Sat., Feb. 23, Blue Oaks

There are certain singer-songwriters who soak up so many influences that they transcend genres. Artists such as Leonard Cohen, Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young, for example. Blue Oaks, singer Brendan Stone's band, exists in this realm, though its sound has a more rustic, natural quality about it. Stone's smooth baritone compliments the music's tenderness like the wind rustles the leaves on a tree. It's got elements of soul, blues and indie, but really, it's not any of those; it's just Stone singing his heart out onstage for anyone who wants to listen. He's backed by drummer Cody Walker. 1400 E Street, http://blueoaks.bandcamp.com.