Head Automatica

The journey from practicing in a garage, recording a demo and playing in VFW halls to topping sales charts and selling out venues is a seemingly never-ending one. But if you’re from Long Island, it’s only a bridge or tunnel away. This year’s CMJ Music Marathon has a handful of acts plucked right from our backyard. (And don’t forget our list of must-see acts for the week-long Marathon!)

Head Automatica @ Music Hall of Williamsburg, 9 p.m.

Hometown: Bellmore
Playing Since: 2004
Why You Should See Them: In addition to a headlining set, the band is hosting an official after party at Gallery Bar featuring DJ sets by front man Daryl Palumbo and French sample maven Onra.

Lights Resolve @ Ace of Clubs, 11-11:30 p.m.

Hometown: Lawrence
Playing Since: 2006
Why You Should See Them: They’ve already headlined two national tours and played to a sold-out Bowery Ballroom in 2009.

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Lights Resolve (Sean O'Kane Photography)

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Bayside @ Highline Ballroom, 9:05-10:05 p.m.

Hometown: Bayside. Duh.
Playing Since: 2000
Why You Should See Them: Despite numerous line-up changes, they have an unmistakable sound begging for audience participation.

Patent Pending @ The Delancey, 9:20-9:55 p.m.

Hometown: Mt. Sinai
Playing Since: 2001
Why You Should See Them: The band (nicknamed P-UNIT) earned a loyal fan base playing Long Island skate parks and church basements.

This Condition (Sean O'Kane Photography)

This Condition @ The Delancey, 7:50-8:25 p.m.

Hometown: New Hyde Park/ Floral Park
Playing Since: 2006
Why You Should See Them: They count Bamboozle and Vans Warped Tour among the festivals in which they’ve performed and won Adelphi University’s Battle of the Bands in 2008.