Bradley’s Almanac

[Nac Faves] My Favorite Music of 2017

Posted on April 2, 2018 at 10:00 am | Comments Off on [Nac Faves] My Favorite Music of 2017

Ah, the best laid plans and the most brutal excuses. My honest intention to get this sucker done before the new calendar year hit was derailed by a major bout of holiday pneumonia, then as December disappeared in a fevered haze and I gathered myself to finish in January… enter ye olde influenza! Such an enjoyable one-two punch. My immune system certainly isn’t going to make anyone’s “best of” list.

February was spent catching up on the day job and re-familiarizing myself with my family, and next thing you know, it’s mid-March. Then, naturally, the ‘Nac goes down for a week. As I wrap this thing up and April begins, my headphones are overflowing with music that will wind up on the 2018 edition. Good thing I’m on nobody’s deadline but my own.

So, yeah, another year long gone, another later-than-everyone-else list of musical favorites shared. Full lengthers, short players, and a few other random releases from throughout 2017. The silver lining of all that sickness was tons of idle time spent listening to neglected records, and deeper dives into the ones I loved. The list kept getting longer.

As you scroll, stream a Soundcloud playlist of songs from most of the releases below, or if you must, a longer one on Spotify, and use the provided label links to buy these records as direct as you can. Give these song makers, and the ones you love, your hard-earned dollars. #IRespectMusic

If you make it all the way through this too-long run-down (or, y’know, just skip to the end right now), you’ll find a few special giveaways I’ve gathered for random readers – the vinyl release of one of my favorite 2017 LPs, a gift certificate to a Boston-area used record shop, and an autographed copy of a truly moving book by one beloved artist about another gone too soon. So drop your name in my virtual hat and take a shot. Ya spin the wheel, ya take yer chances.

For the curious and/or bored, my previous faves lists: 2016 & 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, & 2001.


Favorite LPs of 2017


Alvvays
“Antisocialites”
[ on Polyvinyl ]

One undeniably catchy, infectious-insta-classic track surrounded by a collection of solid indie-pop songs, much like their debut LP. It may lack the ‘wow’ impact of their self-titled record, but that first breath of Canadian air was so fresh they can hardly be faulted.

[ Stream the LP on Bandcamp / Buy direct from Polyvinyl ]


Andrew Cohen & Light Coma
“Unreality”
[ on Comedy Minus One ]

Andrew Cohen adds a fruitful collaboration with pals Light Coma to his post-Silkworm discography, mixing full-band songs with a few solo jams. His SKWM/Bottomless Pit bandmate Tim Midyett continues under his Mint Mile moniker in parallel (new EP just showed up in the mail!), so even if their time of teaming up is behind them, I’m grateful their separate songs keep on coming. Getting to premiere a track from this AC&LC record was a genuine honor, and traveling out to Chicago to see them play (with Mint Mile, Out, & the Rutabega) was a personal 2017 high point.

[ Buy direct from Comedy Minus One ]


Julien Baker
“Turn Out The Lights”
[ on Matador ]

I was embarrassingly tardy for the Julien Baker train, but wow, did I ever jump on board. This, Hhr second full-length, absolutely floored me – her open-hearted lyrics and sparse, beautiful arrangements hit me hard. There was no single song in 2017 that moved me more than “Sour Breath”, which I played over and over and over again, both in my headphones and in my head. I couldn’t make it to her most recent Boston show, and her upcoming appearance at the Boston Calling fest won’t be enough to satisfy, so I’m heading up to Vermont soon to see her play with Tancred, another fave. And I’d travel further for that team-up if I had to.

[ Buy direct from Matador ]


David Bazan
“Care”
[ on Undertow ]

Following David Bazan’s career for so many years has been a singular, surprising joy. No, the joy itself hasn’t been a surprise, but the sonic turns he’s taken sure have been. From his full band Pedro the Lion output, his synth-based Headphones record, through his solo electric and acoustic work, and now “Care”, his most recent guitar-free solo LP, I’ve been all-in for all of it. Less than a year later and he’s back to working on Pedro the Lion songs, and I couldn’t be happier, though it does take a bit of the “what will he sound like next?” mystery out of it. Feels like we’ve gone full circle, and the thought of PtL’s scheduled Boston show has got me giddy.

[ Stream the album on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Undertow ]


The Clientele
“Music for the Age of Miracles”
[ on Merge Records ]

previous release, expanding their sonic palette with the addition of collaborator Anthony Harmer on a variety of instruments (including the distinctive santur). It’s one of their most cohesive records, and all-the-more appreciated in that it may never have happened but for the chance re-meeting of Harmer and frontman Alasdair MacLean, and a spark of inspiration. May some special kind of spark strike again.

[ Stream the album k on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Merge ]


Allison Crutchfield
“Tourist In This Town”
[ on Merge Records ]

A banner year for each of the musical Crutchfields, with Merge releasing both Allison’s ace solo album and sister Katie’s killer Waxahatchee record (see below, of course). If they were trying to outdo each other, well, let’s call it a tie that we all won. Can barely believe I’ll be seeing Allison and her Swearin’ bandmates later this week when they open up a long-sold-out Superchunk show at the Sinclair. Wonder if they’ll do a song or two off this LP, or keep things separate? Either way, I’m walkin’ out happy.

[ Buy the album direct from Merge ]


Mark Eitzel
“Hey Mr Ferryman”
[ on Merge Records ]

I’ll buy anything Eitzel, but this LP feels more inspired than his last few full-lengths. Really glad he made the move over to Merge and that this album seemingly got some added attention – be nice to see that relationship stick and produce a string of equally solid records. The world sure needs more Mark.

[ Buy it straight from Merge ]


Jeremy Enigk
“Ghosts”
[ on Lewis Hollow ]

The wait for this one seemed long, but so worth it. Part of the reason it felt drawn out was that the former Sunny Day Real Estate frontman gave us a window into the creative process with his Pledgemusic campaign, and that window opened early. From conception through studio time, previews to pressing, the project took over 2 years from start to finish, resulting in a beautiful, multi-layered collection. Enigk has such a singular voice that the production needs to be epic, and the fan-funds he gathered allowed him to make that happen.

