1. Ryan Adams (vocals/guitar); Caitlin Cary (fiddle/vocals); Ed Crawford (guitar); Jenni Snyder (bass); Skillet Gilmore (drums).

Wednesday, Jan. 28; Launchpad: When it comes right down to it, Ryan Adams is easy to hate. He is the enfant terrible, smashing guitars, calling hometown bands nerds, storming off stage and leaving with the hearts of all of the local girls. In October, Adams fired his whole band except the violin player, engendering a few more enemies. But no matter who he pisses off (former bandmates, ex-lovers, all of Dallas) he is still the premiere singer/songwriter in the crop of "y'all-ternative" bands that mix country with elements of punk. You might hate him for sounding like Graham Parsons, the long-dead and venerated singer. You might hate him for what he says--but few hate his songs on their own merit. This year's atmospheric Stranger's Almanac made end-of-the-year top 10 lists across the country with its twangy-Rolling Stones-fueled essential pop. And, no matter what kind of shit he stirs up, it's the music that matters. With freshly hired guitarist Ed Crawford of fIREHOSE, and bassist Jenni Snyder, Whiskeytown--the singing town full of drunks--are as compelling as ever. Adams is front and center, the fiery upstart who isn't afraid to do whatever else it takes to get his point across. In the end, it boils down to songs, and this kid's got plenty of great ones, and a live show that is a must-see.

Whiskeytown will also play the Drama Club on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in Santa Fe at (505) 988-4374.