THIS WEEKEND IN MUSIC: Fusion Music Festival, jazz galore and Over Sea Under Stone CD release

FRIDAY
In an ocean of rock vocalists emulating far superior artists, T.J. McMillan sings in a way that easily lasers through his band’s wall of sound. His pure but gritty vocals pair well with Over Sea Under Stone’s style of classic rock with sludgy metal undertones. Guitars are quick to wail and the drums offer a good base for anyone trying to get in a headbanging session. Formed in 2013, the local act has crafted a set of catchy, energetic tunes soon to be released on their first EP coming out this weekend and celebrated at the Big Dipper at 7:30 pm tonight. The all-ages show is $5.

The Alliance is a medieval-themed rock band. They play all original music and perform in costume. Seriously. Tonight, they bring their intricate stage show (complete with sword fighting) to the Knitting Factory at 8 pm. Opening acts include rockers Helldorado, Thirion X and Free the Jester.

The Spokane Falls Community College is back tonight after a four-year absence. Featuring trumpet player Brian Lynch, singer Kathy Kosins and violist Eyvind Kang, the public concert starts at 7:30 pm and is $15 for non-students. Check out all of the details in this week’s music story.

SATURDAY
The Fusion Music Festival is an all-day event converging the worlds of the Hop! and Pinnacle Northwest. One $12 (if you buy before day of) gets you into both venues. The list of local bands is enormous and eclectic and includes the Broken Thumbs, North Fork, Banish the Echo, Aardvark, Flying Mammals, Lavoy, the Finns and more. The show starts at noon.

Saturday, the jazz continues with a performance by the Hot Club of Spokane, a group of local jazz/swing/blues musicians, performing at the Bing Crosby Theater for their CD release party. The album includes lesser-known songs performed by Bing Crosby and his hometown jazz cohorts Al Rinker and Mildred Bailey (the show actually features those artists' family members). Cost is $12 and starts at 1 pm.

SUNDAY
Bloomsday isn’t just about the runners, nearly 30 acts dot the course offering uplifting music to keep participants motivated. Check out the entire lineup of course entertainment here.

The Hop! brings in North Carolina-based He is Legend, a band to be excited about if you’re into rocking hard. Other bands on the lineup include Must Be the Holy Ghost, FAUS, the Revision Scheme and more. Doors open at 7 pm for the all-ages show.

Also, check out these two benefit shows happening this weekend.