Chris O’Leary first garnered national recognition during his six years as singer and harmonica for Levon Helm’s Barnburners. Tours with the Barnburners and an extended musical residency in New Orleans influenced the singing, playing and songwriting heard on The Chris O’Leary Band’s 2010 VizzTone debut, “Mr. Used to Be.” It earned a Blues Music Award nomination, and a Best New Artist Debut CD victory at Chicago’s Blues Blast Music Awards. The O’Leary Band’s latest release, “Live at Blues Now” has been praised for its energy and the interplay between the saxophones and the front man’s singing and harp playing.
9 p.m. Friday; Ace’s Live; Aces Live, 4343 Palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton; $8 (advance), $12 (at the door); 795-3886; aceslivemusic.com
