Will Evans, the much-traveled, perennial-national-songwriting-contest-finalist and all around Good Dude, has completed his latest album. Titled "Rise," and including the incredibly infectious "Adam & Eve" as well as stellar tunes like "Olivia," "Peaceful Warrior" and "The Darkness," the new recording is Evans' most consistent effort in a career that's a testimonial to having a Gift and knowing what to do with it in all the right ways.

Evans celebrates "Rise" with a performance Friday in Westerly's Knickerbocker Music Center. He'll be accompanied by the fluent and buoyantly grooved Rising Tide, an ensemble of pals including guitarist Lyle Champeon, bassist Nick Frenay, keyboardist Wayno Waynelovich, and drummer Jimmy Navarra.

Will Evans CD release party, 8 p.m. Friday, The Knick, 35 Railroad Ave., Westerly; $18 advance, $ door, CDs available for HOLD FOR COST; (401) 315, 5070, knickmusic.com.