originally published December 6, 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, 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.

ALEX ORANGE

(Wild Wing Café) Native Savannahan and acoustic guitarist-harmonicist Nathan Sheppard has long been a fixture on the regional folksy singer-songwriter scene. Sheppard is known for his emotive singing style and his modern reworkings of classic tunes, from Dylan and Young to Van Morrison. His current release, out on Lost Cat Records, is the live album Carried Away: An Evening With Nathan Sheppard. Alex Orange, named after a song on his 2001 album Traveling On, is Sheppard's new full band.

BIRDS & BATTERIES

(Tasty World) Birds & Batteries started in Boston as a solo project by Mike Sempert, who eventually moved to San Francisco and rounded out his backing band to translate the pastoral "urban country" songs. Heavy on the Rhodes and pedal steel.

BOOMBOX

(Georgia Theatre) Alabama duo Zion Godchaux (guitar, vocals) and Russ Randolph (turntables, samples) comprise 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 have 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.

DEBASER

(Tasty World) No information available.

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.

LOW RED LAND

(Tasty World) Country-influenced indie-rock trio from San Francisco touring in support of the debut album Weight of Nations.

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.

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.

NO MORE KINGS

(Tasty World) Funk- and R&B-influenced party-pop from this Los Angeles's Pete Mitchell.

“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.

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.

Thursday, Dec. 7

ANOTHER FIASCO

(Tasty World) The reconvened Fiasco comprises members of the Charlie Mars Band, Lionz and Soul Kitchen coming together to explore more traditional rock territory and resurrect and modify the Fiasco name. The new album is called If Never Was Enough.

BART KING & THE FAIR SHAKES

(Little Kings) Local singer-songwriter Bart King and his backing band The Fair Shakes - drummer Jason Cheek (Carter McMullen Trio, Gabriel Kelley) and bassist Derek McTavish - play soulful, guitar- and piano-based pop. 8:30 p.m.

BELLYACHE

(40 Watt) Austin Darnell and his brother Caleb play country and blues originals with harmony vocals, backed by acoustic guitar, upright bass and singing saw. The Athens duo’s debut EP is called Porkchops & Milkshakes.

BISHOP DON

(Tasty World) The Atlanta band in 2004 released Strange Love Dance Club, an album full of psychedelic indie rock that stretches out its heavy grooves to incorporate some strong Southern jamming tendencies. The new disc, out late last winter, is called Flowers From the Devil.

“BOILING POINT”

(WUOG, 90.5 FM) Live and loud performance on the radio every Tuesday at 10 p.m. This week: American Cheeseburger.

JUSTIN BROGDON

(Boar's Head) Tallahassee, FL, native and current Athens dude Justin Brogdon (ex-Bluestring, Full Black Out) plays acoustic covers and originals, aiming for thoughtful lyrics and emotional sounds.

THE BROS. MARLER

(40 Watt) Twin guitar siblings Daniel and Drew Marler perform new compositions and rock, R&B and blues standards as an acoustic duo, although tonight they're bringing in guests John Wayne (guitar) and Dave Brockway (drums) for the full-band. Debut full-length Songs for Pluto expected soon.

"THE CHRISTMAS HOOT"

(Melting Point) "After going to a show at the Melting Point," says Susan Staley, the organizer of this monthly local traditional music showcase, "it occurred to me it would be the perfect venue to have a singalong because of the way it's all set up: three levels, all close to the stage and the acoustics are so good." Kirby & Friends open the show with seasonal holiday favorites on folk instruments like banjo, fiddle and mandolin, followed by the The Solstice Sisters trio performing songs from their rereleased CD Holiday Music From Around The World. Local musician Tommy Jordan takes requests to wrap things up as the audience selects the songs for the holiday singalong. All ages. 8 p.m.

THE COMAS

(Caledonia) Playing deliciously unbalanced, layered and poppy indie rock, this Chapel Hill, NC, five-piece swings unexpected strings and organs into the boy/girl mix. Conductor was the 2004 follow-up to 2000’s critical favorite A Def Needle in Tomorrow, and there's a new disc out next year on Vagrant Records. This band seems to be perpetually under the radar, but it's worth attention.

