Weekend Picks: Joyful Indie Rock, Political Improv, Nerdy Music

Courtney Hollands, lifestyle editor of Boston Magazine, joins Radio Boston to share her suggestions for your weekend social calendar.

What: Group Love

Where: Royale in downtown Boston

When: Thursday, November 1, 6 p.m.

How much: $22.50

What Courtney says: The five members of this joyful Los Angeles indie rock band met at an artist residency in Crete – no, really. "We never could have dreamt this up," lead singer Christian Zucconi has said, "but at the same time we're not at all surprised — Grouplove is meant to be. Our story a testament to fate, and our music is something we are ready to share."

They've been selling out venues and even played Conan amid cardboard cutouts of themselves on the success of their debut album, “Never Trust a Happy Song.” Quiet-loud hits like “Tongue Tied” and “Colours” are anthemic and just plain fun to sing along with.

What: “Election Show!”

Where: ImprovBoston in Cambridge's Central Square

When: Friday, November 2 and Saturday, November 3, 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Sunday, November 4 through Tuesday, November 6, 8 p.m.

Price: $18 general admission, $14 students

What Courtney says: Legalize legwarmers! Make “Walk Like an Egyptian Day” a national holiday! Save Ferris! These are just a few of the wonky platforms you could suggest as an audience member at ImprovBoston’s “Election Show!” The comedians will then come up with slogans and attack ads as they campaign for your proposed causes and vie for your vote. Sounds like a surefire antidote to the political fatigue we've all been feeling lately, right? You can also stick around after next Tuesday’s show to watch the results come in.

What: John Hodgman with Jonathan Coulton

Where: The Wilbur Theatre in downtown Boston's Theater District

When: Saturday, November 3, 7 p.m.

How much: $27

What Courtney says: You know Brookline native John Hodgman as an actor, author, humorist, and a PC. However, you probably aren't as familiar with musician and internet sensation Jonthan Coulton who shares the bill on Saturday at the Wilbur Theatre – unless you are a part of his rabid online fan base, that is. The former computer programmer is best known for “Code Monkey,” his song about geek culture. Though he's put out hundreds of songs on his own, he just released his first studio album, “Artificial Heart," last year. The songs were recorded with a live band and produced by They Might Be Giants’ John Flansburgh. Expect banter, ukulele playing and hobo matters.