The year is starting off strong with a lot of great music in the area, and we’re here for it. And, if your venue or friends have a show coming up that you think I should check out, drop me a line at [email protected]. See you in the pit!
LET’S DANCE
1/11, MINKA Masquerade, H*MAC
If videos from the band’s last Masquerade are to be believed, MINKA has a vibrant, electric energy that will deliver a whole lotta funk into any moment. This particular dance party is a masquerade, so find your most ridiculous costume and get onto the dance floor. Still not sure? Check out tracks like “Conquistadors” and “Gemini Rising” for a better idea of what’s in store.
WORTH THE DRIVE
1/23, Langhorne Slim & Oliver Wood, Appell Center for the Performing Arts
It’s an Americana doubleheader at the Appell Center! We’ve got Bucks County via Nashville singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim, whose raw, smoky voice surely will be recognized by Philly music scene enthusiasts (also look for the delightful Philadelphia Easter eggs all over Slim’s most recent album, “Strawberry Mansion”). Oliver Wood, frontman of roots mainstays, The Wood Brothers, delivers a tangy warmth and is a real treat on songs like “Fine Line” and “Have You No Shame” (feat. Katie Pruitt).
DISCOVERY
1/25, John Rai & The Locals, H*MAC
Nepali singer-songwriter John Chamling Rai, who performs with his touring band as John Rai & The Locals, is bringing the current U.S. tour to the H*MAC stage at the end of the month. Shared widely on TikTok and Instagram over the last few years, Rai’s emotionally charged music seems to have smitten listeners. “Sadhana” and “K Garu” are both beautiful and arresting in their own ways, and from a cursory glance on Eventbrite and social media, this writer thinks the show might sell out.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
1/5, Awake At Last, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.
1/5, Charm City Junction, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of York
1/17, Escaper and Mono Means One, The Abbey Bar
1/17, The Dirty Nil, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.
1/18, HE$H, H*MAC
1/23, Lotus, XL Live
1/24, The Four Horsemen, XL Live
1/29, Platinum Moon, Lovedrafts Brewing Co.
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