Although the weather isn't cooperating, the annual start of the outdoor summer music scene in Salt Lake City starts Friday as the Living Traditions festival launches at the City-County Building.

A can't-miss show is Vieux Farka Touré at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, but there's also everything from Hawaiian to Lebanese music continuing Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. Something for everybody - indeed.

During the course of a year, I see enough alt-country, indie-folk, retro rock and cult faves to choke an ox, but genuine world music is a tasty treat not to be missed - and it's free. See the full lineup right here.

Click here to see Touré playing at last year's World Cup in South Africa.

And speaking of worldly diversions, Sunday night - assuming the world doesn't end Saturday as is predicted - offers a true treat that I would have totally slept through had it not been for the perseverance of KRCL's Bad Brad Wheeler during his afternoon radio show.

Japanese rockers Guitar Wolf are a fierce outfit that is so sincere and earnest in their devotion to unadulterated old-school hard rock that it's almost impossible to dislike them. A pure cause is tough to ignore or disdain. They'll be at the Urban Lounge.

What's funny is that their appearance is two days prior to U2's long-awaited, long-hyped and quasi-exciting gig at Rice-Eccles Stadium. I've got a feeling Guitar Wolf will produce more honest, heart-felt rock music during the first 10 minutes of their set than U2 comes up with all night.

Don't believe me? Watch this video and decide for yourself.