• Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery - Aug. 4, 2020
    Aug 04 2020
    02:30 AM

    Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Aug. 4, 2020

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 93
    Clockwise from top left: VINCINT, cehryl, Curtis Waters, Goody Grace, Heartless Bastards and Izzy Bizu. Every week, there’s a plethora of new music at our fingertips. Artists on platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp are plentiful, and the radio offers a steady deluge of new singles, but who has…
  • Q&A: Colombian Loyal Lobos on 'Everlasting,' her strong-willed mom and the pandemic
    Aug 03 2020
    02:40 AM

    Q&A: Colombian Loyal Lobos on ‘Everlasting,’ her strong-willed mom and the pandemic

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 305
    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 on numerous ventures as Silva grew up to protect her family and ensure its well-being. Everlasting Loyal Lobos AWAL, Aug. 7 Silva,…
  • REWIND: Five of the best protest songs in hip-hop
    Jul 31 2020
    11:28 PM

    REWIND: Five of the best protest songs in hip-hop

    Daniel J. Willis No Comments 49,575
    Run The Jewels perform at the Oracle Arena in Oakland on March 13, 2018. Alessio Neri/STAFF. We’re in week… nine of RIFF Rewind’s Black History Month? I think this is the ninth. Wait here for a second and I’ll check. Yes, it appears we’re entering Month Three of…
  • Opinion: 'SongSex' with Shelly Peiken—run to the studio, get to it from all angles
    Jul 31 2020
    02:30 AM

    Opinion: ‘SongSex’ with Shelly Peiken—run to the studio, get to it from all angles

    Shelly Peiken No Comments 487
    Shelly Peiken, Courtesy: Dia Morgan. Editor’s note: Shelly Peiken may be best-known for writing female-empowerment anthems like Christina Aguilera’s No. 1 hit, “What a Girl Wants” and Meredith Brooks’ “Bitch,” but she’s been busy behind the scenes in the music industry for two decades. She’s written for many…
  • INTERVIEW: Sweden's Pauline Skott on nearly getting stuck in Mexico, her pandemic debut
    Jul 29 2020
    02:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Sweden’s Pauline Skott on nearly getting stuck in Mexico, her pandemic debut

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 588
    Pauline Skott. Courtesy: Peter St. James. From the time Swedish singer-songwriter and producer Pauline Skott, who performs as Skott, was just a kid, music always drew her deepest fascination. By the time she was 13, she was already experimenting with production, one day hoping to compose tracks for video game.…
  • Coming out, leaving the LDS church brought Tyler Glenn closer to his Neon Trees bandmates
    Jul 27 2020
    02:30 AM

    Coming out, leaving the LDS church brought Tyler Glenn closer to his Neon Trees bandmates

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 846
    Neon Trees, Courtesy: Jen Rosenstein. Six years ago, when Utah dance-pop band Neon Trees last made an album, frontman Tyler Glenn hadn’t yet come out as gay to his bandmates. Since then, he also went on to leave the Mormon faith, no longer seeing a place for himself…
  • Oakland's Damian Lillard on how we can be allies to Black people in the Bay Area
    Jul 24 2020
    02:30 AM

    Oakland’s Damian Lillard on how we can be allies to Black people in the Bay Area

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 1,792
    Damian Lillard walks arm in arm with other Black Lives Matter protestors on the Morrison Bridge in Portland, Oregon on June 4, 2020. Photos courtesy: Bruce Ely/Trail Blazers. A day prior to getting his first on-court action in more than four months in the Portland Trail Blazers’ first…
  • San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey on her career, desire to help local artists
    Jul 22 2020
    02:30 AM

    San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey on her career, desire to help local artists

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 802
    SF Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey practices at Aziza Moroccan restaurant in San Francisco on April 11, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. When San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey, finally hangs up her pointe shoes—perhaps at 42; hopefully at 45, but only if she continues to work harder and…
  • Burger Boogaloo drops name, association to Burger Records in wake of scandal
    Jul 21 2020
    11:33 PM

    Burger Boogaloo drops name, association to Burger Records in wake of scandal

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 888
    Fans at Burger Boogaloo at Mosswood Park in Oakland on June 30, 2018. Karen Goldman/STAFF. The producer of Oakland’s annual Burger Boogaloo festival announced today that his company, Total Trash Productions, has broken off its relationship with Burger Records. The label is facing allegations of fostering a culture…
  • INTERVIEW: Twin XL rides 'Good' vibes all the way to a new act for its career musicians
    Jul 20 2020
    03:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Twin XL rides ‘Good’ vibes all the way to a new act for its career musicians

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 662
    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 his hotel room in Orange, New Jersey. The band, which includes brothers Stephen and John Gomez (The Summer Set), is kicking off…
  • INTERVIEW: Ireland's the Coronas making the best of their situations with 'True Love Waits'
    Jul 13 2020
    01:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Ireland’s the Coronas making the best of their situations with ‘True Love Waits’

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 747
    Danny O’Reilly of the Coronas at a show in Wexford, Ireland in October 2019. Danny O’Reilly of The Coronas has been fascinated and inspired about how the Black Lives Matter movement has spread from the U.S. and throughout the world, including the tiny village of Dingle, Ireland, where…
  • INTERVIEW: Carter Hardin of Chapel feeling 'Mushy Gushy' with band's pandemic release
    Jul 08 2020
    03:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Carter Hardin of Chapel feeling ‘Mushy Gushy’ with band’s pandemic release

