Summer is past its halfway point. It’s getting really hot, so if you are looking for a reason to spend your evening indoors, here are a few good ones:
Thursday, July 30
Danzig, Pennywise, Cancer Bats at The Warfield
The King of Goth Punk returns to The Warfield in support of not one but two upcoming albums including a record of Elvis Presley covers. Chances are he won’t be singing Love Me Tender, but it may still be intriguing to see Danzig tap into the dark side of the King of Rock N Roll. In support are Southern California punkers, Pennywise and Toronto’s, Cancer Bats. Please remember to check all cameras at the door. (Caroline Hernandez)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgSn0SbQJQI
Friday, July 31
RATATAT, Despot at The Regency
What do an electro-instrumental band and a black metal band have in common? They’re both playing to a sold out crowd at The Regency on Friday night. I don’t think very many shows sell out The Regency, but RATATAT have shown that after
11 years on the scene and a 5-year hiatus, the people have been ready and waiting to groove. Opening for them are the similarly (although that’s where the similarities end) two-piece, Despot. \m/ (Caroline Hernandez)
Dumpstaphunk at The Independent
If you didn’t score tickets to see RATATAT, check out a different kind of groove at The Independent. The New Orleans based, jazz/funk band Dumpstaphunk will surely provide an adequate alternative and definitely more bass to boogie. The Humidors and DJ Harry Duncan open. (Caroline Hernandez)
Saturday, August 1
Oh, I am so torn for shows on Saturday as to which I want to see, especially since my top two are so extremely dance-able in very different ways.
The Frail, Magic Giant, Collaj (fka 8th Grader) at The Chapel
There is nothing I love better than interesting indie dance rock, but it always tickles me that extra bit when I find out that the band is based in San Francisco. The Frail released their first album in 2014 following a couple of EPs. Each song is distinct, so it doesn’t sound like you’re listening to the same thing over and over. If you’re looking for some indie pop to dance to, this is it. Magic Giant sounds decent too, but more on the folk side, because banjos! (Carla Deasy)
La Misa Negra, Aluna at The Independent
This is a wonderful treat for people who love music and want to see something a little different than our usual rock scene. La Misa Negra is a full 9 piece band based out of Oakland who have a vintage cumbia and Afro-Colombian sound. Super high energy and a really engaging stage performance by some very talented musicians. Come find yourself a dance partner for some seriously sexy music. (Carla Deasy)
Sunday, August 2
Younger Lovers, Hurry Up (Portland), Joyride at The Hemlock Tavern
A couple weeks ago, my brother played a song by Younger Lovers for me and I’ve been playing it daily ever since. I can’t even say how pleasantly surprised to notice that they’re going to be playing this weekend. This Oakland band has a surf punk sound that is really infectious. I love it all the more that we have some minority and queer representation in this genre from this band. Makes their super cute songs all the more delicious. (Carla Deasy)
Mary Chapin Carpenter, Bhi Bhiman at Stern Grove
When I was in middle school, I used to be passionately in love with Mary Chapin Carpenter’s 1992 album “Come On Come On”. She was a strong woman writing romantic, sincere songs. Quite a number of albums have been released over the years, and her songs and voice have matured to a wise certainty. The music is less country now but still retains that storytelling quality she’s had all along. The pairing with Bhi Bhiman is a fantastic choice. He has a soulful voice with a great blues rock sound accompanying him. The song he wrote to his mother “It’s Cold Out Here” reminds me a bit of Amy Winehouse with it’s lyrical angst and vocal stylings. (Carla Deasy)
Monday, August 3rd
Michael McDonald at Montalvo Arts Center
The only reason to include this one is to make a Family Guy reference. (Joel Edelman)
Tuesday, August 4
Total Babes, Baus at Leo’s
Well, if you’re looking for what I consider indie rock, then this show might be up your alley. Reminds me of bands from the early to mid 2000s: garagey, punk rock drums, melodic harmonies, lots of feedback, and endearingly boyish vocals. They’re touring for their second album that was released May 19th on Wichita Recordings. (Carla Deasy)
The Suffers, Los Hot Boxers, Gene Washington & The Ironsides at Slim’s
Should I even explain, or should you just click the video link and give a listen, because if Kam Franklin’s beautiful voice doesn’t convince you instantly, there’s really nothing left to say. This is like Alabama Shakes without the blues rock. Just blues, and all soul. Gorgeous, yearning melodies that grabs hold of that ache inside you and just strums on those heart strings. Talented ten piece backing band with a great horn section. You’ll love The Suffers. I can practically guarantee it. (Carla Deasy)
Wednesday, August 5th
The Vaccines, Half Past June at Slim’s
