Two of the hookiest people (and their respective bands) in rock history are Rivers Cuomo (Weezer) and Ric Ocasek (The Cars). The dudes are not strangers.

Years ago, Ocasek deftly produced Weezer's so-called Blue and Green albums, and it's good news that he's returned to that role for the band's new album, "Everything Will Be Alright in the End."

Released Oct. 7, "Everything Will Be Alright in the End" has garnered consistently positive response and, indeed, Cuomo's deft touch as a tunesmith - which veered erratically for much of the last decade - seems to be back on target. Ocasek's polish and sheen is certainly evident without hijacking the whole project, and essentially Weezer sounds like they did way back in the "let's explore puberty" phase.

Weezer appears Friday in Foxwoods' Grand Theater. You'll hear new stuff, of course, but count on faves such as "Hash Pipe," "Undone (The Sweater Song)," "Buddy Holly" and "Pork and Beans."

- RICK KOSTER

Weezer, 8 p.m. Friday, Foxwoods' Grand Theater; $55, $75; 1-800-200-2882.