W♥M

We♥KC- November 21-27, 2022- Upcoming Shows (Kansas City)

Read More Don Henley The boy of summer is back ... You know we love The Eagles and Don Henley, so this is a show that you can't miss. He will be playing hits from the past four decades.

Read more Kansas City Music Guide.

It’s a Holiday (and shopping) week, so of course, the schedule is a bit less busy, though no less than three arena shows will help fill out your busy weekend.

Looking ahead to 2023, several more announcements hit this week- a 2^nd stadium night for Taylor Swift (despite the TM outages and ridiculous aftermarket prices), Billy Joel/Stevie Nicks at Arrowhead in August, John Mellencamp playing two nights in April at The Midland, Toto returning next March, and Tyler Childers w Marcus King next June at Starlight.

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro November 21st-27th

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Nov 21

Tuesday Nov 22

Arrows in Action w Titus, Clearfight, The Rino,$18

Formed in Gainesville, FL in 2015 by drummer Jesse Frimmel, the three-piece (Frimmel, singer Victor Viramontes-Pattison, and guitarist Matthew Fowler) has become a band to watch within the pop-rock/alt scene with latest single, “Put You Through Me” and keeps pressing more vinyl copies of full-length Be More, as it keeps selling out.

Arrive early for the openers--

TITUS (aka Randolph Newman) is a NJ based songwriter/producer who released 3 mixtapes with his first group, Zoo Troop Gang, and released “Damned If I Do” via Soundcloud's artist division just weeks ago. Taking influences from Blink 182, Taking Back Sunday, Dipset and Lil Wayne, his EP showcases his ability to fuse the heyday of pop punk with the lyricism & swagger of hip-hop.

Clearfight is a local KC rock band with new EP, Don’t Look at Me feat. single, “Ripchord” out now.

Wednesday Nov 23

The Eagles, T-Mobile Center, $129-$429

The Eagles (current members Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit) along with Vince Gill and band continue on their Hotel California 2022 Tour featuring the classic album performed live in its entirety, accompanied by an orchestra and choir. After a short intermission, the band will perform a full set of their greatest hits.

Hotel California is the third best-selling U.S. album in history, certified 26x Platinum by the RIAA. Released in 1976, it topped the charts and won two GRAMMY Awards and several of the record’s songs from the album have never been performed live since the original tour.

Tickets have always been pricey ever since “hell froze over” in the mid 90’s and the band reunited, but we did catch Don Henley solo back in 2017, playing more than half his set of Eagles songs.

Danielle Nicole, Nov 23 and Nov 25, Knuckleheads,$35-$60

Danielle Nicole Schnebelen began singing publicly with her parent's bands as a youth and took ahold of her full time in her early 20s. As a founding member of the "Heavy Blues" sibling band Trampled Under Foot, they took top honors at the International Blues Challenge in the US, propelling them internationally and on several Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruises.

It wasn't until 2015, when Nicole set out on her own with her "distinctive, inventive bass work"—which resulted in her not only becoming the first woman to ever be nominated/awarded in the category of Instrumentalist ~ Bass in The Blues Foundation's 2012 Blues Music Awards. Other accolades include a 2019 Grammy Nomination for Contemporary Blues Album; 2 Blues Music Awards- Contemporary Female Artist and her second Instrumentalist ~ Bass, and 3 Independent Blue Music Awards. It’s her 6^th Annual Thanksgiving appearance at the club, so come be part of the tradition.

Thursday Nov 24

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Friday Nov 25 (Black Friday!)

Kodak Black w Nardo Wick,GloRilla and Friends, T-Mobile Center, $69-$350

Two of hip hop’s top performers join forces for this massive arena tour-

Kodak Black gained initial recognition with his single "No Flockin", released in 2014 and his debut album, Painting Pictures (2017), which peaked at number three featuring the top 10 single "Tunnel Vision". Black's second album, Dying to Live (2018), hit number one on the Billboard 200 featuring single "Zeze" (feat.Travis Scott and Offset).

Nardo Wick is best known for his 2021 single "Who Want Smoke?", which has a remix which features fellow rappers G Herbo, Lil Durk, and 21 Savage that earned platinum certification by the RIAA. Wick released his debut studio album, Who Is Nardo Wick?, last year.

“Wheel of Fortune” Live! Feat. Clay Aiken, Kauffman Center. $39-$69

Wheel of Fortune LIVE! is traveling across North America and coming with a chance to take a spin to solve the puzzles in person! Guests can try out to go on-stage to win at every show with audience members will be randomly selected to win cash and prizes, all hosted by American Idol’s Clay Aiken, sure to bring the fun and excitement.

DJ Peekaboo,The Truman, $23.50-$55

Detroit native Matthew Lucas, aka PEEKABOO, has been one of the quickest rising acts in the electronic music scene in recent years with a string of massively successful EPs, singles, and remixes, fusing hip-hop beats with bass-end grooves and mind-bending sound design on tracks like “Maniac”, and “Babatunde”.

After massive tours and festivals, he wanted to find a way to embrace the core Boo Crew who has supported him from the beginning. From this, the “Hide and Seek Tour” was born. Small venues with minimal production, big sound, and a track list of music curated just for this tour, plans here are to connect on a more personal level.

Saturday Nov 26

For King + Country, T-Mobile Center. $24.99-$249.99

The GRAMMY® award-winning duo present A Drummer Boy Christmas Tour: The 2022 LIVE Experience. Brothers Joel and Luke will be bringing holiday cheer to audiences nationwide performing Christmas classics and brand-new songs such as their fan favorite “Little Drummer Boy” from A Drummer Boy Christmas, #1 hit single “For God Is with Us” from their recently released Billboard charting album, What Are We Waiting For? and many more.

Sunday Nov 27

The Rainmakers, Knuckleheads, $20

The classic KC original rock band, fronted by Bob Walkenhorst, which had a handful of radio of hits ("Let My People Go-Go", "Downstream", "Small Circles", more) in the late 1980s-90s in the US and Europe, especially Norway.

We caught them live back in June, in JoCo for their first show back from the pandemic and heard all the favorites that were all over Midwest rock radio. No word if bassist Rich Ruth will again make the trip from Nashville to play at this show, as he did in June. Either way, a perfect end to a weekend of shopping and turkey.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- November 14-20 2022- Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Mat Kearney Another familiar face to the area is Oregon native and Nashville-based singer-songwriter Mat Kearney, who took a break from creation of the follow up to last year’s Just Kids (Republic Records) …

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The weather's definitely changed, so take care getting out to the shows happening before the holidays. This Friday is especially jam-packed.

The recent Thundergong! benefit was another raging success, with almost $600K raised and surprise appearances from the likes of The Darkness, and Will Forte, who collab'd with show host Jason Sudeikis to play hits from their anti-band, Jon Bovi. A good time for a great cause.  

Starlight shows are already announcing for 2023, so Summer will be back before you know it.  

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro November 14th-20th

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Nov 14

Brian Culbertson with Marcus Anderson and Marqueal Jordan, The Midland. $49.50-$64.50

The multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer boasts a 25-album catalog and a part of nearly 40 Billboard #1 singles, easily working in many genres from jazz to funk to pop to New Age, so expect the musical kitchen sink. Newest albums are the themed trilogy, Red, Blue, and White.

Arrive on time to catch everyone on the bill- we’ve seen Marcus Anderson plenty, as he played sax with Prince in his last years as well as with Cee-Lo, and saxophonist/vocalist Marqueal Jordan is very well known in Chicago and LA.

Wayne Escoffery Duo, Lied Center (Rescheduled to December 12 & 13)

Tuesday Nov 15

Mat Kearney (acoustic trio) Uptown Theater,$35-$59

The rock folk singer songwriter from Oregon put out a new album, January Flower, last May, but has decided to go out on an acoustic tour, featuring some of the new songs and stripped-down older favorites. We’ve caught Kearney live previous, most recently in late 2016 in St Paul and recent live sets has seen his version of Paul Simon's "You Can Call Me Al" worked in.

PNC Broadway in KC Presents R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Nov 15-16, Kauffman Center, $81.50-$121.50

The tribute celebrating the music of the legendary Aretha Franklin starring a live band and supreme vocalists- a night of music of one of the greatest artists of all time, including hits "Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Chain of Fools,” “Respect,” and many more.

Wednesday Nov 16

Slander, Midland. $29.50-$59.50

Out on The Thrive Tour, the DJ/Producer duo consisting of Derek Andersen and Scott Land are LA-based and known for their emotional, melodic bass music sound with two RIAA Gold Certifications to their name. Wooli, Leotrix, REDLINE to open.

Steven Page, Madrid Theatre,$35-$55

Hard to believe, but the former Barenaked Ladies’ vocalist has been gone from the group since 2009, though in concert, his sett still consists of about half BNL songs. His latest solo effort is called Excelsior, and was released in late Sept.

Chelsea Cutler with Ayokay and Arden Jones, Granada. $28.50-$30

The young Connecticut electronic pop singer-songwriter released her sophomore effort, When I Close My Eyes a year ago, but also has a recent single, “Walk Me Home” with Said the Sky and Illenium. Live, she works in her collab with Jeremy Zucker, in addition to her own songs.

Thursday Nov 17

Ninja Sex Party, Folly. $39.50

NSP is an LA-based musical comedy duo consisting of singer Dan Avidan and keyboardist Brian Wecht, forming in 2009 in NYC and are also known as two thirds of the video game-based musical trio Starbomb. To date, NSP has released nine studio albums with 2020’s The Prophecy being the latest, though an acoustic live album came out last year.

Tauren Wells, Midland. $25-$70

Ten-time GRAMMY® nominee and platinum-selling artist is out on his Joy in the Morning Tour. Featuring recent hit “Fake It” and older inspirational favorites, “Hills and Valleys,” “Known,” “Famous For (I Believe),” “Until Grace,” and more. Special Guests: Aaron Cole and Lakewood Music.

