originally published November 29, 2006

Deadline to be listed in the next issue: Monday by 11 a.m. Contact the music department: (706) 549-9523, ext. 203; fax to (706) 548-8981; email at abc@flagpole.com; send post to P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603.

Wednesday, Nov. 29

MARC BROUSSARD

(Georgia Theatre) The soulful 23-year-old pop/ R&B singer from Louisiana draws influence from Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight and Dave Matthews. The debut album Carencro showcases his impressive vocal range well.

ECHOVALVE

(40 Watt) This hard-grinding Atlanta five-piece pulls out all the stops for its modern rock “sonic assault.”

HELIOS

(40 Watt) Atlanta-based Helios - vocalist Carly Kane, bassist Josh Leblanc, guitarists Adam Johnson and David Norwood - plays intensely marketable alt-pop, sounding like a mix of Incubus, Foo Fighters, Garbage and Kelly Clarkson. Move Me is the new EP.

RYAN HETRICK

(Flicker) No information available.

HIGH FLIGHT SOCIETY

(40 Watt) Hailing from Cedartown, GA, the well-packaged Christian rock quartet swings through town with its debut album From Far Above Somewhere, a collection of anthemic rock influenced by '80s rock and late-'90s "alternative" metal-rock.

JIM PERKINS BAND

(Wild Wing Café) Augusta's Jim Perkins, of the acoustic duo Perkins & Prouty, comes back through town with his full band to offer a set of country and rock covers and originals.

“KARAOKE”

(Foxz) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Wednesday.

NOVAKAYNE

(40 Watt) The New Black is the debut EP from Atlanta's Novakayne, a four-piece band whose tough "rock" image (grimaces, tattoos, leather, crossed arms) doesn't necessarily match up to its sound, which borrows heavily from '80s hair metal but with unexpectedly poppy and melodic vocals.

“OPEN JAM”

(DT’s) This is a new thing the club’s trying out; you just bring your instrument and join in. For more information, call 706-208-1474.

"OPEN MIC NIGHT"

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Wednesday, 8 p.m.

PRIME TIME JAZZ

(Porterhouse) Drummer Tony McCutchen, bassist Chris Enghauser and pianist Jim McKillip perform jazz standards for the dinner-and-a-drink set every Wednesday.

ROB VEAL & THE WARM BODIES

(Tasty World) Rob Veal (currently of Jack Logan’s Monday Night Recorders and Todd McBride’s Cooler Heads and a formerly of Dashboard Saviors, Liquor Cabinet and Little Oconee) is a songwriter whose casual performance style can sometimes hide a pointed focus on lyricism. Tonight he plays with a backing band.

SONS OF WILLIAM

(Georgia Theatre) Musical brothers Joe Stark

(guitar, vocals) and Dave Stark (drums) play simple, bluesy, traditional-leaning rock and roll, drawing on influences like Tom Petty and the Rolling Stones. The Houma, LA, band recently finished the recording of its debut full-length followup to last year's self-titled EP.

SOUNDS OF SILENCE

(40 Watt) This local four-piece pumps out capable Green Day, Collective Soul, Nickelback and Hoobastank covers, as well as performing their own modern-rock tunes along the same lines.

TIN CUP PROPHETTE

(Georgia Museum of Art) Local artist Amanda Kapousouz, AKA Tin Cup Prophette, blends genres as she switches instruments, loops her airy vocals and violin around guitar and drums. From 5 to 7 p.m., part of the GMOA's "Figgie's at Five" event.

TODD McBRIDE & THE COOLER HEADS

(Tasty World) The band churns out fine roots-rock Americana, with dips into straightahead pub-rocking and more rustic pieces. The former Dashboard Savior is at the wheel with Jay Tootle on guitar and Pat Pawlowski on bass, joined by Rob Veal (Monday Night Recorders, ex-Dashboard Saviors) and Dan Orchik (ex-Deacon Brody).

TWIN POWERS

(Go Bar) Danceable New Wave and Britpop tunes. 10 p.m., every Wednesday.

"UNCORKED & UNPLUGGED"

(Melting Point) Every week local singer-songwriter Ken Will Morton opens and hosts this new series, which aims to focus on artists proficient in the craft of songwriting. This week: Athens musician Jason Beckham plays blues-influenced acoustic folk rock; songwriter Dana Downs (ex-VietNam) delivers a rare solo set; and country aficionado Ty Manning of the hard-drinking local band Bearfoot Hookers shares some songs. Every Wednesday, 8 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 30

CACHAÇA

(Amici) Playing Brazilian-styled music, this new band features Jake Mowrer (nylon-stringed guitar) and Jim Coley (upright bass) of Hot Club of Athens and Kane Stanley and Ryan Wendel of Grogus, among other groups, on percussion.

WESLEY COOK

(Wild Wing Café) From folk-flavored theological wrestling matches to Latin-flavored love songs, solo guitarist Cook has an effortless approach to his music. Cook early this year released his full-length album We’ve Been Here Before.

DJ APPLEPAUL

(Repent) Local musician applePaul, AKA Paul Wilson, dropped his album These Walls last spring. The disc's brimming with keys and drum machines, calling to mind some of the weirder entries from early '80s new wave pop. Tonight he plays host for this 8 p.m. World AIDS Day fundraiser; see Box.

"DJ DANCE PARTY"

(Little Kings) Athens deejays and Atlanta deejays team up for this dance party tonight. MP3j Vinal brings the up-to-date dance hotness, while DJ Number Five of the Classic City Breaks duo spins hip hop, electro and more. And then DJ Synthesis and DJ Danja, the turntablist backbone of Atlanta's hip-hop group Psyche Origami, will perform together on four turntables, mixing and pulling cuts from the best in hip-hop, funk, breaks, 80s, electro and classic rock. 9 p.m.

DJ MAHOGANY

(Mercury Lounge) The man also known as Mark T. Weathersby spins a lot of music from the ’60s, ’70s and possibly early ’80s spanning soul, funk, blue-eyed soul, Northern soul and a little soulful disco.

