TODAY’S BEST BETS

Pop Music

After 14 years of performing with Lisa Gerrard in Dead Can Dance, singer-musician Brendan Perry steps into the solo spotlight. Also on the bill: Kristin Hersh.

* El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Blvd. (323) 936-4790. 8 p.m.

Jazz

The Jumpin’ Joz Band kicks off three nights of swing dancing, culminating with a dance contest Sunday to the music of Steven Mitchell’s Hollywood Hepkats.

* Harvest Moon Swing Out Dance, Pasadena Center, Conference Hall, 300 E. Green St. (626) 799-5689. 7 p.m. Also Saturday at 7:15 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m.

Dance

Flowers of the Desert Dance Company performs “Fusion and Fantasy 1999,” fusing Middle Eastern dance with jazz, hip-hop, ballet and flamenco.

* Highways Performance Space, 1651 18th St., Santa Monica. (310) 315-1459. 8:30 p.m. Also Saturday at 8:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Music

Clarinetist Michele Zukovsky is among the soloists who will be featured with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Chamber Music Society.

* Zipper Hall, Colburn School, 200 S. Grand Ave., downtown Los Angeles. (213) 365-3500. 7:30 p.m.