Noise Pop can be intimidating. It’s the best week of live music programming in the Bay Area, and sometimes it’s hard to decide what to go to, because you can’t always be in two places at once. (However, I will be going to two shows on Friday night. I’m a bit insane.) So, if I were deciding what shows you were going to, this is what this shows would be. Disagree? Well, you can decide for yourself by checking the schedule out here.
Monday, February 24th
Courtney Barnett, Kins, Fever The Ghost, Rich Girls at Rickshaw Stop
Six months ago, nobody in the US knew who Courtney Barnett was. Then one amazing video went viral, her first two EPs were combined into one record, and suddenly she sold out a US tour. Not bad for a hyper intellectual folk singer from Australia. Need a reminder of the song that started it all? Here you go:
Tuesday, February 25th
Punk Rock Fancy at The NWBLK
Ever wanted to know what it would be like to spend an evening listening to Bob Mould and Shephard Fairey play their favorite punk rock records? Well, tonight is your chance.
Wednesday, February 26th
CCR Headcleaner, Skate Laws, Bicycle Day at Bender’s
There’s been a lot of talk about how all of San Francisco’s best garage bands are skipping town. Well, those bands are moving out, and a new crop of heavier, crunchier bands are popping up. One of the best is CCR Headcleaner, and they are playing for free at a special Happy Hour show at Bender’s, where they serve the best tater tots in SF.
Thursday, February 27th
Shabazz Palaces, Cities Aviv, Extra Classic, Raw G at Slim’s
Digable Planets aren’t getting back together anytime soon. I am just as broken up about that as you are. However, Butterfly came out with one of the best hip hop records of 2011, and he’s previewing new tracks off his upcoming record at Slim’s, a record that will continue to push sonic boundaries.
Social Studies, Aan, Max and The Moon at The New Parish
I always envision heaven as a place where you can hear Natalia Rogovin of Social Studies’ voice on demand. There is, quite literally, no more beautiful voice in the world. And you get to hear her sing IN OAKLAND! 8 blocks away from my apartment!
Friday, February 28th
Bleached, Terry Malts, Mystic Braves, Tropical Popsicle at Rickshaw Stop
There are very few “perfect” records. Bleached’s debut record Ride Your Heart is one of those albums. It’s concise, full of amazing hooks, stunning harmonies, and Misfits-inspired grinding guitars. They are also one of the best live bands out there, and this is going to be the best punk rock show of the fest.
Throwing Muses, Mark Eitzel at Jewish Community Center
It’s been over a decade since the last time the legendary post punk band Throwing Muses have played in San Francisco. Sure, there are a bunch of sold out shows this time around at Noise Pop. However, none of those shows are as important as this one. Who knows when we will get to see the legendary Throwing Muses again?
Saturday, March 1st
Mikal Cronin, Blood Sister, Old Light, Vertical Scratchers at The Chapel
Mikal Cronin blows my mind. He’s the perfect blend of Ty Segall’s aggression and Kurt Vile’s sense of melody and impressive songwriting skills. His show at the Rickshaw Stop during their 10th Anniversary shows was one of the most blistering sets of rock & roll that I’ve ever seen. You may end up with your face melted off at this show.
Sunday, March 2nd
Rogue Wave at The Chapel
It’s such an honor to close out Noise Pop. After many, many years on the scene, Oakland’s Rogue Wave have finally become that band. And at The Chapel, one of the finest venues in SF.
