Richard Thompson Electric Trio

Singer-songwriter, guitarist and critically acclaimed darling of British Invasion bands, Richard Thompson, will electrify the Kent Stage tonight. His founding band Fairport Convention hit the airwaves in 1968 but after five albums Thompson left to pursue a solo career. From bare bones folk to soaring electric guitar solos, he has the versatility to meet any situation. His 2013 album simply titled Electric, showcases the artist’s electric guitar skills and upholds his reputation as a top notch songwriter. “Good Things Happen To Bad People” sounds like an R.E.M.-inspired electric folk song while coming off as uplifting despite the songs cynical title. “Straight And Narrow” on the other hand features a Doors style organ overtop short punchy guitar licks. And if neither of those songs interests you, look back to his 2003 blues cover of “Oops! I Did It Again” by Britney Spears for a few good laughs. (William Hoffman)