Summer's must-see concerts

Summer is finally here, ushering in an array of events to ensure that your warm weather break does not go to waste. 

Many Cincinnati–area venues will play host to musical groups such as Stone Temple Pilots and The Freestylers to entertain music intellectuals and even those who just like dancing to good tunes or bumping beats. 

With all that is going on in Cincinnati, you may feel a bit overwhelmed with all the Saturday night options. Luckily, The News Record has put together a list of summer concert highlights. Mark your calendars, folks, these are the shows you won’t want to miss.

June 18 – Sept. 3
PNC MidPoint’s Indie Summer
In light of the ever-popular annual MidPoint Music Festival coming to Cincinnati this fall, PNC Bank is sponsoring live shows every Friday night at Fountain Square to make indie fans’ mouths water just a little more. Featured local and national acts serve as a preview to the three-night musical takeover to come. Expect performances from the Seedy Seeds, Why?, the Pomegranates and more to kick off your summer weekends the right way.
Where: Fountain Square
When: 7 p.m. Fridays
How Much: Free
For more information, visit www.myfountainsquare.com/indiesummer.

June 19
Infected Mushroom
If you’re into synths, guitars and “four to the floor” beats t this is most the show for you. The U.K.’s DJ Magazine considers Infected Mushroom among the world’s best DJs. Their sound fuses metal and techno with a hint of Mediterranean influence to give their music a unique flavor. Infected Mushroom’s performances are famous for live instrumentation set against multimedia backdrops, creating a memorable experience for fans and new listeners alike. 
Where: RadioDown
620 Scott   St. in Covington, Kentucky
When: 8 p.m. - 2 a.m.
How Much: $20
For more information, visit www.radiodownclub.com.

July 3
The “We Rock Hard” Show
The UK’s premiere big beat DJ group will bring their “Ruffneck” style to the U.S. when they take the stage at Club Aquarius to celebrate Independence Day. So if you’re looking for a raw good time this Independence Day, then the “We Rock Hard” Show is well worth the 45-minute drive up North I-75.
Where: Club Aquarius
135 E. Second St. in Dayton, Ohio
When: 9 p.m. - 4 a.m.
How Much: $15
For more information, visit www.aquariusnightclub.com.

July 5
We Came as Romans, Close to Home, Sky Eats Airplane, Pilot Around the Stars and more
Local hardcore/pop performances don’t get better than this. The reputable, high-energy lineup combined with the personal atmosphere only the Mad Hatter can deliver will make a memorable Independence Day follow-up.
Where: Mad Hatter
620 Scott St. in Covington, Kentucky
When: 6 p.m.
How Much: $14 in advance or $16 at the door
For more information, visit www.madhatterclub.com.

July 18
Press/Night of Mayhem – Dub Step (heavy beats) UK
For those who want to subject their musical senses to the UK Dub sound, this event is for you. 
Where: The Mad Frog
 1 E. McMillan St.
When: 8 p.m. - 2 a.m.
How Much: $8 (ladies in free before 10 p.m.)
For more information, visit www.themadfrog.net.

July 28
Vans Warped Tour 2010
The  ancient    alternative music celebration will return to Cincinnati with full-force this year.  The mile-long set list includes Breathe Carolina, Every Time I Die, Haste the Day, I Can Make a Mess Like Nobody’s Business, Mayday Parade and more.  Whether you’re into dance beats, breakdowns, pop ballads or acoustic tunes, there’s something for everyone at Warped.  Just be sure to stay hydrated in order to last long enough to catch your favorite acts.
Where: Riverbend Music Center
6295 Kellogg Ave.
How   Much: $39.50 via
www.ticketmaster.com
For more information, visit www.riverbend.org.

August 6
Summer Slaughter 2010
This death metal  tour’s explosive popularity has gained a huge following in the states, as well as Europe, Australia and New Zealand. This year promises to deliver merciless metal brutality with headliners Decapitated, along with The Faceless, All Shall Perish and more.
Where: Bogarts, 2621 Vine St.
When: 2:30 p.m.
How Much: $18
For more information, visit www.livenation.com.

August 25
Stone Temple Pilots/Cage the Elephant
Rock veterans STP are making their return to the Queen City with opening act Cage the Elephant for one show only. Tickets are already on sale and expected to sell out quickly. 
Where: Riverbend Music Center
 6295 Kellogg Ave.
When: 8 p.m.
How Much: $57 and up
For more information, visit www.riverbend.org.