DEAD CONFEDERATE

(Flicker) The Atlanta Southern rock group this summer released Petition to the Queen, a recent album that exhibits a significant growth in songwriting into expansive, spacious Southern rock reminiscent of My Morning Jacket, Southern Bitch and even Built to Spill. The band plays a brief acoustic/electric set before tonight's screening of Ringer - Secret World Champion, a film about the world of underground horseshoe throwing which stars several of the bandmembers. 8:30 p.m.

DJ INSANE

(Wild Wing Café) The downtown restaurant hosts a night of salsa dancing with music courtesy DJ Insane.

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.

DYLAN BLUES PROJECT

(DT's) Avery Gibbs recently moved to Athens from Virginia, recruited two backing buddies and set out to deliver Texas-style blues and Southern rockin' blues, playing covers and Stevie Ray-styled originals.

GABRIEL KELLEY BAND

(Little Kings) 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." It's a trio lineup tonight, with Zorbanos on lead, Will Harrison on bass and Jason Cheek on drums. 10 p.m.

TINO GARRIDO

(Farm 255) The frontman for Orquesta Grogus will play two sets tonight, focusing on classical guitar music from Venezuela and traditional songs from Cuba and Venezuela (for guitar and voice). Playing a dinner set, 8–10:30 p.m.

JON GUTHRIE

(40 Watt) Jon Guthrie (Dirty Sanchez & the Pancho Villas, Michael Guthrie Band) plays a solo set of '60s-influenced "psychedelic folk."

REGGIE JARRAD

(DT's) A solo set from this Greensboro songwriter.

“KARAOKE”

(Eastwood Pub) Every Thursday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Thursday.

KING OF PRUSSIA

(Caledonia) King of Prussia's upcoming album Save the Scene uses shiny guitar, delayed pianos, sci-fi synths and brainy bass parts to deliver the finely-crafted and intensely catchy pop melodies. Brandon Hanick (ex-Beijing, Touchdown!), Brian Smith (OGLY, The Curl, etc.) and Taylor Coggin, A.J. Rownd and Nathan Troutman (all formerly of The Envelopes) are the live band.

LIONZ

(Tasty World) This local band of positive groovers embarks on a new batch of jam-flavored adventures, from classic rock, blues, soul and bluegrass to reggae, augmented by two full drum kits. The debut album is Stranger Things Have Happened, and a new album's in the works.

MOMO'S DANCE PARTY

(Georgia Theatre) This trio bills itself as "the world's ultimate Rush tribute." But don't they all?

KEN WILL MORTON

(40 Watt) Local guitarist-vocalist Ken Will Morton, frontman of the Wholly Ghosts, specializes in alt-country rock songs that resemble an early Ryan Adams and borrow from Elvis, Dylan and Springsteen as well as the Replacements. His newest album is called King of Coming Around.

1986

(Caledonia) Nihilism is Nothing To Worry About is the new disc from this band that splits its time between Austin, TX and New York City. If the idea of guitar-centric music pulling equally from classic rock and punk, kind of along the lines of Dinosaur Jr. or even the Replacements sounds like your thing, check 'em out. Features members of the Rosebuds.

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.

Friday, Dec. 8

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 the group plays rock geared towards Dave Matthews and John Mayer fans.

BARYSHNIKOV

(Caledonia) Described as “an angry version of Junior Senior” by bandmembers Dan Geller and Jordan Noel, this duo prefers elastic freak-outs and sly electroclash/ hip hop spazz-outs to sultry come-ons. First show in more than a year.

THE BEARFOOT HOOKERS

(40 Watt) The band performs funky, good-humored country on the entertaining sophomore album Life at the Bar, and is the power behind the recently released Welcome to Athens: A Drinkin' Town With A Music Problem country drinking-song compilation. Winner of the 2006 Flagpole Athens Music Award for Best Country / Americana / Roots Rock Band.

BLACK LIPS

(Caledonia) Has it really been almost two years since Black Lips have played a club show in Athens? With a tight-as-hell live show, this Atlanta band bridges the underground garage rock of the '60s and 21st century post-punk playfulness. The jangly and coarse Let it Bloom was released last year, and a new deal for new albums with Vice Records is drawing attention from Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, among others.

BLACK SOCKS

(Flicker) Based out of Raleigh, NC, Black Socks is musician Vince Carmody (ex-Strange, Dark Meat) and a host of various collaborators playing minimalist electronic compositions pulling equally from Steve Reich and Animals-era Pink Floyd. 8:30 p.m.

