Best Pickin' on the Patio Yet!

 

Shhhh.... Big & Rich will be performing a free - but fairly secret - show on the patio at Warner Brothers on Music Row this evening. The fact that this show has not been advertised outside Music Row circles tells me that it's probably intended to be kept on the down-low... a.k.a., you didn't hear about it from me...

It gets better. Drinks and refreshments will also be provided by several of the concert's sponsors. Last month, that included a keg from Lone Star Beer, some awesome frozen margaritas, and cupcakes from Gigi's. 

Believe me, it will be packed this time around. The doors open at 5:30, with John and Big Kenny taking the stage at 6. The event is 21+, so be sure you bring an ID.

... and did I mentioned it's FREE?!

You can't beat a free concert in Nashville, especially when it includes some bands that would be worth paying for. For my money, Delta Spirit and Surfer Blood are two can't-miss groups that don't swing by Nashville very often.

It will probably be extremely crowded, with hipsters in abundance. Be sure you RSVP though, since it looks like you have to present the printed pass to get in.

Say what you will about corporations co-opting indie music for the coolness factor, I won't complain when it results in a free concert. Thank you, Toyota!

Soundland Music Festival, or Finally Nashville Gets a CMJ...

My 2011 New Year's Resolution: see more live music. Naturally, I was quite overjoyed when Next Big Nashville announced the first year of the new Soundland Music Festival in September. Now I can cross several names off my wish list!

I have been envious of Austin and New York for years with their killer SXSW and CMJ Music Marathon music festivals. Now, it seems that the city I call home is finally realizing its place in the pantheon of great music cities. I could not be happier with the lineup, many of whom just happen to be occupying high-rotation slots on my iPod right now...

Foster the People

Dawes

Justin Townes Earle

Ghostland Observatory

Those Darlins

Royal Bangs
PUJOL

M. Ward

Chancellor Warhol

More keep being added, and the full festival pass is only $55 right now. I might be able to squeeze a little more out of the music budget, which has recently been ransacked by Hangout Fest, Bonnaroo and U2... Credit card debt, anyone?