Murzik, James Apollo, Whitney Ballen at Columbia City Theater 11/1

Murzik, James Apollo & His Sweet Unknown, Whitney Ballen at Columbia City Theater | 11/1 | 8pm | $8-10 (Get Tickets) | 21+

Photo credit: Lilly Ball

The Minneapolis-based Murzik is a six-piece folk outfit that encompasses the dark-folk genre. The group has a slight gypsy undertone, with similarities to The Red Elvises and Gogol Bordello with a heavy folk styling. The bohemian sounds of an accordion, mandolin and glockenspiels blending together with the baritone vocals of Bryan Steenerson provide a truly new audial experience. Murzik started out in 2003 as a solo project of Steenerson’s, which quickly morphed into a full touring band. Their latest releae, A Cat Named Murzik, features somber, introspective lyrics that would garner Gregory Alan Isakov fans’ attention. James Apollo & His Sweet Unknown will be joining Murzik on the West Coast leg of their national tour.

Preview by Jessica Kaminski:

“Traveling light and traveling often are hallmarks of James Apollo. Mr. Apollo and his band have been traipsing across the USA and Europe on a grueling schedule of live performances since 2009. An insatiable wanderlust and panache for poetic live performances make James Apollo a troubadour of moving Americana.

Little War, Little Less is the follow up album to 2011’s Till Your Feet Bleed. Little War, Little Less was released June 5 and produced by indie pioneer Damien Jurado. This latest album is a mix of riotous western themes, dusty melodies and 50s soul that captures the energy and intensity of Apollo’s live show. You can witness that energy and intensity for yourself.”

Preview by James Reeves:

“Whitney Ballen and the Intimates is an upbeat quintet, headed by singer/songwriter Whitney Ballen. Their music is not quite folk, no quite country, but definitely catchy, with poppy instrumental interludes between Ballen’s verses. She is currently working on a 9-song vinyl record that will capture all of her most recent work.”