I see great live music in your future...

My year of music is not over yet! The momentum is showing no signs of slowing in October. Here are the three shows in Nashville that I am the most excited about:

1. Grouplove with the Belle Brigade - 10/11 at Mercy Lounge

Grouplove is great, but I am actually more excited about the Belle Brigade. This brother & sister duo throws down some great vocal harmonies that remind me a lot of Crosby Still Nash & Young mixed with Simon and Garfunkle. I'm especially looking forward to hearing "Losers," "Rusty Wheel" and "Belt of Orion" live.

2. Fitz & the Tantrums - 10/24 at Cannery Ballroom

  

Fitz and the Tantrums sold out their last Nashville show in July, and the place was PACKED. I have never seen a group that left everything on stage the way these guys did. Their debut record is great, but it just doesn't do justice to the energy and dap swagger of their live show. You can't miss this show, especially since they'll be at the Cannery Ballroom this time around. I promise that you will be dancing the entire time.

3. Dawes & Blitzen Trapper - 10/19 at Mercy Lounge

I talk a lot about Dawes. I've been listening to their recent release Nothing Is Wrong almost daily since it was released in May. I'm especially captivated by Taylor Goldsmith's songwriting. One thing the records don't show is Goldsmith's well-honed ability as a lead guitarist, particularly with the class country-style licks that are not usually at home with California-based groups. There must be something in the Neil Young/CSNY, James Taylor & Jackson Brown influences that run in the Laurel Canyon music community that Dawes grew from.

Dawes' reputation as a great live act has earned them spots supporting musicians like Robbie Robertson and M.Ward, simultaneously as an opening act and backing band in the same show. 

Dawes will be splitting headlining duties with alt-country/folk veterans Blitzen Trapper.