Eight Gigs: The Waterboys

Sun., May 17, 7 p.m., Ace of Spades, $35

Bandleader, guitarist, pianist and vocalist extraordinaire Mike Scott has been referenced and revered by many notable musicians since the Waterboys released their self-titled album in 1983. Simple Minds, Hothouse Flowers and U2 all took a little something from Scott's catalog. While his revolving door of bandmates has come from such disparate countries as Ireland, Scotland, and England, point of origin is not the issue. Scott and company recorded their latest album, Modern Blues, in Nashville and it was released in mid-April to rave reviews. Although nothing can compare to Fisherman's Blues from 1988, there are many rockin' gems to be found herein. Connor Kennedy & Minstrel open the show. 1417 R Street, www.mikescottwaterboys.com.