PATRICK CAREY

(Flicker) Patrick Carey’s slow-rolling countryish pop is marked by breezy, melodic sounds with chiming acoustic and electric sounds and vocal melodies. Expect to hear some songs off Edible Orchids, the upcoming release from his band The Ginger Envelope, as well as some non-band tunes. 8:30 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, like this week's Ken Will Morton. 5:30–7:30 p.m. every Friday.

BOBBY COOL

(The Library) Sometimes solo, sometimes with a backing band, Bobby Cool plays singer-songwritery stuff, described by the venue as "frat-rock style." Tonight's a full-band gig.

DEERHUNTER

(Caledonia) Creative, ambitious, hypnotic and dance-influenced noise rock from Atlanta. The band released its album Turn It Up, Faggot! on Atlanta’s Stickfigure Records, and experimental niche label Kranky Records will release the five-piece's new album Cryptograms in January; the disc fuses '60s pop, layered washes of sound, intriguing rhythms and avant-garde drone. See p. 24.

“DISCO NIGHT”

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

DJ BOBBY C

(Loft) Local deejay Bobby Casille drops tonight’s dance tunes for your feet and your ass.

DJ MAHOGANY

(Little Kings) "I love Christmas and I really really love Christmas music," says DJ Mahogany. "I'll be playing my usual soul goodness with some great dancey Christmas jams sprinkled throughout the night. I'll be giving away some soul Christmas mixes and some candy." The dance party starts at midnight, following an 11 p.m. reading by Dr. Billy Currell from his new book Kentucky Fried Tender, wherein he preaches on "The Holy Trinity of Tenderness" - women, chicken and money - over beats made by Ryan Rasheed. Scantily clad ladies will distribute fried chicken throughout the night.

DJRX

(Rumor) 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.).

DRUID CITY HOSPITAL

(Flicker) Druid City plays "original compositions blending consumer-grade electronic keyboards, guitar and saxophone." Featuring Julien DeRocher (guitar, banjo), Larry Tucker (sax) and Aaron Wegelin (drums), DeRocher's songs are pastoral, emotional and sincerely moving folk-leaning works decorated with electronic flourishes. 8:30 p.m.

“FIESTA LATINA”

(Tasty World) This Latin dance party focusing on salsa is hosted by local promoters Chamo Events. Upstairs, 11:30 p.m.

GASMASK & MATCHSTICKS

(Caledonia) The local trio of Alex (guitar, vocals), Tom (bass, vocals) and Drew (drums) pump out some classic-sounding hardcore and scream-filled thrash rock. Debut album Yer Not Payin’ For The Hours, Yer Payin’ For The Name out now.

BRANTLEY GILBERT

(The Library) Acoustic covers and originals from this Jefferson country-rock songwriter. His debut album The Modern Day Prodigal Son is out now.

GUS D.

(Nuçi's Space) Local rapper Gus Darnell performs in celebration of his debut CD The Search, and he's featuring performances by Ben Stevens from the T-Nebula crew, local emcee Tommy Valentine and old-school-sound rap trio BlackRose Dynasty. More info on p. 29.

THE HACKENSAW BOYS

(Georgia Theatre) Since 1999, this Old-time and bluegrass ensemble from Charlottesville, VA, has played a “revue of rough-and-ready original and traditional tunes courtesy of the spiritually invigorating release of vibrating strings stretched over wood and vocal chords stretched to their limit.”

“IT’S FRIDAY”

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

JEFF REILLY TRIO

(Mercury Lounge) Local drummer Jeff Reilly (Kenosha Kid, Dromedary, Megaphone Man) leads his group through jazz standards and original compositions.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Friday.

"KARAOKE"

(Oasis) Every Friday, hosted by Them Girls.

PAT LYONS

(Saving Grace) "Pickin' from the parlor, singing on the porch." Tonight's a solo show at this restaurant in Comer. 7:30 p.m.

MP3J VINAL

(Go Bar) Richard Vinal (of local hip hop / funk fusers Bling the Children Back Home) hosts the late-night eclectic dance party that’ll draw on classic favorites as well as the new Internet hotness.

PACKWAY HANDLE BAND

(Georgia Theatre) Packway’s one-mic bluegrass provides sly, hearty original songs and renditions of classic tunes. The local band’s strong second album (Sinner) You Better Get Ready and spirited live performances won them the 2006 Flagpole Athens Music Award for Bluegrass Band.

