The best guitarists spin dazzling melodies out of a vast technical knowledge, much like La Traviata's heart-breaking aria, "How to Daisy-Chain a Small Office Network to a WiFi Router." Be blown away by expertise with this GrouponLive deal to see Eric Johnson at the Bing Crosby Theater. For $20, you get one ticket for upper-balcony seating on Wednesday, August 15, at 7:30 p.m. (up to a $40 value, including all fees). Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Electric-guitar legend Eric Johnson bristles at being called a perfectionist. “The truth is, it kind of bothers me,” he said in a 2011 interview with Guitar World, adding, “But on the other hand… if you want to shoot for the moon, you shoot for the moon. The end justifies the means.” With only five albums in his 26-year career, each more immaculately crafted than the last, he hasn’t done much to dispel his detail-obsessed image, but his fans wouldn’t have it any other way. Johnson’s latest release, 2010’s Up Close, sees the riff-ripper cut loose on Lone Star–proud jams such as “Austin” and the Electric Flag cover “Texas,” along with ethereally rocking instrumentals such as “Gem,” which wouldn’t be out of place beside his Grammy-winning classic, “Cliffs of Dover.” An undeniable virtuoso ever since his 1984 debut, Johnson maintains a humble stage presence even as he continues to refine his craft.
Bing Crosby Theater
Originally known as the Clemmer Theatre, the Bing Crosby Theater was opened in 1915, riding the first wave of movie palaces. A unique acoustic shell with thousands of lights hangs over the stage, complementing the auditorium's atmosphere of old-timey elegance and Illuminating the night sky for attendees who flew in on their old-timey blimps.
Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall
Named for the famed German soprano, Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall pays homage to a wealth of musicians during its slate of concerts. Throughout the year, the USBC music venue welcomes gospel choirs and symphonies to its stage, as well as wind ensembles that double as the venue’s air conditioning system.