Umphrey's McGee Announces 2nd Annual Chucktown Ball in Charleston May 9, 2016 14:30

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Press Release via Umphreys.com

Umphrey’s McGee will return to Charleston, South Carolina on September 23rd and 24th for the second iteration of Chucktown Ball at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. As some members of UM now call the Charleston area home, the Chucktown Ball is rapidly evolving into a unique Umphrey’s celebration. Riverfront Park is situated on the beautiful banks of the Cooper River, surrounded by graceful oak trees; this picturesque outdoor setting will be the backdrop for a two-day full blown Umphrey’s McGee event. Each night, two sets of UM will be preceded by very special guests: Moon Taxi and Dead 27s on Friday September 23rd; and The Floozies, Dangermuffin, and The Hip Abduction on Saturday September 24th. UM will also feature local food, libations, and vending, along with a umVIP elevated concert experience and umVIP travel packages.

For those of you interested in upgrading your Chucktown Ball experience, UM offers travel and umVIP offerings that will rock your socks off. Packages include tickets to each show, a umVIP lounge with discounted bar pricing, preferred viewing in front of the stage, a separate umVIP entrance, a pre-show BBQ on Saturday with an open cocktail hour, MP3 downloads of all UM shows, a commemorative laminate, and a dedicated staff throughout the weekend. UM is offering you two choices for our hotel packages to best suit your needs, both located in historic downtown Charleston. The brand new Dewberry Hotel and the Hyatt Place are both walking distance from Charleston’s many phenomenal restaurants and nightlife. UM will also offer transportation from your hotel to the venue.

Watch an interview with Ryan Stasik from last year's Chucktown Ball here:

Pre-sale and umVIP on-sale will begin on Tuesday, May 10, at 12:00 pm ET. During pre-sale, we will offer a limited amount of deeply discounted two-day early-bird tickets for $55.00. Snag these while supplies last. Public on-sale begins Thursday, May 12, at 12:00 pm ET.

Early bird two-day GA passes are $55.00, regular two-day GA passes are $75.00, single-day GA tickets are $45.00, umVIP only two-day packages are $359.00, umVIP Friday only are $169.00, and umVIP Saturday only are $199.00.

Chucktown Ball will contribute a portion of proceeds to the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, to aide in the incredible work they do for South Carolina families.

Watch Umphrey's McGee perform "Ringo" at last year's Chucktown Ball here:

The Road to CukoRakko: Will Clark of Funk You May 9, 2016 09:15

The Road to CukoRakko: Ryan Keef and Jason Guinn of Permagroove May 5, 2016 10:44

Our latest segment, "The Road to CukoRakko," consists of a series of interviews leading up to CukoRakko Music & Arts Festival next weekend at Horse Pens 40 in Steele, AL.  We recently caught up with Ryan Keef (guitar/vocals) and Jason Guinn (bass/vocals) of Permagroove, one of North Alabama's most promising up-and-coming bands.   

Recently described by Tim Reynolds (Dave Matthews Band/TR3) as, "...the Allman Brothers x10 on acid," Permagroove is one of the South's most electrifying up-and-coming live bands. Their sound is an eclectic genre-blend, built on tight grooves, top-notch songwriting, and spacious jams with plenty of molten-hot guitar solos and instantly memorable lyrics. Originally from Fort Payne, AL, the band is currently touring in support of their new EP, "Perfectly Broken Machine."

Permagroove is set to play CukoRakko at 6:30 PM on Saturday, May 14th.

Interview by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Permagroove is one of many up-and-coming bands to surface out of North Alabama  in recent years. When did you guys officially get  this thing rolling? Tell me about the band's early days.  

Ryan:  I believe we just had our one year anniversary. Jason called me last spring and told me that he'd just gotten Isaac, and asked me to come join. We had all played together in some form or another over the years, so there was already a good chemistry and foundation to build from. I think we had one rehearsal, and it just came together. And we're even friends too, believe it or not. That helps a tremendous amount, actually.  

Jason:  It officially started rolling the first time Chase (drums) and I played with Ryan and Isaac together. The core between Chase and I was solid, and we had the most dynamic guitar player we could ask for with Isaac, but the one-two combination with the twin guitars took it over the top for us. Chase and I still look at each other when we're playing like, "Damn, these guys are something else." Also, Ryan’s songwriting is phenomenal. I believe everyone in the band was a fan of Ryan well before we started playing together. 

Alabama's music scene seems to be constantly evolving.  With new venues surfacing nearly every year, the opportunity to perform and build your following only increases.  How has Permagroove's schedule shaped up thus far in 2016?   

Ryan:  This year is treating us pretty well so far. We've got a few festivals on the books, and we're breaking ground into new markets and more premier, noteworthy venues. It can be difficult with all of the new venues opening and closing, but we've made some great strides in that last six months. Doors are opening, and I'm excited to see where the journey takes us.  

Jason:  Our schedule has shaped up very nicely. We've not only have been invited back to CukoRakko, but also added Jam in the Ham in Birmingham and Riverbend Music Festival in Chattanooga. Hammering the markets in Huntsville, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Chattanooga, and Auburn has started paying off. Our crowds keep growing everywhere we go and it's really exciting for us. We just recently added a run through Georgia in the fall, and we're also heading down to Florida in the Summer. We're always looking for new places to play where people love to hear live music. 

