Singer-songwriter Nicole Atikins plays Bowery Ballroom in support of "Mondo Amore," her latest album which was released yesterday. Atkins made the introspective record in the wake of breakups with her boyfriend, label and backing band, The Sea. Tonight she's supported by The Black Sea and preceded by The Gay Blades and Mon Khmer. $21 tickets here. 8 p.m.
Amateur Night at the Apollo takes on a Brooklyn flavor tonight with ten participants all hailing from Kings County. The show's famously tough crowd will cheer and hiss the contestants' songs, dances and raps. But they'll probably reserve their warmest applause for special guest and decidedly professional hip-hop star Talib Kweli. $24-36 tickets here. 7:30 p.m.
Punk poetess and National Book Award-winning author Patti Smith and guitarist Lenny Kaye perform at Poetry Project at St. Mark's Church-in-the-Bowery. The evening of spoken word and music commemorates the 40th anniversary of Smith's first live rock concert. $15 general admission at the door. 7:30 p.m.
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