The 27th annual CMJ Music Marathon, headquartered at the Puck Building this year, kicks off today and rocks through the weekend. (If you’re not registered for the conference, each club has its own policy about how many, if any, non-badgeholders can get into the shows for a separate admission fee.)
Who's worth checking out? Some of today's suggestions:
7 p.m. JAY BRANNAN. Though he got attention for his acting (and doing other things) in the John Cameron Mitchell movie “Shortbus,” Brannan’s singing and storytelling is even more charming. Mercury Lounge.
8:15 p.m. JESSE LACEY & VIN ACCARDI. The Brand New boys make a rare acoustic appearance. Mercury Lounge.
9 p.m. LIFETIME. The emo pioneers make a much-deserved comeback. Webster Hall.
10 p.m. DEAN & BRITTA. Dreamy, orchestral pop from Dean Wareham and Britta Phillips. (Stick around for the sweet synth pop of The Rosebuds at 11 p.m.) Bowery Ballroom.
Dean and Britta, "Words You Used to Say"
12 a.m. CELEBRATION. Joy Division-like rhythms and atmospherics, handclaps and Moogs, and a female singer. What’s not to like? Union Pool.