Kevin Devine’s fans don’t spend much time obsessing over his thought-provoking lyrics or entrancing acoustic melodies. But they do wish he was their best friend. The Brooklyn native is a charismatic conversationalist, a deep-thinking philosopher and a creative wanderer. Devine’s charm shines onstage, where he quickly switches between tense, emotional songs and teasing obnoxious people in the audience. His songs delve into weighty topics — death, religion (or lack of), war — all while maintaining a musical edge that ranges from lo-fi acoustic to aggressive half-singing/half-yelling. For this tour, Devine is bringing along his Goddamn Band, which beefs up his sound from the usually quiet acoustic sets he plays. Expect to hear plenty of songs from his new album, Brother’s Blood, like “Another Bag of Bones” (a tense and searing portrait of wartime devastation), and fan faves like “No Time Flat.” Miniature Tigers, Plastic Hearts and Brian Bonz open at 7:30 p.m. at the Grog Shop (2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216.321.5588). Tickets: $10 advance, $12 day of show. — Danielle Sills
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