By Daniel Jumpertz
Special to DNAinfo
Wednesday January 18
Madlib has described himself as a "DJ first, producer second, and MC last". Catch the musical innovator — one of the most prolific and critically acclaimed hip hop producers of the 2000s — doing what he enjoys most. At the Music Hall of Williamsburg.
Thursday January 19 : GIG OF THE WEEK
Cults and Delicate Steve, combine to make a delicious double bill at Webster Hall. Cults made a splash with their dark retro-pop self-titled debut last year (and even made an appearance on cool kids' TV show Yo Gabba Gabba!), while New Jersey's Delicate Steve continue to impress with zesty guitar and keyboard instrumentals faintly reminiscent of the Dirty Projectors or Vampire Weekend. They were recently signed to David Byrne's Luaka Bop record label.
Friday January 20
Underground singer songwriter icon Jeff Mangum has started touring again, after many years of laying low. Resurfacing last year to play and curate at Asbury Park's All Tomorrow's Parties festival, Magnum played an eclectic solo set drawing on his esteemed Neutral Milk Hotel back catalog. At Howard Gilman Opera House, Brooklyn Academy Of Music.
Saturday January 21
Neither Japanese or duo, Brighton (UK) trio Fujiya & Miyagi play trancey synth and drone-infused krautrock that seeps under your skin and will have you nodding your head, tapping your feet, and probably drinking too much. At the Mercury Lounge.
Sunday January 22
Jazz veterans Bill Frisell, (guitar) Ron Carter (bass) and Joey Baron (drums) pay their respects to friend and drummer Paul Motian, who died in November. At the Blue Note Jazz Club.
Monday January 23
Stew and the Negro Problem rock the house with two sets: one performing music in concert from his hit show Passing Strange (featuring members of the original cast) and another featuring classic songs and new music from Stew's "afro-baroque" rockers The Negro Problem. At Joe's Pub.
Tuesday January 24
Chairlift and Violens round out a solid double bill at The Bowery Ballroom. Coloradans Chairlift burst on the scene in 2008 with the catchy synth pop album "Does You Inspire You". Their new album "Something" is out next week. Head to this gig for a preview or check out their website for clips and sounds.
