Farewell to Shaggy

Band: Red & the Revelers Present: Farewell to Shaggy
Date: Thursday, Dec. 23, at 8 p.m.
Venue: The Merry Widow, 51 S. Conception St., themerrywidow.net
Tickets: $10 available through the venue’s website

A group of Gulf Coast musicians will be coming together to bid farewell to one of the scene’s most beloved drummers. Drummer Chris “Shaggy” Miller will soon be leaving the area to continue his education. Miller’s knack for intricate rhythms and fun-loving personality have made him a local favorite with both bands and audiences alike. This celebration of Miller and his musical talents will be an evening filled with eclectic jams and a cavalcade of musicians.

Red & the Revelers will be hosting this affair. With Miller on the drums, Red & the Revelers’ versatile sound and charismatic live show has made them one of the city’s most popular bands. This group’s fiery trademark style mixes elements of rock, funk and soul infused with undeniable musical passion. In 2019, Red & the Revelers released their debut album, “The Wizard and the Witch,” featuring the band’s infectious single “Rainy Day Suggestion.” Since then, the band has been spreading their grooves beyond the Azalea City and making plans for a sophomore effort.

Satin Dogs will also be on hand to have one last jam with Miller before his departure. Miller has also been instrumental in the creation of the Satin Dogs’ fresh local sound. With a style that refuses to be labeled, Satin Dogs take to the stage ready to deliver an overload of jams that trip across the musical spectrum. One song might be riddled with lighthearted exotic world beats while the next might radiate with ardent emotion. All the while, Satin Dogs maintains its dedication to giving the audience an unforgettable performance.

Newcomers Grits & Greens will be participating in this musical mix. This group began as a husband and wife duo featuring Ryann and Jesse McGhee. As the duo’s sound began to take shape, the McGhees added a rhythm section featuring bassist Kenny Paul Mann and drummer Adrian Chambers. Since then, the band has been showcasing original tunes that force the audience to expect the unexpected. Dreamy indie rock ballads might spontaneously drop into upbeat reggae with impressive guitar solos surrounding each measure.

The evening will reach an apex with a set from the Shaggy Miller Allstars. While a solid lineup for this impromptu group has yet to be revealed, the number of talented local musicians who will be in attendance predicts an extended set that could go anywhere. In addition to the musicians already on the bill, members of Hattiesburg’s Organized Grime will also be in the building. It is all but certain this collaboration will be an epic grand finale to this already impressive bill.