5 Live Music Musts - Buy Local Music 2016

The Silks

The Silks play pure rock and roll throughout New England and beyond. The Providence power trio includes guitarist Tyler-James Kelly, Jonas Parmelee on bass and drummer Sam Jodrey. Check out their latest release Turn Me On, straight ahead rock and roll that’s fresh and vintage at the same time. Speaking of vintage, don't miss the debut album from Cowboy and Lady, Kelly’s other band with partner Jess Powers. It’s a fine release in the tradition of the great country duos – details here.

(Photo Credit: Laura Sofia)

Allysen Callery

Bristol’s Allysen Callery is an internationally recognized singer-songwriter who’s known for her sublime delivery in a style often described as “ghost folk.” What she does best is write original music in the tradition of the great British Isle folk artists of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Her poignant vocals and intricate fingerpicking explain why she’s returning to SXSW in March, 2017. Until then, check out her latest album The Song the Songbird Sings and catch her tonight, November 25, on a bill at the Collaborative in Warren – details here. 

The Copacetics

The Copacetics are a Newport, RI based ska band that knows how to tear it up in concert. Incorporating elements of reggae, 80’s ska and horn driven modern blues, they are poised to move forward in 2017. They’ve already shared the stage with national touring artists like Steel Pulse, Third World and the English Beat. Their new album Ska Royale comes out next week; we’ve heard it, and we’re impressed. Look it up this holiday season.

The Z-Boys

The Z-Boys are a hard playing surf rock trio from Newport. They’ve been tearing it up at shows over the past year behind Greg Burgess’ inspired guitar playing, Amato Zinno’s commanding bass, and Ziggy Coffey’s outrageous drumming. Have a listen to their debut release here and check them out at an upcoming show. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

Biltmore

Biltmore is a Providence band with a sophisticated modern rock sound. They’re self-described as “Coldplay with more guitars, Foo Fighters without the screaming, and The Killers, but not as handsome.” Their first major album Revolutions and Romantics was just released, and we expect a bunch of shows coming up including a WBRU "home-brewed" session on Dec 12.  Check out their music and then buy a copy of the new album available here.

Ian Fitzgerald

Ian Fitzgerald is on a roll this year. He represented RI splendidly when he took the stage at the Newport Folk Festival last summer. He’s just released a new album You Won't Even Know I'm Gone, which has earned some outstanding reviews. He’s playing a Black Friday gig today at What Cheer Records and Vintage on Thayer in Providence. Check him out and maybe he’ll sign a copy for you! 

Warbler Roost

Released earlier in the year, Sancta Malleo is a charming collection of accordion centered gypsy folk from Newport based Warbler Roost. The band features the unassuming vocals of Bessie Bee along with accompanying guitar from Greg Burgess, and bass work from Bob Kendall. Look for them at a future show and find the album here.

Invisible Hours

If you’re in the mood for some cerebral punk noir, check out The Invisible Hours. The band has been making some noise in and around the capital city, behind their jingle jangle guitar chords and the distinct vocals of Chris Kelly. Wake the Ghosts of Night is their new album, released this past July. Check it out here and catch them live sometime soon.

OB Howard

O. B. Howard is a dream folk duo from Providence comprised of Buck St. Thomas and Alexandra Dutremble. Their self-titled debut album has that raw, lo-tech feel - and therein lies it’s beauty. It features that light airy sound that just melts the heart. Check them out live on Wednesday November 30 at Alchemy where they’ll play as part of the "Stand With Standing Rock" benefit.

Quahogs

What’s not to like about a band named after RI’s favorite summer delicacy, that band being The Quahogs. Led by Steve Delmonico, who’s edgy vocals remind the listener of Deer Tick Jon McCauley's scratchy howl, the band is popular around the state and is building a following around the country. Their new album, Sunny Waste, is pure unadulterated rock and roll, and it’s available here. They put on a great live show – click here for more.