NOLADIY.ORG - New Orleans Punk, Hardcore, Indie, and DIY Events

Animals as Leaders | Jonathan Scales Fourchestra
Sunday, April 19. Chelsea’s Live (1010 Nicholson Drive, Baton Rouge). 8PM. $42 (advance).
Complex instrumental prog / djent metal trio from D.C. since '07, consisting of dual 8-string guitarists + a drummer. Think of Primus' cover of "Master Of Puppets," then remove the vox... er, and convert the bass to a guitar, add 4 strings, and sprinkle on some King Crimson. Their song titles & structures are almost as inscrutable as those of The Mars Volta. Are they big? Well, the Wall Street Journal wrote about lead guitarist Tosin Abasi's Porsche-driving exploits in the canyons of SoCal. animalsasleaders.org. Tour flyer & bio: https://facebook.com/chelseaslive/photos/1241501654756655

K-POP Warriors Live
Sunday, April 19. Pontchartrain Center (4545 Williams Boulevard, Kenner). 3:30PM (show 1), 5:30PM (show 2). $37.15.
"KPOP Warriors is a high-energy family show packed with K-Pop–style music, fast choreography, and colorful heroes battling playful villains." Each show shall last seventy-five minutes. Make sure to hit up the last day of the big FOJPL book sale in the adjacent hall; everything is half off.

Dizgo
Tuesday, April 21. The Howlin Wolf. 11:55PM. $24.94 (advance), $30.79 (day of show).
New phone, who diz?* "Born from attic jam sessions between childhood friends Andrew Pickel and Kevin Hinnefeld, Dizgo’s story began with two guitars, a tape recorder, and a dream – literally. The band’s name came to Hinnefeld in a dream, before their first gig, reflecting the cosmic, boundary-breaking sound they’d soon deliver. Later joined by Jake Evatt on keys/vocals and Justin Clark on drums, the Bloomington-based quartet has since evolved into one of the country's premiere touring acts. Critics have called Dizgo 'one of the most operative names in the jam band scene' and 'Indiana’s psychedelic powerhouse,' blending the adventurous spirit of jamtronica with the deep-pocket pulse of funk, the warmth of soul, explosive guitar, and the kaleidoscopic textures of psychedelic rock." Translation: Expect them to play for cheaper at Le Bon Temps Roule at some point, b/c Pepper loves this jam-band slop. 18+; doors at 11:30. Flyer: https://i.ticketweb.com/i/00/12/82/30/64_Edp.jpg. * https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/new-phone-who-dis

D.Sablu | Fiend | Quilt
Tuesday, April 21. Wonderground (1439 Myrtle Walk, Baton Rouge). 8PM. $10 NOTAFLOF.
Come out for a fun night of high energy hardcore punk!

The Band Called Fuse | Manny Faces
Wednesday, April 22. Courtyard Brewery (1160 Camp Street). 6PM. Donation.
All donations directly benefit families devastated by ICE.

Mahmoud Chouki featuring Radio Bird Quartet
Wednesday, April 22. New Marigny Theatre (2301 Marais Street). 8PM-10PM. $25 (advance).
"An intimate and immersive evening featuring original music of Mahmoud Chouki reimagined with a string quartet, including members of the Radio Bird Quartet."

Ignescent
Wednesday, April 22. Twist of Lime. 8PM. $10.
"Ignescent, a powerful and dynamic modern [melodic nu- / alt-]metal band from Chicago, fronted by the multi-talented vocalist Jennifer Benson, returns with their brand-new album, Eternal, out on March 20, 2026." An opening band called Closur evidently dropped off & the club is now looking for two local bands to open; see https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=122107192664787819&id=61573634571579

Guillermo Pizarro | Weapons Envelope | Fatplastik | Rotten Milk | Shining Fields
Friday, April 24. Mudlark Theatre. 9PM. $10.
Noise, experimental, drone, synth, and industrial at the Mudlark. Guillermo Pizarro is on tour from West Virginia and Weapons System from DC.