[ Stream and buy the album at Bandcamp ]


Girlpool
“Powerplant”
[ on Anti Records ]

It’s been a joy to see Girlpool’s relatively speedy rise from a basement-playing pair to a Paradise-packing full band – my nervousness that they’d lose something special by fleshing out their sound with bass & drums was mostly unfounded, and this record proved it. Admittedly, I’d love to see them as a duo again someday, but as long as they keep writing their heartfelt songs and singing those perfect harmonies, I’ll keep going regardless.

[ Stream the full album on Bandcamp / Buy direct from Anti ]


The Just Joans
“You Might Be Smiling Now”
[ on Fika Recordings ]

I kind of feel like this one flew under too many radars, but that could just be my Stateside-perspective. I owe my appreciation of these particular Scots to my bandmates, so this is the first of their releases I’ve been able to eagerly await, as it’s been ages since their last. Thankfully, and unsurprisingly, it’s another indiepop treasure. Just wish they were playin’ Indietracks this year, as it’s the first one I get to attend (!). Maybe they’ll be hangin’ around so I can pester them to play me a song or two. After I partake of some liquid courage.

[ Stream three more tracks on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Fika ]


Land of Talk
“Life After Youth”
[ on Saddle Creek ]

Most appreciated musical gift of the year: Elizabeth Powell’s glorious recorded return. Her band has become one of my absolute faves over the past decade, since the moment I first set ears upon 2008’s “Some Are Lakes”. Her second full-length came less than two years later, and then… nothing. She seemingly disappeared, but I never stopped waiting, hoping, and searching for word of a return. Every year I’d write one of these favorites lists and wonder when her next LP would wind up on one. So here we are, with “Life After Youth” at last. Pretty sure I played it more than any other album I bought in 2017, and was grateful for every single note.

[ Stream the whole LP on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Saddle Creek ]


Ted Leo
“The Hanged Man”
[ on SuperEgo Records ]

Speaking of more-than-welcome returns, Ted came back! Well, it’s not like he left. Solo shows, duo shows (with Aimee Mann as the Both), variety shows (I seem to remember him on stage wearing only a giant diaper at some point?), just no proper TL/Rx recordings since 2010’s “The Brutalist Bricks”. That’s a long time to go without a new release, but thanks to a wealth of fan funding and a trove of gathered songs, he presented us with “The Hanged Man”. The band he assembled to deliver these new tracks (and so many older faves) was a stacked powerhouse, and I’m not sure I had more fun at a show last year than I did when they played Brighton Music Hall in September. A total blast of an evening. I expect no less when Ted & co. return for two nights in June.

[ Buy it straight from Ted’s shop ]


Lo Tom
“Lo Tom”
[ on Barsuk Records ]

In my world, a super group if ever there was one. David Bazan, his ex-PtL bandmate (and fellow faves listee) TW Walsh, Jason Martin (aka Starflyer 59), and ace drummer Trey Many (His Name Is Alive & more) got together a few times and threw together a rock-solid record that was the perfect counterbalance to Dave & TW’s decidedly-more-digital solo releases.

[ Stream another track on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Barsuk ]


Jason Loewenstein
“Spooky Action”
[ on Joyful Noise ]

Just the second solo LP from this Sebadoh co-pilot since his killer 2002 debut, “In Sixes and Sevens”, an record that blew me away and set one hell of a high bar. After what feels like a lifetime ago, he damn well mighta reached it. Another crackling collection of tweaked-out, propulsive rock songs. Bad timing and poor planning meant I missed him play these tracks live, but I’m hopeful it won’t be too long until I remedy that, and that it won’t be another 15 freakin’ years until album number three.

[ Stream the entire LP on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Joyful Noise ]


Loney Dear
“Loney Dear”
[ on Real World Records ]

Sweden’s Emil Svanängen may take his own sweet time making records, but it has never resulted in one I haven’t loved. He harnesses a special kind of magic in his songs, laying his strong yet delicate voice over carefully-constructed emotional epics. I owe a great debt to Low for bringing him and his band (with Thor!) along to open their 2008 tour. I’ve been in love with Loney Dear since the first note of that first song at the Somerville Theatre.

[ Stream another track on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Real World ]


Makthaverskan
“III”
[ on Run For Cover Records ]

Ridiculously talented Swedes making noise that’s both new and nostalgic, combining elements I love (and frankly should be tired of by now) into their own goosebump-raising mixture. I love my Allston neighbors at Run for Cover for many reasons, but helping this band get their music out into the world may be the biggest one.

[ Stream the LP on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Run For Cover ]


The New Pornographers
“Whiteout Conditions”
[ on Concord Music Group ]

The New Pr0ns fully embraced their inner-ELO and ponied up some of their most infectious songs in years, including the one that incessantly soundtracked my Spring, “This Is The World Of The Theatre”, which survived a ridiculous amount of repeated listening and remains a forever fave. Those post-chorus Neko notes? Super swoon.

[ Buy direct from Concord ]


The New Year
“Snow”
[ on Undertow ]

Any release from the Kadane brothers and their compatriots is a gift, and this new LP is no different. Another chapter in the ongoing sonic story I’ve been obsessed with since I first heard Bedhead in the early 90s. The only negatives I can ever muster are “I wish this track was longer” or “I wish there were more songs”. Complimentary complaints if ever there were.

[ Buy direct from Undertow ]


Tara Jane ONeil
“Tara Jane ONeil”
[ on Gnomonsong ]

TJO returns with a self-titled LP of authentic beauty, full of gorgeously delicate, emotionally heavy songs. It’s such a pure, natural-sounding record that using her name for the title makes perfect sense – it serves as a songwriting mission statement for everything she does so, so well.

