Saturday, December 31, 2011

Safe Rides For San Diego

This is my post from 2010, but most of the information is the same this year. Plan accordingly. 


Hopefully you have big New Year's Eve plans, and I would urge you to plan ahead and be safe.

Cabs are gonna be busy but below are some options for getting to and from your destination safely.
Taxi Rob- Rob has a private taxi service and has a vehicle that can hold up to seven passengers. Call him directly at (619) 318-8935 and he'll accurately tell you how long of a wait you have.

GoFastCab- If you want to get direct to a cab without waiting on a phone with dispatch, send a text to 777222 with the address and zip code of your location. You'll receive a confirmation text and the driver will call you when they're about 2 minutes away. Unfortunately, they don't give you time estimates, but I haven't ever experienced any excessive waits.

Tipsy Tow- AAA of Southern California is once again offering their Tipsy Tow service. They will tow your car and the driver only up to seven miles. Call 1-800-400-4AAA (4222) for a free tow...just remember to tip the driver. The service is available from 6pm today until 6am on New Year's Day.

MTS & Trolley- MTS & Trolley service are extended for the holiday weekend. You can see full schedules here:
On New Year's Eve, MTS will operate extended service on all three Trolley lines:

Blue Line: The last southbound Blue Line will depart Old Town at 12:45 a.m.
Green Line: The last eastbound Green Line will depart Old Town at 12:30 a.m.
Orange Line: The last eastbound Orange Line will depart from the bayside platform at 12th and Imperial at 12:45 a.m. This train will circle downtown and depart from 12th & Imperial at about 1:04 a.m. for El Cajon.
Obviously, there are limos and cabs and plenty of other options, so use them and kick off the New Year safely. Don't wait to make a plan. Do it now and enjoy the night worry free.

Things To Do In San Diego: December 31, 2011-January 1, 2011

    I fully intended to write some big year-end recap, but this week has been crazy busy so I haven't had much laptop time and at this moment, a pre-Lafayette nap is in order, so I'll spare for now and just wish all of you a happy and safe New Year's Eve. Though cabs will be busy, you can text 777222 with your location (street address and zip code) and a cab will eventually be dispatched to you. I'll save the emotional thank yous and recap for another day. Love.

    Saturday, December 31, 2011 (CityBeat New Year's Eve Guide, Urbanist NYE Guide):
    • Casbah presents: Transfer, The Silent Comedy, The Creepy Creeps, The Heavy Guilt, Low Volts, Creepxotica and more @ Lafayette Hotel (SOLD OUT)
    • The Growlers, Tomorrow's Tulips, The Abigails, Tropical Popsicle @ Casbah (SOLD OUT)
    • Big Night San Diego: Little Hurricane, Geezer, Mex, Heavygrinder, DJs; Heavygrinder, Happee, Edgartronic, Mike Czech, Eklektec @ Hilton Bayfront ($5 Off with Promo Code: NightTimeVIP11)
    • Swami New Year’s Heave with Beehive & The Barracudas, Christmas Island, Mrs. Magician @ Bar Pink
    • Steven Ray & The Slicks, Grand Tarantula, Lady Dottie & The Diamonds, The Bloody Hollies, Westside Infections @ Til Two Club
    • Los Alacranes, Cumbia Machin, Israel Maldonado, DJ Wicho @ Swiss Park, Chula Vista
    • Sezio NYE feat. Jamuel Saxon DJ Set @ Luce Loft
    • English Beat, Bushwalla @ Belly Up (SOLD OUT)
    • El Ten Eleven, Hills Like Elephants @ Soda Bar
    • River City, Western Set, VDrago, DJ Gonzo @ Tin Can
    • Punk Rock Karaoke feat. Dean Reis, Cody Young, and Thaddeus Robles @ Eleven
    • New Year's Eve Bash with Nihilist, the Strikers, Deadbeat Diablos (Scream) & Coda Reactor @ The Shakedown
    • Booty Bassment @ Whistle Stop
    • NYE Rock N Roll Tribute show feat. Rocks off (Rolling Stones), Masters of Reality (Black Sabbath), Alice & The Cooper Gang (Alice Cooper). With Open bar (select draft & wells) 9-11pm and Champagne toast at midnight @ Ruby Room
    • “Speakeasy” NYE with hosted bar, champagne toast, casino games, live jazz, belly dancers, burlesque, fire eating, aerial arts, and more)@ The Griffin
    • New Wave New Years with Saul Q and Colourvision @ U-31
    • Victory Nightlife Presents The Block Party@ House of Blues
    • TSTV, DEEP, & Knight Vision present: "GET SEXUAL" Headliners -EVOL INTENT (Lifted Music UK, Renegade Hardware UK, Evol Intent Recs.)/ GRIDLOK (RAM Recordings UK, Project 51, Virus UK, True Playaz UK)/ REID SPEED (Play Me Recordings, Breakbeat Science NYC). Local Support: Delano (HEAT, Bassdrive.com, Allen & Heath UK)/ Wallkrawler (DEEP SD Ridda & Subliminal)/ Animate (Knight Vison)/ Ghost MD (12 Monkeys)/ Hosted by : Ridda & Subliminal. Sound by DEEP @ Brick By Brick
    • The Devastators @ Winston's (no cover)
    • Zig Zag Jones NYE Bash @ 710 Beach Club
    • Candye Kane @ Bely Up (Happy Hour 5:30pm)
    • Trent Hancock/4 Course Menu @ Marble Room (7:30pm)
    • Ameerah & Reggie Smith Band @ Humphrey's Restaurant (9pm)
    • Rockola @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge (9:30pm)
    • Kinky, Caro Limon, Tech Game, Tony Sleight, J Real, Get Blahsted, DJ Slynkee @ 4th & B
    • 2012 Rockin’ New Year’s Eve feat. The Trip @ Anthology (Early Show 5pm, Late Show 9:30 pm)
    • Endoxi, DJ R2 @ Gallagher's
    • Cheyenne Giles & 3 Course Dinner @ Analog
    • New Years Eve with Adam Salter, DJ Groundfloor @ El Dorado
    • Mr. White @ Voyeur
    • Bill Hardt NYE with Luis Perez, Francisco Pagano, Will Z @ Spin
    • Candy Ball with Sid Vicious & Rico DeLargo @ Fluxx
    Sunday, January 1, 2012:
    • New Years 2.0 Industry Night with DJ Leif, DJ Man-Cat, Rock The Discotek, DJ Chamberlin, Dj Shift, DJ Kevin P @ Belly Up
    • Bad Antics, Vietnam Hardcore, Sleep Walk, Illustrations & Tidemouth @ The Shakedown
    • NY Morning with Special Secret Guests @ Voyeur (5am-1pm)
    • Jose Sinatra's OB-O-ke @ Winston's
    • Tribe of Kings/Reggae Vibes @ U-31
    • First Friday Gomango Kids Concert @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge (3pm)
    • Reggae Sundays @ Spin

