This week, “Six Picks” digs deep into the roots of rock and country as we feature several well-known national acts playing around the state this weekend. Read on for all the details.
Phil Madeira Friday at Columbus Theatre (Providence)
We interviewed Nashville based Phil Madeira here last week and learned about his time on the road with Emmylou Harris and new his album Providence. His show Friday at the Columbus Theatre will feature several tunes from that outstanding new release, which celebrates all things Rhode Island. A few tickets remain for show which includes opener Brian McKenzie, who’s song “Higher This This” was recently featured in Paste magazine online (see below). Click here for tickets.
Steve Earle at Greenwich Odeum Saturday (East Greenwich)
Legendary outlaw country star Steve Earle, who first gained national recognition in 1986 behind his stellar album Copperhead Road, loads in to the Greenwich Odeum Saturday night. He’ll be performing the classic release in its entirety along with “God knows what after that” according to the press release. The Mastersons open – Details here. Late word, the concert is sold out, but check the web site in case any seats are added.
Richard Lloyd Band Saturday at Pop (Providence)
Richard Lloyd was a founding member of the hugely influential 70’s band Television. Saturday night, turn off the TV and head to Pop Emporium, a cool store full of 20th century retro kitsch and more in Providence. Lloyd’s band will be joined by the Mark Cutler Quartet. In addition, the gallery will feature works from both performers. All MC-ed by RI Impressario Rudy Cheeks … what’s not to like! A few tickets remain here.
Malian music group TRIO DA KALI Saturday at Common Fence (Portsmouth)
Malian music group TRIO DA KALI plays Common Fence Music in Portsmouth Saturday night. Trio Da Kali unites three outstanding musicians from the Mande culture of southern Mali who come from long lines of distinguished griots (hereditary musicians): vocalist Hawa Kassé Mady Diabaté, master balafonist Lassana Diabaté, and bass ngoni player Mamadou Kouyaté. The trio originally formed to participate on a collaborative project with the world-renowned string quartet, The Kronos Quartet for the 2017 release Ladilikan. Show details here.
URI Guitar Festival This Weekend (Kingston)
The University of Rhode Island Guitar Festival (April 6-8, 2018) aims to builds bridges and unite artists and audiences in Rhode Island, across New England, and throughout the country and beyond. Several leading guitarists from around the world will be playing concerts and conducting master classes, all weekend at Pump House Music Works and the URI Fine Arts Center. Check the website here for complete details.
Celtic Women Sunday at PPAC (Providence)
Things at heating up at the Providence Performing Arts Center as two big shows arrive in town in the next week. First, check out the award winning Celtic Women on Sunday and then next Wednesday April 11, catch the legendary Tony Bennett, along with his daughter Antonia opening. Tickets are available for both shows here.