PORCH TO THE PEOPLE

(Bluebird Café) Porch To The People - featuring a new lineup with John Evans and Dave "Freelove" Mundy - will play 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.

RANDALL BRAMBLETT & WINFIELD SMITH

(Melting Point) Randall Bramblett presents a simplified, direct slab of Southern music. Either blowing the sax or delivering his gruff’n’grumbly vocals, Bramblett can toss out Southern R&B kickers with the best of 'em. Winfield Smith is one half of the Low Country roots-rock outfit Stewart & Winfield. Tonight the two perform as an acoustic duo.

TISHAMINGO

(40 Watt) Hard-edged, rocking Southern blues from Athens mainstays Cameron Williams (guitar, vocals), Jess Franklin (guitar, keys, vocals), Richard Proctor (drums) and newcomer Chuck Thomas (bass). The new album Wear N’ Tear is out now on Magnatude Records, and word is another’s on the way. Tonight the band will perform songs from Johnny Jenkins' album Ton-Ton Macoute!. The Capricorn Records bluesman from Macon passed away earlier this year.

WALCOTT

(Tasty World) This local group deftly moves from pop-rock to classic rock to broader-influenced sounds, combining Young and Floyd ideas with more comfortable, Band-type work. The band's new EP is called Swallow the Ghost.

MIKE WATSON

(Eastwood Pub) When in full-band mode, guitarist Mike Watson plays bluesy covers and originals backed by bassist Larry Germain and drummer Art McNaughton; his live album’s called Biscuits On My Mind, and the country rock album Hot Atlanta Nights has recently been reissued.

THE WAZ

(DT's) A heavy-metal band from Texas and an acid-jazz group from New York share this name, but there was no information available as to which, if either, is playing in Athens.

ALLISON WEISS

(Bluebird Café) In August of last year, 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. 8 p.m.

WRONG WAY

(Wild Wing Café) Five-piece Athens-based Sublime cover band.

Saturday, Dec. 9

BADKAT

(Georgia Theatre) Athens emcee BadKat moved to town from Florida, and released her debut EP Unreleased earlier this fall. She should have copies on hand, offering up her unique combination of versatile, political and personal rhymes.

BOULEVARD

(Go Bar) Billed as the "New Romantic Ball: Farewell to Dandies," tonight's show is the final one for Boulevard as Athenian locals, as the glam boys make the move to (gasp!) Brooklyn. The band performs slick dance-inducing numbers straight out of the '80s as frontman and primary songwriter Benji Barton’s voice fills the spaces with a glamorous croon.

COLOUR REVOLT

(40 Watt) Based out of Mississippi, the classy and impressive Colour Revolt is a five-piece that favors complex, layered songs on its self-titled debut EP. Key and time changes beneath, shouty (but not screamy) vocals on top… is it already time for second-generation Arcade Fires? Good good stuff.

CRAZY ANGLOS

(Georgia Theatre) Fusing mid-’90s metal riffage with late-’90s angst-rap, suburban Atlanta’s Crazy Anglos can barely contain their aggression. The five-piece band also works reggae and funk into the sound, coming across like a hard-edged Sublime. The debut EP is called Get Up or Get Out.

ZACH DEPUTY

(Wild Wing Café) Bluffton, SC musician Zach Deputy plays spirited, acoustic party funk.

“DISCO NIGHT”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Crystal Jukebox 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, with pals DJ Set It Off and DJ Quanitize often lending their talents.

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.

EMERY REEL

(Caledonia) In 2004, this Tennessee post-rock quartet released …For And Acted Upon Through Diversions. There’s nothing here that’ll surprise anyone familiar with Mogwai, Godspeed or our own Maserati, but the whole loud-soft-loud crash and martial drum and guitar squall and all that… it’s done well.

GHOST TO FALCO

(Caledonia) Eric Crespo is the constant member of Ghost to Falco, a Portland band - a trio on this tour - specializing in morose beauty and curious emotion. From lush analog synth sounds to looped and minimal drones, the sounds on the new disc Like This Forever complement Crespo's pointed lyrics well.

CALEB GRIMES

(Bluebird Café) Performing a set of acoustic rock and roll. 9 p.m.

