CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — Sugarloaf/USA will kick off the Bud Light Concert Series with a bang this year, featuring two headlining bands, John Brown’s Body and Benevento/Russo Duo on Dec. 9.

Benevento/Russo Duo, called “a stripped-down punk rock version of a keyboard trio,” by The Village Voice, will open the show at 8:00 pm. Formed in 2002 as an organ and drum combo, the duo has garnered national acclaim for its uniquely creative sound. The group has branched out to incorporate a wider variety of instruments, and describes itself as “an indie-rock band that jams, a jazz-combo that rocks.”

The Duo’s latest studio release, Play Pause Stop, represents a departure from the its previous albums, which feature multiple guest appearances, and instead demonstrates the band’s ability to perform exclusively as a duo. Play Pause Stop features a sound that is more rock than jazz, with the duo employing a wide range of instruments, from electric guitar to a Wurlitzer and circuit benders.

John Brown’s Body, the group widely regarded as America’s best reggae band, will follow Benevento/Russo. Hailed as “both reverent and revolutionary” by the New York Daily News, John Brown’s Body has entered its tenth year as a performing group, and is currently on tour in support of its latest studio release, Pressure Points.

Citing influences as varied as Johnny Cash, Sam Cooke, and 311, John Brown’s Body has developed a reputation for originality, poignancy, and energetic live performances. The seven-member group features a roots-style reggae sound, driven by torque heavy drum and bass, four part vocal harmony, and a strong horn section, and has shared the stage with a wide variety of performers, including Jurassic 5, The Dave Matthew’s Band, Lauryn Hill, and Damian Marley.

The Bud Light Concert Series, comprised of five concerts throughout the winter season, brings top performers to Sugarloaf’s main stage, in the King Pine Room of the Base Lodge. Ticket prices for the concert will be $10 prior to the show and $15 at the door. Doors open at 7:00. The show is 21+, and proper ID is required. Tickets are available at 1-800-THE-LOAF, or at 207-237-6939.

The concert will coincide with Demo Days and Sugarloaf’s Holiday Gift Bazaar, both of which will run Dec. 9-10. Ski and stay packages are available for the weekend of the show, starting at $69 per person per night, and include lodging, lift tickets, adult Perfect Turn clinics and access to the Sports and Fitness Center. Visit www.sugarloaf.com, or call 1-800-THE-LOAF for reservations.