[ Stream the whole album on Soundcloud / Buy direct via Midheaven ]


Palehound
“A Place I’ll Always Go”
[ on Polyvinyl Records ]

Seems like each year there’s at least one Boston-based band I adore that makes a measurable, well-deserved jump to wider recognition, and 2017 felt like Palehound’s year. “A Place I’ll Always Go“ was a showcase of Ellen Kempner & co’s song-building talents, adding further depth to the promise shown on their 2015 debut.

[ Stream the album on Bandcamp / Buy direct from Polyvinyl ]


Quicksand
“Interiors”
[ on Epitaph Records ]

How the hell did Quicksand take a 22-year break and return with an LP that sounds as cohesive and powerful as they ever were? It’s like no time passed at all. A ridiculous and remarkable accomplishment. Side note: This damn record nearly got me a speeding ticket.

[ Stream more tracks on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Epitaph ]


Ride
“Weather Diaries”
[ on Wichita Recordings ]

These four Oxford gents comprise one of my top ten all-time bands, so their 2014 return was an unexpected, magical gift. Their post-reunion live shows met and crushed my tempered expectations, then rumors of new recordings got me all-sorts-of giddy. Maybe too giddy. While I enjoyed “Weather Diaries” enough to list it here (and it certainly outdoes their final two LPs), it didn’t quite hit the sweet spot I hoped for. Much of it is ace, and there’s at least one stone-cold Ride classic (“Cali”), but I can’t help but think it would have made an absolutely killer EP. Speaking of which, they just released a new one. And that sweet spot? Nailed it.

[ Stream the LP on Bandcamp / Buy direct from Wichita ]


Savak
“Cut Ups”
[ on the Ernest Jenning Record Co. ]

A mid-2016 discovery for me, thanks to my faith in the fine taste of the CMO label, though I’ve heard and dug plenty of songs involving the individual players before. These members of Obits, Edsel, Ted Leo’s band, The Cops, Nation of Ulysses, Enon & more combined to release their debut LP that year, and quickly followed it up with this even-better collection on the EJRC in 2017. A record per year is quite a precedent, gents. Might hold you to it.

[ Stream the whole album on Bandcamp / Buy direct from Ernest Jenning ]


Slowdive
“Slowdive”
[ on Dead Oceans ]

Even more unexpected than Ride’s return was the resurrection of my/our beloved Slowdive. While Ride’s legacy was a tad tarnished by their last pre-breakup recordings, Slowdive went out on an incredible high note with the bliss-filled, ahead-of-its-time “Pygmalion” LP in 1995. Getting to hear live renditions of the songs on that record was something I’d never hoped to dream of, so when they came back and did just that, it left me stunned (not ashamed to say my eyes welled up during the crescendos of “Blue Skied an’ Clear”, every time). New studio recordings, too? The swirly frosting on top. The fact that they pulled together an album that can sit proudly within their existing discography, with songs that fit seamlessly into their live set, is no minor victory.

[ Stream another track on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Dead Oceans ]


Swale
“There’s No One Here”
[ on Swale Songs ]

Doing my hometown proud. It’s convenient when people you know put out a record you love, since it saves you from either avoiding the topic or offering vague compliments. These four Vermonters have that rare ability to fold a bunch of styles into their songwriting while remaining unmistakably themselves. Each song on this LP sounds like a Swale song, though they don’t often sound like each other, and it all comes together as a cohesive whole. That was some Kickstarter cash well-spent.

[ Stream the record on Soundcloud / Buy direct via Bandcamp ]


TW Walsh
“Terrible Freedom”
[ on Tower of Songs ]

Timothy William Walsh’s latest LP is a triumph not just because of his songs (which are as solid as ever), but the impeccable production they’re wrapped in. He’s dialed back the guitars, using them as a tool rather than a base, and leaned more into synths and programming – yet ended up with his most soulful, natural sounding record so far. There’s a definite 70s vibe (a bit of Gary Wright, a dash of Gerry Rafferty, even a hint of early Peter Gabriel), but it’s more update than homage, avoiding nostalgic traps with meticulous ease. TW’s years of experience in mastering, mixing, and song-writing collaboration (in the Soft Drugs & Pedro the Lion) come together here effortlessly, and he’s already given us more: He recently offered up an excellent new song and accompanying video called “Born Hungry”.

[ Stream & buy the LP through Bandcamp ]


Waxahatchee
“Out in the Storm”
[ on Merge Records ]

The other half of 2017’s killer one-two Crutchfield combo, Katie’s record wastes no time letting you know her band’s gonna get a little loud this time out, the opening track starting in full-on rock mode with zero warning. It’s the perfect palette-cleanser, and readies you for the range of songs that follow – short, sharp slices of energetic indie-pop interspersed with moments of true, introspective beauty, all held together by her gorgeous voice and uncanny knack for melody.

[ Stream the whole thing on Soundcloud / Buy direct from Merge ]


Weather Weapon
“II”
[ via Bandcamp ]

Longtime area art-maker Gilmore Tamny once again showed us her sonic side with the second long player from her scrappy Somerville-based trio. Owing a clear debt to early-90s Pacific NW indie-punk, she kept the formula straight-forward – rock out with your guitar out while delivering evocative, literate lyrics as drummer Steph Melikian (Operators/GRCB) and bassist Jen Godfrey hold it down. As if a record that gives a shout out to Market Basket wasn’t going to end up on this list? I mean, come on.

[ Stream & buy on Bandcamp ]



Favorite Short-Players, Reissues,
& Web-Only Releases of 2017


Funeral Advantage
“Please Help Me” EP
[ via The Native Sound ]

Tyler Kershaw has that rare ability to write sparkling songs that sound uplifting while tackling some heavy, personal lyrical subject matter (a la Bobby Wratten of the Field Mice). His reverb-drenched guitar lines, melodies, and dynamic arrangements come together so well, and since I first heard their 2015 full-length, this band has become not just a Boston-area fave, but a fave period.

