July 3 – July 9 • Essential Weekly Concert Guide • NYC Edition

Joseph Baura

Busdriver w/ Zeroh at Brooklyn Night Bazaar | July 3
Hailing from Los Angeles, Busdriver’s unique rapping style and production is reflective of the environment that bred him. Often rapping over beats that incorporate elements of electronica and jazz, Busdriver’s carefree, laid back flow is one that compliments the sometimes hectic percussion and neatly organized guitars and bass-lines that lace his tracks.  Bringing a positive outlook on life to his music, Busdriver’s upbeat persona is one that is hard to shy away from.

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular ft. Jennifer Lopez, Brad Paisley, Hailee Steinfeld, Lady Antebellum and Sheryl Crow  | July 4
As iconic as the New York skyline is, nothing makes the view better than the Macy’s fireworks spectacle that graces the big apple every year. Along with the mesmerizing view of the New York skyline lit up with fireworks, attendees will be treated to performances from some of music’s biggest acts. From the country stylings of Brad Paisley to the upbeat pop tunes of Hailee Steinfeld, music fans, young and old, will find what they want among the star studded lineup of musicians. Also performing will be Sheryl Crow, Lady Antebellum and Jennifer Lopez.

Tiesto w/ KSHMR, Cheat Codes at Governors Island | July 4
In celebration of Independence Day, one of EDMs largest music acts will be holding one of the biggest shows on the east coast under a sky of fireworks. Tiesto will be leading a lineup of some of EDMs up and coming acts such as KSHMR and Cheat Codes for a night that is surely to be a must see for fans of electronic and house. Tickets are currently sold out but a handful are still available via StubHub.

Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden Arena | July 5
New York’s own piano man will be performing a homecoming show at the Madison Square Garden Arena. With a career that boasts over 30 hit songs, several Grammy awards and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Billy Joel is easily one of the most influential and impactful musicians of his generation. Performing in the city that inspired “New York State of Mind,” Joel’s performance at the legendary venue will be one music fans can’t miss.

Rooney at Bowery Ballroom | July 5
Headed by actor/singer, Robert Schwartzman, Rooney brings a sound reminiscent of a simpler time when hair was bigger and the music was a little more carefree. Inspired by bands like  Queen and The Cars, Rooney found success in the mid-2000s, most notably through their hit song, “When Did Your Heart Go Missing?” After several years on hiatus, Rooney returned last year with their latest album, “Washed Away.”

Arca and Jesse Kanda at Brooklyn Steel | July 6
The collaborative effort between musician Arca and visual artist Jesse Kanda has been one that is purely meant to be. Known for his truly experimental sound that incorporates aspects of electronic, IDM and industrial hip hop, Arca’s production is one that touches on both ominous and ethereal sides of the spectrum. Paired with Jesse Kanda’s visual stylings, Arca’s music comes to life with a visual experience that could induce feelings of an unusual dream state.

Bondax at Good Room | July 6
After making a huge splash on BBC Radio, Bondax rose to prominence across the pond as one of electronica’s acts to follow. The DJ duo take pieces of various genres and craft an interesting sonic journey that is a fascinating tapestry that comes from a couple of up and coming teen producers. Despite being relatively new, Bondax features an addicting sound that truly begs to be on repeat immediately after its first listen.

Dispatch w/ Guster at Forest Hills Stadium | July 6
Upon releasing their latest album, “America, Location 12” last month, Dispatch released a project that was carefully created by frontman Chad Urmston over a two year period. Focused around the feelings of “veterans coming home, childhood memories and being a parent,” Dispatch paints images of comfort and love through their own brand of indie rock.

Pete Rock at Brooklyn Bowl | July 6
Coming from the Bronx, Pete Rock was raised in the sole environment responsible for the birth of hip hop and was influenced enough to become an icon for the hip hop genre. As successful as DJs can be, Pete Rock has won a Grammy for Rap Album of the Year and spawned hits with artists like Notorious B.I.G, Public Enemy, Mary J. Blige, Robert Glasper and even Mick Jagger. With production that is truly unmatched, Pete Rock remains a true legend in hip hop and beyond.

