Pasadena: Free concert offered every Saturday night in August

From the strings of prohibition-styled jazz to pop beats that warrant quick toe-taps, music lovers can venture to Pasadena for the “Saturday Nights in August” concert series.

In its fourth year, the series will present a new act each week this month at the One Colorado Courtyard. Leftover Cuties will kick off the concert event this Saturday. Fans of the band may recall their jazzy sound, paired with the sultry voice of lead vocalist Shirli McAllen, behind “Game Called Life,” the theme song for the former Showtime series “The Big C,” starring Laura Linney and Oliver Platt.

Joining the Leftover Cuties on the calendar is L.A.-based singer-songwriter Jenny O., who released her full-length debut album “Automechanic” last year to much praise. Los Angeles Magazine said of the album, “Automechanic” (released by the Holy Trinity label): “She has enough originality and raw vocal talent to make us proud that the former New Yorker decided to switch coasts.”

Soul/pop fans can enjoy the sounds of Australian artist Sun Rai while indie pop fans can listen to the newly formed band Banta, a sextet based in Echo Park. Rounding out the series as the final act is Cheers Elephant, a pop-rock quartet known for its smooth harmonizing vocals.

The series, which draws hundreds of music fans, aims to support more than just up-and-coming talent, but elevate artists with ties to Los Angeles. Each concert is free to the public. The series is hosted by One Colorado, a collection of shops and restaurants between Union Street and Colorado Boulevard in Old Town Pasadena. Over the years, acts have brought the sounds of jazz, funk and electro pop to the concert series.

“We’re establishing ourselves as a music venue,” said McLean Emenegger, director of events and marketing for One Colorado. “We’re bringing the two best things together: music and our beautiful courtyard where people can have dinner outside.”

The series continues to gain popularity over the years, amassing hundreds of faithful attendees and visitors. The series’ eclectic lineup has helped establish it as an event for all, from families to couples enjoying a night out, Emenegger said.

“There’s a little bit of something for somebody. There’s something new for you to enjoy,” she said.

Each artist and band will perform in the courtyard and is hosted by a surrounding restaurant such as Sushi Roku, Escuela Taqueria, a/k/a An American Bistro and Il Fornaio. The concerts begin at 8 p.m. and RSVPs can be made through the host restaurant. For more information about the series, contact One Colorado at (626) 564-1066.