    Friday, December 30, 2011

    We had been anticipating the broadcast of our most intense experience to date - the documentary series "Live From Abbey Road". Although the episode was only available to view across the pond, one of our thoughtful friends was able to capture it for us to share with you. Dig it.




    New Year's Eve Set Times & More Lafayette Tickets!!

    If you were hoping to attend the New Year's Eve party at the Lafayette Hotel and missed out on tickets, there will be 50 tickets released on Saturday morning at 10am. This is the link you'll need to get them.
    A few people have asked me for New Year's Eve set times, so I've got a couple for you.

    NYE at The Lafayette:
    Doors at 8:30pm
    By the pool:Creepxotica 9:15-10pm, Hell On Heels 11-11:30pm
    Lobby: Low Volts 11:15-11:45
    Mississippi Room: Transfer 10:45-11:30, The Silent Comedy 11:50-1:15
    Lafayette Room: The Heavy Guilt 10:15-11:15, The Creepy Creeps 11:45-12:45

    The Casbah:  Doors at 8:30. The Abigails 9:30, Tomorrow's Tulips 10:30, The Growlers 11:45pm. Tropical Popsicle will perform in the Atari Lounge between sets.
    Bar Pink: Mrs Magician at 9, Christmas Isle at 10, Beehive and the Barracudas at 11pm

    If you're a promoter or venue with more live music settimes to add, please email me or leave a comment and I will update the site. I'm really not interested in DJ set times. No offense.

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 30, 2011

    Oh, man, it's been such a busy week that I'm really glad I planned ahead and got all the weekend listings done last week. My cousin is out from NYC and we've been running around town with the family. In the past two days I went to a parade, the zoo at night, Hennessey's, Livewire, El Zarape, got a manicure (first time my nails have color in at least 10 years), shopped at Fashion Valley( for the first time in at least 3 years), URBN and West Coast Tavern.  No signs of slowing down with 30th on 30th tonight, and the massive Lafayette show tomorrow. If you're coming to the Lafayette, I'll be at the door to greet all you lovelies. Feel free to buy me and Chase drinks (beer, whiskey & ginger, shots of any kind) since I'm hearing we don't get any drink tickets (BOO!) . Happy Friday! Friday archive after the jump.

    To a New Year filled with Beer...

    December has been an incredibly busy month, and I'm not talking about the cluster fuck that Christmas shopping can be because thanks to the power of Amazon, I was able to max out my credit card at the beginning of November. I am referring to what I like to call "Decembeer," a month where Holiday ales and seasonally released beers sneak their way onto shelves and taps like Santa down a chimney. And what better way to kick off Decembeer than with the 15th Annual San Diego Strong Ale Festival at Pizza Port Carlsbad? There really isn't a better way.

    In my opinion, this is one of the finest beer fests San Diego has to offer. With over 80 beers measuring at a minimum 8% ABV, this was definitely a Motel 6 kind of night. Tom Nickel (Owner of O'Brien's) and Jeff Bagby (Brewmaster of Pizza Port Carlsbad) organize this event every year at the Pizza Port Carlsbad location, which also hosts the Real Ale and Sour Ale Festivals throughout the year. As if Pizza Port already didn't have enough great beers to showcase, they also have insanely good pizza to grub down with that grog, so if you're ever looking to check out one of their festivals or just make your way down to the brewpub, you can stay up to date on all their events here.
    Keep reading after the jump.

    Wednesday, December 28, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 28-29, 2011

    Boredom breeds productivity. I have been nothing but lazy this week and then yesterday I went and saw "Being Elmo" and it was kinda inspiring in that Kevin Clash really went after what he wanted. This resulted in me coming home and after twiddling my thumbs and numbing my brain on Facebook, I decided it was time to update my site. It is now 8:30 in the morning and it took me all night, but I finally made a venue page on my site complete with links and addresses and such. I also put a few of my favorite venues and restaurants on the homepage. As I warned yesterday, NYE at the Lafayette is now SOLD OUT, but you can still grab tickets to The Growlers at the Casbah. I also updated the Casbah page with a bunch of band photos and bios and if you didn't grab tickets to the Lafayette, you can see Transfer and The Silent Comedy together at the Casbah on January 15th & 16th. I'm heading off with my family to the Holiday Bowl Big Balloon Parade and probably won't be online for awhile today. Wednesday & Thursday archives after the jump.

