Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features three shows that will rock hard and two that will get you to move.
August 28
Gatecreeper
Arizona has long been a cradle for heavy metal. Legends like Judas Priest’s Rob Halford, Alice Cooper and Dave Mustaine of Megadeath have called the Valley home at different points in their careers. The critically lauded Phoenix band Gatecreeper, considered by many to be the future of the genre, is celebrating more than a decade together with a new album titled Dark Superstition. 8 p.m., $25-$30, Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. 2nd Ave., Phoenix, 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com
August 29
Earth, Wind, and Fire and Chicago
It’s almost September, so it’s time to hop on your good foot when the funk band, known for its song celebrating the fall month, comes to town with the adult contemporary rock band Chicago. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, footprintcenter.com
August 30
The Struts
The outfits. The hairstyles. The cheekbones. Everything about the British quartet screams glam rock from the ’70s and ’80s. And just like a Mott the Hoople song, the lyrics from the band’s latest album, 2023’s Pretty Vicious, cleverly reflect on the excesses of the rock and roll life. 8 p.m., $46.60-$79.84, Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, 480-829-0707, luckymanonline.com
September 1
Switchfoot/Blue October
Singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson will join Switchfoot (“Dare You to Move”) and Blue October for a triple-headliner show. 6:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
September 1
Thirty Seconds to Mars
The Leto brothers (actor Jared and drummer Shannon) are hitting the road in support of its band’s latest album, the optimistically titled It’s the End of the World but It’s a Beautiful Day. 6:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
