Every time house and dance music legend Ultra Naté releases a new album it's a cause for celebration. Her latest, simply titled "Ultra" (Peace Biscuit), is no exception.

This year the Besties are even more of a celebration than usual, because this year, after our (ahem) unexpected pause, our nightspots gave us the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, and to celebrate a community reborn.

Having matured musically since her hit single "Luka" in 1987, Suzanne Vega's new album, "An Evening of New York Songs & Stories" includes re-recorded old songs as well as new ones.

Leather, rubber and other fetish gear abound at the annual Folsom Street Fair this weekend and at tied in —or tied up— nightlife events this weekend. We've also selected plenty of arts events that don't require such a kinky dress code.

The Contemporary Christian Music phenomenon known simply as Semler has earned the distinction of hitting #1 on the Gospel charts twice in one year. It's even more noteworthy that Semler is the first openly queer Christian music artist.

We've got musicals, dance concerts, art exhibits — even a cat show and 'Cats' the show!— and nightlife up for grabs this week, including some pre-Folsom Street Fair events. Fall in for the fun.

Herbst Theatre will echo with previously unheard sounds on Oct. 1, when Alta Sinfonica debuts, taking to the stage with music that combines traditional Latin music forms with what organizers tantalizingly call "urbano sounds."

Former local returns to Feinstein's this weekend as a bonafide Broadway star, shortly after winning a Tony for his role in the acclaimed revival of 'Company.'

A crowd-pleasing package of infectious music, thrilling choreography, vibrant costumes and charismatic performances, "Goddess," now having its world premiere at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, probably already has all it takes to achieve Broadway success.

From legacy acts to newcomers, there's an unusually queer season of pop ahead at major Bay Area concert venues. Brace yourselves for a glitter tsunami.

Some of our Fall Arts faves are still in preview mode, but we've got hundreds of arts and nightlife events happening today and through the week. Get out and about.

New music from bands with strong women lead vocalists get a listen, including Bonny Light Horseman, The Interrupters, Momma, Deerhoof and Stars.

Voting is open for the Bay Area Reporter's readers' poll known as the Besties.

Hard rocking L.A.-based band Dead Sara has been at it for 20 years, with queer lead singer Emily Armstrong bringing powerhouse vocals to a new album and concert tour after a six-year gap.