Oxford Music Snob

This column originally appeared in The Local Voice #65 (October 16, 2008 ).

Looking back on the last two weeks…

We dealt with our post-debate hangover in Oxford with some great music for the past couple weeks. The Kudzu Kings in Taylor, Rebirth Brass Band at The Lyric, and Emmitt-Nershi Band at Proud Larry’s were all top-notch shows deserving of much praise.

One show that I expected to be good but ended up being GREAT was the Charlie Mars CD release at Proud Larry’s last weekend. Patrick Addison, Len Clark, and Sean Kirkpatrick of Colour Revolt backed Charlie for the show, and it was a match made in heaven. The atmosphere was set by some cool lighting, including a web of white Christmas lights behind the band. The sound was near perfection. When I popped in the CD at home, I was just as impressed. As always, I have to make comparisons, so of the singer/songwriters I’ve listened to the last couple years, this album reminds me most of Josh Rouse. I highly suggest picking it up.

The most memorable show of the past two weeks for me was an impromptu sidewalk show from James of The Felice Brothers. I had been spreading the word about their Wednesday night show, counting down the days to the show myself, and as I walk to my office Tuesday afternoon, there was James Felice on the bench in front of Southside Gallery playing his accordion. So, I moved my laptop out to the balcony and enjoyed a couple hours of music while I “worked.” I think this was proof that karma exists, because for the past week, I had literally been telling all my friends they should make it to the show.

Looking forward to the next two weeks…

My favorite Oxford band, Rocket 88, returns to their “home base” stage tonight (10/16) at Proud Larry’s for the first time in a while. That will be an 18 and up show and one that I will not miss. Zoogma with Moon Taxi at The Lyric and The Apostles at Jubilee will make it a full night.

Proud Larry’s stays at the top of my list Friday (10/17) with The Heartless Bastards; Dead Confederate opens that one. John Barrett’s Bass Drum of Death at Two Stick Saturday (10/1 rounds out a great weekend of music. The Parlor Mob at Larry’s that night is also a great option.

The following week provides some great options as well: Andy Friedman, Cary Hudson, and Amy Speace (10/23, Two Stick and Thacker Mountain Radio), Aaron Hall Band (10/24, Larry’s), and Sanders Bohlke (10/25, Larry’s).

The following Wednesday (10/29), things get really interesting. Three 6 Mafia rolls into town for what I’m sure will be a packed out show at The Lyric. On the same night, for those not interested or without a ticket, Vic Chesnutt at Proud Larry’s and The Hemptones at Two Stick provide great alternatives. It’s one of those “wish I could clone myself ” nights.

I’m also looking forward to a few big shows in the not-so-distant future. The Lexington Brothers return to Thacker Mountain Radio on October 30. The Del McCoury Band comes to The Lyric on Thursday, November 6. Then, on Friday, November 21, Robert Earl Keen will be at The Lyric. Let’s just admit it, we’re spoiled.

This column originally appeared in The Local Voice #65 (October 16, 2008 ).

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