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Remembering Jimi Hendrix: 45 Years Later September 18, 2015 16:32

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Join us as we remember Jimi Hendrix, who passed away on this day 45 years ago at age 27. Hendrix was an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music". 
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Born in Seattle, Washington, Hendrix began playing guitar at the age of 15. In 1961, he enlisted in the US Army; he was granted an honorable discharge the following year. Soon afterward, he moved to Clarksville, Tennessee, and began playing gigs on the chitlin' circuit, earning a place in the Isley Brothers' backing band and later with Little Richard, with whom he continued to work through mid-1965. He then played with Curtis Knight and the Squires before moving to England in late 1966 after being discovered by Linda Keith, who in turn interested bassist Chas Chandler of the Animals in becoming his first manager. Within months, Hendrix had earned three UK top ten hits with the Jimi Hendrix Experience: "Hey Joe", "Purple Haze", and "The Wind Cries Mary". He achieved fame in the US after his performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, and in 1968 his third and final studio album, Electric Ladyland, reached number one in the US; it was Hendrix's most commercially successful release and his first and only number one album. The world's highest-paid performer, he headlined the Woodstock Festival in 1969 and the Isle of Wight Festival in 1970 before his accidental death from barbiturate-related asphyxia on September 18, 1970, at the age of 27.

 

Hendrix was inspired musically by American rock and roll and electric blues. He favored overdriven amplifiers with high volume and gain, and was instrumental in utilizing the previously undesirable sounds caused by guitar amplifier feedback. He helped to popularize the use of a wah-wah pedal in mainstream rock, and was the first artist to use stereophonic phasing effects in music recordings. Holly George-Warren of Rolling Stone commented: "Hendrix pioneered the use of the instrument as an electronic sound source. Players before him had experimented with feedback and distortion, but Hendrix turned those effects and others into a controlled, fluid vocabulary every bit as personal as the blues with which he began."

Hendrix was the recipient of several music awards during his lifetime and posthumously. In 1967, readers of Melody Maker voted him the Pop Musician of the Year, and in 1968, Billboard named him the Artist of the Year and Rolling Stone declared him the Performer of the Year. Disc and Music Echo honored him with the World Top Musician of 1969 and in 1970, Guitar Player named him the Rock Guitarist of the Year. The Jimi Hendrix Experience was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005. Rolling Stone ranked the band's three studio albums, Are You Experienced, Axis: Bold as Love, and Electric Ladyland, among the 100 greatest albums of all time, and they ranked Hendrix as the greatest guitarist and the sixth greatest artist of all time.

 


FUNKSGIVING: Presented by 360 Salon & Spa - Friday, November 27th - Montgomery, AL September 18, 2015 10:07

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We couldn't be more pleased to announce 360 Salon & Spa as the Title Sponsor for our biggest event to date, Funksgiving, featuring Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, and BYOG on Friday, November 27th at Montgomery's Union Station Train Shed.  This event is a benefit for Parkinson Association of Central Alabama.  Our ability to continue to book these events would not be possible without our local business sponsors.  We cannot stress the importance of local business support enough, and the continued growth in support across the Montgomery community has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated.  Any organization interested in becoming a business sponsor or food vendor should contact Live & Listen Sponsorships for our application form.
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Click Here To Purchase Tickets Today

Funksgiving: Official Promo Video

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360 Salon & Spa: Mission Statement
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360 Salon & Spa is committed to helping you look and feel your best, and they believe that healthy hair care is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. In order to achieve the most beautiful and healthy results possible we use some of the best products available in the beauty industry today. A thorough consultation concerning each clients individual needs and desires is conducted before every service, to ensure optimal satisfaction with the outcome of the service provided. All consultations with stylists and colorists are complimentary. 360 is the best hair salon in Montgomery!  Their main goal is to make sure we meet and exceed our clients expectations.

360 also believes that continuing education and practical training of our employees ensures an excellent experience for our clientele. Attending hair shows/conferences, taking classes at nationally recognized academies, participating in show events and keeping up with current trends in art and fashion are integral parts of our growth as beauty professionals.

A hair treatment is a customized service that restores hair balance shine, strength and flexibility. The treatments are revolutionary, long lasting, and nurturing. The treatments help control fine, frizzy, flyaway hair as well as coarse, curly and rebellious hair.  360’s comfortable, relaxed atmosphere is designed to make our clients feel great and look fabulous.

360 has assembled a team of passionate and dedicated professionals to bring you the best Salon in Montgomery, which specializes in highlights, low-lights, haircuts, hair color, color correction, keratin hair treatments & more!

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360 Salon & Space - Phone & Address

334-356-7360

2524 Bell Road - Montgomery, AL - 36117

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360 Salon & Spa: Hours of Operation

Tuesday: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Wednesday: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Thursday: 9:00am – 8:00pm

Friday: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Saturday: 9:00am – 3:00pm  (Only open the 2nd Saturday of every month)

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    Official Website: 360 Salon & Spa

    Facebook: 360 Salon & Spa

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    Google Plus: 360 Salon & Spa

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    Watch Robert Randolph & The Family Band: Live on The Late Show w/ David Letterman


    Phish 2015-2016 New Year's Run at MSG is Officlal September 16, 2015 11:32

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    Press Release via Phish.com
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    This December, Phish returns to Madison Square Garden in New York for a four-night New Year’s Run to ring in 2016. The first show will be on Wednesday, December 30 and run through Saturday, January 2. The band has played thirty-one shows to date at Madison Square Garden since December 1994. As with the last run at Madison Square Garden, the floor at these four shows will be general admission.

    An online ticket request period is currently underway at http://tickets.phish.com and will end Monday, September 28th at Noon ET.

    Tickets will go on sale to the public on Friday, October 2nd at Noon EST. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 866.858.0008. If tickets are still available, they may be purchased at the venue box office beginning Monday, October 14th (Mon-Sat 9am-6pm).

    For more details, visit phish.com.

    PHISH NEW YEAR’S RUN 2015-2016

    12/30 Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
    12/31 Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
    01/01 Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
    01/02 Madison Square Garden, New York, NY


    Phish New Years Dates Leaked via Ticketmaster September 15, 2015 15:14

    According to Ticketmaster, Phish is set to return to New York City for another 4-night New Year's run at Madison Square Garden.  The dates have since been pulled off of Ticketmaster.com, but the dates were initially posted as Wednesday, December 30th - Saturday, January 2nd.  Much anticipation has surrounded the oncoming announcement from Phish, who is also rumored to be planning a Winter Tour.  The only dates which Phish has officially announced are January 15th-17th at the Riviera Maya festival in Mexico.  


    New Interview + Song Debut: Whit Murray and Thomas Galloway of Maradeen September 15, 2015 13:09

     

    We recently caught up with Whit Murray and Thomas Galloway of Maradeen, one of Nashville's hottest young rock groups.  In just their second year, the band has quickly progressed from small local bars to well-known music venues across the Southeast. The band's debut album, Mirage, drops next Tuesday (September 22nd), and we couldn't be more excited to debut the albums opening track, "She Treat Me Like a Real Man" here in this interview.

    Let’s start off by talking about the recent birth of Maradeen. Did you guys have much experience playing together before then?  Tell me about that first gig.

    Whit:  Thomas and I were in a band called Mama’s Love out of Athens, GA from 2009-2012. I left the band to pursue a music degree up in Boston and Thomas continued on. We used to exchange shows with this band Afro out of Nashville. Their keys player Kaitlyn and I started jamming in Nashville and she brought Sterling along to play bass. I had met our drummer Russ Garner at a local jam in town and when the 4 of us linked up, the music came together really quickly.

