Mon., June 18 – 9:00pm – Antero at the Camel – These guys are a high energy, soulful reggae band based on roots rock. With creative drumming, solid bass, and a uniquely soulful singer, Antero can make a reggae lover out of even the staunchest indifferent. They perform mostly original music, while paying respect to their influences with the remainder. With summer officially arriving Wednesday, reggae is the sound of hot weather and relaxed music lovers. Twenty eight beers on tap don’t hurt, either.
Tues., June 19 – 5:30pm – Rose Crawl in Carytown – What could be more perfect for Summer Solstice Eve than drinking endless pink? I participated in last year’s Rose Crawl and it was a blast. This year’s begins at C Street, moves on to Amour Wine Bistro and finishes at Secco. There is no sign up and no cover charge; simply show up and pay for what you drink. The wearing of pink is highly encouraged, so show your pink spirit with your garb. Times (except for the 5:30PM start) are approximations. And the more pink you drink, the more approximate they become. Enough said.
Wed., June 20 – 10:00pm – Two Man Gentlemen Band at Balliceaux – The Gentlemen’s memorable, pithy compositions combine the sounds of hot jazz, vintage rhythm & blues, and tin-pan alley with boundless energy and enthusiasm. Think intricate, rapid-fire chord changes and melodies on an assortment of antique 4-string guitars and banjos. Their punchy, driving style renders a drummer unnecessary and the New Yorker raved about their “keen vocal harmonies” saying they recall 20s and 30s groups like the Mills Brothers while their lyrics are “so off the beaten path as to be virtually cliche free.” This is a don’t-miss show, kids.
Thurs. June 21 – 7:00pm – Reynolds Gallery Opening-“Summer Solstice” is a group show featuring some of RVA’s most talented artists, past and present: Richard Carlyon, Sally Bowring, Janet DeCover, Theresa Pollak, Heide Trepanier, to name only a few. If ever you doubted the artistic talent in this town, this show will set you straight. A second group show, “Almost Famous” highlights up and coming artists, many of whom are recent VCU MFA graduates. A reception accompanies the opening, so make an evening of it.
Friday, June 22 – 10:00pm – Soul Power at Balliceaux – If ever there was a reason to come out and listen to a DJ spin, it’s Soul Power. Vintage 45s of classic rhythm and blues will ensure that you hear songs you haven’t in years (or ever!) and are guaranteed to get your booty shaking. And, really, when was the last time you danced to 45s? Bartender Sean will ensure that your dancing shoes stay lubricated with his unique cocktail offerings.
Sat. June 23 – 8:00 – Daytime Nighttime Circus at Gallery 5 - Enjoy a night of vaudeville with DC’s Clown Cabaret, the lovely ladies of Richmond Burlesque, and Doc Volz with his Amazing Flea Circus. The twins Parker and Buster Britches will be your hosts for an evening that promises too much fun to be contained in only one ring. And, if you’ve never seen a vaudeville show, you’re in for a treat. As always, the bar will be open.
Sun., June 24 – 7:00pm – Prime Time Swing at Dogwood Dell – If any one thing says summer, it’s taking a picnic to Dogwood Dell for a show. Tonight’s offering is big band, so expect seventeen pieces and lots of swinging music. What better way to wind down the weekend than outdoors letting the music wash over you while the bats circle the sky at dusk? Blankets are fine, but chairs make the evening far more comfortable. Come early and get a good seat for the fun.
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Karen is Just your average Jackson Ward resident who thinks Richmond offers more than enough to keep you occupied and entertained. She smiles too much, talks way too much, is too into music, and shares her opinion whether it’s asked for or not on her blog “I Could Go On and On.”