Click Here: Purchase tickets to CukoRakko Music & Arts Festival 

Permagroove recently released its latest studio work with the Perfectly Broken Machine EP.  Tell me a little bit about how this group of songs came together.  How was the recording process different than your previous work? 

Ryan:  With the exception of the Marley cover we put in there, these were all songs I had previously recorded under my own name. We reinvented and rearranged them in a very fitting way, which set them apart quite a bit. We tried to do most of it live in the studio, to capture the energy. But, there's also some overdubs in there. Overall, it's a pretty accurate representation of who we are as a band, and that's something you don't always get out of a studio recording.  

Jason: We are a live band. I know a lot of people say that, but we truly are. We recorded this album with no click tracks, we just laid it down. Ryan has an awesome collection of songs, and he allows us to put our spin on things. I think it comes across pretty well. We weren't originally going to record Could You Be Loved, but Dave Brandwein (from Turkuaz) gave us some encouragement, and I'm glad we did. I am really excited about not only about this recording, but the future ones we've yet to record. 

  Watch Permagroove perform "Fish Agree" at Zydeco in Birmingham here:

Every band has their own unique way of putting together a set list.  What does the process entail for you guys as you prepare for each show?  

Ryan:  That depends mostly on the venue; different set times and all that jazz. Once in a while, one of us will write out the setlist early in the day and we'll all discuss any segues or different arrangements together. Usually we'll just rattle off three or four songs to start with and see where it takes us. We try to avoid dead air.  

Jason: "What do you wanna play?" is usually the question asked about five minutes before we play, and then everyone gives a roundabout. Then, two seconds before start it's "What are the first three songs?" and the rest usually just comes together somehow. 

Click Here: Purchase Tickets to CukoRakko Music & Arts Festival 

We're coming up on CukoRakko, one of Alabama's young, growing music festivals.  Horse Pens 40 is without a doubt one of the most amazing locations in the state.  What does it mean to you guys to be back once again this Spring?

Ryan:  I have to say, Horse Pens 40 is gorgeous. We're really looking forward to being back. Jamie and Greg, and all the folks involved are all class-acts, and that makes things easy. We kicked off the fall festival last year, but we had to get to another gig that evening. Hopefully we'll be able to spend more time there this year. It doesn't hurt that it's close to home either.  

Jason: It means a lot to me. The community that CukoRakko has created is very family oriented and everybody involved are just top notch people. I know Jamie and Greg do not invite back a lot of repeat performers, so I feel very honored for us to get asked back for a second time. The Shultz family do a wonderful job preserving Horse Pens 40, and the scenery is second to none. CukoRakko has gained such a reputation that you don’t even have to look at the lineup to know that the music is going to be awesome every year. I am fired up, and I know the guys are excited to not only play, but be a part of the fellowship that takes place. 

Horse Pens 40 in Steele, AL :: Home of CukoRakko Music & Arts Festival

CukoRakko will give you guys an opportunity to play in front of many fans who know your music well, as well as many who will be seeing you for the first time.  How would you best describe what the crowd at Horse Pens can expect from Permagroove? 

Ryan:  Endless self indulgence. But no, really. What I love about playing with these guys is that it's always fresh. We can play the same song back to back and it's going to be different. We feed off of each other and the crowd, we listen, and we let the music take us where we're going.  

Jason: We're going to give you everything we’ve got for whatever length we are given. There are going to be parts of our playing that are completely spontaneous and off the cuff. You might hear some something one minute that is rooted in country with a blues twist, and the next some rocked out “mountain funk," but whatever it is it'll be us. 

Official Website: Permagroove

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Anders Osborne And Luther Dickinson's "Black Muddy River" Says It All May 4, 2016 16:36

Last summer, JamBase published a series of 50 videos titled Songs of Their Own, which honored the Grateful Dead in preparation of the band's upcoming 50th anniversary Fare Thee Well celebration.  On May 17th, the first video of this series was published, featuring Anders Osborne (guitar/vocals) and Luther Dickinson (slide guitar) performing "Black Muddy River", a Dead classic from the In The Dark album.

Apparently, Anders and Luther were toying with the idea of performing "Bertha" or "Black Muddy River", but arrived at JamBase's studio in San Francisco without a final decision. After hearing just a couple bars of “Black Muddy River,” the JamBase team strongly encouraged the pair to cover it. Right before they began recording, Anders was told that “Black Muddy River” was the last song Jerry Garcia sang with the Grateful Dead at Soldier Field in 1995. After a heavy pause, he simply replied, “Wow, I wish you hadn’t told me that before we recorded this.” What followed was one-take and an absolutely heartfelt rendition of the song.

We make a point to recognize and celebrate the birthdays of our favorite musicians, as a way of thanking them for their endless contributions to our music scene.  We can't think of a better way to honor Anders Osborne on his 50th birthday than with this tribute to the Grateful Dead's 50th anniversary.

Watch Anders Osborne and Luther Dickinson perform "Black Muddy River" here:

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Reveals Summer Tour Dates May 4, 2016 14:36

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong has revealed their 2016 Summer Tour dates, which kick off with the band's annual festival Domefest in Bedford, PA (5/19-5/21). The Pigeons are scheduled for shows and festival appearances across the Northeast, Midwest, East Coast, and Southeast in support of their recently released Pleasure LP.  

