Danny Elfman at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre August 3

From Boingo To Batman to Big Mess & Beyond features Danny Elfman performing songs from Oingo Boingo; his solo career, including his 2021 album Big Mess; as well as his film scores and television themes, enhanced by visuals on the big screen. Band members include bassist Stu Brooks (Dub Trio, Lady Gaga), guitarist Nili Brosh (Dethklok), guitarist Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails, Guns N’ Roses), and local star drummer Ilan Rubin (Nine Inch Nails, Angels & Airwaves).

Iration at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre August 4

Rebelution headlines the Good Vibes Summer festival in Chula Vista, where local reggae stars Iration are second on the bill. The two bands have collaborated in the past on various tracks and videos, including the popular pandemic-era video for “Right Here Right Now.” Also appearing will be The Expendables, Passafire, and DJ Mackle.

Guitarmageddon at First Presbyterian Church August 5

Bob Boss (who has taught at UCSD, SDSU, and Palomar), Joe Amato (specializing in classical, jazz, and Latin guitar), Alex Ciavarelli (who graduated from SDSU music program in 2020), and rising star Brandon Scott will be the featured players at the 12th annual Guitarmageddon, hosted by Archie Thompson & the ArchTones. Money earned from admission will be donated to The Ladle feeding programs for the homeless and street corner medicine programs for those who cannot afford to see a doctor.

Brawley at Moonlight Beach August 6

Named after the legendary Cattle Call town, country band Brawley was founded by musicians from the Hacienda Brothers, Smith’s Ranch Boys, the Forbidden Pigs, and Rancho Deluxe. A regular presence at the San Diego Music Awards since 2010, they cite influences such as Faron Young, Ray Price, George Jones, and Buck Owens. The outdoor bill includes opening acts Good Day and the Bach to Rock House Band.

Earl Thomas & Sister Leola at the Belly Up August 6

Bluesman Earl Thomas says he was working as a dental assistant at Camp Pendleton in 1980 when the Navy kicked him out for being gay. He started singing professionally in 1987 with local blues/R&B band Rhumboogies. The winner of several San Diego Music Awards, he’s released over a dozen albums, and his songs have been covered by Etta James, Solomon Burke, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, and Tom Jones. He’ll be performing with Sister Leola on a gospel bill that also features The Gospel Ambassadors.