The Nields story begins with the two sisters. Nerissa and Katryna , who grew up singing folk songs in the kitchen and in the back seat of the family car. Katryna learned to sing melody with their father, eventually making her an ideal front person for the band. Nerissa, on the other hand, tackled the harmonies; with that skill, she provided a natural counterpoint to her sister's vibrant lead. Now well into their third decade as a musical partners, they are still  at the very top of their game. The Nields’ albums are often an eclectic mix of ideas and music styles, but clear themes emerge. Love and China (2002) was about the fragility of love and relationships. The Full Catastrophe (2012) explored the messy experience of raising a family. XVII has the Nields looking out from midlife, focusing on themes of time, love and community.

WHERE: Stone Church Coffee House, First Congregational Church, 300 High St., Bristol
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25; 7:30 p.m.
COST: $20 (students are half price; children 5 and under are free)
MORE INFO: 401/253-4813