Stinkweeds / Silverplatter.info: September Show Picks
Summer is coming to a close! Which inevitably puts phoenix back on the map! No longer will touring artists pass us up for cooler weather. Even though we’re still in the triple digits, September is looking pretty good for live music. Here are just a few of our favorite shows happening this month.
Paula
Celebration Guns Album Release Show @Rebel Lounge -September 18th
Miniature Tigers @ Rebel Lounge – September 13th
Juana Molina @ The MIM – September 15th
Dario
Slow Moses / John Dietrich (Deerhoof) / Max Knouse @ The Carriage House – 9/9
I am forever preaching the gospel of the “small show.” I won’t knock the value of a big concert, but nothing beats catching bands at their most intimate. Even amongst local Phoenix acts, we often see them playing in the bigger venues like Crescent or Van Buren. But, sometimes these tiny musical sanctuaries pop up, promising a unique experience with the music you love.
In the 20 or so years I’ve been catching shows in Phoenix, Slow Moses has been one of the most unique bands to come out of any local “scene.” They are seemingly unfazed by trends. Their music appeals to those of us who want something challenging and weird wrapped in catchy package. Sharing this night with John Dietrich of Deerhoof and one of my new favorite Phoenix artists, Max Knouse, in the intimate setting of the Cibo Carriage House could be nothing short of a memorable experience.
Ryley Walker @ Valley Bar – September 18th
Ryley Walker has always had my attention. But, there’s something about his newest album that puts his music above the list of casual listens. He’s touched on a style of music that I’ve only heard from a handful of artists in the past coupled decades. Strangely enough, most of those artists came out of Chicago, just as this album did. Every city has a sound. Some cities have many sounds. Ryley Walker seems to have tapped into that secret place that requires the right combination of musicians, producers and places. It’s good to know that it’s still there, waiting for someone to drink from the well.
Margaret Glaspy @ The MIM – September 21st
Very much looking forward to hearing new music from Margaret Glaspy. 2016s Debut album was a understated masterpiece. Glaspy’s voice and guitar are so tactile, they seem to be in the room with you. When she actually is in the room, playing for you, you might as well be sitting in a living with your closest friends. She plays and sings with a perfect blend of passion and subtlety. Her sound has a sort of unhinged control. The songs are simple and relatable, but she’s not pandering to our emotions. She’s telling her story and you hang on every word.
Kneebody @ Valley Bar – September 23rd
This is one of the most captivating “Jazz” groups I’ve seen in a long time. Their sound is unpredictable, but not showy. Their technical prowess is not flaunted for cheep thrills, but used as a tool for musical exploration. They approach jazz music for the sake of the song. When improvisers as great as Kneebody set out with this approach, you’re sure to hear some truly magical and spontaneous moments, regardless of your understanding of Jazz or the mathematics of music. It’s a common joke that jazz shows are often made up of musicians who are in on something and if you can’t keep up, then too bad. Kneebody scoffs at this kind of elitism and plays music everyone can enjoy, without sacrificing musicianship. Anyone can play notes. Impress me with the music.
Lindsay
Courtney Marie Andrews @ Valley Bar – September 4th