We’re splitting time between Providence and Newport this week on “Six Picks” as we preview a number of great indie bands. Add an American legend to the mix and you’ve got at least six reasons to get out and listen to live music!
Gershwin Thursday at The Vets (Providence)
Musical icon George Gershwin’s legacy will be celebrated Thursday at The Vets in Providence. The Gershwin Big Band is led by vocalist Michael Andrew along with guest vocalist Michelle Amato. They’ll cover classics like “I Got Rhythm,” “Someone to Watch Over Me” and more in the concert produced and created by members of the Gershwin family. Tickets available here.
Portugal the Man Thursday at The Strand (Providence)
Portugal the Man has become widely known since breaking out last year with their big hit “Feel it Still.” The indie band from Portland, OR built a nice following behind the core duo of John Gourley and Zachary Carothers before they made it big last year with over 340 million Spotify listens. They play The Strand (formerly Lupo’s) Thursday Details here.
Low Anthem Saturday at Columbus (Providence)
Two of RI’s most notable Indie groups play a homecoming show Saturday night at the center of indie music in the Providence, The Columbus Theatre. The Low Anthem is celebrating their new release, The Salt Doll Went To Measure The Depth Of The Sea, hailed by NPR as “a stark journey … truly an album like no other.” Arc Iris, led by former Low Anthem-ite Jocie Adams opens. The show is sold out, but the theatre sometimes releases last minute tickets – check here.
Trombone Shorty at The Strand Saturday (Providence)
Good times will certainly roll Saturday night at the The Strand (formerly Lupo’s) when Newport Festival favorite Trombone Shorty brings a whole lotta New Orleans to Providence. If you haven’t experienced the funky mix of Trombone Shorty, get out there and make it happen. Meanwhile, check the band’s NPR Tiny Desk gig below. The Funky Dawgz Brass Band opens – Tickets available here.
The Low Cards & Muddy Ruckus Saturday at Pour Judgment (Newport)
Rock out Saturday night with two of New England’s best indie bands, The Low Cards and Muddy Ruckus. We’ve had The Low Cards’ new album on frequent rotation this month while Muddy Ruckus is an acclaimed Portland, Maine duo that knows how to show off the roots! Check the video below to see what we mean. The show begins around 9PM at Pour Judgement. Details here.
Concert for George Sunday at Jane Pickens (Newport)
We don’t usually preview movies here, but this week is an exception, as the Jane Pickens Theatre presents a special showing of The Concert for George, in honor of George Harrison’s 75th birthday. The concert, filmed in 2003 a year after Harrison passed, is one of the great rock and roll documentaries with songs from Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty and many more. One of our favorites! Details here.
