Written by Patrick McNamara

#1. Bass Drum of Death/Zig Zags - Alex’s Bar - Wednesday - February 4 - 2015

Two good fuzz punk bands lead the lineup at Alex’s Bar. Bass Drum of Death (click their name for my intoxicatingly descriptive words about that band’s goodness) and Zig Zags (same) will shred your midweek cares away. HUMP THIS.

#2. You Blew It! - The Echo - Wednesday - February 4 - 2015 A.D.

If your leanings are more towards the emo side of things this first week of February, go sing along to Orlando’s You Blew It! at The Echo. And might I be so bold as to suggest you get their album out now on the mighty fine Topshelf Records (home to, but not limited to: Braid + Donovan Wolfington + Field Mouse + Frameworks + on and on the goodness goes).

#3. Pinback - The Observatory - Thursday - February 5 - 2015 A.D.

Of all of Rob Crow’s 175 bands (approximation), Pinback is still my favorite (although Heavy Vegetable and Thingy are right there too). See him and partner Armistead Burwell Smith IV sling the eccentro-pop goodness at The Observatory tonight.

#4. Heavenly Beat - The Echo - Sunday - February 8 - 2015 A.D.

Brooklyn’s Heavenly Beat is the smooth synth pop project of John Pena (he used to be in Beach Fossils back in the day). See his smooth pop goodness at The Echo and instantly feel more chill inside and out.

#5. Zola Jesus - The Observatory - Sunday - February 8 - 2015 A.D.

Zola Jesus plays the HITS. And tonight at The Observatory you can bet she’ll play “Dangerous Days” - a song that sailed its way onto our Top 14 Songs of 2014 list. Check it out. It’s a good list.