The world has a good deal of unheralded living artists, and folky bluesman Chris Smither is a prime example. While friends Bonnie Raitt and Dr. John have become household names, Smither, at 68, is ever at the sidelines. Whether that’s because of his achingly poignant lyrics or his tender, acoustic coffeehouse style, the musician has yet to breach the mainstream. When recording with a full band, he’s sometimes reminiscent of a laid back JJ Cale, but his fine output in the ’90s—especially stripped down albums like Another Way To Find You and Small Revelations—show Smither is an instinctual guitar man at ease with himself, in or out of the spotlight. GWENDOLYN ELLIOTT

Wed., Nov. 14, 7 p.m., 2012