• Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – October 27
    Oct 27 2020
    02:30 AM

    Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – October 27

    Rachel Goodman No Comments 424
    Clockwise from top left: Carolina Story, BLACKSTARKIDS, Ryan Webster, James Hersey, Rusty Eye and Imelda May. Every week, there’s more new music waiting to be discovered. We are deep into fall, and yet the warm days have me unsure what season we’re actually in. We are still stuck…
  • Q&A: Songhoy Blues spread 'Optimisme' on their boldest statement yet
    Oct 26 2020
    12:30 AM

    Q&A: Songhoy Blues spread ‘Optimisme’ on their boldest statement yet

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 547
    Songhoy Blues, Courtesy. At one point a decade ago, the members of Malian rock band Songhoy Blues weren’t allowed to play shows. The ban had nothing to do with pandemic shelter-in-place orders and everything with an Islamist group that had taken over northern parts of the country and imposed sharia…
  • Opinion: Kicking the tires on the new SkyStar 'observation wheel'
    Oct 25 2020
    11:21 PM

    Opinion: Kicking the tires on the new SkyStar ‘observation wheel’

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 782
    SkyStar Observation Wheel in Golden Gate Park, photographed on Oct. 25, 2020. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. Could the new Golden Gate Park Ferris wheel—the SkyStar—withstand the predicted 70-mile-per-h0ur winds Sunday night? I wasn’t about to find out. The 150-feet-tall SkyStar “observation wheel”—company spokesman Jon Finck was quick to point out…
  • Insert Foot: Expect talk of reopening venues sooner rather than later
    Oct 25 2020
    02:30 AM

    Insert Foot: Expect talk of reopening venues sooner rather than later

    Tony Hicks No Comments 405
    Insert Foot vs. resisting the urge, Bayshore Drive-in. INA Photo Agency/Getty Images. Burlingame’s Bayshore Drive-in is hosting drive-in concerts during these days of whine and COVID. Which is nice … they just had Major Lazer play, and even have some comedy acts coming up. But … One of the…
  • REWIND: “Dance Macabre” and 4 more songs for your advanced-level Halloween playlist
    Oct 24 2020
    02:30 AM

    REWIND: “Dance Macabre” and 4 more songs for your advanced-level Halloween playlist

    Daniel J. Willis No Comments 2,480
    “Danse Macabre” (1493) by Michael Wolgemut. Not pictured: Ghost’s “Dance Macabre.” OK, enough dancing around it. I’ve done three editions of my Halloween Month and basically none of them has been a legit Halloween list. I’m writing this in advance so there’s no telling what unspeakable horrors have…
  • Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, 'Clouds,' Saturday's livestream
    Oct 23 2020
    03:12 PM

    Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, ‘Clouds,’ Saturday’s livestream

    Roman Gokhman 1 Comment 7,082
    Thanks to the new Disney+ film “Clouds,” Zach Sobiech‘s 2012 hit song of the same name is again at the top of streaming charts, seven years after it brought the 17-year-old and his songwriting partner, bandmate and best friend, Sammy Brown, international acclaim just before his death to…
  • INTERVIEW: Puscifer charts course for 'Existential Reckoning,' mysterious livestream
    Oct 21 2020
    02:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Puscifer charts course for ‘Existential Reckoning,’ mysterious livestream

    Mike DeWald No Comments 1,702
    Puscifer, Courtesy: Travis Shinn The shroud of mystery surrounding experimental rock outfit Puscifer is fitting for the uncertain and unsettling times of a pandemic crossed with mass civil unrest. The band, whose core is made up of Maynard James Keenan (Tool, A Perfect Circle), Carina Round and Mat…
  • The Golden Bull back in business, hopes to bring music back to Oakland
    Oct 19 2020
    04:00 AM

    The Golden Bull back in business, hopes to bring music back to Oakland

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 2,303
    Musicians and The Golden Bull owners Bill Schneider (left) Mark W. Lynn (center) and Jason Beebout take a break outside their bar on Oct. 14, 2020. Karen Goldman/STAFF. The owners of The Golden Bull in Oakland never expected to be reselling pizza, but now that’s what’s keeping the…
  • Professor Music dives into music theory and white supremacy with Kev Choice
    Oct 14 2020
    02:30 AM

    Professor Music dives into music theory and white supremacy with Kev Choice

    David Gill No Comments 841
    Last month music school grad student and YouTuber Adam Neely released a video he titled “Is Music Theory Racist?” Quickly renamed “Music Theory and White Supremacy,” Neely’s video followed some controversy within the insular world of music schools after a symposium talk by Philip Ewell, an associate professor of…
  • Q&A: Argentinean Nicki Nicole crashes through 'Mala Vida' waiting out the world's longest quarantine
    Oct 12 2020
    02:30 AM

    Q&A: Argentinean Nicki Nicole crashes through ‘Mala Vida’ waiting out the world’s longest quarantine

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 567
    Nicki Nicole, Courtesy: Pull&Bear. Rising Argentine R&B and pop artist Nicki Nicole has taken the world by storm with her electrifying dance anthems. She broke out with debut single “Music Sessions #13,” with producer Bizarrap, which carried her to the stage of the first-ever Spotify Awards. Now she continues…
  • Concord's Carlos Alazraqui on reviving 'Reno 911!' and 'Rocko's Modern Life'
    Oct 05 2020
    02:30 AM

    Concord’s Carlos Alazraqui on reviving ‘Reno 911!’ and ‘Rocko’s Modern Life’

    Daniel J. Willis No Comments 5,832
    Carlos Alazraqui, Courtesy: Comedy Central/Everet. You think you know Carlos Alazraqui as Deputy Garcia on “Reno 911.” He played the character for the first five seasons and, despite being killed off in an explosion offscreen before season six, he returned for the seventh season, now airing on Quibi.…
  • Q&A: Gaidaa on self-discovery, accepting pandemic 'Overture'
    Sep 30 2020
    03:00 AM

    Q&A: Gaidaa on self-discovery, accepting pandemic ‘Overture’

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 550
    Gaidaa, Courtesy: Segraphy. Just two years ago, Sudanese-born and Netherlands-based R&B singer-songwriter Gaidaa caught the attention of Dutch producer Full Crate with a cover of a Kehlani record. Full Crate would go one to work with her and launch the artist’s career. The 20-year-old is coming off the release…

