BLUES & BEYOND: Dancing with the star

Kevn Kinney gets a massive tribute, nominees for blues awards announced

#1 Kevn Kinney Anna And Kevn By Carlton Freeman
Photo credit: Carlton Freeman
IT TAKES TWO: Kevn Kinney and wife Anna Jensen put their heads together.

It has been a long, slow and steady grind, but Kevn Kinney has gradually become an icon, some might even say a living legend, of the Atlanta roots music scene and beyond.

The lead singer/songwriter of Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ is a musical force of nature, having written hundreds of songs for both his longtime band and for his various solo projects since DNC’s presciently named 1986 debut Scarred But Smarter. Along the way Kinney has worked with a diverse array of artists that recognize his talent as a musical alchemist; one who combines country, folk, swamp, hard rock, and blues into a mix that displays its red clay roots while pushing into often edgy, uncompromising sonic territory.

The band’s twisty, somewhat turbulent history drove the 2012 documentary Scarred But Smarter:The Life and Times of Drivin’ N’ Cryin’. In 2015, The band was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. Through the decades, Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ has headlined thousands of dates, as well as opening for larger acts, since first playing off nights at Atlanta’s 688 Club.

While those in the South have recognized Kinney’s talents from the beginning, he remains far from a household name, even in homes that have original copies of DNC vinyl in their collections. That may or may not change as an epic venture paying tribute to Kinney’s songwriting unfolds in the coming year.

Titled Let’s Go Dancing: A Compilation Celebrating the Songs of Kevn Kinney, the project will eventually yield over 100 tracks, covered by admirers, peers, associates, fans and followers of the band and its irrepressible frontman. Produced and curated by Kinney’s wife, Anna Jensen, it’s the ultimate labor of love. The plan is for four vinyl albums to be released quarterly, containing a selection of singles that started appearing digitally, bi-weekly last June, for about a year.

The first full-length, out on vinyl last November 24, 2023 (Record Store Day) and digitally Feb. 2, Let’s Go Dancing: Said the Firefly to the Hurricane: A Compilation Celebrating the Songs of Kevn Kinney, features largely acoustic performances from Patterson Hood with Peter Buck, Shovels and Rope, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Alejandro Escovedo, Pylon Reenactment Society, and other critically acclaimed music practitioners as eclectic as Kinney’s musical approach.

Three remaining titles, all on the scrappy Tasty Goody label, will start with the words “Let’s Go Dancing” — the second is Let’s Go Dancing: Split a Mountain in Two with a Flake of Snow: A Compilation Celebrating the Songs of Kevn Kinney) continuing with another lyric from that song. A different interpretation will lead off each set.

Being the generous and humble guy he has always been (Kinney slept in his car for six months while working at a sewage plant when he first arrived in Atlanta), all proceeds go to charities chosen by Kevn and his wife. Jensen also provides the distinctive art for each album and single. While these are likely to be gobbled up by existing Kinney admirers, devotees of the players involved in this mammoth undertaking should also be enticed to check out the DNC frontman, spotlighting one of Atlanta’s most revered, important, influential and gifted performers. See for yourself why adoration for Kinney is far and wide when he plays Eddie’s Attic, April 3, at 8 PM.

Nominees and awards noted

The Blues Foundation has released the nominees for their annual awards and three Georgia-based acts have been recognized. Congratulations to EG Kight (Acoustic Album), Larkin Poe (Band of the Year) and Jontavious Willis (Traditional Blues Male Artist). Watch this space for more info if/when any of them triumph in their respective categories.

And speaking of awards, congratulations to Larkin Poe who won this year’s GRAMMY© for Blood Harmony as Best Contemporary Blues album. That’s an amazing honor for Marietta’s Lovell sisters — and well-deserved as it was released on their own indie label.