    Then Thomas moved to Nashville in October and he and I started writing songs. After about 3 months, we had written an album's worth and I invited him to sit in with us at one of our shows in January and he’s still coming back! Having two guitars, three lead vocalists, and three part harmonies really brought what we’d been creating to life and added a whole new level of excitement.

    There was no denying that the first full gig we played, we sounded like a real band. We recorded this catalog of material in March and it's set to be released on Tuesday, September 22nd. We’re calling it, Mirage. 

    Listen to "She Treat Me Like a Real Man" by Maradeen


    Deciding on a band name can be tricky. A lot bands run through a couple before the right one sticks. Where did you guys come up with Maradeen?    

    Whit:  Before Thomas entered the picture, the four of us recorded a three-song demo and booked our first gig at South here in Nashville. Before we could announce the show and release the music, we needed to come up with a band name. I had a buddy visiting me for the weekend and we made a huge list and kept coming back to the word Meridian.

    By definition, meridian can mean: a point or period of highest development or greatest prosperity, splendor, or success. We thought this could be applicable to both the music itself and the original mantra of the band. The name would serve as a reminder to always reach as far as you can in anything you pursue.

    But rather than just call it Meridian, we changed it to Maradeen to give it some originality. After settling on it, I noticed a billboard outside of my apartment for Nashville’s Mayor, Karl Dean. That must be where the name entered my subconscious and so it stuck.

    The Nashville music scene is second to none, with an endless amount of music being played on any given street corner.  You guys obviously know how this works from your days in Athens.  How vital has the band’s progression been calling Nashville home?

    Thomas:  There is a credibility and seriousness that comes with the town of Nashville. I feel the same way about Athens, GA. Great artists and bands have come out of both areas. I still consider Athens an integral part of my musical growth, and now Nashville has become my new home and the center for the music business machine in the South. There is such a saturation of songwriters here and opportunities to collaborate. Everyone I've met in town has a creative drive and willingness to work hard and play hard.

    Who have been some of your biggest influences over the years? Are there any particular guitarists who you have modeled your style of play after?

    Whit:  I grew up to classic rock and the likes of Hendrix, Clapton, and the Rolling Stones. In high school and college, Phish and the Grateful Dead and their two front men (Trey Anastasio, Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir) were a huge influence.

    When I went to music school, I spent a lot of time studying jazz and blues. Players like Wes Montgomery, Grant Green, and George Benson, then Duane Allman, Albert & Freddie King, Hubert Sumlin are among some of my favorites. Too many list!

    And the amazing teacher’s I’ve had the privilege of studying under. My mentor at Berklee, Richie Hart, is one of the most amazing musicians in the world and he really stressed the amount of work and commitment it takes not only in effort to be great but to merely survive as a musician.

    Thomas:  The people I've played with have honestly been the biggest influences. I've had the privilege of playing with incredible players and writers over the years, all of whom I consider part of a connective musical family.  When I was 15, Classic Rock became a huge influence for me with bands like The Beatles, Crosby, Stills, & Nash, Boston, The Doobie Brothers, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Later I dove deeper into bands such as The Grateful Dead, The Band, Old and in the Way, and Little Feat. Every one of these artists inspired me with their ability to write with integrity and still reach a wide audience.  Prime examples include Neil Young, Robert Hunter, Willie Nelson, Gram Parsons, Waylon Jennings, & Tom Petty. These early classic rock and country influences still guide my writing today.

    What has been your approach when writing new songs? Do you typically start with the chords or the lyrics?  How has the songwriting process worked within the band?

    Thomas:  I rarely try to force or plan anything when writing a new song. I will usually hear a musical phrase at some point, with at least a rough melody and/or lyrics that inspires me enough to make a quick note or recording of the idea.  That initial cryptic influence is usually "the gift" and will be the fuel for the rest of the process to evolve. From there it's a matter of adding context and color, turning it into a full story and a complete song. In Nashville, co-writing is such an integral part of the scene. Right when I moved here, Whit and I got together and co-wrote a handful of tunes. Our goal of these collaborations was to develop and complete a full song in each session from a blank canvas.  I think Whit and my approach to songwriting have complemented each other well in the writing room. We were both pleased with the results, and once they were filtered through the talent of the band, they were taken to a whole new level.    

    Much progress has been made with the band in a short period of time.  Maradeen has quickly broken out of the Nashville scene and made its way into the Southeastern circuit.  Not many people understand how much goes into the business side of a band, much less a new band.  How has that worked for this band thus far?

    Whit:  When I joined Mama’s Love in 2009, they had already released a full-length album 2 years prior and had been touring pretty extensively, especially for a college band. I had no idea how much would go into getting this thing off the ground a year ago when we first started.

    Fortunately for us, we’ve all been at this for so long and have had amazing support from old friends, fans, and mutual connections. We’ve been doing a lot of the booking ourselves which requires a tremendous amount of patience and persistence. We’ve taken old markets where we had previous success and just kept hitting them every 2-4 months. We’ve still got a long ways to go, but the progress has been astounding and we’re all really proud of how far we’ve come in the past year.

    It’s also been refreshing to start over have the freedom to implement what worked in other projects and try and avoid things that didn’t. I feel like I’m constantly learning new ways to try and make our music more viable and appealing from a business standpoint.


    How is the rest of 2015 shaping up for the band? What has you guys most excited?  Have any major goals/plans for 2016 been laid out yet?

    Whit:  2015 has been an amazing first year for us. We’ve recorded and are releasing our debut LP, gone from opening to headlining some of our old favorite venues, and gotten to share bills with some of our old friends who we’ve been coming up with since we first started 8 years ago.

    I’m most excited about sharing our first album with our growing audience, having one of our tracks included on the October/November issue of Relix Magazine’s sampler, and playing the Blueberry Jam with our old friends in Earphunk and the Revivalists! We have yet to play with the McLovins but are excited to link up with them too!

    Our biggest goals for 2016 are continuing expanding into new markets, supporting larger acts, and signing with a booking agency eventually. We also hope to break play as many festivals as we can next Summer!

    Official Website: Maradeen

    Facebook: Maradeen

    Instagram: Maradeen

    Twitter: Maradeen 


    VIDEO: " The Doobie Incident" featuring String Cheese Incident + The Doobie Brothers: Lockn' Festival September 14, 2015 19:56

    Photos by Brady Cooling Photography

    Over the weekend, many of the greatest bands from across the country came together for the 3rd Annual Lockn' Festival on Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, VA.  Amongst the star studded lineup was the "The Doobie Incident," featuring The String Cheese Incident, along with of John Cowan, Guy Allison, John McFee, Tom Johnston, and Patrick Simmons of The Doobie Brothers  The Doobie Incident performed a Friday afternoon set full of Doobie Brothers classics, as well as a few tunes from the String Cheese catalog.  Just before the set began, John Popper of Blues Traveler performed a special rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" with a team of 9/11 first responders standing behind him.  If that's not a powerful way to kick off a music festival, we don't know what is.
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    Watch HD Video of John Popper performing "The Star Spangled Banner" + The Doobie Incident from Lockn' Festival

    Setlist:  The Doobie Incident - 09.11.15 - Lockn' Festival 

    Rockin' Down The Highway > Takin' It To The Streets, Sometimes A River, Black Water, Long Train Runnin' > Texas > Long Train Runnin', Drums > Jesus Is Just Allright, China Grove, Listen To The Music1

    Notes:  "The Doobie Incident" with Guy Allison, John McFee, Tom Johnston, Patrick Simmons, John Cowan. 1with Pat Simmons Jr.

