Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features several indie artists making waves.
April 21
Sam Fender
The English singer-songwriter’s third record, the aptly titled People Watching, bears a striking resemblance to The Killers’ Sam’s Town era. It’s high on growling vocals, glistening synths and lyrics straight out of a Springsteen album. The key distinction between Fender and The Killers’ vocalist Brandon Flowers is that the former isn’t drunk on his own Kool-Aid and waxing whimsical. Fender’s grounded songs, particularly the title track and “Chin Up,” are about folks just trying to get by, as opposed to metaphorically “burnin’ down the highway skyline,” as Flowers hollowly crooned nearly two decades ago. In these tumultuous times, we need real stories like the ones that Fender tells. 8 p.m., $35-$65, Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, 480-829-0707, luckymanonline.com
April 22
Beabadoobee
While opening for Taylor Swift on The Eras Tour, producer Rick Rubin collaborated with the young Filipino-British singer-songwriter, also known as Beatrice Laus, on her third album, This Is How Tomorrow Moves. Many critics have noted how Rubin’s influence has given this album a more “adult” feel than her previous works. However, if you listen closely, certain elements that made Laus’ first two albums so beloved are still present, such as the ’90s alt-rock influence evident in tracks like “Take A Bite” (which could easily fit on an Incubus album) and the quaint melodies, so there’s truly something for everyone. This album is already preparing Laus to move from performing alongside Swift to headlining arenas herself. 7:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
April 22
SASAMI
The problem with rom-coms is audiences only remember the end when the couple finally realizes they should be together. Blood on the Silver Screen, the third album by SASAMI, uses pop music to explore the uglier parts of a relationship that don’t make it to the final product – the moments that make us feel hideous. Fortunately, the former Cherry Glazerr keyboardist remembered these movies have humorous moments, which she skillfully achieves by using clever turns of phrase. One example is in the song “Nothing But A Sad Face On,” singing that “if Hell is the only place to get lucky, then I will follow you down.” Here’s hoping some Hollywood producer has approached the singer-songwriter to adapt this story for the big screen. 8 p.m., $20-$22, The Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-296-7013, therebellounge.com
April 26
Scottsdale Jazz Festival
The legendary duo of Rick Braun and Richard Elliot, collectively known as RnR, will headline the 14th edition of this festival, which will pay tribute to the late, great Quincy Jones this year. If you want to kick things off early, head to The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa on April 25th between 6 and 10 p.m. for their 4th Annual Scottsdale Jazz Festival Premiere Party. The lineup includes Doc Jones and Friends, The Sugar Thieves, Mario Abney and the Windy City Ramblers, and Rancel Paumier Y Su Tumbao. Tickets for Friday’s event are $135. 3-10 p.m., $55-$195, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale, 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org
April 26
George and Dragon St. George’s Day Bash and 30th Anniversary Party
For three decades, George and Dragon has offered Phoenix an authentic English pub experience. To commemorate this milestone and honor the saint who inspired its name, it is having a day-long musical celebration featuring performances by local favorites The Piersons, Katie May and the Lubrication, and Tempe legends Dead Hot Workshop, among others. The proceeds from this event will support the Sage Foundation for Health. Music begins at 12 p.m. $10, George and Dragon Pub, 4240 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-241-0018, gndphx.com
