• Q&A: Indian vocalist and doctor Janalynn Castelino breaking stereotypes
    Apr 19 2021
    12:01 AM

    Q&A: Indian vocalist and doctor Janalynn Castelino breaking stereotypes

    Staff report No Comments 0
    Janalynn Castelino, courtesy. By Rebecca Somers Rising Indian singer-songwriter Janalynn Castelino, who recently completed her academic training as a doctor, is living the best of both professions. The versatile multilingual singer—she covers Western pop, Latin pop, R&B, and Sufi-soul—has performed in English, Hindi, Urdu, Turkish, Arabic, Spanish, Marathi and Punjabi. Her…
  • Insert Foot: Make your list, check it twice, and get back out there for live music
    Apr 18 2021
    12:20 AM

    Insert Foot: Make your list, check it twice, and get back out there for live music

    Tony Hicks No Comments 0
    If Goose thinks he’s getting to cover Alanis, he’s in for a big surprise, because Insert Foot is vaxxed and ready for concerts. The crew at RIFF got the call this week … or maybe last week, but we got it: live music is back. Like fighter pilots…
  • Q&A: Alice Merton faces off with herself in "Vertigo," her first song of 2021
    Apr 17 2021
    02:02 PM

    Q&A: Alice Merton faces off with herself in “Vertigo,” her first song of 2021

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    Alice Merton, courtesy. In the video for “Vertigo,” Alice Merton finds herself trying to escape an grungy industrial underground dystopia, only to find herself ensnared by numerous seedy characters. But while the song shares its name with a classic Hitchcock film, and the video certainly includes noir-ish shadows…
  • REWIND: It's going to be unseasonably hot so your music should reflect that
    Apr 17 2021
    12:47 AM

    REWIND: It’s going to be unseasonably hot so your music should reflect that

    Daniel J. Willis No Comments 0
    Santana performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Nov. 12, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. On Sunday it’s scheduled to reach 91 degrees where I live. In April. Ninety-one degrees. It is far too early to be getting that hot. It bodes ill for the summer. Traditionally, by which…
  • Interview: Actor, writer, YouTuber Anna Akana nudging her music forward
    Apr 12 2021
    01:00 AM

    Interview: Actor, writer, YouTuber Anna Akana nudging her music forward

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    Anna Akana, courtesy. Back when she was writing the songs on her debut album, 2019’s Casualty, Anna Akana had just left a toxic relationship, and her songs were both a form of therapy and a way to directly address her musician ex. Shortly after, she began writing what…
  • PHOTOS: WRECKNO, VEIL and Summ1t drop the bass at the Midway
    Apr 09 2021
    05:58 AM

    PHOTOS: WRECKNO, VEIL and Summ1t drop the bass at the Midway

    Onome Uyovbievbo No Comments 0
    WRECKNO performs during an outdoor concert at The Midway in San Francisco on April 8, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF SAN FRANCISCO – Live music continued to inch back into Bay Area venues Thursday evening as The Midway hosted DJ WRECKNO, who received a warm welcome from a sold out and…
  • Interview: Dually talented Sarah Dooley is self-made, self-making
    Apr 07 2021
    01:00 AM

    Interview: Dually talented Sarah Dooley is self-made, self-making

    Sara London No Comments 0
    Sarah Dooley, courtesy: James Underwood. Comedian, musician and author Sarah Dooley, a creative powerhouse, might seem like she’s resting comfortably at the top of her game. But even after the release of her second album, Is This Heartbreak? Dooley has never stopped moving, making and re-making herself. “I started writing…
  • Gavin Newsom: Indoor concerts can return at full capacity on June 15 if trends continue
    Apr 06 2021
    01:48 PM

    Gavin Newsom: Indoor concerts can return at full capacity on June 15 if trends continue

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    The crowd for Thrice at City National Civic in San Jose on Nov. 2, 2017. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. Updated on 10 p.m., April 7. California Gov. Gavin Newsom said on Tuesday that the state will fully reopen its economy on June 15 if hospitalization rates remain stable—and low—and people continue…
  • INTERVIEW: Cehryl on Hong Kong comforts and Boston nostalgia
    Apr 05 2021
    12:30 AM

    INTERVIEW: Cehryl on Hong Kong comforts and Boston nostalgia

    Amelia Parreira No Comments 0
    Cehryl, courtesy For singer-songwriter and producer cehryl, music is a life calling. Time Machine (EP) cehryl Nettwerk, April 9 Cehryl, whose name is Cheryl Chow, dove into songwriting and playing her own music before she was 9. The culture of her hometown helped her to be an observant…
  • Interview: Caitlyn Smith finds new life in 'Supernova' as song climbs country chart
    Apr 01 2021
    12:01 AM

    Interview: Caitlyn Smith finds new life in ‘Supernova’ as song climbs country chart

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    Caitlyn Smith, courtesy: Shervin Lainez. If you ask, Nashville singer-songwriter Caitlyn Smith will tell you that a supernova is the fullest, brightest expression of a star in its final moments. But the artist, who built a career of songwriting for stars before her own ignited, hopes her second…
  • RIFF RADIO: Lacey Sturm finds raw honesty in return to hard rock roots
    Mar 29 2021
    12:30 AM

    RIFF RADIO: Lacey Sturm finds raw honesty in return to hard rock roots

    Mike DeWald No Comments 0
    Lacey Sturm, courtesy. Initially, Lacey Sturm wasn’t quite ready for the release of her latest two singles, “State of Me” and “The Decree.” The duo of songs are heavy, aggressive, and some of her most hard-driving tracks of her career, like her earliest work. “I was not wanting…
  • Interview: The Fratellis' John Lawler lets the music guide the way
    Mar 22 2021
    01:00 AM

    Interview: The Fratellis’ John Lawler lets the music guide the way

    Sara London No Comments 0
    The Fratellis, courtesy. The Fratellis, and frontman John Lawler in particular, have had a career of ups and downs. Their rush to stardom almost 15 years ago, followed by their breakup and consequent reunion is the quintessential rock band tale, and one that seems to be heading toward…

