May 22 – May 28 • Essential Weekly Concert Guide • L.A. Edition

An Evening With Melissa Etheridge at Grammy Museum | May 22
With a storied career that has spanned nearly three decades, Melissa Etheridge has contributed to music in ways that has made her a figurehead for the strength of women in music. Known for her singles such as “Bring Me Some Water” and “Come to My Window,” Etheridge’s smoky and raspy voice is easily one of the most recognizable in music.

Chris Brown w/ Fabolous, Kap G  at The Forum | May 22
Chris Brown is easily one of the most talented R&B and hip hop artists around with his powerful and soothing vocals to his almost inhuman like dance moves. Thus far in his career, Brown has had countless number one singles and albums that have become anthems for those looking to have a good time. Chris Brown is slated to release his latest album, “Heartbreak on a Full Moon” this June.

Morrissey’s 58th Unhappy Birthday Celebration w/ Sweet and Tender Hooligans, Dirty Old Town, and DJ Rosie Bojangles at El Rey Theatre | May 22
In celebration of the of the famed Smiths singer, a tribute concert will be held at the El Rey Theatre featuring the Sweet and Tender Hooligans as the headlining act. Headed by Jose Maldonado, also known as “The Mexican Morrissey,” fans will be treated to a special performance focused around the works of Morrissey for an entire evening.

The Strumbellas at The Fonda Theatre | May 22
Hailing from Toronto, Canada, The Strumbellas bring a sense of calm to their music through their ballads about love and finding the positives in life’s bumps in the road. Their debut album “My Father and the Hunter” garnered positive reactions from critics and fans and their latest album, “Hope” has easily become their biggest album so far.

Fenech-Soler at The Roxy | May 23
English electropop group Fenech-Soler brings upbeat production to the table that is sure to have anyone it touches up on their feet and dancing. With major success being made in the UK, Fenech-Soler is looking to make waves in the States with their melodic tunes and have been garnering attention with the release of their latest album, “Zilla.”

Matisyahu at Amoeba Music | May 23
Matisyahu was one artist that was completely in his own element late when he burst onto the music scene in 2004. His blend of Orthodox Jewish roots with sounds taken from reggae and hip-hop felt very organic and refreshing and carried a message of hope and positivity. Matisyahu will be performing a special acoustic performance in celebration of his newest album, “Undercurrent.

Mother Mother at Troubadour | May 23
Canadian indie rock band Mother Mother produce a particular sound that is equal parts groove and somewhat hypnotizing. Led by guitarist and vocalist Ryan Guldemond, his falsetto-focused vocals perfectly compliment the often dark and grungy production that makes their music hard to simply glance over.

Amanda Palmer w/ Edward Ka-spel at Troubadour | May 24
Amanda Palmer, known for her work with the Dresden Dolls and Evelyn Evelyn, recently collaborated with singer/songwriter Edward Ka-Spel for their album “I Can Spin A Rainbow.” The newly formed duo combine their powerful vocals in an album that is a slight deviation from their usual works, but a welcoming reintroduction to both artists. This is a dream-like, somber piece of music.

Blackbear at The Wiltern | May 24
Hailing from Los Angeles, Blackbear takes from the eclectic taste from the city that he was born into by taking elements of rock, R&B and hip hop to craft his own taste. Having worked with artists like James Blake, Mike Posner, and most notably, co-writing for Justin Bieber on his single “Boyfriend,” Blackbear is looking to make 2017 the year that he breaks out on his own to make some noise.

Band of Horses w/ Frightened Rabbit at Greek Theatre | May 25
Hailing from Seattle, Band of Horses brings a taste of the northwest indie rock scene that has been recognized by many to the point where they have been nominated for a Grammy for their album, “Infinite Arms.” Their last album, “Why Are You OK,” was met with critical success.