    Photos by Brady Cooling Photography


    VIDEO: Tedeschi Trucks Band & Friends: Mad Dogs & Englishmen - Lockn' September 14, 2015 08:39

    Over the weekend, many of the greatest bands from across the country came together for the 3rd Annual Lockn' Festival on Oak Ridge Farm in Arrington, VA.  Amongst the star studded lineup was the Tedeschi Trucks Band, who performed an elaborate tribute set to the late, great Joe Cocker.  TTB performed a nice chunk of Cocker's live album, Mad Dogs and Englishmen.  The band took their concept of a "super jam" to the next level, having the help of some of Cocker's original crew, including bandleader and keyboardist Leon Russell, keyboardist Chris Stainton and singers Rita Coolidge and Claudia Lennear. Also pitching in will be former Traffic guitarist and solo act Dave Mason (whose "Feelin' Alright" was part of the Mad Dogs set), guitarist Doyle Bramhall II and one-time Black Crowes frontman Chris Robinson, who grew up with the double album.  Widespread Panic's John Bell even made a cameo appearance for lead vocals on "Delta Lady."  According to Trucks, the idea for the concert started a few years ago, when he reached out to Cocker to see if the twitchy, soulful Brit rocker would join the Tedeschi Trucks Band for a special set at Lockn' featuring songs from Cocker's entire career. 

    Watch HD footage of the Joe Cocker Tribute from Lockn' Festival:

     


    Umphrey's McGee Brings "Power Of Soul" To Avondale Brewery September 11, 2015 10:49

    Thursday night, progressive jam rock band Umphrey's McGee took the stage at Avondale Brewing Company in Birmingham, AL.  A rabid, rowdy crowd welcomed the group with open arms, just one night before the band was scheduled to close out Friday night at Lock'n Festival in Arrington, VA.  While Avondale has quickly established it's strong reputation for live music since it's establishment in 2012, Umphrey's would be the brewery's biggest show to date, with roughly 2000 fans in attendance.

    Umphrey's took the stage promptly at 8:00 PM CST, opening the show with "No Crying in Mexico," which progressed perfectly into "Bright Lights, Big City."  Next up was "Rocker Part 2," which appeared on the band's latest release, The London Sessions.  "Water" an oldie from the band's first album, Local Band Does O.K., would follow and segue into "Mad Love."  

    The band's metal side was showcased with a heavy hitting take on "#5," allowing lead guitarist Jake Cinnenger, bassist Ryan Stasik, and guitarist/vocalist Brendan Bayliss the first of many opportunities to face off and trade licks center stage.  "No Diablo," arguably the band's biggest hit off last year's release, Similar Skin, provided a nice change of pace and made for a nice sing-a-long for the lively crowd.  "The Bottom Half," the title track from the band's 2007 release, would round out the first set.

    The second set kicked off with "The Triple Wide," an instrumental, spacey dance tune which has developed into one of the band's bigger jam vehicles over the years.  A smooth transition led directly into "Red Tape," the first and only tune of the night off of the Mantis album.  The always uplifting, reggae-ish "FF" had everyone on the property grooving, showing off the band's inner Bob Marley.  A sudden, powerful drop into "All in Time" sent the Birmingham crowd into a frenzy, before an early exit into "Booth Love" pulled things back into a steady, baby-makin' groove.  

    The band dug deep in the archives with "Out of Order," one which was recently rerecorded for the release of The London Sessions.  Few songs truly embody the full package for Umphrey's more than "Out of Order."  Constant chord progressions, swift vocals, winding riffs from Cinninger, and an eventually explosive build up.  Having played all originals thus far, it was only a matter of time before a bust out cover, which came in the form of Jimi Hendrix's "Power of Soul."  Drummer Kris Myers and percussionist Andy Farag held down a tight rhythm, allowing for Bayliss and Cinninger to pay homage to the legendary Hendrix.  Hearing nearly 2000 people singing "With the power of soul, anything is possible" as the set came to a close was inspiring to say the least.

    After a brief exit, the all too familiar opening notes of "In The Kitchen" provided a proper warning for an absolutely rocking encore.  Bayliss guided the Birmingham crowd through one of the band's biggest hits to date.  Many had forgotten that "All In Time" had been left unfinished, as usual.  The drop back into "All In Time" gave one last shot of adrenaline before settling into one of the more peaceful, soothing segments of any Umphrey's tune.  Bayliss's lyrics during the closing bridge always hit home and make for a powerful sense of nostalgia.  

    Umphrey's McGee heads to Arrington, VA today to play a late night set to close out the festival's opening night.  For all additional info and tour dates, head over to Umphrey's official website and social media outlets.

    Official Website: Umphrey's McGee

    Facebook: Umphrey's McGee

    Instagram: Umphrey's McGee

    Twitter: Umphrey's McGee

     

    Umphrey's McGee || Birmingham, AL
    Avondale Brewery || 09.10.15
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    Set 1: No Crying in Mexico, Bright Lights Big City, Rocker 2, Water > Mad Love, #5, No Diablo, The Bottom Half 

    Set 2: The Triple Wide > Red Tape, FF > All in Time > Booth Love, Out of Order > Power of Soul [1]
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    Encore: In the Kitchen > All in Time
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    [1] Jimi Hendrix cover

    Dead & Company Announce 11 Additional Fall/Winter Tour Dates September 10, 2015 07:35

    Grateful Dead members Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, and Bill Kreutzmann will be joined by John Mayer, Oteil Burbridge, and Jeff Chimenti this Fall for latest Dead-themed side project, Dead & Company.   After the initial announcement of a two-night Halloween run at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the group released eight additional tour dates and have now added 11 more.

    The newly added dates come after the previously announced fall run that begins at Times Union Center in Albany, New York on October 29 and concludes at Worcester's DCU Center on November 10. Dead & Company's Fall Tour continues on November 11 at the First Niagara Center in Buffalo, New York and is now slated to run until a pair of shows in Las Vegas at MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 27 and 28. Other newly added dates include visits to Columbus, Ohio; Greensboro, North Carolina; Atlanta; Nashville; St. Louis; Minneapolis and Broomfield, Colorado. Dead & Company end the year with a pair of shows in San Francisco (December 27 and 28) and Los Angeles (December 30 and 31).

    A year ago Mayer took to Twitter to share more thoughts about what made the Grateful Dead so special. Then, in February, the guitarist invited Bob Weir to perform with him on CBS's The Late Late Show. Fast forward to June when John played two shows with Phil Lesh & Friends at Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, California. Chimenti was not only a member of the Fare Thee Wellband, but he was Weir's longtime sideman in RatDog and also participated in a post-Jerry incarnation of "The Dead."  Burbridge is a newcomer to the world of the Grateful Dead, but has sang many a version of "Franklin's Tower" with the Allman Brothers Band.

    An American Express pre-sale for tickets to the newly added shows begins September 16 at 10 a.m. local time (except Nashville which starts at 9 a.m. local time) and will run through September 17 at 10 p.m. local time. Public on-sales start September 18 at 10 a.m. local time.

    Watch John Mayer perform "Althea" with Bob Weir on The Late Late Show on February 5th, 2015

    Watch John Mayer perform "Truckin'" with Bob Weir on The Late Late Show on February 5th, 2015

     

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    Stephen Colbert Hosts "Everyday People" Super Jam In Late Show Debut September 9, 2015 07:53

    After kicking off his debut as host of The Late Show singing the "Star Spangled Banner" with groups of random people across the country, Stephen Colbert assembled a group of not-so-random people for a "super jam" on Sly & The Family Stone's "Everyday People."  Jon Batiste and Stay Human, Colbert's newly appointed house band, was joined by two of the world's greatest guitarists, Buddy Guy and Derek Trucks, as well as legendary gospel/R&B singer, Mavis Staples.

    Rounding our this already star-studded lineup was Truck's wife Susan Tedeschi, Ben Folds, Brittany Howard (Alabama Shakes), Aloe Blacc, Paul Janeway (St. Paul & The Broken Bones), and Beirut’s Zach Condon, Kyle Resnick and Ben Lanz.  As is tradition with Buddy Guy, many of the performers made their way into the crowd as they finished out "Everyday People."  Colbert has now set the bar extremely high, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for America's newest late night entertainer.

