• PHOTOS: System of a Down brings Korn and chaos to Oakland Arena
    Oct 19 2021
    06:25 AM

    PHOTOS: System of a Down brings Korn and chaos to Oakland Arena

    Derek Tobias No Comments 0
    System of a Down performs at Oakland Arena in Oakland, Oct. 18, 2021. Derek Tobias/STAFF. OAKLAND — Los Angeles hard rockers System of a Down powered through the Bay Area for the first time in over 10 years on Monday, bringing Korn along for the ride after Faith…
  • Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 19
    Oct 19 2021
    12:01 AM

    Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 19

    Tim Hoffman No Comments 0
    Clockwise from top left: Kurt Baker, Lotic, Shakka, Namesake, aldn and Lil Migo. This week we feature the surreal discordant sound of Lotic, the playful antics of Shakka, as well as Lil Migo, Namesake, aldn and Kurt Baker. aldn, “n2o” — The thumping bass, 8-bit melody and snapping garage drumming…
  • REVIEW: Wilco gets down to business at the Fox in Oakland
    Oct 18 2021
    06:07 AM

    REVIEW: Wilco gets down to business at the Fox in Oakland

    David Gill No Comments 0
    Wilco performs at the Fox Theater in Oakland on Oct. 17, 2021. Karen Goldman/STAFF. OAKLAND — A light drizzle fell on Sunday night as Chicago rock group Wilco played the first of two nights at the Fox Theater. Many are hopeful the rain signaled an end to the…
  • Q&A: Erika Wennerstrom of Heartless Bastards learns to go with the flow
    Oct 18 2021
    12:01 AM

    Q&A: Erika Wennerstrom of Heartless Bastards learns to go with the flow

    Rachel Alm No Comments 0
    Heartless Bastards, courtesy Aaron Conway. Erika Wennerstrom has been fronting Heartless Bastards since 2003. The Austin roots-rock band’s sixth studio album, A Beautiful Life, which came out Sept. 10, is some of her strongest material since 2012’s Arrow. On it, she ponders the value of taking chances, materialism,…
  • PHOTOS: Phoebe Bridgers 'reunites'—and ignites—at the Greek Theatre
    Oct 17 2021
    03:10 AM

    PHOTOS: Phoebe Bridgers ‘reunites’—and ignites—at the Greek Theatre

    Onome Uyovbievbo No Comments 0
    Phoebe Bridgers performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on Oct. 16, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. BERKELEY – Phoebe Bridgers brought her “Reunion Tour” to the Greek Theatre Saturday night, and fans were singing along from the first song, “Motion Sickness,” off 2017’s Stranger in the Alps. The wanton wails…
  • REVIEW: Jack Antonoff and Bleachers bring the Jersey sound to the Masonic
    Oct 17 2021
    02:02 AM

    REVIEW: Jack Antonoff and Bleachers bring the Jersey sound to the Masonic

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    Bleachers perform at The Masonic in San Francisco on Oct. 16, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Jack Antonoff is a huge star now, thanks to his contributions to the music of other stars—deservedly so. As a happy side effect, his band Bleachers is now drawing much larger…
  • Insert Foot: Remembering Live 105, how change is inevitable
    Oct 17 2021
    01:44 AM

    Insert Foot: Remembering Live 105, how change is inevitable

    Tony Hicks No Comments 0
    Insert Foot vs. Dave FM. The Bay Area just lost a huge chunk of its musical soul—and just as big of a slice of its cool factor. San Francisco alt-rock station KITS-105.3 (Live 105/Alt 105; it switched names in 2017, but was always Live 105 to those remembering…
  • REWIND: It's Boss' Day, so let's strike and listen to pro-worker songs
    Oct 16 2021
    12:01 AM

    REWIND: It’s Boss’ Day, so let’s strike and listen to pro-worker songs

    Daniel J. Willis No Comments 0
    The Ramones in 1976. Courtesy. Today is National Boss’ Day. (Assuming you’re reading this the day it publishes, which, I mean, why wouldn’t you be.) Which is ironic. There are so many strikes about to start in the coming days that it may turn into a general strike…
  • Q&A: Molly Moore focusing on herself in life and new music
    Oct 13 2021
    12:01 AM

    Q&A: Molly Moore focusing on herself in life and new music

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    Molly Moore performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 4, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — After Molly Moore first moved from New York to Los Angeles to pursue a full-time music career, besides the more typical work waiting tables, she’d pick up numerous…
  • Aftershock Day 4: Metallica, Rise Against, 6 more we loved Sunday
    Oct 11 2021
    01:04 AM

    Aftershock Day 4: Metallica, Rise Against, 6 more we loved Sunday

    Mike DeWald No Comments 0
    Metallica performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 10, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO — Aftershock Fest couldn’t contain Metallica to just one night night. For the first time in the festival’s history, the Friday headliner returned on Sunday to close out the weekend with a second set. One…
  • INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next
    Oct 11 2021
    12:01 AM

    INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next

    Mike DeWald No Comments 0
    Claud, courtesy. Pop singer-songwriter Claud is in Texas, where the next day they’ll take the stage at Austin City Limits. Just a few weeks later they’ll travel west for San Francisco’s Outside Lands. These big shows are becoming the norm as the singer builds momentum following the February…
  • Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
    Oct 10 2021
    06:17 AM

    Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday

    Mike DeWald No Comments 0
    Mudvayne performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 9, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO —Saturday night Aftershock line-up was marked by two reunions, of sorts. The night was headlined by The Original Misfits, with vocalist Glenn Danzig and bassist Jerry Only. The reunion, which came in 2016, followed…
  • Q&A: Chris Pierce opening hearts and changing the face of Americana
    Oct 07 2021
    12:01 AM

    Q&A: Chris Pierce opening hearts and changing the face of Americana

    Rachel Alm No Comments 0
    Chris Pierce performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. Chris Pierce has been busy. Between his Americana-flavored trio Leon Creek, his soulful collaboration with Sunny War (War & Pierce), and his hard-hitting blues-folk solo album American Silence, it’s surprising…
  • Q&A: Work ethic pays off for former auto dealership porter JJ Wilde
    Oct 06 2021
    12:01 AM

    Q&A: Work ethic pays off for former auto dealership porter JJ Wilde

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    JJ Wilde performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 4, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — Building momentum off a tremendous run of success, including three No. 1s in her native Canada and a JUNO Award for Rock Album of the Year (becoming the…
  • Interview: How San Jose native Sean Miyashiro built Asian arts giant 88rising
    Oct 04 2021
    12:01 AM

    Interview: How San Jose native Sean Miyashiro built Asian arts giant 88rising

    Roman Gokhman No Comments 0
    88rising founder and CEO Sean Miyashiro, courtesy. Sean Miyashiro looks at 88rising’s partnership with the makers of Marvel’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” as a case of “worlds colliding.” The 40-year-old CEO and president of the wildly successful Asian art and music company—a San Jose…