Turnover, Madrid Theatre, $26-$36

Out on their Myself in the Way Tour,, named after their fifth studio release, the indie emo dream pop band has maintained a constant and growing fan base since their start over a decade ago, in Virginia.

Riot Ten w Jiqui and COM3, Granada-Lawrence, $15-$25

The El Paso TX DJ Producer is aka Christopher Wilson and put out full-length Hype or Die: Homecoming last year, but has more recent collab singles with the likes of Steve Aoki, SubDocta, and JV Rhymes.

Friday Nov 18

Reba McEntire w Terri Clark, T-Mobile Center, $45.75-$222.75

“This ain't our first rodeo! Here's a little throwback from the last time we got to tour together in 2005,”, Reba recalled online, in anticipation of this Live in Concert arena tour. Both Country legends really need no introduction and have numerous hits between them. Reba released a remix record last year and Clark’s most recent is an Xmas album, so maybe being in mid-Nov, a holiday song is not exactly out of place.

Andy Frasco & The U.N. and Little Strangers, The Truman. $22

The LA blues rock band has a brand new album, Wash, Rinse, Repeat out as a follow up to last year’s live record, recorded at Colorado’s Red Rocks. Live, they’ve been collaborating with opener Little Strangers and also working in Led Zeppelin and Nirvana covers.

Mavis Staples, Lied Center. $19-$50

The blues, gospel and rock legend! Staples is a Blues and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer; a civil rights icon; a Grammy Award-winner; a chart-topping soul, gospel and R&B pioneer; a National Arts Awards Lifetime Achievement recipient; and a Kennedy Center honoree, among other accolades.

Since 2004, she’s released a series of vital solo albums with recent collaborations that include Ben Harper, Arcade Fire, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, Hozier, Neko Case, Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon and Tune Yards, among others. A must.

Kai Wachi, Madrid Theatre,$30-$50

Rising Boise electronic bass music artist out on his SKINS Tour.

Sun Room, w Susannah Joffe, recordBar, $18

Surf’s Up! Southern California surf rock band formed in the summer of 2020 by singer/guitarist, Luke Asgian with “I Want You” being their recent single.

Puscifer with Night Club, The Midland. $39.50-$79.50

Continuing their Existential Reckoning Tour - Let The Probing Continue and born somewhere in the Arizona desert, they are an electro-rock band, multimedia experience, traveling circus, and alien abduction survivors. Their catalog consists of four full-length studio albums (2020’s Existential Reckoning being most recent) in addition to a series of EPs and remixes.

Beyond the core trio of Tool vocalist Maynard James Keenan [vocals], Mat Mitchell [guitar, production], and Carina Round [vocals, songwriting], and rotating drum and bass support, the band also showcases a cast of characters such as Billy D and his wife Hildy Berger, Major Douche, Special Agent Dick Merkin, and many more.

Always something to behold live, we caught them last in Minneapolis in 2016 in a wrestling ring stage with fire alarms shrieking, which resulted in a late-set crowd evacuation. Night Club to open.

Kenny G with the KC Symphony, Nov 18, 19, 20 Kaufmann Center, Rescheduled to March 13, 14, 15, 2023)

Saturday Nov 19

Plains (Katie Crutchfield of Waxahatchee & Jess Williamson) w/MJ Lenderman, Knuckleheads, SOLD OUT

We’ve covered KC's own Crutchfield for years previously and together with Williamson, have a new collaborative project that goes back to their folk roots. Their new album I Walked With You A Ways recently came out on ANTI- Records and the live set also includes some respective solo songs, along with a couple covers from the likes of Waylon Jennings and The (Dixie) Chicks.

Alaska, recordBar, $20-$249

A bizarre cosmic collision propelled Alaska to Earth in March 1966… and on to the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in January 2013. Still radioactive, no one knows who or what she is, as long as she never returns to her native planet. Her age and species remain unknown to the public, but a few of her enemies claim to hold copies of her spawning record and universal passport. Errr, ok….

Ron White (comedian), Ameristar. $70-$169

One of the famous Blue Collar Comedy Tour comedians out on his supposed farewell tour, Ron “Tater Salad” White, the cigar-smoking, scotch-drinking stand-up is bringing one last set of stories and jokes to the area.

Sunday Nov 20

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, Kauffman Center, $84.50-$104.50

A favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years- the Grammy Award winner has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound.

Steve Vai, Uptown (postponed from March 18) $47-$99

Prepare for guitar wizardry! After being off the road for three years and having to postpone, The Inviolate Tour is finally in motion, For the Love of God! In addition to his own release, Vai guested on a recent Polyphia single and has a 1991 vault album, Vai/Gash, due out early next year.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- November 7-13 2022- Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Lucius At their Rock the Garden show, Lucius previewed a new song (“Dusty Trails”), which just appeared on their latest album Good Grief. …

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(Apologies for the website difficulties and picture-loading of late- our TypePad host has been going under maintenance which should be done soon)

November cometh and temps seem to be near freezing overnight, then turn to shorts weather in the afternoon-- welcome to the Midwest!  Shows might start to get less frequent as we get closer to the holidays, but many acts are still on the road, finishing their Fall tours, so get out and see a show!

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro November 7th-13th

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Nov 7

Bilmuri, recordBar, $15

Singer/songwriter Johnny Franck is the main contributing member of alternative indie-pop band Bilmuri as well as progressive post-hardcore band The March Ahead and also a former member of metal/electronicore band Attack Attack! Knox is listed as support

Tuesday Nov 8 - Election Day VOTE!

Lucius w/ Shamir, The Truman, $27.50-$55

Still perfectly harmonizing and dressing similar, Holly Laessig and Jess Wolfe are celebrating ten years since their debut album, Wildewoman. Their follow-up, 2016’s Good Grief was even more successful and the duo has returned with this year’s Second Nature (via one of our favorite indie labels, Mom+Pop).

The band itself had taken a break, to whether some personal changes and provide some backing support for other artists, notably a three-year tour with Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, but has returned in full force to their own roots, with the upbeat new album being co-produced by Brandi Carlile and Dave Cobb to start this new chapter. Count WHM as longtime fans, as we’ve seen the duo and their band, pretty consistently since back in 2013, most recently in St. Paul back in 2019.

Arrive early for the reimagining of 90's pop and rock sound via opener Shamir, who melds industrial synth with pop hooks, as seen on his latest album Heterosexuality, which defies traditional categorization.

Amanda Shires, Madrid Theater, $22-$45

Take It Like a Man is the new full-length from this acclaimed Americana violinist/singer songwriter (and also sometimes member of husband Jason Isbell’s band) and is the follow-up to 2018’s To the Sunset and a 2021 Christmas album. Initial single from the July-released album, “Hawk for the Dove’ was well-received by critics. Between solo records, Shires joined Maren Morris, Natalie Hemby, and Brandi Carlile for a self-titled album as The Highwomen in 2019.

Ginger Root, Granada-Lawrence,$18-$20

Huntington Beach, CA native Cameron Lew leads this indie soul music project which combines elements from contemporaries like Toro Y Moi, Vulfpeck, Metronomy, and Kero Kero Bonito, with the influences of Japanese City Pop and the days of Stax. Vicky Farewell listed as support.

“The Dollop,” Uptown. $35-$75

The Dollop is an American comedy history podcast in which comedian Dave Anthony reads stories from American history to his friend and fellow comedian Gareth Reynolds, who usually has no knowledge of the topic that will be discussed, with the two commenting on and reacting to the stories.

Young Culture, Super American, The Rino,$15-$20

The three-piece alternative rock band from Albany, NY, is back and ready for summer with their new feel-good track, “Hum”. 

Wednesday Nov 9

Early November, Bottleneck- Lawrence, $25-$27

The New Jersey emo vets released their new, quasi-retrospective album Twenty last month which features tracks written across their twenty-year career, many of them B-sides to older songs.

Member Ace Enders says, "Twenty is an album we are extremely proud of. It captures the moments of our 20 year career perfectly. A lot of these songs were originally b-sides from over the years, some of which are the strongest songs we’ve written together, but simply just didn’t fit on an album. It feels almost like fate that they were saved until now for this release."

Support bands listed are I Can Make A Mess and Vinnie Caruana playing songs from the Movielife

Thursday Nov 10

Pokey LaFarge, Knuckleheads,$29.50

Just before the pandemic broke out in March 2020, traditional singer/songwriter LaFarge left his LA home behind, heading down to Austin to begin a planned tour. But, with lockdown and being stuck in Texas, he went to work and crafted a whole new album, written by LaFarge and co-produced with Chris Seefried, In the Blossom of Their Shade.

The album, released a year ago, showcases the positivity of coming out of the darkness and into the light, an ideal theme for these unsettled times. We caught him live most recently in St Paul back in 2018. Area favorite Kelly Hunt to open.

Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, “The Voice” feat. Deborah Brown, Kauffman Center. $33.50-$68.50

One of the hallmarks of jazz through the ages has been great artists sharing their stories, emotions, and perspective through music. Of all the rhythm, harmony, and melody in jazz, it is the human voice that resonates in our ears and hearts and Deborah Brown is one of those treasures in the music world; master of her craft, and a consummate artist and storyteller.

Two Door Cinema Club w Day Wave Nov 10, Uptown, CANCELED

Friday Nov 11

Daniel Howell, Midland. $29.50-$59.50

Out on his We’re All Doomed! Tour, Howell is one of the world’s popular online personalities since starting on YouTube back in 2009. With his good friend Phil, Daniel has traveled the world with live tours, playing to over 500,000 people in 20 countries, before now going solo.

He also became a bestselling author when he released his 2021 non-fiction mental health guide ‘You Will Get Through This Night’ and is an ambassador for UK mental health charity, Young Minds.

George Winston, Kauffman Center. $30.50-$63

Inspired by the seasons and topographies, Winston’s concerts feature a variety of piano styles including melodic folk, New Orleans R&B, and stride. Expect seasonal favorites from Autumn, December, Winter Into Spring, and Summer, as well as popular Peanuts pieces from his Vince Guaraldi tribute albums, and more.