(Sandy) Alex G, Japanese Breakfast at Music Hall of Williamsburg | July 6
Starting off as a musician posting his music on websites such as Bandcamp, (Sandy) Alex G built a following around his indie rock/lo-fi sound that made him one of the biggest artists to watch out for in 2014 through the release of his album, “DSU.” Often compared to the legendary musician, Elliott Smith, (Sandy) Alex G has a tone that harkens back to sounds of the 90s where distortion met melody.

Caravan Palace at Warsaw + 7/7 at Irving Plaza | July 6 + 7
Caravan Palace creates a sound that blends two unlikely genres in combining both electronica and swing. After forming the band through a chance meeting via social media, Caravan Palace was hard at work, releasing several demos that gained traction through a loyal online fanbase. Since then, Caravan Palace has release two albums that feature upbeat tracks with an equal amount of funk and EDM.

Anoraak at Knitting Factory Brooklyn | July 7
After the release of his latest EP, “Black Gold Sun,” Anoraak continues with his taste of upbeat, dance inducing synthwave/pop that he’s been making for years. After making his move into the mainstream in 2008 with his album, “Nightdrive With You,” Anoraak began to make a name for himself in the synthwave genre as one of the biggest artists to look out for. With his latest effort, Anoraak pushes his sound further while carefully balancing an intricate electronic instrumental and vocal performance.

Big Sean Presented by Good Morning America at SummerStage | July 7
With the release of his last album, “I Decided,” Big Sean made a statement that he is easily one of the most lyrical and clever rappers in the hip hop genre right now. Coming from Detroit, Sean first made waves with his series of “Finally Famous” mixtapes and recently did so again with his collaboration with Jhene Aiko for their album, “Twenty88.” The slick tongued, quick fire flow that Sean demonstrates on his tracks is one that is hard for hip hop fans to ignore.

Branko at Sunnyvale | July 7
Branko first made waves throughout the world as one of the driving forces behind the Buraka Som Sistema trend that melded sounds around the world into an interesting sonic package.  Through his efforts, Branko changed the landscape of the dance genre through taking sounds from different cultural music genres and pushing a style that felt unique, when other producers felt everything had been explored. Branko’s efforts have made his live mixes some of the most sought out today and give a peek into the eclectic sounds across the world.

Crystal Method at Output | July 7
As pioneers of the Big Beat genre that rose to prominence in the early 90s, Crystal Method brings an electronic sound that has influenced many other electronic artists that have come after them. Best known for their album, “Vegas,” which reached platinum status in 2007, Crystal Method demonstrate a masterful use of their keyboards to create a sound that is reminiscent of groups such as The Chemical Brothers and Prodigy.

Eric B & Rakim (Paid in Full 30th Anniversary) at Apollo Theater | July 7
In an era of hip hop where the relationship between the DJ and the emcee was practically sacred, Eric B & Rakim stood at the top of the heap as one of the most iconic and legendary duos that hip hop had ever conceived. With the release of their album, “Paid In Full,” the one two punch of the duo changed the landscape of hip hop forever and began the trend of many rappers considering Rakim to be one of the greatest lyricists of all time. Now 30 years after the release of the album, the duo will be reuniting for a tour that will be held in celebration of the album’s long lasting legacy.

Gigamesh at Bowery Ballroom | July 7
As a multi-platinum selling DJ, Matthew Masurka, also known as Gigamesh, has created some of EDMs most inspired remixes as of late. After first gaining some steam through his remixes of songs by New Order, Michael Jackson, Stardust and more, Gigamesh eventually made his way to the charts through his production of the Mike Posner track, “Cooler Than Me.” Continuing on with what is his bread and butter, Gigamesh has continued to create outstanding remixes of popular tracks that he brings to the stage in spectacular fashion.

