Live music in Cambridge, MA

At The Burren, Max Wareham appears with Second Cousin for an evening shaped by his mix of traditional bluegrass and lo-fi indie folk flair. A Boston banjoist, songwriter, and author, Wareham brings the perspective of a longtime member of the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, with credits on Rowan’s Grammy-nominated Calling You From My Mountain alongside Billy Strings. His touring history includes stages at Telluride, MerleFest, and RockyGrass. The music often shifts from close-knit storytelling to lively ensemble energy, and may feature material connected to his release If The Cosmos Were Whiskey…

Presented by Gloom Productions and ONCE Somerville, this two day pass covers both days of Somergloom at the Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre, a heavy music gathering featuring riffs, a moody atmosphere, and a sense of community. One day features Rhode Island hardcore group Dropdead with support from Final Gasp, Miracle Blood, Severed Boy, and Unhinged. The other day centers on Boston post metal ensemble Junius as they mark the release of their new album, Sotera, joined by Planning for Burial, Hiroe, Ballast, and Gloomlurker.

Junction 18 performs with The Appreciation Post, Man V Ghost, and Space Casino at Middle East (Downstairs). This is a 18+ show. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and vaping or smoking isn’t allowed in the building.

Sean O'Reilly, a singer songwriter, performs at the Lilypad in Cambridge, presenting a blend of harp and piano driven indie folk pop.

Presented by Gloom Productions and ONCE Somerville, Somergloom 2026 brings back Somerville’s heavy music festival for a two day run that leans into big riffs, a shadowy mood, and a strong sense of community. At the Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre, this night features Rhode Island hardcore legends Dropdead, with support from Final Gasp, Miracle Blood, Severed Boy, and Unhinged.

BTT80s ignites an 80s celebration in the North End connected to the Feast of the Madonna Della Cava. Look forward to wall-to-wall 80s favorites and lively sing-alongs, with tributes to Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Bon Jovi. Era-perfect outfits, energetic staging, and faithful performances capture the feel of neon nights, big hair, and boombox culture, creating a true throwback vibe. Whether a dedicated fan of the decade or simply in the mood for nostalgia, BTT80s promises a memorable experience.

Loe Shimmy is playing a live show at The Sinclair in Cambridge. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the performance starting at 8:00 PM. Tickets are available via AXS.

KiKi at the Corner is a 21+ dance night hosted at The Middle East’s Corner/Bakery venue. Expect sets from DJ DONUTS, GingerSpizen, and The Painted Pickle. Doors open at 10:00 PM, there is no cover, and vaping or smoking isn’t allowed inside.

Northeast Desecration brings a full day of music to The Hardcore Stadium. The schedule, including door opening and set times, will be announced. Tickets are available as all-day access or a later-entry option, with presale prices lower than day-of rates. For complete ticket details, see the second slide.

At Summer Shack in Cambridge, this high energy Ariana Grande themed drag brunch brings performances by local drag artists, crisp choreography, and sing along moments to favorites like 7 Rings. The vibe welcomes superfans and casual brunch goers alike. Doors close 30 minutes after the show starts. Parties of three or fewer will be seated at community tables. Every guest must purchase an entree. No refunds. Open to all.

This annual Hawaiian themed Irish music cruise takes to Boston Harbor with pre-parties, a more than three hour voyage, and plenty of after-parties. Tickets are on sale. T-shirt sponsorship benefits Lucy’s Love Bus, an organization that supports children coping with cancer and related care. Proceeds from the day go to Team Maggie in support of their Falmouth Road Race effort for Tommy’s Place, which provides two Cape Cod homes where families of a child with cancer can enjoy a no-cost vacation.

At Hatch Memorial Shell in Boston, the Charles River Jazz Festival returns with an expanded main stage and more space for artists and vendors while keeping its familiar, welcoming vibe. This free, family-friendly celebration offers a full day of live music, food, and community connections, uniting acclaimed performers with standout talent from the local jazz scene. The main stage showcases Ghost-Note, Tyreek McDole, Seba Molnar, Zahili Zamora, BT ALC Big Band, and Roella Oloro.

At Royale, the 20th anniversary of The Search Party Never Came features performances by VANNA and I Promised The World. This all ages event also includes a charitable component, with 25 cents from each ticket supporting The Shout Syndicate, a volunteer run Boston initiative that raises funds for youth led arts programs at trusted creative youth development nonprofits throughout the Greater Boston area. The organization is housed at The Boston Foundation and collaborates with the Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture on the Boston Creates plan.

ICHIGO LIVE presents a Lotus Juice tour date in the United States as part of the Player One run in 2026. All ages are welcome.

Gloom Productions and ONCE Somerville bring back Somergloom 2026, Somerville’s heavy music festival, for two days filled with heavy sounds, moody ambience, and a strong sense of community. The Saturday edition features Boston post metal band Junius marking the release of its long in the making new album, Sotera. Planning for Burial, Hiroe, Ballast, and Gloomlurker complete the lineup. The show takes place at the Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre.

