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David Grier & Mike Compton

Another A-list bluegrass show sponsored by Randy Wood Guitars: In 2000, Grier was named one of the Artists of The Decade by Acoustic Guitar Magazine. He’s adept at jazz, country and flatpicking, and is a highly sought-after session musician. Compton, on the other hand, is known as a modern-day master of the bluegrass mandolin, and works in the highly rhythmic style typified by the late, great Bill Monroe. He’s won several Grammys, most recently for the multi-platinum soundtrack to O Brother Where Art Thou, and its companion concert album, Down From The Mountain. Don’t miss this one! Advance tickets are $20, and can be charged by calling (912) 748-1930. Sat., 8 pm, Randy Wood’s Concert Hall (Bloomingdale).

First Friday For Folk Music

This month’s installment of the Savannah Folk Music Society’s family-oriented, coffeehouse-style concert series features three acoustic artists in a smoke and alcohol-free atmosphere that’s open to ALL-AGES.

Local favorite Bill Schumann opens the show on the 12-string guitar. His repertoire includes tunes by such icons as Hank Williams, Sr., Johnny Cash, and the wonderful Tom Lehrer.

Featured Atlanta artist Sheri Kling makes her First Friday debut with a back catalog that’s been described as “heart-rooted and spirit-seeking.” She’s released three CDs of witty and poignant songs, and has performed in such noted venues as Eddie’s Attic in Decatur.

Headliner Jeff Talmadge was raised in the fabled songwriting mecca of Texas. While primarily known in Europe, the guitarist’s fifth album is due to be released in the U.S. later this year. His current CD was called “a masterpiece” by the influential folk magazine Sing Out!

The show is free, with a suggested donation of $2 to the SFMS. Fri., 7:30 pm, Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church (429 Abercorn St.).



The Peelers

This band is starting to play Savannah so often they seem more like a regional act than one from another country.

Formed and based in Canada, but increasingly popular in the States, this “rumbustious” bunch looks to bands like The Clash for inspiration as much as they do their stylistic forbears, The Pogues.

Though the members are of both Scottish and Irish descent, they all grew up intoxicated on the sweaty, beer-fueled revelry that’s come to be known as Celtic-rock (for its loud, driving rhythms and penchant for historical references).

The relentless party that these boys conjure up wherever they go ups the ante on traditional jigs and reels, and is the perfect way to bide the time until St. Patrick’s Day rolls around again... Sat., Finnegan’s Wake.

Synchro Nine Factor

Together for eight years, this electro-industrial band from Atlanta has released two CDs which have received considerable airplay both at home and abroad, and been featured in the background of at least one MTV series. Their sound ranges from extreme to extreme, from hypnotic and atmospheric soundscapes to aggressive, noisy metal. They’ve gigged with such noteworthy groups as Pigface, My Life With The Thrill Kill Cult, Circle of Dust and Sister Machine Gun.

This special appearance is one of the few chances folks in our area have to actually catch such a group live on stage. Anyone who enjoys this sort of thing would do well to come out, pay the cover, and show their support, or be prepared when events like this simply stop happening... Thurs., 11:30 pm, Club One.

 

Hazzard County

Formed primarily as a vehicle for guitarist and vocalist Jason Courtenay (of The Courtenay Brothers) to step out on his own and kick up a little sand, this full, electric, country and Southern rock outfit is a far cry from his usual sequenced backing. The group features a revolving cast of some of the better and more experienced pickers in town, but usually includes guitarist G.E. Perry, bassist Tim Burke, drummer Jesse Jordan, and Jason’s brother Chuck on guitar and additional vocals. They play a mixture of both popular covers and originals, and enjoy an ever-growing following. Thurs., 7 pm + Sat., 9:30 pm, Tubby’s (Thunderbolt).

Sapphire Bullets of Pure Love

This thirteen-piece big band specializes in old soul and R & B (think Rufus Thomas and Wilson Pickett), and is in great demand for receptions, festivals, and corporate events – so it’s always a special occasion whenever they play a nightclub show. With several guitarists, a monster of a bass player, and a full horn section, they’ll likely blow the roof off this way-cool seafood restaurant on the Medway River in Sunbury (just a short drive from Savannah). Heck, it’s one of the only places around with a stage big enough for them to fit on! Tickets are $10. For directions, call (912) 884-8640. Sat., 9 pm, Sunbury Crab Company (Sunbury).