Sean Kingston + New Boyz at Gramercy Theatre
For our money, one of the year’s strongest singles is Sean Kingston’s kiss-off anthem, “Face Drop” (view the vid above). Tonight, check out the pop-reggae star as he performs in support of his sophomore LP, Tomorrow, a surefire mood lifter. If you found “Beautiful Girls” addictive, you’ll fall instantly for the disc’s breezy, danceable hooks. Opening is the skinny-jeans-sporting L.A. rap duo New Boyz, currently generating heaps of buzz with their brash rhymes.

Gretchen Parlato at Jazz Standard
She’s just past 30, but jazz diva Gretchen Parlato—who has held her own alongside heavyweights such as Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter—comes off like a seasoned pro. Here she plays behind her second disc, In a Dream. For more info, read Steve Smith’s preview of the gig.

Buraka Som Sistema at (Le) Poisson Rouge
According to our own Sophie Harris, this Portugese kuduro outfit put on one of 2009’s most infectious NYC shows at Bowery Ballroom back in May. Tonight it stops by a much smaller downtown venue for a sure-to-be-crazy performance.

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band at Beacon Theatre
The wry country favorite hits this classy uptown joint with a new album, Natural Forces, in tow.

Say Anything at Highline Ballroom
Max Bemis and his visionary, tragicomic emo outfit close out a two-night local stand. Read Hank Shteamer’s feature on the band here, and view an exclusive acoustic performance by Bemis here.

The Very Best at Santos Party House
The Euro-Afro pop experts—recently profiled in TONY—make up for a canceled CMJ appearance at this lively Tribeca spot.