Tech N9ne

After almost 10 years in the business, Kansas City’s heralded lyrical sniper has recorded with everyone from 2Pac to Eminem. Now the wild-haired rapper showcases his otherworldly flows and progressive production on “Absolute Power.” Few in the hip-hop arena understand how to translate their recorded works into such a theatrical show. Tech N9ne is simply one of the most mesmerizing live performers in the Midwest, and you can witness his absolute power 9 p.m. Saturday at The Uptown Theater.

For more information, log on to www.lawrence.com.

Aubrey

Given the glut of nu-metal and pop schlock occupying the iPods of today’s youth, it’s refreshing to see that good taste perseveres in the hands of young bands like Aubrey. The Lawrence act caps out at 19 years old, but the group’s Coldplay-meets-Beatles sound has already developed far beyond its members’ years. Cellos, keyboards and harmonies all figure into its palatable palette, with influences as diverse as Sigur Ros and Air. Aubrey is joined by Box Social 10 p.m. Saturday at The Jackpot Saloon.

For more information, log on to www.lawrence.com.

Ingram Hill

The blue-collar work ethic of Memphis quartet Ingram Hill has paid off after four years of constant touring that resulted in three band vans driven into the ground. The rock act was recently signed to Hollywood Records, and the resulting “June’s Picture Show” showcases influences ranging from Elvis to The Black Crowes. The band rattles and rolls through taut arrangements filled with hummable melodies both tender and tough. Ingram Hill accompanies Sister Hazel 7 p.m. Saturday at The Beaumont.

For more information, log on to www.lawrence.com.

Kansas Nutracker

“A Kansas Nutcracker” is set during the turbulent Kansas territorial period with Tchaikovsky’s music re-composed for a small mandolin orchestra. A free state family’s barn party is interrupted by Delaware Indians, Missouri ruffians and abolitionist John Brown. The show concludes with performances at 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Lawrence Arts Center.

For more information, log on to www.lawrence.com.

Octarium

Octarium began when Kansas University alumna Krista Lang Blackwood hired eight section leaders for choirs at KC’s Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in 2001. Unexpectedly, the singers began to musically read each other’s minds — taking unplanned breaths together, phrasing identically and creating impromptu choral dynamics. Blackwood listened to it all happen and thought, “Lots of people need to hear this.” The group performs 7:30 p.m. Saturday at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church.