Justin Townes Earle

Yesterday I wrote about the opener, Joe Pug, at Monday's show. Now, let's get to the main act - Justin Townes Earle. Earle was completely at ease on stage, talking to the audience while rocking vintage glasses and a suit with bowtie. Joined by his fiddler, Josh Hedley, in a 3 piece suit and hat and standing bass player, Bryn Davies, in a flowery dress - the trio almost looked like they could be dropped into the prohibition period, smokey bar scene of a movie. The music was a fun blend of blues, honky tonk, and country -with a tinge of patina, a rough edge, that gave it a sense of sincerity which only made it more enjoyable. I'm a little surprised the crowd didn't break out more dance moves but being a Monday night, I think the audience was a little more sober and sedate than had it been an uninhibited Saturday night show.

Out on a School Night

I tend to go into social hibernation during the winter. Especially on weekdays. But a combination of beautiful warm, sunny weather and the promise of good music inspired me to rally last night and see a show at The Southern, a small intimate venue on the downtown mall in Charlottesville. My friends and I didn't rush to get there on time as we knew there was an opening act - Joe Pug. Upon our arrival I was surprised to be walk in to a quiet but crowded room - an audience fully focused on the stage, and I wondered if we didn't know something that everyone else did. Turns out it would have been our loss if we'd arrived any later and missed the last few of Joe's songs. I can't wait to download some of his music tonight. Earnest, soulful lyrics. Clean, crisp singing and guitar picking.

"Bury Me Far from My Uniform" and "Call It What You Will" were two favorites from last night...