Its hard to imagine Seattles music scene without Rocky Votolato. His seminal Makers was a masterpiece of acoustic songwriting, and despite its exquisite, low-key beauty, was all about death. 2007s The Brag and Cuss then took a near 180, with its themes of travel and memories reflecting an optimism about life, as well as showcasing a full band and a style that was more country than folk, perhaps resonating back to Votolatos Texas roots. It will be interesting, then, to see what direction his new album, due early next year, will take and fans will get to find out at his current West Coast tour, where he will preview several new songs. Although his shows sell out across the country, Votolato is a perennial favorite here in Seattle he is at once tenacious and gentle, heartbreaking and enlightening, accessible yet highly personal. Previous Votolato shows have benefited education reform and Puget Sound restoration all the proceeds from this show will go to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), currently campaigning to save the worlds remaining elephants. With the Terrordactyls. (All ages.) ERIN THOMPSON
Sat., Aug. 15, 8 p.m., 2009
