TUES 12/22: Dance Bands & Singer-Songwriters

Not exactly the usual dance stuff (country and klezmer), but you can still dance. And don't let me stop you from dancing anywhere tonight -- or any time...

It's that time of the year where people are running around. (I know I've been running here and there.) There might not be a lot of stuff to do in the next few days, but I'll keep an eye out for you.

Happy Festivus, everyone!

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TUES 12/22

8pm
Annual Old-Time Music & Clogging Party
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

Feat: Dixie Butterhounds, Ann Whiting, Michael Cooper, French Roast, Notorious, more

When they say "old-time", they mean it. These folk bands and clog dancers maintain the sounds of traditional Appalachian, New England, and Canadian music. This is one of those shows that seems like a trip back in time to me, but this is still contemporary for those who live it.

Part of the fun will be to join in the dancing, and the cloggers will help you figure it out. If you go, prepare yourself to join in the fun.

One of the tentative act is the Dreaded Banjo Orchestra, where more than a dozen banjoists are led by Rick Lee. I won't be there, but I'm dreading it.

Festivities are hosted by Sandy Sheehan of Sandy's Music and WUMB.

TUES 12/22

Audrey Ryan (10pm), Danielle Miraglia (8pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE / 21+

Both shows at Toad get thumbs up. Danielle Miraglia sings with a sultry, soulful voice and has got some sweet fingerpicking guitar chops. Her songs are often meaningful stories chock full of emotion.

As for Audrey Ryan, I have to borrow extra thumbs to stick in the air. There are a lot of great musical acts around town, but I put her in the top echelon for having the talent and vision to do something really special. Just like on her new CD, she'll probably play multiple instruments while setting her songs into the air to dance around your ears.

I taking an early-morning flight tomorrow, and I'm still thinking about catching Audrey Ryan's set!

TUES 12/22

10pm
The Klezwoods
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
FREE

I really don't know why it's labeled "Klezwoods for Christmas" on the Atwoods Tavern site, especially since the band describes themselves as "Jew-jazz". I dig klezmer music, and The Klezwoods do a great job of adding other elements for a more developed sound that's wonderfully festive. (You should also be prepared to dance at this gig.)

TUES 12/22

10:30pm
Aaron Perrino, Josh English
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

So it looks like Aaron Perrino has been enjoying the solo performances, because I've noticed him stepping out lately. If his Alchemist Lounge show is an indication, it should be a mix of Dear Leader and Sheila Divine songs as well as some fun covers. Josh English used to front Boston rockers Six Going on Seven, and now lives in Oregon writing some more really excellent songs.