HAM 1

(Caledonia) Guitarist Jim Willingham (The Gerbils, Harry Carey, Crown Vic) handles the frontman stuff, while Eric Harris (drums), Jacob Morris (cello), Chris Sugiuchi (trombone) and others join in. Exuberant, quirky and jolly, Willingham is a well of creativity and his folk-pop eccentricities always surprise. Ham 1 is last year’s excellent debut album, and Willingham & Co. have been at work on some new stuff for an upcoming album called The Captain's Table.

HOLMAN AUTRY BAND

(DT's) 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.

ICE CREAM SOCIALISTS

(Tasty World) Six eclectic local college kids making kaleidoscopic, joyous pop with nerdy lead vocals, harmonizing backing vox, accordions, keyboards, violins and more. A couple of months back the band celebrated the release of its swell debut album Belles & Missiles. Also, violinist Stephanie Davis will not be able to play with the band in the new year because of her new gig playing the part of Belle at Disney World in Florida. Also, drummer Jonathan Pride will be on sabbatical studying in Italy and will be replaced by original ICS drummer Payton Bradford. Tonight's the last show Ice Cream Socialists will play this year with the current lineup, and is a benefit for the Boys & Girls Club of Athens. Upstairs, 9 p.m.

IRON HERO

(40 Watt) The local '90s-college-rock aficionados of Iron Hero ride high on their solidified status. The ever-tight band plays dark and spacious pop that’s infused with steady, danceable beats, and earlier this year released its charismatic debut album Safe as Houses.

J.D.'s EXPLOSION

(Tasty World) No information available. 9:30 p.m. Upstairs.

“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.

“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.

LIQUID JUNGLE

(Tasty World) Twin brothers Josh (bass, lead vocals) and Graham Yoder (lead guitar, backing vocals) joined up with Scott Keener (drums) and Andres Miller (guitar, backing vocals) to get their funky jam thing going, drawing on Zappa, P-Funk and the Chili Peppers.

LONA

(Tasty World) Lona is the flagship band for local songwriter, guitarist and drummer Clay Leverett (The Chasers, Now It's Overhead, Drip). The band sends out more than a little country and more than enough gutsy, mid-tempo rock.

THE MEN OF SCIENCE

(Little Kings) "Nerd rock" and avant-garde electronic sounds are on the syllabus from this duo of native Athenians. Graham Coleman (keyboards) and Kelly Gallagher (guitar) have been writing and recording extensively despite this show being their first in Athens, and the upcoming album is called Space Pageant. Special guests at tonight's performance include Bobby Visa presenting electronic songs from his upcoming "1980s tribute project" Age of Innovation, and E. Robert Frank singing pop songs about great movie directors and the decline of a great boxer. 10 p.m.

MERIDIAN

(Borders) Folk trio receiving comparisons to Peter, Paul & Mary. 2 p.m.

MIKEY DWYER & THE STARTER KITS

(Tasty World) Now with the backing of drummer Ben Keller (Timber) and bassist Jamie Coulter (The Help), Mikey Dwyer (Lona, Scalded Dogs, Sateen Duraluxe) plays brash and handy rock and roll, and has a new recording project called Backsliding Baby in the works.

NAUTILUS

(DT's) The band features James Feeney on drums, Andrew Haynes on bass, and Chris Keesecker on keyboards/ synth. They play covers and original songs inspired by hip hop, jazz and electronic music.

THE PENDLETONS

(40 Watt) Adam Saunders and Ben DuPriest join forces with guitarist Colin Morehead and bassist Matt Giordano to create what they call “joyous” pop rock sounds, weaving a lot of classic '50s and '60s tendencies into more muscular rock. The guys just wrapped recording a full-length at DARC, for release next year.

REDNECK GREECE DELUX

(Locos Barnett Shoals) It’s the 17th annual Redneck Christmas party! Greg Reece (AKA Redneck GReece) performs a set of his honky-tonkin’ tunes that always seem to put a smile on the faces of everyone in the crowd, whether scene vet or GReece virgin. Proceeds benefit the Athens Boys & Girls Club. 8 p.m.

REHAB

(Georgia Theatre) An Atlanta-based hip hop act, Rehab incorporates hard rock and pop into the mix, creating funk-based numbers reminiscent of early Red Hot Chili Peppers. The band released the sophomore album Graffiti the World in fall of ‘05.

