Local Treasure

James Harman, the hardest working blues man in Orange County, not to mention the towns around the U.S. and Europe he hits regularly, has just released his first album of new material in three years. “Takin’ Chances” explores the many ways in which life, not to mention love, is a gamble. It also reunites him with two of his great ‘80s bandmates: guitarist Kid Ramos, now the Fabulous Thunderbirds’ lead guitarist, and drummer Stephen Hodges, who’s been touring with Smashing Pumpkins. He and his latest band set up shop in Newport Beach tonight.

* Hogue Barmichael’s, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, 8 p.m. $10-$12. (949) 261-6270.