Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week is particularly jam-packed… so we included an extra option, including a pair of bands with odd Valley connections.
March 31
Ratboys
Jeff Tweedy played in the Valley a few weeks back, and those who were in attendance are still reeling from a setlist filled with passionate, reflective folk-rock with just a tinge of punk. If you’re looking for something new to fill the void the songwriter left when the houselights went up at his show, we’d like you to consider Ratboys. Like the Wilco frontman, the band hails from Chicago, and it shares Tweedy’s knack for crafting reflective yet catchy rock songs with lyrics that go straight to the heart. Credit producer Chris Walla, formerly of Death Cab for Cutie, for helping the group forge its sound. 8 p.m. $20. Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, valleybarphx.com
March 31
Cannons
Checking off the “indie dream-pop” box – and checking it off well – is this massively talented Los Angeles trio, whose infectious synth-rock grooves (including No. 1 Billboard Alternative hit “Fire for You”) have made them a chillwave streaming fixture since the late 2010s. Performing with Bob Moses, the trio is supporting their newly-dropped disc Everything Glows and its lead single, “Starlight.” 7:30 p.m. $53-$180. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
April 1
Mariah the Scientist
Late last year, the “Burning Blue” singer got engaged. Her boyfriend, fellow rapper Young Thug, popped the question while she was performing her hit song at a benefit concert in Atlanta. We certainly can’t guarantee something like this will happen when she comes to the Valley, but this tour is one of the most anticipated of the year. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
April 4
Marshall Crenshaw
While the Detroit-born singer-songwriter peaked early on the charts with hits like “Someday, Someway” and “Cynical Girl,” he’s consistently delivered power pop bangers for over 40 years. He’s also contributed songs for other artists, including Tempe’s Gin Blossoms, who helped the group author the hit “Til I Hear It from You.” 7:30 p.m. $44.50-$49.50. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, 480-478-6000, mim.org
April 5
Lamb of God
When this five-piece metal group played in Phoenix in 2019, thieves stole two of its one-of-a-kind guitars. Only one has been recovered, meaning the band might have some feelings of loss to work out on stage when it returns to the Valley. 7 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
April 5
St. Paul and the Broken Bones
It’s hard to believe that it’s taken this long for this eight-piece soul group from Alabama, known for its electrifying live shows, to have its first number one song. “Sushi and Coca-Cola.” It reached the top of the Adult Alternative Airplay charts last year. 7:30 p.m., $51-$87, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale, 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org
