Former brains behind Bright Eyes, occasional Desaparecido, and sometimes Monster of Folk Conor Oberst announced a new album, Upside Down Mountain, earlier this year, and, in support, has a U.S. tour with Dawes, which stops at our very own Ryman Auditorium on June 6. Not only will Dawes open for Oberst on this outing, but they will also act as his backing band- much like The Faint did way, way back on his Digital Ash in a Digital Urn tour a decade ago. Sounds awesome, right? Right. Even more awesome? Tickets are still available, and start at less than $30! Even MORE awesome? We’re giving away a pair! Keep reading for more about the show and details on how to enter!
CONOR OBERST
Though Conor Oberst has hardly slowed down over the years, he’s been performing with something of a permeant backing group, Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band, since the late ’00s, effectively retiring the “Bright Eyes” moniker that made him famous. His last true solo full-length arrived in ’08, the same year as his last Ryman performance, and, with Dawes in tow (the Mystic Valley Band appear to be sitting this one out), his upcoming show promises to be even more epic! Prolific would be an understatement when describing Conor, whose influences range from folk to indie to punk to post-hardcore. His latest release, Upside Down Mountain, doesn’t officially drop until May 19, but you can hear it early here; spoiler alert, it might just be the best thing he’s released in years.
DAWES
Dawes might be opening (then backing Conor) this time around, but, just last summer, they played The Ryman as headliners. Let us stress this again: tickets for two bands, who are effectively both headliner status, are ONLY $29.50. Merely five years into their existence, Dawes have already managed to release three full-lengths, all of which are stellar. Channeling a rootsy, folk-rock sound, the band got their early beginnings participating in informal jam sessions in Los Angeles, many of which also included Conor Oberst. A favorite of the Nashville community, it should go without saying, but you’d be a fool not to show up early to catch them.
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ENTER TO WIN TICKETS
Winner will be announced Thursday, May 29, at 5 p.m., and will receive one pair of tickets. For a bonus chance to win, RSVP to the event here, and share it on your Facebook wall. Enter below (you will be redirected to your e-mail, where you will need to hit send):
If you’re having issues with the above form, you can alternately send your full name in an e-mail to [email protected] with “Conor Oberst Giveaway” in the subject line, and please let us know if you shared on Facebook.
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Conor Oberst and Dawes will perform Friday, June 6, at The Ryman Auditorium. The show is all ages, begins at at 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.), and tickets are available to purchase for $29.50-39.50.