Fri., March 1

 

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FROM THE GREAT WHITE NORTH: Break out the Molson when Canadian Matt Andersen sings March 1. PHOTO Credit: eddiesattic.com

Matt Andersen, Eddie’s Attic — Frequent Eddie’s visitor Andersen likely comes south from his Canadian home in the heart of winter to warm up. Thankfully, he also heats up his audiences as he lays into searing soul vocals that crackle with passion and intensity. With or without a band, his voice fills the room creating a soul, folk, gospel and gritty rock groove. It’s in full display on his recent, sizzling The Big Bottle of Joy release.
$21.14+. 9:30 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.co

 

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ONE TOKE OVER THE LINE: Chatham County Line expands their musical boundaries March 1. PHOTO credit: badearl.com

Chatham County Line, The EARL — This North Carolina quartet originally stuck to pure, drum-free bluegrass in 2003, staying true to that sound until 2020’s Fascination. They then added a drummer, morphing into a more Americana sound while still maintaining their rustic roots. The quartet’s new album inches even further away from their beginnings, with a dreamier, at times psychedelic, edge that still emphasizes their floating vocal harmonies.
$16-20. 8:00 p.m. The EARL, 488 Flat Shoals Ave.NE, Atlanta, 30316. 404-522-3950. badearl.com

 

Fri., March 1 and Sat. March 2

 

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STRINGS ATTACHED: Billy Strings shreds the bluegrass for two nights, March 1 and 2. PHOTO credit: statefarmarena.com

Billy Strings, State Farm Arena — Anyone dismissing Strings’ position as the most influential contemporary, young bluegrass musician bringing this rural sound to the masses has only to experience one of these two sold-out shows to appreciate his impact. And he’s done it quickly — it wasn’t that long ago he was playing Terminal West. That’s because no one leaves his energized gigs without being inspired to tell a dozen friends, all of whom will be in attendance at one of these two shows. And each ticket holder will tell dozens more.
$49-70+. 7:00 p.m. State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Dr., 30303.404-878-3000. statefarmarena.com

Sat., March 2

 

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IT’S A HOLIDAY: Blues/soul and soul/bluesman Tony Holiday takes the Blind Willie’s stage March 2. PHOTO credit: tonyholidaymusic.com

Tony Holiday — Memphis by way of Salt Lake City soul/blues singer/harpist Holiday has made lots of notable friends in his genre. Many assisted on the two previous Porch Sessions albums. But now Holiday is touring behind a rollicking new release, Motel Mississippi, where he commands the swampy spotlight on his own. It’s one of the finest albums of the year in the roots/blues field by an up-and-coming artist you’ll want to catch early on, while he still has plenty to prove.
$10. 9 p.m. Blind Willie’s, 828 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, 30306. 404-873-2583. blindwilliesblues.com

 

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KENTUCKY DERBY: It’s a Kentucky musician night when Cole Chaney and Abby Hamilton play March 3. PHOTO credit: Emma Delevante

Cole Chaney, Abby Hamilton The EARL — Young acoustic country/folkie Chaney has only released one album, but his raw take on the Appalachian sound of Eastern Kentucky is pure, honest, and filled with banjo- and fiddle-infused music that feels like it was recorded in his living room. Opener and fellow Kentuckian Hamilton is a singer/songwriter with a promising future based on her beautiful, moving and supple recent debut #1 Zookeeper.
$17-20. 8:30 p.m. The EARL, 488 Flat Shoals Ave.NE, Atlanta, 30316. 404-522-3950. badearl.com

 

 

 

Sun., March 3

 

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PLAYING IN TRAFFIC: Dave Mason performs Traffic and solo hits from his extensive career March 3 and March 5. PHOTO credit: citywinery.com/atlanta

Dave Mason, City Winery — If the show’s official name, “Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam,” is accurate, you’ll hear all of his songwriting contributions to that legendary ‘60s outfit, along with those he didn’t pen but played on. Add a sampling of solo work for an evening of hits to which every 60-something classic rock lover can sing along.
$70-85. 8:00 p.m. City Winery, Ponce City Market, 650 North Ave. NE., 30308. 404-496-3791. citywinery.com/Atlanta

 

Mon., March 4

 

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MURDER BY DEATH: It’s the long awaited return of The Kills March 4. PHOTO credit: variety-playhouse.com

The Kills, Heartworms, Variety Playhouse — It took seven years for the UK/US The Kills duo of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince (not to be confused with pop band The Killers) to release the recent God Games. But their combustive combination of punk, blues and even folk has seldom sounded better or more organic since their debut, two decades ago. Mosshart’s voice balances between a scowling sneer and a resonant warble as multi-instrumentalist Hince handles the bulk of the music, and also sings. But live they are even better as Mosshart controls the frontwoman position with sassy can’t-take-your-eyes-off-her authority.
$40.50-50.00. 8:00 p.m. Variety Playhouse, 1099 Euclid Ave. NE. Atlanta, 30307.404-504-7354. variety-playhouse.com

