PHOTOS: Poor Man’s Whiskey at Great American Music Hall 4/18

April 24, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Poor-Man's-Whiskey

By Benjamin Wallen //

Poor Man’s Whiskey //
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
April 18, 2014 //

Bay Area favorites Poor Man’s Whiskey returned to the Bay Area last weekend for another set of countrified covers. Previously, PMW took on Dark Side of the Moon with a bluegrass flair. The first set Friday was a welcome trip through highlights from all their albums. The second set ripped into great versions of Allman Brothers classics. They ended with a acoustic “Melissa” encore had the crowd quiet, except for the famous chorus — it was a great way to end a super high energy second set.

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PHOTOS: Blood Orange at Great American Music Hall 4/15

April 18, 2014 by 1 Comment

Blood-Orange

Photos by Pedro Paredes //

Blood Orange //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
April 15th, 2014 //

Dev Hynes and his musical project, Blood Orange, are responsible for a couple of studio albums in which every note seems to have been predestined to exist in that time and place. His latest and greatest, Cupid Deluxe, is a fine example of an album meant to be digested as a whole, but listened to piece by piece, taking the time to digest each arrangement as an independent entity. The fact that Hynes is a talented producer that has worked and collaborated for a long list of musicians and bands make the spotless element of his own albums something to be expected. But at Tuesday’s night sold out show at the Great American Music Hall, Blood Orange was not being judged by their unquestionable ability to create beautiful music, but by their ability as live performers (two very different things).

And the results? A class-A show, where Dev Hynes and company gifted us with a performance abundant in groove and energy. The crowd intensity quickly translated from the stage onto the entire venue, with the London-native acting as the master of ceremony, surrounded by talent. Samantha Urbani’s (Friends singer and Hynes’ girlfriend) vocals on “It is What It Is” were beautiful and hypnotic, and put the audience in a soothing stage that was only broken when Dev Hynes decided to bring the house down with an explosive version of “Uncle Ace”.

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WIN TICKETS: Delta Rae at Great American 4/3

April 2, 2014 by Leave a Comment

delta_rae

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Delta Rae with Joshua James //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
April 3rd, 2014 (Wednesday) //

Compiled of three siblings and three additional members, Delta Rae began as a four piece in 2009 and fully assembled the following year. Having forged a strong musical bond amongst their family members at a young age, the Holljes siblings always had a passion for songwriting and composition. Both brother’s post-college decided to pursue their musical dreams full throttle, convincing their “lion voiced” younger sister and friend Elizabeth Hopkins to join them in their efforts. Setting up a studio in the woods of Durham, North Carolina the four crafted most of what would become their debut album and by late 2010, brought on the stylings of Mike McKee on drums and bassist Grant Emerson. Releasing Carry the Fire within the same year, the band was well received in the folk rock community and have successfully carved out their space in contemporary Americana. Fresh off the release of their sophomore EP Chasing Twisters, the crew is making their way to the Great American Music Hall this Thursday. Register for your chance to check out their new material in person, here via showbams.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Thursday, April 3rd at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Thursday, April 3rd at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST CLOSED

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PHOTOS: Particle, Shaky Feelin’ at Great American Music Hall 3/29

March 31, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Particle_post

By Steve Roby // Written by Pete Mauch

Particle with Shaky Feelin’ //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
Saturday, March 29th, 2014 //

This past Saturday night in the Bay Area, music lovers in the city had many options to see
great live music. You really couldn’t go wrong, but those that went and saw Particle at Great American Music hall were treated to four hours of exhilarating music. The night started off with one of Southern California’s best rising jam bands, Shaky Feelin’, and they played an hour-long set full of shredding guitar solos matched with great musical peaks that got the crowd moving early in the evening. Particle, which is of course led by the amazing Steve Molitz behind the keyboards, took the stage and played two sets of amazing livetronica. One of the main highlights of the night was their cover of Radiohead’s “National Anthem” that saw the band really go exploring in the stratosphere of sound. Do not miss the revamped Particle as they are on serious fire and continue to bring the heat day in and day out…

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WIN TICKETS: Particle at Great American 3/29

March 26, 2014 by Leave a Comment

particle

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Particle with Shaky Feelin’ //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
March 29th, 2014 (Saturday) //

Los Angeles-based pioneers of the Livetronica movement, Particle, are back in scene and for the first time in six years they’re touring extensively. Their stop in the City is at the beautiful Great American Music Hall, and Showbams has a couple pairs of tickets to giveaway. A sense of revival is taking place with the band as they have parted ways with their rhythm section and welcomed new members, bassist Clay Parnell (Brothers Past) and drummer Brandon Draper (Quixotic) into the mix. This is an exciting time for Particle, so come on out and share the love with all of the Particle People. Fast rising SoCal jam band, Shaky Feelin’, gets things started for the night with their mix of soaring guitar solos, double-headed drumming, and sweet keyboard action that will get the crowd warmed up just right. So be sure to get there early to support this rising act.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Saturday, March 29th at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Friday, March 28th at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CLOSING CONTEST

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WIN TICKETS: Fanfarlo at Great American Music Hall 3/26

March 24, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Fanfarlo_post

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Fanfarlo with Lilies On Mars //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
March 26th, 2014 (Wednesday) //

We’ve got a great mid-week treat in store for some of our loyal readers Wednesday. London-based Fanfarlo is busy sweeping through the US playing brand new songs off of their incredible third studio album, Let’s Go Extinct, out now via Blue Horizon. Singles “A Distance” and “Landlocked” are energetic pop gems driven by steady electronic backbones and swooning instrumentation that include the triumphant sounds of the trumpet, violin and clarinet.