News

    • SF Ballet switching to online subscription model for 2021 season
      SF Ballet switching to online subscription model for 2021 season
      October 27, 2020 at 11:10 pm
      Yuan Yuan Tan and Tiit Helimets in Tomasson’s Swan Lake. Courtesy: Erik Tomasson/San Francisco Ballet. The San Francisco Ballet, which had previously announced a delayed 2021…
      SF will waive entertainment venue taxes as part of COVID-19 pandemic assistance
      SF will waive entertainment venue taxes as part of COVID-19 pandemic assistance
      October 26, 2020 at 9:11 pm
      The Independent in San Francisco, closed, on March 16, 2020. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. About 300 San Francisco businesses that have been unable to open since March, including…
    • Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, 'Clouds,' Saturday's livestream
      Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, ‘Clouds,’ Saturday’s livestream
      October 23, 2020 at 3:12 pm
      Thanks to the new Disney+ film “Clouds,” Zach Sobiech‘s 2012 hit song of the same name is again at the top of streaming charts, seven years…
      State approves limited-capacity football; what does it mean for concerts?
      State approves limited-capacity football; what does it mean for concerts?
      October 20, 2020 at 2:31 pm
      Taylor Swift performs on the Reputation Stadium Tour at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on May 11, 2018. Steve Carlson/STAFF. Gov. Gavin Newsom on Tuesday…
    • The Golden Bull back in business, hopes to bring music back to Oakland
      The Golden Bull back in business, hopes to bring music back to Oakland
      October 19, 2020 at 4:00 am
      Musicians and The Golden Bull owners Bill Schneider (left) Mark W. Lynn (center) and Jason Beebout take a break outside their bar on Oct. 14, 2020.…
      Berkeley-born pianist and composer Gabriela Lena Frank receives coveted Heinz Award
      Berkeley-born pianist and composer Gabriela Lena Frank receives coveted Heinz Award
      October 13, 2020 at 2:33 pm
      Gabriela Lena Frank, Courtesy. Berkeley-born pianist and composer Gabriela Lena Frank today was awarded a Heinz Award by the Heinz Family Foundation, which for 25 years has honored…
    • Metallica announces PPV All Within My Hands Foundation fundraiser
      Metallica announces PPV All Within My Hands Foundation fundraiser
      October 13, 2020 at 11:24 am
      All Within My Hands 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Metallica’s second All Within My Hands Helping Hands Concert and Auction will be streamed online. The event…
      Killer Mike, former Atlanta mayor and TV exec launch online bank for Black and Latinx people
      Killer Mike, former Atlanta mayor and TV exec launch online bank for Black and Latinx people
      October 9, 2020 at 10:28 am
      Rapper Killer Mike, former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young (c) and Bounce TV founder Ryan Glover. Courtesy. Rapper Killer Mike, former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young and Bounce TV founder…
    • Portugal. The Man donating $20,000 to Navajo Nation clean water project
      Portugal. The Man donating $20,000 to Navajo Nation clean water project
      October 8, 2020 at 8:27 pm
      Portugal. the Man performs at Golden Gate Park during Outside Lands on Aug. 12, 2018. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. Portugal. The Man is donating $20,000 to the Navajo…
      National Independent Venue Association, YouTube announce virtual fest to save venues
      National Independent Venue Association, YouTube announce virtual fest to save venues
      October 8, 2020 at 1:15 pm
      First Avenue in Minneapolis (photographed on May 19, 2020) will host Dizzy Fae as part of #SOSFEST this month. Photo: Todd Johnson. YouTube Music and the…
    • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass raises $500k through virtual fest, awards $1.6m in grants
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass raises $500k through virtual fest, awards $1.6m in grants
      October 8, 2020 at 10:40 am
      Fantastic Negrito performs during Let the Music Play On, Courtesy: Ken Friedman. Let the Music Play On, the virtual festival produced by Hardly Strictly Bluegrass last weekend…
      Artists, politicians to rally for RBG's wish that Supreme Court seat stay empty until after election
      Artists, politicians to rally for RBG’s wish that Supreme Court seat stay empty until after election
      October 7, 2020 at 9:11 pm
      Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Courtesy. Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi and Stacey Abrams will be joined by the likes of Michael Stipe, Hayley Williams and Margo Price on…
    • Obituary: The once-in-a-lifetime force of Edward Van Halen
      Obituary: The once-in-a-lifetime force of Edward Van Halen
      October 6, 2020 at 3:09 pm
      Eddie Van Halen performs with Van Halen at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, Calif., on July 16, 2015. Derek Simmons/STAFF. I was done crying and…
      System Of A Down pleads for U.S. intervention in Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict
      System Of A Down pleads for U.S. intervention in Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict
      October 1, 2020 at 10:24 pm
      System of a Down. Courtesy. Rock band System Of A Down on Thursday issued a statement pleading for U.S. intervention in the military conflict between Azerbaijan and…
    • Sublime with Rome's Eric Wilson scoffs at pandemic as attempt to take freedom
      Sublime with Rome’s Eric Wilson scoffs at pandemic as attempt to take freedom
      September 28, 2020 at 9:51 am
      Eric Wilson (center) with Sublime with Rome, Courtesy. After hosting a handful of tribute acts and regional bands at drive-in concerts last summer, the Alameda County…
      The Seshen invites fans into its 'CYAN' world through UC Theatre livestream
      The Seshen invites fans into its ‘CYAN’ world through UC Theatre livestream
      September 28, 2020 at 12:11 am
      The Seshen performs at the UC Theatre in Berkeley on Sept. 27, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. BERKELEY — On Feb. 27, the day before releasing its latest…
    • SF to approve outdoor music, with conditions like no live singing
      SF to approve outdoor music, with conditions like no live singing
      September 25, 2020 at 5:35 pm
      California Street in San Francisco is not as packed on March 17, 2020, the first day of a shelter-in-place to combat coronavirus. San Francisco will soon…
      SXSW going online in 2021; still hopes for physical festival
      SXSW going online in 2021; still hopes for physical festival
      September 22, 2020 at 11:53 pm
      CNN’s Jake Tapper and The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah speak onstage at the 2019 SXSW Conference and Festivals on March 9, 2019 in Austin, Texas. Courtes:…
    • Sacramento's Deftones fundraising for UC Davis Children's Hospital, live music crews
      Sacramento’s Deftones fundraising for UC Davis Children’s Hospital, live music crews
      September 22, 2020 at 11:23 pm
      Grammy-winning band Deftones, from Sacramento, have launched a fundraising campaign called “Adopt-a-Dot,” where fans can make a charitable donation for one or more dots from the…
      SF's Town Hall Restaurant reopens with outdoor dining, hope for more help
      SF’s Town Hall Restaurant reopens with outdoor dining, hope for more help
      September 21, 2020 at 2:30 am
      L to R: Town Hall Restaurant co-owners Björn Kock, Steven Rosenthal and Mitchell Rosenthal photographed on Sept. 18, 2020. Derek Tobias/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Mitchell Rosenthal,…
    • Joe Biden's election campaign kickstarts streaming concert series 'Team Joe Sings'
      Joe Biden’s election campaign kickstarts streaming concert series ‘Team Joe Sings’
      September 17, 2020 at 4:16 pm
      Joe Biden. Joe Biden’s election campaign, Biden for President, today announced a new online concert series titled Team Joe Sings. Beginning tonight and continuing each Thursday at…
      SF Sketchfest 2021 postponed, virtual series planned
      SF Sketchfest 2021 postponed, virtual series planned
      September 17, 2020 at 12:15 pm
      Dana Gould performs at SF Sketchfest at the Speakeasy in San Francisco on Jan. 18, 2019. Jon Bauer/STAFF. Producers of SF Sketchfest, the annual San Francisco…
    • Stanford Live goes fully virtual for 2020 fall season
      Stanford Live goes fully virtual for 2020 fall season
      September 16, 2020 at 11:44 am
       Stanford Live is pivoting its 2020 fall season once again. Late last spring the organization announced a tentative fall and winter schedule, hoping live performances…
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass announces additional performers for livestream event
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass announces additional performers for livestream event
      September 16, 2020 at 10:32 am
      “Let The Music Play On” artists Boz Scaggs, Jim Lauderdale, Fantastic Negrito, Robert Earl Keen and Rhiannon Giddens with Francesco Turrisi. Illustration courtesy: Mark Urliksen. Boz…

