It’s B.E. Taylor Christmas Concert Time; The 1975 Play Stage AE (CPs Mon., 12/15/14)

1) Pittsburgh’s Christmas music ambassador, singer B.E. Taylor, takes the stage for his 18th annual B.E. Taylor Christmas Concert. Taylor reworks classic holiday songs in bold ways to create new traditions. Although he is best known today for his holiday concerts, in the mid 80’s he scored a nationally charted hit with the song “Vitamin L,” which ran on MTV. 7:30 p.m. Continues through tomorrow night. Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District.

2) They are called The 1975, although their music hearkens more to a 1983 sound, with a little contemporary pop thrown in for good measure. Blame the anachronism on vocalist Matt Healy finding a Beat poetry book with the date “1st June, The 1975” scribbled on the back page. Beginning with the breakout single “Chocolate,” The 1975 have listeners from multiple generations bobbing their heads and moving their feet. The Manchester, UK, group also provides a good business model for aspiring bands, having released four (!) EPs before cementing their success with a 2013 self-titled debut. They’ve opened for the Rolling Stones and have toured on both sides of the pond. In 2014, they played Coachella and Royal Albert Hall. Tonight, they play Stage AE. CRUISR and Young Rising Sons open. Doors at 7 p.m. 400 North Shore Dr., North Shore.

3) Our Pens take on the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight at Consol Energy Center. A pop group—The Summer Set—have a great tune about catching “Lightning in a Bottle.” Let’s hope the ‘guins can do the same. 7 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

4) The Balcony Big Band is hitting only high notes in a Monday night performance at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. 8 p.m. No cover. 285 Northgate Dr., Warrendale.

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