Thursday, March 27th
Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Valerie June at The Fillmore
Sharon Jones is, by far, one of the finest front people on Earth. The Dap-Kings may also be one of the best bands ever. This show is one Jones’ first since kicking cancer, so I expect it to be an epically passionate affair. They are also playing Friday & Saturday night, but those are sold out, so you will need to go out on a school night.
London Grammar, Highasakite at The Independent
Friday, March 28th
Lydia Loveless, Kelly McFarling, Lucas Ohio at Thee Parkside
Lydia Loveless is amazing. She is a country singer with the heart and soul of a 70’s punker. Her voice is full of passion and intensity, and she’s put out one of the most dynamic country records in years. Neko Case finally has some competition in this world.
Rocket From The Crypt, Dan Sartain at The Independent
Saturday, March 29th
Ozomatli, La Misa Negra at The New Parish
LA’s Ozomatli rarely come to the East Bay. They also never play a venue as tiny as Oakland’s New Parish. This is one of my favorite venues, and this band that brings together every genre of music ever into one delicious latin rock dance party gumbo will probably tear the roof of the place. (I hope it doesn’t rain!)
Robin Thicke, K. Michelle at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Sunday, March 30th
John Legend at Zellerbach Hall
There was a time that I thought John Legend was really boring. Then I saw him live, and it was one an amazing performance. At the stunning Zellerbach Hall tonight, Mr Legend will be playing solo piano. It’s going to an intimate show in more ways than one, and anyone that likes music should be here tonight.
Miniature Tigers, Total Slacker, Flashlight at Rickshaw Stop
Tuesday, April 1st
Ume, Black Map, One Hundred Percent at Rickshaw Stop
Austin’s Ume are the best psychedelic metal band you’ve never heard off… They are a husband and wife duo that plays the heaviest, meatiest rock music being made these days. This is the best show for banging your head.
Aziz Ansari at Davies Symphony Hall
Wednesday, April 2nd
Meklit Hadero, Yesway at Great American Music Hall
