Ryan McGarvey • blues, guitar

Photo by Rhonda Pierce

Trumpeter Wynton Marsalis once said, “Everything comes out in blues music: joy, pain, struggle. Blues is affirmation with absolute elegance.” Such words could not ring more true than while listening to 2014 European Blues Awards' “Best Guitarist” and New Mexico native Ryan McGarvey. The incredibly talented singer, songwriter and guitarist will grace his hometown with his own gritty musical stylings at Low Spirits (2823 Second Street NW) on Friday, July 31. Having shared the stage with major names like Eric Clapton and Joe Bonamassa, McGarvey is repping his most recent album The Road Chosen while still wearing the laurels from his wildly popular debut record Forward in Reverse. Listen up for “Cryin’ Over You,” which won a New Mexico Music Award, as well as other fan favorites like sexy “Memphis,” ‘80s-tastic “Mean Thing” and rockin’ “Blues Knockin’ At My Door.” Electric vibrations start at 8pm, and tickets for this 21-and-over shindig will cost you a mere $8. (Renee Chavez)