Critics Picks - Bluegrass & Country

Jack Bernhardt, Correspondent

Adrienne Young and Little Sadie begin with a solid foundation of old-time music and bluegrass. They add a pinch of pop, a hint of rock and a large measure of folk sensibility on their way to musical statements that are original, thoughtful and grounded in traditional values. Young and her fine band will bring their message of hope and virtue to Fletcher Opera Theater tonight as the inaugural concert of PineCone's new season.

Ray Scott has come a long way from the days when he was fronting his struggling rock band in Raleigh to his Warner Bros. debut, "My Kind of Music," which was released last year to critical acclaim. Scott's booming baritone proclaims blue-collar values and an independent attitude on such songs as "Dirty Shirt," "Different Kind of Cowboy" and the autobiographical title track. Scott brings his songs, attitude and charisma Saturday to the Longbranch.