5 Live Music Musts - July 8, 2016

Belly at Parlour Newport

A major event this weekend for fans of a fabled 90’s band from Boston with a big Rhode Island connection. Newport native Tanya Donelly fronts Belly, a band that once graced the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. The band is gearing up for its first tour in 20 years and is planning a “run through” this weekend at the Parlour in Newport. Tickets only $15 here – get them ahead of time as this show will definitely sell out.

New Bedford Folk Festival

The New Bedford Folk Festival returns to the whaling city this weekend with five stages of some of the best in folk, world and Americana. Headliners include the (James) Taylor siblings Kate and Livingston, RI native Cheryl Wheeler, folk giant John Gorka and delta blues great Rory Block. Other “don’t miss” acts include Runa, Canadian Benoit Bourque and Melissa Ferrick. This list goes on and on. The festival runs from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday and is located in and around the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center and the Whaling National Historical Park in downtown New Bedford. Tickets are $20 for a single day or $25 for a weekend pass with VIP tickets also available. Click here for all the details.

(Pictured: Rory Block. Photo: Shonna Valeska)

Swans at Fete Tonight

A top indie show this week happens tonight when the Swans land at Fete in Providence. Known for their experimental rock sounds, the band emerged from the New York “no wave” scene in the early 1980’s. They recently released their 14th studio album, The Glowing Man to positive reviews in the indie press. Okkyung Lee opens the show around 7PM with tickets $25 in advance and $28 at the door.

Xfinity Center Rocks

The Xfinity Center will be rocking the rafters this week with four big shows. The fun starts tonight with 5 Seconds of Summer. Then Sunday, it’s a classic rock extravaganza with Journey, the Doobie Brothers and Dave Mason.  “This Is What the Truth Feels Like Tour” with Gwen Stefani and Eve arrives on Tuesday July 12. And finally, the Vans Warped Tour with over 100 bands is scheduled for Wednesday July 13. Ticket information for all shows here.

Block-a-Palooza Thursday

The annual Block-a-Palooza party comes to Fall River next Thursday July 14 headlined by Texas rockers Los Lonely Boys. The Grammy nominated band blends elements of rock and roll, Texas blues, brown eyed soul, country, and Tejano to create a uniquely warm sound. The 4th annual event is free and takes place on South Main Street in front of the District Court House in downtown Fall River. Local rockers the Neal McCarthy Problem open at 6PM. More details here.