PORTLAND, Maine — If there’s a concert happening in Maine, odds are Aimsel Ponti knows about it. The Portland Press Herald music writer joined us in the 207 studio to preview upcoming shows across the state, including some free outdoor concerts.
SHOW: Big Yellow Taxi tribute to Joni Mitchell
WHEN & WHERE: 8 p.m. Friday, July 12 @ One Longfellow Square in Portland
COST: $25 in advance, $35 day of show; click here for ticket information
DETAILS: Based in western Massachusetts, Big Yellow Taxi was formed about five years ago. The six-member Joni Mitchell tribute act is fronted by vocalist Teresa Lorenco. Joni’s "Court and Spark" came out 50 years ago and Big Yellow Taxi will be playing the entire album along with several other Mitchell tunes. The band's name is of course from Mitchell’s song from her 1970 album "Ladies of the Canyon."
SHOW: Slambovian Circus of Dreams
WHEN & WHERE: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 13 @ Vinegar Hill Music Theatre in Arundel
COST: $30 in advance, $35 day of show; click here for ticket information
SHOW: Ideal Maine Band
WHEN & WHERE: 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 16 @ Lincoln Park in Portland. Tuesday night shows run through Aug. 6. USM Jazz Combo on July 23, Wayne Street Band on July 30, and Blues Prophets on Aug. 6.
COST: Free; click here for ticket information
DETAILS: Ideal Maine Band plays New Orleans traditional street band music. Shows are presented by Friends of Lincoln Park.
SHOW: Billy Bragg
WHEN & WHERE: Wednesday, July 24 @ Aura in Portland
COST: $38; click here for ticket information
DETAILS: Billy Bragg has been a fearless recording artist, tireless live performer, and peerless political campaigner for 40 years. He has released 11 solo studio albums.
LIGHTNING ROUND:
1. The Hot Sardines on Thursday, July 18 @ Boothbay Opera House
2. Heather Pierson Band @ 6 p.m. in Congress Square Park in Portland on Thursday, July 18; the concert is free
3. Lori McKenna @ Jonathan’s in Ogunquit on Saturday, July 20; only a few tickets left!
4. The Crane Wives @ State Theatre in Portland on Saturday, July 20 with guitar phenom Yasmin Williams. TREMENDOUS!