Steve Poltz [ tickets ], a Canadian-born singer/songwriter and guitarist based in San Diego, creates quirky, often comical songs that induce live audiences to sing along. He got his start while attending the University of San Diego, where he met guitarist Robert Driscoll. Together, they formed The Rugburns, an indie-rock outfit of the mid-'80s and '90s.

Poltz recently released a new album, "Traveling," on his own label, 98 Pounder Records. Currently touring North America through mid-August, the persistent musician is selling a second companion album, "Unraveling," available only at his live performances.