    Tuesday, December 27, 2011

    Best of 2011 in Video

    It has been one hell of a year and I decided to once again search through my own YouTube uploads to put some of my favorite moments into a playlist. It goes somewhat chronologically, albeit slightly off because I bulk upload. There are 46 videos and I realized in backtracking through my uploads that I can identify several truths. One is that I was extremely lazy, and while I filmed many shows in their entirety, there are also entire shows where I left the camera in my bag and didn't get photos or video. Maybe that wasn't lazy so much as my protest against LED lights, (which I'll make more of an effort to control when I'm at the Casbah at least). I also realized that I fell into some obvious patterns...I have lots of video of the same bands...like the numerous time I filmed Other Lives, The Heavy Guilt, Rocky Votolato, and Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels. I included some of the videos from my travels...this year started off with a trip to NAMM that inspired a few jaunts on the road, and I was happy to go to LA several times, Las Vegas three times, New York for a week (though I only saw a couple bands while there), San Francisco, and my first trip ever to SXSW. This grouping of 46 videos by no means covers all of the best moments, many of those were not recorded (especially the big shows like the FM 94/9 Independence Jam, Rocktoberfest, Holiday Hootenanny, and Wrex The Halls), and I left out my audio only recordings of Ray LaMontagne, Bon Iver, and Ryan Adams, but it's a fun little trip down what was another amazing year in music. The full track playlist is after the jump, or just click on the video to watch it on YouTube.




    Monday, December 26, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 27, 2011

    It's Tuesday and that means I'm getting back into a work mindset because there is SO.MUCH.STUFF. coming up in 2012, personally and professionally. I'll save it for another post. In the meantime, I promised that I'd put all the weekend listings up today so you can plan ahead. Here's what I know at this moment- THERE ARE LESS THAN 40 TICKETS LEFT for the NYE party at The Lafayette. I will be working and I have NO GUESTLIST, so if you don't buy your tickets, I can't help you. The bands don't have space either, so just buy the damn ticket, okay? The Growlers show at the Casbah will also likely sell out, so I wouldn't wait if you wanna hit the rock show. I added some links to a few of the events, but you should check out the CityBeat New Year's Eve Guide for a whole bunch more events for dinner, family, or DJ/club options. Urbanist has a guide, too. If I missed a show or event that belongs on my listings, please leave a comment or shoot me a tweet, facebook message, or email. Tuesday archives are after the jump.

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 26, 2011

    Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and Hannukah, and hopefully you're still enjoying family and friends and don't have to work today. There's a ton going on this week and I've already done the weekend listings but want to make sure I got all the important music events happening on NYE. so I'll wait to post them until tomorrow. You should know that if you plan on going to the Lafayette Hotel for the Casbah's big show with Transfer and the Silent Comedy, there aren't many tickets left, so you should buy them now. We don't expect to have any tickets available the night of the show.  Similarly, The Growlers show at the Casbah is selling swiftly so you should get tickets in advance if you plan on hitting that show instead. Monday listings archived after the jump.

    New Music: Jesse LaMonaca "The Deal"

    Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels have spent many months putting together their second full length record, The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk, which will be celebrate a release party on February 18 at the Casbah. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, when that record was being mixed and mastered, Jesse visited Brandon Conway in Nashville and they went to Blackbird Studio for some fun and ended up recording a couple songs while there.

    This is Jesse LaMonaca and Brandon Conway performing "The Deal".

    Latest tracks by Jesse LaMonaca

    Friday, December 23, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 23-25, 2011

    I am so looking forward to Christmas with my family this Sunday. I'll be making the turkey for the first time in several years, so wish me luck. Before then, however, I'll be enjoying some great music- tonight with Writer at the Soda Bar and then Exile on Kettner on Saturday. I'm going to keep my online time to a minimum, so merry Christmas and I'll get back to regular posting next week. Archives after the jump.

    Tuesday, December 20, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 20-22, 2011

    It isn't often that I have nothing to say, but today is one of those days. I took a nice day off yesterday (more or less)  now I have a mountain of clean laundry that needs to be put away, dinner and a birthday cake to make, and the rest of the Christmas decorations to hang. All in the next two hours. So I better get to it. I'm just glad the Casbah is closed tonight so I'm okay with skipping shows two nights in a row. Tomorrow I've got the Fast Crowd Christmas at the Casbah, so come on down and really get in the spirits of the holiday season. Listings archived after the jump.

    Monday, December 19, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 19, 2011

    I've heard of my friends catching this cold going around and I truly feel bad that it has knocked so many of them down. I feel really lucky that this cold really only took me out for about a day and a half. Maybe it's true that whiskey is the best medicine? That plus the 30 naps I took over the weekend seemed to have done the trick. I don't know but the weekend was fun...the KCRW show in LA was great, I sold merch at the Pink Panther reunion on Saturday, and last night I caught Shawn Colvin at the Belly Up with Josh Damigo opening. I've been trying to taper off my time online around the holidays, but I'll keep up the diary posts and such. Wednesday night I have a Fast Crowd show at the Casbah if you can make it out. Archives after the jump

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 19, 2011

    I've heard of my friends catching this cold going around and I truly feel bad that it has knocked so many of them down. I feel really lucky that this cold really only took me out for about a day and a half. Maybe it's true that whiskey is the best medicine? That plus the 30 naps I took over the weekend seemed to have done the trick. I don't know but the weekend was fun...the KCRW show in LA was great, I sold merch at the Pink Panther reunion on Saturday, and last night I caught Shawn Colvin at the Belly Up with Josh Damigo opening. I've been trying to taper off my time online around the holidays, but I'll keep up the diary posts and such. Wednesday night I have a Fast Crowd show at the Casbah if you can make it out. Monday archives after the jump.


    Win A Signed Guitar From Nada Surf!

    I have to admit, I was pretty late to the Nada Surf party. I never particularly cared for the song "Popular" and didn't realize the amazing music they made until it was pointed out to me by an ex-boyfriend. We'd stay up till sunrise listening to albums like The Weight Is A Gift and Let Go then delve into the older stuff like High/Low and The Proximity Effect. That guy is long since out of my life, but the band is still one of my favorites and I'm pretty sure that I've been to every show they've played here in the last seven years or so.

    Well, the band is coming back to San Diego. Bring On The Bright Lights is proud to host one of only 2 west coast shows taking place the week The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy drops before heading off to Europe for a full tour. This is their first record of original songs since 2008's Lucky, and I can't wait to hear it. (If anyone at Barsuk is reading, please send me an advance!)





