"A curated events list, chosen with prescience, passion and a critical eye by Isthmus Staff and contributors."
Punks' Picnic
Saturday, Sept. 9, Lunney Lake Farm County Park, noon to 7 p.m.
With a diverse lineup of rock 'n roll, Latin ska, tribute bands and, of course, a whole lot of punk rock, the annual Punks' Picnic is back, with a lineup including Madison legends Cats on Leashes and Sons of Atom. The day begins with an acoustic set by Jason (of The Brash Menagerie) and ends with pedal to the metal rock from Rogue Rat. Host Venus in Furs (unfortunately unable to play this year) has organized a mosh-inducing musical experience, and invites attendees of all ages to bring lawn chairs, pets and a dish to pass if so inclined.
Poster Children
Friday, June 23, High Noon Saloon, 8 p.m.
Rick Valentin and Rose Marshack met at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1987 and the rest is history, as they soon formed the rock band Poster Children. Nine studio albums and two EPs later, the group is playing a few shows celebrating the re-release of their first album, Flower Power, this year. With Madison-based bands Howler and Vombom.
Nduduzo Makhathini Trio
Thursday, Aug. 31, North Street Cabaret, 7 pm
The music of Nduduzo Makhathini is influenced by the jazz legends of his native South Africa (such as fellow pianist Abdullah Ibrahim), along with traditional and spiritual music. Makhathini’s evocative vocals and brilliant piano playing will be rhythmically heightened during this trio show by bassist Zwelakhe-Duma Bell le Pere and drummer Francisco Mela - both bandleaders in their own right. Expect fireworks at this BlueStem Jazz concert.
Johnny Burgin
Thursday, June 22, Red Rooster, 8 p.m.
Rockin’ Johnny Burgin combines old style Chicago blues with sounds drawn from the west coast (where he’s lived since 2016), and further afield, as examined in the No Border Blues podcast. Burgin remains one of the hardest touring blues guitarists and singers out there, and still aims to play 200-plus shows a year.
The Periodicals
Saturday, July 22, UW Memorial Union Terrace, 7 p.m.
The Periodicals fuse elements of northern soul and alternative rock, with guitars, horns and violins building infectious melodies. The Wisconsin-based nine-piece band is made up of Milwaukee and Madison musicians who combine their talents to put on a foot-tapping show. They are joined by Madison folk-pop favorites Lake Qualm for this free WUD Music concert.
Friday, June 23, Edgewater Hotel, 6 p.m.
Spotting Evan Murdock & the Imperfect Strangers on local stages lately has been a bit rare, so don’t miss this edition of the Edgewater’s Brewgrass Fridays free outdoor concert series on the plaza. You’ll hear classic Midwest Americana with a lot of heart marbled with humor (and a fish fry starts at 5 p.m., for those so inclined).
Milky Chance
Monday, June 26, The Sylvee, 8 p.m.
In a press release for Living in a Haze, alt-pop band Milky Chance says they “stepped out of their comfort zone” with the new album, which mixes club-friendly beats with rock guitar and a wide range of other sounds. They’re currently on their biggest-ever North American tour this summer, which will certainly include songs like “Stolen Dance,” which has been streamed over one billion times. Ottawa musician TALK will open for the German duo.
Queer Brown Vegan
Thursday, Oct.5, UW Memorial Union-Play Circle
Isais Hernandez experienced the impacts of pollution and environmental injustice as a kid growing up in Los Angeles. He now educates others about the intersectional nature of the climate crisis and advocates for environmental justice, veganism & zero-waste living. The queer, Latinx climate educator, researcher and activist is U.W. Madison’s LatinX Heritage Month’s keynote speaker.
Weathers
Friday, Aug. 11, High Noon Saloon, 8 p.m.
