Deafheaven, Marriages, Special Guest: 285 Kent, July 4, $10
What better way to celebrate the United States' freedom from Britain than an ear-shatteringly beautiful set of American black metal. Deafheaven's new album, Sunbather, transcends genres with its glistening washes of guitar, sweeping crescendos, and deft arrangements. Of course, there's still George Clarke's blistering vocals to contend with. Bring earplugs.
Thursday, July 4, 10 p.m., 285 Kent, 285 Kent Ave (between South First and South Second streets); Brooklyn; 718-599-1450.
MoMA Nights with Ex Cops: MoMA, July 4, FREE
If metal isn't your thing, a night in MoMA's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden might be more your speed. For regular museum admission, you get a set from Brooklyn indie-pop band Ex Cops featuring Refinery29 favorite Amalie Bruun on vocals. Should be a nice evening.
July 4, 6:30 p.m., MoMA, 11 W. 53rd St. (between Fifth and Sixth avenues); 212-708-9400.
She & Him, Camera Obscura: Central Park SummerStage, July 6, $40
After three albums, Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward's She & Him project has gone from a diverting lark for Zooey fans to a legitimate indie-pop project with a huge fanbase of its own. Central Park at dusk should be the perfect place to hear Deschanel's lilting voice and Ward's signature guitar.
Saturday, July 6, 6 p.m. Central Park Summerstage, 69th St (At Fifth Avenue entrance/Rumsey Field), Central Park; 212-360-2777.