     


    Happy 70th Birthday: Ron "Pigpen" McKernan September 8, 2015 21:45

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    Wishing a Happy Birthday to Ron "Pigpen" McKernon, who would have turned 70-years-old today. Pigpen was a founding member of the the Grateful Dead, which he performed in from its inception in 1965 to 1972. He was the band's original frontman as well as playing harmonica and electric organ, but Jerry Garcia and bassist Phil Lesh's influences on the band became increasingly stronger as they embraced psychedelic rock. McKernan struggled to keep up, causing the group to hire keyboardist Tom Constanten, with McKernan's contributions limited to vocals, harmonica and percussion.  However, he remained a frontman in concert for some numbers, including covers of Bobby Bland's "Turn On Your Love Light" and The Rascals' "Good Lovin'".
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    Pigpen passed away far too early at age 27, but his legacy lives on forever.
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    Thank You, Phish September 8, 2015 16:01

    Written by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

    Here we are on Monday, September 7th, giving thanks for Labor Day and reflecting on the summer of 2015.  After three nights at Soldier Field for the "Fare Thee Well" shows, I knew that this oncoming Summer Tour from Phish would be special.  Trey had spent the past six months practicing relentlessly, preparing for the monumental challenge of sitting in Jerry's seat.  I believe that even those who adamantly disagreed with his selection can agree that a nearly flawless performance was given.  A February getaway to Kill Devil Falls, NC with Tom Marshall resulted in enough material for a new album (to be recorded in Nashville this fall), including songs like "Blaze On" and "No Men in No Man's Land."  Doesn't it already feel like we've been singing those songs for years? 

    "Still writing after all these years..." - 02.09.15

    Tom Marshall (@TomMarshall111)

    From the opening two-night run in Bend to this very moment, the morning after the annual Dick's run that brought this amazing Summer to a close, we have seen a level of inspiration and musical exploration that cannot be explained in words.  Some people don't "get it."  They never will, and that's fine.  Every time Phish takes the stage, just about anything is fair game (unless it was played the previous night).  No song will ever be exactly the same, and just when you think you've got it all figured out, they hit you with a curveball that you never saw coming. 

    Several songs stand out from this tour for me personally, and for all the right reasons.  We heard a lot of Antelopes, almost always as a set closer, where they belong.  "Bathtub Gin" was an absolute monster, coming through in big way in Atlanta and at Magnaball.  I never thought I would see a 24-minute "Kill Devil Falls" to open the second set in Atlanta.  All kinds of fun was had with “Mikes > Groove,” including the resurgence of the second jam in "Mike's Song," in Nashville, thanks to a fan who spoke to Trey about it specifically prior the show.  "Walls of the Cave" was powerful and overwhelming that night, as it was at Magnaball.  “The Sloth” made a triumphant return at Alpine Valley, after a two-year (92 shows) absence.  Several extended, experimental takes on "Chalkdust Torture" would open second sets.  

    I'd never done the "Camel Walk," and I was lucky enough to have that privilege in Tuscaloosa and Watkins Glen.  We "Saw It Again" twice (Alpine Valley, Dick's).  That first set at Merriweather dug deep into the Gamehenge vault.  And how about the "Raleigh Llama?"  Such a strong start for the crowd at Walnut Creek, who were also treated to a Led Zeppelin cover ("No Quarter") and a Jimi Hendrix cover ("Fire").  We watched "46 Days" take off and reach heights, most notably in the second set on Saturday at Magnaball, as we built towards the now infamous "Tweezer > Prince Caspian."  There was even a fireworks show during a vocal jam at Magnaball.

     

    Speaking of "Tweezer," how much fun have these guys had with "Tweezer Reprise" this summer?  Typically placed as the 2nd song of the encore any night that "Tweezer" is played, it took until the summer's fifth appearance for that to be the case.  The Forum even failed to get a “Tweeprise,” as it was drug out until the end of the second set in Austin, TX two nights later.  Magnaball gave us the "Boogie On > Tweezer Reprise" that I'll never forget, and I'm still digesting the T-H-A-N-K-Y-O-U encore that closed out this tour at Dick's.  You would think that 7 total shows and 16 total sets would be enough this summer, but it hurt to miss that final night at Dick’s.  “The Landlady” was played for the first time in over 20 years (768 shows), the first “Birdwatcher” in over three years (134 shows), the second “Wilson” of 2015, the first cover of “Once in a Lifetime” by The Talking Heads since 1996 at The Omni, and of course..."Harpua" (Last played in Chicago - Northerly Island - 07.21.15 - 70 shows).

     

    Let's not forget the Chilling, Thrilling Halloween covers, which came early and often.  After “Martian Monster” and “The Dogs” were played on New Year’s Eve, many of us wondered if the magic created in Vegas last year would become a part of the regular rotation.  “Martian Monster” opened up the show at The Forum, while also making appearances at Lakewood, The Mann, Magnaball, and Dick’s.  “The Dogs” resurfaced in Austin as well as Night 1 at Magnaball.  “The Very Long Fuse” opened up one of the more Gamehenge-heavy sets of the year during night two at Alpine Valley.   Teases of “The Birds” were heard each time “Birds of a Feather” was played (Bend, Grand Prairie, Nashville, and Philadelphia).

    Now we wait for confirmation of the New Year’s Eve run at Madison Square Garden.  The rumors of a winter tour continue to circulate.  We’ve already seen the Mexico rumors come to fruition.  Many of us are anticipating another three-night run at The Mothership (Hampton Coliseum).  Other Winter Tour rumors include stops in Philadelphia (Wells Fargo Center), Cincinnati (Fifth Third Arena), Erie (Erie Insurance Arena), Chicago/Rosemont (Allstate Arena), and New Orleans (Smoothie King Center).  Simply rumors, but it’s encouraging to see so many specifics, especially in a time where the rumors always seem to become reality. 

     

    At 28-years-old, I've only been able to get out and chase these guys around for a few years.  Thankfully, the Junta album and more specifically "Fee" had me very intrigued in the 5th grade, so I began paying close attention at an early age.  I managed to persuade my parents into letting me hit the Atlanta show at Lakewood (07/26/03) at age 16, and the next thing I knew the band was breaking up.  Several TAB shows and a night with Trey, Mike, Joe Russo, and Marco Benevento at The Masquerade in Atlanta (2006) kept the flame burning for me.  I'll never forget how jealous I was of my college roommates as they left for Hampton in 2009, but I just couldn't swing it.  I'll also never forget standing in my friend Hill's house in Tuscaloosa as I realized I had enough money to purchase a ticket for the Knoxville show.  Lets face it, we were all broke in college.  The party in the parking deck outside of Thompson Boling Arena was one for the ages.  

    The entire journey this summer was as special as anything I’ll ever be a part of.  I’m convinced that it all began with Trey’s preparation for Fare Thee Well.  The inspiration from that experience created a level of energy like no other for the oncoming Phish tour.  Looking back over the past two months, the only thing that feels appropriate is to say “thank you” to this band, and everyone who was along for the ride.


    TAUK's New Dual-Disc Album Available Today September 3, 2015 09:21

    Photo by Live & Listen - The Ritz - Raleigh, NC - 02.14.15

    The heavy NYC-based dirty funk four-piece, TAUK, is making headlines yet again.  This time it's not just about their powerful live performance, but a brand new, dual disc live album, HEADROOM.  The release features 16 live tracks from 8 different cities, including a jam rendition of Nirvana's "In Bloom."  The album can be streamed and/or purchased today (Thurs. September 3rd) exclusively at 1320Records.com. Starting Friday, September 4th, the album can be streamed/purchased on all major online music outlets.