[ Stream the EP on Bandcamp / Buy direct the Native Sound ]


Gregory and the Hawk
completion of “On The Orange Mountain”
and continued creations

[ via Patreon ]

While most of Meredith Godreau’s doled-out, 10-song collection “On The Orange Mountain” was created and shared in 2016 (and made my faves list last year), it officially wrapped up last May, so I’m including it again. Lucky for us, the creating continues, as noted in a post-OtOM Patreon update: “In the past few months I have missed completing songs and making videos for you. So much so that I’ve decided to continue using Patreon to share my upcoming creations with you, not to limit my experience to just the one album.” So far we’ve heard “My Own Good”, posted in November, and hopes remain high for more this year.

[ Support GatH’s continued artistic output through Patreon ]


Hüsker Dü
“Savage Young Dü” vinyl box set
[ on Numero Group ]

I mean, what can I write about this? It’s a box set of Hüsker Dü’s early recordings. Keep doing what you do, Numero Group.

[ Stream the collection at Bandcamp / Buy direct from Numero ]


The Magic Words
self-titled remastered compilation
[ via Damnably ]

Compiling two solo releases from Wussy’s Lisa Walker, one first released in 2006 (when this was all recorded), and the other in 2015. A must-own for Wussy fans.

[ Stream the collection & buy on Bandcamp ]


Spook the Herd
The “Minor Tweaks” EP
[ via Bandcamp ]

Released posthumously in mid-December, and recorded in 2015, but it’s great enough to not get lost in the end-of-year shuffle. If you missed it, here’s your heads up. Vocalist/guitarist Abe Kimball is working on a solo record, and Jesse Weiss & Theo Hartlett are working on a new project of their own with Morgan Luzzi. Meet Pet Fox.

[ Listen & buy digitally on Bandcamp ]


Soft Skies, Inc.
quarterly song releases
[ via Bandcamp ]

Ex-Lockgroove members (and current twin brothers) Marty & Ryan Rex are doling out their latest aural creations in 3-month increments: One song per quarter, like clockwork (new one yesterday!). It’s a unique release style, but if the quality stays as high as the four songs they’re given us so far, I can easily take the 90-day waits. The first track they released, “Your Small Army“, stayed stuck in my head for much of the year, and that’s not a complaint. What a song, and what a way to announce yourself to the world. Keep ’em coming, boys.

[ Listen & buy digitally on Bandcamp ]


Terry Malts / Kids on a Crime Spree
“Our Love” split 10-inch
[ on Emotional Response ]

Terry Malts have become one of those bands on my “I’ll buy anything they do” list, and the songs they contribute to this split 10-inch are further proof that was a wise decision. More greatness from these West Coast gents, alongside a band I wasn’t familiar with but am now glad I am. And that’s all you can ask from a split record release.

[ Stream and buy the EP at Bandcamp ]


Transona Five
remastered double-LP compilation
[ on Sonic Surgery ]

A welcome compilation of this Denton, Texas-based combo’s long-out-of-print discography (with some unreleased tracks), lovingly released in remastered, double vinyl form.

[ Stream the LP at BrooklynVegan / Buy from Sonic Surgery ]


The Wheel & The Alphabet:
A Tribute To Karl Hendricks

various artists
[ on Comedy Minus ONe ]

The world lost a gifted songwriter, and by all accounts a hell of a human being, when Karl Hendricks passed away in January 2017. The Comedy Minus One label rallied KH’s music-making friends and fans for this loving tribute, released just a couple of months later. The strength of the collection is a testament to his talent, and to the impact he had on everyone involved.

[ Stream & buy the tribute on Bandcamp ]

Whew. So that’s finally done.

2018 has started ridiculously strong with great records already out from the Spook School, Superchunk, the Breeders, Buffalo Tom, Lake Ruth, Loma, Field Music, Yo La Tengo, Secretary, and a stellar EP from Ride. Soon enough we’ll be gifted with new sounds from other faves: Belly, Poster Children, Wye Oak, Wussy, and Hop Along. Not to mention recent word of the just-mastered final (sigh) Willard Grant Conspiracy album, in-progress LPs from Kristin Hersh, both solo and with her band Throwing Muses, a very hopeful update on that long-awaited next Wrens’ record, a soon-to-be-announced Eric Bachmann full-length on Merge, and news of an upcoming LP from the re-emergent Flower (!). Wonder if we’ll see one before the long-completed next Versus full-length? I’ll take ’em both, please. Also really looking forward to the first long player from Burlington, Vermont’s Clever Girls, given what I’ve heard so far.

And hey, Numero Group, how about following up those incredible Unwound, Codeine, & Bedhead box sets with a remastered SEAM collection? Just throwing that wish out there into the world.

After sporadic teasing that started in 2016, I’m still anxiously awaiting any news on the potential American Analog Set resurrection front. Though we did get this very promising instagram shot in December, which included the hashtag #weinthestudiodoots (!). What th’?! Have hope, will travel! Seriously. Just tell me where and when and I’m there, AmAnSet. I need you. #bringthatbeatback


Alright, you’ve nearly made it to the end of this thing, so how about some freebies for random (north american) readers? I’ve got three giveaways to choose from…

  • The vinyl edition of my most-appreciated recorded return of 2017: Land of Talk’s “Life After Youth”.

  • A $70 (!) gift certificate to used record shop Blue Bag Records in scenic Cambridge, Massachusetts.

  • A signed hardcover copy of “Don’t Suck, Don’t Die”, the deeply moving book that Kristin Hersh wrote about her time spent with the much-missed Vic Chesnutt.

    To enter, drop an email to giveaways (at) bradleysalmanac (dot) com with “Gimme!” in the subject line, and specify what you’d like to try to win in the message (LP, book, gift certificate – you can try for all three, but only win one). Just get it to my inbox before next Monday, April 9th, 2018 at Noon EST, then I’ll select and notify the three winners that afternoon. Due to shipping costs, only enter if you’re from the US or Canada, and of course, only try for the gift certificate if you live in the Boston area, or are planning a visit.

    Thanks for reading, all. If you’re still here despite my ever-slowing posting pace, it’s genuinely appreciated. Even when this place goes silent, I’m still sharing what I love over on Farcebook, so hit me up there in the meantime. Guess I should probably start working on next year’s ‘Nac faves list now, huh?

