Say Zuzu is taking the stage ahead of local rockers Chickasaw Mudd Puppies. Describing itself as “[threading] together a reflective patchwork of folk, rock, alternative, and country powered by lifelong friendships and a collective ambition to ‘carpe diem,’” Say Zuzu was originally formed in the early ‘90s and is fronted by Cliff Murphy, now alongside Jon Nolan, Steve Ruhm, Tim Nylander and Jon Pistey. Despite releasing multiple albums and amassing success in Italy and Germany, the band dissolved in 2003 after signing a record deal with George Fontaine Sr. at New West Records that never came to fruition. Two decades later, however, after having a recurring dream where he’d walk into a venue hearing a band he loved that turned out to be Say Zuzu, Fontaine offered the band another contract at New West imprint Strolling Bones Records and the band was revitalized. Say Zuzu has now released and is touring a record of brand new material, No Time to Lose, and its comeback story has even inspired a documentary. Similarly, Chickasaw Mudd Puppies released its first album since the ‘90s, Fall Line, last year. Forming members Brant Slay and Ben Reynolds were protégés of Michael Stipe, who produced their albums White Dirt (1990) and 8 Track Stomp (1991).
WHO: Say Zuzu, Chickasaw Mudd Puppies
WHEN: Saturday, Apr. 27, 7 p.m. (doors)
WHERE: 40 Watt Club
HOW MUCH: $16 (adv.), $21
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