1. 1. Guns N’ Roses

   May 12, 14, 15, and 17 at Hammerstein Ballroom

   A dreadlocked and Botoxed-looking Axl Rose plays the series of shows his fans have been looking forward to for years, albeit with a lineup that looks only faintly like the G-n’-R of yore—but as long as they play “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” who really cares?

2. 2. Depeche Mode

   May 13 at Jones Beach

   Last year’s prolonged “Playing the Angel” tour was a smash, so expect long lines, ecstatic fans, and lots and lots of dark, dramatic synths at this outdoor one-off.

Related:

• Articles by Sara Cardace
• Table of Contents: May 15, 2006 issue of New York | Subscribe!