While there have been plenty of geographically inspired band names, most of them have settled for adopting the moniker of a major metropolitan area (Boston, Chicago) or at most, a state (Kansas). But you've got to have a lot of sand to name your band “America.” Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek were certainly not lacking in any confidence when they debuted in 1970. With a sound reminiscent of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, they soared to the top of the charts with “A Horse with No Name” and “Sister Golden Hair.” Though never exactly critic's darlings, the band's hits are inescapable on classic rock radio and probably will be long after those critics have gone to the great press room in the sky. Beckley and Bunnell are the only original members left, but they're touring on a new Adam Schlesinger/James Iha produced album, their best reviewed in some time. Give that horse a name already!
Wed., Aug. 20, 8 p.m., 2008
