Thursday Happenings

Image of Birdsongs of the Mesozoic from Myspace.

Birdsongs of the Mesozoic may no longer include any members of Mission of Burma, but they still hold a key position in Boston's art rock filament. Prog rockers with a penchant for modern classical music, Birdsongs of the Mesozoic's shows are always slightly mind-expanding. Johnny D's, 17 Holland St., Somerville, 9 p.m.

Lectures

Every Bostonian needs to check out the Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese: Rivals in Renaissance Venice exhibit at the MFA, and there's no better time to do so than tonight when former college radio DJ and current MFA curator Frederick "Illch" Ilchman will be on hand to walk you through it. Bostonist saw Illchman speak during the press preview for the exhibit, and we can attest to his awesomeness. Remis Auditorium, Museum of Fine Arts, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Free to members and their guests.

Latin Music

Berklee's Tito Puente Latin Music Series continues with a performance from Mexican vibraphonist Victor Mendoza. Mendoza has a reputation as an outstanding Latin jazz performer, but he's recently developed an ear for dance music. See if he can turn it out tonight. O'Day Park, 85 W. Newton St., South End, 7 p.m. Free.

Reggae

As its name implies, Roots Nation is strictly roots. Whether they have pop or style remains to be seen. Church of Boston, 69 Kilmarnock St., Fenway, 9 p.m. $8.