DJ SKORPION, PhD.

(Tasty World) Local deejay spins a set of industrial and electronic music before tonight’s bands play.

DUELING PIANO GUYS

(The Library) Raucous dueling pianos from Atlanta guys Mark Kovaly and Cliff Holcomb. Expect some Ray Charles, Elton John and Billy Joel as well as a variety of other tunes from the duo's wide repertoire. Every Thursday, 11 p.m.

THE FRESH DRUM FINGERS

(DT's) This new local trio of Wylly Jordan (guitar and vocals), Tim Pieniaszek (drums) and Joel Thomas (bass) plays straightforward, catchy and upbeat rock songs about drinking, girls and such.

GOOD SHIP

(40 Watt) This Athens indie pop-folk band features members of current and former local acts like Lovers, Viva and Empire State. Main songwriter and singer-guitarist Rob Lomax doesn't bring his delicate songs out much these days, so why not stop on by?

WILL HOGE

(Georgia Theatre) The talented Nashville country guitarist / vocalist / harmonica player took a turn for the political on the recent concise but effective five-song EP America. Now he's back with a full band - Dean Tomasek (bass), Jefferson Crow (keys), Sigurdur Birkis (drums), Adam Fluhrer (guitar) - and a new album called The Man Who Killed Love, showcasing the rawer and more bluesy side of his sound. Comparisons to Springsteen grow more apt.

JEFF HOOVER

(Caledonia) South Carolina singer Jeff Hoover plays sad, emotional and minimalist songs on the piano for your drinking and moping pleasure.

“KARAOKE”

(Eastwood Pub) Every Thursday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Thursday.

“LIVE IN THE LOBBY”

(WUOG, 90.5 FM) Every Thursday at 8 p.m. Tonight’s local-band performance: Wesley Cook.

MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA

(Georgia Theatre) The Atlanta band’s debut EP You Brainstorm, I Brainstorm, But Brilliance Needs a Good Editor is full of straightforward, hooky and poppy indie-rock in the vein of Death Cab For Cutie and Pedro the Lion. The multi-member group of musicians is fronted by Andy Hull and Jonathan Corley.

ANGELA FAYE MARTIN

(Flicker) There’s a playfulness in the lyrics of Angela Faye Martin, a Georgia musician currently based out of Franklin, NC. Her debut EP One Dark Vine is a sparse affair that lets her vocals shine, and her wry Southern storytelling recalls the clever turns of an early Vic Chesnutt. 8:30 p.m.

MELVIN MATHURIN JAZZ TRIO

(Diverse Universe) The all-star lineup of Melvin Mathurin (alto sax), Louis Romanos (drums) and Carl Lindberg (bass) swing through a set of live jazz.

NEEDTOBREATHE

(Georgia Theatre) This South Carolina five-piece fronted by former Furman footballer Bear Rinehart has the “blazing musical chops” that’ll land it steadily in the modern rock radio-friendly section. The band's major-label debut Daylight is out now on Atlantic.

95 LB. LAPDOG

(Tasty World) Local industrial/electronic act.

"NO SHAVE NOVEMBER CELEBRATION"

(Transmetropolitan) "No Shave November aims to empower its contestants and supporters alike so that they may unshackle themselves from the constraints of polite society by freely and openly growing facial hair, leg hair, and/or under arm hair," says an email Flagpole received from these folks. "For 30 days, over 50 competitors will abstain from knowing the cold, shallow and lingering loneliness that is embodied by razors, scissors, tweezers and other hair-length modifying agents." All-acoustic musical performances are on hand from local singer Michael Patrick, pop powerhouse Telenovela and Hope For Agoldensummer songbird Claire Campbell. Upstairs, 9:30 p.m.

PHOSPHORESCENT

(40 Watt) From the fragile and tenuous to the rousingly spirited, local songwriter Matthew Houck’s Southern gothic folk compositions deliver like a tent revival hosted by an unhinged group of drinking buddies. The latest album is Aw Come Aw Wry; come say good-bye as Houck soon splits town. More over on p. 27.

THE SHREDDERS

(Caledonia) A new local curiosity, the costume-clad guitar /drums duo The Shredders plays rough but enthusiastic covers of cartoon theme songs, particularly singling out mid-to-late-'80s nostalgia. Expect a word from your sponsors, too, as the band tosses off a handful of advertising jingles as well. "Featuring Egon Spengler and the Foot Clan" tonight, the band says.

TITANS OF FILTH

(40 Watt) After a handful of performances, this young local band has its sweet little EP Best Behavior ready for the listening public, combining droll Southern voices with easy-rolling and uncomplicated folk pop. Come for the stage banter, stay for the songs! (Or the other way 'round.) See p. 32.

UNAVOX

(Tasty World) Based out of Athens, but making music out in California until a recent relocation home. With Micheal Murray on vocals, Meggan Cooper on backing keys, bass and backing vocals, Steve Fogle on guitar and Reid Rainwater on lead keys, Unavox plays synth-heavy darkwave and industrial rock.

VALENTINE WOLF

(Tasty World) Self-described as “gothic industrial cabaret,” this duo consisting of locals Sarah Black and Bo Ballew made its club debut back in August and tonight returns for its second show.

GILLIAN WELCH

(Melting Point) Carving her own niche in the field of Americana, old-time and bluegrass, Gillian Welch is a talented performer who also easily lends her songs to others. 2003's Soul Journey is her most recent album. See p. 29.

Friday, Dec. 1

ATTICUS HICKS BAND

(DT's) With Atticus Hicks on acoustic guitar and lead vocals, the Atticus Hicks Band is drummer Michael Vilardo, bassist Daniel Webster and lead guitarist Paul Willoughby, and these guys play rock geared towards Dave Matthews and John Mayer fans.

BETSY FRANCK & THE BARE KNUCKLE BAND

(Farm 255) Betsy Franck and her Bare Knuckle Band perform soulful, brassy Southern rock and country songs rooted in tradition but with a modern sensibility. Held Up By Progress is the debut seven-song album released last year.

