Kung Fu Necktie will be hosting a slice of Americana/roots rock tonight featuring local artists The Lawsuits and Ron Gallo alongside People’s Blues of Richmond (VA). The Lawsuits sound has its root’s deep in the tradition of American folk, bluegrass and the blues – similar to 60s acts like the Band and Bob Dylan. However, their recent work has proven that they are definitely not just a retro act. Earlier this month, the group teamed up with South Philly’s HotBox Studios to film an in-studio performance of their entertainingly titled new track “Hot Girl Makes Porno” (Dylan never wrote about porn stars!) which goes from a banjo-based folk song into somewhat of a punk influenced chorus, creating an interesting twist on the American folk tradition. They also had a HotBox performance which featured a collaboration with pals and up-and-coming hip hop outfit Ground Up – for their Tracy Chapman sampled track “Turn Around.” The Lawsuits are planning to release a new EP Hot Love later this spring. Also on the bill is Toy Soldiers’ frontman Ron Gallo performing songs from his catalogue of solo albums from 2006 to 2009. Kung Fu Necktie 1250 N. Front Street, $5, 7:30 pm, 21+ – Dan Brightcliffe