Katt Williams, T-Mobile Center. $59-$250

The stand-up comedy legend and Emmy Award-winning actor is out on his 17-city 2023 and Me tour and will perform an all-new show following the success of his previous World War III tour.

The Floozies w/Cloudchord, Granada-Lawrence, $25-$30

Based in Lawrence, the duo is producer/guitarist Matt Hill and Mark Hill- brothers who take their approach to electronic music and live performance across the country. We caught the electro-funk pair last back in 2017 in Minneapolis. Recycled Funk also shown as opener.

Lyric Opera of Kansas City Presents La Traviata Nov 11 & 13, Kauffman Center,

La Traviata is the famous Verdi opera set in three acts to an Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave. It is based on La Dame aux camélias, a play by Alexandre Dumas fils adapted from his own 1848 novel. The opera was originally titled Violetta, after the main character.

Saturday Nov 12

Rufus Wainwright with the Kansas City Symphony:Oh What a World of Rufus, Kauffman Center, $53.50-$138.50

Also featuring Gonzalo Farias and David T. Beals III Associate Conductor, Wainwright’s debut with the KC Symphony, will go deep into his music catalog with lush orchestral arrangement of classics such as "Going to a Town" to "Oh What a World" to solo renditions of new material and covers.

The NY Times praised his "genuine originality", and the London Times recently wrote, “when he unleashes that velvety truffle of a voice…you want it to go on and on.” We were witness to all this, on the opening date of his recent co-headlining tour, just last Fall in Kansas City.

Thundergong! benefit, Uptown Theater, $69+

Star-packed! Scheduled so far to appear- Jason Sudeikis, Wynonna, Fred Armisen, Cactus Moser, Brendan Hunt, Hembree, Sam Richardson, and Jason Barnes!

Thundergong! is a night of musical performances and laughs coming together to help uninsured and under-insured amputees get the prosthetic limbs they need – restoring mobility and restoring possibilities. Steps of Faith Foundation reconnects amputees to their communities, families, and workforces by relieving the financial burden of prosthetic care. A great show for a great cause.

Liquid Stranger w Ravenscoon and Tape B- Dimensions Tour, The Truman, $27.75-$55

aka Martin Stääf, a Swedish-born electronic musician (living in Oklahoma!?), described by Generation Bass as "the epitome of Transnational Dubstep covering everything from Latin, Asian, Eastern European and Jamaican Dancehall dubs."

Known for his experimental approach to composition where he merges genres to create a unique style of music, the new album is called Balance and the live show promises a chance to dance and maybe also to think about his genre-melding.

Crystal Gayle, Ameristar. $35-$88 (rescheduled date)

A longtime Grand Ole Opry member, Gale has been a favorite of country music audiences since the mid-70’s via top hits like “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” “You’ve Been Talking In Your Sleep,” “When I Dream” and more.

Peachtree Rascals, Nov 12, Granada - Lawrence, POSTPONED

Sunday Nov 13

Carrie Underwood w Jimmie Allen, T-Mobile Center, $35.50-$121

Just out on her highly anticipated Denim & Rhinestones Tour, Underwood performs a nearly two-hour set list of her many hits, new and old, including new songs "Garden," "Burn," "Crazy Angels," "She Don't Know," "Poor Everybody Else" and new single, "Hate My Heart."

Expect plenty of costume changes and a show that goes back and forth from main stage to the B stage, with even aerial stunt work, a skill picked up during her recent Las Vegas residency. Her live cover of Guns n Roses’ "Welcome to the Jungle" and Jimmie Allen duet on the new album’s title track "Denim & Rhinestones” are also live highlights. Country favorite Allen is an ideal support act for this show, so arrive early.

The Westerlies, Lied Center- Lawrence, $16-$30

The NY-based brass quartet is formed in 2011 with childhood friends from Seattle: Riley Mulherkar and Chloe Rowlands on trumpet, and Andy Clausen and Willem de Koch on trombone. The ensemble explores jazz, roots and chamber music influences to create a rare chamber music hybrid—music that is both “folk-like and composerly, lovely and intellectually rigorous” (NPR Music).

They have also previously featured on recordings by Fleet Foxes, Vieux Farka Touré, Common and Dave Douglas and for this performance, Ray Larsen will be substituting for Chloe Rowlands on trumpet.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- November 1-6, 2022 Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Kevin Morby Former bassist for Woods and frontman of The Babies, Kevin Morby is back with his third solo album Singing Saw, out now on Dead Oceans Records. …

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(Apologies for the website difficulties and picture-loading of late- our TypePad host has been going under maintenance which should be done soon)

Happy November (or Movember if mustache-growing for the month is still a thing). The big KC news was the announcement of Taylor Swift’s Eras Stadium Tour, which includes a July stop at Arrowhead, but there’s plenty of shows to catch until then.

Warm temps so far, the Chiefs are winning, and the Royals have a new manager, so hope springs eternal.

PSA- Clocks Fall back this Saturday night, and don’t forget to vote next Tuesday (or before).

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro November 1st-6th.

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Tuesday Nov 1

Wednesday Nov 2

Cory Wong, The Truman, $25-$50

Being Minneapolis-based, we’re fans of Wong, his guitar work, and blend of R&B, funk pop and rock. The latest album is this year’s Power Station and live, he showcases both with his Strat and the jokes and personality he imbues on stage. He could be seen earlier in his career on several of Prince’s weekly jam sessions and was on The Voice and has made a name for himself on his own terms.

Thursday Nov 3

Casting Crowns, Cable Dahmer Arena. $29-$129

The longtime Florida Christian rock band has a new album, Healer, out and the stacked lineup basically guarantees an evening of inspirational music to elevate the spirits and hearts.

Kevin Morby and The Photographs w Coco, Knuckleheads, SOLD OUT

One of Kansas City’s favorites, the new album is called This is a Photograph, and has been released to great reviews and Morby’s appeared on late night television and the recent ACL Festival stream to promote the new record. Instead of KC as an inspiration, Morby traveled to Memphis for the new record, even recording some of it in Sam Phillips’ famed Sun Studios.

David Lowery, Lawrence Arts Center, free

The Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven vocalist to discuss his decades long music career, his fight for artists’ rights, and the future of music in the digital age. After a short intermission, he will perform an intimate acoustic set. Part of Lawrence Public Library's 780s series.  more info: 780s Series | Lawrence Public Library (lplks.org)

Shovels & Rope with Tré Burt, Knuckleheads. $24.50

The Charleston SC Americana folk duo are out on their Manticore Tour, from the album of the same name released in Feb on Dualtone Records. Live, they’ve been working in Lou Reed and T-Rex covers into recent encores. We caught them live in Denver, way back in 2013.

Kevin Hart, T-Mobile Center, $49.50-$159.50

Out on The Reality Check Tour, the good news is that Hart is back in town, playing a place with plenty of seats. The not-so-good news for early ticket buyers, was his planned multi-night stand at the much-smaller Kauffman Center, was scrubbed for this huge one-night show instead. Expect laughs, nonetheless.

Friday Nov 4

Carly Rae Jepsen w Empress Of, Uptown, $40.50-$56.50

Don’t just Call It Maybe – the Canadian pop star is on The So Nice Tour, her first since 2019 and has managed to last in the fickle world of pop music. A longtime Vancouver resident, she’s since re-located to LA and is out in support of new album, The Loneliest Time, her sixth full-length with a title track that features Rufus Wainwright.

Arrive early for opener Empress Of (aka Lorely Rodriguez), in support of her new Save Me EP and who we very much liked, when we saw her headline in 2016.

Keiko Matsui, Folly,$25-$45

The acclaimed jazz keyboardist/composer released her latest album, Echo, in 2019 and she’s previously worked alongside Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Hugh Masekela, and Bob James among others.

Riff Generation, Medallion Theater, $25

November installment featuring a new jazz ensemble that cultivates new music alongside Kansas City’s fabled heritage of the genre. Part of a stand-alone performance series of new, highly collaborative compositions in a modern examination of the Kansas City “riff style.” Musicians audition for a one-year residency and perform these works in a variety of settings.

IV & the Strange Band Knuckleheads, $15

Coleman Williams is the great-grandson of famed Country singer Hank Williams, and released their debut album this June, Southern Circus is out now via a label Shooter Jennings runs. Their sound has been described as “a dour concoction of dark roots, mixed with a DIY punk and metal attitude, much music similar to his dad Hank3’s style of music than their predecessors." They’ve been playing a Bad Brains cover live as well, if that gives you any more indication of influences.

Saturday Nov 5

Susan Werner, Lied Center- Lawrence, $19-$35

Composing songs that slide between folk, jazz and pop, Werner has been recording and touring for more than 25 years. From her 1995 major label debut, Last of the Good Straight Girls to a 2007 “agnostic gospel” hymn album, The Gospel Truth to 2018’s Cuban flavored An American in Havana and the Americana of 2020’s Flyover Country, her style keeps evolving and remaining fresh.

Her latest recording of original songs, The Birds of Florida, was released in January 2022.

The Smithereens with Marshall Crenshaw, Knuckleheads

UPDATE: Rescheduled to March 23, 2023

Gloria Trevi, T-Mobile Center, $50-$225

On her massive Isla Divina Tour, Mexican pop singer Trevi promises fans a conceptual tour that’s a “journey of freedom.” “‘Isla Divina’ is a world where there are no wars, no pandemic, no violence, no protests,” Trevi said during a press conference in Miami. “It’s a world without diseases, where we can laugh and sing, where there is equality. It’s a beautiful world, one that we all dream of and have inside our hearts.”

Sunday Nov 6

El Shirota, recordBar, $12

The 90’s inspired noise rock quartet who formed in 2012 in Chiluca, México and has been releasing music since 2013 with their debut EP, Chiluca No Es Satélite. The latest record is Tiempos Raros released through Modesto, CA independent label Devil In the Woods.

