I have a thing for Dave Gahan and melodramatic electro-rock, but all this giddy anticipation is bittersweet for while the legendary singer races down the catwalk I'll be missing The Avett Brothers and Heartless Bastards at Red Butte Garden. Arrive early for the opening Bastards. The Ohio natives' rough-and-tumble rock & roll knocks the wind straight out of first-time listeners who underestimate singer/guitarist Erika Wennerstrom’s strength. Don’t they know how often good things come in small packages? Her ballsy, nuanced howl lands on the ears like a pleasant chokehold locked in a solid groove.
The Mountain - Heartless Basta...
Pick up their recent LP The Mountain before tonight’s show and, while you’re at it, grab Emotionalism. Produced by Rick Rubin, The Avett Brothers’ latest follows a long line of impressive releases and a small but loyal following that’s ballooned since the recording guru found them on YouTube. Don’t miss this knockout double bill.
Also tonight, Jackson Brown headlines Deer Valley. The acclaimed singer/ guitarist/rock-poet laureate has always sounded wise beyond his years, and his music still retains a smart, warm, timeless quality as on the new single “Here” which appears in Shrink, a film starring Kevin Spacey that’s yet to hit screens … here. Browne’s latest album comes out Sept. 23. Deer Valley Resort, Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater, 2250 Deer Valley Drive South, Park City, 7 p.m. Tickets: SmithsTix.com
Those in the mood for something a little more low key - and wallet-friendly - head to The Urban Lounge for locals Bluebird Radio, Black Hens and Life Sized Model. If you haven't seen Bluebird Radio since they beefed up their rhythm section with drummer Cathy Foy (Future of the Ghost) and bassist Trever Hadley (Band of Annuals) you're truly missing out. The vocal harmonies of Wren Kennedy and Joey Pederson have always been gorgeous and pleasant but the added weight/groove makes for a truly powerful performance. 9 p.m.