October is here! We might as well call it ROCKtober, with all the tunes, grooves and shows to look forward to.
It seems like the sky opened up and dropped far too many fantastic releases in September to make it impossible for there to be more to come from our wonderful, musically inclined universe. Well, we’re in luck, and as it turns out, we’re pretty spoiled.
You might be able to put Mumford & Sons and The xx on pause, because there will be plenty to consume and enjoy in the next 31 days.
1. Passion Pit at UF
The Stephen C. O’Connell Center just wrapped up a picture-perfect country lineup with Rascal Flatts, Little Big Town and Eli Young Band this past weekend, but it’s the week of Oct. 22 that will really have the arena exploding with good music.
On Oct. 24, Passion Pit, joined by opener Youngblood Hawke, will hit the stage for a much-anticipated set of indie, electro-pop goodness.
Tickets are still available at the Reitz Union Box Office. Don’t forget to catch the Avett Brothers there the following night, as well.
2. College Radio Day
Are you taking part in College Radio Day?
Officially scheduled Oct. 2, the second annual celebration of college radio stations and listeners will continue all week, bringing together global supporters of these independent collegiate airwaves.
On-air specials, giveaways and prizes are in store for all participating stations, and a College Radio Day album is available for purchase with all proceeds going toward the College Radio Defense Fund. Disc 1 includes several radio sessions from across the country, and Disc 2 highlights known artists who publicly stand in favor of “the day college radio comes together.”
3. Local talent Collin Whitlock
Check out one of Gainesville’s brightest talents, who has been keeping the city singing and jamming for quite some time through the Shitty Beatles, the Slims and many more of his musical affiliations.
Collin Whitlock released The Destroyer under his solo project, “Dark Horse” last month. The record is soulful and layered, and it makes the listener feel, contemplate and reminisce throughout the whole thing.
Displaying his refreshing talent, the album brings the most pertinent universal truths and emotions to light through beautifully crafted Beatles-like lyrics, melodies and harmonies.
Listen and acquire at www.dark-horse-plains.bandcamp.com.
4. Open Mic Night
Singers, spoken-word poets, comedians and more — RUB Entertainment’s Open Mic Night Oct. 11 is for you.
Free and hosted in the Orange & Brew, come out for a night of creativity and entertainment and uncover UF students’ unknown talents.
If you think you’ve got what it takes, email rubbands@gmail.com for more information about getting involved.
5. Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris has a star-studded album headed our way Oct. 30.
“18 Months” is the much-anticipated album featuring “We Found Love,” “Feel So Close” and “Let’s Go.” Rihanna and Neyo will make an appearance on the album, in addition to Kelis, Tinie Tempah, Ellie Goulding and more of your favorite musicians.
Harris just offered the sixth single from the album and a video, “Sweet Nothing” with Florence Welch, all of which have climbed the charts and invaded Top 40 radio.