Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Concert Hightlights: Califone, Rocky Votolato, Metro Station

I'm a little sad that I missed Jose Gonzalez last night, but I knew there was no way I'd make it to the Belly Up in time. Also sad I missed Travis and Maximo Park, but the venue had more to do with that than anything. Still, I'm actually surprised how many great shows are coming to town at a time when you'd think they'd all be nesting in their respective cities and towns.

I wanted to recommend some bands if you're going out this week.

First, if you're going to see Iron & Wine tonight, DO NOT miss Califone. These guys are from Chicago and they blow me away every time I see them. Their instrumentation is always beautiful and complicated and the vocals have this gritty quality that I always enjoy.

Second, my favorite musician is coming to town again...Rocky Votolato is playing a show on Thursday night at Porter's Pub at UCSD, with locals The Midwinters and Chris & Thomas from LA. I believe the show is free, but even if it's not, it's a good chance for people to see Rocky in a solo set. That show is early, but if you can't make it, my friends Run Run Run are coming down from LA to play the Sports Club with Royal Campaign and O'er Night. If I can pull off a three show Thursday, I'm gonna be there, and finish my evening catching Los Esmiths at the Ken Club.

Last, for the kids, Motion City Soundtrack are playing at Soma on this Saturday with Mae, Anberlin, and up-and-comers Metro Station who are being compared to Boys Like Girls. Check out their MySpace here. While maybe a deviation from the music I normally hype here, I've got a pair of tickets to give away to the first person who can name the four boys in the band. Email your name and phone number to divebarchick AT gmail DOT com.

This, of course, is all in addition to the rest of the great shows this week...like the debut of Hotel St. George on Friday night. It's a very, very good week for music.

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