Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features one of the best guitarists in rock music.
April 14
Kraftwerk
Those whose job it is to pontificate about music credit two bands for influencing today’s modern sound: The Beatles (obviously) and the German synth-pop band Kraftwerk. The non-believers will cry, “Wait a sec, what about the Rolling Stones?” While Mick and Keith are undoubtedly legends, Kraftwerk can be heard in David Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy, samples used by hip-hop artists, the entire new wave genre, the techno of the late ’90s, and the indie sleaze movement of the early aughts that included groups like LCD Soundsystem and Ladytron. Kraftwerk was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, but many argue the group should have been there sooner. Check out this performance if you want to know how alternative music began. It promises to be visually captivating and may even sound familiar, even if you’re unfamiliar with Kraftwerk’s discography. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix, orpheumphx.com
April 16
Graham Nash
The songwriter and acclaimed photographer will perform selections from his storied catalog while sharing stories from his time as a member of The Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash. 7:30 p.m., $35-$75, Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com
April 18
Santana
It doesn’t matter who’s behind the mic — whether it’s Greg Rolie or Rob Thomas — no one listens to the legendary rock band Santana for the lyrics. What truly captivates fans is the bluesy sound of Carlos Santana’s guitar. His mastery of the six-string is the unifying thread that runs through every hit from the group over the past six decades, from timeless classics like “Evil Ways” to contemporary hits like “Smooth.” 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com
April 19
Kylie Minogue
Her cheesy ’80s-style cover of “The Locomotion” aside, Kylie Minogue has been criminally overlooked in the United States. But the Australian dance-pop star behind “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” is righting this wrong by going on her biggest tour of North America in 14 years. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. PHX Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, footprintcenter.com
April 19
Djo
The mesmerizing 2022 hit “End of Beginning” might be the decade’s first true slow jam. What’s even more surprising is when you pull up your favorite streaming service to hear more from Djo, you discover it’s Stranger Things actor Joe Keery. Now that the last season of the Netflix show has wrapped, he’s introducing new material that’s certain to cast a spell. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix, 480-659-1641, livenation.com