News

    • Radio station Alt 105.3 switches formats to 'adult hits'
      Radio station Alt 105.3 switches formats to ‘adult hits’
      October 15, 2021 at 3:33 pm
      Dave FM. Longtime Bay Area alt-rock radio station KITS 105.3 has been rebranded to the “adult hits” format DAVE FM by Audacy, which operates the station.…
      'Madame X' shows Madonna continue her reign on Paramount+
      ‘Madame X’ shows Madonna continue her reign on Paramount+
      October 8, 2021 at 6:00 am
      “Madonna: Madame X,” courtesy. Madonna has been Madonna for so long it’s hard to think of her as anything but that. Yes, she’s drifted into film…
    • SF Symphony to kick off 2021-'22 season with Esperanza Spalding, surprise trio
      SF Symphony to kick off 2021-’22 season with Esperanza Spalding, surprise trio
      September 28, 2021 at 10:05 pm
      San Francisco Symphony Music Director Esa Pekka Salonen, courtesy Minna Hatinen. The San Francisco Symphony will officially kick off its new season with three concerts featuring…
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass distributing $1 million in grants to arts organizations
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass distributing $1 million in grants to arts organizations
      September 25, 2021 at 2:32 pm
      Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell perform at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Oct. 6, 2013. Courtesy: Jay Blakesberg. The producers…
    • Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      September 21, 2021 at 1:48 pm
      The Midnight performs at The Independent in San Francisco on Oct. 20, 2018. Shawn Robbins/STAFF. The producers of Outside Lands revealed its lineup of night shows…
      Metallica at the Independent: What attendees are saying
      Metallica at the Independent: What attendees are saying
      September 16, 2021 at 5:58 pm
      Metallica at the Independent on Sept. 16, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. This running post will be updated as more information is reported from the Independent. Just past…
    • PHOTOS: Tame Impala kicks off Chase Center concerts after postponements
      PHOTOS: Tame Impala kicks off Chase Center concerts after postponements
      September 16, 2021 at 2:15 am
      Tame Impala performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 15, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — The first band to see its Chase Center…
      PHOTOS: Korn and Staind a contrast in COVID era at Shoreline show
      PHOTOS: Korn and Staind a contrast in COVID era at Shoreline show
      September 12, 2021 at 6:54 am
      Korn performs at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, Calif., on Sept. 11, 2021. MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Despite singer Jonathan Davis still recovering from a bout…
    • Is BottleRock Napa different this year?
      Is BottleRock Napa different this year?
      September 4, 2021 at 10:07 am
      Crowds at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 3, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — It was just like in years past—for the…
      Obituary: Lee "Scratch" Perry dead at 85 in Jamaica
      Obituary: Lee “Scratch” Perry dead at 85 in Jamaica
      August 29, 2021 at 4:10 pm
      Lee “Scratch” Perry, courtesy. Artist and producer Lee “Scratch” Perry, a reggae pioneer, inventor of dub music, whose use of recording techniques also made significant gains for…
    • Sigmund Stern Grove heavily damaged after water main break, final festival concert canceled
      Sigmund Stern Grove heavily damaged after water main break, final festival concert canceled
      August 25, 2021 at 2:35 pm
      Flooding damage from a water main break at Sigmund Stern Grove in San Francisco on Monday, Aug. 23. Courtesy. A water main rupture on Sloat Avenue…
      Obituary: Charlie Watts, the bedrock of The Rolling Stones, dead at 80
      Obituary: Charlie Watts, the bedrock of The Rolling Stones, dead at 80
      August 24, 2021 at 9:28 pm
      Charlie Watts of The Rolling Stones with performs with his other band, The ABC & D of Boogie Woogie, at the Casino in Herisau, Switzerland on…
    • Don Everly of the Everly Brothers dead at 84
      Don Everly of the Everly Brothers dead at 84
      August 23, 2021 at 8:55 pm
      Phil Everly (L) and Don Everly (The Everly Brothers) perform on TV on April 1, 1960. Photo: V&A Images/Getty Images. Don Everly, cofounder of Rock and…
      Friends of Zion I's Zumbi gather to pay tribute in virtual memorial
      Friends of Zion I’s Zumbi gather to pay tribute in virtual memorial
      August 22, 2021 at 8:45 pm
      Screenshot from the live-streamed “Celebrate the Life of Zumbi” memorial on Aug. 22, 2021. Around 1,000 viewers tuned in on Sunday evening for a live-streamed memorial…
    • Oakland honors Shock G with food drive, procession and performances
      Oakland honors Shock G with food drive, procession and performances
      August 22, 2021 at 12:12 pm
      A mural of Digital Underground’s Shock G by artist Ryan Anthony Martinez in Oakland. Relatives and friends of Shock G, as well as musicians and fans honored…
      Oakland Symphony Music Director, maestro Michael Morgan dies at 63
      Oakland Symphony Music Director, maestro Michael Morgan dies at 63
      August 21, 2021 at 12:14 am
      Michael Morgan, courtesy Oakland Symphony. Long-time Oakland Symphony conductor and Music Director Michael Morgan died Friday after a years-long illness, the symphony announced. Morgan expounded orchestral…
    • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass canceled for second year, going virtual
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass canceled for second year, going virtual
      August 19, 2021 at 8:42 am
      Emmylou Harris performs at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Oct. 6, 2019. Martin Lacey/STAFF. The producers of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass…
      GoFundMe started for children of late Zion I founder Zumbi, Berkeley police probe death
      GoFundMe started for children of late Zion I founder Zumbi, Berkeley police probe death
      August 15, 2021 at 5:50 pm
      Stephen Gaines (Zumbi) of Zion I with his three sons, photo: GoFundMe. Updated on Aug. 17 at 5:40 p.m. — A GoFundMe campaign has been started for…
    • Noise Pop announces lineup for 20th Street Block Party in October
      Noise Pop announces lineup for 20th Street Block Party in October
      August 12, 2021 at 1:39 pm
      Con Brio performs at BottleRock Napa Valley in Napa on May 28, 2017. Alessio Neri/STAFF. Portland folk-pop band Y La Bamba and San Francisco’s soul and…
      Concert promoter AEG and San Francisco will require full vaccination at concerts
      Concert promoter AEG and San Francisco will require full vaccination at concerts
      August 12, 2021 at 12:37 pm
      Thrice fans at City National Civic in San Jose on Nov. 2, 2017. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. AEG Presents, one of the world’s largest concert and event promoters, announced…
    • Stevie Nicks cancels tour, including BottleRock headlining spot
      Stevie Nicks cancels tour, including BottleRock headlining spot
      August 10, 2021 at 3:09 pm
      Stevie Nicks performs with Fleetwood Mac at Oakland Arena on Dec. 3, 2014. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac,on Tuesday scrapped her entire tour, including her…
      Michael Tilson Thomas undergoes emergency brain surgery
      Michael Tilson Thomas undergoes emergency brain surgery
      August 6, 2021 at 8:50 am
      SF Symphony Music Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas, Courtesy: SF Symphony. San Francisco Symphony Music Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas underwent an emergency surgery to remove…
    • Golden State Warriors dance squads back in action
      Golden State Warriors dance squads back in action
      August 1, 2021 at 11:54 pm
      The Golden State Warriors audition finalists for its dance squads in front of Chase Center in San Francisco on July 31, 2021. Matt Pang and Onome…
      Masking, proof of vaccination, COVID screening reenter concert conversation
      Masking, proof of vaccination, COVID screening reenter concert conversation
      July 28, 2021 at 8:46 pm
      Fans watch Zedd perform at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco on Aug. 6, 2021. Matt Pang/STAFF. Updated July 30 at 12:10 p.m.: BottleRock…

