The Top 10 Live is a collaborative effort between Indy.com and Indianapolismusic.net

1. The Pink Spiders w/ Drive By, Beta Male and Mardelay

7:30 p.m. June 25, $8, Birdy's, 2131 E. 71st St., (317) 254-8971.

The Pink Spiders represent all that is raw, fierce and tuneful in rock 'n' roll. The Nashville-based power trio's music has drawn national attention, and the group is in the middle of a national tour while preparing for the release of a new album, "Sweat It Out."

2. Dudefest 2008

4 p.m. June 20, 1 p.m. June 21 and 22; $15 June 20 or 22, $25 June 21 at the Emerson Theater, 4634 E. 10th St., $5 or free with wristband June 20 and 21 at Zanies Too, 5914 E. 10th St.

It would take every inch of this two-page spread to describe the 35-plus bands taking part in Dudefest 2008. Suffice it to say that this event brings together all of the best local and national hardcore and metal acts, and it's a.must for fans of all things loud.

3. Return To Forever

7:30 p.m. June 22, $45-$69.50, Murat Theater, 502 N. New Jersey St., (317) 615-1500.

Return To Forever has seen many incarnations over its history, but the group remains best-known for pioneering jazz fusion in the '70s. Formed by legendary jazz keyboardist Chick Corea, this version is touring with equally notable members in guitarist Al Di Meola (below), bassist Stanley Clarke and drummer Alan White. This is a can't-miss event for jazz fans just a week after the Indy Jazz Fest.

4. Black Sheep w/ The Mudkids and more

9 p.m. June 19, $10 advance/$15 day-of, Spin Nightclub, 6308 Guilford Ave., (317) 257-0000.

Black Sheep, at right, burst onto the rap scene in 1991 with a debut album that featured breakout single "The Choice Is Yours." Their music fit perfectly with their Native Tongues collective members like A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. Following an extended hiatus that included solo albums and film work, the band returned to release its fourth album in 2007 and tour extensively. Its Indianapolis stop includes opening support from a ton of wonderful local talent, highlighted by The Mudkids (right), Mic Sol and DJ Top Speed.

5. Dr. Sketchy Art Event featuring The Coke Dares and State

9 p.m. June 20, $6, The Melody Inn, 3826 N. Illinois St., (317) 923-4707

Local troupe Bottoms Up Burlesque is your local promoter of Dr. Sketchy events, where budding artists are encouraged to draw the dancers in various and sundry poses. All proceeds benefit y-me.org, a breast cancer support group. The Coke Dares and State are along to provide just the right sounds for the atmosphere.

6. Ari Hest, Brendan James and Mars or the Moon

7:30 p.m. June 24, $10, Birdy's, 2131 E. 71st St., (317) 254-8971

East Coast singer/songwriter Ari Hest started his recording career in 2001 with a pair of self-released albums before he graduated to Columbia Records in 2003. Since then, he's toured and recorded constantly with his adult-alternative music. Fans of John Mayer or Gavin McGraw should find plenty to like in this show.

7. Steve Allee CD Release Party

8 and 10 p.m. June 20, $12, The Jazz Kitchen, 5377 N. College Ave., (317) 253-4900

Steve Allee is an ever-present force on the Indianapolis jazz scene, and he's heard nationally as the music director for "The Bob & Tom Show." He celebrates the release of new album "Dragonfly" (from local jazz label Owl Studios) with a pair of sets that touch on original material and some choice jazz standards.

8. Gasoline Rally w/Dan Glenzig and The Marones

9 p.m. June 21, $5 (free for Gasoline Rally attendees), Radio Radio, 1119 E. Prospect St., (317)955-0995.

Whether you're a scooter enthusiast or just a fan of good music, you'll want this event on your calendar. Radio Radio hosts the Gasoline Rally after-party, so you'll get your fill of new and vintage rides when you head out. You'll also hear the twisted cover sounds of Dan Glenzig and the Ramones tribute act The Marones.

9. ABBA: The Hits w/The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

8 p.m. June 21 and 22, $10-$171, Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers, (317) 776-6000

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra heads outside with a tribute to one of the biggest pop acts of the '70s. The orchestra backs Waterloo, an ABBA tribute band from the motherland of Sweden, through some of the original band's greatest hits.

10. Colts Fan Fest featuring Jon McLaughlin

5:30 p.m. June 20, free, American Legion Mall, St. Clair Street to North Street between Meridian and Pennsylvania streets, (317) 232-7615

The Indianapolis Colts are marking their 25th season in town and the opening of their new stadium with a series of celebrations around Indiana and northern Kentucky. The tour winds up on the American Legion Mall, complete with appearances by Colts players, cheerleaders and mascots. Island Records artist and Anderson native Jon McLaughlin provides the music, adding another entry to his resume, which already includes a major label album and an appearance in the Disney movie "Enchanted."