News

Obituary: Rapper DMX dead at 50
Apr 09 2021
10:49 am

Obituary: Rapper DMX dead at 50

DMX performs during week five of the BIG3 basketball league at UIC Pavilion in Chicago on July 23, 2017. Photo: Streeter Lecka/BIG3/Getty Images). Rapper DMX has died at the age of 50, his family…
    • Rage Against the Machine, Run the Jewels announce rescheduled tour
      Rage Against the Machine, Run the Jewels announce rescheduled tour
      April 8, 2021 at 6:46 pm
      Rage Against the Machine performs at the Vegoose Music Festival in Las Vegas on Oct. 28, 2007. Courtesy: Scott Penner The good news is Rage Against…
      Roger Waters announces summer 2022 dates for postponed tour
      Roger Waters announces summer 2022 dates for postponed tour
      April 8, 2021 at 9:18 am
      Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters on Thursday announced the rescheduled dates for his postponed ‘This Is Not A Drill’ tour to summer of next year. The new San Francisco…
    • Gavin Newsom: Indoor concerts can return at full capacity on June 15 if trends continue
      Gavin Newsom: Indoor concerts can return at full capacity on June 15 if trends continue
      April 6, 2021 at 1:48 pm
      The crowd for Thrice at City National Civic in San Jose on Nov. 2, 2017. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. Updated on 10 p.m., April 7. California Gov. Gavin Newsom…
      The Independent, 9 other clubs auctioning NFTs
      The Independent, 9 other clubs auctioning NFTs
      April 5, 2021 at 6:50 pm
       The Independent is one of 10 independent venues nationwide participating an an NFT auction fundraiser for the National Independent Venue Association, which includes tickets to…
    • California allows live music to return, but how many venues reopen up in the air
      California allows live music to return, but how many venues reopen up in the air
      April 2, 2021 at 6:46 pm
      The Chapel, closed, on the afternoon of March 17, 2020, the first day of a shelter-in-place to combat coronavirus. California health officials announced on Friday that…
      SF arts institution The Lab hosting dance-a-thon fundraiser
      SF arts institution The Lab hosting dance-a-thon fundraiser
      April 1, 2021 at 4:42 pm
      The Lab, The Mission’s stalwart experimental arts and performance space, is holding a virtual 12-hour dance-a-thon fundraiser in an effort to raise $25,000 to support Bay…
    • James Taylor reschedules tour, Chase Center date to the fall
      James Taylor reschedules tour, Chase Center date to the fall
      March 31, 2021 at 10:32 pm
      James Taylor has postponed his tour for his latest album, American Standard, for a second time. It’s now scheduled to begin in Chicago on July 29. The…
      Outside Lands moves to Halloween weekend, tickets now on-sale
      Outside Lands moves to Halloween weekend, tickets now on-sale
      March 18, 2021 at 10:00 am
      Lizzo performs performs at Golden Gate Park during Outside Lands on Aug. 11, 2018. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. Outside Lands is coming back, but rather than its traditional…
    • 2016 'Celebrating David Bowie' show to be streamed for animal welfare benefit
      2016 ‘Celebrating David Bowie’ show to be streamed for animal welfare benefit
      March 15, 2021 at 12:06 pm
      Courtesy: Celebrating David Bowie. Celebrating David Bowie, the producers of a 2016 David Bowie tribute show in San Francisco, will stream the audio of the Regency-Ballroom-set…
      2021 Grammy Awards bring surprises, historical milestones
      2021 Grammy Awards bring surprises, historical milestones
      March 14, 2021 at 9:55 pm
      Megan Thee Stallion performs during the 2021 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on March 14, 2021. Courtesy. While the main pre-show distraction centered on snubs and…
    • 2021 Grammys: Complete live results and notable moments
      2021 Grammys: Complete live results and notable moments
      March 14, 2021 at 10:55 am
      63rd Grammy Awards, courtesy: Recording Academy. Welcome to the Olympics of music! The 63rd Grammy Awards are not the be-all, end-all of music achievement, or even…
      Bay Area concert promoter Another Planet expands management arm into L.A.
      Bay Area concert promoter Another Planet expands management arm into L.A.
      March 2, 2021 at 10:08 pm
      Billy Idol performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on May 26, 2018. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. Independent concert promoter Another Planet Entertainment on Tuesday…
    • Andrew St. James creates virtual series to fundraise for the Chapel staff, nonprofits
      Andrew St. James creates virtual series to fundraise for the Chapel staff, nonprofits
      February 24, 2021 at 11:43 am
      Andrew St. James performs with Fast Times at The Independent in San Francisco on Feb. 25, 2020. Derek Tobias/STAFF. San Francisco musician Andrew St. James is…
      Former ALT 105.3 music director Aaron Axelsen to helm FLOOD streaming audio venture
      Former ALT 105.3 music director Aaron Axelsen to helm FLOOD streaming audio venture
      February 16, 2021 at 1:15 pm
      DJ Aaron Axelsen performs at the Rickshaw Stop in San Francisco on Sept. 16, 2016. Alessio Neri/STAFF. Former longtime ALT 105 music director Aaron Axelsen, who…
    • SF Symphony marks Lunar New Year virtually with free concert Saturday
      SF Symphony marks Lunar New Year virtually with free concert Saturday
      February 14, 2021 at 12:13 pm
      San Francisco Symphony Chinese New Year Virtual Celebration: Year of the Ox. For the first time in 21 years, the San Francisco Symphony‘s annual Lunar New…
      Taylor Swift kicks off effort to reclaim her music with new ‘Love Story’
      Taylor Swift kicks off effort to reclaim her music with new ‘Love Story’
      February 11, 2021 at 10:10 pm
      Taylor Swift: “Fearless.” Taylor Swift’s long-anticipated campaign to re-record and reissue her first six studio albums began tonight with the release of a new version of…
    • Obituary: Prolific jazz pianist Chick Corea, 23-time Grammy winner, dead at 79
      Obituary: Prolific jazz pianist Chick Corea, 23-time Grammy winner, dead at 79
      February 11, 2021 at 6:02 pm
      Chick Corea performs at Blue Note in Milan, Italy, on March 8, 2013. Photo: Sergione Infuso/Corbis. When I covered several Grammy Awards presentations in Los Angeles…
      OBITUARY: The Supremes' cofounder Mary Wilson dead at 76
      OBITUARY: The Supremes’ cofounder Mary Wilson dead at 76
      February 9, 2021 at 3:04 pm
      Mary Wilson of The Supremes in 1994. Courtesy: Kingkongphoto/Wikicommons. Mary Wilson, who, along with Florence Ballard, Diana Ross and Betty Martin, founded The Supremes in 1961,…
    • Motown Records relaunches Black Forum with Grammy-winning MLK speech
      Motown Records relaunches Black Forum with Grammy-winning MLK speech
      February 5, 2021 at 6:29 pm
      Motown Records on Friday announced it’s re-launching its Black Forum label with Martin Luther Ling, Jr.’s “Why I Oppose The War In Vietnam” speech, followed by spoken…
      When will concerts return to the Bay Area? Promoters speak up
      When will concerts return to the Bay Area? Promoters speak up
      February 4, 2021 at 12:26 pm
      The Smashing Pumpkins perform at Oracle Arena (now Oakland Arena) in Oakland on Aug. 27, 2018. When will concerts return to such a high-density attendance? Alessio Neri/STAFF.…
    • Florida-set Moon Crush gifting tix to frontline workers in contest
      Florida-set Moon Crush gifting tix to frontline workers in contest
      February 3, 2021 at 6:10 pm
      Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on June 8, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. The producers of Moon Crush, touted as…
      Lookout! Zoomout will reunite Lookout! Records artists online
      Lookout! Zoomout will reunite Lookout! Records artists online
      January 30, 2021 at 5:48 pm
      Dr. Frank performs at Bottom of The Hill in San Francisco on April 1, 2017. He will appear at a Lookout! Records artist reunion live-streamed event…
    • Influential PC music artist-producer SOPHIE, 34, dead after fall in Greece
      Influential PC music artist-producer SOPHIE, 34, dead after fall in Greece
      January 30, 2021 at 10:39 am
      SOPHIE, courtesy. Influential experimental PC pop artist SOPHIE died early Saturday after a fall in Athens, Greece, where she lived, according to her record label, Transgressive.…
      Concert promoters nationwide offer up venues as vaccination centers
      Concert promoters nationwide offer up venues as vaccination centers
      January 27, 2021 at 3:56 pm
      The Fillmore, closed, on the afternoon of March 17, 2020, the first day of a shelter-in-place to combat coronavirus. Large and small concert promoters nationwide have…

