Two great Thursday shows to consider

OK, I'm back ...

Just so ya know, I'm in the midst of planning a two-month working trip to New Orleans that's coming up fast ... it's part of what has me short on time these days and posting less ...details, details, details ...

But I would be shirking my self-appointed responsibilities if I didn't tell you about two excellent touring shows tonight  ...

At the Aladdin is billed as "Soul Salvation" with the very dynamic one-two punch of Ruthie Foster and Paul Thorn. Though many might consider both blues artists, that is hardly accurate as both are serious songwriters who dig deep into their music and cultural roots for inspiration. They both have the church and gospel music in their background that gets reflected in their sound - but for both that sound incorporates American roots music ranging through blues, folk, soul, and rock. Both Ruthie and Paul have both scored huge audience response at the Waterfront Blues Festival (in fact I hope each gets a chance to play it again this year). Both possess incredible stage presence that makes for an extremely connected audience experience. The award-winning Ruthie is touring behind her just-released, New Orleans-recorded CD, Let It Burn (supported by some of NO's finest) .... Paul is an extraordinary storyteller who can "find brilliance buried in shadows, darkness in daylight, poetry in the mundane, and truth in the brutal beauties of life." ...and he has a killer band! This tour pairing makes a lot of sense, as each has an audience that will really appreciate both ... If you know Ruthie or Paul, or even if you're not familiar with them, I highly recommend this one!  ... 8 pm, $20

It's ironic that less than a mile away at Duff's Garage, two of the best songsters traveling around this country are also playing. The multi-talented blues musician, composer, writer, actor, and director Guy Davis, and our very own Lauren Sheehan will dive into a range of American roots music, with a focus on acoustic blues. It's hard to believe there's two shows like this to choose from tonight, but make your pick. It's a special night ... 7 pm, $15

Looking to get a slightly earlier start to your evening?  I'd check out Laura Gibson at 6 pm at Music Millennium .... her excellent new CD, La Grande, has its release party tomorrow night at Mississippi Studios, but this is a chance to catch a few tunes, pick up the CD, and say hi. BTW, Laura added a 6:30 pm show Friday night, as the 9 pm show sold out quickly.