In my early days of bartending, I worked in a country bar. There were many heated, good-natured arguments that stemmed from me loading up the jukebox with punk and rock. It was one unique customer though, that eased me into the extraordinary crossover of genres and the appeal of liquor-twinged twang with one simple statement: "Punk rock and country music are the same thing - three chords and the truth." Perhaps no one expresses that raw blend like Joe Buck Yourself, the Kentucky-blooded boozehound who has collaborated with the likes of Hank III. Buck will bring his one-man show - with kick drum, aggressive guitar playing and honey-toned voice - to the Acme Grub Cage in Tacoma. The Acme is known for its intimate shows, as the bands play straight on the floor. The show is an easy five bucks, and promo material states the show is on a tight schedule - music is 9-11 p.m. Then, it's shooting the breeze and having cold ones with the bands. Sold.

JOE BUCK YOURSELF, w/Viva Le Vox and C.F.A., 8 p.m., Acme Tavern, 1310 Tacoma Ave. S., Tacoma, $5, 253.272.1892

See Also

Calendar: Arts and Entertainment

Calendar: Music and Nightlife