The first few weeks of January are always a bit dead for music, but there’s one thing you can count on as the new year begins: concert announcements. Maybe it’s because a new year seems like a great time to hit the road, or maybe it’s because musicians are doing their books for the previous year and realize they could use a few extra sheckles (hah!) but whatever the reason, concert announcements fly like snowflakes in the first part of a year.
Here are the ones announced so far that I’m most excited about:
I’ve loved this Akron, Ohio based blues rock duo since they released their first album, The Big Come Up, in 2002. It’s hard to believe that the weird dudes I once saw in a small dark club are going to be playing huge arenas on this tour (including Vancouver’ Rogers Arena). Their new album, El Camino, is certainly massive enough to warrant it! I’ll be there!
2. Van Halen
One simple phrase: David Lee Roth.
One simple picture, too.
Reuniting and it feels so good! At the Drive-In was a razor-sharp hardcore band that was just reaching the height of its powers when they broke up in 2001. Of course, parts of the band became the Mars Volta and Sparta, so things turned out okay, but neither of those bands had the sum power of AtDI. Can’t wait to see them live!
4. Drake
Beefing with Common. Releasing an album of sad rap. Subject of a forehead tattoo. There’s never a reason NOT to see Drake, but in 2012, there are plenty of reasons TO see him.
5. Coachella!
Okay, so Coachella isn’t a concert tour. It’s a festival. But it’s in California, and it’s always got the best lineup. Proof for 2012? PULP!!! (And the aforementioned At the Drive-In and Black Keys.) I’ve never been to this amazing festival, but this might be the year. The lineup gets more staggering by the day. Did I mention, PULP???
What concerts are you looking forward to this year? Tell us in the comments.