BITCH SWITCH

(Go Bar) Mandy Jane - local singer, sculptor and burlesque dancer - and Sandice Adina - local heavy metal karaoke champ, ex-cheerleader and kung-fu angel - spin thick dance grooves to shake your sexy back after tonight's band performance.

CARTER McMULLEN TRIO

(Mercury Lounge) With Carter McMullen on piano, Marlon Patton on bass and Drew Simpson on drums, the trio performs a comfortable set of jazz standards. 10:30 p.m.

"COMMITTEE OF VIGILANCE"

(Little Kings) "Committee of Vigilance" is a new happening put on by local songwriters Christopher Henderson, Jason Beckham and Spencer Frye. This will be a weekly event for folks to stop by after work, have a drink and listen to these songwriters "in the round" with occasional special guests. 5:30–7:30 p.m. every Friday.

DALE, NOEL & OWEN

(Saving Grace) Fiddler Dale Wechsler and guitarist Noel Blackmon (both of Celtic act Short Road Home) team up with Banish Misfortune's bodhran player and drummer Owen Devine to play Celtic and old-time Appalachian tunes during dinner at this restaurant in Comer. 7:30 p.m.

DJ BOBBY C

(Loft) Local deejays Blaze and Bobby Casille drop tonight’s dance tunes for your feet and your ass.

DJ CARLOS

(Georgia Theatre) DJ Carlos hosts the Latin dance party sounds before the band Grogus performs, and Selima Campbell provides instruction on salsa dancing before heading home to the Bahamas.

DJs KURTWOOD & GRRTCH

(Caledonia) The husband-wife duo with the vinyl plan, Kurt and Gretchen Wood spin a late-night set including but not limited to garageadelic rock and soul tunes from the ’50s and ‘60s.

DJRX

(Rumor) The new bar above Village Idiot presents deejay Brian Gonzalez, AKA DJRX. Many of the party tracks are his own remixes, and dance selections will be mainly current (Fergie, Gorillaz, Akon, etc.).

DJ WALTER ALLEN

(Safari Athens) Walter Allen deejays for a cancer benefit sponsored by the organization A Survivor, Yes I Am.

GROGUS

(Georgia Theatre) The local and long-running Grogus ensemble plays jazz and salsa accentuated with reggae, hip hop and Afro-Cuban styles. The new EP Sabor de Esperanza, a preview disc of the group's forthcoming full-length album Esperanza, should be available. The band will play tonight with one of its largest lineups in a while, and also look out for some Afro-Haitian drumming and dance, Maori poi spinning/ juggling and live painting.

JASON HARWELL

(Hot Corner Coffee) Local singer-songwriter Jason Harwell just finished tracking his new EP, so expect to hear some new songs full of sincerity and soul.

HOLMAN AUTRY BAND

(The Library) These six guys from Danielsville play flavorful country and Southern rock, nodding towards Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Dave Matthews Band and Marshall Tucker Band. Covers and originals.

IN THE LURCH

(Repent) Formerly known as Anechoic, Athens locals CJ Winger (guitar, vocals), Mark Moody (bass) and Vaughn (drums) play loud and intricate, progressive metal-influenced rock that suggests these guys have been listening to a lot of Tool lately.

“IT’S FRIDAY”

(WUGA, 91.7 FM) Every Friday at 4 p.m. Today’s performance: Nutria.

JERRY JOSEPH & THE JACKMORMONS FEATURING DAVE SCHOOLS

(Melting Point) The singer-songwriter has been touring all year long in support of his 2003 double live album Mouthful of Copper, and sports a style that should be familiar to fans of Tom Petty. Into The Lovely is the new album, with a rhythmic, raw and thick style. Tonight Widespread Panic/ Acetate bassist Dave Schools, who collaborates with Joseph and others in the group The Stockholm Syndrome, joins the group for a special meeting-of-the-minds.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Friday.

"KARAOKE"

(Oasis) Every Friday, hosted by Them Girls.

MANDY JANE & THE JAWS OF LIFE

(Go Bar) The original uranium miner’s daughter Amanda Crouse heads up this tongue-in-whiskey-soaked-cheek country’n’western-inspired act. Ken Manring works the guitar.

MUSIC HATES YOU

(Repent) This brutal metal act has gained the respect of those in town eager to raise a fist against all that troubles them. High energy and higher volume from loudmongers Noah Ray (guitar, vocals), Zaxx Hembree (guitar), Forest Hetland (bass) and Patrick Ferguson (drums). The new album is the powerful Send More Paramedics. Winner of the 2006 Flagpole Athens Music Award for Best Punk / Hardcore Band.

NUTRIA

(Caledonia) The local top-notch pop-rock four-piece Nutria - Jay Gonzalez, Bob Spires, Dave Weiglein and Jason Eshelman - exhibits the crazy good songwriting its members have become known for. Expect songs off last year's debut Metronome, as well as some tracks off the new album Cheef. The albums were just issued as a combo package by Chicago's Fundamental Records, and this is the show celebrating its release.

"POETRY CD RELEASE & READING"

(Little Kings) Though the main focus of the event tonight is the release of spoken-word CDs by local poets Isai and Bellah Sparxxx and readings from their recent work, there'll be music woven throughout the event. The Keith Jackson Project plays dance/ funk/ crunk jazz evocations, Damian Churchwell performs an acoustic set and Eightee & Richie Rich deliver multicultural dance beats. Everything gets going around 8 p.m.

PORCH TO THE PEOPLE

(Bluebird Café) Porch To The People will play - featuring a new lineup with John Evans and Kaitlin Jones joining Dave "Freelove" Mundy - a set of acoustic gospel and blues numbers at the downtown vegetarian restaurant, using “harmonica, slide guitar, spoons, stomp board and vocal harmonies.” 9 p.m.

PAUL REEVES

(Hot Corner Coffee) Atlanta songwriter Paul Reeves recently released the album Invitation, featuring a number of acoustic, pop-friendly tracks.

