In support of their second studio album, Gran Torino will perform at the

Bijou Theatre on Friday and Saturday night.

With 200-plus shows a year under its belt, Gran Torino has the experience

to give the audience a stellar performance packed with emotion and

drive.

According to lead singer Chris Ford, there is a special ingredient in their

live shows: "Energy - the key word is energy and it shows in the live shows

and in our songs. We try hard to craft songs that convey power, emotion and

good times."

Gran Torino is an nine-piece horn band that also plays instruments ranging

from guitars to organs.

"We don't want to be categorized ... we are a combination of rock, jazz,

funk, soul and mostly R&B," said band member P.J. Alexander.

Primed and ready, the band's hard work has finally paid off with the

release of their second album, Gran Torino Two. According to a press

release, Gran Torino has sold over 15,000 copies of their two previous

records, Live at the Chameleon Club and One. Their new

album,Two, will be released on Jan. 18.

The new single from Two is called "Moments With You" and can be heard

on some local radio stations. The band's Web site, www.grantorino.com,

features MP3s of "Moments with You" and two other songs from the album,

"Melody Maker" and "Are You Livin."

Will Hodge will open for Gran Torino on Friday and the Rustic Overtones

will open on Saturday.

Advance tickets for Saturday's show are $10 and are available at all

Tickets Unlimited Outlets or by phone at (865) 656-4444. Tickets for

Friday's show are also available at the door for $12.50.