Half Raccoon | Ben Polaroid
Friday, April 24. NOLA 'Nacular Studio & Gallery (1172 Magazine Street at Erato). 7PM. FREE (donations appreciated). Turducken Productions
https://bipolaroid.bandcamp.com/ https://halfraccoon.bandcamp.com/

URQ & The Dismal Villagers | Avery Island B.C.E. | Glish
Friday, April 24. Siberia. 9PM. $10.
Shuffle-play lineup of disparate NOLA bands. Herky-jerky post-Residents style oddpop, evidently by a guy from Loudness War (Urq), existential baroque rock fronted by Avery Legendre, dropping début LP on 4/20 (Avery), indie rock / shoegaze stalwarts on comeback trail (Glish). Flyer: https://dice-media.imgix.net/attachments/2026-03-30/94122087-fb51-4dfb-aa68-5e0841944019.jpg

Or Else | The Pallbearers | So Awful
Saturday, April 25. Babylon. 8PM. $10. Booking
The Big Boss is back again to deliver another banger of a show for his beloved followers and supporters at Babylon Sportsbar Playing New Orleans for the first time we have Alabama Grindcore lords Or Else coming all the way from Birmingham to tear the place down Being backed up by local Horror Punk legends The Pallbearers bring the heat as they're known for As well as local Thrashers , So Aplaying for the first time in months who will absolutely melt your face You don't want to miss this one!! 2917 Harvard Ave Metairie, LA $10 at the door Doors at 8pm

Or Else | The Pallbearers | So Awful
Saturday, April 25. Checkpoint Charlie's. 8PM. $10. Booking
The Big Boss is back again to deliver another banger of a show for his beloved followers and supporters at his base of operations Checkpoint Charlies Playing New Orleans for the first time we have Alabama Grindcore lords, Or Else coming all the way from Birmingham to tear the place down Being backed up by local Horror Punk legends, The Pallbearers bring the heat as they're known for As well as local Thrashers, So Awful playing for the first time in months who will absolutely melt your face You don't want to miss this one!!

Dexter and The Moonrocks | High June | KG & The Bad Habits
Saturday, April 25. Chelsea’s Live (1010 Nicholson Drive, Baton Rouge). 8PM. $32.
Dexter and The Moonrocks are Abilene, TX '90s flashback slacker grunge, alt rockers. 18+.

Subatomic Sound System | Screechy Dan
Saturday, April 25. Chickie Wah Wah. 1AM (late nite; very early April 26th). $30 (+ $9.29 fees, incl. tax).
Brooklyn's SSS is a dub / reggae / drum n' bass / downtempo collective and record label, established in '99. This show occurs late in the night of the 25th; doors at 12:30 AM. It's a Jazz Fest thing... Your parents would understand. Fisher was a founder of, and one of the namesakes of, skank punks Fishbone. 18+.

No Law Solidarity Choir | Ayakashi Krewe | Dirty Rotten Snake in the Grass | The Hand Grenades
Saturday, April 25. Fred Hampton Free Store (5523 St. Claude Avenue). 7PM. $10.
Come party and help raise money for victims of the ICE terror! Hip-hop, Choral, Indie, Metal, we got what you need! There will also be local art for raffle and food! Bring your friends!

The Snozzberries
Saturday, April 25. Les Bon Toups Roule. 11:59PM. $10.
"The Snozzberries is a cosmic journey, channeling dark psych rock, thrash metal, funk and soul to weave a tapestry of love, loss and redemption." Prog Magazine praised the album as “Pushing the envelope in energy, chaos and breadth... An exuberant collection of tasty grooves and kaleidoscopic jams.” [P.S.: Y'all have the Or Else | Pallbearers | So Awful show at two different venues at the same time on this night.]

The Quickening | Los Koombeans | Booman | De Los Proyectos | Two-Tone Merigold | DJ Flávia Cruz | DJ Derraj | visuals by Clockphase
Saturday, April 25. Santos Bar. 9PM. $10.
Psyched Fest. "That Nola Big Fest Afters @santosbarnola. Live Performances by: The Quickening @thequickeningmusic; Los Koombeans - @kristabelle.music; Booman of The Quadroholics - @auntiebooman; De Los Proyectos - @de_los_proyectos; Two-Tone Merigold - @twotonemerigold; DJ Set by @flv_via & @derrajj; Visuals by @clockphase_visuals." If you know what any of this means or have $10 burning a hole in your wallet, turn up. 21+. Flyer: https://www.santosbar.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/flavia-425.jpg

The Heavy Heavy | Lou Hazel
Sunday, April 26. Chickie Wah Wah. 10:30PM. $32 (advance).