"SABINA BENEFIT"

(Tasty World) Following the earlier "Songs of Adam's House Cat" show at Nuçi's Space [see Box], this benefit show will raise money for the same benefit and will feature the African-inflected jazz of Would-Be Farmers, metal band from Augusta Whalerus, DJ Glolita, dancing provided by Shakti Project and a drag show by the Classic City Kings.

SCOTT LITTLE BAND

(Wild Wing Café) Milledgeville songwriter Scott Little, drummer Colin Blakely and bassist Charles Gaston play heartfelt acoustic songs on the new album Living With the Truth.

BRANDON SCOTT SELLNER

(The Library) In the mood for some soulful blues fused with fiery rock? Wisconsin guy Brandon Scott Sellner may be for you, with his husky voice and electric style reminiscent of pros like Stevie Ray Vaughan. An album's in the works for next year.

SHMOUSER

(Bluebird Café) Colby Carter (vocals, guitar) and his expanding gang of backing musicians play efficient and exuberant garage-pop songs that suggest a willingness to experiment; Shmouser is the acoustic incarnation of Mouser. 10 p.m.

"THE SONGS OF ADAM'S HOUSE CAT"

(Nuçi's Space) Drive-By Truckers Patterson Hood, Mike Cooley and Brad Morgan perform a set of songs from this DBT-precursor band. 9:30 p.m. See Box.

STEREO CAMPBELL

(Bluebird Café) Claire and Page Campbell, both of Hope For Agoldensummer and Dark Meat, perform as a duo tonight. Expect Hope songs, cover songs and the sisters' other songs, a lot of folk-blues, some gospel and charming handclap percussion. 8 p.m.

STILL, SMALL VOICE & THE JOYFUL NOISE

(Caledonia) A loving family of friends and local all-stars from Lona, Baby Black and the Nice Machine assemble for a fiery treatment of Chip McKenzie’s garagey rock spirituals. The swell debut EP, released earlier this year, is With Love for Our Enemies.

TIN CUP PROPHETTE

(Flicker) Local artist Amanda Kapousouz blends genres as she switches instruments, and loops her airy vocals and violin around guitar and drums. The enchanting debut album Liar and the Thief is out now. Tonight she's playing a number of Celtic and traditional tunes accompanied by Bain Mattox, drummer Jeremy Wheatley and guitarist Jesse Flavin. 8:30 p.m.

"UNDERNEATH THE COVERS"

(40 Watt) This benefit for World AIDS Day raises funds and awareness with a set of cover songs from the late '60s and '70s performed by local artists including Madeline Adams, Honey, The Late B.P. Helium, The Vinyl Strangers and Dark Meat, and DJ Mahogany's hosting the dance party. See Box.

THE UNFORGIVEN

(Eastwood Pub) Bluesy tunes from this Atlanta-based four-piece.

KEN WALDMAN

(Flicker) Fiddling poet Ken Waldman combines Celtic and old-time tunes with lyricism on par with beat poet heavyweights, conjuring strong images of his Alaskan homelands. 8:30 p.m.

JASON "LEFTY" WILLIAMS

(Amici) One-armed Atlanta guitarist Jason “Lefty” Williams at age 11 fashioned a pick to fit on what his website likes to call “his nubb,” and since he’s been turning out electrified rock, delving into funk, country and jazz covers and originals, either solo or with a backing band. Big Plans is the debut album out now.

MATT WINK

(Boar's Head) Local guitarist Matt Wink plays a variety of acoustic covers and originals, ranging from John Mayer to Dave Matthews to Tim McGraw.

ZOROASTER

(Repent) Dark, jurassic sludge-rock from Atlanta.

Saturday, Dec. 2

ADAMS TOWNSHIP

(Farm 255) Heavy grooves and jazz-funk fusion from Atlanta's Adams Township, a four-piece group dedicated to exploring boundaries and indulging eclectic influences.

AQUALOVE

(Repent) Local space oddity Timi Conley brings out his flagship band, resurrected with a new lineup. "It's a fresh lineup of players and a new, more wise-assey, testosterone-ish sound for us," says Conley. "The band now features myself plus Robert Caruthers (Boulevard) on guitar, Jay Rogers (Parafinale) on bass and Andrew Hanmer (Abbey Road Live, Charlie Mars) on drums. We all sing, too." Expect old Aqualove songs, new Aqualove songs and songs from Conley's other projects Trubblegum and Fuzzy Sprouts. Tonight's show is a benefit for Hot 100.7 FM; more info on p. 33.

"BATTLE LOUNGE"

(Caledonia) Rap battling returns to downtown as this event kicks off the rejuvenated monthly series. Athens emcees spitting rhymes include Old White Women, Graveyard Shift, Willie Lynch, Robeezy and Grand Finale, and face-off battles are interspersed throughout the performances. Tonight's featured performance comes courtesy of The Renegadez's Son 1, who's celebrating the release of his solo album American Hero. Music from DJ Bulldog Purp and 2 Tha Mathmatikal Radikal hosts.

DON CHAMBERS

(40 Watt) Local guitarist-banjoist Don Chambers gets a lot of comparisons to Tom Waits, but that doesn’t quite hit the mark. Chambers’ songs have the closing-time chic of Waits, sure, but there’s a dusty undercurrent of sin and salvation that’s more in line with Johnny Cash or Sparklehorse’s Mark Linkous.

“DISCO NIGHT”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Jammin' Sounds is in charge of bringing you R&B dance numbers, with a healthy dose of old-school disco.

DJ BLAZE

(The Library) DJ Blaze, who has held down the wheels of steel at The Annex and this past summer's "Classic City Hip-Hop," hosts tonight's dance party, mixing contemporary hip hop with older favorites and some unexpected forays into other genres. Every Saturday.

DJ JOHNNY D

(Loft) One of The Loft Lounge’s rotating crew of house deejays, Johnny D lays down the new dance sounds.

DJ MARK BELL

(8e's) Starting at midnight every Saturday, local deejay Mark Bell focuses on the dancier sounds of 20 years ago.

