This column is running the risk of sounding like a one-man cheerleading squad for Jay Crocker and all of his various side projects, but it’s hard to avoid — the man just makes brilliant music. When it comes to No More Shapes, though (actually the shared project of Crocker, drummer Eric Hamelin and trombonist J. C. Jones), you don’t need to take my word for it — the band has been garnering praise everywhere from indie blogs to the New York Times’ jazz column. Find out why everyone’s collective brain is melting at the band’s official CD release this Saturday, May 22 at The Marquee Room. Free Nude Celebs and Blanket (featuring Scott Munro and Chris Dadge of Bent Spoon, plus Chad Van Gaalen) will open.

Of course, sometimes you’re just not in the mood for free jazz. If that’s the case, you still have a couple more options on Saturday: Henry Rollins is bringing his spoken-word tour back to Calgary, this time at the Jack Singer Concert Hall, so if you want to be lectured to by a former punk, that’s probably your best bet. And if dancing’s more your thing, don’t miss Montreal’s CFCF at the HiFi for some of the catchy, genre-pushing and all-together low-key beats.

On Sunday, May 23, it’s time to indulge your inner rock ’n’ roller when Ladyhawk hits the Republik. The Vancouver outfit has quietly become one of Canada’s most reliable purveyors of long-haired rock jams, touring with the Constantines and earning a place at a host of festivals along the way. Make sure you show up in time for openers (and former Albertans) A Pale Blue, whose rootsy rockers should be a perfect complement to the Hawk. Or, just catch A Pale Blue earlier in the afternoon, when it plays a free acoustic set at Local 510. Either way, really.

Lastly, Wednesday, May 26 will be your last chance to see your best friendos in Friendo until they come back for Sled Island. The lo-fi art-pop trio (featuring Women drummer Mike Wallace) is embarking on a U.S. tour this month, and they’ve invited Grown Ups (the creators of the taking-the-Internet-by-storm Justin Bieber/Black Flag mash-up T-shirt) to see them off. Make sure to say your goodbyes at the Ship & Anchor.