1 LAURYN HILL (Chicago Theatre) The legendary singer-rapper-songwriter tours the twentieth anniversary of her groundbreaking—if not revolutionary—album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” October 7
2 NINE INCH NAILS (Aragon) Thirty years on, the industrial giants are again essential listening. Their new album, “Bad Witch,” is the howling assault on societal decay that the Trump era demands. October 25-27
3 TANK AND THE BANGAS (Concord Music Hall) After unanimously winning last year’s NPR Tiny Desk Contest, this disarmingly fierce New Orleans funk-soul-hip-hop ensemble gives you a chance to hear them live. October 26
4 BOŽO VRECO (Old Town School) The gender-fluid Bosnian Serb singer specializes in Sevdalinka, the emotionally rich Bosnian folk music; his mesmerizing performances melt cultural boundaries. October 27
5 THE STANLEY CLARKE BAND (SPACE) The elder statesman jazz bassist rides herd over an ensemble of young players, and lends his groove and gravitas to their irrepressible energy. October 16
Robert Rodi is an author, spoken-word performer and musician who has served as Newcity’s Music Editor since 2014. He’s written more than a dozen books, including the travel memoir “Seven Seasons In Siena,” and his literary and music criticism has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune, Salon, The Huffington Post and many other national and regional publications. Contact: robert@newcity.com