DJ MAYS

(Ritz) The local deejay hosts a night of dancing to hip hop and Top 40-type hits.

“FIESTA LATINA”

(Tasty World) This Latin dance party focusing on salsa is hosted by local promoters Chamo Events, and features instruction from Deangelo from 9 to 10 p.m. and dancing following. Upstairs, every Saturday night.

HIGH RIVER BAND

(Tasty World) New regional rock band featuring former members of Flood City Shootout and The Cameltones - Richard Barrett (guitar and mandolin), Derek DeBono (drums), Andy Morrison (guitar) and Patrick Haynes (bass).

“KARAOKE”

(Eastwood Pub) Every Saturday.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Saturday.

GABRIEL KELLEY

(Saving Grace) Gabriel Kelley Zorbanos (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), formerly of Gabriel Young and currently fronting his own band, plays "roots-folk with tinges of alt-country and pop mixed in there." Tonight's a solo show at this restaurant in Comer. 7:30 p.m.

ADAM KLEIN

(40 Watt) Local singer-songwriter Adam Klein performs songs off his album Distant Music, which was released earlier this summer. It’s a strong collection of sparse, rustic, acoustic country-folk songs.

“LATE NITE DISCO”

(Go Bar) The house deejay spins a cool mix of disco, New Wave and modern dance tunes for a sweaty and energetic crowd. Every Saturday, 10 p.m.

THE LEAVERS

(Tasty World) This blues-influenced local rock three-piece promises “Morrison-esque vocals, an accomplished drummer and guitar riffs that make you move.”

THE LINDSAY RAKERS BAND

(Tasty World) Atlanta's Lindsay Rakers (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Mark Evers (lead guitar), Jeff Hall (bass) and Ron Burns (drums) recently dropped Less Asleep, a capable, country-influenced collection of Natalie Merchant-esque tunes. Early show, 6 p.m.

LIONFISH FEATURING KYSHONA ARMSTRONG

(Jittery Joe's Five Points) Former Athenian Luci Butler returns to town. She's been on tour with international superstar Moby, playing keys on his recent Hotel tour, and tonight she sings smooth, pop-driven songs and plays keys accompanied by Erin Marszalek, formerly of the band Tralala, on vocals and local singer-songwriter Kyshona Armstrong on guitar and vocals. If local drummer Seth Hendershot is in town he'll likely sit in on a song or two. 7 p.m.

LITTLE COUNTRY GIANTS

(40 Watt) Stellar old-time folk, country and blues from Rome; the sophomore album Breaking Hearts & Living Free is a diverse but connected collection of songs of love and heartbreak, ranging from old-style murder ballads to jukebox country about highways and honky-tonks.

BLAIR LOTT

(Tasty World) Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Blair Lott comes through town with the new album Rooms and Boxes. Early show, 6 p.m.

THE MINOR KINGS

(Georgia Theatre) Popular with the Vandy crowd when they lived in Nashville, this band featuring Alex and Ryan Hall, the sons of famed Wet Willie bluesman Jimmy Hall, recently moved to Athens and play play collegey, melodic rock.

NELO

(Georgia Theatre) Nelo has that Dave Matthews Band, ’90s-jammy sound (albeit with vocals leaning towards Ben Harper), but the music is tight enough and the songs exhibit enough brevity to land them more in the breezy, melodic pop-rock genre of Jack Johnson.

PASSAFIRE

(Wild Wing Café) Bass-heavy reggae-rock from Savannah, working hip hop, dub and contemporary rock into the sound that comes across like a soft-around-the-edges Sublime.

SACRED HOLLOW

(DT's) This new band features local guys Brett, Dustin, Skip, Ben and Ryan; normal "rock" singing with some occasional screamy intensity tops off early-'90s melodic rock that incorporates some proggy metal influences.

SECOND THOUGHTS ABOUT BOB

(DT's) Also known as S.T.A.B., this Athens/ Lawrenceville group plays mid-'90s-sounding, grunge-influenced hard rock.

SPEECHLESS

(Tasty World) Atlanta's Derik Rinehart (drums), Paul Rusek (bass), Robbie Hamil (keys) and Sean Tonar (guitar) play cinematic, atmospheric and jammy instrumental rock with a grooving rhythm section and soaring, sometimes-jazzy guitar solos. The band's new album is called Time Out of Mind.

SWEET TOOTH SIMPLETON & THE SIMPLETONES

(Flicker) Lyric-oriented folk tunes from these five local musicians, playing mostly acoustic on guitar, banjo, stand-up bass, mandolin and occasionally some keyboards and fiddle. Expect some new songs from these prolific songwriters. 8:30 p.m.

VERSATILIANS

(DT's) Versatilians - Chuck Lambert, Jonathan Croft, Jeni Lambert and Mark Brill - hail from Monroe and tonight bring a scattershot collection of original songs ranging from acoustic folk-rock to dirty blues-rock and working in covers of folks like the Stones, Pink Floyd and Tom Petty (and even former Athenian Jennifer Nettles).

THE VINYL STRANGERS

(Repent) These scene vets - guitarist-vocalist Joe Guerzo, new bassist Tim Adams, guitarist-vocalist Reid Howland and drummer Ian Werden - released their new band's self-titled debut album in June, and it's a classic-sounding pop rock record reminiscent of early Beatles and Byrds. Tonight's show is a benefit for Hot 100.7 FM; more info on p. 33.

ALLISON WEISS

(Repent) In August of last year, Michigan native Allison Weiss set up shop in Athens and dove into the open-mic scene, delivering catchy, emotion-driven acoustic guitar songs. Debut album out soon. Tonight's show is a benefit for Hot 100.7 FM; more info on p. 33.

WESLEY COOK BAND

(Georgia Theatre) From folk-flavored theological wrestling matches to Latin-flavored love songs, guitarist Cook has an effortless approach to his music. Cook early this year released his full-length album We’ve Been Here Before. Tonight he plays with his new backing band of Alec Wooden on bass and Mike Carthy on drums.

Sunday, Dec. 3

THE ACCIDENTALS

(Borders) Holiday tunes from UGA's male a cappella group. 6:30 p.m.

