Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "live music"

SERGE! IS COMING TO TOWN...

2013-04-10T00:53:34Z

On Saturday, April 13, 2013, the Sacramento French Film Festival will bring Gainsbourg-mania to Sacramento for the fourth year in a row, with Serge! a party paying homage to one of France’s most provocative artists, Serge Gainsbourg. Featuring films, music, art and French cocktails, Serge! is one of the most fun and unique parties Sacramento has to offer!

Serge Gainsbourg, a major figure in the 1960's, ‘70's, and ‘80's pop-culture, took the world by storm through a fog of Gitanes and alcohol, reinventing himself from Gainsbourg to “Gainsbarre”! Singer-songwriter, director, actor, photographer, provocateur, and iconoclast, Gainsbourg was the lover of sex-symbol Brigitte Bardot and fathered singer-actress Charlotte Gainsbourg with famous English beauty Jane Birkin. He wrote songs for countless artists including France Gall, Vanessa Paradis, Juliette Greco, Catherine Deneuve and Isabelle Adjani. Gainsbourg is still considered one of the world's most influential and popular artists.

Serge! brings together several Sacramento musical talents: from DJs Christophe and Roger to live tribute bands Afternoon Teacup Collection and Peter Petty IS Dirge Gainsbourg. Serge! will also feature a lightshow from Rainbow Prism Atomic and local Gainsbourg inspired artwork…

A program of three short films inspired by Gainsbourg will start the evening: Une nuit qu’il etait à se morfondre… (One Night He Was Lingering Around…) by Cyril Paris, Variations sur Marilou by Félix Dufour-Lapierre and L’Histoire de Melody Nelson by Sébastien Merlet. Films will be presented in French with English subtitles. After the screening, you will dance the night away to the sound of live tribute bands and Gainsbourg songs!

Don’t forget to visit the bar for champagne, beer, wine and the SFFF’s signature Pastis cocktails served to you with an enchanting Southern French accent by Guy, the SFFF bartender!

In conjunction with its Serge! celebration, and for the first time this year, the Sacramento French Film Festival is launching a call for artists so that the Sacramento arts community can be represented on the “Gainsbourg Wall” in Paris! Gainsbourg lived at 5 bis rue de Verneuil in the 7th arrondissement from 1969 until his death in 1991. Since he passed away, artists and fans have been paying homage to him by adding graffiti, poems, collages, and stencils on the wall in front of his house, making the “Gainsbourg Wall” a constantly evolving work of art. Sacramento artists are invited to create a stencil inspired by Gainsbourg. The winning design will be stenciled on the iconic graffiti-covered wall in front of Gainsbourg’s house in Paris this summer. Entries will be judged by a team composed of members of the SFFF, Verge Center for the Arts, and local artists (deadline is May 30, 2013). Winners will be announced during the 12th Sacramento French Film Festival (June 21-30 at the Crest Theatre). More information can be found on the Sacramento French Film Festival website.

SERGE! 4th ANJNUAL GAINSBOURG TRIBUTE PARTY will happen this Saturday, April 13 at Verge Center for the Arts. 625 S Street, Downtown Sacramento.
7:30p.m. Doors and bar open!
8:00p.m. Short Film Screening.
9:00p.m. Live Music by Afternoon Teacup Collection & Peter Petty IS Dirge Gainsbourg.
10:00p.m. till 1:00a.m. French Pop Dance Party w/ DJ Christophe & DJ Roger Carpio.

The event benefits the Sacramento French Film Festival and Verge Center for the Arts.

Editor’s note: Every Thursday we deliver a local event guide straight to your inbox, right on time to make your weekend plans. Sign me up.

Disclosure: Cecile Mouette Downs is the Executive & Artistic Director of the Sacramento French Film Festival.

Photos: Black Veil Brides at Ace of Spades

2013-03-08T07:09:48Z

Hollywood band Black Veil Brides performed at Ace of Spades on Wednesday night in support of their new album "Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones."

The air was thick with anticipation as support bands Overwatch and William Control played their sets. When Black Veil Brides finally took the stage, the packed venue erupted with the defeaning squeals of teenage girls and made me very thankful I had brought hearing protection.

I can say with complete confidence that it was an entertaining show.

Want to see what shows are coming up at Ace of Spades? Click here.

Pretty in black: Black Veil Brides to play Ace of Spades

2013-02-27T21:46:21Z

Don't let the party stop after you've had your fill of beer and fashion this week, Sacramento!

How do tattoos, black face paint, and tight, black leather sound?

Good? Then check out Hollywood rock band Black Veil Brides at Ace of Spades next Wednesday, March 6.

While seemingly more known to some for their visual aesthetics than their music, these wild-haired bad boys in eye shadow are continually refining their musical style and have seen it evolve from screaming heavy metal to a more anthemic rock sound.

They're making a play for the big time with their third album, "Wretched and Divine: The Story of the Wild Ones," an ambitious rock opera à la My Chemical Romance's "The Black Parade."

BVB will be joined at Ace by William Control and Overwatch.

General admission tickets are $18 plus a $3.95 service fee. Doors are at 7 p.m. and it's an all ages show.

Editor’s note: Every Thursday we deliver a local event guide straight to your inbox, right on time to make your weekend plans. Sign me up.

Hot Water Music, La Dispute at Ace of Spades

2013-02-09T05:25:20Z

If you didn't make it out to Ace of Spades last night to catch the Hot Water Music tour, you missed some great performances.

Critically acclaimed group The Menzingers kicked off the night right with a set of rough, blue-collar punk.

Vocalist Greg Barnett mentioned that it was the band's first time in Sacramento. Mission accomplished on making a good first impression.

After finishing a set that included fierce songs like "Nice Things" and "Irish Goodbyes," the crowd hoped to hear more, chanting "One more song!" which doesn't happen very often with supporting bands that no one cares about.

All signs (my past experience) pointed to second support act La Dispute putting on a passionate, entertaining show, and that's what happened.

Starting out in fine fashion with "The Most Beautiful Bitter Fruit," the set also included songs "Harder Harmonies," "Andria," and "New Storms for Older Lovers," which vocalist Jordan Dreyer dedicated to headliners Hot Water Music.

The songs played like confessional diary entries; spoken and shouted-word lyrics accompanied by minor-chord harmonies. The crowd would finish some of Dreyer's lines by shouting out lyrics which added another visceral element to the show.

Dreyer mentioned playing a "pizza place" in Sacramento before, recalling a 2010 show at Luigi's Slice and Fun Garden with Touché Amoré, Loma Prieta and A Lot Like Birds.

The band ended with the excellent "King Park," which draws you in and paints a picture of a drive-by shooting and its aftermath in intense detail.

Unfortunately, La Dispute didn't allow any photography, so my overall experience was soured a bit. You'll just have to use your imagination to get a visual.

Headliners Hot Water Music wrapped up the night with a set of raw, butt-kicking organic rock.

The Gainesville, Fla., band has a catalog eight albums deep going back to 1995, and they dipped into a little bit of everything.

Their set included the songs "Remedy," "Mainline," "Trusty Chords," "Giver," "State of Grace" and "Paper Thin."

The band came back on stage for an encore of "True Believers," a Bouncing Souls cover, and "Turnstile," from 1997's "Fuel for the Hate Game."

Check the Ace of Spades website for information on upcoming shows.

Photos by Steven Chea.

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Hot Water Music to play Ace of Spades

2013-02-01T01:41:13Z

Florida's Hot Water Music has been refining a brand of gravel-throated rock somewhere between punk and post-hardcore (or whatever you want to call it) for nearly 20 years now.

On Thursday, Feb. 7, they bring it to the best live music venue in Sac, Ace of Spades.

Led by guitarist and vocalist Chuck Ragan and featuring a very tight and complex rhythm section, HWM is touring behind 2012's "Exister," their eighth studio album and first album of new material in eight years. A live album, “Live in Chicago,” was also released in late 2012.

Joining HWM on the bill are the indisputably excellent Grand Rapids, Mich., band La Dispute and The Menzingers, from Scranton, Pa.

The Menzingers' "On the Impossible Past" was recently voted the number one album of 2012 by AbsolutePunk, Punknews.org, and Rock Sound.

Do yourself a favor and get there early for La Dispute and The Menzingers!

Tickets are $18 plus a $3.95 service fee. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and it's an all ages show.

Editor’s note: Every Thursday we deliver a local event guide straight to your inbox, right on time to make your weekend plans. Sign me up.

Disclosure: I have seen La Dispute perform before and I was VERY impressed.

Al Stewart returns to Sacramento

2012-12-10T20:47:19Z

Al Stewart returns to Harlow's

On an evening from a Stewart concert in a city where they have good times, I strolled out of Harlow's crowd like all was hunky-dory, contemplating the rhymes of Al Stewart's provoking and image-filled songs.

I thought just then as I walked back to my car, “I hope Al returns to Sacramento. The cat does great stuff.”

That's especially so when he shares the stage with another great guitarist, one who lives just across the causeway in Davis, named Dave.

All that played in my head Dec. 18, 2011, one of those Years of the Cat, if you know what I mean.

In 2011, Stewart and Dave Nachmanoff ruled from the Harlow's platform as I sat there, rapt. I had missed out, professionally, by a few years, having slipped out of commercial radio and into TV. I never got to sit between two tables and read the labels of an Al Stewart single, or LP or CD for that matter, so it was a buzz for me to talk with him on the phone last week, just before the upcoming gig at Harlow's, Thursday evening, Dec. 13, 2012 ... sans le chat. (If French isn't your thing, “sans le chat” means “without the cat.”)

Like me (but for not as long), Stewart's been around awhile. Still, his music is fresh and sounds as if he might have written some of it only yesterday, which I think he did.

I asked him what's kept his enchanting songs that way these many years.

“Not composing what's already been done,” Stewart said. “Using language in a different manner and changing it for sound images that fit my melodies and vice versa.”

“Well, it's certainly been getting my attention,” was the only thing I could think to say back to him.

My guess is that attention to Stewart's Sacramento return this week will be something you'll pay if you show up at Harlow's early this Thursday evening. It will be, for me, Christmas coming almost a week early.

One more thing: 2023 will be the next Year of the Cat, which is also the title Stewart gave his classic and haunting song.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m., concluding at 9 p.m. Online tickets are available at Harlow's or Swell Productions. Last minute, if there's still room, try your luck for a paid entry to this certain-to-be-excellent performance at Harlow's front door, 2708 J St., Sacramento.

Editor’s note: Every Thursday we deliver a local event guide straight to your inbox, right on time to make your weekend plans. Sign me up.

Second Hand Weed Smoke with Wiz Khalifa

2012-11-13T04:57:05Z

Wiz Khalifa and the Taylor Gang came to the Sacramento Sleep Train Arena, Sunday, Nov. 11.

This concert took a turn for the interesting before I had even left the stadium parking lot. Several of its participants were already drunk or smoking the band’s preferred choice: weed. Many car alarms went off as some people stumbled into the arena to watch the artists that made up the Taylor Gang and the headliner Wiz Khalifa.

Once inside the arena it became quickly obvious that this was not a family outing. The outfits ranged from interesting in color to scantily clad. But as Wiz said when he first took to the stage, “We are all about creating an environment where you feel free to be yourself. Drink what you want, smoke what you want and be you.” And the crowd did.

The Taylor Gang consists of Berner, Lola Monroe, Chevy Woods and Juicy J. Berner was the first to hit the stage. While he had a good beat and carried his timing well, the real show didn’t start until Monroe came on stage. She rapped new songs from her upcoming CD, “Lipstick & Pistols.” Woods followed her performance before introducing Juicy J.

Juicy J is the ultimate performer. He utilized everything from the props on the stage, to the lighting effects, to his own charismatic personality. At one point even I was on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what he would do next. For one of his songs, he invited 300 ladies in the crowd to come up on stage and dance with him. This ended up being the most entertaining part of the night.

Then Juicy J did something he swore he had never done at a concert: he invited a guy up to his stage. This ended up being a 14-year-old kid who looked like he won the lottery. Juicy J encouraged the girls on stage to make this “a night he would never forget.”

By the time Wiz Khalifa had taken the stage, I had lost count of how many times all the performers had asked the crowd, “Who is smoking the good weed?” Needless to say, the arena had become hazy with smoke and glowed with light from hundreds of lighters. Center stage to Wiz was a larger-than-life statue of a bong that occasionally had steam (at least I hope that’s what it was) coming from it.

Wiz rapped songs that had mostly not been heard before. He has a new album coming out Dec. 4, and he was taking his material from that. There was a great moment in the night when all the members of the Taylor Gang came out on stage with Wiz, and he not only rapped with them, but also gave each a personal shoutout to the crowd.

The night was memorable, down to the stage dancers who were dressed as a lighter and blunt. The greatest thing I can say, though, about the music is that there was a sense of family with this group; all for one, and we look out for each other. Each took time to promote the other. And they all flowed so seamlessly together as if they had been working with each other for multiple years.

While they all had great timing in their raps, it really comes down to the group dynamic. I think this is what made this concert so special. And I think this is what is going to keep them around and at the top of charts for a while.

Eric Church Comes to Sleep Train Arena

2012-11-13T04:52:09Z

Eric Church played at the Sleep Train Arena on Saturday, Nov. 10, with special guests Justin Moore and Kip Moore.

While I am personally not a fan of country music, I couldn’t help but be a little charmed by the fans who are. Dressed in cowboy boots and hats, it was nice to have the door held open for me and to hear “Excuse me, ma’am,” as I passed by. Church is a very popular country musician, especially with the ladies, so I saw a lot of jumping up and down as crowd members made their way to their seats.

Justin Moore started the night off, playing crowd favorites like “Til My Last Day” and “Small Town USA,” which got the audience amped up. Kip Moore followed. One of his more entertaining songs, “Beer Money,” got the most amusing crowd participation, since beer seemed to be the drink of choice for the night.

Church used fog and lights to create a unique stage experience. The backdrop was a black-and-white frame from his CD “Chief,” which was well-recognized by all his fans. The crowd accompanied him in many of his songs, making this a boisterous event.

Church played popular songs like “Creepin’,” which had many people dancing either in their seats or among the general audience. I have to admit my foot may have also been tapping. There is something contagious about a group that is truly enjoying themselves.

The song that drove the crowd wild, though, was “Drink in My Hand.” The arena almost came to life as everyone lifted the drink they were drinking toward the stage. There was a unity in the music and words that was not only fun to see, but also special.

Church loves his music and it’s obvious from his fans that they love him, too.

Owner: Townhouse Lounge to close early next year

2012-10-16T17:24:04Z

Townhouse Lounge, the bar and nightclub located at 1517 21st St., is expected to close early next year, according to owner/operator Desi David.

“We’ve been there so long – it’s been 15 years – and the landlord is going to raise the lease,” he said. “We don’t blame them, and we don’t know what’s going to happen in the future.”

David said the business won’t close immediately, and will likely stay open through the holidays, and possibly into next year.

“We’re being completely positive about it right now,” he said. “We’ve got a nice community, and we will see what happens.”

The business is open from 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. every day and features multiple levels of dancing, a bar and live music shows.

Photos: !!! !!! (Chk Chk Chk) at Harlow's

2012-10-06T00:49:52Z

!!! (Chk Chk Chk) is back in California for a few days, and they put on a banger of a show last night at Harlow's.

I was hoping frontman Nic Offer would be wearing tiny little shorts and I was not disappointed. His pair on Thursday featured The Rolling Stones' “Some Girls” album artwork.

Guitarist Mario Andreoni and the rest of the band sounded great. The skinny and lithe Offer thrust his pelvis all over the stage, and came down into the crowd a couple of times to get sweaty with the audience. He smelled awful, and freely admitted as much himself when he got back on stage.

If you're wondering about the next !!! album, Offer said they were working on it and it'll be released next year.

Great show by !!! as usual. Impossible not to like, very danceable and guaranteed to put a stirring in your loins.

The show was presented by Concerts 4 Charity and Record Club. Concerts 4 Charity's mission is to help foster a healthy independent music and arts community in Sacramento, and Record Club throws some sweet music-related events.

Photos by Steven Chea.

90's revival with Stone Temple Pilots, Bush

2012-09-25T01:49:28Z

I can't remember the last time there was an all-day music festival in the city limits with some big-name acts, so I was excited to check out the Monster Energy Aftershock 2012 festival at Discovery Park on Sunday.

The bill was a mix of "hard rock" bands on two stages. Performers included FallRise, Stepchild, Oleander, Beware of Darkness, Gemini Syndrome, Hell or Highwater, Escape the Fate, Ho llywood Undead, Theory of a Deadman, Chevelle, Bush, Deftones, and Stone Temple Pilots.

I was especially excited to see Deftones, Bush and STP, since they remind me of being in high school, and they play songs I recognize.

Sacramento bands were well-represented (FallRise, Stepchild, Oleander, and Deftones) and all the bands got a great response from the crowd. Sacramento continues to go crazy for Deftones, and their set sent the crowd into easily the biggest tizzy of the day.

The festival had its hiccups, but everything ran smoothly as far as I could tell. The parking situation was hit or miss; going left took you to a parking area right next to the festival entrance and going right took you to one that was a good deal further away. What I think happened is that the closer lot was originally supposed to be the VIP parking area but anybody who made a left at the traffic light ended up parking there because it wasn't easy to turn around and go to the other lot.

Almost every band's set started later than posted start times. It wasn't a big deal unless you hate standing and waiting. In that case, it was rough.

The main stage and the second stage were close enough so you didn't have to walk too far back and forth, and here was no sound bleed over from the two stages since only one stage was going at a time. The lines for food, drinks and Porta Potties were long, but not ridiculously long. I had an extremely delicious $5 chicken burrito with tomatillo salsa from a Mexican food catering truck. I can't remember the name of the business but I believe they have a restaurant on Northgate.

There was a lot of shade in the park, but boy was it hot.

I heard rumblings that the city would be pushing to have the Aftershock festival return next year, possibly in a two-day incarnation. That would be neat, and great for Sacramento. But can we please get some free water-refilling stations next year?

Photos by Steven Chea

Roseville Welcomes Sammy's Rockin' Island Bar & Grill

2012-09-20T04:29:46Z

Saturday, September 15, 2012 was declared Sammy Hagar Day in Roseville, California.

Roseville, trying to bolster it's downtown business district and nightlife reputation took the opening of Sammy's Rockin' Island Bar & Grill and turned it into a full weekend of festivities with Sammy being presented with the key to the city and a charity concert by the Red Rocker himself.

Five placer county non-profit organizations benefited from the proceeds of the events; as Sammy said "We haven't even opened the doors yet and we've already raised $40,000 for local charities." It is hoped the restaurant will be the catalyst for change in downtown Roseville, where businesses along Vernon Street seem to have a tough time making a go of it. Additionally the city recently started construction on a Town Square that will be a space for future events including concerts, farmer's markets, and other community festivities.

Sammy spoke with the press about his investment in downtown Roseville, "You know, developers might have wanted to come in here and just knock it down. I travel the world and see these old towns with history, and I'm really glad that Roseville wanted to preserve it."

The reason for choosing Roseville? "Hey, you know everybody thinks I'm such a smart guy. I don't think these things up. Smart guys come to me (like Steve Pease, my partner here) with proposals, and I go okay I've got an idea, and they go build it." "Hey, you know, two weeks ago, when I was here I didn't think we were gonna make it in time - somebody hasn't been sleeping - not me, I never touched a hammer."

Sammy also spoke of the positive impact that the restaurant will make in the community, having already provided jobs to 150 (as his fans are called) Red Heads; additionally the restaurant will continue to make donations to community based non-profits through sales of the guitars that hang over the bar, and through the Hagar Family Foundation. The Me-One Foundation, Tommy Apostolos Fund, Placer Breast Endowment Fund, The Keaton Raphael Memorial Fund, and Woodshop Rocks were selected as the beneficiaries of the opening night festivities. Radio station 96.9 The Eagle hosted the event, emceed by on-air personality Kat Maudru. Sammy graciously accepted the key to the city, the Sammy Hagar day proclamation, and other gifts from Roseville Mayor Pauline Roccucci, while teacher Duane Calkins and some of the kids from the Buljan Middle School Woodshop Rocks program waited anxiously in the wings to present Sammy with a custom made rosebud shaped guitar.

While red was the theme of the day, the restaurant is a tropically themed "Island" in the middle of downtown Roseville. Oceanic blue, starfish orange, and sea foam green dominate the color scheme. There are two levels of seating with a bar on each level, serving up Sammy's newest libation "Beach Bar Rum." Turns out, Sammy is quite the bartender, concocting a tasty rum cocktail on the spot for members of the media to sample. He called it, "The Sammy." Several menu items share a similar moniker; including Cubano Sammy (a roasted pork sandwich) and Sammy's Loco Moco, a rice dish described as an Island Favorite on the menu.

In addition to the wonderful array of tropical fusion cuisine being offered, the restaurant is expected to serve up live music three nights a week, however, Sammy left any possible future appearances a mystery, "Hey one day, I'll be kicking around, bored or restless and I'll say 'I'm gonna go play a gig in Roseville,' but you'll never know about it." Luckily, there are already several good shows coming up including, (according to Sammy) Jeff Watson (formerly of Night Ranger) with his cover band this Saturday night. The Spazmatics, Auto Replay, and Frank Hannon are going to be rockin' Sammy's Rockin' Island Bar & Grill in October.

With all of the ceremonious hoopla and the addition of a destination restaurant that's sure to be a hit with residents and visitors alike, Downtown Roseville may have scored the biggest coup in revitalization history. As Sammy noted, "With this restaurant, you can expect to be transported; look at this place; it's a beach hut, the dress code here is t-shirt, shorts and flip flops; especially when we get this place full of Red Heads and the music starts playing, it's a place to put your feet in the sand and it's fun, fun fun! When you leave you're gonna be like, 'Hey look I'm still in Roseville!'

The restaurant is expected to hold its official Grand Opening this Saturday, September 22.

Catherine Russell does Harlow's

2012-09-16T19:35:09Z

Music review by Gary Chew

Jazz and blues vocalist Catherine Russell came into my “sonic” view late. I'm so much the richer for that now-comfortable music connection with this native New Yorker. I know that, after scrutinizing her talent, I'm the poorer for not having heard this woman sooner. But Catherine, as they say, was a late bloomer, albeit has worked with names that have blinked on marquee lights, just like her father, Luis Russell, did. Luis Russell was Louis Armstrong's music director in the mid-forties, and was a pianist, composer-arranger and big band leader.

Catherine sings at Harlow's (2708 J St.) on Friday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. Swell Productions and Capital Public Radio (my old stomping grounds) are making it all happen. There’s a rumor that 88.9’s Gary Vercelli will introduce Catherine.

Tickets? Right here: www.swell-productions.com.

Catherine's voice is a unique mixture of what almost seem like contrasting qualities. It's velvety and smoky, yet clean and clear — so confident with the music — and spot-on with intonation. I like that.

Catherine's mother Carline Ray (a veteran jazz bassist and vocalist) brings it all together for Catherine with her father's musical experiences early in the 20th century in New Orleans, Chicago and New York City. Luis Russell and Armstrong were almost the same age, born 1902 and 1901, respectively.

I was delighted to hear how Catherine and the ensembles that back her on two CDs (“Inside This Heart of Mine” and “Strictly Romancin'”) capture the essence of different kinds of great music that are so loved by so many.

American popular songs, like “I'm in The Mood For Love” and “As Long as I Live,” are given adroit, polished readings by Catherine. Listening to other tracks, her ensemble reminds me of greats from back in the day, like Django Reinhardt, Joe Venuti and a little of the more modern-sounding Art Van Damme. And did I hear something akin to Nat Cole's incomparable and legendary trio?

Then there's blues and swing — which Catherine’s father, in a big-band kind of way, was into early on. I noticed the jump, Dixieland and straight-ahead, as well as a bit of gospel she sings with her mother. On other tracks, spicy banjo playing springs from Catherine’s ensemble, which broadens Russell's music concept even more — all of it pure American, naturally, delivered over the plate and in the pocket.

Whoa! She does nothing that’s not solid, and I think the lady could sing it all backwards and still cut it — with our loving it. I must ‘fess up, though, and say that Catherine does a Duke Ellington-Mack David song that I'd not heard: “Long, Strong and Consecutive.” It was just one of those things --- I missed.

As I've said for a long time now, “There's no time like the present.” Even if the blooming's late.

When Russell gets to Harlow's, I hope she'll sing “All the Cats Join In” and Fats Waller's “Inside This Heart of Mine.” I'll be in the audience giving her act close attention.

Smokey Robinson Brings Motown to Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-08-13T22:03:38Z

Smokey Robinson brought Motown to Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Outdoor Amphitheatre in Lincoln on Saturday night.

Even at 72, Robinson was in great shape and able to get the audience on their feet as he performed his hit songs “More Love,” “Ooo Baby Baby,” “Tears of a Clown,” I Second that Emotion” and more.

Arriving on stage shortly after 8 p.m., Robinson greeted the crowd in a flashy white suit. He later changed into a more casual look – wearing stylish jeans and a tee-shirt.

From the beginning of the show to the very end, Robinson sang uniquely expressive vocals, rarely missing a beat.

On top of being a great singer and songwriter, Robinson makes for a great front man, keeping the audience engaged the entire performance.

The crowd of nearly 4,500 endured the warm temperatures at Thunder Valley’s expansive Outdoor Amphitheater as the sun went down.

Robinson ended the show by singing “Cruisin” and brought two women from the crowd up on stage.

Robinson is an American R&B singer-songwriter, record producer and former record executive.

Robinson is most notable for being the founder and lead singer of the popular Motown vocal group, The Miracles.

In 1987, Robinson was inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Summer Concert Series lasts through September.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

Second Saturday Grand Opening of Rossi Sculptural Designs Studio Gallery

2012-08-08T02:13:22Z

Editor's note: This article was co-written with Madison Loven.

Join us August 11th for the grand opening of Sacramento’s newest gallery, Rossi Sculptural Designs Studio. Clad humbly in corrugated metal, the mid-sized studio sits inconspicuously in a warehouse district in midtown. In it you’ll find metal pieces of all shapes and sizes, colored glass pieces, hand tools, and various machines with which to manipulate the mediums. It is an artist’s playground. And according to its owner, there is an artist in everyone, even if they don’t know it.

Run by local artist and sculptural bike rack extraordinaire, Gina Rossi, this gallery is also a school for learning how to fuse glass and weld metal. Gina says that teaching MIG sculptural welding and fused glass classes in her 20th and S Street Midtown urban studio allows her to connect with the community and keep the magical journey of art alive. Her goal is to inspire Sacramentans to tell their stories through creating community public art sculptures for all to enjoy.

