Winding down May

For me this looks like a relatively quiet weekend . . . think it's the lull before the always busy summer. I'll preview that soon . . . .

Thursday
If compelling singer songwriters are what floats your boat (yes, I do often paddle around that lake) . . . two great choices tonight are Edie Carey at the Alberta Street Pub (7 pm, $15 ) and Luka Bloom at Mississippi Studios (9pm, $25).

I saw Edie Carey last night at a house concert and was really taken with her songs, voice, and engaging stage presence - she's a really delightful performer and I highly recommend checking her out. Janette Kaden opens.

For 30 years, Luka Bloom has been exploring the intersections of genres and styles through his uncompromising songwriting and performing. One of those artists you just really should see. And tonight is your opportunity. Birdie Busch opens.

Of course, if it's Thursday, there's plenty of great local music out and about (and without a cover) - I never get tired of recommending Lew Longmire's happy hour at the Laurelthirst (6 pm) and Lauren Sheehan's regular Thursday at the Muddy Rudder (8 pm). This week we have the additions of The Stolen Sweets at the Kennedy School (7 pm), the Djangophiles at Mississippi Pizza (6:30 pm), and the Garcia Birthday Band at the White Eagle (9 pm). Just remember to feed the tip jars! And, for a small cover, the Thad Beckman Trio (Thad, Bryce Shelton & Denny Bixby will be at O'Conner's (7 pm, $5) . . . . can't go wrong with any of these.

Friday
Looks like a blues rockin', rockabilly jumpin' couple of shows (so strap on the dancin' shoes) with
a Rockabilly Weekender at Duff's Garage, and the CD release show of The Strangetones at Peter's Room (where? it's the new name of the Roseland Grill).

The Duff's show has Running Scared - a Roy Orbison Tribute, Rudy "Tutti" Grayzell - original Sun Sessions recording artist, and Darin Stout - Texas upbeat rockabilly twang . . . 9:30 pm, $??.

The Strangetones will be joined by Becki Sue and Her Big Rockin' Daddies, along with the Volcano Vixens dancers for some very big fun. It's time for Crime-A-Billy! . . . 8 PM, $12

For something a little more subdued, check out Matt Brown and Miss Michael Jodell at the Press Club . . . 8 pm, no cover

Or . . . catch Devin Phillips in the Performing Arts Center lobby (near the Art Bar) . . . 8:30, free

Enjoy the weekend . . . great weather and music!