    Comments

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  • BOSTON-AREA LIVE SHOW ACTION
    Wednesday, April 16th
    L.S. Dunes
    From Indian Lakes
    Night Sins
    @ the Sinclair

    Wednesday, April 16th
    Trash Sun (solo set)
    Donna Revving
    Ethan W
    @ the Silhouette

    Wednesday, April 16th
    Immaterial Possessions
    @ O'Brien's

    Thursday, April 17th
    Dead Boys
    Burn Kit
    Neponset Monastery
    @ Deep Cuts

    Thursday, April 17th
    Corridor
    Robber Robber
    @ the Rockwell

    Thursday, April 17th
    Minibeast
    The Freqs
    The Ghouls
    Naselrod
    @ Koto, Salem

    Thursday, April 17th
    Jon King (Gang of Four)
    presents his new memoir
    "To Hell with Poverty!" in
    conversation with Jim Sullivan
    7pm @ Harvard Book Store

    Thursday, April 17th
    Mercury Rev
    Sandy Bell
    DJ Carbo
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Friday, April 18th
    Mount Eerie
    Hana Stretton
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, April 18th
    Field Day
    The Grownup Noise
    Arto Vaun
    @ the Square Root

    Friday, April 18th
    Bright Eyes
    Cursive
    @ House of Blues

    Saturday, April 19th
    Hey I'm Outside
    Fortune 500
    Dogwood Gap
    3-6pm @ Remnant Satellite

    Saturday, April 19th
    BERLIN with Rick Berlin
    and the Nickel & Dime Band
    WTF!? Album Release
    & Rock's 80th Birthday party!
    with many, many special guests
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Saturday, April 19th
    The Fixx
    Jill Sobule
    @ the Cabot, Beverly

    Saturday, April 19th
    "Wonderful & Strange: A Tribute to
    David Lynch" with Annie Hart
    (Au Revoir Simone, TP: The Return),
    Julee Cruise Director
    (all-femme & nonbinary supergroup
    channeling the TP soundtrack)
    PLUS a recreated Double R Diner!
    Damn fine pie by Feast & the Fable!
    Killer Bob drag by Celia Smokinbutts!
    A Red Room photo booth!
    A costume contest & much more!
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Saturday, Sunday, & Tuesday
    April 19th, 20th, & 21st
    Ani DiFranco
    @ the Somerville Theatre

    Sunday, April 20th
    Gang of Four
    "The Long Goodbye" farewell tour
    playing "Entertainment!" & more
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Sunday, April 20th
    Jay Aston's
    Gene Loves Jezebel
    Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats)
    Belouis Some
    @ City Winery

    Sunday & Monday
    April 20th & 21st
    Lucy Dacus
    Katie Gavin
    Jamine.4.t.
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Tuesday, April 22nd
    Ben Kweller
    Ryman
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Tuesday, April 22nd
    Alejandro Escovedo
    @ City Winery

    Tuesday-Friday
    April 22nd-25th
    Session Americana
    4 night residency
    with Eleanor Buckland
    22nd: with guest Rachel Wolff
    23rd: with a Mystery Guest
    24th: with guest Bill Janovitz
    25th: with guests Mattie & Debbie

    Wednesday, April 23rd
    Dweezil Zappa
    @ the Cabot in Beverly

    Wednesday, April 23rd
    Bartees Strange
    Ekko Astral
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Wednesday, April 23rd
    The Linda Lindas
    Pinkshift
    @ the Paradise

    Thursday, April 24th
    Swervedriver
    Frankie Rose
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Thursday, April 24th
    The Mary Wallopers
    @ Big Night Live

    Thursday, April 24th
    Christian Death
    @ Deep Cuts

    Friday, April 25th
    Sidewalk Driver
    @ Deep Cuts

    Friday & Saturday
    April 25th & 26th
    The Town and the City Festival!
    @ various venues in Lowell

    Saturday, April 26th
    Poison the Well
    Glassjaw
    Better Lovers
    Teenage Wrist
    @ Roadrunner

    Sunday, April 27th
    Lucero (duo / unplugged)
    Matt Charette
    @ the Sinclair

    Sunday, April 27th
    Beach Bunny
    Pool Kids
    Jayla Kai
    @ House of Blues

    Sunday, April 27th
    Indigo Girls
    Melissa Etheridge
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Monday, April 28th
    Francis Ford Coppola in person
    for a screening of "Megalopolis"
    @ Coolidge Corner Theatre

    Wednesday, April 30th
    Chameleons
    Twin Tribes
    @ Big Night Live

    Thursday, May 1st
    Deep Sea Diver
    Byland
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Thursday, May 1st
    Red Baraat
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Thursday, May 1st
    Sharon Van Etten
    & the Attachment Theory
    Love Spells
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, May 2nd
    Bob Mould & his band
    J. Robbins & his band
    @ the Paradise

    Friday, May 2nd
    Shoney Lamar
    Lunch Mother
    Mike Sempert
    Husbands
    @ the Loft

    Saturday, May 3th
    Cheekface
    @ The Sinclair

    Saturday, May 3rd
    BADBADNOTGOOD
    Baby Rose
    @ Roadrunner

    Sunday, May 4th
    Actor/writer Ed Helms
    presents his new book "SNAFU"
    @ WBUR's CitySpace

    Sunday, May 4th
    Lou Barlow
    Bobby Bare Jr.
    Acoustic Song Swap!
    @ the Rockwell

    Sunday, May 4th
    The Queers
    @ the Middle East Upstairs

    Sunday, May 4th
    Tim Hecker
    @ Crystal Ballroom

    Sunday, May 4th
    AC/DC
    @ Gillette Stadium

    Wednesday, May 7th
    Japanese Breakfast
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Wednesday, May 7th
    Sea Wolf (solo)
    @ the Haymarket Lounge
    @ City Winery

    Wednesday, May 7th
    Love
    Johnny Echols
    @ City Winery

    Thursday, May 8th
    Melvins
    Napalm Death
    @ the Paradise

    Thursday, May 8th
    Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Friday, May 9th
    DEVO
    "50 Years of De-Evolution...Continued!" @ MGM Music Hall

