Ax to Grind

The man may have one of the unfunkiest names in showbiz, but Brian Stoltzis actually one hell of a ripping dude. Check the Crescent City six-string slinger's CV and you'll find him backing some of the most iconic performers of the past 30 years: the Neville Brothers, Bob Dylan, Dr. John, the Wild Magnolias, the Funky Meters, and literally hundreds more. Dylan even gave the man props in his biography: "The other guitar player, Brian Stoltz, from Slidell, also played in a funky and blistering way, but he was more laid back and he had articulate schemes." Taking a page from the masters, Stoltz recently released God, Guns, and Money,a raw, groove-drenched rock album that pulses with Steve Earle-style anti-establishment wit and bitter, Dylanesque observations. Stoltz might be the whole package, an esteemed instrumental virtuoso who can also write riveting songs of his own.

Brian Stoltz plays three nights: with Lilly Holbrook on Friday, December 9; solo on Saturday, December 10; and with the Alligator Alley Allstars on Sunday, December 11. All shows start at 9 p.m. at Alligator Alley, 1321 E. Commercial Blvd., Oakland Park. Tickets cost $10 each night. Call 954-771-2220.