Front Range - Recommended shows, 5/14

This week's shows seem to be all about the groove, whether it's setting a party vibe or nailing down the funk. The hard part will be choosing which ones to go to, given the overlaps.

17 May 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
18 May 2012 (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Trampled By Turtles

Festival favorites, Trampled By Turtles are offering a couple of chances to catch their deeply rooted folk music as they pass through Colorado. The band brings an energy to their shows that proves that folk music is alive and well. Either venue will provide a great chance to watch them burn the strings.

17 May 2012 (Moe's Original Barbecue South, Denver CO)
The Veer Union

The Veer Union is touring behind their new album, Divide the Blackened Sky. Dark and hard driving, it's a solid set of material. The arrangements are tight, with a nice modern rock sound. I haven't made it to Moe's yet, but I'm going to try to get down there for this one.

18 May 2012 (Larimer Lounge, Denver)
Reptar

Reptar has a great party band sound. I reviewed their EP Oblangle Fizz, Y'All last year and enjoyed their goofy energy. Their latest, Body Faucet, is a full length that promises all the quirk in twice the space.

18 May 2012 (Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom, Denver CO)
Pimps of Joytime

Another band from my review archives. A friend turned me on to these funkmasters when he texted me from their set opening a Michael Franti show. These guys take their lessons from the classic masters. Mixing up heavy funk and booty shaking Latin rhythms, their live shows will make you dance off a good ten pounds or so.

19 May 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
20 May 2012 (Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue CO)
Keb' Mo'

Boulder Roots and Blues Summit has a hot weekend planned. Taj Mahal is celebrating his 70th birthday with a show at the Boulder Theater on Friday and then Keb' Mo' is playing Saturday night. Really, you can't go wrong with either show, so just catch both. I shouldn't have to tell anyone about this phenomenal performer, but Keb' Mo' is a national treasure. He's equally comfortable playing dirty funk or dropping back and delivering vulnerable soul.