Ryman Pre-Show Press

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http://www.nashvillescene.com/Stories/Arts/Our_Critics_Picks/2006/11/09/Our_Critics_Picks/index.shtml

Our Critics Picks

MY MORNING JACKET with WAX FANG * Monday 13th

My Morning Jacket might just be the best live band in America. And, like many of the strongest acts relentlessly crisscrossing the nation, the Jacket fly slightly below the pop-culture radar as they go about amassing their faithful. It may be grueling and old-fashioned, but fans made on the road are the ones that stick around, spread the word and land you a headlining slot at Bonnaroo. Psychedelic enough for the hippies, heavy enough for old-school rock lovers, smart enough for indie kids and with just the right touch of rootsy humility, this Louisville quintet's brand of ambitious, dynamic rock 'n' roll translates perfectly to arena and club alike. Frontman Jim James is an agile vocalist—his soaring range and sweet tone belie his mountain-man exterior. Opening are fellow Louisvillians and band-to-watch Wax Fang, a trio that share MMJ's love of melody and improvisation, but with a heavier, more angular rendering. ( www.mymorningjacket.com , www.myspace.com/waxfang ) Ryman Auditorium —LEE STABERT