We’re smack dab in the middle of SF Sketchfest, which we’re happy to call the Greatest Comedy Festival in America, and Dakin’s running around laughing himself silly, so I’m taking over the task of recommending shows for those of you who love music but hate laughing. That can only mean one thing, though … more sports references!
Thursday, January 31
Ben Folds Five with Nataly Dawn at The Warfield
Oh, just the band that made an album I’ve listened to more than any other album in the history of music. They also made a disappointing comeback album, which should serve as a reminder to you bands out there thinking about reuniting: don’t make a comeback album! Just play the shows. Because Ben Folds Five shows are glorious things indeed.
Geographer with On An On at The Fillmore (SOLD OUT!)
Hooray for successful local music!
Friday, February 1
The Who with Vintage Trouble at The Oracle Arena
They’re playing Quadrophenia at this show, which will be a thrill for some, but for others a reminder that they don’t really know the album all that way. It lacks “hits” but like most Who material, is so much better than anyone gives it credit for being. I’m sure you’ll get an encore with all the old favorites though.
Bart Davenport with Hot Lunch, Lenz and Puce Moment at Cafe Du Nord
Every time I see Bart Davenport, it’s a treat. I start with disappointment that I’m not seeing the forgotten gem of a band, Honeycut, and then a few minutes in, I’m reminded that Bart Davenport solo is absolutely excellent.
Saturday, February 2
Two Gallants with Akron/Family and Future Twin at The Fillmore
What, you were expecting Colin Kaepernick and Alex Smith? No! Those are the two gallant guys who will be leading the 49ers to victory! The Two Gallants playing here are hard hitting folk rock. Akron/Family, the support act, is all that and a bag of chips. Future Twin, the opener, is like a cool drink outside on a summer day. Hard hitting, a bag of chips and a cool drink? Go Niners!
Ozomatli at The Heritage Theatre in Campbell
Never miss Ozomatli. It’s just a bad idea.
Sunday, February 3
Oh c’mon, like I’d recommend seeing a show on Super Bowl Sunday. Even Sketchfest has the day off! Even if you do hate sports, you should at least watch the game at The Roxie.
Monday, February 4
Emile Sande at The Independent (SOLD OUT)
Last week, I looked at this listing and it wasn’t sold out. Good job, San Francisco. She’s great. I hope she’s as good live as she is on record. If the world had justice in it, she would be THE breakout star of 2013.
Tuesday, February 5
Solange with Kelela at The Independent (SOLD OUT)
I got into a conversation recently about younger brothers of people in boy bands because Aaron Carter announced a show at Cafe Du Nord. We decided that the most successful younger-brother-of-a-boy-band-member is clearly Mark Wahlberg. Solange is a rarity: the younger sister of a girl band member. I think that’s why she’s famous. Am I right?
Wednesday, February 6
The Toasters with Mrs. Skanotto and Monkey at Thee Parkside
Pick it up! Pick it up! Pick it up pick it up pick it up!
M. Ward with Alela Diane at the Uptown Theatre Napa
See him without she.