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 474
    Carter Hardin and Kortney Grinwis of Chapel. Courtesy: Nolan Knight. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic has put a pin in the plans of singer and multi-instrumentalist Carter Hardin and drummer Kortney Grinwis, the duo’s pop band Chapel aren’t stopping from creating something fresh for fans to one day enjoy.…

News

    • 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…
      Burger Boogaloo drops name, association to Burger Records in wake of scandal
      Burger Boogaloo drops name, association to Burger Records in wake of scandal
      July 21, 2020 at 11:33 pm
      Fans at Burger Boogaloo at Mosswood Park in Oakland on June 30, 2018. Karen Goldman/STAFF. The producer of Oakland’s annual Burger Boogaloo festival announced today that…
    • Alameda County Fair announces more drive-in concerts for this weekend
      Alameda County Fair announces more drive-in concerts for this weekend
      July 21, 2020 at 5:20 pm
      Concertgoers gather at the first drive-in concert in the Bay Area at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, Calif., on June 12, 2020. Steve Carlson/STAFF. 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…
    • 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…
      Metallica unveils 'S&M2' album and film, recorded at Chase Center with SF Symphony
      Metallica unveils ‘S&M2’ album and film, recorded at Chase Center with SF Symphony
      July 16, 2020 at 2:05 pm
      Following drummer Lars Ulrich’s sneak peek at the band’s new collaborative album with the San Francisco Symphony during his tribute to former symphony music director Michael…
    • 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…
      Burger Boogaloo, headlined by Bikini Kill, postponed again, to next summer
      Burger Boogaloo, headlined by Bikini Kill, postponed again, to next summer
      July 14, 2020 at 11:54 am
      Bikini Kill performs at a recent concert at The Hollywood Palladium. Courtesy: Debi Del Grande. Following a postponement from this summer to Halloween weekend, Burger Boogaloo…
    • Obituary: Soundtrack composer Ennio Morricone dead at 91
      Obituary: Soundtrack composer Ennio Morricone dead at 91
      July 6, 2020 at 12:32 pm
      Ennio Morricone at the Estadio Bicentenario de la Florida on Nov. 26, 2013. Courtesy: Gonzallo Tello/Wikicommons. Celebrated soundtrack composer Ennio Morricone died in Rome on Monday,…
      Lindsey Stirling opens her Upside Fund fan assistance program to others
      Lindsey Stirling opens her Upside Fund fan assistance program to others
      July 1, 2020 at 10:43 pm
      Lindsey Stirling, Courtesy: Sydney Takeshta. Violinist Lindsey Stirling, who spoke to us last spring about starting the Upside Fund, a program where she could financially support…
    • Corey Taylor, Gavin Rossdale, more to headline Feeding America COVID-19 benefit
      Corey Taylor, Gavin Rossdale, more to headline Feeding America COVID-19 benefit
      July 1, 2020 at 9:45 pm
      Corey Taylor of Slipknot, Bush’s Gavin Rossdale and a plethora of modern rock artists will headline a virtual concert Friday evening to benefit Feeding America’s COVID-19…
      Dixie Chicks the latest band to change their name, now known as The Chicks
      Dixie Chicks the latest band to change their name, now known as The Chicks
      June 25, 2020 at 11:50 am
      The Chicks, formerly known as Dixie Chicks, perform at Oracle Arena in Oakland on Oct. 7, 2016. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. The Dixie Chicks, who’s awaited new album…
    • 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…
      Lars Ulrich, Bonnie Raitt among guests to appear in SF Symphony's online tribute to outgoing director
      Lars Ulrich, Bonnie Raitt among guests to appear in SF Symphony’s online tribute to outgoing director
      June 23, 2020 at 3:58 pm
      San Francisco Symphony Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas, Courtesy: SF Symphony. The San Francisco Symphony will conclude its 25-day online tribute to outgoing Music Director Michael…
    • Neal Casal Music Foundation launches with tribute to the late guitarist, charity initiatives
      Neal Casal Music Foundation launches with tribute to the late guitarist, charity initiatives
      June 19, 2020 at 10:29 am
      Neal Casal, Courtesy. The former manager and friends of the late guitarist Neal Casal have started a nonprofit foundation to to honor his memory and raise…
      SF Ballet moves on from 2020, announces 2021 season
      SF Ballet moves on from 2020, announces 2021 season
      June 18, 2020 at 10:38 pm
      Dores André and Joseph Walsh in Peck’s ‘Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming,’ Courtesy: Erik Tomasson. The San Francisco Ballet has announced its programming for its 2021 season,…
    • SF Symphony cancels all 2020 performances, enacts pay cuts, furloughs and layoffs
      SF Symphony cancels all 2020 performances, enacts pay cuts, furloughs and layoffs
      June 18, 2020 at 11:54 am
      The San Francisco Symphony with music director Michael Tilson Thomas, during rehearsal at Davies Symphony Hall on Wednesday morning, November 2, 2016. The San Francisco Symphony…
      Alameda County Fair announces next drive-in concert; on June 26
      Alameda County Fair announces next drive-in concert; on June 26
      June 16, 2020 at 3:15 pm
      Concertgoers gather at the first drive-in concert in the Bay Area at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, Calif., on June 12, 2020. Steve Carlson/STAFF. Following…
    • COVID-19 pandemic forces Noise Pop from its Bryant Street home
      COVID-19 pandemic forces Noise Pop from its Bryant Street home
      June 16, 2020 at 12:14 pm
      Noise Pop office at 2180 Bryant St in San Francisco. Courtesy. Updated June 19. Noise Pop is leaving its home at 2180 Bryant St in San Francisco…
      SF Ballet streaming its 'Björk Ballet' through Friday
      SF Ballet streaming its ‘Björk Ballet’ through Friday
      June 14, 2020 at 12:11 am
      The San Francisco Ballet, which was the first ballet company nationwide to shutter due to the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to share filmed performances online in lieu…
    • Tribute bands draw hundreds to the Bay Area's first drive-in concert of the COVID-19 era
      Tribute bands draw hundreds to the Bay Area’s first drive-in concert of the COVID-19 era
      June 13, 2020 at 1:25 am
