Also this issue: The Big Con Why Philadelphia bands play the CMJ festival. -Patrick Rapa Tropical Impressions Caetono Veloso tells the truth. -A.D. Amorosi suitespot -Peter Burwasser on Classical Back to Basics Which in The Divine Comedy's case means less rock, more baroque. -Sam Adams Flute Awakening -Peter Burwasser Right On Time -Sam Adams Catherine Irwin -Sam Adams Kim Richey -Sam Adams

November 7-13, 2002

musicpicks

Leo Kottke/Mike Gordon

In the timeworn tradition of folk revivalists teaming up with their elder icons, Clone (Private Music) finds Phish bassist Mike Gordon joining acoustic guitar legend Leo Kottke for a lighthearted menu of original tunes. This collaboration dates back to an encounter in Burlington, Vt., in 1999; Gordon approached Kottke backstage with a tape of the guitarist's "Driving of the Year Nail" overdubbed with a bass line. That story, and this album's title, may raise the red flag of idol-worship -- but the two musicians actually meet here like musical peers, and friends. They're admittedly better instrumentalists than lyricist/singers (probably none of these songs will inspire covers by future folkies), but both are in fine freewheelin' spirits, and their performances sound altogether fresh.

Sat., Nov. 9, 9 p.m., $30, The TLA, 334 South St., 215-336-2000.

—Nate Chinen