Blues, Metal, Acoustic, Psychedelic Groove and More

Caliente! That’s South-of-the-Border-speak for “hot.” While that absolutely defines the weather this week, we’re really referring to the fact that local rocker Hugh Vaughan will play soulful R&B and rockin' Blues on the patio at Saturday evening beginning at 9 p.m. By that time, the steamy temperatures will have cooled down just a bit, making the patio a terrific neighborhood hangout. Toast the weekend’s beginning by quaffing a frosty beverage and listen to Vaughan and his “screamin’ guitar” singing the language of blues. What’s that? You didn’t know that Vaughan’s been onstage with blues greats Bonnie Raitt and B.B. King? Well, it’ll all make sense when you hear what Vaughan can do with that guitar. Vaughan’s signature style dresses up covers and showcases his original songs, which he plays by request. No cover charge.

Tnight at quaint wine-and-tapas spot features Billy Florkowski performing his catchy array selection of originals and universally beloved covers. Acoustic performer Clayton Lee entertains the Saturday evening date crowd with his John Mayer/Jack Johnson kind of ambience. Music begins at 6:30 both nights and there is no cover charge.

Groovy local jam band UPC will hold court at friendly pub on Friday night. Beginning at 9 p.m. UPC channels the psychedelic rock groove that has Grateful Dead and Phish fans spinning in circles and loving every minute of it. No cover charge.

Atlanta Boogie Band is set to blow the roof off tonight. Filling a local niche market in the “jump blues” genre (an extension of the boogie woogie type of sound), this eclectic band rocks out a vintage 1950s blues vibe. ABB then cleverly overlays this sound with modern lyrics to create a uniquely awesome sound. Get ready, because when they storm the stage at 9:30 p.m. Atlanta Boogie Band will show no mercy ‘til the small hours.  No cover charge.

Curiously described as a cross between Tom Petty, Jason Mraz, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder, Portland native and present Atlantan Ty Reynolds will wow the crowd at The Dixie Tavern  tonight. Performing with a full band (or without), Ty is a powerful force with which to be reckoned.

on Saturday will sure to be rocking as local favorite 80s tribute band Iron Mullet takes the stage at 10 p.m. This show is for hard core rock & metal fans who need their injected dose of Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy, KISS, Ratt, Whitesnake, and of course, Iron Maiden.  As the band says on its Facebook page, “All Killer, No Filler!!’'