Local Listening
Charlotte's music scene is bringing in big names and putting out fresh talent -- and just keeps growing. This summer, check out these eight local bands for a sampling of the city's best.
| Who | Genre | Top Songs | Where to See Them | About | Compare To |
| Transmission Fields | Powerpop | "While I Sleep," "Mixtape" | The Evening Muse, 3227 N. Davidson St., 704-376-3737, theeveningmuse.com May 29 | The group is known for upbeat tempos and melodic notes that will keep you hooked. myspace.com/transmissionfields | R.E.M. |
| The Not Likelys | Punk | "Robots and Zombies," "One Way Ticket" | Philosopher's Stone, 1958 E. Seventh St., 704-350-1331, philosophersstonetavern.com May 30 | This punk band's head-thrashing vibe will keep you on your toes and out of your seats. myspace.com/thenotlikelys | NOFX |
| The Near Misses | Acoustic Folk | "Windows," "Marigold" | ParkTowne Village shopping center, corner of Park and Woodlawn roads June 26 | The all-female vocal trio belts out inspirational melodies. And the group is preparing for its upcoming summer shows, including Charlotte's FemmeFest 2009. myspace.com/thenearmisses | SHeDAISY |
| Trouble Walkers | Punk Country Blues | "Come on Lil' Honey," "White Devil Bag" | Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St., 704-358-9298, neighborhoodtheatre.com Date TBD | The band's Johnny Cash sound draws fans to its concerts, which are often in the artsy and hip NoDa. myspace.com/troublewalkers | The Ramones |
| Stephen Warwick and the Secondhand Stories | Indie Folk | "Talking Machine," "Tents Come Down" | Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St., 704-333-9799, snugrock.com Date TBD | This band's (formerly the Secondhand Stories) laid-back, rhythmic sound will appear on its newest album, due out in early summer. myspace.com/secondhandstories | Elliot Smith |
| 2013 Wolves | "Coiled Serpent" | The Milestone, 3400 Tuckaseegee Rd., 704-398-0472, themilestoneclub.com Date TBD | Having played together in some fashion for fifteen years, this duo released its first full-length debut album in March. myspace.com/2013wolves | Jethro Tull | |
| Yardwork | Minimalist Pop | "Soda Sprouts," "Cyndi" | The Milestone, 3400 Tuckaseegee Rd., 704-398-0472, themilestoneclub.com Date TBD | The group, which features more than a dozen members, jokingly claims to have zero skill, but its upbeat style draws in crowds at local favorites such as Snug Harbor and The Milestone. myspace.com/yardworknc | The Velvet Underground |
Open Mic Night
The better version of karaoke. Three spots to sing your heart out
The Evening Muse
One of NoDa's most entertaining music venues, the Evening Muse has produced some serious musicians: Washington Lane, the Bowmans, Colin Allured, and Chuck Wood.
When: Monday
The dirt: Sign-up begins at 7 p.m.
3227 N. Davidson St., 704-376-3737, theveningmuse.com
The Rusty Rudder
Known for its acoustic music, this is one of Charlotte's best options for open-mic night, featuring new talent such as Larry Zarella and Heather Purding.
When: Monday
The dirt: Come early to get on the list. The show starts at 7 p.m.
20210 Henderson Rd., Cornelius, 704-892-9195, therustyrudder.com
Smokey Joe's
Expect bluegrass, rock, and R&B at this spot known for its open-mic nights.
When: Tuesday
The dirt: It's a jam session like no other. And it gets packed, so come early.
510 Briar Creek Rd., 704-338-9380, myspace.com/smokeyjoemymusic
—Juan Galvez
