Upcoming concerts in the Twin Cities

During the fall months, the Twin Cities are bustling with festivals, markets, outdoor activities and a busy nightlife. One aspect of the cities’ active nightlife is the plethora of fall concerts. There is a wide variety of musical talent at various locations, and some tickets are easy on a college student’s wallet. Here is a sample of the October concerts available to St. Thomas students in the Twin Cities:

1. Sufjan Stevens at the Orpheum Theatre Oct. 16

(Photo courtesy: Marzuki Stevens-31)
(Courtesy: Marzuki Stevens)

Sufjan (pronounced Soof-yan) Stevens is a talented singer and songwriter from Detroit, Michigan. He began his solo career in 1999 and his debut album, “Sun Came,” showcased a well-versed understanding of composition, complex melody and diverse instrumentation. He has since released nine albums, his latest being “The Age of Adz.” While this latest venture takes a more experimental and electronic approach, Stevens’ trademark dream-like sound is still present: his voice diffuses through his songs and layers over a wide range of instruments. His live shows do not disappoint either. Stevens plays more than 20 instruments and his performances demonstrate a command of melody.

(Courtesy of: Tyrone Wells)
(Courtesy: Tyrone Wells)

2. Tyrone Wells at the Cedar Cultural Center Oct. 21

Tyrone Wells grew up listening only to gospel music in his hometown of Spokane, Washington. He diversified his musical influences to include artists such as James Taylor and Stevie Wonder. These influences show in his soulful sound and meaningful lyrics. Wells is known for writing emotional and powerful lyrics accompanied by a spacious sound reminiscent of bands such as Coldplay and OneRepublic. Wells’ performance at the Cedar Cultural Center is sure to be a relaxed event centered around upbeat melodies and insightful lyrics.

Beau Grealy
(Courtesy: Beau Grealy)

3. The Script at the State Theatre Oct. 22
The Script really exploded on the music scene last year, even though the band has been around since 2001. The Irish trio, made popular by its songs, “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved,” and “Breakeven,” is known for its R&B/pop sound and catchy melodies. The Script’s live performance is sure to be filled with enthusiasm and songs you can easily sing along to.

4. LCD Soundsystem at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium Oct. 23

lcd-soundsystem-this-is-happening-cover-art
(Courtesy: LCD Soundsystem)

Indie group LCD Soundsystem, fronted by DFA Records co-founder James Murphy, is known for itselectronic and minimalistic sound. LCD Soundsystem’s second breakout album, “Sound of Silver,” received world-wide critical acclaim for its unique melodies and lyrics. The band layers keyboard, electronic guitar and bass for a danceable alternative music style. Following opening act Hot Chip, LCD Soundsystem is sure to put on a high-energy show with plenty of bass.

Rebecca Omastiak can be reached at omas5009@stthomas.edu.