Lucky 2013 is here and with it, a host of happenings in Nashville. First of all, the New York Times just selected our burg as the latest “it” city. Um, does that mean we’re bad at playing tag? In any case, it’s good to see the “paper of record” recognizing us for something other than hillbilly moonshine dementia (not that there’s anything wrong with that).
Truly, the New Year is off to momentous start with all manner of music mania. Oh, let me count the ways.
MUSIC CITY ROOTS | The city’s best weekly radio show/ live music showcase began its winter season on January 9th with a sold-out doozy of a show starring the legendary Leon Russell. Have you ever wondered what God might look like with shades and a Stetson?
Every Wednesday, Music City Roots gathers an eclectic assembly of artists, delivering a fast-paced, 2-hour show, all for just $10/$5 for students. If you can’t make it in person, you can stream the show live at their site and catch up on past shows at the Roots Radio page.
THE STONE FOX | This West Side restaurant/ club quickly became a preferred gathering place for musicians and music lovers, not to mention fans of good food, since its opening last year. A just-completed renovation expanded the bar to wrap-around proportions and a pair of January residencies, Chris Scruggs on Sundays and Paul Birch on Tuesdays, promise weekly doses fantastic free sounds (but be sure and bring some cash for the tip jar!)
They are also booking some stellar touring shows (Rosanne Cash with Rodney Crowell, Chelsea Crowel,l and Ranger Doug! John McCauley of Deer Tick!) so check their calendar frequently for new additions. Incidentally, I’ll be spinning classic country 45s on Sundays in January, before and after Chris Scruggs’ sets so come on out and say “hey!”
THE FIVE SPOT | Johnny Depp, who reportedly dropped a cool $16 mil on a Nashville mansion recently, was seen at the East Side’s favorite watering hole over the weekend (did he find out about the club via Nashville, the TV show?), no doubt enjoying some local music. Derek Hoke has resumed his wonderful weekly 5 Spot showcase, “$2 Tuesday,” with Bobby Bare, Jr. delivering a tumultuously enjoyable set for the inaugural 2013 edition. Beginning at 8:30pm and between the sets, I spin real live 45s, selecting a different vinyl theme each week. Next Tuesday’s episode will be “Land of a 1000 Dances: Songs For and About Dancing!” Shake a tail feather, yo.
RECORD STORE ROUND-UP
GRIMEY’S NEW AND PRE-LOVED MUSIC | The opening date for Grimey’s, Too! grows ever closer, with a “Coming Soon” sign on the soon-to-be-occupied building amping up anticipation with each glance. Stay tuned for word of the official ribbon-cutting date.
Meanwhile, the store proper gets back in the instore groove with local garage rock clan D. Watusi at 5pm on Saturday, January 12th. Also make plans for appearances by Delta Saints on January 15th at 6pm and Superdrag’s Tom Pappas on January 30th at 6pm. Buy local, or, as Grimey’s “Funky” Doyle Davis says, “Put your money where your house is.”
THE GROOVE | Co-owner John Moore notes that the store has lots of fresh vinyl in stock and he also gave The Vinyl District a heads up about a big instore event featuring Luella and the Sun on February 9th. It seems that the band has sold out of the initial pressing of its debut 10” single and will be celebrating the second pressing by appearing at the store. If you have not yet caught the band live, this instore would be a perfect opportunity to do so. Mark it on your calendar as “serious mojo guaranteed.”
THE GREAT ESCAPE | The Charlotte superstore will host an Indoor Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, January 12th, starting at 10am. All items in this sale will be priced 5¢-$1! Come on down for some seriously fun crate digging.
LITTLE SHOP OF RECORDS | The area’s newest record shop is celebrating its 4th week with already-regulars visiting daily to see what’s new in the bins. Look for a full feature on Grant and Sandi Polston’s swinging shop next week in this column!
THIRD MAN RECORDS | The ever-evolving story of Third Man Records recently added a laudatory new chapter with the launch of their “School Choirs and Bands at Third Man” series. This is a a one-of-a-kind program offering students behind-the-scenes access to Jack White’s Third Man Records in Nashville, TN, as well as the chance to record their own 7” 45rpm vinyl records. Seriously, how cool is THAT?
Jack and his staff are doing a commendable job of developing the next generation of vinyl enthusiasts. Of course, the Third Man store always has some cool collectible vinyl on offer and keep an on their site for their last-minute event announcements.
Until next time, keep your vinyl cool and your heart warm!