Tues., March 5

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GIANT STEPS: Lulu the Giant plays idiosyncratic Americana March 5. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Lulu the Giant, Eddie’s Attic — Upright bassist Rachel Shaner fronts this oddly named outfit, well-known and respected in their hometown of Savannah although less popular here. Their mix of jazz and pop, evidenced on two studio releases, is stripped down, compelling, idiosyncratic and cool. This show features fiddle and guitar added to the band which should generate distinctive sparks. Worth a look, and the price is right.
$10.00. 7 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

 

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PLAYING IN TRAFFIC: Dave Mason performs Traffic and solo hits from his extensive career March 3 and March 5. PHOTO credit: citywinery.com/atlanta

Dave Mason, City Winery — Round two with “Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam.” You’ll hear his songwriting contributions to that legendary ‘60s outfit, along with those he didn’t pen but played on. Add a sampling of solo work for an evening of hits to which every 60-something classic rock lover can sing along.
$70-85. 8:00 p.m. City Winery, Ponce City Market, 650 North Ave. NE., 30308. 404-496-3791. citywinery.com/Atlanta

 

 

Wed., March 6

 

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DELICATE TOUCH: Legendary acoustic guitarist Pierre Bensusan shows how it’s done March 6. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Pierre Bensusan, Eddie’s Attic — World renowned solo acoustic guitarist Bensusan has been blowing away audiences since the mid-‘70s with his delicate, graceful, dexterous finger-picking and occasional sonorous vocals. Imagine Mark Knopfler’s unplugged solo work, then add world influences for an indication of Bensusan’s creative approach and talents. Every local guitar student should be in attendance, guaranteeing a sell out in this intimate space.
$32.26+. 6 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030.404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

Thurs., March 7

 

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GOOD THINGS COME IN THREES: Garrett Wheeler headlines a solid night of Americana March 7. PHOTO credit: sobatl.com

Garrett Wheeler,The Relics,Robin Shakedown, Smith’s Olde Bar — Wheeler is a young Americana singer/songwriter with solid folk country chops and a lovely, low-key voice. His music floats rather than stings as he tours behind a 2021 EP, Nobody’s Singing Along recorded in Cartersville. He tops this triple bill which includes two other strong opening bands, both from Atlanta.
$12-15. 8:00 p.m. Smith’s Olde Bar, 1578 Piedmont Ave. NE, 30324. 404-875-1522. sobatl.com


 

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DOUBLE-BARRELED: Michelle Malone and Kevn Kinney swap songs and stories March 7. PHOTO credit: napoleonsgrill.com

Michelle Malone, Kevn Kinney, Napoleon’s Grill — Officially titled the Michelle Malone Songswap, it’s hard to imagine her trading tunes with anyone more prolific than local icon Kinney. The venerable Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ frontman’s bulging catalog is getting covered by a bunch of talented artists (see article above), and the idea of this veteran duo on stage together, telling stories and visiting obscurities from their decades of albums are tantalizing reasons enough to guarantee a sold out gig.
$35-40. 8:00 p.m. Napoleon’s Grill, 2836 LaVista Rd., 30033. 404-321-5000. napoleonsgrill.com

Fri., March 8

 

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SUNSHINE SOUL: Florida roots singer/songwriter JJ Grey returns March 8. PHOTO credit: easternatl.com

JJ Grey & MOFRO, Cedric Burnside, The Eastern — The Olustee Tour is named after Florida swamp/blues/rock/pop artist JJ Grey’s new album, the frontman’s first in nine years. But since his career began in 2000 playing clubs smaller than Smith’s Olde Bar, he and his ever-changing MOFRO unit have never relied on hits or radio play to connect with audiences. Now graduating to larger stages and festivals, it’s likely his core audience hasn’t abandoned him. Grey’s recent release reflects his roots ’n’ Florida soul/blues sensibilities honed to a slick edge, some with orchestrations. Arrive early to catch the dusky, rhythmic blues and leathery funk of opener Cedric Burnside.
$43-47. 7:30 p.m. The Eastern, 777 Memorial Dr. SE., Atlanta, 30316. easternatl.com

 

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STAND BY HER: Hang on as Yola digs into her UK soul March 8. PHOTO credit: terminalwestatl.com