Additional festival appearances include Summer Camp (5/27), Revival Fest (5/29), Disc Jam (6/9-6/12), The Big What? (7/21), Buffalove Music Festival (7/31), Camp Barefest (8/18-8/20), and Catskill Chill (9/23-9/25).  The Pigeons will headline Atlanta's Terminal West on June 30th, as well as The NorVa in Norfolk, VA on July 22nd.   Make a point to get out and join The Flock this Summer!

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong brings end-of-the-world enthusiasm to their high-energy psychedelic funk. Their infectious electro-funk grooves, undeniable live energy and contagious smiles have their rabid fanbase “the Flock” growing exponentially. Based out of Baltimore, MD, this animated quartet has been scorching up the country with their explosive performances and danceable peaks... and they're loving every minute of it.

Watch Pigeons Playing Ping Pong perform "Funk E. Zekiel" in Boulder, CO on 04.01.16 here:

Agori Tribe Announces 2016 Summer Tour Dates May 4, 2016 12:41

Memphis-based jam fusion group Agori Tribe has announced it's initial summer tour dates for 2016, and we're looking forward to seeing what these guys have in store this year.  This run of shows kicks off on June 10th at Dave's Dark Horse Tavern in Starkville, MS.  Additional dates include: June 11th in Oxford, MS (Round Table), June 17th in Knoxville, TN (Scruffy City Hall), June 18th in Asheville, NC (One Stop), June 24th at MadSummer Meltdown 7 (Schuylkill Haven, PA), June 25th in Arlington, VA (Sehkraft Brewing), and June 28th in Washington DC (Mousai Artist Coalition).

Agori Tribe was birthed in 2008 by founding members Sean Naughton, Will Nicholls and David Collins, while attending high school in Germantown, Tennessee (a suburb of Memphis). Naughton had been jamming with both Nicholls and Collins separately, and one day, they decided to all three get together. They knew after that first session that they wanted to form a band together. Keyboardist Dave Hash joined the band in 2009, and bassist Jeffery Naylor rounded off the current lineup in 2013.

Citing influences ranging from Herbie Hancock to Bob Marley and Shpongle to My Morning Jacket, Agori Tribe’s unique sound has been best described as “progressive psychedelic rock.” The band combines elements of blues, traditional rock, psychedelic rock, jazz, reggae and more to form songs that seem more like compositions. 

Widespread Panic Announces Fall Tour Dates + Nashville NYE Run May 3, 2016 15:35

Widespread Panic has announced it's initial 2016 Fall Tour Dates, as well as a three-night New Years' Run in Nashville.  Fall Tour will stretch across the northeast and down through the south for the month of September.  October dates will be announced soon.  The band's almost annual Tunes for Tots Charity Concert will take place December 29th at the Ryman Auditorium, followed by a two-night run at the Bridgestone Arena to ring in 2017. 

Stay tuned for future updates, as the band will be announcing more Fall Tour dates for October, as well as details on the band's annual Halloween run.  For further details on Widespread Panic's Fall Tour and New Year's Run, head over to the band's official website and Facebook page.

Catskill Chill Announces Initial Lineup for 2016 Festival May 3, 2016 15:16

Runaway Gin - A Tribute to Phish Releases New Spring Into Summer 2016 Tour Dates May 3, 2016 12:30

Photo by Amy Boyd: Sense & Color Photography

Runaway Gin - a Tribute to Phish has announced a series of Southeast dates in addition to their weekly Sunday residency at the Charleston Pour House. Included in these dates are a triple-setter in Raleigh, NC, a debut performance in Washington, DC,a Dead and Co. Afterparty in Charlotte, NC, a headlining slot at the Pumpkintown Music Festival, and a Runaway Gin Craft Beer Cruise in August!

Here is a newly released video of Runaway Gin playing You Enjoy Myself in March of 2016:

A complete listing of Runaway Gin shows with additional details and tickets can be found here.

Friday, May 13th - 3 sets @ the Pour House Music Hall - Raleigh, NC
Saturday, May 14th - Gypsy Sally's w/ Moogatu - Washington, DC
Friday, May 27th - GOTTROCKS - Greenville, SC
Saturday, May 28th - Aisle 5 - Atlanta, GA
Friday, June 10 - Dead and Company Afterparty @ the Rabbit Hole - Charlotte, NC
Saturday, June 18 - the Get Down in Pumpkintown Festival - Marietta, SC
Friday, July 29th - the Grey Eagle - Asheville, NC
Saturday, July 30th - the Calico Room - Wilmington, NC
Friday, August 5th - Runaway Gin Craft Beer Cruise - Charleston, SC

Runaway Gin is the World's most active Phish Tribute Band having played 87 shows in 2015 alone. They play every Sunday at the Charleston Pour House and tour often. On July 4th, 2015, after the second show of the Grateful Dead GD50 run, Runaway Gin sold out the Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago - a 650 capacity venue - and cemented themselves as a national act.

The members of Runaway Gin are long time Phish fans who have united with the goal of creating musical moments inspired by Phish. The band's song list is constantly growing and their improvisational and communication skills are constantly developing independently and together. Like Phish, Runaway Gin will never play the same show or jam the same way twice making every show a unique experience and every moment pure artistic creation.