    Recordings were taken from previous performances at the following venues: The NorVa (Norfolk, VA), The National (Richmond, VA), The Madison Theater (Covington, KY), The Ritz (Raleigh, NC), Iron Works (Buffalo, NY), The Southern (Charlottesville, VA), AURA Music Festival (Live Oak, FL), and Terminal West (Atlanta, GA).  The album was mixed by Grammy-award winning producer Rob Carranza (Mars Volta, Jack Johnson), who also worked with the band on their previous album, Collisions.

    Listen to the single "In The Basement of the Alamo" which premiered on Live For Live Music.

    Click Here: Stream/Download TAUK's New Release HEADROOM

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    TAUK Fall Tour Dates
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    08-06 Bond, CO - Pardee Palooza
    08-08 Thornville, OH - The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival
    08-09 Asbury Park, NJ - Stone Pony Summer Stage
    08-13 Scranton, PA - The Peach Music Festival
    08-15 Spencer, IN - Hyperion Music Festival
    08-21 Bartow, WV - Camp Barefoot Music Festival
    08-22 Philadelphia, PA - A Midsummer Night’s Dream @ One Art
    09-03 Providence, RI - The Spot Underground
    09-05 Norridgewock, ME - Great North Music & Arts Festival
    09-08 Syracuse, NY - Funk-N-Waffles
    09-09 Rochester, NY - Montage Music Festival
    09-10 Saratoga Springs, NY - Putnam Den
    09-11 Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Bowl
    09-12 Peekskill, NY - Paramount Hudson Valley
    09-19 Bristol, TN - Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
    09-22 Blacksburg, VA - The Sycamore Deli
    09-24 Ferguson, NC - MANTRABASH
    09-25 Thornville, OH - Resonance Arts & Music Festival
    09-27 Guthrie, OK - TALOA Music Festival
    10-01 Morgantown, WV - 123 Pleasant Street
    10-02 Pittsburgh, PA - Rex Theater
    10-03 Darlington, MD - Luna Light Music Festival
    10-06 Lansing, MI - The Loft
    10-07 Grand Rapids, MI - The Stache
    10-08 Chicago, IL - 1st Ward @ Chop Shop
    10-09 Milwaukee, WI - Miramar Theater
    10-16 Denver, CO - Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom
    10-17 Boulder, CO - Fox Theater
    10-22 Rockdale, TX - Art Outside
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    Phish Confirms Riviera Maya in Mexico; January 15th-17th 2016 September 2, 2015 13:59

    Press Release via PhishRivieraMaya.com

    Phish has announced Riviera Maya, the band’s first-ever resort concert event set to hit Mexico’s Riviera Maya on January 15-17, 2016. The four-day, all-inclusive event will see the band performing for three nights on the beach in one of the world’s most beautiful locations – Mexico’s Caribbean coastline. The shows will take place at Barceló Maya Beach Resort, an all-inclusive resort sitting on a mile-long stretch of white sandy beaches with breathtaking landscapes and pools scattered throughout.

    Fans can stay at the host resort or three other specially selected hotel-resorts, with shuttle service provided to those not staying at the Barceló Maya Beach. A variety of off-site adventures will also be available. Packages for Phish: Riviera Maya will go on sale September 10 at 11AM ET. For complete details, including payment plans, please visit http://www.phishrivieramaya.com.

    What is Phish: Riviera Maya?

    Phish: Riviera Maya is a 4-night all-inclusive concert vacation featuring 3 nights of Phish in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.  The stage sits just a few feet away from the Caribbean Sea providing an incredible beach backdrop for the shows.

    The concerts will take place at the Barceló Maya Beach Resort, an all-inclusive resort sitting on a mile-long stretch of white sandy beaches with breathtaking landscapes and pools scattered throughout.  You can reserve a room at the Barceló Maya, or choose to stay at one of the other carefully selected hotels.  Or if you have the proper permits, you can stay offshore in your submarine. At each resort, you can choose from a variety of restaurants, multiple bars, and daily activities all included in your package price.  Spend your days lounging by the pool or the beach, or explore the nearby towns of Tulum or Playa del Carmen.  Partake in exciting off-site adventures, or sleep off the night before and soak up some sun. Or hole up in your room checking Facebook. Honestly, we don’t care.

    Each night, guests staying at the Barceló Maya will walk out of their rooms and take a short stroll down the beach to see Phish.  If you are staying at one of our other properties, a shuttle will deliver you within feet of the main stage.

    For all future updates on Phish: Riviera Maya, make sure to check their official website.

    Press Release via PhishRivieraMaya.com


    Catskill Chill Music Festival Unveils Weekend Schedule September 2, 2015 13:48

    The sixth annual Catskill Chill Music Festival has unveiled the performance schedule for “A Farewell to Minglewood” taking place September 18-20, 2015 at Camp Minglewood in Hancock, New York and headlined by preeminent jam band moe. This is a very special year for the much-loved three-day music and art gathering because Catskill Chill will move to a new home in 2016.

    moe. Lotus, Zappa Plays Zappa, Lettuce, Electron, The Motet, Dopapod, Kung Fu, Twiddle, Break Science, Turkuaz, Dopakuaz plays Studio 54, The Werks, Particle & Fam, George Porter Jr. & The Runnin' Pardners and more

    Free parking, free camping, daily yoga, live art, farmer’s market, craft and food vendors, communal bonfire, open mic and more! 
    Grab Tickets Now and Join the Chillfam!
    Free admission for kids under 12!  
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    The schedule reveals which late night sets will keep the party going into the early morning. On Friday night, Chillfam can get down to Dopakuaz Plays Studio 54 (Dopapod and Turkuaz teaming up for a set of disco-dance covers), Break Science and Twiddle’s electric take on Grateful Dead tunes. Saturday late night features Twiddle’s set of originals and Santana Tribute act, Borboletta. On SundayParticle, the only band that has performed at every Chill since its inception, will have the honor of closing out the weekend at Camp Minglewood, bringing an all-star cast of Chillfam guest performers on stage with them for the celebration.

    While the performance schedule alone is reason enough to attend this annual event, it is the intimacy and unique grounds that make Catskill Chill one of the most highly anticipated festivals of the season and this year is expected to sell out.
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    With a limited capacity, no campsite is more than a few minutes walk to the stages and anyone can make their way up to the front for their favorite sets. Hosted at a secluded performing arts summer camp where childhood dreams merge with the music festival culture, the “Chillfam” as Chill’s loving community have coined themselves, bunk-up in 16-32 person sleep away camp-style cabins, creating decorated theme camps intermingled amongst the campers.

    The festival also features free parking, free camping, daily yoga, live art, a farmer’s market, craft and food vendors, a communal bonfire nightly and an open mic. Kids under 12 are free, but must be accompanied by an adult.


     

    WHEN:
    Friday, September 18th - Sunday, September 20th, 2015
    Gates open at 9 am on September 18th
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    WHERE:
    Camp Minglewood
    350 Bouchoux Brook Rd
    Hancock, NY 13783

    TO PURCHASE TICKETS:
    Children under 12 are free, but must be accompanied by an adult
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    For more information visit:
    Twitter + Instagram: @CatskillChill | #Chillfam

    Keller Williams Announces New Years Eve in Telluride September 2, 2015 11:55

    Photo via Benjamin Wallen

    Today, prolific singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Keller Williams announces he’ll spend New Year’s Eve in Telluride, Colorado with his 7-piece funk outfit More Than A Little. Dubbed “Tofunkuride” featuring Keller Williams and More Than A Little, tickets to this intimate show are available now to members of the fan club, and on sale to the general public on Friday, September 9.  A limited number of VIP packages also available. Visit http://www.kellerwilliams.net/shows for tickets and info.
     