Yola, Terminal West — SHOW HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE   With the reams of press Brit soul diva Yola received after the release of 2023s second disc, Stand for Myself, this seems like a sure sellout. Her powerful voice combines the swagger of Aretha with the rootsy intensity of Mavis Staples. Like Brittany Howard, she’s part rock, funk, some country and even a touch of disco. But it seems natural and effortless — and it all works.
$30-35. 8:00 p.m. Terminal West, 887 West Marietta St. NW Ste. C., Atlanta, 30318. 404-876-5566. terminalwestatl.com

 

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THEM BONES:Bones Owens digs into dusky Americana March 8. PHOTO credit: bonesowens.com

Bones Owens, Eddie’s Attic — Mississippi born and bred, now making Nashville his home, Owens makes his living as a touring sideman. But his own full-length debut (2021) showed that he’s got the stuff to be a solo artist. His tough, dusky Americana rocks with tension, gutsy singing and great songs. The heavily tattooed Owens’ taut attack might be a little more intense than most of what hits Eddie’s stage and the all seated setup isn’t quite right for his rugged, guitar heavy approach, but it should still be a rollicking night.
$23.37. 9:15 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

 

Fri., March 8 and Sat. March 9

 

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WADE IN MUDDY WATERS: Blues doesn’t get more authentic than when veteran Bob Margolin plays it — March 8 and March 9. PHOTO credit: bobmargolin.com

Bob Margolin, Cajun Blues — This two-night stand of the veteran, one-time Muddy Waters’ guitarist sideman features a duo performance with Bill Sheffield on March 8. Blue Velvet Atlanta opens the next evening then returns, along with guitarist Skyler Saufley, to back Margolin on his set. Get ready for classic, old-school Chicago blues played with authenticity, verve and humor by an elder statesman who learned his licks from the best.
$15-20. 6:30. Cajun Blues, 2197 Savoy Dr., Atlanta, 30341. 770-674-4240. cajunblueschamblee.com

 

 

 

Sun., March 10

 

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SUZY Q: Country veteran Suzy Bogguss makes a rare ATL appearance March 10. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Suzy Bogguss, Eddie’s Attic — Country thrush Bogguss has been cranking out radio-ready hits since the late 80s. But after leaving the major label grind and releasing 2014s Lucky, an unadorned set of Merle Haggard covers, she moved to a darker, more earthy sound. The singer doubled down on that approach for 2023s tough Prayin’ for Sunshine which she’ll likely feature along with new arrangements of earlier, more commercial material. Her sublime cover of the folk/pop standard “Someday Soon,” Bogguss’ most streamed song, almost bests Judy Collins’ classic version.
$50.62+. 6 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com


Wed., March 13

 

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NO MEANS NO: Lizzie No brings her harp and personal songs to life March 13. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Lizzie No, Julie Williams, Eddie’s Attic — If folksinger Lizzie No’s only talent was accompanying herself on a modified, smaller-sized harp, that would be enough to endorse this show. But she’s also a talented, dulcet-voiced singer and intimate songwriter with three fine albums. The newest, Halfsies (2024), has received enthusiastic critical reviews, as it pushes into slightly more pop and even rock as the song cycle delves into No’s personal life stories. Highly recommended.
$20.03. 7 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com



Fri., March 15

 

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SHRED THIS!: Prepare to be wowed when acoustic string shredders Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley return March 15. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Eddie’s Attic — Think you’ve seen some acoustic shredding? Wait’ll you get a load of Dobro master Ickes (15 time International Bluegrass Music Association winner) and guitarist Hensley as they tear into folk/country/bluegrass originals and a few covers from three superb albums, each better than the last. It’s mind-blowing stuff that inspired a standing ovation when they recently opened for Little Feat. Up close and personal at Eddie’s is the perfect place to get blown away.
$26.70. 9 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

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EASY DOES IT: Lovely supports a, well lovely, second album March 15. PHOTO credit: centerstage-atlanta.com

Loving, Fog Lake, The Loft — Canadians David Parry and Jesse Henderson tour to support their second full length, Any Light, out last month. As their band name implies, the music is exquisite, soft and heavy-lidded slow-pop infused by folksy tendencies. A bit of Nick Drake here with some melancholy melodies there. Imagine a male-fronted Mazzy Star and you’re in the ballpark. Some of the material will likely get amped up a bit live, but Loving’s cushy, sumptuous, unruffled sound is miles from rock and roll.
$20-25. 8:00 p.m. The Loft, 1374 West Peachtree St., Marietta, 30309.404-885-1365. centerstage-atlanta.com