      Concertgoers gather at the first drive-in concert in the Bay Area at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, Calif., on June 12, 2020. Steve Carlson/STAFF. Several…
      Bay Area indy music clubs still struggling as national alliance reports many may close without federal help
      Bay Area indy music clubs still struggling as national alliance reports many may close without federal help
      June 12, 2020 at 10:17 am
      Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco. Courtesy: Wikicommons A wave of independent concert venue closures swept through Texas this month, including the well-known Barracuda and…
    • First Bay Area drive-in concerts to include three tribute bands in Pleasanton tonight, Saturday
      First Bay Area drive-in concerts to include three tribute bands in Pleasanton tonight, Saturday
      June 12, 2020 at 8:30 am
      German Rapper Sido performs in Dusseldorf, Germany on April 26, 2020. Courtesy: Andreas Rentz/Getty Images. The Alameda County Fair will host the Bay Area’s first drive-in…
      OFFICIAL: October 2020 Coachella and Stagecoach canceled, Outside Lands producers mum
      OFFICIAL: October 2020 Coachella and Stagecoach canceled, Outside Lands producers mum
      June 9, 2020 at 11:03 pm
      Art installations at Coachella 2014, Courtesy: Sam Howzit/Wikiicommons. The rescheduled Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals, which had been postponed from April to October, have again been…
    • Fantastic Negrito on protests, growing up on the street, and the George Floyd video
      Fantastic Negrito on protests, growing up on the street, and the George Floyd video
      June 4, 2020 at 11:58 pm
      Fantastic Negrito photographed in downtown Oakland on June 3, 2020. Jane Hu/STAFF. On Wednesday, June 3, Xavier Dphrepaulezz—Fantastic Negrito—sat down with RIFF editors Daniel J. Willis…
      Music industry planning 'Black Out Tuesday' shutdown as protest
      Music industry planning ‘Black Out Tuesday’ shutdown as protest
      May 31, 2020 at 10:44 pm
        View this post on Instagram   Say my name. A post shared by Warner Music (@warnermusic) on May 29, 2020 at 9:46am PDT As anger…
    • San Francisco lays out reopening timeline, again ruling out Outside Lands in August
      San Francisco lays out reopening timeline, again ruling out Outside Lands in August
      May 28, 2020 at 3:12 pm
      Judah & the Lion perform at Outside Lands, San Francisco on Aug. 11, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. San Francisco Mayor London Breed on Thursday laid out the…
      Stanford Live announces 2020-21 season, hoping for the best
      Stanford Live announces 2020-21 season, hoping for the best
      May 27, 2020 at 11:59 am
      Bing Concert Hall at Stanford University. Courtesy: Jeff Goldberg. Stanford Live today announced its 2020-’21 season schedule, with a plan to kick off in September, acknowledging…
    • The Mother Hips' Tim Bluhm to play first Bay Area on-stage performance since March
      The Mother Hips’ Tim Bluhm to play first Bay Area on-stage performance since March
      May 20, 2020 at 7:26 pm
      The Mother Hips perform during Bear Music Fest at the Gold Campfire stage in Pinecrest, Calif. on Sept. 10, 2016. FILE photo. The first Bay Area…
      BottleRock launches streaming series fundraiser to benefit Napa, music industry workers
      BottleRock launches streaming series fundraiser to benefit Napa, music industry workers
      May 20, 2020 at 9:59 am
      Muse performs at BottleRock Napa Valley in Napa on May 25, 2018. Alessio Neri/STAFF. BottleRock Napa Valley may have gotten postponed to October, but the festival…
    • James Taylor reschedules "American Standard' tour, Chase Center date
      James Taylor reschedules “American Standard’ tour, Chase Center date
      May 19, 2020 at 11:39 am
      James Taylor has announced the rescheduled dates supporting his new album, American Standard. The tour had previously been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new…
      MUTEK goes digital in 2020 as 'NEXUS Experience,' announces initial artists
      MUTEK goes digital in 2020 as ‘NEXUS Experience,’ announces initial artists
      May 15, 2020 at 8:59 am
      MUTEK SF 2019, Courtesy: Bruno Destombes. Electronica, audiovisual and digital art festival MUTEK will present a two-day online event called NEXUS Experience in place of its…
    • North America's first "drive-in festival" to take place next month in Orlando
      North America’s first “drive-in festival” to take place next month in Orlando
      May 14, 2020 at 8:23 pm
      The Road Rave Heavy-hitter DJs Carnage, Riot Ten, Blunts & Blondes, Nitti Gritti and Gravedgr​ have joined forces for a concert that’s being called the first-ever drive-in festival…
      SF Ballet streaming ballet set to M83's 'Hurry Up, We're Dreaming'
      SF Ballet streaming ballet set to M83’s ‘Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming’
      May 14, 2020 at 6:10 pm
      San Francisco Ballet in Peck’s ‘Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming.’ Courtesy: Erik Tomasson. In 2018 San Francisco Ballet premiered a ballet set to sections of M83’s critically…
    • Entertainment safety advocacy issues guidelines for the return of concerts
      Entertainment safety advocacy issues guidelines for the return of concerts
      May 14, 2020 at 12:37 pm
      Kehlani performs at the Greek Amphitheater in Berkeley on June 23, 2017. The biggest question at the top of the minds of music fans, artists, club…
      2020 Stern Grove Festival canceled
      2020 Stern Grove Festival canceled
      May 14, 2020 at 9:29 am
      Courtesy: Stern Grove Festival. What would have been the 83rd annual Stern Grove Festival has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, producers announced on Thursday.…
    • SWMRS' Max Becker determined to return stronger after brain injury, pandemic
      SWMRS’ Max Becker determined to return stronger after brain injury, pandemic
      May 11, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Max Becker of SWMRS performs at Live 105’s BFD 2017 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View on June 10, 2017. Alessio Neri/STAFF. SWMRS’ Max Becker doesn’t…
      Oakland Athletics to host a Fantastic Negrito concert for 510 Day
      Oakland Athletics to host a Fantastic Negrito concert for 510 Day
      May 10, 2020 at 8:25 am
      Celebrating the East Bay the Town way. Tomorrow. A’s x @BukueOne x @MusicNegrito. 5pm PT. https://t.co/sQHZoks8UF #510Day pic.twitter.com/xtp9HIS2VM — Oakland A's (@Athletics) May 10, 2020 In…
