Must-see Acts Coming to Detroit this Winter

Plus, where to eat and drink after the show
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Mogwai teaserWhile metro Detroiters dust off their crockpots and snow shovels, they must face the inevitable — winter is here. But the grueling period of grayness isn’t an excuse to become a hermit. There are plenty of music acts coming to town to help you enjoy Mother Nature’s mundane months.

On Dec. 3, Scottish post-rock band Mogwai will play at The Majestic Theatre in Detroit. Most of the group’s material is instrumental, intertwining atmospheric layers of guitars. Watching the band is like being immersed in a movie soundtrack.

Before the performance, head next door within the Majestic Complex to Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizzeria & Deli for a greasy slice or a hot calzone.

If you’re looking for a performer to ring in the holiday season, legendary Detroit R&B singer Thornetta Davis is at Andiamo Celebrity Showroom in Warren on Dec. 10. Davis, who released an album last year called Honest Woman, will be accompanied by the Motor City Symphony Orchestra. Guests have the option to purchase tickets at a fixed price for both the concert and dinner, which consists of a four-course-meal of classic Andiamo Italian dishes.

Says Joe Vicari, president and CEO of Andiamo Restaurant Group: “For a two-hour adventure out of the house [guests] get a great meal and entertainment.”

The following month, jam out to rock ’n’ roll, soul-style songs by The Killers. Now touring their fifth and latest studio album, Wonderful Wonderful, the band is coming to Detroit’s Masonic Temple on Jan. 15. See how far The Killers have come since their “Mr. Brightside” days. After the show, scoot a few blocks down to Motor City Brewing Works for local craft beer and brick-oven pizzas.

Shakira’s hips still don’t lie. See for yourself Jan. 22 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Known for hits like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Waka Waka,” the Colombian-born singer/songwriter/  dancer/producer released her 11th album this year. Experimenting with South American-folk and her Arabian heritage makes the Latin dance-pop style difficult to stand still through.

For late-night drinks following the concert, try the Witching Hour martini at Ghostbar, an exclusive upscale lounge at The Whitney.

On Feb. 1, enjoy “Jerk Out” and “Jungle Love” with funk and soul kings Morris Day and The Time at Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel. With decades of R&B dance tunes under their belts, the esteemed associates of Prince are bringing the groove to their Detroit show.

After all that movin’, take a seat in the casino and test your luck. You might exit the doors with a full hand of cash doing “The Walk.”