Monday, Dec. 10:
Lost in Rotation at Capital Ale House
Lost In Rotation, a four-piece band from Stafford, brings their original almost acoustic mix of rock, acoustic, alternative and pop to the best little venue on Main Street. You may recognize their unique sound from the Miller Sound Stage at the Virginia State Fair in October. Interesting fact – their second album was recorded in a barn down in Brunswick County. 9 p.m. No cover.
Tuesday, Dec. 11:
DJ Williams Projekt at Cafe Diem
The Projekt is back in "Sound Off" this week, but why wouldn't they be? DJ Williams brings one of the tightest mixes of horns, guitar and rhythm to the small stage. Do yourself a favor this Tuesday. Intimate venue. Great band. Don't miss this one. 10 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 12:
Rasputina at Alley Katz
It's like chamber music from the eighth ring of Hell. This distinctive cello and percussion trio has been creating "chamber rock" since the early '90s and they have toured with Porno for Pyros and Marilin Manson during their career. However, even with six albums behind them, it's interesting that they are still described as "hard to categorize." We say it's dark, haunting, sometimes humorous and always amazing. Appearing with the Mathematicians and Now Sleepyhead. All ages show. $10 advance and $12 at the door. 7 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 13:
Adrienne Young and Little Sadie at Ashland Coffee and Tea
Since winning the Chris Austin songwriting competition at Merle Fest in 2003, Young has garnered a lot on attention in the world of Americana and bluegrass music. She's a multi-instrument picker, a beautiful singer and one of the most talented songwriters around. Many are making the "next Alison Krauss" call. We would have to agree. $16 advance and $21 at the door. 8 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 14:
Bill Gaither Christmas with Homecoming Friends at the Richmond Coliseum
You can't have a real Christmas without three things – Santa, canned snow and the Bill Gaither Christmas special. Bill and Gloria Gaither have been performing their musical ministry for more than three decades. This year they bring their tour to Richmond. Besides the Gaithers, the show will also feature Jeff and Sheri Easter, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Isaacs, Mark Lowry, Kevin Williams and more. $20 to $36. 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 15:
Sin Sity at Capital Ale House
If you have heard Chris Brown (a.k.a. W. Blaxl Rose) sing with local Guns N' Roses cover band Rocket Queen, you know he can screech out an awesome rendition of Mr. Brownstone. Just imagine what he can do in the Brian Johnson role for Sin Sity, Richmond's best AC/DC cover band. $6. 9 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 16:
The Nutcracker at Landmark Theater
If you are over the age of 9, you probably already know the fabled holiday story of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. But Christmas is almost here and, besides the Gaither family show, you really, really can't have a proper Christmas without The Nutcracker. Plus, the magic Christmas tree and a 50-foot Chinese dragon all set to Tchaikovsky's most famous score, that's just cool. Tickets start at $27. 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.