Friday, July 20
What: Roy Orbison Returns
Where: Bijou Theatre
When: 8 p.m.
Price: $20
Preston's Take: Ray and the Big O Band are one of the best Roy Orbison covers in the country, and after years of touring California, they're bringing their act to Orbison's home state. I always feel a little weird seeing a tribute band to a deceased artist, but Orbison had an incredible career, so I will make an exception to hear some of my own personal favorites live (no pun intended).
What: Parlour with Shedding and Dolphyn Rydyr
Where: The Pilot Light
When: 10 p.m.
Price: $5
Preston's Take: Parlour is an instrumental rocktonic group out of Louisville, while Shedding is a band built out of the mind of solo artist Connor Bell and Dolyphyn Rydyr has an awesome name mixed with a good sound. Should be a good time.
Saturday, July 21
What: Taboo
Where: The Valarium
When: 9 p.m.
Price: N/A
Preston's Take: Valarium was voted the #1 Dance Club in Knoxville, so it has to be good. Parking is free, but entrance is available only for those 18+.
Sunday, July 22
What: Bush
Where: The Historic Tennessee Theatre
When: 8 p.m.
Price: $37
Preston's Take: The British band is touring to support their new album "The Sea of Memories." Known mostly for their 90s power-ballad "Glycerine," this sort of hybrid between British grunge and indie rock have carved out a very respectful career for themselves beyond their supposed one-hit-wonder status. Should be a good show at a good venue.
What: Blitzen Trapper with Sarah Jaffe
Where: The Ciderhouse
When: 9 p.m.
Price: $10 advance, $12 at door
Preston's Take: Blitzen Trapper are a country/folk unit out of Portland, Oregon, who made a big splash with critics in 2008 when they released their album "Furr." Whenever I listen to them, I can't help but think of a Wes Anderson movie's soundtrack, which to me is high praise. Definitely worth going.