Oct 9 – Oct 15 • Essential Weekly Concert Guide • L.A. Edition

Des Delgadillo

Coast Modern at The Echo | Oct. 9
The duo that today comprises alt-pop force Coast Modern used to toil away at writing educational rap songs for kids, a whole world removed from the infectious cuts they’ve been turning out lately. A pair of disenfranchised songwriters, Coleman Trapp and Luke Atlas almost called it quits before one final musical effort put them over the top. They bring that new and bubbling sound to the Echo alongside Salt Cathedral.

The Flaming Lips and Mac Demarco at Fox Theater (Pomona) | Oct. 9 
Fans of innovative musicians best buckle up, because this bill might be the hottest ticket in Pomona. Psychedelic rock pioneers The Flaming Lips join with Mac Demarco, a multi-instrumentalist currently experiencing a meteoric rise thanks to an incredibly passionate fanbase. The Flaming Lips have 11 albums of pure rock gold from which they’ll draw to craft an awe-inspiring setlist. Come early for Demarco’s hopelessly addicting slacker rock.

Leon at El Rey Theatre | Oct. 9
The Swedish soul songstress got a coveted Katy Perry stamp of approval back in 2015, calling her an artist to look out for in the coming years. It was an understatement from Perry to say the least, with Leon developing into a beyond remarkable performer in the two years since Perry levied that statement. Now Leon brings her internationally beloved soul chops to L.A.’s El Rey Theatre with Wrabel in tow.

Billy Bragg at Troubadour | Oct. 10
Bragg spurred on countless protests with his politically heavy music, which borrowed equally from folk and punk. The results speak for themselves, with songs that are both anthemic and rambunctious, questioning everything from government to social norms. Bragg isn’t without his soft side, though, crafting some of the most deep love songs listeners will find. Going back to the stripped down performance he first brought to light on “Back to basics,” Bragg hits the road with only an electric guitar and a time-tested arsenal of powerful music.

Darius Rucker at Jimmy Kimmel Live | Oct. 10
Originally making his ascent into the spotlight as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for Hootie & the Blowfish, Rucker has managed to diversify his body of work significantly, touching on everything from r&b to country. He has more than proved his value as a powerfully evocative lyricist, a skill he’ll put on full display when he joins Jimmy Kimmel Live’s outdoor concert series.

The National at Hollywood Bowl | Oct. 11
“Sleep Well Beast” has proven to be yet another poignant work of art from the brooding indie quintet, offering sprawling cinematic soundscapes and some of the most relatable lyrics around. The National are receiving heaps of praise right now, and all of it is entirely worth it. Catch the act everyone’s talking about right now when they hit the Hollywood Bowl for an unforgettable night of emotions.

Everything Everything at Teragram ballroom | Oct. 11
These Manchester musicians have been blazing quite the trail for themselves, especially thanks to their last few winning albums, 2017’s “A Fever Dream” and 2015’s “Get to Heaven.” Their songs are incredibly eclectic and impressive in their composition. Everything Everything certainly aren’t a group to play the same song twice. They have an intimate date slated for Teragram ballroom with The Palms and Teischa.

First Aid Kit at The Theatre at Ace Hotel | Oct. 12
The Swedish folk duo are quite the hit live, bringing in a drummer and all manner of other instruments to compliment the stories they weave into their work. The sisters tasted some viral success after their cover of Fleet foxes’ song “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song” made the Youtube rounds. They make a rare L.A. stop, so make sure to catch them in action, and arrive early for opener Van William.

Lords of Acid at Fonda Theatre | Oct. 12
Lords of Acid are a techno and industrial band, but their roots are in the crusty punk rock clubs in Belgium. Their sound makes no compromises, moving forward with a cutting confidence that resonates through every dance-floor-pounding track. It’ll be the perfect time to mosh, shred and jive when the Lords of Acid themselves hit the Fonda Theatre in all their glory, with openers Combichrist, Christian Death, En Esch and Night Club.

Macklemore at The Wiltern | Oct. 12
With his latest album, “Gemini,” Macklemore clearly made it a point to strike out in a bold new direction. Now the Seattle rapper brings that bold new sound to L.A. for a hot date at the Wiltern, where he’ll showcase his freakishly fresh flow in front of the masses. Considering a lot of “Gemini” borrows heavily from the trap genre, expect this show to be bumping all night long.

Natalie Lafourcade at Walt Disney Concert Hall | Oct. 12
The internationally renowned singing and songwriting juggernaut returns to L.A. for a date at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Get lost in Lafourcade’s intoxicatingly smooth blend of jazz and traditional Mexican music. Her voice will be complimented with the best arrangement around, as the La Philharmonic Orchestra will join her for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in a truly innovative artist’s work.

Nothing but Thieves at El Rey Theatre | Oct. 12
The English rockers won Muse’s admiration with their 2015 debut and got to embark as their opening act on Muse’s arena tour. The band has grown a lot since then, getting back in the studio and hammering out an even more remarkable sophomore effort in “Broken Machine,” an album rife with themes including systems of control. They stop by the el Rey Theatre with Missio and Airways providing support.

