Alejandro Escovedo Benefit

Benefit shows are a monthly staple on local club calendars, with well-intentioned musicians donating their services to raise funds for everything from charitable organizations to injured friends to the upstart magazines that plan to document their artistic accomplishments. Tribute shows pop up a lot, too, with bands paying heartfelt homage to the recently deceased or hamming it up with a guilty pleasure's discography. The upcoming Alejandro Escovedo benefit gigs merge the best elements of both formats. Organized by John Evans, whose group, Saint Jude (formerly Famous FM), took its name from an Escovedo tune, this bill features bands that share both personal and musical connections with the hepatitis-stricken Texas musician. Expect more salt in Rex Hobart's tears and a little something extra from every set.