“DISCO NIGHT”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Jammin' Sounds is in charge of bringing you R&B dance numbers, with a healthy dose of old-school disco.

THE FOLK YOUS

(Taylor-Grady House) Julie Dyles (Murder Beach, Big Gray) and Courtnie Wolfgang (Big Gray) play around as an acoustic guitar/ukulele combo, providing folk-styled covers of the best in power balladry. Performing a set at 4 p.m. as part of the Athens Land Trust's annual meeting.

THE SOLSTICE SISTERS

(Athens-Clarke County Library) Singing together for more than a decade, Maggie Hunter, Susan Staley and Anna Durden blend three-part harmonies, singing traditional and original songs as well as songs from their Christmas album Holiday Music From Around the World. 3 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 4

“KARAOKE”

(8e's) Every Monday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Monday.

MATTHEW HOUCK, LIZ DURRETT, RAY RAPOSA & JASON MOLINA

(Flicker) So here's the deal: you've got Matthew Houck, the primary moving component of Phosphorescent [see p. 27]. You've got Liz Durrett, the local chanteuse with the airy and haunting vocals. You've got Ray Raposa, who heads up a rotating group of musicians under the name Castanets. And you've got Jason Molina, the powerhouse Chicago songwriter whose stark Songs:Ohia project won acclaim that carried over into his more muscular band Magnolia Electric Co. And all four songwriters will perform their own songs, share the stage and probably do a good bit of collaborating. Packed house, y'think? 8:30 p.m.

OLD WHITE WOMEN

(Tasty World) MC Audrey Hepburn (AKA Louis Weekley) and DJ Elizabeth Taylor (AKA Cubenza, AKA Matt Williams) take tongue-in-cheek stances to "dazzle the hipsters with indie hip-hop magic." They've also recently teamed up with local emcee Rorshak to deliver a wide array of incisive rhymes. Upstairs.

“OPEN MIC NIGHT”

(Eastwood Pub) Every Monday, hosted by local songwriter Jacob Beltz.

JENA PARADIES

(Go Bar) Jena Paradies delivers exquisite mixes of the freshest in Berliner techno, electro-house and subsonic soul laced with hooks so sharp they could draw blood. 10:30 p.m., Mondays.

BRANDON SCOTT SELLNER

(Tasty World) In the mood for some soulful blues fused with fiery rock? Wisconsin guy Brandon Scott Sellner may be for you, with his husky voice and blistering style reminiscent of pros like Stevie Ray Vaughan. An album's in the works for next year.

THE SLATS

(Repent) Boom Patrol is the new disc from Minnesota's Slats: drummer Mark Tietjen, guitarist-bassist-vocalist Jon Hansen and guitarist-vocalist Brian Cox. With stilted vocals reminiscent of Mark E. Smith, the Slats play nerdy, urgently energetic rock songs.

WITHOUT PEARLS

(Borders) Acoustic, jazzy guitar performance from Kemp Jones and band. 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 5

BOONE DOG TRIO

(Tasty World) Latin-influenced rocksteady and reggae rock with Brent Hedrick on drums, Preston Smith on bass and Philip Kohnen on guitar. The local band broke up about a year and a half ago when Hedrick moved to Maryland, but tonight is a special reunion show.

ESMÉ

(Tasty World) Wings for the Wounded is the new disc from melodic emo-rock Atlanta act Esmé. Upstairs.

FIGHT PARIS

(Tasty World) Metal-leaning and Southern-sounding cock-rock band from Atlanta. Upstairs.

GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS

(Tasty World) This Atlanta four-piece provides hair-metal covers from the 1980s. Upstairs. 9 p.m.

THE HONOR ROLL

(Tasty World) Rock band from Atlanta. Upstairs.

“KARAOKE”

(Eastwood Pub) Every Tuesday, 9 p.m.

“KARAOKE”

(Sherm’s) Every Tuesday, 7–10 p.m.

“KARAOKE”

(Walker’s Pub) Every Tuesday, 10 p.m.

“KARAOKE”

(Wild Wing Café) Every Tuesday, 10 p.m.

KILL LeBARON

(Tasty World) First known as October Falls, and then known as Sincerely Yours, but now known as Kill LeBaron, this local hardcore/ screamo five-piece should have some CD-R copies of recently recorded demos for sale. Upstairs.

MAKESHIFTE

(Tasty World) Significant lineup shifts have seen this Texas band go through changes, but it's back with a new EP called Unsaid, full of heavy, emo-ish rock du jour. Upstairs.

NOTEWORTHY

(Borders) Holiday tunes and pop favorites from UGA's female a cappella group. 6:30 p.m.

OLYMPUS MANS

(Tasty World) New local band just moved here from Baltimore. Two dudes, one on drums, one on keys and vocals. Their one song online features repetitive, spacy melodies, heavy percussion and shouty vocals.

ONE L

(Tasty World) Local Guitarist Philip Kohnen (ex-Boone Dog Trio) brings his love of Cuban music to the stage with his "little big band" featuring an Afro-Cuban rhythm section, searing horn lines and a distinct approach to electric guitar. The band will perform a set of original compositions.

“OPEN MIC NIGHT”

(DT’s) Every Tuesday.

RASTA BLANCA

(J.R.'s Baitshack) Reggae covers and originals. Every Tuesday.

ROYAL BLUE & THE STONE GRIFTERS

(Georgia Theatre) Here's what the new local trio of Jason Perkowski, Kevin Hatcher and Aaron Zimmer emailed us: "Narcissistic, self-indulgent frontman Royal Blue and his band of villainous, semi-competent Stone Grifters mix trailer-trash blues with eloquent pauses and brokenhearted harp solos… a poison-induced romp of style and string resistance."

"SINGER-SONGWRITER SHOOTOUT"

(DT's) For singer-songwriters and small acoustic acts. Call 512-468-4031 to sign up. Every Tuesday.

