Selected Sounds: 5 Upcoming Shows To See in Boston

Looking to catch a great show during the last two weeks of January? From up-and-coming local acts to longtime favorites, there’s no shortage of talent passing through Boston this month. Check out what concerts our staff is most excited to see hit the stage in the coming weeks:

1/21/14

St. Lucia at the Royale – (Selected by Scotland)

On the heels of a great debut LP in 2013, Brooklyn-based St. Lucia returns to Boston after two sold-out performances at the Royale with Two Door Cinema Club back in October. With a sound reminiscent of M83 and Passion Pit, St. Lucia makes dance-y, hook-laden songs bound to get you moving.

1/23/14

Damien Jurado at Brighton Music Hall – (Selected by Knar)

Seattle’s indie singer-songwriter churns out a selection of laid-back tunes that will be fitting in the intimate atmosphere of Brighton Music Hall. He’s released quite a lot of albums since his first in 1997, so the setlist is sure to include some surprises.

1/25/14

John Brown’s Body at Paradise Rock Club – (Selected by Matthew)

This one’s going to be a fun show. Boston’s own reggae band, John Brown’s Body, has been playing dub with hip-hop and electronic elements for twenty years, touring with everyone from the Flaming Lips to Jurassic 5 and building up a well-deserved following along the way. Their experimental take on reggae will satisfy fans of EDM and roots music alike.

1/31/14

Aer at House of Blues – (Selected by Becca)

This energetic hip-hop duo from Boston has been on a few up-and-coming artist lists for 2014. Their sound, much happier than you would expect from a hip-hop group, is infused with a little reggae and a lot of beach vibes. Catch them just after their new self-titled album is released on January 21.

Julia Easterlin at Cafe 939 – (Selected by Jonah)

While attending Berklee College of Music here in town, Ms. Easterlin discovered the endless power of the looping pedal. Using almost exclusively her own voice, she creates lush soundscapes to back her passionate vocals, all live on stage. She just released the beautiful Vestiges EP and puts on an interactive live show that is fresh and different every time. Stay tuned for a review of the show!