Things never get boring when you keep a little variety in your music collection. This weekend, the mid-Michigan area boasts everything from blues-rock to the Afro Rave series to alternative country.
Friday vibes: Blues-rock great at Grewal Hall
Watching Larry McCray live is always a thrill. He walks onstage, plugs in and lets the guitar do plenty of talking. Every solo feels like perfection, and every note carries the weight of experience. His band also locks in effortlessly, leaving room for surprises that keep longtime fans smiling and newcomers paying attention.
By the time the final notes fade, you’re reminded why he’s one of the greats. McCray simply plays, connects and leaves everyone wanting one more song, making each performance memorable.
Want to experience that live? He performs Friday, July 10, at Grewal Hall. Beloved local band the Root Doctor opens.
Show details: Larry McCray and Root Doctor at Grewal Hall in Lansing on Friday, July 10, doors 7 p.m. Details: https://GrewalHall.com/.
Hot beats: Afro Rave series continues at the Lansing Shuffle
Rex Karkitie, also known as DJ RexYo, is the founder of the Afro Rave series at the Lansing Shuffle, bringing exciting sounds to the downtown area.
On Saturday, July 11, it’s a special Afro Rave, “inspired by the world’s most iconic all-white events, this is a night of elegance, energy and unforgettable vibes.” Expect sizzling beats from DJ RexYo, Blakito and Cutt-Nice. Oh, and wear your favorite white attire.
Show details: Afro Rave All-White Affair with DJ RexYo, Blakito and Cutt-Nice at the Lansing Shuffle downtown, Saturday, July 11, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Information: https://posh.vip/e/allwhite-affair/.
Weekend encore: Flatfoot at The Avenue
It’s always special when music is a family affair. Lansing rock ‘n’ rollers Flatfoot have a gig at The Avenue Cafe on Sunday, July 12, and it’ll be just that: a mix of music and family.
Flatfoot makes a unique mix of alternative country, punk and roots-rock and has been doing so for years. It’s an energizing and imaginative blend of sounds that beg to be experienced live.
On Sunday, Aaron Bales of the band will be joined by his brother, Jason, who’s visiting from North Carolina and will play with the group. Jason will also perform songs off his solo EP, “Watching the Pines.”
Show details: Flatfoot with opening act Cigar Box Scott at The Avenue in Lansing on Sunday, July 12, doors 7 p.m. Information: https://www.facebook.com/flatfootmusic/.
New series at Mash East Lansing
Downtown East Lansing is getting a country makeover this summer as Mash launches The Ranch Honky Tonk, a pop-up running Thursdays through Saturdays through Aug. 23. Expect live country music, DJs and more. Opening weekend features American Idol favorite Dave Fio with DJ Duke on Thursday, July 9, Louie Lee with DJ Slavin on Friday, July 10, and McKayla Prew with DJ Elemnt on Saturday, July 11.
Show details: The Ranch Honky Tonk, presented by Mash, at Mash East Lansing, Thursdays through Saturdays through Aug. 23, 6 p.m. Information: https://www.instagram.com/mash.eastlansing.
Freelance reporter Anne Erickson covers local music for the Lansing State Journal. She has extensive experience covering news and features for a variety of publications. Contact her for coverage at ashleyanne777@yahoo.com or ItsMeAnne.com/contact.
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Flatfoot, Larry McCray and Afro Rave top Lansing area’s music options this weekend
Reporting by Anne Erickson, For the Lansing State Journal / Lansing State Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Anne Erickson, For the Lansing State Journal | USA TODAY Network
