"Athens 441 Week"

Wednesday, August 15–Saturday, August 18 @ Morton Theatre

originally published August 15, 2007

For the uninitiated, "Athens 441" is a three-band show that takes place intermittently at the Morton Theatre downtown, usually focusing on local artists. The show is hosted by radio guy JoE Silva and taped for future broadcast on regional public radio stations. This week, the series goes nightly.

"Athens 441 Week" started on Tuesday with sets from Fabulous Bird, Steven Trimmer and Blue Mother Tupelo, and shows continue every night throughout the week. Wednesday, Aug. 15 sees local songwriter Wilma perform backed by Davis Causey, John Keane and Bart King, while pop band Nutria turns out the good times and Nana Grizol brings the house party to the local landmark. Country-pop act Timber is on board for Thursday, Aug. 16, along with last week's dreamy PopFest band M Coast and jazz expeditionist act Kenosha Kid.

Friday, Aug. 17 is a mellower night, with classical guitarist Mark Maxwell incorporating some jazz styles, Kimberly Morgan delivering the classic '60s country sound and Lera Lynn's band Birds&Wire bridging the two with a slightly twangy, slightly jazzy - though also slightly darker - mood. The week finishes up on Saturday, Aug. 18, when theatrical pop band Dancer Vs. Politician (formerly known as Panda and featuring folks from cabaret act Audition With Max Reinhardt), former Blake Babies singer John P. Strohm and local troubadour/ guitar pro Jesse Flavin.

Since the series' debut in late 2004, "Athens 441" shows have always taken place on Friday nights, struggling to get attention among other big weekend shows. Though they're spread out over the entire week this week, they're going to have to fight against all the big shows that downtown clubs booked to capitalize on the back-to-school population surge. Surely, though, you should be able to find at least one night to swing by the historic Morton.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and shows start at the friendly hour of 8 p.m. Individual tickets cost $8 and include the price of a drink, but a pair of tickets will only put you out $12. And want a real deal? A pass for all shows is only $20 (A couple's pass? Just $30). If you need any more info, hit up www.athens441.com.

Chris Hassiotis