Shannon McNally has been making records since 2002’s Jukebox Sparrow, and her catalog spans a range that defies easy categorization — blues, folk, country, soul, all of it filtered through a voice that critics have consistently described as one of the more distinctive instruments in American roots music. She’s collaborated with Charlie Musselwhite, Rodney Crowell, and a range of fellow travelers who recognize what she brings to the table.
Her Funk ‘n Waffles show in Syracuse on June 12 comes with Brian Thomas as special guest — a supporting slot that makes an already strong bill even more complete. Funk ‘n Waffles is one of Syracuse’s most respected live music rooms: committed booking, good sound, and an audience with actual ears. It’s the right room for an artist at McNally’s level.
Doors at 8:00 PM. The show is on sale now via TicketWeb. June 12 in Syracuse is a strong night for music across multiple venues — this show and the Savannah Dexter show at The Song & Dance are both worth considering, and they cater to very different audiences.
For fans of Lucinda Williams, Norah Jones’s rootsier work, or the broader Americana singer-songwriter tradition, McNally is a consistent value and one of the better live performers working at this scale. Don’t sleep on this one.