Gina’s work dots the midtown landscape. She specialized in creating one-of-a-kind sculptural art bicycle racks. You may have seen Gina’s fierce dragon bike rack on 12th and R Street. Or perhaps you’ve read about her latest creations for the Sutter District, but have you seen her perform a live sculptural jam performance, where music-driven kinetic masterpieces are created before your eyes? Don’t miss this opportunity to observe the art of plasma cutting then experience the thrill of welding first-hand!

Gina has also invited several of her colleagues to display various mediums to mark this special occasion. One of the more known artists, Jerrod Mays, from French Camp, CA, will be showing his Lodi Community Art Center's 50th Annual Spring Art Show Best of Show piece, “Crazy Legs,” a four-and-a-half-feet tall metal spider made from an old air compressor and “It’s Complicated,” his larger-than-life sculpture octopus, which received an Award of Merit at the 2012 California State Fair.

Sacramento native, Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CWO3), Tony R. Ulep, will showcase metallic photograph prints of his many deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The photographs explore the fascinating cultures, architecture, landscapes, and blazing sunrises and sunsets of the Middle East.

Do you have some creativity of your own to unleash? Well come and observe the art of plasma cutting then experience the thrill of welding first-hand or join in painting on our canvass wall mural, created for the community, by the community.

Rossi Sculptural Designs regularly presents an opportunity for other playful spirits to come manipulate the elements wielding fire against steel and glass. Sculptural welding classes are held the first and third week of the month, and fused glass classes are offered the second and fourth weeks. Visit facebook.com/rossisculpturaldesigns like the page and then click on “Promos” under the timeline to get $50 off any beginners welding or fused glass class, but hurry, the promotion ends August 31, 2012.

For more information, contact rossisculpturaldesigns@gmail.com
Rossi Sculptural Designs
1801 20th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811

Disclosure: This article was written by Madison Loven & Karen Ulep, two former students of Rossi Sculptural Designs Studio.

Photos: Wanderlust Festival 2012

2012-08-01T01:38:30Z

Read Casey Kirk's take on Wanderlust 2012 here.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Wanderlusting for inner peace

2012-07-31T04:02:06Z

A cloud of incense, copious amounts of body hair and tree-hugging hippies vomiting love and sunshine all over each other.

These are things that might come to mind when envisioning Wanderlust, a music and yoga festival nestled in the mountains of Lake Tahoe.

While the love and sunshine part might be partially (and pleasantly) true, the rest couldn’t be further from the truth.

Instead, Squaw Valley was transformed over the weekend into a gathering place for fit, radiant and well-kept yogis and yoginis of all ages and backgrounds, arriving by land and air from various parts of the West Coast.

Aimed at creating a community around mindful living, the festival’s mission is to encourage the principles of:

• Practicing yoga to clear the mind, tone the body and heal the spirit.
• Eating well by supporting local farms and purchasing organic and sustainably grown products as often as possible.
• Being green by committing to sustainable practices including waste reduction, recycling, composting, the utilization of renewable energy sources and carbon offsetting.
• Practicing purpose by building partnerships with likeminded companies that value social good and the bottom line.
• Creating awareness by using the Wanderlust platform to highlight (and hopefully resolve) the most important current issues of today.
• Showcasing art by inviting creative expression, treasuring the community of artists and providing a canvas for their work.

Sacramentan and a self-proclaimed “true Wanderlust” Che Perez, who has attended the event for the past four years, said he lives for these types of events.

“The vibe at Wanderlust is awesome. The instructors are top-notch and the music is world-class. But it's the incredible energy of all the Wanderlusters that makes the event at Squaw Valley truly unique. There really is nothing else like it anywhere.”

Thursday night kicked off the annual festival, which offered around 300 activities (see full schedule here) that attendees could mix and match into personalized spiritual makeover packages. At around $500 for an entire-festival pass, inner peace didn’t come cheap (but was well worth it).

Whether it was searching for some major soul decongesting, a need for a little bit of extra Zen in their lives, or just a desire for some good old-fashioned fun, Wanderlust welcomed all with open arms and a loving heart.

For four days the village was transformed into a spiritual playground scattered with massive meditation domes, outdoor yoga tents, a “Quantum Playground” (complete with tightropes) and mini live music venues all with a picturesque mountainside backdrop.

Yoga and meditation classes taught by world-renowned instructors, speakeasy talks by international speakers, therapeutic hikes and rafting day trips, and poolside parties were just a few of the activities Wanderlusters could partake in during the day.

Auburn resident Michele Walden, a second-year Wanderluster and avid yogini, is already making plans to go again next year.

“I come [to Wanderlust] for community, the gorgeous backdrop and the opportunity to be taught from some of the greatest yoga teachers in the world. I was especially happy to take Wendy Devore’s class … she’s my teacher at my home studio, East Wind Yoga…”

At night yoga classes were replaced with “Winederlust” happy hours, roller rink parties and live performance art and music by artists Beats Antique, Quixotic, Youssoupha Sidibe, Shaman’s Dream, MC Yogi and Ziggy Marley.

Keeping with the theme of empowerment and positivity, MC Yogi rapped about yoga and meditation while encouraging festival-goers to “be the change you want to see in the world.” A festival-goer himself, Yogi was just as enthusiastic about the weekend as the crowd.

“Wanderlust this year in Lake Tahoe was one of the most uplifting gatherings that I've witnessed so far. My mind was blown by the talks given by speakers like Dr. Wayne Dyer, Congressman Tim Ryan, yoga teachers like Shiva Rea, Baron Baptise and Sianna Sherman, not to mention Quixotic and Ziggy Marley, it was seriously off the hook.”

As a final culmination to a soul-freeing and world-bettering weekend, reggae megastar Ziggy Marley entranced the audience with his lyrics about love and freedom.

The festival came full circle, as Marley’s uplifting words served as a reminder to Wanderlusters to take their festival experience and education back into the world.

Namaste.

Visit the #WLCA Twitter feed and official Wanderlust Twitter page.

“Like” Wanderlust on Facebook.

Visit the official Wanderlust website.

See more photos by Steven Chea here.

The American Idol Tour Comes to Sacramento

2012-07-24T16:20:15Z

The “American Idol” tour came to Sacramento on Saturday, July 21, to Power Balance Pavilion.

The tour consisted of the top ten contestants on season 11. Even hours before the show started, you could see fans in self-made “Idol” T-shirts waiting outside Power Balance Pavilion in anticipation of the show.

The concert started off with a group number that was sung by all the “Idol” artists except for the winner, Phillip Phillips. The whole crew did covers ranging from “Party Rock” by LMFAO, “That’s What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction, and even classics like “Rolling on the River” by Tina Turner.

This concert was both fun and vibrant. It contained a level of show quality that was enhanced by the projected backgrounds, lights and general enthusiasm of the accompanying band. The contestants also wore bright clothes that contained a lot of glitter and sequins, which made them stand out even from the back seats. The “Idol” artists as a whole also moved well together, creating a harmony between their dance moves and songs.

The best thing about this concert, however, was the varied ages among the concert goers. From young girls screaming when their favorite contestant, usually male, came onto the stage, to the older crowd who really got into the spirit of the classic cover songs the artists were singing, the concert represented the diversity of the “American Idol” fan base.

I got to go behind the scenes before the concert started to interview a few of the contestants. One of the things that struck me the most was that these were normal, everyday people who were just excited to take the stage and do what they love most. I think that is what makes “American Idol” so popular. It represents people’s dreams being fulfilled, and we relate to that since those people could be us.

Erika Van Pelt was the first contestant I interviewed. She was the first top ten contestant to be voted off the show. When I asked her about her experience she talked about the importance of staying true to who you were. “I didn’t get to show the fans my true self, and that is really something I hope to do on this tour,” she said. Erika did a solo performance during the concert of Pink’s “Glitter in the Air” that was both moving and soulful.

Hollie Cavanagh was the second contestant I interviewed. She made it all the way to the fourth “Idol” spot before being eliminated. Hollie has been a huge fan of the show since its first season. “It’s totally different behind the scenes than you could ever imagine when watching the show,” she said. She plans to take the tour one day at a time and enjoy every moment.

Finally I had the privilege of interviewing this season’s winner, Philip Phillips. He was very down-to-earth and wearing what I am told is his customary footwear: flip-flops. Philip hadn’t heard of the show much before auditioning. He just wanted to play his music. While this has been an experience of a lifetime, a lot of things have changed for him. “I was going to a small concert when people started to recognize me. It was surreal.”

Philip has been writing a lot since his season has ended. He draws his inspiration from experiences and all the people he has gotten to meet since the tour started. Even while dealing with an illness, he managed to stay true to himself.

It was an honor meeting all three of them. “American Idol” shows us that anything is possible. Most of these contestants were sitting on their couch last year. All three contestants I interviewed offered this advice to the people on the couches this year, wondering if they have what it takes: The first step towards your dreams is having the courage to pursue them.

Earth, Wind & Fire Brings Soul to Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-07-15T18:27:32Z

Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF) brought soul, disco, R & B and funk to Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Outdoor Amphitheater last night.

Although the band has been performing together for more than 40 years, they did not miss a stride in last night’s performance. In fact, they beamed on stage as they executed a stellar show.

EWF was founded in Chicago by Maurice White in 1969. The band has since received 20 Grammy nominations; winning six.

The group's award-winning accomplishments were evident as they performed hits “September,” “Let’s Groove,” “Shining Star,” among others.

The show was a visual spectacle as EWF’s stage presence had fantastic vibrant lighting.

EWF’s dynamic horn section stole the show.

The sold out crowd of 4,500 enjoyed the cool temperatures at Thunder Valley’s expansive Outdoor Amphitheater as the sun went down. The eclectic audience appeared captivated by EWF’s energy – giving several standing ovations, with many fans remaining standing for the entire show.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Summer Concert Series lasts through September.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

The Steve Miller Band Performs Greatest Hits at Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-07-14T17:58:29Z

The Steve Miller Band kept a sold out crowd on its feet last night at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln.

An American rock band formed in 1967 in San Francisco, Steve Miller Band is well-known for a string of classic rock staples.

Miller, the lead guitarist, vocalist and manager, did a remarkable job of mixing old favorites with newer songs at Thunder Valley’s Outdoor Amphitheater.

At age 68, Miller still captivates the audience and rocks out on stage with ease.

The highpoints of the show were Miller’s hit songs – which the audience did not hesitate to sing along to.

Miller was able to get nearly all 4,500 members of the crowd on their feet with one of his earliest hits, “Take the Money and Run.” The band also performed “Jet Airliner,” “Abracadabra” and “Rock N’ Me,” among others.

The Steve Miller Band closed the show with a roaring performance of one of his earliest hits, "The Joker."

In four years between 1973 and 1977, Miller released three top-five albums, which included six top-20 hits. Most recently, the band released “Bingo!,” a new album of blues and R&B covers.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Summer Concert Series lasts through September.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

Trace Adkins Brings Country to Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-07-02T17:36:22Z

Trace Adkins put on a strong show Friday night at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln.

Towering over the audience at 6-feet-6 inches tall, Adkins received a warm welcome as he took center stage at Thunder Valley’s Outdoor Amphitheatre.

Atkins, who has been voted Country’s Sexiest Man, was in a spirited mood and continually joked with the crowd between songs.

The sold out crowd of 4,500 were dressed in cowboy hats, cutoff shirts and knee high boots and remained standing through much of the show – laughing at Atkins’ witty humor and singing along to his expressive songs.

The Louisiana native performed hits like Honky Tonk Badonkadonk, Ladies Love Country Boys, and You’re Gonna Miss This as he worked his way across the stage in his signature black cowboy hat.

Last night’s show was just one of many on his Songs & Stories Tour, where Adkins uses social media to interact with his fans before and after the shows to determine the songs he performs on stage.

As part of the “stories” portion of his tour, Adkins told tales of his career, his family and his personal life throughout the show.

Adkins made his debut in 1996 with the album Dreamin’ Out Loud. Since then, Atkins has released seven more albums and two Greatest Hits collections.

Thunder Valley’s Summer Concert Series runs through September.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

Bret Michaels Rocks Out at Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-06-16T17:43:14Z

Bret Michaels proved to be a first-class performer as he wowed a packed audience last night at Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Outdoor Amphitheatre in Lincoln.

As part of his “Get Your Rock on 2012” tour, Michaels performed with special guests Night Ranger and Slaughter.

Slaughter, an American heavy metal band from Las Vegas, took the stage shortly after 7 p.m. and set the tone for a night of stellar rock n’ roll performances. Lead vocalist Mark Slaughter and bassist Dana Strum worked together well as they performed a medley of songs.

Night Ranger, an American rock band from San Francisco, was up next. A rugged group of five musicians, Night Ranger did not disappoint. The lead singer worked the crowd from one end of the stage to the other, engaging with the sold out audience of nearly 4,500.

Anticipation was in the air as Night Ranger exited the stage and audience members patiently awaited the main event of the evening.

The audience roared as Michaels took center stage with his trademark bandana.

Michaels was in an infectious mood – so upbeat and happy. His audience was captivated – nearly everyone standing, dancing and singing along to all of his songs.

Michaels performed well-known hits “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Look What the Cat Dragged In” and “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” among others.

Michaels first gained fame as the lead vocalist of metal band Poison, which has since sold over 30 million records worldwide. He also has several solo albums including Songs of Life, Rock My World and A Letter from Death Row.

Michaels has also appeared in several movies and TV shows and is a producer and reality television show star.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Summer Concert Series lasts through September.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

Creedence Clearwater Revisited Shines at Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2012-06-05T16:20:30Z

Creedence Clearwater Revisited (CCR) did not disappoint as they took center stage Saturday night at Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Outdoor Amphitheatre in Lincoln.

A large and enthusiastic crowd filled the amphitheater’s 4,500 seats while the band performed their old Creedence hits skillfully and with tremendous energy.

Lead singer John “Bulldog” Tristao stayed true to the timeless music and delivered exceptionally strong vocals while the talented Steve Gunner chimed in on the keyboard, acoustic guitar, harmonica and percussion.

The newest touring member, lead guitarist Kurt Griffey, impressed the audience with his strong solos. Griffey is not new to the music world – as a song writer, producer and performer; he has recorded and toured with members of the Eagles, Foreigner, Lynyrd Skynryd and Journey.

The crowd praised CCR as they performed hits Hey Tonight, Susie Q, Looking out my Backdoor, Down on the Corner, Fortunate Son and more.

Originally tokened Creedence Clearwater Revival, the American rock back gained popularity in the late 1960s and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

Despite the band's continued success, primary songwriter John Fogerty and his brother, rhythm guitarist Tom Fogerty, battled behind the scenes. Creedence Clearwater Revival officially separated in 1972.

Former Creedence Clearwater Revival members Stu Cook and Doug Clifford formed Creedence Clearwater Revisited in 1995 – initially planning to perform for private parties only.

CCR now performs up to 100 shows a year and has since recorded albums Recollection, The Best of Creedence Clearwater Revisited and JDRG Hope for the Holidays.

Saturday's concert was the third in the long line-up of summer concerts at Thunder Valley Casino Resort.

Disclosure: Miranda Marsalla handles Public Relations for Thunder Valley.

Phono Select has something up its (record) sleeve

2012-05-18T00:16:37Z

Record stores have been on the decline in recent years, thanks to online downloading and piracy, but don’t tell Phono Select Records owners Dal Basi and Nich Lujan that. Loyal customers to the store would be the first to tell you otherwise, as well. Phono Select is here for the long haul.
On a sunny, green spring afternoon, a customer locks his bike up outside the midtown shop and walks inside, where a few others already browse the aisles of vinyl and CDs, the shelves of cassettes and ’zines, and racks of T-shirts and other accessories. Paintings by local artists and photographs of rock ’n’ roll icons line the walls.

Behind the counter, co-owners Basi and Lujan go about their work, the former taking inventory and the latter placing another record on the turntable. As with any other job, life as owner of a record store can have its own brand of tedium, but the two music-lovers seem to have found serenity in what they do. And success.

“We wanted to be the best record store in Sacramento,” says Basi of the initial conception of the business. Many would claim that they succeeded.

Phono Select Records opened in September of 2010, within months of Basi and Lujan’s decision to finally follow through with an idea that they had only casually thrown around in years prior.

Basi, who had worked at Tower Records for almost 20 years, found himself jobless when R5 Records, where he was currently employed, went out of business in June of 2010.

He wasted no time when he called up Lujan, whom at the time was living in Berkeley, California, and teaching introductory computer classes at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. After receiving the call, Lujan immediately packed and moved on up to Sacramento.
It was time to open up their shop.

Lujan and Basi had a history of their own when it came music and local businesses. The two first met at a skate shop in Stockton, California—where they both grew up—and formed a bond that would last up to the present date. Basi, 12 years Lujan’s senior, moved to Sacramento, but the two kept in touch.

When it came time to fully realize the daunting endeavor of starting an independent business, the two music enthusiasts already knew their mission. Not wanting to be a “full-catalog” record store—essentially one that stocks anything and everything, with a preference to mainstream releases—they rather went for a more curated collection of music.
As Lujan puts it, they wanted “to be the antithesis of a stereotypical record store.”

“Dal and Nich know what they like,” says Jackson Griffith, former Arts & Culture Editor of Sacramento News & Review and senior editor of Tower Records’ Pulse magazine. “What I love about Phono Select is that it does what every good record store or record label should do: It articulates and curates an aesthetic.”

Something that the owners were—and continue to be—very interested in, is community and the Sacramento music scene. On select occasions, they host free “in-stores,” when they have touring or local bands play live sets inside.
“It has given the music scene another outlet to promote and sell their music, but at a more grassroots, personal level,” says Ken Doose, a Sacramento music historian active since the 1980s.

Lujan is quick to admit, though, that the scene in Sacramento has become bereft of venues to cater to its musicians and music-lovers. As he puts it, it has become “the land of the house-show.”

When pressed about what needs to be done about this, he says, “Well, we’ve outgrown this spot. As far as being a musical community hub, this space doesn’t accommodate that.”

The owners of Phono Select Records confess to being in the market for a new location. Inspired by the record and magazine stores of their adolescence, Lujan and Basi want to be more than just a record store; they want to be a community hotspot, complete with pinball machines, video games, a sizeable “library” for music-related digests, a lounge, and, of course, a stage to host consistent live music for underground artists.

They want the storefront to be more “hangoutable,” as Basi calls it.

So, as if wanting “to be the best record store in Sacramento” wasn’t enough, the two businessmen have found new lofty goals for the future.

“We want to put Sacramento on the map,” says Lujan.
They have all the faith of the local scene behind them.

Corazón de México: “The Heart of Mexico” Dance & Live Music Spectacular from

2012-05-11T00:41:24Z

One of California’s highly regarded Mexican folkdance companies, Compañia Mazatlán Bellas Artes (CMBA) is bringing their folkloric dance spectacle to Three Stages Performing Arts Center in Folsom, CA next week.

Friday, May 18, 2012
7:30 PM
Three Stages
Folsom Lake College
10 College Parkway
Folsom CA 95630
Phone: 916-608-6888
Tickets: $20 (children), $25-$39 https://www.threestages.net

Under the artistic direction of 2011 Maestro Award winner Steven Valencia, twenty-six exceptional young dancers (ages 16-30) and a live Latin American music ensemble present a passionate rendition of Mexican culture and heritage, both past and present. For lovers of fine ballet folklórico dance, the “Corazón de México” (“Heart of Mexico”) is colorful and creative, featuring indigenous and folkloric dance costumes and traditions, with accents on their award –winning pieces performed in international competitions. Liveacoustic musical accompaniment is by José Roberto y Sus Amigos and Vinic-Kay.

A highly valued cultural and artistic resource throughout the western United States as well as in international markets, the Compañía Mazatlán Bellas Artesis a not-for-profit organization that boasts a repertoire that includes traditional folkloric dance pieces as well as indigenous rituals that are fused with elements from contemporary movement. Last year, their sold-our performances of the holiday “Posada Navideña” at Three Stages, The Wells Fargo Center for the Arts(Santa Rosa, CA) )and The Gallo Center (Modesto, CA) won rave reviews and an immediate return engagements for holiday time in 2012.

Formerly known as the Instituto Mazatlán Bellas Artes, the performing arm of the IMBA changed its name to Compañía Mazatlán Bellas Artes (CMBA) in order to differentiate its training academy and other organizational activities from its professional performance group. The company and school moved into Studio 4300, a brand new state of the art center in late 2011.

Instituto Mazatlan Bellas Artes(IMBA) founded by Executive Director Yolanda Colosio in1994, focuses on educating children and adults to the richness of the Mexicanculture through the performing arts, and empowering students to pass on the traditions to future generations.

Just last week, IMBA was awarded a $10,000 Art Works grant by the National Endowment of the Arts.NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman announced that " Instituto Mazatlan Bellas Artes de Sacramento is one of 788 not-for-profit national, regional, state, and local organizations nationwide to receive an NEA Art Works grant. Instituto Mazatlan Bellas Artes de Sacramento is recommended for a $10,000 grant for presenting dance and cultural heritage programs regionally targeting low income families."
The 788 Art Works grants total $24.81 million and support the creation of art that meets the highest standards of excellence, public engagement with diverse and excellent art, lifelong learning in the arts, and the strengthening of communities through the arts.

Disclosure: Mindy Giles is arts publicist for IMBA.

Sacramento Gets A Taste of "Iron Chef" Style Cooking

2012-05-08T19:20:12Z

On June 23, 2012, Sacramento will be treated to the Sacramento Chef Challenge, an annual fundraiser for people with developmental disabilities that features an "Iron Chef" style cooking battle, Cake War competition, gourmet food sampling, beer and wine tasting, live music and more!

For $25 a piece, guests are treated to a culinary extravaganza beginning with fair from local restaurants, wineries and breweries including The Couch Sports Lounge, Two Rivers Cider, Terra d’Oro Winery and Morgan’s Restaurant.

The first of two competitions will pit three professional chefs in a head to head battle for culinary glory. Chef Challengers will have three hours to prepare and sample an original menu to event guests, who will then cast their vote to determine the winner. Chefs will have to integrate three specialty ingredients into their menus while incorporating the theme “Hot Summer Nights!” This year’s chef challengers are Kristela Nazario-Mendoza of Pyramid Alehouse, Brewery & Restaurant; Keith Erickson of Colusa Casino Resort; and Philippe Caillot of the Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program.

The second competition is Battle Cupcakes. A combination of professional and amateur cupcake makers will compete in a sweet competition by creating an original cupcake and display to be tasted by and voted on by guests! The 2012 professional challengers are Carlos Mares of Vanilla Bean Gourmet Cupcakes, Bethany Gist of Auntie Bea’s Bakery and Monique Cortes of Sassy Sweets by Monique. Amateur competitors will be announced in mid-May!

The Sacramento Chef Challenge is a fundraiser for INALLIANCE, a local nonprofit that provides services focusing on the independence, health and safety of people with developmental disabilities, which means the $25 ticket price will go towards a great cause.

The event also boasts some fantastic raffle and silent auction items including a Lake Tahoe Getaway, a Disneyland Vacation and season subscriptions to the B Street Theatre Company. If all of that isn’t enough to send you flying to the computer to buy tickets, there will be live music!

Tickets make a great gift for Mothers and College Grads, and can be purchased online at www.chefevent.com. For more information please email jbean@inallianceinc.com or call 916-381-1300 x170.

Disclosure: Jessica Bean is an employee of INALLIANCE.

Hyper Crush plays Ace of Spades

2012-05-01T00:53:02Z

Ace of Spades hosted the tour finale of the Glow Sticks for Breakfast Tour Sunday night, featuring performances by Hyper Crush, Benzi, Silver Medallion and Sacramento band Playboy School.

Fall Out Boy bassist Pete Wentz's DJ project with Spencer Peterson, Black Cards, was also scheduled to perform, but the duo had to pull out a few days before the show due to an ankle injury.

Playboy School kicked things off in the early slot with a lukewarm set as people trickled in. Benzi livened the mood up with an electronic/Top 40 set that had a few guys raging, and a while later Silver Medallion came out and grabbed the mic, adding some organic energy to the stage as he ran around, whipping his long hair around and getting the crowd fist-pumping.

Headliners Hyper Crush are an "electrohop" band from Los Angeles, working the ‘80s/’90s retro/synth/neon-clothing angle. They are rapper Donny Fontaine, vocalist Holly Valentine and keytarist Preston Moronie.

They are currently promoting their album “Night Wave,” released in February. They made the most of it on a slow Sunday night with songs like "Werk Me" and "Bad Boyz," which borrows the chorus from the gem "Bad Bad Boys" from ‘90s Swedish group Midi, Maxi & Efti.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Leonard Cohen: Sung and Spoken

2012-04-29T21:26:00Z

‘A Thousand Kisses Deep’ Music Preview by Gary Chew

Writing an aphoristic line defining Leonard Cohen may be as simple as taking a line from a song by him.

“You live your life as if it’s real.”

It’s one of the best lines in the haunting song “A Thousand Kisses Deep,” which is also the name of the concert of Cohen works scheduled for May 5 at the 24th Street Theatre. Fifteen Northern Californians will perform the all-Cohen program through song and recitation.

Another line that might relate the essence of Cohen also comes from his pen:
“Love is the only engine of survival.”

Although Cohen isn’t describing himself with these phrases, the man offers his listeners much to think about, whether the words are quietly spoken or simply sung.

When sung, his songs are usually in a minor key, performed rather slowly with lyrics laconic, über ironic and not afraid of religious or sexual imagery. Clearly, Cohen is not out to use his talent for slipping rose-colored glasses on your nose.

Many have covered Cohen’s most popular song, “Suzanne.” Judy Collins’ performance is the one most memorable to me. It’s the one he wrote that conjures up the Statue of Liberty as well as Jesus as a metaphorical sailor “on His lonely wooden tower.” Some interpret the song to be inspired by New York City, yet there are other images in “Suzanne” that suggest it takes more from Montreal where Cohen was born in 1934.

The concert will include a less common combination of instruments for the Cohen songs. Along with keyboards, guitars, bass and drums, there is a cellist, Arthur Gould, and a wind player, Tom Schmidt.

