The fall’s concert line-up features a few heavy hitters mixed in with newcomers and buzz bands from various genres. One thing’s certain this semester: there’s a concert for everyone. Narrowing down the choices to a list of the predicted most popular and must-see’s proved difficult, but the final picks offer something beyond ordinary. Let’s hope they can live up to the hype.
Sam Adams
Tuesday, Sept. 14, at the Majestic Theatre
No, not the beer. The college rapper virtually came out of nowhere, landing the number one spot on iTunes Hip-Hop last spring with his EP Boston’s Boy. In fact, it was so unexpected that several blogs claimed he purchased his own album in order to boost sales. All rumors aside, the guy flipped an Annie Lennox sample into a serious jam. Enough said.
Hot Track: “Driving Me Crazy”
Brandi Carlile
Tuesday, Sept. 21, at the Barrymore Theatre
The raw, poignant sound of this folk singer-songwriter stirs the heart, so it can only be assumed her live performance doubles the pathos. Her unique voice and pure talent attracts fans of Regina Spektor, Sara Bareilles and the TV drama “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Hot Track: “Turpentine”
Matt & Kim
Tuesday, Sept. 21, at the Majestic Theatre
This adorable pair puts on one epic live show. Last year’s concert left audience members sweaty, smiling and stunned. After the show, Kim gave everyone hugs on their way out. It’ll be interesting to see what kind of antics they get into this year.
Hot Track: “Daylight”
Menomena
Friday, Sept. 24, at High Noon Saloon
This Portland-based indie rock trio may not be well-known, but their heavy instrumental foundation and favorable Pitchfork reviews land them a spot. How they achieve their complex sound live should be mesmerizing.
Hot Track: “Taos”
The National
Tuesday, Sept. 28, at the Orpheum Theatre
There’s something about Matt Berninger’s voice that leaves the listener in a state of pleasant hypnosis. This band makes music that commands and soothes at the same time. Plus, it’ll be nice seeing them in a relatively intimate venue compared to Lollapalooza, where they performed this summer.
Hot Track: “Bloodbuzz Ohio”
Michael Franti and Spearhead
Saturday, Oct. 9, at the Overture Center
Expect lots of smiles and dancing at this feel good show. The mix of reggae, pop, funk and soul is refreshing, encouraging the audience to join in on what feels like one big celebration.
Hot Track: “Say Hey (I Love You)”
Deadmau5
Tuesday, Oct. 19, at the Orpheum Theatre
The steep ticket price ($32 in advance) won’t sway electro fans from attending this rager. Basically, the guy wears a giant mouse head on stage and spins his club hits while the dance floor pulses. Be prepared for hundreds of college kids on cloud nine.
Hot Track: “Ghosts N Stuff”
3OH!3
Friday, Nov. 5, at the Orpheum Theatre
Probably the most mainstream act on the list, the Colorado hip-hop/pop/alternative duo makes music many classify as a guilty pleasure. It’s fun and danceable. Plus, they’re bringing punk band Hellogoodbye, a solid addition to a diverse fall concert line-up.
Hot Track: “My First Kiss”
Honorable mention:
Atmosphere Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the Orpheum Theatre
Stars Friday, Oct. 8, at the Barrymore Theatre
K-OS Friday, Oct. 22, at the High Noon Saloon
The Dandy Warhols Friday, Oct. 29, at the Majestic Theatre