SLOW AND STEADY—Low-key singer/songwriter Cass McCombs won’t win points for speed or volume. His latest, Wit’s End, is a collection of trudging, bummed-out ballads, but within the graceful architecture of his songs is clear evidence of his songwriting genius. Come, listen, drink—just leave the sharp objects at home. NL
w/Frank Fairfield; Mississippi Studios, 3939 N Mississippi, 9 pm, $12
ART AND A THEREMIN—How many times can you say you’ve seen the theremin played by a professional named Larold? Seize this unique opportunity as Portland’s Plazm magazine celebrates their 20th anniversary with a new issue and a launch reading that includes some of the most creative critters in the city: Jon Raymond, Kevin Sampsell, and Tiffany Lee Brown. JL
Powell’s City of Books, 1005 W Burnside, 7:30 pm, FREE