Musiq Soulchild at Prospect Bandshell Park | July 7
Having sold millions of records as one of the leading singers in the neo soul genre, Musiq Soulchild has one of the most soulful and engaging voices to come around in decades. The platinum selling, twelve time grammy winner created countless hits in the 2000s with his songs “Buddy,” “Half Crazy,” and “Just Friends.” Musiq will be performing a special show in the middle of Prospect Park for a summer night celebration.

Paperwhite at Rough Trade | July 7
Comprised of brother and sister duo Katie and Ben Marshall, Paperwhite fosters a sound that features bouncy melodies and synthesizers coupled with drums that creates an upbeat tapestry. The release of their recent EP, “Magic,” is self explanatory as the duo creates a feeling of wonderment and awe through Ben’s production and Katie’s hypnotic vocals.

Slick Rick The Ruler w/ GrandWizzard Theodore at SummerStage | July 7
Slick Rick brought a kind of bravado and swagger to hip hop during its golden age that was unrivaled by any other rapper around. Hailing from England, Slick Rick The Ruler brought a regal presence to the hip hop genre, laced in gold rings and diamonds and an eye patch that has since become his iconic look. With a flow that is as laid back as they come, Slick Rick brought his classic album, “The Adventures of Slick Rick,” which presented a style unheard of in hip hop then and is still unmatched today.

Steez Day Festival w/ A$AP Mob, XXXTentacion, Ab-Soul, The Underachievers, Saba, Jay IDK at Playstation Theater | July 7
After the untimely passing of Pro Era rapper, Capital Steez, in 2012, the remaining members of the rap collective, including frontman Joey Bada$$ decided to create a festival focused around the celebration of the life of the young, budding hip hop visionary. Now running for three years strong, Steez Day brings some of hip hops biggest acts from New York bred emcees like A$AP Mob, The Underachievers, and Pro Era, to up and coming acts like XXXTentacion and Jay IDK to the stage for a night of hip hop.

Trevor Hall at The Paramount | July 7
At an early age, Trevor Hall began to find his love for music when his father started teaching him how to play the harmonica. Through the love of that instrument, Trevor Hall eventually found the guitar and began to write and record his own music. Now years beyond his humble beginnings, Hall has toured with artists like The Wailers, Matisyahu and Colbie Callait and has found his sound within the genres of rock and reggae. Through his music, Hall spreads positivity through his focus on spirituality and finding ones self through life’s experiences.

Umphrey’s McGee w/ Aqueous at SummerStage | July 7
Reflecting bands like the Grateful Dead, Umphrey’s McGee gives fans an experience that is unlike any other through their outlandish yet masterful manipulation of their instruments while on a journey through their progressive rock tracks.  While their fans always get what they want, they can also attest to the idea that it’s hard to expect what Umphrey’s McGee is going to bring next. With their style ever changing, it’s just a waiting game to see what genres Umphrey’s McGee delve into for their future ventures.

Yoke Lore at Baby’s All Right | July 7
Upon the release of his latest project, “Goodpain,” Adrian Galvin, formerly of the band Yellerkin, creates a layered experienced that many artists wish they could comprise. With tinges of folk that eventually lead to an upbeat pop focus, Galvin creates songs that are an honest reflection of his own life that he touches on with a strong sense of passion. This particular performance will be in celebration of the release of “Goodpain.”

Zac Brown Band at PNC Bank Arts Center | July 7 + 8
In a similar vein to bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd who paved the way for southern rock, Zac Brown Band takes the sound further and brings it to a completely new level. Breaking out with their debut album, “The Foundation,” which has since reached triple-platinum, the Zac Brown Band brings a sound that feels very classic in its ode to southern tastes yet takes turns into new avenues in incorporating a contemporary sound that fits in with most country music fans’ tastes today.

Blackbear at Irving Plaza | July 8
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 sound. With a track record that boasts working with artists such as James Blake, Mike Posner, and most notably, co-writing for Justin Bieber on his single “Boyfriend,” 2017 is setting up to be the year that the young rapper makes his breakout into the mainstream. Tickets are sold out, however a handful are still available via StubHub.