Features

    • Concord's Carlos Alazraqui on reviving 'Reno 911!' and 'Rocko's Modern Life'
      Concord’s Carlos Alazraqui on reviving ‘Reno 911!’ and ‘Rocko’s Modern Life’
      October 5, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Carlos Alazraqui, Courtesy: Comedy Central/Everet. You think you know Carlos Alazraqui as Deputy Garcia on “Reno 911.” He played the character for the first five seasons…
    • Introducing Stav Mcallister: Bay Area singer-songwriter fuses storytelling, social commentary
      Introducing Stav Mcallister: Bay Area singer-songwriter fuses storytelling, social commentary
      October 3, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Stav Mcallister, Courtesy: Mathieu Bitton. Bay Area singer-songwriter Stav Mcallister picked an incredibly unorthodox time to launch his musical career. The songsmith released his debut under the…
    • INTERVIEW: Lydia Loveless looks to find herself on 'Daughter'
      INTERVIEW: Lydia Loveless looks to find herself on ‘Daughter’
      September 23, 2020 at 1:30 am
      Lydia Loveless, Courtesy: Megan Toenyes. After crisscrossing the country in support of her 2016 album, Real, singer-songwriter Lydia Loveless was emotionally and physically spent. By that…
    • Tiny Telephone Studios founder John Vanderslice starts anew in L.A.
      Tiny Telephone Studios founder John Vanderslice starts anew in L.A.
      September 15, 2020 at 2:30 am
      John Vanderslice, Courtesy. John Vanderslice is feeling good. Calling from his kitchen of his Los Angeles home—the artist and producer relocated from San Francisco after shuttering…
    • Stockton poet and America's Got Talent hopeful Brandon Leake: 'The poem changes as the years go on'
      Stockton poet and America’s Got Talent hopeful Brandon Leake: ‘The poem changes as the years go on’
      September 8, 2020 at 12:01 am
      Brandon Leake performs in season 15 of ‘America’s Got Talent’ in Los Angeles on Sept. 1, 2020. Courtesy: Trae Patton/NBC. By the time Stockton poet Brandon…
    • INTERVIEW: Julie Budet on the more mature YELLE, 'The Age of Aquarius'
      INTERVIEW: Julie Budet on the more mature YELLE, ‘The Age of Aquarius’
      September 2, 2020 at 2:30 am
      YELLE, Courtesy: Jerome Lobato. Julie Budet, one-half of French dance pop duo YELLE, points to the penultimate track on new album L’Ère du Verseau as one…
    • INTERVIEW: Jonathan Higgs of Everything Everything on rising from the literal ashes
      INTERVIEW: Jonathan Higgs of Everything Everything on rising from the literal ashes
      August 31, 2020 at 1:30 am
      Courtesy: Everything Everything. When the COVID-19 lockdowns first began, the sudden isolation and uncertainty caused a lot of stress for everyone. But for the members of…
    • Rexx Life Raj on his family history of activism, systemic racism, how to help
      Rexx Life Raj on his family history of activism, systemic racism, how to help
      August 28, 2020 at 12:01 am
      Rexx Life Raj photographed at the Berkeley Marina on Aug. 18, 2020. Matt Pang/STAFF. Additional photos by Pang and Karen Goldman/STAFF. Singer and rapper Rexx Life…

Podcasts

    • Rock'N Vino: 'The Delicacy' documentary dives into treacherous waters
      Rock’N Vino: ‘The Delicacy’ documentary dives into treacherous waters
      May 22, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Filmmaker Jason Wise working on his new documentary, ‘The Delicacy,’ off the coast of Santa Barbara. Courtesy. Filmmaker Jason Wise, best known for “The Somm,” a hit…
    • Rock'N Vino: Jackson Family Wines pivot to preserve jobs, deliver wine
      Rock’N Vino: Jackson Family Wines pivot to preserve jobs, deliver wine
      May 10, 2020 at 12:30 am
      Courtesy: Jackson Family Wines. As unemployment caused by the coronavirus pandemic continues to rise, some are taking steps to adapt to keep their employees working. Much…
    • RIFF RADIO: Talinda Bennington turns adversity into strength with 320 Changes Direction
      RIFF RADIO: Talinda Bennington turns adversity into strength with 320 Changes Direction
      May 6, 2020 at 12:30 am
      Talinda Bennington, Courtesy: Big Picture Media. The many shelter-in-place orders nationwide have impacted just about every part of society. While the circumstances are difficult for some,…
    • Rock'N Vino: Wine Country adapts to coronavirus shelter-in-place order
      Rock’N Vino: Wine Country adapts to coronavirus shelter-in-place order
      April 11, 2020 at 5:30 am
      No industry has been left untouched by the impact of the coronavirus and the subsequent stay-at-home orders issued around the country. While we’ve documented the impacts…

