Louisville Waterfront Fourth
Wednesday, July 4
Waterfront Park
Before the fireworks, catch sets by the DJ collective Spinsters Union Of Louisville (5 p.m.), hip-hop artist RMLLW2LLZ (6:15 p.m.), jazz musician Carly Johnson (7:30 p.m.) and Pimps Of Joytime (9 p.m.).
Poorcastle
Friday, July 6-8
Apocalypse Brew Works
The annual “festival for the rest of us” once again brings three days of local music to the outdoor area of Apocalypse Brew Works, with 36 Louisville bands/solo musicians performing. Bendigo Fletcher, Joann + The Dakota, GRLwood, RMLLW2LLZ, Bleak Birds of Hell, Julie of the Wolves and many more solid acts will be there, providing, as always, an affordable to see some of your favorite area bands, while also discovering new ones.
Guided By Voices
Friday, July 6
Headliners Music Hall
One of the most prolific bands to ever exist, Robert Pollard and company are also known for their high-energy performances that push three hours. If you haven’t already, check out their latest album, Space Gun — it’s another solid entry into their storied discography.
The Pass
Saturday, July 7
Zanzabar
It’s the last show for keyboardist Brian Healey, who has been an integral part of the The Pass’ compelling indie-pop.
Sweatermeat, Bathroom Laws, Hal Dolls
Friday, July 13
Kaiju
A night of Louisville punk and hardcore, featuring three bands that build some of the sharpest, most-interesting noise in town.
Forecastle
Friday, July 13-15
Waterfront Park
This year, Louisville’s biggest music festival features Chris Stapleton, Arcade Fire, Modest Mouse, Jason Isbell, Courtney Barnett, Father John Misty, T-Pain, Vic Mensa, Margo Price and an entire stage devoted to Louisville music that the Louisville Orchestra’s Teddy Abrams curated.
Snail Mail
Wednesday, July 25
Zanzabar
Quickly becoming indie-rock royalty, Snail Mail plays versatile, clever mid-tempo rock that’s just the right amount of chaotic. Led by the cool and collected vocals of Lindsey Jordan, the band’s on-the-edge-of-adulthood sense of wonder and angst is addicting.
Over The Rhine, Bully, Curio Key Club
Wednesday, July 25
Waterfront Wednesday at Big Four Lawn
July’s edition of WPFK’s Waterfront Wednesday features folk band Over The Rhine, as well as the grungy post-punk of Bully and the experimental Curio Key Club.
Bendigo Fletcher
Against The Grain
Friday, July 27
This month’s Local Lineup concert series from Against The Grain features Bendigo Fletcher, a clever psych-folk band with a lot of range and an impactful ability to layer songs.
Quiet Hollers
Saturday, July 28
Zanzabar
A roots-rock band that’s continuously shifted its sound through the years, a Quiet Hollers hometown show is a good way to end a month packed with shows and festivals.