Throwback: Neil Young Joins Phish For An Acoustic "Harry Hood" (1998) April 28, 2016 16:29

Nearly every year since 1986, Neil Young and his former wife Pegi have called upon their musical friends to perform at an annual benefit concert to raise funds for the Bridge School, an innovative organization educating children with severe speech and physical impairments. The Youngs ask their invited guests to cut the cords and perform on acoustics for the Bridge School Benefit Concerts.

In October of 1998, jam veterans Phish performed two acoustic sets at the 12th annual Bridge School Benefit Concert, which also featured R.E.M., Neil Young, and Barenaked Ladies.  One of many highlights from these sets came during "Harry Hood", when Neil Young joined the band just after the 7-minute mark of the song.  Young would return to the stage and take lead vocals on his own "Helpless" to close the set.  

Setlist and show notes via Phish.net

Setlist: Saturday, October 17th 1998 - Shoreline Amphitheatre

Set 1: Carolina, Sleep^[1], Never^[1], Possum^[2], I'm Blue, I'm Lonesome^[3], Free Bird, Driver^[1], Wading in the Velvet Sea^[2], Harry Hood^[4] > Helpless^[5]

[1] Debut; acoustic.
[2] Acoustic.
[3] Acoustic; Mike on banjo, Page on acoustic bass.
[4] Acoustic; unfinished; Neil Young on guitar.
[5] Phish debut; acoustic; Neil Young on guitar and vocals.

This single-set performance was part of the 12th annual Bridge School benefit that also included R.E.M., Neil Young, and Barenaked Ladies. This was an acoustic performance, with a unique stage setup that had Fish stage right, with Page on the far left. Carolina was performed with the band facing toward the Bridge School children, who were on a raised platform at the back of the stage. Sleep, Never, and Driver also debuted at this show. I’m Blue I’m Lonesome (first since December 12, 1995, or 195 shows) was performed in the bluegrass setup of 1994, with Mike on banjo and Page on acoustic bass. Free Bird was played for the first time since June 19, 1994 (338 shows). Hood included a tease of Work Song by Page and was unfinished; Neil Young joined in during the Hood jam, and then sang lead on the Phish debut of his own composition, Helpless.

Setlist: Sunday, October 18th 1998 - Shoreline Amphitheatre

Set 1: Hello My Baby, Billy Breathes^[1], Piper^[1], Roggae^[1], Loving Cup^[1], Albuquerque^[1], The Old Home Place^[2], Guyute^[1], Brian and Robert^[1], Sad Lisa^[3], Four Strong Winds^[4], I Shall Be Released^[4] 

[1] Acoustic.
[2] Acoustic; Mike on banjo, Page on acoustic bass.
[3] Phish debut; acoustic; Sarah McLachlan on guitar and vocals.
[4] Phish debut; acoustic; Sarah McLachlan and Neil Young on guitar and vocals and Kevin Hearn on accordion.

Notes: This single-set performance was part of the 12th annual Bridge School benefit that also included R.E.M., Neil Young, and Barenaked Ladies. This was an acoustic performance, with a unique stage setup that had Fish stage right, with Page on the far left. Hello My Baby was performed with the band facing toward the Bridge School children, who were on a raised platform at the back of the stage. The Old Home Place was performed in the bluegrass setup of 1994, with Mike on banjo and Page on acoustic bass. Sad Lisa featured Sarah McLachlan on guitar and vocals, while Four Strong Winds and I Shall Be Released featured McLachlan and Neil Young on guitar and vocals, as well as Barenaked Ladies’ Kevin Hearn on accordion; all three songs were Phish debuts.

Jam Cruise Reveals Another Amazing Lineup For 2017 April 28, 2016 11:44

Just last week, organizers of Jam Cruise announced that the event would be held on a new boat, Norwegian Pearl, from January 20th - 25th of 2017.  The Jam Cruise experience extends beyond just music, bringing fans closely together with both themselves and the artists in an inspiring and unique setting - aboard a beautiful cruise ship.  Just this morning, Jam Cruise revealed it's lineup for 2017, and they have hit yet another home run.

Jam Cruise 15 will feature the likes of The Original Meters, moe., GRiZ, Galactic, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, Benevento Russo Duo, Lettuce, Kamasi Washington, The Revivalists, The Motet, Beats Antique (Live), Break Science, JoJo's Mardi Gras Band, The Soul Rebels, Dopapod, Vulfpeck, Turkuaz, Percy Hill, Frequinox, The Suffers, Lebo & Friends (ft. Robert Walter, Jay Lane, Garrett Sayers, Lesley Grant & The Combustible Horns), Neville Jacobs, Reed Mathis Presents Electric Beethoven (ft. Jay Lane, Todd Stoops, Clay Welch), Brothers Comatose, Earphunk, Magic Gravy, Love Canon, BIG Something, Nikki Glaspie Super Jam, Everyone Orchestra, Nathan Moore, Manic Focus, and DJ Soul Sister.

Per usual, Jam Cruise will also feature a slew of amazingly talented artists at large, incuding Steve Kimock, Cyril Neville, Steve Berlin, Mike Dillon, Col. Bruce Hampton, Skerik, Katelyn & Laurie Shook (of the Shook Twins), and Roosevelt Collier.  Jam Cruise will take place from January 20th-25th in 2017, with the boat leaving from Miami and traveling to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman Island.