Fanfarlo’s newest effort is a concept album about human evolution and possible futures, and in many ways, is the true successor to Fanfarlo’s much-feted debut, Reservoir. Creating accessible pop that isn’t overly sugar-coated or spoon-fed, make plans on Wednesday to witness this eclectic and exciting five-piece at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Wednesday, March 26th at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Wednesday, March 26th at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST COMPLETE

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WIN TICKETS: Tommy Castro & The Painkillers at Great American 3/22

March 19, 2014 by Leave a Comment

TommyCastroAndThePainkillers

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Tommy Castro & The Painkillers with The Bad Jones //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
March 22nd, 2014 (Saturday) //

Scorching guitar and blues rock await you this weekend at the Great American Music Hall. San Jose native Tommy Castro has been a fixture of the Bay Area since the early 90’s and he knows how to throw a high energy party. Stopping here in in San Francisco amidst a slew of mostly West Coast dates, you may not get a chance to see this outfit again for a very long time.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Saturday, March 23rd at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Friday, March 22nd at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST COMPLETE

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WIN TICKETS: Papadosio at Great American Music Hall 3/15

March 13, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Papadosio_post

Photo by Sterling Munksgard //

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Papadosio with The Main Squeeze //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
March 15th, 2014 (Saturday) //

If you’re in the mood to dance and groove Saturday, look no further — Papadosio are storming through one of the city’s finest venues at the Great American Music Hall. This jamtronica quartet plays everything from reggae to rock, seamlessly flowing from one song to another. When these guys connect (they always do) and tune in to each other, watch out, because you never know where they’ll take you.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Saturday, March 15th at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Friday, March 14th at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST CLOSED

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Angel Olsen’s fire burns for SF at Great American Music Hall

March 5, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Angel-Olsen_post

By Katy Meacham //

Angel Olsen with Cian Nugent //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
Monday March 3rd, 2014 //

On a rainy Monday night at The Great American Music Hall, a large crowd gathered together for a cozy evening with Cian Nugent and Angel Olson.

Cian Nugent, a young guitarist and composer from Dublin, started the evening with lovely guitar picking and atmospheric melodies. Many of his songs were instrumental while others he sang over in a soft voice. His whimsical songs played out over the crowd as everyone began to settle in. It all felt very appropropriate for the historic venue, and for a moment we were all taken to another moment in time.

Up next was Angel Olson and her band. The indie singer-songwriter started her set with a single, “High-Five”, from her new album, Burn Your Fire for No Witness. It being one of the more upbeat and energetic songs on the album, it was a kicking opener, her voice crystal clear impressed immediately. One of the most remarkable things about Olson’s voice is how it changes in a moment’s time. One second you’re listening to an old country singer, reminiscent of Emmylou Harris and Jolie Holland, then suddenly she’s whispering, throaty, or both. She has complete control.

She focused on the new album, almost entirely. For most songs Olsen was backed by a three-piece band. She intertwined more up-tempo songs like, “Stars” and “Forgiven/Forgotten” with slower, more personal songs, never allowing the energy to build too much. There was a deliberate pause between each song as she sipped her beer and made the audience truly digest each song. Her slower songs echoed over the silenced crowd.

It’s not only her voice that can capture the audience, but also the intimacy of her lyrics. You almost want to thank her for sharing. Her songs of love lost or personal grief sink in deep, and they are things we can all relate to. For her last song of the night, “White Fire”, she played it alone. The song is reminiscent of Leonard Cohen’s guitar picking and deliberate lyrics. It was so quiet and personal, and also happens to be the namesake for the album. “If you’ve still got some light in you/Then go before it’s gone/Burn your fire for no witness/It’s the only way it’s done.” This seems inherently Angel Olson, songs about acceptance and truth with small glimpses of hope. Thank you for sharing Angel, seriously, thank you.

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Mark Kozelek’s surly banter, control obsession effects at GAMH

March 3, 2014 by 3 Comments

Mark-Kozelek_cover

By Mike Frash //

NOISE POP 2014 //
Mark Kozelek (of Sun Kil Moon & Red House Painters) //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
Saturday March 1st, 2014 //

“I don’t give a fuck about Noise Pop,” said surly 47-year-old control freak Mark Kozelek at Great American Music Hall Satuday, one of the first piercing, dry stage banter remarks he made. Always honest and amusing in an odd way, much like his music, Kozelek turned between-song breaks into hilarious and awkward moments as a matter of routine.

He was happy to see the audience wasn’t as geriatric as Bob Mould’s Noise Pop show Thusday, which the Sun Kil Moon frontman attended. He noted Mould was in attendance Saturday, along with singer-songwriter Jose Gonzalez, which he mentioned twice. He admitted that being able to walk home 10 blocks and pick up a quick ten thousand dollars for this performance was better than going to “fucking China or dreary old England” to perform. Half man, half alley cat, Kozelek spewed venom at a variety of show-goers and subjects, all in a concerted effort to keep control of the room during his touching, sad songs.

A full media ban was in place — we were warned upon entry that there would be no warning. If phones came out, you would be escorted out of the Great American, no questions asked. It quickly became clear this was Kozelek’s personal wish, even though he didn’t mention the rules of the night. He admitted early that he’s used to “at least one asshole hating and heckling” him, which explains his aggressive nature and the way he makes examples out of those in attendance. He even rewarded someone named Javier with one of everything from the merch table for hushing and stepping in front of two women who had been talking.