Los Angeles band Weathers had a blast recording their latest album Are We Having Fun? and it shows. The alternative rock trio crafts anthems with a captivating beat and meaningful lyrics, many of which focus on battles with mental health. Weathers will be joined by two bands with similar sounds: almost monday, a San Diego trio known for their funky Californian anthems, and Hoko, a dance-rock duo from New York. Tickets at
The Rise of the New Left
Thursday, June 29, A Room of One’s Own, 6 p.m
In her new book, The Rise of a New Left: How Young Radicals Are Shaping the Future of American Politics, Raina Lipsitz focuses on the new generation of young progressives but maybe more importantly, the organizers behind them. Lipsitz will be joined by some local young firebrands for a panel discussion about the book and the growth of political power here and nationally: District 8 Alder Juliana Bennett, District 16 Alder Jael Currie, and Nada Elmikashfi, chief of staff for state Rep. Francesca Hong, and an Isthmus contributor.
"S is for Survival"
Jay Katelansky, through Aug. 27, Garver Feed Mill: “S is for Survival,” a new art installation by Jay Katelansky, investigates the impact of disco on queer, Black and brown communities — and particularly the role Gloria Gaynor’s song “I Will Survive” has played as an anthem for marginalized communities throughout history. Gallery hours are noon-6 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, noon-8 p.m. Friday, and noon-4 p.m. Sunday.
Intergalactic Gala
June 29-30, Bur Oak
Madison band The Earthlings can blow your mind with a trippy jam while simultaneously making you dance — not the most common juxtaposition of styles. The Intergalactic Gala is a two-night Bur Oak residency which provides entertainment for fans of both those sides of the 'lings musical personality along with serving as a capsule local music primer. Thursday (7:30 p.m.) features danceable rock and pop by Pink Halo, Seasaw and The Civil Engineers; Friday (8 p.m.) goes harder and more experimental with Crux of the Anima, The Central, and Arp of the Covenant. Both nights feature sets by The Earthlings, plus art vendors. Tickets at theburoakmadison.com.
Smudges
Wednesday, July 26, Arts + Literature Lab, 7 p.m.
Pianist and genre-blurring composer Matt Blair is back in Madison after some time living in Minnesota. While walking along the Yahara River, Blair recorded video and audio, now merged with composed elements to create a multimedia work, Smudges, considering the blurred lines between past and present. Find tickets for this Mills Folly Microcinema presentation at brownpapertickets.com.
GRIP
Wednesday, July 19, The Annex, 6:30 p.m.
Atlanta rapper GRIP’s diverse beats and quick flow caught the attention of Eminem, securing a deal with Shady Records in 2021. Soon after, GRIP released the concept album I Died For This!?, a 17-song masterpiece that showcases GRIP’s distinctive sound and includes collab tracks with Tate228, Eminem and others. GRIP is accompanied on tour by Providence rapper Khary, and the lineup also includes Bowdizz, Ox E, Obscure, Its Chase and Chas for an unforgettable night of hip-hop. Tickets at eventbrite.com.
Beers with Queers/Cheshire Cat
Saturday, June 24, Forward Club, 8 p.m.
Celebrate pride month with the Queeny Bitch and a lineup of queer comedians at Breese Stevens Field. The Chicago-based comedian, singer and host of the popular Diva Hour variety show is coming to Madison with a setlist filled with sex, politics and more. Trumaine Bradley, Samara Suomi and Michael Kittelson are just a few of the special guests who will be giving stand-up and musical performances!
Magic City Hippies
Thursday, Aug. 31, Majestic, 9 p.m.
This Miami trio’s groovy, sun-kissed singles (like “Ghost on the Mend” and “Queen”) feature upbeat guitar licks, soulful vocals and funky beats. Robby Hunter busked on the lively streets of Miami before joining forces with drummer Pat Howard and guitarist John Coughlin to create a pop-funk juggernaut. The trio’s infectious melodies emerged as breakout hits in the mid-2010s, propelling them into the spotlight and establishing the band as a touring powerhouse. Madisonian Kainalu opens with more glossy funk-pop sounds. Tickets at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/07005E8AAF4E1642
Adult Swim
Friday, Madison Children’s Museum, August 11, 5:30-9 p.m.