    Anyway, I know I already posted about this show back in October, but I wanted to tell you about a super cool contest they're doing. One ambitious fan will win an autographed Nada Surf guitar, a signed limited edition screen print, and a copy of the new Nada Surf album out just 4 days before the show. In order to be eligible, you've got to buy a ticket to the show and then help spread the word about the show through your social networks. You can find all the contest information on Facebook.

    Saturday, December 17, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 17-18, 2011

    I can't believe it is already 4 o'clock in the afternoon! That Christmas post took way longer than it should have. I have to be at the Casbah by 8 to sling merch for the Pink Panther 25 year reunion and I still have to buy a secret santa gift for tomorrow and I haven't eaten or showered....man, I'm kind of a mess.  I'm gonna put the laptop down and get to real living considering in real time, I have to catch the bus in an hour and a half. Yikes. I hope everyone having parties tonight has a great time, especially my friends at Christmas on Kalmia, The Cooks at their party, and Andrew Rowley and his ugly sweater pub crawl. Unfortunately I can't turn down shifts when I can get them. Be safe and take cabs... Archives after the jump.

    Christmas Goodness


    I've been getting so many Christmas and holiday downloads but I'm having a hard time keeping track of all of them. I'll try to do a better job of sharing them when I get them. Below are a few, though I thought I'd start it off with some Etta James.





    Joshua James 3 Song Christmas Download

    For the first time ever, you can get the Yule Log on your computer (I hope this is a big hit tonight at the Casbah!) Just go here. (It's Free from Movies On Demand)

    Also, in case you didn't find the easter egg from Google, search "Let It Snow".

    There are a bunch more after the jump that span the map from classics to originals, and all over the map with genres. Happy Holidays! I know many of you are having parties tonight and since I was called to work, I know personally I'm missing three great ones, but I'm there in spirit. If you have holiday/winter/Christmas music that you want posted, send it over and I'll try to update this post to its own page tab.

    xoxo

    Friday, December 16, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 16, 2011

    I was so certain that I wasn't going to catch the cold that is going around, yet here I am, sniffling away. I'm heading to LA today for the KCRW Invisible Children benefit at te Troubadour with The Mountain Goats, Eric D. Johnson (Fruit Bats) + Andy Cabic (Vetiver), Ivan & Alyosha, La Sera, and NO. It's Jeff's birthday today so a massive thank you and happy birthday to him. You might not know it, but Jeff does the weekday listings for this site and gets my ass out to shows almost every night of the week so I'm completely indebted to him. Friday archives after the jump.

    Wednesday, December 14, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 14-15, 2011

    It's humpday, and let me tell you, with Christmas right around the corner, the heat is on. There are all kinds of things going on right now that have me completely scattered, so if you've sent me an email, know that I read everything (at least I caught up on that!) and if I didn't respond, I will soon. I've even noticed myself drifting off mid-conversation with people. I'll get it under control soon. I hope to see some friendly faces tonight at the Casbah for my show with Echo Revolution, The Whiskey Saints, and The Get Down Automatic. It's only $5 and is the best things going on tonight, if I do say so myself. Wed/Thurs archives are after the jump.

    Wednesday Night: Echo Revolution, The Whiskey Saints, & The Get Down Automatic at the Casbah

    I've got a handful of shows I either booked or am involved with on some level, so I'll be adding to the Events tab of the site later today when I can organize all of the artwork, but in the meantime, I wanted to share the details. Check out some music below. Click on the flyer to see the Facebook event page.

    The Casbah
    Wednesday, December 14
    $5







    Tuesday, December 13, 2011

    The Debut of Tourism, San Diego's Newest Band

    My friends Dustin and Frank asked me to write about the debut of their band Tourism on Friday night at the Soda Bar. I thought it would be better if they wrote about it themselves. Here's the goods:

    When you say Tourism aloud, what does it bring to mind? Color, novelty, movement, mystery. I feel like our name is fitting both for our vision of the kind of strange, intricate pop we are trying to make as well as the way in which we are sampling the many tastes and textures of our favorite music, past and present: The Zombies, The New Pornographers, Elvis Costello, The Kinks, Girls, Magnetic Fields, the Beach Boys. As a songwriter, I’m trying to tap into a certain feeling that these artists have given me, while adding to it my own experience and sensibility. It is a rewarding process to see the skeletons I bring in get fleshed out by the band, finding new corners and hidden spaces, as we shape the songs into something we think you’ll find exciting.

    Our debut show is this coming Friday, December 16th, at Soda Bar. We are incredibly pleased to be opening for two of our favorite acts in San Diego: Cuckoo Chaos and Jamuel Saxon. It is an auspicious beginning for our band and we hope you’ll be there to experience it with us.

    <3,

    Dustin / TOURISM

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 13, 2011

    It sounds like the rain has let up for a bit but that doesn't mean I'm getting out of this cozy bed with my dog at my feet as I tap, tap, tap away on my laptop. In fact, it might be time for a nap soon. There's so much coming up, however, that I'll probably be staring at my screen for the next several hours as I try to get everything done that I need to. Got some more blog posts for you, tons of events to add to the event tab at the top of this site, music to listen to, and some touring bands to scout for booking. I'm even going to try to get your weekend listings done early this week because I'm heading to LA on Friday. While there are great shows tonight, don't be surprised if I have to skip out to get all of this work done. Tuesday archive are after the jump.

    New Years Eve at the Lafayette

    UPDATE! There are less than 40 tickets as of December 27 at 10 am. Buy tickets now!!

    Casbah Presents New Years Eve at the Lafayette Hotel!

    We love good music and we love a good party, so The Casbah and Cunning Fox have teamed up to produce a New Years Eve Party at the Lafayette Hotel that people will talk about even after the Mayans destroy the planet in 2012. (Or something like that…)





    Featuring:

    The Silent Comedy

    Transfer

    The Creepy Creeps

    The Heavy Guilt

    Hell On Heels Burlesque

    Creepxotica

    Low Volts

    The Visual Underground



    Food by: Tacos El Paisa

    The Details:

    Individual tickets for the event can be had here.
    A special pre-sale rate of $25 is good thru November 16th.
    Tickets are now $35 through the day of show. $40 day of show.





