30 Days Out, October 2021 #2: Scott Miller, JackTown Ramblers, Land of the Sky Symphonic Band, GWAR
The eclectic nature that was a defining characteristic of Asheville’s live music scene is returning in these safer-than-recent-months times. Over the next 30 day, you have opportunities to enjoy music that combines things you might not expect: country rock (okay, that one’s a bit obvious but this guy is special), scum rock (stay with me here), gypsy jazz and bluegrass (didn’t see that coming) and orchestral and Halloween themes.
Artist: Scott Miller
Venue: The Grey Eagle
Date: Friday, Oct. 15, 8 p.m.
Door: $17 advance / $25 day of show
The V-Roys were truly special. They combined country and rock textures I na way that didn’t sound or feel at all like Eagles, thank goodness. They were the kind of outfit that truly earned the tag of “alt” in alt-country. The group edned more than two decades ago, but main songwriter Scott Miller maintains the quality standard set decades ago. I reviewed a V-Roys comp just over a decade ago; my observations still apply. Willi Carlisle opens.
Artist: The JackTown Ramblers
Venue: Isis Music Hall
Date: Saturday, Oct. 30, 8:30 p.m.
Door: $15*
The JackTown Ramblers combine gypsy jazz and bluegrass, and they make it work, with superb musicianship. In early 2020 I wrote a feature on this unique band, but – thanks, Covid – the relevant show was canceled, and the story didn’t run until many months later. Read more about ‘em now, here. *My standard caveat about this venue applies here: They require a $20 per person food purchase in addition to the ticket. Sorta like Vegas. So much for “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” eh?
Artist: Land of the Sky Symphonic Band
Venue: White Horse Black Mountain
Date: Sunday, Oct. 31, 7:30 p.m.
Door: $18 advance / $20 day of show
There aren’t a great deal of opportunities to take in symphonic music outside of the rarefied concert hall setting, but this is one, featuring local talent (of which there is plenty). I don’t have details on what exactly constitutes a Halloween-themed musical program, but I am certain it will be enjoyable regardless.
Artist: GWAR
Venue: The Orange Peel
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 10, 8 p.m.
Door: $30
Most certainly not for the faint of heart, a GWAR show is like nothing else. If you thought Alice Cooper was too tame, you might – might, I caution – be ready for GWAR. Even if you’re not particularly enamored of their music (a slightly monochromatic metallic roar, if we’re being honest about it) their show is something to behold. A visual spectacle like no other. I experienced GWAR in 2014; read my report here. Pro tip: wear old clothes.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day for several years). The more than 5000 interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- some 40 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 30 Great Concept Albums is available now. Read even more about him here.