The last weekend before Christmas is filled with music. Here are some of the top concerts coming to local venues.
Two concerts at The Stone Church
The Stone Church in Newmarket heads into the holidays with loads of live music. On Friday at 7:30 p.m., Jamaican sensation Iba Mahr & The Naya Rockers headline a reggae show with Coyote Island, Star Nii, and the Green Lion Crew ($20). On Saturday at 8 p.m., southern rockers Way Up South Band perform ($10). Learn more here.
Piebald at 3S Artspace
Emocore outfit Piebald has been a staple of the Boston-area indie circuit since the 1990s. There have been starts and stops along the way, but the band is still touring and will be at 3S Artspace in Portsmouth for a performance with openers Worried Well and Donaher on Friday from 8-11 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. Learn more here.
Two concerts at Jimmy’s
Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club brings two more world-class acts to Portsmouth this weekend. Bluesman Bobby Rush, who this year won his second Grammy Award for “Best Traditional Blues Album,” performs on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ($25-$55). British Blues Hall of Fame guitarist Matt Schofield follows on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ($20-$45).
The EXP Band at The Rockingham Ballroom
After a lengthy closure, The Rockingham Ballroom reopened this fall under new ownership and is now hosting live concerts and comedy shows in its historic 4,000-square-foot space in Newmarket. The venue will host regional act The EXP Band for a night of modern country hits on Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. Learn more here.
Sharon Jones & Friends at The Press Room
There are too many holiday concerts to list this time of year, but one that stands out as a highlight takes place at The Press Room in Portsmouth this weekend. Local jazz, gospel, and R&B legend Sharon Jones will bring some musical friends to the stage for a special holiday celebration on Sunday at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Learn more here.
See the full calendar for more local events.