SLCene Suggests: The Lower Lights at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple

THE LOWER LIGHTS, SALT LAKE MASONIC TEMPLE, Wednesday, Dec. 12 and Thursday, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., $10

If you’re unfamiliar with our local gospel-roots collective The Lower Lights, consider these two Christmas shows at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with one of the best things going in Utah, music-wise. The band is made up of a rotating array of players and singers you might have seen in one of their other forms, including Paul Jacobsen and the Madison Arm, Sarah Sample, Fictionist, Ryan Tanner, Debra Fotheringham, Nate Pyfer, Mindy Gledhill and many more. Together as The Lower Lights, they knock out excellent takes on hymns and gospel songs spanning decades, from old-time Southern spirituals to more modern Mormon favorites. This, though, is a Christmas show, and I can tell you that last year’s holiday show proved a real treat in hearing the folks involved tackle traditional carols. Throw in the bonus of being able to check out the Masonic Temple before or after the show, and you have a great reason to go out in the middle of the week. Both shows are officially sold out, so check your KSL classifieds or lurk around the Masonic Temple before one of the shows and hope for miracle to catch one of the gigs.