    Hotel packages which include two tickets start at $169. They can be booked directly here.


    For all the fine print, see the event page on The Lafayette's site here

    Photos: Holiday Soiree

    I realized I never added these photos from KPRI's Holiday Soiree (11.30.2011). Mostly because I went at the last minute, I didn't have a photo pass or anything, and I was trying to just enjoy the show. Not my best shots ever, but here are a few pics of The Head and the Heart, Mayer Hawthorne, and Fitz & The Tantrums from that night.

    Monday, December 12, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 12, 2011

    I don't know what to tell you except that the weekend...shit, this whole month thus far...has felt pretty insane. I went to the first day of Wrex The Halls, went to the West Coast Tavern party, and I met so many people this weekend that makes me think 2012 is going to be really productive but also incredibly busy. I booked a show on Wednesday at the Casbah with Echo Revolution, The Whiskey Saints, and The Get Down Automatic and it is going to kick ass so please plan on being there. Monday archives are after the jump.

    Sunday, December 11, 2011

    Tonight! West Coast Tavern Customer Appreciation Party

    Tonight is West Coast Tavern's annual customer appreciation White Christmas party. It's free, there will be food and drink specials all night long, and the awesome staff will be in attendance. Find your winter white, grab a toy for the toy drive, and have a great Sunday night.


    Saturday, December 10, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 10-11, 2011

    Gah! Where does the time go? I'm getting picked up in 12 minutes so I better get moving. Lots of good stuff tonight so even if you're not going to Wrex The Halls, there's a lot of great shit happening tonight. (weekend archives after the jump)

    91X Wrex The Halls Set Times & Official after-party

    Wrex the Halls Set Times
    *note- Saturday is SOLD OUT. Parking is $20 so take a cab or carpool.

    SATURDAY
    Doors 6:00
    The Naked & Famous 6:20-6:50
    The Airborne Toxic Event 6:55-7:25
    Cage The Elephant 7:30-8:00
    Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds 8:05-8:50
    Death Cab For Cutie 8:55-9:55
    Florence & The Machine 10:00-11:00

    SUNDAY
    Doors 6:00
    Mutemath 6:20-6:50
    Everlast 6:55-7:25
    DMC 7:30-7:55
    Pennywise 8:00-8:30
    Switchfoot 8:35-9:05
    Social Distortion 9:10-9:55
    blink-182 10:00-11:00

    There are also bands in the North area of the parking lot before the show.

    Saturday 4-6pm: The Nervous Wreckords and Le Blorr
    Sunday 3-6pm: New Found Glory, Fenix TX and Set Your Goals

    For preshow adult beverages, head over to The Shakedown (3048 Midway Drive) and tell Ted that Rosey sent you. The bar is cash only.

    Just got this, too:

    Producers West Coast Club Life brings “A Nightmare before X-mas” to San Diego. This will be the official Wrex the Halls Concert after party featured at The Horton Plaza Event Center. This the first time in history that 91X is passing the torch to an event production business in producing an unforgettable party experience.

    A Nightmare Before X-mas will offer guests a wide variety of performance driven fashion shows, art installations, intricate light shows, a snow environment and a 3 Dimensional moving and glowing graphical exhibition. Guests may interact with celebrities and band members; Red carpet photo shoots with models will heat up the evening while donning high-end fashions by The Label Swimwear. This event will go down in history as San Diego’s most classy and celebrity attended event of the year!

    91X will be supporting “A Nightmare before Xmas “ which will be the official after party for this 2-day massive festival. We would love to have your presence at this unforgettable event.

    I don't know about you, but I choose Ha Ha Tonka and SSLYBY over the promise of celebrities and models, but for after party tickets, click here.

    Friday, December 09, 2011

    Photos: FM 94/9 Holiday Hootenanny

    Last weekend, FM 94/9 had their annual Holiday Hootenanny concert. For the first time, the show was at USD's Jennny Craig Pavilion and had a killer lineup with My Morning Jacket, Two Door Cinema Club, Matt & Kim, and Delta Spirit, with The Blackout Party entertaining the beer garden between mainstage acts. These are few of my favorite shots of the night, with the full album at the bottom. Thanks to everyone at FM 94/9 for another great year of music and allowing me to weasel snapshots among the pros.




















    Rosey's Diary: November 28-December 8, 2011

    So obviously it has been a while since I've just sat down to write, and while I love doing my daily posts about shows and whatnots, I find these diary posts to be completely liberating and my form of therapy for my own soul. That being said, there might be some things that I've already said that get repeated, there might be things that I've tweeted that I will expand upon, and there might be things that I made a big deal about in the last two weeks that are hardly worth a mention today. Welcome to my brain. Full post after the jump.


    Things To Do In San Diego: December 9, 2011

    Well, so much for taking it easy this week! I had a great day yesterday and (fingers crossed) it feels like 2012 is going to be a great year (before the end times). I am so stoked to see The Cave Singers tonight and I'm also really happy my friend and blogger Mike Beebe is finally coming home after an extended stay in Ohio. Buy him drinks...he's gonna need them. I am also looking forward to Wrex The Halls tomorrow and maybe I'll be a good daughter and go Sunday, too, because my crazy mom has always has a thing for Mike Ness. Go figure.  I'm off to help decorate the Casbah for Christmas, one of my favorite days of the year. xoxo Friday archives after the jump.

    Thursday, December 08, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 8, 2011

    I really thought I'd make it to The Sea & Cake last night but I needed to catch up on sleep. I had a great lunch today with Michael McGraw at El Comal and we passed a thrift store that had 75% off TVs. Since my picture had been spotty I picked up a small used one for $12.50, and I'm now gonna try and catch up on a ton of work while I catch up on Top Chef and other brain junkfood On Demand. Perhaps I'll see you tonight at the Casbah. I've got some more booking to do, so hit me up if you're looking for a January show. I'll be working on the weekend listings today/tonight, but they likely won't be up until the morning. Thursday archives after the jump.