They made a big impression at Foro Indie Rocks! In Mexico City over the weekend and it might just be time to see what the buzz is all about. Oxytoxin and the Jorge Arana Trio are listed as support.

I Prevail w/ Pierce the Veil, Fit for a King, Stand Atlantic, Uptown. $45-$75

A stacked lineup headlined by Michigan post hardcore band I Prevail, in support of third full-length, True Power, released in August and latest single, Self Destruction”. The True Power Tour lives up to its name with three solid support acts.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- October 24-31, 2022 Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Todd Snider Theater on April 12th, in support of his new album, Todd Snider Cash Cabin Vol. 3. (there were actually no volume 1 or 2!) …

Read more Kansas City Music Guide.

Already?! That Fall chill in the air means the last week of Rocktober (sob) and though the amount of concerts will slowly wind down as the year ends, there’s still good music and good weather, so see a live show while you can!

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro October 24th-31st.

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Oct 24

Rodney Crowell, Knuckleheads, $55 (a rescheduled date)

A musician’s musician, Crowell put out Triage just over a year ago, but in addition to his own many songs, he’s been playing some Emmylou Harris collaborations and a Townes Van Zandt classic, in recent sets.

Tuesday Oct 25

Wednesday Oct 26

Greyson Chance, Encore. $25-$65

Out on his Trophies Tour, this is a chance to see the young pop singer in a more intimate venue and third studio album, Palladium, was released just last month, though he’s made more recent headlines for revealing some falling out between he and Ellen DeGeneres, early in his career.

King Buffalo, recordBar. $20

The Rochester NY self-proclaimed heavy-psych band has a new record to support, Regenerator, out last month and has been regular touring road dogs since forming in 2013 playing with the likes of Clutch, All Them Witches, Uncle Acid & the Deadbeats, The Sword, and Elder.

Thursday Oct 27

“The Price Is Right” Live, The Midland. $29.50-$65 (a rescheduled date)

Everyone’s favorite game show is live on stage, with the chance to win cash and fabulous prizes given away! Alongside the celebrity host (as in Not Drew Carey), randomly selected contestants play favorite games like Plinko™, Cliffhangers, The Big Wheel and the Showcase Showdown. Lucky audience members can even win prizes right from their seat.

Martin Sexton, Knuckleheads, $30

Longtime touring folk singer/songwriter/producer Sexton returns to stages in support of last year’s EP, 2020 Vision. Sexton established himself in Boston, launched an independent record label, and now enjoys a very loyal fan base throughout the US and Europe.

Paula Poundstone (comedian), Folly. $42-$49

The veteran comedian is known for her smart, observational humor and spontaneous wit and can be heard weekly as the host of the comedy podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone and as a regular panelist on NPR’s comedy news quiz, Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!

She also released a second book, The Totally Unscientific Study Of The Search For Human Happiness (Algonquin 2017) and was one of eight semi-finalists for The Thurber Prize for American Humor, the highest recognition of the art of humor writing in the United States. Plus, the Folly’s been refurbished, so a chance to see the new changes!

Wheatus, Bottleneck. $22

Still singing about “Teenage Dirtbags”, the New York alt rock/pop band has also recently worked in some interesting covers into their recent sets from the likes of Rush, AC/DC, and Erasure. Sounds like a party.

Friday Oct 28

Rachel Bobbitt w Renata Zeiguer, The Rino, $20

The Canadian indie folk singer/songwriter is out in support of recent EP, The Ceiling Could Collapse (released in June on Concord Records) and has steadily been making more of a name for herself since the early days of uploading Vine content growing up in Nova Scotia.

Bobbitt found herself in serious introspection during the pandemic, having decided to leave the jazz program at Humber College to focus on her own music. Writing in Saskatoon then refining the six songs on her own, she brought together co-producer Justice Der and drummer Stephen Bennett to record the EP at Bennett’s studio.

Aaron Watson, Granada. $22

The Amarillo, TX Country singer is out in support of June’s Unwanted Man full-length, his eighteenth album which adds to his independent and self-made popularity.

Marshall Tucker Band, Ameristar. $40-$55

With hit singles “Heard It in a Love Song,” “Fire on The Mountain,” “Can't You See” and “Take the Highway,” The MTB has earned seven Gold and three Platinum albums and is touring for their 50th Anniversary as a band.

Noah Cyrus, The Truman, $30-$55

The Best New Artist-nominated Nashville-born and Los Angeles-based singer songwriter steps into her own with her 2022 full-length debut album, The Hardest Part [Columbia Records] and newest single “I Burned LA Down.”

Her earliest singles “Make Me (Cry)” [feat. Labrinth] and “Again” [feat. XXXTENTACION] made an immediate impact and Cyrus followed up with 2020’s The End of Everything EP. GIGI to open.

Todd Snider, Knuckleheads, $45

We caught Snider (and his sleepy but charming dog) last in the more innocent times of Spring 2019 and were captivated by his storytelling and ability to make an old theater feel like his living room. His most recent release is last year’s cleverly titled First Agnostic Church Of Hope and Wonder, and we’re sure he’ll have new stories to go along with.

Here Come the Mummies w Saxsquatch, Uptown, $25-$49.50

A perfect show to catch around Halloween, the Nashville funk rockers will daze and delight in haze of gauze and white bandages, with a guaranteed fun evening in store, so whip out your freak flag.

The Four Freshman, Yardley Hall. $15-$49

One of the most influential vocal groups started back in 1948, when four college freshmen crafted a unique style of vocal harmony that soon caught the ear of bandleader Stan Kenton, who brought them to Capitol Records, where they would record 23 albums.

The group has now recorded more than 75 albums and received six Grammy nominations. Today’s group members are Bob Ferreira, Tommy Boynton, Ryan Howe and Jake Baldwin and for this performance, they will be joined by the JCCC Jazz Band, directed by Ryan Heinlein, as openers.

Saturday Oct 29

Christian Nodal, T-Mobile Center, $61-$191

Named the most successful Regional Mexican artist of all time by Apple Music, his 22-date US ‘Forajido Tour makes a local arena stop. Nodal has won three Latin Grammy Awards, a Lo Nuestro Award, two Billboard Latin Music Awards, and a Latin American Music Award.

Teddy Swims, The Truman, SOLD OUT

Former YouTube sensation and Atlanta native aka Jaten Dimsdale uniquely blends genres including R&B, soul, country, and pop on most recent six-song EP, Tough Love (on Warner Bros Records). He’s made a handful of recent TV appearances and over 500 million global streams say the word has gotten out about him.

David Cook, Knuckleheads. $30

The local favorite (from nearby Blue Springs, MO) and former American Idol winner put out an EP, The Looking Glass out last year, and has a more recent single, “TABOS” *which stands for This’ll All Be Over Soon.

Sunday Oct 30

The Milk Carton Kids and Katie Pruitt, Knuckleheads. $30

The California indie folk duo released the short but sweet The Only Ones record (clocking in at 25min) back in 2019 have two Grammy nominations to their name, and this is one of only fourteen shows on the itinerary. The brand new single is “Running on Sweet Smile” and their opener is local favorite Katie Pruitt, so be sure to arrive early.

Piff the Magic Dragon / Puddles Pity Party, Midwest Trust Center, $25+

On the well named Misery Loves Company Tour, these two eclectic acts join forces. We’ve seen Piff the Magic Dragon, accompanied by his sidekick, Mr. Piffles, the world’s only magic performing Chihuahua, previously on the Ren Fest circuit and they’ve since has won several Best of Las Vegas playing at the Flamingo and was crowned winner of TBS’ “Tournament of Laughs.”

Puddles Pity Party, the sad, giant clown with the golden voice, has amassed more than 813,000 YouTube subscribers. Deftly combining melancholy with the absurd, Puddles has become a favorite of legends like Eric Idle, Jack Black, Paul Reubens and Weird Al and oddly, even Kevin Costner.

Amy Shark, recordBar CANCELED

Monday Oct 31

Sammy Rae & The Friends, Granada. $25

Assume that costumes are encouraged as aka Samantha Bowers & The Friends bring the soundtrack to your Halloween night. Most recent single is “If It All Goes South” and their sound is a self-described “mélange of Sammy’s influences, rooted in classic rock, folk, and funk and sprinkled with soul and jazz.” Arrive early for Minnesota indie pop favorites Yam Haus, who rose to national fame as seen on the TV show American Song Contest. 

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

G. Love & Special Sauce at Steve Tilford Benefit / BWR, Lawrence KS (2022-10-14)

Read More G. Love & Special Sauce G. Love and Special Sauce's show packed and ended their set with the popular "Cold Beverages" song. By this time, I was ready for bed... G.LOVE AND SPECIAL SAUCE SETLIST SoulBQue My Ball Go Crazy Thanks and Praise Peace, Love and Happiness Blues Music Shooting Hoops This Ain't Living 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover (Paul Simon cover) > It's Tricky (Run DMc cover) Happy Birthday/Birthday (50Cent cover, to a young audience member, Gus) Cold Beverage Booty Call Rodeo Clowns (Jack Johnson cover) freestyle rap Can’t Go Back to Jersey Love from Philly I-76 encore: blues instrumental Baby’s Got Sauce G. LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE TOUR DATES 10/15 G.Love & The Juice Juicefest 2022Rutland, MA 10/16 G.Love & The Juice Juicefest 2022Rutland, MA 12/2-6 Sapphire + Dreams Riviera Resorts Cancun, MX 2/17-21/2023 Sail Across The Sun Miami to Puerto Plata 3/8-13/2023 311 Caribbean Cruise Miami, FL

“Cold Beverages” (of course!), but also waffles, frites, and a day of bike riding--

Philadelphia’s G. Love & Special Sauce headlined the kickoff concert for the annual Belgian Waffle Ride, taking place in Northeast Kansas for the second consecutive year, with an outdoor concert on 8th and Mass in downtown Lawrence, to benefit the Steve Tilford Foundation.