Features

    • Interview: Dually talented Sarah Dooley is self-made, self-making
      Interview: Dually talented Sarah Dooley is self-made, self-making
      April 7, 2021 at 1:00 am
      Sarah Dooley, courtesy: James Underwood. Comedian, musician and author Sarah Dooley, a creative powerhouse, might seem like she’s resting comfortably at the top of her game. But…
    • INTERVIEW: Cehryl on Hong Kong comforts and Boston nostalgia
      INTERVIEW: Cehryl on Hong Kong comforts and Boston nostalgia
      April 5, 2021 at 12:30 am
      Cehryl, courtesy For singer-songwriter and producer cehryl, music is a life calling. Time Machine (EP) cehryl Nettwerk, April 9 Cehryl, whose name is Cheryl Chow, dove…
    • Interview: Caitlyn Smith finds new life in 'Supernova' as song climbs country chart
      Interview: Caitlyn Smith finds new life in ‘Supernova’ as song climbs country chart
      April 1, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Caitlyn Smith, courtesy: Shervin Lainez. If you ask, Nashville singer-songwriter Caitlyn Smith will tell you that a supernova is the fullest, brightest expression of a star…
    • RIFF RADIO: Lacey Sturm finds raw honesty in return to hard rock roots
      RIFF RADIO: Lacey Sturm finds raw honesty in return to hard rock roots
      March 29, 2021 at 12:30 am
      Lacey Sturm, courtesy. Initially, Lacey Sturm wasn’t quite ready for the release of her latest two singles, “State of Me” and “The Decree.” The duo of…
    • Interview: Sycco sets her stage for pop domination
      Interview: Sycco sets her stage for pop domination
      March 17, 2021 at 12:20 am
      Sycco (Sasha McLeod), courtesy. While the U.S., Europe and much of the rest of the world devastated by COVID-19 are just beginning to see the end…
    • INTERVIEW: From Ashes to New overcome pandemic on 'Panic'
      INTERVIEW: From Ashes to New overcome pandemic on ‘Panic’
      March 15, 2021 at 12:30 am
      From Ashes To New, courtesy. The pandemic scuttled the release of the third album by Pennsylvania rockers From Ashes to New. Done by early 2020, the band…
    • Interview: Jim Keller, cowriter of '867-5309 / Jenny,' on his path and his new LP
      Interview: Jim Keller, cowriter of ‘867-5309 / Jenny,’ on his path and his new LP
      March 12, 2021 at 12:02 am
      Jim Keller, courtesy: Jimmy Fontaine. “867-5309.” Just by reading those seven digits, the tune is in your head. The 1981 song by San Francisco band Tommy…
    • RIFF RADIO: Serena Ryder embraces mental health on 'The Art of Falling Apart'
      RIFF RADIO: Serena Ryder embraces mental health on ‘The Art of Falling Apart’
      March 8, 2021 at 1:00 am
      Serena Ryder, courtesy. As we enter another year of physical distancing and health protocols while waiting on vaccinations, the isolation of it all has increased an…

