Happening Wednesday: Soul Train salute, ‘Down and Derby’ and more

BOOKS

“Down and Derby” As a reporter and host of the KPCC radio show “All Things Considered,” Alex Cohen maintains a calm, professional demeanor. But on the banked battlefield of the roller derby track, she is better known as her fearsome alter ego, Axles of Evil. Cohen and co-author Jennifer “Kasey Bomber” Barbee, who have both skated with the Los Angeles Derby Dolls, will read from their new book, “Down and Derby,” an inside look at the underground sport. Crawford Family Forum, 474 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. 7:30 p.m. Free with RSVP. (626) 583-5100. www.scpr.org.

POP MUSIC

Ray LaMontagne and David Gray Although his most recent musical offerings (including his latest LP “God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise”) have a sunnier disposition, Ray LaMontagne still has the rusty, road-weary croon that fans of alt-folk have come to love. He shares the stage with lauded British singer-songwriter David Gray. Greek Theatre. 2700 N. Vermont Ave. 7:30 p.m. $45-$75. (323) 665-5857. www.greektheatrela.com.

Scissor Sisters On the heels of their long-delayed third album, “Night Work,” the glittery New York disco-glam band treats fans to a free in-store in advance of their big Saturday show at the Palladium. After their set, which will no doubt feature frantic dance moves and outlandish costumes, the band will sign copies of their new album. Free limited-edition “Live at Amoeba” poster with purchase of the CD. Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood. 6 p.m. Free. (323) 245-6400. https://www.amoeba.com.

Soul Train Anniversary In its heyday, “Soul Train” was essential viewing every Saturday afternoon, and afforded many of the generation’s greatest soul and R&B acts their first national television exposure. Equally unforgettable was the velvet-voiced and effortlessly smooth host Don Cornelius. The Grammy Museum will host a 40th anniversary tribute to the long-running dance show based in Los Angeles, featuring appearances from Cornelius, Smokey Robinson and Jody Watley. The Grammy Museum, 800 W. Olympic Blvd. 7:30 p.m. RSVP at programs@grammymuseum.org.