Take 5
Joan Anderman's picks for live music this weekend.
CLASSICAL/ COUNTRY/COMEDY
Boston Pops with Rascal Flatts and Craig Ferguson
Keith Lockhart marks the 35th anniversary of Boston's big, free July Fourth celebration with help from the Pops Esplanade Orchestra, country group Rascal Flatts, late-night TV host Craig Ferguson, and a boatload of pyro.
Charles River Esplandade Tonight at 8:30.
ROCK
Cassavettes
Boston's own roots-rock eclectics, who are inspired by everyone from the Beatles and Neil Young to the Lemonheads and shoegazers, celebrate their third anniversary with pals Girls Guns & Glory and Teenage Prayers.
Paradise Rock Club Tomorrow at 9 p.m.
617-931-2000
REGGAE
Midnite
St. Croix's favorite sons share the stage (as well as a conscious message and good vibrations) with Jah-N-I, Trinity, the Children of Men, and the House of Rastafari Nyahbinghi Drumming Group.
Middle East Downstairs Tomorrow at 8 p.m.
617-931-2000
PUNK-POP
The Smoking Popes
If you find the notion of a loud guitar band fronted by a lounge singer appealing, this show's for you. Boston's own power-popsters the Sterns and indie rockers Taxpayer open the show.
Harpers Ferry Sunday at 9 p.m.
800-594-TIXX
FOLK
Peter Stampfel
One half of the '60s psych-folk duo Holy Modal Rounders, Stampfel makes a rare New England appearance with openers Elizabeth Butters - who swears allegiance to all things 1930s - and quirky ragtime blues revivalist Pokey LaFarge.
Club Passim Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
617-492-7679
