July 10 – July 16 • Essential Weekly Concert Guide • NYC Edition
Joseph Baura
Rakim at Brooklyn Historical Society | July 10
As one of the most revered lyricists in hip hop history, Rakim, known for his work with DJ/producer Eric B, is considered to be one of the most influential artists in the genre. As one of the pioneers for true lyricism and storytelling in hip hop, Rakim’s influence can still be seen in many artists today. Rakim will be in conversation with Wes Jackson to speak on his career, the current state of hip hop, and the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the classic album, “Paid In Full.”
Xavier Rudd at Highline Ballroom | July 10 + Brooklyn Bowl | July 11
Xavier Rudd is a master of many instruments, some of which you may have never even heard of. However, Rudd’s knack for unusual sounds is what makes his music charming, as found on his hit albums, “Solace” and “Food in the Belly.” With recent hits in both the Netherlands and throughout Europe, Rudd has decided to take his show on the road for a lengthy but worth it two-hour performance.
Chevelle w/ Black Map at Irving Plaza | July 11
While the band has been together since 1995, Chevelle truly didn’t hit stardom until the release of their album, “Wonder What’s Next,” in 2002. Featuring a strong and aggressive alt-metal sound, their debut album went platinum and hit the mainstream when their single “Send the Pain Below,” became a smash hit. Their latest album, “The North Corridor,” brings the same sounds from earlier in their career but takes a deeper dive into the dark tones that the band tends to touch on in their music.
John Mellencamp at Forest Hills Stadium | July 11
Still considered to be the same heartthrob that he was in the 80s, John Mellencamp remains one of rock’s biggest musicians with 13 Grammy nominations, and an induction into the rock and roll hall of fame. With the release of his latest album, “Sad Clowns & Hillbillies,” Mellencamp has proved that he still has the guitar chops and the same crooning voice to bring some nostalgic feelings of his earlier works with a modern twist.
Sir Sly at Bowery Ballroom | July 11
Through the release of their debut EP, “Gold,” in 2013, Sir Sly caught fire and skyrocketed to the limelight with their single of the same name making rounds via radio. Since then, the alt-rock Christian band has released their second album, “Don’t You Worry, Honey,” which has been met with critical and fan acclaim. Frontman, Landon Jacobs, leads the way with his unique vocal talents and solid production from instrumentalists Jason Suwito and Hayden Coplen.
The Wallflowers at The Paramount | July 11
The Wallflowers are best known for their album, “Bringing Down the Horse” and have won two Grammy Awards for Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song. After a long hiatus from making music in 2005, The Wallflowers, headed by Jakob Dylan, son of legendary folk artist, Bob Dylan, resurged in 2012 with the release of their album, “Glad All Over.” While they haven’t released new music for several years, their previous works have stood the test of time.
Wolf Alice at Rough Trade | July 11
Since their beginnings in 2010, the London bred alt-rock band Wolf Alice have been churning out tunes that bring a slightly dream-like vibe due to lead singer, Ellie Rowsell’s uniquely soft vocals. Reminiscent of bands from the 80s, Wolf Alice’s songs have electronic elements coupled with the standard fare of instruments including percussions and strings in a genre that is a love child of folk and grunge.
311 w/ New Politics at Hammerstein Ballroom | July 11 + Stone Pony | July 15
While 311 is from Omaha, Neb., there’s something about the reggae/alt-rock band that just feels as if they come from the sunny coasts of California. Best known for their singles “Amber” and “Beautiful Disaster,” 311 continues to be a band that has maintained a diehard fan base and whose timeless hits have attracted fans of a new generation. Their soothing, light-hearted songs about love and heartbreak bring a relaxing vibe that is too sweet to ignore.
Echo & The Bunnymen w/ Violent Femmes at Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk | July 12
As two of the most influential bands to come out of the 80s, Echo & The Bunnymen and the Violent Femmes will be performing on Coney Island’s iconic boardwalk for a show that is perfect for the summer heat. Made popular for their hits, “The Killing Moon” and “The Cutter,” Echo & The Bunnymen have been strong influences for artists who have come after them in the new wave, post- punk genre. Equally as powerful, the Violent Femmes have been immortalized in rock through their timeless classics, “Blister in the Sun” and “Gone Daddy Gone.”