Other musicians are Pat Jacobsen (Music Director and bass), Mark McCartney (drums), Rick Kirkpatrick (guitar) and Bill Chiechi (keyboards). Singers include Paul Emery (guitar) and Anni McCann (piano). Other vocalists are Shay Dillon, Kimberly Bass, Peter Wilson, Eleanore MacDonald, ~~Saul Rayo~~ and Stephen Holland. Molly Fisk will recite Cohen poems.

“A Thousand Kisses Deep” is presented by Swell Productions and Paul Emery. Advance tickets are available at inticketing.com, The Beat, Phono Select and the Briar Patch Co-op in Grass Valley.

Editor's note: Edits have been made to this article after publication to correct errors. Edits include an addition to Pat Jacobsen's role, the deletion of Saul Rayo in the musician list and the addition of photos.

OLD SOUL HOSTS WEAVE BENEFIT AND A GALA EVENING OF MUSIC AND ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONIST ART

2012-04-11T05:14:16Z

Old Soul, the city’s popular Midtown coffee house will open its doors to a benefit for WEAVE, the Sacramento organization dedicated to preventing violence against women on Saturday, April 14 in a Second Saturday reception from 6 to 9 PM. Rubicon Beer will be poured and receipts will go directly to WEAVE.

WEAVE was established in 1978 as a nonprofit organization to serve domestic violence survivors and their families in Sacramento County and its Safehouse is the only state recognized, confidential shelter serving all domestic violence victims in the County. It offers counseling and school-based prevention services and has been honored by numerous government agencies and private institutions.

Two bands, Autumn Sky and Island of Black and White will lend their music to the evening and the abstract, expressionist art of Jim Cameron will be featured. Cameron’s colorful, textural art (www.jamescameronart.com) has been shown in galleries and other public venues in Midtown and Downtown Sacramento, Carmel, Pacific Grove, Monterey, Davis, Auburn, Folsom, Carmichael, Fair Oaks and Lodi over the past ten years and is a part of several private collections. The art show will continue until May 9th.

Disclosure: I'm a frequent customer at Old Soul Coffee and an admirer of Mr. Cameron's work.

Mat Kearney to play Colonial Theatre on April 10th

2012-04-01T22:24:01Z

Critically acclaimed Nashville-based singer/songwriter Mat Kearney has added West Coast dates to his current tour and will make a stop in Sacramento on April 10 at the Colonial Theatre in Oak Park.

Sounding at first like a solo effort from Coldplay's Chris Martin, Kearney's latest album "Young Love" is a punchy collection of playful, summer-ready tales of love, pain and redemption.

Kearney's current tour has included several sold-out shows at places including the Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles, House of Blues in Boston and Ogden Theatre in Denver.

The second single from the album, "Ships in the Night," was recently performed on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and is the featured music in the promo for NBC's new series “Awake,” which aired during this year's Superbowl and premiered on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 the day of the show. The concert is all ages.

HIP SERVICE coming to Harlows for a "Soles 4 Souls" show

2012-03-16T01:34:27Z

Sacramento's ever popular dance band HIP SERVICE returns to Harlows for a night of dancing and soulful surprises. Nationally recognized as "Best Dance Band in America," the 14 piece HIP SERVICE collective promises to deliver a memorable night of funky dance grooves. "There ain't no party like a Hip Service party!" We couldn't have said it better ourselves. Guest host for the evening is the beloved Sacramento radio personality Lee Perkins, hosting a benefit show for Soles 4 Souls. Bring an extra pair of shoes for donation, wear your most comfortable dancing pair and we'll see you on the dance floor. Usually a sell out, so buy yours in advance.

Saturday, March 31

10 pm

Ages 21+

Harlow's Restaurant & Nightclub

2708 J Street, Sacramento 95816

916-441-4693

$12 tix or bring a pair of gently used shoes for donation and get in for $10

www.harlows.com

www.hipservice.com

Disclosure: Steve Bloom is the owner of Hip Entertainment.

Point West Rotary Celebrates 10 Years of Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food & Wine – Benefiting Sierra Forever Families and Local Children’s Charities.

2012-03-15T21:55:55Z

Sacramento, California – March 15, 2012 – Point West Rotary, one of the largest Rotary clubs in Sacramento, will host its 10th Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food and Wine – on March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Sacramento.

When does the opportunity arrive to allow you to dine at 20 restaurants in one night or go on a wine-tasting tour to visit more than 25 of the top local wineries in one day? “Never,” you say. “That’s just not possible.” Well, the time is now. Point West Rotary of Sacramento is providing a special opportunity for you to do just that. On Saturday, March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, you can enjoy great food and wine at this 10th Annual Festa di Vino – A Celebration of Food & Wine.

Festa di Vino showcases more than 20 local restaurants and 25 wine makers from Northern California. Guests can work up an appetite (or to eliminate calories) while dancing the night away to the music of the Q-Balls, a local favorite. For those guests who feel lucky, an extensive raffle will take place and by entering, they could go home with great prizes. Also as part of the night, a wide-range of desirable items can be bid upon in the silent and live auctions. This incredible evening will not only delight attendees but, through a portion of the proceeds, will also support Sierra Forever Families, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform the lives of children living in foster care by building and nurturing permanent families.

“Sierra Forever Families is pleased to be selected as a charity partner for Festa di Vino hosted by Point West Rotary,” said Bob Herne, executive director, Sierra Forever Families. “The partnership will not only provide needed funding for our programs but will also allow for our organization to promote its mission to a large portion of our local community.”

Festa di Vino will take place 6:30-10 p.m. on Saturday, March 31 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 6151 H Street in Sacramento, and will feature tastings from over 25 of the region’s wineries including Michael-David Phillips Vineyards, Pedroncelli, Karmere, and Bogle Vineyards. Samplings from area restaurants will include Café Vinoteca, Enotria, Cafeteria 15L and American River Culinary. Along with a great raffle, and silent and live auctions, there will be a cigar bar and free chair massages.

Event tickets are $45 each in advance and $55 at the door. To purchase, visit www.festadivino.com.

Disclosure: Written by: Sara Hanson, Public Relations Specialist, Sierra Forever Families

MUTEMATH at Ace of Spades

2012-02-10T02:22:23Z

"We've got quite a set here," announced MUTEMATH vocalist and keyboardist Paul Meany. "We've been around for eight years. That's a lot of songs to choose from!"

Quite a set it was.

Making an unconventional entrance from the back of the venue with instruments and Christmas lights in tow, the New Orleans electro-alt rock band went on to do a little face-melting for the packed house at Ace of Spades Wednesday night.

The Grammy-nominated four-piece put on a sonic and visual spectacle, covering a massive setlist over more than two hours and sampling a bit from all their studio albums and EPs, including all 13 songs from their latest release, 2011's "Odd Soul."

Aided by tons of frantic, colorful lights and visuals projected on a backdrop, Meany channeled Sting and Coldplay's Chris Martin as he banged on his upright pianos, while new guitarist Todd Gummerman and bassist Roy Mitchell-Cárdenas got nasty on their guitars. Drummer Darren King is one-man show, well known for his relentless energy (and ear protection taped to his head) and pounding skins so hard he broke a snare mid-song.

The band took the energy created on stage and brought into the crowd, too. During the second half of the show, Meany and King played their instruments in the middle of the audience on a small "stage," and Meany went for a ride on a black inflatable raft with lights that was passed from one end of the room to the other on a sea of outstretched hands.

The show's uplifting vibe even inspired one fan to jump on stage, do a backflip and dive back into the crowd as quickly as he had appeared.

Heard outside as I was walking back to my car: "That was the most amazing show I've ever been to!"

Poor Man's Whiskey and Achilles Wheel in Auburn Saturday!

2012-02-01T22:14:08Z

When Sacramento's own Sean Lehe (Isabella, Five Eyed Hand, The Coalition) joined San Francisco's Poor Man's Whiskey it elevated the already extremely popular band to a whole new level. Poor Man's Whiskey recently performed their Dark Side of the Moonshine to a sold out crowd at the Fillmore, yet This Saturday February 4th you can see then in the intimate and funky setting of the Auburn Event Center - and for only $15.00!

I encourage all to search out this band, especially on You Tube! Here is what the critics say: "Emerging from the San Francisco bay area music scene this quintet has developed a sound that is eclectic and engaging. PMW has been winning over national audiences with their upbeat performances, zany stage antics, and infectious songs. While seamlessly integrating acoustic and electric instruments the band weaves tales of everyday life, inviting the audience to become a part of each show." "Poor Man's Whiskey plays High Octane Hootenanny music…Dance, laugh, sing." Check them out - I know you will soon become a fan!

In addition to Poor Man's Whiskey, Achilles Wheel will be opening & celebrating the release of their first CD "VIII Hours”. Achilles Wheel is an all-star band, made up of some of the regions finest, including Jonny "Mojo" Flores (Sacramento Blues Review, Dead Ahead, Rusty Buckets), Paul Kamm (Buck Love & the Humperheads, Paul Kamm & Eleanore MacDonald++). Come early as they will start as soon as the room fills.

And the "room" is part of the fun. Keep Smilin' Promotions shows at The Auburn Event Center & Dance-a-torium is one of the areas best experiences in live music around. Get up close with the low stage right in your face. Dance on the regions biggest wood dance floor, and let your eyes wander at the unique decorations and lighting as only the Auburn Event Center can Provide!
This is an all ages event (ID Required for Bar) - Tickets are available all over including all Dimple Records or online at http://pmw.eventbrite.com - for more info please visit www.keepsmilinpromotions.com

Support Local Music, if you don't it will go away & in the mean time... Keep Smilin' - Scott

Disclosure: I am the CEO and Purveyor of Fun for Keep Smilin' Promotions

Woody Guthrie, Born 1912: Country Joe McDonald Remembers Him at the 24th Street Theater

2012-01-05T23:48:36Z

Country Joe McDonald Remembers Woody Guthrie's100th Birthday in Sacramento, Saturday, January 7, 2012.

Woody Guthrie was born in July of 1912. My father was born in January of 1911. My dad always reminded me of Woody Guthrie. Both men were short, wiry and grew up poorer than Job's turkey.

My father didn't play the guitar or compose songs and sing them. He worked in the oil fields of Oklahoma and Kansas, not far from where Woody did much of his growing up. My dad kept his job all through the not-so-Great Depression.

Woody WAS the Depression. He lived it. And so, a man who died too soon in 1967 lives on through his astonishing legacy of gritty, honest songs for working people. Why, you might ask. It's because Woodrow Wilson Guthrie's songs, then and now, inform ordinary folks of their importance to the success of this American Experiment that continues.

Country Joe McDonald appears Saturday in a tribute to Guthrie at Sacramento's 24th Street Theater in the Sierra 2 Center for Arts and Community. Tickets are available at http://www.swellproductions.com/pages/countryjoe.html Showtime: 7:30 pm.

This Guthrie remembrance won't be any kind of an experiment, whatsoever. A more recent legend himself, Country Joe has asked Alex Nelson, Sherman Baker and Richard March to be his special guests. Such a roster of musicians indicates lots of experimentation and research has gone before, and what you get is to just sit back and drink-in the musicianship of these talented guys saluting that scrawny but “ten-foot-tall” kid who rode the rails out of Okemah, Oklahoma, knowing so well what land belonged to whom.

On a recent trip back to my adopted hometown of Tulsa, about 65 miles north and a bit east of Okemah, I stopped by the offices of a new periodical (also online) called THIS LAND. The publication is replete with new literature and art that fits that region of the USA. Woody is prominent in the tone of these times there. An old broadcast colleague of mine boasts a son who is the poetry editor at THIS LAND.

The New York Times recently published a lengthy story about big money in Tulsa taking notice of Guthrie's contribution to American folk music, not unlike the recent and also long overdue recognition of Tulsa's own singer/songwriter, Leon Russell. It's always good going back to Tulsa one more time.

The time now is ripe for a boxcar load of Woody's songs to be sung right in front of you and your friends. Country Joe McDonald is the man to do the performance.

The socially consciously Country Joe (and the Fish), as most everyone knows, not only rattled cages back in the Sixties with just about all the other famous bands of those vigorously political days, but did a 1971 movie written by the zaniest heavy comedy group I've ever heard on vinyl, The Firesign Theatre. The film was called “Zachariah,” and starred that adroit Kansas native, Don Johnson. The movie was billed as history's first Electric Western. I saw it in Tulsa and wouldn't have missed it for the world. As I still write film reviews, I recommend you see Country Joe in that nutty Western.

I would be almost as stoked thinking about re-seeing “Zachariah,” as I'm now getting pumped to see Country Joe McDonald doing Woody Guthrie songs this Saturday at Sacramento's 24th Street Theater. Check it out. You never know, one of Woody's most attentive and loyal students, Bob Dylan, might show up.

Unlike Woody with migrant workers, my dad didn't travel West to California in the Dust Bowl Days with two of his brothers from southeast Kansas. They needed a job...bad. Both had long, successful careers with McDonald/Douglas down in Long Beach. Both of my uncles are now at rest up in the foothills near Magalia and Paradise. They, too, were a bit like Woody Guthrie.

Photos: New Year's Eve with Mickey Avalon

2012-01-03T07:10:46Z

Hollywood rapper Mickey Avalon headlined a New Year's Eve show at Ace of Spades on Saturday.

Supporting Avalon on the bill were 2ME, Richard the Rockstar, and producer Big Chocolate.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Wallpaper. at Ace of Spades

2012-01-03T02:48:13Z

A couple hundred people wanting to get an early start on 2012 partying headed down to Ace of Spades on Friday, where Oakland musician and frequent Sacramento visitor, Wallpaper., headlined an eclectic bill.

Starting the show was Chaotic Fusion, a drummer and DJ duo. DJ Oasis spun radio hits – "Teach Me How To Dougie," "Ghosts 'n' Stuff," "Last Resort" – while Radio 94.7 on-air personality Casey Lewis drummed along to the beat.

Performing next was Oakland-by-way-of-Panama Latin rap duo Los Rakas. Rhyming in Spanish over dancehall and hip-hop beats, the up and coming young pair were well-received by the slowly growing crowd.

Headliner Wallpaper. took the stage next, with the men of the group dressed to the nines in cheap tuxedos.

Wallpaper. is the solo project of Eric Frederic, who performs as Wallpaper. vocalist Ricky Reed.

Frederic received a music degree with a focus in composition from the University of California, Berkeley and now creates poppy party songs with lowest common denominator lyrics.

"That's a grown ass woman with a grown ass," is one example from the song, "Butt2Butt” (feat. Too $hort).

Although his two LP’s are called "Doodoo Face" and "#STUPiDFACEDD," the songs are well-produced and have sharp hooks. MTV uses Wallpaper. songs on shows like Jersey Shore, and sometimes this type of music resonates with everyone (see: LMFAO).

Kicking things off with the song, "Shotgun," Reed worked to establish a connection with the Sac crowd early, referencing past visits to the city.

"We're gonna take you right back to Press Club, Town House, Luigi's!"

Flanked by two drummers, a standing percussionist in the back and a female vocalist/dance partner, Reed and Wallpaper stayed hyphy the whole set and made sure the crowd did too.

At one point Reed lamented the fact that it was the day before New Year's Eve, and had the crowd do a mock countdown before performing the catchy, "Okay."

Later it was a short cover of Prince's "1999," played with a ukulele, before another sing-along ditty, "FUCKING BEST SONG EVERRR."

After Wallpaper. came back on stage for the encore, Reed let the crowd know that the band has a tradition where they finish a bottle of Jameson before coming back on.

Stupid, but fun.

Not bad for New Year's Eve eve.

Photos by Steven Chea

The Beatles are in town! Broadway Sacramento's "Rain" delights--for one week only.

2011-12-28T18:27:09Z

Travel back through time with Broadway Sacramento's Rain, a Beatles tribute show that began as an offshoot of the Broadway production of Beatlemania. Rain ran on Broadway for 300 shows and 8 preview performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in New York City and has also been a hugely successful national tour for years. Together longer than the Beatles, Rain has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance.

This multi-media show begins by taking us away to a time when four young men stepped on stage at the Ed Sullivan show and changed music as we knew it. Rain chronicles the journey America took with the Beatles, showing us footage of screaming fans, interviews, and historical happenings that changed us all.

Looking around the room, I saw three generations of Beatles fans, all singing along, dancing, and screaming like it was 1964. When it came time for the last number to be performed, I didn’t want the show to end. And neither did anyone else, Rain went on to perform two encores.

This show is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles. Who knows, you might just learn a new song or two!

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles continues at the Community Center Theater through January 1. Show times: Wed 8pm; Thurs 2pm & 8pm; Fri 3pm & 8pm; Sat 2pm & 8pm; Sun 2pm.

The Broadway Sacramento season continues with West Side Story (Jan 24-Jan 29), Mamma Mia! (March 13-March 18), Million Dollar Quartet (April 17-April 22), and Wicked (May 23-June 17).

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Written by Sacramento365.com Intern, Aimee Steffen
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Christmas celebrations, Sacramento-style

2011-12-22T00:43:49Z

As always, Sacramento steps up to the plate with holiday events of all sorts. At Sacramento365.com, we see a lot of events come through the site every day. Though there are myriad options in our Holiday Event section, we've narrowed down the list to 10 to get help you pick your Christmas Eve & Christmas Day festivities.

Christmas Eve Events:
Sure, the night before Christmas should be spent snuggled in bed waiting for Santa Claus, but why not get out and about during the day. Here are some options to keep you entertained around town:

1. Free Admission at Fairytale Town & Sacramento Zoo:
FTT 10am-2pm; Zoo 10am-1:30pm
Treat the kiddies to a day out while both Fairytale Town & the Sacramento Zoo offer free admission to all guests. The Zoo encourages participating in their pajama party, so you needn’t even change

2. Downtown Holiday Ice Rink:
St. Rose of Lima Park, 10am-6pm
Located outdoors near Westfield Downtown Plaza, the Downtown Holiday Ice Rink is the perfect holiday experience for the young and young at heart.

3. It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play:
Capital Stage, 11am
Inspired by the classic American film of the same title, It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience.

4. Holiday Film Screenings: It’s a Wonderful Life:
Crest Theatre, 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm
If you can’t make it to Cap Stage’s live performance (see above), you can still catch the original film rendition live on the big screen at the historic Crest Theatre.

5. Theatre of Lights:
Old Sacramento, 6pm & 7:30pm
A symphony of lights, sounds, and visual effects will take the audience back to a time when the beloved poem "The Night Before Christmas" was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857.

Christmas Day Events:
Looking to entertain friends & family in town after your regular traditions are over? Or just looking to get out of the house after so much family time? Sacramento doesn’t disappoint. Here are a few options for

1. Christmas Brunch:
Hyatt Regency, 10am-3pm
Enjoy this holiday season with all of the trimmings. Join for a bountiful buffet brunch featuring breakfast items and traditional holiday favorites.

2. Christmas Day Supper Cruise:
Empress Hornblower, 3:30pm-6:30pm
Join Hornblower for Christmas Day with your family and celebrate the season with a delicious meal, relax and enjoy the holiday. The Cruise includes traditional holiday dishes, festive music, and beautiful views of the Sacramento River.

3. Bah Humbug!:
MiX Downtown, 8:30pm-2am
Get out from under your tree and continue the holiday partying at this special Sunday Circus night. Spend the evening with your "other" family at Mix Downtown!

4. Christmas with Arden Park Roots:
Harlow’s, 9pm
Join reggae/rock/punk band Arden Park Roots for a festive Christmas show.

5. Asylum:
Barcode Nightclub, 9pm-1:30am
Featuring resident DJ Bryan Hawk, Asylum is a night of the best cutting edge goth, industrial, nu-darkwave, EBM dance music.

Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Rachael Lankford is the Managing Calendar Editor for Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Selena Gomez, Gym Class Heroes at Jingle Ball

2011-12-03T02:32:21Z

107.9 The End's Jingle Ball 2011 went down at Power Balance Pavilion on Thursday night.

The concert featured performances by JoJo, Breathe Carolina, Cobra Starship, Gym Class Heroes, and Selena Gomez.

Photos by Steven Chea

Dirt Nasty at Ace of Spades

2011-11-28T05:15:20Z

If you don't know Dirt Nasty (aka ex-MTV VJ Simon Rex), take a look at some of his song titles and you'll know what you're getting into: "Suck My D***," "Baby D***" and "F*** Me I'm Famous."

It was all about the lowest common denominator at Ace of Spades on Saturday, as Nasty rapped for a crowd that was about half full. In addition to genitalia and sex, he also covered themes like cocaine use ("1980") and bestiality ("Animal Lover").

But that’s his shtick, so you were either there for the juvenile party raps or maybe to catch a glimpse of the actor who was in “Scary Movie 4” and an episode of “MTV Cribs.”

"He's hot! I don't even know his music. I came for him!" said Melissa Renee, 19.

Nasty had a lot of interaction with the crowd; making reference to the different drinking sections at Ace of Spades, talking about how drunk he was ("If I throw up on stage don't judge me!") and praising the quality of the females in Sacramento: "There's something in the water. Sacramento's got the hottest women ever. Why y'all have to have the hottest women in the Bay?”

Leaving the stage after a short 30-minute set with his DJ, Killer Cam, Nasty came back for a quick two-song encore, bringing a bunch of guys and girls on stage to dance and finish with the appropriately titled song "My D***."

Opening for Dirt Nasty were DJ Fedi, Status Goes, Richard the Rockstar and Rock & Rhyme.

Photos by Steven Chea

Minus the Bear: Ten Year Anniversary Tour

2011-11-09T02:49:11Z

With the cover art pattern used on their seminal debut LP, "Highly Refined Pirates," as their backdrop, and a light show on acid, Seattle's Minus the Bear thrilled a packed house at Ace of Spades on Monday night.

The band is wrapping up their 10 Year Anniversary Tour, celebrating a decade of music and performing “Pirates,” released in 2002, in its entirety.

The popular math-rockers put on a tremendous performance for a very jazzed audience. Featuring guitarist Dave Knudson's signature complex finger-tapping guitar work - used on every song on “Pirates,” the band combined powerhouse indie band swagger with down-to-earth Northwestern charm.

Songs like "Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse" and "Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister," which sound good and maybe even a little quirky when recorded, gained heft and intensity when played live. During "'Absinthe," a flashing light sequence kicked in when the verses turned into the more up-tempo choruses. This complemented the music perfectly, although for much of the show, three thin light panels backlighting the band were a bit much and a bit distracting.

"We've been playing our first album across the country," said Snider. "This is the third to last show of the tour. It's been a fucking awesome ten years and thank you Sacramento for being a part of it!"

Opening for Minus the Bear was Santa Rosa's, The Velvet Teen.

Photos by Steven Chea

Thrice tour stops at Ace of Spades

2011-11-08T06:40:20Z

It was a nearly sold-out show at Ace of Spades Sunday night. Thrice, hailing from Irvine, Calif., headlined an excellent post-hardcore bill.

Opening for a healthy-sized audience was the band, Moving Mountains, an intriguing group of musicians who captured the room's attention immediately. With a complex and multi-layered sound, their atmospheric rock songs set a great tone for the rest of the night.
Atlanta-based O'Brother was musically in the same vein; a melodic three-guitar sonic assault marrying the atmospheric with the distorted. A solid showing, but when they went ambient, they went ambient. At times they seemed to meander as some songs drifted slowly past the five minute mark.

Main support was La Dispute, a very impressive five-piece band from Grand Rapids, Mich.

"It's been about a year since we've been out to the West Coast, and that's an absolute crime, because I don't know if there's a place where we have a better time," said appreciative vocalist Jordan Dreyer.

Fist around microphone and microphone cable wrapped around fist, the barefoot and constantly moving Dreyer shouted his spoken-word style lyrics with raw intensity, complemented perfectly with delicately explosive rhythm and powerful, technical guitar work.
A comparison to defunct frenetic El Paso, Tex. band, At The Drive-In, is easy to make because of Dreyer's voice, delivery and the chaotic harmony of the music. On the other hand, the easier-to-swallow guitar melodies and Dreyer's realistic, confessional lyrics are a couple of areas that set this band apart.

"It’s only temporary, that fleeting feeling of warmth. Just a flash before the line gets blurry. Between a longing for more than what the body wants now and what the body wants now more than anything."
Thrice has been around for thirteen years and has a serious and passionate following. To a new fan, the anticipation was thick in the air and when the band took the stage the release from the crowd was palpable.

Opening strong with lead track, "Yellow Belly," from their new album “Major/Minor,” their set was heavy on critically well-received new material, including "Promises," "Call It In The Air" and "Treading Paper." They also played a number of tracks from 2009's “Beggars;” among them, "All The World Is Mad," "The Weight," "In Exile" and "Circles;" taking the audience on a journey through the different styles and nuances the band has experienced lyrically and musically up to this point in their career.

It was clear the older material was held in high regard; the frenzied crowd and their pumping fists were jolted with energy when the band played tracks from 2003's “The Artist in the Ambulance.”

Fans come and go as bands experiment and mature, and after hearing the music and speaking with some fans, Thrice is doing a good job of continuing to delight as they evolve musically.

"The music, the beats, everything," said Sara Molina, 25, of Dixon. "Everything meshes together; their music is amazing!"

The guys in Thrice are also humanitarians, and took a moment to raise awareness about Invisible Children, a group they support and one that is currently on tour with them.

Invisible Children is a movement seeking to end the conflict in Uganda and stop the abduction of children for use as child soldiers. The band specifically asked for support in building radio towers in the Congo for communication directly with the child soldiers in an effort to bring them home. Kudos to Thrice for using their platform to inspire change and educate others about a worthy cause.

Photos by Steven Chea

Photos: Foo Fighters at Power Balance Pavilion

2011-11-03T01:24:42Z

After an original Oct. 20 show date that had to be rescheduled, alt-rock powerhouse Foo Fighters performed at Power Balance Pavilion on Tuesday night for about 10,000 fans.

Opening the show was fantastic L.A. punk band The Bronx, playing as their alter-ego Mariachi El Bronx, which is less a gimmick than you might think.

What started as a lark for the punk band has grown into a love that has seen the band release two mariachi albums and gain a following, and, yes, they stay true to the authentic mariachi style of music as well as wear black charro suits.

The band performs in a variety of ways, sometimes incorporating mariachi into their punk set, sometimes performing as a punk band and mariachi band on consecutive nights, and sometimes having one band open up for the other.

Following Mariachi El Bronx was Cage the Elephant from Bowling Green, Ky. The band found success with their 2009 single "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked" and have been touring constantly since then. Vocalist Matthew Schultz is known for stage diving at Cage performances, and this night was no exception.