Album Reviews

    • REVIEW: Elvis Costello focuses on subtleties of songwriting on ‘Hey Clockface’
      REVIEW: Elvis Costello focuses on subtleties of songwriting on ‘Hey Clockface’
      October 28, 2020 at 12:30 am
      Reliably prolific songwriter Elvis Costello has achieved a special place in the rock canon, churning out hits since the ’70s. Now, as he and his  second-wave rock peers…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Goo Goo Dolls find their inner child on 'It’s Christmas All Over'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Goo Goo Dolls find their inner child on ‘It’s Christmas All Over’
      October 27, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Perhaps John Rzeznik and the Goo Goo Dolls had the best foresight out of anyone during lockdown. As other musicians were writing about claustrophobic isolation, the…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Tori Kelly keeps it classic with 'A Tori Kelly Christmas'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Tori Kelly keeps it classic with ‘A Tori Kelly Christmas’
      October 27, 2020 at 2:30 am
      As we inch closer and closer to the end of 2020, more artists are throwing their Santa hats into the ring. Tori Kelly is among those lending…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Dizzee Rascal bombards with bars on 'E3 AF'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Dizzee Rascal bombards with bars on ‘E3 AF’
      October 25, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Legendary London grime-rapper Dizzee Rascal returns to add yet another gem to his ongoing critically acclaimed discography with E3 AF. For those outside of the U.K.…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Pallbearer brings doom back to prog with 'Forgotten Days'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Pallbearer brings doom back to prog with ‘Forgotten Days’
      October 21, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      In case anyone fell off the train in the past three years, it’s worth reiterating that Pallbearer basically became Boston with a beefy guitar tone on Heartless.…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Clipping. strikes again with 'Visions of Bodies Being Burned'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Clipping. strikes again with ‘Visions of Bodies Being Burned’
      October 21, 2020 at 12:00 pm
      Trick-or-treating, parties, haunted houses—everything that’s served as a source of spooky Halloween entertainment—is sadly still nonviable as the the U.S. continues to navigate through the pandemic.…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Ty Segall and friends turn it up on 'III' as FUZZ
      ALBUM REVIEW: Ty Segall and friends turn it up on ‘III’ as FUZZ
      October 21, 2020 at 3:00 am
      Among noise buffs, fuzz is considered the most extreme form of distortion, often completely blowing out a signal with staticky white noise (think of the bass…
      REVIEW: John Frusciante exploratory, wondrous on electronic 'Maya'
      REVIEW: John Frusciante exploratory, wondrous on electronic ‘Maya’
      October 21, 2020 at 2:30 am
      John Frusciante is a musician’s musician. Since his early days, making his name as a bad-boy funk guitarist, he has worked solo and with a wide…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Major Lazer shuffles in place on 'Music Is The Weapon'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Major Lazer shuffles in place on ‘Music Is The Weapon’
      October 20, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Electronic dance trio Major Lazer—comprised of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Ape Drums—have returned with the highly anticipated follow-up to 2015’s critical darling Peace Is The Mission.…
      REVIEW: The Mountain Goats revive roots rock while 'Getting Into Knives'
      REVIEW: The Mountain Goats revive roots rock while ‘Getting Into Knives’
      October 20, 2020 at 2:30 am
      With nearly 20 albums in just under 30 years, The Mountain Goats have grown vastly beyond being John Darnielle’s solo project. The last two albums polarize the…
    • REVIEW: 'Love is the King' is OK for Jeff Tweedy, a genius with time on his hands
      REVIEW: ‘Love is the King’ is OK for Jeff Tweedy, a genius with time on his hands
      October 20, 2020 at 2:29 am
      Love is the King, the new record from Jeff Tweedy, is really lazy Saturday music, for when you have nowhere to be and the clocks might…
      REVIEW: Bruce Springsteen rocks while looking back on hopeful 'Letter to You'
      REVIEW: Bruce Springsteen rocks while looking back on hopeful ‘Letter to You’
      October 18, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      There’s typically an inner dialogue happening when serious Bruce Springsteen fans hear a new record the first time, especially one on which he unleashes the power…
    • Album Review: Can The Struts' 'Strange Days' establish new ground for the band?
      Album Review: Can The Struts’ ‘Strange Days’ establish new ground for the band?
      October 14, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      The Struts have finished their third LP, Strange Days. They’re established and not going away. So, the way I see it, rock fans have a decision…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Beabadoobee unveils a sonic super bloom on 'Fake It Flowers'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Beabadoobee unveils a sonic super bloom on ‘Fake It Flowers’
      October 14, 2020 at 3:00 pm
      Bea Kristi—better known as Beabadoobee—quickly became a Gen Z icon after getting her first guitar in 2017 and writing single “Coffee.” The cozy lo-fi serenade, which…
    • REVIEW: 'Wildflowers & All The Rest' improves a Tom Petty classic
      REVIEW: ‘Wildflowers & All The Rest’ improves a Tom Petty classic
      October 14, 2020 at 11:44 am
      Wildflowers, the Tom Petty album from 1994, was—not surprisingly—his most personal work to that point, and as it turned out, of his career. Born of the emotional turmoil…
      Matt Berninger of The National makes a break for it on 'Serpentine Prison'
      Matt Berninger of The National makes a break for it on ‘Serpentine Prison’
      October 14, 2020 at 12:01 am
      The painted portrait of Matt Berninger on the cover of his new solo album seems straightforward and on-brand enough for The National’s frontman. The image of…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Katie Melua is beguiling on jazzy 'Album No. 8'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Katie Melua is beguiling on jazzy ‘Album No. 8’
      October 13, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Only two British female artists have reached the top 10 in U.K. album charts seven consecutive times. There’s Kate Bush, and then there’s Katie Melua, whose catalog…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Open Mike Eagle deconstructs his psyche on 'Anime, Trauma and Divorce'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Open Mike Eagle deconstructs his psyche on ‘Anime, Trauma and Divorce’
      October 13, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Anime, Trauma and Divorce , the newest album from Open Mike Eagle, hits an emotional chord that feels humbling and familiar, examining insecurities and anguish alongside the ways we…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Gord Downie back to us one last time on 'Away Is Mine'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Gord Downie back to us one last time on ‘Away Is Mine’
      October 12, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      After the tragic passing of The Tragically Hip’s frontman and chief architect, Gord Downie, in 2017 due to complications from cancer, his absence has been felt in the…
      Quick Takes: 'NCT Resonance Pt. 1' is a tale of two halves for the 23-member K-pop group
      Quick Takes: ‘NCT Resonance Pt. 1’ is a tale of two halves for the 23-member K-pop group
      October 11, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      The latest NCT album, Resonance Pt. 1, introduces the album with “Make A Wish (Birthday Wish).” The rhythmic whistling within the addictive chorus of the song…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: METZ expands dysphoric territory on 'Atlas Vending'
      ALBUM REVIEW: METZ expands dysphoric territory on ‘Atlas Vending’
      October 8, 2020 at 10:00 am
      It’s hard to imagine anyone would need extra stress in times like these. Yet it’s a gamble METZ is willing to take. Since 2008, the noise-punk…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Touché Amoré heals through classic screamo on ‘Lament’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Touché Amoré heals through classic screamo on ‘Lament’
      October 7, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      The raw emotion of Stage Four brought Touché Amoré to astounding heights. But it’s hard not to wonder where the band would go after an album…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Kiiara looks to find her way through love interests with 'lil kiiwi'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kiiara looks to find her way through love interests with ‘lil kiiwi’
      October 7, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Pop singer-songwriter Kiiara quietly burst onto the scene in 2015 with her breakout debut single, “Gold.” The Illinois-born artist had a fresh sound and modern pop…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Fran Healy and Travis tread water on tame '10 Songs'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Fran Healy and Travis tread water on tame ’10 Songs’
      October 6, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Scottish band Travis has drifted rather pleasantly on a long and stable career. Starting as an undistinguished band with a glimmer of mass appeal, an atmospheric…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Future Islands find love in darkness on 'As Long As You Are'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Future Islands find love in darkness on ‘As Long As You Are’
