Grant-Lee Phillips in Concert at Pittsburgh Winery; Jergel’s Hosts Balcony Big Band (Mon., 2/8/16)

1) Did you ever think it odd that in the music industry there is a Grant-Lee Phillips and a Grant-Lee Buffalo? Well, they are related. After Grant-Lee Phillips grew up in Stockton, California he moved to Los Angeles and took classes at UCLA. He then teamed up with an old friend from Stockton—Jeffrey Clark—to form, with several others, the band Shiva Burlesque. With ’80s glam rock all the rage the group failed to catch on. Phillips formed Grant-Lee Buffalo in the early ’90s with some ex-Shiva Burlesque bandmates and had modest success. He then embarked as a solo artist using his own moniker. His first solo release, 2009’s Ladies Love Oracle, put him on the radar again and his follow-up album Mobilize made him a successful recording artist. On Mobilize, Phillips played every instrument and used a drum machine for every track except  “Hugo’s Theme” and “Sunday Best,” where he enlisted other musicians. He even had a recurring part on the WB network’s TV series “The Gilmore Girls” as the Town Troubadour. Phillips proudly touts his Native American roots which includes Creek, Blackfoot, and Cherokee lineage. Phillips is touring in advance of his latest release The Narrows, which will drop on March 18. The album examines themes of marriage, fatherhood, and moving from L.A. to Tennessee. Steve Poltz opens. 8 p.m. Pittsburgh Winery, 2815 Penn Ave., Strip District.

2) The Balcony Big Band,  with a special guest, is hitting only high notes in a Monday night performance at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. The 18 member group makes a big, beautiful sound. Get in some Monday relaxation with good music. 7 p.m. No cover. 285 Northgate Dr., Warrendale.

3) The Pens face off against the Anaheim Ducks tonight in a 7 p.m. game at the Consol Energy center.  Gotta love a good bird fight! 7 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

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