Now in its eleventh overall year, The Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) provides professional and amateur cyclists the opportunity to ride over up to a 111.11-mile route throughout the northeast region of Kansas, benefiting the Steve Tilford Foundation, named for the multi-award-winning mountain biking legend, who passed away in a Utah highway crash in 2017.

In addition to the cycling, waffles, Belgian ales, and frites were available along with a silent auction, vendor fair, and related weekend activities.

As for G. Love aka Garrett Dutton, it’s hard to believe he recently turned fifty, as except for some gray hair under that pork-pie hat, still looks much like he did when he broke through in the mid-90s, and Dutton remembered first visiting the city on his first full tour in 1994.

The new album is Philadelphia Mississippi, released in June (on his Philadelphonic Records) and is more of the trademark blend of hip-hop, folk, alternative, soul and blues blend, he and his two bandmates (Chuck Treece– drums; Jimi “Jazz” Prescott– string bass) have come to be known for.

A big basketball fan, he shouted out the current NCAA Mens Champion Kansas Jayhawks before his 1994 b-ball-centric song, “Shooting Hoops” and stand-up bassist Prescott was solid all evening, particularly on a mini-solo in the middle of “This Ain’t Living”.

Dutton gave a free t-shirt out to anyone in the crowd, that could guess the song from Treece’s initial drumbeats, and it turned out to be a jazzy cover of Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”, in which Dutton whipped out his harmonica as tempo sped up to swing dance velocity.

The trio’s biggest hit, “Cold Beverage” found many in the crowd holding their own up in the air (one of many for most) ad his cover of Jack Johnson’s “Rodeo Clowns” has become so signature, most people think of it as his own song.

His “215” area code sent Kansas some “Love from Philly” and another City of Brotherly Love-set track that also name-dropped several vintage 76er’s players, “I-76” would end the main set with each member getting a short amount of solo time in, as well.

The encore began on a slower note, with a bluesy instrumental stomp, but energy would pick back up for the final number, an extended “Baby’s Got Sauce”, with Dutton asking various people’s names in the crowd, then declaring they each “had sauce!” before ending in saying the whole town had sauce.

Another successful year in Lawrence hosting a stop of the Belgian Waffle Ride and another perfect early autumn night for an outdoor concert from another artist (like last year’s Michael Franti) who has been playing the city since the mid-90s. Over twenty-five years later, G.Love still has The Sauce.

(click on any image to enlarge and see in full)

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john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- October 17-23, 2022 Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Mumford & Sons After a brief health-related delay that caused them to miss Bonnaroo, UK band Mumford and Sons has resumed their summer arena/amphitheatre Tour, to great reviews and sold-out shows. …

Read more Kansas City Music Guide.

Fall leaves, pumpkin spice, and a continued Rocktober! Temps may have cooled, but the music is still hot, so get out and see a show while the weather still permits.

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro October 17th-23rd.

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Oct 17

Illuminati Hotties, Oct 17, recordBar,$20

Illuminati Hotties have announced a fall tour, running through North America in October and November. The cleverly named LA indie punk band led by Sarah Tudzin had a new album Let Me Do One More, released just over a year ago, but has also since released some non-album songs. Enumclaw and Olivia Barton slated to open.

Tuesday Oct 18

Marcus Mumford with The A’s, Midland. $29.50-$79.50

The Mumford & Sons front man hits the road in support of his debut solo album ‘(Self-Titled)’, which was out on September 16 (via Island Records), with lead single, “Cannibal’. Produced by Blake Mills, the record features Brandi Carlile, Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo and Monica Martin and he was one of the featured performers of last weekend’s Hulu stream of Austin City Limits Festival.

Live, he plays 3-4 Mumford & Sons favorites as well as a few New Basement Tapes songs (a Dylan-related project he participated in), including “Kansas City”, which should be a treat to hear locally.

Sylvan Esso’s Amelia Meath and Daughter of Swords’ Alexandra Sauser-Monnig are both members of Mountain Man and they’ve now come together for a new band called the A’s. Their debut album, Fruit, is out via Psychic Hotline and features covers of folk songs, lullabies, ballads, and more.

Turnstile w JpegMafia, Snail Mail, Uptown, $35-$99.50

Now on their Love Connection Tour, Turnstile still has fans talking about their previous local appearances this Spring supporting latest album, Glow On. The new shows feature support from fellow Baltimore-ans Snail Mail and Jpegmafia.

Turnstile had previously wrapped up a North American tour where every show on that tour sold out way ahead of time and with a solid triple-bill, have graduated to bigger venues. We caught Snail Mail headlining earlier this year and the show looks to be some joyous organized chaos, a celebration of Baltimore area bands, and a chance to experience acclaimed new music from three different genres.

Wednesday Oct 19

Kurt Vile w Julia Shapiro, Liberty Hall, $36-$45

Philadelphia-based rocker is touring on his new album, "(watch my moves)," bringing his backing band The Violators along for a round of 2022 dates. He’s worked in a Silver Jews cover into the setlist of recent shows and we caught him back in May in Minneapolis. Special guest is Julia Shapiro of Chastity Belt.

St. Lucia, The Truman, $27.50-$55

The new album, Utopia I EP just arrived on October 7, with lead single “touch” released ahead of that for this electro-pop band led by Jean-Philip Grobler, a South African based in Germany. (with his wife, and they even had a son during the pandemic).

“In a way, this is my personal rebellion against the darkness of the world,” states Jean-Philip. “From the beginning, the name St. Lucia came from me making escapist music. In South Africa, there’s a place called St. Lucia, and it’s similar to the island in the Caribbean because it’s where you escape. It’s utopia. There are many ideas of utopia, whether it means virus-free or a virtual tech utopia. It’s easy to feel depressed these days, so I’m trying to bring something joyous to the world.”

In This Moment w/ Nothing More, Sleep Token, Cherry Bombs, The Midland. $29.50-$49.50

Since coming to life in 2005, gold-selling hard rock provocateurs In This Moment have presided over a diehard fan base under the watch of a similar “mother” figure front woman Maria Brink- joined by co-founder and lead guitarist Chris Howorth, bassist Travis Johnson, guitarist Randy Weitzel, and Kent Dimmel.

Alternative Press claimed, “Maria Brink is the Lady Gaga of the metal world” and went on to add, “Ritual (their 2017 album) flourishes as the metal love child of art-pop, gospel, Morrissey and Johnny Cash that the world didn’t know it needed until now.” Newest album, Mother [Atlantic/Roadrunner] is a 14-track opus featuring lead single “The In-Between”. Arrive early for the numerous support acts on this full evening of new rock.

Trash Taste, Folly. $45-$145

The Trash Taste Boys- Joey, Garnt, and Connor arrive on stage as they talk, rant, and discuss about everything and anything. Aka Gigguk, The Anime Man, and CdawgVA, they’ve built up a healthy following on YouTube and Twitch channels as well as with their podcast.

Thursday Oct 20

Swan Lake: World Ballet Series, Folly Theater, $35-$105

A part of the World Ballet Series, Swan Lake will be performed live by a multinational cast of 50 professional ballet dancers. See the Dance of the Little Swans, count the 32 fouettés performed by the Odile and immerse yourself in Tchaikovsky’s musical score. The production features detailed, hand-painted sets as well as over 150 radiant costumes.

Friday Oct 21

Sister Hazel w Spin Doctors, Oct 21, Ameristar Casino, $45-60

A rewind back to the indie 90s show, Spin Doctors have more than 12 million albums sold and a Grammy nomination while Sister Hazel is known for topping the charts in the late 90’s with hit “All for You,” and other hits.

Kansas City Jazz Orchestra and Hanover Big Band, Oct. 21, Yardley Hall. $15-$49

Founded in 2003, KCJO is one of the nation’s preeminent big bands, performing classic and original repertoire in a variety of settings. In 2013, Clint Ashlock was named Artistic Director and conductor and the KCJO supports music education, also hosting masterclasses conducted by their visiting artists, in addition to school programming.

The Hanover Big Band incorporates all styles of big band jazz. The soloistic freedom of the arrangements showcases the charisma and excellence of their musicians. Their repertoire includes Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman and Woody Herman, as well as contemporary compositions (They play KC Bier biergarten Oct 17 and Knuckleheads Oct 18 as well) and watch the two entities join forces in a fun competition here.

Real Talk Comedy Tour featuring DeRay Davis, B. Simone, Rickey Smiley, more, Cable Dahmer Arena- Independence. $63.50-$183.50

Urban comedy’s best comedy voices join together for a night of laughs.

Miyavi, Knuckleheads, $25-$100

The Japanese guitarist is gaining recognition around the world for his unconventional style of playing the guitar—not with a pick, but with his fingers and his “slap style”. We’re fans of innovative guitar playing, as evidenced when we saw three prominent fingerstyle players at a show earlier this summer. Newest album is last fall’s Imaginary and the show is recommended for any guitar aficionados.

Pecos & The Rooftops, Uptown. $19-$40

A close knit group of friends from Texas that came together while in college in Lubbock. The country rock band is Pecos Hurley (Vocals/Acoustic Guitar), Brandon Jones (Rhythm Guitar), Zack Foster (Lead Guitar), Kalen Davis (Bass), and Garrett Peltier (Drums).
 Their latest EP, “Red Eye” was out in early 2020, but new music is promised soon, so hope to hear a preview.

Saturday Oct 22

California Honeydrops, Knuckleheads, $27

The Bay Area blues, R&B and funk band celebrate their 14th year together with the release of their latest studio effort, “Soft Spot” just released on October 7. The LP follows the release of their cover album, Covers From The Cave, two live albums, and a first double-album.

Led by vocalist / multi-instrumentalist Lech Wierzynski, their diverse musical influences include R&B, funk, Southern soul, Delta blues, and New Orleans second-line, expect an energetic dance party vibe. Special guest Scott Pemberton.

