Topping our picks of best Colorado shows this week are Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Parquet Courts and more. We’ll be seeing you there, and if you don’t make it out, follow the music musings on our Twitter @RVRB and our selfies on Instagram @heyreverb.
5) Father John Misty — Tuesday, Gothic Theatre, $20.75-$25
If there’s any reason to see live, it’s for the purpose of trying to unravel J. Tillman’s persona. Is he really some sort of cocky lunatic? Is he a comedian? Is it all an act to create a compelling live show? Or maybe he’s just channelling the phony culture of Los Angeles that he sings about on “Fear Fun.” Regardless, he can write some gripping folk-rock hooks, and hit them live, as you’d expect from a member of Fleet Foxes.
4) Generationals — Monday, Hi-Dive, $10
There’s a pleasant, straightforwardness to newest release “Heza.” This is indie-pop that doesn’t try to be anything that it’s not. You don’t have to love it or expect the music to break any boundaries to just sit back and enjoy it. This show at the Hi-Dive will be easy-going, almost as if Jimmy Buffett was in his 20s and in an indie band.
3) DeVotchKa and the Colorado Symphony Orchestra — Friday, Red Rocks, $25-$65
’s music lends itself to the addition of a full orchestra. String flourishes, operatic vocals, a bouncing sousaphone and an upright bass all give the band an orchestral feel. But adding the real thing — the full — transports the music to an entirely different level. Thatap probably why when DeVotchKa played with the CSO last year it became one of the orchestra’s most successful concerts. The concert was so successful, in fact, that it even resulted in a live album. The dynamic duo returns to Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Friday.
2) Parquet Courts — Wednesday, Larimer Lounge, $10-$12
What’s the secret behind ? The secret is they really just don’t care, as we gathered from . Yeah, it’s kind of an annoying trait, but it fits so well with the band’s slacker, goofball sound that we find it endearing. This Bart Simpson charm is what has gotten Parquet Courts in the good graces of many critics. With maybe a half hour of material, don’t expect it to be a long show, so be sure to get your money’s worth by catching openers Accordion Crimes.
1) Telluride Bluegrass Festival — Thursday, sold out
There’s a reason ’s four-day passes sold out in three and a half hours before a single band had been announced. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, TBF has become a destination for travelers and musicians around the world. Part of it is due to the secluded and beautiful location in the hills of southwestern Colorado. The other part is the lineup, which this year includes Leftover Salmon, Dispatch, Bela Fleck and more. Telluride Bluegrass Festival takes place Thursday through June 23 at Telluride Town Park. Still a great bunch of acts even though this morning.
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