Sometimes I get exhausted just putting this list together, let alone trying to figure out how I can be in 20 places at once…
Thursday, May 16th
Janelle Monae with San Francisco Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall
Janelle Monae is the single most exciting thing happening in R&B right now. Actually, she could be the most exciting thing to happen in music. Tonight’s special event at Davies Symphony Hall is a benefit for the symphony, and it features a very rare performance by Monae backed by a full symphony orchestra. And if that isn’t enough, we also get to sparkling wine reception and an after party at City Hall. Don’t miss this show!
The Egg, Sophie Barker at Red Devil Lounge
Friday, May 17th
Ceremony, No Statik, Secret People Face The Rail, Caged Animal at 924 Gilman St
This bay area based hardcore band may have taken it’s name from a Joy Division song, but don’t let that fool you. These guys are brutal. They also are one of the most dynamic and interesting bands to ever end up with the hardcore “brand”.
Colleen Green, G Green, Ultraviolet at Amnesia
Saturday, May 18th
Hunx & His Punx, Shannon & The Clams, Fuzz, Peach Kelli Pop, Twin Steps at The New Parish
Talk about an epic bill! I mean, Fuzz featuring Ty Segall ciuld sell this joint out alone! However, we also have glam punk heroes Hunx & His Punx, rockabilly stars Shannon & The Clams and a little Canadian punk band that slayed when they opened for Kate Nash last week: Peach Kelli Pop. Seems like a great night to hang out it Oakland.
Al B Sure! at Yoshi’s – San Francisco
Sunday, May 19th
Live 105’s BFD at Shoreline Amphitheater
Live 105 have been doing the BFD thing for almost 20 years now. Some years have definitely been bigger than others, however, this year has something really special: a band that they can’t announce. Last time they pulled out a secret band for this gig, that band ended up being The Cure. I’m not saying it’s going to be The Cure this time, but it will be good. And if it isn’t, well heck! You’re still going to see Jimmy Eat World, 30 Seconds To Mars, DJ Shadow, Wallpaper, Of Monsters and Men, Fitz & The Tantrums, Wavves, and a slew of other great bands. So, yeah, you should come!
The Dillinger Escape Plan, The Faceless, Royal Thunder at DNA Lounge
Monday, May 20th
Earl Sweatshirt, Tyler The Creator at The Regency Ballroom
The Odd Future collective really know how to lay on the hype. So much so that it can be hard to determine who the real thing is. Earl Sweatshirt is that. He is one of the most gifted MC’s in the business, and a fantastic artist all around. This going to be one of the best hip hop shows of the year!
Tuesday, May 21st & Wednesday, May 22nd
Boris, Bosse-De-Nage at Rickshaw Stop
Japan’s math rock legends are doing two nights at Rickshaw Stop. The first night will be a full on, career spanning greatest hits set. The second night will feature their record Flood played beginning to end, followed by a full on experimental noise & drone set. Don’t forget your earplugs for this, and be careful, as your face might melt clean off!
Wednesday, May 22nd
Bjork at Craneway Auditorium
It took a number of years for Bjork to finally tour her Biophillia project. This show is in the round, and promises to be one of the most fascinating spectacles you will ever witness.
Shout Out Louds, HAERTS at Great American Music Hall
