With classes back in session, the city of Boston is in full swing this fall. Though Boston Calling might be skipping their usual fall festival this year, there’s still an abundance of amazing bands and artists taking to the stage across the city. Instead of scrolling through endless show listings, why not check out a few suggestions from the team here at Sound of Boston? This edition of Selected Sounds includes local acts such as The Dear Hunter and J. Walter Weatherman, along with national touring acts like The Revivalists and Car Seat Headrest.
Friday, September 16th, 2016
The Revivalists at The Paradise Rock Club -Selected by Araz
If you haven’t heard The Revivalists‘ über-catchy “I Wish I Knew You” yet, watch the video below immediately. The seven-piece group has been rocking it out with their upbeat, effortless jamming since 2007. Be prepared for a myriad of genres melding together at The Revivalists’ show on Friday.
Saturday, September 17th, 2016
Car Seat Headrest at The Sinclair -Selected by Knar
24-year-old Will Toledo’s solo project is lo-fi indie rock for anyone who can appreciate lyrics and being sad. Read along as he breaks down the words of “Vincent” on NPR, citing a random lawsuit that inspired the repeated verse “intoxicado / intoxicado / intoxicado” and a Van Gogh portrait on the Wikipedia page for clinical depression. His song titles alone are stories in themselves: “Connect the Dots (The Saga of Frank Sinatra)” or “Is This Dust Really From The Titanic?” or “I Want You To Know That I’m Awake/I Hope That You’re Asleep.” Oh, and he just played on Colbert’s Late Night show, so next time he plays Boston expect a less intimate setting.
Glen Hansard at Fresh Grass Festival -Selected by Will
Really everyone at Fresh Grass is worth checking out, but if I could see anyone there it would be Glen Hansard. The Irishman is best known for his movie Once that he made with Marketa Irglova, which won an Oscar for “Best Original Song.” A powerful singer and intensely enthusiastic on the guitar, few singers can express sadness and anger as compellingly as Glen Hansard.
Sunday, September 18th, 2016
J. Walter Weatherman at Atwood Tavern -Selected by Scotland
J. Walter Weatherman is the best songwriter you’ve never heard of. From quiet ballads reminiscent of Neil Young or Big Star to rock n roll anthems fit for a Springsteen set, these guys are looking to build on the classic Americana music of the 60s and 70s. There is a sincerity in the music that will draw you in, and the environment they create at each of their shows is lively and warm. If you’re a fan of Kurt Vile or Kevin Morby, check out this local band.
Thursday, September 29th, 2016
The Dear Hunter at The Paradise Rock Club -Selected by Matt M.
These prog rockers from Providence have quite the repertoire under their belts after ten years on the scene. Starting with Act I: The Lake South, The River North in 2006, the band has been working towards completing an epic narrative set at the dawn of the 20th century, spanning six albums. Just last week they released Act V: Hymns with the Devil in Confessional, so don’t miss out on what is sure to be a breathtaking live performance of this next chapter. From mellow indie rock to bizarre experimental post-hardcore, The Dear Hunter has a little something for everyone.