SONG: James Cotton @ Lincoln Center 6/24

Blues Summit: James Cotton & Friends

Thu, Jun 24, 8:00pm - Rose Theater

Blues are the true facts of life expressed in words and song,” according to the late great blues icon Willie Dixon. Find out for yourself what the blues are all about in this special concert showcasing the greatest living blues harmonica master, James Cotton, and an all-star line-up of contemporary giants including the 96-year-old legend Pinetop Perkins and the always innovative Taj Mahal. In two distinct sets, one electric and the other unplugged, Cotton will be joined by reigning blues diva Shemekia Copeland, guitarist and Howlin’ Wolf alumnus Hubert Sumlin, plus Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Darrell Nulisch, David Maxwell, and others. (source)

SOUNDS: My Morning Jacket @ MSG 12/31

If I wasn't going to be in Nashville for New Year's I'd be getting lucky with these Kentucky's. Time Out NY says: My Morning Jacket might not play sophisticated rock, but they’re easily one of the most vigorous and magical bands performing today. To mark the drama of this gig (New Year’s at MSG? Is there any greater honor for a band?), the Jacket asks that you show them some high style with black-tie attire. The dress-up thing might seem an odd match for a quasi jam band, but then again, when it comes to partying, My Morning Jacket always goes all the way.

When: Dec 31 9pm @ Madison Square Garden (tickets)