CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) – Each week Anand Harsh of 106.1 The Corner will direct your attention to the music and arts events happening in Charlottesville and surrounding areas that you absolutely can’t miss. These are at the very minimum shows you should hit if you’re in the neighborhood all the way up to cancel-your-plans, call the sitter, and buy your tickets right now because this is the biggest thing since sliced bread.

CALL THE SITTER

He’s been anointed by the remaining members of the Dead, played with Phish for two nights in Grand Rapids, Billy Strings is the next big thing in jam and beyond, and he’s returning to Charlottesville to claim his crown. Making his way from The Southern to two nights at the Jefferson Theater all the way up to the biggest arena in town—you do in fact have to see what all the fuss is about.

GET YOUR TICKETS

My jam band roots are showing with this pick, as well. These youngsters out of New Jersey have been on the circuit for a little bit, and keep getting better. They’re fun and funky and can absolutely shred on command. I’d recommend catching them so when they’re superstars you can say you saw them way back when.

CHECK IT OUT

  • Apr 19: Fruition @ The Southern – Gorgeous melodies and really solid technical playing make this Americana, folk, and bluegrass act worth catching. They elected to do a more intimate show so you can really get up on top of their melodies. This is a strong pick for me.
  • Apr 18: LA LUZ @ The Southern – This all-female indie-ish band can sometimes lean Khruangbin and always brings a solid intensity to the stage. If nuance and gorgeous songwriting is your thing, absolutely check this band from Cleveland out.

DROP IN

  • Apr 19: Mt. Joy @ John Paul Jones Arena – Once again, if Mt. Joy tickets happen to fall into your lap, it’s worth a trip to the JPJ to see this incredible stage show. Their new sound is a bit of a departure, but into really cool and unexpected territory. Consider me a fan.