    Find Keller on tour throughout the fall, bringing a variety of his projects - including Keller Solo, More Than a Little, Keller and The Keels, and his brand new Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  - to stages across the country. 
     
    Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman (bass-RatDog) and Rodney Holmes (drums-Santana/Steve Kimock) debuted this past weekend to rave reviews.  The players in the newly-formed trio greased their chops playing re-imagined versions of originals from throughout Keller’s career and some choice covers live onstage during three shows in the Midwest.  The excitement in the room, and onstage, was palpable. Anticipation is high to watch how these guys hone in and develop as they spend the next few months bouncing around the country.  Look for the Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes throughout the Midwest in September and again in November, in Colorado in late October, and in select East Coast markets in late September, October and Early December. 
     
    Over Thanksgiving weekend, Keller hosts “Thanksforgrassgiving” with an all-star lineup of bluegrass buddies: Travis Book and Chris Pandolfi (The Infamous Stringdusters), Larry Keel, Jason Carter (Del McCoury Band) and Jay Starling (Love Cannon).  Catch Thanksforgrassgiving at The National in Richmond, VA on November 27 and the 9:30 Club in D.C. on November 28.
     
    See below for the complete list of currently confirmed tour dates. Tickets and information on all shows available at www.kellerwilliams.net.


     
    The complete list of Keller Williams confirmed tour dates is as follows:

    Friday, September 4 Backwoods Music Festival Stroud OK Keller Solo

    Saturday, September 5 Strawberry Music Festival Tuolumne,CA Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass ft. members of The Infamous Strindusters and Michael Kang

    Sunday, September 6 US National Whitewater Center Charlotte NC Keller Williams with More
    Than a Little

    Sunday, September 13 Lockn' Festival Arrington VA Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel ft. John
    Kadlecik

    Thursday, September 17 Lafayette's Music Room Memphis TN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Friday, September 18 Old Rock House St. Louis MO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, September 19 The Vogue Indianapolis IN Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, September 24 - Friday, September 25 Resonance Festival Thornville OH Keller Solo

    Saturday, September 26 The Tralf Buffalo NY Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and
    Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, October 3 Homegrown Music Festival Mebane NC Keller Solo

    Sunday, October 4 Luna Light Festival Darlington MD Keller & The Keels

    Thursday, October 8 Holston River Brewery Bristol TN Keller Solo

    Friday, October 9 Creatures of the Night Music & Arts Festival Adams TN (Keller Solo)

    Saturday, October 10 Mustang Music Festival Corolla NC Keller Williams with More Than a Little

    Sunday, October 18 Magnolia Music Festival Live Oak FL Keller Williams' Grateful Gospel
    featuring Stu Allen

    Friday, October 23 Aggie Theatre Fort Collins CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman
    and Rodney Holmes /  Cabinet 

    Saturday, October 24 Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom Denver CO Keller Williams Trio
    featuring Rob Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Cabinet 

    Sunday, October 25 eTown Hall Boulder CO Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and 
    Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, October 29 Boulton Center Bayshore NY Keller Solo

    Friday, October 30 Musikfest Café at SteelStacks Bethlehem PA Keller Solo

    Thursday, November 5 Redstone Room Davenport IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe

    Friday, November 6 The Waiting Room Lounge Omaha NE Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes / Old Shoe

    Saturday, November 7 DG'S Tap House Ames IA Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman
    and Rodney Holmes  / Old Shoe

    Thursday, November 12 Warehouse Live Houston TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Friday, November 13 Trees Dallas TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Saturday, November 14 Scoot Inn Austin TX An Evening with Keller Williams and EOTO

    Friday, November 27 The National Richmond VA “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book, Chris
    Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 

    Saturday, November 28 9:30 Club Washington D.C. “Thanksforgrassgiving” with Travis Book,
    Chris Pandolfi, Larry Keel, Jason Carter, and Jay Starling / Cabinet 

    Thursday, December 3 V-Club Huntington WV Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob Wasserman and
    Rodney Holmes

    Friday, December 4 State Theatre State College PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Saturday, December 5 Mr. Small's Theatre Pittsburgh PA  Keller Williams Trio featuring Rob
    Wasserman and Rodney Holmes

    Thursday, December 31 Telluride Conference Center Telluride CO “Tofunkuride” with Keller Williams and More Than A Little

    Wednesday, January 6 - Wednesday, March 11 Jam Cruise Keller Williams with More Than a
    Little 

    Additional dates to be announced.

    Earlier this year, Keller Williams released his 20th official album, Vape.  The release hits during Keller’s 20thyear of making music. On Vape, Keller offers up 10 original tracks - some road tested and some brand new.  With a hugely successful career spanning two decades under his belt, the music on Vape somehow finds Keller more confident delivering his signature, often off-the-wall storytelling. Backed by a variety of fellow musicians including Samson Grisman/bass, John Kadlecik/guitar, Ronnie McCoury/mandolin, Rob McCoury/banjo, Alan Bartram/bass, Jason Carter/fiddle and others - Keller’s playing has never been more precise and versatile.

    www.kellerwilliams.net
    Keller Williams on Facebook
    Keller Williams on Twitter


    Riverfront Park Music & Arts Festival: Selma, AL: Monday 9/7 September 2, 2015 10:00

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    If you're a music fan in Central Alabama, you probably already know that you need to be in Selma on Labor Day.  The Blackbelt Benefit Group is scheduled to hold it's first annual Riverfront Park Music & Art's Festival, an all-day, family-friendly Labor Day celebration with a little something for everyone.  Starting at 12 PM, you can come enjoy food, educational workshops, a kids zone, arts and crafts vendors, and music at the new Riverfront Park Amphitheatre in Selma, AL. Admission is $10 and kids 12 & under are free. The lineup includes: Dead Fingers, John Bull Band, Kenny Brown Band, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band. There will be a fireworks show over the Edmund Pettus Bridge after dark! 
    The one-day festival is a fundraiser for the Blackbert Benefit Group's community garden project, as well as Grow Selma, another organization that is established to handle operations at the garden. The garden is will raise money to fund itself in en effort to raise awareness of sustainability.
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    Click Here: Purchase Tickets

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    Schedule for Labor Day:
    9:30 AM - Alabama River Raft Race
    12:00 PM - Gates open ($10 tickets, kids 12 & under FREE)
    2:00 PM – 2:55 PM – Dead Fingers
    3:15 PM – 4:10 PM – John Bull Band
    4:30 PM – 5:25 PM – Kenny Brown Band
    5:45 PM – 7:15 PM – Dirty Dozen Brass Band
    7:30 PM – City of Selma program
    8:15 PM – City of Selma fireworks
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    Phases of the Moon Music & Art Festival Has Been Cancelled September 1, 2015 14:40

    Photo via Brian Glass - Phases of the Moon Music & Arts Festival

    We are saddened to report that one of this Fall's biggest music festivals, Phases of the Moon Music & Art Festival, has been cancelled.  The festival was scheduled for Friday, October 16th - Sunday, October 18th on Mulberry Mountain in Ozark, Arkansas.  This years lineup boasted the likes of The Disco Biscuits, STS9, moe., Yonder Mountain String Band, Lunar Landing Conspiracy, Lettuce, Leftover Salmon, The Motet, Beats Antique, Papadosio, The Werks, The New Mastersounds, and many many more.  The festival was first held last year at Kennekuh County Park in Danville, Illinois (September 11th - 14th, 2014).  See below for a message from festival organizers.  

