Much of the enjoyment of writing about and publicizing music comes from pleasant surprises. I admit I skimmed over Fruition's concert announcement the first time I came across it. I rolled my eyes when this trio of Portlandians described itself as "three-part-harmony-infused, melody-rich rock, country, folk and soul." That's like characterizing a chef as an expert in "soul food, artisanal pizza, Carolina barbecue and Tex-Mex." It's too far all over the map. But when I dug into their 2013 album Just One of Them Nights, my jaw dropped. It's so damn good I'm willing to overlook the folksy grammar. These three sumbitches can play. Vocalist Mimi Naja has been compared to Janis Joplin, but I heard echoes of one of my faves, Lucinda Williams, as well. Perhaps the best way of describing their music is front-porch Americana, earnest and true. I can't think of a better night of music per dollar.

FRUITION, 9 p.m. Rhythm & Rye, 311 Capitol Way N., Olympia, $8-$10, 360.705.0760