Melt
Monday, April 27. Chickie Wah Wah. 8PM. $26.96 (advance).
"Melt formed in 2017 and cut their teeth touring on the heels of their viral single 'Sour Candy.' Pulsing with the energy of their hometown, New York City, If There’s a Heaven (2024) is the debut album from indie band Melt. Hear the band simultaneously at their most airtight and freewheeling – evoking the raw, communal spirit of Fleetwood Mac as well as the modern, danceable hooks of MUNA. Melt’s debut is a joyous, timeless soundtrack for coming of age and finding oneself and one’s community.'"

Bob Dylan
Monday, April 27. River Center Theater (220 St. Louis Street, Baton Rouge). 8PM.

Brian Stoltz & Samantha Fish play Jimi Hendrix
Tuesday, April 28. Chickie Wah Wah. 10:30PM. $30 (+ $9.29 fees) (advance).
Plus surprise guests. Fish is often described as a cross between Bonnie Raitt, Jimi Hendrix, & Marilyn Monroe, so she'll be in her element here. Will you, punk? 21+.

Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP Legacy)
Tuesday, April 28. Manship Theatre (100 Lafayette Street, Baton Rouge). 7:30PM. $60 - $80.
We've all nodded our heads to Brain Salad Surgery, but this is an advisory to AVOID this show, prog rocker. "Created by Carl Palmer and his management, the show will be presented with the full cooperation of the Estates of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake. THIS IS NOT A TRIBUTE ACT - THIS IS THE REAL THING. Through modern technology they will reunite the band: Carl with his two bandmates, playing together along with Keith Emerson & Greg Lake, who both passed away in 2016. The show combines video performance of Emerson and Lake from a legendary sold out ROYAL ALBERT HALL ELP show from 1992 with live on stage performances of Carl Palmer with his own ELP Legacy band (Paul Bielatowicz and Simon Fitzpatrick). All the musicians play together in sync to present a complete and authentic Emerson, Lake & Palmer show." Imagine if established rock acts like SUGAR RAY, THOU, or BANANARAMA try to pull this crap on their fans in like 30 years after 67% of their members croak. "ELP was an English progressive rock supergroup formed in London in 1970. The band consisted of Keith Emerson of the Nice (keyboards), Greg Lake of King Crimson (vocals, bass, guitar, producer), and Carl Palmer of Atomic Rooster (drums, percussion). With nine RIAA-certified gold record albums in the US and an estimated 48 million records sold worldwide, they are one of the most popular and commercially successful progressive rock groups of the 1970s."

Lostines | Twisted Teens
Wednesday, April 29. BJ's (4301 Burgundy Street). 10PM.
A retro night of NOLA swamp doo wop (Lostines) & NOLA garage rock (Twisted Teens). The latter will be opening some shows for Kurt Vile later this year.

Dat Mighty 9 w/ Big Chief Romeo | People Museum | Anna Moss & Handmade Moments | Pocket Chocolate | TBC Brass Band | Sally Baby's Silver Dollars | high school drumline competition
Wednesday, April 29. Frenchmen Art Bazaar (619 Fenchmen Street). 12PM-10PM. $15 (advance), $20 (door).
Lite Da Fire On Frenchmen Fest. Poster: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWUgNBwCZ24

Luca Stricagnoli
Thursday, April 30. Manship Theatre (100 Lafayette Street, Baton Rouge). 7:30PM. $35+.
"With more than 200 million views on his music videos and concerts in over 30 countries, Luca Stricagnoli has established himself as one of the most innovative and unique guitarists in the world. Known for pushing the boundaries of the acoustic guitar, he has invented groundbreaking instruments such as the Reversed Triple Neck Guitar, the Reversed Slide Neck, and The Guitar Ring, each of which has contributed to redefining the modern acoustic landscape." He plays Mozart on banjo, and plays Michael Jackson's "Thriller" on two guitars simultaneously. 7:30 - 9:30; all ages.

