(This week in music)

Since most of your money was most likely spent on throwing that baller rooftop BBQ party (or supplying the beer)...I figured that all of this week's feature shows should all have one thing in common: FREE FOR YOU AND ME.


MONDAY
Who: Fireworks (NOT the Katy Perry kind)

Where: Everywhere there is (natural) Amurrican spirit (s)

Why: It's Old Glory's 235th Bday, cuz! 

If only I could shoot fireworks from my chest...I would have been the coolest kid at the BBQ.

TUESDAY
Who: The Holmes Brothers

Supporting Act: N/A

Where: City Winery 

Why: Do you like blues, male acapella groups, funk, R&B, rock-n-roll, gospel, soul, or country? Well chances are you will find something to enjoy about The Holmes Brothers. For more than 30 years, the trio has been pumping out funka-fide bass lines, 3-part harmonies, and guitar riffs that will make you want to cut a rug and dance a little closer to that honey of yours. Also, don't worry about attending church this Sunday....they have that covered too with their "praise Jesus" key solos. Put back a few glasses (bottles) of  White Zinfandel from the winery and enjoy a night of toe-tappin-tunes. 

The Holmes Brothers

WEDNESDAY
Who: Young the Giant
Supporting Act: N/A
Where: Apple Store (Soho)
Why: This group has recently gained some serious press from the big guys i.e. SPIN, Wall Street Journal, and Billboard for their debut album which, was recorded from a live show and produced by Joe Chiccarelli (White Stripes). Hailing from Newport Beach, CA the group incorporates musical influences from their various cultural backgrounds including those of Indian, Persian, British, and French-Canadian.  These influences intertwine to create powerful anthems such as their makes-you-want-to-get-up-and-do-something-great single, "My Body". It won't be long until Young outgrows the crisp, interior of the Apple Store and packs out stadiums across the country. 

Young the Giant 

THURSDAY
Who: My Brightest Diamond 

Supporting Act: yMusic

Where: Battery Park

Why: Looking for an intensely, religious musical experience? Look no further than Shara Worden of MBD. Worden founded the band on the idea that music is the best gift she could physically give back to the world, and let's just say thank god for that. Warden's opera background infuses obvious elements from Baroque and Mozart in order to create soaring melodies with darkly romantic undertones. Her live show is known to showcase her extreme  musical versatility all while rocking widely theatrical costumes that channel her inner prima donna. 

My Brightest Diamond

FRIDAY
Who: Weekend (supporting act)

Main Act: The Wake
Where: South Street Seaport

Why: I already know that this is going to be one of those shows were I'm the first person in the audience, totally stoked to catch the opening band, and dancing alone. What can I say, I love me some west coast, lo-fi, shoegaze rock, and damnit, Weekend will give it to you (minus that I'm trying too hard to be "hip" vibe). I downloaded their track, "Comma Summer," on a whim and became completely entranced and mentally refreshed by the time the song was over. I personally don't know anything about their live show but I would imagine their California Cool shines through live just as much as it is does through my headphones.

Weekend

SATURDAY
Who: Ted Leo & the Pharmacists
Supporting Act: Screaming Females

Where: South Street Seaport 

Why: When I think of indie-rock, Ted Leo Rx pops to mind almost as fast as I can pop Excedrin to relieve a killer headache. Ted Leo Rx has been filling our musical prescriptions since 1999 and still remains a highly anticipated touring act thanks to the the group's driving creative force, Mr. Ted Leo himself. Despite the numerous lineup changes, Ted Leo's live shows still sell out venues because of their impeccable musical abilities and solid rock attitudes...every indie-rock enthusiast should experience it at least once. 

Ted Leo Rx

SUNDAY
Who: The Verve Pipe

Supporting Act: tons of people

Where: Central Park Summerstage 

Why: Formed in the year of my birth (cica 1991), this post-grunge band hit MTV hard with their #1 single, "The Freshman". This song lasted longer than the band transforming into a 90s staple that I even memorized the words to. In recent years, the band has been touring as well as writing kids albums which they always include in their live set. Ever want to hear a song about hamburgers? The Verve Pipe has got you and your little one covered. If anything, this will be a fun show with fantastic people watching. WARNING: plaid shirts tied around waist are required upon entry. 

The Verve Pipe

KGC