May rolls on! In a month during which the happenings in this town are non-stop, music is no exception. And if you haven’t gotten your fill yet (as if that’s possible), here’s what’s going down this weekend.
Friday, May 13, 2011: A Giant Dog with DJ Lady Problems at the Hi Tone Cafe
I love music like this. It’s dirty and bouncy and high energy and just plain fun. Plus, the singer is a chick (a hot chick, at that) and that just adds to the allure. Add in the musical stylings of DJ Ladyproblems (of ilovememphisblog.com) and you’ve got the formula for a night of great fun. Oh, and did I mention that it’s a beer bust? And that the Hi Tone has Magic Hat #9?
Saturday, May 14, 2011: Todd Snider with Jimbo Mathus and Alvin Youngblood Hart at The Levitt Shell
A big part of me wishes I were alive in the heyday, so to speak, of the Levitt Shell. Read up on the history of it sometime, it’s fascinating – Elvis Presley’s 1954 performance there with Slim Whitman is considered by many to be the first ever rock and roll show. How cool is that?
Fast forward 50+ years and the Shell has been back in action for a while. They always have great programming there during the spring, summer and fall, and this year is no exception. Saturday is a special event, with Ardent client Todd Snider (who was back in the studio last year producing local favorite Jason D Williams’ new record), Jimbo Mathus (an Oxford mainstay, L. Nix mastering client, and former Squirrel Nut Zipper), and Memphis powerhouse Alvin Youngblood Hart. Three awesome artists, one awesome venue, and at $15, it won’t break the bank either. Should be a great night!
Sunday, May 15, 2011: Jonathan Richman at the Hi Tone Cafe
A few facts about Jonathan Richman, in case you don’t know who he is. 1) He is essentially one of the forerunners of punk rock, having been the founding member of The Modern Lovers; 2) He produced Vic Chesnutt’s final album, Skitter on Take-off; 3) He’s been covered by The Sex Pistols; 4) He was in There’s Something About Mary. Not sure how much more you need.