    • Obituary: Why the sad face for Little Richard, a man who epitomized the joy of rock and roll?
      Obituary: Why the sad face for Little Richard, a man who epitomized the joy of rock and roll?
      May 9, 2020 at 2:41 pm
      Little Richard poses for a portrait in circa 1957. Photo: Michael Ochs. Little Richard will forever be responsible for my daughter’s name. The same could be…
      SF Sketchfest opens its video vault for COVID-19 fundraiser
      SF Sketchfest opens its video vault for COVID-19 fundraiser
      May 8, 2020 at 8:31 pm
      SF Sketchfest Roast of Peaches Christ on Jan. 13, 2019 at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco. Fans of independent comedy festival SF Sketchfest may now…
    • Weezer to release new music on Sunday's episode of 'The Simpsons'
      Weezer to release new music on Sunday’s episode of ‘The Simpsons’
      May 8, 2020 at 6:42 pm
      Weezer many have pushed back the release of its new album, Van Weezer, but the band isn’t shying away from releasing new music. But while many…
      Michael Bublé reschedules tour, date at SF's Chase Center
      Michael Bublé reschedules tour, date at SF’s Chase Center
      May 8, 2020 at 9:53 am
      Michael Bublé has rescheduled his “An Evening With Michael Bublé” tour to the winter of 2021. The Grammy Award-winning singer will now perform at Chase Center…
    • The Wild West of album releases during the COVID-19 pandemic
      The Wild West of album releases during the COVID-19 pandemic
      May 8, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Stacks of compact discs sit on spindles. Courtesy: Joe McNally/Getty Images. Lady Gaga did it. So did Alicia Keys, then Sam Smith, Rufus Wainwright, The Dixie…
      SF-born rapper Watsky raises more than $145k, sets world record for longest continuous rap
      SF-born rapper Watsky raises more than $145k, sets world record for longest continuous rap
      May 7, 2020 at 6:09 pm
      Rapper Watsky approaches the end of his 33-hour rap-a-thon to fundraise for COVID-19 relief for artists and music industry workers. Updated May 8 at 2 p.m.…
    • Obituary: Kraftwerk's Florian Schneider dead of cancer at 73
      Obituary: Kraftwerk’s Florian Schneider dead of cancer at 73
      May 6, 2020 at 3:45 pm
      Florian Schneider with Kraftwerk. Courtesy. Influential band Kraftwerk on Wednesday announced that pioneering electronic musician Florian Schneider died of cancer a few days after his 73rd birthday…
      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,…
    • Noise Pop rolls out streaming shows to benefit local venues
      Noise Pop rolls out streaming shows to benefit local venues
      May 1, 2020 at 6:02 pm
      K.Flay performs at the Fox Theater in Oakland on Sept. 7 2019. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. Noise Pop, which had recently announced a new online membership program and…
      Rage Against the Machine reschedules reunion tour, Oakland Arena dates
      Rage Against the Machine reschedules reunion tour, Oakland Arena dates
      May 1, 2020 at 3:29 pm
      Rage Against the Machine performs at the Vegoose Music Festival in Las Vegas on Oct. 28, 2007. Courtesy: Scott Penner. Rage Against the Machine on Friday…
    • Phish postpones tour, San Francisco shows to 2021
      Phish postpones tour, San Francisco shows to 2021
      May 1, 2020 at 1:15 pm
      Phish. Courtesy of Chase Center. Prolific jam band Phish has postponed its U.S. tour, which included two shows at Chase Center in late July, by a…
      Concerts will mark the final step of ending California's shelter-in-place, but what does that mean?
      Concerts will mark the final step of ending California’s shelter-in-place, but what does that mean?
      April 30, 2020 at 2:30 am
      The Chapel. Courtesy photo. It’s still not clear when concerts may return in California, along with sporting events and other large gatherings, but Gov. Gavin Newsom…
    • SF Symphony cancels majority of remaining concerts, announces fundraising efforts
      SF Symphony cancels majority of remaining concerts, announces fundraising efforts
      April 29, 2020 at 12:05 pm
      The San Francisco Symphony with music director Michael Tilson Thomas, during rehearsal at Davies Symphony Hall on Nov. 2, 2016. Courtesy of SF Symphony. Following the…
      Berkeley's Freight & Salvage donates $60,000 to Bay Area artists
      Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage donates $60,000 to Bay Area artists
      April 28, 2020 at 9:47 pm
      San Francisco Giants third base coast Tim Flannery (R) and Jeff Berkley perform at Freight & Salvage in Berkeley on Jan. 23, 2013. Martin Lacey/STAFF. The…
    • Independent concert venues centralize as NIVA, lobby for federal COVID-19 support
      Independent concert venues centralize as NIVA, lobby for federal COVID-19 support
      April 23, 2020 at 5:52 pm
      The Great American Music Hall in San Francisco. Courtesy. More than 800 concert venues nationwide, including 25 in the Bay Area, have joined forces under the…
      INTERVIEW: Amoeba Founder Marc Weinstein on the future of the business amid coronavirus crisis
      INTERVIEW: Amoeba Founder Marc Weinstein on the future of the business amid coronavirus crisis
      April 21, 2020 at 6:16 pm
      Amoeba Music Berkeley in October 2008. Courtesy: Andreas Praefcke. In less than 48 hours, Amoeba Music has raised more than one-fourth of its $400,000 fundraising goal.…
    • Noise Pop expands COVID-19 fundraising with merch, digital membership, streaming series
      Noise Pop expands COVID-19 fundraising with merch, digital membership, streaming series
      April 21, 2020 at 12:06 am
      Cafe Du Nord on Feb. 20, 2018. Jane Hu/STAFF. Facing an uncertain summer, concert producer Noise Pop has expanded the number of ways in which Bay…
      Ticketmaster, Live Nation, AEG to offer refunds for postponed shows; StubHub offers credit
      Ticketmaster, Live Nation, AEG to offer refunds for postponed shows; StubHub offers credit
      April 19, 2020 at 3:58 pm
      Ticketmaster and Live Nation tickets. Adam Pardee/STAFF. While much of the world is coming together to share resources in an attempt to mitigate the financial and…
    • SFJAZZ announces Fridays at Five streaming performance schedule
      SFJAZZ announces Fridays at Five streaming performance schedule
      April 14, 2020 at 3:17 pm
      The Preservation Hall Jazz Band performs at Miner Auditorium in San Francisco on Aug. 10, 2019. Courtesy: Drew Altizer. SFJAZZ has started a streaming performance schedule…
