It’s official. As if the mass Christmas-tree murder taking place all over the five boroughs wasn’t enough, I think we all know the sad truth that none of us wants to admit to each other: the holidays are over; the festivity-induced funk is now ending; reality is setting in; it’s an uphill climb to spring, lovelies.

But THAT’S OKAY, because this week there’s a lot to be excited for, including the show I’ve been buzzing about in my head for some time now: Black Prairie at Union Hall on Wednesday. These Portland-ers give tradition a run for its money in an awesome way. They’ll be playing with John Wesley Harding. ‘Nuff said. (But if ’nuff not said, there’s video proof of their cool-factor below.)

Plus, honorable mentions go to Puss N Boots – the Norah Jones-fronted chick country band that continues their Thursday residency-of-sorts at The Bell House this week – and Leftover Cuties, who play Rockwood Stage 2 Tuesday night.

More must-sees follow. See you on the dance floor.

Tuesday, January 18
9:00 p.m. — Leftover Cuties at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2

Wednesday, January 16
8:30 p.m. — Joy Kills Sorrow at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2
9:00 p.m. — Black Prairie / John Wesley Harding at Union Hall

Thursday, January 17
7:30 p.m. — The Staves at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2
8:30 p.m. — Puss N Boots (With Guests The Parkington Sisters)
9:00 p.m. — Here We Go Magic / Love As Laughter at Le Poisson Rouge

Friday, January 18
7:30 p.m. — Lucius / Tall Tall Trees at Mercury Lounge
8:00 p.m. — Anthony D’Amato at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2

8:00 p.m. — Margaret Glaspy / Wild Leaves /
Sam Friend & The Freckles / Bridget Davis & The Viking Kings / Pure Imagination at Zirzamin

Sunday, January 20
9:00 p.m. — M Shanghai String Band at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2
11:00 p.m. — Morgan O’Kane at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2

Monday, January 21
8:00 p.m. — Adam Moss / Laura Cortese / Bailey Cooke / The Birdhive Boys (Plus, all night it’s EMILEE WARNER’s Birthday Extravaganza) at Pete’s Candy Store