I know we are all very busy with Sketchfest. However, check out these amazing music events, too!
Thursday, January 30th
Ash, Deaf Havana at Rickshaw Stop
I love the pop punk, but it’s never been a “cool” genre. One of the few exceptions to this rule was always Ash- they have some of the most pogo friendly guitar riffs this side of Green Day, however, being from Ireland, it makes them OK. I’m hoping there will be a nice blend of vintage loafers and Vans mixing it up at Rickshaw tonight.
The Hood Internet, Girls n Boomboxes, NanosauR at Mezzanine
Download this. Then buy a ticket. You’ll be happy that you did.
Friday, January 31st
The Bruises, The Hot Toddies, Bam! Bam! at Slim’s
Tonight we bid farewell to one of the finest bands from San Francisco. We will enjoy one final evening where we get to bounce along to the blissful harmonies of The Bruises. Warming up the show are two of my favorite Oakland bands, The Hot Toddies and Bam!Bam!.
The Magik*Magik Orchestra and friends at The Fox Theater – Oakland
The Magik*Magik Orchestra, San Francisco’s finest classical music ensemble, are doing an amazing set with the creme of the Bay Area Indie Rock crop. We will be getting short sets from Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers, The Dodos, Diana Gameros, Geographer, How To Dress Well, Zoe Keating, The Lonely Forest, Maestro Michael Morgan, The Pacific Boychoir, Rogue Wave, Two Gallants and John Vanderslice, all backed by some amazing musicians. In preparation, here’s a sample of the last time Magik*Magik played The Fox:
Japanther, Self Defense Family, Creative Adult at Thee Parkisde
Saturday, February 1st
Transatlantic at The Regency Ballroom
Gordon Elgart writes: “The last time prog supergroup Transatlantic came through town, I wrote one of my favorite introductory paragraphs ever that included the line “Six songs, three-and-a-half hours.” to describe the show. I can admit now, a few years later, that it was a bit of a cheat because their previous album, The Whirlwind, was all one song. The new album, Kaleidoscope, is another masterpiece of melody and musicianship. It also has 5 songs, so I’ll need a new introduction.”
Mayer Hawthorne, Quadron, Gavin Turek at The Fox Theater – Oakland
Sunday, February 2nd
The Toasters, Monkey, Jokes For Feelings, The Skunkadelics, Skank Bank at 924 Gilman St
There were more east coast / west coast feuds in the 90’s than simply 2Pac/Biggie. Like east coast vs west coast ska. This afternoon at the legendary 924 Gilman St we get one of the best from each coast!
Monday, February 3rd
Waters, Social Studies, French Cassettes at Brick and Mortar Music Hall
I think everyone that reads this column is aware of the fact that Social Studies are my favorite local band. It’s hard not to love them. However, this bill so crazy amazing! Opening is the delicious indie pop of French Cassettes, and headlining is Waters- the new band from former Port O’Brien frontman Van Pierszalowski. It’s also only $6.
Skrillex, Craze, Louisahhh!!! at The Independent
I just wanted to type Louisahhh!!!
Tuesday, February 4th
Kevin Morby, Avid Dancer, Fine Points at Brick & Mortar Music Hall
Two of the most inventive bands in indie rock today include The Babies and Woods. What do they have in common? Frontman Kevin Morby. He’s doing a very rare solo show at Brick & Mortar tonight. Plus, it’s the first Tuesday of the month at Brick & Mortar. That means it’s free!
Wednesday, February 5th
The Pack a.d. at Brick & Mortar Music Hall
First of all: what a great week for Brick & Mortar Music Hall. It’s a wonderful room, and they deserve to have some amazing shows. Tonight’s gig is a searing blues punk combo from Vancouver, BC called The Pack a.d., and they will totally knock your socks off. I highly recommend bringing extra socks.
White Denim, Clear Plastic Masks at The Fillmore
