This Week in Live Music

Thursday, Sept. 6, The Amida Bourbon Project and Mildred Moody at Summervale

The lineup includes two of Burlington’s best musicians, Aya Inoue and Scott Mangan. Inoue has toured nationally and internationally as a solo artist and with her band The Amida Bourbon Project, most often accompanied by lead guitar player Matt Harpster. 

Her raw lyrics are full of depth and match her alluring voice, while Harpster’s bright, vivid guitar leads provide a perfect contrast. These two will be appearing with their full band in the final installment in the Summervale series for the year before they go on a recording break for an undetermined amount of time.

With a special opening set by innovative singer/songwriter Scott Mangan and his band of incredibly talented – and attractive – band-mates thrown into the mix, this is going to be a night you don’t want to miss. The show is free and open to all ages with refreshments available for purchase. The music starts at 5:30 p.m., leaving you with time to start your weekend after the show. 

Friday, Sept. 7, Art Hop line-up at Signal Kitchen

For those of you who have never experienced Burlington’s Art Hop, take this opportunity to do so. This year, in addition to all the incredible visual art that you can view for free all down Pine Street, they have a killer music lineup at the Signal Kitchen on Main Street for free, wholesome fun. 

At 6 p.m., Zack duPont brings his one-of-a-kind voice and guitar picking style. You can’t compare Zack to anyone: He is simply excellent in a way that he has innovated on his own. 

At 7 p.m., Lowell Thompson takes the stage with his driving melodies and a voice that combines whiskey and honey to please even the most intense haters of country music.

Later, local celebrity Heloise Williams takes the stage with the Savoir Faire at 11:30 p.m. Self-classified as an electro/pop/soul band, these guys make you want to rage. 

Saturday, Sept. 8, Barbacoa at Signal Kitchen

Another showcase put on by the Art Hop, Barbacoa is guitar-slayer Bill Mullins’ project. Musically intricate and upbeat, this instrumental group has as much rock influence as it does surf. Yet another free, all ages show. Barbacoa goes on at 10 p.m., with more wonderful bands before and after their set.

Sunday, Sept. 9, Maryse Smith CD Release with Zack DuPont at Signal Kitchen

Well, Signal Kitchen will just be making a killing this weekend. Aforementioned Burlington music favorite, Zack DuPont, has started an unfalteringly tasteful listening room series. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., is available to all ages and costs $10 at the door.

DuPont will open up for local Honky Tonk queen Maryse Smith. With a growing reputation, a voice that combines the styles of Gillian Welch and Regina Spektor to beautifully accentuate her style and strong instrumental arrangements behind her, this may well be a night you brag about being a part of two years from now. 

Monday, Sept. 10, Bob Wagner Trio at Red Square

Bob Wagner is the guy everybody wants to be, or wants to be in a band with. As a musician he is talented, versatile, hardworking, and all-around excellent. Wagner’s music touches on everything from country to blues and rock. 

On a side note: His nickname is Ginger Moses. You’ll get it when you catch him at Red Square at 7 p.m. for free. This one is 21+, but it’s worth hovering in Red Square’s alley if it’s nice enough for them to play outside. 

Tuesday, Sept. 11, Ellen Powell Trio at Red Square

Plain and simple, Ellen Powell is good. A respected jazz bassist in the music scene, she surrounds herself with musicians such as Tom Clearly and Steve Wienert. All three are music professors at colleges in surrounding areas. 

If you’re looking for some solid jazz at no cost to you, this is where you want to be. The show is 21+, free and starts at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 12, Aer, David Dallas, Jacob Es at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge

Many of you are thoroughly acquainted with both Aer and Jacob Es, so I’ll make this brief. These guys put on an awesome show every single time. Giving hip-hop a good name, this show could easily sell out, so you want to get your tickets now at highergroundmusic.com. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m.