Kendrick Scott Berklee Ensemble

The Signature Series presents drummer, composer, and bandleader <a href="http://www.kendrickscott.com/">Kendrick Scott</a> leading the Kendrick Scott Berklee Ensemble. Matthew Stevens, associate professor in the Ensemble Department, selected the student ensemble. He auditioned and rehearsed them with Scott's chosen repertoire in preparation for the concert. Scott has toured with Herbie Hancock, Charles Lloyd, the Crusaders, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Kurt Elling, and Terence Blanchard. Scott’s first two releases on Blue Note as a leader presented his band Kendrick Scott Oracle: We Are the Drum (2015) and A Wall Becomes a Bridge (2019). Scott was also a member of the Blue Note All-Stars, a supergroup formed for the label’s 75th anniversary. Featuring Ambrose Akinmusire, Robert Glasper, Derrick Hodge, Lionel Loueke, and Marcus Strickland, the group released the album Our Point Of View in 2017. Scott’s 2023 Blue Note album, Corridors, finds him pairing down to a trio with saxophonist Walter Smith III and bassist Reuben Rogers.

The Red Room @ Cafe 939

Get to the Gig Boston/MassConcerts Present: Hannah Cole and Park National

Nashville-based artist and songwriter <a href="https://linktr.ee/hannah.cole?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabrcnMbV7BkSUYwbWGAv1Jz5TcgroPjSzbHbod6Zl_zZTx2GN2KtFcDkJs_aem_4WGyPnu8KgOkTTMPFXb90A">Hannah Cole</a> is embracing bitterness in her newest EP, Big Bite. The title track, “Big Bite,” invites us into the moody allure of Cole with a wide soundscape bristling with grungy grit and biting riffs. The bass groans in the low end, while electric guitars converse in varying shades of melancholic resentment. Layers of harmonies supernova the chorus with coexisting brightness and low, brooding tones. There are elements of soccer mom-esque bubble grunge to be found in Cole’s sound, sprinkling feminine rage into an alternative soundscape. It’s the darkness that really brands this EP with the signature of Cole—the guitars that somehow sit like a pit in your stomach while simultaneously lighting a fire in your chest. It’s maroon in essence, slightly sullen but rich and vibrant in sound.   Cole picks up a bit of a pop pace in "Nuisance," lifting us out of the relative gloom of Big Bite, as driving drums and rhythmic guitars propel us onward. The treatment of the soundscape is an interesting facet of Cole’s style, but it’s especially captivating in this song. We start out dialed in close to the sound, almost as if she is singing hush-toned secrets through the radio effect on the vocals. Then, going into the pre-chorus, the reach of the sound multiplies, and suddenly every corner of the track is flush with aching guitars and slight distortion.   “Hilda” presents its soul on a platter of ambient synths and a cyclical, rhythmic progression. Cole rarely strays from vulnerability, but the production of this song really lets her breathe into the intimacy of the lyrics, inviting listeners to choke down the hard pill of adulthood alongside her. “But if life is getting old forever, at least we’re getting older together,” she confidently sings.   Closing out the EP, “Melt” picks up from the soft ground of “Hilda,” and then guides us hand-in-hand back to a place of moodiness. “Melt” ends Big Bite with a little fire of resentment burning alongside melancholy, a productive flame of spite deepened by the grunge guitar tones. For one final song, listeners can bask in cathartic bitterness as Cole muses on the push and pull of loving and hating someone in equal amounts.   Through a genre-defying discography guided by a DIY ethos, <a href="https://www.parknationalmusic.com/">Park National </a> <a href="https://www.parknationalmusic.com/">(Opens in a new window)</a> has cultivated a dedicated community of fans with his introspective-yet-cathartic indie rock. The project of Chicago-born songwriter-instrumentalist Liam Fagan first made waves in the Midwest emo scene with his 2020 debut The Big Glad, a self-produced 8-track characterized by colorful emo-pop guitar playing and the turmoil of young adulthood. Hits like "How to Stop Caring" and "Beef Shawarma" quickly became staples in the DlY community, attracting attention from hundreds of thousands of listeners and gaining the record over 3 million streams to date.    Performed entirely by Fagan, the catalog has since ventured into sonic territories spanning from the grunge-y punk of the EP I'm Here and This Is Real to the folk-leaning indie rock of mirror. Yet despite this stylistic whiplash, fans have continued to grow closer to Fagan's songwriting—some even getting lyric tattoos and flying great distances to attend shows. It hasn't slowed down, either; he continues to maintain a steady 16,000 monthly-listener base on Spotify, over 50,000 on TikTok, and a global reach into the UK, Europe, and Australia.    Park National's palpable spirit is reflected not only through his hand-woven recordings but in dynamic full-band performances packed with personality and chemistry. Sharing bills with esteemed acts such as Oso Oso, Sweet Pill, Young Culture, and Crime in Stereo has brought bedroom-born songs to life on big stages while creating fresh experiences for fans with special live arrangements.

