It may seem cheesy to be on the U of M campus given that you are most likely a former U student or smartly dropped out.  Unfortunately you can’t dodge the alma mater anymore, they’ve gotten better at inserting themselves into your music scene.  The always free 56th Annual Summer at Northrop series was ho-hum back in the day but now with a local scene line-up that bests any First Avenue calendar, night time concerts, and free food sponsorship, it’s hard to resist “the mall.”

The series kicks off on June 14 with Romantica, an Irish-Americana band that combines Christian folk and dreadlocks.  Jimmy Johns supplies the free grub and UDS will sell ice cream. But even before the kickoff, the Friday evening concerts kickoff on June 11 with indie pop gurus The Alarmists. Then before you know it, Maria Isa slams it down on June 18 with free food from Qdoba.  Alumni better open those wallets for this kind of free treatment.

Our favorites The Alpha Centauri lands a Tuesday gig on July 13 during the noon hour.  Nothing better than soaring galactic tunes in broad daylight.

Summer at Northrop Scene Picks

Descriptions from the Summer at Northrop website.

Fri, Jun 11 | 7:00PM The Alarmists
The Alarmists are an indie pop band from Minnesota who incorporate elements of Britpop and indie rock in their music.

Fri, Jun 18 | 7:00PM Maria Isa
Born and raised in the Twin Cities to NuyoRican parents, emcee, singer, and songwriter Maria Isa is recognized for her dedication towards celebrating her cultural diversity through music and political activism.

Mon, Jun 21 | 12:00PM Minnesota Sinfonia
The Minnesota Sinfonia was formed in the fall of 1989, as a professional, community-based chamber orchestra.

Wed, Jun 30 | 12:00PM The Poor Nobodys
The Poor Nobody’s is composed of: Chris Hepola, Eric Struve, Chris Becknell, Aaron Cantine, Chris Duba, Brandon Hepola & Jenna Wyse

Fri, Jul 9 | 7:00PM Charanga Tropical
Charanga Tropical is a nine-piece salsa orchestra featuring three violins, flute, and a sizzling Latin rhythm section.

Tue, Jul 13 | 12:00PM The Alpha Centauri
The Alpha Centauri have looked far and wide, searching for just the right tones to craft their iconic clinks and whooshes.

Fri, Jul 16 | 7:00PM Alison Scott
Alison Scott is the strongest new voice to come out of the Minneapolis music scene in many years.