A few days ago, Mark Lanky released a new 3-song EP. Its title track, “Happy New Year,” is an open letter, reaching out to someone disconnected from a previous relationship. Casually moving down the road on the compact bass-n-drum vehicle with the whine of pedal steel filling the gaps, Lanky’s lingering sadness/regret resonates. He'll be pouring his heart out this evening at Ortlieb's on a split a billing with Sad Actor.

Mark Lanky commemorates the release of his debut self-titled studio album with a show this Sunday, July 30 at Ortlieb’s, supported by Sad Actor and White Lighters. On the LP (which was recorded and mixed by Jeff Zeigler at Uniform Redording), you'll find Lanky channeling Johnny Cash in his upbeat rendition of Canadian singer-songwriter Freddie Eaglesmith's “Trucker Speed”. In steadfast pursuit of the one that got away, the drug-induced, downtrodden, traveling tune reaches into the timeless Americana tradition, highlighting a universal narrative in the process.

The somberly sincere Mark Lanky steps into Kung Fu Necktie this evening. Embracing the melancholy aftermath, Lanky’s deep, bellowing vocals achingly echo, orchestrating a cavernous, isolating sound that resonates in reverberation. Sinking into the shaded depths, he holds you in the haunting observational narratives, freezing one in his time. Tonight, Lanky will be joined by Cardinal Arms, the solo moniker of singer/songwriter Bevan McShea, whose introspective, searching lyrical style reveals personal tidbits, while projecting onto the listener/audience. Traveling troubadour Joshua Adair taps into his experiences completing this acoustic triad. Kung Fu Necktie, 1250 N. Front St., 8pm, $5, 21+ - Michael Colavita

There are those moments when as individuals we choose to bathe in the comfort of sadness. Tonight at Ortlieb’s, Mark Lanky allows you to wade into that melancholy pool, soaking up those unpleasant feelings and temporarily placing them out in the open. It's draped in acoustic guitar, and delivered in that serious baritone. Lanky sets the stage for Eddie Spaghetti (of The Supersuckers), whose brand of amusing slacker rock anthems have countrified footprints in a crisp yet explosively relatable manner. Plenty of weed and whiskey will be consumed this evening. Ortlieb’s, 847 N. Third St., $12, 9pm, 21+ (Image by Ryan Shafer) - Michael Colavita