The Suspect: Marc Broussard

Son of Boogie Kings guitarist Ted Broussard, this singer-songwriter released his first album 10 years ago when he had just turned 20. He plays bayou-flavored blue-eyed soul, opening for DMB, Willie Nelson and Maroon 5. He released his fifth album last summer entitled Marc Broussard.

Can Be Found: The Orange Peel, Friday, Feb. 10

RIYD (Recommended if You Dig): Hootie and the Blowfish, Amos Lee, “Wedding Song” rock.

You Should Go If: Your girlfriend asked to you to please stop writing her poetry; you clap along to the music long after everyone else stops; you credit Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack’s pepper-spray chicken wings for teaching you that it’s OK to feel again; this overabundance of rain is totally cramping your style because ... after a night of heavy drinking, it’s tough to navigate the six buckets collecting water in your living room.

The Suspect: River Rats

This up-and-coming Asheville band specializes in raw bluesy rock. The band is made up of Andrew Scotchie (guitar/vocals/keys), Jordan Miller (bass/vocals), Andrew “Crazy Eyes” Adams (harmonica/sax) and Eliza Hill (drums). Check out their video from a recent show at Craggie Brewing on the band’s Facebook page.

Can Be Found: The Root Bar, Saturday, Feb. 11.

RIYD: The White Stripes; King Khan and The Shrines.

You Should Go If: Every time you hear a Bruno Mars song you throw up in your mouth a little; even though your car gets only 9 miles to the gallon, you carbon-compensate by rarely showering, wearing your clothes both right-side and inside-out and keeping your heat set on 55 degrees; you’ve faked the results of every science fair project you’ve ever done; this overabundance of rain is totally cramping your style because ... all your worldly possessions smell like a wet dog.

The Suspect: Zola Jesus

The project of Russian American Nika Roza Danilova, this 22-year-old vocalist/electronic artist has already released three EPs and two full-length albums. Pitchfork gave her latest release, Conatus, a 7.7 rating, and said “There’s a newfound sense of purpose ... Danilova now understands exactly what she’s doing.”

Can Be Found: The Grey Eagle, Tuesday, Feb. 14.

RIYD: Portishead, Fever Ray.


You Should Go If: Even your drama teacher was kinda weirded out by you; your childhood memories of Full House marathons, American Girl dolls and pastel-colored clothes fill you with shame; you’re passionate about bringing robot/human love into the marriage equality conversation; this overabundance of rain is totally cramping your style because … now everyone is wearing floor length raincoats.