Steven Bernstein, Helen Gillet, Brian Haas, Mike Dillon, James Singleton, and more
Thursday, April 30. The Zeitgeist. 8PM. Scatterjazz
Scatterjazz 50th Birthday Gig! Various mashups of this fine lineup of players for an evening of sound sculpture to help Scatterjazz celebrate his 50th birthday

Shovels & Rope | Joelton Mayfield
Friday, May 1. Chelsea’s Live (1010 Nicholson Drive, Baton Rouge). 8PM. $30 (advance), $35 (day of show).
Under their original group name Cary Ann Hearst & Michael Trent, married couple Shovels & Rope played a rousing 2+ hour show at the Circle Bar in 2010. This year they will be opening for the Lumineers (the band with that "Ho Hey" megahit song that's not a Ramones homage but rather a ripoff of the Black Crowes' drug lament "She Talks To Angels") a few blocks away at the Blender on 3/26. Now shifting our focus to the milieu of Baton Rouge: The opener at this Chelsea's Live show may be related to lackadaisical Americana singer & Black Keys protégée Jessica Lea Mayfield, who headlined a few blocks away at the Spanish Moon in 2011. Sometimes paradise lies just a few blocks away, as late rock poet Eddie Money taught us. 18+.

Steve Masakowski Family & Friends
Friday, May 1. New Orleans Jazz Museum (400 Esplanade Ave.). 7PM. $25 (advance).
Two Worlds album release party. We here often forget or just don't know how respected the Maz is on the global jazz fusion guitar scene. Did you know Martin "designed the custom MAZ Bass travel instrument, expanding the double bass’s possibilities"? All ages. Featuring Sasha M., Martin M., Brian Blade, Oscar Rossignoli, Rex Gregory. Info & flyer: https://nolajazzmuseum.org/events/2026/5/1/steve-masakowski-family-friends-official-two-worlds-release-concert

The Black Keys album signing
Friday, May 1. Peaches Records (4318 Magazine Street). 1:30PM.
The retro riffers rock raggedly at Jazz Fest later this day, which happens to be the day their new LP titled Peaches! drops. So if you go to this, you have to miss the first several dozen bands at the Fest. Hmm. Presumably FREE (aside from the cost of the album that you must purchase), though this store is notoriously expensive, so all bets are off. "Millions of peaches, peaches for free..." - The Presidents of The United States of America. "Blow up your TV, throw away your paper. Go to the country, build you a home. Plant a little garden, eat a lot of peaches. Try and find Jesus on your own." - John Prine. https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1558030545906594&id=100050989916852

New Orleans Proletarian Disco
Friday, May 1. The Crypt (1301 St. Bernard Avenue). 9PM. $10 NOTAFLOF. Booking
NOPE presents... We're throwing a May Day party! Celebrate International Workers Day by cutting up the dancefloor with the comrades at NOPE's first ever PROLETARIAN DISCO. All night long, we'll be pumping techno, acid, dub, minimal wave, and whatever other freak shit strikes our fancy. One of our favorite local selectors, Gabriela, returns for her second NOPE appearance and, alongside local techno priestess Pythia, will be holding down the decks all night long. We'll have live performances by Nail Club and Nonlethal Weapons. Join us for a night of 100% certified freakbeats, total emersion therapy, and working class camaraderie. As Emma Goldman put it: "If I can't dance, I don't want to be a part of your revolution." Let your freak flags, black flags, and red flags fly. This May Day, let's find each other.

Strange Roux | Whisper Party!
Saturday, May 2. Banks Street Bar. 9PM.

Souricière and Joe Adragna
Saturday, May 2. NOLA 'Nacular Studio & Gallery (1172 Magazine St.). 6PM. FRR (donations appreciated). Turducken Productions
Opening reception for new artworks by Mahoney Perkins and Alex V. Cook. Souricière, a cafe society, bohemian, jazz flecked combo from Baton Rouge. Joe Adragna is an afficianado of power pop from 60s to 80s

Past Self | Missing | Delores Galore
Saturday, May 2. Santos Bar. 10PM. $20.
"past self [LOWERCASE puh-leez] is a Las Vegas-based Darkwave and Shoegaze band. Known for their swirling guitar tones, distinct image, and unique blend of Korean and English lyrics that the band has dubbed 'K-Goth,' they’ve quickly gathered the attention of the wider goth scene as a whole. Pulling heavily from bands like The Cure, Molchat Doma and Slowdive, the band consists of Sung (Vocals/Guitar), aether (Keys) and Spektor (Bass). They’ve opened for acts such as Twin Tribes, French Police, Mareux and Drab Majesty." Come on, you know you had Korean goths from Vegas on your bingo card this year. A pair of NOLA darkwavers shall open; one broodingly (Missing) & one danceably (Delores Galore). 21+.

Mira Lazuli | Lily | Ashley Virginia | Atom Cat
Sunday, May 3. Okay Bar (1700 Port Street). 8PM.