Chronixx at Prospect Park Bandhshell Park | July 8
Kingston’s Chronixx brings sentiments of classic reggae sounds and incorporates it with a new flavor of today’s Jamaican music climate. Focused on bringing a  conscious message forward in his music, the uplifting nature of Chronixx’s  tracks are complimented by the soothing rhythms that bring his songs about anti-war, romanticism and personal strength to life.

Full Moon Fest ft. Vic Mensa, Larry Heard Kelela, DJ Harvey, Connan Mockasin, Abra at Governors Island | July 8
With the summer music festival season about to be in full swing, the Full Moon Festival makes its way to Governors Island for its 7^th year. With a lineup that boasts an eclectic mix of musical artists, rapper Vic Mensa will be sharing the stage with DJs Larry Heard and DJ Harvey, along with upcoming pop artists like Connan Mockasin. Along with the performances, attendees can expect to enjoy other nightlife focused events along the waterfront to keep the party going until the morning.

Mother Mother at Bowery Ballroom | July 8
Canadian group Mother Mother brings an indie rock sound that is equal parts grunge and hypnotizing grooves.  With the release of their latest album, “No Culture,” earlier this year, Mother Mother, led by frontman Rudy Guldemond, made their push up the Canadian charts, breaking into the top 10 of albums sold upon their release. While the album takes ventures into gloomy territory, don’t be fooled as Mother Mother’s music often is focused on bringing the bright side of life to the forefront.

Vans Warped Tour ft. After The Burial, Attila, Candiria, Goldfinger, GWAR, Hatebreed, Hawthorne Heights, Silverstein, Watsky at Jones Beach | July 8
As the longest running tour festival in North America, Vans Warped Tour has brought hundreds of bands to their stages for over two decades. Always focused on bringing the best acts of alternative rock, punk, pop, electronic and ska along on their tour, Vans Warped Tour is presenting heavy hitters such as Attila, After The Burial, GWAR, Hatebreed, Hawthorne Heights, Silverstein, Watsky among many others to the stage.

The Wallflowers at The Wellmont Theater | July 8
Headed by singer/songwriter Jakob Dylan, 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 came back stronger than ever 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.

Warm Up at MOMA ft. Asmara, Mixpak Sound System, DJ Young Chow, Ting & Ting and more | July 8
Marking its 20^th year, MoMA’s Warm Up will be celebrating this year with a 10 week engagement of shows that will feature some emerging artists as well as many established artists.  In focus for this week, the MoMA will be featuring some of electronica and dance’s up and coming acts through a showcase of DJs from across the nation.

The Yardbirds at Highline Ballroom | July 8
The Yardbirds aren’t just a normal band, unless you consider a group that launched the careers of musicians such as Eric Clapton,  Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page to be normal. With a string of hits in the mid-60s featuring singles such as “For Your Love” and “Heart Full of Soul,” The Yardbirds created a sound that pioneered many of the bands that came after them trying to make psychedelic and hard rock all their own.

Buffy Sainte-Marie w/ A Tribe Called Red at Central Park SummerStage | July 9
Singer/songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie has been creating musical pieces aimed at spreading peace and love since the mid-60s and has been actively working toward the betterment of society through the messages.  As one of folk’s greatest musicians, Sainte-Marie continues to be a powerful voice that exceeds her genre and speaks more towards spreading culture, history and life with all who listen to her music. In a similar vein but completely different fashion, A Tribe Called Red brings a patchwork of different genres and cultures together through their music in which they describe as “powwow-step.”

Raekwon at B.B. King’s Blues Club | July 9
As one of the founding members of the Wu Tang Clan, Raekwon, AKA The Chef, has undeniably been cooking up clever rhymes and a distinguished flow for several decades.  As a solo artist, he is best known for his classic album, “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx,” which is truly the rappers magnum opus. Still working with Wu Tang and creating more harsh, hard hitting hip hop tracks, Raekwon still remains one of hip hop’s influential legends.