Critic's picks - pop music
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POP MUSIC
PUTNAM MURDOCK Although he was on the official ballot for the Grammys this year, Murdock didn't make the cut as one of the top five nominees in his categories. That's too bad, because this South Dartmouth-based singer-songwriter's latest, "Fiction," is a sturdy set of introspective folk indebted to his influence, John Prine. 8 p.m. Feb. 15. Free. Toad. 617-497-4950, www.toadcambridge.com
JAMES REED
FUJIYA & MIYAGI Snap on your spiffiest trainers for a night of bizarre lyrical tangents, good cheer, and synth-electro nirvana from this critically slavered-over UK outfit. 8 p.m. Feb. 15. $15. Paradise Rock Club. 877-598-8689, www.livenation.com
SARAH RODMAN
ANA EGGE In 2007, this indie-folk musician made "Lazy Days," the ultimate summer soundtrack all about the pleasures of leisure. She's back with "Road to My Love," and some of the easygoing charm of "Lazy Days" remains blessedly intact. Local staple Rose Polenzani opens in support of "When the River Meets the Sea," her new album with Session Americana. 8 p.m. Feb. 16. $12. Club Passim. 617-492-7679, www.clubpassim.com
J.R.
SCOTT HAMILTON Since the mid-'70s, the Providence native has wielded a tenor saxophone in the manner of swing-era masters such as Coleman Hawkins, Lester Young, and Ben Webster. Over the years, he has carved out an increasingly convincing identity - brawny yet tender - within the tradition. With pianist Paul Schmeling, bassist John Lockwood, and drummer Jim Gwin. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17. $10. Jocko's Jazz at the Sahara Club (34 Bates St., Methuen). 603-898-1591, www.jockosjazz.com
KEVIN LOWENTHAL
KATHLEEN EDWARDS The Canadian singer-songwriter has quietly churned out three terrific tough-and-tender records in the last five years. Our favorite is 2008's painfully honest "Asking for Flowers." 8 p.m. Feb. 18. $20. Paradise Rock Club. 877-598-8689, www.livenation.com S.R. 