Connan Mockasin w/ Ravyn Lenae at Royce Hall (UCLA) | May 25
Known for his trip-inducing psychedelic sounds, Connan Mockasin has a sound that is reminiscent of 60s rock and soul. Mockasin chooses his guitar as his primary weapon of choice as he creates soft and easy melodies that are met with his light and airy vocals. Connan Mockasin’s last album, “Caramel,” was met with critical success and is stated by Mockasin to be an embodiment of the sensual side of music.

Elephant Revival at Troubadour | May 25
The sounds of Elephant Revival are reminiscent of the feelings that you get when watching a solid horror film and the anticipation is slowly starting to build towards the climax. However, their music doesn’t hit the downturn and continues upward. Their dark and ominous tones are presented through a masterful mix of instruments that create a sonic journey that hits hard emotionally.

Gavin James at El Rey Theatre | May 25
Through his upbringings in Ireland, Gavin James grew up around the streets of Dublin where he adopted the hobby of playing the guitar and jamming to songs by Jimi Hendrix. Through his love of music, Gavin began to pursue music throughout his college years and infamously performed 3-hour shows in front of pub crowds in his local venue. Now reaching a worldwide audience, Gavin James offers up his blend of rock and soul through thoughtful and honest ballads about love and heartbreak.

Jr. Jr. at The Echo | May 25
Jr. Jr. is set on taking the pop world by storm, but have claimed that they are looking to do so in an intelligent collected, manner. Through this, Jr. Jr. incorporates several genres into their music through their blend of hip hop, EDM, and indie and alternative rock that is presented in a package of upbeat and lighthearted goodness. Tickets are sold out; however, a handful of tickets are available through StubHub.

Marty Stuart at Grammy Museum | May 25
As one of country music’s last remnants of an era that is considered to be the golden age of the genre, Marty Stuart carries on the spirit of many artists who have come up with him and passed on. Having worked alongside artists like Johnny Cash, and drawn likenesses to artists like George Jones and Merle Haggard, Stuart’s taste of country music is one that is a lost treasure. With the release of his most recent album, “Way Out West” this year, it marks the release of his 18th studio one. The Grammy Museum will be in conversation with Marty Stuart and will be followed by a special performance.

Midnight Oil at The Wiltern | May 25
Having come onto the scene in the late 70s, Midnight Oil, or The Oils as they are often referred to by their die- hard fans, are easily one of Australia’s most beloved acts. The new wave band, known for their hard-rock sound and their outspoken songs about some of the world’s issues, has been recognized by their home country so much that they have been inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame for their contributions to music.  While tickets are sold out, StubHub is still offering a handful of tickets that may go very soon.

Ab-Soul at El Rey Theatre | May 26
As one of the founding members of TDE’s Black Hippy, consisting of Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q and Jay Rock, Ab-Soul brings the conscious-yet-abstract flows to the group that make him one of the most complex, yet underrated members of the four. On his last album, “Do What Thou Wilt,” Soul touches on the current social climate, problems with addiction, and an in-depth look at his personal struggles.

Denzel Curry at The Glass House Concert Hall (Pomona) | May 26
Coming out of the same neighborhood that bred powerhouse rappers like Rick Ross, Denzel Curry has some stories of his own about the struggles surrounding growing up in Carol City. Curry’s fast-paced rhymes and aggressive delivery shouldn’t be taken only at face value as he presents a strong message that is a complex view of social injustice, navigating through gang conflicts, and his personal rise in hip-hop.

Eric Benet, Marsha Ambrosius at The Wiltern | May 26
As a part of their “M.E.” tour, soul and R&B powerhouses, Eric Benet and Marsha Ambrosius are collaborating for a special night of soul to deliver this special intimate performance. Ambrosius, known for her soulful works in Floetry, has been nominated for a total of six Grammy awards and is easily one of soul music’s standout female vocalists. Eric Benet brings an equally impressive resume as one of R&B’s leading men that is reminiscent of artists like Stevie Wonder.