Stanton Moore Trio | Frequinauts (f.k.a. Frequinox)
Sunday, May 3. The Broadside in The Pavillion (600 N. Broad Street). 9PM. $40 (early bird), $50 (advance).
"Since Jazz Fest of 2006, Stanton Moore Trio & Frequinauts (originally Frequinox) have closed out the festival with an evening of Jazz Funk, second to none. Come celebrate Twenty years of Out Of This World Frequinaut Funk plus Robert Walter's Birthday!" Stanton Moore Trio: Stanton (Galactic, Dragon Smoke, Corrosion Of Conformity [yup; their current drummer... no, really... look it up, punk]) Robert Walter (Greyboy Allstars, Roger Waters), Will Bernard (Mad Skillet, Blue Plate Special). Frequinauts: Stanton, Walter, Bernard, Donald Harrison Jr., Rob Mercurio (Galactic, Dragon Smoke). Presented by New Suit. 9 PM - 1 AM. This will sell out. Flyer: @ simpletix.com/e/256419

Fluttermite | Devin Gray
Tuesday, May 5. The Zeitgeist. 7PM. Scatterjazz
Fluttermite being Helen Gillet, Byron Asher & Daniel Meinecke... Devin Gray being an exceptional drummer and electronics twister based in Berlin and very busy in the international "creative music" scenes...

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performs Stravinsky's Firebird Suite, Ginastera's Four Dances, and Bartók's Dance Suite
Thursday, May 7. The Orpheum. 6:30PM (talk), 7:30PM (music). $35+.
"Embark on an electrifying journey from the vibrant plains of Argentina to the heart of Eastern Europe and beyond with the energetic Four Dances from Estancia by Alberto Ginastera, Bela Bartók’s brilliantly folk-infused Dance Suite, and Stravinsky’s fiery favorite, Firebird Suite." Stravinsky's The Rite Of Spring invented punk rock, but his nuanced Firebird Suite was influential on thee likes of Godspeed You Black Emperor, Rachel's, & other modern indie chamber groups. https://theconversation.com/decoding-the-music-masterpieces-stravinskys-the-firebird-161582. Pre-concert chit-chat from 6:30 - 7. Flyer: https://orpheumnola.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/LPO-The-Firebird-5.7v21920x1080.jpg

Pollo Asado
Friday, May 8. The Maple Leaf. 8PM. $17.
"A NOLA Tribute to Ween." Marc Paradis, Mike Doussan, Dave Pomerleau, Andre Bohren & Micheal Fouquier. "Ween's catalog is a fever dream — country gothic, psychedelic sludge, yacht rock, and pure deranged genius all welded together into something that shouldn't exist but absolutely does. Now imagine that chaos filtered through the sweaty, second-line soul of New Orleans, played by five of the city's most accomplished musicians." Presented by Clesi's seafood restaurant, so expect several cuts from '97 effort The Mollusk. Flyer: https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5767a0_ee11beb296a24712b87fa1de7c7a9b98~mv2.png

Sunny Side Jazz Band | Few Blue | Brass-a-Holics | DJ G
Saturday, May 9. Abita New Orleans (2375 Tchoupitoulas Street). 11 M.
40th Anniversary Block Party. "Plus celebrity appearances, giveaways, and over two-dozen local food and craft vendors. Family & Dog Friendly." No cover mentioned. This new Abita location is in the late great Urban Roots plant nursery.

How’d They See That Comin’?
Saturday, May 9. Jefferson Parish Library, Rosedale branch (4036 Jefferson Highway). 12:30PM. FREE. Booking
The Visionary Speculative Fiction Book Club, discussing Margaret Atwood's novel Oryx and Crake. Contact mparker@jefferson.lib.la.us for further details

Terror | Pain of Truth | End It | Start Today | Lower Class [NOLA]
Thursday, May 14. Chelsea’s Live (1010 Nicholson Drive, Baton Rouge). 7PM. $25.
Louis Prima: "There'll be no next time." Metallica: "Time is like a fuse, short and burning fast." The Smiths: "When you say it's gonna happen now, well when exactly do you mean?" The Replacements: "Hurry up, hurry up. Ain't you had enough of this stuff?" Rollins Band: "Don't think about it. Do it." Gorilla Biscuits: "Let's start today." Living Colour: "Your future won't save your past. The time is now, it won't last." CIV: "I can't wait one minute more." Gwen Stefani: "What you waiting for? Tick-tock, tick-tock... Take a chance, you stupid ho." Terror: "This time is my time. This time is our time. We are so alive." 18+. Flyer w/ band links: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVjPtzEEbpA

