As stage personalities go, Jay Farrar tends to be a bit of a mute, but his shows are still iAs stage personalities go, Jay Farrar tends to be a bit of a mute, but his shows are still inspired occasions, because his evocative, road-weary songs are that much more powerful when he’s actually on the road. Having reformed Son Volt after a seven-year hiatus, Farrar’s returning to a bigger rock sound on Okemah and the Melody of Riot. Its songs call on vast literary and American roots influences, and veer between introspective folk stylings and driving storms of guitar. It’s good to see Farrar collaborating again; he seems to enjoy his fellow musicians more than he enjoys his audiences. And that’s okay by us; Farrar’s shaken voice, which seems to revive Carter Family ghosts, has won us over more than any stage banter could. 612-332-1775; www.first-avenue.com
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