Connect Recommends

Hick’ry Hawkins

Hawkins has been a full-on honky-tonker for the past decade, backed by the delightfully-named Sidemeat. Based in Charlotte, he hates to be termed alt.country, but hey, life sucks. Then you die. True enough, his output is closer to Golden Age C & W than modern-day catchall Americana, but he’s kidding himself if he doesn’t think he fits squarely in the alt.country camp. That’s why he’s playing The Jinx instead of the back room at Tubby’s in Thunderbolt. No matter what you term him, fans of Waymore Jennings, David Allen Coe, and even Robbie Fulks should dig him. Openers The Defilers are a greaser outfit from Charleston that throws rockabilly (a la Billy Lee Riley) into a Burt Reynolds flick brawl (with Hank III and Social D’s Mike Ness) to come up with an over-the-top hot-rod and pomp-fest that’s not particularly original, but engaging nonetheless. Sat., 10:30 pm, The Jinx.

I Cantori’s 16th Annual Holiday Concert

Mixing international carols and traditional North American holiday tunes, this choral show also boasts a 14th century Irish carol, “Angelus Ad Virginem.” Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and will be sold at the door. For more info, call 925-7866. Fri., 7:30 pm, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (Bull St.) + Sun., 7:30 pm, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (Abercorn St.).

SFMS’ Xmas Carol Party

The Savannah Folk Music Society’s yearly event makes it easy for the community to get into the proper spirit of the season, and this time around it’s being held at an appropriate location: the famous “Jingle Bells” Church on Troup Square. Songbooks will be available, and attendees are welcome to request their favorite tunes. Piano and string accompaniment will be provided by members of the society and the congregation. Those who attend are asked to bring a tray of sweets or other snacks to share. Cider, egg nog and other hot and cold drinks will be provided. For more info, call 786-6953. Sun., 7 pm, Unitarian Universalist Church (313 E. Harris St.).

“Messiah” Sing-Along

Here’s another concert dependant on audience participation. Join in with pros (the Savannah Sinfonietta — at full chamber orchestra size) on Handel’s most famous piece of Christmas music ever written. This is being billed as an “absolutely over-the-top experience.” You can order tickets ($5 for students, $12.50 for participants and $15 for general audience) and/or a score on-line at www.savannahorchestra.com or by calling (800) 514-3849 (they’ll also be on sale at the door). For info, call William Keith at 441-7735. Thurs., 7:30 pm, Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church (429 Abercorn St.).

Souls Harbor

This ultra-heavy S.C. hard rock and radio-friendly metal band has been slugging it out in the clubs and bars for years, but they’re finally getting the recognition they deserve — from both labels and crowds alike. Also appearing at this rare downtown show are their kindred spirits Number One Contender from Charleston. Fri., 10:30 pm, The Jinx.

Swingin’ For Sweets

This vibrant stage show is set in a Depression-era speakeasy. It’s a clever twist on the classic tale of The Nutcracker that combines the talents of local actor/singer Roger Moss, Ricardo Ochoa’s Jazz Ensemble and young dancers from The STUDIO, led by choreographer Veronica Moretti Niebuhr. This promises to be one of the most unique holiday events of 2006. Charge tickets ranging from $20 to $30 at www.lucastheatre.com or by calling 525-5050. Fri., 8 pm, Lucas Theatre.

Charles Wadsworth w/Christopher O’Riley

The last time the famed pianist (and host of NPR’s hit show From The Top) graced Savannah, was at the Savannah Music Fest. Now he’s back as a featured guest of superstar chamber pianist and Spoleto director Wadsworth. Along with a standout violinist and cellist, they’ll tackle works by Strauss, Piazolla, Debussy and Brahms. Sat., 8 pm, Lucas Theatre.

Williamson & Autry

A return engagement by Tony Williamson and Jeff Autry, two of the most revered bluegrass pickers in the world. Yep, the world. This delightful acoustic listening room just minutes from downtown only seats 100, so grab a seat to this smoke and alcohol-free gig soon! For advance $15 tickets to this ALL-AGES show, call 748-1930, or e-mail [email protected]. Sat., 7:30 pm, Randy Wood’s Concert Hall (1304 E. Hwy 80, Bloomingdale).