"SAVE DARFUR EVENT"

(Flicker) Short acoustic sets from local musical acts: country folk troubadour Adam Klein, the power-ballad reinterpreting duo The Folk Yous, Ginger Envelope frontman Patrick Carey and former songwriter Casey Beth. Show up on time; the event, an awareness-raiser for the genocidal situation in Sudan, starts at 5:30 p.m. Find more info on p. 29.

THE SHREDDERS

(Tasty World) A new local curiosity, 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. 9:30 p.m. Upstairs

THE SUEX EFFECT

(Amici) The trio of guitarist-vocalist Ricky Barrett, drummer Jonathan Daniels and bassist Miles Karp describes itself as an “original utility-rock power trio blending psychedelic sounds from funk, rock, blues and reggae.”

SUMMERBIRDS IN THE CELLAR

(Tasty World) Orlando sensations Summerbirds in the Cellar recently recorded the shimmery, driving debut album With The Hands Of The Hunter It All Becomes Dead with Andy LeMaster. The dreamy, rhythmic rock touches on the best of R.E.M., Genesis and a bunch of new wave stuff. See p. 26 for a review.

WOULD-BE FARMERS

(Mercury Lounge) African-influenced blues and eclectic psychedelic backwoods jazz from the local group. Tonight's lineup includes vocalist-guitarist-lautist Brian Yetter (ex-Kirmani, Tesserae), percussionist Aaron Phillips (Redneck GReece Delux, Jack Logan) and saxophonist George Davidson (Acquaviva). Tonight's show features belly dancing with Angela Mullis, as well as appearances by Chris Herron on mbira and Jason Calhoun on violin and bass. 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 10

CAPRICCIO QUARTET

(Borders) Classical string group doing Christmas tunes. 3 p.m.

“DISCO NIGHT”

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

KATE MORRISSEY

(Borders) Morrissey's warm, soulful voice and rhythmic piano spice her original songs, which have been described as “urban fables and fairy tales.” Her latest album is called A Girl in Winter. At today's 4 p.m. show, Morrissey collaborates with her Ohio acoustic folk musician Eric Nassau.

THE FRONTIER VOLUNTEER ORCHESTRA

(Frontier) Live holiday music for the downtown boutique's holiday open house. 3–6 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 11

NICK EDELSTEIN

(Tasty World) Tasteful blues rock is on the menu from Atlanta dude Nick Edelstein, whose new album Ripple features him tearing through tunes both bluesy and at times funky; there's a little Stevie Ray in there, some Hendrix and even a twinge of the Red Hot Chili Peppers from the rhythm section of Scott Brown on bass and Monte Coursey on drums.

“KARAOKE”

(8e's) Every Monday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Monday.

MIKE KILLEEN

(Tasty World) Now based out of Atlanta, the former Curbside Crush guitarist performs a solo set of tracks off his debut album Guns Kill People.

CLAY LEVERETT

(Tasty World) Versatile local country singer Clay Leverett performs solo tonight, so expect him to pull on the material from his bands The Chasers and Lona, as well as a couple of hand-picked covers.

TATSUYA NAKATANI & ZEPUBICLE

(Mercury Art Works) Improvisational percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani performs solo and also collaborates with local trio Zepubicle, made up of Killick, Marshall Marrotte and Jeff McLeod. 8 p.m.; see Box.

“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.

"THE RENEGADEZ VERSUS"

(Tasty World) Every Monday night local full-band hip hop act The Renegadez challenge other acts to perform against them, and the winner with the best crowd response wins a cash prize. Tonight the other performers include indie-rock act Super Monkey. Upstairs.

TRANS-FATTY PLAYBOYS

(Jittery Joe’s Roaster) Joe Willey, Ed Dowling, Kyle Wickings and Franklin Bunn are an eclectic band ranging from straight, acoustic old-time and jug-band music to electric blues and alt-country. Performing at the closing party for the BikeAthens silent auction. 6–9 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 12

EXENE CERVENKA & THE ORIGINAL SINNERS

(40 Watt) For the past five years, Exene Cervenka (of X fame) has fronted her latest project, Exene Cervenka & the Original Sinners, a band delving into classic garage rock and other sounds. The current line-up features Cervenka and guitarist husband Jason Edge backed by Missouri punk band The 7 Shot Screamers (Dan Sabella on guitar, Chris Powers on bass, Kevin O’Conner on drums). See Box.

“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.

