Off-Shoots and Tributes

THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD: It may not be the first Warbler Records & Goods (131 E. De la Guerra St.) in-store performance, but this weekend’s double bill is most certainly signaling the start of something special for our (semi-) new, vinyl-loving neighbors. Since opening their doors in September, the music and home goods shop has played host to a handful of S.B. musicians and deejays, as well as an evening of live tunes from out-of-towners. And this Saturday, March 19, at 5 p.m. the Warbler folks are at it again, with a can’t-be-missed in-store from Permanent Starlight and SiMoN. If you’re a fan of moody, subtle atmospherics, then this one comes extra-highly recommended. Permanent Starlight is a one-man project based in California, loosely inspired by time spent in Japan (see track “Kotodama”), penning quiet, shoegazey folk tunes reminiscent of a stripped-down Múm. Meanwhile, Japan’s SiMoN goes the slightly more orchestrated route, and comes away with a foreign-tongued, familiar-vibed sound that’s equal parts Air, Sigur Rós, and Boy Least Likely To.

And if you’re still not convinced, it stands to be mentioned that Warbler’s sweet, handcrafted space, welcome atmosphere, and intimate setup are sure to make any show they host enjoyable. For more info, call 845-5862 or visit warblerrecords.com/blog.

IN LOVING MEMORY: Also this week, SOhO (1221 State St.) plays host to some of Santa Barbara’s brightest and most beloved music makers. The occasion: a Monday-night tribute and benefit concert for the late, great Kenny Edwards. The talent: a smattering of S.B. staples and Edwards’s collaborators and friends, including Headless Household, Nate Birkey, Julie Christensen, Natalie D-Napoleon, Tom Ball, Sally Barr, and many, many more.

Since the passing of Edwards last August, the music community has felt and lamented the loss. A 10-year Santa Barbara transplant, Edwards played the role of prominent producer, guitarist, vocalist, guest star, and support system for many in and outside the community. He worked within and alongside groups like Headless Household, and pulled from his illustrious background in the ’70s country-rock scene (including stints alongside Linda Ronstadt) to help the HH fellas master their more Americana-inspired sounds. In addition, Edwards was a shining late bloomer of a solo artist, releasing two top-notch albums (2002’s Kenny Edwards and 2009’s Resurrection Road) before his passing.

Needless to say, Monday’s show is certain to bring its fair share of fond memories and celebratory storytelling and plenty of great, homespun music. Headless Household’s Remembering Kenny concert takes place this Monday, March 21, at 7:30 p.m., with ticket proceeds benefiting S.B.-based hospice facility Sarah House. For tickets and info, call 962-7776 or visit sohosb.com.

JACK OF ALL TRADES: If you’re a fan of rock ’n’ roll, chances are you’ve heard of (or could recognize the mustache of) Franz Nicolay. The well-coiffed Brooklynite may just be one of the hardest working music makers in the indie-rock biz; in recent years he’s split his time between playing keys and accordion for the (recently un-hiatused) World/Inferno Friendship Society, touring and providing piano accompaniment for The Hold Steady and Against Me!, producing albums (see The Debutante Hour’s most recent release), writing a column for InDigest Magazine, and penning and recording his solo material.

Head-spinning schedules or no, Nicolay’s also found the time to hit the road alongside singer/songwriter and all-around prolific dude David Dondero. Both blend a country-tinged speak-sing with contemporary and thought-provoking folk rhythms, though Nicolay tends to go the more punk-rock route. Either way, it’s a double-header way worth the price of admission. After all, a chance to see Nicolay in action may not come around again soon—especially considering his schedule. Club Mercy presents Dondero and Nicolay at Muddy Waters Café (508 E. Haley St.) on Thursday, March 24, at 8 p.m. Visit clubmercy.com for tickets.