Chris Harris

Cynical Bird

Local music—and the pervasive community of creatives that form the sub-culture's center—is so important in defining our civic heritage that even local government types are keen on recognizing and affirming the power of homegrown sounds. That attitude will be in full effect on Saturday, May 13, when the City of Albuquerque presents a Local Band Showcase at Civic Plaza from noon to 5pm. This event—which also features local food trucks and brewers—aims to celebrate our burg's bright and brilliant musicos with a day dedicated to new and nascent bands. They'll be two stages filled to the brim with heady sounds. Featured performers include The Curious Few, The Tularosa Basin Musicians Union, Cynical Bird, Mountainhead, and Michael Moxey and the Easy Sinners, among many other notable and totally listenable ensembles and individuals. Check it out, pick a new favorite and even bang your head, if so inclined. It's free, and it will be fun, after all. (August March)

Shutterbugs gather up your best pieces and pick some to submit for hanging in the new Bernalillo County headquarters when the gov-peeps move to Alvarado Square, happening now until Monday, August 31. The selected photographs will be printed in a large scale and format. They will be used to create a welcoming environment for county customers, county employees and the general public. Some will be used on the windows of the new Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office suite. The photographs should represent the history and character of Bernalillo County and its people, places, landscapes and unique events in our county. There are some big bucks involved as chosen photographers will receive $1,500, with a limit of one photograph per artist. The chosen photos will become part of the public art program’s permanent collection. There is no fee or age limit required to submit. For more information, visit bernco.gov/community-services/current-call-for-entries.aspx. Ends August 31. (Carolyn Carlson)