    Saturday, May 10th
    The Hilken Mancini Band
    (the long-awaited LP release party!)
    with The Cujo (feat. Jen Trynin)
    & Mary Lou Lord
    @ Sonia

    Saturday, May 10th
    Lady Pills
    @ Deep Cuts

    Saturday, May 10th
    William Tyler
    @ Warehouse XI

    Saturday, May 10th
    Advance Base
    Kristin Daelyn
    Puppy Problems
    @ the Cantab Lounge

    Saturday, May 10th
    Mallrat
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Sunday, May 11th
    Worriers
    Mint Green
    @ Deep Cuts

    Sunday, May 11th
    The Queers
    @ the Middle East

    Sunday, May 11th
    Baroness
    @ the Sinclair

    Monday, May 12th
    Kendrick Lamar
    SZA
    @ Gillette Stadium

    Tuesday, May 13th
    Mamalarky
    Kennedy Mann
    @ The Rockwell

    Wednesday, May 14th
    Ministry
    My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult
    Die Krupps
    @ Roadrunner

    Thursday, May 15th
    Pet Symmetry
    Pony
    Jimmy Montague
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Saturday, May 17th
    Chris Brokaw (LP release!)
    Beth Kaplan
    Kathy Snax
    @ Streetcar in JP

    Saturday, May 17th
    Califone (full band)
    Dead Gowns
    @ the Rockwell

    Saturday, May 17th
    Sunflower Bean
    @ Deep Cuts

    Saturday, May 17th
    Superheaven
    Glare
    Spy
    Prize Horse
    @ the Royale

    Saturday, May 17th
    Amyl & the Sniffers
    Sheer Mag
    @ Roadrunner

    Saturday & Sunday
    May 17th & 18th
    Amy Poehler & Tina Fey
    @ the Wang

    Sunday, May 18th
    Plight
    Bedroom Eyes
    The Dreamtoday
    Louder Joy (members of
    Taxpayer & Mean Creek)
    @ O'Brien's

    Monday, May 19th
    Joan Shelley
    @ Club Passim

    Monday, May 19th
    Model/Actriz
    AFK
    @ Deep Cuts

    Tuesday & Wednesday
    May 20th & 21st
    Hamilton Leithauser
    (of the Walkmen)
    & Johanna Samuels
    @ the Sinclair

    Thursday, May 22nd
    Slide Away Presents:
    Swirlies
    Mark Robinson
    Her New Knife
    Beach-O (film)
    @ the Paradise

    Thursday, May 22nd
    Peter Bjorn and John
    "Writers Block" album tour
    @ the Sinclair

    Thursday, May 22nd
    Alison Bechdel
    (graphic novelist)
    presents "Spent"
    @ the Brattle

    Saturday, May 24th
    The Wedding Present
    "Bizarro" 35th Anniversary Tour
    with The Tubs
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
    May 23rd, 24th, & 25th
    Boston Calling Music Festival
    @ the Harvard Athletic Complex

    May 25th
    Volume
    @ the Middle East Up

    Wednesday, May 28th
    Scott Thompson
    (of Kids in the Hall)
    is Buddy Cole
    @ City Winery Boston

    Wednesday, May 28th
    Barry Manilow
    "the last Boston concert"
    @ the Garden

    Thursday, May 29th
    Annie Dirusso
    Squirrel Flower
    @ the Paradise

    Friday, May 30th
    Thalia Zedek Band
    record release show!
    @ O'Brien's

    Friday, May 30th
    Florist
    Allegra Krieger
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Friday, May 30th
    Orbit
    Eldridge Rodriguez
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Friday, May 30th
    Teddy Swims
    @ Suffolk Downs

    Friday, May 30th
    OK GO
    @ the Royale

    Friday, May 30th
    Tennis
    Billie Marten
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, May 30th
    Bloc Party
    (performing "Silent Alarm" & more)
    with Blonde Redhead
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Saturday, May 31st
    Jet
    Band of Skulls
    @ Roadrunner

    Sunday, June 1st
    Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals
    @ Roadrunner

    Tuesday, June 3rd
    Halsey
    Alvvays
    @ Xfinity Center

    Tuesday, June 3rd
    EARFULL Series
    Writers reading. Songwriters singing.
    with authors
    Nicole Graev Lipson
    & Jennifer Haigh
    and musicians
    Ava Valianti
    & Naseem Khuri
    @ Branch Line

    Wednesday, June 4th
    Young Widows
    Rid of Me
    Kal Marks
    @ Crystal Ballroom

    Thursday, June 5th
    Screeching Weasel
    @ the Regent Theatre

    Thursday, June 5th
    Dean Wareham
    Escape-Ism
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, June 6th
    Aimee Mann
    Jonathan Coulton
    @ the Wilbur

    Friday, June 6th
    Jack's Mannequin
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, June 6th
    Sleigh Bells
    @ the Paradise

    Friday, June 6th
    The Ocean Blue
    playing their self-titled LP
    and their "Cerulean" LP
    @ the Somerville Armory

    Saturday, June 7th
    Dutch Interior
    @ Warehouse XI

    Saturday, June 7th
    Lily Seabird
    Hemlock
    @ the Lilypad

    Saturday, June 7th
    Toby Tantrum
    Sun Urchins
    Yoni Gordon
    Lunch Mother
    @ the Loft, Somerville

    Monday, June 9th
    Billy Corgan and
    the Machines of God
    @ the Paradise

    Tuesday, June 10th
    EARFULL Series
    Writers reading. Songwriters singing.
    with authors
    Ben Shattuck
    & Tova Mirvis
    and musicians
    Chris Harford
    & TAS Band Trio
    @ Branch Line

    Tuesday, June 10th
    Heart Attack Man
    The Dirty Nil
    Carpool
    Dear Seattle
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Tuesday & Wednesday
    June 10th & 11th
    Queens of the Stone Age
    The Kills
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday
    June 10th, 12th, & 13th
    Paul Simon
    @ the Wang