Depeche Mode w/ Warpaint at Hollywood Bowl | Oct. 12 + 14 + 16 + 18
Two generations’ worth of monumental musicians take the same stage for an iconic set of Hollywood Bowl performances. Depeche Mode have been lamenting all kinds of melancholic angst since the 80s, winning favor with hit songs like “Enjoy the Silence,” “Just Can’t Get Enough” and “Personal Jesus.” Thankfully, Depeche Mode have never been a complacent group, constantly tracking the music scene’s pulse to find suitable tour companions. No pairing works better than Depeche Mode and Warpaint, who have been setting the indie music sphere on fire in their own right. They team up for a scintillating one-two punch as their “Global Spirit” tour stops off in L.A. for two earth-scorching dates.

Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile at Amoeba Music | Oct. 12 + Cathedral Sanctuary at Immanuel Presbyterian Church | Oct. 14 + Orpheum Theatre | Oct. 15
Barnett has already made an impression with her album “Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit,” an album that featured strong shows in lyricism like “Pedestrian at Best” and “Avant Gardener.” Now, though, she joins Kurt Vile for “Lotta Sea Lice,” a collaborative effort that shows both putting their best foot forward. The duo will take the stage for a free Amoeba show, with those buying the album in-store getting the prime audience real-estate, before Barnett plays Desert Days in Joshua Tree and Vile joins her for two more nearby dates.

The Afghan Whigs at Fonda Theatre | Oct. 13
The Afghan Whigs may have taken a break for a little while, but since their reunion, they’ve been hitting every sonic sweet spot they can. Their latest sonic masterpiece, “In Spades,” continues the band’s experimental exploration of their genre and others around them. That same driving brand of rock comes to the Fonda Theatre when the Afghan Whigs pull out all the stops alongside Har Mar Superstar.

Alison Wonderland w/ Elohim at The Novo | Oct. 13
The recent recipient of the Electronic Music Awards’ New Artist of the Year stamp of approval, Australian DJ sensation Alison Wonderland brings her majestic and downright trip-inducing tunes to The Novo for a wonderfully chaotic evening. Elohim will also join Wonderland for this happening L.A. date, so make sure to arrive early and ready to throw down.

Art Garfunkel in Conversation at Grand Performances | Oct. 13
In celebration of his new book, “What is it All but Luminous: Notes From an Underground Man,” Garfunkel takes the stage for an in-depth conversation that should probe every aspect of the luminary’s unprecedented musicality. He’ll dive into all of his musical relationships and so much more. Rarely does one get to hear an icon of Garfunkel’s stature speak, and this is the perfect time to open up to a new world of knowledge.

Elvis Perkins at Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever | Oct. 13
The folk singer isn’t afraid to spice up his recordings, dropping in a ton of rare instrumentation that add to the sonic sprawl he so articulately puts together. Perkins and co. Will be at Hollywood Forever to play his first record, “Ash Wednesday,” in celebration of its 10th anniversary. It’s a great time to get re-acquainted with a marvelous part of contemporary music.

JOSEPH at El Rey Theatre | Oct. 13
The mesmerizing trio of sisters Allison, Meegan and Natalie Closner have a kind of chemistry you only find between siblings. Their voices play so perfectly off one another, with every harmony coming together with an abnormal fluidity. They’re currently on the road in support of “I’m Alone, No You’re Not,” their latest album, along with Liza Anne.

Mutemath at The Wiltern | Oct. 13
Mutemath has been one of the most enduring experimental rock bands of their time, fusing every sound imaginable to create something wholly unique and defining. They’re looking to do that very magic trick again when they play “Play Dead,” their latest album, live in its entirety at the Wiltern. Die-hards and casual fans alike will be clamoring to be in the pit for this exciting show.

XYLO at Teragram Ballroom | Oct. 13
The pop and electronic duo consisting of Paige and Chase Duddy smashed their way onto the charts with “America,” their debut single and later EP. Their stock rose quite quickly. With only a handful of tracks, Xylo got propelled into viral status thanks to the internet and endorsements from celebrities and fans all over the world. They play a hot and intimate date at L.A.’s Teragram Ballroom.

Father John Misty at Greek Theatre | Oct. 13 + Fox Theater (Pomona) | Oct. 14
An outspoken artist since his first foray into music, Father John Misty just seems to get more sarcastic and cutting with every new track. His latest album, “Pure Comedy,” teemed with that razor-sharp cynicism that is permeating the musical sphere. Misty stops off for two L.A. area dates with Weyes Blood supporting.

Desert Days ft. Iggy Pop, Spiritualized, Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile, Unknown Mortal  Orchestra, Eagles Of Death Metal and More at Institute of Mentalphysics (Joshua Tree) | Oct. 13-15
If music needs one thing right now, it’s more festivals in the desert. Although desert festivals are definitely in vogue, Desert Days in Joshua Tree packs quite the wallop when you look at its staggering lineup. The bill is popping with big acts like punk godfather Iggy Pop, Spiritualized, Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Eagles of Death Metal, John Cale, Hope Sandoval & The Warm Inventions and so many more. The desert is definitely the place to be this weekend.

