UB40. Photograph by Tom Oldham.
It’s finally my favorite holiday month and, as always in Harrisburg, there’s a ton to do around town.
Appalachian Brewing Co. is hosting a dance class and social called “The Roaring Rhythm Lounge” for those who want to learn how to dance. And, of course, there are concerts galore for a range of music lovers. The featured shows I picked out this month highlight some acts that are perfect for a live audience. There’s a genre for everyone: electronic, classic rock and reggae. Party like it’s Hallow’s Eve all month with these rockin’ shows.
TAIWAN HOUSING PROJECT/BLOATED SUBHUMANS, 10/9, 7PM, DER MAENNERCHOR
If weird music is your thing, Moviate hosts two electronic acts that have exactly what you’re looking for. Taiwan Housing Project is an experimental noise band fresh from the Philly electronic scene that delivers a light and playful sound, yet with that undoubtable punk rock influence. Bloated Subhumans is a Delaware punk group with heavier vibes and more unsettling, echoing sounds. If you want to get more of a feel for their music, you can find both of their full discographies on Bandcamp. Listen at home or head downtown for the full experience. Experimental electronic shows are my favorite to make a night of, and, with the convenient location, you won’t have to drive all the way to another city for this one. Win win!
THE MUSIC OF CREAM 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR, 10/24, 8:30PM, CLUB XL, $22-135
Thanks to my Gen-X parents, I grew up with a deep appreciation for what we called “the classics.” Cream is, well, the cream of the crop of classic rock, and, although this lineup doesn’t feature the original rockers, it does have a powerful genetic connection. Members of the band today are comprised of Ginger Baker’s son, Kofi Baker, on drums and Jack Bruce’s son, Malcolm Bruce, as bassist, guitarist, pianist and engineer. Eric Clapton’s nephew, Will Johns, tops off the trio as singer and guitarist. It’s clear that music runs in the family, with each band member mentored and encouraged by the older generation of Cream. You know they’re going to play the hits like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Strange Brew,” but you’ll also hear more obscure cuts. Club XL is featuring a higher-priced meet-and-greet option, so you’d better hustle if you want to meet these amazing musicians in person.
UB40, 10/31, 8PM, H*MAC CAPITOL ROOM, $32-135
Another anniversary show happens in Harrisburg this month, this time at H*MAC with an undoubtedly groovy supergroup. UB40 is performing for their 40th anniversary, and this internationally known reggae band is bringing their chill tour vibes to the Capitol Room. Since beginning in 1978 in Birmingham, England, the chart-toppers have sold more than 100 million records. Their singles are known all over the UK and beyond, perhaps most notably for a 1983 cover of the Neil Diamond tune, “Red Red Wine.” To help celebrate, you can score some VIP tickets with closer seats and a lot of rare swag that’ll help make the night memorable. It’s time to treat yourself to an energetic and positive evening of music and celebration.
Mentionables:
Joe Olnick Band, Oct. 6, River City Blues Club
Io & Titan, Oct. 9, Little Amps Downtown
Dog Fashion Disco, Oct. 12, H*MAC Stage on Herr
The Weight Band, Oct. 13, H*MAC Capitol Room
R.J. Conrad, Oct. 19, Spring Gate Vineyard
Flux Capacitor, Oct. 19, The Abbey Bar
Maiden America Halloween Party, Oct. 27, River City Blues Club
Berndsen, Oct. 27, The Abbey Bar
