Reviews of albums, films, concerts, and more from the Bay Area Music and Movie Nerds
Bohemian Rhapsody, the new film about the English ’70’s and ’80’s supergroup Queen, is a lot like band’s output: overwrought, overproduced, painfully bombastic, and musically too self-conscious. But, like those songs we all know, the film has an undeniable energy and vibrancy, and is so technically consistent that one can’t help but feel satisfied, if a bit played. Continue reading “Film Review: Bohemian Rhapsody“
Edgar Wright’s newest film, Baby Driver, is a labor of love, many years in the making. The film would be a typical action crime drama were it not made by Wright, who is anything but typical. Instead, we get a creatively inspired film that takes this oft repeated form and adds a magical twist, which is that nearly every scene, from a romantic conversation in a laundromat to a brisk foot chase with guns blazing, is not only accompanied by inspired musical choices, but is also choreographed to the songs. The result crackles with life and bristles with energy. We were overjoyed to be able to spend a few minutes discussing the music and choreography with director Edgar Wright and budding superstar Ansel Elgort.
Continue reading “Film Feature: A Few Minutes with Edgar Wright and Ansel Elgort from Baby Driver“
Thursday, June 26th
Veruca Salt, The Echo Friendly at The Independent
Veruca Salt released two fine pieces of fuzzy guitar pop goodness in the mid 90s. It’s been far too long since Louise Post and Nina Gordon have put collaborated on a project, but the new Veruca Salt record is another classic piece of Alternative Nation era rock goodness. Kennedy would be proud!
Southern Culture On The Skids, Aloha Screwdriver at Great American Music Hall
Continue reading “Spinning Platters Weekly Guide to Bay Area Concerts, 6/26/14-7/2/14”