Podcasts

    • RIFF RADIO: Serena Ryder embraces mental health on 'The Art of Falling Apart'
      RIFF RADIO: Serena Ryder embraces mental health on ‘The Art of Falling Apart’
      March 8, 2021 at 1:00 am
      Serena Ryder, courtesy. As we enter another year of physical distancing and health protocols while waiting on vaccinations, the isolation of it all has increased an…
    • ROCK'N VINO: Jen Janet takes hard rock dreams westward
      ROCK’N VINO: Jen Janet takes hard rock dreams westward
      December 17, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Jen Janet, courtesy. Jen Janet picked a decidedly inopportune time to pack up and move her life to the opposite coast. “I moved to California right…
    • RIFF Radio: Chris Daughtry finds creative freedom amid a chaotic world
      RIFF Radio: Chris Daughtry finds creative freedom amid a chaotic world
      September 7, 2020 at 2:30 am
      Daughtry. Courtesy photo. Chris Daughtry‘s enthusiam over his band’s upcoming sixth record is palpable. Speaking from his home in Nashville in a room decked out in…
    • 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…

Album Reviews

    • REVIEW: The Offspring return ready to ‘Let The Bad Times Roll’
      REVIEW: The Offspring return ready to ‘Let The Bad Times Roll’
      April 15, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      It has been a long nine years since The Offspring released their last album, Days Go By. Conflicts with a previous label, Columbia, contributed to the delay,…
      REVIEW: London Grammar shows off strength in femininity with 'Californian Soil'
      REVIEW: London Grammar shows off strength in femininity with ‘Californian Soil’
      April 13, 2021 at 11:00 am
      As the London trio London Grammar gets ready to release its third electro-pop album, Californian Soil, its November tour dates have already sold out. Sophomore effort Truth Is A…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Marty Friedman spans oceans and genres for 'Tokyo Jukebox 3'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Marty Friedman spans oceans and genres for ‘Tokyo Jukebox 3’
      April 13, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Megadeth may be decades in the past for guitarist Marty Friedman, but the virtuoso is no less busy cranking out instrumental guitar rock albums. Tokyo Jukebox 3 completes…
      REVIEW: Goo Goo Dolls go folk with surprise 'EP 21'
      REVIEW: Goo Goo Dolls go folk with surprise ‘EP 21’
      April 12, 2021 at 5:00 am
      The Goo Goo Dolls announced a surprise record, EP 21, Monday morning, just five days before its release. It consists of newish material; its four tracks…
    • REVIEW: Eric Church sets his heart on fire on genre-breaking triptych
      REVIEW: Eric Church sets his heart on fire on genre-breaking triptych
      April 12, 2021 at 1:12 am
      On 2019’s Double Down Tour, country star Eric Church showed his ambition on-stage by performing three-hour shows night in and night out, mixing up his setlists…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Greta Van Fleet rushes things on 'The Battle at Garden's Gate'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Greta Van Fleet rushes things on ‘The Battle at Garden’s Gate’
      April 12, 2021 at 12:08 am
      Following the success of debut LP Anthem of the Peaceful Army, in 2018, Greta Van Fleet suddenly arrived at the golden gates of rock and roll superstardom. But that…
    • BROCKHAMPTON begins final act with 'Roadrunner: New Light, New Machine'
      BROCKHAMPTON begins final act with ‘Roadrunner: New Light, New Machine’
      April 9, 2021 at 5:31 am
      Hip-hop’s favorite boy band, BROCKHAMPTON, has announced it is on the way out. The band’s newest release, Roadrunner: New Light, New Machine, is the first of two albums…
      REVIEW: 'Fearless (Taylor's Version)' gives us a peak into the vault
      REVIEW: ‘Fearless (Taylor’s Version)’ gives us a peak into the vault
      April 8, 2021 at 10:47 pm
      The long-teased and anticipated Fearless (Taylor’s Version) has finally arrived in all of its expansive 26-song glory. The rerecording of Taylor Swift’s career-defining album Fearless, released in…
    • REVIEW: Cheap Trick reliably efficient on 'In Another World'
      REVIEW: Cheap Trick reliably efficient on ‘In Another World’
      April 6, 2021 at 12:45 am
      Who’s going to tell history’s most enduring and endearing power pop band it can’t make records anymore? Not me. In Another World Cheap Trick BMG, April 9…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Mon Laferte embraces Mexico with 'Seis'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Mon Laferte embraces Mexico with ‘Seis’
      April 4, 2021 at 9:05 pm
      Chilean superstar Mon Laferte is no stranger to genre changes. After beginning her career as a reality show pop singer, she transitioned to alt-rock with her…
    • REVIEW: Demi Lovato is her most vulnerable on 'Dancing with the Devil'
      REVIEW: Demi Lovato is her most vulnerable on ‘Dancing with the Devil’
      April 1, 2021 at 11:44 pm
      The newest album from Demi Lovato, Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over, has been preceded by a series of memorable headlines in recent…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Flock of Dimes strikes a balance on ‘Head of Roses’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Flock of Dimes strikes a balance on ‘Head of Roses’
      March 31, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Head of Roses, the sophomore album from Jenn Wasner’s solo project Flock of Dimes, delivers an intimate, 40-minute record that seamlessly blends earnest indie rock with…
    • REVIEW: The Fratellis are among the stars with 'Half Drunk Under a Full Moon'
      REVIEW: The Fratellis are among the stars with ‘Half Drunk Under a Full Moon’
      March 31, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The Fratellis, after 15 years filled with breakups and makeups, have arrived at their sixth album, Half Drunk Under a Full Moon. Their first album, Costello Music,…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Ryley Walker mixes honesty and parable on 'Course In Fable'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Ryley Walker mixes honesty and parable on ‘Course In Fable’
      March 30, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The new album by Ryley Walker,  Course In Fable, is a great album for a long drive. It doesn’t impose any specific emotion but rather gives…
    • Album Review: Godspeed You! Black Emperor goes to the end of the world on G_d's Pee AT STATE'S END!
      Album Review: Godspeed You! Black Emperor goes to the end of the world on G_d’s Pee AT STATE’S END!