Jill Scott at Kings Theatre | July 12
As one of the biggest neo-soul artists to ever hit the stage, Jill Scott incorporates many styles of expression through poetry, r&b, spoken word and hip hop. Breaking out with her album, “Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1,” in 2000, Jill Scott became one of the most sought after soul acts for her incredibly powerful vocals and her sultry production. Her latest album, “Woman,” released in 2015 was met with critical and fan acclaim after reaching number one on the Billboard music charts.
Jonny P at Baby’s All Right | July 12
From his style to his voice, everything about Jonny P exudes a classic type of soul. The Bronx born and Nashville raised crooner has created some groove inducing, soul focused tracks that feel reminiscent of artists such as Al Green and Marvin Gaye. His recent project, “Good To You,” features a silky smooth tracklist that feels like it has come straight out of Motown’s golden years.
Lake Street Dive at The Space At Westbury | July 12
Through the release of their last album, “Side Pony,” last year, Lake Street Dive, became a hit and easily became one of the bands to keep an eye on throughout 2016. The Boston-bred band made their way onto The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and have been welcomed into the White House to perform their own style of southern rock and soul, that naturally feels as it came straight out of the 70s.
Mon Laferte at Central Park SummerStage | July 12
It was at an early age that Mon Laferte found her love for music through joining a music conservatory at age 13. Since then, Laferte has traveled the world and has found different interests in the types of cultural sounds that she would find on her travels. Laferte finally came into her own when she moved to Mexico City and began to craft her somewhat folksy tunes infused with pieces of rock, blues and pop. Her recent album, “La Trenza,” is her best offering yet, giving insight into her experiences on her travels and her views on love.
The Cave Singers at Mercury Lounge | July 12
Coming out of the Pacific Northwest, The Cave Singers’ folk stylings feel perfectly in tune with the wooded mountains found in their hometown. Lead singer Pete Quirk’s high pitched vocals compliment the band’s light and upbeat instrumentals, and each member masterfully plays through various instruments including the harmonica, bass, flute, drums and guitars. Their folk tunes paint a perfect image of a serene, rainy afternoon in the middle of Seattle.
Pokey LaFarge at Bowery Ballroom | July 12 + Rough Trade | July 13
Straight out of the suburbs of Illinois, Pokey Lafarge has a sound that comes straight out of the 50s. The unique vocals that features tremors compliments his guitar pluckings in the style of some old time ragtime blues. LaFarge’s revival of the lost sound is one that has been catching the ears of music fans since the release of his breakthrough album, “Marmalade,” in 2005, and has continued through to his recent album release in 2017, “Manic Revelations.”
Beth Ditto at Bowery Ballroom | July 13 + Rough Trade | July 14
Most known for her work with Gossip, which disbanded shortly before her solo efforts, Beth Ditto’s hauntingly beautiful vocals creep along the deep bass lines and guitars that lace her songs. What could soon grow to be one of rock’s best female acts, Ditto brings a taste of southern hospitality that is truly missing in today’s rock climate. With driving blues bass lines and a high energy rock vibe, Beth Ditto brings everything from power, grace and grit to her music.
Atlas Genius at The Roof | July 14
Coming from Adelaide, South Australia, Atlas Genius brings an upbeat and lighthearted sound to their music as featured on their most popular single, “Trojans.” The band, made up of brothers Keith, Michael, and Steven Jeffery, made their way onto the charts with the release of their album, “When It Was Now,” and followed it up with “Inanimate Objects,” which were both met with critical acclaim. Their alt-rock tunes bring in splashes of electronica and 80s new wave that make their tracks easy to dance along to.
Jimmy Eat World w/ Incubus at PNC Bank Arts Center | July 14
Alt-rock superstars Jimmy Eat World and Incubus will be combining their forces for a special night in New Jersey. Jimmy Eat World, best known for their singles “The Middle” and “Pain,” have been bringing their high energy shows to the stage since the early 90s, while Incubus’s soft, timeless hits like “Drive” and “Pardon Me” have brought their sun soaked California vibes for just as long.
Matador at Output | July 14
Coming from Dublin, Ireland, Matador is known for his masterful mixes and remixes of popular songs. Featuring tracks that use a high amount of bass kicks and upbeat percussion, Matador’s production is perfectly suited for nights inside of dance clubs and daytime raves by the pool. With a perfect balance between hard hitting trance and melodic dance tracks, Matador offers up a good serving for those who love EDM.
