For the last several years, local proggy, indie rockers Moon Taxi have been ringing in the new year with a hometown crowd, first at Marathon Music Works, and, beginning last year, at larger space War Memorial Auditorium. Continuing their annual New Year’s Eve tradition, the band will return once more, supported by like-minded local act All Them Witches, to help you bid 2015 farewell in style. Both groups recently dropped new albums, among the best local efforts of the year, so there will be no shortage of fresh tunes to keep you rocking into 2016. Tickets are still available to purchase, but we’re also giving away a pair of tickets to one lucky fan in need of NYE plans, so enter below, and read on for more about one of the best possibles ways to spend your last few hours of the year!
MOON TAXI
One of Nashville’s definitive rock and roll success stories of the past few years, Moon Taxi began almost a decade ago, while several members were students at Belmont. Quickly finding a regional audience following the 2007 release of their debut, Melodica, the group’s early days were characterized by a compelling and polished live show, and an affinity for jam-inspired rock with progressive tendencies. A 2008 live album would follow, and gave way to further touring, early festival appearances, headlining spots at local clubs, and increased Nashville prominence through slots at events like Live on the Green.
The group’s sophomore release, Cabaret, arrived in 2012, and really set the wheels in motion for the whirlwind of success they’ve since experienced. Finding a poppier balance, doubling down on their songwriting (after often being praised more for their live show), and incorporating electronics, Moon Taxi quickly found a larger critical and commercial audience, going, in a matter of months, from local events like East Nashville Underground, to prominent spots at national fests (including a 2012 debut at Bonnaroo), appearances on late night television (Letterman, Conan), and nonstop touring. 2013’s Mountains Beaches Cities followed a sonically similar approach to proggy, poppy, alternative rock, paving the way for their latest, this year’s Daybreaker, perhaps the most broadly accessible Moon Taxi release to date, and the best recorded representation of the power and energy of their live show, doubling down a honed-in focus on tight, dynamic songwriting. Moon Taxi’s New Year’s Eve events have become a local staple, and with their best batch of songs ever added to their live arsenal, this year promises to be the best yet!
ALL THEM WITCHES
Mixing influences of psychedelic rock, heavy metal and swampy blues, All Them Witches are one of the most diverse and dynamic rock bands to emerge from Nashville’s music scene. The four-piece group have gained a reputation for their thrilling live show, mostly built on their musical chemistry and ability to jam rather than solely relying on structured songs. They got their start in 2012 with their debut album Our Mother Electricity, but really gained momentum last year with Lightning At The Door, which featured standout tracks like “Charles William” and “When God Comes Back,” showcasing their Southern Gothic style of songwriting perfectly paired with rowdy guitars. The hype surrounding the album last year apparently attracted the attention of reputable record label New West Records, and led to them backing All Them Witches’ latest album, Dying Surfer Meets His Maker. Written in the style of concept album and recorded in a remote cabin in East Tennessee, the LP is mainly inspired by the various upbringings and travels of the band, allowing them to create a sound to reflect particular places. Their recent animated video for new single “Dirt Preachers” is a spectacle to behold, so check it out below and be sure to get to the party early!
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ENTER TO WIN TICKETS
Enter to win tickets by filling out the form below. Must be 18+ to attend, per show’s age requirements. After you have entered, there will be the option to share this contest via social media. For each person that you refer to the contest, you will receive an additional entry. If you experience any trouble with the contest widget, or have any questions, feel free to email us at [email protected].
Winner will be announced Monday, Dec. 28 at 10 p.m. CST, and will receive one pair of tickets. Good luck!
[contesthopper contest=”67694″]
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Moon Taxi and All Them Witches will perform Thursday, Dec. 31 at War Memorial Auditorium. The show is 18+, begins at 9 p.m. (doors at 8 p.m.), and tickets are available to purchase for $40.