Festival News

    • INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next
      INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next
      October 11, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Claud, courtesy. Pop singer-songwriter Claud is in Texas, where the next day they’ll take the stage at Austin City Limits. Just a few weeks later they’ll…
      Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      October 10, 2021 at 6:17 am
      Mudvayne performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 9, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO —Saturday night Aftershock line-up was marked by two reunions, of sorts. The…
    • Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      October 9, 2021 at 6:09 am
      Metallica performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 8, 2021. Photos courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO — Metallica frontman James Hetfield was clearly back in his element…
      Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      September 21, 2021 at 1:48 pm
      The Midnight performs at The Independent in San Francisco on Oct. 20, 2018. Shawn Robbins/STAFF. The producers of Outside Lands revealed its lineup of night shows…
    • BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      September 6, 2021 at 7:45 am
      Foo Fighters perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Photos: Adam Pardee/STAFF with the exception of Foo Fighters (courtesy…
      BottleRock Day 2: Miley Cyrus, Guns N' Roses, 10 others we loved on Saturday
      BottleRock Day 2: Miley Cyrus, Guns N’ Roses, 10 others we loved on Saturday
      September 5, 2021 at 2:27 am
      Miley Cyrus performs at BottleRock Napa on Sept. 4, 2021. Photos: Adam Pardee/STAFF unless otherwise noted. NAPA — Miley Cyrus has rebelled against the constructs that…
    • Is BottleRock Napa different this year?
      Is BottleRock Napa different this year?
      September 4, 2021 at 10:07 am
      Crowds at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 3, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — It was just like in years past—for the…
      BottleRock 2021 Day 1: G-Eazy, Highwomen and 13 other sets we loved on Friday
      BottleRock 2021 Day 1: G-Eazy, Highwomen and 13 other sets we loved on Friday
      September 4, 2021 at 12:54 am
      The Highwomen perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 3, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — After country star Chris Stapleton, himself…
    • Halloween Meltdown version of annual concert back on at Mosswood Park
      Halloween Meltdown version of annual concert back on at Mosswood Park
      September 2, 2021 at 12:05 pm
      The Mummies perform at Burger Boogaloo in Oakland on June 30, 2018. Karen Goldman/STAFF While the Mosswood Meltdown concert, an annual festival previously known as Burger…
      INTERVIEW: Joywave pushes forward to a post-pandemic 'Cleanse'
      INTERVIEW: Joywave pushes forward to a post-pandemic ‘Cleanse’
      September 1, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Joywave (L to R: Joseph Morinelli, Daniel Armbruster and Paul Brenner). Courtesy Eyvn Morgan. It took some time, but Joywave vocalist Daniel Armbruster says he’s looking…
    • Navigating BottleRock 2021: An hour-by-hour guide for all 3 days
      Navigating BottleRock 2021: An hour-by-hour guide for all 3 days
      August 31, 2021 at 2:23 pm
      Attendees at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on May 26, 2019. Shawn Robbins/STAFF. You there! What have you been up to the last…
      9 BottleRock acts you shouldn’t miss this weekend
      9 BottleRock acts you shouldn’t miss this weekend
      August 30, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Jon Batiste, courtesy. We’ve all been out of practice with navigating a massive music festival. Though you may have been lucky enough to enjoy live music…
    • Interview: Gracie Abrams ready to move beyond heartbreak, play live
      Interview: Gracie Abrams ready to move beyond heartbreak, play live
      August 27, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Gracie Abrams, courtesy Lauren Leekley. If the idea of pouring out your feelings about a past relationship to your current boyfriend feels it would be awkward,…
      BottleRock Napa announces Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage lineup
      BottleRock Napa announces Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage lineup
      August 24, 2021 at 6:03 pm
      Tiffani Thiessen and crew at the Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage at BottleRock Napa Valley on May 26, 2018. Courtesy. Chefs José Andrés and Guy Fieri, as…
    • SF Sketchfest to return in January
      SF Sketchfest to return in January
      August 24, 2021 at 5:27 pm
      SF Sketchfest tribute to NBC’s ‘Superstore.’ Photos: Mike DeWald. SF Sketchfest will return to San Francisco from Jan. 7 to 23, producers announced on Tuesday. The…
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass canceled for second year, going virtual
      Hardly Strictly Bluegrass canceled for second year, going virtual
      August 19, 2021 at 8:42 am
      Emmylou Harris performs at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco on Oct. 6, 2019. Martin Lacey/STAFF. The producers of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass…
    • INTERVIEW: Crimson Apple brings its sister act to BottleRock
      INTERVIEW: Crimson Apple brings its sister act to BottleRock
      August 16, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Crimson Apple, courtesy Bjoern Kommerell. The four sisters in Crimson Apple play a dark and glossy brand of pop music, so it may seem surprising that…
      Noise Pop announces lineup for 20th Street Block Party in October
      Noise Pop announces lineup for 20th Street Block Party in October
      August 12, 2021 at 1:39 pm
      Con Brio performs at BottleRock Napa Valley in Napa on May 28, 2017. Alessio Neri/STAFF. Portland folk-pop band Y La Bamba and San Francisco’s soul and…
    • Interview: Future Islands learn to take it slow and get inspired by the moment
      Interview: Future Islands learn to take it slow and get inspired by the moment
      August 11, 2021 at 4:02 am
      Future Islands, courtesy Devin Yalkin. Future Islands frontman Samuel Herring was in a Stockholm cab one morning earlier this summer, being driven to the airport. He…