"Promise me one thing," Schultz told the crowd from the stage. "If I jump into the crowd and get knocked unconscious, I want you to promise to keep passing my body around and having a good time!"

And then it was time for the rock.

With seven studio albums and tons of singles to their credit, the Foo Fighters had plenty of popular material to draw from.

Excited fans in the house received a high-energy 23-song rock 'n' roll set that lasted over two hours and was worth the wait.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Grammy Award Winning Dave Alvin comes to Auburn

2011-10-13T17:14:05Z

As Dave says it, “There are 2 kinds of Folk Music, quite Folk Music & Loud Folk Music, I play both”, but as one who has seen Dave in many configurations, this line does not begin to explain a Dave Alvin show. On October 14th, Dave (along with the Guilty Ones) will be making their way up from Sacramento Town to the gold rich foothill town of Auburn, as Dave continues to claim his name as “The King of California”,( at least when it comes to songwriting, rippin’ Fender Stratocaster riffs, and incredible vocal phrasings). The Auburn Event Center (& Roadhouse) will play host for this very special and rare evening of fun! - (BTW if you have not been to Keep Smilin' show at the Event Center you are missing out!)

Dave Alvin first gained international recognition as the driving force behind the classic ‘70’s / 80’s Band The Blasters, which became the standard for “New” American Rockabilly, blending , Blues, Rock N’ Roll with a little Punk attitude and fun, the likes of which no one before or since has been able too trump. Since then Dave has developed a Grammy Winning solo career, while at times dabbling with side projects, including the LA Bands X & the Knitters, both of which feature Xenon and John Doe along with the short lived band The Pleasure Barons featuring the late Country Dick Montana and Mojo Nixon. Along the way , Dave took home a Grammy for best Folk Album with his incredible project “Public Domain".

His "solo" musical path has taken a fun run with some incredible guilty folks, 1st it was Dave Alvin and the Guilty Ones, then the Guilty Women came along which has helped lead to his newest configuration “the Guilty Ones” featuring couple guilty guys and one hell of a great guilty woman! The Guilty Ones just released Dave’s newest album Eleven Eleven, a CD that features “Harlon County Line”, a song featured on the FX hit “Justified”

Opening the fun will be Campbell & Woods, a rare joining of some very old friends and incredible performers Bob Woods and Gary Campbell. Gary’s vocals are second to none & Bob’s guitar work on the B-Bender Fender Telecaster are of legendary status, as those who have witnessed can attest too. They will be performing some familiar songs culled from the dusty horse trails of the South West, as well as from Hobo camps found along the tracks of the old Southern Pacific railways. Do not come late for this show, Bob and Gary are not to be missed, trust me on this one!

The Doors open at 7, the show will start around 8. All ages are allowed, but keep in mind this is an “adult” oriented show, and ID is required for the bar. Seating is limited and no guarantees are given! Mean people and whiners need not show, but if you are up for one hell of a great evening of music – this is gonna be it! Tix are available at Cherry Records & Tribal Weaver in Auburn, Briar Patch Records in Grass Valley, All Dimple Record Locations or online at http://davealvin.eventbrite.com (there were just a few tix left for online purchas at the writing of this) - There will be a limited amount of tickets available at the door.

The Event Center is a short trip froma any valley location, just off of the Elm Exit of 80 in the Liquor Outlet and for more information visit my website at http://www.keepsmilinpromotions.com.

Note that the Auburn Event Center and Keep Smilin' will be bringing several fun shows to close out 2011 - On Sunday Ocotober 30th an early show with Wayne "The Train" Hancock (with Leroy Virgil & the Excavators, the Cash Prophets, Cockfight Kings & Afterlife) * 11-11-11 will be celebrated in a big way with Great American Taxi - Achilles Wheel (Featuring Jonny Mojo & Paul Kamm) & Pete Grant on Pedal Steel for both bands!) - then on Friday 12-2-11 The New Riders of the Purple Sage return along with The Coalition featuring (Poor Mans Whiskey's Sean Lehe, Mind-X's Sean Barfly & Rick Zamora, Brian Rogers and more) - Come on out and join in some fun!

Disclosure: I am the "Purveyor of Fun" for Keep Smilin' Promotions - for which all projects are not for profit, but rather to share some great music and times - Feel free to email me at keepsmilinpromotions@gmail.com of look for Keep Smilin on Facebook

Incubus Returns to Sacramento After Hiatus

2011-10-13T03:31:43Z

Raley Field was a rock venue for those who showed up Tuesday night for Incubus. Fans trickled to the front of the stage for opening artist AWOLNATION, leaving seats available for the mellow rockers who chose to sit over standing in the pit.

AWOLNATION’s loud, blood-rushing sound engulfed the eardrums of the early birds. They played songs off their debut album, “Megalithic Symphony,” including the radio hit single “Sail,” which was received by cheers.

The stage was set up at the outfield line allowing for better acoustics, harnessing the sound before it escaped into Sacramento River.
By 8 p.m., the surrounding stage area was packed and seats were filling up. Assigned seating was overlooked by eager fans, willing to sit anywhere to enjoy the multi-platinum headlining artist.

Without hesitation, Incubus opened up with “Megalomaniac” to get the crowd jumping, keeping the energy high for their two-hour set. Incubus is on tour to introduce their seventh studio album, “If Not Now, When?” The set list included new songs “Adolescents,” “Promises, Promises” and “Defiance,” but a majority of songs were from their past albums. Fans preferred a concert filled with their older songs, like “I Wish You Were Here,” “Anna-Molly” and “Dig,” delivered as smooth sounding as listening to them on your iPod.

Halfway through the concert, Boyd’s shirt was still on, and eager women continued to wait. Boyd’s vocals and the explosive guitar-to-drum ratio, with a side of DJ scratching, are what Incubus’ fans crave.

It’s been seven years since Incubus has toured Sacramento; the fans have waited five years for a new album to be released. Boyd commented on their absence, “It’s been too long, man. Missed you guys.” But Boyd generally refrained from chatting up the crowd. He let the music fill the void.

“In the Company of Wolves” was accompanied by the hypnotizing backdrop silhouette of Boyd’s power stance. Boyd showed off his vocals on “Talk Shows on Mute,” a song that is not overpowered by Jose Pasilla’s drums or Mike Einzeger’s heavy guitar.

After the audience sing-along to “Drive”, “the shirt” came off for the last songs of the night: “Nice to Know You” and a two-song encore of “Pardon Me” and “Tomorrow’s Food.” It wasn’t the strongest closing after such a nostalgic performance, but fans didn’t seem fazed.

Will fans have to wait another five years for another album? Let’s hope not, because after a decade, Incubus still has the capability to rock a crowd.

Photo courtesy of Steven Chea.

Panic! at the Disco performs at Ace of Spades

2011-10-12T00:54:16Z

Although the band lost its original guitar and bass player in 2009, it doesn't appear that Las Vegas' Panic! at the Disco has lost any fans.

Performing for a sold out crowd at Ace of Spades Monday night, handsome lead singer Brendon Urie and company had fans in a tizzy from the get-go as a steady stream of clothing landed on stage after the first song.

"Wow. Thank you!" said a surprised Urie.

Panic!'s set focused mainly on their debut album, "A Fever You Can't Sweat Out" and 2011's, "Vices & Virtues."

They played only two songs from 2008's well-received album, "Pretty. Odd." They included "That Green Gentleman (Things Have Changed)" and "Nine in the Afternoon."

The Panic! pop was a bit of nostalgia for some.

"The twelve year old in me is so excited to see Panic!" said college student Amy Lane, 19.

Providing main support was Patrick Stump from on hiatus-Fall Out Boy and his ambitious new self-titled solo project.

Almost unrecognizable from his Fall Out Boy days, Stump strutted out in a neat powder blue suit and bow tie, a cropped blond haircut and black, fingerless gloves.

At times channeling both Prince and David Bowie, Stump tore through an R&B-flavored set that included a cover of Phil Collins' “In the Air Tonight.”

If you're a fan of Fall Out Boy, the new material feels like a departure and at the same time seems completely expected and natural for Stump's next direction. His solo debut "Soul Punk" drops next Tuesday the 18th.

Opening the show and setting the bar for the rest of the night were the crazy characters of Cincinnati rock band Foxy Shazam.

The band sounds good on record, better live, and their fun show is a kick. Highlights included pianist Sky White standing up on his keyboard and playing by stomping his feet, drummer Aaron McVeigh spitting into the open mouth of vocalist Eric Sean Nally (he asked him to), and Nally later lighting and puffing on a nearly full pack of cigarettes before shoving them all into his mouth and eating them.

Stage antics aside, they play good music.

"It's kind of close to pop cabaret," said Sacramento rock music aficionado and photographer Kevin Graft, 44.

Photos by Steven Chea

20th annual Sammies awards crank up volume in Midtown

2011-10-04T04:07:11Z

The corner of 20th Street between J and K Street usually serves as the unofficial epicenter for Second Saturday in Midtown, a monthly celebration that seems to be slowly losing it's focus on the art and music culture aspect of the event in recent years. This past Saturday, however, something was different. The Sammies, Sacramento's annual music awards show, turned 20 this year, and that afternoon there was no mistaking that music and hometown love reigned supreme over excessive drinking and partying. I sat on my patio just around the corner from the celebration, listening to the sweet sounds of the best of the best in Sacramento, before heading out around 7pm.

By the time I had reached the corner of 20th street, the celebration was in full swing, with people of all ages crowding the entire block, craning their necks to get a glimpse of the stage. The smell of pizza wafted through the crowd, as Luigi's Slice joined in the fun and offered a $3 'Sammies Slice' while nearby Mr. Pickles offered a dollar off their hefty sandwiches. On the opposite side of the street, a sizable beer garden amassed a diverse crowd of attendees ranging from Midtown locals and couples out on date night, to the performers themselves looking for a cold brew to cool down after their performances. The production of the show ran like a well-oiled machine, with multiple camera crews darting through the crowd and flatscreen TV's present to ensure everyone got a good glimpse of what was happening onstage. Hosts A.V. and Adam Saake, dressed in outfits that would make Willy Wonka envious, pumped up the crowd and made sure the show never reached a dull moment. "This all wouldn't be possible without all of you here tonight" Saake told the crowd. "Give it up for everyone here...this is for you".

I arrived just in time to see Exquisite Corps deliver an impressive set, combining elements of classical music and indie rock to create a moody, yet accesible sound all their own. Every member of the band seemed to be on point as soon as they hit the stage, with cellist Krystyna Taylor adding warm tones to vocalist/guitarist Bryan Valenzuela's acoustic melodies while dual violinists Reylynn Goessling and Kristin Arnold furiously moved their bows across their strings in calculated rhythm. The set featured members of the Pamela Hayes Classical Ballet offering a visually stunning dance number to accompany an already incredible live performance by the band. I caught up with Valenzuela cooling off in the beer garden after their set, and inquired about the band. According to Valenzuela, the band has only been around since Spring 2010, impressive for a band already performing at the Sammies a little over a year since their inception. During our chat, Valenzuela was met with warm recognition from attendees commenting on the performance and local venue promoters offering business cards to book shows with the band. The band is currently recording and plans to release their debut album in Spring 2012.

The night continued on with a notable appearance by local comedian Mike E. Winfield, who recently landed a reoccuring role on the hit T.V. series The Office as Wes, a warehouse worker at the fictional Dundler Mifflin Paper Company, ushering in the hip-hop performances. The music kicked off with Joints and Jams, with artists Sleeprockers, C-Plus, Random Abiladeze, Chuuwee, Self, Task1ne while accompanied by DJ Rated R and the Grant High School Drumline. An ingenious collaboration, each artist displayed their lyrical prowess and flow over the tight, trained rhtyhms of the entire Grant High School drumline students, playing simple hip-hop rhythms mixed with complex percussion artistry. C-Plus (a recipient of this year's award for Best Music Video) performed songs simply with the backing of the drumline, and quick ennuciated concious hip-hop lyricism. DJ Rated R faced off against members of the drumline by tossing bass and synth-heavy beats mixed with scratching at fancy stick work from the drumline's snare players. Later in the evening, personal favorite Tribe of Levi took home the award for Best Hip-hop/Rap for the second year in a row, popping open a bottle of champagne in celebration amid cheers from an enthusiastic crowd.

By 9pm, I had grown weary of yelling, clapping, dancing, and winding my way through the beer garden to find drink tickets. I headed home with the music still blaring into the night and although the ceremonies ended at 10, after parties hosted by Lounge on 20 and Luigi's Fun Garden kept the good times going into the wee hours of the morning. This year's Sammies proved to all the local artists that all their hours spent in the studio perfecting their craft were not spent in vain. Local music is alive and well, with Sacramento listeners cranking the volume to eleven.

This year's Sammies winners include:

Artist of the Year: Autumn Sky

Singer/Songwriter: Autumn Sky

Release of the Year: ZuhG, Free Love

New Artist: Black Holes, What?

Teen Band: Simpl3Jack

Cover Band: Steelin' Dan: A Tribute to Steely Dan

Americana/Alt-Country: The Nickel Slots

Country/Blues: The Golden Cadillacs

Folk: Kate Gaffney

Emcee: Random Abiladeze

Hip-hop/Rap: Tribe of Levi

R&B/Soul: Tessa Evans

Electronic Artist: Tha Fruitbat

Deejay: DJ Whores

Turntablist: DJ Rated R

Experimental: Tera Melos

Funk: The Nibblers

Industrial/ Prog: Kill The Precedent

Rock: Lite Brite

Hard Rock: A Single Second

Hardcore: White Minorities

Metal: Prylosis

Melodic-Hardcore/Screamo: A Lot Like Birds

Indie: Musical Charis

Pop/Rock: The Reel

Rap/Rock: The Shades of Grey

Punk: Whiskey and Stitches

Post-punk: Pets

Jazz: E2

Latin: Sol Peligro

Reggae/Roots: (tie) ZuhG & Arden Park Roots

Music Video: C-Plus, Do What You Want (Gone)

Music Video Director: Jay Synth

Hip-Hop Producer: Chase Moore

Dance Night: Grimey at TownHouse Lounge

Recording Studio: Pus Cavern

Hall of Fame:

Anton Barbeau

DJ CrookOne

DJ Larry Rodriguez

Hoods

Instagon

Disclosure: Local music has always been a huge interest for me, and I love showing Sacramento the talent we have to offer. , it was awesome to see all the support the community showed this year.

Broadway Stage in Sacramento

2011-09-11T22:58:51Z

If you’ve ever longed to see a Broadway Musical onstage, with a live 18-piece orchestra, here’s your chance, and in Sacramento! The Runaway Stage is presenting The Drowsy Chaperone through Oct. 2, 2011, with a cast of 19 talented performers. Singing, dancing, acting, they do it all with incredible talent and timing.

A campy 1920s musical comedy within a play, the show is narrated by “the man in the chair” - played by Steve Minnow. He shows us how to beat the blues by listening to old musical comedy records. (yes, records). My favorite line is when he drops the needle on his antique record player and says “You hear that static. I love that sound. To me, it’s the sound of a time machine starting up.” The characters come to life in his apartment, and his ability to stop the play’s action and comment on the storyline ties everything together with verve and nostalgia.

The 24th St theatre is large (with real theatre seats), the audience was large, and if you miss this show, you’ll regret it. “Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow; but soon, and for the rest of your life.”

http://www.runawaystage.com/broadway.html

The Joy Formidable at Harlow's

2011-09-08T01:50:01Z

If you're looking for an example of a band in the middle of making it big, look no further than The Joy Formidable.

Formed in North Wales, the now London-based power trio has been riding a monster wave of success this year, touring and playing major U.K. and U.S. festivals – Reading, Coachella, Lollapalooza – and garnering praise from critics and their musical peers alike.

They made such an impression on Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters earlier this year that he took to Twitter to sing their praises: "I would like to personally thank The Joy Formidable for writing the song of the year "Whirring". xxx Dave". The band will open several dates with Foo Fighters in November.

The band has a massive, noisy sound: chunky guitar riffs, overdriven bass, and pounding drums, all laced with the sweet vocals of firecracker front woman Ritzy Bryan. A chance to catch them up close and personal should not be passed.

The Joy Formidable will perform at Harlow's this Saturday at 10 p.m. Tim Reynolds, the ridiculously talented guitarist of the Dave Matthews Band, plays an earlier show the same day at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are a steal at $13.50.

Rock Away Labor Day Autism Awareness Event at State Capitol

2011-09-02T05:24:20Z

The Rock Away Labor Day Autism Awareness Event will be held on Sept 5, 2011 at the West and North steps of the Capitol Building in downtown Sacramento. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. and is scheduled to end at 7 p.m.

The Rock Away Labor Day show will feature a diverse lineup of live music, fashion shows, comedians, dance groups, a face painting area for children, raffles and more. The event is free of charge and is open to the public.

The purpose of the event is to have a day of enjoyment in a family friendly environment, to create more awareness about autism, and to provide educational and community resources on the subject. In addition, a part of the proceeds from the vendors who will be present at the event will be donated to help to purchase toys that help to teach children with autism and training tools to help families in need of learning how to cope with the disorder.

The moving force behind this Labor Day event is musician and photographer Richard Evans. As is typical for many parents who have a child with autism, Evans knew nothing about the disease when his son Ricardo was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 4. His desire to increase the public awareness of what autism is inspired him to create the organization, Muzic 4 Autism Awareness which is hosting the event.

“In the beginning it was tough because I had no idea what autism was at all,” stated Evans.

“For me the biggest triumph was finding the right doctor. We were able to find treatment therapies and medications that increased Ricardo’s focus and help him to sleep at night,” Evans said.

Although autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are familiar terms to many people, it remains one of the most baffling and mysterious of developmental disorders in the public conscious and in the medical profession.

Autism affects social and communication skills, and to a greater or lesser degree, motor and language skills. At present there is no definitively known cause or cure. Nor is there any one specific treatment for the disorder.

The Autism Society, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization states on its website;

“While there is no known cure for autism, there are treatment and education approaches that may reduce some of the challenges associated with the condition. Intervention may help to lessen disruptive behaviors, and education can teach self-help skills that allow for greater independence.”

As Evans has learned over the years raising his son, often times there are no easy solutions. Because of the deficits in his speech and his lack of social skills, Ricardo cannot be left unattended, even though he is nearly 13 years old.

Fortunately for Evans, Ricardo’s older sister Rita, age 14, loves her younger brother and has always been supportive and understanding of the challenges of having a member of the family with autism.

“Many people do not realize my son has a disability because he looks "normal," said Evans.

Ricardo’s unusual or disruptive behavior can draw attention while the three members of the Evans’ family are out in the public. People often glance with a look of annoyance and sometimes stare at them with a look of wonder.

“When I inform them that my son has autism, they say “oh ok,” but the look on their faces most often tells me that they don’t really know what that is,” Evans stated.

The Autism Society confirms that the experiences of Evans' are typical of most other families with a member diagnosed with the condition. The struggle, however difficult it may be at times, is not without hope.

” But just as there is no one symptom or behavior that identifies individuals with ASD, there is no single treatment that will be effective for all people on the spectrum. Individuals can learn to function within the confines of ASD and use the positive aspects of their condition to their benefit, but treatment must begin as early as possible and be tailored to the child's unique strengths, weaknesses and needs.”

All members of the public are invited out to spend all or a part of their Labor Day enjoying the music, poetry, comedy, and other special features that will be on the stage at the Rock Away Labor Day Autism Awareness Event on this upcoming Labor Day. For more information about the event visit the organization’s website at www.m4aa.org.

Blvd Park Returns to Sacramento

2011-08-25T02:15:59Z

Blvd Park is a former Sacramento band, newly transplanted to Seattle after the end of their “New American Dream Tour” in May. They are coming back to play a special show at Harlow’s Thursday night with Keri Carr Band and Kate Gaffney with Steve Randall. Founding member Brian Ballentine recently spoke to The Sacramento Press about the upcoming show.

What brings you back to Sacramento?

One of our friends down there is getting married. We haven’t been there in a while. It’s been half a year I think.

Have you ever played Harlow’s before?

Yeah, we played Harlow’s about a year ago with Split Lip Rayfield before, I think about two years ago.

What are you expecting from this show?

A couple local people are going to join us: Zack Sapunor, he’s going to play upright bass with us, and then Shea Trumbauer, he’s going to play snare. So we’re going to have like an eight-piece. Mick (“The Deli Lama” Stevenson) will be there probably, so it’s going to be kind of like a reunion show. I haven’t hung out with all my buddies in a while.

How is Seattle?

Seattle’s great. Our band is doing really well out here. We got into all the major clubs out here, and we’re starting to build a really good fan base, and we’re working on our new album. It’s going good. It was a good decision for a career move, for us to get to a bigger city. I think we’re going to be here for a while. No plans on leaving. We thought about going to the East Coast for a while, but I think we’re going to stay here because it makes more sense.

So you guys are working on a new album?

We have it worked out. We’re going (into the studio) in October. We’re just doing all the considerations to see what we need to do to get it taken care of. We found the producer and stuff and the place where we’re going to record.

What sort of an album is it going to be?

This album, it’s a little different from our first album. We’ve aged a lot more now. We can find our sound a lot more now. Much newer songs. Everybody’s writing. I did a lot of the writing for the first album, and now it’ s split pretty much evenly. Tekla Waterfield, Timmy Conroy and Jarrett Mason, he’s writing on it too. So it’s going to be a collective of all of us. That’s what we’re trying to (do to) begin with. No one’s the front man. Everyone’s all part of it, you know? All singer-songwriters, and it’s finally coming out that way. I’m really excited.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?

We’re just excited to get down there. It’s going to be a fun show. Kate Gaffney and Keri Carr are very talented musicians. Have you heard them before?

No, I have not, so I’m really looking forward to it.

Kate Gaffney is playing Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, so she’s got her name out there pretty well. And she’s local too — actually she moved to San Francisco.

I’m excited to jam with (Zack). Our other bass player, he’s staying here. He doesn’t go on tour. When we get to play with Zack, our energy is a little bit different. It’s a little more upbeat. We should be an eight-piece that night. A new mandolin player from Seattle is coming, so we’ll have another member. It should be pretty cool.

Sade Live in Sacramento: Intimacy on a Grand Scale

2011-08-19T06:57:46Z

One of the joys of concert reviewing is traveling far out beyond my comfort zone and seeing a performance of someone who is not normally on my radar. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m pretty narrow in my music tastes. I’ve got a couple of things that I really like and everything else gets a big, fat “meh” in my book. It’s not that I don’t want to listen to new and different things, I just never seem to get around to it.

Attending the Sade show at the Power Balance Pavillion on Wednesday evening, I gleefully threw caution to the wind and stepped into an unfamiliar musical landscape. Admittedly, I did enter with some preconceptions about Sade’s music. In my mind, Sade is to melancholy slow jams what Guns N’ Roses is to misogynistic arena rock. The aural equivalent of sipping white wine on a beach at sunset. Soothing but kind of boring.

Well, I was totally wrong about that one. At least as far as Sade’s live show is concerned. (I didn’t even realize Sade was a band until looking them up in preparation for this article. For anyone who is confused, Sade is the name of the band AND the name of the lead singer.)

There is something to be said for jumping in with both feet and being swept away by the tide of something completely opposite of what you’re used to.

The night began with another artist whose work I am wholly unfamiliar with, R&B singer-songwriter John Legend. Legend, in a brilliant white three-piece suit (which reduced much of the audience to screaming little girls), stormed the stage at 7:39, ripping into a cover of Adele’s “Rollin’ in the Deep.”

Legend brought an abundance of energy, transitioning from uptempo full-band numbers like “Used to Love U” to quiet introspective numbers like “Ordinary People” with ease. He even teased the audience with a new song, the as yet unreleased “Dreams.”

The climax of his set came when he announced that he didn’t “want to be alone tonight” and asked if there were any ladies who would like to come up and dance with him onstage. Predictably the crowd went berserk, with nearly every woman in the audience jumping out of her seat screaming, “Me, me, me!” Unfortunately (for everyone else), he could only take one, and the lucky lady was led onto the stage to dance with Legend for “Slow Dance.”

Afterward, Brandi Marizio said of the experience, (with stars in her eyes) “He looked good. He smelled good. It was wonderful.”

After a short break, Sade rose up through the stage floor on four square platforms to begin to the martial drumming of “Soldier of Love.” The sparseness of the set design melded nicely with the militaristic vibe of the song and the subsequent “Love Is Found.”

This is Sade's forist tour in North America in 10 years Thoughout the performance Sade (the singer, not the band) frequently commented that it had been too long since she had been here while profusely thanking the audience for staying with her. A decade of absence from the touring circuit seems to have had no effect, as the band were in top form and Sade’s soaring voice could not have been more glorious.

The show was divided, visually and stylistically, into three parts. The first was the aforementioned military portion, followed by a set and costume change that transitioned into a film noir landscape with everyone onstage in three-piece suits and fedoras. With only a lighting change and a projected backdrop of the New York City skyline, Power Balance Pavilion was transformed into an intimate speakeasy. Sade began this portion with their biggest hit, “Smooth Operator,” before downshifting into the quiet, soulful “Jezebel.”

[Aside 1: Hey, remember back when pointing a laser pointer at the stage during a rock show was hilarious? Yeah, me neither. Don’t be a jerk.]

Another subtle set change saw Sade back in an incandescent white dress for the final section of the night with “King of Sorrow.”

[Aside 2: It was during the following song, “The Sweetest Taboo,” that I realized pretty much every trip-hop band with a female vocalist from the mid- to late-’90s owes a colossal debt to Sade. I’m looking at you, Massive Attack!]

Sade closed the show with “By Your Side” before thanking the audience one more time. We watched their silhouettes as they sank back into the stage and disappeared.

Uh Huh Her sweats it out at Harlow's

2011-07-26T23:40:50Z

In a rare all ages show at Harlow's last night, L.A.'s Uh Huh Her performed for a packed room of excited fans ready to make the most of a typically low-key Monday night.

Taking their name from the 2004 PJ Harvey album of the same title, Uh Huh Her is a sultry electro-pop duo made up of ex-Mellodrone bassist and keyboardist Camila Grey (who has collaborated with Busta Rhymes, Kelly Osbourne and Dr. Dre) and musician and actress, Leisha Hailey, formerly of The Murmurs and most well known from her role as bisexual journalist, Alice Pieszecki, on Showtime's, “The L Word.”

While Hailey's resume could suggest the band is an actor's passing fancy, the pair are seasoned performers and multi-instrumentalists to boot, even swapping their bass and guitar at one point.

