For all the trash talk on Dave Matthews and John Mayer, no one questions their ability to shred. Australia's John Butler is an out-of-his-noggin guitar player, but ultimately his songwriting abilities will dictate whether he takes first-stage Bonnaroo or second-stage Wakarusa. In that regard, Butler is off to a good start, mixing the ragtag Philly soul of Marah with the bouncy funk of G Love & Special Sauce. He also fingerpicks with the nimble digits of Leo Kottke and wah-wahs with the precision of Jeff Beck, kicking out the jammy-jams with funked-up backing from upright bassist Shannon Birchall and drummer Michael Barker. The jam scene has duly appointed Butler a golden god, and Rolling Stone recently did its part with a sexy cover spread. Find out whether Butler and company live up to the hype at 8 tonight at the VooDoo Lounge (1 Riverboat Drive, 816-889-7320). Tickets cost $17 for the 21-and-older show.
