Philadelphia is a great city when it comes to live music. Whether there’s a huge act on tour, a small indie band playing a few shows or a local band randomly deciding to perform here and there, Philly is usually a city that musicians don’t like to pass up.

However, the fact that so many different musicians come through our beloved city can sometimes make it a bit difficult to choose whom you should see. Personally, I’m up for seeing just about anyone, so hopefully I can give you a bit of insight on who you should be marking your calendar to see this week.

The first musician that is definitely worth checking out this week is A.C. Newman. Johnny Brenda’s is hosting his show on Tuesday, March 17 and he fits in perfectly with the various other acts the venue has hosted in the past.

I first checked Newman out about a month ago by way of Myspace and the two tracks he has uploaded are phenomenal (“Submarines of Stockholm” is my personal favorite). He describes his sound as “The New Pornographers on acid” (which he also lends vocals and other instrumentals to) and recently released his second solo album, Get Guilty, this past January.

Although Johnny Brenda’s is unfortunately a 21+ venue and this is obviously late notice, the show isn’t sold out and if you’re of age to gain entry, it’s a great place to witness live music. The show starts at 9 p.m. and admission is $12 at the door.

The second act that is definitely worth checking out this week, The Ting Tings, will make their appearance at the Starlight Ballroom on Thursday, March 19.

The group that seems to have gotten huge out of nowhere came through the city this past summer (where they played at Johnny Brenda’s) and seemed to make quite an impression.

“Right from the beginning they showed the musical chops that have afforded them a buzz worthy reputation and growing throng of followers,” said phillyist.com in one of their many wonderful concert reviews, “In the end, the Tings Ting were the real deal. They performed a memorably energetic set, and left at least one viewer eager to find out what else they have to offer.”

The Ting Tings have obviously moved up in the ranks with the Starlight Ballroom as their venue this time around (the show was moved from its original location, the First Unitarian Church, due to popular demand). The only downfall? The show has been sold-out for quite some time now so if you don’t have a ticket, you’re out of luck.

The third and final band worth checking out this week is one that many Philly kids know and love – Valencia. The show may not be in the city, but West Chester isn’t too far away! Besides, it’s on Friday, March 20 and the show starts early (6:30 p.m.).

Although I may not be a fan of the band myself (I know, that’s a blasphemous thing to say since they’re a Philly band), but I have seen them live a couple times and I can admit that those boys know how to put on a show.

Not only are they good performers, but bands that have a show in the area that they call home always makes them that much more enjoyable. They love playing for hometown fans just as much as their fans love seeing them.

Their supporting acts are also great bands including Houston Calls, You, Me and Everyone We Know (one of my personal favorites) and The Goodnight Anthem. This show is also sold-out, but all of you Philly kids probably already have your ticket anyway.

Hopefully my insight on concerts coming to the area has been somewhat helpful. I know the music scene can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s basically my life so I don’t mind sorting through it.

Want to know something about someone I didn’t write about? Feel free to comment or contact me and I’d be happy talk music with you all you want.