Kozelek is so brutally affected by his immediate surroundings. He counted and pointed out 12 men in the front row, harking to the lyrics from “Sunshine in Chicago” (“Now I just sign posters for guys in tennis shoes”). It’s easy to see how he’s constantly inspired to craft songs — based on self-reflective lines from his work and the events of this evening, it’s how he channels his thoughts.

The banter lent a bit of levity against the dead-serious storytelling from his incredible new Sun Kil Moon record Benji, which was almost played in its entirety to start the show (final track “Ben’s My Friend” was the only cut missing). Before launching into “I Watched the Film The Song Remains the Same”, something rather extraordinary happened. He looked at a young male fan in the front and asked why he had headphones on his head. Then Kozelek forcefully stated, “You look like a fucking douchebag”, filling the venue with tension and a bit of laughter. This happened right before playing a track about coming to terms with once bullying a kid on the playground in his youth. In the song he discusses the incident, “though I grinned, deep inside I was hurting.” It appears this whole incident was a creative, effective way to foreshadow and show his contradictory nature, as opposed to him being horribly passive aggressive.

The second half of the show highlighted the rest of Kozelek’s most recent efforts from the past two years. It seems all the selections were related to one of two themes, the Bay Area and death, which was a logical way to continue a show that began with the coping, grimly-themed Benji. Though I’m sure many in attendance would have enjoyed some Red House Painters tunes.

The evening and performance offered a stack of new ammunition for Kozelek to write about after his 10-block walk home. It’s possible the events at Great American might make his next record, as his music is a personal diary inverted, projected to the world, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see it come out sometime later this year. As he said before his last song “Among The Leaves” — “Just don’t follow me home.”

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WIN TICKETS: Angel Olsen at Great American Music Hall 3/3

February 28, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Angel-Olsen_post

Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Angel Olsen with Cian Nugent //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
March 3rd, 2014 (Monday) //

Signs of life for innovative rock are strong so far in 2014, and Angel Olsen has a lot to do with it. Olsen’s excellent new record, Burn Your Fire For No Witness (Jagjaguwar), takes indie-folk singer-songwriting to the next level with echoing guitar reverb and subversive lyrics that aren’t just passionate, but also authentic and earnist without being overbearing. Her compelling vocals speak of tough times and desperation, yet combined with sonically dazzling instrumentation, Olsen’s output turns into cathartic bliss.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win-2-Tickets

Enter to win if you can attend this show Monday, March 3rd at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Monday, March 3rd at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST CLOSED

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Dustbowl Revival, Papa Bear & the Easy Love recharge Americana roots in SF

February 26, 2014 by 2 Comments

Dustbowl-Revival_postBy Benjamin Wallen //

Dustbowl Revival & Papa Bear and The Easy Love with Quiles and Cloud //
Great American Music Hall — San Francisco
February 22nd, 2014 //

It was a night of Americana at Great American Music Hall last weekend, led by Dustbowl Revival, who transcend genres and bring together so much of what is so great about the contemporary roots-revival movement.

But early on this evening, Quiles and Cloud took the stage. The classic guitar and singing blended vocals wonderfully, making me feel as comfortable as sitting on my couch on a rainy lazy day. The stage tonight, decorated with earthly tones and twigs gave us a very organic feeling, taking down the grandiose flair of the the music hall. It was as though a band of wayfaring travelers wandered by the venue looking for a show to play and just got lucky enough.

Quiles-and-Cloud

The next group up, Papa Bear and the Easy Love, teleported us all to a time where the hippy mentality of “love everyone and play wonderful music filled with positive vibes and energy” won the culture war. As many fans of older music tend to dream of what would a show be like four decades ago, the show took me there. The Easy Love hit the mark, making everyone wonderfully happy and swaying side to side. Toward the close of their set, the band brought out members from all bands playing that night for The Band’s classic “I Shall be Released”. With all these talented folks onstage, one could not help but perfectly visualize “The Last Waltz” finale. The set seemed to go on for longer than I expected, but what happened after was a bit strange.

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They announced the dance floor would need a circle cleared and they would begin with a special “capoeira”. Wild dancing and playing ensued, something I had never seen before. I have been to many festivals around the world, and I didn’t quite understand this part of the show. Nevertheless, the dancers and players gave it their all as people gathered around and cheered. As the night wondered on, I was eager for Dustbowl to take the stage. I had seen Dustbowl a few times before but never with singer and washboard player Liz Beebe. I was looking forward to hearing the full band, with their full sound. They did not disappoint.

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The horns were clean and loud, the playing tight and strong — more bands these days would benefit from a tight horn section. The energy this band has is mind-blowing. After three bands and going on until 12:30 a.m., they kept everyone fully engaged. I never like tables at concerts, and it was clear that no one was going to sit for this band. The sound reminds me of a New Orleans-style blending of string and horns, with a washboard and the fast mandolin of bluegrass with the strength of rock ‘n’ roll. There is a great reason this band was named LA’s best band in 2013 — they deserve it. I really hope music like this can take off in an endless world of DJ’s and pop performers.

The Dustbowl Revival stay true to the feeling of their name. The music is clean and crisp with that touch of the rough road all real musicians must travel. Dustbowl is a fantastic band nothing short of awesome. Hearing Beebe on vocals for the first time brought the band full circle for me. It was wonderful to have the full band grace us all and make thier mark on the Bay Area music scene.

