Sat. July 21

How could you not be intrigued by a group called Spottiswood & His Enemies? Has a little more curiosity value than, say, Velvet Revolver, doesn't it? More expressive range, too. Jonathan Spottiswood, a prolific English singer-songwriter, fronts this septet with this spring in New York at Joe's Pub performed a "rock" show in March, a "Mediterranean romp" in May and will play a "gospel" show this month. Here, in our area, we're going to get the full-blown experience, which references Leonard Cohen (vocally), alongside some R&B, waltzes, cabaret and rock. They're in the midst of a trilogy, having released "That's What I Like," reportedly the story of a playboy's failed Mediterranean cruise with songs like "Skinny Little Girl," "Olivia," and "In the Pouring Rain." The final album, "Salavation," comes out this winter. Put simply, Spottiswood & His Pals (whoops, Enemies) are part of the new wave of rock-influenced people who like weaving in music from the rest of the world and taking the audience on an eclectic genre trip. They're at Johnny D's at 11:30 on Saturday July 21. Opening at 9:30 is Don DiLego, following by The Grownup Noise.

17 Holland St., Somerville, 617-776-2004 www.johnnyds.com