      October 4, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Baltimore alt-rockers Future Islands drew upon their dozen-plus years as a band to carefully craft their sixth studio album, As Long As You Are. The album was shaped…
      ALBUM REVIEW: YG unloads his anxieties on 'My Life 4Hunnid'
      ALBUM REVIEW: YG unloads his anxieties on ‘My Life 4Hunnid’
      October 2, 2020 at 5:42 am
      As the country continues to struggle with the pandemic, a dipping economy and unrest over a lack of justice, many share a collective sense of dread.…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Corey Taylor plays it fast and loose on eclectic 'CMFT'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Corey Taylor plays it fast and loose on eclectic ‘CMFT’
      October 1, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Corey Taylor has become one of hard rock’s standard bearers. Taylor speaks his mind on the state of the genre, while also serving as one of…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Dawes meander in melancholic meditation on 'Good Luck With Whatever'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Dawes meander in melancholic meditation on ‘Good Luck With Whatever’
      September 30, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      Dawes‘ newest release, Good Luck With Whatever, is as disquieting and solemn as this entire year has been. In the follow-up to their 2018 effort, Passwords, the folk…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: The Jaded Hearts Club twists and shouts through 'You’ve Always Been Here'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Jaded Hearts Club twists and shouts through ‘You’ve Always Been Here’
      September 29, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      In 1966—against a backdrop of protest, riots, violence and thousands of Americans dying for no reason at all—The Four Tops released their signature song “Reach Out…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Jónsi takes on the final frontier of pop music on ‘Shiver’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Jónsi takes on the final frontier of pop music on ‘Shiver’
      September 29, 2020 at 2:31 am
      It’s undeniable that Jónsi epitomized whimsical folk rock on his 2010 solo debut, Go. The album’s jubilant boisterousness—let’s call it “youth retreat campfire folk”—came ripe for mumblecore…
    • REVIEW: Dolly Parton full of the holiday spirit on 'A Holly Dolly Christmas'
      REVIEW: Dolly Parton full of the holiday spirit on ‘A Holly Dolly Christmas’
      September 29, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Christmas has come early this year—thank God—as Dolly Parton is set to release her first holiday album in 30 years. A Holly Dolly Christmas is the…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Melanie C introspective and self-affirming on eighth solo album
      ALBUM REVIEW: Melanie C introspective and self-affirming on eighth solo album
      September 29, 2020 at 2:18 am
      Following The Spice Girls reunion tour in 2019, “Sporty Spice” Melanie C began to take on a more introspective look on herself and her music. Her eighth…
    • REVIEW: Bon Jovi makes a bold lyrical statement on '2020' but takes few rock risks
      REVIEW: Bon Jovi makes a bold lyrical statement on ‘2020’ but takes few rock risks
      September 28, 2020 at 12:01 am
      Bon Jovi’s new album is titled 2020; a simple idea for a simple record … in a complicated year. And Bon Jovi, who has always excelled…
      ALBUM REVIEW: A$AP Ferg returns courtside on 'Floor Seats II'
      ALBUM REVIEW: A$AP Ferg returns courtside on ‘Floor Seats II’
      September 25, 2020 at 5:52 am
      Hip-hop has always held a dichotomy between socially conscious lyricism and party-hard bars. The latest album from A$AP Ferg, Floor Seats II embraces the latter, with bombastic club bangers…
    • REVIEW: Arcade Fire's Will Butler crosses musical 'Generations' on solo LP
      REVIEW: Arcade Fire’s Will Butler crosses musical ‘Generations’ on solo LP
      September 24, 2020 at 10:00 am
      Arcade Fire’s Will Butler is not one for idle time, apparently. In the five years since his first solo release, Policy, Butler has released a live record,…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Surfer Blood chases a missed wave on 'Carefree Theatre'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Surfer Blood chases a missed wave on ‘Carefree Theatre’
      September 24, 2020 at 10:00 am
      Ten years and four albums on from its debut, Surfer Blood returns with Carefree Theatre. The album has a back-to-the-roots ethos about it, and rightly so.…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Thurston Moore reaches new latitudes of inspiration 'By The Fire'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Thurston Moore reaches new latitudes of inspiration ‘By The Fire’
      September 23, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      The place where pop and art intersect eludes most seekers. Some ambitious bands aim for the sweet spot and overshoot grossly. More commonly, a group disdains…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Bob Mould's 'Blue Hearts' a worthwhile punk ride for 2020
      ALBUM REVIEW: Bob Mould’s ‘Blue Hearts’ a worthwhile punk ride for 2020
      September 23, 2020 at 8:00 pm
      In this shitbag year of 2020 A.D. (Absolute Deception? Assembly of Dicks? All Duck?), a punk rocker with a brain fine-tuned to sweet melody, about to…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Blitzen Trapper pursues hazy psychedelia on 'Holy Smokes Future Jokes'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Blitzen Trapper pursues hazy psychedelia on ‘Holy Smokes Future Jokes’
      September 23, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Portland’s Blitzen Trapper has spent the last two decades blending indie folk with shades of alt-country. Sometimes, like on 2017’s Wild and Reckless, the country is…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Joji transcends and transforms on 'Nectar'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Joji transcends and transforms on ‘Nectar’
      September 22, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      The depressive R&B of 2017’s In Tongues EP and 2018’s Ballads 1 established Joji with his own unique feel. However, with the notable exception of “Slow Dancing…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Deftones deliver a haunting beatdown with ‘Ohms’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Deftones deliver a haunting beatdown with ‘Ohms’
      September 22, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Relegated to relative obscurity compared to the wave of bands they road in with, Deftones have always walked their own path. Sure, many consider White Pony (2003)…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Action Bronson indulges in ecstasy on 'Only For Dolphins'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Action Bronson indulges in ecstasy on ‘Only For Dolphins’
      September 22, 2020 at 2:29 am
      New York has generated a wide array of distinctive voices in hip-hop; it’s the hometown of the genre, after all. Many of the artists within the…
    • Public Enemy fights on with 'What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes Down?'
      Public Enemy fights on with ‘What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes Down?’
      September 22, 2020 at 12:02 am
      Public Enemy is one of the most influential and transformational figures in the history of protest music. Chuck D, Flavor Flav and DJ Lord show why…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sufjan Stevens forsakes his boundaries on 'The Ascension'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sufjan Stevens forsakes his boundaries on ‘The Ascension’
      September 21, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Sufjan Stevens has remained busy since he dropped Carrie & Lowell, so it’s easy to forget how long it’s been since his last proper full-length album.…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: SuperM launch to 'Infinity' and beyond on 'Super One'
      ALBUM REVIEW: SuperM launch to ‘Infinity’ and beyond on ‘Super One’
      September 20, 2020 at 9:00 pm
      SuperM is comprised of some of the most recognizable and accomplished male K-pop artists right now. Since making a splashy formation announcement, the supergroup with members…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Joan Osborne wanders the AM dial on 'Trouble and Strife'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Joan Osborne wanders the AM dial on ‘Trouble and Strife’
      September 16, 2020 at 1:00 am
      Joan Osborne burst onto the scene 25 years ago singing “One of Us,” a song penned by The Hooters’ Eric Bazilian. The song’s theological speculation about…
    • REVIEW: Black Thought lets it all out on 'Streams of Thought Vol 3: Cane & Abel'
      REVIEW: Black Thought lets it all out on ‘Streams of Thought Vol 3: Cane & Abel’
      September 15, 2020 at 2:30 am
      If you woke up in the Bay Area at some point last week you were probably greeted with dark red and orange skies as a result…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Osees continue their evolution on 'Protean Threat'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Osees continue their evolution on ‘Protean Threat’
      September 14, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Charles Darwin rarely used the term “evolution,” even as he popularized the concept that species change over successive generations. Instead, Darwin preferred the phrase “descent with…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Delta Spirit supplies somber stories on 'What Is There'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Delta Spirit supplies somber stories on ‘What Is There’
      September 10, 2020 at 12:00 pm
      It’s easy to see the appeal in Delta Spirit. Its range and ability to meld genres gives a bold liveliness to its works. It would also explain…