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12 reasons to grab a Noise Pop festival badge

February 14, 2014 by 6 Comments

NP-cover-postWritten by Mike Frash, Molly Kish, Kevin Quandt & Kevin Raos //

Noise Pop //
Bay Area venues – San Francisco & Oakland
February 25th-March 2nd, 2014 //

This time of year can often be a bit slow for live music, but not during Noise Pop Festival in San Francisco. This week-long event spread out amongst the 22 finest venues in the City by the Bay makes for the best extended independent music showcase on the west coast. Noise Pop Fest shows offer in-depth evenings — the best thing to do is to show up early and catch emerging artists before they graduate to headliner status.

One great way to get the most value out of the week is with by springing for a badge. The purchase of a General or Super Fan badge gets you into all general admission shows, films, happy hours, NPHQ and more, along with a screen-printed festival poster. There’s also a Noise Pop Fest app to help keep you connected.

The lineup is as good as ever this year — our list doesn’t include top-notch artists Com Truise, Rogue Wave, Throwing Muses, Beardyman, Ladytron, No Age, Shabazz Palaces, Mikal Cronin, Bleached, Trails and Ways, The Fresh & Onlys, The Limousines, The Soft White Sixties, amongst others. Presented here are 12 compelling reasons to consider a badge upgrade, in day-to-day order.

Click artist names to buy individual tickets below, or simply buy a General or Super Fan badge.

NPHQ

Noise Pop HeadQuarters (NPHQ @ The NWBLK) //
All week //

New this year in Noise Pop’s 22nd incarnation, Noise Pop Headquarters at The NWBLK is now the centerpiece of Noise Pop Festival. Festivalgoers can swing by the stunning gallery-turned-multimedia-space to grab a drink, watch a film, get some food, do some shopping, and experience a pivotal part of this year’s festival with friends and artists before heading out for the night’s events. Purchase tickets or RSVP to all free shows, which will grant you priority entry once capacity has been reached. Yet another reason to go big with a badge.

Lord-Huron

Lord Huron, Superhumanoids //
The Fillmore – San Francisco
Tuesday, February 25 //
SOLD OUT // BUY A BADGE

A coupled bill of indie folk, rich with thick vocal harmonies and dense soulful compositions, Lord Huron and Superhumanoids pair perfectly to cover the modern state of rhythm and blues. Americana based, the Lord Huron dabble in psychedelic and experimental pop elements, which also can be heard in their counterparts Superhumanoids. The Los Angeles-based trio features genre bending soundscapes, delivering a groove-driven journey through layers of pop, soul and electronic musical arrangements. Each band, although unique in their melodious executions, cover a vast array of roots-rock influences while updating the archetypal sounds in their own innovative manners. This sold out show highlights a great pair of bands to kick off the festival and is one worth splurging a bit extra on a badge to guarantee entry. -MK

Audion

Matthew Dear Presents Audion Live: Subverticul //
The Regency Ballroom – San Francisco
Wednesday, February 26th //

The latest project from Ghostly International co-founder and experimental artist Matthew Dear, Audion Live: Subverticul is an all-encompassing multi-media experience. Teaming up with the innovative crew from LA-based design studio Vita Motus, Subverticul features a live set debuting new material from Matthew Dear. Audion Live promises to be a unique show, fashioned to resemble a moving audio visual sculpture. Composed of multi-layered experimental EDM and dazzling abstract art installations, Subverticul is an impressive feat in both live music entertainment and creative enterprises. Making its Bay Area debut in celebration of the Noise Pop 2014 and playing unreleased tracks off of his upcoming album, Matthew Dear’s Audion Live: Subverticul will undoubtedly be a highlight performance of this year’s festival. -MK

MistakenForStrangers

Mistaken for Strangers (Film) //
Roxie Theater – San Francisco
Wednesday, February 26th //

Let’s not forget that live concerts aren’t the only offering from the citywide Noise Pop Festival as the film series has some gems being screened, including Mistaken for Strangers. This documentary follows budding horror filmmaker, Tom Berninger, embarking on a massive national tour with his brother’s little band that some may know as the National. The ensuing months shows the younger Berninger brother tossed into the indie touring machine as a functioning crew member while keeping focus on his ambitions as a creator himself. -KQ

Papercuts

Papercuts, Vetiver, The Donkeys, EDJ, Vinyl DJ Selections by Britt Govea //
The Chapel – San Francisco
Wednesday, February 26th //

Artists under brand new label Easy Sound Recording Co. plan on presenting the future of folk at The Chapel during Noise Pop week. Jason Quever’s SF-based Papercuts have a new album Life Among the Savages in the works. The group’s sixth LP is set to release in May, so plan on seeing the group preview new tracks from their forthcoming album. They just released the albums’s lead single “Still Knocking at the Door”, and it’s promising. Vetiver is on the roster, another local group led by Andy Cabic. Their 2011 record The Errant Charm is oh so mellow and excellent, and we expect good things coming soon. The Donkeys are an emerging psyche-garage rock formation from San Diego, blending surf rock and jam sentiments into a bouncy, enjoyable time. -MF

Our-Vinyl

“Our Vinyl Weighs A Ton” Film Screening and Live Show //
The NWBLK (NPHQ) – San Francisco
Wednesday, February 26th (6:30 pm) //

