Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Old, In a Way

There is something to be said for a band that can cross perceived boundaries and appeal to wide swath of the concert-going public. Such is the case with longtime whatever-grass stalwarts, Old Crow Medicine Show. The quintet’s bluegrass and old-time roots appeal to Americana purists. And their immaculate jams are typically heady enough to turn the newgrass set a-wigglin’. Meanwhile, their punk-ish attitude and intensity garners the respect of the oft-fickle rock and roll set. That’s no mean feat. Kick up your heels — whether clad in Birkenstocks, Doc Martins or cowboy boots — when the OCMS rocks a two-night stand at the Higher Ground Ballroom this Thursday and Friday. BR549’s “Hillbilly Renaissance Man” Chuck Mead opens.