Nick Cave | photo by Megan Cullen
WXPN’s Concert Picks: The Linda Lindas, Nick Cave, Bartees Strange, Orla Gartland and More
Philadelphia’s venues are bringing in some incredible artists this week, and WXPN’s own John Vettese is here to keep you in the loop. Here’s your guide to the must-see performances:
Monday, April 21: The Linda Lindas at Union Transfer // 7 p.m., $27.50, All Ages
The Linda Lindas, the Los Angeles-based teen punk band behind the viral 2021 anthem “Racist, Sexist Boy,” bring their energetic live show to Union Transfer. Since their breakout NPR Tiny Desk performance, the group has been channeling raw DIY spirit into songs that balance and sharp political commentary with infectious hooks.
Monday, April 21: Ben Kweller at Underground Arts // 8 p.m., $35.02, 21+
A defining voice of early-2000s indie rock, Ben Kweller revisits his catalog of wry, instantly memorable melodies – including favorites from his beloved debut Sha Sha – alongside tracks from his upcoming album Cover the Mirrors.
Wednesday, April 23: Josh Rouse and Rhett Miller at World Cafe Live // 8 p.m., $42, All Ages
Two WXPN listener favorites share the bill: Josh Rouse, known for his warm folk-pop songcraft, and Rhett Miller of the influential Old 97’s. Miller, a regular on WXPN’s Free at Noon series, joins Rouse for an evening showcasing their distinct yet complementary approaches to contemporary roots music.
Friday, April 25: Orla Gartland at Underground Arts // 8 p.m., $33.74, 21+
Irish singer-songwriter Orla Gartland, a 2022 WXPN Artist To Watch, brings songs from her debut album Woman on the Internet to Philadelphia. The record, which NPR Music noted for its examination of digital-era identity, features her sharp pop songwriting and candid lyrics. Gartland’s live performances showcase both her engaging stage presence and the emotional depth of her material.
Saturday, April 26: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds at The Met Philly // 8 p.m., $149.25+, All Ages
Nick Cave, with his longtime band the Bad Seeds, returns to Philadelphia in support of Wild God, their latest album of brooding, spiritually charged rock that blur the line between sermon and spectacle.
Sunday, April 27: Bartees Strange at The Foundry // 8 p.m., $31, All Ages
Bartees Strange blends post-punk, soul and electronic elements in his music, showcased on his acclaimed 2022 album Farm to Table (which made WXPN’s year-end Best Of list). Known for dynamic live performances that balance raw energy with emotional depth, the artist continues to evolve from his DIY beginnings while maintaining his distinctive, genre-crossing sound.
To buy tickets and see more shows coming to your area, visit our concert calendar here.