Best of the week: Lil Yachty, 'We the People,' John Mellencamp, Damian Marley, more

Just two weeks after "American Teen" singer Khalid packed the Myth, another youthful AutoTune-employing, Southern hip-hop star — Lil Yachty — is headed to the Maplewood megaclub to preview his own teen-centric debut album, "Teenage Emotions." The Georgia rapper, 19, broke big with his wacky-weedy hit "Broccoli" and has been building buzz for his new record with the Diplo-spiked single "Forever Young." Surely, he'll also have to deliver one of the standout tracks from his earlier mixtapes, "Minnesota." CHRIS RIEMENSCHNEIDER

8 p.m. Thu., Myth, Maplewood, $29.50, eTix.com

Since settling in New Orleans in 2005, multithreat performer Aurora Nealand (above) has flourished in a bevy of projects. A soprano saxophonist, vocalist and accordionist who plays traditional New Orleans jazz, rockabilly and avant-garde jazz, she has an easygoing flair and charisma. She heads north in a duo with Tom McDermott, a fluid and knowledgeable stride and boogie-woogie pianist.

BRITT ROBSON

7 p.m. Sun., Crooners, Fridley, $20-$45, croonersloungemn.com

There couldn't be a better time for "We the People," a group exhibit organized by four guest curators: Christopher Harrison, Johnnay Leenay, Maggie Thompson and Mary Anne Quiro. A wide range of local and national artists (including Bobby Rogers, whose photo "Origin" is shown above) explore contemporary and historical identities, activism/dissent in the digital age and other pertinent questions.

ALICIA ELER

When it comes to recordings, John Mellencamp has been in an acoustic Americana groove for several years. This year's "Sad Clowns & Hillbillies" features some strong songwriting (love "All Night Talk Radio" and "Battle of Angels") and splendid duets with Carlene Carter. She's on tour with him, as opening act and member of his band. However, his concerts have been heavy on radio favorites and light on new material, except for the spirited "My Soul's Got Wings."

JON BREAM

7:30 p.m. Tue. State Fair grandstand, Falcon Heights, $49 & $64, etix.com

There will be conversation, understated humor and a whole lot of soul in this inaugural cabaret show by Ivey Award-winning actor/singer Regina Marie Williams, known for her work in "Sister Act" and "Nina Simone: Four Sisters." Joining her are Jevetta and Jearlyn Steele, the powerhouse singing sisters, and Ashley Dubose, who made a splash on "The Voice." This will take place in a new events space on the third floor of the former Solera restaurant.

ROHAN PRESTON

Dr. Lonnie Smith, the Hammond B3 organ star, got his start playing with George Benson in the 1960s. With last year's "Evolution" album, Smith returned to the Blue Note label for the first time since 1970. Produced by Don Was, the often exciting soulful jazz recording finds Smith accompanied by an array of stars, including Robert Glasper, Joe Lovano and Keyon Harrold. This spring Smith, 75, was honored with an NEA Jazz Masters award.

JON BREAM

7 p.m. Wed. Dakota, Mpls., $35-$45, dakotacooks.com

At Harvest Festival 1889, you can immerse yourself in the lifestyle of a settler during the late 1800s in the Minnesota River Valley. Visit with costumed characters and roll up your sleeves to help with the harvest celebration complete with a town fair. Take a trolley throughout the site. Cooking and food preservation demonstrations reveal what families dined on.

MELISSA WALKER

For the opening of the Music Hall Minneapolis, promoters aren't going for a splashy name like Jane's Addiction, which their predecessors did when they inaugurated this venue as the Brick (later renamed Mill City Nights). Things should be mellower with Damian Marley, Bob Marley's youngest son, who has just released his first album in 12 years. He was busy in the interim recording with Skrillex, Gwen Stefani and others.

JON BREAM

9 p.m. Fri. Music Hall Minneapolis, $32.50, ticketmaster.com

Midnight Oil, the outspoken, environmentalist Australian rock band that hit it big with "Beds Are Burning" 30 years ago, is still going strong with most of its original members (including frontman Peter Garrett), a consistently riveting live show and the same passion (and need) for its messaging.

CHRIS RIEMENSCHNEIDER