Winter Arts Preview: Until the Thaw

Here’s a handful of non-classical shows we think are worth braving the gray chill of winter to see.

Jan. 27: Los Lobos at TopGolf

Perhaps you didn’t expect to hear Los Lobos, an internationally revered band with a rich and diverse catalog, at the 600-person event space attached to the new recreational golfing facility near Nissan Stadium. Neither did I, but here we are. Another notable booking there this spring is George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic on Feb. 23.

Feb. 16-17: She’s a Rebel 4 at 3rd & Lindsley

For She’s a Rebel 4, the fourth annual celebration of the too-often-overlooked majestic and transformative power of ’60s girl groups, organizers have expanded to two nights. The show routinely draws a slew of amazing Nashville singers, so watch for a jaw-dropping lineup announcement.

Feb. 22: Jonathan Richman With Tommy Larkins on the Drums at The Basement East

Will wonders never cease? Not as long as Modern Lovers founder Jonathan Richman and his percussive partner Tommy Larkins are touring — they transport everyone in the room with them to wherever Richman is singing about with an easy grace.

Feb. 23: Pedro the Lion at Exit/In

If someone wants to talk earnestly about faith, people who don’t share that faith often don’t want to hear it. The catalog of David Bazan’s former band Pedro the Lion is an exception, in part because he doesn’t write songs like he’s selling something. Pedro the Lion has reunited and is touring for the first time since 2006.

Feb. 25: Dan Auerbach and the Easy Eye Sound Revue at the Ryman

Black Keys multi-instrumentalist and singer Dan Auerbach is touring his 2017 solo record Waitin’ on a Song with a full band featuring some top artists from his label, Easy Eye Sound. By name, that’s Robert Finley and Shannon Shaw from garage-soul-punk group Shannon and the Clams, who will open the show.

March 8: Beth Ditto at Mercy Lounge

Following the dissolution of The Gossip, champion soul-tinged singer Beth Ditto released her solo LP Fake Sugar last year. Fake Sugar bubbles, smolders and oozes — this is an early contender for dance party of the season.

April 19: Liza Anne at Third Man Records

This show follows the release of Georgia transplant Liza Anne’s Fine but Dying, a record on which she writes intelligently and openly about dealing with the discrimination she faces as a woman while learning to manage a panic disorder. Update 1/18: This show has been moved from its original March date to April 19.

Also don’t miss: Lee Ann Womack at The Basement East April 6-7; Yo La Tengo at The Basement East April 13-14; Lorde at Bridgestone Arena April 15; The Breeders at Cannery Ballroom April 26; Foo Fighters (rescheduled from October) at Bridgestone Arena May 4; and Justin Timberlake at Bridgestone Arena May 9.