Monster Jam, Michael Blackson, Joshua Radin, Ray Wylie Hubbard

It’s January in San Antonio so it’s Monster Jam time. If that’s too loud for you, you might prefer something a little quieter, like an Iron Maiden tribute band.
Friday
Michael Blackson: Inspired by the energetic delivery of comedians like Eddie Murphy, this Ghanaian-born actor had his first screen role in Steve Carr’s ‘Next Friday’. Blackson’s quick wit and scathing feedback made him a hit on stage and on shows such as MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out.” 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 6 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club, 618 NW Loop 410, $98 to $392 for tables of two, four or eight,
improvtx.com.
Brandon Padier: In a road-weary voice, San Antonio Americana artist Padier spins romantic songs inspired by his travels through Texas. As the pandemic closed concert halls, he worked on his second album, “Brothers of the Flood.” A new EP, “Suffering Season”, was released during the holidays. 8 p.m. on Friday and 11 p.m. Saturday, Lonesome Rose, 2114 N. St. Mary’s St., $5,
thelonesomerose.com.
“Einstein is wrong about everything”: It’s 1956 and Princeton autopsy Thomas Harvey stole the brain of the recently deceased Albert Einstein. Who knows why he decided to take the brainpower of the physicist, but now he is on the run from international authorities and neo-Nazis. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Gregg Barrios Theater at The Overtime, 5409 Bandera Road, Suite 205. $18,
theovertimetheatre.org.
Christian shields: Austin-based musician Shields plays sharp guitar riffs reminiscent of vintage rockers and has the vocals to match, if his latest single “Off the Track” is any indication. For this leg of his Texas tour, Shields will be joined by Bay Allison, Fox Motel, the Walk Offs and All Sides Equal. 7 p.m. Friday, Amp Room, 2407 N. st. Mary’s St. $5,
theamproom.com.
Koffin Kats: This psychobilly trio have spent 15 years refining their fusion of punk, rock and a fair amount of spooky atmosphere into a fate-leaded twang designed to help anyone listening overcome stress. Hard Luck Rebels will open the show. 8 p.m. Friday, Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St. $15,
papertigersatx.com.
The Iron Maidens: This all-female Iron Maiden tribute band go all out to cover the British metal band. From singing “Run to The Hills” to reciting verses from “The Trooper” in costume, the Maidens go all out to recreate the energy of their inspiration. 8 pm Friday, Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E Grayson St, $25,
www.samsburgerjoint.com.
Saturday
Monster Jam: Get ready for the loudest acrobatic show in the country. Monster Jam stalwarts such as Grave Digger, MAX-D and El Toro Loco will perform feats of automotive audacity as the 12,000-pound monstrosities vie for fan approval. 7 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday, Alamodome, 100 Montana St. $20-$115.
alamodome.com.
Singer and songwriter Ray Wylie Hubbard
David McClisterRay Wylie Hubbard: Singer-songwriter Hubbard’s career dates back to Austin’s cosmic country scene of the ’70s and the classic “Up Against the Wall, Redneck Mother.” But more recent songs like “The Grifter’s Hymnal” made him a hero to a younger generation of songwriters like Hayes Carll. His 2020 album, “Co-Starring,” showed how many friends and fans he’s made along the way. 7 p.m. Saturday, Floore’s, 14492 Old Bandera Rd. Helots, $22-$200,
liveatfloores.com.
Sunday
Joshua Radin: With a smooth, mellow voice that will put listeners at ease, folksinger Radin connected with a wide audience when his songs “Winter” and “Closer” were included on the sitcom “Scrubs.” He’s touring in support of his 2021 album, “The Ghost and the Wall,” which features the songs “Make It Easy” and “You’re My Home.” 7 p.m. Sunday, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Cir Auditorium, $35-$60,
tobincenter.org.
Irma Ruiz: Covering topics such as family, marriage, parenting and motherhood, Ruiz used scenes across Texas to blast everyone in her life, including herself. A former teacher and mom, Ruiz expresses the frustrations of parenthood — with humor. 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club, 618 Northwest Loop 410, $10,
improvtx.com.