    Wednesday, June 11th
    Turnover
    "Peripheral Vision" tour
    with Balance & Composure
    & Citizen
    @ the House of Blues

    Tuesday & Wednesday
    June 10th & 11th
    Queens of the Stone Age
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Thursday, June 12th
    Clutch
    @ Lynn Auditorium

    Saturday, June 14th
    Shawn Colvin
    Rodney Crowell
    @ the Somerville Armory

    Sunday, June 15th
    Simple Minds
    Soft Cell
    Modern English
    @ Xfinity Center

    Sunday, June 15th
    Karate
    @ The Sinclair

    Tuesday, June 17th
    EARFULL Series
    Writers reading. Songwriters singing.
    with authors
    Michael Farris Smith
    & Ernest Thompson
    and musicians
    Michael Farris Smith
    & Samantha Farrell
    @ Branch Line

    Thursday, June 19th
    Blondshell
    Daffo
    @ the Sinclair

    Thursday, June 19th
    This Will Destroy You
    Jesse Beaman
    @ Sonia

    Saturday, June 21st
    BRADLEY'S ALMANAC
    (that's me) presents...
    SAVAK
    Lupo Citta
    The Whimbrels
    Andy Cohen (of Silkworm)
    @ O'Brien's

    Saturday, Jun 21st
    Hallelujah the Hills
    DECK release show
    with Bongwish and
    Choo Choo La Rouge
    @ Deep Cuts

    Tuesday, June 24th
    EARFULL Series
    Writers reading. Songwriters singing.
    with authors
    Jessica Berger Gross
    & Jessica Shattuck
    and musicians
    Tenzin Chopak
    & The Starlings
    @ Branch Line

    Saturday, June 21st
    Outloud Music Festival
    with Kim Petras, Trixie Mattel (DJ set),
    Flo Milli, Rebecca Black, G Flip,
    Frankie Grande, Oompa, Hannah Rad,
    Big Body Kweeng, MATH3CA
    @ Suffolk Downs

    Wednesday, June 25th
    Deerhoof
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Wednesday, June 25th
    BABYMETAL
    Black Veil Brides
    Bloodywood
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Thursday, June 26th
    Faster Pussycat
    The Supersuckers
    The Rumours
    The Lonely Ones
    @ Koto in Lowell

    Thursday, June 26th
    Benmont Tench
    @ City Winery Boston

    Thursday, June 26th
    Counting Crows
    The Gaslight Anthem
    @MGM Music Hall

    Friday, June 27th
    Khruangbin
    John Carroll Kirby
    @ Suffolk Downs

    Saturday, June 28th
    Friendship
    2nd Grade
    @ Deep Cuts

    Saturday, June 28th
    Godspeed You! Black Emperor
    Alan Sparhawk
    @ Roadrunner

    Saturday, June 28th
    Tree
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Sunday, June 29th
    Preoccupations
    @ the Middle East

    Tuesday, July 1st
    Julie Doiron
    Caged Animals
    @ the Middle East

    Monday, July 7th
    OMD
    @ House of Blues

    Tuesday, July 8th
    Lifeguard
    @ Deep Cuts

    Thursday, July 10th
    Wavves
    Beach Goons
    chokecherry
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, July 11th
    Winona Fighter
    @ Crystal Ballroom

    Friday, July 11th
    Cap'n Jazz
    Coffin Prick
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, July 11th
    Wu-Tang Clan (final tour)
    with Run the Jewels
    @ the Garden

    Tuesday, July 15th
    Weird Al Yankovic
    @ the Wang

    Tuesday, July 15th
    Daryl Hall
    Glenn Tilbrook (Squeeze)
    @ Lowell Memorial Auditorium

    Wednesday, July 16th
    Tripping Daisy
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Wednesday, July 16th
    Mekons
    Johnny Dowd
    @ City Winery

    Thursday, July 17th
    Cyndi Lauper's
    Farewell Tour
    with Jake Wesley Rogers
    @ Xfinity Center

    Thursday & Friday
    July 17th & 18th
    The Lumineers
    Young the Giant (on the 17th)
    St. Vincent (on the 18th)
    Hippo Campus
    @ Fenway Park

    Friday, July 18th
    Samantha Crain
    @ Warehouse XI

    Friday, July 18th
    Dinosaur Jr.
    Snail Mail
    Easy Action
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday & Saturday
    July 18th & 19th
    PIXIES
    performing "Bossanova"
    & "Trompe Le Monde" (18th)
    and a set of classics (19th)
    with Kurt Vile & the Violators
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Saturday, July 19th
    Michael McColgan
    & the Bomb Squad
    with Badterms and
    Nick & the Adversaries
    @ the Middle East

    Saturday, July 19th
    Bad Moves (farewell tour)
    Theo Grizol (of Nana Grizol)
    @ Deep Cuts

    Saturday, July 19th &
    Friday, September 5th
    Men I Trust
    @ Roadrunner

    Sunday, July 20th
    Thus Love
    Lahnah
    @ O'Brien's

    Monday, July 21st
    Ghost
    @ TD Garden

    Thursday, July 24th
    Kesha
    Rose Gray
    @ the Xfinity Center

    Saturday, July 26th
    Toto
    Christopher Cross
    Men At Work
    @ Leader Bank Pavilion

    Saturday, July 26th
    Rod Stewart
    Cheap Trick
    @ the Xfinity Center

    Tuesday, July 29th
    Goo Goo Dolls
    Dashboard Confessional
    @ the Pavilion

    Wednesday, July 30th
    TV on the Radio
    @ Roadrunner

    Wednesday, July 30th
    The "Happy Together" Tour
    featuring The Turtles,
    Jay & the Americans,
    Little Anthony, Mark Lindsay
    (of Paul Revere & the Raiders),
    The Vogues, & the Cowsills
    @ Lynn Auditorium

    Wednesday, July 30th
    The Offspring
    Jimmy Eat World
    New Found Glory
    @ Xfinity Center

