FREE! FREE! FREE! CONCERT: Their new album "When the World Comes Down" comes down today, so how do The All-American Rejects mark the momentous occasion? By inviting their fans to Hollywood & Highland for a big, loud, beautifully free show. Nice when the rock buffs get two things -- an album and concert -- on the same day. Tuesday, December 16, 8PM. Hollywood & Highland, 6801 Highland, Hollywood. 323-817-0220
TIME MACHINE TO THE RENAISSANCE VIA SONG: Hearing stirring a cappella versions of haunting carols captivates. Hearing them inside Walt Disney Concert Hall? Even captivating-er. Chanticleer, an acclaimed, all-male vocal group that performs sans instruments (well, except their voices, of course), is an ear-friendly, heart-soaring treat of the season. Tuesday, December 16, 8PM. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles. 213-972-7211
MERCURY REV AT EL REY: We've been thinking about the Mercury Rev song title "Snowflake in a Hot World" lately -- maybe it's the frigid temps in normally balmy SoCal -- and thinking about this great band in general. Have you followed them through the years? Follow them to Miracle Mile, where they're rocking the El Rey. Tuesday, December 16, 8PM. 5515 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles.
