Jam Band Railroad Concern Plays Nova Arts

Railroad Concern, formerly known as The Matt Keller Band, is gearing up to deliver a one-of-a-kind performance at Nova Arts in Keene on Jan. 4, from 7 to 10 p.m. The band is back in town after a period of being dispersed around the country for college, but they're regrouping to bring their signature groovy jams to their hometown crowd. This show will be their last performance in Keene until they return for the summer, making it an event you won't want to miss. The band, which has been playing locally for several years, has evolved both musically and artistically, and their recent name change marks a significant shift in the band's journey. At a recent announcement at Birdies in downtown Keene, the group revealed that they would now be known as Railroad Concern. According to Matt Keller, the band's leader, the name change is a reflection of the band's collective identity. "We changed it mostly because I don't like it being named after me. It was originally named that because I made a solo album, and it prompted the want to play it live, hence Matt Keller Band, but I want it to be about the band and not just my music," Keller shared. Since January 2023, Railroad Concern has been performing regularly around the region, expanding their fanbase and growing as a musical force. Their sound has evolved with each performance and their music continues to surprise and excite audiences, with fresh original compositions. One of the hallmarks of their performances is the unique, improvisational nature of their sets, with each show offering a different experience from the last. The lineup for the show at Nova Arts will feature Matt Keller on guitar and vocals, Kieran Barnard on bass and vocals, Quinn Wilson on drums and Alex Royce on the keyboard. The band is constantly pushing the boundaries of what a jam band can do, and their setlists are never the same. Each song flows into the next, creating an organic and evolving performance that keeps the energy high and the crowd engaged. Keller is also celebrating the release of his fourth album, "Shelves," which he will debut at the Nova Arts show. The album showcases his growth as an artist and reflects the diverse musical influences that have shaped the band's sound. With his bandmates in tow, Keller will bring his new material to life. The band's signature improvisational style will take these new songs to places they've never been before, adding a fresh twist to each tune. Opening for Railroad Concern will be the talented JJ Slater, who has been traveling the country playing shows in both big cities and remote towns. Slater's guitar work draws from a wide range of influences including blues, jazz, country and psychedelic rock. His playing is both emotive and melodic, always serving the song and enhancing the overall musical experience. Slater's latest record, "The Silver Key," was written in Taos, N.M., and blends folk storytelling with funk grooves and live interplay between him and his band. The record features Dan Bisson on bass and Kevin Mason on drums. Doors for the event will open at 7 p.m., with music kicking off at 7:30 p.m. This is an all-ages event, and seating is limited, so it's advised to arrive early to grab a good spot. As the show is first come, first served, fans are encouraged to get there early to ensure they don't miss a minute of the action. Nova Arts is located at 48 Emerald St. in Keene. For more information on the venue and to stay updated on future shows, visit https://www.novaarts.org/.