Gain access to rare concert footage, backstage documentation, home videos and intimate portrayals of some of the most influential hip hop artists of our time in this cutting edge documentary brought to you by the iconic Stone Throw Records posse. Featuring appearances by Snoop Dogg, Mike D, Talib Kweli, Kanye West, Tyler the Creator and more, this feature length delves into the inner circle of the groundbreaking label to bring you a fresh perspective on the evolution and current state of modern day hip hop. Followed by a Q&A with director Jeff Broadway and Stones Throw Records founder Peanut Butter Wolf, tickets are still available with an additional option to upgrade to a “Film and Live Show Ticket”, granting access to a live performance after party with Peanut Butter Wolf, J Rocc, JonWayne and Knxledge. Happening at the Noise Pop 2014 headquarters NWBLK, this event is a great way to get into celebratory spirit and check out the brand new festival facility. — MK

Bob-Mould

Bob Mould: 25 Years of Workbook, Zach Rogue, Jon Ginoli //
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
Thursday, February 27th //
SOLD OUT // BUY A BADGE

Celebrating the groundbreaking icon’s diversion from his scene-defining hardcore act Husker Du, Bob Mould revisits his first album as a solo artist, Workbook, with help from fellow artists and friends. Mould pushed the boundaries of the independent rock scene with this record whilst mapping out an era of alternative music that influenced generations of artists for years to come. Mould will be joined on stage by longtime bassist Jason Narducy, along with Rogue Wave’s Zach Rogue and Jon Gignoli of San Francisco’s own Pansy Division. Gearing up for the deluxe double-album edition of this seminal record to be released February 25, this show will be the first live revisiting of the material in full since its 1989 debut. One of the first shows of the festival to have sold out, a badge is necessary for entry and in this case is well worth the cost of this once in a lifetime experience. — MK

Digital-Mystizk

Digital Mystikz, DJ Rashad //
1015 Folsom – San Francisco
Thursday, February 27th //

Sure, Digital Mystikz may be one of the higher listed names you have never heard of, but producers, Mala and Coki, nearly single-handedly built the UK bass-culture scene which eventually was termed, dubstep. This South London duo has been working together since teenagers, while also maintaining solo careers, eventually starting the progressive label, and club night, that goes by DMZ. After a few failed attempts to perform on the West Coast as a duo, it appears the day is almost here for Digital Mystizk to make their big San Francisco debut at 1015 Folsom with DJ Rashad and a slew of local warriors to back ‘em all up. —KQ

Cold-Cave

Cold Cave, Painted Palms, Dirty Ghosts, Happy Fangs //
Slim’s – San Francisco
Friday, February 28th //

Truly one of the more stacked bills this year will feature LA darkwave mastermind Wesley Eisold, popularly known as Cold Cave. With a release slated for 2014, expect new material that Eisold describes as a “mix between some of the bigger sounds on Cherish and more minimal stuff I’m interested in now.” Local psych-pop duo, Painted Palms are also featured on this bill after the release of a recent album on Polyvinyl. Expect a breezier affair before the headliner with these San Francisco rising stars. Local trio Dirty Ghosts will also be on hand to lend support via their female-fronted take on psych-pop with a tinge of world influence. —KQ

Real-Estate

Real Estate, The Shilohs, Dream Boys, Dominant Legs //
The Independent – San Francisco
Friday & Saturday, February 28th & 29th //
SOLD OUT // BUY A BADGE

It wasn’t too long ago that fans of breezy surf-rock were enjoying Real Estate at Treasure Island, but this time we get a pair of more intimate shows over the busy Noise Pop weekend. The recently expanded 5-piece band is prepping their third studio album set for release the first week of March and will go by the title, Atlas. Expect new songs peppered with old favorites for these sold out shows, which will be supported by Vancouver songsters The Shilohs, along with Dominant Legs on Friday and Dream Boys on Saturday. —KQ

Mark-Kozelek

An Evening with Mark Kozelek (Sun Kil Moon) //
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
Saturday, March 1st //

While Mark Kozelek’s music comes in the form of many groups and collaborations, his new record Benji with Sun Kil Moon will likely solidify this group as his legacy. The lyrics are heartbreaking, the control of his cadence immaculate, and the words often relate to Bay Area locales, a place he calls home — there’s the Night Stalkers’ final victim who lived in San Mateo, barbecues in San Rafael, his Tenderloin summer (when he likely made the album), and going seeing the Postal Service perform at the Greek Theater only to rush to a hot tub-refuge in Tahoe. Billed as an evening with Mark Kozelek, an incredible live artist with throngs of records under his belt with Red House Painters, Sun Kil Moon and by his lonesome, expect a varied setlist with a heavy doses of cuts from Benji stealing the show. — MF

Dr-Dog

Dr. Dog, Saint Rich, Moses Sumney //
The Warfield – San Francisco
Saturday, March 1 //

Dr. Dog make their Noise Pop debut as headliners atop a talented lineup of performers. Road warriors and prolific song writers, these indie rockers from Pennsylvania make the west coast swing in support of their latest album, 2013’s B-Room. Dr. Dog has been making a name for themselves for 15 years, building a loyal fan base and graduating to larger venues along the way. Supported by Saint Rich and Moses Sumney, Saturday March 1st at the Warfield will showcase some of the finest indie rock around. Floor seats may be sold out, but you can still make your way to the dance floor with a Noise Pop badge. Don’t sleep on this show. -KR

Noise Pop 2014

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SF Beer Week Events + Close Shows = Best Week of the Year!

