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Well, first off, I have to say that night 2 of the Brian Wright and the Sneak-Ups Residency at The 5 Spot somehow manged to top the first week. Guest Audley Freed (The Black Crowes, etc.) sat in for a couple of songs - including a killer version of "Cortez the Killer". Brian Wright and his incredible band put on a great rock n roll show. From the exaltation of "Glory Hallelujah" to the emotional gut punch that is "Heavy Metal Shed Kids" - it was one of the best live shows I have experienced in a good while. Brian Wright has been a favorite of mind since I first heard his music. When he plays solo, it can be amazing. Full-band - it is something else entirely. And this new band (Wade Cofer, Jon Latham, Matty Apples, Jimmy Matt Rowlan, Rob Crowell, Sally Jaye, and Kristen Englenz) is just out of this world. They still have two weeks to go, and I can wait to see where they take it from here.
Next, more about the Magnolia Roads American Roots Hoedown IV. As if the music artists we've already mentioned were not enough, the nights will also include a community canvas and more. The silent auction, which I previously mentioned, and which benefits the Ben Eyestone Fund of the Musicians Health Alliance, is going to have many incredible items. The auction will be done all on-line - so even if you can't make it to the shows, you can still participate. I will be posting the links when they are available. One of the items comes from Wilco, an autographed poster book and more...signed poster, signed toy, scarf, bar towel, CD and pin.
Now, let's get to today's shuffle. It is Wednesday, and I think this shuffle lives up to the "Wild" designation. Besides being wild, it is also filled with excellent music (both new and not as new). Let's go!