SPRING CIRCUS

(Georgia Theatre) New local five-piece rock band. A listen to some MySpace demos suggests slight thoughts of Dusty Springfield, although more rock-oriented and dramatic.

“TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ”

(Farm 255) Every Tuesday, 7–10 p.m., the downtown restaurant features jazz from a revolving cast of regulars.

Wednesday, Dec. 6

AEGIS OF ATHENA

(Caledonia) Thundering monster-voiced doom metal from this young group of guys. The hardcore band formerly went by the name Tristan & Isolde, but a couple of members have been trimmed and some new songs were written, and so… new name! A new album's in the works as well.

BOOMBOX

(Georgia Theatre) Alabama duo Zion Godchaux (guitar, vocals) and Russ Randolph (turntables, samples) form the duo BoomBox, creating atmospheric and polite light-rock influenced by hip hop and electronic music. The new album's called Visions Backbeat.

CHAINESTEREO

(Tasty World) Recently local, this trio got its start in Gainesville, GA, last year, and has played out in Atlanta a few times. The band made its Athens debut back in May; expect to hear light, unassuming garage pop that conjures thoughts of the Kinks. Two EPs are in the works: Magnetic South and Always Tip the Hunter.

CLOAK & DAGGER DATING SERVICE

(Caledonia) With melodies sewn throughout the hard-hitting rock, this Snellville six-piece offers male/ female vocals and a dark mood punctuated by intricate guitar solos.

DRAG THE RIVER

(40 Watt) Drag the River is a collection of punk-rooted musical veterans (ex-members of Armchair Martian, All, Hot Rod Circuit, and more) from Colorado playing contemporary gritty country tunes. It's Crazy provides the boozy twang of a new album.

GOLDEN EMPEROR

(Caledonia) The local three-piece plays metal, to put it simply, but the band also reaches into psychedelic and prog rock as well as more ambient sounds to round out its stoner sound.

“KARAOKE”

(Foxz) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Wednesday.

LAST PICTURE SHOW

(Tasty World) Last Picture Show moved to town in 2005. Vocalist-guitarist Heath Tolleson - also playing solo at Flicker tonight - vocalist/ multi-instrumentalist Nic Goodson (guitar, mandolin, banjo, etc.), bassist Justin Gregg and drummer Jeremy Beck play dusty, West Texan desert rock, fusing aggressive country, roots-rock and Americana.

LOW RED LAND

(Tasty World) Country-influenced indie-rock trio from San Francisco.

LUCERO

(40 Watt) Country-tinged, punk-leaning rock, Nashville’s Lucero has been billed as the rebirth of roots-rock and the merging of country, mainstream and the independent veins of rock. What Lucero simply is, however, is a solid - if safe - rock and roll band capable of courting multiple audiences and putting forth a relatable image. The new album is called Rebels, Rogues and Sworn Brothers; see some thoughts on the band over on p. 31.

MARITIME

(40 Watt) After the breakups of their previous bands, singer-guitarist Davey von Bohlen, drummer Dan Didier (of The Promise Ring) and bassist Eric Axelson (of The Dismemberment Plan) formed the soulful folk-pop band In English. A name change to Maritime, several releases later and the replacement of Axelson by Justin Klug, and the new disc is called We, The Vehicles.

“OPEN JAM”

(DT’s) This is a new thing the club’s trying out; you just bring your instrument and join in. For more information, call 706-208-1474.

"OPEN MIC NIGHT"

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Wednesday, 8 p.m.

PRIME TIME JAZZ

(Porterhouse) Drummer Tony McCutchen, bassist Chris Enghauser and pianist Jim McKillip perform jazz standards for the dinner-and-a-drink set every Wednesday.

SEEPEOPLES

(Georgia Theatre) Originally from Massachusetts but relocated to Asheville, NC, SeepeopleS last year released The Corn Syrup Conspiracy, an album full of wide-ranging pop rock that draws on psychedelia, ’60s garage, reggae, funk and more. See Box.

HEATH TOLLESON

(Flicker) Heath Tolleson grew up in West Texas, absorbing the dusty desert sounds and eventually forming the Orange County Band. That Americana-leaning group morphed into Last Picture Show and relocated to Athens in late 2004, and is currently working on a debut album. Tonight is a solo show from Tolleson, the band’s frontman. 8:30 p.m.

TWIN POWERS

(Go Bar) Danceable New Wave and Britpop tunes. 10 p.m., every Wednesday.

"UNCORKED & UNPLUGGED"

(Melting Point) Every week local singer/songwriter Ken Will Morton opens and hosts this new series, which aims to focus on artists proficient in the craft of songwriting. This week: Athens musician Christopher Henderson plays blues-influenced acoustic folk rock off his new album The Legend of the Oglethorpe County Ghost Truck, And Other Tall Tales; songwriter Josh Perkins (Theomataras, Monster Zero) delivers a solo set; and former Vigilante of Love Bill Mallonee and vocalist Muriah Rose perform as a duo. Every Wednesday, 8 p.m.

Upcoming:

