Not too much going on this Monday before New Year's, but there are still a couple of shows I wanted to make sure you knew about.
Robert Earl Keen and Emory Quinn at The House of Blues
In some ways, Robert Earl Keen has become the standard-bearer of Texas
roots music. Nearing his 55 birthday, Keen is one of the few artists to
appeal to fans of folk, country, alt-country and even alternative rock.
And, sure enough, Keen's gifted ways with melodies and lyrics have put him in the upper
stratosphere of Americana singer-songwriters. Perhaps only Willie Nelson
sits above Keen -- but we all know that, these days, Keen is a hell of a
lot easier to listen to. Anyhow, Keen's shows are as much about a
familial spirit as they are musical performances. If there is better
music to listen to while downing a cold one, I have yet to stumble upon
it. San Antonio's Emory Quinn (a band, not a person) opens what should be a
great way to prep for the New Year's festivities.
Jim Suhler and Hunter Hendrickson at The Kessler Theater
Two of the area's best guitarists get together for an evening of
electric blues at this show. Jim Suhler just finished a mini-tour with George
Thorogood, so the guy's digits should be nice and nimble. He also
has a new CD scheduled for release in February, so look for a few new
songs to pop up in tonight's blues onslaught. Hunter Hendrickson, meanwhile, may be the
youngest of the players on display this evening, but his music has the
heart and soul of a roots rock veteran. Songs like "If I Had Possession
over Judgment Day" and "River" have a decidedly great Dylan vibe to
them. Together, these two talented local guys should create some moments of
pure bliss.
Rad Bromance at the House of Blues' Cambridge Room
Unlike Gaga, this self-proclaimed "#1 all male Lady GaGa Tribute Band" takes pride in having something between its legs.
