It’s the first weekend of 2014, and why not spend it with some righteous local music? Don’t let that snow stop you, folks — unless, of course, it’s too dangerous to get out to a club, in which case, stay home.
Thursday, Jan. 2
Local shoegazy alt-rock trio Strange Mangers kicks off a promising 2014 at O’Brien’s, leading a killer bill consisting of some of the best bands from just outside Boston (8 p.m., $8, 21+). For a taste of something more acoustic, head to Lizard Lounge and shake your stuff to the sweet bluegrass of Portland, Maine-based Tricky Britches (10 p.m., $12, 21+). Whatever you choose, be safe on those roads!
Friday, Jan. 3
Allston all-stars Mean Creek lead a benefit show for local friend Lianne Segar, who suffered a car accident and could use a bit of post-holiday generosity. The quartet is joined by fellow Allston hoodrats Earthquake Party and The Fagettes at Great Scott (9:30, $10, 21+). If you’re into the jammier side of things, why not vibe to the music of the kings of noodly goodness? Playin’ Dead, New England’s supreme Grateful Dead cover band, will channel the kind spirits of Jerry and Co. at the Middle East. It may not be the pyramids, but it’ll do (8 p.m., $15, 18+). For a different kind of groove, head right next door to ZuZu and catch Solid! dance night featuring Flavorheard on the ones and twos (11 p.m., $5, 21+).
Saturday, Jan. 4
Local trio Fax Holiday heads to Roggie’s in Brighton to celebrate the release of its new EP “Big Fear,” with the help of western Mass. rockers Bunny’s a Swine, Brooklyn punks Los Finks, and local newcomers Vundabar (7 p.m., $6, all ages). For an even heavier option, break out the black and studs and head to O’Brien’s for a punk bill led by local garage rats Triple Thick (with The Little Richards, White Pages, and Matas Ratas; 8 p.m., $10, 21+).
Sunday, Jan. 5
Not a whole lot to choose from on Sunday, but that’s not the worst thing, right? If you’re craving some live music though, your best bet is to head to the Middle East Upstairs and catch a local bill fronted by alt-pop quartet Halfway to Avalon (with Ellis, Aero, Here We Just Dream, and Milk; 7 p.m., $12, all ages).
