EP, “When It Comes to Creation.” But tonight they celebrate with a tour kick-off bash. Summer People and the Red Lions also share the stage. 7:30pm. $5.

READING: James Gleick @ the Recital Hall at UAlbany’s Performing Arts Center, Albany. The New York Writers Institute welcomes science writer James Gleick, author of the new book “The Information: A History, A Theory, A Flood.” 8pm. FREE.

MUSIC: The Heavy Pets @ Jillian’s, Albany. The Florida-based jam-band vets of Bonnaroo return to Nippertown. 8pm. $10 in advance; $12 at the door.

MUSIC: Brendan Martin @ Valentine’s Music Hall, Albany. The Nippertown hip-hopster recently garnered a big national break won a contest that challenged all comers to drop an original verse on a T-Pain track – with the prize being a slot on T-Pain’s forthcoming mix tape “Prevolver.” With Kung Fu Kid, Glass Face and Joe Stories. 8pm.

MUSIC: The Tommy Verrigni Trio @ the Stockade Inn, Schenectady. Jazzing up the Electric City. 7pm. FREE.

MUSIC: Mark Baptiste @ the Moon & River Cafe, Schenectady. Delanson-based singer-songwriter. 8pm. FREE.