At a time of year when we are all giving thanks, it seems appropriate to also give thanks to the area music venues that strive to give local artists a voice. That is not to say that many venues around the Chattanooga area do not take chances on local artists and help promote the local scene, but for as many shows each week that both JJ's Bohemia and the Revelry Room book, they always seem to do their best to add local artists to the mix.
Whether that is highlighting local showcases or adding locals on as support for touring artists when they have the chance, both venues have done their part to enhance Chattanooga's own music culture. And the love is spread around, to many different artists in many different genres, strategically pairing artists for the betterment of the overall show.
One local band that has deservedly received support from the venues is Rye Baby. The Americana duo is perfectly paired. Vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Jennifer Hope Brumlow's twangy, energetic presence is met by rowdy guitar licks and accompanying vocals from Callie Harmon. Self-described as a "minimalist twang'n'roll duo," Rye Baby has been turning heads around town for a few years now. In witnessing their live show, it is hard not to watch; they command the stage with their high energy. You'll be amazed at how much sound comes from just two people, and will likely find yourself wondering what instrument they might pull out next.
Having performed locally in recent months at both JJ's Bohemia and Barking Legs Theater, the duo will take the stage again in Chattanooga as they open for Birmingham, Alabama-based rock 'n' roll band Banditos at the Revelry Room Friday, Dec. 8.
Still reeling from the excitement of the release of their new EP, "Shiny Fiction," and determined to perfect their live show and continue getting out in front of people (which also includes a little touring), Rye Baby is quickly proving to be a band-on-the-rise born of Chattanooga's blossoming music scene.
New Music Playlist: genre-crossing tunes we recommend you add to your music library:
"Look at Your Hands" by Tune-Yards
"Never Break" by Langhorne Slim
"Shark Smile" by Big Thief
"Lucky Penny" by JD McPherson
"Creek Gon' Rise" by Rye Baby
"Heartstruck (Wild Hunger)" by Hamilton Leithauser
"Bottom of the Deep Blue Sea" by MISSIO
"The Girl on the Mountain" by Steve Earle & The Dukes
"Leave the Light On" by Overcoats
"Cracks Appear" by Fink
"And Saints" by Sleigh Bells
"Do You Love Texas?" by Shooter Jennings
"Gave Your Love Away" by Majid Jordan
"What's Real" by Z. Rich
"So Tied Up" by Cold War Kids
"Ode to My Heritage" by Dangermuffin
LIVE MUSIC
On tour in support of his new album, "Undivided Heart & Soul," Oklahoma native JD McPherson will deliver his retro brand of roots rock 'n' roll from the stage of the Revelry Room on Tuesday 12/5.
Touring with new material from their recent studio album, "So You Wannabe an Outlaw," Steve Earle & The Dukes will bring Earle's signature mix of gritty country and rock to the Walker Theatre on Tuesday 12/12.
Country artists Shooter Jennings and Jason Boland will take the stage together at Songbirds Guitar Museum on Thursday 12/14, sharing stories and taking turns playing songs all night long.
Charleston, South Carolina-based melodious jamband Dangermuffin is on the road with the Infamous Stringdusters, and the two bands will visit the Revelry Room together on Thursday 12/14.