An array of local blues and R&B acts -- including the Sun Messengers, Jocelyn B, Brett Lucas, Electric Gypsy, Bobby Murray, Alberta Adams and more -- will perform during the 9th Annual Ferndale Blues Festival, which kicks off Friday (Jan. 29) and runs through Feb. 6.

Twenty-three venues around the city will host 66 concerts, culminating n the 3rd Annual Blues Barbeque and Ribs Burn-Out held in the municipal parking lot just east of Woodward Avenue behind Dino's Lounge; the party runs from noon-9 p.m. with the Reefermen headlining at 5. Other special events include Blues Brunches on the Fridays and Saturdays at The Emory, 22700 Woodward Ave., and performances by the Ferndale middle and high school jazz bands at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Paramount Bank, 22635 Woodward Ave.

Since 2002 the festival has raised more than $20,000 for local charties; this year's recipients include Ferndale Youth Assistance and the Michigan AIDS Coalition. Shuttle service will be offered during weekends.

For information and a full festival schedule, call (248) 545-1435 visit www.ferndalebluesfestival.com.