There's something about a true troubadour - a road-tattered, singer-songwriter that's so basic it almost seems like a necessity. Originally from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and complete with the country, rhythm and blues and indie-acoustic leanings you'd expect, Zael Zura is just such a performer. And we're not the only ones to have taken note. KEXP named Zura one of the top 10 singer-songwriters to see live, and Zura's homespun, throwback style has won him fans up and down the West Coast over a 10-year career. Thursday, Jan. 13, Zura will be at Hell's Kitchen with Looking for Lizards also on the bill. Chances are, you've got nothing better to do (because this show should be a good - albeit underappreciated - one). Do yourself a favor and see what Zura is about.

[Hell's Kitchen, with Looking for Lizards, Love Songs From the Hated, The Brian Barta Band, 9 p.m., $3, 928 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.759.6003]