Unknown quantities make for a show that can keep an audience on its toes. When blues-rock guitarist Fast Johnny Ricker plays host to a showcase of singer-songwriters tonight, he'll preside over a couple of newcomers and one well-reputed performer. Daniel Quin Shay and Rayyan Kamal are fresh to the scene, while Preston Girard is an established player with two albums (Simple Life and Along Chicago) under his belt. Girard's thoughtful, poetic adult alternative should make for an interesting counterpoint to Ricker's Stevie Ray Vaughan-inspired licks. Ricker and Girard guarantee high-quality entertainment, and the possibility of something new and exciting from Shay and Kamal makes the $5 ticket price well worth it. Failing that, there are concessions and a full bar at the Lawrence Arts Center (940 New Hampshire in Lawrence, 785-843-2787). Fast Johnny Ricker & Friends begins at 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m., 2010
