December 2016

Eight Gigs: Y&T

Eddie December 29, 2016 No Comments

Wed., Dec. 31, 7 p.m., Ace Of Spades, $35-$40

Y&T frontman Dave Meneketti has persevered and proved the current band a formidable headliner with drummer Mike Vanderhule, guitarist John Nymann and new bassist Aaron Leigh. This hard-rock quartet still pays tribute to its former fallen members—bassist Phil Kennemore and skinsman Leonard Haze—in song by playing the original, respective parts with gusto. And while Y&T may not be quite as prolific as die-hard fans would like, the early catalog including (but certainly not limited to) 1982’s Black Tiger, 1981’s Earthshaker and 1983’s Mean Streak still pack a heavy punch. 1417 R Street, www.yandtrocks.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Eddie December 25, 2016 No Comments

Wed., Dec. 28, 3:30 and 8 p.m., Golden 1 Center, $36-$73

Fan of operatic rock? Tired of the same ol’ Christmas music being piped into nearly every radio station and shopping mall speaker system? The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is your remedy—still festive, but refreshingly different. And loud. The Washington Post once described them as “Pink Floyd meets Yes and The Who at Radio City Music Hall.” Brace for a stunning visual show in addition to big music—this troupe carries quite a lighting package and stage set, and is sure to stun even the strictly holiday-tune averse. 500 David J Stern Walk, www.trans-siberian.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Xasthur

Eddie December 11, 2016 No Comments

Thu., Dec. 15, Starlite Lounge, $10

1517 21st Street, www.facebook.com/Xasthur-acousticunplugged-824188390951258.

Scott Conner came screaming out of the abyss with his first couple of releases. Unlike other like-minded one-man acts such as Leviathan and even Striborg, Conner offered an alternate take for those suffering from depression. His brash recordings seemingly glorified death and gave one the feeling they were were being dragged to another fiery dimension. As expected, this is a rare acoustic show where, in keeping with the weather forecast, some very ill winds will blow.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: The Pretenders

Eddie December 8, 2016 No Comments

Tue., Dec. 13, 7 p.m., Golden 1 Center, $49.50-$149.50

500 David J Stern Walk, www.thepretenders.com.

For the uninitiated, English-based rock act the Pretenders has been driven by the voice of singer-songwriter and frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, the band’s only constant since forming in 1978. If songs like “Brass in Pocket” or “Message of Love” have never come up on your Pandora or Spotify station, make a new station with this band included immediately; Hynde’s unique voice and penchant for writing soulful rock ’n’ roll are a thing to behold. The Pretenders are presently on tour in support of its recent album Alone and are opening for some up-and-comer named Stevie Nicks.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Celtic Woman

Eddie December 1, 2016 No Comments

Thu., Dec. 1, 7 p.m., Community Center Theater, $50-$110

For those who’ve never seen Celtic Woman, be prepared for a wild stage show quite literally replete with all the bells and whistles. This year’s classically themed show Home for Christmas: The Symphony Tour will feature music from the successful Home for Christmas. Expect Irish jigs, traditional dance and a seasonal twist. This ensemble is one of the best of the batch when it comes to Celtic music and festivities. The current touring troupe includes vocalists Mairead Carlin, Susan McFadden, Eabha McMahon and the multitalented Tara McNeill doubling on harp and violin duties. 1301 L Street, www.celticwoman.com.

(SN&R)