Sat., March 16

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BROTHERS IN ARMS: Hermanos Gutierrez hypnotize with just two guitars March 16. PHOTO credit: variety-playhouse.com

Hermanos Gutierrez, Variety Playhouse — How can two Switzerland-based brothers and instrumental guitarists, playing a mix of often atmospheric music inspired by Spaghetti Westerns and Ry Cooder sell out this thousand seat venue with hardly any promotion and even less radio play? Certainly, releasing their most recent album on Dan Auerbach’s Easy Eye imprint helped. But with a retro approach comparable to little else, they have carved a specialized niche in world-inspired Americana that clearly resonates with more than a cult audience. It’s a hypnotic, inimitable, often moody sound. See if you can find a ticket.
$32-40. 8:00 p.m. Variety Playhouse, 1099 Euclid Ave. NE. Atlanta, 30307. 404-504-7354. variety-playhouse.com

Sun., March 17

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HEY COLIN!: Colin Hay captures your attention with just his songs and self-effacing humor March 17. PHOTO credit: easternatl.com

Colin Hay, The Eastern — Yeah, he still plays the Men at Work hits, but for the past four decades folk/pop artist Colin Hay has established himself as a quality singer/songwriter. With over a dozen solo albums having attracted a substantial fan base, many of whom weren’t born when MAW songs were blitzing MTV, Hay is best solo, as he for this show, telling dryly humorous stories and choosing seldom heard gems from his expansive catalog.
$42.50. 7:30 p.m. The Eastern, 777 Memorial Dr. SE., Atlanta, 30316. easternatl.com
 

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ELECTRIFYING: Tripp & the Breakers host this month’s ABS meet-up March 17. PHOTO credit: trippandthebreakers.com

Atlanta Blues Society Monthly Meet-up, Rootstock — Join host band Tripp & the Breakers and converse with other local blues lovers probably discussing who won the Best Contemporary Blues Album Grammy last month (hint:locally born Larkin Poe) for this month’s get-together. If you play well enough, or think you do, sign up for the closing jam too.
$free. 3 p.m. Rootstock, 8558 Main St., Woodstock, 30188.770-544-9009. rootstocknow.com

 


Mon., March 18

 

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MAKE A WISH: Old-school UK heavy rockers Wishbone Ash pound out ‘Argus’ and 50 years of tunes March 18. PHOTO credit: sobatl.com

Wishbone Ash, Smith’s Olde Bar — These ‘70s UK hard/prog rockers, sporting powerful twin lead guitars, were once arena headliners. But decades of more personnel changes than Fleetwood Mac and releases on labels so obscure even the band’s cult fans may have had trouble finding them has diluted whatever legacy they once had 24 studio and 11 live albums later. However, Argus (1972) the album that first gained the band notoriety, remains one of their finest, most memorable releases. In recognition of its staying power, the quartet, led by lone original member Andy Powell, will play the album in its entirely for this rare Atlanta club appearance.
$45-50. 8:00 p.m. Smith’s Olde Bar, 1578 Piedmont Ave. NE, 30324. 404-875-1522. sobatl.com

Tues., March 19

 

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FROM THE FRYING PAN: No one will care that electrifying Irish folkies Socks in the Frying Pan let loose a few days the day of green beer — on March 19. PHOTO credit: michelleroche.com

Socks In the Frying Pan, City Winery — Just missing St. Patrick’s Day, this traditional Irish trio (guitar/fiddle/accordion) still exude the kind of unhinged energy The Pogues used to bring, albeit without a frontman quite as magnetic, or shambolic, as Shane MacGowan. Regardless, they have won multiple awards for live performances and toured the world bringing their “Socks Sound” to the masses. It’s a guaranteed party, especially if you kick away those chairs and dance.
$20-30. 8:00 p.m. City Winery, Ponce City Market, 650 North Ave. NE., 30308. 404-496-3791. citywinery.com/Atlanta



Thurs., March 21

 

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DICK’S PICKS: Big Richard expands bluegrass’s instrumentation March 21. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Big Richard, Eddie’s Attic — You won’t find a more entertaining, frisky bunch of talented bluegrass players than the four women that comprise Colorado’s Big Richard. Sporting the typical instrumentation of bass, guitar/mandolin and fiddle (no drums), the quartet also adds a very non-traditional world-class cello player to the lineup, bringing a distinctive perspective to their sound. Their harmonies are wonderful, the playing is expert — and there’s that cello! Cool, classy and fun.
$15. 9:15 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