Meek Mill w/ Yo Gotti at Hammerstein Ballroom | July 14
Known for his rightfully aggressive delivery and quick witted rhymes, Philly’s own Meek Mill is still one of hip hop’s most successful mixtape artists. While known for his recent feud with Drake, Meek Mill has risen above all of the personal struggles and has put out several projects that have shown that Mill is still on top of his game. Meek Mill will be sharing the stage with fellow emcee Yo Gotti who is known for his hit single “Down in the DM.”
Mr. Cheeks at Queensbridge Park | July 14
As the nephew of the famous jazz poet, musician and author Gil Scott-Heron, Mr. Cheeks, also known as Terrance Kelly, has always found himself interested in indulging in the arts. Mr. Cheeks tapped into his artistic side through his love of hip hop at a young age. Made popular through his hit single, “Lights, Camera, Action,” Mr. Cheeks brings in pieces of reggae and r&b and infuses it into his fast paced delivery that he exudes in his flow.
Quantic w/ Tei Shi, Alex Anwandter at Prospect Park Bandshell | July 14
Also known as Will Holland, the DJ known as Quantic has touched down at different venues and festivals across the world making mixes for EDM enthusiasts since he was 16. Through his ventures in Columbia, Quantic organically adopted a love for the tropical rhythms that were popular in the area and injected the sounds into his own music. The Southern American influences inside of his EDM stylings that feature jazz and reggae esthetics make for an interesting sound that brings a welcomed diversity to EDM.
Sleep at Pioneer Works | July 14 + 15
Hailing from San Jose, Sleep brings a refreshing experience with the style of metal that they bring to the stage. Since their beginnings in the 90s, Sleep has played a heavy influence in the entire heavy metal scene during the decade and have since resurged as of late to be one of the premiere acts that metal has to offer. With a promised new album set to be released this year, fans may get a chance to see some of the bands new music brought to the stage.
Taking Back Sunday at Webster Hall | July 14 + 15
With their most recent album, “Tidal Wave,” which was released in mid-2016, Taking Back Sunday took influences from bands such as the Ramones and artists like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. Since their breakout album, “Louder Now,” in 2006, Taking Back Sunday has been one of the leading acts in the alt-rock and hardcore genres. Despite several roster changes over the years, the music hasn’t faltered and continues to please diehard fans and new fans alike.
13th Annual Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival ft. Rakim, DMX, The Lox, Bas, Cozz, Omen, Stretch & Bobbito, Mister Cee at Brooklyn Bridge Park | July 15
In one of the boroughs that has fostered a strong history and love for hip hop, Brooklyn has continuously showed it’s love for the genre with it’s annual hip hop festival. In the 13th iteration of Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival, up and comers and legends will be hitting the stage together under the Brooklyn Bridge to celebrate the continual growth of hip hop. Legends DMX and Rakim will be sharing the stage with newcomers Bas, Cozz, and Omen from Dreamville records. Along with those acts, legendary DJs Stretch & Bobbito and Mister Cee will be spinning records for fans to dance along to.
Animal Collective at Brooklyn Bowl | July 15
Animal Collective is one of those bands that bring a special experience every time they hit the stage, as they provide a mix between folk, pop and psychedelic rock. The Baltimore bred band found their stride with the release of their album, “Spirit They’ve Gone, Spirit They’ve Vanished,” and have since released fan favorites such as “Merriweather Post Pavilion.” Taking a break from their usual performance style, Animal Collective will be hitting the stage with a special DJ set that will surely bring the same kind of surrealism that the typical Animal Collective fare has to offer.
Gary Clark Jr. w/ My Morning Jacket at Forest Hills Stadium | July 15
As one of the most revered blues and soul guitarists of his generation, Gary Clark Jr. has become one of the biggest acts to come out of his hometown of Austin, Texas, as of late. His critically received debut album, “Blak and Blu,” skyrocketed the guitarist into the limelight, and Clark’s smooth guitar tunes have been used in countless films, commercials and television shows. Clark will be sharing the stage with My Morning Jacket whose addictive songs bring a solid blend between southern rock, psychedelic rock and funk.
