Thursday, February 13th
Imagine Dragons, The Naked & Famous at SAP Center in San Jose
There are a lot of terrible bands that become outrageously popular. And then there is the incredibly strange situation for a truly innovative group of musicians manages to take the world by storm. Imagine Dragons are that band. Behind their boy band looks and numerous hit singles is a group that is pushing some serious boundaries with rhythm and what the masses are willing to accept. They are also a spectacular live band.
Royal Teeth, Chappo, Blondfire at The Chapel
Friday, February 14th
I’m going to do a loose internet poll. Friday, February 14th has me unsure about what I want to do. One show is by one of my favorite musicians ever. The other is a reunion show from one of Oakland’s favorite bands. It’s a tough decision.
Thao & The Get Down Stay Down, Sonny & The Sunsets at The Fillmore
The Lovemakers, Manics, Everyone Is Dirty at Rickshaw Stop
Saturday, February 15th
Panic! At The Disco, The Colourist, X-Ambassadors at The Fox Theater – Oakland
Sure, recommending a P!ATD gig kills most of my credibility. That’s because most people have never actually listened to this band. Like, really listened to this band. They are so utterly lush and complex, and I dare you to pick a better psychedelic folk record to come out in the last decade than their 2008 release Pretty. Odd.
Secret Chiefs 3, Mirthkon at The Chapel
Monday, February 17th
Paul Simon & Sting at SAP Center in San Jose
Paul Simon is one of the most important songwriters in American history. Sting is a man that may have gotten in a little mellow in the last few years, but his catalog is pretty impressive, too! This is an unexpected double bill, but it’s going to be quite good. I intend on being their, and, yes, it’s expensive, you should, too!
Tuesday, February 18th
The Lawrence Arms, Nothington, Great Apes at Bottom Of The Hill
The Lawrence Arms are an amazing band from Chicago that are celebrating their 15th year as a band. Although it feels like they’ve been together my entire life. They are such workhorses, always on the road, always putting out fantastic pop punk records. This is going to be a fun evening of pogo.
2 Chainz, Pusha T, August Alsina, JayCeeOh at The Fox Theater – Oakland
Wednesday, February 19th
Ane Brun, Linnea Olson at Yoshi’s – San Francisco
Ane Brun is one of the rare vocalists that are equally delicate and powerful. This show is going to be one of the most intense performances you’ll ever see by anybody anywhere.
Peace Creep, Future Twin, Buffalo Tooth, George Chen at Elbo Room