Galantis at Greek Theatre | Oct. 14
The dance duo composed of Christian Karlsson and Linus Eklow already wracked up a few Grammy nominations and a whirlwind of success from tracks “Peanut Butter Jelly” and “Runaway (U and I),” but they’re not finished quite yet. They bring their exhilarating live show, which has invaded places like Las Vegas’ Electric Daisy Carnival and New York City’s Electric Zoo, to the Greek Theatre. Prepare to hit the floor for a night of pulse-pounding dance intensity. Special guests The Him and Pat Lok will also be on-hand.

Hope Sandoval and the Warm Inventions at Fonda Theatre | Oct. 14
The winning collaboration hasn’t been active since 2009, and although both Sandoval and Colm O C’osoig have been hard at work with a litany of other projects, their coming back together just feels right. “Through the devil Softly,” the duo’s second joint effort, unfolds a brilliant and pleasing world of sounds and vibrations that soothe, motivate and inspire. Sandoval’s voice perfectly accents the tremendous production and instrumentation on the record, and all of that comes to life when she and Warm Inventions bring their act to L.A.’s Fonda Theatre with special support from Peaking Lights.

David Lynch’s Festival of Disruption at The Theatre at Ace Hotel | Oct. 14 + 15
Acclaimed director David Lynch curates a two-day mash of music, film and culture out of the Theatre at Ace Hotel, and he’s hooked up with quite a few big names. Musical guests include Bon Iver, The Kills, TV on the Radio, Laura Marling and Reggie Watts. The event will also include a number of talks, exhibits and films, such as “Lost Highway,” “Los Angeles Plays Itself,” and rare David Lynch shorts. Music fans and cineasts have a chance to teach one another something at this exciting cultural cross-section.

FLETCHER at Troubadour | Oct. 14
A spokesperson for gender and sexual fluidity, Fletcher has carved quite the path out for herself both as an activist and as a performer. The New Jersey-born pop singer has already skyrocketed to the top of Spotify’s viral chart and isn’t showing signs of fatigue. She hits The Troubadour for a special show with Tayler Buono.

Flying Lotus in 3D w/ThunderCat at Fairbanks Lawn at Hollywood Forever | Oct. 14 + 15
He debuted the concept in L.A. at FYF, so it’s only right for producer extraordinaire Flying Lotus to kick off his 3D tour in the City of Angels. He’s picked quite the venue, too, as fans get to lounge on the Hollywood Forever lawn and take in a quenching concoction of sights and sounds. ThunderCat will also be on the bill, so arrive early and be ready to leave satisfied.

Marco Antonio Solis at The Forum | Oct. 14
After two successful decades with Los Bukis, Solis branched out and pursued solo horizons. He ended up making the right move, earning himself a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as five Latin Grammys and a spot in the Billboard Latin Music Hall of Fame. His adoring fans will fill the Forum when he plays one very special date.

The Script at The Wiltern | Oct. 14
The Script know just how to get fans’ attention with their beyond-catchy hits like “Hall of Fame.” The group have continued to make waves in the U.K. with their latest single, “Rain,” charting quite high. Their latest album, “Freedom Child,” is full of all of the Script-esque fare we’ve come to know and expect, and there’s nothing wrong with that at all. They stop by The Wiltern for what looks to be a solid performance of all their greatest tracks.

Sparks at El Rey Theatre | Oct. 14 + 15
“Hippopotamus” marks the duo’s 23rd album together, an incredible feat to be sure. The brothers Ron and Russell Meal have spent decades fleshing out rock that blurs the lines, even shaping much modern pop fare. When they hit L.A.’s El Rey Theatre for two incendiary dates, cuts from the band’s latest album and some of their most accomplished hits and rare gems will be on display.

Cafe Tacvba at Walt Disney Concert Hall | Oct. 15
The band has been a Latin sensation for decades, building themselves around an entirely rocking package full of melody and brazen vocals. This time, though, the band will be joined by the legendary LA Philharmonic, so expect some history to come out of this night.

Evanescence at Greek Theatre | Oct. 15
Everyone knows at least one Evanescence song. The group has managed to break onto radio and influence multiple generations with passion-infused hard-rocking tunes like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal.” Now’s the chance to reconnect with such passion and nostalgia, when Evanescence makes a stop at L.A.’s Greek Theatre in support of “Synthesis,” their latest album slated for release soon. They will be joined by a live orchestra to make their performance that much more spectacular.

Sun Kil Moon at Regent Theater | Oct. 15
Mark Kozelek’s folk rock act has so much history behind it, you might even be able to see it stretching out for miles behind Kozelek when he walks around. He has managed to nail it every time, from critical acclaim for 2003’s “Ghosts of the Great Highway,” to finding even more exposure with 2014’s solo “Among the leaves.” Now he hits the road again and comes to L.A. in support of his latest album, “Common as Light and Love are Red Valleys of Blood.”