Jenn Howard | Max Sanders | Beach Angel
Thursday, May 14. Gasa Gasa. 9PM. $20.
"Rooted in New Orleans but resonating far beyond it, Jenn Howard creates music that feels lived-in, electrifying, and deeply human – cementing her place as one of the city’s most compelling and authentic voices." She was the lead singer of Project NIM in the mid-'90s, which evolved into The National. "Rooted in storytelling, Sanders’ songwriting blends rugged Western textures with the easygoing spirit of New Orleans, creating a sound that feels both expansive and deeply grounded." (Yes, both sentences began with "Rooted in..." Possibly AI slop, but impressive.) 18+. Flyer: https://www.facebook.com/gasagasaonfreret/photos/1507318127633148

The Pause | Popperz | More Than Grit | Swarm
Friday, May 15. Holy Diver (1200 St. Bernard Avenue). 8PM. $10.

Corrosion of Conformity | Whores | Crobot
Saturday, May 16. Tipitina's. 7:30PM. $35.

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
Sunday, May 17. Cafe du Monde. 10:30AM. FREE.
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is a worldwide event to raise funds for prostate cancer research and mental health awareness. The event combines vintage styled motorcycles and dapper apparel for a fun ride through the city and truly unique experience. To sign up to ride, visit www.gentlemansride.com and go to “Find a Ride” under the events tab for the New Orleans ride. Donations for the fundraiser can also be made on this page. The ride begins in the Tricentennial parking lot near Cafe du Monde in City Park and ends at the Blue Crab on the lakefront on May 17, 2026. Riders meet at 9:00am and the ride starts at 10:30am. Even if you’re not riding, we encourage all to attend the festivities at the beginning or the end of the race to come check out some cool vintage motorcycles and help support a good cause!

Sun Kil Moon
Sunday, May 17. Chickie Wah Wah. 8PM. $25 (+ $7.61 fees) (advance).
Kozelek fronted '90s cult-favorite mope folk / ethereal slowcore band Red House Painters on the esteemed labels 4AD & Sub Pop. Absorb the bleak beauty of "Drop," "Medicine Bottle," "Mistress," & "Down Through" to become a megafan, then listen to their nonchalant cover of KISS's "Shock Me" for a chuckle. He was a member of the fictitious '70s band Stillwater in the blockbuster film Almost Famous (2000), & had a bit part in Vanilla Sky as Dude, Fix Your Face Guy (2001). That year, his yen for hard rock resurfaced when he released an LP of acoustic covers of early AC/DC sleaze. He then formed Sun Kil Moon, a slightly less broody, more Americana-oriented act. His inscrutable career has continued, with his uniquely beleaguered-sounding voice leading the way. One saw him do a sparsely-attended solo gig at One Eyed Jacks in early 2005, covering a Modest Mouse song or three. He released a Modest Mouse cover album later that year. This ramshackle career method has continued sporadically for the last two decades. He and his various projects are the subject of a surprisingly high amount of internet memes & general speculation, due in part to his mumbly persona & absence from social media. He has recently faced accusations of sexual misbehavior on past tours. RIYL: Will Oldham (a.k.a. Palace a.k.a. Bonnie "Prince" Billy), Jandek, Cat Power, Roky Erickson, Mount Eerie. This will sell out due to fans from nearby states mopping up tickets for this rare tour. (Red House Painters apparently never played in this state, & Sun Kil Moon played one known show here, at HOB – probably the Parish room – in '04.)

The Pharcyde
Sunday, May 17. Tipitina's. 8PM. $42 (advance).
Eclectic and influential L.A. jazz- / funk-rap collective, of '90s "Passin' Me By" & "Runnin'" fame, are back at it without the unfortunately-named Bootie Brown. And don't forget their "Drop" video, filmed entirely backwards in one take. (In the indie / noise rock world, Bailter Space did a backwards video, "Splat," the same year.) They became the natural heirs of P-Funk & Digital Underground. Their tunes were popular with skateboarders back in "the day," when one might grind to some Chili Peppers, Suicidal, Public Enemy, Anthrax, Fishbone, Beasties, NIN, Cypress Hill, Helmet, White Zombie, Dre, Pantera, Social D, Quest, Soundgarden, Tool, etc., before downing a frosty Big Gulp. No opening act listed yet.