Features

    • INTERVIEW: Pokey LaFarge shows his lighter side on 'Blossom of Their Shade'
      INTERVIEW: Pokey LaFarge shows his lighter side on ‘Blossom of Their Shade’
      October 8, 2021 at 3:00 pm
      Pokey LaFarge, courtesy. On his seventh album, In the Blossom of their Shade, Pokey LaFarge and his band deescalate the intensity of his last two albums. The…
    • Interview: How San Jose native Sean Miyashiro built Asian arts giant 88rising
      Interview: How San Jose native Sean Miyashiro built Asian arts giant 88rising
      October 4, 2021 at 12:01 am
      88rising founder and CEO Sean Miyashiro, courtesy. Sean Miyashiro looks at 88rising’s partnership with the makers of Marvel’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”…
    • Interview: Madison Cunningham looks for hope and promise in loss
      Interview: Madison Cunningham looks for hope and promise in loss
      September 27, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Madison Cunningham, courtesy. Madison Cunningham doesn’t usually do her interviews from her car in a grocery store parking lot. It was the coffee, or lack of…
    • INTERVIEW: Hot off stardom at home, New Zealand's SIX60 escapes to the U.S.
      INTERVIEW: Hot off stardom at home, New Zealand’s SIX60 escapes to the U.S.
      September 20, 2021 at 12:01 am
      SIX60, courtesy. NAPA — As music fans in the U.S. face a reemerging music industry—with some rescheduled concerts taking place but others postponed yet again due…
    • INTERVIEW: Norii runs toward the future on "I Don't Love You Anymore"
      INTERVIEW: Norii runs toward the future on “I Don’t Love You Anymore”
      September 16, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Norii, courtesy. When San Diego singer-songwriter Norii goes out on her regular distance run, she’ll envision the future she dreams of for herself. “When I run,…
    • Interview: Walk Off the Earth finds something to chew on with new LP, kids project
      Interview: Walk Off the Earth finds something to chew on with new LP, kids project
      September 13, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Walk Off the Earth performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — The latest project from Walk…
    • Interview: Mon Laferte on her second album of 2021, Metallica cover
      Interview: Mon Laferte on her second album of 2021, Metallica cover
      September 9, 2021 at 10:51 am
      Mon Laferte, courtesy.  Like most musicians, Mon Laferte is extremely eager to get back out on the road. Mon Laferte Flor de Toloache 8 p.m., Saturday,…
    • INTERVIEW: Joywave pushes forward to a post-pandemic 'Cleanse'
      INTERVIEW: Joywave pushes forward to a post-pandemic ‘Cleanse’
      September 1, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Joywave (L to R: Joseph Morinelli, Daniel Armbruster and Paul Brenner). Courtesy Eyvn Morgan. It took some time, but Joywave vocalist Daniel Armbruster says he’s looking…

Podcasts

    • 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…
    • 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…