      Gov. Gavin Newsom: Gatherings of hundreds or thousands of people unlikely through the end of the summer
      Gov. Gavin Newsom: Gatherings of hundreds or thousands of people unlikely through the end of the summer
      April 14, 2020 at 1:02 pm
      Attendees at Outside Lands at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco photographed on Aug. 12, 2019. In a public address Tuesday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said…
    • Michelin-starred chef Mourad Lahlou on helping laid-off workers and the future of food service
      Michelin-starred chef Mourad Lahlou on helping laid-off workers and the future of food service
      April 13, 2020 at 12:15 am
      Chefs Mourad Lahlou and Frank Hanes prepare meals at Aziza in San Francisco on April 11, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. Alongside arts and entertainment, perhaps no other…
      SF Ballet turns to crowdfunding to keep employees paid, looks to the future
      SF Ballet turns to crowdfunding to keep employees paid, looks to the future
      April 10, 2020 at 4:30 am
      Gabriela Gonzalez (center) performs in ‘Sandpaper Ballet,’ during the SF Ballet 2020 season. Courtesy: Erik Tomasson/SF Ballet. The nonprofit SF Ballet, facing the loss of $9.5…
    • Side Door allows artists to monetize online performances with ticketed concerts
      Side Door allows artists to monetize online performances with ticketed concerts
      April 10, 2020 at 12:29 am
      Side Door livestream, Courtesy photo. For the past few Saturdays, award-winning musician Dan Mangan has played a show for hundreds of fans online. That in itself…
      INTERVIEW: Chuck Billy of Testament on promoting a new album while recovering from COVID-19
      INTERVIEW: Chuck Billy of Testament on promoting a new album while recovering from COVID-19
      April 8, 2020 at 5:30 am
      Chuck Billy (center) and the rest of Testament. Courtesy photo. If these were typical times, East Bay thrash metal rockers Testament would have been in the…
    • Obituary: John Prine, American songwriting icon, dead at 73 of COVID-19
      Obituary: John Prine, American songwriting icon, dead at 73 of COVID-19
      April 7, 2020 at 10:43 pm
      John Prine performs at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville on Dec. 31, 2016. Photo: Amiee Stubbs. John Prine, one of America’s greatest homespun songwriters,…
      Obituary: Bill Withers had rare gifts for a regular guy
      Obituary: Bill Withers had rare gifts for a regular guy
      April 3, 2020 at 1:53 pm
      I didn’t know Bill Withers was black until I’d already come to know his music. As a kid, I constantly confused him with Van Morrison all…
    • BREAKING: ALT 105.3 lays off music director Aaron Axelsen
      BREAKING: ALT 105.3 lays off music director Aaron Axelsen
      April 2, 2020 at 7:42 pm
      Aaron Axelsen performs at Live 105’s BFD 2017 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View on June 10, 2017. Alessio Neri/STAFF Entercom Radio on Thursday announced companywide…
      Burger Boogaloo moves to Halloween weekend
      Burger Boogaloo moves to Halloween weekend
      April 2, 2020 at 11:06 am
      Dead Boys perform at Burger Boogaloo at Mosswood Park in Oakland on July 6, 2019. Oakland’s two-day music festival Burger Boogaloo has moved to Halloween Weekend.…
    • Metallica to donate $350,000 to various COVID-19 relief efforts
      Metallica to donate $350,000 to various COVID-19 relief efforts
      April 2, 2020 at 9:44 am
      Metallica performs at the All Within My Hands concert and auction at the Masonic in San Francisco on Nov. 11, 2018. Courtesy. Metallica on Thursday announced…
      INTERVIEW: Fantastic Negrito on finding peace with fan-sourced COVID-19 video for "Chocolate Samurai"
      INTERVIEW: Fantastic Negrito on finding peace with fan-sourced COVID-19 video for “Chocolate Samurai”
      March 30, 2020 at 8:42 pm
      Fantastic Negrito performs at the UC Theatre in Berkeley on Oct. 14, 2017. Karen Goldman/STAFF. Two-time Grammy winner Fantastic Negrito is spending the quarantine with his…
    • Tame Impala reschedules tours, including SF stop
      Tame Impala reschedules tours, including SF stop
      March 30, 2020 at 10:52 am
      Tame Impala performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on Sept. 2, 2016. Photos: Diana Cordero Tame Impala has rescheduled several tours and will now perform…
      BREAKING: John Prine hospitalized in critical condition with COVID-19
      BREAKING: John Prine hospitalized in critical condition with COVID-19
      March 29, 2020 at 6:45 pm
      John Prine, Courtesy: Eric Frommer Americana and country singer-songwriter great John Prine has been hospitalized since Thursday with COVID-19 and is now in critical condition and…
    • Roger Waters postpones 2020 tour, including September Chase Center dates
      Roger Waters postpones 2020 tour, including September Chase Center dates
      March 27, 2020 at 10:57 am
      Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters on Friday postponed his entire 2020 ‘This Is Not A Drill’ tour, which was set to begin July 8 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and included…
      G-Eazy and Larkin Street Youth Services to feed San Francisco at-risk youth for a month
      G-Eazy and Larkin Street Youth Services to feed San Francisco at-risk youth for a month
      March 26, 2020 at 1:29 pm
      G-Eazy performs at The New Parish in Oakland on Jan. 26, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. Bay Area native G-Eazy and his Endless Summer Fund are partnering with…
    • San Francisco to offer financial aid to local artists and arts organizations
      San Francisco to offer financial aid to local artists and arts organizations
      March 25, 2020 at 2:35 pm
      San Francisco band Terry Gross performs at The Ivy Room in Albany, Calf. on Feb. 7, 2020. San Francisco will offer financial assistance to local artists…
      Sofi Tukker, Taking Back Sunday, Amanda Palmer and Tank and the Bangas to perform at Bandsintown fundraiser for artists
      Sofi Tukker, Taking Back Sunday, Amanda Palmer and Tank and the Bangas to perform at Bandsintown fundraiser for artists
      March 25, 2020 at 12:43 pm
      Concert discovery platform Bandsintown will host a two-day live music marathon Thursday and Friday to benefit the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund. The marathon will be broadcast on the…