      March 29, 2021 at 12:01 am
      I’ve never felt the need to share a band’s liner or press notes in a review. But there aren’t a lot of bands like Godspeed You!…
      ALBUM REVIEW: NF drifts and looms on 'CLOUDS'
      ALBUM REVIEW: NF drifts and looms on ‘CLOUDS’
      March 26, 2021 at 7:14 am
      As on his 2019 album, The Search, Michigan rapper NF maintains his somber and melancholic stylings on new mixtape CLOUDS, highlighted by simplistic string arrangements and classical music influences…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Carrie Underwood finds power and grace on 'My Savior'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Carrie Underwood finds power and grace on ‘My Savior’
      March 25, 2021 at 11:48 pm
      For those familiar with the themes of the music of Carrie Underwood, it comes as no surprise that she’s finally decided to record an album of gospel standards.…
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Antlers return renewed on 'Green to Gold'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Antlers return renewed on ‘Green to Gold’
      March 24, 2021 at 6:00 am
      The Antlers releasing an album in the waning days of a global pandemic falls somewhere between way too on-the-nose and poetry writing itself. From their 2009…
    • REVIEW: Post-rock supergroup Tomahawk stirs the pot on 'Tonic Immobility'
      REVIEW: Post-rock supergroup Tomahawk stirs the pot on ‘Tonic Immobility’
      March 24, 2021 at 5:00 am
      Recipes are tricky things. A pinch too much of one ingredient and you’ve gone from flavor town to gak-ville in the blink of a taste bud.…
      REVIEW: Death from Above 1979 gives intimacy a chance on 'Is 4 Lovers'
      REVIEW: Death from Above 1979 gives intimacy a chance on ‘Is 4 Lovers’
      March 24, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The playful allusion in the title of the fourth album by Death From Above 1979, Is 4 Lovers, is very characteristic of their work, which is…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Xiu Xiu shuffles uplift and agony on atmospheric 'OH NO'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Xiu Xiu shuffles uplift and agony on atmospheric ‘OH NO’
      March 23, 2021 at 8:00 am
      Known for fidgety experimentalism and crabby lyrics, San Jose’s Xiu Xiu would not win a lifetime achievement award for cheerfulness. Nevertheless, the group has often channeled…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Ben Howard levitates on ‘Collections From The Whiteout’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Ben Howard levitates on ‘Collections From The Whiteout’
      March 23, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Ben Howard’s newest album, Collections From The Whiteout, is an outstanding collection of songs. On the London native’s fourth album, he explores both an introspective personal journey from the…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Evanescence defies the dark on 'The Bitter Truth'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Evanescence defies the dark on ‘The Bitter Truth’
      March 21, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      The Bitter Truth by Evanescence represents the battle between light and dark, and the ways in which 2020 left its mark on the band. It’ not only…
      EP REVIEW: Benny the Butcher swings and misses on 'The Plugs I Met 2'
      EP REVIEW: Benny the Butcher swings and misses on ‘The Plugs I Met 2’
      March 19, 2021 at 5:56 am
      Benny the Butcher has delivered hard-hitting and detailed songs covering his involvement in drug dealing and life on the streets. Last year’s exceptional examination of such…
    • REVIEW: Justin Bieber experiments in too many directions on 'Justice'
      REVIEW: Justin Bieber experiments in too many directions on ‘Justice’
      March 19, 2021 at 5:29 am
      Though it’s technically only been a year since Justin Bieber released his last album, it feels like it’s been a while since we’ve heard from the…
      REVIEW: Lana Del Rey is sleepily soulful on 'Chemtrails Over the Country Club'
      REVIEW: Lana Del Rey is sleepily soulful on ‘Chemtrails Over the Country Club’
      March 18, 2021 at 10:40 pm
      Lana Del Rey‘s sixth studio album, Chemtrails Over the Country Club, was rumored to be a country album. After nearly 15 years, it came as a…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Loretta Lynn reigns supreme on 'Still Woman Enough'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Loretta Lynn reigns supreme on ‘Still Woman Enough’
      March 16, 2021 at 11:00 am
      Country icon Loretta Lynn is about to release her 50th solo studio album and one thing that remains obvious, at 88-years-old, is that she’s still a…
      ALBUM REVIEW: John Dwyer and friends mutate on 'Endless Garbage'
      ALBUM REVIEW: John Dwyer and friends mutate on ‘Endless Garbage’
      March 15, 2021 at 10:20 pm
      One of the reasons it’s so important for everyone to continue wearing masks at this point in the pandemic is to mitigate the number of people…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Sting brings out the best in his guests on 'Duets'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sting brings out the best in his guests on ‘Duets’
      March 15, 2021 at 12:01 am
      At 69 years of age and over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, English musician Sting would appear to have a fair amount of pull in…
      Rob Zombie achieves peak self with 'The Lunar Injection Kool Aid Eclipse Conspiracy'
      Rob Zombie achieves peak self with ‘The Lunar Injection Kool Aid Eclipse Conspiracy’
      March 11, 2021 at 11:42 pm
      Rob Zombie has been making music, as part of White Zombie or solo, for 35 years. Even his side gig as a director has lasted for…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Nick Jonas slows things down and soars on 'Spaceman'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Nick Jonas slows things down and soars on ‘Spaceman’
      March 11, 2021 at 10:45 pm
      Nick Jonas doubles down on the atmospherics and lets music breathe on his fourth solo studio album, Spaceman. From the opening piano and synth notes of…
      REVIEW: Grouplove strikes back at the pandemic with surprise ‘This is This’
      REVIEW: Grouplove strikes back at the pandemic with surprise ‘This is This’
      March 10, 2021 at 3:59 pm
      It’s hard to come up with a more matter-of-fact way of responding to how the pandemic threw off everyone’s plans last year than the surprise  Grouplove release…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Valerie June finds transcendence on 'The Moon And Stars'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Valerie June finds transcendence on ‘The Moon And Stars’