KNUCKEL DRAGER

(40 Watt) Like a live soundtrack to a 1960s biker flick, Wisconsin's Knuckel Drager mixes surf and garage rock with samples lifted from drag races, cartoons and horror flicks. Apparently, the four-piece has a particularly over-the-top stage spectacle with fog machines, monster masks and more. Maybe a little like GWAR as envisioned by Russ Meyer?

MADELINE

(Go Bar) The bell-voiced local songwriter Madeline Adams swings back through town after another tour of our fine nation. Madeline has a new album called The Slow Bang out soon on Orange Twin, so expect to hear some new songs.

“OPEN MIC NIGHT”

(DT’s) Every Tuesday.

RASTA BLANCA

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

RED WORLD, GREEN WORLD

(Tasty World) New local band featuring Micah Hudson, Blake Floyd, Dan Dudley and Jackie Robbins playing melodic rock with folk, jazz and blues influences. Formerly known as With The Sun.

"SINGER-SONGWRITER SHOOTOUT"

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

SPRING CIRCUS

(Tasty World) New local five-piece band makes its club debut tonight. A listen to some MySpace demos suggests slight thoughts of Dusty Springfield, although more rock-oriented and dramatic.

THA FUCKING TRANSMISSIONS

(Go Bar) Begin Transmission is the heavy-in-the-low-end new album from Tha Fucking Transmissions, a Texas rap six-piece fronted by emcees Cornbreadd and Hodge spitting hard-knock lyrics backed by a full band and video projection.

“TUESDAY NIGHT JAZZ”

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

VERSATILIANS

(Tasty World) Versatilians - Chuck Lambert, Jonathan Croft, Jeni Lambert and Mark Brill - hail from Monroe and bring a scattershot collection of original songs ranging from the 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).

Wednesday, Dec. 13

CENTRO-MATIC

(Tasty World) This skillful pop-rock band from Denton, TX, began almost accidentally in 1995 as a side-project for drummer-turned-guitarist Will Johnson. The band’s 2001 release Distance and Clime utilized a mix of twang and melody as familiar as that of Neil Young and Crazy Horse and the same fuzzed-out, mid-fi pop noise that Guided By Voices, the Flaming Lips and Sebadoh tinkered with in the ‘90s. The four-piece - Matt Pence, Mark Hedman, Scott Danbom and Johnson - released the album Fort Recovery this past spring. See p. 25.

THE GREENCARDS

(Melting Point) Though they’re steeped in the tradition of bluegrass, Texan Americana peddlers The Greencards - Kym Warner (mandolin), Carol Young (bass) and Eamon McLoughlin (fiddle) - weave influences as disparate as Bob Dylan, Ricky Skaggs and The Beatles into a compelling acoustic blend. Weather & Water is the newest release.

HOT NEW MEXICANS

(Caledonia) Vocalist-guitarist Patrick Jennings and drummer Joe Dakin moved to Athens last year and recruited Carrie Nations' Ian McCord to play bass, creating catchy, punk-influenced boozy power pop. The latest release is It's Called Leaning Back.

“KARAOKE”

(Foxz) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Mell’s) Every Wednesday.

“KARAOKE”

(Stan’s Bar & Grill) Every Wednesday.

LARRY KEEL & NATURAL BRIDGE

(Georgia Theatre) Originally from Virginia, Keel is known for his award-winning bluegrass flatpicking skills. He’s joined by bassist Jenny Keel, mandolinist Mark Schimick, banjo player-vocalist Jason Flournoy and banjo player Andy Thorn.

THE MATT KURZ ONE

(Caledonia) Newly moved to town, Bomb the Music Industry! musician Matt Kurz makes good on the one-man-band promise, playing garage-punk songs on bass, guitar, drums, keyboards, harmonica and singing, often all at the same time.

MIKEY DWYER & THE STARTER KITS

(Caledonia) Now with the backing of drummer Ben Keller (Timber) and bassist Jamie Coulter (The Help), Mikey Dwyer (Lona, Scalded Dogs, Sateen Duraluxe) plays brash and handy rock and roll, and has a new recording project called Backsliding Baby in the works.

“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.

PETER ROWAN

(Georgia Theatre) Bluegrass pro Peter Rowan, whose career has spanned from SeaTrain to Old & In The Way to numerous solo and ensemble projects, is a soulful singer and a poignant songwriter. He's not a bad sax player and yodeler, too! Last fall's album You Were There For Me is a multilayered collaboration disc recorded with guitarist Tony Rice, a veteran of the David Grisman Quintet and the Bluegrass Album Band.