Rolling Quartz brings the MY TURN 2026 North American tour to Sonia in Boston. The Korean rock band, which debuted in 2020, features five members: Arem, Hyunjung, Iree, Jayoung, and Yeongeun, and will perform live. Ticket options include several tiers. General Admission is $29.99. VIP is $49.99 and adds a Hi Touch. DIADEM VVIP is $89.99 and includes General Admission, Skip The Line, Hi Touch, and Sound Check. The SUPER DIADEM Everything Ticket is $219.99 and includes General Admission, Skip The Line, Hi Touch, Sound Check, a Fan Sign where you may bring one small personal item, a Selfie Bundle with one selfie with each member, and a You+ photo of you with the band taken on your phone by event staff.

At Aloft Boston Seaport District, illustrators compete live to create character artwork under a time limit while a DJ keeps the energy up. Watch each piece come together in real time, then get a chance to take home work made during the event. FAN EXPO Boston badges are noted in the details for access. More information will be shared soon.

The performance will take place regardless of the weather, and supporting acts may be updated without advance notice. A range of ticket options is available, including presales through the artist, Leader Bank, Live Nation, and Citi Cardmember programs, along with preferred seating, 4-pack offers, and VIP packages.

Spoondrift returns to Remnant Satellite in Cambridge with a set built on thoughtful originals, groove-forward improvisation, and high-energy covers. A presence in the Boston jam band scene, the group features Alex Lyons on keyboards and vocals, Ian Svagdis on drums and vocals, Alec Hovey on electric bass and vocals, Jason Oberstein on guitar and vocals, and Mike Sim on guitar and vocals. Formed from a shared devotion to music and respect for the artists who paved the way, they deliver a show meant to move the mind, body, and heart. This is a free show, and tips are appreciated.

Mattie & Debbie spotlights the creative partnership of drummer and singer Sean Trischka and bluegrass guitarist and singer Stash Wyslouch, two distinctive voices from the acoustic scene who create something larger than the sum of their parts. Their debut, Satan’s Junction, slated for release in April 2026, blends close-knit harmonies and open, intimate arrangements with bluegrass picking, catchy pop sensibilities, and sing-along anthems. The pair has collaborated across bluegrass, roots, folk, and rock since 2013 in projects such as The Deadly Gentlemen, Tony Trischka’s Early Roman Kings, The Stash Band, and Corporate Punk, and they are among the select acts to have opened for Billy Strings, who has offered enthusiastic praise. Individually, Trischka is a warm, pocket-focused drummer, songwriter, and vocalist whose credits include work with Carsie Blanton, Mipso, Oteil Burbridge of Dead & Company, Bertha AKA Grateful Drag, Lula Wiles, and The Stray Birds. Wyslouch is an iconoclastic flatpicker with a readily recognizable style, known for performing with Molsky’s Mountain Drifters and The Jacob Jolliff Band, and for sharing stages with Julian Lage, Bryan Sutton, Peter Rowan, and David Grisman. Tickets are 20 or 25 dollars.

Catch NIGHT HAWK, featuring Spirit of the Bear. This show is listed as alternative, Ohio indie, and indie rock, taking place at Cantab Lounge.

J. Cole is performing live at TD Garden in Boston. The show is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM local time.

At The Boston Synagogue, Boston Summer Opera offers an informal preview of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville. Members of a Boston-area young artist cast share favorite excerpts from the opera alongside arias, duets, and ensembles by Mozart, Donizetti, Puccini, and more. Music Director Julian Gau accompanies the program, and Executive Director Hannah Shanefield hosts. The evening is designed to welcome both longtime opera fans and first-time attendees, with live music, a chance to meet the artists, and a sneak peek at the upcoming production.

Matt Heaton brings a lively singalong to the West Branch, with guitar tunes that get kids laughing, dancing, and singing along.

Baramor hosts a night of soulful rhythm and blues featuring Monster Groove and the Killer Horns. Attend in person, or watch the performance live on Facebook if you prefer to tune in remotely.

Zuzu at The Middle East Restaurant and Nightclub in Cambridge hosts Hannah Judson for a laid-back midweek stop. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with dinner and drinks available, and there is no cover charge.

An intimate showcase at The Corner at Middle East Club brings together three distinct voices for an evening of stories and songs. Eli Lev shares award-winning global roots music with uplifting lyrics and warm acoustic rhythms. Rees Shad crafts vivid, character-driven songs that blend acoustic Americana, blues, and folk. Kemp Harris offers a soulful, genre-spanning set that weaves blues, jazz, soul, and folk with a powerful vocal presence. The program highlights engaging storytelling, rich grooves, and standout musicianship. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

At CanalSide Food + Drink at CambridgeSide, this Music Bingo night blends a DJ-curated playlist with bingo cards featuring familiar song titles and artists. Pick up a card, listen for each track, and mark matches as they play. Score five in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, then announce bingo to win. The format usually includes two or three fast-paced rounds to keep the energy high. It is free to take part, and prizes are awarded in every round. No special music knowledge is needed, making it an easygoing choice for casual listeners, competitive types, and groups of friends who want a lively night out with music, friendly competition, and rewards.

The ZYG 808 headlines the Jungle Open Mic as the featured act. The showcase follows an open mic format with this artist in the spotlight.