This weekend on a shoestring

Thursday, April 18

• According to an ikebana WIkipedia entry, the traditional Japanese practice is a “disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together.” The entry continues, “Contrary to the idea of floral arrangement as a collection of particolored or multicolored arrangement of blooms, ikebana often emphasizes other areas of the plant, such as its stems and leaves, and draws emphasis toward shape, line, form. Though ikebana is a creative expression, it has certain rules governing its form. The artist’s intention behind each arrangement is shown through a piece’s color combinations, natural shapes, graceful lines and the usually implied meaning of the arrangement.” Learn more about this complex art when the Ikenobo Ikebana Society hosts a meeting and demonstration of freestyle arrangements with spring materials. Guests are welcome to observe. Held at First Congregational Church of Hendersonville, 1735 Fifth Ave. W. 10 a.m. Free to attend.

• From a Smart Bet in this week’s issue, “It’s been just about a year since we last checked in with Raleigh-based The Love Language. At the time, the band — fronted by Stu McLamb — was working on a followup to 2010’s breezy, laid-back Libraries. McLamb had entered the studio with 40 demos and spent the month of February (2012) recording. And then the band scrapped the project. The good news: The Love Language is reportedly again working on a new album, and will be playing some material from that forthcoming project at The Grey Eagle on Thursday, April 18. Gross Ghost and Jenny Besetzt open. 9 p.m., $10. 
Story by Alli Marshall

Friday, April 19

• Brevard College hosts a free evening of dixieland jazz with Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, known for lively, cabaret- and vaudeville-infused performances, outside the university’s Dunham Auditorium (inside in case of rain). 8 p.m.

• Everyone thinks they’re funny. Most people aren’t. Here’s a chance to prove you’re an exception: Bar of Soap laundromat/bar invites beginners, hobbyists and seasoned comics alike to share their laughs during its weekly comedy open mic. Fridays at 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 20

• Record Store Day began in 2008 as a way to promote and celebrate independent retailers, many of which were closing due to poor sales and a struggling music industry. The first year featured 10 special releases. Last year saw hundreds, ranging from limited-run exclusives to early releases (see website for a complete list of this year’s titles). 2013 promises even more. Be warned, however, numbers are extremely limited, and lines form in the wee hours of the morning. (Last year, two devoted music-lovers were camped outside Harvest Records at 2 a.m.) Things get pretty chaotic at the start, so make a list, prioritize and don’t expect to snag every 7” that caught your eye. It’s also a good idea to check out local retailers like Static Age and Harvest Records in advance to find out which titles they’ll have in stock.

Record Store Day 2012: Harvest Records from Dane Smith on Vimeo.

• Apothecary, a multi-use arts space which hosts live music, art shows and artist gatherings, will feature local art, decor, tapes, clothing, snacks and jewelry during an eclectic bazaar at 39 S. Market St. Prices vary; admission free. Noon-4 p.m.

• Although Earth Day isn’t technically until Monday, the party just can’t wait. From a press release for Asheville Earth Day on Lexington Avenue, “This free, day-long event is focused on providing a fun, entertaining setting to educate and promote conscious awareness and green living for the families and individuals of the Asheville community. This year’s event will feature an amazing array of main stage talent, arts, local food and environmental education. The Main Stage will again feature the best in national, regional and local talent, featuring a variety of music entertainment. Performers include The Infamous Stringdusters, Yarn, Ruby Vell and the Soulphonics and more. The family friendly event will also feature eco-friendly speakers, a Kids’ Village and an Eco-Village.” Noon-10 p.m.

• Learn more about the human race’s closest relative during “The Truth About Chimps: An Ape’s View of the Congo Basin,” with primatologists David Morgan and Crickette Sanz, co-directors of the Goualougo Triangle Ape Project. Held in WCU’s Natural Sciences Building auditorium. 12:20 p.m. Free. Info: herzog@wcu.edu or 227-3360.

• Vance Elementary School, 98 Sulphur Springs Road, hosts West Asheville Carnival, “an eclectic evening of classic carnival diversions, entertainment, games of skill, crafts and funky food trucks.” All proceeds benefit the school. Free to attend. Info: ehpend@gmail.com.

• From a press release for the band’s upcoming performance at The Double Crown, “VietNam marked its long-awaited return with the release of its new full-length album, an A.merican D.ream, on Mexican Summer. Michael Gerner, the creative force behind the band, is back for the first time in five years with a new six-piece lineup laying down their renowned signature cocktail of apocalyptic street blues. After taking a long break to explore his interest in ambient analog synth soundscapes on the West Coast (scoring films and recording with his project D.A.), Gerner has now made a bold comeback to both New York City and rock and roll with his best record to date — adding a new dimension to the instrumentation with a Moog player and a violinist.” Wyla and Curtains open. 375 Haywood Road. 9 p.m.