.Mar. 12: Del McCoury Band at the Mystic Theatre

The endlessly entertaining Del McCoury Band is among the finest bluegrass ensembles working today. They’re also one of the most authentic. Gathered around just one microphone in the old-fashioned tradition of the Grand Ole Opry, the group’s members shuffle around in dance patterns that would make Arthur Murray’s head spin, jockeying for position according to bellowed backup vocal, fiddle solo or vivacious group strum. With sons Robbie and Ronnie as longtime members, and with a recent spiritual album, The Promised Land, the McCoury unit would seem bound to tradition—until you hear their versions of the Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Nashville Cats,” Frank Sinatra’s “Learnin’ the Blues” or their incomparable show-stopper, Richard Thompson’s “1952 Vincent Black Lightning.” After 50 years of performing, McCoury is a veteran at the top of his game. See him Friday, March 12, at the Mystic Theatre. 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. 9pm. $25–$28. 707.765.2121.Gabe Meline