Welcome to the first weekend of the new year! Are you ready to prove that 2013 really is going to be your year?
Well you’ve made it. You survived another New Year’s Eve. You also managed to survive another New Year’s Day filled with parading Mummers and the debauchery that follows on 2nd street. Thanks to the new year coming on a Tuesday, there were only three measly work days until the weekend. Concert wise, it will be a relatively quiet weekend with the exception of a few great local shows. What better way to begin the 2013 than with Philadelphia demonstrating its rising music scene?
Friday, January 4th | Seemingly arriving overnight, Philadelphia’s newest concert venue Soundgarden Hall has quickly become the go to stop for many of the best DJs touring across the country. Tonight New York’s Designer Drugs makes the trip down I-95 to make an appearance at the Steez Promo sponsored Bass Nation night. Joining them are Butch Clancy, Two Fresh, and Run DMT. Little known fact, Designer Drugs got their start in Philadelphia and hosted a number of their parties at the Barbary.
Saturday, January 5th | 2012 was a huge year for local dream pop act Sun Airway. They released their sophomore album, Soft Fall, on Dead Oceans records. On top of their own headlining tours, they also opened a number of shows for M83. How do they plan on kicking off their 2013? By giving thanks to the city they call home.
Sun Airway stop by Johnny Brenda’s to return to where they played their very first show. Sharing the stage for the special occasion will be Historics and Cruiser. Sun Airway are a favorite over here at The Vinyl District Philadelphia, and they are one act you do not want to miss seeing live!
Sunday, January 6th | Continuing with the theme of showcasing the area’s growing music scene, Sunday sees the return of a local festival that’s at the center of reviving an art scene in the Philadelphia suburb of Norristown, PA. The idea of Walla Fest first began as a high school projected fronted by three students from Norristown in June 2011. Moving into 2013, the all ages festival plays host to a number of local bands as well as artists every few months.
Playing Sunday is a packed bill the includes Q Family Band, The Retinas, Boog, Cousin Brian and Satellite Hearts. On top of all the musical acts, there will also be a live interactive Instagram art exhibit at the festival. So close out your first weekend of the new year by making your way down to The Centre Theatre in Norristown to check out the impressive event started by a handful of high school students! Tickets are only $5 and more information can be found here.
