Richmond’s The Southern Belles have been compared to Frank Zappa, The Grateful Dead, and even Phish due to their live jams which blend Roots Rock and Jazz in onslaughts of technical precision. But their solid, rocking songs, steeped in Americana and Soul, flavored with psychedelic sounds and funk (and that screaming organ) make me think The Band first and foremost. This isn’t just another jam band (but they’re sure touring like one). The Southern Belles have something for everyone, and you can catch them all over the area over the next three months (I count 25 shows, from PA to NC as of this posting). For starters, check them out at Cary St. Café in Richmond on 3/19, or Ned Devine’s in Herndon on 3/20. If you’re in DC and you don’t like to drive, you can see them at Bayou on 3/21. I could keep going. Just check the links for all the dates (and music), and listen to the new track Away We Go below. –Natan Press