For further details and all information on ticket packages and reservations, head over to the Jam Cruise official website.

Watch the official Jam Cruise 14 aftermovie here:

Suwanee Hulaween Announces Stellar Initial Lineup April 27, 2016 13:03

Photo by Josh Timmermans :: Noble Visions

JUST ANNOUNCED: INITIAL LINEUP FOR THE FOURTH ANNUAL SUWANNEE HULAWEEN

OCTOBER 28 – 30, 2016

SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK IN LIVE OAK, FL

Watch Red Hot Chili Peppers Jam with George Porter Jr., Ivan Neville, and Zigaboo at Jazz Fest April 26, 2016 09:36

The 2016 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival kicked off in in strong fashion over the weekend, with performances from the likes of Pearl Jam, Van Morrison, Steely Dan, Grace Potter, Gov't Mule, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Galactic, Anders Osborne, and so many more.  One performance in particular that caught our attention was the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the Acura Stage late in the afternoon on Sunday.  After nearly two hours of RHCP's greatest hits, bassist Flea invited New Orleans funk legends George Porter Jr., Ivan Neville, and Zigaboo Modeliste on stage for one final song, "Give It Away".  Another perfect example of something that will only happen at one event: JazzFest.

Jazz Fest is an annual celebration of the music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana. Use of the term "Jazz Fest" can also include the days surrounding the Festival and the many shows at unaffiliated New Orleans nightclubs scheduled during the Festival event weekends.  JazzFest continues throughout this week/weekend, and a full schedule of events and performances can be found by clicking here.

Watch RHCP perform "Give It Away" with George Porter Jr., Ivan Neville, and Zigaboo Modeliste at Jazz Fest here:

Video by Space City Shows 2

Win Free Tickets To See Pigeons Playing Ping Pong At Zydeco (Fri. 4/29) April 25, 2016 16:33

Live & Listen is excited to announce that we are teaming up with our friends at Zydeco in Birmingham, AL to give you an opportunity to win two free tickets to see one of the hottest bands in the jam/festival scene, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, with special guests Opposite Box on Friday night.  Simply follow the instructions listed below for your chance to win.  We will announce a winner at 6:00 PM CST on Thursday, April 28th.  Make sure your Facebook settings are set to "public" so we are able to see that you shared the post.

About Pigeons Playing Ping Pong:

Funk, Rock, Electronic ENERGY: These four Pigeons bring it every night. Based out of Baltimore, MD, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong has an undeniably unique and versatile live sound that ascends peaks of musical ecstasy. Their evolving arrangement of original compositions, psychedelic improvisational jams, and contagious smiles have ‘The Flock’ growing and coming back for more. With no end in sight, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong is here to bring the party with their danceable electro-funk grooves and infectious ability to bring positive energy to any environment.

Through extensive touring paired with high profile festival spots including Catskill Chill, The Werk Out, Camp Barefoot, Wormtown Music Festival and others, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong have put the memorable band name on the lips of music lovers and groove nuts.  Playing nearly 200 shows a year, Pigeons continue to expand people’s minds (musically…), playing a unique, energy-packed set at every show. Whether it be at a major festival or in your local rock club, Pigeons will show you a good time.

About Opposite Box: 

Opposite Box is a genre-bending experimental rock band from Chattanooga, TN known for high energy live shows and a seamless blend of psychedelic jazz, progressive rock and dirty funk – dubbed “Belligerent Jungle Funk” – that is often compared to acts like Frank Zappa, Mr. Bungle and Parliament Funkadelic.

Opposite Box presents a theatrical live experience with an over-the-top, psychedelic atmosphere. Dazzling lights, a spectacular cast of characters ranging from belly dancers and fire eaters to live painters and costumed freaks and an organized cacophony of sounds and inspirations hearken back to a time when artists were more than still life paintings in the background performing the soundtrack to failed dive bar pickup lines and overly complicated drink orders. Opposite Box challenges all in attendance to engage and react, allowing the audience to become the show.

Watch Pigeons Playing Ping Pong perform at Ardmore Music Hall on 12.19.15 here:

We have one pair of tickets to giveaway, and we will announce a winner at 6:00 PM CST on Thursday (4/28). The winner's name (+1 guest) will be placed on the list at Will Call at Zydeco on Saturday night. 

How the contest works....

1: 'Like' this post directly on our Facebook page.

2: Share this post directly from our Facebook page.  Make sure your privacy settings are set to 'Public' so we can see that you shared the post.

3: Tag a friend who you would like to take to the show in the comments on our Facebook page.

4: The winner will be announced on our Facebook page on Thursday (4/28) at 6:00 PM CST.

Widespread Panic and Tedeschi Trucks Band Join Forces in Birmingham April 25, 2016 10:48

Photos by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Jam veterans Widespread Panic joined forces with the ultimate modern day supergroup, Tedeschi Trucks Band, on Saturday night for a double bill like no other at Birmingham's BJCC Legacy Arena.  While Widespread Panic is typically known for performing two sets of music, this was a unique occasion featuring far more than "just another opening band".  Tedeschi Trucks Band kicked things off promptly at 7:30 PM, featuring tunes like "Made Up Mind", "Bound For Glory", "Let Me Get By", and Derek and the Dominos' "Keep on Growing".  The highlight of the set came when the band took "Don't Know What It Means" directly into an emphatic cover of Joe Cocker's "The Letter" to close out the set.

