Glen Phillips Band

CRITIC’S PICK: Echoing his annual Day-after-Thanksgiving gig, Glenn Phillips is celebrating the yuletide with a Day-After-Christmas concert at Napoleon’s. Accompanied by former Hampton Grease Bandmate Mike Holbrook on bass, Swimming Pool Qs founder and longtime project collaborator Jeff Calder on guitars and keys, and percussionist extraordinaire Bobby Andre from the legendary Supreme Court sessions, the inimitable, redoubtable guitarist promises to deliver a playlist drawn from his deep catalog of material from the last half century or so (I’m not that old; you’re that old!). 

Fans need no further encouragement, so this goes out to the Great Unwashed. No matter what or whether you’ve heard Phillips play on the radio or a live or studio recording, nothing compares to the gobsmacking velocity and virtuosity on display during his concert performances. So, instead of staring at guitar god wannabes, skateboarding Staffies and air fryer appetizers on a six-inch screen, put down the phone and treat you and yours to something truly, viscerally experiential. Watching Phillips & Co. ply their trade with the deft, supple hands of artists in complete command of their instruments is the most edifying fun you’re likely to muster up this holiday season. – Doug DeLoach