The Gourds w. Shotgun Party

The Gourds have chugged through America fueled by music and the need for a good time since 1992, yet continue to shape their unique blend of American musical forms. Last year’s Noble Creatures moved the band into beautiful and unfamiliar territory with an unprecedented number of ballads and the inclusion of horns — two Gourds rarities — but the kaleidoscopic country sound the Austin quintet is known for rages on. While a ukulele chord book served as songwriter Kevin Russell’s surprise tool for shaping the new album, the other half of the dynamic songwriting duo, Jimmy Smith, succeeds in keeping Noble Creatures close to home with solid Gourds grooves that are sure to be new live favorites. Old timey dancehall country trio Shotgun Party ups the show cred. $10, 8pm, Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson, (210) 223-2830.