by Erica Moser, News Correspondent
It’s officially summertime, and that means tan lines, fireflies, juicy peaches and, of course, more time for listening to music. Whether the band is new or old, low-key or rockin’, Boston has a concert for music-lovers of all genres. Here are some highlights:
Walk Off the Earth, July 17, Paradise Rock Club
This quirky Canadian indie band rose to Internet fame with their cover of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know.” They have also done covers of “Party Rock Anthem,” “The Edge of Glory” and “Grenade,” in addition to their original songs. The five member group signed with Columbia Records in February and is set to release its third studio album in September. The band’s hook is not musical prowess so much as innovative arrangements and a variety of instruments – and non-instruments, such as knives and wine bottles. Hopefully ukuleles will fall into the performers’ hands from above, as they do in their music videos.
Aerosmith, July 17-19, TD Garden
“The Bad Boys from Boston” are returning to their roots. Aerosmith, the best-selling American rock band with 150 million albums sold worldwide, is releasing their 15th studio album, “Music from Another Dimension,” on Aug. 28. The band’s members – all age 60-64 – recently encountered tension due to frontman Steven Tyler’s health issues, solo work and decision to judge on “American Idol.” This concert is part of their Global Warming Tour. Fellow rockers Cheap Trick will be the opening act.
Coldplay, July 29-30, TD Garden
On Aug. 6, 2002, Coldplay performed at the Paradise Rock Club, capacity 933, during their “A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour”. Nearly a decade later, they are performing not one but two shows at TD Garden, which has a capacity of 20,000. The band’s fifth studio album, 2011’s “Mylo Xyloto,” has garnered mixed reviews for its departure in musical style and more adventurous spirit. This may upset old fans, but if lead singer Chris Martin sticks to his wild dance moves, crisp vocal quality and poignant piano moments, the concert is sure to please.
Sublime with Rome, Aug. 20, Bank of America Pavilion
The California-based ska-punk band Sublime has gone through many changes since its formation in 1988. When lead singer Bradley Nowell died in 1996, the band split up. Drummer Bud Gaugh and bassist Eric Wilson began playing together again in 2009 with new frontman Rome Ramirez. Josh Freese joined the group when Gaugh announced his exit from the band at the end of last year. They have been playing original Sublime songs along with new tracks from their 2011 album “Yours Truly.” Fans have praised the band for remaining true to their roots and continuing to rock, so get stoked.
Beirut, Aug. 28, House of Blues
Hipsters, rejoice: America’s favorite indie band named after a Lebanese city – OK, maybe there aren’t any others – will be back at the House of Blues next month. Frontman Zach Condon grew up in Santa Fe, N.M., and brings mariachi undertones to Beirut’s music. There are also notes of other foreign music and jazz, though critics have commented that their fourth and most recent album, “The Rip Tide,” has more of a pop sound. The ever-diverse Condon has played piano, trumpet, accordion, ukulele, flugelhorn and French horn. Beirut’s albums contain romantic, fantastical elements, and fans have heralded their concerts for having the same vibe.