February 4, 2014 by 1 Comment

SF-Beer-Week_post

For beer lovers, San Francisco Beer Week is one of the finest weeks of the year. Okay, let’s be honest: It IS the best week of the year! So how can we make the best week of the year even better? By combining primo beer week events with great music.

These tastefully selected pairings have been curated specifically with the intention for you to enjoy a unique beer week offering and follow it up with a show within walking distance. That way, you can (responsibly) enjoy all the libations of your choosing and make it to the show safely. Beer will be flowing like the salmon of Capistrano all over San Francisco from February 8th through the 16th, and here are my picks for perfect beer and music matches:

Delorean

Date: Sunday, 2/9
Show: Delorean @ The Independent
Beer: Barleywine Night @ Noc Noc
Distance: 13 minute walk

Our first night will find you at the Noc Noc for their Barleywine night. If you’ve never had a barleywine, they’re big, bold, fruity, intense, and very high in alcohol. Sounds great, right? Noc Noc will be serving five in particular from Northern California Breweries, including Marin Brewing’s Old Dipsea and Sierra Nevada’s Barrel Aged Big Foot (don’t miss this one). When you’re done you can walk 13 minutes up Haight and down Divisadero to the Independent where you can hit Delorean. They’re a four piece combining dance music and indie pop who had to cancel their last show at the Independent due to being kidnapped in South America. Let’s hope they make it safely to the show this time. Hopefully everyone else that goes to Noc Noc makes it to the show safely, too, because I have my doubts after all that barleywine.

Oskar-Blues-Old-Chub

Date: Tuesday, 2/11
Show: Hospitality @ Rickshaw Stop
Beer: Oskar Blues Night @ The Beer Hall
Distance: 4 minute walk

If you’re in the mood for infectious indie pop and heady northern Colorado brews, buy your tickets for Hospitality right now (only $10!). The Beer Hall is hosting this stellar lineup of forward-thinking Oskar Blues and it’s only a four minute walk to Rickshaw Stop. Oskar Blues have been a pioneer in the craft canning movement, and for good reason. Cans are lighter (cheaper to transport), impermeable by light (stays headier longer), more easily recyclable, and they get cold faster. There won’t be any cans here though, as the offerings will be on tap, starring Oskar the Grouch (smoked IPA), Merlow BA Chaka (Belgian Strong Ale), and Old Chub ON NITRO. At the Rickshaw you’ll be ready to ingest Hospitality, this peppy stripped down trio has been on the rise for over a year now.

Coronado

Date: Wednesday, 2/12
Show: Boombox @ The Independent
Beer: Coronado Brewing Takeover @ Noir Lounge
Distance: 7 minute bus ride

Get your groove on and dance for a couple hours with Boombox at the Independent. Slinky, sultry, sexy strutting beats await you after your trip to the Noir Lounge for Coronado Brewing’s Tap Takeover. This California mainstay has been impressing craft beer lovers for a few years now but only recently has the brewery seen more of a national exposure. One sip of their Idiot IPA and you’ll realize why. Give it a try along with all of the other selections and then step on the 21 for a 7 minute bus ride up Hayes to the Independent.

Sierra-Nevada

Date: Friday, 2/14
Show: Blackalicious @ Slim’s
Beer: Sierra Nevada 62 Tap Takeover @ Zeitgeist
Distance: 13 minute walk

If you’re in the mood for some hip hop, Blackalicious is a must see on this Friday Valentine’s Day. It may not be the best for getting your romantic vibe on, but it’ll be great if you want to dance and shake your ass. And what else is better than shaking your ass with that special someone? Shaking your ass AND drinking beer! I’m straight up befuddled by the beer week listing this night at Zeitgeist: Sierra Nevada SIXTY-TWO TAP TAKEOVER. That’s not a typo. I was never even aware that they had 62 unique beers. We’ll see if this is some tomfoolery on 2/14. If it truly is 62 beers, you’d better believe the place will be loaded with hard to find rarities from the cellar. Supposedly they’re tapping the “extra special” kegs in the later afternoon/early night time, so if you hit this event before before you head to Slim’s you’ll be in good standing to sip on the best the brewery has to offer.

Bonus Pick!!! – Because I have extra love for Valentine’s Day.

Date: Friday, 2/14
Show: Quilt @ Bottom of the Hill
Beer: Beer Tasting + Sweets @ Blueprint Tap Room
Distance: 15 minute walk

Maybe some gentle psych rock is more your style on the country’s most romantically manufactured holiday of the year. Quilt has made a big impression lately with their pseudo-sixties revival indie rock. While sometimes soothing in its swaying pop melodies, on occasion it necessitates a full-body psych rock freak-out. Blueprint Tap Room is doing a dessert and beer pairing that is making my mouth water as I type this. Coffee and chocolate bread pudding with salted caramel sauce will be paired with Anderson Valley’s fantastic Bourbon Barrel Stout, and olive oil citrus cake will be paired with Buzzerkeley’s Belgian Strong Pale Ale. And there are more pairings. There are also a wide variety of West Coast breweries being featured, such as Deschutes, Ninkasi, Lost Abbey, Ballast Point, Green Flash, and Calicraft. When it’s beer week, these guys and gals don’t come unprepared. There will be some really great beer getting tapped here.

