January’s live music calendar gets off to a typical slow start for this time of year. But the concert-going options pick up as the third week rolls around. Below are some notable shows:

Friday, January 6 — Clemency w/ Neon Love Life and the Bonesetters at Radio Radio

Nashville’s Clemency is set to release its debut EP — check out the really promising video below. Supporting are Neon Love Life, still rolling with it’s 2011 release, Tuesday Night, and the Bonesetters, whose fantastic album Savages has finally seen the light of day. Great way to spend a Friday night.

Thursday, January 19 — Awolnation at The Vogue

Return visit by Awolnation, who played here a few months back.

Friday, January 20 — The Lemonheads at The Vogue

MOKB Presents Evan Dando and his current band playing classic It’s A Shame About Ray in its entirety. Ray’s only about 30 minutes long, so expect some other great Lemonheads tunes. Really looking forward to this one.

Saturday, January 21 – A Lot Like Birds at Earth House

West coast instrumental post-hardcore band makes its way to the cozy confines of the Earth House. The neighbors might not like this one.

Sunday, January 22 – Communist Daughter at Melody Inn

Minnesota alterna-folk band comes to town. Nice show at the Mel.

Thursday, January 26 – Los Campesinos! at the Bluebird (Bloomington)

Good band down in B-town if you’re up for the drive.

Friday, January 27 – Anthrax w/ Testament at the Egyptian Room

Get your metal fix for the month

Saturday, January 28 – Jack’s Mannequin w/ Jukebox the Ghost at the Egyptian Room

Jack’s Mannequin returns, this time with Jukebox the Ghost in tow. I’m not as big of a JM fan, but I really like Jukebox. Fun night.

Tuesday, January 31 – The Cab at the Emerson

I can’t recommend the Emerson as a venue — the place feels like a disaster waiting to happen — but if you like harmony-laden pop, The Cab has it figured out.

What shows are on your radar for January?