      March 9, 2021 at 11:00 am
      Brooklyn-by-way-of-Memphis singer-songwriter Valerie June set ambitious sights for her fifth album. Working with acclaimed producer Jack Splash (Kendrick Lamar, Alicia Keys), June embarks on a journey that…
      ALBUM REVIEW: New Lake Street Dive is a good time, ‘Obviously’
      ALBUM REVIEW: New Lake Street Dive is a good time, ‘Obviously’
      March 8, 2021 at 11:00 am
      “We’re like baseball and hotdogs/ You’re Ferris Bueller and I’m your day off,” sings Rachael Price of Lake Street Dive on “Know That I Know,” possibly…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Sean Paul drums up dancehall spirit on 'Live N Livin'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sean Paul drums up dancehall spirit on ‘Live N Livin’
      March 7, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      As the vaccine rollouts are picking up momentum, we’re hopeful that we will be seeing public spaces such as nightclubs finally able to open up and…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Zara Larsson shines on ‘Poster Girl’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Zara Larsson shines on ‘Poster Girl’
      March 4, 2021 at 11:39 pm
      Few pop stars in recent years have teased an album for as long as Zara Larsson. But today, nearly two-and-a-half years after lead single “Ruin My…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: A Day To Remember flip the script on mature 'You're Welcome'
      ALBUM REVIEW: A Day To Remember flip the script on mature ‘You’re Welcome’
      March 4, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      A Day To Remember have a reputation for keeping their music predictably unpredictable. Rooted in a fusion of hardcore and pop-punk, the band has always veered…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kings of Leon stretch out on latest album
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kings of Leon stretch out on latest album
      March 4, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      Kings of Leon achieved total radio saturation in 2008 with hits like “Sex on Fire,” “Use Somebody” and “Notion,” all of which reached No. 1.  The…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Har Mar Superstar takes a nostalgic road trip to 'Roseville'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Har Mar Superstar takes a nostalgic road trip to ‘Roseville’
      March 2, 2021 at 10:00 am
      Formed in 1999, Har Mar Superstar may have started out as a vehicle for Sean Tillman’s hipster-Weird Al Yankovic alter-ego. But in the intervening decades Tillman…
      REVIEW: Tigers Jaw wants everyone to know 'I Won't Care How You Remember Me'
      REVIEW: Tigers Jaw wants everyone to know ‘I Won’t Care How You Remember Me’
      March 2, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The rise of emo pop and pop-punk during the 2000s has served as both a source of nostalgia and revulsion from millennials and zoomers alike. Love…
    • REVIEW: NOFX holds it together with rubber bands and duct tape on 'Single Album'
      REVIEW: NOFX holds it together with rubber bands and duct tape on ‘Single Album’
      February 26, 2021 at 5:45 am
      It seems that things have taken a toll on frontman Fat Mike of NOFX, because Single Album oozes with the sense of decay and instability that comes with…
      Quick Takes: K-pop refugee Wonho finds a safe haven on 'Love Synonym #2'
      Quick Takes: K-pop refugee Wonho finds a safe haven on ‘Love Synonym #2’
      February 25, 2021 at 10:01 pm
      It’s no secret that K-pop artists, at least the successful ones, live and work in a high-pressure environment where every part of their lives is dissected…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: The Melvins swap roles on 'Working With God'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Melvins swap roles on ‘Working With God’
      February 24, 2021 at 1:00 am
      It’s a safe bet that whatever apocalypse befalls our planet, the catastrophic end of everything will be survived by cockroaches, tardigrades and grunge progenitors the Melvins.…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Altin Gün goes new wave on 'Yol'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Altin Gün goes new wave on ‘Yol’
      February 24, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Altin Gün is an Amsterdam-based psychedelic rock band with funk and Turkish folk influences. Yol Altin Gün ATO Records, Feb. 26 7/10 Usually that description wouldn’t…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Maxïmo Park returns as a trio with ‘Nature Always Wins’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Maxïmo Park returns as a trio with ‘Nature Always Wins’
      February 23, 2021 at 10:00 am
      Maxïmo Park took the U.K. by storm in 2005 with A Certain Trigger, a blend of catchy, infectious fun. After I went to the Newcastle, England band’s first…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Willie Nelson covers Sinatra again on ‘That’s Life’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Willie Nelson covers Sinatra again on ‘That’s Life’
      February 23, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Just shy of two and a half years since Willie Nelson last covered Frank Sinatra on My Way, his take on the Great American Songbook, he’s geared…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Julien Baker gets loud on 'Little Oblivions'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Julien Baker gets loud on ‘Little Oblivions’
      February 23, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Julien Baker has never been one to shy away from depicting dramatic and intimate parts of life in her music. Since her 2015 debut, Sprained Ankle, her…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Madison Beer alive and kicking after decade on 'Life Support'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Madison Beer alive and kicking after decade on ‘Life Support’
      February 21, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      Madison Beer has been waiting a lifetime to release her debut album. The 21-year-old pop singer-songwriter got her record deal almost a decade ago, after posting…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Alice Cooper revisits his hard rock impetus on 'Detroit Stories'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Alice Cooper revisits his hard rock impetus on ‘Detroit Stories’
      February 21, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      It could be said that rock legend Alice Cooper is a hard man to pin down. Is he a decadent, glammed-out creep or an affable guy…