Album Reviews

    • REVIEW: My Morning Jacket feels lucky to be alive on self-titled LP
      REVIEW: My Morning Jacket feels lucky to be alive on self-titled LP
      October 18, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Jim James feels lucky to be alive, and you can hear his exultation on the new self-titled album from My Morning Jacket. “Lucky to be Alive” is…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Young Thug shows his hand on 'Punk'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Young Thug shows his hand on ‘Punk’
      October 15, 2021 at 8:46 am
      It’s kind of wild that Punk is only the second album from Young Thug, considering his prolific output of 19 mixtapes. The rapper had expressed a desire to embrace…
    • Kelly Clarkson celebrates the season on 'When Christmas Comes Around...'
      Kelly Clarkson celebrates the season on ‘When Christmas Comes Around…’
      October 15, 2021 at 12:17 am
      Kelly Clarkson, “When Christmas Comes Around…” It’s become trendy for artists to put out Christmas songs and albums as the season rolls around. Some are serious,…
      REVIEW: Coldplay delights and disappoints on 'Music of the Spheres'
      REVIEW: Coldplay delights and disappoints on ‘Music of the Spheres’
      October 14, 2021 at 11:45 pm
      Music of the Spheres, the ninth album from Coldplay, is the auditory culmination of years of electronic experimentation. Over the course of about two decades, Coldplay…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Finneas finds his own voice and footing on 'Optimist'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Finneas finds his own voice and footing on ‘Optimist’
      October 14, 2021 at 12:19 am
      If you’re unaware of Billie Eilish and her songwriting partner, producer and older brother Finneas, then you simply haven’t been paying attention to pop culture in…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Zac Brown Band back at it with 'The Comeback'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Zac Brown Band back at it with ‘The Comeback’
      October 12, 2021 at 12:01 am
      While Zac Brown Band last made a new album just two years ago with The Owl, that album saw the group experiment with its sound. Truth…
    • REVIEW: Carlos Santana a gracious host on 'Blessings and Miracles'
      REVIEW: Carlos Santana a gracious host on ‘Blessings and Miracles’
      October 11, 2021 at 12:01 am
      It seems that with many duet albums that bring disparate popular music talents together, there’s a sort of sliding scale of how much influence the “host”…
      REVIEW: Sam Fender revels in teen angst on 'Seventeen Going Under'
      REVIEW: Sam Fender revels in teen angst on ‘Seventeen Going Under’
      October 5, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Sam Fender, Seventeen Going Under British singer-songwriter Sam Fender made waves with his debut EP, Dead Boys, back in 2018, a six-track endeavor that he penned entirely solo.…
    • James Blake examines lost connections on ‘Friends That Break Your Heart’
      James Blake examines lost connections on ‘Friends That Break Your Heart’
      October 4, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Last year saw singer-songwriter-producer James Blake return to his club roots on a daring four-track EP. A step slightly left from his recent catalog’s intense melancholia,…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Meek Mill bares the cost of 'Expensive Pain'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Meek Mill bares the cost of ‘Expensive Pain’
      October 1, 2021 at 6:06 am
      “All that glitters isn’t always gold,” so the saying goes. Expensive Pain, the fifth studio album from Meek Mill, rides largely on the idea that money can’t…
    • REVIEW: Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett reunite once more on 'Love For Sale'
      REVIEW: Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett reunite once more on ‘Love For Sale’
      September 30, 2021 at 10:43 pm
      Paying tribute to the legendary composer and songwriter Cole Porter—and of course the undeniable legacy of Tony Bennett, now 95 and living with progressing Alzheimer’s—Bennett and…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Yes stays in its comfort zone on 'The Quest'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Yes stays in its comfort zone on ‘The Quest’
      September 28, 2021 at 12:01 am
      English progressive rock band Yes has been around for more than 50 years. It was among the first prog-rock bands to break through to the mainstream…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Brandi Carlile enters her blue period with ‘In These Silent Days’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Brandi Carlile enters her blue period with ‘In These Silent Days’
      September 27, 2021 at 12:01 am
      To get a bead on In These Silent Days, the new album by Brandi Carlile, it may help to compare it to an LP that came out 50…
      REVIEW: Third Eye Blind makes a strong return on 'Our Bande Apart'
      REVIEW: Third Eye Blind makes a strong return on ‘Our Bande Apart’
      September 26, 2021 at 4:18 pm
      Say what you will about Stephan Jenkins (and there’s plenty to say), but he’s a poet, and he’s always had unique phrasing and wordplay that have…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: G-Eazy faces his image on 'These Things Happen Too'
      ALBUM REVIEW: G-Eazy faces his image on ‘These Things Happen Too’
      September 24, 2021 at 6:05 am
      G-Eazy, “These Things Happen Too.” Everyone has regrets, and G-Eazy holds his share. His fourth LP, These Things Happen Too, finds G-Eazy having to grapple with the fallout…
      REVIEW: X Ambassadors make a muddle of heartbreak on 'The Beautiful Liar'
      REVIEW: X Ambassadors make a muddle of heartbreak on ‘The Beautiful Liar’
      September 22, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Don’t get it confused, kids: X Ambassadors’ The Beautiful Liar is a breakup album. Its bookending children’s audiobook conceit, its Jung-for-beginners Shadow figure and its incongruous…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Natalie Imbruglia brings the '90s sound back on 'Firebird'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Natalie Imbruglia brings the ’90s sound back on ‘Firebird’
      September 21, 2021 at 8:51 am
      The ’90s were a good time for Natalie Imbruglia. Her cover of “Torn” was a huge hit back then, and she racked up awards and modeling…
      Sufjan Stevens and Angelo De Augustine re-conceive 'A Beginner's Mind'
      Sufjan Stevens and Angelo De Augustine re-conceive ‘A Beginner’s Mind’
      September 21, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Sufjan Stevens and Angelo De Augustine, courtesy. What could be more beautiful than an artist drawing inspiration from another piece of art to then create his…
    • REVIEW: Poppy packs plenty of punch, goes with the flow on 'Flux'
      REVIEW: Poppy packs plenty of punch, goes with the flow on ‘Flux’
      September 20, 2021 at 12:01 am
      “Flux,” by Poppy. Just when you think you’ve got Poppy figured out, think again. On her new album, Flux, the musical shapeshifter stays within the rock universe…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Lil Nas X stands strong on 'Montero'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Lil Nas X stands strong on ‘Montero’
      September 16, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      Lil Nas X performs during WiLD 94.9’s Jingle Ball at The Masonic in San Francisco on Dec. 8, 2019. The debut album by Lil Nas X, Montero,…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: José González brings his signature sound to 'Local Valley'
      ALBUM REVIEW: José González brings his signature sound to ‘Local Valley’
      September 15, 2021 at 12:01 am
      José González has such a distinctive sound. Even though the first song on his fourth album, Local Valley, is in Spanish, which is new for the…
      REVIEW: The Stones' Ronnie Wood pays tribute to Jimmy Reed on 'Mr. Luck'
      REVIEW: The Stones’ Ronnie Wood pays tribute to Jimmy Reed on ‘Mr. Luck’
      September 14, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The music of bluesman Jimmy Reed was one of the notable influences on the nascent Rolling Stones in the early 1960s. And even if Ronnie Wood…
    • REVIEW: Lindsey Buckingham tips his hat to '60s pop on solo album
      REVIEW: Lindsey Buckingham tips his hat to ’60s pop on solo album
      September 13, 2021 at 12:32 pm
      After what nearly amounted to a Fleetwood Mac reunion album with 2017’s Lindsey Buckingham/Christine McVie, the first solo album from Lindsey Buckingham in a decade sounds…
      REVIEW: Injury Reserve owns its mourning on 'By the Time I Get to Phoenix'
      REVIEW: Injury Reserve owns its mourning on ‘By the Time I Get to Phoenix’
      September 10, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The second album from Injury Reserve emphasizes the impact last year had on the hip-hop group. But it wasn’t just the pandemic or societal unrest. Injury Reserve’s Steppa…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: J Balvin ready to be a household name with 'Jose'
