The American Fork folk-rocker Joshua James will celebrate the release of his brilliant new album, "From the Top of Willamette Mountain," with two shows at one of his favorite venues. The animated storyteller has just returned from a United Kingdom tour and plans to spend a few days around Thanksgiving with his family on their Utah farm (named Willamette Mountain) before launching a U.S. tour. In a 10 a.m. phone interview this week, James said he had just returned from a rock climb and was preparing to harvest the last carrots out of his garden in preparation for the holiday feast. He also said he was baking a batch of vegan pumpkin brownies, "trying to keep my life jolly for the season." Unlike most musicians, he’s an early riser and makes breakfast for his wife every morning. The biggest problem Americans have, he asserts, is multitasking; he works to focus his full attention on one thing at a time. Next up on his schedule: feeding the goats.
When • Wednesday and Thursday, 8 p.m.
Where • Velour Live Music Gallery, 135 N. University Ave., Provo
Tickets • $12 at 24Tix.com; $2 discount with a presale ticket on the purchase of an album or vinyl at the show
If that isn't your style, the punk-inspired quintet Yellowcard performs tonight. The band formed in Jacksonville in 1997 and comprises vocalist-guitarist Ryan Key, vocalist-violinist Sean Mackin, guitarist Ben Harper, drummer Longineu Parsons and bassist Warren Cooke. The band had hits with "Ocean Avenue" and "Way Away." The Wonder Years and We Are the In Crowd will also perform.
When • Wednesday, 6 p.m.
Where • The Complex, 536 W. 100 South, Salt Lake City
Tickets • $22 at SmithsTix