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RED CLAY ROCKIN’: Cody Parks and the Dirty South turn up the volume March 21. PHOTO Credit: sobatl.com

Cody Parks and the Dirty South, Smith’s Olde Bar — Take some ZZ Top Southern-fried blues rock, add AC/DC intensity, throw in enough liquor to kill a horse, and you’re close to the gritty attack of Parks and his band. They have some gnarly covers — including “Long Haired Country Boy” and “Folsom Prison Blues” — pummeling the classics with screaming guitars and a swamp attack. It’s gonna get loud.
$12-15. 8:00 p.m. Smith’s Olde Bar, 1578 Piedmont Ave. NE, 30324. 404-875-1522. sobatl.com

 


Fri., March 22

 

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GRIM REAPERS: Don’t fear Blue Oyster Cult when they hit the stage March 22. PHOTO Credit: easternatl.com

Blue Oyster Cult, The Eastern — Buck Dharma and Eric Bloom are the only original members, but they have always been key to Blue Oyster Cult’s melodic metal. Of course you’ll hear “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” complete with its iconic cowbell, but the band’s catalog has lots more almost-hits that guarantee a roomful of blue jeaned older dudes singing along to “The Red and the Black,” “Godzilla,” and playing Beavis and Butt-Head air guitar to the eternal riffs of “Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll.” Rock on, DUDE!
$47.50. 8:30 p.m. The Eastern, 777 Memorial Dr. SE., Atlanta, 30316. easternatl.com

Sat., March 23

 

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A CASE OF PETER:Journeyman blues-pop rocker Peter Case always delivers, March 23. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Peter Case, Ben De La Cour, Eddie’s Attic — When Peter Case decided to go folk in 1986, he had already logged years with the frustratingly underrated pop-rocking Plimsouls. That brought energy and intensity to the many albums since, including Doctor Moan (2023). This most recent release has Case putting down his battered acoustic guitar for piano, injecting a different, slightly darker sound into the mix. He remains one of this country’s finest, most talented, and well-traveled troubadours — and he never phones it in.
$28.92+. 7 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

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RAINMAKERS: Native Americans Indigenous rock the blues March 23. PHOTO credit: sobatl.com

Indigenous, Smith’s Olde Bar — Since 1998, frontman and singer/guitarist Mato Nanji has been keeping the flame burning for this quartet of blues-rocking American Indians from South Dakota’s Yankton Indian Reservation. A clutch of solid Stevie Ray Vaughan-inspired albums for the Vanguard label put them in the spotlight for a short time, but new material has been slow in coming of late. Regardless, Nanji has a compelling voice, plays fiery leads, and writes strong tunes for his genre.
$12-15. 8:00 p.m. Smith’s Olde Bar, 1578 Piedmont Ave. NE, 30324. 404-875-1522. sobatl.com

 

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DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS: Sam Burchfield and his Scoundrels take us to the bayou March 23. PHOTO credit: terminalwestatl.com

Sam Burchfield & the Scoundrels, Nicholas Jamerson & the Morning Jays, Terminal West — Burchfield and his Americana-laced Southern folk-rockers bring an introspective, melancholy, muggy, and bayou-styled approach to their music, which sounds like it was recorded in a one-room shack on some mosquito infested backwoods river. He and his soulful country-influenced band feature music from the magnificent under-the-radar Scoundrels (2022).
$20-25. 8:00 p.m. Terminal West, 887 West Marietta St. NW Ste. C., Atlanta, 30318. 404-876-5566. terminalwestatl.com

 

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CATCH A RISING STAR: Margo Cilker is on her way to Americana stardom, stopping in Atlanta March 23. PHOTO credit: badearl.com

Margo Cilker, My Politic, The EARL — There are so many Americana releases each year it’s almost impossible to get traction on any of them. That made Cilker’s 2021 low-key debut Pohorylle — which generated near unanimous raves and instant recognition for her as a vibrant new voice on the already crowded landscape — such an outlier. Better still, she followed it with last year’s even more potent Valley of Heart’s Delight, an introspective, often moody look on life, the environment, and the fleeting nature of both. She’s in it for the long haul. Catch her now on this infrequent Atlanta stop.
$20. 8:30 p.m. The EARL, 488 Flat Shoals Ave.NE, Atlanta, 30316. 404-522-3950. badearl.com

 

Sun., March 24

 

