There's been a flurry of activity recently at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, and a few new music shows have been booked for later this year. This weekend is a two-night helping of girl-power rock with Melissa Etheridge, Friday and Saturday night, beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $57-$102.

On Tuesday, August 12, a trio of 1990s bands will be in town to take thirtysomethings back to their beer-soaked college days (which almost makes me obligated to go). Live, Blues Traveler, and Collective Soul bring the rock beginning at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $49.75. Hey, that's only $16 a band - I paid more than that in a night of binge drinking back in these bands' heydaze.

On Wednesday, August 20, the young 'uns will be invading Lowell when 2007 American Idol winner Jordin Sparks headlines a show that includes an opening set by Jesse McCartney (formerly of the boy band Dream Street). Show is at 7:30 p.m. Tix are $39.50 and $49.50, and they go on sale tomorrow morning at 10 a.m.

On Saturday, September 13, veteran folkie John Prine will bring his memorable tales to town in what is sure to be an oustanding show. That show starts at 8 p.m., and tix are $41.50 - $56.50.

Finally, on Friday, November 21, the Dark Star Orchestra will recreate the Grateful Dead experience once again, and with Bob Weir's closest stop being in Mansfield next month, this might be your best local Dead fix for a while. Tickets are $30.50 - $35.50, and they go on sale next Monday, July 21, at 10 a.m.

Someone's trying to give the Lowell Summer Music Series a run for their money, so take advantage of the friendly competition!