LØLØ: U TOUR ME ON

<a href="https://www.itslolomusic.com/">LØLØ</a>’s journey started long before she became the fully-formed pop-rock force we now know today, gracing the stage with her hard-hitting passion and tour de force performance energy. As a child rifling through her eclectic and extensive CD collection, which included everything from the Wizard of Ozsoundtrack to Green Day, she learned how to play “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)"— she never put the guitar down from that point on. Emerging in 2018, she attracted a rabid fan base with her heart-on-her-sleeve lyrics and hard-hitting melodies spiked with a pop-rock spirit. She has dropped three EPs including overkill (2021) and debbie downer (2022). Among various standouts, her cover of “Dancing in the Dark” garnered over 29 million Spotify streams followed by “u turn me on (but u give me depression)” with over 16 million Spotify streams. Plus, she earned the applause of Ones To Watch, Kerrang!’s Sounds of 2024, Alternative Press, 1883 magazine, and tmrw. PAPER magazine said, “Full of all the anger, angst, cynicism, and depression that makes a proper pop punk artist, Toronto singer-songwriter LØLØ is well on the rise." In 2021, she collaborated with pop punk icons Simple Plan on their Amazon exclusive, “I’m Just a Kid.” Moreover, she toured with everyone from Boys Like Girls to New Found Glory and Against the Current and has performed at Lollapalooza, Sad Summer Festival, and Slam Dunk Festival. Along the way, she crafted what became falling for robots and wishing I was one with producer Mike Robinson.  “I feel things way too hard,” she observes. “Maybe it’s a terrible thing for relationships, but it comes in handy for songwriting. Little things that shouldn’t affect me do. I often find myself wishing I didn’t feel so deeply. Growing up in the world today can be very complicated. You have to worry about all of these little factors. In a sense, the album really explores what it means to be human these days.”

Murs

A true rap icon from the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, brings a raw and unfiltered voice to the culture of hip hop. With roots in the vibrant&nbsp;indie scene of the late 90’s and early aughts MURS stands as a testament to authenticity and lyrical brilliance. He began carving his path with compelling narratives and a distinctive sound with the Living Legends collective. He solidified his own legendary status in 2004 with the release of his album Murs 3:16 produced by 9th Wonder on jewel runner El-P’s label Def Jux. From there he was picked up by Warner Bros. where he released Murs For President. Inspired by the legends like Tupac and his contemporaries, MURS's music is a fusion of introspective narratives and socially conscious themes, drawing inspiration from the golden era of hip-hop and beyond. He, in-turn, influenced the next generation of hip-hop having shared the stage with and collaborated on songs with leaders of the new school such as Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller and Rapsody. He’s respected by OG’s in the game as well having rocked songs and shows with rap veterans like E-40, Snoop Dogg and Warren G. Over his illustrious career, MURS has released numerous critically acclaimed albums,&nbsp;&nbsp;rocked on numerous tours and festivals , gaining a dedicated following. Along the way he co founded his own festival Paid Dues&nbsp;in conjunction with Guerilla Union. 2016 saw him make hip hop history by setting a Guinness World Record by&nbsp;“Rapping for 24 Hours Non-Stop”&nbsp;during a&nbsp;Twitch.tv&nbsp;livestream. In late 2023 he began releasing his weekly Best Rapper In LA podcast which receives nearly 3k downloads weekly. This December he celebrated the BRILA one year anniversary with a sold-out live recording of the pod in his hometown.&nbsp; Currently he is making rounds on his last nationwide headlining tour, promoting his final album “Love and Rockets 3:16.” After almost 30 years of touring and releasing music, the husband and father of 4, is switching his focus to family.&nbsp;

