I have been waiting.  Waiting through the schizophrenic winter, waiting through the toxic layers of inverted atmosphere, patiently waiting.  Waiting for the spring concert season to start. No one knows when the season ever reeeally begins, but before you know it there is a show every other day and all of the Salt Lake Valley's outdoor venues start to come alive as well.  

For what it's worth, I would venture to say that March 1st is the start of the season.  Three very different acts at three very different venues, but if you can swing it make sure that you check out at least one of the folowing:

HEARTLESS BASTARDS at The State Room - Two words.  Erika Wennerstrom.  I will be front and center listening to this hard rockin' lady with a voice that will punch you in the face then kiss your swollen cheek.  She and the rest of the Bastards are straight-ahead, mean rock & roll, present and perfect.  Do not miss them.

DEVOTCHKA at In The Venue -  This gypsy tinged quartet seem to tour through the Mountain West every year or so, this time in support of their fifth studio album 100 Lovers that is released on this same March 1st.  If you've never seen them, they are well worth the price of admission for their beautiful string arrangements and heavy brass bass lines.  Amen, to the sousaphone!

UGLY DUCKLING at The Urban Lounge - For all the hip hop heads out there, do not miss the break beat oddities and sick vocal stylings of Andy, Dizzy and Young Einstein.  A Cali group that always shows love to the SLC so get up and get out and nod your head to this trio.  You're neck will be glad you did.