Fishbone at Riverfront Nights

THE OPENERThe band's website describes Opposite Box's sound as "high energy, experimental music," "weird rock" or "belligerent funk," with a "theatrical, sometimes over-the-top, audience-inclusive stage presence that leaves witnesses wondering what kind of avant-garde circus church they've just experienced."THEMES• On the Green: Bike Night• GreenSpaces Tent: Land Trust for Tennessee• Pup Tent: East Tennessee Alliance for Animals

Fishbone will make a rare appearance Saturday night when it headlines the Riverfront Nights concert series at Ross's Landing.

The band, which formed in 1979, plays a blend of ska, punk, rock, funk and soul sometimes dubbed black rock. The musicians have earned a reputation over the years as being a high-energy live band with a sense of humor to match their biting social commentary. It was Fishbone that helped give bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers their unusual sound and live persona.

During the first decade of this century, the band underwent some personnel changes but settled down in 2011 long enough to release a new album, "Crazy Glue." The musicians also were heavily involved in the making of "Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone," a documentary about the band released in 2010.

While it might have operated somewhat under the popular music radar, the band has a loyal following known as the Familyhood. It has shared the stage with acts including the Beastie Boys, The Roots, Les Claypool/Primus, Fela Kuti, The Dead Kennedys and the Chili Peppers.

The free concert begins at 7 p.m. with opening act Opposite Box. Fishbone follows at 8 p.m.

Upcoming Events