September Pittsburgh concerts

MUST-SEE SHOW:
9/21 The Swell Season @ Byham Theatre
Wow, the cupboard is almost bare when it comes to September shows in Pittsburgh - it's embarrassing how little there is going on. If I had to choose a must-see show, it would be the duo of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová. Their performance at the Academy Awards has taken them from being obscure unknowns to an acclaimed hot ticket, and the Byham is the perfect place to take in their beautiful sounds.

ALSO WORTH ATTENDING:
9/6 Cracker @ WYEP building
Cracker was the first band I ever saw live, back in 1994, opening for the Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors. I wasn't very familiar with their stuff, but left impressed enough to go purchase Kerosene Hat, which became one of my favorites records of the decade. At this point they're mostly living off their past triumphs, although 2006's "I Need Better Friends" was a standout track.

9/21 Rachael Yamagata @ Diesel
Rachael first earned our attention with "Letter Read" from her debut album a few years back, her raspy voice and piano-heavy songs immediately recalling Tidal-era Fiona Apple. Yamagata's new album comes out in October, so this show will be a good opportunity to hear the new songs.

9/23 New Found Glory with A Day to Remember & others @ Mr. Small's
New Found Glory is one of the leaders of today's emo-punk Warped scene, and they're worth mentioning because of 2004's "All Downhill From Here," a great track with a gloriously catchy double-tracked chorus that overcomes Jordan Pundik's horribly whiny voice. Pundik isn't very good live, but you'll leave happy after they play those killer covers of cheesy songs "Glory of Love" (Peter Cetera) and "Kiss Me" (Sixpence None the Richer).

Others to keep in mind:
9/2 Fratellis with Electric Touch @ Mr. Small's
9/5 Leathermouth & Reggie & the Full Effect @ Diesel
9/12 Stereophonics @ Mr. Small's
9/13 The Duhks @ Thunderbird Cafe
9/15 Shawn Mullins & Dar Williams @ Club Cafe
9/20 Lynyrd Skynyrd @ PNC Park
9/23 French Kicks @ Rex Theatre
9/24 Chiodos @ Mr. Small's
9/25 Lez Zeppelin @ Diesel
9/26 One for the Team @ Smiling Moose
9/27 Keller Williams @ Mr. Small's
9/28 Citizen Cope @ Carnegie Music Hall
9/28 State Radio @ Mr. Small's