Listen Now

    • Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Apr. 13
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Apr. 13
      April 13, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Clockwise from top left: Billie Marten, Overcoats, Holly Humberstone, Bedroom (Noah Kittinger), LŪN, and Tessa Violet with Lovelytheband. Overcoats’ post-breakup limbo, Holly Humberstone’s unshakeable wistfulness, Billie…
      REWIND: Five more one-hit wonders to get stuck in your head
      REWIND: Five more one-hit wonders to get stuck in your head
      April 10, 2021 at 1:00 am
      Chumbawamba circa 2000. Photo: Jill Douglas/Redferns. Back in September I discovered a satellite radio channel that was all one-hit wonders, and it inspired a column of…

Q&A Interviews

    • Q&A: Alice Merton faces off with herself in "Vertigo," her first song of 2021
      Q&A: Alice Merton faces off with herself in “Vertigo,” her first song of 2021
      April 17, 2021 at 2:02 pm
      Alice Merton, courtesy. In the video for “Vertigo,” Alice Merton finds herself trying to escape an grungy industrial underground dystopia, only to find herself ensnared by…
    • Interview: The Fratellis' John Lawler lets the music guide the way
      Interview: The Fratellis’ John Lawler lets the music guide the way
      March 22, 2021 at 1:00 am
      The Fratellis, courtesy. The Fratellis, and frontman John Lawler in particular, have had a career of ups and downs. Their rush to stardom almost 15 years…
    • INTERVIEW: Canadian Haviah Mighty breaks down barriers with "Obeah"
      INTERVIEW: Canadian Haviah Mighty breaks down barriers with “Obeah”
      February 15, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Haviah Mighty. Photos courtesy Yung Yemi. Canadian hip-hop artist Haviah Mighty has seen her rapid success dominate her home country and beyond. She’s made waves with…
    • SF Ballet's Helgi Tomasson addresses his 2022 departure, future
      SF Ballet’s Helgi Tomasson addresses his 2022 departure, future
      January 23, 2021 at 8:00 am
      SF Ballet Artistic Director and Principal Choreographer Helgi Tomasson. Courtesy: Erik Tomasson/SF Ballet. The San Francisco Ballet earlier this month announced the 2022 departure of Artistic…
    • Q&A: Einar Selvik of Wardruna bridging old Norse myths to today's audiences
      Q&A: Einar Selvik of Wardruna bridging old Norse myths to today’s audiences
      January 11, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Wardruna (Einar Selvik center), Courtesy: Kim Ohrling. Einar Selvik was once known as “kvitravn,” which translates from old Norse to “the white raven.” That was back…
    • Q&A: Songhoy Blues spread 'Optimisme' on their boldest statement yet
      Q&A: Songhoy Blues spread ‘Optimisme’ on their boldest statement yet
      October 26, 2020 at 12:30 am
      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…
    • 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…

Festival news

    • Florida-set Moon Crush gifting tix to frontline workers in contest
      Florida-set Moon Crush gifting tix to frontline workers in contest
      February 3, 2021 at 6:10 pm
      Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on June 8, 2019. Joaquin Cabello/STAFF. The producers of Moon Crush, touted as…
    • SF Sketchfest announces Festpocalypse!, star-studded livestream fundraiser
      SF Sketchfest announces Festpocalypse!, star-studded livestream fundraiser
      December 17, 2020 at 12:28 pm
      SF Sketchfest announces Festpocalypse! SF Sketchfest on Thursday announced Festpocalypse!, a virtual fundraiser for the annual wintertime event. Festpocalypse! will include cast reunions of “The Kids…
    • BottleRock 2021 postponed to Labor Day Weekend, likely with new headliners
      BottleRock 2021 postponed to Labor Day Weekend, likely with new headliners
      November 17, 2020 at 10:59 am
      Mumford & Sons perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on May 26, 2019. BottleRock Napa Valley, which was scrapped in 2020 following…
    • 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…
    • 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:…

Opinion

    • Insert Foot: Making classic music a family affair for these famous siblings
      Insert Foot: Making classic music a family affair for these famous siblings
      April 11, 2021 at 12:46 am
      Insert Foot Vs. National Siblings Day. Saturday was Siblings Day, which we celebrate by posting photos on social media of siblings harmoniously pretending to get along,…
      Insert Foot: Lil Nas X bringing Satan back to the ridiculous masses
      Insert Foot: Lil Nas X bringing Satan back to the ridiculous masses
      April 4, 2021 at 12:30 am
      Insert Foot and Lil Nas X vs. the real Satan The pandemic must be over, the economy is obviously soaring, and everything is A-OK, situation normal,…
    • Insert Foot: Demi Lovato's 'California sobriety' delusional and dangerous
      Insert Foot: Demi Lovato’s ‘California sobriety’ delusional and dangerous
      March 28, 2021 at 12:47 am
      Insert Foot Vs. “California sober” and Demi Lovato. Demi Lovato is as famous for confronting personal issues as for music, which is theoretically great. If it…
      Insert Foot: Seven months to Outside Lands 2021; choose your danger well
      Insert Foot: Seven months to Outside Lands 2021; choose your danger well
      March 21, 2021 at 1:00 am
      Insert Foot wants to go to Outside Lands. We’re on the clock, Bay Area. So get your shot together. Seven months. That’s how long we have…

