James Blake, FaltyDL: Terminal 5, May 7 and 9, $30
While his first LP saw the British bass-wunderkind exploring his singer-songwriter side, James Blake's sophomore album, Overgrown, meshes his dancier side with his honeyed baritone. Even when playing live to thousands, you can hear a pin drop between Blake's spare beats.
Tuesday and Thursday, May 7 and 9, 7 p.m., Terminal 5, 610 West 56th Street (between 11th and 12th Avenues); 212-582-6600.
Four Tet, Koreless: Webster Hall, May 8, $5
Another great show from Red Bull Music Academy, who have taken over New York the past couple weeks with some absolutely amazing electronic music shows. This one features Kieren Hebden (a.k.a. Four Tet), along with spacey Glaswegian producer Koreless. It's the dance-music show to see this week.
Wednesday, May 8, 9 p.m., Webster Hall, 125 East 11th Street (between Third and Fourth Avenues); 212-353-1600.
Downtown Music Festival: Black Hippy, Purity Ring, Sky Ferreira, Earl Sweatshirt, Ryan Hemsworth, Andrew Wyatt, Teengirl Fantasy, NGUZUNGUZU, and many more: Various Venues in Lower Manhattan, May 10 and 11, $15
This year, The Downtown Music Festival has expanded to two days and multiple venues, including Cake Shop, Pianos, Mercury Lounge, and more. Tickets are affordable, and with music ranging from the best indie rock, alt-pop, and hip-hop (including Kendrick Lamar's Black Hippy crew). We couldn't be more excited.
Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11, various venues.
Photos: Via The Bowery Presents