Let's do the kid a favor and skip the rap about bloodline, filling big shoes, and whatnot, and let "The Good Life" speak for him instead. Justin Townes Earle is a young Gotham-by-way-of-Nashville singer/songwriter who sounds the way Nashville should. His voice is rich and warm, with a hint of that nasal twang thanks to that unmentionable bloodline. He inherited certain vices and addictions as well, which have certainly added some years and lyrical color. But Earle has successfully made it to the other side, where he straddles the line between troubadour and country. He recently contributed to the John Prine tribute "Broken Hearts and Dirty Windows," and his new "Harlem River Blues" album is in the hopper set for a September release. Earle's music is dusty and minimal, stripped down and loose. Dad should be proud of his little rock ‘n' roller. The Court Yard Hounds and Tommy Brunett also appear.

Justin Townes Earle plays Thursday, July 29 at 5 p.m. at Riverside Festival Site, Court and Exchange. Free. rochesterevents.com