Intern Derrick’s Weekend Picks: A Reason to Celebrate.

We did it. We finally made it through the snowmageddon hellscape that is the month of February. I think this is a cause for celebration. So, if you’re looking for an excuse to finally get out of the house and spend a night out on the town, then you better listen up. Philadelphia will be hosting a plethora of not just concerts, but artist debuts, record release shows and other musical events throughout the city this upcoming weekend. From benefit gigs to anniversary tours, there’s something for everyone to celebrate. – Derrick Krom

FRIDAY

John The Conqueror, Blayer Pointdujour & The Rockers Galore and Thee, Idea Men at MilkBoy

After spending the entirety of last month trekking through Europe, local gritty blues-rock trio John The Conqueror will officially celebrate the recent release of their new album The Good Life back in their hometown this Friday night. Philadelphia reggae and hip-hop-influenced Blayer Pointdujour & The Rockers Galore and rock outfit Thee, Idea Men will round out the record release show lineup.

Alien She Opening Night with Mannequin Pussy, Trophy Wife, The Pretty Greens and Pushin’ It 2 The Limit at Johnny Brenda’s (FOR FREE!)

Johnny Brenda’s will be celebrating the opening night of Alien She (a Vox Populi exhibition that examines the lasting impact of the Riot Grrrl punk feminist movement) with a number of rocking female-centered acts. Philadelphia groups Pushin’ It 2 The Limit, The Pretty Greens and Trophy Wife will perform along with New York City punk rockers Mannequin Pussy.

SATURDAY

MH The Verb with Stinky Pocket, Max Swan, Brielle & H-igh D-efinition, Supreem Da Rezarekta’, Noesis (of Philadelphia Slick), Dewey Decibel, Drusef and Mic Stewart at Connie’s Ric Rac

Unique and multi-talented hip-hop artist MH The Verb will be celebrating the release of his new album The Balloon Guide at Connie’s Ric Rac this Saturday night. Performing with a live band, MH The Verb will also be supported by a number of local hip-hop artists who will conclude the CD Release Party with a round-robin style collective performance.

Flyermile, Thrills and Younger Me at Boot & Saddle

Come on down to Boot & Saddle Saturday night to witness a debut show for both Flyermile (a new band featuring Steve Clifford of Circa Survive and Chris Weyh formerly of A Life Once Lost and Killer Bangs) and Thrills (the high-energy pop solo debut from Philly singer-songwriter Michael Mullin). Lancaster rock band Younger Me will also be performing.

SUNDAY

Philabundance Benefit featuring Lizanne Knott, Tin Bird, Jen Creed and Kevin Killen at World Café Live

Hosted by WXPN’s Helen Leicht, the 6^th annual Philabundance Benefit will take place this Sunday at World Café Live. Benefiting the region’s largest non-profit food bank and hunger relief organization, singer-songwriter Lizanne Knott, alt-folk “barn rock” band Tin Bird, vocalist Jen Creed and Philadelphia singer-songwriter Kevin Killen (above) will all play for a great cause. The price of admission requires a non-perishable food item.

Newport Jazz Festival: Now 60 featuring Anat Cohen, Karrin Allyson, Ben Allison, Peter Martin, Mark Whitfield, Randy Brecker and Clarence Penn at Merriam Theater

In celebration of the 60^th anniversary of one of the most iconic and renowned American music festivals, the Newport Jazz Festival: Now 60 tour will make a stop at the Merriam Theater this Sunday night. Featuring an all-star jazz ensemble put together by festival founder/producer George Wein, the night will be filled with both classic jazz numbers and original material from the ensemble’s members. It’s a must-see for jazz fans.