Philanthropy and live music have never been strangers in this city; the music community has a long history of generosity, especially when it comes to liberal causes and supporting local social-service programs. One of the most successful forces for music-driven fundraisers is Noise for the Needy (www.noisefortheneedy.org). Wisely recognizing that the already overworked agencies and artists involved have little time for planning and promotions, NFTN handles both elements. The result has been more than a decade's worth of beautifully planned and executed benefits for local and national charities.

This week, NFTN turns its focus to domestic violence, sponsoring a weeklong series of shows designed to raise funds for and awareness of New Beginnings. Founded in 1976, NB is one of Seattle's longest-running domestic-violence-survivors' service agencies, providing an impressive array of preventive and crisis-related services to women and children, including community education, emergency shelter, and legal advocacy. (For more information, visit www.newbegin.org.) NFTN events provide something for nearly every musical taste on tap (see Up & Coming, page 51, for more details), but my top pick is the Thursday, June 8, show at Neumo's, featuring Jesse Sykes & the Sweet Hereafter, who haven't appeared on a Seattle stage in nearly a year. Part of this is due to the amount of time they've spent touring Europe, but also because they've been working on a new album currently being mixed at Jupiter Studios and slated for release on Barsuk this winter. With Mark Pickerel (celebrating the release of his debut for Bloodshot Records, Snake in the Radio) and Slender Means also on this bill, it might not be easy to get a ticket, so I'll also suggest the Sunset's lineup (happening that same night as part of the NFTN benefits), which features the Turn-Ons, Lillydale, Arkade, and Hypatia Lake. I was a little slow to digest the dark and occasionally abrasive psychedelia of Hypatia Lake, but I'm fully on board now—as should be anyone who appreciates the shadier moments of Mercury Rev, early Flaming Lips, or the Butthole Surfers's more pop-tinged interludes.

While not nearly as significant as domestic-violence services, the absence of a viable live-music venue in West Seattle has always been an odd void, especially considering the neighborhood's preponderance of local rock luminaries (Mark Arm, Eddie Vedder, and Andrew McKeag all call the hood home). The owners of Skylark Cafe are aiming to fix all that—and judging by the overwhelming turnout at last Friday's opening party, they're being welcomed with open arms. Skylark is small, but sweet, with framed photos of vintage muscle cars dotting the walls and some of the best chicken strips I've ever had gracing the menu. Noteworthy upcoming shows include the Delusions on June 10 and Christy McWilson on July 1.

Havana—the new Capitol Hill establishment being built by former Viceroy manager Quentin Ertel—is also coming together beautifully. Set to open in late June, Ertel's space is located between 10th and 11th Avenues on Pike Street, and despite its newly minted status, has a wonderful, old-world feel. It also has a damn versatile layout and the advantage of some charming contrasting elements. Soaring pressed-tin ceilings and enormous picture windows alongside cavernous enclaves and cozy balcony seating create the potential for Havana to be both visually dramatic and invitingly intimate. Given Ertel's successful track record (he's previously managed the bars at Linda's, Chop Suey, and the Showbox, and was a critical creative force in putting Viceroy on the map), it's no surprise that he's bringing a serious party posse with him. More specifically, the Death of the Party posse: Clayton Vomero, the man who brought you Lowlife, is returning with a new (as yet unnamed) night of debauchery, dancing, and lascivious intentions. The new resident DJs will be Fourcolorzack, Pretty Titty, and DJ Curtis. They also have some stellar guest appearances scheduled, including Devlin & Darko of Spank Rock on July 18. Vomero promises the continuation of occasional theme parties (such as last year's Holiday Jew-bilee), and the all-important addition of a proper dance floor. Given the number of tables I've seen desecrated in the aftermath of a Lowlife dance party, I'm sure Mr. Ertel will be grateful. recommended

hlevin@thestranger.com