Although the textbooks are out, the pencils are sharpened, and the homework is piling up, there is still room to enjoy the semester, including the best of what Buffalo has to offer on the music scene. With shows showcasing the Buffalo Outer Harbor, and various other venues, there is a concert for every kind of student trying to get away from the grueling, impending work load.
Outer Harbor Concert Series:
Who:Edgefest featuring Three Days Grace, Evanescence, Chevelle
Where:Buffalo Outer Harbor
When:Sunday, Sept. 2
Ticket Price:$40 advance
Celebrate Labor Day weekend with a music festival right on Buffalo's waterfront. In an attempt to extend the summer weather, enjoy a different part of Buffalo's downtown waterfront. The Outer Harbor Concert Series has been open all summer for a many shows. One of the most anticipated shows is Edgefest, held by 103.3FM, The Edge. This year's annual Edgefest will feature famous names in the radio rock world that will have the audience singing.
Who:Dropkick Murphys featuring Snapcase
Where:Buffalo Outer Harbor
When:Friday, Sept. 14
Ticket Price:$30 advance, $36 day of show
"I'm Shipping Up To Boston" is a phrase heard by avid music fans. Dropkick Murphys have since progressed and will be headlining at the Buffalo Outer Harbor. Fans can expect to dance to their favorite drinking anthems by this Celtic rock band, with a beer in hand. Opening for Dropkick Murphys is Buffalo's own hardcore punk band Snapcase, making its return to Buffalo for a reunion show.
Who:Gym Class Heroes
Where:Club Infinity
When:Oct. 23
Ticket Price:$20 advance, $25 day of show
Gym Class Heroes continue to bring their dance anthems and signature style of indie hip-hop to the mainstream world. With album names such as As Cruel As School Children and The Papercut Chronicles, it appears Gym Class Heroes wanted to give the younger hip-hop fans music to dance to and relate to during the awkward teenage years. Their tactic has allowed them to continue making hit singles and albums spanning 15 years, and their show in Buffalo will allow fans to relive the middle school nostalgia through the band's earlier hits, "Cupid's Chokehold," and "The Queen and I," to the most recent with "Stereo Hearts" and "The Fighter."
Who:LL Cool J feat. DJ Z-Trip
Where:Erie Canal Harbor Central Wharf
When:Saturday, Sept. 1
Ticket Price:$10 advance, $20 day of show
Hip-hop icon and ladies man of the '90s LL Cool J will have his fans reclaiming their glory days and singing along to the hits that have made him a prominent part of music and acting culture since the '80s. Fans new and old will be set for a night of LL's flawless lyrics and looks. After recently nabbing a burglar in his own home and listening to his own advice in hit song, "Mama Said Knock You Out," LL Cool J's show should be one to celebrate and enjoy.
Who:Bob Dylan
Where:Artpark
When:Thursday, Sept. 6
Ticket Price:$40 General Admission Lawn Seating
Bob Dylan's music has transcended through five decades with his characteristic folk style and deep lyrical content. His anti-war and political anthems heralded the continuation of modern music and fans will not want to miss hearing these themes in "Like a Rolling Stone" and "Blowin' in the Wind" live.
Who:Mustard Plug
Where:Mohawk Place
When:Thursday, Nov. 15
Ticket Price:$13 advance, $15 day of show
The return of Mustard Plug, one of the biggest names in ska music, has proven that the genre is far from dead. Mohawk Place should be filled to the brim with ska fans, for a night of skanking, camaraderie and dancing to the melodies of the shimmering brass instruments, which embody ska music.
Email: arts@ubspectrum.com
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
