Freedy Johnston/Jeff Soukop

He’s got a pretty fucking rock 'n' roll name and his music is badass, to boot. Freedy Johnston is a classic American songwriter, melding the desolation of life in love and the bright lights and big city mentality of homebase New York City. In at least one sense, Johnston’s stuff is power pop at its finest. “Don’t Fall in Love with a Lonely Girl” is both sage advice and a really kick-ass tune. Give it a listen — as well as the rest of his 2010 album Rain on the City — as prep work for tonight’s Beachland gig. He’s got a Michael Stipe voice with far less Michael Stipeness, thankfully, and his guitar work is dextrous and emotional. His performance promises to be an intimate one, warming up the hearts and minds gathering in the Tavern. We recommend bourbon for this one. (Sandy)