Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Name Game

Growing up in the shadow of one iconic figure is hard enough. But what about two? Justin Townes Earle’s father is legendary songwriter Steve Earle. But dear old dad also affixed (afflicted?) his son with the name of his mentor and idol, the late, great Townes Van Zant. Clearly, a career in accounting was never in the cards. However, if the younger Earle feels any pressure to live up to his famed namesakes, he doesn’t let on. With relatively little fanfare — and a familiar attitude and wit — the Nashville-based tunesmith is carving out his own place in the hardscrabble landscape of Americana songwriting, culminating in the release of a greatly anticipated new record, Harlem River Blues, due out in September. In the meantime, catch him this Sunday at the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge. Local alt-country bumpkins Lowell Thompson & Crown Pilot open.