Oct 30 – Nov 5 • Essential Weekly Concert Guide • NYC Edition

Des Delgadillo

Springsteen on Broadway at Walter Kerr Theatre | Through Feb. 3, 2018
“The Boss” goes Broadway and performs in front of his smallest audience in years. Catch Springsteen’s timeless classics immortalized forever in the glory of Broadway. Tickets are nearly impossible to find, but if you can get your hands on them, get ready for a Springsteen fanatic’s dream come true.

Cypress Hill at Brooklyn Steel | Oct. 30
The collective that gave the 90s a soundtrack to which college kids everywhere sparked up all kinds of greenery brings its iconic sounds to Brooklyn Steel for a bumping Halloween Eve. Lose yourself to the delightfully stoned beats and now unforgettable lyrics that Cypress Hill so effortlessly popularized. This one’s going to be a happening event, and with Rahzel and DJ JS-1, the party’s guaranteed to go all night.

Ludovico Einaudi at Beacon Theatre | Oct. 30
A classically trained pianist and composer, Einaudi eventually found the temptation to incorporate other subtle genres into his works irresistible. The result was a minimalist blend of pop and classical music that manages to get listeners’ blood pumping. It’s the kind of music you’d want out of a film score. Need proof? Just listen to the stellar scores he’s created for “This is England” and “I’m Still Here.” He’s bringing his award-winning sound to the Beacon Theatre for one very special date, so act fast and snag your spot.

Azealia Banks at Villain | Oct. 31
There are few in the business as brash and candid as Azealia Banks, a quality that doubles as a gift and a curse. Regardless, her fanbase speaks for itself, and Banks has proven her ability to get the party started no matter where she’s laying it down. She’ll be tearing it up at Villain as part of her Halloween Mermaid Ball. Connie Diiamond and Jack Mizrahi and Paperboy Prince of the Suburbs will also be on the bill.

George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic at BB King Blues Club | Oct. 31
Watch the godfather of funk and soul get down with the best of him when he and legendary backing band the Parliament Funkadelic hit BB King Blues Club in NYC. Celebrate Halloween a bit differently this year. Instead of spooks, live in the moment and embrace the grooves that Clinton effortlessly throws together. They call him the godfather for a reason.

Gwar at Irving Plaza | Oct. 31
One of the oddest yet most compelling acts in rock music, Gwar have a flourish about them that can’t be denied. Their heavy sound is perfect for Irving Plaza, where devoted fans are bound to mosh and thrash their hearts out until they can’t go anymore. Gwar hits Irving Plaza as part of their “Blood of Gods” tour.

Lil Peep at Highline Ballroom | Oct. 31
Lil Peep’s style and aesthetic are unique in an age that puts precedence on partying at the club. His music gives hip-hop the earnestness that made the emo genre so popular. His album, “Come Over When You’re Sober,” serves as a great fusion point for two genres that once saw a chasm of difference between them. He’ll be performing at the Highline Ballroom with openers GBC and Bexey.

Niall Horan at Beacon Theatre | Oct. 31
The former One Direction member has built up quite the resurgence since the red hot boy band called it quits. Now he’s back in the spotlight with “Flicker,” an album full of his trademark pop with a little added grit for good measure, including a winning collaboration with Gucci Mane. He’ll be bringing his stylings to the Beacon Theatre with special guest Gavin James.

Primus at Brooklyn Steel | Oct. 31
One of the hottest and grooviest cult groups out there, Primus have won over a legion of fans thanks to their quirky style — both sonically and otherwise — and their proclivity for taking risks. Their bass lines are so infectious, they’ll be stuck in your head weeks after you’ve initially heard them. With their newest album, “The Desaturating Seven,” marking their first studio album since 1995, get ready for an explosion of new material as part of the “Ambushing the Storm” tour.

Shpongle at Terminal 5 | Oct. 31
Simon Posford describes Shpongle’s sound as “something you’ve never heard before,” and he couldn’t be more right. The project combines all kinds of ambient textures and vocals with Western synthesizers to create something utterly different yet wholly captivating. It’s going to be a special night when Shpongle takes over Terminal 5.

Baio at Mercury Lounge | Nov. 1
Baio’s “Man of the World” plays like a glossy and emotional masterpiece, balancing angst and optimism while exploring the white space in between. Baio’s resume just keeps getting fatter, and it’s clear why. He’ll be playing cuts off “Man of the World” when he plays the Mercury Lounge with special guest Mougli. Kick off your November in style.

Bruno Major at Elsewhere | Nov. 1
Bruno Major’s success can be attributed to consistency and a keen knack for lyricism. He spent a lot of time crafting songs on his piano, eager to release one song a month every month. The plan worked, and his timeless songwriting got exposed to a massive fanbase, many of which will flock to Elsewhere to catch his one NYC date. It’s the first of many more to come, surely, as Major is very clearly on his way up.

Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile at Beacon Theatre | Nov. 1
Barnett already had a following before she partnered up with Kurt Vile, but when the two get together you’ll wonder what took them so long. Their latest album, “Lotta Sea Lice” features the two songwriters conversing about life and so much else over mind-bendingly catchy riffs and droned out fare. It’s the perfect sort of indie rock meditation. They’re hitting the Beacon Theatre to dole out tracks from the album.

