Live music picks for TUESDAY MAY 29 through SATURDAY JUNE 2, 2012.

TUESDAY MAY 29 / PATRICK WATSON / THE DANFORTH MUSIC HALL / 147 DANFORTH / $33.50 - $38.50 / ALL AGES
If you haven't heard of Patrick Watson (the singer/songwriter or the eponymous band), I'd highly recommend taking in this show. Winner of the Polaris Music Prize in 2007, and finalists in 2009, the band has seen their fair share of critical acclaim. And it's not at all misplaced - this some of the most unique and awe-inspiring music that you'll ever hear. And their stage presence is simply awesome.

THURSDAY MAY 31 / LIAM TITCOMB / THE RIVOLI / 332 QUEEN W / $12.75 / 19+

Liam Titcomb was exposed to the music industry at a very early age, and released his debut album at the ripe old age of 18. Born and raised in Toronto, he's proficient in many instruments, including the guitar, bass, drums, and steel pan. And, on top of all that, he's a pretty damn good singer, too. He's got a new album coming out later this year, so you can expect to hear some new material off of that, and maybe a cover or two, as well.

FRIDAY JUNE 1 / TALIB KWELI / SOUND ACADEMY / 11 POLSON / $28.25 / 19+

If you're a fan of hip-hop, then chances are that you already know who Talib Kweli is. If you're just getting into hip-hop, then believe me when I say that Kweli is an artist that you absolutely must check out. His lyrics are deep (this is 'conscious' rap, and the furthest thing possible from 'gangsta,'), he's got incredible flow, and the beats are some of the best production you'll ever hear. Seriously, these beats are sick. 4th Pyramid and J. Pinder will offer support.

FRIDAY JUNE 1 / COEUR DE PIRATE / THE OPERA HOUSE / 735 QUEEN W / $22.50 / 19+

I've included Beatrice Martin, better known by her stage name Coeur de Pirate, in the Hot Ticket before. And you might recall that I heaped praise on her, something that I'll gladly do again. Quite simply, this girl is endlessly talented, and her live shows are incredibly fun. The majority of her music may be en Francais, but you don't have to be fluent to enjoy it. This will probably be the show of the week, so if tickets are still available, don't hesitate to grab them.

SATURDAY JUNE 2 / DAVE MATTHEWS BAND / MOLSON AMPHITHEATRE / 909 LAKESHORE W / $63 - $96.50 / ALL AGES

While I generally try to stick to smaller shows when writing the Hot Ticket, I'm including this one because it's hands down the best live show in Toronto this week. When it comes to the Dave Matthews Band, you're either a fan, or you're not - there really is no middle ground. I'm planted firmly in the former camp, and having seen them live numerous times, I can tell you that it's unlike any concert you've ever been to before. It's essentially a two hour long jam session, and everyone is drinking, dancing, and smoking...cigarettes. I reckon that this one's sold out (I've got my ticket!), but if you can get your hands on a ticket or two, you won't regret it. Blind Pilot will open.

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Photo of Patrick Watson courtesy of djenvert on Flickr.