The flirty stage banter was effortless as they forged a connection with the enrapt, overwhelmingly female crowd.

"We just came from Vegas," said Hailey with a smile, explaining a brief technical difficulty with her synth, "so you can imagine what my keyboard has been through!"

The music Uh Huh Her has put out so far – their 2010 debut, “Common Reaction,” and 2011's, “Black and Blue” EP – could be described as synth-driven pop with electronic rhythm, made all the more dreamy with Grey's and Hailey's melodic vocals.

Seeing the songs performed Monday with a second guitar and live drums gave them a rawness, turning the performance into more of a rock ‘n' roll show than you might have expected from listening to their recorded material.

The only issue seemed to be that the precision of the keys and vocals were overpowered by the accompanying muscle, not that it mattered to the dancing and now sweaty crowd. If anything, the organic live show enhanced the experience of seeing the twosome play, and they weren't the only ones generating body heat.

"I'm sweating balls up here. Balls, I tell you," said a soaked Grey, wiping the top of her chest with a towel to deafening squeals of delight from the crowd. "I don't know what that means, but it's happening."

Songs from their yet-to-be-released second LP, “Nocturnes,” were also being honed on the road. Originally planned for a 2011 summer release, Hailey said she thinks the new album will be out in October.

After a quick show and encore that lasted a little over an hour, the ladies of UHH sent their fans home exhausted and happy, as they stuck around to sign autographs and take pictures for a long line of fans that snaked along the inside of the club.

"They're hot," said new fan Lisa Burns, who found out about the show – and band – through meetup.com. "I've never heard of them but I'm very impressed!"

Photos by Steven Chea

Free Music in the Park concerts in Curtis Park

2011-07-26T17:59:22Z

At 6:30pm on the last Sunday of July and August, neighbors will gather in Curtis Park to enjoy music, picnicking and fun with friends and family. With a blanket and a picnic basket, everyone can enjoy great music in a wonderful outdoor venue, set in the trees of historic William Curtis Park.

On July 31, feature band The Thing Itself takes the stage. The Thing itself blends rock, blues, jazz, funk and gospel into a sound that is fresh and familiar. Their original music weaves upbeat grooves, catchy hooks and often unexpected lyrics. Members of The Thing Itself have been featured in some of the areas top bands over the last 20 years, including Bob's Child, Izabella, The Four Guys From Reno, and Bilbo Marx.

At the children's stage in July, it's "Mister Cooper", whose musical talent and rapport with children have made him indispensable to schools and parents throughout Sacramento. Cooper's music, as Christie Hamm of Belle Coolidge Library says, establishes "a connection with children long after the songs are over".

In August--the 28th--On Air returns to SCNA's concert series, specializing in solid rockers that lean heavily toward the styles of Tower of Power and Chicago. At the children's stage in August Gary Weinberg a.k.a GWhiz returns to present his clever line-up of songs and games for children.

This free Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association event series is made possible by the generosity of Major Sponsors Cook Realty and Cook Foundation along with supporting sponsors City Councilmember Jay Schenirer, and Surewest. Be sure to stop by the Cook Realty booth for ice cream bon-bons from Gunther's Ice Cream. The concerts are open to the public and fun for families and people of all ages. Beverages will be available for purchase, with proceeds to benefit SCNA neighborhood activities and future concert events. Per City ordinances, no other beer or wine will be permitted in the park.

Uh Huh Her to perform at Harlow's

2011-07-25T01:59:20Z

Taking their name from the 2004 PJ Harvey album of the same title, L.A.-based Uh Huh Her is a sultry electro-pop duo made up of ex-Mellodrone bassist and keyboardist Camila Grey (who has collaborated with Busta Rhymes, Kelly Osbourne and Dr. Dre) and musician and actress Leisha Hailey, formerly of the Murmurs (and who you might recognize from her role as bisexual journalist Alice Pieszecki on Showtime's “The L Word”).

The pair creates lush, layered synth-driven pop, complemented by soothing, ethereal vocals and driven by up-tempo electronic beats.

The band most recently released their dark and moody "Black and Blue" EP in May and is currently preparing to release their second album, "Nocturnes."

Uh Huh Her will perform at Harlow’s on Monday at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15.

Launch 2011: see video here

2011-07-22T18:44:10Z

Join The Sacramento Press Saturday evening for Launch 2011, a design, music and fashion festival.

The third annual Launch is a spectacular festival of sight and sound that provides the opportunity for creative people from Sacramento’s art, music and fashion communities to come together to showcase their talents and celebrate local and national works of art, music and design and share the experience with the community as a whole.

Launch will include live music by Little Foxes, Exquisite Corps, ReSA, The Dreaded Diamond and many others. Artists on-site Saturday include Brady Tuazon, Chelsea Greene Lewyta, Jeff Dojillo, and too many more to mention.

Fashion designers Miss Chief of California, Adrienne Cheng and Van der Neer are also expected to participate. In addition to live music, artists’ presentations and fashion designers, there will be an architectural display and a huge variety of vendors.

Launch 2011 will take place at the Greens Hotel 1700 Del Paso Boulevard from 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Hot Italian, at 15th and P streets, will provide shuttle service to and from Launch. Hot Italian will also have advanced tickets available for purchase. For additional ticket information, go to Ticket Leap.

If you are unable to attend launch 2011, you can still see some of the action. The Sacramento Press will be live-steaming video of the event via UStream. You can see can see video starting at 5 p.m. the day of the event here:

Free live streaming by Ustream

Fire Dance in Sacramento on August 13th 2011

2011-07-01T00:42:33Z

8 years ago I moved to Sacramento after a year of travelling around Oregon and California. I was fortunate to connect with a small group of people learning the art of fire dance and Poi spinning. I had been exploring the art in different communities throughout the bay area for a couple of years prior. Never did I think at the time that the next 8 years would unfold as they have. To my complete amazement, I still dance with the same people I met here 8 years ago, now called Obsidian Butterfly. We have been fortunate enough to build bonds that have withstood the test of time, well at least 8 years of time and as I've learned in the Fire Dancer world, that is a relatively long time. I still enjoy every moment of practice, rehearsal, and growth and love how the longer we stay connected the more fluid our dances become.

In the beginning, we were constantly met with rules and regulations prohibiting fire dancing, as it was still relatively new here in Sacramento, there wasn't alot of support in creating an environment for growth, or at least we didn't know at the time how to receive that support. In came the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau, who upon contracting us for a New Year's Eve gig, which we still perform yearly on New Years Eve in Old Sac, we were able to begin developing a professional relationship with those who would be the people that have helped us carve out a space for growth over the years. After several years of working within the guidelines being presented we began gaining official approval and permiting for our shows and the places where we perform.

As a way to honor the community connection and give local fire dancers and groups (yes there are more than one) a platform to perform I applied for and received a grant from SMAC (the Sacramento Municipal Arts Commission) in 2008 to put on a themed fire show with local fire artists. This show became the beginning of our annual festival called the Fire Spectacular. The Fire Spectacular first occured on August 8th 2008 at 8pm (there is something magical about the 8's).

The Fire Spectacular is family friendly themed event and 2011 marks the 4th year of the Festival. In the past we have welcomed Controlled Burn from Reno, The Firebenders, members of the Fire University from Davis, Stacey "Pika" Fuego, Vikram, and of course Obsidian Butterfly along with the Obsidian Butterfly student troupe; Fire Rising. For 2011 we welcome back The Brotherhood of Firebenders, the Fire University, Obsidian Butterfly and another local favorite added to our mix this year, Flux. Now that we are receiving full support for our art, I find it exciting that we will be all be coming together this year at William Land Park in the amphitheatre under a full moon on August 13th to share our art and talents wtih the greater Sacramento community. Now that Sacramento in all its beauty and splendor has fully supported our growth for 8 years and counting, it's the least we can do to show our appreciation but to come together and put on a fabulous Fire Dance show that represents our evolution as a community.

We will be offering Hoop and Poi workshops in the day (pre-register on the Obsidian Butterfly website), Live music by Drumsum and Mystic Lotus, Vending (still taking vendor applications), and Fire Performance at night. We, Obsidian Butterfly, host the event and though we no longer receive grant funds to make it happen, we rely on ticket sales and vendor feees to help fund the annual event. We are also sponsored by Fractured Atlas, a fiscal sponsorship program that helps artists and arts organizations raise money from charitable sources. Fractured Atlast is a non profit sponsorship that takes donations on behalf of our event. 2011 funding has been low and we are looking for community support to raise enough money to make the festival continue happening on a yearly basis. We hope in the future to expand the fire element to include fire sculptures as made by local fire artists. To help us raise enough funding for our event, you may purchase tickets (directly through our website), sign up for a workshop, donate money through Fractured Atlas, or book us for a show; all of which help us continue sharing our talent with the local community.

For full event details and ticketing information, please visit the Obsidian Butterfly website at http://www.sacredfiredance.com/Events

Where does Obsidian Butterfly perform other than the Fire Spectacular?

Everywhere including backyard parties, Luau's, weddings, receptions, corporate events, grand openings, birthdays, childrens' parties, movies, music videos, fundraisers, photoshoots, festivals, holiday parties (yes even during all seasons). We offer silk and glow shows for day or indoor events.

Does Obsidian Butterfly Travel?

Of course. We service the entire Sacramento Valley from North Lake Tahoe to South, from Clear Lake to the Bay Area, Modesto, Lodi, Stockton, Ripon, Oakley, Hilmar, Chico, also including Santa Fe New Mexico and Portland Oregon.

Questions arise over Old Ironsides' live music

2011-06-29T00:55:47Z

Sacramento musicians and their followers are waiting to see whether this summer brings an end to an era of live music at Old Ironsides.

Countless local bands broke into the music business at the bar/restaurant known as "Old I" over the last two decades. But there's currently only one weekend show booked for July.

Two shows that had been set for next month have been moved to another location, one has been canceled and future bookings have been postponed for now.

The family that has owned the bar at 1901 10th St. for 76 years is working to replace a rented sound system that was removed Sunday. The Kanelos family rented the system for about 17 years and was unable to negotiate a lower fee with the sound system's owner, a concert promoter said.

Old Ironsides' owners said they hope to know by early next week whether they've got a new system lined up and an installation date set, co-owner Sam Kanelos Jr. said.

"We're just between sound systems," he said Monday afternoon while tending the bar. "You're getting it from the horse's mouth."

However, concert promoter Jerry Perry will be parting ways with Old Ironsides – at least temporarily – after booking shows there for at least a decade.

He won’t book bands there unless the bar brings in a sound system. He doesn’t want to rent systems each night or rely on bands to bring sound equipment because he won’t know how good the sound quality will be each night, he said.

Perry, who owns Jerry Perry Presents, has been booking all the bands at the club on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, except for dance club nights. Perry also books bands at Harlows and Luigi’s Slice Slice at 1050 20th St. He’ll book his first show at the downtown location of Naked Lounge this summer.

He said he moved two shows to Luigi's after he was told by the owners that his July 1 show would be the last there and that the sound system was being removed. He stopped booking shows at Old Ironsides about a month ago in anticipation of that.

"They called me and told me they were done. That they weren't going to be doing any live music anymore, except for open mic and dance nights," he said. "I love Old Ironsides, but until things change there and they get a sound system back ... I won't be doing shows there."

Perry talked with the owners about buying a sound system a decade ago and again in 2007. Until now, he and the bands paid a nightly fee to the bar owners to rent the sound system.

Dozens of musicians and Old I customers posted comments on Facebook last week after he posted a notice that he needed to move shows because the sound system was being removed. Old Ironsides' owners later posted on their Facebook page asking customers to stay tuned for updates on the situation.

"We are just in the middle of switching sound systems and no decision has been made to completely let the night life go," the owners wrote in the post. "As of now, we are still here."

Some customers wondered if the bar was closing.

"We're not going out of business," Kanelos said Monday.

Perry also stressed the bar isn't shutting down.

"I don't like this idea that people are talking about – 'Oh, they're done.' That's ridiculous. They've been there more than 75 years," he said. "I don't want to see Old Ironsides lose any more business."

Recently, he had been working on deals to get the bar a new system. A durable, easy-to-store system including such things as amplifiers, speakers, microphones, mic stands, monitors, cables and a sound board would have cost about $14,000 or $15,000, he said.

One person was ready to install a rented system Monday that could be used until a new system was purchased. But the owners canceled the installation, Perry said.

Perry then told co-owner Billie Jean Kanelos he would have to move his shows. Her father, Bill Bordisso, was issued the first Sacramento liquor license after Prohibition ended for the bar.

Tuesday, Kanelos declined additional comment until the situation is resolved.

Perry said the family hasn't gotten back in touch to say they're bringing in a new system. They last told him they wanted bands or Perry to bring in sound on a night-to-night basis. Equipment would cost $200 a night or Perry would have to find bands with their own system.

That's too expensive and impractical, Perry said. Consistent, high-quality sound can't be guaranteed when working with a different sound system every night, he added.

Business is a bit lean for the bar in the summer – especially during the recession, Perry said.

Many local bands got started in the music business after Perry got behind them and booked them at Old I.

Perry began promoting bands in the early 1980s at the legendary Cattle Club on Folsom Boulevard. He also books the Friday Night Concerts in the Park at Cesar Chavez Plaza, Hot Italian's free Hot Lunch series at Fremont Park and the bands for a three-day art event called Chalk It Up!

Old I brought in bigger crowds in the 1990s after getting the sound system and offering live music, said Evan Drath, who was the bar's head sound engineer from 1995 to 2000. He also played bass guitar for Grub Dog and the Amazing Sweethearts.

Local bands that regularly packed Old I included Mother Hips, Okra Pickles, Sex 66, Magnolia Thunderfinger and Jackpot. It was well-known as a place for up-and-coming bands, he said.

"It established itself as a cultural point in Sacramento," Drath said. "The music obviously was the main part of that. It really brought it to another level nationwide as well as locally."

But now there's more competition, fewer local bands and more virtual entertainment options keeping people at home in front of their computers. Band members are getting older, and other bands aren't replacing them. People in their late-30s and 40s who established Old I as a live music venue are busy with their lives, Drath said.

Old Ironsides can't always pack the house three nights a week like before, added Drath, now a touring sound engineer.

"There's a reason why maybe the Kanelos (family) found it harder to meet the bottom line. It's because the crowd is dwindling," he said. "A different culture around music has developed. It was an actual music experience you were having as opposed to a virtual music experience."

Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @SuzanneHurt.

Ace of Spades gets "Jane Fonda" lesson

2011-06-20T04:33:02Z

Hollywood sleaze-rapper Mickey Avalon performed for a huge crowd of die-hard fans at Ace of Spades Friday night, whipping the young crowd into a lustful frenzy with his provocative sing-along raps.

Folsom rap duo Ill Effect kicked the show off with some tight rhymes and beats, sounding the best as they flowed over B.o.B's well-known hit "Airplanes," featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore.

After a 30-minute delay that had everyone wondering what exactly was going on, rapper Ty$ (Ty Dolla Sign) took the stage. Unfortunately there was nothing spectacular in his short set that made up for the long wait. Highlights included some call-and-response about which side of the crowd was louder and boasting about how one of his songs was "everywhere" (it's not).

Next up was L.A. hip-hop/pop group The Divine, who put forward the effort but didn't quite hit the mark for the Sac crowd, getting booed and inciting chants of "Mickey! Mickey!" in between songs.

"His voice was too high,” Folsom resident Andrea Wilson said of vocalist Shane Gelinas. “It sounded like Backstreet Boys behind a beat.”

With a seedy backstory straight off an “E! True Hollywood Story” episode – former male prostitute, ex-junkie and teen pot dealer – Avalon has a lot of interesting experiences to draw from for his rhymes.

He ran through several of his super catchy party raps: "So Rich, So Pretty," "Jane Fonda,” "Mr. Right" and "My Dick," accompanied on stage by his scantily clad dancer, Jillian, who turned out to be extremely flexible.

In addition to his filthy sex appeal, Avalon's strong points are his unique flow, hooky beats and sing-along lyrics: "One, two, three, four/ Get your booty on the dance floor/ Work it out, shake it, little mama/ Let me see you do the Jane Fonda."

Drugs, booze, sex – it's all there. Shirtless and sometimes chugging a bottle of wine, Avalon oozed sexuality as he slinked his way across the stage, using his salacious glances and pelvic gyrations to start a bra collection on stage.

"I like his raw style,” said Frank Cornwall, who traveled to the show from Grass Valley with some family and friends. “He's one of those guys who sings what he wants to sing and doesn't care who he pisses off. He's like a combination of Eminem and Snoop Dogg: smooth and rude."

And for all his bawdy raps, Avalon is actually a soft-spoken, friendly guy and loves his fans. After the show, he stayed until every last person could get a picture taken with him or get their breasts signed.

It's no wonder why they love him back.

Photos by Steven Chea

Sarah Jaffe treats Harlow's to her smooth voice, sharp wit

2011-06-06T06:08:29Z

In a rustic jean jacket and laced up military-style boots, singer/songwriter and Dentin, TX native Sarah Jaffe took the stage at Harlow’s on Saturday night without introduction. Discretely arranging the mic, she cut through the chatter of the bar’s full house of patrons with the earthy croon of “Paul/The Body Wins,” sustaining heavy notes for seconds at a time.

The opening song was a two-parter of sorts, splitting seamlessly into a danceable second half, featuring looped vocals and a drum-machine beat. The electronic jolt, though an element largely absent in her most current album “Suburban Nature,” set the tone for the rest of her crisp, chest-pounding set.

Having successfully secured our attention with a solo performance, Jaffe introduced the rest of her band.

Using cloth-topped sticks resembling timpani mallets, drummer Jeff Ryan lent a tribal, galloping rhythm to Jaffe’s open-hearted performance. Keyboardist Scott Danbom added an airy, contemporary layer of sound to otherwise more straightforwardly country-inspired songs. Robert Gomez and Becki Howard subtly rounded out the band with backup guitar and elegant vocal harmonization.

Jaffe delivered heavy lyrics like those on the rough and stunning “Under” (sample lyric: “Ain’t nobody’s girl/ I ain’t nobody’s man”), off of the 2008 EP “Even Born Again,” with the same matter-of-fact style that she offered deadpan quips to the audience.

“Alright, goodnight,” Jaffe said one song into the performance, feigning what would have been the world’s shortest set.

“Thanks for letting me come to your open mic night,” she said later in mock self-deprecation.

As comfortable as she was with sarcasm, appeared equally enamored with sweetness. Within moments, the platinum-haired singer went from appearing darkly intense, peering coolly out of blue-green eyes highlighted by high-arching brows, to smiling widely in the wake of a joke, her eyes crinkling in glee.

Jaffe was notably energized during the band’s cover of the sunny Harry Nilsson song “Me and My Arrow,” softening her performance to honor the borrowed tune’s bouncy melody.

Audience members, apparently also fans of the early-’70s Nillson song, bellowed along to its chorus: “Me and my arrow/ straighter than narrow/ wherever we go, everyone knows/ it’s me and my arrow.”

A well-rounded performer, Jaffe seemed just as at home leaning languidly into the electro pop underpinnings of new track “When You Rest” as she did brooding through her murkier tracks. “Pull it together” the song’s lyrics instructs over a tauntingly slow beat.

Watching Jaffe perform is to feel as though you are in capable hands, happily going along for the ride knowing the performer is in full control of her lush musical talent. The tumbling phrasing and plucked melody of new track “Sucker for Your Marketing” kept the audience clinging to Jaffe’s every word.

Though clearly a natural singer, capable of hitting a range of notes with comforting effortlessness, Jaffe doesn’t rest on her vocal laurels. Rather, she gets creative in the way that she holds her mouth while singing, a practice that lends itself to an array of unique aural effects.

For instance, in order to produce the hollow, echoing pitch on “Under,” Jaffe held her lips in an oblong formation. With the jut of her chin, she produced the tighter, shimmery vocals of “When You Rest.”

Though attentive and cheerful in between Jaffe’s songs, the majority of night’s audience members appeared to be previously unacquainted with her work, barely batting an eye as the band broke into the chugging intro of its best known song and usual crowd favorite, wistful crooner “Clemetine.”

But if you looked closely enough, you could spy a small smattering of Jaffe-die-hards positioned directly in front of the singer, whispering every word and smiling warmly.

The night’s highlight came at the end of the performance as Jaffe and her audience harmonized in “church camp” fashion for closer ”Before You Go.” Having never performed in Sacramento before, Jaffe seemed at first uncertain that we would go for the proposed collaboration.

“I know we don’t know each other very well, but I’d like you to sing this last song with us,” she said.

One brave soul towards the back of the venue was the first to pipe up with a smooth singing voice, and the rest of the crowd followed suit. The audience’s repetition of a few lilting bars served as the ghostly backdrop for Jaffe’s delivery of the song’s wary lyrics: “My heart pretends not to know how it ends.”

From behind his kit, Ryan took photos of the audience-cum-choir, as swirling yellow stage lights illuminated us in brief flashes.

Noticeably moved by the crowd’s enthusiastic participation, Jaffe told the crowd its effort was the best she had seen all tour.

“You just beat out my hometown,” she said.

For tour dates, visit Sarah Jaffe's website.

Party at Harlow's with Foster the People

2011-06-04T06:24:23Z

You know that song with the can't-get-it-out-of-your-head whistling called "Young Folks" by Peter Bjorn and John that people seem to either love or hate?

Los Angeles band Foster the People has a comparable track called "Pumped Up Kicks" – a sing-along with a cheery melody and dark lyrics about youth gun violence – that has the same effect.

Polarizing song? For sure.

One-hit wonder band? It doesn't look like it.

Without seeming like they had anything to prove, the young group with more buzz than a beehive let its music speak for itself for a sold-out crowd at Harlow's Thursday night.

Support act The Chain Gang of 1974 (aka Kamtin Mohager) from Denver came ready to warm up the crowd with solid post-punk and new wave stylings. Imagine The Bravery writing an album after watching a 24-hour John Hughes marathon.

The Chain Gang had played Sacramento before, and things were a little different this time around.

"The last time we played here was at a pizza place in front of two people," Mohager told the packed house, referencing a November 2010 show at Luigi's Slice Fungarden.

Foster the People is vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Mark Foster, bassist and backing vocalist Cubbie Fink and drummer Mark Pontius. Originally called Foster & the People, the new name stuck after the original was misheard enough times and the band warmed to the image it invoked of "taking care" of the people.

The synth-enhanced dance-rock music and Foster's falsetto draw comparisons to Passion Pit and MGMT, but they still find a way to project an identity and make their broad pop sound unique. It took about an hour for the band to run through all 11 songs on their recently released debut album, “Torches”.

Although you would have no problem throwing on “Torches” as the soundtrack to your summer pool party, the songs come alive and breathe when performed live. A track like "Broken Jaw" really shines when performed live, allowing Foster to demonstrate his vocal range and making at least one person in the crowd turn to his friend with his own jaw dropped in amazement as soon as it was over.

The band members had fun as they rotated on instruments throughout the show, taking turns on the various synths and energetically banging on the stand-up bass drum. Can't go wrong with a tastefully used Apache war drum.

Throw in some yellow maracas and a drunk blonde in a black dress from the audience dancing on stage, and you have yourself a very satisfying, high-energy soiree.

With sold-out shows as they tour through October, upcoming performances at huge music festivals (Lollapalooza, ACL Music Festival) and iTunes love ("Helena Beat" was the Free Single last week), expect Foster the People to keep the party going for a while.

Photos by Steven Chea

Indie rock brings a crowd to Cesar Chavez Park

2011-05-23T05:24:26Z

Local indie bands offered up a hearty dose of energy and a touch of theatrics to the 1,000-plus-person crowd at Cesar Chavez Park Friday night for the latest installation of the Concerts in the Park series.

On the sidewalk leading up to the stage area, vendors were selling gyros, drinks, necklaces and earrings. The CHP had a tented booth, as did radio station Radio 94.7 FM and The Sacramento Press.

The night’s diverse crowd included families, neon-haired teens and seniors, all basking in the glow of live music and sunshine. Friends spread out islands of blankets on the grass, and children ran around with balloons attached to their wrists.

Siblings Juli and Tyler Lydell of The Dreaded Diamond got the night started with their impressive mix of keyboard, drums and emotive, soaring vocals in the vein of indie-pop duo Tegan and Sara.

Tyler played his drums with the finesse of a jazz percussionist, hitting the high hat with exacting strokes of the wrist to produce shimmery and drawn out hisses of vibration. Singer and keyboardist Juli gelled effortlessly with her brother’s rhythm, producing waterfalls of notes and singing heartily from the pit of her stomach with a raw-yet-controlled delivery.

Jerry Perry, the event’s host, called the 15- and 19-year- olds “incredible” as he watched their performance from behind the stage.

Next up, Los Angeles-based Golden Ghosts charmed the crowd with their gracious attitude and twangy Southern-inspired brand of rock ’n’ roll.

Drummer Justin Goings and guitarist Riley Bray were dressed like 1960s rock stars in leather vests and skinny jeans. Bray’s chin-length hair and tassel-adorned vest swayed in unison as he delivered lines like, “You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone,” head swiveling with sass.

Brave audience members danced in front of the stage as hoots issued from the crowd during heady jam “Heart of Coal.”

“We couldn’t have picked a better day and couldn’t have asked for a better crowd,” Bray said.

Between bands, Kasey Cooper from Radio 94.7 took the stage to hand out guitar picks to eager hands and encourage audience members to enter a radio-sponsored raffle for a chance to win a $100 iTunes gift card.

As The Kelps started tuning up their instruments, a youthful crowd formed in front of the stage. Three teens stood side by side in homemade black Kelps T-shirts.

As their set got under way, it became clear why The Kelps appeal to a younger crowd: The energy of their live performance is unstoppable. Singer Cory Barringer’s howling vocals brought to mind an enlivened preacher describing hellfire, bassist Cameron Betts hopped joyfully from one foot to the other, and drummer Tony Reye’s flailing arms conjured images of another beloved bit of sea life: the octopus.

Before headliners Agent Ribbons took the stage, Perry spoke to the audience briefly about his experience touring with them a few years prior, describing it as “one of the great adventures of [his] life.”

Drummer Lauren Hess assembled her pearlescent kit center stage while guitarist Natalie Gordon bent down to sign an autograph for a pint-sized fan who, in a vibrant paisley top and jeans, appeared nearly as inspired by fashion as the women of Agent Ribbons themselves.

