Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features a breakout star, a country superstar and a legendary roots reggae musician.
May 29
Taking Back Sunday
Like a fine wine, emo continues to get better with age. Look no further than Taking Back Sunday’s latest album, 152, for proof. It’s garnered some of the best reviews of the band’s two-decade-plus career. 8 p.m. Check the website for ticket prices. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix, livenation.com
May 29
The Kid LAROI
Between his latest album, The First Time, and the revealing Amazon documentary chronicling its recording, the Australian rapper is about to break into superstardom. Catch him now because you might be stuck dancing in the nosebleeds in the arenas he’ll be selling out in a couple of years. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
May 31-June 1
Luke Combs
Luke Combs’ favorite song growing up was the emotional ballad “Fast Car,” so imagine his surprise when his cover of the Tracy Chapman single charts higher than the original, or how nervous the country superstar must have been when he performed the track with Chapman at the Grammy Awards this year. 5:45 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale, 602-379-0102, statefarmstadium.com
May 31
Burning Spear
If Bob Marley had not encouraged the legendary “Marcus Garvey” artist to audition at the legendary Studio One in Jamaica, we might have been denied the pleasure of listening to one of the world’s most legendary roots reggae musicians. 8 p.m., $35-$75, Showroom at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, 800-946-4452, playatgila.com
June 2
Avril Lavigne
The “Sk8er Boi” artist will perform her greatest hits. Opening the show for the Canadian singer/songwriter will be All Time Low and Royal and the Serpent. 7 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
