Last year, the quantifiably great roots band Yarn released an album called "This is the Year," so titled because they were hoping the recording would push them to unprecedented heights of popularity.

It's a pretty great record — listen to the yearning, lovely "Fallin'" or the rollicking "Long Way to Texas," just for two examples — and it probably DID increase their increadibly loyal fan base. Still, Yarn has never become as big as they deserve to be, and that's puzzling. In addition to great records, they are a fantastic live band.

This weekend presents a fine opportunity for Yarners — or folks who've never heard them. The band plays Friday at the McCook's Point Band Shell in Niantic as part of their Summer Music Series, then head to New London Saturday for a show at Captain Scott's Lobster Dock. It's not too late: Maybe 2017 will be the Year of the Yarn!

Yarn, 7 p.m. Friday, McCook's Point Band Shell, Main St., Niantic; free; eltownhall.com; 7 p.m. Saturday, Captain Scott's Lobster Dock, 80 Hamilton St., New London; free; (860) 439-1741.