Features

    • INTERVIEW: Sweden's Pauline Skott on nearly getting stuck in Mexico, her pandemic debut
      INTERVIEW: Sweden’s Pauline Skott on nearly getting stuck in Mexico, her pandemic debut
      July 29, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Pauline Skott. Courtesy: Peter St. James. From the time Swedish singer-songwriter and producer Pauline Skott, who performs as Skott, was just a kid, music always drew her…
    • Coming out, leaving the LDS church brought Tyler Glenn closer to his Neon Trees bandmates
      Coming out, leaving the LDS church brought Tyler Glenn closer to his Neon Trees bandmates
      July 27, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Neon Trees, Courtesy: Jen Rosenstein. Six years ago, when Utah dance-pop band Neon Trees last made an album, frontman Tyler Glenn hadn’t yet come out as…
    • San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey on her career, desire to help local artists
      San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey on her career, desire to help local artists
      July 22, 2020 at 2:30 am
      SF Ballet principal dancer Mathilde Froustey practices at Aziza Moroccan restaurant in San Francisco on April 11, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. When San Francisco Ballet principal dancer…
    • 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…
    • INTERVIEW: Ireland's the Coronas making the best of their situations with 'True Love Waits'
      INTERVIEW: Ireland’s the Coronas making the best of their situations with ‘True Love Waits’
      July 13, 2020 at 1:30 am
      Danny O’Reilly of the Coronas at a show in Wexford, Ireland in October 2019. Danny O’Reilly of The Coronas has been fascinated and inspired about how…
    • INTERVIEW: Carter Hardin of Chapel feeling 'Mushy Gushy' with band's pandemic release
      INTERVIEW: Carter Hardin of Chapel feeling ‘Mushy Gushy’ with band’s pandemic release
      July 8, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Carter Hardin and Kortney Grinwis of Chapel. Courtesy: Nolan Knight. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic has put a pin in the plans of singer and multi-instrumentalist…
    • INTERVIEW: Eurythmics' Dave Stewart finds an unlikely partnership in Stewart Lindsey
      INTERVIEW: Eurythmics’ Dave Stewart finds an unlikely partnership in Stewart Lindsey
      July 6, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Dave Stewart and Thomas Lindsey (Stewart Lindsey), Courtesy. Eurythmics’ Dave Stewart is a tough man to reach as he waits out the COVID-19 pandemic on a…
    • SF Symphony trombonist Nick Platoff on finding his voice in a pandemic, the departure of Michael Tilson Thomas
      SF Symphony trombonist Nick Platoff on finding his voice in a pandemic, the departure of Michael Tilson Thomas
      July 3, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Nick Platoff of the San Francisco Symphony, Courtesy. By March 15, Nick Platoff had concluded the lease on his San Francisco apartment and had completely moved…