      ALBUM REVIEW: J Balvin ready to be a household name with ‘Jose’
      September 9, 2021 at 10:55 pm
      For all of his existing accomplishments as the reigning king of reggaeton—the Latin Grammys, the duets with Beyoncé, Cardi B and other English-speaking heavyweights, the billions…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sleigh Bells attempt a return to form on 'Texis'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Sleigh Bells attempt a return to form on ‘Texis’
      September 8, 2021 at 12:01 am
      After two albums from a quieter place, Sleigh Bells are trying to go back to what works for them. Texis Sleigh Bells Mom + Pop Music,…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: The Vaccines escape the chaos 'Back in Love City'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Vaccines escape the chaos ‘Back in Love City’
      September 8, 2021 at 12:01 am
      History proves an airtight case could be made for escapist pop music during bleak times. Though songs like “Revolution” and “Sympathy For The Devil” are mainstays…
      REVIEW: Andrew W.K. orchestrates choreographed chaos on 'God is Partying'
      REVIEW: Andrew W.K. orchestrates choreographed chaos on ‘God is Partying’
      September 7, 2021 at 12:01 am
      In 2018, Andrew W.K. released You’re Not Alone, his first new rock album in 12 years. During his contractually inspired hiatus, he spent time variously as…
    • REVIEW: 'The Metallica Blacklist' has something for everyone
      REVIEW: ‘The Metallica Blacklist’ has something for everyone
      September 6, 2021 at 12:01 am
      “The Metallica Blacklist.” In honor of the 30th anniversary of their self-titled album, mostly referred to as the Black Album, Metallica is doing two things. The…
      REVIEW: Imagine Dragons positively unpredictable on 'Mercury - Act 1'
      REVIEW: Imagine Dragons positively unpredictable on ‘Mercury – Act 1’
      September 2, 2021 at 11:04 pm
      Imagine Dragons, “Mercury – Act 1.” After an intense six-year run that saw Imagine Dragons release four albums, tour non-stop and release hit after hit, the band…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Iron Maiden not sure who it is on 'Senjutsu'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Iron Maiden not sure who it is on ‘Senjutsu’
      August 31, 2021 at 9:21 pm
      Iron Maiden and I are very dear, old friends. I loved Killers so much 40 years ago (or at least the cover) that 13-year-old me took…
      REVIEW: Lauren Alaina is now 'Sitting Pretty On Top Of The World'
      REVIEW: Lauren Alaina is now ‘Sitting Pretty On Top Of The World’
      August 31, 2021 at 12:01 am
      It really feels like singers who were booted early on from “American Idol” or ultimately failed to win the most viewer votes have ultimately gone on…
    • REVIEW: The latest from LANY, 'gg bb xx,' is a fun ride with little depth
      REVIEW: The latest from LANY, ‘gg bb xx,’ is a fun ride with little depth
      August 31, 2021 at 12:01 am
      LANY, whose name is an acronym for Los Angeles and New York, wanted a four-letter moniker for aesthetic purposes when it formed in 2014—just not one…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kacey Musgraves dulls her sparkle on ‘star-crossed’
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kacey Musgraves dulls her sparkle on ‘star-crossed’
      August 31, 2021 at 12:01 am
      It sure came as a surprise that Troye Sivan and Mark Ronson tapped Kacey Musgraves for a remix of the dance pop nostalgia trip “Easy” in…
    • REVIEW: Little Simz pulls back the curtain on 'Sometimes I Might Be Introvert'
      REVIEW: Little Simz pulls back the curtain on ‘Sometimes I Might Be Introvert’
      August 30, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Self-reflection has been a critical part of the last year and a half for many first locked down with nowhere to go then worn down by…
      Halsey instigates debate on 'If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power'
      Halsey instigates debate on ‘If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power’
      August 26, 2021 at 11:41 pm
      Halsey, courtesy. A mere month after giving birth, Halsey has returned to the music scene with their most garish and gory project yet. Influenced heavily by…
    • REVIEW: Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner look back at what could have been
      REVIEW: Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner look back at what could have been
      August 24, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Aaron Dessner (The National) and Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) join forces once again for their second Big Red Machine endeavor. It’s filled with so many guest…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Chvrches cut through the noise on 'Screen Violence'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Chvrches cut through the noise on ‘Screen Violence’
      August 23, 2021 at 12:01 am
      CHVRCHES’ “Screen Violence.” The pandemic forced so many of us live our day-to-day lives through screens. From the TV to cell phone and laptop, screens defined…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Trippie Redd plummets with 'Trip at Knight'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Trippie Redd plummets with ‘Trip at Knight’
      August 20, 2021 at 7:05 am
      Hip-hop heads tend to be a reactionary lot. Criticizing someone’s favorite rapper can lead to unwinnable arguments. That is going to make this a difficult pill…
      REVIEW: Sturgill Simpson tells a western tale on 'The Ballad of Dood & Juanita'
      REVIEW: Sturgill Simpson tells a western tale on ‘The Ballad of Dood & Juanita’
      August 19, 2021 at 11:25 pm
      Sturgill Simpson doesn’t seem one for doing things in the traditional way. He had already released three albums in the last two years—one rock and two…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Lorde in existential crisis mode on 'Solar Power'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Lorde in existential crisis mode on ‘Solar Power’
      August 19, 2021 at 5:00 am
      “Solar Power” by Lorde. A lot can change in four years, even without a pandemic thrown into the middle of it. The escalating effects of climate…
      REVIEW: Becky Hill finally breaks through on 'Only Honest On The Weekend'
      REVIEW: Becky Hill finally breaks through on ‘Only Honest On The Weekend’
      August 17, 2021 at 3:55 pm
      If good things come to those who wait, then U.K. singer-songwriter Becky Hill is due for something pretty special. The Bewdley-born singer first surfaced on the…
    • REVIEW: Martha Wainwright fights through torment on 'Love Will Be Reborn'
      REVIEW: Martha Wainwright fights through torment on ‘Love Will Be Reborn’
      August 17, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Martha Wainwright zooms in on the subjects of her songwriting so closely and poetically on Love Will Be Reborn that despite the specificity of her words, she…
      Orla Gartland low on flash, high on substance with ‘Woman on the Internet’
      Orla Gartland low on flash, high on substance with ‘Woman on the Internet’
      August 17, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Orla Gartland is so unflashy with her artistic gifts that more jaded listeners might overlook them altogether. The young Irish singer-songwriter’s debut album, Woman on the Internet,…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: Kool & the Gang show their maturity with 'Perfect Union'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Kool & the Gang show their maturity with ‘Perfect Union’
      August 17, 2021 at 12:01 am
      If you’re a casual follower of Kool & the Gang you probably know them for “Jungle Boogie” and, especially if you attend Oakland A’s games, “Celebration.”…
      REVIEW: Switchfoot solidifies its place in rock on 'interrobang'
      REVIEW: Switchfoot solidifies its place in rock on ‘interrobang’
      August 16, 2021 at 12:01 am
      As Switchfoot releases its 12th studio album, interrobang (the first since 2019’s Native Tongue) fans of the San Diego band will be stoked to hear the group’s continued…
    • ALBUM REVIEW: The Killers explore small town despair on 'Pressure Machine'
      ALBUM REVIEW: The Killers explore small town despair on ‘Pressure Machine’
      August 12, 2021 at 9:00 pm
      “Pressure Machine” by The Killers. If you’re a millennial entering your 30s, stumbling upon facts that make you feel old is likely becoming a regular occurrence.…
      ALBUM REVIEW: Jungle saves summer with 'Loving In Stereo'
      ALBUM REVIEW: Jungle saves summer with ‘Loving In Stereo’
      August 9, 2021 at 12:01 am
      By all rights, the third LP from Jungle, Loving in Stereo, should have been the soundtrack to the back half of summer 2021. The driving grooves,…
    • REVIEW: Barbra Streisand digs through the vault again on 'Release Me 2'
      REVIEW: Barbra Streisand digs through the vault again on ‘Release Me 2’
      August 5, 2021 at 10:25 pm
      In 2012, Barbra Streisand took an initial look in her vault and rediscovered handfuls of old tapes with songs she’d recovered over her six-decades-plus in show…