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PROLIFIC PETE: Peter Mulvey digs into his decades of unique singer/songwriter fare March 24. PHOTO credit: eddiesattic.com

Peter Mulvey, Eddie’s Attic — Mulvey has been crafting his unique mix of folk, blues, pop and jazz since the early ‘90s, making fans of artists such as Chuck Prophet and Ani DiFranco, both of whom have produced his albums. His sharp, poetic wordplay, sweet melodies, and intriguingly diverse music sets him apart from other singer/songwriters. He’s always just one song away from crossing over and will be featuring music from the all-acousticMore Notes from Elsewhere, released last month.
$16. 6 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

 


Wed., March 27

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EVERYBODY’S IN SHOWBIZ: Join pop-rocker Marshall Crenshaw celebrating his 40th anniversary as a professional musician March 27. PHOTO credit: marshallcrenshaw.com

Marshall Crenshaw, Eddie’s Attic — Fresh from Crenshaw’s stint fronting The Smithereens, it’s the “40 Years in Showbiz” tour. Expect Marshall and his three piece outfit to charge through four decades of should-have-been-hits from a career of terrific albums, each brimming with hummable, melodic pop keepers. It’s inexplicable why he never crossed over, but it has never stopped him from writing great songs. Though his most recent material is nearly eight years old, maybe he’ll throw in a few new ones tonight.
$35. 7 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com


 

 

 

Thurs., March 28-Sun. March 31

 

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KEEP ON TRUCKIN’: Ex-Drive-By Trucker Jason Isbell appears for a four night stand March 28-March 31 PHOTO Credit: jasonisbell.com

Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, The Tabernacle — Another year, another multiple-night stand at the venue Isbell has been calling home in Atlanta for recent tours. The ex-Drive-By Trucker will likely feature material from the GRAMMY© winning Weathervanes (2023) plus the songs that got him here. His band is incredible, the tunes are Americana classics, the audience loves him like a local, and he has different opening acts each night to showcase new talent. What’s not to like?
$68.50-266+. 8:00 p.m. The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St. NW., Atlanta, 30303. 404-659-9022. tabernacleatl.com

 


Fri., March 29

 

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KARP FISHING:Delta Moon’s Mark Johnson and blues rocker Peter Karp hold court March 29. PHOTO Credit: eddiesattic.com

Peter Karp Band featuring Mark Johnson, Eddie’s Attic — Ex-Delta Moon co-founder and frontman Johnson now gets almost equal billing, at least when the Peter Karp Band plays Atlanta, which is often. Having played Blind Willie’s last month, don’t expect a repeat of that performanc, as Karp changes set lists nightly and the shows are always tight, professional, and display the songwriting and instrumental talents that have kept him on the road for the better part of 40 years. And Johnson kills it every time.
$20.03+. 7 p.m. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B N. McDonough St., Decatur, 30030. 404-377-4976. eddiesattic.com

 

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EVERYONE LOVES A PARADE: Slow Parade headlines a strong triple bill of local roots acts March 29. PHOTO Credit: badearl.com

Slow Parade, Cicada Rhythm, The Titos, The EARL — This show for Matthew Pendrick’s Americana alter-ego Slow Parade celebrates the collective’s third album release and also serves to showcase some other quality, local acts. Slow Parade’s generally melancholy sound combines folk, country and singer/songwriter approaches with some tougher rockers like “Junker in the Fast Lane.” Openers Cicada Rhythm add jazz and blues to their already quirky stew and The Titos’ “suburban soul” (their description) rounds out a terrific triple bill.
$15. 8:30 p.m. The EARL, 488 Flat Shoals Ave.NE, Atlanta, 30316. 404-522-3950. badearl.com



 

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BACK TO GEORGIA: GA-bred Katie Pruitt introduces new music March 29. PHOTO Credit: terminalwestatl.com

Katie Pruitt, Terminal West — Introspective Georgia-bred, Americana singer/songwriter/folkie Pruitt made critical and commercial waves with her 2020 debut, but her follow-up took nearly four years to make. Mantras,her new one, hits the streets next month; expect to hear many of the tunes before the rest of the world. Guaranteed you’ll also get “Walking Back to Georgia,” a bittersweet single she recorded with Elizabeth Cook and Butch Walker to support The Georgia Music Foundation.
$22-25. 8:00 p.m. Terminal West, 887 West Marietta St. NW Ste. C., Atlanta, 30318. 404-876-5566. terminalwestatl.com






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