The brightest stars from the cutting edge of contemporary music (think college radio, not radio radio) are the Bowery Ballroom's bread and butter—the high percentage of sold-out shows at this venue confirms that it's the place to hear what's happening. Bars on all three floors keep things buzzing before, during and after sets; this place feels so familiar it's hard to believe it hasn't always been here. Get tickets early, bring earplugs and stay all night.