Highly Suspect, The Midland, $29.50-$39.50

On their Midnight Demon Club Tour, we caught the Brooklyn rockers last month on the first show of the tour, thrilled to be playing live again in shows initially scheduled for Spring 2020. The multi-GRAMMY® Award-nominated and gold-certified band - Johnny Stevens [vocals, guitar], Ryan Meyer [drums, vocals], Rich Meyer [bass, vocals], Matt Kofos [guitar] and Mark Schwartz [synths] have a new record, The Midnight Demon Club, on Roadrunner/FRSKT and even worked in a QOTSA cover into the set we caught live. Tiger Club to open.

“A New World: Intimate music from ‘Final Fantasy” Folly. $46-$80

From the team that brought you Distant Worlds: music from FINAL FANTASY, the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE: Orchestra World Tour, NieR: Orchestra Concert, and more, AWR Music Productions is presents a new program of music to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of FINAL FANTASY. Under the direction of Eric Roth, the New World Players chamber ensemble perform exclusive arrangements from throughout the FINAL FANTASY series in the personal style of this outstanding musical production.

Napoleon Dynamite Film Screening/Conversation, Yardley Hall $25+

A fan-favorite film screening, audience Q&A and moderated discussion by Lonita Cook, film critic at KCTV-5 with Jon Heder, Jon Gries and Efren Ramirez. The evening promises to be a celebration of the comedy classic that made Napoleon Dynamite, LaFawnduh and Pedro household names. Jon Heder (Napoleon), Efren Ramirez (Pedro) and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico) have plenty of behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes. VIP packages available.

The Sponges with N2N, Aura. $20

Electronica EDM act comprised of Nik Eaton and Ryan Slepin with new singles, “Shake It” mixing heavy bass and electro blips, and “Volume” feat. Griz.

Grupo Firme,T-Mobile Center,CANCELED

Sunday Oct 23

Dead Poet Society, Bottleneck- Lawrence,$17-$20

LA via Boston alt/indie band is out on their The Tour That Never Ends with support from their label mates BRKN LOVE, in between supporting Highly Suspect for their fall headline run. A deluxe edition of their latest record “-!-“was just released, featuring extra acoustic and live tracks.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- October 10-16, 2022 Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Lizzo We’re very proud of local Lizzo making it “big” outside of Minneapolis. The grrrl recently premiered her single/music video for "Humanize" Video on the Guardian. Her album Big GRRRL ...

Read more Kansas City Music Guide.

Rocktober marches on! Even with haunted houses open and numerous area weekend Fall festivals, there’s still plenty on the concert menu, with many bands making their way north, after playing the first weekend of Austin City Limits Festival in Texas.

Saturday (Oct 14) is particularly log jammed, despite Death Cab for Cutie postponing their tour for four months, so opener Low’s Mimi Parker can recover from cancer treatments.

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro October 10th-16th.

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Oct 10

The Midnight, The Truman, $30-$55

Synthwave group led by duo Tyler Lyle (a songwriter from Atlanta) and Tim McEwan (a producer from Denmark) out in support of their fourth full-length, Heroes.

Nashville alt pop band Nightly is set to open.

Tuesday Oct 11

Kid Bloom, Bottleneck-Lawrence, $20

Buzzworthy LA indie pop singer songwriter (aka Lennon Kloser) has a debut album out, Highway (via Position Music) and latest single, “Cowboy”. There’s a retro feel to his slightly psych-tinged music, which caught more widespread attention after his 2020 EP, Blood Sugar and he’s previously supported The Neighbourhood and Lennon Stella.

Fellow LA indie band All Things Blue (led by India "Blue" Coombs and guitarist Jon Joseph) to open.

AWOLNATION w Badflower, The Mysterines, Uptown, $35

More Los Angeles representation as Aaron Bruno and co. return, in support of a recently released covers album, My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers and Me, which includes their versions of Beck, Jewel, Midnight Oil and Grouplove songs. Expect some of those, in addition to their own hits like “Sail” and “Run”. We last caught them outdoors in Minneapolis in 2017.

LA alt rockers Badflower released their appropriately titled second album, This is How the World Ends, at the end of last year and UK’s rising The Mysterines are still touring in support of their debut album Reeling (Fiction Records), who we also caught live headlining back in May.

Goose, The Midland. $35

The CT indie-groove jam band has a new full-length, Dripfield out and is known for their live musical riffing and covers from the likes of The Band, Four Non Blondes, and others. Their seemingly simple name began as an inside joke from when one of the members worked in a Colorado taco shop and ended up sticking.

A R I Z O N A, Granada CANCELED

Wednesday Oct 12

Phoenix, The Midland, $29.50-$59.50

French favorite alt pop rockers have a new album, Alpha Zulu out and expand from their foursome to a six-piece live. We just caught the band live again, last month in Minneapolis, at the tour's first stop and were somewhat surprised they’ve been opening their set with one of their biggest hits, “Lisztomania” but it sets the mood for a fun evening. "Tonight", from the new album features Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koenig, who can also be seen singing along in the music video.

Tai Verdes, The Truman, $25-$50

Cali singer-songwriter who broke it big with last year’s “A-O-K” single returns with new second album HDTV (a follow-up to debut album TV), and a fall tour of the same name.

Lyle Lovett w John Hiatt, Uptown,$59-$125

Two absolute legends perform an acoustic evening (separately and we hope together). Multi-Grammy winner Lovett blends country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues, and has earned distinctions as Texas State Musician and the Americana Music Association’s Trailblazer Award.

Hiatt has been hailed as "one of rock's most astute singer-songwriters of the last 40 years" by the Los Angeles Times and artists from B.B King, Buddy Guy and Emmylou Harris to Iggy Pop, Paula Abdul and Rosanne Cash have all covered his memorable songs.

Slift, Bottleneck. $20-$25

French stoner rockers led by the brothers Fossat who put out a live album, Levitation Sessions, last year. KC pop/rock locals The Moose to open.

Thursday Oct 13

Batushka with Hate and Hideous Divinity, Granada. $25

From Poland, this popular black metal band led by Krzysztof Drabikowski has been relatively silent of late, due to the pandemic and a legal name dispute with a former vocalist, but now seems ready to return to live stages again.

Fellow Polish blackened death metal band Hate and Hideous Divinity, an Italian technical brutal death metal band listed as support, making this a Euro-centric evening of dark headbanging.

Friday Oct 14

Paramore w Young the Giant, Japanese Breakfast, Azura Amph, $36-$205.50

Saving the best for the last, the final show of this outdoor venue’s season features an eclectic alternative triple-bill, that many have waited all year for. Headliners Paramore have reunited, and the pop punk band has released new single, “This is Why” from a brand-new album of the same name, out in late Feb. Recent live sets have opened with the new single, leader Hayley Williams even plays a song from her solo release, and Zac Ferro sings lead on a HalfNoise cover.

Count us as fans of California band Young the Giant, who we last saw in 2019 and who have a new single, “Wake Up” in advance of brand-new album, American Bollywood, coming soon and which will compile four recent EPs. They’ve opened live with the new single so expect that and hits like “Cough Syrup”, “Something to Believe In”, “Apartment” and Superposition” live.

There are fewer more inspiring recent success stories than Japanese Breakfast and Michelle Zauner’s story of going through the grief of her mother’s death to produce a best-selling book, and a huge breakthrough album, Jubilee with hit singles “Be Sweet” and “Paprika” which were performed on SNL and most recently, Austin City Limits, to give the band even more mainstream exposure. We’ve followed Zauner and co. since early 2017 and have caught the band live three times in just over the last year, so yes, we’re steadfast fans and couldn’t be happier at all the success.

Clutch w Quicksand, Helmet, Oct 14, Uptown, $37-$55

A mighty triple-bill as groove rock masters CLUTCH wind down this 26-date run with Helmet and Quicksand. Single "We Strive For Excellence" preceded the latest album, Sunrise on Slaughter Beach, which was released last month on the band’s own label and went Top 3 on the Billboard Hard Rock chart. We caught them live last, back in 2016 at First Avenue in Minneapolis.

Lizzo with Latto, T-Mobile Center, $39.50-$129.50

No doubt she’s Special! – we knew it all along, having followed her for years in Minneapolis (both with group Grrrl Party and then solo) watching her hone her own brand of stardom after arriving from Houston. With new #2 charting album, Special, she collaborates with the likes of Coldplay and it features massive radio hits, “About Damn Time”, “2 Be Loved” and the title track.

She’s graduating to full arenas on this tour that won’t stop until next March in London and fellow rapper Latto, who’s “Big Energy” single from album 777, ruled the Spring/Summer airwaves, will support for this show.

Deorro, The Truman, $30-$50

Mexicali DJ/producer has a new full-length, ORRO, out on legendary dance label Ultra Records, and has recent single collaborations with Gente De Zona, Tiësto, and Los Tucanes de Tijuana w/Maffio. OOKAY and Chuwe are listed as support acts.

G Love and Special Sauce, Steve Tilford Benefit, Granada- Lawrence, $15-$125

The Philly rock, blues and hip-hop trio converges again to play the annual Steve Tilford Benefit outdoors in downtown Lawrence, in support of their latest, Philadelphia Mississippi (via Philadelphonic Records) released in June. We caught last year’s worthy benefit live, featuring a performance from the Michael Franti Trio, and the top ticket price even includes a pre-concert dinner.

Shaquille O Neal aka DJ Diesel, Univ of KS Late Night in the Phog, Allen Fieldhouse- Lawrence, free w RSVP

The reigning NCAA Mens Basketball National Champions begin their title defense with this traditional kickoff rally. The star of Kazaam will be bringing his Shaq-Fu magic and DJ skills to headline the event (we saw him spin during Super Bowl week in Minneapolis) and KU men’s & women’s basketball teams will usher in the unofficial start of the season with scrimmages, skits and more.