    Other Lives & JBM at Cafe Du Nord 12.6.2011

    This week Jeff and I flew up to San Francisco for Other Lives at Cafe Du Nord. The band is doing a short west coast run and not coming down south and since they're going to be opening for Radiohead in the spring, we figured there wouldn't be another opportunity to see the band for a while unless we can score some Radiohead tickets for the Phoenix show. The trip had some snafus and I'll save all of that for my diary post, but in the meantime, I wanted to share the videos from the show. The room was awesome and though there was some crowd chatter, the layout of the room allowed the talkers to be in the back of the bar while we could be up front and enjoy every note.

    JBM opened the night. If you don't have his record, not even in july, I highly recommend picking it up. He's been to the Casbah a couple times as well as the Belly Up, and I suspect he'll tour again when his new record comes out in July.
    JBM

    JBM

    Other Lives are obviously one of my favorite bands around and it was great seeing them and catching up with Josh about their experience in Europe. I didn't take too many photos since I filmed the show, but here are a few.




    There are four videos, sorry I don't have titles for three of them.



    This is the playlist from Other Lives:
    1. As I Lay My Head Down & Dark Horse
    2. Landforms & Desert
    3. For 12
    4. Tamer Animals
    5. E Minor
    6. Weather
    7. Dust Bowl III
    8. Black Tables
    9. The Partisan (Leonard Cohen cover)
    10. Dust Bowl II


    Tuesday, December 06, 2011

    I Am Not A Hipster

    Earlier this summer, I got to work at the Casbah on a Sunday shoot for I Am Not A Hipster. A film by local director Destin Cretton, I was mostly there for crowd control and my biggest task of the day was making coffee for the lead actor, Dominic Francis Bogart, and though they only shot a few scenes at the Casbah during the 9 hour shoot, I am really looking forward to seeing the film. The soundtrack was written by Joel P West and after the shoot I couldn't get the songs out of my head, specifically "Dry Land". The film is an official selection at Sundance 2012 and from the film buzz I've been seeing, don't be surprised if the indie flick becomes an art house sensation.


    I AM NOT A HIPSTER (the movie) from Destin Daniel Cretton on Vimeo.


    Things To Do In San Diego: December 6-7, 2011

    I'm pretty much jumping out of my own skin right now. In a couple hours I'll be on a flight to San Francisco to see Other Lives at Cafe du Nord. (Huge thanks to Todd for taking care of my babies while I'm gone). I know the flight is short, but maybe it will give me a chance to go through some photos from the past week to share with you. The Casbah is closed tonight, but head on over to 207 at the Hard Rock Hotel. My friend Matt has been putting on these great monthly shows that are free with the help of the hotel and Filter Magazine. You can RSVP here (21+) for tonight's show. Tuesday & Wednesdayarchives after the jump.


    Ryan Adams On Letterman (full concert)

    Ryan Adams performed on David Letterman and ended up performing a whole set for CBS.com while at the Ed Sullivan Theatre. I came across this as I was catching up on some of my CBS shows and thought I'd share it. Shot on December 5, 2011 and it's pretty much starts the same setlist as his San Diego show (and presumably the whole tour) but then deviates a bit.

    Oh My Sweet Carolina
    Ashes & Fire
    If I Am A Stranger
    Dirty Rain
    New York, New York
    Do I Wait?
    Lucky Now
    Jacksonville Skyline
    Black Sheets of Rain (Bob Mould cover)
    English Girls Approximately
    Sixteen Days




    Learn Something New Every Day

    The other night I ran into my friend Greg from Dead Feather Moon and we got into a pretty intense conversation about the music industry, both on a local level and on a massive scale. Somehow in the conversation I mentioned that my TV is broken and so I've been addicted to programs available online, and he recommended a couple documentaries to watch free on HULU. I thought they were pretty cool so I wanted to pass them on. The first, Before the Music Dies (2007), takes a look at pop culture and juxtaposes the power of labels and radio conglomerates versus new ways of finding music. "Never have so few companies controlled so much of the music played on the radio and for sale at retail stores. At the same time, there are more bands and more ways to discover their music than ever." Steve Poltz makes an appearance in this one, too. The second, RiP! A Remix Manifesto,(2009) "explores the complexities of intellectual property in the era of peer-to-peer file sharing," specifically by using Girl Talk as a case study in copyright. Both films predate Spotify, have no mention of Pandora or Slacker or rdio or "the Cloud", but both are pretty interesting.

    One underlying thread in both is how drastically the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and the Copyright Term Extension Act were really Congressional gifts to the major corporations holding massive lobbying power while as consumers got reamed financially and intellectually...the very thing Occupy Wall Street is standing against if you expand the reach beyond just the banks and the auto manufacturers.

    The final film I've added here is Under Our Skin, a look at Lyme Disease. While seemingly unrelated, when you connect the dots and look at what our government allows to be trademarked and patented by Big Pharma, and how they're in cahoots with insurers to do everything they can to keep you sick and avoid paying your medical care, well, after you watch all three, I'd recommend going to watch the Muppets or you just might wanna jump off a bridge when you really think about how fucked we really are. Incidentally, my HULU queue now has almost 50 documentaries in it, so if you see me talking to myself on a street corner ranting conspiracy theories, you'll know why. All three films are embedded after the jump.

    Monday, December 05, 2011

    Almost Christmas Music From Foxtail Brigade

    Perhaps you remember my good friend Anton Patzner from Judgement Day? Well, he sent me some new tunes from his latest project with Laura Weinbach. They have a few different records up on BandCamp, but this will help you through your bah humbug moments.


    Things To Do In San Diego: December 5, 2011

    What an amazing weekend. I had such a great time on Friday at the Irenic, then at the Holiday Hootenanny on Saturday night. I probably shouldn't have been in such a hurry to get to the Casbah after, however...let's just say never mind the drunk blogger rambling on about nonsense. I'm heading up to SF this week to see Other Lives and I couldn't be more excited. I'll try and get some photos and stuff up this week from all of last week's madness. Listings archive after the jump.

