FRIDAY, DEC. 9, 2011 >>>

1. A bald guy with black rimmed glasses and an acoustic guitar may not seem like what you'd associate the words "badass" or "riotous smart performer," but trust us, they fit. Ed Hamell - once in a band but now free of the constraints of a shared tour van - enjoys going it alone. His entirely unique twist on the solo acoustic performer image is one that will leave its impression on you for days. Sharp black comedy rips out of his throat with precision timing and skilled delivery, set off by cord after cord of angry, powerful guitar. Catch Ed, aka Hamell On Trial at 8 p.m. inside the Tempest Lounge. There's a $10 cover for this show.

2. The Weekly Volcano was there the day Füdie opened its doors in Tacoma's Triangle District. And we'll be there tonight from 5-8 p.m. when the Tacoma gourmet food, wine and kitchen store hosts a holiday open house featuring wine, beer and cheese.

3. B2 Fine Art Gallery/Studios opens part two of its Cold Fusion installation with a opening party from 6-9 p.m. Four North American artist explore contemporary artwork. You'll explore the wine.

4. Gig Harbor High School graduate turned national Americana music superstar Jaime Wyatt will perform in her hometown at 8 p.m. for a show with Chicago-born rocker Ted Wulfers inside Morso. She's perfomed with Lucinda Williams, John Fogerty, John Mellencamp. Pete Droge thinks she's awesome. And she did a little Q&A with the Weekly Volcano here.

5. While we will post our famous Night Moves live music listings later today, we should mention that the mighty Big Wheel Stunt Show will be rocking Jazzbones at 8 p.m. Pianist Gavin Guss opens.

PLUS: A boatload of holiday theater productions in The Weekend Hustle

LINK: More arts and entertainment events in the South Sound

LINK: 2011 South Sound Holiday Happenings

LINK: Happy hours!