It seems like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra has been around since the dawn of the holiday shopping season, but the group actually first convened in the mid-90's. Since then TSO has essentially become synonymous with Christmas (like eggnog and ill-fitting sweaters as gifts), touring around the holidays with its wildly eclectic sound; loud, heavy, crunching guitars, simple piano ballads, and of course, that whole orchestral thing. TSO doesn't just do holiday music, contrary to popular belief; at its heart this is a prog-rock band that revels in crafting rock operas and performing them in elaborate stage shows (with lasers!).

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Friday, November 13

Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial Sq.

8 p.m. | $25-$59.50 | 800-745-3000