Southern rock legends Wet Willie are back in action and headed for the Cox Capitol Theatre. The band will have a CD release party and concert Saturday.

Wet Willie released its new live album, “Miles of Smiles,” in January. It’s their first live album since 1977’s “Left Coast Live.”

Despite their success in the ’70s Southern rock genre, “Wet Willie was always about R&B, funk, soul and greasy blues. They were a band best experienced in a live setting ... and the group played with a fire that could burn down any venue,” according to a news release.

After breaking up in 1982, the group is now back and consists of Jimmy Hall on lead vocals, sax and harp, brother Jack on bass, and sister Donna Hall-Foster on vocals. Joining them are longtime guitarist/vocalist Ric Seymour, with T.K. Lively on drums, Ricky Chancey on guitar and keyboardist Bobby Mobley.

“Miles of Smiles” includes some Wet Willie favorites, such as “Street Corner Serenade,” “Grits Ain’t Groceries,” “Country Side of Life,” “Easy Street,” “Lucy Was in Trouble” and “Keep on Smiling,” and a few songs from Jimmy Hall’s solo career.

The CD and Wet Willie T-shirts will be on sale at the concert. The band will be greeting fans and autographing merchandise following the performance.

Atlanta-based band Lingo will open the show at 8 p.m.

-- Staff reports

Wet Willie CD Release Party

When: 8 p.m. Saturday

Where: Cox Capitol Theatre, 382 Second St.

Cost: $15-$60

Tickets: 257-6391 or www.coxcapitoltheatre.com