Japanese Breakfast at Union Pool | July 15
What started off as a side project for Little Big League frontwoman Michelle Zauner in 2013 has become something bigger than she ever anticipated. Using the name Japanese Breakfast Zauner brings a combination of pop melodies mixed with Zauner’s signature indie rock that features dark lyrics and her unique vocal taste. Japanese Breakfast’s latest release, “ Soft Sounds From Another Planet,” brings more of the band’s aforementioned signature sound while also focusing on having a sonically upbeat undertone.
Los Pericos w/ Chicano Batman at Central Park SummerStage | July 15
Coming from Argentina, Los Pericos pioneered a sound that mixed pieces of reggae and rock with tinges of southern American flavors that brought a sound that was unheard of in Argentina at the time. With the release of their album, “Big Yuyo,” the band skyrocketed into the limelight and took on the world through several tours which brought their album to triple-platinum status. Decades later, Los Pericos has released their latest album, “Sound America,” which brings more of their classic sound.
Primus at Stone Pony | July 15
Headed by bassist and vocalist, Les Claypool, Primus has been fine tuning their take on the experimental rock genre since the mid-80s. Similar to bands such as Rush, Primus has a strong focus on improvisation and extended solos in their progressive rock shows that take listeners on a sonic journey of a blend of funk and thrash.
The Wailers at Highline Ballroom | July 15
Best known for their works with the legendary Bob Marley through several of the late reggae artists’ hit albums, The Wailers maintained the status of being one of the most revolutionary bands to come out of Jamaica. The Wailers, headed by famed bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett, the Wailers have made timeless classics that have featured some of the most innovative and intricate arrangements to grace reggae music during its introduction to the world.
Warm Up 2017 Presents Jacques Greene, MikeQ, Sophie, Smerz at MoMA PS1 | July 15
The MoMA PS1’s continuing series of outdoor music events continues this week with another solid lineup of DJs providing sounds for the social event. This week, Canadian dance DJ Jacques Greene will be spinning records along New Jersey’s MikeQ. Coming from Los Angeles will be Sophie, along with Denmark’s own Smerz.
Out in the Streets ft. Caveman, A Place to Bury Strangers, Buscabulla, Tall Juan, Psychic Twin and more at The Well | July 15 + 16
Out in the Streets festival comes back to New York once again at The Well, which will feature music & arts all in the middle of New York City. The two day event will feature artists such as Caveman, Buscabulla, and Psychic Twin headlining for the first night and A Place To Bury Strangers, Tall Juan, and What Cheer? to close out the weekend’s festivities. Along with the music, some of New York’s gourmet restaurants will be serving food throughout the grounds.
The Greatest Day Ever ft. Diplo, Dillon Francis, Anna Lunoe, Bro Safar, The Internet, THEY at Governors Island | July 15 + 16
Presented by Adidas Original, The Greatest Day Ever is setting out to be exactly what it’s named after, offering attendees the greatest and most diverse festival experience around. Featuring some of the premiere acts in edm, hip hop, house and funk, The Greatest Day Ever has everything that any music fan could want. With Dillon Francis, Anna Lunoe, and Mr. Carmack closing night one and Diplo, Goldlink and Post Malone headlining the second, and tons of attractions and food spots to enjoy, The Greatest Day Ever will be one festival you can’t miss.
Corey Feldman at Highline Ballroom | July 16
Actor turned musical artists Corey Feldman brought himself back into the spotlight after an appearance on NBC’s Today Show late last year. His latest album, “Angelic 2 The Core,” features guest spots from artists like Snoop Dogg, Fred Durst, Kaya Jones, and Doc Ice. “Angelic 2 The Core” features a mix between upbeat pop singles to a shift into more darker toned tracks accompanied by heavy bass and synths.
Fela Tribute w/ Roy Ayers, Seun Kuti, Eqypt Kuti at Central Park SummerStage | July 16
Roy Ayers is truly one of the greatest and most respected funk, jazz, and soul artists to ever grace the stage. As one of the pioneers of the mashup genre of jazz-funk, Ayers created a trend in jazz that influenced several generations of artists since its inception. With the title of “The Godfather of Neo-Soul,” Roy Ayers hit singles like “Everybody Love the Sunshine,” “Searchin’” and “Running Away,” have all become timeless classics, garnering attention from many hip hop artists who have sampled his hits.