Austin-based troubadour Hayes Carll spins musical yarns full of rich characters, couching them in tunes that run the gamut from fiery rock to twangy country, leavened with a pinch of folk and gospel and the occasional wistful love song.

Spotlighting numbers from his recent CD, KMAG YOYO (& Other American Stories), Hayes provides what he calls “a layman’s take on our country—a snapshot of America in some small way.” Detailing both failure and victory with unflinching honesty and sardonic wit, he brings to life sharply drawn protagonists like a young Army foot soldier in Afghanistan, folks dealing with the economic downturn, and a frustrated performer who claims, “I’m like James Brown, only white and taller.”

A sixth-generation Texan, Hayes honed his craft playing for the locals in coastal towns like Crystal Beach and Galveston. His engaging live shows, packed with great songs, self-deprecating storytelling, and hilarious between-song patter, garnered an enthusiastic audience, which expanded with the release of albums like KMAG YOYO, and appearances on The Tonight Show and Austin City Limits.

Emotive songstress Amanda Shires, Texas Magazine’s Artist of the Year 2011, opens the show.

Visit Hayes Carll's website