Jonathan Richman feat. Tommy Larkins

Decades after forming cerebral Boston proto-punk outfit the Modern Lovers, Jonathan Richman still refuses to conform. Beginning in 1979, the singer fused acoustic pop filled with positivity and purity, traversing everything from Spanish to country music in his solo output. His catalog preserves enduring simplicity and whimsy, with current set lists offering gentle, airy performances anchored by longtime drumming partner Tommy Larkins. – Libby Webster