Hey Memphis! Groundhog Day came and went with the groundhog not seeing his shadow. If you’re not in the know, this results in Spring arriving early. If you’ve been in Memphis through 2013, you’ll likely agree it started about three weeks ago.
To celebrate jort weather in February, this week we’ve got you checking out an elite Memphis rapper, making some voodoo music with a man who’s been compared to Jimi Hendrix on more than one occasion, and finding out what exactly to do with some Shovels and Rope. Make sure your DD is secured, it’s time for weekend shots.
Friday, (2/8) brings some hyped out country folk to The Hi-Tone. With the historic venue closing down, the Hi-Tone is packing some big shows before it bites the dust and this Friday makes for a perfect example. Shovels & Rope take a gritty and raw crack at twanged out country.
The South Carolina duo is lauded for their performances as well as the fresh take on old Americana. Contrasting the dirt, Andrew Combs brings a smoother stab at country as well.
Friday also brings guitar demi-god Eric Gales to Newby’s. Gales runs through Memphis a few times a year, but is worth the show for his upbeat attitude and kinda ridiculous guitar skills.
Saturday, (2/9) has a few completely different options, starting off with Skewby at The Hi-Tone. The Memphis rapper has already released music in 2013 and the emphasis on the swing, looped sample, and simple kick/snare work make it stand out from the trap-laden Memphis radio.
No good rapper comes alone and this night is no different. Fellow Memphis rising star DJ Charlie White is billed. White recently released his own album of instrumental beats and has been playing countless DJ competitions around the region to spread the love. Memphis rapper Preauxx as well as DJ Crumbs (who also produced for Skewby) are also set to play.
For something completely different, The Great Barrier Reefs will show off their islandy/jazz/jammy-something-or other sound at Young Ave Deli. The island jam band be joined by Memphis trip-hop/electro artists Kaleidophonix. Kphonix always have highly energetic shows and bring with them an interesting mix of 21st century rave-esque electronica and old school Bowie rock operas, well worth checking out at least once.
If you’re trying to skip the raptacular and jam/trippyfest at Young ave, you should head over to The Cove. The Sultana will be playing softer songs with enough predictability to latch onto and enough weird quarks to keep you interested. Seriously, these guys are some of Memphis’ strongest song writers, so make sure you go to get schooled on how to arrange melody.
