If there’s one thing we know, it’s how to ring in the new year in style. Our city has a handful of live concerts set up to help you usher in 2016 in the best of moods. From punk rock to classical, the show options are endless—and so is that stream of bubbly. So get off the sofa and take your pick from the options below. The one thing they all have in common? You can snag that midnight kiss at every one.
WHO: Hallelujah the Hills at Great Scott
EXPECT: Hearty sing-a-longs. The brainchild band of Ryan Walsh ropes together the best of folk punk, alt-rock, and political-style punches somewhere between Titus Andronicus and the Hold Steady. They’re a Boston staple. So hold on to this old-school rock and pull it close to your heart as we pass into the new year.
WHAT TO PLAY ON THE WAY THERE: “In the New Year” by the Walkmen
WHO: Andrew WK at the Paradise
EXPECT: Nonstop grinning. There ain’t no party like an Andrew WK party. The king of hardcore partying will kick off 2016 with nonstop energy, pure positivity, and amps turned way too loud. Promise us you won’t break anyone’s nose.
WHAT TO PLAY ON THE WAY THERE: “Auld Lang Syne” by Die Toten Hosen
WHO: The Timberfakes and Britney Bitch at Middle East Downstairs
EXPECT: Sweaty dancing. It’s Justin vs Britney all over again. Britney Spears cover act Britney Bitch brings hits old (“…Baby One More Time,” “Toxic”) and new (“Gimme More,” “Criminal”) against Justin Timberlake cover act the Timberfakes, who play from The 20/20 Experience, FutureSex/LoveSounds, and beyond. In other words, it’s the insane club banger without the ridiculous price tag.
WHAT TO PLAY ON THE WAY THERE: “New Year’s Eve” by Snoop Dogg
WHO: The Boston Pops at Symphony Hall
EXPECT: Fancy fun. Slip into the fancy garb you got on Christmas, grab your significant other, and scurry over to the golden walls of Symphony Hall for an evening of utter charm, swelling strings, and the chance to pretend you’re rich for one night.
WHAT TO PLAY ON THE WAY THERE: “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve” by Ella Fitzgerald
WHO: Ruby Rose Fox at ONCE Somerville
EXPECT: Empowerment and soul. Practice your singing with punchy powerhouse Ruby Rose Fox. The local singer turns up the soul at her live shows, guaranteeing a night of sultry notes, heartfelt croons, and dancing to match. Consider it the motivation needed to finally write your own straight-from-the-heart tunes.
WHAT TO PLAY ON THE WAY THERE: “Our New Year” by Tori Amos