Wavering | Stargazer and The Lilies
Thursday, May 21. Marigny Opera House. 7:30PM. $25 .
"A multichannel sound immersion, presented in the round! Join 2 of New Orleans’ most adventurous acts for a night of intricate electroacoustic songs & soundscapes, rendered in immersive multichannel surround sound and projection art!" Flyer & band bios at https://marignyoperahouse.org/upcoming-events/wavering-stargazer-the-lilies-a-multichannel-electroacoustic-immersion. (Stargazer and The Lilies are not to be confused with the prominent Florida dream pop band the Stargazer Lilies.)

Dandelioness | Mira Lazuli | Lily
Saturday, May 23. Okay Bar (1700 Port Street). 8PM.
"In her work as Dandelioness, Chloe Grace Caemmerer wholeheartedly embodies the solo singer songwriter trope, sitting cross- legged on her little island of reverb in a sea of noise. Does she dream up these dark, whimsical landscapes simply to console herself? How nice it is that, in the dusty fallout of our listening, we are also consoled." - Bandcamp bio. So does she sound like Björk, or Elliott Smith, or Cat Power, or...? Answer: Show up.

Master Boot Record
Saturday, May 23. Siberia. 8PM. $25/$30.
MASTER BOOT RECORD (aka MBR) is a project founded in 2016 by producer Vittorio D’amore mixing together heavy metal and synthesized electronic music. Starting in 2016 releasing albums under the indie label Data Airlines has moved in 2018 to synthwave iconic label Blood Music to expand its audience to the electronic community. In 2019 MASTER BOOT RECORD settled with Metal Blade Records, the historic metal label based in Los Angeles to release the latest two albums “Floppy Disk Overdrive (2020)” and “Personal Computer (2022)” helping the project to gain increased popularity worldwide. MBR has also produced the video game “VirtuaVerse” as well as its original soundtrack. VirtuaVerse was released in 2020 on all gaming platforms as well as Nintendo Switch, Xbox and Playstation. The project as a live band increased their live activity in 2022 including live performing artists such as the guitar virtuoso and Ibanez endorser Edoardo Taddei at lead guitars and technical death metal drummer Giulio Galati.

Melodroma | Gut Zombie | Fragile State of Mind | Mercifulfeeling | Mollify
Saturday, May 23. Wonderground (1439 Myrtle Walk, Baton Rouge). 5:30PM.
Melodroma Memorial. Come celebrate the life of Melodroma's late frontman, Thomas Andrew Stanford.

A Winter's Remorse | x First Day of Fall x | Embroiled | Pushin Up Daisies | First Forgotten
Saturday, May 30. Wonderground (1439 Myrtle Walk, Baton Rouge). 7PM. $10 NOTAFLOF.
Come mosh with a bunch of metal bands at Wonderground!

Luke Schneider | Neal Todten | Benny Divine | Lucas Bogner
Tuesday, June 2. Saturn Bar. 9PM. $10.
Luke Schneider is a Nashville-based ambient pedal steel artist whose meditative, drone-based compositions transform the instrument’s traditional country role into immersive soundscapes. His releases on Third Man Records, Leaving Records, and Northern Spy position him at the forefront of modern experimental pedal steel. You have have heard Luke's steel playing with Margo Price, Orville Peck, and local rockers Silver Synthetic. Neal Todten is a composer/performer based in New Orleans, LA working in abstract and experimental forms.Neal Todten's music has taken on aspects of the often minimalist concert productions he has produced, but also incorporates his experience as an New Orleans musician. Improvisation, expressive melodic content, and a deep exploration of syncopation are combined with extended compositional forms and experimental techniques. A particular interest is placed on the intersection of composition and improvisation, finding new ways frame improvisation in performance. Local legends Benny Divine (Natural Child, The Spits, Sick Thoughts) and Lucas Bogner (Silver Synthetic, JJ Adams) new duo explores Bitches Brew era fusion ideas on electric piano and drums. Heady shit

Bill Frisell Trio
Thursday, June 4. Acadiana Center for the Arts Moncus Theater (101 W. Vermilion Street, Lafayette). 7:30PM. $45.
This group contains jazz guitar explorer Frisell with Luke Bergman & Tim Angulo. In addition to his main pursuits, Frisell's side quests have included being a member of punk-jazzers Naked City and appearing on an Earth LP. 7:30 - 9; all ages. Part of the All-Stars Series.

