With classes starting and campus suddenly flooded with activity vendors and coupon pushers, students need time to ignore the fact that school even exists. The perfect way to do that? Live music. Columbia has a full schedule of bands covering many genres. Check out these songs by bands coming to The Blue Note or Mojo’s in September, and then fill your calendars with the shows you just can’t miss:

1. “Stereo Hands” — The White Panda. The White Panda is an electronic outfit specializing in mash-ups, and this one is destined to fill mix CDs all over campus. With an unexpected mix of “No Hands” by Waka Flocka Flame and “Stereo Love” by Edward Maya and Vika Jigulina. “No Hands” is altered from its original tempo and blended into a sort of techno remix. The White Panda has an ear for how to make two entirely different songs simply work together, and this song is an example of that.

2. “Frozen Creek” — Circa Survive. Circa Survive has a unique lead vocalist that makes it very easy for listeners to understand the emotions that he’s trying to convey. This song is one big metaphor that could be related to so many struggles that lots of people face regularly. The haunting instrumentals in the background showcase Circa’s amazing talent. This show is definitely not a waste of time, especially for those into progressive or alternative rock.

3. “Salute” — Machine Gun Kelly. Machine Gun Kelly has been a frequent performer in Columbia lately, and he’s making another appearance this September. “Salute” shows off MGK’s clever lyrics and quick rhyming style while expressing his feelings toward his city and himself. Fans of upbeat hip-hop and rap should definitely consider attending this show.

4. “Until Morale Improves, the Beatings Continue” — Murder By Death. Murder By Death is a rock group from Indiana with an ironic indie feel. This song has a movingly simple cello feature in the back with gritty guitars and vulnerable lyrics. The musicians seem to be laid back yet talented, and they’re the perfect act for any rock music-loving college kid.

5. “BAWS” — Spankalicious. Spankalicious is another band that hails from St. Louis, and “BAWS” is a different kind of mash-up with familiar rap tidbits over original electronic beats. A lesser-known musician but a quality one nonetheless, Spankalicious is the perfect show for a fan of modern music and original sounds.