The theatrical duo donned pink masks with cartoonish eyes printed on them for set-opener “The World Is a Cigarette,” proving their skill as fine-tuned tour veterans capable of playing their songs expertly, even without the luxury of sight.

The girls delivered a studio-perfect version of “I Was Born to Write Sad Songs,” with Gordon’s throaty croon sailing to the back of the park as Hess rapped heartily on her toms.

This Friday, Concerts in the Park will host Rick Estrin & The Nightcats. Join the fun from 5 to 9 p.m. at Chavez Park on 10th and J streets.

Photos: Pepper performs at Ace of Spades

2011-05-19T04:44:02Z

Hawaii/SoCal-based bands Iration and Pepper made a stop in Sacramento on May 12, 2011, with each group performing their fusion of reggae, dub and rock for a very receptive audience at music venue Ace of Spades.

The well-attended show was another in a streak of many at AOS, which is quickly becoming the go-to venue for mid-sized artists. Take a look at their site for some upcoming shows, which include performances by Fitz and The Tantrums, Deftones, and Mickey Avalon.

Here are some shots from the Pepper show:

Creedence Clearwater Revisited to play Thunder Valley Casino Resort

2011-05-17T04:33:44Z

Fans of 1960s classic rock will have the chance to "revisit" some fond musical memories this month, as Creedence Clearwater Revisited, a re-formed Creedence Clearwater Revival sans vocalist John Fogerty, takes the stage May 21 at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort Amphitheater in Lincoln.

The Sacramento Press had the chance to speak with original Revival member and current drummer of Revisited Doug Clifford about the band's formation and what it's like to be playing the songs he loves 43 years after their release.

Revisited formed in 1995, 23 years after the Fogerty incarnation of the band broke up. Clifford and original Revival bassist Stu Cook were jamming in Clifford's home studio with just drums and bass guitar, which, as Clifford put it, "was a little boring," when the two started to discuss plans to reform with a full band.

"I would hear daily from fans that it would be great to hear our songs live again," Clifford said.

Cook and Clifford decided that they would only reform if they could find musicians to do the songs justice.

"We knew that was required to give the music the respect and love it deserves," Clifford said.

Initially, the pair thought it would take a considerable amount of time to find the right musicians to fill out the band, but according to Clifford, it ended up being fairly easy. Soon after beginning their search, Cook and Clifford brought on Steve Gunner as a multi-instrumentalist and Kurt Griffey as lead guitarist. After listening to the audition tapes of several lead vocalist hopefuls, they knew John Tristao was the right man for the job.

Though the band initially intended to play to very small audiences, "maybe three private shows a month," it ended up playing "two big, public shows, right out of the gate," which was fine for Clifford, who said he "still gets a major charge" out of performing for a crowd.

The band has completed several U.S. tours, as well as tours of Australia, South America, Asia and Europe and is now on another 45-show tour of the United States and Canada, beginning in Florida and ending in Maryland.

Clifford said he is pleasantly surprised to still be playing these songs 43 years later, and at 66 years old, he is proud of his body for being able to crank them out. He describes drumming as a "hypnotic" experience, which is part of the reason he still enjoys it so much.

While recovering from shoulder surgery brought on as a result of "thousands of eighth notes," Clifford decided to focus on the "rudiments of drumming" that the self-taught percussionist had never before learned.

As a result, he said he is now a more technically precise and strong drummer, which is what allows him to pull off a newly incorporated drum solo in "I Heard it Through the Grapevine."

According to Clifford, his relationship to the band’s songs has evolved over time. He said the longer he plays them, the stronger his love for them becomes.

“They are like my children, in a sense,” he said.

Clifford noted that aside from the "simple" and "wonderful songwriting" of Fogerty, the songs have endured because of the tightness of the band's original members.

"We started playing together at 13, and we were simultaneously learning how to play our instruments and how to be in a band," he said. "We had the same record collections, same taste in music."

Despite a change in the lineup, fans can still witness that special bond at live shows. Clifford said the band's current members "enjoy hanging out" and as a result "interact great" on stage.

"We have a lot of energy together, and energy translates into fun for the fans," Clifford said.

Concert attendees can expect to hear well-known hits like "Who Will Stop the Rain," "Down On the Corner," and "Bad Moon Rising," as well as lesser-known "nuggets," that Clifford says fans may have forgotten about completely or never knew existed, like show-opener "Born On the Bayou."

Revisited's concerts are not just for fans who heard the hits the first time around, either. Clifford said it has been great seeing a new generation of music lovers at their concerts, sometimes "8- and 9-year-old kids," who are just now discovering the band's songs.

"They don't have the same memory of a timeframe that their parents do, but we are creating new memories for them at our shows," Clifford said.

For more information about the band and its tour schedule, visit their website.

Fresh sounds and fun at O:RMF music fest

2011-05-16T06:59:29Z

Woodland, Calif. gave SXSW, Coachella and the Treasure Island Music Festival a run for their money this weekend.

Local dive bar Plainfield Station, located on County Road 98, was host to the 11th edition of Operation: Restore Maximum Freedom, a 12-band music festival put on by Davis radio station KDVS 90.3 FM. The UC Davis Samba School, Produce Produce, Kites Sail High, Alak, Moon Pearl, Gaarth, Charles Albrigt, Nobunny, Ellie Fortune, Appetite, Zach Hill and headliner R. Stevie Moore all graced the bar’s backyard stage.

With KDVS at the helm, O:RMF was brought to fruition back in 2005 as an outlet for “new, creative music of the most sincere artistic scruples,” and has been held twice annually at Plainfield ever since.

“Over the four years I’ve gone to O:RMF, not much has changed, and it’s always been great,” O:RMF veteran Amir Moarefi said.

The festival’s 500 attendees enjoyed a day of music, dancing and comfort food.

Plainfield Station’s kitchen remained busy throughout the day, keeping hungry festival-goers sated with orders of fries, turkey burgers and crispy tacos. The bar staff also had its hands full, serving up pitchers of beer and mixed drinks to its overflowing patronage.

“I think it’s cool to come spread out blankets and hang out,” said UC Davis student and concert-attendee Lily Mills, 21.

Davis band Produce Produce eased O:RMF-ers into the day with their woozy “chillwave” sound, lead by vocalist Simi Sohota’s reverberations.

“Their distorted vocals and instrumentation sounded fresh, and their live performance has improved a lot,” audience member Daniel Harkin said of the group.

Placerville band Alak stirred audience members with its spooky and intense cover of Birthday Party’s “Mr. Clarinet” and the debut of a keyboard-heavy song from their newly released cassette tape entitled “GROUPS.”

Moon Pearl, a nine-person experimental group from Irvine, infused the festival with a shot of exuberant energy as the day’s fifth act. Positioned in the middle of the chaos, drummer Matthew Towles pounded away at his set, as saxophonist Kyle Olson labored away to his right and vocalists Katie Tilford and Michael Mermelstein delivered a shout/sing hybrid through heavily distorted microphones, hopping around like a couple of rambunctious kittens.

Before jumping into their concluding song, Tilford and guitarist Sam Farzin passed out tambourines, silverware and a cow bell, encouraging the audience to become the band’s ad hoc percussionists.

“If you were waiting until the last song to have fun,” Farzin said, “now’s your chance.”

Using electric drums, keyboard, guitar and a loop pedal, Appetite, Teddy Brigg’s one-man band, kicked out grooving, rhythmic jams. When the trickiness of juggling instruments caused a minor hitch, Briggs just laughed and kept the crowd engaged with his sense of humor.

“I’m just gonna let these claves keep playing,” he said.

The theatrical Nobunny delighted the crowd and got them moving with their own brand of scuzzy, spirited rock. Frontman Justin Champlin, in nothing but a furry mask and underpants, earned our rapt attention as a natural performer, leaping effortlessly from stage to the top of a speaker and shooting glitter into the air through a cardboard tube.

R. Stevie Moore, accompanied by a backing band, provided the festival’s finale set. The prolific songwriter took the stage sporting Christmas colors and dark glasses as the day’s moody sky finally gave way to rain. After a short set, the band called it quits to save their equipment from water damage. Of the songs performed, the recluse-anthem “I Like to Stay Home” and rocking “Play Myself Some Music” (sample lyric: “There's nothin' to do/ Just plop down in a chair/ Listen to some tunes”) inspired the most motion from the rain-spattered audience.

Despite the minor weather setback, the festival delivered on its mission to serve up intriguing and under-represented musical talent in an unassuming and laid-back locale.

Shiva Shamir, KDVS events coordinator and sound woman, who, along with fellow KDVS staff and a crop of volunteers, has been planning the event for months, summed up the day in this way: “When you actually get to the day and things come together, it seriously feels like a dream come true, even if things go wrong.”

Local Darlings Blvd Park and Musical Charis play Shady Lady Saloon

2011-05-03T03:09:36Z

Sunday nights at Shady Lady Saloon are usually a quiet affair. A few dozen patrons, sipping drinks and chatting while listening to the band play, are the norm. This was not so this May Day, which saw the triumphant homecoming of local favorites Blvd Park and Musical Charis from their two-month, cross-country “New American Dream” Tour.

The Afterlife was the first to take the stage at a quarter after eight. They played to an already sizable crowd, one that you would normally see on Friday or Saturday evening, rather than on a “school night” like Sunday. Tyson Graf on guitar and Zack Sapunor on upright bass warmed up the early arriving patrons and a small group of listeners that included a middle-aged couple cutting a rug at the front of the stage.

Toward the end of their set, Graf announced that the duo had not rehearsed together for two months due to Sapunor being on tour with Blvd Park, and apologized if they were not as polished as they could have been. If that were the case, to this reviewer, it was imperceptible as they delivered a tight set of familiar jazz standards ending with Sapunor singing a hyperactive rendition of “Puttin’ on the Ritz.”

Musical Charis crowded onto the stage at close to nine and commenced playing to a similarly packed floor of eager friends and family, stirring the crowd with an uptempo opener. They then followed with a rousing cover of Johnny Cash’s, “Ring of Fire.” Singer and guitarist Blake Abbey explained that they had learned this cover on the road as a way to connect with audiences who were unfamiliar with their work.

Musical Charis played for close to an hour, nimbly skipping though genres of music with an enthusiasm that kept everyone on their feet and begging for more. They closed their set with Abbey declaring, “Everyone here is so awesome. Introduce yourself to a stranger, man. Break down the walls!”

The crowd responded in kind with joyful cheering as Musical Charis ripped into their final number of the evening.

After a short interlude, during which the audience milled about happily, ordering more drinks and chatting, Blvd Park piled onto the stage around half past ten. A packed house of friends and family surged toward the stage as they slowly, with rising intensity, flowed into their special blend of Folky Americana.

Two months on tour have polished their sound to a mirror shine, and the audience responded with persistent cheering and whoops of glee. Even the miniscule stage could not stop the entire band, six in all, from frequently crowding to the edge of the apron to reach out and play as though they were trying to touch the audience with song. Blvd Park played for nearly two hours, closing down the bar, as the crowd hung onto every note.

Unfortunately, this was - in addition to a homecoming - a farewell show of sorts for this local powerhouse. The group has plans to move to Seattle. Sacramento sends you off with a fond farewell.

You will be missed.

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Sacramento

2011-04-30T05:14:56Z

Every year on May 5, Mexico and parts of the United States celebrate Cinco de Mayo in honor of the victory won by the Mexican Army in 1862. Now it's time for Sacramento to celebrate with these restaurant specials and events around town.

Here’s a round-up of Cinco de Mayo celebrations:

Event: Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Time: 5 - 10 p.m. Thursday.
Location: Zócalo (A Taste of Mexico) on 18th Street and Capitol Avenue.
Information: Zócalo (A Taste of Mexico) is throwing a street party that will include live music, performing artists The Midnight Players, and DJ Al Ruiz will be the entertainment for the night. Tequila shots and $2 tacos will also be served.
Contact: 441-0303
Cost: No cover.

Event: O’Drinko De Mayo
Time: 3:30 Thursday- 1:30 a.m Friday.
Location: De Vere’s Irish Pub at 1521 L Street. on 15th and L streets
Information: De Vere’s Irish Pub will be hosting this event in honor of the San Patricios (a group of Irishmen) and the Mexican soldiers who fought with them during the Mexican American War. The drink and food specials include $4 margaritas, $2 beers (Coronas), $2 tacos and, in celebration of national burger month, they will be serving a tostada burger with a $2 Corona.
Contact: 231-9947
Cost: No cover (21 and over)

Event: Cinco De Mayo Fiesta
Time: Noon Thursday - 2 a.m. Friday.
Location: Tres Tequila Lounge and Mexican Kitchen at 1182 Roseville Pkwy Suite 110.
Information: The fiesta will be at Tres Tequila Lounge and Mexican Kitchen. They will have a 10,000 square-foot tent set up in the parking lot directly behind the restaurant for all their guests to enjoy. Doors open at noon, but the festivities begin at 3 p.m. From 3 - 5 p.m. the first band, ZuhG will be performing, followed by the Folklorico Dancers, Cigar-rolling will be performed by the Casillas Cigar Rollers, the second band of the night, Private Criminals, will play from 6 - 8 p.m. and the night will end with a DJ and dancing.From 8 - 10 p.m., the real party begins with a DJ and dancing. Tres will be handing out $5 margarita coupons, which are valid through Cinco de Mayo. Their “Doble Doble” will be their featured special of the night, which consists of a 24-oz Tecate beer along with a shot of Repos ado Tequila for $12. The food specials will include: $2 tacos (pork and chicken), $3 sausage on a stick, $5 turkey legs.
Contact: 441-7200
Cost: $5 cover until 5 p.m., $15 after 5 p.m.

Event: Cinco De Drinco
Time: 6 - 11 p.m. Friday.
Location: Centro 2730 “J” St.
Information: Grub Crawl USA presents a bar crawl that is starting at Centro Cocina Mexicana. Guests will bounce from spot to spot receiving discounts on specialty drinks and free Latin-themed appetizers. Founder of Grub Crawl USA Cline Moore will be conducting random prize giveaways ($20 gift cards) to his guests.
Contact: 730-0977
Cost: $30 per person. For half price tickets, go to grubcrawlusa.com.

Event: Cinco De Ol Sacto
Time: 6 p.m. Thursday - 1:30 a.m. Friday.
Location: River City Saloon 916 Second St.
Information: Come join in the festivities taking place in Old Sacramento, which include more than 15 places with food and drink specials. Some of the entertainment for the night will include the band The Bajas Boys, live karaoke and comedy at Laughs Unlimited comedy club.
Contact: 524-5275
Cost: No cover.

Event: Tequila Museo Mayahuel Cinco de Mayo Week
Time : Monday (6:30 - 10:30 p.m.), Tuesday (6:30 - 10:30 p.m.), Wednesday (noon - 10:30 p.m.), Thursday (noon - 1:30 a.m. Friday), And Friday and Saturday - 7 (11:30 a.m - 10:30 p.m.
Location: Tequila Museo Mayahuel at 1200 K St.Suite 3.
Information: Tequila Museo Mayahuel’s Cinco de Mayo celebration will start on Monday with an education on the tequila-making process by a tequila maestro. On Tuesday evening, there will be a three-course meal served with tequila tasting by Casa Noble. Wednesday will be the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which starts at noon and at 7 p.m. Mayahuel will host its inaugural Festival de Los Moles. Thursday will include drink specials, and live entertainment. Recovery day will be on Friday, at Mayahuel and the restaurant will be offering Menudo, Polzole, and Bloody Marys. Saturday will end the celebration with a day for the whole family to enjoy food specials and live entertainment.
Contact: 441-7200
Cost: (May 3)$30, (May 4)$25

Event: Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Time: 4 p.m. Thursday - 2 a.m. Friday.
Location: Centro Cocina Mexicana at 2730 J St.
Information: The celebration will be held on the outside patio of the restaurant and will feature drink specials including $5 beers (Blue Moon, Bud light) and $10 margaritas.
Contact: 442-2552
Cost: No cover.

Event: Vallejo’s Cinco de Mayo Block Party
Time: 5 - 10 p.m.
Location: 11 and O streets.
Information: Celebrating Mexican Independence, Vallejo’s will be hosting a block party with live entertainment, The Midnight Players( a band). Drink specials will include $5 tequila shots, $4 margaritas and $7 Vallejo’s shots. Vallejo’s will also have a one-time buffet for $11. A few of the food items include carnitas, fajitas and Chile Verde.
Contact: 498-1744
Cost: $5 in advance, $10 at the door(tickets can be purchased from any Vallejo’s employee)

Event: Cinco de Mayo Party to Support LLS (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society)
Time: 6:30 on Thursday.
Location: 701 Crocker Road
Information: This special benefit will feature a DJ and live entertainment. Cocktails and appetizers will be served as well. All proceeds of the benefit will go toward The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Contact : 443-6970
Cost: $50 a ticket (buy tickets at L Wine Lounge at 1801 L St.)

Event: Tres Hermanas Cinco de Mayo Party
Time: 4 p.m. - midnight
Location: Tres Hermanas Restaurant at 2416 K St.
Information: Inside the restaurant will be live entertainment featuring singer Tony Montana. They will be serving Chile Verde and carnitas for $8.95 and tequila shots (cabo and wabo).
Contact: 443-6919
Cost: No cover.

Event: Chevy’s Fresh Mex specials May 2 - 5
Time: 11 p.m. - 2 a.m. Monday - Thursday
Location: Chevy’s Fresh Mex (1369 Garden Highway)
Information: Starting on Monday, Chevy’s will have margaritas for $3. From Tuesday - Thursday there will be $2 tacos and buy a combo then get the second combo for a penny. For the night, three bars will be open and will be including tequila shots ranging from $12 - $30.
Contact: 649-0390
Cost: No cover.

From Trump Roast to Punch Line: Anthony Jeselnik

2011-04-09T06:35:43Z

You know that comedian, Anthony Jeselnik?

Yeah, me neither.

At least, I didn't until I saw him steal the show during the recent broadcast of the “Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump,” where he created some buzz for himself by deftly skewering the guest of honor and the other roasters on the dais, like Larry King, Snoop Dogg and Jersey Shore's "The Situation.”

I had a chance to see him in action myself Thursday night at the Punch Line.

Fremont's Sammy Obeid was the emcee and first act, mining his Lebanese ethnicity for some killer jokes about being mistaken as Mexican and Indian, as well as plenty of great sex-related material, which appeals to everyone and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Second act Andy Haynes, who has appeared on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” took the stage and gave it up for Obeid:

"Give it up for Sammy, he's better than me!" Haynes said. "I'm used to the emcee sucking!"

Haynes touched on subjects like moving to New York from Seattle and the differences between the two cities, bringing your girlfriend to New York with you ("It's like bringing a warm beer with you to a bar, when all they are serving inside are free, cold beers"), and how he was jealous of people in disaster areas getting free health care from the Red Cross, because as a broke comedian he hasn't had medical insurance in six years.

Great material. I was so entertained by his bits, I almost forgot to take a photo of him.

Equally impressive was his witty, off-the-cuff banter with those in the audience, including a group of guys who drove from Reno to see the show ("Are you guys in a frat at UNR?"), and a 27-year-old loud, drunken woman who was accompanied by her 51-year-old boyfriend, who she said was "still married," slurring her explanation.

Headliner Jeselnik strolled out soon after, looking sharp in a black hoodie and jeans, and started out with a funny jab at the home crowd: "I'm such a big star from the roast, that I'm — in Sacramento."

Some background on Jeselnik: he's done stand-up on a plethora of late-night talk shows, he was a staff writer on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and he's written for Sarah Silverman.
Jeselnik speaks with a deadpan, clipped cadence, peppering his delivery with timed pauses for effect, with the dark punchline coming after the last pause.

After telling a joke about a dilemma he encountered with a date who passed out when they got home (which the audience loved), Jeselnik said, "It's important to open with a rape joke, to see where the crowd's at. Looks like you guys are with me."

The merciless comedian made quick work of disruptive drunks in the audience, who weren't exactly heckling but tried to finish his jokes occasionally.

During one joke, one woman yelled out what she thought the punchline was before Jeselnik finished the joke. He finished (with a different punchline) and berated the woman: "Like (your punchline), except my punchline was better, because one of us is a professional comedian and the other one is just a drunk chick in a bar." Huge laughs from the crowd.

He ended the show by telling a couple of jokes about Marlee Matlin and Snoop Dogg that were cut from the broadcast of the roast, and he also fielded requests for specific jokes of his from the audience, before letting us know he would be out front after the show:

"I released this comedy album, “Shakespeare,” and if you want, you can come up and buy one and I'll sign it, $10," Jeselnik deadpanned. "Or, if you just want to come up and take a picture, shake my hand, $10."

Anthony Jeselnik performs at Punch Line Comedy Club tonight and Saturday. There are two shows both nights, 8 and 10 p.m. Tickets are $16.

The Sacramento French Film Festival celebrates French icon Serge Gainsbourg!

2011-03-28T14:29:00Z

2011 marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of French icon Serge Gainsbourg, who died of a heart attack on March 2, 1991. Born in 1928, Gainsbourg would have turned 82 this year. To honor his memory, the Sacramento French Film Festival, Record Club and The Verge Center for the Arts are hosting a tribute party. It all starts at 8pm on Saturday April 2nd at the Verge Gallery and will feature music videos, film clips, live tribute bands and music by DJ’s Christophe and Roger.

Twenty years after his death Serge Gainsbourg is still considered one of the world's most influential popular musicians. If you are not already familiar with his music, it’s not too late to get to know him. He is best known as a singer-songwriter and for his wild personal life, led through a thick haze of Gitanes cigarette smoke and alcohol. Gainsbourg is still today a major figure of France's pop-culture. He wrote not only for himself but also for a number of illustrious singers: his lovers Juliette Greco and Brigitte Bardot, his wife Jane Birkin, his daughter Charlotte Gainsbourg, singers Frances Gall and Vanessa Paradis and actresses Catherine Deneuve and Isabelle Adjani, to name only a few. He was also a filmmaker, an actor, a photographer, and an extremely provocative iconoclast, who made sexual advances to a young- and petrified- Whitney Houston on French television and adapted the French national anthem to reggae music.

The Sacramento French Film Festival will pay further homage to Gainsbourg during its 10th edition in June 2011, with the presentation of the acclaimed and award-winning feature film “Gainsbourg: Vie Heroique”- directed by Joann Sfar, winner of two 2011 Césars (French Academy Awards): Best Actor in a Leading Role (for Eric Elmosnino) and Best First Feature Film.

The Gainsbourg party will feature music by DJ’s Christophe and Roger, music videos, film clips and live tribute bands including "the Horrorscopes" and “ the Harley White Jr. Trio featuring Peter Petty".

WHEN: Saturday April 2, 2011 – Doors at 8pm / Bands at 9pm.

WHERE: Verge Gallery – 625 S Street. - Downtown Sacramento.

PHONE: 916 455 9390: SFFF / 916 448 2985: Verge gallery.

TICKET INFORMATION: $5 Admission, to benefit the 10th Sacramento French Film Festival and the Verge Gallery.

Little Sacramento Monsters at Lady Gaga's Monster Ball

2011-03-25T04:51:32Z

The first impression concertgoers had upon approaching the Power Balance Pavilion on Wednesday evening for the Sacramento stop of Lady GaGa’s Monster Ball World Tour was of fantastical scale. A herd of semis corralled on either side of the arena, 24 of them, quietly announcing that this was to be above and beyond your typical rock show.

The crowd was populated with the expected hordes of spangled women (and not a few men) dressed in their favorite imitation of the Lady Herself, mixed with bewildered suburban dads being dragged to the merchandise table by their teen daughters. What shouldn’t have been surprising was, in keeping with Lady GaGa’s message of inclusiveness, there were just as many boring squares willing to dance their feet off and scream their lungs out at the Monster Ball as there were genuine flag-waving freaks.

Openers the Scissor Sisters took the stage at 8:30 to a house already packed with excited fans. Typically, the opening act performs to a half-seated house while most of the audience meanders up and down the aisles from the merchandise tables or the concession stand, waiting for the headliner to appear. This was far from the case. There is obviously a significant overlap in Lady GaGa and Scissor Sisters’ fan bases, as from the moment they started playing, every seat filled and every eye was on the stage.

Scissor Sisters ripped into the title track from their recent album, “Night Work,” kicking off their set with a high-energy opener that immediately turned the general admission section into a bouncing carpet of heads. They kept up the excitement with another from “Night Work,” “Any Which Way,” followed by “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’” and “Running Out.”

Co-lead singer Ana Matronic then took the opportunity to chat with the audience, asking how many people had brought their mothers to the show. The crowd responded with a roar and they segued into “Take Your Mama.” Scissor Sisters closed their (sadly too-short) set with “Filthy/Gorgeous,” in which other co-lead singer Jake Shears managed to lose most of his clothing, ending the show in a pleather thong and shoes, to the surprise of practically no one.

In between the sets, the audience amused themselves with alternately “the wave” and chanting “Ga-GA, Ga-GA…” until at last, a white screen descended around the main stage and the show began with the anthem “Dance in the Dark.”

This incarnation of the Monster Ball tour is ostensibly about GaGa and her friends (of which she includes the audience), the “Little Monsters,” trying to get to the “Monster’s Ball” where everyone is free. This mostly allows GaGa and her entourage to dance all over sets ripped from “The Warriors: The Musical,” whirling through a dizzying number of costume changes while showcasing all of the not-inconsiderable number of hits Lady GaGa has amassed in her relatively short career.

While the show was primarily her signature high-energy dance pop, Lady GaGa did take an opportunity to play a stripped-down version of her current ubiquitous hit, “Born This Way,” on piano. However, since it is Lady GaGa, the piano was … on fire.

The show culminated with GaGa performing “Parapazzi” while facing down a giant tentacled sea-monster with glowing teeth and eyes. At the climax of the song she disappeared under the stage and reappeared to defeat the “Fame Monster” with a bra and panties that shot fireworks from her unmentionables.

The curtain fell but the audience did not have long to wait as Lady GaGa returned for the encore, announcing that we had arrived at the Monster Ball and performing “Bad Romance” dressed as the spangled offspring of Optimus Prime and the Statue of Liberty.

Toward the end of the song she seemed to lose focus as the relentless pace of the show threatened to overwhelm her. However, that did not stop Lady GaGa from changing costume one last time and returning to perform a full dance version of “Born This Way” before releasing her “Little Monsters” out into the night.

The Soundtrack of Our Lives to perform at Harlow’s

2011-03-24T01:45:29Z

ABBA they are not.

