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.
In times when communities are visibly struggling, it’s natural to seek out ways you can make a positive impact on your own. This week’s picks bring us three such opportunities, the first of which just might be the most fun you have at a local show this year.
We’re starting with Saturday’s live show at Andoyne because we don’t get a ton of chances to talk about concerts that include the phrases “pajama party” and “pillow pit.” You’ll find both at Snüzfest, a benefit rock show that originated when Chicago pop-punk outfit Guardrail brought together bands and fans to help local nonprofits back in 2018.
Milwaukee ska-rockers Something to Do thought the idea would find an audience on this end of I-94, so they’re hosting what’s hopefully the first of many Snüzfests this Saturday. Guardrail will be on hand to give their official seal of approval as part of the night’s lineup, which also includes I Voted for Kodos, Gold Steps and Lefty Luci. All proceeds from the show ($10 in advance and $15 at the door) will benefit:
- Pathfinders, which provides programs and resources for youth ages 19-25 to ensure immediate safety and and long-term housing stability.
- Repairers of the Breach, a daytime refuge and resource center for homeless adults open six days per week that provides emergency warming-room sites.
If you’re looking to make an impact in a different way Saturday, head to Riverwest institution Linneman’s for Bleecker and Beyond: A Celebration of the Folk Roots of Americana. The night features nine local artists — including Chris Haise, Taxmen and Deadelijk — covering folk giants like Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Dave Von Ronk. A suggested donation of $10 (although more is appreciated) will get you in the door, with proceeds going to provide musical instruments for Milwaukee Public Schools.
Switching back to the more amped-up end of the spectrum, Falcon Hall will host the third member of our benefit trio: a Voces de la Frontera fundraiser that’ll get a little loud courtesy of Totally Cashed, Killer High Life, Heavy Bend and Waterspouts. This is another show that’ll set you back a 10’er if you get your tickets in advance, and proceeds go to Wisconsin’s leading immigrant-rights organization.
Best concerts in Milwaukee this week
- Jan. 28: Cause And Control, Killer High Life, I’ll Remember April @ Cactus Club, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 30: The Driftless Revelers, Kenny Hotopp @ Anodyne, 7:30 p.m.
- Jan. 30: Avenues, Calamity, Tiger Lily @ The Cooperage, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 30: Totally Cashed w/Killer High Life, Heavy Bend, Waterspouts @ Falcon Bowl, 7:30 p.m.
- Jan. 31: Bleecker & Beyond: Folk Roots of Americana @ Linneman’s, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 31: Snüzfest feat. Something to Do, I Voted For Kodos, Guardrail, Gold Steps, Lefty Luci @ Anodyne, 6 p.m.
- Jan. 31: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony @ The Rave, 8 p.m.
- Feb. 1: Big Head Todd & The Monsters @ Pabst Theater, 7:30 p.m.
- Feb. 1: In Memory of Bob Weir @ The Cooperage, 5 p.m.
- Feb. 3: runo plum, Lutalo (solo) @ Cactus Club, 7 p.m.
- Feb. 3: WMSE Local/Live feat. Emmitt James @ Anodyne, 6 p.m.