Hamilton Leithauser at Brooklyn Steel | Nov. 1
Leithauser partnered with producing sensation Rostam for what they thought would be a one-off but became a full-on album. “I Had a dream That You Were Mine” bubbles with the promise of storytelling, and it delivers in a big way, with every song full of narrative and lyrics that leave listeners pining for more. Add in Rostam’s incredible producing skills and you get an LP with so much variety yet uncanny accessibility. Leithauser plays Brooklyn Steel alongside Courtney Marie Andrews on Nov. 1.

Nothin But Thieves at Gramercy Theatre | Nov. 1
Few bands rock the way Nothing but Thieves do. Their name is quite appropriate, as they steal every show they’re on with their impressive riffs and wall of sound that eventually morphs into something incredibly fulfilling. The Essex boys cross the pond over to the Big Apple for a date at the Gramercy Theatre with Missio and Airways.

Phoebe Ryan at Music Hall of Williamsburg | Nov. 1
Phoebe Ryan’s voice really is a wonder to behold. It first took the web by storm when Ryan released a mashup of R-Kelly’s “Ignition (Remix)” and Miguel’s “Do You,” a cut that quickly bolted up the internet’s viral charts. A few features later and she’s headlining the Music Hall of Williamsburg, and it’s a chance to get up close with someone whose star is definitely burning bright in the industry. Openers Morgxn and Molly Kate Kestner will be holding things down before Ryan takes the stage.

A Perfect Circle at Barclays Center | Nov. 2
The rock supergroup born out of mutual admiration between Tool’s Maynard James Keenan and Billy Howerdel continues to create its own legacy, rocking fans since the turn of the millennium with driving guitars and pounding drums. They’re a band that should be on any real rock fan’s bucket list, and this is the chance to cross that one off. They’ll be playing a date at Barclays Center with special guests The Beta Machine.

Elbow at Terminal 5 | Nov. 2
Originally slated for Webster Hall, Elbow’s show has been moved to Terminal 5. But although there’s a change in venue, the entertainment remains the same, with the Scottish crew bringing out all their art-fueled tastes of sonic grandeur. Settle in, because the new Elbow album, “Little Fictions,” features a new kind of confidence for the nearly two decade old outfit, and their live shows are no different.

Snow Tha Product at SOB’s | Nov. 2
Snow’s mixtape, “Good Nights and bad Mornings,” really got her noticed, but singles “Holy Shit” and “Drunk Love” really put her in front of a lot of important eyes. She even contributed to the “Hamilton” mixtape. Now she brings her stylings to Sounds of Brazil. Make your plans to check out this rising emcee.

Grizzly Bear at Brooklyn Steel | Nov. 2-4
These indie darlings never fail to craft music that washes over a weary conscious like a much-needed rainfall, sweeping away all the wrong and leaving only the right. After the band fell into a hiatus of sorts in 2012, their newest album, “Painted Ruins,” came together slowly. Thankfully, patience prevailed, and the indie outfit returns to Brooklyn for three great nights of live music alongside Serpentwithfeet.

Swans at Warsaw | Nov. 2-4
Three nights of Swans is all anyone could ask for. The Michael Gira-fronted outfit of experimental rockers started up in 1982 as part of New York’s “no wave” movement, and they’re one of the few groups to remain in tact into the following decade. They’re hitting Warsaw in support of “The Glowing man,” an album they released last year that feature a 29-minute title track. Attendees can also look forward to a truly unique concert experience, as Swans are notorious for their live shows. Adult will also be on the bill.

Bruce Dickinson at Gramercy Theatre | Nov. 3
The vocalist whose wails gave Iron Maiden its distinctive drive will be holding a special event where he’ll share stories from his life. It’s quite a life, too. Who knows what to expect when Dickinson opens up at the Gramercy Theatre? The event is in conjunction with the release of the prolific singer’s memoir, “What Does This Button Do?” There will be a brief Q&A and signing afterward.

Jethro Tull by Ian Anderson at Beacon Theatre | Nov. 3
The Blackpool blues rockers have another U.S. jaunt scheduled, with a ton of multimedia effects to accompany the action on-stage. Band leader Ian Anderson will be touring the States in support of his latest album, “Jethro Tull – The String Quartets,” and the usual band will be rounding things out. Catch Anderson and co. When they come to the Beacon Theatre.

Krewella at Terminal 5 | Nov. 3
Stretch out those legs and get ready to dance your Friday away. Infectious dance-pop is what Krewella does best, and they’ll be doing it in spades when they come to Terminal 5 for an incendiary show full of the best grooves and even better hooks. Show up early to catch Sigma, Amira and Kayla doing what they do best.

Lostboycrow at Mercury Lounge | Nov. 3
Lostboycrow figured out how to get everything just right, from balancing perfect r&b with pop sensibilities, to throwing in just enough dance music to keep everyone’s feet moving. Lostboycrow’s introspective lyrics hit home whenever someone picks them out, but the beauty of the project is the broad appeal the music offers. Lostboycrow is, for all intents and purposes, for everyone. Lostboycrow has a date scheduled at Mercury Lounge with Prelow and DYSN.

