From their early beginnings in the late ‘60s —when they were considered to be the British answer to harmony and guitar-based folk-rock groups like the Byrds—Fairport Convention has survived the things that movies like Spinal Tap are made of—lineup changes, tragic deaths, but luckily no puppet shows (that we know of). Founding member Simon Nicol is joined by Chris Leslie and Ric Sanders for their first show in Buffalo in over ten years on Wednesday, June 21 at Mohawk Place. Fairport’s longevity can be partially attributed to the outstanding talents of former members Richard Thompson, Iain Matthews and the late Sandy Denny, not only through original material, but also through their ability to expose audiences to then-overlooked young contemporaries like Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan. The band continues to reinvent and redefine their sound with their latest release, Over The Next Hill (Compass Records), merging contemporary folk-rock originals with decidedly new and unique interpretations of familiar songs including “The Wassail Song” and their own hit from 1969, “Si Tu Dois Partir” (which samples original Fairport drummer Martin Lamble). Fairport’s greatest strength has always been their live show. Their appearance at Mohawk Place is an up-close and personal acoustic affair, an unrivaled evening of folk, jazz, rock and swing. It’s an early night—doors are at 7pm. Ohioan singer/songwriter Tim Wallace opens with his incisive and humorous songs.

Wednesday, June 21 at 7pm. The Mohawk Place, 47 E. Mohawk St., (855-3931) www.mohawkplace.com