Listen Now

    • REWIND: “Dance Macabre” and 4 more songs for your advanced-level Halloween playlist
      REWIND: “Dance Macabre” and 4 more songs for your advanced-level Halloween playlist
      October 24, 2020 at 2:30 am
      “Danse Macabre” (1493) by Michael Wolgemut. Not pictured: Ghost’s “Dance Macabre.” OK, enough dancing around it. I’ve done three editions of my Halloween Month and basically…
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 20
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 20
      October 20, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Clockwise from top left: Rozzi, Middle Kids, MAY-A, Lund, James Ivy and Sara Kays. Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips. Artists…

Q&A Interviews

    • Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, 'Clouds,' Saturday's livestream
      Q&A: The real Sammy Brown on Zach Sobiech, ‘Clouds,’ Saturday’s livestream
      October 23, 2020 at 3:12 pm
      Thanks to the new Disney+ film “Clouds,” Zach Sobiech‘s 2012 hit song of the same name is again at the top of streaming charts, seven years…
    • Q&A: Argentinean Nicki Nicole crashes through 'Mala Vida' waiting out the world's longest quarantine
      Q&A: Argentinean Nicki Nicole crashes through ‘Mala Vida’ waiting out the world’s longest quarantine
      October 12, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Nicki Nicole, Courtesy: Pull&Bear. Rising Argentine R&B and pop artist Nicki Nicole has taken the world by storm with her electrifying dance anthems. She broke out with…
    • Q&A: Gaidaa on self-discovery, accepting pandemic 'Overture'
      Q&A: Gaidaa on self-discovery, accepting pandemic ‘Overture’
      September 30, 2020 at 3:00 am
      Gaidaa, Courtesy: Segraphy. Just two years ago, Sudanese-born and Netherlands-based R&B singer-songwriter Gaidaa caught the attention of Dutch producer Full Crate with a cover of a Kehlani…
    • INTERVIEW: Lydia Loveless looks to find herself on 'Daughter'
      INTERVIEW: Lydia Loveless looks to find herself on ‘Daughter’
      September 23, 2020 at 1:30 am
      Lydia Loveless, Courtesy: Megan Toenyes. After crisscrossing the country in support of her 2016 album, Real, singer-songwriter Lydia Loveless was emotionally and physically spent. By that…
    • Rexx Life Raj on his family history of activism, systemic racism, how to help
      Rexx Life Raj on his family history of activism, systemic racism, how to help
      August 28, 2020 at 12:01 am
      Rexx Life Raj photographed at the Berkeley Marina on Aug. 18, 2020. Matt Pang/STAFF. Additional photos by Pang and Karen Goldman/STAFF. Singer and rapper Rexx Life…
    • Q&A: Biffy Clyro calls for action to avoid ultimate 'endings'
      Q&A: Biffy Clyro calls for action to avoid ultimate ‘endings’
      August 17, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Biffy Clyro, Courtesy: Ash Roberts. A Celebration of Endings, the new album from Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro ends with a screamo-prog-metal-funk journey “Cop Syrup,” on which…
    • Q&A: All We Are find an eternal summer in 'Providence'
      Q&A: All We Are find an eternal summer in ‘Providence’
      August 13, 2020 at 12:01 am
      All We Are, Courtesy: Rebecca Hawley. From the Liverpool band’s home inside a 160-year-old decommissioned school near the center of the city, the three members of…
    • Q&A: VINCINT out to prove 'what I am is enough'
      Q&A: VINCINT out to prove ‘what I am is enough’
      August 10, 2020 at 2:30 am
      VINCINT, Courtesy photo. Vincint Cannady was already a rising vocalist and didn’t want or need to compete on Fox’s “The Four” reality singing competition. The Philadelphia…
    • Q&A: Colombian Loyal Lobos on 'Everlasting,' her strong-willed mom and the pandemic
      Q&A: Colombian Loyal Lobos on ‘Everlasting,’ her strong-willed mom and the pandemic
      August 3, 2020 at 2:40 am
      Loyal Lobos, Courtesy: Diego Trenas. Colombian singer-songwriter Andrea Silva, who writes and performs as Loyal Lobos, is proud, inspired and terrified of her mother, who took…

