They say that dancing can burn in excess of 400 calories an hour, so 3-4 hours of it and voilà! - It’s fare thee well to those lingering dollops of figgy pudding. 2016 has seen East Nashville’s honky tonk scene thrive, injecting a shot of life into the largely forgotten American Legion Hall on Gallatin Road and giving hoards of 20 and 30 somethings an excuse to dangle their tassels on a Tuesday night. Starting Saturday January 7, the dance-positive, roadhouse vibe of the Basement East will wear the boots for this now monthly series. Led by the booming baritone of Joshua Hedley (Jonny Fritz, Justin Townes Earle), the night will feature rising crooner Logan Ledger (currently working with T Bone Burnett), Kristina Murray, Tommy Ash and more. Playing a variety of classic cuts, this promises to be a night of bar-room bliss away from the neon glare of broadway. 8pm at The Basement East. Free Admission.
Brian Ritchey - 5 Spot residency
In the realm of raspy Americana, one might find the name of Brian Ritchey’s most recent release Bordeaux a little misplaced. But rather than a European sabbatical, the name refers to the area just north of the Cumberland where Ritchey wrote the album and has lived some 15 years. Over that period, his honest and oftentimes melancholic music has woven in and out of country rock and garage-y pop, departing briefly in 2010 for his lushly contemplative concept album No Way Out of This House. Bordeaux is an group of songs effective in their simplicity. Plaintive and relatable, they voice the kind of grasping thoughts you have when something is visible but just beyond reach. Tenderness aside, there is a southern rock thread that runs throughout this richly produced and tastefully performed album. Fans of Jason Isbell and Ryan Adams will relish this, the first in a month-long weekly residency at the 5 Spot. 6pm at The 5 Spot
