News bites: Jackopierce, Weezer, Toadies

* Jackopierce, the critically-acclaimed acoustic duo that were a clear influence on groups like Guster and Vertical Horizon, are back together for a new album. Since their break-up, Cary Pierce has written songs with Zac Maloy (of Nixons fame), and Graham Colton, among others.

* The Toadies have expanded their summer tour plans. Originally scheduling a little week-long tour (which starts tomorrow), they've now added shows at Lollapalooza and a festival of their own at Possum Kingdom Lake called Dia de los Toadies, among others.

* Weezer are doing a weird thing this week called "Hootenanny." They're asking people to hop up on stage and play various songs with them, including, oddly, Radiohead's "Creep" (which Prince famously covered earlier this year). The Phoenix Hootenanny was held at an American Legion post. If you live in Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, or LA, check it out.