Identities: Mistaken and Otherwise 

First, congrats to Adam Pokorski and Matt Jackson for reopening their record store, Missing Link. Second, extra high fives for opening it inside a tavern — genius. Third, apologies to Dead Reckoning tavern master Theo Brown for confusing him with the other bearded guy in Arcata who wears a kilt. Who'd've thunk? For the uninitiated, Dead Reckoning is located on Eighth and J streets (behind the Co-op, next to 3 Foods Cafe), and Missing Link spins and sells within. Do you like music? Do you like beer? You need to check this place out — they have root beer, too! And It's Alive kombucha! So many favorite things! Between Dead Reckoning and Richard's Goat, A-town's relaxation options have suddenly expanded. While we treasure our longtime go-to places — looking at you, Alibi — these swank new joints have us all aflutter. (And regarding the 'bi, our favorite dive is in the process of expanding into the vacant-for-a-half-century lot next door — stay tuned for some serious transformation.)

Friday: Drown your sorrows

Speaking of romance and beer, Irish pub band The Vanishing Pints sings songs of love, death, woe and copious alcoholic intake at the Palm Lounge. A $5 suggested donation at the door should keep the band in dandy spirits. Starts at 9 p.m. Please be 21-or-over.

Friday: What you look like in bed

Local radio faves Scuber Mountain and Soulsapiens are throwing a pajama party — seriously — at the Jambalaya. (Wear onesies you can dance in.) The groove starts at 9 p.m., you have to be 21-or-over and cover is $10 for those disinclined to participate in the event's theme, $5 if you wear your PJs.

Saturday: Still looking for a heart of gold

Live music returns to the Alibi with Shakey, a tribute to the music of Neil Young. Music at 11 p.m., $5 cover, show is 21-and-over.

Saturday: Below the surface

Independent singer/songwriter Jeremy Bursich plays Northtown Coffee. Despite his smiley Facebook profile photo, this Jeremy cat has the sort of dark, haunting voice that slides into the recesses of your brain as the strumming of the guitar descends upon you in hazy, melancholy riffs. Right? Right. The show celebrates the release of Bursich's new album, America. Also on the bill, Ryan Spencer, Alec Cole and Wonderwench. The show is free, all ages and starts at 7 p.m.

Saturday: Manic mountain music

Humboldt Brews hosts a kinda-big-deal show with the Ben Miller Band, a trio out of Missouri championed by ZZ Top — they go back on tour with the legendary rockers in March — that combines the bluegrass energy with Delta blues and the haunting sounds of Appalachian mountain music into what the band terms "Ozark Stomp." Look for thrift shop guitars and banjos, a one-string washtub bass (comprised of a weed-eater string attached to a wooden pole) and an electric washboard. Tickets are $10, show starts at 9 p.m. and is 21-and-over.

Saturday: Be sated

In Eureka, you've got your excellently named Good Eats showcasing local beat makers and rappers at Siren's Song. MC Shell Shock hosts, sounds are provided by Esch, KooBreez, HighLyfe Fresh, Katalyst, DJ Eli BeatBox and Randy Carter. This happens at 9 p.m., has a $2 cover charge and is 18-and-over.

Sunday: Punk permutations

The BirdHouse (17th and H streets, Arcata) goes off at 7 p.m. with queer-anarchist-emo-punks Snaggletooth, two-piece punks Blaster Dead, both out of Chico, and puro punk rock Pinche Politica. The suggested donation is $3 to $6, plus an additional donation jar will be passed and bake sale held to support Rosa of Snaggletooth's fundraiser for her bottom surgery.

Sunday: Banjo genius

Internationally recognized banjo virtuoso Bill Evans has been performing, teaching, writing and composing for over 35 years. String fans, you will want to catch him at the Arcata Playhouse at 7 p.m. — advance tickets advised and available at Wildberries or by calling 822-1575. Tickets run $12 general, $10 Playhouse and Humboldt Folklife Society members.

Etc.

Full event listings in the Journal's Music and More grid, the Eight Days a Week calendar and online. Bands and promoters, send your gig info, preferably with a high-res photo or two, to [email protected].