    Dear Phases of the Moon Community,
    -
    It saddens us to inform you that Phases of the Moon Music & Art Festival has to be canceled. We were very excited to have had the opportunity to continue the Phases adventure in Arkansas this year. Unfortunately, due to a significant number of unforeseen obstacles, including the continued closure of the only road leading into the festival site, we were left with no choice but to cancel the event. We apologize sincerely for this inconvenience and hope to see all of you at great live music and events in the near future. A separate notice will be sent to ticket holders concerning refunds.
    -
    Thank you for your love and support.
    -
    Sincerely,
    -
    The Phases Team
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    The Heavy Pets Announce 10th Anniversary "Tour Da Florida" August 31, 2015 14:15

    The Heavy Pets have announced a 10th Anniversary ‪‎"Tour Da Florida” run with 11 shows in eight of their favorite towns including a performance at Dunedin's Oktoberfest, a two-night stand at the Funky Buddha Lounge in Boca Raton including the premier of Walrus: A Beatles Tribute, and a three-night run in Key West during Fantasy Fest.  

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    Tour Da Florida Dates

    9/24: Tallahassee | The Side Bar Theatre w/ Sir CharLes, Catfish Alliance

    9/25: Gainesville | The JAM: Gainesville w/ Grit

    9/26: Winter Park | Red Lion Pub w/ The Groove Orient

    9/30: Jupiter | Guanabanas

    10/2: Jacksonville | 1904 Music Hall w/ Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Displace

    10/3: Tampa Bay |Dunedin Brewery for Oktoberfest

    10/16: Boca Raton | Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery for Walrus: A Beatles Tribute

    10/17: Boca Raton | Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery for It's Going Down...Memory Lane

    10/23-25: Key West | Smokin' Tuna Saloon for Fantasy Fest
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    For all future updates on The Heavy Pets, make sure to check their official website and social media outlets!
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    Tickets: Funksgiving w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, & BYOG August 31, 2015 08:15

    We are excited to announce that tickets to Funksgiving w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, and BYOG are officially on sale.  Many of you may remember that Funksgiving 2014 (Earphunk + McLovins) was the inaugural Live & Listen event, raising $2500 for the Run Bell Run fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.  This year's event will be held at Montgomery's Union Station Train Shed on Friday, November 27th at 7:00 PM CST.  This year's event will benefit Parkinsons Association of Central Alabama.  See below for all official ticket info, and make sure to join the official Funksgiving event on Facebook for all future updates on this years show!

    Click Here: Tickets: Funksgiving w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, and BYOG

    VIP Package:

    -Preferred viewing area near stage

    -Private VIP bar

    -5 drink tickets

    -Private VIP bathroom access

    -Food from Chris' Hotdogs

     

     

    Click Here: Tickets: Funksgiving w/ Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, and BYOG


    Happy 70th Birthday to Van Morrison August 31, 2015 07:34

    Van Morrison began playing music as a teenager during the late 1950s in Bloomfield, Belfast, Northern Ireland.  It was the Northern Irish R&B group Them that first broke "Van the Man" onto the international scene in April of 1964.  The release of Astral Weeks in 1968 would garner much praise for Morrison, even though it was initially a poor seller.  The release of Moondance in 1970 would establish Morrison as a major artist, propelling him to acclaimed international success with future releases and countless live performances.  Today, Van sits with 6 Grammy awards, the 1994 Brit Award for Outstanding Music, and membership to both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame.  Earlier this year, he was knighted for his contribution to popular music.

    Join us today (08.31.15) in wishing Van Morrison a Happy 70th Birthday! 


    Col. Bruce Hampton and the ARU: A Family Affair in Atlanta August 20, 2015 12:33

    Written by Taylor Pack - Live & Listen Contributing Writer
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    Col. Bruce Hampton and The Aquarium Rescue Unit’s homecoming at The Buckhead Theater was a family and friends affair of outstanding proportions. The guys blew through a two night run in their home-state of Georgia that featured a Friday night show in Atlanta and a Saturday show in Athens at the acclaimed Georgia Theater as part of their first extended tour in 18 years. Kofi Burbridge, Carter Herring, Efram Townes, and Kebbi Williams all made appearances and celebrated in the spirit of making damn fun music.

    The tour was part of the 26th anniversary celebration of when Col. Bruce originally formed Aquarium Rescue Unit in Atlanta back in 1988. Col. Bruce had already established himself on the Atlanta music scene befriending and sharing the stage with the likes of Frank Zappa, The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band, and many more. Known for his out-of-this-galaxy performances and erratic free spirit, The Col. had been spreading his mad influence across Atlanta for the better part of two decades. He linked up with musicians Oteil Burbridge and Jeff Sipe at the Little Five Points Pub and when the newly created band needed a lead guitar they reached out to their friend Jimmy Herring. They played in clubs around Georgia and the Southeast and built a reputation for their outward performances and unpredictable on stage antics, as well as respect for their impeccable chops and world-class style. In 1991, Hampton and ARU teamed up with other notable jam bands, including Phish, Widespread Panic, and Blues Traveler, to join forces on a mega tour along the eastern seaboard. They named it The H.O.R.D.E. Tour and it allowed the bands to break into large venues such as amphitheaters and arenas as well as grow their fan bases in new regions of the country. Over the years ARU came to embody the essence of The H.O.R.D.E Tour through their spirited playing, respect for the music and musician, and incredible skills. Col Bruce continued to influence many young musicians while on the tour, earning himself a reputation as the godfather of jam bands. ARU would eventually disband and the members would go on to continue their journey as musicians in even bigger acts but their inspiration was never forgotten.  

    -

    Packing into a sold-out show in the heart of Buckhead, the collective anticipation of the audience was manifesting itself in eager grins on what seemed to be EVERYONES’ faces. It was as if everyone knew each other, not personally, but in the sense that everyone shared in knowing that what was about to take place on stage tonight would not only be one of the greatest demonstrations of musical skill and talent, but also the highest understanding of what it truly means to communicate using music and improvisation.  

    “Phantom on the Curb” kicked things off, giving Matt Slocum and Herring an early chance to speak their minds. Herrings voice would be prominent throughout the night, and rightfully so. The man is a true guitar master and was really feeling it from the get-go, offering up dazzling guitar play and perfect timing. The classic Hampton cover tune “Fixin to Die” was followed by another in “Yield Not to Temptation” which featured Efram Townes of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band delivering a warm golden solo on trumpet. The band ran through Hampton songs “Elevator to The Moon” and “Jack the Rabbit” as well as “Another Man” before Oteil stopped and welcomed his older brother Kofi (from The Tedeschi Trucks Band) to the stage. Next they kicked off “Rampage” giving the audience their first taste of some new material for the evening. This tune, featuring a slick baseline by Oteil, is an awesome jam vehicle that allowed everyone to chip in and add to the conversation… including Kofi whose flute swayed tastefully along as the musical discussion ebbed and flowed.  The classic ARU ballad “Time Is Free” would close the set as Jeff Sipe fiercely drove this jam on as the guys got a few more things off their chest. Col. Bruce preached and to the audiences delight managed to channel the spirit of the jam through himself as he regurgitated his signature nonsense rap into the microphone. Herring and Oteil responded assuring The Col. they were on the same page delivering impeccable solos featuring immaculate taste and control. When these men play together they exhibit an obvious intent to share positive energy with each other and the audience.

