Charlottesville's downtown music venues have become well-established in recent years, and this fall, we can look forward to an exciting lineup of shows. The recently renovated Jefferson Theater has been providing live entertainment since 1911, with acts such as Harry Houdini and the Three Stooges having graced the historic stage. Since the Jefferson reopened its doors in November 2009, it has developed into an excellent mid-sized venue with a quaint atmosphere, a large dance floor, modern lighting and sound technology. Meanwhile, the Charlottesville Pavilion offers a larger outdoor venue that can accommodate more people and bigger stage performances, having hosted recent acts such as Al Green, The Flaming Lips and Sheryl Crow.
The Jefferson Theater has been pumping out top-notch shows since it reopened, and this fall is no exception. Although the entire lineup is filled with performances worth attending, a select few are sure to be memorable, even if have not heard of the artists. Dark Star Orchestra, a Grateful Dead tribute band, kicks off the list Sept. 15. Although some people may initially stray away from a tribute band performance, Dark Star Orchestra has gained a huge following by actually reenacting Grateful Dead concert performances and covering complete set lists. Casual fans and diehard deadheads alike will be blown away by this show, guaranteed. The next big show at the Jefferson is undoubtedly Wiz Khalifa, but unfortunately the concert recently sold out. Don't worry though, because Ratatat will be performing Oct. 3rd, and if there's one show you want to attend this fall on the Downtown Mall, it's going to be this one. Ratatat, an indie electronic duo from New York City, has continued to put out albums since 2004. Their productions have pushed the envelope of musical possibilities with a distinctive electronic sound. Then Oct. 23, Soldiers of Jah Army will showcase their American rendition of traditional reggae music. Hailing from Arlington, Va., SOJA represents a local band that has gained success worldwide.
Although the Jefferson certainly has a promising lineup, the relatively small space of the theater does limit the kind of performances that can occur there. The Charlottesville Pavilion is a perfect solution to this problem, and it's located only a few blocks away from the Jefferson on the Downtown Mall. The Pavilion starts off the season with a bang by hosting Crosby, Stills and Nash Sept. 17. Possibly one of the most recognizable names in rock, Crosby, Stills and Nash have been inspiring their fans and listeners for 40 years, and they still put on a good show. But perhaps the most anticipated show for the Pavilion this fall is LCD Soundsystem, an electro-dance group that incorporates elements of disco, rock and punk. This conglomeration of genres makes for music that is catchy yet original. The opening band, Sleigh Bells, leans more to the noise-pop music genre, and their newly released debut album, Treats, combines head-banging beats with soothing female vocals. I expect the dance floor to overflow with chaotic fans pulsing to the bass-heavy sounds.
The Charlottesville Pavilion and the Jefferson Theater are scheduled to host some of the best performing artists on tour today. Notable characteristics of the two concert sites are sure to enhance the live music experience in Charlottesville. So forget Lady Gaga and JPJ; the Downtown Mall is where it's at this fall.
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