ANOTHER FIASCO / BISHOP DON / LIONZ / SOL DRIVEN TRAIN / WILX (Tasty World) 12/7

"THE CHRISTMAS HOOT" (Melting Point) 12/7

THE COMAS / 1986 / KING OF PRUSSIA (Caledonia) 12/7

DEAD CONFEDERATE (Flicker) 12/7

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 12/7

TINO GARRIDO (Farm 255) 12/7

MOMO'S DANCE PARTY (Georgia Theatre) 12/7

BLACK SOCKS / PATRICK CAREY (Flicker) 12/8

DEERHUNTER / BLACK LIPS / GASMASK & MATCHSTICKS (Caledonia) 12/8

GUS D. (Nuçi's Space) 12/8

THE HACKENSAW BOYS / PACKWAY HANDLE BAND (Georgia Theatre) 12/8

RANDALL BRAMBLETT & WINFIELD SMITH (Melting Point) 12/8

TISHAMINGO / BEARFOOT HOOKERS (40 Watt) 12/8

WALCOTT / THE SUEX EFFECT (Tasty World) 12/8

MIKE WATSON (Eastwood Pub) 12/8

CASEY BETH / PATRICK CAREY / THE FOLK YOUS / ADAM KLEIN (Flicker) 12/9

HAM 1 / GHOST TO FALCO / EMERY REEL (Caledonia) 12/9

IRON HERO / COLOUR REVOLT / THE PENDLETONS (40 Watt) 12/9

MERIDIAN (Borders) 12/9

NAUTILUS (DT's) 12/9

REHAB / BADKAT / CRAZY ANGLOS (Georgia Theatre) 12/9

THE SUEX EFFECT (Amici) 12/9

SUMMERBIRDS IN THE CELLAR / LONA (Tasty World) 12/9

ANDREA TROMBETTA (Healing Arts Centre) 12/9

CAPRICCIO QUARTET (Borders) 12/10

KATE MORRISSEY (Borders) 12/10

NICK EDELSTEIN (Tasty World) 12/11

TATSUYA NAKATANI / ZEPUBICLE (Mercury Art Works) 12/11

EXENE CERVENKA & THE ORIGINAL SINNERS/ KNUCKEL DRAGER (40 Watt) 12/12

RED WORLD GREEN WORLD / SPRING CIRCUS / VERSATILIANS (Tasty World) 12/12

"TASTY TUESDAYZ" (Tasty World) 12/12

CENTRO-MATIC / STILL, SMALL VOICE & THE JOYFUL NOISE (Tasty World) 12/13

THE GREENCARDS (Melting Point) 12/13

LARRY KEEL & NATURAL BRIDGE / PETER ROWAN (Georgia Theatre) 12/13

JEFF SOILEAU (Borders) 12/13

BLANK FACES (Little Kings) 12/14

CACHAÇA (Amici) 12/14

COMMANDER CHAMELEON / COUNTERFEIT HOLIDAY / MONKEY PAW (Tasty World) 12/14

DICTATORTOTS / LIONZ / SHITTY CANDY (40 Watt) 12/14

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 12/14

TINO GARRIDO (Farm 255) 12/14

MENAGE A TWANG (Flicker) 12/14

LEON RUSSELL / ASYLUM STREET SPANKERS (Melting Point) 12/14

ZAC BROWN BAND (Georgia Theatre) 12/14

GABRIEL KELLEY (Farm 255) 12/15

CAROLINE MONROE / KING COTTON (Eastwood Pub) 12/15

ROOSEVELT / DOWN WITH THE WOO / THE SHUT-UPS (40 Watt) 12/15

THE '60s (Georgia Theatre) 12/15

MATT "PISTOL" STOESSEL / JIM WILSON (Flicker) 12/15

SUMMER HYMNS / WARM IN THE WAKE (Tasty World) 12/15

HOMEMADE JAM (Georgia Theatre) 12/16

PHOENIX PHAROH (Transmetropolitan) 12/16

RACK OF SPAM (Melting Point) 12/16

NANYANA (Borders) 12/17

"RHINO 5 SHOWCASE" (Flicker) 12/20

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 12/21

LEE PAUL (Eastwood Pub) 12/22

JEFF REILLY TRIO (Farm 255) 12/22

THE SOLSTICE SISTERS (Borders) 12/22

ERIC SKELTON (Farm 255) 12/23

CACHAÇA (Amici) 12/28

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 12/28

CLAY ROSS & KRYSTAL WARREN (Farm 255) 12/29

PERPETUAL GROOVE (Georgia Theatre) 12/29

SLEEPY HORSES (40 Watt) 12/29

STRAWBERRY FLATS (Melting Point) 12/29

SEAN ARRINGTON (Farm 255) 12/30

BOX OFFICE ROCKSTAR (Wild Wing Café) 12/30

PERPETUAL GROOVE (Georgia Theatre) 12/30

MOTHER'S FINEST (Melting Point) 12/31

MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA (Tasty World) 1/3

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 1/4

BLACK TUSK / THE DUMPS / SKELETON WITCH (Tasty World) 1/9

THE DEACON BRANDON REEVES (Farm 255) 1/10

TINO GARRIDO (Farm 255) 1/11

HAMELIN / NATE NELSON / VINYL STRANGERS (Georgia Theatre) 1/11

ADAMS TOWNSHIP (Farm 255) 1/12

E.G. KIGHT (Melting Point) 1/13

THE LAST WALTZ ENSEMBLE (Georgia Theatre) 1/13

LAURA REED & THE DEEP POCKET (Farm 255) 1/13

THE SUEX EFFECT (Amici) 1/13

JEFF SOILEAU (Farm 255) 1/17

TINO GARRIDO (Farm 255) 1/18

CAMERA OBSCURA (40 Watt) 1/19

DROMEDARY QUARTET (Melting Point) 1/19

THE BRIDGE (Georgia Theatre) 1/20

BOB HAY & THE JOLLY BEGGARS (Melting Point) 1/25

TRIAL BY FIRE / DEAD CONFEDERATE / WALCOTT (Tasty World) 1/26

TRESOR HUGO (Ritz) 1/27

MR. GRASSFOOT / THE SUEX EFFECT (Tasty World) 1/27

THE BOTTLE ROCKETS (Tasty World) 1/29

MASTODON / CONVERGE / PRIESTESS (40 Watt) 1/31

SUN DOMINGO / POOLSTICK (The Library) 1/31

STEEP CANYON RANGERS (Georgia Theatre) 2/1

MOUNTAIN HEART (Melting Point) 2/2

VASHTI BUNYAN / VETIVER (40 Watt) 2/6

LIQUID JUNGLE (Georgia Theatre) 2/14

VERTIGO JONES (Georgia Theatre) 2/15

DEERHOOF (40 Watt) 2/21

UMPHREY'S McGEE (Georgia Theatre) 2/28

THE AVETT BROTHERS (Georgia Theatre) 3/23

JORMA KAUKONEN / BARRY MITTERHOFF (Melting Point) 3/24

LEO KOTTKE & THE TURTLE ISLAND STRING QUARTET (UGA) 12/7