    Thursday, July 31st
    New Bob Turks
    The Drowns
    @ Sonia

    Friday, August 1st
    LOST 80's LIVE
    with A Flock of Seagulls,
    Big Country, General Public,
    The Vapors, Belouis Some,
    The Icicle Works, China Crisis,
    Josie Cotton, Polecats,
    and more
    @ the Wang

    Friday, August 1st The Church @ the Somerville Theatre
    Saturday, August 2nd
    Pantera
    Amon Amarth
    @ Great Woods

    Thursday, Friday, & Saturday
    August 7th, 8th, & 9th
    Somergloom V festival
    in Somerville

    Friday, August 8th
    Stevie Nicks
    @ TD Garden

    Tuesday, August 12th
    John Moreland
    Jared Hart
    @ the Sinclair

    Wednesday, August 13th
    Clipping.
    @ The Sinclair

    Wednesday, August 13th
    Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets
    @ The Center for Arts, Natick

    Friday, August 15th
    The Doobie Brothers
    The Coral Reefer Band
    @ Xfinity Center

    Saturday, August 16th
    The Black Keys
    Gary Clark Jr.
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Saturday, August 16th
    Architects
    Erra
    Holy Water
    @ House of Blues

    Saturday, August 16th
    Toad the Wet Sprocket
    KT Tunstall
    Six Pence None the Richer
    @ the Chevalier Theatre

    Saturday, August 23rd
    Tugboat Annie
    Vic Firecracker
    Forevers
    @ the Burren Back Room

    Tuesday & Wednesday
    August 26th & 27th
    James Taylor
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Friday, August 29th
    Nine Inch Nails
    @ the Garden

    Saturday, August 30th
    Coheed & Cambria
    Taking Back Sunday
    Foxing
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Saturday, Sept. 6th
    The 13th Annual JP Music Festival!
    @ Pinebank Field in JP

    Saturday, Sept. 6th
    Slow Crush
    Faetooth
    @ the Sinclair

    Saturday & Sunday
    September 6th & 7th
    "Seisiún: a two-day Irish
    music & cultural gathering"
    6th: Dropkick Murphys,
    the Hold Steady, Stiff Little Fingers,
    The Scratch, The Rumjacks,
    Holy Locuts, & more
    7th: The Pogues, The Waterboys,
    Cardinals, Just Mustard,
    Lisa O'Neill, Mairead,
    John Francis Flynn, & more
    @ the Stage at Suffolk Downs

    Sunday, September 7th
    The Outlaw Music Festival
    10th Anniversary Tour
    @ the Xfinity Center

    Sunday, September 7th
    Rilo Kiley
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Sunday, September 7th
    My Chemical Romance
    Idles
    @ Fenway Park

    Tuesday, September 9th
    Mac DeMarco
    @ Roadrunner

    Thursday, Sept. 11th
    Sparks
    @ Berklee Performance Center

    Thursday, September 11th
    Bruce Dickinson
    (Iron Maiden)
    @ the House of Blues

    Friday, September 12th
    Superchunk
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Friday, September 12th
    The Brian's Jonestown Massacre
    @ the Sinclair

    Friday, September 12th
    Ethel Cain
    9million
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, September 12th
    Supergrass
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Friday, September 12th
    Saturday, September 13th
    Black Moth Super Rainbow
    Ricky Eat Acid
    @ the Sinclair

    Sunday, Sept 14th
    Alabama Shakes
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Monday, September 15th
    PUP
    Jeff Rosenstock
    Ekko Astral
    @ Roadrunner

    Monday, September 15th
    Steve Winwood
    @ The Cabot

    Wednesday, September 17th
    Alison Krauss & Union Station
    Willie Watson
    @ the Pavilion

    Thursday, September 18th
    Garbage
    Starcrawler
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, September 19th
    George Thorogood
    & the Destroyers
    @ Lynn Auditorium

    Sunday, September 21st
    Shonen Knife
    @ Sonia

    Tuesday, September 23rd
    The Minus 5
    The Baseball Project
    @ the Crystal Ballroom

    Tuesday, September 23rd
    Viagra Boys
    @ Roadrunner

    Friday, September 26th
    Stereolab
    The Memorials
    @ the Royale

    Saturday, September 27th
    Car Seat Headrest
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Thursday, October 2nd
    Elbow
    @ Roadrunner

    Saturday & Sunday
    October 4th & 5th
    An Inconceivable Evening
    with Cary Elwes
    & a screening of
    The Princess Bride
    @ the Wilbur

    Monday, October 6th
    Swans
    @ the Paradise

    Wednesday, October 8th
    Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
    'Howl' 20th Anniversary Tour
    with Humanist
    @ House of Blues

    Wednesday, October 8th
    The Murder Capital
    @ Sonia

    Friday, October 10th
    Destroyer
    @ the Paradise

    Saturday, October 11th
    Kneecap
    @ the House of Blues

    Sunday, October 12th
    The Miki Berenyi Trio
    (that's Miki from Lush)
    Gina Birch
    The Unreasonables
    @ the Sinclair

    Monday, October 13th
    My Morning Jacket
    @ MGM Music Hall

    Tuesday, October 21st
    Everclear
    Local H
    Sponge
    @ Big Night Live

    Thursday, October 23rd
    Belly
    "King" 30th Anniversary Tour!
    @ the Paradise

    Saturday, October 25th
    Rufus Wainwright
    @ City Winery

    Saturday, October 25th
    Minus The Bear
    @ the House of Blues

    Monday, October 27th
    Autechre
    Mark Broom
    @ Brighton Music Hall

    Wednesday, October 29th
    Herbie Hancock
    @ the Wang Theatre

    Wednesday, October 29th
    The Beta Band
    @ the Royale

    Friday & Saturday
    November 7th & 8th
    Steve Martin & Martin Short
    three shows @ the Wang

    Saturday, November 8th
    The Mars Volta
    @ House of Blues

    Thursday, November 13th
    Janeane Garofalo
    @ the Somerville Armory

    Monday, November 24th
    Patti Smith
    Horses 50th Anniversary Tour
    @ the Orpheum