The spring season runs until June 20, so many of the concerts coming to town haven't yet been announced. That doesn't stop us from trying to tell you about some of the great ones that are coming up in March and April. Rockabilly, blues, Americana, roots, rock, bluegrass — there's a something for everyone when it comes to music.
The New Familiars — The second full-length album from the Charlotte troubadours has been a long time coming and a long wait as well ... but it's finally here. The band always brings it to hometown shows and this one will be extra special. (Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave., on March 19.)
Anders Osborne — The New Orleans based guitarist should have a bigger fan base, but he continues to grind it out for small crowds that are ready to have their minds blown with solid blues-driven guitar rock. (Double Door Inn, 1218 Charlottetowne Ave., on March 23.)
Trash O Rama 2011 — This two-day festival promises bands, burlesque and hot rods for the fourth annual event. While Friday is listed as a pre-party, Saturday includes music by The Tremors, The Go Devils, Lamb Handler, JT and the Dragpipes, and a whole bunch more. (Tremont Music Hall, 400 W. Tremont Ave., on March 25 and 26.)
April at Snug Harbor — How can we pick just one? If you're looking for great local music, Snug Harbor is where it's at in April. Among those performing — Rekless Youth, Elonzo, The Lesser Pauls, Snagglepuss, Bo White, Dylan Gilbert, Babyshaker, Andy the Doorbum, Aqualads ... and the list goes on. (Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St.)
Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi Band — The husband and wife duo have toured before offering their "Soul Stew Revue" full of cover songs, but this time around it's something different. The only thing you can truly expect is amazing slide guitar work from Trucks and sultry soulful vocals from Tedeschi. (McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St., on April 11.)
Simplified — The Charlotte rock band's fans have been spinning the same disc for a long time, so there's high anticipation of the new album. Expect a laid-back vibe and solid songwriting. (Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave., on April 15.)
Jimmy Buffett — Dave Matthews Band isn't touring this year, so the annual summer concert series will get into full swing with the original Parrothead himself. Let's just hope he keeps his feet underneath him and doesn't fall off the stage again. (Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 707 Pavilion Blvd., on April 21.)
Iron and Wine with The Low Anthem — The tender Americana sounds of both of these bands will go a long way with fans and casual listeners alike. (Amos' Southend, 1423 S. Tryon St., on April 26.)
Jenny Owen Youngs — The Milestone may seem like an odd fit for the singer-songwriter, but once she breaks out "Fuck Was I," things will make a little more sense. (The Milestone, 3400 Tuckaseegee Road, on April 30.)
The Flaming Lips — It's not often that you get to see a large festival band play inside a small club, making performances like this one even more unique and, if possible, more fun. (The Fillmore Charlotte, 820 Hamilton St., on May 17.)
Xavier Rudd — The Australian singer-songwriter's roots rock hasn't been heard live in the Charlotte area for quite a few years. He brings a good bit of Aussie flavor to his multi-instrumental style, thanks to the didgeridoo and some Aborignal vocals. (Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St., on May 17.)
Steve Martin and Steep Canyon Rangers — Most people know only the comedian side of Steve Martin, but he's also an award-winning banjo player. If you caught his last show in Charlotte, you know that he offers a few humorous touches to his live performance, but it's mostly just focused on the plucking. (Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. on May 22.)
Outdoor concerts — Road Runner Mobile Amphitheatre hasn't announced any shows yet, but sources with Live Nation say they'll be starting this month. Keep your eyes and ears open. The small amphitheater has brought in a number of big-name bands that used to pass Charlotte by. The cool spring evenings are the perfect time to catch an outdoor show. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre's season will kick off with Jimmy Buffett (see above) and continue until the cool fall nights.
Stay tuned to qcvibes.com for future concert announcements.
