We’re seeing a pretty wide variety of acts coming through this April! From well-known pop acts and Grammy award-winning ensembles to local favorites, there should be something for everyone this season. Here’s a look at some of the big shows coming through town this month (and be sure to check out the other shows to keep on your radar at the bottom).
Blind Boys of Alabama and Shemekia Copeland
The Lied Center | April 4
How often do you get to see a band that’s been in the business for 70 years? If you want to be just blown away by an award-winning blues ensemble, this is the place to be. Blind Boys of Alabama will be performing instantly recognizable numbers spanning their decades-long and award-winning career. They will be joined by Shemekia Copeland and her powerhouse vocals.
RIYL: Watching living legends in real life
Neon Trees
The Granada | April 11
Indie rockers Neon Trees have maintained a presence for more than a decade, and this month they’ll be heading to the Granada in support of their latest album, Sink Your Teeth, released just last fall. The band still maintains an infectious high-energy sound reminiscent of their early years (do they even age at this point?), so expect an indie rock dance party.
RIYL: Fun., The Killers, Grouplove, Hembree
Me Like Bees
The Bottleneck | April 12
Me Like Bees may as well be a local band at this point. The Missouri rockers are no strangers to Lawrence, and a must-see for local music fans. They have a stage presence that does not translate onto their recorded music. You must see them live. They are wild, unruly, and the raw vocals send shivers down your spine. Considering they’re teaming up with The Whips, this is going to be one energetic show.
RIYL: Danceable rock songs, soulful vocals
Kansas City Bearfighters and Wayne Gottstine
The Replay | April 18
This is going to be one of those perfect springtime patio shows (as long as it doesn’t rain). Kansas City Bearfighters (cool band name) are a riot, and this is definitely a show you should bring your kiddos to. It’s early and all ages. Wayne Gottstine’s return to the stage after a cancer battle will be reason enough to celebrate. Come to this show for all the warm fuzzies and good vibes.
RIYL: Bands with silly and fun lyrics
Five for Fighting
Liberty Hall | April 25
We love it when artists take a unique approach to their tours, and this is a good example of that. Five for Fighting is hitting the road this Spring, kicking off their tour in Lawrence. But this time, John Ondrasik will be backed up by a string quartet. With an impressive discography, including six studio albums, under his belt, Ondrasik will be debuting new songs and arrangements, and promises a few surprises on the way.
RIYL: Lighthouse, Edwin McCain, Michelle Branch
This is the place where Nirvana & Green Day played in a small, standing-room-only shack. This is the place where Janelle Monae packed in her hometown crowd. George Clinton has funked up our streets and we “fought the power” with...
