XL Music

Recommended Music: Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Asleep at the Wheel, more

FRIDAY

Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This 10-year old progressive rock orchestra almost feels like a franchise, but boy howdy, is it a popular one. Imagine Pink Floyd playing Christmas music and note that their Christmas albums soar up the charts every season. The band also is not afraid of chucking it to the cheap seats. Its version of Carl Orff's 'O Fortuna,' from 'Carmina Burana' and about 10 million action movie previews, is slated to be released next year. Can an album of John Williams scores be far behind? Erwin Center, 1701 Red River St. 471-7744. — Joe Gross

SATURDAY

Asleep at the Wheel. The newest release from the world's most indestructible Western swing band is a double CD. 'Santa Loves to Boogie' is pretty much what it says, Christmas music, Western swing-style. 'Hot Texas Christmas Day' features Dale Watson, while Willie Nelson shows up for 'Pretty Paper.' 'Reinventing the Wheel' features newest member Elizabeth McQueen, collaborations with Blind Boys of Alabama ('The Devil Ain't Lazy'). Something tells me this cover will be mostly Christmas music you can two-step to. Broken Spoke, 3201 S. Lamar Blvd. 442-6189. — Joe Gross

SATURDAY

Wintershow. In case you didn't get enough of him at the Joanna Newsom show, know that Bill Callahan, aka Smog, will be participating in this benefit for SafePlace and the Capital Area Food Bank. Other talent includes Shearwater, Nick Hennies of the Weird Weeds and Brian Sookram. Doors are at 4 p.m., the music starts at 5, with all the acts performing on stage at once, 'round-robin' style. Of course, this is also your chance to hear Shearwater back up Callahan on such Smog favorites as 'I Am Star Wars!' and 'A Hit,' so be sure to ask for them as loudly as possible. Admission is sliding scale, from $5 to $15, meaning give 'til it hurts. Most Red River types I know spend at least $15 a night on drinks, so cough it up, folks. Mohawk, 912 Red River St.