    Photos © Ian Rawn Photography - PlayinDead.org  

    The second set commenced with “Brothers House” and then “Isles of Langerhan”, before the guys stopped to welcome Herrings son Carter to the stage. They moved into the Bobby Bland cover “Heartache”. Carter delivered a VERY refined solo and showed great patience during his jam not rushing his notes and allowing his voice to develop over time. Whether he was shaking off the nerves or not, it was impressive enough for Col. Bruce to tease the elder Herring that he had no chance of topping his son. In a show of tough love Jimmy reminded everyone who the man of the house was by rattling off a sweltering solo before playfully trading licks with Carter. Another Hampton staple “I’m so glad” followed. This Skip James cover really gave Col. Bruce’s abilities as a soul and blues singer a chance to shine as he baptized the audience in its joyous melody. Carter took the first solo in this number and did not hold back in the least, demonstrating superb technique and touch. Looking from face to face of the band members, hearing father and son trading licks on stage, Oteil had not stopped smiling all night, Sipe hammering away gloriously on his kit, and Hampton just basking in the freedom - I was really “so glad” I could be there to witness it. “Space is the Place” came next, followed by the super catchy ARU song “Working on the Building” featuring Oteil on vocals. Two new songs surfaced next as the band broke into a particularly hard hitting “1911” and hot blues number “The Dragon” to close the set. The encore featured a jam featuring Kofi, Sipe, Oteil and Kebbi Williams of The Tedeschi Trucks Band that segued into a resounding “Compared to What”

    Photo © Ian Rawn Photography - PlayinDead.org  

    When speaking of Hampton’s impact on others, John Bell of Widespread Panic said that “he knows there is something more… other folks catch the wave off of his movement through this world”. ARU is truly the product of “The Hampton Effect”. Not only do these guys physically kick your ass with amazing technicality and ability, but they are in touch with that “something more”, giving them the freedom to channel energy from different sources and put spirit in a room full of bodies. As we all filed out of the Buckhead Theater into the Georgia summer night, I certainly left a richer person because of my experience with The Aquarium Rescue Unit. Experiencing organic musical synergy, with no barriers or restrictions, featuring some of the greatest musicians of our generation will put a little pep in anyone’s step. Now I know why bands like Phish, Widespread Panic, and Blues Traveler were willing to split their H.O.R.D.E. Tour profits evenly with this little crazy band from Atlanta: because they wanted in on the magic too.


    McLovins Release Extensive Fall Tour Dates August 17, 2015 14:01

    Fresh off of a big weekend at Scranton's Peach Festival, one of our favorite young bands, McLovins, just dropped their 2015 Fall Tour dates, consisting of 27 total shows.  The extensive Fall Tour is arguably the band's most impressive effort to date, including shows with Perpetual Groove (Brooklyn Bowl - Oct.9th), Robert Randolph & The Family Band & BYOG (Nov. 27th - Funksgiving), Mister F (Stratton Mountain Resort - Aug. 22nd), and nine total shows with Aqueous.  

    McLovins will also perform at The Creatures of the Night Festival (Oct. 10th), alongside Lotus, Papadosio, Dopapod, Keller Williams, and Zoogma.  Rounding out the tour is an appearance at the Blueberry Jam Sessions on Weeks Bay Plantation in Fairhope, AL on Sunday, November 22nd, supporting The Revivalists with Earphunk and Maradeen.  The tour stretches down the East Coast, including stops in Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, State College, Knoxville, Athens, Atlanta, Greenville, Charlotte, Boone, Raleigh, and Burlington.

    McLovins specialize in the creation of dynamic and improvised sound, influenced by the members' disparate and eclectic music influences. The band consists of Jason Ott, Jake Huffman, Justin Berger, and Atticus Kelly.

    Check out the latest video footage from McLovins, featuring two brand new tunes, which we expect to see on the upcoming self-titled album due out later this fall!

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    Chasing Phish Through The Southeast: Nashville: Night 4 August 15, 2015 13:39

    Written by Preston Barnes: Live & Listen

    Photos by Taylor Wallace of aLIVE Coverage

    Video by LazyLightning55a

    Phish’s run through the southeast culminated in another memorable show, this time at the brand new Ascend Amphitheater in Nashville, TN. Despite the show being early in the week, Phish phans flocked to Music City, USA, with high hopes that the boys would pull out all of the stops. Let’s just say the consensus opinion was that this show was one of the best yet on this year’s summer tour. Furthermore, you were very lucky if you were able to get into the show, as the intimacy of the venue made this show a very hard ticket to get. Needless to say, each set was stock full of great song selections and tasteful jams.

    The first set had a powerful start as the emphatic and beautiful beginning of “Free” slowly reverberated throughout the venue, getting fans excited and eager for the song’s classic bass-heavy jam. Of course, that jam has its funk tendencies, which we would all soon come to find out would be the theme of the night’s first set. Immediately following “Free” came the funk anthem of the summer, “No Men in No Man’s Land.” This new tune is driven by Page’s clavinet and always gets the crowd moving from the second it begins. Furthermore, one can always expect a solid jam. To keep the funk theme going, the beginning chords from “Wolfman’s Brother” sang out to everyone’s delight. Every since its introduction back in the 90s, this tune has always been a personal favorite of mine. With catchy lyrics, a kind melody, and a tight rhythm section, this song seems to never fail in pleasing the crowd’s ever-present desire to dance and have a good time.

    Photo by Taylor Wallace of aLIVE Coverage

    Just when we thought they would slow it down, Trey and Fish laid down the simultaneous intro to one of the band’s traditional funk covers, “Funky Bitch”. To me this was about the point where everyone in the crowd realized how great this show was going to be, as the masses of phans went into a dancing frenzy. The set finally took a momentary breather with “When the Circus Comes to Town” before heating back up with one of Phish’s most classic tunes, “Stash.” What’s so cool about this song to me is how during the jam, Fish is able to exhibit so much tasteful control over his kit by pushing Trey to his quintessential crescendos without hardly ever hitting the snare. This has and will always be one of those songs that perfectly encapsulates the sound of Phish. After a pleasant rendition of “Lawn Boy”, the first set closed out with a brilliant version of the allegory heavy track from Round Room, “Walls of the Cave”.

    As always, the second set could not start soon enough as the capacity crowd eagerly waited to see what the boys had in store for the rest of the evening. Right of the bat, Phish delivered with “Golden Age”. a TV on the Radio cover that has become a fan favorite and was its first appearance on the summer tour.  After a beautifully improvised jam, the boys quietly transitioned into “Light”, a song that always provides a highly explorative jam while also giving lighting director, Chris Kuroda, the appropriate musical canvas for him to show off his mastery of the light show. Next came the new ballad, “Shade”, which despite its catchy chorus, does not seem to be on many people’s wish lists. Thankfully, the night would take off from here beginning with a “Mike’s Song” that would deliver the seemingly fabled second “Mike’s” jam that had been shelved since 2000. Not missing a beat, the boys followed “Mike’s” with a great version “Piper”, a song that seems to be simply one big crescendo. Never stopping, always going, never failing…you get the point.

    Photos by Taylor Wallace of aLIVE Coverage

    The night got even better as one of the first tour bustouts came in the funky cover of the Talking Head’s “Crosseyed and Painless”. This cover always delivers on the jam front, and everyone knew that “Weekapaug Groove” would certainly follow….which it did! This was a very interesting “Weekapaug” as it changed tempos several times and then ventured off into dark territory as Trey and Mike faced off in a duel of power chords marked by heavy metal meatiness. As they swayed back and forth in unison at the front of the stage, everyone knew this would be one of the biggest highlights of the night.

    As with many shows on this tour, Phish closed out the show with one song, and we were all happy to hear that it would be “Slave to the Traffic Light”. I remember the first time I heard this song I thought to myself that the epic crescendo that marks the last half of the song was the most beautiful piece of music I had ever heard. As you can imagine, I was thrilled to have this classic Phish opus bring it all home in what was truly a magical show. Until next time, boys! Phish on everyone!

     

    Chasing Phish Through The Southeast: Atlanta: Night 1

    Chasing Phish Through The Southeast: Atlanta: Night 2

    Chasing Phish Through The Southeast: Tuscaloosa: Night 3

    Photo by Taylor Wallace of aLIVE Coverage