Today, The Black Crowes’ Rich Robinson, along with long-time friend and promoter Velena Vego, have announced a two-night benefit concert celebrating Georgia-natives, R.E.M.’s debut EP, Chronic Town. The event will also double as the 40th anniversary of the group’s 1982 collection and a benefit for Planned Parenthood on Dec. 14 at the 40 Watts Club in Athens, Ga., and Dec. 15 at Atlanta’s Coca-Cola Roxy.  

Both evenings will be hosted by comedian David Cross, along with Robinson and includes additional special guests who will perform the entirety of R.E.M.’s beloved five-track EP, comprised of “Gardening At Night,” “Wolves, Lower,” “1,000,000,” “Stumble” and “Carnival Of Sorts (Boxcars),” as well as added fan favorites. 

Robinson offered a statement in regard to the forthcoming events. He offered: “Growing up in Atlanta in the 1980s, R.E.M. was the preeminent band of that era. Their music was a huge influence not only on the Atlanta music scene but also on my brother and me. I’m so happy to be able to put together this celebration for a band that meant so much to us and music, and Chronic Town is what started it all.”

Moreover, the two-night event will feature a house band comprised of Barrett Martin (Screaming Trees, R.E.M.) on drums, Sven Pipien (The Black Crowes) on bass and Robinson on the guitar and vocals. The additional artist set to perform include Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes, Darius Rucker, Steve Wynn, Kevin Kinney (Drivin’ N Cryin’), John Cameron Mitchell, Fred Armisen, David Ryan Harris, Lenny Kaye, Elf Power, Pylon Reenactment Society and producer of Chronic Town, Mitch Easter of Let’s Active and more.

General ticket sales for the Coca-Cola Roxy show will begin on Oct.7 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets for the 40 Watt Club performance will begin on Oct. 11 at 10 a.m. ET.

All net proceeds will benefit Planned Parenthood. For those interested in donating, you can do so here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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