    Saturday, December 03, 2011

    FM 94/9 Holiday Hootenanny Set TImes

    Holiday Hootenanny SET TIMES:

    The Black Out Party will play at 7:30pm and between sets

    Delta Spirit - 8pm

    Matt and Kim - 8:50pm

    Two Door Cinema Club - 9:45pm

    My Morning Jacket - 10:45pm

    (Thanks to Tim Pyles for posting)

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 3-4, 2011

    Massive thanks to everyone who came out to The Irenic last night. The sound, lighting, and performances were amazing. I dare say that is my new favorite room in San Diego strictly based on the sound alone and I hope to do more events there in the future. Josh Damigo, Saba, and Colin Clyne were fantastic and I hope to have the opportunity to book them together again soon.

    Tonight San Diego has some amazing musical offerings. I'll be over at the FM 94/9 Holiday Hootenanny, but honestly wish the timing wasn't so late so I could catch The Heavy Guilt and Little Hurricane at the Casbah. That show is SOLD OUT, by the way. (No, I don't have a Casbah guest list and the bands' lists are already full.) You're gonna have to find somethings else to do. I recommend Hurricane Bells over at Bar Pink. The singer is Steve Schlitz from Longwave, one of my favorites, and the Hurricane Bells album is phenomenal. Archived listings after the jump.

    Friday, December 02, 2011

    TONIGHT!! Embracing The Holidays at The Irenic




    Embracing The Holidays 
    featuring 
    Colin Clyne, Josh Damigo, and Saba
    at The Irenic (3090 Polk, North Park)
    December 2nd, 2011
    7-10pm
    All Ages, Families Welcome
    Beer/Wine Cash Bar
    $15. 
    Kids 12&under free with paid adult admission

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 2, 2011

    If this week is any indication of how the holiday season is going to go, than I better prepare myself for insanity. Last night was awesome- it kicked off with SoundDiego Live at the Bootlegger, then I got last minute word of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club performing at some Playboy/Harley-Davidson party at FLUXX, so I popped over there and got my fill of hosted Jack Daniels before returning to the Bootlegger and then on to the Casbah for Cass McCombs. Tonight is going to be pretty crazy, too. I'm sooo excited for the show at The Irenic, especially since Colin has been gone for nearly a month and it seems every time I see Josh these days, it's for about five minutes before he's off doing something else. After the show, I'll be heading over to Soda Bar to see Jesse who is back after a couple weeks back home, so that will be exciting, too. My boys are back in town and all is right with the world. I know this weekend's listings are missing some usual venues, I'm just running out of time. If there are some glaring events or shows I missed, feel free to leave a comment or shoot me an email, tweet, or otherwise and I'll update accordingly. Friday listing archive after the jump.

    Goodbye NovemBeer...

    I feel like November came and went faster than the Alaskan IPA I just drank a few minutes ago. That puts us just one month closer to the year of the Apocalypse, according to the Mayan calendar at least. I guess that means we better get as much beer drinking in before then, right? Well, let’s just say that if my past year had a pie chart for total beer consumed, November would probably make up 70% of that pie.

    I'm finally starting to feel back to normal after the madness that was San Diego Beer Week which took place at the beginning of the month. The ten day celebration of our very own craft beer mecca was nothing short of amazing. With over 450 events to choose from, I definitely had a lot of choices as well as sacrifices to make for SDBW. It was a craft beer odyssey in which my taste buds ventured into the depths of hopped, malted and roasted blissfulness. I tried to make it to at least one event for each day of the fest so I’m going to try my best to tell this story as it happened. Full story after the jump.

    Thursday, December 01, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: December 1, 2011

    The weekend isn't even here yet and I'm pooped. I had a great time at the Soiree last night, it's always good to see Fitz and the Tantrums and he hooked me up with 4th row seats so it was pretty awesome. I will try and get some photos up over the weekend. Thanks to everyone who bought tickets to the show  at the Irenic, there will be tickets at the door as well, so I hope to see your pretty faces. I'm supposed to be heading down to SoundDiego Live right now but my ride just fell through, so if anyone is going down, please hit me up. Archive after the jump.

    What Is The Irenic?

    For anyone who has been confused about The Irenic...Is it a club? Is it a venue? Is it a church?, CityBeat's Peter Holslin made it the ONLY topic for this week's Notes From The Smoking Patio.


    "The venue is the same space used for the church’s Sunday services, but Missiongathering Executive Director James Lienhard says the shows won’t be Christian-themed. There are no rules against non-Christian music or profanity, and they plan to serve beer and wine, he says. What’s more, a retractable cross hanging over the stage can be moved out of view of concertgoers.
    The church invested $300,000 to renovate the 450-person capacity space, he says, which is outfitted with sound and lighting systems and flat-screen TVs. The space also has a balcony, a green room and an overflow room for merchandise and art openings."
    I've been excited to start working with James and MissionGathering for a long time but we wanted to make sure all things (sound, lighting, etc) were in effect before booking a show. Friday night will be the big debut with Colin Clyne (San Diego Music Award for Best Acoustic 2011), Josh Damigo (San Diego Music Award for Best Acoustic 2010), and Saba. The room will have cafe tables and chairs to create the appropriate setting for an acoustic show. Families are encouraged to come and children 12 and under are free with paid adult admission. Don't worry, if you've got more than one kid, they're getting in free, too. The show is $10 in advance or $15 the day of the show. We'll have a cash bar serving beer and wine and the show will be done by 10, so you can get to bed early or hit the town after the show if you feel so inclined. Click the flyer for more info, or BUY TICKETS HERE

    Wednesday, November 30, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 30, 2011

    What a week! I can't believe it's only Wednesday. Yesterday was awesome thanks to West Coast Tavern and  Radio Sophie for the Snow Patrol show, and Slacker for the free Fitz and The Tantrums show. Apparently we scared off some people by telling how many RSVPs there were, but a free party with free food and free booze and the awesomeness of Fitz & The Tantrums. Are you kidding me? Afterward Jake and I hung out with some of the band at their hotel and had a good time watching drunk people. Thanks to Michael, I'll be seeing them all again tonight at the Soiree. The Casbah show sold out earlier this afternoon, so if you want to get out tonight, I'd suggest Commune over the Whistle Stop or Wreck Shop over at the Office. Wednesday listing archives are after the jump.