Listen Now

    • REWIND: It's Boss' Day, so let's strike and listen to pro-worker songs
      REWIND: It’s Boss’ Day, so let’s strike and listen to pro-worker songs
      October 16, 2021 at 12:01 am
      The Ramones in 1976. Courtesy. Today is National Boss’ Day. (Assuming you’re reading this the day it publishes, which, I mean, why wouldn’t you be.) Which…
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 12
      Tuesday Tracks: Your Weekly New Music Discovery – Oct. 12
      October 12, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Clockwise from top left: William Lee Golden and The Goldens, SUMO CYCO, Bitch, Another One Down!, The Browning and Chris Lorenzo. This week’s Tuesday Tracks feature…

Q&A Interviews

    • Q&A: Molly Moore focusing on herself in life and new music
      Q&A: Molly Moore focusing on herself in life and new music
      October 13, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Molly Moore performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 4, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — After Molly Moore first moved from…
    • Q&A: Chris Pierce opening hearts and changing the face of Americana
      Q&A: Chris Pierce opening hearts and changing the face of Americana
      October 7, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Chris Pierce performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. Chris Pierce has been busy. Between his Americana-flavored…
    • Q&A: Work ethic pays off for former auto dealership porter JJ Wilde
      Q&A: Work ethic pays off for former auto dealership porter JJ Wilde
      October 6, 2021 at 12:01 am
      JJ Wilde performs at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 4, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — Building momentum off a tremendous run…
    • Q&A: Nick Urata of DeVotchKa on how the pandemic reaffirmed his priorities
      Q&A: Nick Urata of DeVotchKa on how the pandemic reaffirmed his priorities
      August 25, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Nick Urata of DeVotchKa performs at SXSW in Austin, Tex. in 2011. Jane Hu/STAFF. Denver quartet DeVotchKa may not have released an album in three years,…
    • Jerry Harrison, Adrian Belew and Turkuaz reimagine the Talking Heads' 'Remain In Light'
      Jerry Harrison, Adrian Belew and Turkuaz reimagine the Talking Heads’ ‘Remain In Light’
      August 9, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Jerry Harrison of the Talking Heads (second from left) and Adrian Belew (second from right) perform with Turkuaz. Courtesy Michael Weintrob. Guitarist Jerry Harrison has wanted…
    • Q&A: Maisie Peters puts the pedal to the metal on Ed Sheeran's label
      Q&A: Maisie Peters puts the pedal to the metal on Ed Sheeran’s label
      August 2, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Maisie Peters, courtesy Lillie Eiger. It took three tries, but Maisie Peters finally got her drivers license, using her parents’ car, naturally. However, soon after that,…
    • Q&A: Cola Boyy on how his prosthetic leg inspired 'Prosthetic Boombox'
      Q&A: Cola Boyy on how his prosthetic leg inspired ‘Prosthetic Boombox’
      July 5, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Cola Boyy, courtesy Ross Harris. Cola Boyy (Matthew Urango) has been changing the dialogue that mainstream music is willing to confront since his debut. A self-described…
    • Q&A: Pianist Ben Cosgrove on finding natural beauty outside his door
      Q&A: Pianist Ben Cosgrove on finding natural beauty outside his door
      June 7, 2021 at 12:30 am
      Ben Cosgrove, courtesy. For more than a decade pianist Ben Cosgrove has quietly combined his lifelong passion for nature and music. He traipses around beautiful wilderness…
    • Q&A: Gary Louris of the Jayhawks on the 'purity of creating,' writing as architecture
      Q&A: Gary Louris of the Jayhawks on the ‘purity of creating,’ writing as architecture
      May 27, 2021 at 12:11 am
      Gary Louris (The Jayhawks) courtesy Tim Geaney. Gary Louris has, off and on since the late 1980s, been one of the mainstays of The Jayhawks, a…

Festival news

    • INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next
      INTERVIEW: Claud puts in the work on Bleachers tour, Outside Lands next
      October 11, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Claud, courtesy. Pop singer-songwriter Claud is in Texas, where the next day they’ll take the stage at Austin City Limits. Just a few weeks later they’ll…
    • Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      October 10, 2021 at 6:17 am
      Mudvayne performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 9, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO —Saturday night Aftershock line-up was marked by two reunions, of sorts. The…
    • Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      October 9, 2021 at 6:09 am
      Metallica performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 8, 2021. Photos courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO — Metallica frontman James Hetfield was clearly back in his element…
    • Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      Outside Lands announces 2021 night shows
      September 21, 2021 at 1:48 pm
      The Midnight performs at The Independent in San Francisco on Oct. 20, 2018. Shawn Robbins/STAFF. The producers of Outside Lands revealed its lineup of night shows…
    • BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      September 6, 2021 at 7:45 am
      Foo Fighters perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Photos: Adam Pardee/STAFF with the exception of Foo Fighters (courtesy…

Opinion

    • Insert Foot: Judas Priest's Richie Faulkner is more metal than any of us
      Insert Foot: Judas Priest’s Richie Faulkner is more metal than any of us
      October 10, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest, courtesy. Sometimes words just can’t do justice to something’s pure awesomeness. But we have a duty to try anyway. Rendering: Adam…
      'Madame X' shows Madonna continue her reign on Paramount+
      ‘Madame X’ shows Madonna continue her reign on Paramount+
      October 8, 2021 at 6:00 am
      “Madonna: Madame X,” courtesy. Madonna has been Madonna for so long it’s hard to think of her as anything but that. Yes, she’s drifted into film…
    • Insert Foot: Publishing your rash isn't the kind of attention you need
      Insert Foot: Publishing your rash isn’t the kind of attention you need
      October 3, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Insert Foot vs. Nextdoor. LAFAYETTE, Calif. — My friends and I had this funny little thing in high school (we thought everything we did was funny)…
      Insert Foot: A big anniversary week for which game-changing guitar record?
      Insert Foot: A big anniversary week for which game-changing guitar record?
      September 26, 2021 at 12:01 am
      Insert Foot on what Nirvana and Boston have in common. This week rock music fans celebrated an important milestone in the history of guitar rock. Boston…

