What’s the real way to escape the vast wasteland of the winter concert season? How about slamming your body against other bodies, tossing some beer cans and getting sweaty at a rock club with King Tuff? The garage rocker is arriving just in time to spice up what can sometimes be a dull time of the year for live music. He’s touring in support of his latest album, “Black Moon Spell,” his third on Sub Pop. It’s filled with meaty guitar riffs, snot-nosed lyrics and vocals and a dedication to classic irreverence. Tuff plays the Larimer Lounge on Jan. 27 with American Culture. ($10-$15, )
Let’s swoon, Colorado. English crooner Sam Smith is making his first Denver-area appearance following his breakout success since 2012. He got his start from an appearance on Disclosure’s “Latch” and released his debut studio album, “In the Lonely Hour,” in May of 2014. The album has since been nominated for six Grammys and had singles top charts internationally. Not bad for a 22-year-old. He’ll make his Colorado debut on Jan. 26 at the 1stBank Center with opener George Ezra. ($35-$55, )
Matt Miller: mrmiller@denverpost.com
