The top 15 live shows I saw in 2024 range from doom metal to post-punk. Read on!
#15: The Well – Stubb’s BBQ – Levitation Austin, November 03, 2024
The Well never disappoint. They opened this night of metal at Levitation Austin’s main stage and set a high bar right away. The mix of older material with upcoming stuff from (hopefully) a new record landing this year was top notch.
#14: The The – Salt Shed, Chicago, IL, October 25, 2024
Here’s a band I wasn’t sure I’d ever get to see live. Matt Johnson returned with a new The The album and then a world tour. It was his first time in the U.S. in over two decades. They played two sets: The first being The The’s new album, Ensoulment, in its entirety and the second being a “time traveler’s set” of classic material. Johnson still sounds great.
#13: A Place to Bury Strangers – Stubb’s BBQ – Levitation Austin, October 31, 2024
Here’s another band who never disappoint. It was my girlfriend, Holly’s, first time seeing APTBS. I told frontman Oliver Ackermann (dressed, like his bandmates, as a vampire for Halloween) before the show that I envied her innocence. Her review? “I need a neck adjustment after that.” I don’t think I can sum it up better.
#12: Jon Spencer – Stockroom East, South Bend, IN, July 11, 2024
Holy $#!+. Jon Spencer and the rhythm section of The Bobby Lees played a forty-minute drive from my house. This small venue almost couldn’t handle their energy. The small crowd at this show got a great gift from them.
#11: Gang of Four – Far Out Lounge – Levitation Austin, November 01, 2024
Here’s another band I wasn’t sure I’d get to see live. This great set by Gang of Four was one of the top highlights of 2024’s Levitation Austin Music Festival for me. Everyone in this crowd was hyped to see them, and Jon King smashing a microwave with an aluminum ball bat was gold.
My top ten shows of 2024 include some old favorites and one final (?) tour. Come back tomorrow for more!
Keep your mind open.
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