7 Shows to See in Philly This Week: Young Statues, The Lawsuits, Future Islands and More
Get our weekly picks of what to do this weekend and the latest on Philly's arts and entertainment scene.

Monday: Alec Stewart, Anna May, & James Hearne ($5-$7)
The first Monday of the New Year is in the books, and there's no better way to unwind than with some acoustic guitar and a cocktail (or two). Head to Bourbon & Branch tonight to catch performances from three different artists: Alec Stewart (pictured), Anna May, and James Hearne. Their sounds are all similarly indie rock-esque, coupled with powerhouse vocals you'll want to add to your favorite playlist. Tickets are available for purchase online ($5) or at the door ($7). Listen before you go: Stewart's "Hungry Night." Monday, January 5th, 7 p.m., 21+, Bourbon & Branch, 705 N. 2nd Street.


Tuesday: Christopher Davis-Shannon (Free)
There's nothing like free live shows, especially when they feature some serious talent. Christopher-Davis Shannon performs a mix of jazz and blues with a palpable soulfulness that will "bring you back to a time of juke joints and smoky blues clubs of the early 20th-century South." You'll find it hard not to dance. Tickets are not required. Listen before you go: "Little Black Dress." Tuesday, January 6th, 8 p.m., Jose Pistola's, 263 S. 15th Street.


Wednesday: Willie Watson with Elle King ($12-$15)
You may know Willie Watson from the popular Nashville-based string band, Old Crow Medicine Show. There's not a single reason to mourn the absence of his bandmates though: this guy does down-home folk just as well on his own, taking over center-stage with a voice you're almost not ready for. "Hearing Watson's skillful and subtle banjo and guitar accompaniments and soaring vocals unadorned for the first time is a revelation." If that's not enough, Elle King's rock 'n' roll influences and gritty, soulful sound is sure to impress. Tickets are available for purchase online. Listen before you go: "Mexican Cowboy." Wednesday, January 7th, 8 p.m., 21+, Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad Street.


Thursday: Sultans of String ($16)
Canadian-based band Sultans of String take musical fusion to the next level, mixing global sounds and rhythms like Spanish flamenco and Arabic folk. Staying seated probably won't be an option as "fiery violin dances with rumba-flamenco guitar while a funk bass lays down unstoppable grooves." Tickets are available for purchase online. Listen before you go: "Emerald Swing." Thursday, January 8th, 7 p.m., World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut Street.


Friday: Young Statues with Gates ($10-$12)
Locally bred band, Young Statues, will take the stage at Johnny Brenda's this Friday evening. Composed of lead singer and songwriter Carmen Cirignano, bassist Tom Ryan, drummer Daniel Bogan, and guitarist Matt Weber, the group boasts "introspective lyrics entwined around earnest indie rock." Tickets are available for purchase online. Listen before you go: "Pretty Girls Make Raves." Friday, January 9th, 8 p.m., 21+, Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frankford Avenue.


Saturday: The Lawsuits with Kingsley Flood & Owl and Wolf ($10-$12)
If you're at all familiar with the Philly music scene, you have probably heard the rock-based musical stylings of The Lawsuits–and if you haven't, you're welcome. The group is well-loved locally (named the Philadelphia Indie Band of the Year by Tri-State Indie) and for good reason: their tunes are seriously addictive. Tickets are available for purchase online. Listen before you go: "(Darla Nye) Never Love Someone." Saturday, January 10th, 8 p.m., 21+, Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad Street.


Sunday: Future Islands ($52+)
Hailing from Greenville, North Carolina, Future Islands beginning recording synth pop-based sounds in 2006. Four albums and a stretch of solid touring later, the band has been featured on The Late Show with David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel Live. They must be doing something right, as regularly priced tickets for their two night stint at Union Transfer are sold out. Don't fret: you can still find tickets right here. Listen before you go: "Seasons (Waiting On You)." Sunday, January 11th, 8 p.m., Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden Street.


Submit Your Show
Have a show you'd like featured in an upcoming roundup? Email details to Katiera Sordjan at ksordjan@phillymag.com.