Podcasts

    • 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…
    • RIFF RADIO: Jen Ledger's hard rock ride that almost never was
      RIFF RADIO: Jen Ledger’s hard rock ride that almost never was
      March 9, 2020 at 3:30 am
      SACRAMENTO — Jen Ledger is in an upbeat mood hours before her evening playing double duty: drumming for Skillet and fronting her own band, which will…

Album Reviews

    • REVIEW: Luke Bryan stays in his comfort zone on 'Born Here, Live Here, Die Here'
      REVIEW: Luke Bryan stays in his comfort zone on ‘Born Here, Live Here, Die Here’
      August 4, 2020 at 2:30 am
      With six albums and numerous headlining tours, Luke Bryan has made his definitive stamp on country music. As one of the more distinctive voices in the…
      ALBUM REVIEW: ODESZA and Golden Features better together as BRONSON
      ALBUM REVIEW: ODESZA and Golden Features better together as BRONSON
      August 3, 2020 at 2:30 am
      The echoing single bass drum kick and string-like synths that slowly launch “Foundation,” the opening track on the new collaborative album by ODESZA and Golden Features—as…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Fontaines D.C. let the dogs out on 'A Hero's Death'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Fontaines D.C. let the dogs out on ‘A Hero’s Death’
      July 30, 2020 at 1:30 am
      A Hero’s Death, the sophomore album from Fontaines D.C. simmers with quiet defiance. The follow-up to the critically acclaimed and Mercury-Prize-nominated debut, Dogrel, it was initially recorded…
      With nods to the new, the familiar, Steve Howe tells us what 'Love Is'
      With nods to the new, the familiar, Steve Howe tells us what ‘Love Is’
      July 29, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Steve Howe has recorded 21 solo albums over a 45-year period—and, incidentally, has been a major instrumental voice in Yes, perhaps the pre-eminent progressive rock group…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: The Psychedelic Furs recapture the magic on 'Made of Rain'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Psychedelic Furs recapture the magic on ‘Made of Rain’
      July 28, 2020 at 2:30 am
      The raspy voice of Richard Butler, the lead singer of The Psychedelic Furs, gave voice to Duckie’s sandpapered heart in the 1986 film “Pretty in Pink.” In…
      Lupe Fiasco and Kaelin Ellis dig existentialism and the pandemic on 'HOUSE'
      Lupe Fiasco and Kaelin Ellis dig existentialism and the pandemic on ‘HOUSE’
      July 25, 2020 at 7:03 pm
      Lupe Fiasco is known for his avant-garde conceptual albums that explore a wide array of abstract and concrete ideas, presented in a highly accessible format. On…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Logic feels 'No Pressure' on masterful final release
      ALBUM REVIEW: Logic feels ‘No Pressure’ on masterful final release
      July 24, 2020 at 2:58 pm
      Hip-hop superstar Logic announced his retirement from music with the release of his final studio album, No Pressure. Sir Robert Bryson Hall II has faced an array of highs…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Taylor Swift quietly matures on ‘Folklore’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Taylor Swift quietly matures on ‘Folklore’
      July 24, 2020 at 7:23 am
      Taylor Swift’s rise from country star to pop icon had lows to match highs. Considering the abysmal, transparent coping mechanism that was 2017’s Reputation, all 2019’s…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Jessy Lanza's 'All the Time' is a study in contrasts, consistency
      ALBUM REVIEW: Jessy Lanza’s ‘All the Time’ is a study in contrasts, consistency
      July 23, 2020 at 12:01 am
      Jessy Lanza’s third album, All the Time, is, at its core, a study in contrasts. All the Time Jessy Lanza Hyperdub, July 24 7/10 Like its predecessors,…

Listen Now

    • REWIND: Five of the best protest songs in hip-hop
      REWIND: Five of the best protest songs in hip-hop
      July 31, 2020 at 11:28 pm
      Run The Jewels perform at the Oracle Arena in Oakland on March 13, 2018. Alessio Neri/STAFF. We’re in week… nine of RIFF Rewind’s Black History Month?…
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – July 28, 2020
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – July 28, 2020
      July 28, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Clockwise from top left: Ghost Tense, Suburban Living, Smith, Lyle & Moore, The Nude Party, ALA.NI and Secret Machines. Every week, there’s more new music waiting…

