Holy cats, how does Subway Lights have only 169 likes on Facebook? The skill in slick, synth-driven “Can You Hear Me” would pin them as professionals polished by years on the road and a Rolling Stone spread or two. But all they have under their belts is a 4-song EP released this year and an upcoming slot in Monday’s 8 off 8th at Mercy Lounge. This is actually their debut show, so get there for bragging rights after the band takes off. -Terra James-Jura
Stagolee at the 5 Spot 9.14
Stagolee is a five-piece band that sound as if Florence Welch were raised in a trailer in the Dirty South with only one warped Supremes LP for her record player. But she wasn’t, and vocalist Katie Robertson doesn’t take herself near as seriously. This playful approach allows Stagolee to veer from soul-inspired ballads to fuzzy distorted garage rock in one cohesive swoop on their most recent album, “The Latest Craze.” “Lay It Down” slowly builds intensity and showcases Robertson’s bodacious croon. They hit the 5 Spot on September 14th. -Terra James-Jura
Of Archers Release EP
After taking a short hiatus to work on other projects, Of Archers is back and more focused than ever. The first track on the newest EP, “Don’t Look,” opens with rolling arpeggios and shimmering guitar. Briefly tipping its cap to the likes of Coldplay, “Don’t Look” breaks into a thumping groove that shows the band has begun to find its own niche. The writing is an improvement from past releases, tastefully working the songs theme of walls caving in with the cascading walls of sound. “Roots,” the most impressive track, is a catchy Fall favorite that will remind you why you first liked Death Cab for Cutie. The three song EP is promising and leaves me excited for a full release. -Michael Perry
Magnolia Sons at Beer Fest 9.14
Magnolia Sons take the stage like a tornado of soul, swagger and finely tailored suits, and have been ravaging crowds all over Tennessee this summer. They are cheeky retro done ridiculously well, and will conjure up nostalgia for an era when Quisp cereal lined the shelves. Their single, “A Piece Worth Picking Up” has an addictive tension and release that reveals their keen musicianship. On September 14th they take the Gulch for Beer Fest. If Magnolia Sons don’t get you dancing like an idiot, 100 different craft beers certainly will. –Terra James-Jura
MODOC Monday
Congratulations to MODOC, the winner of our Artist of the Month Poll. Get you a listen of their latest single, "Runnin’" off their self-titled album, released August 28th. If you find yourself humming it the rest of Monday, go over to http://www.modocmusic.com/ and purchase the whole thing before your coworkers freak out on you. -Terra James-Jura
Deadstring Brothers at the High Watt 9.7
Kurt Marschke of the Deadstring Brothers migrated to Nashville from Detroit in 2010, and though he left behind the poverty and packs of abandoned dogs in streets, the hardscrabble grit of the Motor City remained. That attitude and their fat, distinct guitar tone is what makes the band so satisfying to listen to. Deadstring Brothers have been tearing up the road in support of their April release, “Cannery Row.” They will be at the High Watt this Saturday, with Josh Farrow and Josephine and the Wildfront opening. Go if you think you know anything about rock and roll, but first watch them play in the elevator to Hell in this video for “Meet Me Down at Heavy Load." – Terra James-Jura
Gunther Doug Album Release Show 9.7
Sarasota, FL natives Gunther Doug have an unbreakable bond that shows through when playing their unique and distinctive music. The trio has since relocated to the likes of Music City therefore combining their Florida swag with some original Nashville rock features. Rising quickly to rockstar status, band members Devin Robinson (vocals/guitar), Ryan Elwell (drums), and Andréa Randaci (bass) will be releasing their self-titled debut album this Saturday, September 7th at the Nashville’s Chillin’ backyard event. The show will feature popular bands Sol Cat (our August artist of the month), Gunther Doug, Buffalo Rodeo, and special guests. You are not going to want to miss this opportunity. The concert will cost $3 at the door with music beginning at 8pm. 318 Elberta St. is going to be one rocking place this Saturday. Make sure to catch Gunther Doug at their exclusive CD release show and bring plenty of good vibes. -Maria Hartfield
Lulu Mae at Live on the Green 9.4
Lulu Mae has been toiling away at their 2014 release. Listening to their infectious, family-style folk rock, I’d imagine this process to be much like a very spirited Amish barn-raising. Those that preorder the album will be able to download unreleased single “Memphis Woman.” They will be opening for Local Natives and Leagues this Thursday (tomorrow) at Live on the Green. Brighten your post-holiday funk this Wednesday with the upbeat “Mockingbird and the Dogwood Tree.”
Hey! Did you take a rain check for Live on the Green the past four Thursdays? Or spend them all in a drunken haze and can’t remember the show or how you got home? We will have a recap of the entire series, so you can relive your memories or piece together your chemically-inconvenienced mistakes. -Terra James-Jura
OGG 7″ Single Release Show at The Cage 9.14
If you haven’t had a chance to catch any of the shows at The Cage, one of Nashville’s newest houses doubling as a venue, your next chance is September 14th. PUJOL, Deluxin’, Waxed, and OGG will be providing music backed by Dig Deep Light Show setting the scene on a screen, but this time around there’s an extra reason to celebrate. Outside The Circle Records, co-founded by Mac Joseph and Marshall Homra (members of local punk outfit Dirty Dreams) is celebrating its first release, a 7” single by OGG. $5 gets you in as well as a copy of the single (attendance is limited to 200). -Michael Perry
BC Album Release at 12th and Porter 9.4
BC is an oddity: one guy with a guitar that can veer from Jason Mraz to Michael Jackson within a few beats. He assembles tracks on stage by linking bits of voice and percussion like so many tinkertoys. This anticipation to see how it comes together, combined with his natural showmanship makes his live show so fascinating to watch. September 4th marks the release of his latest album, “heART.” BC and Brian Fuente, fellow Nashville resident and former contestant of “The Voice” will be at 12th and Porter this Wednesday, Sept. 4. -Terra James-Jura
Interview with Josephine and the Wildfront
Need another reason to slather on some sunblock and head out to the Demonbreum Blockbuster this Saturday? Josephine and the Wildfront, our July Artist of the Month, will be on the South Stage at 5pm. They were gracious enough to answer a few interview questions, so click HERE to learn a little more about what makes them tick. -Terra James-Jura
Shut Up at the Family Wash 9.6 & 9.7
Shut Up is composed of Zach Grace (Mock Orange, Heypenny), Nathan Spear (Stackmagic) and is fronted by Megan Light. Together they crank out nineties flavored pop with Breeders-level bass with enough guitar wizardry to keep it interesting. “Valentine” is a good showcase of their hearty appreciation of the grunge age. Shut Up is playing the Family Wash Sept 6th and 7th. –Terra James-Jura