Twice monthly, my blog 30 Days Out spotlights upcoming music shows and events of note, shining a light into some less well-lit corners, where some fascinating artists schedule performances. I do my best to give ample advance notice so that you can adjust your budget and calendar in a way that lets you get to the show.
‘Tis the season … when the local live performance schedule slows down, when tourists become relatively scarce, when you can venture out for a show and enjoy some breathing room while you enjoy the music. This go-round I’m featuring two local acts, a regional one and one out-of-town performer. All make braving the cold worth the effort, and your total cost to see all four is a mere eight dollars (but please take care of your server). Happy Holidays!
Artist: Dex Romweber
Venue: Jack of the Wood
Date: Friday, Dec. 26, 9 p.m.
Door: $8
Ronweber’s site prominently features a quote from Jack White, citing Romweber as a major influence (He may as well admit it, since The White Stripes were wholly modeled after Dex’s old duo, Flat Duo Jets). While Dex currently tours with his sister Sara Romweber (Let’s Active, Snatches of Pink) behind the drum kit, this Jack of the Wood show features the guitarist in a solo setting, billed as a “special holidaze show.” Couple Skate opens.
Artist: Woody Wood
Venue: Highland Brewing
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 31, 5:30 p.m.
Door: FREE
I recently enjoyed a beer and a shot (and a beer and a shot, and …) with the ever-engaging Wood. Nominally, we were discussing his upcoming appearances at the Xmas Jam By Day, but we spent more time chatting about music in general. The guy’s a walking encyclopedia of American music styles, and that shows in his music. This performance is part of the regular “Woody Wood Wednesdays” series and presents the guitarist in an up close and personal setting. A nice way to ease into the NYE festivities.
Artist: 3 Cool Cats
Venue: WXYZ Lounge
Date: Saturday, Jan. 3, 8 p.m.
Door: FREE
Russ Wilson is everywhere, if by everywhere one means every musical stage in and around Asheville. He’s a master of a dizzying array of musical styles, from swinging big band to crooning jazz to country, blues and gospel. As often as not, he’s out front. But with 3 Cool Cats, he’s king of the drum throne, laying down the solid beat for a musical tour of vintage rock ‘n’ roll.
Artist: Chris Forsyth & the Solar Motel Band
Venue: The Mothlight
Date: Monday, Jan. 5, 9 p.m.
Door: FREE
I stumbled across Forsyth’s Solar Motel album early this year and found it a compelling mix of styles not generally associated with one another: Americana, ambient and post-rock a la Godspeed You! Black Emperor. The music is bracing and arty, yet somehow warm and intimate. It will be interesting to see how it goes over in live performance. Mendocino opens.
You may also enjoy: With over 1,450 entries, my Musoscribe blog features new content — interviews, reviews and more — every business day. A proud tradition since 2009.
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