Joshua James; Cory Chisel

Cory Chisel (who regularly performs with his band, the Wandering Sons) is from Appleton, Wisconsin, and though their touring locations have mostly been in the Midwest region, don't be fooled: This is a man to watch. In late 2007 Chisel managed to land a recording contract with RCA Records after performing in Manhattan (with a raging cold, no less) in front of major record execs and musicians including Norah Jones and Graham Nash. Earlier this July his EP, Cabin Ghosts was released via iTunes. Though Chisel is only 26, his dry, bluesy voice, folksy guitar riffs, and poetic lyrics suggest someone of greater years. His songs range from sorrowful tunes of love lost set against the sparse backdrop of a Wisconsin winter, to fiery songs warning the audience about his sassy ex. Portland-based Joshua James, who recently released Fields & Floods, plays his guitar with a calmly sorrowful resignation, his voice often a whisper; even his perkier-sounding songs tell sad tales. Amber Rubarth opens. 18+.
Wed., July 23, 7 p.m., 2008