Concert Reviews

    • REVIEW: Jack Antonoff and Bleachers bring the Jersey sound to the Masonic
      REVIEW: Jack Antonoff and Bleachers bring the Jersey sound to the Masonic
      October 17, 2021 at 2:02 am
      Bleachers perform at The Masonic in San Francisco on Oct. 16, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Jack Antonoff is a huge star now, thanks to…
    • Aftershock Day 4: Metallica, Rise Against, 6 more we loved Sunday
      Aftershock Day 4: Metallica, Rise Against, 6 more we loved Sunday
      October 11, 2021 at 1:04 am
      Metallica performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 10, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO — Aftershock Fest couldn’t contain Metallica to just one night night. For the…
    • Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      Aftershock Day 3: Mudvayne, The Original Misfits, 3 more we loved Saturday
      October 10, 2021 at 6:17 am
      Mudvayne performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 9, 2021. Courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO —Saturday night Aftershock line-up was marked by two reunions, of sorts. The…
    • Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      Aftershock 2021 Day 2: Metallica reigns at revitalized hard rock festival
      October 9, 2021 at 6:09 am
      Metallica performs at Aftershock Fest in Sacramento on Oct. 8, 2021. Photos courtesy Aftershock. SACRAMENTO — Metallica frontman James Hetfield was clearly back in his element…
    • REVIEW: In This Moment, Black Veil Brides bring heaviness to The Warfield
      REVIEW: In This Moment, Black Veil Brides bring heaviness to The Warfield
      October 4, 2021 at 8:18 am
      In This Moment performs at The Warfield in San Francisco on Oct. 3, 2021. Nate McKinley/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco Giants win the NL…
    • REVIEW: Michael Bublé charms at long-awaited Chase Center show
      REVIEW: Michael Bublé charms at long-awaited Chase Center show
      September 30, 2021 at 2:43 am
      Michael Bublé performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 29, 2021. Gary Chancer/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — After being postponed three times, Michael Bublé finally brought…
    • REVIEW: Alanis Morissette and Garbage celebrate 'Jagged Little Pill' at Concord Pavilion
      REVIEW: Alanis Morissette and Garbage celebrate ‘Jagged Little Pill’ at Concord Pavilion
      September 30, 2021 at 1:21 am
      Alanis Morissette performs at Concord Pavilion in Concord, Calif. on Sept. 29, 2021. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. Garbage photos: Sean Liming/STAFF. CONCORD — Alanis Morissette has such a…
    • From across the pond: Bring Me the Horizon conquers the U.K.
      From across the pond: Bring Me the Horizon conquers the U.K.
      September 29, 2021 at 3:21 pm
      Oli Sykes of Bring Me the Horizon performs at Utilita Arena in Sheffield, England on Sept. 24, 2021. Courtesy: Jamie A. Waters. SHEFFIELD, England — It…
    • REVIEW: St. Vincent brings 'Daddy' home to the Greek Theatre
      REVIEW: St. Vincent brings ‘Daddy’ home to the Greek Theatre
      September 24, 2021 at 7:07 am
      St. Vincent performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on Sept. 23, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. BERKELEY — St. Vincent (artist Annie Clark) isn’t afraid of dramatically changing how…
    • REVIEW: The Wallflowers win over golf fans at the Fortinet Championship
      REVIEW: The Wallflowers win over golf fans at the Fortinet Championship
      September 18, 2021 at 7:01 am
      The Wallflowers perform during the PGA Tour Fortinet Championship at the Silverado Resort in Napa on Sept. 17, 2021. Nate McKinley/STAFF. NAPA, Calif. — After a…
    • REVIEW: The Monkees' Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith recall their heyday at San Jose Civic
      REVIEW: The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith recall their heyday at San Jose Civic
      September 16, 2021 at 1:25 am
      Micky Dolenz (L) and Michael Nesmith of the Monkees perform at San Jose Civic in San Jose on Sept. 15, 2021. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. SAN JOSE — Storytelling…
    • PHOTOS: Korn and Staind a contrast in COVID era at Shoreline show
      PHOTOS: Korn and Staind a contrast in COVID era at Shoreline show
      September 12, 2021 at 6:54 am
      Korn performs at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, Calif., on Sept. 11, 2021. MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Despite singer Jonathan Davis still recovering from a bout…
    • BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      BottleRock Day 3: Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, 13 others we loved on Sunday
      September 6, 2021 at 7:45 am
      Foo Fighters perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 5, 2021. Photos: Adam Pardee/STAFF with the exception of Foo Fighters (courtesy…
    • BottleRock Day 2: Miley Cyrus, Guns N' Roses, 10 others we loved on Saturday
      BottleRock Day 2: Miley Cyrus, Guns N’ Roses, 10 others we loved on Saturday
      September 5, 2021 at 2:27 am
      Miley Cyrus performs at BottleRock Napa on Sept. 4, 2021. Photos: Adam Pardee/STAFF unless otherwise noted. NAPA — Miley Cyrus has rebelled against the constructs that…
    • REVIEW: Lindsey Stirling brings music, dance, her adorable dog to Concord
      REVIEW: Lindsey Stirling brings music, dance, her adorable dog to Concord
      September 4, 2021 at 1:54 am
      Lindsey Stirling performs at Concord Pavilion in Concord, Calif. on Sept. 3, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. CONCORD, Calif. — Thanks to Lindsey Stirling, Concord, California had the coolest…
    • BottleRock 2021 Day 1: G-Eazy, Highwomen and 13 other sets we loved on Friday
      BottleRock 2021 Day 1: G-Eazy, Highwomen and 13 other sets we loved on Friday
      September 4, 2021 at 12:54 am
      The Highwomen perform at BottleRock Napa Valley at the Napa Valley Expo on Sept. 3, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. NAPA — After country star Chris Stapleton, himself…
    • REVIEW: Green Day brings 40,000 together at Hella Mega spectacle in SF
      REVIEW: Green Day brings 40,000 together at Hella Mega spectacle in SF
      August 28, 2021 at 5:04 am
      Green Day performs during the Hella Mega Tour at Oracle Park in San Francisco on Aug. 27, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — It wasn’t the…
    • REVIEW: Rise Against relishes strength in numbers at The Masonic
      REVIEW: Rise Against relishes strength in numbers at The Masonic
      August 23, 2021 at 7:52 am
      Rise Against performs at The Masonic in San Francisco on Aug. 22, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — “I know I’ve been gone for what seems…
    • REVIEW: The Black Crowes shake their 'Money Maker' at Concord Pavilion
      REVIEW: The Black Crowes shake their ‘Money Maker’ at Concord Pavilion
      August 22, 2021 at 1:19 am
      The Black Crowes perform at Concord Pavilion in Concord, Calif. on Aug. 21, 2021. Steve Carlson/STAFF. CONCORD, Calif. — The last time Rich and Chris Robinson…

Photos

    • PHOTOS: Phoebe Bridgers 'reunites'—and ignites—at the Greek Theatre
      PHOTOS: Phoebe Bridgers ‘reunites’—and ignites—at the Greek Theatre
      October 17, 2021 at 3:10 am
      Phoebe Bridgers performs at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on Oct. 16, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. BERKELEY – Phoebe Bridgers brought her “Reunion Tour” to the Greek Theatre…
    • PHOTOS: Bell Biv DeVoe and friends recreate '90s R&B magic at Chase Center
      PHOTOS: Bell Biv DeVoe and friends recreate ’90s R&B magic at Chase Center
      October 3, 2021 at 6:54 am
      Bell Biv DeVoe performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 2, 2021. Sean Liming/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — It’s been nearly 31 years since New…
    • PHOTOS: Luke Combs brings his 'Five Leaf Clover' to Chase Center
      PHOTOS: Luke Combs brings his ‘Five Leaf Clover’ to Chase Center
      October 2, 2021 at 6:39 am
      Luke Combs performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 1, 2021. Sean Liming/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Luke Combs embraced the isolation of the pandemic and used…
    • PHOTOS: Lil Baby and Lil Durk go 'Back Outside' at Oakland Arena
      PHOTOS: Lil Baby and Lil Durk go ‘Back Outside’ at Oakland Arena
      September 26, 2021 at 6:56 am
      Lil Baby performs at the Oakland Arena in Oakland on Sept. 25, 2021. Matt Pang/STAFF. OAKLAND — Coming off the hype of being featured on two…
    • PHOTOS: Dayglow brings all the best moves to the Regency Ballroom
      PHOTOS: Dayglow brings all the best moves to the Regency Ballroom
      September 23, 2021 at 6:43 am
      Dayglow performs at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Sept. 22, 2021. Chloe Catajan/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Since last year, Sloan Struble of Dayglow went…
    • PHOTOS: Willow Smith brings 'lifE' to Regency Ballroom
      PHOTOS: Willow Smith brings ‘lifE’ to Regency Ballroom
      September 19, 2021 at 7:20 am
      Willow Smith performs at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on Sept. 18, 2021. Onome Uyovbievbo/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — Willow Smith has hit her stride, and…
    • PHOTOS: Tame Impala kicks off Chase Center concerts after postponements
      PHOTOS: Tame Impala kicks off Chase Center concerts after postponements
      September 16, 2021 at 2:15 am
      Tame Impala performs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sept. 15, 2021. Adam Pardee/STAFF. SAN FRANCISCO — The first band to see its Chase Center…