Jon Brion at Largo | May 26
As the producer and songwriter for cult classic films such as “Hard Eight,” “Magnolia,” “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” and “I Heart Huckabees,”Jon Brion is the singer and songwriter of soundtracks that you may love. Aside from his work in film, Brion has worked as a producer alongside the likes of Elliott Smith, Katy Perry, Frank Ocean, and Kanye West. Brion’s elite level compositions incorporate the use of live instruments and many feature his masterful prowess behind the piano and keyboard.

The Adicts at The Belasco | May 26
As one of the most successful and recognizable punk acts since the 1980s, The Adicts have easily become legends in music. Taking inspiration for their look from the Stanley Kubrick film, “A Clockwork Orange,” and their music having an eclectic take on punk through their catchy hooks and fast paced, lighthearted content, The Adicts have easily paved the way for many punk bands that have come after them.

Brian Wilson Presents Pet Sounds: The Final Performances at Pantages Theatre | May 26-27
As one of founding members and most recognizable figures of The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson is a treasure of American rock-n-roll for his songwriting and catchy tunes. In 1966, The Beach Boys released their classic album, “Pet Sounds,” which featured hits such as “God Only Knows” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” In celebration of the album’s 50th anniversary, Brian Wilson is touring with former bandmates Blondie, Chaplain, and Al Jardine to perform the album in its entirety

La La Land: In Concert at Hollywood Bowl | May 26-27
As one of the biggest films of 2016, “La La Land” directed by “Whiplash” director, Damien Chazelle, found great success at the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. The film, renowned for its masterful balance of sound and visuals through its musical numbers, is a spectacle that had heads talking nonstop. Fans of the film will get a chance to view it at the Hollywood Bowl accompanied by a live orchestra performing the entire soundtrack.

Jean-Michel Jarre at Microsoft Theater | May 27
As one of the pioneers of today’s current EDM climate, Grammy-nominated producer and DJ, Jean-Michel Jarre is easily one of the EDM’s most recognizable figures. Jarre’s mixes have brought the world to their feet and his live stage performances have awed fans through the outstanding sound and visual design. Jarre will be bringing his mesmerizing “Electronica” tour to the Microsoft Theater as a part of his first tour through the United States.

“Play Like a Girl Turns 1” ft. Kitten at Echoplex | May 27
In celebration of the all-female showcase hosted by the Echoplex, Play Like a Girl will be holding their 1st anniversary show featuring a cast of all female artists on the bill. Headlining the event will be Kitten, led by the infectious and dynamic frontwoman Chloe Chaidez. Kitten’s most recent EP, “Heaven or Somewhere in Between,” was another solid helping of Kitten’s take on garage and punk rock and was regarded on many list as one of the best albums of 2016.

War w/ Los Lonely Boys at Greek Theatre | May 27
Having been bred just outside of Los Angeles in the neighborhoods of Long Beach, War is clearly a product of the melding of cultural backgrounds that are found in their hometown. Best known for their timeless classic “Low Rider,” War is easily one of the most recognizable names in funk and soul for their classic sound. War will be joined by Chicano rock band, Los Lonely Boys, who are known for what they personally call their music, “Texican rock n’ roll.”

Modest Mouse at Fox Theater (Pomona) | May 28
Despite being a band for more than two decades, Modest Mouse didn’t truly find mainstream success until their hit single, “Float On,” hit the airwaves and became one of the biggest singles of the year. Since then, Modest Mouse has released several albums that have been met with critical praise and are slated to drop a new album later this year.

John Legend w/ Gallant at Greek Theatre | May 28-29
Since his breakout in 2004 with his album “Get Lifted,” John Legend hasn’t stopped skyrocketing to the top of the soul and R&B charts and becoming one of music’s biggest acts. The piano-toting, Grammy and Academy Award-winning crooner has released countless hits including “All of Me,” “Ordinary People,” and the powerful Academy Award winning single for the film “Selma,” “Glory.” John Legend will be bringing a special night of R&B and soul to the Greek Theatre with opening act and rising R&B act, Gallant.