Lindsay Kucera

Here's a test: Ask someone to describe Cajun music. Can they do it? It's a hard style to define, probably because it encompasses and transcends so many genres.

The adage runs something like this: The second most common fear is death; the first is public speaking. In other words, more people would probably rather die than step on a stage and risk making a fool of themselves. Anchorage's Scared Scriptless has no such fear -- the improvisational comedy troupe is more than willing to risk embarrassment for a laugh.

Summer solstice is Wednesday, a time for Alaskans to get outside, play and absorb some desperately needed vitamin D. Moose's Tooth is taking advantage of the extra daylight hours with its annual outdoor solstice concert, which this year features the sunny sounds of Michael Franti and his band Spearhead. "Music is sunshine," Franti said on his website. "Like sunshine, music is a powerful force that can instantly and almost chemically change your entire mood. Music gives us new energy and a stronger sense of purpose."

Peter Rowan, who this weekend performs the second and third shows of a three-night stand at the Sitzmark Bar & Grill in Girdwood with backing band The Free Mexican Airforce, has gained an international fan base with adventurous collaborations while rooted in traditional folk music.