Every week, we present a curated list of live music in a wide range of genres around the Valley. This week’s column features the kickoff of spring music festival season in the Valley.
February 18
Dream Theater
The iconic progressive metal group is celebrating 40 years together as a band with a tour featuring the legendary lineup of James LaBrie, John Myung, John Petrucci, Mike Portnoy and Jordan Rudess. 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
February 19
Blind Boys of Alabama
The Grammy-winning legends, who’ve collaborated with everyone from Lou Reed to Peter Gabriel, are returning to the Valley to perform traditional spiritual music and gospel-infused classic rock and pop interpretations. 6:30 p.m., $69.50-$85.50, Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, 480-478-6000, mim.org
February 21-22
Innings Festival
The best indie and mainstream artists and an array of MLB legends will gather on the south shore of Tempe Town Lake to celebrate all things baseball. Headliners include Fall Out Boy, The Black Keys, The Killers, Beck, and Scottsdale rock duo Good Boy Daisy. Check website for set times and ticket prices. Tempe Beach and Arts Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, inningsfestival.com
February 22
The Sugar Thieves
While The Sugar Thieves is known locally for its raucous performances and jazzy roots music, it has also amassed a dedicated following abroad. Check out this performance before the group becomes big in Europe. 8 p.m., $20, The Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-265-4842, rhythmroom.com
February 23
Sundressed
Over a decade of playing music together, Sundressed always had a penchant for introspection and sadness. It’s only been in the last few years that the punk trio focused its lyrics on finding some optimism in the uncertainty. It’s a refreshing attitude, especially as the world falls deeper into entropy. 6:30 p.m., $18-$20, The Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, therebellounge.com
