Malachy Koons

If you're looking for some live music on your Fourth of July weekend, here are shows in five different cities around the region! First Friday jazz is here again with a duo of father-son duos (if that doesn't make sense to you, read on) playing Rapids Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids at 6 p.m. Joining regulars Sam and his dad Matthew Miltich this month are Trevor and his dad Doug Haining. The pair will bring drums and saxophone to the Miltich's guitar and bass, playing hot club and straight ahead jazz.

Summer is officially here and we are ready for some musical action! This week's Fresh Picks is filled with sugar, power and freedom, just in time for the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Check out this week's suggestions from Music Director Kari Hedlund, Host/Producer Malachy Koons and Host/Volunteer Coordinator Dan Gannon. Albums In her first release in nearly 10 years, North Carolina singer-songwriter Tift Merritt picks up right where she left off with the sweetness of Sugar.

Cue the Chemical Brothers' "Block Rockin' Beats" — there are two block parties this Saturday in Grand Rapids and Bemidji! And if rockin' is what you want, be sure to check out Elour on Friday night in Aitkin.