Atlanta Rhythm Section plays the Kate

Can you name the band that, two weeks after Lynyrd Skynyrd's plane went down in 1977, ran a two-page ad of sorrow in Billboard magazine?

Why, yes! It was the Atlanta Rhythm Section.

... Which shows not only that they were deeply touched by the tragedy that befell their Southern rock brethren, but also that ARS has been around a long time.

Who can forget hits such as "So Into You," "Imaginary Lover," "Champagne Jam," and "I'm Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight"? And, if for some reason you missed it, they had a fine tune called "Alien." Download now.

ARS plays tonight in the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center. Though iconic vocalist Ronnie Hammond passed away last year, original members Ronnie Justo, Dean Daughtry and Paul Goddard anchor the polished sound.

- RICK KOSTER

Atlanta Rhythm Section, 7:30 tonight, Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook; $50, $55; 1-877-503-1286, thekate.org.