Big shots doing big things: Weekly concerts

The "Big Shots Doing Big Things" column is all about the movers, shakers, and noise-makers hitting the Valley. This week, the energy dome descends on Phoenix, legacy thrash takes over downtown, and some of our own rising stars return to center stage. Here is your scrub for April 9–14, 2026:

⚡ **The Headliners: DEVO-lution in the Desert ** It’s a rare week when a foundational pillar of post-punk decides to set up shop for two different types of crowds. Whether you want the spectacle of the big room or the sweat of the club, Mark Mothersbaugh and company have you covered.

The Arena Experience (April 12): DEVO takes over the Arizona Financial Theatre for the "big production" night. Expect the full visual onslaught and a crowd of industry veterans.

The Club Sessions (April 13): For those who prefer their irony at close range, they’ll be at The Van Buren the following night. This is the one the local players and the Signal and Noise crew will be circling.

🎸 The Heavy Hitters If the new wave isn't your speed, the mid-week brings enough volume to rattle the windows on Central Ave. Lacuna Coil (April 12 @ The Van Buren): Cristina Scabbia and crew bring the Sleepless Empire tour to town, providing a high-drama Sunday night alternative to the DEVO arena show.

🌵 Local Legends & Rising Stars The "Big Shots" aren't just the touring acts; they're the locals making enough noise to be heard outside the 602.

Doom Scroll (April 9 @ Yucca Tap Room): The "Big Shot" of the underground this week. If you want to know where the real punk/folk-punk energy is hiding, it’s at the Yucca on Thursday.

Evan Honer (April 11 @ The Van Buren): A massive homecoming. Watching Honer’s trajectory from local songwriter to a national touring force has been one of the better stories in the PHX scene lately.

Marlon Funaki (April 14 @ Crescent Ballroom): Sold out for a reason. Funaki is currently the gold standard for the local psych-rock exports.