Who to see and what to hear in November

AN INTRODUCTION
Here it is: The first issue of what is certain to be one of the most innovative and stylish magazines to hit Birmingham in recent times. The concept is fresh and modern; one that should be warmly welcomed by both internet squatters and those of us that still enjoy holding what we are reading. The content will feature a wide variety of issues and will include something for everyone. The plan is for this little column to do the same.

My name is Todd Coder, and I have been tapped to write a monthly music column for B-Metro. This month will mark my third year as the live music talent buyer at WorkPlay, and as a disclaimer I do not consider myself a music industry expert. However, I have experienced quite a lot over the 15 years that I have been involved in the music business (mostly as a concert promoter) and my career path is unique.

This column will serve as a platform to share my experiences with you the reader, as well as share my thoughts about the music industry as a whole, including new and upcoming national artists and local bands that are making an impact on the national scene. Broader topics such as the internet and its direct effects on the music industry will also be explored. Finally, I’ll close each commentary with a diverse sample of shows that I strongly suggest you add to your concert schedule for the upcoming month.
The purpose of this article is to remain elastic and organic, informative and entertaining but most of all, an enjoyable read. I hope that you will take the time to read each month and offer up your feedback and commentary along the way.
This concludes my informal and hopefully efficient introduction.
And off we go …

SEE THE MUSIC
October is one of my favorite months of the year for a variety of reasons: fall has finally arrived, college football is in full swing and there are always a plethora of concerts that take over our city. This month is typically one of the busiest times of the year for shows and 2009 was no exception.

Check out this partial list of artists that visited Birmingham last month: NEEDTOBREATHE, Andrew Bird, Allman Brothers Band and Widespread Panic, Brandi Carlile, Todd Snider, Kings of Leon, Creed, Loretta Lynn, Will Hoge, Mat Kearney, Meat Puppets, Ryan Bingham, Miley Cyrus, A Fine Frenzy, KISS, Hanson, Jill Sobule and Galactic.
Notice not only the volume, but the variety of genres represented by the names above, and remember it is just a sample of who played here in less than a 30 day time frame. Contrary to some beliefs, Birmingham consistently offers its residents a cornucopia of options when it comes to live music. We all need to go out and support it. That being said, here is a sample of what is playing in November at a music venue near you …

Mute Math—Amazing live show and great band. If you have never seen them live, I highly recommend it. If you are on the fence about going to this show, jump off. You’ll be kicking yourself on Tuesday. Alabama Theatre, Monday, November 2.

Marcy Playground with Hot Action Cop—MP will be performing new tunes from their recently released fourth album, Leaving Wonderland plus old favorites like Sex & Candy. Toss in cult favorites Hot Action Cop and you’ve got a great show for the first Thursday in November. WorkPlay, Thursday, November 5.

Joshua James with Jon Black—I have been listening to Joshua for almost three years now and his music, while amazing to me the first time I heard it, has really transformed into something special with his latest effort, Build Me This. James shows off his rock ’n roll talents on this record, and I truly think that this will be the effort that starts turning heads his way. Local favorite Jon Black and his band are more than appropriate as the support act on this bill and will add a nice, local touch for an amazing night of music. WorkPlay, Saturday, November 7.

Tesla w/ Sledd—I don’t know much about Sledd but I know plenty about Tesla. This show is going to be amazing and the people watching should be just as entertaining. Two words for you: Love Song. WorkPlay, Thursday, November 12.

Bruce Hornsby—He’s had an amazing career including years with the Noisemakers and occasional stints with The Grateful Dead. He’ll be performing this show alone with a piano and that’s good enough for me. Alys Stephens Center, Friday, November 13