This year’s event again will feature the Phog Fest on the front law of Allen Fieldhouse, beginning at 2 p.m. Students will be allowed to enter at 4:45 p.m., with gates for the general public opening at 5 p.m. Admission will continue to be free for fans, however, tickets will have to be claimed online in advance, with all seats outside of the student section, now being reserved.

Death Cab for Cutie w Low, The Midland RESCHEDULED TO FEB 2023

Sales, Granada CANCELED

Saturday Oct 15

Matt Maeson, The Truman, $25-$50

The Virginia native has really exploded onto the scene in the last several years, hitting initially with “Cringe” at the end of 2016 and more recently, last year’s "Hallucinogenics" which topped the Billboard charts. Never Had to Leave is his sophomore full-length, released in August on Atlantic Records, with latest single, “Problems”. He first hit our radar back in 2018.

Charleston alt rockers All Get Out slated to open, in support of full-length, Kodak.

Get Up Kids, Granada- Lawrence, Free

Anyone that recently missed them in KC, can make the half-hour drive West and see the band for free at this 8pm outdoor show downtown.

Boombox Cartel, Aura. $40

Los Angeles-based DJ act consisting of producer Americo Garcia (of Laredo, TX) and writing partner Jorge Medina (of Monterrey, MX) who have a new single out, “Heart of Stone (featuring Nevve) – a night of dubstep, heavy bass, and trap dance music.

Carbon Leaf, Knuckleheads. $22.50

Richmond, VA alt-country/Americana indie-rock quintet is due for new music (their last release was a 2018 album), but also celebrate their 30^th anniversary, so maybe new sounds are in the offering.

Sunday Oct 16

FKJ (French Kiwi Juice), The Midland, $34.50

Tours, France multi-instrumentalist / live looper (aka Vincent Fenton) has a house music record out called Vincent on one of our favorite indie labels, Mom+Pop, and recent single “Greener” features Carlos Santana.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

The Black Angels at The Bottleneck, Lawrence KS (2022-10-01) review

Read More Black Angels Forget the Polar Vortex, the Winter Psych Storm is coming. A taste of Texas psychedelia hits the road as Austin’s The Black Angels… THE BLACK ANGELS SETLIST Without a Trace Manipulation El Jardin History of the Future The River Icon Entrance Song Don't Play with Guns Grab as Much (as You Can) Choose to Choose Vermillion Eyes Here & Now Firefly Broken Soldier The First Vietnamese War The Prodigal Son Young Men Dead THE VACANT LOTS SETLIST  Departure Never Satisfied Consolation Prize Thank You Fracture 6 AM Mad Mary Jones THE VACANT LOTS EU/UK TOUR Nov 09 Milan (IT) - Arci Bellezza Nov 11 Dijon (FR) - Consortium Museum Nov 12 - Paris (FR) - L’International Nov 14 - Nantes (FR) - Lune Froide Nov 16 - Maastricht (NL) - Muziekgieterij Nov 17 - Liège (BE) - L'Escalier Nov 18 - Dordrecht (NL) - Popcentrale x Bibelot Nov 19 - Berlin (DE) - Synästhesie Festival Nov 20 - Dresden (DE) - Bärenzwinger Nov 22 - Halle (DE) - Hühnermanhattan Nov 24 - Copenhagen (DK) - Loppen Nov 26 - Stockholm (SE) - Debaser Bar Brooklyn Nov 27 - Gothenburg (SE) - Fyrens Nov 30 - Haarlem (NL) - Patronaat Dec 1 - Hastings (UK) - The Piper Dec 2 - London (UK) - Strongroom Dec 3 - Manchester (UK) – SOUP Dec 4 - Glasgow (UK) - The Flying Duck

The Bottleneck in Lawrence probably saved on their electric bill as Psych Rock leaders The Black Angels and Vermont via NY duo The Vacant Lots both played immersive and atmospheric sets in almost total darkness.

Opening the evening was a brief but impactful half-hour set from Brooklyn duo, The Vacant Lots, in support of just-released full-length,Closure (via Fuzz Club Records). The post-punk electro pair (Jared Artaud- vocals, guitars, poet / Brian MacFadyen — programming, percussion, vocals) create a fair volume of sound for just two people, buoyed by MacFayden’s sharp electro beats and Artaud’s echoing, fuzzy riffs. (and a dash of psych). The sound is minimal on its surface, but with a closer listen, is actually complex, with every note and sound mattering.

The duo are also big William Burroughs fans, taking the name of their previous full-length, Interzone, from his (and Joy Division’s) inspiration and any fans of Television, Suicide, BRMC, and Gun Club, should tune in. The set itself was an atmospheric (and even danceable) mini-voyage, beginning appropriately with 2014’s “Departure”, the new “Thank You” had lyrics dripping in sarcasm but presented in the most deadpan cool manner, and the electro throb and crashing cymbals of 2014’s “Mad Mary Jones”, a textured, swirling song that mentor Alan Vega covered on a previous split-single 10”.

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After six studio albums and two decades, Austin TX band The Black Angels can truly be called godfathers of the modern Texas Psych Rock movement, also helping spawn the multi-city Levitation Festival. Their newest full-length, Wilderness of Mirrors (on Partisan Records) only emphasizes that point and this show, like many others, was delayed by a year or more, so anticipation was high.

Like the openers, overall lighting was minimal at best (not making photos easy) with four narrow vertical light strips added to compliment the venue’s existing lighting. We’d seen the band previous, notably back in 2014 with their guest, the late Roky Erickson of the pioneering 13^th Floor Elevators.

The band remains as trippy as ever, and likes to shake up their setlist, starting this 85-min. night with “Without a Trace” from the new record, and singer Alex Maas promising in echo-y, reverbed verse, “we’ll be alarming, we’ll be an army” and on the new “El Jardin” evoking a confrontation with “you can build me up or you can rip me apart”.

Musically, the band mostly remained in their set places, all seemed focused and musically locked in, with drummer Stephanie Bailey, nestled in a stage corner, being the piston that charged the rest of the engine. The band has never said much between songs, preferring instead to bowl you over with their noise wall of sound, not that you couldn't see how grateful they were to return to playing live again.

There’s often a Texas twang to several of their songs, honoring their roots and giving away their origins, such as the campfire strumming that introduces the new “The River” before reverb and fuzz take over.

2013’s “Don’t Play with Guns” is probably the closest thing to a radio hit for the band, still unfortunately as relevant today, as it ever was. The band’s sound continues to evolve, staying both modern and retro at the same time, experimenting with textures and swirling sounds to build their soundscapes.

The back end of the main set seemed to take on a war theme of sorts, with “Broken Soldier”

“The First Vietnamese War”, “The Prodigal Son”, and “Young Men Dead” and Maas singing lines like “It's hard to kill when you don't know whose side you're on”, “why me, why war?”, and “Fire at will, don’t you waste no time”; all making for an impactful psych rock multi-song epic passage.

The band returned for a three-song encore, but that even wasn’t enough for the diehard fans that had been waiting this long for the show to take place, cheering even louder as the band said their quick good-nights.

The Wilderness of Mirrors remains trippy for Austin’s The Black Angels, pioneers of modern psych rock, and though it’s a dark voyage (at least one with very minimal lighting), they seem very appreciative to have live audiences join them again on that sonic voyage.

THE BLACK ANGELS TOUR DATES

OCT 3 Delmar Hall Saint Louis, MO*
OCT 4 Slowdown Omaha, NE*
OCT 5 First Avenue Minneapolis, MN*
OCT 7 Majestic Theatre Madison, WI*
OCT 8 House of Blues Chicago, IL*
OCT 9 Beachland Ballroom Cleveland, OH*
OCT 10 Majestic Theatre Detroit, MI*
OCT 12 Phoenix Concert Theatre Toronto ON*
OCT 13 Théâtre Corona Montréal, QC*
OCT 14 Paradise Rock Club Boston, MA*
OCT 15 9:30 Club Washington, DC*
OCT 17 Brooklyn Steel Brooklyn, NY*
OCT 18 Union Transfer Philadelphia, PA*
OCT 19 Cat's Cradle Carrboro, NC*
OCT 21 Variety Playhouse Atlanta, GA*
OCT 22 Brooklyn Bowl Nashville, TN*
OCT 23 Saturn Birmingham, AL*
OCT 24 Chelsea’s Live Baton Rouge, LA*
OCT 30 Levitation Austin, TX
NOV 5 Hipnosis- Huixquilucan De Degollado, Mexico
NOV 8 #iVoted Festival Live Stream
JAN 27, 2023 LAV - Lisbon, Portugal
JAN 28, 2023 Hard Club - Porto, Portugal
JAN 30, 2023 Teatro Eslava - Madrid, Spain
JAN 31, 2023 Apolo - Barcelona, Spain
FEB 1, 2023 Le Bikini - Toulouse, France
FEB 2, 2023 Rock School Barbey, Bordeaux,FR 
FEB 4, 2023 La Belle Electrique - Grenoble, FR 
FEB 5, 2023 Les Docks - Lausanne, Switzerland
FEB 6, 2023 Dynamo - Zurich, Switzerland
FEB 7, 2023 Arena - Vienna, Austria
FEB 9, 2023 ROXY - Prague, Czech Republic
FEB 10, 2023 NIEBO - Warsaw, Poland
FEB 12, 2023 Huxleys Neue Welt - Berlin, DE
FEB 13, 2023 Kantine - Cologne, Germany
FEB 14, 2023 Fabrik - Hamburg, Germany
FEB 15, 2023 Vega - Copenhagen, Denmark
FEB 17, 2023 Trix - Antwerp, Belgium
FEB 18, 2023 Doornroosje - Nijmegen, NL
FEB 19, 2023 Paradiso - Amsterdam, NL
FEB 21, 2023 l'Aéronef - Lille, France
FEB 22, 2023 Le Trianon - Paris, France
FEB 23, 2023 Antipode - Rennes, France
FEB 25, 2023 SWX - Bristol, UK
FEB 26, 2023 Invisible Wind Factory Liverpool
FEB 27, 2023 The Button Factory - Dublin, IE 
MAR 1, 2023 QMU - Glasgow, UK
MAR 2, 2023 New Century - Manchester, UK
MAR 3, 2023 O2 Shepherds Bush Emp London

* - with The Vacant Lots                                                 (click on any image to enlarge and see in full)

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE BLACK ANGELS

THE VACANT LOTS

THE VACANT LOTS

THE VACANT LOTS

THE VACANT LOTS

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

We♥KC- October 3-9, 2022 Upcoming Shows (Kansas City / Lawrence KS)

Read More Wolf Alice London-based four-piece Wolf Alice will release their debut album My Love Is Cool on June 23rd via Dirty Hit / RCA Records. They actually did not include the cover artwork, but they did ...