Stop by Harlow’s this Friday to see Swedish psych-rockers The Soundtrack of Our Lives as they make a quick run up the West Coast before heading back to tour Europe.

Influenced by ’70s psychedelia, prog and classic rock, the six-piece from the land of IKEA and Absolut found critical success in the United States with their 2002 release “Behind the Music,” which was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album at the 2003 Grammy Awards.

At the time of its release Noel Gallagher of Oasis proclaimed “Behind the Music” to be “the best album to come out in the last six years.”

TSOOL followed up that success with 2004’s “Origin Vol. 1,” which peaked at No. 1 on the Swedish charts, and 2009’s “Communion,” a double album that some say is their strongest effort to date.

The Soundtrack of Our Lives perform at Harlow’s this Friday at 9 p.m. Tickets are $17.50 plus a $2 surcharge. 21+.

Jazz on J brings live Jazz to Downtown Sacramento

2011-03-16T02:30:35Z

Seeing a lack of regular jazz shows in the central city, Grady O’Bryant sought to fill that void with a weekly series called Jazz on J at Shenanigans bar on J Street.

Jazz on J features a local jazz band every Thursday. The first Jazz on J show was on Feb. 17.

Grady worked with saxophonist Ava Lemert to create Jazz on J, which had its fourth show Thursday. Lemeret performs every week before the featured band.

“Grady and I met up at Shenanigan’s to talk about putting something together,” Lemert said. “He and I are the creators of the series. Grady had the idea that he wanted to put something together. Maybe have something every week.”

Every Thursday, from 6 - 7 p.m., local jazz artist Ava Lemert sings and plays her saxophone. The featured band plays from 7 - 9 p.m., and DJ Rock Bottom spins from 9 p.m. to midnight playing a contemporary jazz mix. Cover charge is $10.

O’Bryant explained his motivation behind starting Jazz on J.

“I worked over the past three years with various jazz bands,” O’Bryant said. “They complained that there’s not enough venues featuring jazz bands.”

O’Bryant also runs Sacramento Wine & Night Life Tours. He said he is planning on combining Jazz on J and the tours.

“I got a little different twist on it,” he said. “We’re bringing wine makers from wine country to Jazz on J, and we’re bringing the jazz bands out to wine country, too.”

The jazz scene has been lacking in Sacramento, Larry Ellis Jr. said. The 36-year veteran jazz pianist has been witness to the scene shrinking and growing for the past three decades. Larry Ellis Jr. and Southwind were featured at Jazz on J on March 3.

“The jazz scene as far as the kind of jazz that I play is really weak in Sacramento,” Ellis said. “Sacramento is notorious for supporting it for a little while and then flaking out.”

Ellis expressed hope and enthusiasm about Jazz on J.

“Jazz on J St. is a rekindling of jazz in Sacramento. It’s an outstanding event – a place for grown folks to go and enjoy themselves,” Ellis said. “They have good-quality music.”

Sabor Jazz was featured on opening night, on Feb. 17. Micheal Otwell plays flute and saxophone in Sabor Jazz.

“Grady is an absolute networking monster,” Otwell said. “He pulled us into the Jazz on J family of all places from Facebook. I never thought I would get a gig through Facebook.”

“The venue’s really good to play at,” Otwell said. “We had a pretty good crowd of about 50 or 60 people. The social media thing was really working for us.”

DJ Rock Bottom (profile on The Sacramento Press here) was asked to perform by O’Bryant to DJ Jazz on J.

“I think it’s great. It’s a good idea. It’s a good thing for the scene,” he said. “Many jazz musicians that don’t have that avenue to expose themselves on a commercial level can get exposure here.

“People don’t have to drive to the bay for it anymore,” he added. “It gives the people that love it the opportunity to see it live every week.”

Bill Meyer plays lead guitar for Innersoul. They were featured during the second week.

“I think it’s a very positive thing, and I’m glad to see the music is coming back to Sacramento,” Meyer said. “I think it’s going to grow.”

For information about future events, go to JazzonJ.com.

The Grouch, Zion I and Blu at Tropicana, March 21

2011-03-14T08:00:34Z

The bar for underground hip-hop music has been set for 2011.

“Heroes In the Healing of a Nation” is the newest collaborative album by Zion I, comprised of producer and DJ AmpLive and MC Zumbi, and the Grouch of Living Legends. The album, which drops on March 22, is the follow-up to the first Zion I/Grouch collaboration, “Heroes In the City of Dope.”

Zion I and the Grouch will be touring to share the album from March 19 to May 1, making a stop in Sacramento at the Tropicana Club March 21 thanks to FUSE and TheMashUP.net.

The album is a working masterpiece, blending elements from all sides of the musical spectrum: Latin ,dubstep, reggae and more with the traditional but eccentric hip-hop beats AmpLive is known for. The ever-socially questioning, ever-powerful, but smooth and melodic raps of lyricists Zumbi and the Grouch make for a unique and captivating blend.

“It’s harder than the first album — more sample-oriented, and the subject matter is a little bit harder,” AmpLive said.

“It’s got elements from the first one, but definitely gone a step further,” the Grouch said.

When asked about the feedback he has received for this album, the Grouch said, “My wife and my daughter like it. That’s my main screening process.”

For the tour, rapper Blu will be joining for West Coast dates and One Be Lo on the East. The Shotgun Wedding Quintet and A.R.A.B. will also join for the Sacramento stop.

“It’s so hard to find direct support right now that’s actually going to help out the tour and not bring something negative,” the Grouch said. “But they’re both dope, positive rappers, and that’s why we chose them.”

The Tropicana offers a large stage and crowd area. Although it is an all-ages venue, there is a full bar available to those of age.

“The show is nuts, totally different stuff. — crazy machines I’m working with, visuals, horn players,” AmpLive said.

And yes, live music will be involved, something unusual for your everyday hip-hop show.

The new album will be available for purchase at the show, giving attendees the opportunity to listen before it hits stores.

All dedicated hip-hop fans and anyone interested in seeing a unique and exciting performance are encouraged to attend.

'Welcome to Hell' tour at Ace of Spades

2011-03-14T07:03:32Z

Music venue Ace of Spades hosted another sold-out show on Friday, the "Welcome to Hell Tour" featuring performances by metal/hardcore bands Whitechapel, Chelsea Grin, I Declare War, The Acacia Strain and Veil of Maya.

I Declare War and Chelsea Grin started things off with lots of growling, screaming and calls for the crowd to get violent.

The circle pits were large and constant the entire night, with sweaty, aggressive men running around in the open space formed in the middle of the crowd, using their flailing body parts to punch and kick whatever happened to be in front of them as hard as they could.

It's the norm at these types of shows, but if you're there to enjoy the music it's annoying having to worry about being punched in the back of the head or side-kicked in the back.

Veil of Maya was third on the bill and continued the heavy guitar assault. There were more melodic flourishes in the guitar playing than in the first two bands, which was nice (although the guitarists from the first two bands were very talented). In this genre of music a sound that sets you apart is a breath of fresh air.

The band really got things going when vocalist Brandon Butler announced, "Our bass player says the first person to get on stage gets a free T-shirt!"

Almost immediately people started lunging over the crowd barricade in an attempt to get on stage, putting the security personnel to work defending the stage.

Eventually a young man made it up and put one of the guitars momentarily out of commission by stepping on and disconnecting a guitar pedal.

"Don't step on the pedals and it's all good!" Butler said.

It happened again a few minutes later, stopping the show while techs came on stage to get things back to working order. A quick test of "Für Elise" by guitarist Marc Okubo, and Veil was back in business.

Taking the stage next was the heaviest band of the night, Massachusetts-based The Acacia Strain. The lights came up for the first song just as vocalist Vincent Bennett spit bursts of water into the air -- a great bit of theatrics.

The Acacia Strain band members had an impressive presence, stalking the stage liked caged animals and glaring at the audience.

The captivating performance progressed and the circle pits continued to be filled with a mindless fervor as those in the audience found a way to release their aggression.

Headliners Whitechapel closed out the show, and while their show was impressive and the crowd loved it, The Acacia Strain set the bar very high with their previous performance.

"Bang your head and do something illegal!" Acacia Strain vocalist Bennett commanded earlier. "I want you to remember this show for the rest...of...your...fucking life!"

Escape the Fate tops Dead Masquerade bill at Ace of Spades

2011-03-08T02:03:07Z

"Escape the Fate! Escape the Fate!"

With appetites violently whetted by the three-guitar screamo attack of the final opening band Alesana, the loud chanting of hundreds of eager fans filled Ace of Spades Sunday night, beckoning Escape the Fate, the headliners of the Dead Masquerade tour.

The sensory onslaught began with appropriately named opener "Massacre," as the Vegas post-hardcore band pounced on the young crowd like a rabid pack of hyenas on defenseless baby gazelles.

The response to ETF's latest Facebook wall posting before the show ("Sacramento Ace of Spades tonight it's on! You guys ready?" – 1,429 Likes and 539 comments at the time of this writing) indicated a large and dedicated fan base, and it was reflected in the enthusiastic packed house.

The young audience was kept rapt throughout the show, obeying readily when vocalist Craig Mabbitt split the crowd like the Red Sea and instructed the opposite sides to run toward each other at the beginning of the next song and collide in what's known in as a "Wall of Death."

When they weren't running into each other, those in the crowd were enthusiastically shouting out lyrics and crowd-surfing, clearly enjoying the ride.

Escape the Fate members are good at what they do – putting on an energetic show with music that combines melody and pop sensibilities with their hardcore/metal foundation, with a little screamo mixed in to round things out. (They worked on their latest LP with Linkin Park producer Don Gilmore, to give you an idea).

The setlist drew almost exclusively on ETF's last two albums, 2008's "This War Is Ours" ("Something," "The Flood" and "10 Miles Wide) and 2010's eponymous release ("Issues," "Zombie Dance," "Gorgeous Nightmare" and "Day of Wreckoning"), with "Situations" being the lone song played from 2006's debut album "Dying Is Your Latest Fashion."

Guitarist TJ Bell from supporting act Motionless In White did double duty on the bass for ETF, filling in for regular bassist Max Green, who is at home recovering (he entered rehab for drug and alcohol addiction late last year), Mabbitt said.

Mabbitt made it a point to connect to the audience not only on a visceral level as a hyperactive frontman, but on a personal one as well, at one point encouraging those in the crowd to ignore the naysayers and follow their dreams – "How many people in here are artists? You write, you sing, you draw? You work at Subway, you're a sandwich artist?" – before leading everyone in a middle finger salute directed at those who might have issues with artistic expression, in the food industry or otherwise.

And later: "We want to dedicate this next one to the brave men and women who serve this country," declared Mabbitt, before launching into the first song of the encore, "This War Is Ours (The Guillotine II)." "And also to the greatest video game in the world in my opinion, and that's Halo!"

Escape the Fate top Dead Masquerade bill at Ace

2011-03-03T06:19:08Z

DGC/Interscope band Escape the Fate will headline the Dead Masquerade tour at Ace of Spades this weekend, joined by support acts Alesana, Motionless In White, Get Scared and Drive A.

Las Vegas-based hard-rockers Escape the Fate are touring in support of their self-titled third album and recently released “Issues Remix” EP, featuring remixes of their first single "Issues" done by Jakwob (Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Lily Allen), LA Riots (Tiesto, The Ting Tings), Wolves At The Gate (The Cure) and Does It Offend You, Yeah? (Muse, The Raconteurs, Bloc Party).

The band currently graces the cover of Outburn magazine, which declares, “the band’s new album is a compelling modern day masterpiece.”

Bassist Max Green will be returning to the band after entering rehab for drug and alcohol addiction last November.

See all the bands on the Dead Masquerade tour perform this Sunday at Ace of Spades. General admission tickets are $21.95, all fees included. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. The show is all ages.

Welcome back, Papa Roach

2011-02-28T06:01:35Z

Vacaville natives Papa Roach certainly know how to make an entrance.

Friday night at Ace of Spades opening bands Track Fighter and Will Haven had just finished their sets. As Queens of the Stone Age's "No One Knows" played on the PA during the set change before Papa Roach came out, something on stage (a light?) blew with a loud pop, giving off small plumes of smoke and triggering the fire alarm. Cue the firefighters walking through the sold-out crowd a few minutes later, but there was no indication that it was anything more than a precaution.

Thankfully it turned out to be a non-issue. The show went on as planned, and guy-linered frontman Jacoby Shaddix and company came out to much love from the international crowd (Shaddix said he recognized people from New York, London and Texas) and kicked things off with "Kick in the Teeth" from their latest album, "Time for Annihilation: On the Record & On the Road."

Years of touring and performing have not slowed down Shaddix. Whether he was revitalized by Sacramento or not, he made his presence felt — fingers pointing, wild eyes, jumping on speakers — as the band tore through energetic versions of "Lifeline," "Blood Brothers" and "Burn."

"Is Sacramento in this motherfucker?" he shouted, egging on the crowd. "Is Vacaville in this motherfucker?”

They were, and they were loving it.

Up next was radio-friendly "Hollywood Whore," and then banger "Broken Home," with its nasty, catchy guitar riffs. Shaddix's voice sounded a little hoarse, but the guys were still setting them up and knocking them down.

"It's great to be here in Sac! NorCal!" Shaddix said. "I've been tripping around the world for the last 10 years, and it's been a long time — a few years — since we've played a club show in Sac. I want to say thanks to Bret Bair and Eric Rushing for buying this venue so there's a proper place to see rock ‘n’ roll here. It's up to you to keep this place open by coming to see shows here!"

The alt-rock onslaught continued with "The Enemy," "Scars," "Getting Away with Murder," "Forever" and "Between Angels and Insects," a well-rounded set with radio singles balanced evenly with those cuts lesser known to the casual fan (who were probably few and far between at this show).

It's always interesting to see a successful band play a homecoming show. There was definitely a heavy sense of electric connection between band and audience in the air, and based on conversation I overheard, the VIP section was filled with family and friends. (I understand Shaddix lives in El Dorado Hills with his family, and guitarist Jerry Horton and family live in the Sacramento area as well.)

The cash-cow of the Papa Roach catalog, "Last Resort," was saved for the last song of the encore, ending a fun night and bringing it all back full circle, as Shaddix announced:

"We're gonna take it back to the fucker that started it all!"

Papa Roach: Two-night stand at Ace of Spades this weekend

2011-02-25T01:01:56Z

No discussion on alternative rock circa 2000 would be complete without mention of Papa Roach and their radio-ready hit single “Last Resort,” especially if you were in high school or college during that time.

The Vacaville band (also known for singles “Scars,” “Forever” and “Lifeline”) broke out of Sacramento and went on to sell more than 10 million albums worldwide. They return this weekend for a two-night stand at the recently opened venue Ace of Spades, touring behind their seventh album, "Time for Annihilation."

More alternative rock than nu-metal now, the band can probably still be counted on to deliver a high-energy rock show filled with heavy guitars, sharp hooks and “guy liner.”

Papa Roach performs at Ace of Spades this Friday (with special guests Will Haven and Track Fighter) and Saturday (with special guests Middle Class Rut and Lonely Kings). General admission tickets are $29.95, all fees included. 7 p.m. doors and 7:30 p.m. start. All ages.

Note: Saturday's show appears to be sold out, but tickets are available for Friday.

Growls, screams at Soundcheck showcase at Ace of Spades

2011-02-21T05:31:52Z

Ace of Spades hosted its second event Saturday night, an "all locals" show called "SacShows Presents: Soundcheck", featuring performances by Oneira, Above The City, Carcerys Vale, Batten Down Your Heart, City of Kings, The Winter Formal and Ten After Two.

The theme for the night seemed to be "screamo," and it was delivered in spades (pun intended) with the exception of maybe The Winter Formal, which leans more toward sung vocals.

The tattooed and skintight jeans-wearing band members whipped their hair through quick 20- to 30-minute sets, cheered on by pierced and gauged teenage boys and girls, while overly aggressive males swung their fists around and ran into each other hard in the circle pit. Heavy, metal guitar riffs and machine-gun kick drums were the standard on stage, and by all accounts it was mission accomplished for Soundcheck.

The new venue Ace of Spades looks like a winner. It's a large, open space that fits nicely between Harlow's and Memorial Auditorium, size-wise. There are lots of places to sit, and the audio sounds good. The venue boasts an busy upcoming slate of Boardwalk-type medium-sized acts, including As I Lay Dying, Travie McCoy, and (hed) p.e.

A pending liquor license prevented alcohol sales Saturday night, but it didn't seem to be a large issue due to the largely underage crowd (and band members). A bartender said they expect to have a license "hopefully next week."

Monsters of Bass tour brings bass, dub to Town House Lounge

2011-02-20T00:58:06Z

It's dirty, it's grimy, it's nasty.

The two musical genres of bass and dubstep continue to spread through the underground and infiltrate the mainstream. See some of dub and bass music's finest purveyors -- FreQ Nasty, MartyParty and Opiuo -- this Tuesday when the Monsters of Bass North American tour makes a stop at Town House Lounge.

Here's some background on the performers from the Monsters of Bass press release:

A major player in London’s mid-nineties dance music revolution, the enigmatic FreQ Nasty is one of the most influential names on the bass music scene. From his earliest work on seminal UK labels Botchit & Scarper and SKINT, FreQ Nasty has since gone on to release a slew of cutting-edge records while collaborating and remixing a diverse range of artists including Fatboy Slim, Kelis, KRS One, Roots Manuva, Rodney P, and Reggae legend Junior Delgado. Recent years have seen the release of “Creator,” his crossover hit collaboration with MIA producer Switch and Santogold, and the ground breaking, genre-defying FABRICLIVE 42 mix CD which was picked as DJ Magazine’s compilation of the month. He is a regular at the Burning Man festival, where he brings his signature Bass-heavy mix of genres: from Breakbeat to DubStep, GlitchHop to DrumStep. The new FreQ Nasty EP, Dred At The Controls, will be released internationally through California’s Muti Records in January; The A Side is a fusion of lush Detroit strings, skittery 2-step beats, wobble bass with a stupendous glitched-out dub-step breakdown, while the AA Side is a drum-step roller fusing the hyper speed of drum and bass and the half-time swagger of dance-hall.

Born and raised in South Africa, MartyParty (also one half of PANTyRAID) has been coined the Iggy Pop of electronic music both for his energetic live spectacle coined the “Purple Opera” and his own “Purple Music” concept – a hybrid of electronic music, dubstep and hip hop that together forms a totally new flavor of urban beat with the pretty, hypnotic elements of electronic music and the story telling of traditional song writing. MartyParty is releasing several EP’s in late 2010, namely, “Blueberry Kush” (Out Feb. 15), “Skukuza,” “Sour Diesel” and a full length Purple album to support the Monster’s of Bass Tour on April 1.

Imagine a precisely blended concoction of tight irresistible grooves, chunk fueled bouncy beats, luscious brooding soundscapes, dollops of stomach morphing bass, and a bowl of scrumptious glitch. Welcome to the musical world of Opiuo. The highly sought after Opiuo sound is being included in DJ sets from some of the biggest names in the business and features on high profile radio stations including BBC Radio One. His latest full length release “Slurp And Giggle” was nominated for Best Dance / Electronic Release at the Australian Independent Music Awards and reached number 10 on iTunes.

FreQ Nasty, MartyParty and Opiuo perform at Town House Lounge on Tuesday, Feb 22nd. Tickets are $20. 21+. Doors at 9 p.m., show at 9:30 p.m.

Interview with Above The City guitarist Simon Pesely

2011-02-19T01:49:16Z

On the heels of an inaugural show last week featuring Rob Zombie, the first "all locals" show at new music venue Ace of Spades goes down Saturday. SacShows Presents: Soundcheck will feature performances by local bands Ten After Two, Carcerys Vale, Batten Down Your Heart, Above The City, The Winter Formal, City of Kings, and Oneira.

Above The City is a relatively young, currently unsigned band made up of members Davey Sparks (vocals), Simon Pesely (guitar), Taylor Whitehurst (guitar), Zack Lee (drums) and Toby Hart (bass).

The Sacramento Press recently spoke with Pesely, 21, about being in an up-and-coming band in Sacramento.

How did Above The City get started?

We started about nine months ago. I believe it was March of 2010. Taylor and I initially got together and started jamming, and then Davey came into the picture, and and we played with Zach, and then we had another guy on the bass. Things got more serious, so we brought our friend Toby in, and he's been with us virtually from the start as well.

Where does the name Above The City come from?

The name was Taylor's idea. It doesn't have any real particular meaning aside from the fact that it was just a name we really dug, and it was rare and unique and we liked it for that fact, and it just caught on. And it's a simple nickname, and the abbreviation is ATC.

ATC flows well.

Yeah, exactly. It's easy to remember.

How long have you been playing guitar?

I've been playing guitar for about two years now. I initially started out playing the drums and then switched over, and Taylor and I got together and started playing and it just really worked out.

What kind of gear do you use?

Peavey 5150 heads, Schecter guitars, a few different Boss effect pedals. For the most part it's pretty straightforward.

I'm pretty new to the "screamo" genre. How would you describe ATC's sound for someone who wasn't familiar with it?

It's an alternative, poppy sound with the higher vocals and more in-depth melodies, and really heavy, crunching breakdowns. Hardcore, screamo, a little bit of everything in there.

What sets apart a good screamo song from the rest?

I think it's really just being unique and being able to combine all styles — a lot of smooth transitions and just showing your talent and that you can all work as one. Being prolific, you know?

What do you think about the current music scene in Sacramento?

I'd say the scene right now is really strong. There's a good driving force of young teens to mid-20s and older. Everyone's being really supportive. There's so much family for all the bands out there. The scene is this connected web of musical allegiance, I guess is a good way of putting it.

It's great to see the Sac music scene coming about. Eric Rushing is a guy who's doing a great thing by opening this venue, and everyone is working really hard to make the Sacramento music scene better. I couldn't even say it lacks really. There's a lot of great shows coming through here. Ace of Spades is going to open up huge doors.

I'm looking forward to checking out Ace of Spades. It looks like it's going to be pretty cool.

It's definitely going to be, I think, one of the biggest assets to Sacramento's music scene in the history of the music scene, hands down. Large capacity, better sound, better quality, everything.

What local bands are you into?

Ten After Two. They're great guys. They're really young and they got a lot of talent, a lot of good stuff going for them. Carcerys Vale is another really good one. They're great friends of ours, good musicians. They're coming up really big in the world.

What's your favorite venue to perform at?

It's always fun to play at the Boardwalk. There are always a lot of great shows out there. Now, everyone is really, truly looking forward to Ace of Spades. This one coming up is the big shebang for us. We're all really excited and really proud to be playing it.

What can people expect when they go to see ATC perform?

We're really into the music. We have a great light show. A guy named Aaron Muir does lights for us, and he does a really good job at it. We're really solid playing live, and energetic. We're out here doing what we love: trying to spread the word and be as unique as possible, bring the fans out and play good music.

Any plans for a tour in the near future?

We're hoping to by the middle of this year. We're planning on going out and hitting a few dates in Southern California and hopefully a lot more than that. In the next month or so we should have a lot more things set in stone.

What's your ultimate goal as you continue to pursue music?

Our ultimate goal is to hopefully get signed to a record label, and to get out there and tour and spread the word, enjoy the scene and meet new people, and to travel and see the world.

What's next for ATC?

We actually just went and recorded some stuff, and we have some really good news we'll be dropping here in the next month or so. We're really excited we're with Outerloop Management. They're doing a lot of good stuff for us. As of right now, we're just marketing and trying to get ourselves out there more and more. We just released a brand new studio update, our first one ever today, actually — our very first video blog.

As a fairly young band, you guys have made a lot of progress.

Yeah, we work really hard. We dedicated our lives to it. We spend every day practicing, nonstop. Davey lives in Yuba City and Taylor lives in Stockton, so we have long commutes. We put in a lot of miles to come and play every day and make sure we're solid.

This takes 100 percent dedication.You're going to have your ups and downs regardless, and it's about being able to prosper through that, and keep the right mindset and stay on the right track.

Support local live music and see Above The City perform Saturday at Ace of Spades. General admission tickets are $13.95 and include service fees. All ages. 5 p.m. doors, 6 p.m. show.

Sugar & Gold with Yip Deceiver at Blue Lamp

2011-02-14T02:48:52Z

There was a surprisingly small turnout for Sugar & Gold and Yip Deceiver, two quality indie acts, at Blue Lamp Saturday night. Maybe the numerous free options of Second Saturday kept folks away, but, despite the numbers, both groups turned out solid performances.

Yip Deceiver — featuring Of Montreal members Davey Pierce and Nicolas Dobbratz — took the stage late and kicked things off with their take on experimental electro pop, performing songs including "Sadie Hawkins Day" and "For All the Haters."

Pierce bantered with the crowd constantly — "People who know me, who truly know me, know I like two things: karaoke and meth. We're going to do some karaoke, because that's fun for us." — and engaged by coming down off stage to sing and dance.

Sugar & Gold continued the disco-funk assault, again with Dobbratz on keys and Pierce (this time on drums) who were joined by Philipp Minnig on vocals and guitar. Minnig shone in his sparkly houndstooth jacket, white Ray-Ban frames and Wham!-era George Michael dance stylings. The group's ‘80s synth riffs, sleazy beats and R&B crooning had pretty much every single person on the floor dancing and having a great time.

"Let's work off those beers," Minnig said. "C'mon, it's sexy time!"

It was a great workout, and a shame more people didn't come sweat it out.

Alt-country rockers Murder by Death to perform at Harlow's Sunday

2011-02-12T00:00:39Z

No, Murder by Death is not a screamo or metalcore band.

But the band does explore some dark themes, like revenge, the devil and drinking away your troubles with whiskey. Taking their name from the 1976 Robert Moore/Neil Simon film of the same name, the four-piece rock band from Bloomington, Ind., takes their listeners on a ride through a "country gothic" soundscape, led by the powerful Johnny Cash-meets-Nick Cave baritone of frontman Adam Turla.

Armed with galloping punk-country, somber themes and interesting concepts — their 2003 "Who Will Survive and What Will Be Left of Them?" is an album about the devil being shot in a small, Western town and the aftermath that follows — this show has the potential to be an honest-to-goodness barn burner.

To get a taste of MBD, check out their song "Comin' Home," which you may have seen on the FX show “Sons of Anarchy” or a trailer for the Quentin Tarantino film “Inglorious Basterds”.

Murder by Death performs at Harlow's at 8 p.m. on Sunday, with support from The Builders & The Butchers and Damion Suomi & The Minor Prophets. Tickets are $12.

