SPORTS The Ohio rockers’ 2015 debut, “All of Something,’’ jumps from delightfully depressive dirges to spirited, jangly garage-pop — favorites include “Getting on in Spite of You’’ and “Clean Socks.’’ Most clock in at under three minutes, so expect some short, sharp shocks here. Jan. 4. 8 p.m. $12. Middle East, Upstairs. 866-777-8932. www.ticketweb.com

MARSHALL CRENSHAW The affable singer-songwriter (pictured) found his brightest spotlight in the ’80s with hits like “Someday, Some Way’’ and appearing as Buddy Holly in the hit film “La Bamba.’’ But he has consistently made quality albums since full of great melodies and smart lyrics, and even helped the Gin Blossoms write their hit “Til I Hear It From You.’’ Expect to hear tunes from his latest series of EPs. Jan. 8. 8 p.m. $25. Bull Run. 978-425-4311, www.bullrunrestaurant .com

THE STOMPERS The “local legends’’ series rolls on with a show from this vaunted party band, which rocked and rolled its way through the late ’70s and early ’80s Boston scene, scoring hits like “Coast to Coast,’’ “American Fun,’’ and “Summer Girls’’ and placing among the top three from 1981 to 1986 in the Globe’s Best Boston Band readers poll. Jan. 8. 7:15 p.m. $19.69-$29. Johnny D’s. 617-776-2004. www.johnnyds .com

SARAH RODMAN