Midnight-Sun

Date: Saturday, 2/15
Show: Jerry Garcia Band featuring Melvin Seals @ Great American Music Hall
Beer: Midnight Sun Brewery @ Amsterdam Cafe
Distance: 3 minute walk

Any night with the Jerry Garcia Band feat. Melvin Seals ends in a sweaty tired mess, and it’s great. It’s so soulful and cathartic that you’ll feel like you’re at church, but with only half the guilt. Midnight Sun is a brewery from Alaska that you may not have heard of, but they have been on point for years now. I’ve only been largely impressed with everything I’ve tried from them, and this beer lineup looks to be stacked with special releases. They’ve got a dark strong ale with spices and chilies, oak-aged T.R.E.A.T. (imperial chocolate pumpkin porter on nitro), and XXX-Black Double IPA. This pair is sure to impress – you’ll be having fun all the way through the midnight moonlight!

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Parquet Courts, White Fence share an exciting bill at GAMH

January 21, 2014 by 2 Comments

Parquet-CourtsPhotos by Kory Thibeault // Written by Kevin Quandt //

Parquet Courts & White Fence with CCR Headcleaner //
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
January 16, 2014 //

A packed house was eagerly ready for the triumphant return of one of 2013’s most exciting rookie acts that goes by Parquet Courts. They weren’t the only heavy-hitter on the bill as White Fence and local’s CCR Headcleaner set the Great American Music Hall ablaze with various takes on the state of contemporary rock. Each band brought fueled-up performances to a mix of youthful punkers and savvy critics as head-banging, moshing and shoe-gazing all had a place on this evening.

San Francisco heat-seeker’s CCR Headcleaner started things off with a stony take on garage-rock that tapped into the noisier side of Black Sabbath. Though not a recent act to the City, they have been gaining attention as cohorts, and contemporaries, of Ty Segall’s latest act, Fuzz, who will be releasing a split as part of Famous Class Records’ LACM series.

Parquet-Courts

Somewhat surprisingly, Parquet Courts were next to take the stage as it appeared the majority of the crowd was in attendance for only their third show in San Francisco after a gig at Rickshaw Stop in early June and Hemlock prior to that. 2013’s Light Up Gold was a breath of fresh air for independent music, and their subsequent live show lived up to the hype, equally. The NYC quartet started out the evening with a pair of unfamiliar tunes that were extended to small psych-drone masterpieces, even if the crowd seemed to be waiting for the more-familiar. “You’ve Got Me Wonderin’ Now” got things kicking as a decent pit began to form to the delight of the band.

Parquet Courts don’t really give a fuck. They play what they want, and we are just lucky enough to be in on it. Newer tracks like “She’s Rolling” took wings as the dual guitar acts of Andrew Savage and Austin Brown elevated feedback sections that would make Thurston Moore nod in approval (not to mention Brown looks like Moore in mop-haired appearance). It was about halfway in when the band started to tackle gems off their debut LP in the form of opening duet “Master of My Craft” into “Borrowed Time”, as well as “Yr No Stoner” into “Careers in Combat”. Savage and his newly-grown Sideshow Bob-esque afro couldn’t help but remark on the younger members of the crowd having the time of their life; “Sure like watching you boys move around out there,” he stated with a smirk. “Stoned and Starving” was oddly missing from the night’s set, possibly a product of not being awarded the headlining set on this night. Whatever, Parquet Courts don’t give a fuck.

White-Fence

Tim Presley’s White Fence would be last to play on this Thursday night with a revamped lineup and a newer album, Cyclops Reaps, under their belts. Some new elements on stage allowed Presley more musical room for him to delve into his guitar-shredding odysseys he, and the crowd, craves. “Pink Gorilla” got the set going nicely before launching “Swagger Vets and Double Moons”. Vocals is what sets White Fence apart from their contemporaries as Presley’s nasal-leaning singing comes off as more British than Californian. The Great American did unfortunately clear out a little bit as the rambunctiousness of Parquet Courts settled into a more mellow atmosphere where the music was the focus.

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WIN TICKETS: White Fence // Parquet Courts at Great American Music Hall Thursday 1/16

January 13, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Parquet Courts / White Fence
Enter to win a pair of free tickets to this show below.

Parquet Courts and White Fence
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
January 16, 2014

Hold on, and hope to win, as Parquet Courts and White Fence team up for a series of shows out West highlighting two of rocks most exciting acts. Honestly, this pairing is sheer brilliance as NYC’s Parquet Courts return to California with their sneering take on garage-leaning punk rock. On the other hand, Tim Presley’s White Fence demonstrates preternatural mastery of all things psychedelic rock; from the jangle-fuzz of Presley’s guitar solos to his sneering, British-leaning vocals, it all fits so damned well. San Francisco rising star’s CCR Headcleaner will open the night in a loud, raucous manner as they have for years across this town, and with a debut release, Lace the Earth With Arms Wide Open, under their belts. You’d be foolish to miss out on this showcase, we promise.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win 2 Free Tickets!
Enter to win if you can attend this show Thursday, January 16th at the Great American Music Hall.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Wednesday, January 15th at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one. All Ages 6+

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Thee Oh Sees shock SF with a blazing show, startling news

January 6, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Thee-Oh-SeesPhotos by Pedro Paredes // Written by Kevin Quandt //

What started as just another Thee Oh Sees show at Great American Music Hall December 18th ended up being more than the sum of its parts as the band announced some sudden news that shook up local music fans. The Annual Benefit for the Coalition of the Homeless has become a mid-December tradition, as well as one of the premier psychedelic rock shows to end the calendar year. John Dwyer organizes this show annually, and this year he hand chose Ty Segall, Synthetic ID and Breakarts to get the evening off to a blazing start. It wasn’t until the last fifteen minutes when the crowd began to wonder what this specific show would signify for this burgeoning music scene.