Opinion

    • Insert Foot: Expect talk of reopening venues sooner rather than later
      Insert Foot: Expect talk of reopening venues sooner rather than later
      October 25, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Insert Foot vs. resisting the urge, Bayshore Drive-in. INA Photo Agency/Getty Images. Burlingame’s Bayshore Drive-in is hosting drive-in concerts during these days of whine and COVID.…
    • Insert Foot: Stuck with 'Halloween 2018' in 2020 until the COVID coast is clear
      Insert Foot: Stuck with ‘Halloween 2018’ in 2020 until the COVID coast is clear
      October 18, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Left: Tony Hicks in the ’80s. Right: Tony Hicks in “Halloween 2018.” I went to a movie for the first time in eight months on Friday…
    • Professor Music dives into music theory and white supremacy with Kev Choice
      Professor Music dives into music theory and white supremacy with Kev Choice
      October 14, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Last month music school grad student and YouTuber Adam Neely released a video he titled “Is Music Theory Racist?” Quickly renamed “Music Theory and White Supremacy,”…
    • Insert Foot: Putting the brakes on the bad to remember good times
      Insert Foot: Putting the brakes on the bad to remember good times
      October 11, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Insert Foot longing for childhood. I just had an emotional Feel Like a Kid Again Week. Never heard of it? Me neither. I just made it…
    • Obituary: The once-in-a-lifetime force of Edward Van Halen
      Obituary: The once-in-a-lifetime force of Edward Van Halen
      October 6, 2020 at 3:09 pm
      Eddie Van Halen performs with Van Halen at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, Calif., on July 16, 2015. Derek Simmons/STAFF. I was done crying and…

Festival News

    • SXSW going online in 2021; still hopes for physical festival
      SXSW going online in 2021; still hopes for physical festival
      September 22, 2020 at 11:53 pm
      CNN’s Jake Tapper and The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah speak onstage at the 2019 SXSW Conference and Festivals on March 9, 2019 in Austin, Texas. Courtes:…
      SF Sketchfest 2021 postponed, virtual series planned
      SF Sketchfest 2021 postponed, virtual series planned
      September 17, 2020 at 12:15 pm
      Dana Gould performs at SF Sketchfest at the Speakeasy in San Francisco on Jan. 18, 2019. Jon Bauer/STAFF. Producers of SF Sketchfest, the annual San Francisco…
    • Outside Lands joins the pack, goes virtual in 2020 as 'Inside Lands'
      Outside Lands joins the pack, goes virtual in 2020 as ‘Inside Lands’
      August 7, 2020 at 12:19 pm
      The Outside Lands windmill arch on Aug. 10, 2019. Adam Pardee/STAFF. Joining festivals throughout the country like BottleRock and Lollapalooza, Outside Lands is going virtual in…
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass goes virtual in 2020, creates fund for local roots artists
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass goes virtual in 2020, creates fund for local roots artists
      July 27, 2020 at 4:37 pm
      The producers of the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass have officially canceled the 2020 festival in Golden Gate Park. In its place in October, an online broadcast will include live…
    • Los Lobos to play Hardly Strictly livestream Saturday; festival's status to be announced
      Los Lobos to play Hardly Strictly livestream Saturday; festival’s status to be announced
      July 21, 2020 at 4:27 pm
      Margo Price performs at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Oct. 5, 2019. Los Lobos, who have performed at Hardly Strictly…
      INTERVIEW: Twin XL rides 'Good' vibes all the way to a new act for its career musicians
      INTERVIEW: Twin XL rides ‘Good’ vibes all the way to a new act for its career musicians
      July 20, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Twin XL, Courtesy of the band. It’s the middle of February, and Cameron Walker-Wright, one-third of indie rock trio Twin XL, is on the phone in…
    • Sonoma Harvest Music Festival, with Modest Mouse and Empire of the Sun, canceled
      Sonoma Harvest Music Festival, with Modest Mouse and Empire of the Sun, canceled
      July 17, 2020 at 7:33 pm
      Death Cab for Cutie performs at Sonoma Harvest Music Festival in Glen Ellen, Calif. on Sept. 22, 2019 Martin Lacey/STAFF. Unsurprisingly, BottleRock Presents has canceled the…
      BottleRock 2020 canceled, to continue in 2021 with same headliners
      BottleRock 2020 canceled, to continue in 2021 with same headliners
      July 16, 2020 at 11:00 am
      Mumford & Sons perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on May 26, 2019. BottleRock 2020 is off, officially, the event’s promoters announced…
    • Outside Lands 2020 officially canceled, 2021 festival announced with ticket onsales
      Outside Lands 2020 officially canceled, 2021 festival announced with ticket onsales
      June 24, 2020 at 10:17 am
      The Outside Lands windmill arch on Aug. 10, 2019. Adam Pardee/STAFF. Producers of the Outside Lands Music Festival have officially canceled the 2020 event and instead…