Watch Tedeschi Trucks Band perform "Bound For Glory" here:

After a 45-minute intermission, Widespread Panic took the stage, and "Ain't Life Grand" kicked off the set.  Panic continued with originals like "Weight of the World", "Better Off", "Proving Ground", "Sell Sell", "Airplane", and "Papa's Home".  Drummer Duane Trucks and percussionist Sonny Ortiz provided the always entertaining "Drums" before the band busted back into "Papa's Home".  Pianist JoJo Hermann led the band through a rocking take on "Blackout Blues", which ultimately led into a cover of Vic Chesnutt's "Protein Drink" > "Sewing Machine" to close out the set.

Watch Widespread Panic perform Vic Chesnutt's "Protein Drink" here":

 As many expected, Saturday night's encore was an instant classic.  Panic returned to the stage with special guest, Derek Trucks.  This would be the first time Derek has performed with Panic since his younger brother, Duane Trucks, became the band's new drummer.  "Gimme" kept a mellow vibe and allowed Trucks to "warm up" a bit before a rousing take on "Surprise Valley".  John Bell then welcomed Susan Tedeschi back to the stage for a flawless cover of Robert Walter's "Me and the Devil Blues".  Many would think that a three song encore would be enough, but the band then welcomed Alecia Chakour and Mark Rivers (Tedeschi Trucks Band) to the stage for a massive family jam on The Rolling Stones' "You Can't Always Get What You Want".

The Panic faithful showed up in strong fashion on Saturday night.  Expectations for a Birmingham show are always high, because this band always finds a way to exceed them.  While the band plans to lighten their schedule in 2017, it's hard to imagine that Birmingham won't make it onto the list of "special occasion" shows that will surface in years to come.

Watch Widespread Panic and members of Tedeschi Trucks Band perform The Rolling Stones' "You Can't Always Get What You Want" here":

Tedeschi Trucks Band | 04.23.16 | Birmingham, AL

Made Up Mind, Laugh About It, Keep on Growing, Bird on the Wire, Idle Wind, Sticks and Stones, Bound for Glory, I Pity The Fool, Let Me Get By, Going Down to Mexico, Don't Know What It Means > The Letter

Widespread Panic | 04.23.16 | Birmingham, AL

Ain't Life Grand*, Weight of the World, Honky Red, Better Off, Proving Ground > Bust It Big, Sell Sell, Airplane > JAM > Papa's Home > Drumz > Machine Gun Jam > Papa's Home >Blackout Blues > Protein Drink > Sewing Machine (103 mins)

Encore: Gimme^ > Surprise Valley^, Me and The Devil^**, You Can't Always Get What You Want^

As We Remember the Purple One, His Legacy Lives on Forever April 23, 2016 11:37

Words by Taz Jones of FamousDC / JusticeAid

Prince Rogers Nelson wasn't just a prolific musical visionary, though he certainly was that. And he wasn't just a modern day Mozart for his stunning instrumental talents, though he certainly was that too. Prince united decades of time, generations of people, cultures, races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders and more. On top of that, he blended them all into one unified presence that he personified with every ounce of his being. Prince taught us to abandon boundaries, disregard definitions, and embrace the wonderful diversities in our world that make life worth living. Prince taught us that nothing in life is binary - black or white, one or the other. He taught us to be weird.

He also threw one hell of a party, and he did often. For Minnesotans, their native son was always amongst them, joyously welcoming the public to his home Paisly Park for vibrant, music-filled gatherings. Prince was Minnesota’s friend, their family, their therapist, and their soundtrack. Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges put it perfectly on the day of his passing, writing that, “Prince never left us, and we never left him.”

Prince never left those of us in places far from Minnesota either, and he never will. Prince understood music’s strength to heal, to empower, and to galvanize. He understood music’s force to compel even the shyest observers out of their seats and onto the dance floor. Prince understood how to create a cathartic dance party experience. That legacy will never disappear. His brilliance will live on in our hearts and souls forever.

The world didn't lose Prince this week; he was never of this earth to begin with. Wherever he is now, we'll still hear him at every turn. And whether we’re downhearted, exultant, or ambivalent, he will be there to get us through. We'll play his music loud, joke with friends about his larger-than-life aura, and dance together in his honor because that is exactly what he would have wanted. We will carry his legacy onward for future generations to learn from, and we’ll ensure that his mission to inspire individuality never ceases.

Prince was not a man. He was a symbol, and symbols never die.

Taz Jones keeps pretty busy.  Learn more by following FamousDC and JusticeAid.

Watch Prince's halftime performance from Super Bowl XLI:

The Disco Biscuits Kick Off SweetWater 420 Fest With Terminal West Pre-Party April 22, 2016 14:39

Photos and Words by Taylor Pack: Live & Listen

Every year, Atlanta’s favorite brewery Sweetwater Brewing Company celebrates their flagship beer 420 Pale Ale and America’s fastest growing holiday by throwing a blowout festival; full of great bands and an abundance of tasty beer. This year, SweetWater knocked it out of the park yet again when they released a lineup featuring the jam bands scene's biggest party animals, The Disco Biscuits. Shortly after, Atlantans were delighted to hear that the Biscuits planned to throw a festival pre-party on Thursday and an after party on Friday at Terminal West.

