Ten Out of Tenn closed down the Cannery Ballroom  on the opening night of Next Big Nashville and left, I can only assume everyone present, in awe. They’ve been called “the biggest band you’ve probably never heard of.” But once you’ve heard them, you’re hooked. This is the most difficult review for me to write in that I want to spend pages acknowledging the talent each artist hold. Ten out of Tenn is made up of Trent Dabbs, K. S. Rhodes, Kyle Andrews, Madi Diaz, Andrew Belle, Mikky Ekko, Joy Williams, Ashley Monroe, Sarah Siskind and Jedd Hughes.

All of these artists made their way into my heart at this show but I haven’t been able to stop listening to Mikky, Joy and Sarah. When Madi Diaz introduced Mikky Ekko she said “Every time we all play together something comes out of his mouth that just amazes us.” And he lived up to that introduction. Singing “I Love You (I Always Have),” Mikky impressed me with the combination of a rough and pure sound. After he sang, Sara Siskind took the stage with just her guitar and Mikky, Madi, and Andrew to sing “Lovin’s for Fools.” With heart-turning lyrics, borrowed from “You Are My Sunshine,” they sang “you’ll never know dear, how much I love you.” It was charged with emotion and everyone was listening in silent awe.  It was a feeling that seems cheapened by trying to describe it.

From the sweet, sacred silence that flooded the room during Sarah’s performance to the high energy buzz that came during Trent Dabbs and Joy Williams’ performances, this show was a grand way to kick off NBN. 

(This event was sponsored by Brite Revolution www.briterevolution.com)

 Well, I went to see the world famous Mariachi Vargas at TPAC here in Nashville. They are considered the best "Mariachi Band in the world." I initially thought this would be the same as seeing the best "polka band" in the world. I was surprised at the level of technical expertise and showmanship the group displayed. They were well rehearsed, flashy, technically excellent, and worked the crowd like an old rock band.

With a synchronized string section, showing the "chops" worthy of the Nashville Symphony, they played with a fiery excellence that left me redefining what mariachi music can be. I had typically thought this was the annoying type of band that rambled from table to table in my favorite Mexican restaurant, but I soon discovered the music is more than that. The trumpets were excellent, the singers were magnificent, and all in all, I actually enjoyed the event tremendously.

A large group of professionals, they showed everyone else "how it is to be done." Formed in 1897, from1937 until now, the Mariachi Vargas has produced over 50 recordings and appeared in countless movies. If you ever get a chance to see any group that defines a genre--do so. It will reframe your mind. Now, I will have a difficult time listening to anything less than this group. I am sorry to say the crowd was not as large as it could have been. Likely, due to the perception of this type of music and perhaps a less than aggressive marketing plan locally. If they return—check them out. I was glad I was there--
DH

 The Next Big Nashville has come and gone.  If you would like to review any of the shows or bands you saw--bring it on!