From classic hits to rockin’ bagpipes

In the heart of Sussex County, a vibrant musical tapestry is set to unfold this weekend, providing a harmonious escape for music lovers of all tastes.

Friday, Jan. 26

Uncle Shoehorn’s Grateful Dead Invitational Jam will start at 6 p.m. at the Blue Arrow Farm, 86 Glenwood Road, Pine Island, N.Y. A celebration of the iconic Grateful Dead, this promises to be an evening of soulful tunes and good vibes.

Barry McArdle’s performance will blend genres and captivate audiences at the same hour at McQ’s Pub at Lake Lenape, 165 Andover Sparta Road, Newton.

The dynamic duo of Kyle Head & Dan Smok will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. at Krogh’s Restaurant & Brew Pub, 23 White Deer Plaza, Sparta. Influenced by John Mayer, Kings of Leon and Dave Matthews, their performance promises a fusion of musical styles.

Aiken Barker will grace the stage at 7 p.m. at Brick & Brew, 27 Route 23, Franklin, for a blend of rock, blues and country tunes.

At the historic Stanhope House, 45 Main St., JJ from JJ and the Beatniks will perform. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Sheridan’s Lodge, 631 Limecrest Road, Newton, invites you to experience the musical magic of From Good Homes’ Patrick Fitzsimmons and Brady Rymer starting at 7 p.m. Admission is $35; call for reservations at (973) 383-7577.

For a diverse musical journey, head to the Newton Theatre, 234 Spring St., at 8 p.m. to witness the brilliance of TR3, featuring two-time Grammy nominee Tim Reynolds. Tickets start at $24 and may be purchased online at skypac.org

To close out your Friday night, visit O’Reilly’s Pub and Grill, 271 Spring St., Newton, for a fun-filled karaoke night starting at 9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 27

Justin Cole will fill the air with alternative rock and acoustic tunes at Angry Erik Brewing, 2 Camre Drive, Newton, starting at 4 p.m.

Head to Milk Street Distillery, 1 Milk St., Branchville, at 7 p.m. for the jazz stylings of the Glenn Heller Jazz Trio. Sip on a martini and let the smooth melodies transport you.

At the same hour, McQ’s Pub welcomes Almost Autumn, a rocking duo covering classic rock, blues and country classics.

For a fun musical experience, the Stanhope House presents the “Blondie Experience,” with Dirty Blond and punk group Porch Rockers, at 7 p.m. with a $10 cover charge at the door.

Also at 7 p.m., Brick & Brew invites you to enjoy the sounds of the four-piece band, the Porch Pirates.

For a legendary performance, head to the Newton Theatre at 8 p.m. to witness the Lords of 52nd St., the band that backed Billy Joel for more than a decade. Relive classic hits in an unforgettable night. Tickets start at $44.

Conclude your Saturday night with acoustic pop and grunge vibes as Katie Gerhold takes the stage at O’Reilly’s Pub at 9 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 28

Ease into Sunday afternoon with the acoustic rock and country tunes of Bill Ruddy at Angry Erik Brewing starting at 2 p.m.

Cap off the weekend with a sensational performance by the Red Hot Chili Pipers of Scotland at the Newton Theatre at 7 p.m. Tickets are $49. Experience bagpipes with attitude and a blazing rock band featuring popular songs, such as AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck,” and timeless classics, such as “Amazing Grace.”

Wednesday, Jan. 31

Midweek festivities kick off at 5 p.m. as Sean Henry takes the stage at McQ’s Pub. Join the crowd for his weekly Wednesday night performance.

At Blue Arrow Farm, local favorite OC5 returns to the barn as part of Danny C’s Winter Wednesday Concert Series. Get ready for a night of rock, R&B and dance as OC5 delivers its signature sound, starting at 5 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 1

At 6:30 p.m., Krogh’s hosts Doug Heyburn, a musician with an impressive journey. From the Madison Hotel to the MTV Video Music Awards at Radio City Music Hall, his diverse experiences shape his current sound, echoing the vibes of the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s.

Send information to Stefani at themicnj@gmail.com