Ortolan

Hey there, Athens. It's about time I gave you another preview of shows you just shouldn't miss. In case my words aren't convincing enough, I am working on another podcast as well, so you'll be able to hear some tunes from bands coming to town. Hopefully in the next few weeks we'll get back into posting streaming MP3s with every feature and record review as well. Here's another head's up: next week I'll be heading out to SXSW in Austin along with Gordon Lamb and Flagpole contributors Michael Gerber and Christopher Benton. If you want to keep tabs on our shenanigans and the ungodly amount of live music we'll be immersed in, tune into Homedrone for updates. I'll be tweeting as well at www.Twitter.com/FlagpoleMusic. If you already follow me on Twitter but couldn't care less about what is happening in Austin…sorry. Try to bear with me. It'll only be a week and I promise to keep tweeting about Athens things, too. On to the shows! I only highlighted a handful here, but Jeff Tobias did a great weekend preview on Homedrone as well this weekend.

Ortolan: For those heading to the 40 Watt to see Danielson Friday night, make sure to get there early enough for Ortolan. Like Danielson and Co., Ortolan is a family band. It features sisters Stephanie (16), Brianna (18), Lara (20), and sister-in-law Jill (23). I felt like the vocals had this quirky, childish quality before realizing how young the band really was, but it doesn't come across immature as much as it is disarmingly charming. I love the clean arrangements, the honeyed harmonies and subtle the '60s girl group throwback. If you were ever a fan of Eisley, you'll definitely enjoy this group, too. (40 Watt Club, Friday 12)

The Stationary Set: Another New York City band swinging through town on their way to Austin, Stationary Set offer up triumphant indie rock anthems, with just a small touch of emo in the vocal delivery. Or maybe that's just sincerity I hear? It's sweet and melodic either way, with lots of bouncy beats. They'll be joined by local duo The Awesomlies, Brooklyn indie trio Monogold and followed by a dance party with DJ Twin Powers! (Go Bar, Saturday 13)

J Roddy Walston & The Business: I can't think of another band whose live show is as highly acclaimed here in town as J Roddy. I mean, people LOVE seeing this band play. It is all balls-to-the-wall rock and roll energy. If you want to be reminded what it means to be a rock band, please see this group. You will have fun; the choruses will be big and have you singing along. You will leave sweaty and satisfied. That's the J Roddy guarantee. (Caledonia Lounge, Saturday 13)

Michelle Gilzenrat