Concert Reviews

    • REVIEW: Taj Mahal streams a good time from The UC Theatre
      REVIEW: Taj Mahal streams a good time from The UC Theatre
      March 13, 2021 at 9:21 pm
      Taj Mahal performs at The UC Theatre in Berkeley during a livestream concert on March 13, 2021. Courtesy: Mandolin. Not every band can pull off a…
    • REVIEW: Madison Beer provides a glimpse of the future in 'Life Support' livestream
      REVIEW: Madison Beer provides a glimpse of the future in ‘Life Support’ livestream
      March 6, 2021 at 9:13 pm
      Madison Beer performs during the East Coast feed of her “Life Support in Concert” livestream on March 6, 2021. Courtesy: Headliner. While Madison Beer‘s coronation in…
    • REVIEW: Fans turn out for Jackie Greene Quartet's Fairfield livestream
      REVIEW: Fans turn out for Jackie Greene Quartet’s Fairfield livestream
      February 27, 2021 at 9:53 pm
      Jackie Greene performs during a livestream concert at the Downtown Theatre in Fairfield, Calif. on Feb. 27, 2021. Nathan McKinley/STAFF. There’s no getting around the fact…
    • REVIEW: Bob Weir and Wolf Bros shine in Chinese New Year livestream
      REVIEW: Bob Weir and Wolf Bros shine in Chinese New Year livestream
      February 12, 2021 at 10:33 pm
      Bob Weir performs at TRI Studios in San Rafael, California, in celebration of the Chinese New Year, on Feb. 12, 2021. Bob Weir, the legendary cofounder…
    • REVIEW: Fantastic Negrito gets back in the groove at Fairfield livestream
      REVIEW: Fantastic Negrito gets back in the groove at Fairfield livestream
      January 23, 2021 at 9:01 pm
      Fantastic Negrito performs during a livestream concert at the Downtown Theatre in Fairfield, California, on Jan. 23, 2021. Photos courtesy: Nathan McKinley. Fantastic Negrito is a…
    • REVIEW: Morgan Wallen gets 'Dangerous' at the Ryman in Nashville
      REVIEW: Morgan Wallen gets ‘Dangerous’ at the Ryman in Nashville
      January 12, 2021 at 8:55 pm
      Morgan Wallen performs during a livestream at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on Jan. 12, 2021. Courtesy: John Shearer/Getty Images for Ryman Auditorium. Country star Morgan Wallen‘s…
    • REVIEW: MisterWives flourish in vivid 'Superbloom' live dream stream
      REVIEW: MisterWives flourish in vivid ‘Superbloom’ live dream stream
      December 13, 2020 at 9:00 am
      Misterwives perform during their “SUPERBLOOM: The Live Dream” livestream on Dec. 12, 2020. Courtesy of the band. MisterWives’ streamed performance on Saturday was an embodiment of…
    • REVIEW: Liam Gallagher flips a low-flying bird to the London Eye in cinematic livestream
      REVIEW: Liam Gallagher flips a low-flying bird to the London Eye in cinematic livestream
      December 5, 2020 at 5:24 pm
      Liam Gallagher performs during his livestream concert “Down by the River Thames” in London on Dec. 5, 2020. By Mason Meyers LONDON — Liam Gallagher’s Saturday…
    • REVIEW: Blossoms’ livestream not ‘The Keeper’ but fit for the times
      REVIEW: Blossoms’ livestream not ‘The Keeper’ but fit for the times
      December 5, 2020 at 9:44 am
      Blossoms perform at The O2 in London on Dec. 3, 2020. Courtesy: MelodyVR. LONDON – Blossoms’ show at The O2 Academy on Thursday was a far cry…
    • REVIEW: Jayhawks' faithful 'Sound of Lies' livestream rings true
      REVIEW: Jayhawks’ faithful ‘Sound of Lies’ livestream rings true
      November 30, 2020 at 11:39 am
      The Jayhawks perform in Minnesota during their livestream on Nov. 29, 2020. Courtesy: Mandolin. Sound of Lies was the perfect album for the Jayhawks to showcase…
    • REVIEW: COIN sets its winning pop-rock combo free at virtual concert
      REVIEW: COIN sets its winning pop-rock combo free at virtual concert
      November 21, 2020 at 9:42 am
      COIN performs during “An Immersive Virtual Experience,” a virtual show. Courtesy: SingleMusic. It’s been eight months since a pandemic-induced lockdown sent live music spontaneously combusting into…
    • REVIEW: Thundercat lays a funky foundation at the Fox Theater
      REVIEW: Thundercat lays a funky foundation at the Fox Theater
      March 7, 2020 at 8:12 am
      Thundercat performs at the Fox Theater in Oakland on March 6, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. OAKLAND — Stephen Lee Bruner is a man who can really play the…
    • 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…

Photos

    • PHOTOS: Thrice revisits the past at The Novo in Los Angeles
      PHOTOS: Thrice revisits the past at The Novo in Los Angeles
      March 1, 2020 at 9:41 am
      Thrice performs at The Novo in Los Angeles on Feb. 29, 2020. Aaron Marquez/STAFF. LOS ANGELES — Revisiting the past often has negative connotations. Unless, of…
    • PHOTOS: Colony House leaves it all behind in San Francisco
      PHOTOS: Colony House leaves it all behind in San Francisco
      March 1, 2020 at 3:02 am
      Colony House performs at August Hall in San Francisco on Feb. 29, 2020. Steve Carlson/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO – Indie rockers Colony House returned to the Bay…
    • PHOTOS: Olivia O’Brien brings her 'Sad F**king Tour' to the Regency Ballroom
      PHOTOS: Olivia O’Brien brings her ‘Sad F**king Tour’ to the Regency Ballroom
      February 29, 2020 at 3:45 am
      Olivia O’Brien performs at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Feb. 28, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Olivia O’Brien kicked off her Friday concert…
    • PHOTOS: Tove Lo, Broods and Alma bring their dark pop show to the Masonic
      PHOTOS: Tove Lo, Broods and Alma bring their dark pop show to the Masonic
      February 28, 2020 at 7:12 am
      Tove Lo performs at The Masonic in San Francisco on Feb. 28, 2020. Adam Pardee/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Even with a tour injury, Tove Lo could…
    • PHOTOS: Dijon, Deaton Chris Anthony blend R&B with pop at Swedish American Hall
      PHOTOS: Dijon, Deaton Chris Anthony blend R&B with pop at Swedish American Hall
      February 20, 2020 at 7:16 am
      Dijon performs at Swedish American Hall on Feb. 19, 2020. SAN FRANCISCO – Approaching the stage with a laid-back and friendly demeanor, Dijon, proved that his…
    • PHOTOS: Luke James shows love, is loved right back at Brick & Mortar
      PHOTOS: Luke James shows love, is loved right back at Brick & Mortar
      February 16, 2020 at 10:10 am
      Luke James performs at Brick & Mortar in San Francisco, Feb. 15, 2020. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Two-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Luke James made his way to the…
    • PHOTOS: Seventeen shows strength in numbers in San Jose
      PHOTOS: Seventeen shows strength in numbers in San Jose
      January 22, 2020 at 1:41 am
      Seventeen (SVT) performs on the Ode to You World Tour at the SAP Center in San Jose on Jan. 21, 2020. Steve Carlson/Staff. SAN JOSE —…