As expected, The Biscuits tore the roof off of Terminal West to open up what will be full weekend of premier live music in Atlanta. With the rain pouring down outside and an abundance of purple lasers flying inside, the band and their crew did an excellent job paying respects to the late great Prince. The first set featured a vintage "Munchkin Invasion", but the real jewel of the night was the second set, as the band weaved in and out of “I-Man” and “Voices Insane” in a way that only The Disco Biscuits can.

The Disco Biscuits are set to perform on the main stage at SweetWater 420 Fest in Centennial Olympic Park this evening, with a late night show at Terminal West to follow.  

Setlist:

I: Let's Go Crazy (RIP Prince) > Munchkin Invasion, King of the World > Basis For a Day (ending only), Kitchen Mitts

II: Voices Insane (fakeout) > I-Man > Voices Insane > Tricycle > Voices Insane (fakeout) > I-Man

E: Story of the World

Don't Miss Dangermuffin's Unplugged Take On "I Shall Be Released" April 22, 2016 13:04

Just last week, Dangermuffin shared their unplugged version of the Bob Dylan/The Band classic, "I Shall Be Released", during a Skunk Bus Session at the Albino Skunk Music Festival in Greer, SC. We have been keeping an eye on the Folly Beach-based Americana jam trio for several years now, and this cover is simply too good not to share. If you're a fan of inspirational, uplifting songwriting with a taste of rock, folk, and blues, we highly suggest that you take the time to get to know the boys from Dangermuffin. 

About Dangermuffin:

Easy, breezy melodies and soul-shaking grooves radiate from this genre-bending roots trio. Dangermuffin brings thoughtful tunes that are both heartfelt and truthful. Their haunting harmonies and go-with-the-flow vibe invite listeners to kick back, relax, and be consumed by the ethereal rhythmic backbone and inspiring messages Dangermuffin has to offer. Lyrically, they evoke themes of self-discovery, ancient knowledge, and true awareness, all within a unique and casual approach.

• Five years and running of air play on Sirius/XM radio (JamOn and Outlaw Country stations)
• Direct support highlights include The Avett Brothers, Hot Tuna, Grace Potter, moe., Leftover Salmon, and Keller Williams
• Most recent release, Songs for the Universe, topped at number 2 on the Relix jam band charts
• 2012 release, Olly Oxen Free, broke records as the longest running number one album (16 weeks) on the Homegrown Music Networks Radio Charts 

Watch Dangermuffin perform "I Shall Be Released" during a recent Skunk Bus Session here:

Funk You's Debut Album "Apparitions" Will Haunt You In The Best Of Ways April 21, 2016 23:24

Throwback: Widespread Panic Busts Out "Feelin' Alright" in Birmingham (04.15.11) April 21, 2016 13:31

Win Free Tickets To See The Werks & Gravy At Zydeco After Widespread Panic April 21, 2016 08:58

Live & Listen is excited to announce that we are teaming up with our friends at Zydeco in Birmingham, AL for an official Tedeschi Trucks Band / Widespread Panic Afterparty on Saturday night (4/23).  One of the hottest bands on the jam/festival scene, The Werks, will headline the show with support from Gravy.  We are offering you the chance to win a free pair of tickets + a $20 bar tab to be redeemed at Zydeco by following the instructions listed below.

All participants must be 21 years of age or older.  

About The Werks:
Fusing psychedelic shredding, wailing organ, and funk slap bass with synthesizers and modern dance beats, The Werks have quickly emerged as a national powerhouse, bringing a big dance party beloved by fans across the musical spectrum.

About Gravy:
Gravy has successfully “created their own very original sound with their latest album Get Busy Living – a bit of neo soul mixed with some indie rock smothered in a whole bunch of New Orleans funk” according to producer of Gravy’s latest album and founding member of Galactic, Robert Mercurio. Inspired by a cultural renaissance and newfound clarity of vision; Gravy preaches the gospel of New Orleans funk while maintaining a creative voice steeped in the time-­‐honored traditions of The Crescent City. 

We have one pair of tickets to giveaway, and we will announce a winner at 6:00 PM CST on Friday (4/22). The winner's name (+1 guest) will be placed on the list at Will Call at Zydeco on Saturday night.  The winner's name will automatically be listed with a $20 credit at the upstairs bar at Zydeco.

All participants must be 21 years of age or older.

How the contest works....

1: 'Like' this post directly on our Facebook page.

2: Share this post directly from our Facebook page.  Make sure your privacy settings are set to 'Public' so we can see that you shared the post.

3: Tag a friend who you would like to take to the show in the comments on our Facebook page.

4: The winner will be announced on our Facebook page on Friday (4/22) at 6:00 PM CST.

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Win Two Weekend Passes to Aiken Bluegrass Festival 2016 April 19, 2016 18:51

Live & Listen and The Mischief Collective are offering you the chance to win two weekend passes to Aiken Bluegrass Festival.  Fill out all areas below to enter.  You may re-enter once per day, so keep coming back to increase your chances to win.  We will select one lucky winner on May 4th!

