Sound Advice

Jay Ernest, a Minneapolis-based musician, channels the “man in black” with his group, the Church of Cash. This award-winning Johnny Cash tribute band plays the classic hits. The all-ages concert is Feb. 3 at Wooly’s. Tickets $20-$25.

Craving an outdoor concert in the dead of winter? Head over to the Botanical Center to enjoy music among the warm greenery on Sundays for Botanical Blues. On Feb. 14, Drama Kings; Feb. 11, Buckmiller Schwager; Feb. 18, Local Ukesters; and Feb. 25, Soul Searchers. Concerts are at 1 and 3 p.m. Tickets $12 for adults; free for members.

Arkansauce, a progressive bluegrass band often referred to as “bluegrass ramblers,” returns to Iowa, playing at xBk on Feb. 8. Opener is local bluegrass/jam band, Alleygrass. Tickets for the all-ages concert is $15 in advance; $20 day of show. 

The Iowa State Fair has named several grandstand acts for Aug. 8-18, 2024. Foreigner with opener Melissa Etheridge; Ne-Yo with opener Eric Bellinger; Thomas Rhett and Lauren Daigle with Blessing Offor. If you’re looking for Jelly Roll tickets — too late— it’s already sold out. Tickets range from $35 to $100; available at e-tix.com.