7 Can’t-Miss Concerts in February 2019

From timeless reggae classics from UB40 to instrumental jazz-fusion from Yellowjackets, catch the best in every genre in Honolulu this month.

January 31, 2019

Marisa Hartzell,

Taking Back Sunday

Feb. 1–2

Photo: Courtesy of Taking Back Sunday

As a celebratory cheers to 20 years in the music industry, Taking Back Sunday will be playing the best from its two-decade-long career with the appropriately titled album, Twenty, at The Republik. The band that reigned during the 2000s pop-punk era curated an angsty sound that was echoed throughout the genre with its songs “Cute Without the ‘E’ (Cut From the Team)” and “You’re So Last Summer.” This is a special event where the band will play either of its second or third albums on each night and then the first album on both nights. A coin toss determines which is on which night. Can’t miss any of your favorite songs? Catch the band for both nights to hear the best from the past as well as two brand new songs at The Republik.

$35–$40, The Republik, 8 p.m, 1349 Kapiʻolani Blvd., #30, jointherepublik.com

The Late Ones

Feb. 8

Photo: Courtesy of The Late Ones

Based out of Lāʻie, The Late Ones is a new-wave reggae band comprising brothers Tui and Tau Avei and cousin Josh Brunson. Inspired by roots-reggae and influenced by today’s R&B, the family act combines harmonies and rap for an Island sound. The name “The Late Ones” serves as a tribute to the late revolutionaries Bob Marley and John Lennon who have paved the way for their voices to be heard.

$20–$25, The Republik, 8 p.m., 1349 Kapiʻolani Blvd., #30, jointherepublik.com

Emarosa

Feb. 14

Photo: Courtesy of Bobby Bruderle

Scrambling for a spontaneous Valentine’s Day concert for your alternative-rock-loving date? Emarosa will be coming to Honolulu for the very first time for an exclusive 21-and-over show at Anna O’Brien’s. The band formed in 2006 and since then have created a wide body of music, spanning from an early 2000s metal-hardcore vibe to its current alternative-rock jams. Reminisce about the early days with the hit “Casablanca” and don’t miss songs from the band’s more recent album 131 at this intimate show.

$25–$30, Anna O’Brien’s, 6:30 p.m., 2440 S. Beretania St., seetickets.us

UB40 and Katchafire

Feb. 15

Photo: Courtesy of UB40

Reggae giants UB40 and Katchafire will hit the Blaisdell stage for an evening of inevitable nostalgia and feel-good reggae music. Celebrate with UB40 on its 40th anniversary tour as the band shares its signature reggae-pop style with opener Katchafire, the Island-favorite roots-reggae band. Sway along to UB40’s ever-popular renditions of “Red Red Wine” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You” and Katchafire’s hits, “Love Letter” and “Down With You.”

$79–$249, 7 p.m., Blaisdell Arena, 777 Ward Ave., tmrevents.com

Henry Kapono

Feb. 20

Photo: Courtesy of Henry Kapono

The Grammy-nominated and local favorite Henry Kapono will showcase his newest album, Welcome 2 My Paradise, along with his classics for an intimate show at Blue Note Hawaiʻi. Get a chance to hear a talk story with the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning artist and listen to his soothing vocals and guitar riffs.

$25–$45, 7 p.m., Blue Note Hawaiʻi, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotehawaii.com

Yellowjackets

Feb. 22–23

Photo: Courtesy of Yellowjackets

The jazz instrumental group Yellowjackets, which has recorded more than 20 albums and accumulated 17 Grammy nominations over the years, will bring its funk-fusion sound to Honolulu. The ’80s band that helped define smooth jazz will perform songs from its new album Raising Our Voice along with classics “Matinee Idol” and “Man In The Moon.”

$35–$45, 6:30 p.m., Blue Note Hawaiʻi, 2335 Kalākaua Ave., bluenotehawaii.com

Mike Love

Feb. 24

Photo: Courtesy of Mike Love

For a free poolside concert with one of Oʻahu’s favorite positive-message-based reggae artists, reserve your table for the best seats in the house at Queen Kapiʻolani’s Hotel’s Deck for the Sunday “Sunset Sessions” with Mike Love. The Oʻahu native has been called a progressive-Rastafari artist, infusing jazz and classic rock into his music while utilizing a loop-pedal for a complex sound. Support this talented local artist as well as the Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation, which promotes environmental education in the Hawaiʻi school system at this monthly concert series.

Free, 4 to 7 p.m., Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, Third floor at Deck Bar + Grill, 150 Kapahulu Ave., reserve a table at (808) 931-4488, deckwaikiki.com