Celebrating 12 years of The Aiken Bluegrass Festival
Friday, May 13th & Saturday, May 14th, 2016  

WHAT MAKES A FESTIVAL SPECIAL? THAT’S A QUESTION WE HAVE ASKED OURSELVES MANY TIMES AT THE AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL.

ULTIMATELY WE HAVE DECIDED THAT WHAT MAKES OUR FESTIVAL SPECIAL IS THE FOCUS WE HAVE AN OUR ARTISTS, ALWAYS TRYING TO BOOK BANDS THAT WE KNOW HAVE A HISTORY TOGETHER THUS ENSURING THAT WE PROVIDE OUR PATRONS WITH A ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE. THIS YEAR WE ARE TAKING THAT CONCEPT ONE STEP FURTHER. INSTEAD OF JUST BOOKING BANDS, WE HAVE WORKED WITH INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS, HAND PICKING MUSICIANS TO PLAY TOGETHER. AND WE WILL HAVE SOME BANDS TOO! THIS WAY WE CAN GUARANTEE YOU WILL HAVE A ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE AT THE 2016 AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL WHERE YOU WILL FIND MANY OF THE FINEST NAMES IN NEW-GRASS AND BLUEGRASS ALL SHARING OUR STAGE. WE HOPE THAT YOU WILL SHARE IN OUR EXCITEMENT AND THAT YOU WILL JOIN US AT 13TH AND 14TH, 2016!

AIKEN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL SCHEDULE & LINEUP

Watch Widespread Panic Bust Out Talking Heads' "Swamp" at Wanee April 19, 2016 07:50

Widespread Panic's Spring Tour continued in powerful fashion this past weekend, as the Georgia-bred rockers took to The Peach Stage at Wanee Music Festival in Live Oak, FL.   Panic came out swinging for the fences on Friday night, with a scorching set that featured a "Chilly Water" opener and a three song encore which included ZZ Top's "Waitin' on the Bus" > "Jesus Just Left Chicago" (featuring Warren Haynes on guitar and Danny Louis on keyboards) and an emphatic "Bowlegged Woman" to close out the night.

Saturday night's effort would be no different, as the band came out firing with a "Disco" opener.  Any set featuring the likes of "Old Neighborhood", "Bears Gone Fishin'", "Rebirtha", "Ride Me High", "Tie Your Shoes", and "Machine" > "Barstools and Dreamers" is one which has our attention.  As if Friday night's three song encore wasn't enough, Saturday night's encore would begin with a major bust out cover of Talking Heads' "Swamp", followed by "Honky Red" and Vic Chesnutt's "Protein Drink" > "Sewing Machine".  This would make for the first cover of "Swamp" since October 17th, 2014 in Grand Prairie, TX (105 shows).

Widespread Panic's Spring Tour continues tonight at the James Brown Arena in Augusta, GA.  The band will then makes stops in Chattanooga (Memorial Auditorium) and Charleston (N.Charleston Coliseum) before a double bill with Tedeschi Trucks Band in Birmingham (BJCC Legacy Arena) on Saturday night.

Watch Widespread Panic cover Talking Heads' "Swamp" at Wanee here:

Video by sanderjoems

04/16/2016 Wanee Music Festival, Live Oak, FL

0: Disco, Holden Oversoul > Solid Rock, Up All Night, One Arm Steve, Old Neighborhood > Bear's Gone Fishin' > Climb To Safety, Aunt Avis > Rebirtha > Tail Dragger > Ride Me High > Tie Your Shoes > Drums > Machine > Barstools And Dreamers

E:  Swamp, Honky Red, Protein Drink > Sewing Machine

[Last 'Swamp' - 10/17/2014. 105 shows]

04/15/2016 Wanee Music Festival, Live Oak, FL

Pearl Jam Cancels Wednesday Night's Concert in Raleigh April 18, 2016 18:35

Rock band Pearl Jam has officially canceled their upcoming concert at PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC on Wednesday night.  The iconic rock band has decided to join a growing list of musicians in protest of the controversial HB2 - Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act, also known as the "bathroom law".  Bruce Springsteen and Ringo Starr recently pulled out of scheduled dates in North Carolina, while Gregg Allman recently issued a statement explaining his decision to play his previously scheduled show in Greensboro.  Pearl Jam will perform at Hampton Coliseum (Hampton, VA) tonight and Colonial Life Arena (Columbia, SC) on Thursday night.

Pearl Jam's official statement regarding the cancellation of Wednesday's show:

It is with deep consideration and much regret that we must cancel the Raleigh show in North Carolina on April 20th.

This will be upsetting to those who have tickets and you can be assured that we are equally frustrated by the situation.

The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. The practical implications are expansive and its negative impact upon basic human rights is profound. We want America to be a place where no one can be turned away from a business because of who they love or fired from their job for who they are.

It is for this reason that we must take a stand against prejudice, along with other artists and businesses, and join those in North Carolina who are working to oppose HB2 and repair what is currently unacceptable.

We have communicated with local groups and will be providing them with funds to help facilitate progress on this issue.

In the meantime we will be watching with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return.

Perhaps even celebrate.

With immense gratitude for your understanding,

Pearl Jam