Fall Preview : Our User’s Guide: Still Friendly : Critic’s Picks: Pop Music

World of Music, Arts and Dance Festival. A chance to stretch your musical vocabulary while being treated to some irresistible sounds, highlighted by the always captivating Peter Gabriel. Sept. 18 at Cal State Dominguez Hills Field in Carson.

Bob Dylan. Rock’s greatest songwriter is also one of its most unpredictable performers. He can be unbelievably moving or inexplicably distant, but it’s always worth the gamble. Oct. 1 at the Pacific Amphitheatre, Oct. 2 at the Hollywood Bowl, Oct. 3 at the San Diego Sports Arena and Oct. 5 at the Glen Helen Blockbuster Pavilion.

Wynonna Judd. She’s not just the best young female singer in country, but maybe in all of pop. Don’t, however, expect much personality from co-star Clint Black. Oct. 3-4 at the Greek Theatre.

Smashing Pumpkins. This Chicago band’s balance of grinding ‘90s rock punctuation and soothing melodic grace makes it one of the most alluring new forces in rock. Oct. 21-22 at the Hollywood Palladium.

Dr. Dre. The master of rap beats gets his first major chance to show us whether he can transfer his studio magic to the stage. Oct. 24 at the San Diego Sports Arena and Oct. 27-29 at the Greek Theatre.