Ever wondered what goes on after hours at the Madison’s Children Museum? This “MegaGeek Mashup” promises hardcore trivia, a cosplay competition and a lego lounge for gamers, bookworms and nerds over the age of 21. The event even has a crafting corner for creating cork robot companions, DIY comic books and perler bead avatars.
Emerson Eken Art Walk
Saturday, September 23, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
From stained glass creations to acrylic paintings, and upcycled earrings to embroidery, the first Emerson Eken Art Walk features handcrafted art created by more than 65 local artists at 30 different locations in the neighborhoods. Local businesses including The Kiln Shed, Eli’s Art Supplies and more will be hosting artists that live outside the boundaries.
Afroman
Tuesday, July 4, Crucible, 7 p.m.
What’s more patriotic than a night of hip-hop? Celebrate the Fourth of July with the legendary Afroman, who brings his storytelling songs on a summer tour. Known for anthems like “Because I Got High” and “Crazy Rap,” an Afroman concert promises rhythmic beats and clever lyrics. He’s on tour with Oklahoma rapper/weed farmer Jonny Potseed and Hugh, plus locals They Liv3 and DJ Kayla Kush. Tickets at brownpapertickets.com.
Ramy Youssef
Friday, July 21, Barrymore, 7 p.m.
Emmy-nominated actor and comedian Ramy Youssef won a Golden Globe for Best Actor playing himself in the hit Hulu show Ramy, based on his experiences as an Egyptian American Muslim living in New Jersey. This summer, Youssef is on a stand-up tour around the States. Tickets at ticketmaster.com.
SJC Jubilee
Saturday, June 24, Social Justice Center, 2-9 p.m.
The SJC Jubilee is an annual fundraiser party for the Social Justice Center, supporting building operations for the home of 14 community organizations. All-age activities and free food are joined by a silent auction, raffle and beverage sales supporting the center. Music will be provided by Madison artists We Should Have Been DJs, KaML and Rae. View auction items at
Concert for Mental Health Awareness
Friday, Sept. 22, Bur Oak, 7 p.m.
Seven Madison favorites bring together standout sounds from psychedelic jazz-pop to electronic rock for a special concert dedicated to mental health awareness. Headliners The Earthlings will play their out-of-this-world tunes, accompanied by fresh jazz-funk (Maestranza), psychedelic jazz-pop (CoMingle), sweet Americana (Enchanted Onion), cinematic piano rock (M Shays), hip-hop (Rezurec), and beats provided by DJ Stacktrace. All proceeds donated to Journey Mental Health Center and NAMI Wisconsin.
Best Westerns
Friday, Sept. 29, Stoughton Opera House, 7:30 p.m.
The Best Westerns foot-tapping tunes are meant for dancing your heart out. Through the fusion of piano, guitar, steel guitar, acoustic bass, drums and evocative vocals, this six-piece ensemble from Milwaukee (featuring legendary Midwest players such as Mark Hembree and Mark Roeder, plus former Asleep at the Wheel steel man Eddie Rivers) skillfully captures the soul-stirring sound of Western Swing.
RuPaul’s Werq the World Tour
Thursday, Aug. 3, The Sylvee, 8 p.m.
This year’s Drag Race tour follows a diverse cast of divas who are trapped in the Netwerq, an alternate reality inspired by The Matrix. Watch as drag queens journey through this mesmerizing virtual realm, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy with their electrifying performances. Scheduled to appear: Daya Betty, Lady Camden, Mistress Isabelle, Kandy Muse, Asia O’Hara, Rosé, Naomi Smalls and more finalists from Season 15.
DJs Sarah Akawa, All The Way Kay + Goldiloxx
Friday, July 28, High Noon Saloon, 9 p.m.
Halloween is three months away, but why wait to start celebrating? This Hot Summer Gays event is a costume party with a “Hotter than Halloween” theme and a lineup of queer Midwestern DJ’s: Madison favorites Sarah Akawa and Goldiloxx, and Chicago legend All the Way Kay. Tickets at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/07005ECE9AE32AC7
Eastside Pride Fest
Saturday, June 24, Dive Inn, noon-6 p.m.
