Milwaukee’s concert scene has a lot going on, so we look at the shows coming up to find the ones you’ll look back on and be glad you went. Then we add them to our weekly Milwaukee Concert Picks.
Lili Trifilio’s Chicago-based indie pop-punk project Beach Bunny turned out two emotionally churning singles last year, “Vertigo” and “Clueless” — both currently streaming on a Bandcamp page sporting the succinct bio: “sad lady.” The latter single got its release in September and leans on growing-pains-induced, heart-wrenching nostalgia that’s instantly relatable:
Was it better? I was younger, different problems, different names
Was it perfect? Was it simple? Was it more or less the same?
How did it change?
How did I change?
That “sad lady” banner is what has endeared Beach Bunny to many fans; her song’s subjects seek to resonate with anyone struggling just to get through the day-to-day.
Trifilio has been filling her days by preparing Tunnel Vision — another full journey via emotional rollercoaster. For many fans, it feels as though the album’s been in the works forever as they wait to share more simpatico moments with Trifilio.
Luckily, the wait ends this weekend, when Beach Bunny kicks off a modest three-date tour. As Trifilio shared on her socials: “first time playing ‘Tunnel Vision’ live, can’t wait for yal to hear the track very soon [and] learn the words!” Even better, Milwaukee gets the first listen this Friday at Turner Hall Ballroom, where Beach Bunny will take the stage with Delaney Bailey in support.
Best concerts in Milwaukee this week
- Jan. 23: Cassini Echoes w/Resurrectionists, New Beliefs @ Cactus Club, 7:30 p.m.
- Jan. 24: Music Go Round x Volta Records present So Zuppy w/Ghost Cuts, Courtesy @ Cactus Club, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 24: Tigernite w/Breakup Tour, Long Line Riders, (D)Vices @ X-Ray Arcade, 6 p.m.
- Jan. 25: 4th Annual Bluegrass Winter Heater w/The Milbillies, Joseph Huber, Maygen & The Birdwatcher, Valley Fox @ The Cooperage, 7:30 p.m.
- Jan. 25: Jail Guitar Doors Benefit w/Deadelijk, Chris Haise, Matthew Davies, Chris Porterfield, The Taxmen and more @ Linneman’s, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 26: The Namby Pamby w/The Part Timers, Caley Conway, Maximiano @ X-Ray Arcade, 6:30 p.m.
- Jan. 27: Grizfolk w/Bowvee, Blacktop, Sludge, Hawking @ X-Ray Arcade, 6:30pm
- Jan. 27: Meshell Ndegeocello @ Vivarium, 7 p.m.