Read more Kansas City Music Guide.

Rocktober continues! And damn the scheduling gods for packing in so many shows, especially on Saturday Oct 8!

Weather has turned and fall is clearly hear, so the best time for live music is now, before earlier sunsets and colder temps.

Here’s what’s happening in the Kansas City/Lawrence, KS metro October 3rd-9th.

(Several artists are still requiring precautions for entry, so check with the venue and/or assume vaccination proof, might still be required)

Monday Oct 3

Diana Krall, Kauffman Center. $59-$179

Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart and she’s won two Grammy® Awards and ten Juno® Awards among many others. Latest record from Elvis Costello’s better half is 2020’s This Dream of You, which followed a duets album with Tony Bennett.

Mother Mother w Sir Sly,Transviolet, Uptown. $55-$132

BC Canadian indie rock band who released a deluxe version of latest album, Inside, this January, with seven additional songs. Live, they’ve recently been working in a cover of Radiohead’s “Creep” and ending their main set with “Hayloft” and its recent sequel, “Hayloft II”.

Opener Sir Sly is out in support of last year’s The Rise and Fall of Loverboy, and as we explained previous, is one of those “unicorn” bands we’ve been trying to see for the last decade, but has never worked out- guess what? We're out of town for this date, so will miss them again- the “curse” continues!”  We caught Transviolet live last, back in 2016.

La Dispute with Sweet Pill and Pictoria Vark, Granada. $25

Michigan post-hardcore band out supporting 2019’s Panorama full-length but has been playing their 2011 album, Wildlife, in its entirety along with a multi-song encore of more recent songs.

Philly emo-core rockers Sweet Pill have new single out, “High Hopes” from their Where the Heart Is, and Pictoria Vark is a NJ bassist living near Iowa City with project The Parts I Dread.

Tuesday Oct 4

Toadies with Reverend Horton Heat and Frankie and The Witch Fingers, Knuckleheads. $25-$30

If it’s called the Rubberneck Tour, it’s a dead giveaway that the Texas band will be playing their 1994 album in its entirety. Look for members of ‘The Heat to maybe join on one song, as well as a classic Screamin’ Jay Hawkins cover.

Speaking of Reverend Horton Heat, they've been playing their own classic album, Liquor in the Front, as well as Sub Pop Songs, which include a legendary Motorhead cover.

Frankie and the Witch Fingers hits Desert Daze this weekend in California then joins up for this tour, with Nashville Pussy on later dates (including Minneapolis).

Pusha T, The Truman, $36.50-$74.50

On his It’s Almost Dry Tour, from the new album of the same name, the former rapper from The Clipse is one of the most recognizable in hip-hop (and actually had a direct hand in McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It’ catchphrase!). The album, hot topped the Billboard 100, includes “Rock N Roll” a collab with Kanye West, before they notably parted ways and expect that one and some previous ‘Ye collabs live.

Restraining Order, Prince Daddy and The Hyena, The Rino, $22

New England hardcore punk band out supporting The World is Too Much (on Triple B Records) and new single “Fight Back”, the band is fairly new, so catch them while you can.

Opening indie/emo rockers Prince Daddy And The Hyena have been around a bit longer, since 2014 with three full lengths and four EPs to their credit, the latest being a concept piece.

Wednesday Oct 5

Big Wild, The Midland. $25

aka Jackson Stell, the electronic/dance vocalist/multi-instrumentalist/producer just released sophomore full-length, The Efferusphere and plays numerous instruments for his live shows.

Thursday Oct 6

Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, Kauffman Center. $39-$59

We love Marty Stuart – we’ve caught him live a few times recently (his 2017 Fine Line show was amazing), his variety show repeats on RFD channel are a guilty pleasure, and in addition to being a legend himself, respects the legacy of Country Music and vows to uphold it.

New album Songs I Sing in the Dark has been ready a while and is just awaiting release and longtime band The Fabulous Superlatives (guitarist Kenny Vaughan, drummer Harry Stinson, bassist Chris Scruggs) is about as good as they come.

Jukebox the Ghost, Bottleneck-Lawrence, $22

On the Cheers! Tour, the Wash DC power pop trio sounds very celebratory supporting their new album of the same name. Seems like we’ve never seen them live, which is odd, but will hope to catch them soon.

Jon Wolfe, Granada- Lawrence, $15/$18

Texas country singer-songwriter released seventh studio album, Doz Corazonas just over a year ago, so has a deep catalog to draw from for his live shows.

Muna, The Truman. $35-$60

Call us fans of this LA indie-pop trio, who released their third but self-titled album back in June, and who we last caught opening for Kacey Musgraves at the beginning of the year. The band has great energy live and has even been working in a cover of The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” which is a natural sing-along song, and last year’s “Silk Chiffon” was on numerous Best-Of year-ending lists.

Tour is mostly sold out (as you can see) so catch them while you can!

Tanya Tucker, Prairie Band Casino-Mayetta, SOLD OUT

The country queen known best for classic song “Delta Dawn” is still going strong in her mid-60’s and is enjoying a big renaissance and career boost, helped by Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings. Their collab, 2020’s While I’m Livin’ won two GRAMMYS and the follow up is due soon.

Friday Oct 7

black midi, Granada. $25

There’s still plenty of buzz for this UK experimental/art band and their full-length Cavalcade, as evidenced when we saw them last October in Minneapolis. They were 2019 Mercury Prize nominees, are purposely a bit of an enigma, originated in London’s BRIT School of Music, and are on their Back in Black Tour.

Karol G w Agudelo888, T-Mobile Center, $35.50-$175.50

The $trip Love Tour hits KC’s arena for a big show with new album expected soon. The urbano/reggaeton artist in August released "Gatúbela" (alongside Maldy from Plan B). The song, title means "Catwoman” and video features her new red hairstyle. Opener is a well-known urbano DJ.

Danger Bob with Cher UK and The Bubble Boys, Liberty Hall. $20

Two longtime area bands headline this throwback show to the indie-rock ‘90s (note that vaxx proof is required)

Glaive with Aldn, The Truman. $25

aka Ash Guiterrez has been an online hyperpop sensation, and the 17-year-old’s recent single is "Minnesota Is a Place That Exists" that kind of places our home state as part of an alibi story, so we’re not sure what to think. The lower-case loving artist is out on his america is a place that exists Tour and is recommended for any Kid Laroi fans, who he’s previously opened for.

Riff Generation, Medallion Theater, $25

October installment featuring a new jazz ensemble that cultivates new music alongside Kansas City’s fabled heritage of the genre. Part of a stand-alone performance series of new, highly collaborative compositions in a modern examination of the Kansas City “riff style.” Musicians audition for a one-year residency and perform these works in a variety of settings.

Saturday Oct 8

Wolf Alice, The Truman. $30-$50

This London alt rock band remains one of our favorites, releasing Blue Weekend last June and proceeding to win the Brit Award for Best British Group, earlier this year. We’ve been writing about them since early 2013 and saw them last twice in 2018, so are overdue. It will be anything but a blue weekend catching them live, as it’s their biggest US tour to date, meaning their secret is finally getting out in the States.

Ani DiFranco, Liberty Hall- Lawrence, $30-$189

The groundbreaking leader of Righteous Babe Records returns to the road, in support of last year’s Revolutionary Love. She’s always been prolific, releasing some twenty+ albums and a 2019 memoir so has plenty to draw from, and is supporting Run for Something on this tour, to inspire young progressive leaders to run for local offices.

William Basinski, Bottleneck. $25

LA avant-garde composer bringing his soundscapes to this small college club in support of new album, ". . . on reflection ", this ambient, experimental show could prove to be very mesmerizing.

Post Modern Jukebox, Uptown, $35-$75

A rescheduled show – Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox is a musical troupe known for covering modern pop hits and transforming them into jazz, swing, and doo-wop songs.

Sueco, recordBar, $20

LA pop-punk young rapper whose song “Paralyzed” blew up on TikTok and Spotify, brings a high energy show to a relatively small room.

Max and Iggor Cavalera, Granada- Lawrence, $25/$28

Sepultura fans, rise! Expect songs from Beneath the Remains and Arise, as well as maybe a Motorhead cover on this tour that looks back fondly on the brother’s beginnings.

Slaughter and Riley’s LA Guns, Ameristar, $32-145

A throwback to the hair days with both bands having several chart hits, and though there are two confusing versions of L.A. Guns, we want to say this one featuring original vocalist Phil Lewis and drummer Steve Riley (no Tracii though). Most of Slaughter usually backs up Vince Neil on his solo dates. 

Earth Wind and Fire Alumni- CANCELED, playing Topeka Feb 17, 2023

Sunday Oct 9

Kelsea Ballerini, The Midland. $39.50-$69.50

Despite her recent divorce announcement, there’s a lot of joy to be found on new album Subject to Change, and on her Heartfirst Tour, expect a healthy chunk of songs from that, a Cowboy-themed section, and a Spacey one, as well as other radio hits. A good opportunity to see a rising country-pop artist in a relatively small theater.

Zach Williams, Uptown, $24.25-$225

Southern Christian rock artist has new single, “Heart of God” out and new album A Hundred Highways.

john c (johnc@weheartmusic.com) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com