Blackalicious, Jonah Hex, Jo Stevens and a showcase of local talent are our picks of the week.

JO STEVENS, Borders bookshop, Brighton, August 22: This Scottish lass originally studied saxophone in Paris before discovering guitar and singing was more her thing. Known for her story-telling lyrics and with a voice described as a cross between Chrissy Hynde and Dolores from The Cranberries, Jo is due to release her self-titled album produced by Steve Levine on September 15. Starts 7pm, free, call 01273 731122.

BRIGHTON ROCKS, Concorde 2, Brighton, August 24: Talent from Brighton's thriving music scene crawls out of the woodwork for this regular event which features the cream of local bands. This gig features the likes of Castro, Super-U, Taller Than, Naked Ape, Educated Animals, Nothing, Echobase and Ox. From 10pm to 3am, tickets £3 before 11am, £5 afterwards. Call 01273 772770.

BLACKALICIOUS, Concorde 2, Brighton, August 26: This hip-hop duo from California are MC The Gift of Gab and DJ/producer Chief Xcel, who have been around for more than a decade and have just released their fourth album, Black Arrow. Their work has been described as ranging from verbal funk-burners and battle-rhyme rippers to expertly crafted future/soul. Starts 8pm, tickets £10, call 01273 772770.

JONAH HEX, Komedia, Brighton, August 26: A seven-piece country/folk/pop band fronted by Naomi Bedford who writes and records with Orbital and claims she was brought up on a peculiar fusion of Dolly Parton and The Clash. Support comes from Who Will Miss Mary who specialise in melodies influenced by the likes of Turin Brakes and Morcheeba. Starts 8.30pm, tickets £7/£5, call 01273 647100.