Q&A Interviews

    • Oakland's Damian Lillard on how we can be allies to Black people in the Bay Area
      Oakland’s Damian Lillard on how we can be allies to Black people in the Bay Area
      July 24, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Damian Lillard walks arm in arm with other Black Lives Matter protestors on the Morrison Bridge in Portland, Oregon on June 4, 2020. Photos courtesy: Bruce…
    • Q&A: Caroline Jones one of the 'Boys' with Jimmy Buffett, Zac Brown and Kenny Chesney
      Q&A: Caroline Jones one of the ‘Boys’ with Jimmy Buffett, Zac Brown and Kenny Chesney
      June 29, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Caroline Jones, Courtesy. Country singer-songwriter Caroline Jones has crisscrossed the country on tours with Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown and Jimmy Buffett, seeing bits here and there…
    • Q&A: Sinéad Harnett morphs into pandemic 'Quarantine Queen'
      Q&A: Sinéad Harnett morphs into pandemic ‘Quarantine Queen’
      June 24, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Sinéad Harnett, Courtesy. After her debut album, Lessons In Love, brought her into the global spotlight in 2019, north London R&B and soul singer Sinéad Harnett looks forward…
    • Q&A: Dedric Clark of Social Animals on losing his 'Best Years' and finding new ones
      Q&A: Dedric Clark of Social Animals on losing his ‘Best Years’ and finding new ones
      June 8, 2020 at 7:57 am
      Social Animals. Courtesy of Rise Records. When you’re desperate for paying work, you take anything available to you. That was the case for Duluth, Minnesota’s Social…
    • Fantastic Negrito on protests, growing up on the street, and the George Floyd video
      Fantastic Negrito on protests, growing up on the street, and the George Floyd video
      June 4, 2020 at 11:58 pm
      Fantastic Negrito photographed in downtown Oakland on June 3, 2020. Jane Hu/STAFF. On Wednesday, June 3, Xavier Dphrepaulezz—Fantastic Negrito—sat down with RIFF editors Daniel J. Willis…
    • Q&A: Oakland's Ultra Q drops quarantine EP, ponders future after shelter-in-place
      Q&A: Oakland’s Ultra Q drops quarantine EP, ponders future after shelter-in-place
      May 27, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Ultra Q, Courtesy: Andrew Diaz. Some bands can get by on streaming royalties for a while in the event of a catastrophic pandemic, but Oakland’s Ultra…
    • INTRODUCING K.O.: DJ and visual artist Ko Lee steps into a new realm with "Sadderday"
      INTRODUCING K.O.: DJ and visual artist Ko Lee steps into a new realm with “Sadderday”
      May 25, 2020 at 5:30 am
      K.O. (Ko Lee). Ko Lee is still new to writing and recording her original songs as K.O., but the Angeleno has been making art of the…
    • Q&A: Katelyn Tarver on her mental health, trying new recipes during quarantine
      Q&A: Katelyn Tarver on her mental health, trying new recipes during quarantine
      April 27, 2020 at 5:30 am
      Katelyn Tarver. Courtesy of Girlie Action. By the time Katelyn Tarver won on episode of NBC’s “Songland” in 2019, she was already an accomplished artist. Hot…
    • Q&A: André Allen Anjos on his new RAC album and earning a paycheck during the concert blackout
      Q&A: André Allen Anjos on his new RAC album and earning a paycheck during the concert blackout
      April 20, 2020 at 5:30 am
      André Allen Anjos (RAC), Courtesy: Jules Davies. It’s March 48 (who’s keeping track, though?) and musician-producer André Allen Anjos, better known as RAC, seems happy to…

Opinion

    • Insert Foot: Burger Records' song, sadly, remains the same. So F@CK them
      Insert Foot: Burger Records’ song, sadly, remains the same. So F@CK them
      July 26, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Nobunny is no more. So is Burger Records. There’s this idea among intelligent, independently leaning artist types that they’re above the fray when it comes to…
    • Insert Foot: Do you really miss live music with everything else to care about?
      Insert Foot: Do you really miss live music with everything else to care about?
      July 19, 2020 at 3:30 am
      I read a story about baseball today, which was well-written … so much so that it actually made me miss baseball again. For about a half…
    • Insert Foot: More woke up on Fourth of July weekend
      Insert Foot: More woke up on Fourth of July weekend
      July 5, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Insert Foot is woke on Joey Chestnut, “Luke Cage.” A few independent thoughts on Independence Day. As I brace myself for the annual Joey Chestnut Coney…
    • Insert Foot: Live Nation fooling itself into believing it's an essential business
      Insert Foot: Live Nation fooling itself into believing it’s an essential business
      June 28, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Insert Foot vs. Live Nation. A Live Nation memo leaked earlier this month indicating that North America’s largest promoter of live events will shake down performers…
    • Insert Foot: Face to face with Neil Sedaka without any pants
      Insert Foot: Face to face with Neil Sedaka without any pants
      June 21, 2020 at 3:30 am
      Insert Foot Vs. partially naked Neil Sedaka and holy shoes. I took my mom somewhere today because I inadvertently made the mistake of telling her I…

Festival News

    • 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…
      BottleRock launches streaming series fundraiser to benefit Napa, music industry workers
      BottleRock launches streaming series fundraiser to benefit Napa, music industry workers
      May 20, 2020 at 9:59 am
      Muse performs at BottleRock Napa Valley in Napa on May 25, 2018. Alessio Neri/STAFF. BottleRock Napa Valley may have gotten postponed to October, but the festival…
    • MUTEK goes digital in 2020 as 'NEXUS Experience,' announces initial artists
      MUTEK goes digital in 2020 as ‘NEXUS Experience,’ announces initial artists
      May 15, 2020 at 8:59 am
      MUTEK SF 2019, Courtesy: Bruno Destombes. Electronica, audiovisual and digital art festival MUTEK will present a two-day online event called NEXUS Experience in place of its…
      BREAKING: BottleRock Napa Valley postponed to October
      BREAKING: BottleRock Napa Valley postponed to October
      March 18, 2020 at 12:29 pm
      Khalid performs on the Free Spirit World Tour at Oracle Arena in Oakland on June 28, 2019. The producers of BottleRock Napa announced that the festival…
    • Outside Lands Eager Beaver tickets go on sale Thursday
      Outside Lands Eager Beaver tickets go on sale Thursday
      March 10, 2020 at 10:00 am
      Twenty One Pilots perform at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco during the Outside Lands Music Festival on Aug. 11, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. The producers of…

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…