Chicago Duo OHMME Hit New York
They are classically trained musicians, veterans of the Chicago music scene, and were a part of Chance the Rapper’s touring ensemble. Consisting of two women only in their twenties, I’d say that they are doing pretty well for themselves. Their ability to build on their own songs, compose stunning multi-instrumental pieces of work, and write unique harmony-based lyrics is astounding. The duo takes buzzing guitar riffs and pairs them with experimental keyboard spaces to formulate their own genre, their own style, and considerably write their own ticket into the whirlwind music industry. Their alto vs. soprano vocals clash in the best possible way, forcing them out of their comfort zone and drawing listeners in from all corners of the world. To hear their majestic, unique sound live, head to Bryant Park on Aug. 17. For information, visit bryantpark.org.
Bowery Electric Hosts Republican Hair
After being raised in Oklahoma, they headed to Nashville. In Nashville they honed in on their craft, built a sound, and found their niche doing original, energetic live shows. After Nashville, they headed out on tour. Frontman, founder, and the brains behind this up-and-coming power pop band is Luke Dick; a country songwriter who went from writing for Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, and Kacey Musgraves to (gently) kicking country music to the side (for now) and taking up his own creative interest: new wave, punk styled music. His songwriting background and influence shines in Republican Hair and showcases more than music, for it puts the world and life on display in the most imaginative and lyrical way. That prolific creativity is just a side to the entree that is the energetic, powerhouse live show that he puts on. To catch it in NYC on Aug. 18, go to ticketfly.com.
Billboard’s Hot 100 Festival
Aug. 18 and 19 at Jones Beach Theater comes a lineup chock-full of artists and bands that you hear incessantly on the radio, see incessantly on social media, and hear incessantly about in the news. Now it is your time to see and hear these artists — in person! The Billboard Hot 100 Festival is hosting their annual two-day event with chart-topping artists such as Halsey, Kehlani, Future, DJ Snake, and Sabrina Carpenter. It also features social media and TV stars such as actress, performer, and ex-Disney Channel star Bella Thorne and controversial teenager Danielle Bregoli, who went from being on Dr. Phil last year and going viral to becoming a rapper known as Bhad Bhabie. She alone should make for an entertaining show, so the well-established, skilled, acclaimed artists like Halsey and Future should only make for an even better, well-rounded show and a fun weekend overall. For tickets, visit hot100fest.com.
