Peerless lyricist Gift of Gab–real name Timothy Parker–has seen his share of highs and lows. From surgery, rehab, and diabetes to highly acclaimed independent hip-hop albums as one half of Blackalicious–albums that cemented his reputation as one of the most lyrically dexterous MCs in underground hip-hop–Parker is no stranger to the twisting road of fortune. His fans have never lost taste for his quick-lipped rhymes, and he recently posted a video to his website thanking supporters who contributed financially to the making of the video for his upcoming single “Everything is Fine.” The video is nearing completion and his third solo release, Next Logical Progression–his smoothest, most positive work to date–is slated to drop in March. In spite of life’s ups and downs, things seem to be going just fine for Gift of Gab. With The Th3rdz, Luke Rain, The Nightcaps. GWENDOLYN ELLIOTT

Sun., Jan. 29, 8 p.m., 2012