JEFF SOILEAU

(Borders) Athens musician Jeff Soileau (pronounced "swallow") plays classical-style guitar drawing influence from pop, jazz and New Age music. 7 p.m.

STILL, SMALL VOICE & THE JOYFUL NOISE

(Tasty World) 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.

TWIN POWERS

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

Upcoming:

BLANK FACES (Little Kings) 12/14

CACHAÇA (Amici) 12/14

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

LIONZ / DICTATORTOTS / SHITTY CANDY & THE CIRCUS PEANUTS (40 Watt) 12/14

DUELING PIANO GUYS (The Library) 12/14

DYLAN BLUES PROJECT (DT's) 12/14

TINO GARRIDO (Farm 255) 12/14

MICHAEL GUTHRIE (Athens Music Museum) 12/14

M. COAST / FOLKLORE / FABULOUS BIRD (Caledonia) 12/14

MENAGE A TWANG (Flicker) 12/14

LEON RUSSELL (Melting Point) 12/14

SUMMER HYMNS (Flicker) 12/14

ZAC BROWN BAND (Georgia Theatre) 12/14

EL DIABLO Y LA PISTOLA (Flicker) 12/15

THE ERIC HARRIS GROUP (Borders) 12/15

GABRIEL KELLEY (Farm 255) 12/15

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

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

THE '60s / JON GUTHRIE / DISRAELI GEARS (Georgia Theatre) 12/15

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

COMMANDER CHAMELEON (The Globe) 12/16

“FIESTA LATINA” (Tasty World Upstairs) 12/16

"40 WATT CLUB XMAS PARTY" W/ VIC CHESNUTT & FRIENDS (40 Watt) 12/16

HEIDI HENSLEY (Borders) 12/16

HOMEMADE JAM (Georgia Theatre) 12/16

NUTRIA (Flicker) 12/16

PHOENIX PHAROAH (Transmetropolitan) 12/16

RACK OF SPAM (Melting Point) 12/16

63 CRAYONS (Caledonia) 12/16

NANYANA (Borders) 12/17

"THE RENEGADEZ VERSUS" (Tasty World) 12/18

RASTA BLANCA (J.R.'s Baitshack) 12/19

"RHINO 5 SHOWCASE" (Flicker) 12/20

"UNCORKED & UNPLUGGED" (Melting Point) 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

LITTLE COUNTRY GIANTS / JUSTIN EVANS' CHINATOWN DIARY (Melting Point) 12/28

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

LIQUID SUNDROP (No Where Bar) 12/29

PERPETUAL GROOVE (Georgia Theatre) 12/29

SLEEPY HORSES (40 Watt) 12/29

STRAWBERRY FLATS (Melting Point) 12/29

SEAN ARINGTON (Farm 255) 12/30

BOX OFFICE ROCKSTAR (Wild Wing Café) 12/30

"NEW YEAR'S DANCE PARTY" W/ KRUSH GIRLS, TWIN POWERS & DJ MAHOGANY (40 Watt) 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

BLACKTUSK / THE DUMPS / SKELETON WITCH (Tasty World) 1/9

THE DEACON BRANDON REEVES (Farm 255) 1/10

GARY PFAFF (Melting Point) 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 ACOUSTIC QUARTET (Melting Point) 1/19

"WINTER JAMFEST 2007" w/ MOONSHINE STILL / THE PNUMA TRIO / THE BRIDGE / DJ NUMBER FIVE (Georgia Theatre) 1/20

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

C-FRE$H, THE PRINCE OF THE CLASSIC / ELITE THA SHOWSTOPPA / BIG JOHN BURBON / STATIC Y MIZZA (Safari Athens) 1/26

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

TRESOR HUGO (Ritz) 1/27

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

COREY SMITH (Classic Center) 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

YO MAMA'S BIG FAT BOOTY BAND (Georgia Theatre) 2/9

THE SUEX EFFECT (Amici) 2/10

LIQUID JUNGLE (Georgia Theatre) 2/14

VERTIGO JONES (Georgia Theatre) 2/15

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA (Georgia Theatre) 2/21

DEERHOOF / BUSDRIVER (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

Chris Hassiotis