Mark your calendars for Madison’s first ever Eastside Pride Fest, hosted by Lesbian Pop Up Bar and Java Cat at the Dive Inn. The free celebration will feature performances by Madison drag queens Karma Zavich, Cynthia Mooseknuckle and others, as well as kids' music by David Landau and DJ Cover Gurrl. Vendors and food carts will be on hand, along with activities for the kiddos.
MisterWives
Saturday, Sept. 23, The Sylvee, 8 p.m.
Alt-pop group MisterWives recently released their fiery fourth studio album, Nosebleeds, which captures the emotions of life’s highs and lows. Known for their raw energy, powerful vocals and catchy choruses, MisterWives brings a collection of anthems brimming with enthusiasm on the “Don’t Look Down Tour,” joined by British singer Bishop Briggs, whose unique blend of folk, pop and electronic elements effortlessly transcends the boundaries of any single genre. Also with Raffaella.
Kate Baldwin
Saturday, June 24, Overture Center-Capitol Theater, 7.30 p.m.
Kate Baldwin’s work in revivals of classic musicals such as Finian’s Rainbow and Hello, Dolly! have earned Tony, Drama Desk and other award nominations. Baldwin, who grew up in Milwaukee, returns to Wisconsin for a concert hosted by Capital City Theatre. The show features musical theater selections from throughout her career, accompanied by the CCT orchestra and vocal ensemble along with special guest Kevin James Sievert.
Protomartyr
Wednesday, July 12, High Noon Saloon, 8 p.m.
Protomartyr singer Joe Casey describes their sixth album, Formal Growth in the Desert, as a document of “getting on with life” after some major personal upheavals. The Detroit-born quartet visits Madison just before heading to Europe, bringing their post-punk anthems to more than 50 cities around the world. With Michigan rock trio Idle Ray.
Waunakee Big Band
Thursday, June 29, Dean House, Monona, 7 p.m.
This year’s free Back Porch Concert series features six Thursday night concerts on the back porch of the historic Dean House. Waunakee Big Band will kick off the series on June 29 with vintage jazz and swing music; coming right up are KG & the Ranger (July 6) and New Horizons (July 13). Find the full schedule at
Father John Misty + The Head and the Heart
Aug. 21-22, The Sylvee, 7 p.m.
Two nights of indie folk magic. Father John Misty and The Head and the Heart both grew up in the Seattle folk music scene, and while they have each carved out their own niche in the indie folk world they both promise passionate vocals, delightful harmonies and mesmerizing live performances. Opening is Miya Folick; the Los Angeles folk rock singer recently released Roach, a 13-track album of dreamy punk melodies. Ticket links at
Craig Baumann & the Story
Thursday, July 20, Majestic, 8 p.m.
Craig Baumann & the Story masterfully merges blues and soul influences into authentic Midwestern Americana anthems. Baumann’s emotive vocals and the band’s funky guitar riffs give his songs an irresistible vintage feel. They are joined on this free Majestic Summerjam concert by Chicago alternative rock band Lunar Ticks; spoken word artist FlowPoetry hosts.
Africa Fest
Saturday, August 19, Mc Pike Park, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
The African Association of Madison hosts Africa Fest every August, celebrating and sharing African traditions and cultural heritages with the community. Expect African music and other performances by regional artists, exhibits and demonstrations, delicious food, and arts and crafts for sale. The festival kicks off at noon, but come early for Strides for Africa, a fundraiser for clean wells in Africa. The run/walk starts at 10 a.m., with registration beginning at 9 a.m.
Festival Foods Lights the Isthmus
Saturday, July 1, Breese Stevens Field, 6 p.m.
Bust out your blankets and lawn chairs for the third annual Festival Foods Lights the Isthmus, a 20-minute fireworks show accompanied by regional bands. Chippewa Valley cover band Uncommon Denominator will headline, alongside a rare reunion set by Madison hip-hop/jazz hybridizers Dumate, pop heroes LINE, and spins by DJ Jean Le Duke. Tickets here.