Allstar Talent

Two-thirds of the North Mississippi Allstars just happen to be the sons of Southern rock legend Jim Dickinson. But ten years after forming, with six albums, a Grammy nomination for best contemporary blues album and a New Year's Eve performance at Madison Square to boot, the members of this trio have proved to be consummate musicians in their own right. "We've been touring since ´99, and we've just been working constantly since then," says front man Luther Dickinson. The band members, who have been playing 200 shows a year, handle their grueling schedule like true all-stars. "Touring is our bread and butter, and we're so appreciative of the fans that make it possible to do what we love," says Dickinson.

With psychedelic Southern rock, blues, gospel and country in their backgrounds, the Allstars seem to be another genre-evading band. But as Dickinson explains matter-of-factly, "We're a rock and roll band, but we have other aspects. We try to soak it all up." The Allstars hit town to promote their latest album, the Grammy-nominated Electric Blue Watermelon, at 7 p.m. The Meridian, 1503 Chartres. For tickets, call 713-225-1717 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. $17.
Thu., Jan. 19