The Ritz Raleigh Weclomes Ratatat

             

Since The Ritz Raleigh was purchased by Live Nation in the fall of 2014, the venue has experienced a much needed and noticeable makeover that is attracting better known artists to the Triangle.  While Raleigh has no shortage of local talent to keep live music enthusiasts content, the Ritz Raleigh has welcomed acts that traditionally would have bypassed the state's capital for the more established Fillmore in Charlotte, also owned and operated by Live Nation.  If you've been waiting to check out the new and improved Ritz or if you're looking for an opportunity to return, we are here to highlight one of the upcoming shows that is guaranteed to be an unforgettable night!  

On Tuesday night the rocktronica duo of Mike Stroud and Evan Mast, better known as Ratatat, will be stopping in to play alongside Jackson and His Computer Band. Based out of Brooklyn, NY, a live Ratatat performance is certain to be unlike any other show you've ever experienced.  From Stroud's masterful guitar playing to the tightly orchestrated beats and graphics provided by Mast, the energy in The Ritz is one you'll not want to miss.  Most recently the XL Recording duo released their first album in five years, Magnifique, after performing at major festivals in 2015 such as Coachella and Governor's Ball in NY.  The show is set to start at 8pm and tickets are still available at LiveNation.com.  For a preview of the funky good time to be had on Tuesday, check out "Cream of Chrome," from their newest album.  Get your tickets now and we'll see you there, Raleigh!

The Music Freak's Guide to NYE

Just like all big decisions in life, choosing where to ring in 2016 should be based on music.  Raleigh has plenty to offer this New Year's Eve, the tough part will be deciding which acts to see.  Check out our top picks for the most amazing start to 2016.

The Ritz

Thankfully, The Ritz and Live Nation have finally brought EDM to the Triangle.  Disco Donnie presents Brillz to ring in 2016.  We had the great fortune of catching Brillz in Charlotte last month and the show is nothing short of spectacular.  If you're looking for a hype night with electrifying beats, the place to be is The Ritz.  Brillz brings an energy to his performance that will undoubtedly surge through the crowd and will welcome 2016 in an unforgettable way.  The party starts at 8 at the very affordable cost of $20.

The Pour House

The Pour House has done an amazing job of creating a lineup to please all lovers of live music.  With The Love Language, Zack Mexico, Faults, and DJ Clickdat, it's pretty near impossible to not have a memorable night filled with singing, dancing, and great company.  This mixture of unique artists offers an evening of indie rock hits and psych pop beats.  Of course, it wouldn't be a New Year's Eve party without a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.  The music begins at 9, doors at 8.

Kings

Kings always knows how to throw together a fun lineup and New Year's Eve is no exception.  The highly creative and energetic TOW3RS will be joined by garage psych band WOOL and Heads on Sticks, creating the perfect recipe for shoulder-poppin' dance moves.  $12 at the door will also get you a champagne toast at midnight.  Doors open at 9 with music starting at 9:30.

 

Lincoln Theatre

Bring in 2016 with a great fusion of funk, rock, and pop with Big Something and Groove Fetish.  Named Best Rising Artist of 2014 by Live Music Daily, Big Something meshes guitar riffs, synths, and horns to provide a party with every song played.  Tickets are $25 and the fun begings at 9.

First Night Raleigh 2016

 
Artsplosure has assembled a great mixture of activities and music for people of all ages for this year's First Night.  The music acts include Johnny Folsom 4, Jonathan Byrd and Sea Gulls.  TOW3RS will also make an appearance at the Vintage Church at 9:30.  Bluegrass punksters Scythian will play both the early countdown from 6-7 and the classic acorn drop at midnight.  There's a lot happening at this event, so be sure to check out the complete schedule at the First Night website. 


Now all you need to worry about is who to kiss at midnight...choose wisely.  Happy start to 2016, folks!

American Roots Music and Arts Festival Lineup Announced

Big music news hit Raleigh today; the fist inaugural American Roots and Arts Festival is coming to the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre on October 17 and 18.  The festival has released the beginning lineup, with more acts to be added.

North Carolina's own Eric Church will headline both days of the fest.  Other artists on the lineup include Modest Mouse, Willie Nelson, The Roots, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Grace Potter, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Sheryl Crow and more.  To see the full lineup and complete details, head over to the Blackbird Music Group's website.

Tickets go on sale Monday, August 10 via Live Nation.  Pre-sales begin Thursday, August 6 for the Artist Fan Club, Blackbird newsletters subscribers, and Citi cardmembers.  VIP and Super VIP packages are also available.

In addition to an impressive lineup, local food and beer will be available for the Taste of Raleigh Food and Brews Celebration, proving that this festival seems to have it all.  Stay tuned for updates and additions to the lineup.   

On Sale Now:

There are several awesome shows coming to the area in the upcoming months.  Here are just a few on sale this week:

 

Paramore and Fall Out Boy will make a stop at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre on July 22.  The pop punk bands have joined forces for the Monumentour, which will reach several cities.  Fans will certainly be pleased with this show as it is said to include 3 hours of popular songs by both bands.  Fall Out Boy released their Save Rock and Roll album in 2013 and it instantly sold millions of copies.  "Still Into You" by Paramore has been a fan favorite throughout the year.  Tickets are currently on sale. For tickets and a complete tour list, click here.

Rob Thomas:  Singer, songwriter, and Matchbox 20 frontman, Rob Thomas will be completing a month-long tour throughout North America.  The show promises to cover songs spanning Thomas' award-winning career.  Thomas will make a stop at Durham's Performing Arts Center on Thursday, May 1.  Tickets are currently on sale, to get yours  and to see a complete tour list, click here. 




Bastille:  Brit pop rockers Bastille had an amazing 2013 with the chart topping song, "Pompei" and several award nominations in the UK and US.  They are now touring with Wolf Gang and will hit the Ritz (formerly Disco Rodeo) in Raleigh on May 13. Tickets are currently on sale, click here to get yours!  Check out the official "Pompeii" video below.