After the smaller support bands had whipped the youthful crowd into a healthy frenzy, Ty Segall brought an exciting duo set which had fellow Orange County-bred musician Mikal Cronin as his musical partner for the next 35 minutes. This set was not quite acoustic, but not yet electric as the duo ran through short, punchy rockers from all over Segall’s extensive catalogue. Ty was both lead vocalist, guitarist and drummer as he had a single kick drum to keep the beat steady, and was his head-banging metronome, as well. “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” was the lone cover and showed that these guys can have fun when making deadly serious rock music.

Thee-Oh-Sees1

Dwyer and cohorts setup their stage quickly and jumped right into the deep end, as is tradition for these vets. As far as the main set went, it was a reasonably standard showcase of new tracks off of Floating Coffin with “Come From the Mountain” and “Toe Cutter/Thumb Buster” making early appearances. An impressive pogo-pit broke out immediately as this all-ages show brought more youthful energy to the room; crowd-surfing and stage-diving followed soon thereafter. “Meat Step Lively” and “I Was Denied” represented some of the more popular old tunes that we all come to expect, and cherish, in most shows. It wasn’t till the end of the set when Dwyer announced, “This will be the last Oh Sees show for awhile, so dig in.” At the time most assumed they might go back into the studio to follow-up Floating Coffin, but the next day the news had spilled that the legendary San Francisco act would be taking a (somewhat) indefinite hiatus.

News that Dwyer would be moving out of the City and making the trek down south to Los Angeles was pure shock to the scene he had literally built over the past decade. Ty Segall had made the same move in 2013, and with the gentrification of San Francisco, music and culture lovers can only fear what other side effects the new ‘Tech Boom’ could have to the elements that make this place so special. Luckily, all is not lost as the band announced the release of a new album in the coming months. The live future of the group is still in limbo, however a well-deserved break is what is more important to these garage rock pioneers. Luckily, San Francisco has some bright spots on the psych-radar in the form of the POW!, Spyrals, Tiaras and Grass Widow (to name a few).

So, what was a successful show and benefit (20 bags of coats and $6100 raised) had a deeper meaning to the San Francisco scene, but as things change, one can only be optimistic to the musical future in 2014.

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WIN TICKETS: The Mother Hips at Great American Music Hall 12/20 & 12/21

December 18, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Mother-Hips_post

Enter your name and email address below for the chance to win 2 free tickets.

The Mother Hips with The Donkeys (Dec. 20), Ultimate Setlist (Dec. 21)
Great American Music Hall – San Francisco
December 20 & 21, 2013

The “Original California Soul” band the Mother Hips are holding court for 2 nights at the Great American Music Hall, presenting a diverse pair of shows capped off with what is being dubbed the Ultimate Setlist. Tim Bluhm and cohorts have been crushing the West Coast rock circuit for over 20 years, growing from a Chico bar band to bonafide local royalty. Friday night’s show will be more traditional with San Diego band The Donkeys opening the night, followed by the Hips.

The Ultimate Setlist, presented on Saturday the 21st, will be a full show curated by fans as they submit their dream song list to the band. Voting has since ceased, but the choice of setlists which were voted on can be found here. Saturday’s performance is sold out, so this is one of your last chances to get in the door.

Buy tickets for Friday’s show if you know you want to go!

Win 2 Free Tickets!
Enter to win if you can attend either show Friday, December 20th or Saturday 21st at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Thursday, December 19th at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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WIN TICKETS: Radical Face at Great American Music Hall 10/23

October 22, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Radical-Face

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Celebrating the release of the second installment to his The Family Tree musical trilogy The Branches, Radical Face (aka Ben Cooper) will be headlining the Great American Music Hall Wednesday night. This melancholic indie rock album drops Tuesday (October 22), focusing on personal stories the Florida native imagined to have been shared either in the personal space of journal entries or through handwritten letter correspondences.

The Branches‘ lyrical content pulls from Cooper’s own referential life experiences, focusing on themes of isolation, emotional disposition and his penchant for indirect storytelling. Guaranteed to be a beautifully intense performance, you will definitely want to jump at this rare chance to check out Radical Face on his only Bay Area stop of 2013.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win 2 Free Tickets!
Enter to win if you can attend this show Wednesday, October 23rd at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Wednesday, October 23rd at 2pm. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST COMPLETE

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WIN TICKETS: The Dodos at Great American 10/16

October 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment

The-Dodos

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On Wednesday night, local indie rock duo The Dodos will make an exclusive tour stop at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco. Bandmates Meric Long and Logan Kroeber are celebrating the release of their fifth full length album Carrier, marking their debut on Polyvinyl Records. Written and recorded locally at John Vanderslice’s legendary Tiny Telephone studios, Carrier is an emotional tribute to late friend and touring member of The Dodos Christopher Reimer.

After debuting their first video off the album, “Confidence”, on NPR First Watch this past month, the band kicked off their fall tour with a performance on The Late Show With David Letterman. Before they take their act overseas, this exclusive Bay Area show October 16 will serve as a fond farewell to the guys before they head abroad for a while.

Buy tickets if you know you want to go!

Win 2 Free Tickets! Enter to win if you can attend this show Wednesday, October 16th at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Submit your full name and email address below.
Contest ends Wednesday, October 16 at Noon. Winners will be picked at random & notified by email. Your email will be kept private – we will share your email with no one.

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CONTEST CLOSED

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