SLIM CESSNA’S AUTO CLUB
Few local bands can claim that they have opened for the likes of Johnny Cash or Kristen Hersh. But music lovers swear by the rock, bluegrass and gospel cocktail served up by these deeply rooted musicians. Tonight they play the Bluebird Theater, 3317 E. Colfax Ave. Tarantella opens. 9 p.m. $11.
THE NATIONAL DEBONAIRES
Denver bluesmen Steve Gerard and Geoff Starin head up this “good rockin’, tail- shakin”‘ band. Tonight they headline the Skylark Lounge, 140 S. Broadway. The bar’s holiday fun continues Saturday when country music regulars Halden Wofford and the Hi-Beams throw down a honky-tonk New Year’s Eve show. Music at 9 p.m. $5.
SHANTI GROOVE/MOONSHINE STILL
Back-to-back nights of jazz, rock, bluegrass and funk jamming tonight and Saturday at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom, 2637 Welton St. 10 p.m. $12-$15.
BUCKNER FUNKEN JAZZ
This upbeat, respected jazz act led by longtime local musician and “defender of funk” Ron Buckner pitches in Saturday during the New Year’s Eve party at Herb’s Jazz & Blues, 2057 Larimer St. $12. 9:30 p.m.
THE RAILBENDERS
One of the state’s most popular alt-country bands headline New Year’s Eve at Bender’s 13th Ave. Tavern, 314 E. 13th Ave. With Angie Stevens and The Calf Branders. 9 p.m. $20.
– Reach Elana Ashanti Jefferson at ejefferson@denverpost.com or 303-820-1957.
