LECTURE: The Commonwealth Club hosts an enlightening discussion with Michael Eric Dyson: Can You Hear Me Now? Known as the "hip-hop" intellectual, Dyson examines issues of class, race and poverty, and political strife. There will be wine, cheese, and networking before the talk, and a book-signing aftward. Richard Thompson Ford moderates.

5:30 p.m. // The Commonwealth Club (595 Market St) // $7-18

COMEDY: Kung Pao Kosher Comedy presents The Color of Funny, a Multi-Culty Comedy Show, featuring Diane Amos (The Pine Sol Lady and much, much more), Ali Mafi (gay Muslim Iranian), Mimi Gonzalez (Latino Laugh Festival), Joe Nguyen (Vietnamese Jewish), and hosted by Lisa Geduldig. Learn more about the comedians.

8 p.m. // Victoria Theatre (2961 16th St) // $20-23

MUSIC: English instrumental band with spacey, psychedelic tendencies, Ozric Tentacles, will mesmerize fans at the Independent tonight. SF's Love X Nowhere will get the trip started.

7:30 p.m. // The Independent (628 Divisadero St) // $18-20