Shake off those winter blues and rock the night away with our top “Six Picks” from Newport and around the state. We’ve got a couple of Grammy winning artists in Providence this weekend and a cool new regular gig for Newport’s own Z-Boys! Read on for all the details…
Z Boys Residency Thursday
Tonight sees Newport’s finest band beginning a residency at the Newport Blues Café. Each week, the Z-Boys will rock it down with a different band or artist, including regional favorites and national acts. This Thursday, its Boston Music Award winning power trio The Silks, next week Julie Rhodes (also a BMA winner), followed by Roz and the Rice Cakes and then Camden Murphy. Complete details here.
Jason Isbell Friday
Fresh off a winning a Grammy award earlier this week, Americana/Country artist Jason Isbell will be pulling into The Vets in Providence Friday night. The Newport Folk Festival veteran and acclaimed singer-songwriter and will be leading his band the 400 Unit, which includes his wife, Amanda Shires, a star in her own right. The show is near a sell out – any remaining tickets can be found here. Meanwhile, check out his recent appearance on Austin City Limits below.
Hiroya Tsukamato Saturday
Saturday night, don’t miss acclaimed guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto at the Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland. Originally from Kyoto, Japan, Tsukamoto formed the Boston based band Interoceanico made up of unique musicians from different continents including Latin Grammy Colombian singer Marta Gomez. He has also released two solo albums, “Heartland” and “Places” which incorporate folk, jazz and world music influences. Details here.
Pat Benatar Saturday
One of the top performers of the early 1980’s is coming to Cranston’s Park Theatre Saturday night along with her husband who has been part of her career pretty much since the beginning. An Evening with Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo is a great chance to meet these two artists up close, hear the stories behind the music, and enjoy her great tunes. Tickets still available here.
Melissa Chaplin and Friends Friday
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JV7c8V5XLk8Friday night a trio of rising singer-songwriters takes over at the Parlor in Newport when Melissa Chaplin Family, Malerie Day and Ava Callery bring their songs to town. They’ve been individually described as powerful, haunting and angelic. Check them out for yourself Friday – details here.
Max Creek Friday and Saturday
Max Creek, the original jam band cover band, is holding court at the The Met in Pawtucket all weekend for what’s being billed as “Super Creekend.” The band that began as mainly a Grateful Dead tribute act has expanded their repertoire over the years to include originals and covers of other bands. Its always a good time with Max Creek – details here.