Overcoats at Bowery Ballroom | Nov. 3
The product of New York-based singer-songwriters Hana Elion and JJ Mitchell, Overcoats flourishes in its minimalistic compositions, with the brunt of the focus set on the lyrics themselves. Mitchell and Elion’s chemistry is undeniable, and the way they play off each other adds so much to their material that deals with vulnerability and loss. Ultimately, though, it’s a project devoted to catharsis that only fleshes out through simple songwriting. Catch the duo at Bowery Ballroom on Nov. 3, and arrive early to check out Handsome Ghost.

The Shins at Kings Theatre | Nov. 3
Forefathers of the low-fi indie rock we all love today, the Shins returned with “Heartworms,” an album that proves the gang haven’t missed a step during their time apart. With James Mercer’s unmistakable vocals at the helm, The Shins return to New York for a date at the Kings Theatre. Dance to new hits or reflect on old favorites like “New Slang” when they finally hit the stage. Come early to see opener Baio.

Slow Magic at Elsewhere | Nov. 3
One of the more unique acts on the circuit right now, Slow Magic takes care to conceal his identity under an animal mask whenever he takes to the stage. You wouldn’t expect such mesmerizing electronic goodness to come out of someone who dons that kind of mask, but that’s exactly the point of Slow Magic: To obscure an identity so that the sole focus is on the music. Everyone will definitely be focusing on those sweet sounds when the producer performs at Elsewhere with openers Qrion and omniboi.

Trivium at Playstation Theatre | Nov. 3
Throw those horns up and dive into the pit when Trivium rocks the Playstation Theatre. Metal heads will be coming out in droves for this gargantuan event, full of Trivium’s most guttural and pulse-pounding hits. Expect a ton of music from “Silence in the Snow,’ their latest album “The Sin and the Sentence,” as well as some great throwbacks for the old school fans. They’ll be playing with Arch Enemy, so make plans to catch this giant show.

Jr Jr at Irving Plaza | Nov. 4
The indie-pop outfit that crafts anthems for the dance floor and for the bedroom are headed to Irving Plaza to shake things up a bit. The Detroit outfit know their way around a melody, and they’ve proven it time and time again with all the fans they’ve amassed. They’re hitting Irving Plaza in support of their latest, self-titled album along with Chad Valley and Stef Chura.

Max at Gramercy Theatre | Nov. 4
Formerly a Nickelodeon star, Max looks to put distance between himself and that celebrity launching pad. He’s doing quite the job of it so far, teaming up with musical mogul Pharrell Williams to craft his debut album, Max finds himself on the rise, and he has all the right people in his court. Catch the up-and-comer when he hits the Gramercy Theatre for a special date. Watch him now before he’s off to sell out stadiums.

The Breeders at Bowery Ballroom | Nov. 5
After the supergroup reformed in 2013 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of “Last Splash,” they had a crazy notion. Why stop now? The group returned to the studio and got working on new material. That new material is still on its way, possibly next year, but until then why not catch these bruisers live? They’ll be lighting up the Bowery ballroom with their signature punchy drums and razor-sharp riffs on Nov. 5 along with opener Vacation.

Ibeyi at Brooklyn Steel | Nov. 5
Lisa and Naomi Diaz are steeped in the ways of their family’s Yoruba culture, and they’re looking to spread that same sense of cultural literacy. They perform music in traditional Yoruba style, complete with immersive percussion and piano. Daughters of famed Cuban percussionist Anga Diaz, his daughters carry on his legacy through music. Catch this fascinating performance along with a set from TheMind.

Pathway to Paris ft. Patti Smith, Joan Baez, Michael Stipe, Flea, Talib Kweli, Cat Power at Carnegie Hall | Nov. 5
A slew of highly regarded performers unite under one roof in support of bettering awareness pertaining to climate change, with the initiative of furthering goals originally outlined by the Paris Agreement. Performers on this show include Patti Smith, Michael Stipe, Flea of RHCP fame and so many others. With so many talented people pushing forward such a worthy cause, this looks like one of the more important NYC events of the weekend. Enjoy some of the best live music around while supporting an important cause.

Rich Chigga at Irving Plaza | Nov. 5
The Indonesian sensation behind “Dat $tick” comes to Irving Plaza as part of his “Come to my Party” tour. His comedic and rapping stylings have both gone viral over the past year, landing him collaboration opportunities with emcees like XXXtentacion and now it’s time for this fresh newcomer to bring what he’s got to the Big Apple. He’ll be playing some newer tracks in preparation for his debut album, which he’s currently working on.

RL Grime at Terminal 5 | Nov. 5
Producer and WeDidIt member RL Grime has a firm hold on what it takes to create some of the most club-worthy beats today. He’ll prove that when he turns Terminal 5 up-side-down with a steady stream of bangers. The king of grime will have everyone moving once he gets going. Arrive early to catch Graves and Kittens.