Red Bicycle Bistro & Sushi is responding to tough economic times by eliminating the cover charge on more music shows, according to concert promoter Pete Welch.

“The Bike has thought long and hard about what they could do to make things easier for people who are tightening up their budgets these days,” said Welch. “They decided to continue to bring Islanders the best possible entertainment, but sweeten the pot even more by putting on more shows with free covers.”

Welch announced the Bistro will host two free shows this weekend, beginning at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, with a concert by Sidestreet Reny.

Welch said that Reny’s sound was a “gumbo of originality” that included delta blues, folk rop, hip hop and reggae.

The free music will continue with a jam-packed night of reggae music, with three bands and a DJ, kicking off at 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.

DJ Maka Roots will open the night, followed by an emerging band from Tacoma called Laborer.

Welch said that Laborer is “nurtured by the influence of the roots reggae sound of St. Croix and Jamaica, as well as their African-American heritage genres of gospel, R&B, jazz and hip-hop.”

Next, The Crucialites will take the stage, accompanied by their newest member, Islander Sarah Christine. The band plays all original music, which Welch described as “hearkening back to the dread rhythms of roots era reggae with booming bass, slicing guitar and lyrics that strike to the core.”

The evening will close out with reggae artist Jahson Ites, who Welch said is known for his positive lyrics, energetic stage show and danceable music.

The show is for ages 21 and older.

The Bike’s dinner menu includes sushi and American fare. There is a full bar.