Preview: Dance party with Sugar & Gold and Yip Deceiver at Blue Lamp

2011-02-11T04:19:00Z

Attention hipsters and indie dance music fans! Head on over to Blue Lamp this Saturday to catch indie dance duo Sugar & Gold with special guest Yip Deceiver.

Shaking off comparisons to MGMT and Hot Chip, the San Francisco-based S&G weave together elements of funky disco, melodic electro and smooth R&B to create dance-heavy pop grooves with their unique signature.

Rated "Best Local Dance Band" in 2007 by SF Magazine and "Best Party Band 2008" by SF Weekly, S&G are known for their energetic, outrageous live shows that will have you sweating in your skinny jeans.

Davey Pierce (Of Montreal) side-project Yip Deceiver opens.

Sugar & Gold and Yip Deceiver perform at Blue Lamp this Saturday at 9p.m. Tickets are $10 and the show is 21+.

House music at District 30, Donald Glaude spins

2011-02-05T02:05:33Z

By now you've probably heard a few things about the three venues that opened on K Street recently: Dive Bar, Pizza Rock and District 30. I've experienced the novelty of Dive Bar and tasted the rocking pizza, and Thursday night I visited District 30 for the first time to see house music legend Donald Glaude in Sacramento's newest boutique dance lounge.

Access into the club was painless. I arrived early and there was no line at 9:30 p.m. Stepping in, you'll find the club's lone bar is on the right, and VIP booths line the left side. Keep going and you'll hit the dance floor and DJ booth, with some larger VIP booths tucked in the back. The smaller VIP booths toward the front run about $300 and seat six comfortably, and the price includes a bottle of your choice and gratuity. The larger booths closer to the DJ booth are $400 and seat eight to 10.

The sound in the club was noticeably excellent right away, as you would expect from a club of this newness and ilk (the owner is George Karpaty of San Francisco's Ruby Skye). District 30 resident DJ David Carvalho was spinning a funky club mix as the suit jackets and miniskirts trickled in, and it was a super clean mix with deep, rich bass, spread evenly throughout the club.

The decor inside is modern and trendy without being tacky. There are some very cool large mixed-media collages on the wall above the smaller VIP booths, and I was told they were created by artist Matthew Byrd, who also bartends at Dive Bar. If you've been to Dive Bar, you would recognize Byrd as the one with the Sideshow Bob-ish hairdo, and he's also created pieces for Ink and House Restaurant & Bar.

Huge disco ball over the dance floor? Check. Hard-bodied go-go dancers in Flintstones-meets-Burning Man outfits? Check.

It's not a large club — hence the "boutique" adjective — and with all the patrons, cocktail waitresses and security staff walking around, it gets congested. Better than having a big empty club, though. There's no place in the club to sit down (unless you're with a table.) Sure, you should probably be at the bar getting drinks, mingling with beautiful people, or out on the dance floor, but sometimes you just want to sit down.

Main attraction Donald Glaude took command of the DJ booth around 11 p.m., and it was a full house assault straight off. No slow-building trance here, just energy and more energy. Glaude, who has been ranked as high as No. 48 on DJ Mag's Top 100 List, is known for his energy and engagement with his audience, and he worked D30: stepping out of the booth and onto the floor at one point, taking shots with people when they came up to the booth, and always ready to scream "Make some fucking noise!" to squeeze out every last drop of energy from the packed house.

It's great to see the name DJs finally coming through Sac. There's definitely a market for house music here, and District 30 is a sleek and shiny addition.

Chic for Change – Becoming a Force in the Community

2011-02-01T07:32:58Z

I live in the ‘burbs and I can get to feeling pretty isolated from my neighbors. Okay, I have that feeling a lot of the time. It’s mostly my own fault – I don’t always make the effort because I’m kinda shy and different… I don’t always know where to start. Give me the right setting and a reason to chat, well that definitely helps. I’ve discovered one such setting and no, it’s not a support group (though I could probably use one of those). It’s a new shop near El Camino and Fulton called Chic for Change.

Teshala Paradiso, who everyone calls “Tesh,” is working to realize a vision that came to her during a year-long turn with a very serious illness. She described how on one particularly bad day, “I was laying in bed and thought, ‘If I ever get better, what would I do next?’ I knew I wanted to do something more." She continues explaining, "I liked to shop, loved thrift stores and had a great interest in building community, and this idea formed.” Tesh, who is married with two young children, realized her vision on January 3, 2011 by opening a unique high-end second hand store, which just so happens to be large enough to also serve as a community gathering place.

Chic for Change also benefits several local area nonprofits. 20% of every purchase goes directly to either Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children, Sacramento Area Emergency Housing Center, or Wildlife Care Association. The customer gets to choose which one. It works like this: you purchase $40 worth of items; $10 of your purchase goes to one of the three nonprofits, providing each with a steady stream of financial support. But this is about more than just money.

Tesh explains that she wants Chic for Change, “…to be a place where people can come and get nice things they can afford and at the same time support their community - and also as a place where people can socialize, collaborate and build friendships.” The large store encourages this by having a homey area with a couch, chairs, coffee table, and pillows providing an area for customers to sit and chat, wait for a slower shopping partner, or enjoy a mocha from the coffee bar, which will soon offer a full menu of espresso drinks.

I went in for a visit myself last Saturday afternoon. I walked into a large store with high ceilings, still a bit sparse and still a work in progress but looking visually appealing. Toward the back of the store, local singer/songwriter Christian DeWild and percussionist Mike Pavisch played a two-hour set for customers while the store offered free refreshments, a 50% off clothes sale, and a big discount on the cost of a Disaster Survival Skills class.

While others shopped, I kicked back on the couch with my coffee, turkey sandwich roll and brownie and listened to Christian’s ear-pleasing, gravelly roots-rock sound. I did a little shopping too, picking up a nice Crate and Barrel tablecloth for $5, a set of three heavy duty stainless steel pots and pans for $20, a nice Fossil handbag for $10 and, of course, some clothes. A huge calendar behind the counter provided sale dates, classes and special events such as fundraisers, and said I wanted my donation to go to Wildlife Care Association (I do some volunteer fundraising for them, and this is how I found out about the store).

Chic for Change aims to be a higher end thrift store with reasonable prices. To accomplish this, Tesh has to be a little picky bit about the items sold in the store. Those that can’t be sold are donated back to the partnering nonprofits, especially the Sacramento Area Emergency Housing Center who benefits from clothing, blankets, linens, furniture and kitchen items and more. As put so very well by Ms. Paradiso, “There is no reason for any of us to stand alone.”

About the nonprofits:

Sacramento Area Emergency Housing Center (SAEHC) - This program started as a family shelter back in 1972 and now serves over 500 homeless people. Their website explains, “SAEHC runs one of only two shelters in Sacramento that accepts two-parent households, single fathers, and sons over the age of 14.” They also recently received funding to start a program for homeless seniors. Their goal is to help these struggling families and individuals to learn the tools needed to become more self-reliant.

Wildlife Care Association (WCA) –For the past 29 years, WCA has been providing medical and rehabilitation services to over 6,000 injured, ill, orphaned, injured and displaced wild animals each year. Hundreds of baby birds fill the nursery every spring but critters are brought in year-around to the facility, which recently located to McClellan Park. Once the animals have recovered or have grown and learned to fend for themselves, they are released back into the wild, giving them a second chance at life.

Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) – Since 1977, CASA has trained volunteers to advocate for foster children in the juvenile court system. These children only end up in court as a result of having been abused, neglected or abandoned and in the child welfare system. The volunteer gets to know the child and helps to avoid any additional trauma by ensuring that each child has a voice in the system. The CASA volunteer works closely with the child to understand, for example, does the child want to be reunited with his or her parents, or would she prefer to stay in foster care or to be adopted, and then speaks up for them in court, ensuring the child's needs and wishes are heard.

Photos: Sacramento Electronic Music Festival - Day 2

2011-01-31T04:53:22Z

Day 2 of the second annual Sacramento Electronic Music Festival continued at the Townhouse Lounge on Friday, featuring performances by Little Foxes, Boss Magic, Melee Beats and FAVORS, among others.

The three-night festival showcases local and international electronic-centric artists, and the SEMF vision is "to continue to foster a supportive music community while attracting world-class talent to Sacramento, not just at the annual festival, but throughout the year."

Friday night Roger Carpio and Shaun Slaughter were among the DJs who held court nonstop on the first floor with a wide range of music (New Order, The xx, Crystal Castles) and kept the sexy people of Townhouse sweaty all night.

After a literally in-your-face performance by FAVORS on the dance floor, the beats continued upstairs where artists like Boss Magic, Little Foxes (my favorite of the night) and Melee Beats killed it in a haze of fog and lasers.

SEMF covers all the bases in the electronic genre, from “straightforward” DJs with laptops to groups that incorporate organic instruments with their synths, and does a fantastic job of showcasing quality acts in a well-organized and centralized environment. SEMF is a blast for old and new fans of the genre (and good music in general), and Sacramento is lucky to have it.

Coverage of Day 1 of the festival can be found here.

FAVORS

Brian Camera of Boss Magic

Brian Camera (left) and Michael Calero (right) of Boss Magic

Jacob Golden of Little Foxes

Dusty Brown of Little Foxes

Jacob Golden of Little Foxes

Melee Beats

Crowd

DAY 3

Jessica Brown of Dusty Brown

Dusty Brown

Zac Brown of Dusty Brown

Cole Cuchna (left) and Scott Simpson (right) of The New Humans

Scott Simpson (left) and Mike Steez (right) of The New Humans

Photos by Steven Chea

Preview: Deerhoof performs at Harlow's Thursday

2011-01-26T06:50:29Z

San Francisco art-pop band Deerhoof kicks off a new tour at Harlow's Thursday in support of the hot-off-the-presses LP release "Deerhoof vs. Evil."

The quartet is recognized by many as pioneers of improv-style experimental pop, with its distinctive sound influencing many others: Sleigh Bells, Of Montreal, Xiu Xiu and more.

Count on a striking sonic mix of poppy melodies, waves of noise, and chaotic fun from these former Radiohead tourmates. Potentially challenging, but sure to be fresh and different.

Deerhoof performs at Harlow's at 9 p.m. Thursday, and tickets are $12. Nervous Cop opens.

Fun with Ra Ra Riot, Givers and Pepper Rabbit at Harlow's

2011-01-24T06:33:03Z

Saturday’s animated concert at Harlow’s served as one of many sold-out shows in California for Ra Ra Riot, Givers and Pepper Rabbit. The dark, intimate venue came alive with colorful lights and a clambering crowd of orchestral pop rock fans. At the first beat of sound, the room was flavored with music that could most simply be described as “fun.”

Joining Givers and Ra Ra Riot for the first time on this tour, Los Angeles-based rock duo Pepper Rabbit opened the show with layered organ notes, looping effects and experimental use of unusual rock instruments: clarinet, bells and ukulele. Center stage, the lights glowed atop drummer Luc Laurent’s curls as his percussion pounded in our chests. Vocalist Xander Singh switched seamlessly from scaling keys to tambourine to ukulele throughout the band’s set, which included “Older Brother,” “Babette!” and “None Shall Sleep,” all off of the band’s 2010 album “Beauregard.”

As the bands transitioned and the crowd thickened, members of Lafayette’s Givers also began to set up an assortment of quirky instruments. Travis Sparks, who is visiting from Austin, noticed a second ukulele on the stage. “Another goddamn ukulele. These bands need to get out more,” he said, adding that an increasing number of musicians attract a built-in audience by merely integrating unconventional instruments. Although I'm a fan of the ukulele, there’s something to be said for how sudden ubiquity can dilute the punch of a novel concept.

Nevertheless, Givers, a psychedelic rock band reminiscent of Vampire Weekend, emitted vibrant, almost hyperbolic, vibes and beats. As they broke into the hit “Up Up Up,” the room burst with celebratory thunder and dance. Hearts pounded and long hair flew on stage to the rhythm of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist ~~Christine Peirce’s~~ TIffany Lamson's playful drumming and bell slinging.

“I want to have your baby!” a man screamed from the audience.

“Um. No. That wouldn’t be possible,” ~~Peirce~~ Lamson replied, laughing.

Her sweet lyrics harmonized with guitarist Taylor Guarisco’s vocals as his eyes closed with bliss as he played.

“The show was a lot of fun,” Guarisco said. “All of our songs are kind of like our children, so we love them all. It’s always exciting to see how an audience that doesn’t know our music reacts as we play. I watch their faces as they turn....” He then mimicked the audience’s expressions: faces that transform from bored to ecstatic.

As the stage transitioned for the third time, more people crowded toward the edge of the stage to get a closer look at Syracuse’s Ra Ra Riot, which performed Saturday for the first time with new drummer Kenny Bernard.

Fan Shelee Romo of Woodland said she’s seen Ra Ra Riot about four or five times since the band’s debut.

“They’ve always put on a great show,” she said. “They just feed off each other.”

She screamed loudly as the band emerged on stage to the sound of “Massachusetts.” Singer Wesley Miles, wearing a vintage Star Wars T-shirt, pounded the keys as the band orchestrated wildly to a series of hits from their first full-length album “The Rhumb Line,” including “Too Too Fast” and “Oh, La.”

Ra Ra Riot’s second full-length album, 2010’s “The Orchard," offered a more mature, mellow mood, while still retaining its playful energy with “Boy” and “Kansai.”

"This is the first time the band has felt part of one entire process, from beginning to end," Miles said.

"The Orchard" also features more lead vocals by cellist Alexandra Lawn, whose sultry vocals captivated the audience with "You and I Know."

“I’ve never seen [Lawn] sing solo live like that, so that was exciting,” Romo said. “She has this Stevie Nicks vibe that I love.”

The songs continued with spritely vocals by Miles, harmonized by Lawn and reinforced by the band's baroque rock buoyancy. The band left the stage, and after minutes of cheering, returned with "The Rhumb Line" hits “Ghost Under Rocks” and “Dying Is Fine." During the last few verses, Miles removed his glasses and proceeded to high five several audience members before saying goodnight.

“The show was just great!" Miles said. "We’re glad everyone had fun."

Photos by Steven Chea

Ra Ra Riot performing at Harlow's this Saturday

2011-01-19T02:34:24Z

New York-based band Ra Ra Riot performs at Harlow's Saturday, fresh off an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday.

The eclectic indie pop band combines Arcade Fire's orchestral maneuvers ('Riot instruments include a cello and violin) with Vampire Weekend's pop sensibilities, and the efforts of the young group have resulted in two well-received albums on Barsuk Records: 2008's "The Rhumb Line" and 2010's "The Orchard;" the latter being mixed by Death Cab for Cutie's Chris Walla.

Taking over drumming duties in Sacramento will be Kenny Bernard, who replaces current drummer Gabriel Duquette. Duquette says on the Ra Ra Riot website he is "off to prepare for the collapse of industrial civilization!", and the Kimmel show will be his last with the band.

Supporting Ra Ra Riot Saturday will be Givers and Pepper Rabbit. Tickets are $15, and the show starts at 9 p.m.

Ace of Spades set to open

2011-01-12T01:38:32Z

Concerts by the Richard Thompson Electric Trio, Rob Zombie and Papa Roach are already being booked for a new music club called Ace of Spades, expected to open in early February.

The 1,000-person-capacity club at 1417 R St. most recently housed Venue, which was open for six or seven months after a $2 million renovation but closed Aug. 1 3. Its owners – Bob Simpson, Rick and Earl Lobley, and the building’s owner, Randy Paragary – had operated Empire Events Center there since 2004.

Tickets are on sale and the shows are being promoted, with the first concert featuring San Francisco rapper Andre Nickatina Feb. 5. Some acts are more hardcore, including deathcore band Whitechapel on its Welcome to Hell Tour and metalcore bands As I Lay Dying and Norma Jean. But promoters have also booked Super Diamond, a Neil Diamond tribute band from San Francisco, and Badfish, a Sublime tribute band.

But before the shows can go on, Ace of Spades owners must still close escrow on the business and get a license to sell alcohol from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. The license is pending.

The owners include managing member Eric Rushing, who worked at The Boardwalk in Orangevale for about a decade. Rushing confirmed in December he was leaving The Boardwalk to open Ace of Spades. He could not be reached for comment.

Band manager Bret Bair is listed by California ABC as a company officer. Bair once managed Papa Roach, a Vacaville band now managed by Tenth Street Entertainment in New York.

The owners are currently hiring for many positions, including bartenders, servers, stage hands, box office clerks and VIP hosts, according to the club's website.

Some past concertgoers complained about the sound quality, cover charges and of being charged to park in a state agency parking lot across the street.

The business was in the process of being sold at least once after Venue closed, but the deal or deals fell through, Simpson and Rushing said previously.

Ace of Spades photo by Suzanne Hurt. Venue photo by Jonathan Mendick. Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Weezer tribute band 'In the Garage' at The Refuge

2011-01-10T04:05:45Z

I'm an old-school Weezer fan: The pop geniuses' classic self-titled debut, more commonly known as "The Blue Album," was the second CD I ever bought, and their follow-up, coming-in-under-the-radar release "Pinkterton" was the soundtrack for part of my freshman year in college.

So I was very excited to see Weezer tribute band In the Garage perform at all-ages venue The Refuge downtown Friday night. Also on the bill were Rat-O-Matic, Drastic Actions and Green Day tribute band Totally Green Day.

Punk bands Rat-O-Matic and Drastic Actions warmed up the young crowd at the start of the night, and Totally Green Day tore through a respectable set of some of Green Day's older material, which whet the crowds' appetite for the upcoming Weezer tunes.

A tribute band differs from a cover band in that they strive for a near-perfect imitation of the original artist's songs and appearance, whereas a cover band simply plays the artist's songs. In the Garage was right on the money, down to the nerdy glasses, matching cardigans and large Weezer "=W=" sign that hangs behind the band.

The four core members were joined by a synth player, and the melodic pop assault began with "Tired of Sex." The set was heavy on songs from the first two albums of the Weezer catalog ("Undone (The Sweater Song)," "El Scorcho," "Buddy Holly," "In the Garage"), which was a smart direction to take.

Weezer has released nine full-length albums to date, but I find the first two seem to have the most depth, as is the case with a lot of bands. Not that the later albums are bad, but the most recent material is lightweight in comparison (i.e. they're past their prime) and I think for the most part ignored by older Weezer fans.

But they still put out pop gems, and In the Garage also knocked out honorable versions of "Island in the Sun" from 2001's "The Green Album," "Pork & Beans" from 2008's "The Red Album," and "You Gave Your Love to Me Softly", a B-side to the single "El Scorcho," which was a welcome surprise for the hardcore fans.

No telling when the real Weezer tours through Sacramento next. In the meantime, if you're a Weezer fan, or like excellent pop/rock songs, In the Garage is definitely worth checking out for your fix.

In the Garage

Ryan Garcia of In the Garage

Crowd watching In the Garage

Ben Steinert of In the Garage

In the Garage

Andy Dibben of In the Garage

Mike Woodall of In the Garage

Joe McKinney of Totally Green Day

Joe McKinney (left) and David Hayden (right) of Totally Green Day

Ryan Garcia of Totally Green Day

Crowd watching Totally Green Day

Joe McKinney of Totally Green Day

Drastic Actions

Jasson Drastic of Drastic Actions

Rat-O-Matic

Photos by Steven Chea

The Sacramento French Film Festival presents a "Cinema-Concert" featuring The Italian Straw Hat, a Classic Silent Comedy, with Live Music performed by the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra

2011-01-06T20:08:53Z

For the Sacramento French Film Festival, 2011 is a milestone year: one of the most acclaimed film festivals in town will celebrate its 10th year. This special anniversary will be held at the Crest Theatre on June 17-26 but the team of the SFFF has planned other events to make 2011 the year of French cinema in Sacramento and it all starts this month with a prestigious and one-of-a-kind “Cinema-Concert”, featuring a silent comedy with live orchestra.

On January 29th and 30th, The SFFF will bring to Sacramento the North-American Premiere of Un Chapeau de Paille d'Italie (An Italian Straw Hat), directed by renowned French filmmaker René Clair, with a new musical score. For this first-time event, the SFFF is collaborating with the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra. This unique partnership is good news for the local art scene, and not surprising coming from two local arts organizations recognized for their dynamism and the high quality and originality of their programs.

René Clair’s hilarious 1928 comedy, one of the most famous silent French films, will be presented with the new score written by contemporary French composer, Raymond Alessandrini. Alessandrini, who has traveled from France especially for the occasion, will conduct an orchestra of twelve principal musicians from the Sacramento Philharmonic, including an accordion player of course!

Based on a play by vaudeville playwright Eugène Labiche, An Italian Straw Hat is a highly entertaining typically French farce: Fadinard is on his way to his wedding when his horse eats the hat of a married woman who was spending time with her lover in the bushes of the bois de Vincennes... To avoid her dishonor, Fadinard must find the very same rare hat, made out of straw from Italy. This will greatly disturb his wedding plans… for our guilty pleasure. Famous film critic Pauline Kael described An Italian Straw Hat as “One of the funniest films ever made... so expertly timed and choreographed that farce becomes ballet.”

There will be only two performances of this fun-filled event featuring a rare 35mm restored print from the French repository of film archives, the Cinémathèque Française: Saturday January 29th at 8pm, and Sunday January 30th at 2pm, at the Crest Theatre, home of the SFFF since 2003.

Tickets are on sale at tickets.com, by phone at 1-800-225-2277 or in person at the Crest Theatre. Tickets purchased at the Crest Theatre do not incur any fee.

More information can be found at www.SacramentoFrenchFilmFestival.org

Cécile Downs is the Artistic and Executive Director of the Sacramento Frnehc Film Festival.

Photos: First Naked Lounge show of 2011

2011-01-04T03:55:48Z

The first show of 2011 at Naked Lounge Downtown took place Saturday and featured performances by Sacramento artists Adrian Bourgeois, Ricky Berger, One Eyed Rhyno, Brian Rogers of Izabella, and Autumn Sky.

The musicians celebrated the new year by performing a selection of songs written in 2010.

Naked Lounge Downtown is a live music venue located at Naked Coffee on 11th and H Street. Click here for upcoming events.

Adrian Bourgeois

Adrian Bourgeois (foreground) and Ricky Berger

Ricky Berger

One Eyed Rhyno

Brian Rogers

Autumn Sky

Photos by Steven Chea

The Slackers Grace Sactown with Gritty Reggae Sunday the 2nd at Harlow's

2010-12-31T03:28:19Z

You should be just about mended back to health from your New Year’s hangover, so come to Harlow’s on Jan. 2 for another night to party and stave off that post-holiday depression for a few more hours.

Call it ska, call it reggae, call it jazz, call it what you will: The Slackers are bringing it all to Harlow’s on J Street Sunday night. This year makes 20 that the Brooklyn-born sextet has been rocking-steady both the east and west coasts, and now we get a taste of the slackness here in Sacramento. Tickets are $12 at the door. Show starts at 8 p.m
http://www.theslackers.com/
http://www.myspace.com/theslackers

Pinback at Harlow's on Dec 30

2010-12-26T15:43:46Z

This Thursday you'll have a chance to end 2010 on a good note by catching indie-rock fave Pinback at Harlow's.

The heart of the San Diego band has always been Zach Smith and Rob Crow, and with an upcoming album on the horizon and to stay fresh creatively, the duo is taking a different approach to performing on their current outing. As Smith explains:

"We've decided to have some fun and present our songs in a new light. Instead of playing our songs the traditional way by having a backup band play all of our extra parts we thought it would be entertaining and fresh for just the two of us to play live. The idea is to present our music at times in a more broken down manner very similar sounding to how it might be for Rob and I when we're coming up with a song for the very first time. Hopefully, this way we can create a new atmosphere for a familiar song."

Sounds like the makings of an interesting show for old and new fans alike.

Pinback performs at Harlow's on Thursday, Dec. 30, with support from Los Angeles' JP Inc. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are $15. To purchase tickets click here.

Photo: www.pinback.com

Photos: Country fans come out for The Judds

2010-12-13T19:12:01Z

Country music fans came out in droves on Sunday night to see superstar duo The Judds perform at Arco Arena.

The iconic mother and daughter team of Naomi and Wynonna Judd drew approximately 6,500 predominantly female fans to Arco, selling out the seating layout for this particular performance.

It has been more than 10 years since the The Judds toured last, and this current outing – “The Judds: The Last Encore" – is being billed as their final reunion.

The pair opened with “Had a Dream” and followed with Judds classics “Girls' Night Out” and “Love Is Alive.”

Here are some photos from the show:

Naomi Judd greets a fan in the front row.

Wynonna Judd

Naomi Judd

Photos by Steven Chea.

The Gracious Few to play Harlow's

2010-12-06T01:37:12Z

Making a stop in Sacramento this Monday is a fresh, new band called The Gracious Few, featuring members of '90s alternative rock veterans Live and Candlebox.

After Live effectively disbanded in 2009 due to the departure of singer Ed Kowalczyk, the remaining members sought to continue making music and recruited longtime friend and Candlebox frontman Kevin Martin for their new venture. Martin in turn brought aboard Candlebox guitarist Sean Hennesy to round out the sound and complete the lineup.

TGF describes their sound as being influenced by '70s rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Black Sabbath and the Rolling Stones. The band’s eponymous debut album was produced by Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads. Expect the rock.

See The Gracious Few perform at Harlow’s on J Street at 8 p.m. on Monday. Danielle Barbe opens, and tickets can be purchased here.

Photo: http://www.thegraciousfew.com

Jingle Ball 2010 featuring Paramore, B.o.B

2010-12-06T00:52:47Z

Some of Top 40 radio's hottest acts performed at a packed Arco Arena on Friday night for 107.9 The End's annual Jingle Ball concert.

The 2010 edition featured performances by 3OH!3, Jesse McCartney, B.o.B, and Paramore.

Here are some photos from the show:

3OH!3:

Nathaniel Motte of 3OH!3

Sean Foreman of 3OH!3

Crowd at 3OH!3

Nathaniel Motte of 3OH!3

Jesse McCartney:

Jesse McCartney

B.o.B:

B.o.B

B.o.B and friend.

B.o.B

Paramore:

Hayley Williams of Paramore

Guitarist Taylor York of Paramore

Vocalist Hayley Wiliiams and bassist Jeremy Davis of Paramore

Jeremy Davis of Paramore

Hayley Williams and drummer Zac Farro of Paramore

Hayley Williams of Paramore

Guitarist Josh Farro of Paramore

Hayley Williams of Paramore

Photos: Steven Chea