Selected Sounds: 5 Concerts To Catch in Boston

May is set to be an exciting month for music lovers in Boston. Not only is the third Boston Calling Music Festival right around the corner, but there are also tons of other shows happening across town. For all you college students out there, treat yourself to an end-of-finals concert this month. And for everyone else, treat yourself to a music-filled night out anyways! Check out these five shows hand-picked by our staff.

5/10/14

The 1975 at Royale – Selected by Jonah

This Manchester-based angsty rock group already rules the indie scene across the pond with their debut album hitting #1 on the UK charts. Their catchy choruses have helped them gain a loyal following in the States as well, quickly selling out tonight’s Royale show. If you managed to snag a ticket, consider yourself lucky — this crew is only on their way up.

5/13/14

HAIM at House of Blues Boston – Selected by Becca

With their debut album Days Are Gone just released last fall, this refreshing, genre-merging band of three sisters is not to be missed on the North American leg of their headlining tour. Catchy pop melodies combined with classic rock vibes are what HAIM is known for — sounds like the premises for a good show to me.

5/14/14

Hozier at Cafe 939 – Selected by Knar

Hozier is an Irish singer-songwriter who knows how to use his voice — and not only in the musical sense. His captivating and timely music video for “Take Me To Church” addresses the issue of Russia’s treatment of homosexuals, giving voice to a community that has been subject to hatred and violence. Don’t miss this outspoken soloist when he takes it to the stage this month.

5/16/14

The Afghan Whigs at Paradise Rock Club – Selected by Matt

Boston fans of the ’90s alternative rock scene, rejoice: The Afghan Whigs will be playing the Paradise this coming Friday. Singer Greg Dulli’s tortured voice has aged well, and even though guitarist Rick McCollum has parted ways with the Whigs, their live show should be as dark and edgy as ever. They have seven albums of material to draw from now, with this year’s Do to the Beast.

5/17/14

Tokyo Police Club at The Sinclair – Selected by Nitesh

Tokyo Police Club is playing, and both Geographer and Said the Whale are opening? It’s a dream come true. Canadian quintet Said The Whale will wake you up with their energy and charm; Geographer will send you into a dreamy world of lush soundscapes; and Tokyo Police Club will seal the deal with unfettered, indie rock passion. Watch out for crowd-surfers —Tokyo Police Club will not let you stand still.