Both New York based, Saddle Creek signed acts celebrating fantastic (and somewhat under the radar) debut albums, Big Thief and opener Sam Evian are set to bring their folk rock and glistening indie pop stylings to The High Watt on Jan. 14. We focus on a wide range of shows, and though it’s sometimes easy to overlook up and coming touring acts in favor of bigger names (or emerging locals), it’s important to keep an eye on the best of what’s next, and there’s certainly no better way to get a new year started than by taking in some fresh music. Tickets to the show are available for just $10 right here, so grab ’em while they’re hot and read on for more about the lineup,!
BIG THIEF
Helmed by skilled frontwoman Adrianne Lenker, the genesis of Brooklyn’s Big Thief began when Lenker met and began collaborating with guitarist Buck Meek, initially as a duo, as they released a pair of early records, and toured the country forging their sound and musical bond. After further flexing her range with a solo album, Lenker, along with Meek, recruited drummer James Krivchenia and bassist Max Oleartchik to round out a full band, which led to debut LP Masterpiece, released last year through Saddle Creek. With a deeply personal thematic style, and a fuzzy, folky, and warm rock sound, Big Thief have quickly built buzz thanks to their engaging, seasoned live show and especially strong debut. This appears to be only their third Nashville show in just as many years, and as promising as they are, we’d recommend catching this group in a small room while you still can.
SAM EVIAN
Also a member of the Saddle Creek roster, also a New Yorker, and also celebrating a debut album, Premium, singer-songwriter Sam Evian channels a dreamy, hypnotic, nostalgic, and shimmering sound that straddles the line between lush and retro, and lo-fi and contemporary. With a talented team of collaborators and studio personnel, and recorded at New York’s legendary Magic Shop shortly before it shuttered, Evian’s LP was one of the most underrated releases of last year, and though his style is distinct from Big Thief’s, his presence should serve as a great compliment.
Big Thief and Sam Evian will perform Saturday, Jan. 14 at The High Watt. The show is 18+, begins at 9 p.m. (doors at 8 p.m.), and tickets are available to purchase for $10.