Also this issue: Mehta Physics Meet the man who’s turning the Kimmel into a world-music hot spot. -A.D. Amorosi Matter of Import The Brit in Big Sandy’s court. -Mary Armstrong Blistered in the Sun Unwrapping the Summer Tour Package. -Jesse Delaney The Kills -Sam Adams The Sick Lipstick -Maura Johnston 4 Way Street -Nicole Pensiero Richard Thompson -Sam Adams Tracy Chapman -M.J. Fine

July 17-23, 2003

musicpicks

Jamaican Dave's Birthday Bash

Reggae

Some top tier reggae talent -- Capleton (below), Cocoa Tea, David Rudder, Federation Sound and Freddie McGregor -- is headlining Jamaican Dave Russell’s Second Annual Birthday Bash, but its J.D.’s name you’ see up on the marquee. The one-man reggae promotional powerhouse with the long, sexy locks has been rockinâ the tri-state area to the booming beat of Jamaica for more than five years. Heâs been all over town during that time, booking shows and pounding the pavement, staple gun in hand. Those signs on the telephone polls have borne the names of legends: Black Uhuru, Burning Spear, Toots and the Maytals. Then there are fresher faces, and no less critically acclaimed, like Sizzla, Beenie Man and this yearâs breakout dancehall maestro, Sean Paul. From club shows at Pegasus and Trentonâs KatManDu to sold-out houses at the Electric Factory and The TLA, J.D. doesnât discriminate like some oldheads do. He books reggae roots masters, soca standouts and dancehall deliverers alike. With a hefty respect for the past and a clear view of the future, the legend and the newbie coexist on one stage. Happy Birthday Dave, keep âem coming.

Sat., July 19, 7 p.m., $30-$40, Electric Factory, Seventh and Willow sts., 215-336-2000.

—Ainé Ardon-Doley