How’d They See That Comin’?
Saturday, June 6. Jefferson Parish Library, Rosedale Branch (4036 Jefferson Hwy. in Old Jefferson). 12:30PM. FREE. Booking
The Visionary Speculative Fiction Book Club, discussing Jeff Vandermeer's novel Annihilation. Contact mparker@jefferson.lib.la.us for further details

The Real Thing
Friday, June 12. Southport Hall. 8:30PM. $18.
A Faith No More tribute.

The Human League | Soft Cell | Alison Moyet
Wednesday, June 17. Saenger Theatre (1111 Canal Street). 7:30PM. $73 - $214.

Joe Jackson & Band
Sunday, June 21. The Joy Theater. 8PM. $63+.

Tori Amos | Bartees Strange
Sunday, July 12. Saenger Theatre (1111 Canal Street). 7:30PM. $60+.

How’d They See That Comin’?
Saturday, July 18. Jefferson Parish Library, Rosedale Branch (4036 Jefferson Hwy. in Old Jefferson). 12:30PM. FREE. Booking
The Visionary Speculative Fiction Book Club, discussing Kim Stanley Robinson's novel New York 2140. Contact mparker@jefferson.lib.la.us for further details

The Debtors
Friday, July 24. Acadiana Center for the Arts (Moncus Theater) (101 West Vermilion Street, Lafayette). 7:30PM. $30.
"Hailing from Lafayette, The Debtors bring a distinctly Southern charm to their shimmering blend of indie rock, nostalgia, and storytelling. With their 2024 album Everyone Is Alright, the five-piece band delivers a dreamy, heartfelt soundtrack for uncertain times — equal parts escapism and reflection. Their music drifts effortlessly from beachy grooves to waltzing ballads, anchored by poetic lyrics and melodies that linger like memory." All ages. 7:30 - 9:30.

One Bad Day
Saturday, August 22. Huckleberry Brewing Co. (4724 Sterkx Road, Alexandria).
One Bad Day performs Alice In Chains Unplugged. All ages.

Call Of Cthulhu Live
Wednesday, September 2. Toulouse Theatre (615 Toulouse Street). 8PM. $22 (advance).
"In 2026, the Glass Cannon Network will unleash a nationwide tour soaked in full-blown Lovecraftian dread. Keeper Troy Lavallee helms a shifting roster of GCN icons and special guests – including Joe O’Brien, Skid Maher, Matthew Capodicasa, Jared Logan, Ross Bryant, Rob Kerkovich, Sydney Amanuel, Noura Ibrahim, Mary Lou, and more – as they descend into brand-new, standalone tales of modern-era cosmic horror. Each chapter stands alone, yet all spiral around a secretive organization desperately trying to hold back forces humanity was never meant to comprehend. Expect wild comedy, slow-creeping terror, and the delicious chaos only a GCN live show can conjure." 18+.

International Dance Festival NOLA
Wednesday, September 16. Acadiana Center For The Arts - Moncus Theater (101 West Vermilion Street, Lafayette). 7:30PM. $35.
"A dynamic evening of movement and creativity featuring selected artists from the 2026 International Dance Festival New Orleans. Cutting-edge choreographers and performers bring their original works to the Spotlight Series, creating a rich intermingling of local spirit and global contemporary dance. Expect a program full of bold physicality, cross-cultural exchange, and imaginative stagecraft, each piece an invitation to witness movement that defies borders and invites connection." All ages; 7:30 - 9:30. Flyer @ simpletix.com/e/244743

"Weird Al" Yankovic | Puddles Pity Party
Wednesday, September 23. Raising Canes River Center (275 South River Road, Baton Rouge). 7:30PM. $55+.
"'Weird Al' brings his legendary full-production multimedia comedy rock show back to the concert stage with the BIGGER & WEIRDER 2026 Tour, playing his iconic hits as well as some never-performed-live-before fan favorites. Al's long-time band is joined by four additional players to create a super-sized concert experience." The super-sizing extends to PPP, a 6'8" clown from Atlanta. Wikipedia: "His shows include a mix of silent prop comedy, mime, and audience participation, with songs interplayed throughout creating a narrative structure. His first performance as an independent act was an experiment for Aqua Teen Hunger Force's 2010 tour."

New Orleans Area DIY Events and Shows