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By Brian Tucker

Emma Nelson is a local folk and blues singer-songwriter with a new album set to come out this year. In contrast to her previous solo effort, where music can both punch and haunt you, the upcoming material will represent a fuller sound.

To play that music live and have it closer to how it will sound on the new album she’s put together a band – Emma Nelson and the Umphs.

“Right now we are working through songs. I already have a vision for the full sound,” Nelson said. “But soon enough I hope we can start to write more as a band. I guess you could say its Emma Nelson music with a little more umph.”

Tonight at Orton’s Nelson and the band, along with Red Scare, will be performing as part of the opening acts for the psychedelic rock trio Mr. Elevator & the Brain Hotel visiting from California.

Nelson’s solo music is from the gut, raw and sincere. With her unique, powerful voice, and with a full band, this show should be very interesting.

Headliner Mr. Brain is a psyche and sun soaked trio that creates frenzy all without a guitar. It’s hypnotic, carnival-esque material that ranges from surf rock to the hazy stomp of songs in the vein of The Doors. For fans of Spires, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Miss 45.

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