Jessica Lea Mayfield/Margaux

<a href="http://jessicaleamayfield.bandcamp.com/">Jessica Lea Mayfield</a> is a singer-songwriter hailing from rural Ohio. She’s been active as a solo artist since she was 15 and grew up living on a bus and traveling to bluegrass festivals with her family’s band. She writes ominous Appalachian folk rock that explores themes of love, relationships, and human dynamics. Her fourth studio album, produced by Day Wave, is set to be released at the end of this year. She will soon be announcing East and West Coast fall and winter tour dates. Margaux, a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, blends poetic storytelling with a rich musicality shaped by her diverse influences and background. Born in Seattle to a French father and an American mother, she moved to New York to study jazz and later earned a degree in poetry and non-fiction at the New School. Her debut EP,&nbsp;More Brilliant is the Hand that Throws the Coin&nbsp;(2019), earned critical acclaim, with&nbsp;Pitchfork&nbsp;praising its "uncannily wise and self-assured" songwriting. Margaux’s poetic lyricism and versatility have made her a sought-after collaborator, touring and recording with indie acts like Katy Kirby and Dougie Poole. Her debut full-length album,&nbsp;Inside the Marble, showcases a deeply introspective yet ambitious approach to songwriting. Exploring themes of heartbreak, growth, and emotional chaos, the album features intricate arrangements, including orchestral flourishes and experimental textures. Margaux and producer Sahil Ansari spent nearly five years crafting the record, drawing on everything from birdsong recorded in rural France to innovative percussive techniques. The result is an intimate yet sweeping work that captures both the fragility and grandeur of human emotion.

Molly Lewis

Welcome to Café Molly—a lounge bar unlike any other. Picture this: low lights, ice-cold martinis, plush velvet banquettes, and the stage glowing with the magnetic presence of whistler&nbsp;<a href="https://www.molly-lewis.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGzHkpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHctZPPvmCnjjbhs7rf_7hofzLJYno7qdaCyuThit8a8aE2Tw1us2q0as-g_aem_ljubltro4drnEy5VP6V3Og">Molly Lewis</a>. Following her exotica-infused&nbsp;The Forgotten Edge&nbsp;EP and the tropicalia-inspired&nbsp;Mirage&nbsp;EP, Lewis captures the essence of Café Molly in her debut album,&nbsp;On the Lips,&nbsp;a dreamy homage to classic mood music. This evocative collection conjures visions of misty Hollywood jazz clubs, Italian cinema soundtracks, and tender, lingering embraces. Recorded at Diamond West Studios in Pasadena with producer Thomas Brenneck of the Menahan Street Band, the sessions embraced an open-door policy, welcoming an impressive roster of acclaimed musicians. Collaborators include Nick Hakim, Latin Grammy–nominated Brazilian guitarist Rogê, Leland Whitty and Chester Hansen of BADBADNOTGOOD, Chicano soul group Thee Sacred Souls (featured on the poignant track “Crushed Velvet”), experimental jazz pianist Marco Benevento, and Leon Michels of El Michels Affair. Lewis's intoxicating compositions and wry stage presence (she may not sing, but she can deliver a joke with panache) signal her ascent into the storied lore of the Los Angeles lounge scene—and beyond. So pull up a chair, order your favorite drink, and let yourself be captivated by&nbsp;On the Lips.

zachy

"zachy, an up-and-coming artist from Richmond, Virginia, is carving out his place in the indie-folk scene with his genuine and unfiltered music. As a multi-talented creator handling production, performance, mixing, and mastering, zachy’s unique sound has an innate ability to resonate with a diverse audience. His songwriting delves into the complexities of relationships, faith, and a myriad of emotions, positioning him as one of the most raw lyricists in the indie-folk landscape. The release of his first track, “untitled,” garnered remarkable support, propelling the Virginia-based artist into the spotlight. With over 15 millions streams across streaming services, zachy has a foundation of fans who eagerly await upcoming releases. zachy has been touted as one of the leading voices in the new era of indie folk artists, as time goes on, he continues to prove the notion correct"

The EDI Showcase Ensemble

The EDI Showcase Ensemble features top performers from Berklee's Electronic Digital Instrument program and electronic performance courses. Come witness innovative electronic music performance techniques in this ever-changing genre.

Berklee Original Open Mic

In conjunction with the Red Room at Cafe 939, the Songwriting Department proudly presents BOOM(Berklee Original Open Mic), an open mic event for Berklee songwriters.  All current Berklee students are welcome to play one original song in less than five minutes. Sign up at the Red Room at Cafe 939 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

BTAC Presents Cadences of Care

Join the Berklee Theater Arts Collaborative for an evening of music featuring beautiful singing from pairs and small groups of singers, focused on themes of healing and growth. This concert features performances that blend harmonies and personal narratives, showcasing the strength we find in community.

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Discover kid-friendly fun in Boston, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas! Enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, explore the New England Aquarium, and visit the Franklin Park Zoo. Find parks, playgrounds, and seasonal events perfect for families across Massachusetts.

Top 20 kid-friendly things to do in Boston, MA

Kid-friendly things to do in Boston

Kid-friendly events

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.