The '77z and Mike Burris Band

Drawing inspiration mainly from the 1970’s decade live Grateful Dead repertoire, The ‘77z are a local staple among the Grateful Dead tribute bands of the region. It’s a guilty pleasure for all of the band members to choose and perform these classic Grateful Dead songs, since they have all been musically inspired by The Dead for decades. The band lineup includes Jake Hopping, Chris Leva, Craig Dougald and Darrell Muller. All are members of bands such as Love Canon, Indecision, Positive Collective and Ragged Mountain String Band.

In his debut album, Goodbye Town singer-songwriter Mike Burris explores what it means to have lived a full life, replete with sorrows and joys, and to know that some of his best days are still to come. Written over the course of two decades, these reflective songs study familiar themes like difficult love (“Enough of That”) and loss (“Letting You Go”), and they swirl with notions of restlessness (“Dead End Things”) and place (“Familiar Ground” and “Goodbye Town”). But wisdom wins the day on this record, as the album arcs toward feelings of contentment (“Satisfied”) and finding one’s emotional center (“Long Life”). Burris describes his music as “country tinged roots rock” with a nod to Texas blues and a good pop hook. His music tends to resonate with fans of John Hiatt, Tom Petty, James McMurtry, and Jason Isbell.

The Rivanna Roots concert series would not be possible without the support of our premier season sponsor Flow Automotive of Charlottesville, and our supporting sponsors Sun Tribe Solar and Martin Horn Inc. A special thank you to our food and beverage partners, Potter’s Craft Cider, Champion Brewing Co, Blenheim Vineyards, and Sticks Kebob Shop. We also thank Virginia is for Lovers and CACVB for their continuous support of all that we do at The Front Porch!