Concert Reviews

    • REVIEW: KISS and David Lee Roth say goodbye to Oakland (maybe)
      REVIEW: KISS and David Lee Roth say goodbye to Oakland (maybe)
      March 7, 2020 at 2:12 am
      KISS performs at the Oakland Arena in Oakland on March 6, 2020. Gary Chancer/STAFF. OAKLAND — The Centers for Disease Control was likely not happy with…
      REVIEW: Brothers of a Feather Chris and Rich Robinson take SF to The Chapel
      REVIEW: Brothers of a Feather Chris and Rich Robinson take SF to The Chapel
      March 7, 2020 at 1:33 am
      Chris and Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes perform as Brothers of a Feather at The Chapel in San Francisco on March 6, 2020. Roman Gokhman/STAFF.…
    • REVIEW: I've seen The Struts' act before, but it worked again at the Warfield
      REVIEW: I’ve seen The Struts’ act before, but it worked again at the Warfield
      March 4, 2020 at 7:42 am
      The Struts perform at The Warfield in San Francisco on March 3, 2020. Gary Chancer/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO —  Somewhere near the end of their wild rock…
      Noise Pop Review: Slow Hollows plays their last SF show at Cafe Du Nord
      Noise Pop Review: Slow Hollows plays their last SF show at Cafe Du Nord
      March 1, 2020 at 5:54 am
      Slow Hollows perform at Cafe Du Nord in San Francisco on Feb. 29, 2020. Gary Chancer/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — San Fernando Valley’s Slow Hollows had been…
    • Noise Pop Review: Best Coast celebrates all things California at the Regency Ballroom
      Noise Pop Review: Best Coast celebrates all things California at the Regency Ballroom
      March 1, 2020 at 4:33 am
      Best Coast performs at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Feb. 29, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Best Coast, fresh off releasing its fourth…
      Noise Pop Review: Jacques Greene, NAVVI look like the past's future at Starline Social Club
      Noise Pop Review: Jacques Greene, NAVVI look like the past’s future at Starline Social Club
      March 1, 2020 at 3:31 am
      Jacques Greene performs at Starline Social Club in Oakland on February 29, 2020. Kate Vides/STAFF. OAKLAND — Saturday night’s show at the Starline Social Club was…
    • Noise Pop Review: Bag Raiders unleash signature synth-and bass-combo at the Independent
      Noise Pop Review: Bag Raiders unleash signature synth-and bass-combo at the Independent
      February 29, 2020 at 9:29 am
      Bag Raiders perform at The Independent in San Francisco on Feb. 28, 2020. Gary Chancer/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Australian turned L.A. electro-disco duo Bag Raiders came out…
      Noise Pop Review: Raphael Saadiq comes home to Oakland
      Noise Pop Review: Raphael Saadiq comes home to Oakland
      February 29, 2020 at 2:57 am
      Raphael Saadiq. Courtesy of Sony Music. OAKLAND — Raphael Saadiq is from here. East Oakland, specifically. He’s an alum of Castlemont High, his mom worked at…
    • REVIEW: Miranda Lambert in cruise control at SAP Center 'Wildcard' stop
      REVIEW: Miranda Lambert in cruise control at SAP Center ‘Wildcard’ stop
      February 29, 2020 at 1:41 am
      Miranda Lambert performs at SAP Center in San Jose on Feb. 28, 2020. Courtesy: Tyler Conrad. SAN JOSE — Miranda Lambert covered all the bases at…
      Noise Pop Review: Shigeto Live Ensemble blends jazz and electronic loops at the New Parish
      Noise Pop Review: Shigeto Live Ensemble blends jazz and electronic loops at the New Parish
      February 28, 2020 at 8:08 am
      Shigeto Live Ensemble performs at The New Parish in Oakland on Feb. 27, 2020. Sean Liming/STAFF. OAKLAND — Underground electronic musician Zachary Saginaw, better known by…
    • Noise Pop Review: Joan and Ralph hold power pop rendezvous at Swedish American Hall
      Noise Pop Review: Joan and Ralph hold power pop rendezvous at Swedish American Hall
      February 27, 2020 at 6:14 am
      Joan performs at Swedish American Hall in San Francisco on Feb. 26, 2020. Sean Liming/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — One of the most compelling aspects of Noise…
      REVIEW: Warpaint's Jennylee and TT converge solo endeavors at Noise Pop
      REVIEW: Warpaint’s Jennylee and TT converge solo endeavors at Noise Pop
      February 26, 2020 at 8:55 am
      Jennylee & TT perform at Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco on Feb. 25, 2020. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — “We have some special things…
    • Noise Pop: The Jungle Giants mess around and make a new friend at the Independent
      Noise Pop: The Jungle Giants mess around and make a new friend at the Independent
      February 26, 2020 at 7:27 am
      The Jungle Giants perform at The Independent in San Francisco on Feb. 25, 2020. Derek Simmons/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — For those worried that indie rock has…
      REVIEW: Injury Reserve puts the noise in Noise Pop at the New Parish
      REVIEW: Injury Reserve puts the noise in Noise Pop at the New Parish
      February 25, 2020 at 7:15 am
      Injury Reserve performs at the New Parish in Oakland on Feb. 25, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. OAKLAND — For a festival with “noise” right there in the…
    • REVIEW: Alter Bridge gets down to business at the Regency Ballroom
      REVIEW: Alter Bridge gets down to business at the Regency Ballroom
      February 24, 2020 at 7:20 am
      Alter Bridge performs at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Feb. 23, 2020. Photos: Chloe Catajan. SAN FRANCISCO — The idea that a band mellows…
      REVIEW: Electric Hot Tuna darts between schools of guitar at the Fillmore
      REVIEW: Electric Hot Tuna darts between schools of guitar at the Fillmore
      February 23, 2020 at 7:47 am
      Hot Tuna performs at The Sing out for SEVA benefit concert at The Fillmore in San Francisco, on Nov. 2, 2013. Derek Simmons/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO —…
    • REVIEW: George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic create joyful chaos at Cornerstone
      REVIEW: George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic create joyful chaos at Cornerstone
      February 19, 2020 at 8:17 am
      George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic perform at Cornerstone in Berkeley on Feb. 18, 2020. BERKELEY — “Godfather of Funk” George Clinton performed for two full hours Tuesday at…
      REVIEW: Chris Carrabba leads Dashboard Confessional in night of singalongs at The Fillmore
      REVIEW: Chris Carrabba leads Dashboard Confessional in night of singalongs at The Fillmore
      February 16, 2020 at 9:20 am
      Dashboard Confessional performs at The Fillmore in San Francisco on Feb. 15, 2020. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Dashboard Confessional singer-songwriter Chris Carrabba was the first to…
    • REVIEW: Tones and I bring 'Dance Monkey' and a whole lot of intimacy to Popscene
      REVIEW: Tones and I bring ‘Dance Monkey’ and a whole lot of intimacy to Popscene
      February 16, 2020 at 8:06 am
      Tones and I perform at Popscene in San Francisco on Feb. 15, 2020. Alessio Neri/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Riding a wave of success with smash hit…