    Tuesday, November 29, 2011

    Sophie's Lounge with Snow Patrol, 11.29. 2011


    I pressed the snooze button (or so I thought) and woke up two hours later to realize I almost missed Snow Patrol. Radio Sophie was hosting Sophie's Lounge with lunch at West Coast Tavern and an acoustic performance by half of Snow Patrol in the Birch North Park Theatre. Don't you love the era we live in? I mean, I got home about an hour and a half ago and already have the videos for you to watch. One day, that's going to seem like forever, like early fax machines, but for now, I'll take it.

    The band is doing a small radio-station only promotional tour for Fallen Empires, their newest record that will be released stateside on January 10, 2012. The record is fantastic (available in the UK and thus all over the interwebs), and you can pre-order it now. The band will start touring mostly the UK and Germany in January and February and should be in the U.S. sometime in March/April.


    As a promotional event, the band was only going to play three songs from the new record, but instead played a couple older songs, too. I really wanted to hear "Chocolate" but I think that predates most radio airplay. All of the videos are below in a playlist and will play in order of the performance.

    1. Called Out In The Dark
    2. This Isn't Everything You Are
    3. Lifening
    4. Just Say Yes
    5. Chasing Cars



    Thanks again to everyone for this, especially David at West Coast Tavern and Mookie at Radio Sophie. This one was beyond words for me.


    Things To Do In San Diego: November 29, 2011

    I am in such a better mood than I was when I wrote yesterday. First of all, I had a super fun date/is this a date/hangout last night. We had great food at Lucha Libre, saw The Muppets (my first movie in a theatre in over two years!), and went to Dave & Buster's where I learned that I really suck at driving and shooting games but can still kick ass in air hockey. It was fun and I felt like I was 15, only at 15 I was probably getting into way more trouble than that. Then today I woke up and got to go to Sophie's Lounge with Snow Patrol at West Coast Tavern/Birch North Park Theatre. Snow Patrol is one of my all time favorites so I have to admit, I'm still quivering a bit. I'd love to go to KPRI's afternoon session but apparently I don't have the right strings to pull for that one. But this evening I'm really looking forward to the Slacker Radio VIP party with Fitz & The Tantrums. It's gonna be pretty insane with over 5000 RSVPs for a 900 capacity venue, but I'm ready to get down. The only thing that could make this day better is if I had some way of getting Jason Mraz to pop into the Irenic on Friday for a few songs with Colin Clyne, Josh Damigo and Saba. Can anyone make that happen? Also, I'm adding a ton of new shows to the Casbah's calendar today, so check back this evening for a bunch of new show announcements. Tuesday archives are after the jump.

    Monday, November 28, 2011

    Rosey's Diary: November 22-27, 2011

    It's been a weird week for me for reasons I don't really want to go into, but today it was punctuated by an internet troll talking shit on Twitter and to you, little troll, I hope you get a life. I love social media and know that my life and my work are very public and thus subject to criticism, but when stalkers and trolls hang around, sometimes it makes me rethink living out loud. However, instead of pulling back, I'll once again give you another installment of my diary. All after the jump.



    Things To Do In San Diego: November 28, 2011

    I hope everyone had a great weekend. I know I was all kinds of lazy, had some great family time, and saw some great music including Joel P West, Grand Tarantula, A Scribe Amidst The Lions, Crooked Fingers, Strand of Oaks, and Rachael Yamagata among others. I've also had issues with my TV, where sometimes I get a picture for a few days and then it craps out and won't turn on for a week. It's very annoying, but it means I watched a lot of streaming programs on the web. I probably should've been more productive but I figured nobody was really checking the site over the weekend anyway.
    I will also be reminding you daily of the acoustic show at the Irenic on Friday night with Colin Clyne, Josh Damigo, and Saba. My site supports San Diego music, return the favor and come to the show.

    Monday listing archive after the jump.

    Friday, November 25, 2011

    Black Friday: Get The Goods and Shop Local

    My friend Mikey (from Ponce's and Tivoli) is helping to put on this event today at 3rdSpace in University Heights (by Small Bar). They're raising money for Corazon de Vida, a foundation that helps orphanages in Baja California while offering unique gift, live entertainment and more. The show has a $5 cover. The shopping is happening from noon to 8pm, with the artist reception from 8-11pm. 3rdSpace is located at 4610 Park Blvd. Palindrome and Grand Tarantula will be performing later tonight.
    THE GOODS SHOW * BLACK FRIDAY is a collective production that showcases local artists and designers in a creative and lively market scenario. The goal is to provide a progressive and intriguing arena in which local artists can exhibit their creations directly to a community that fosters creativity, good intention and conscientious purchasing power. This will be done by providing a service to our local and regional community. THE GOODS SHOW * BLACK FRIDAY is a show dedicated to generating dialogue between the local community, artists, businesses, and humanitarian causes through art, music, design, fashion, and food. It is through these filters that we are able to raise funds and awareness for Corazon de Vida.


    Tuesday, November 22, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 25-27, 2011

    I hope everyone got their fill of whatever you feast on at Thanksgiving. I've got at least a day or two of roast beef sandwiches ahead of me but somehow my spoiled brat complaining means that I'll be making the turkey for Christmas. (I just REALLY wanted stuffing).  I also deep down kinda hope that my friends all ditched the Black Friday action. Isn't it funny that people can't camp for Occupy Wall Street, but there's no issue when they want to camp at Wal*Mart for Black Friday specials? If you're gonna shop, I know those deals are so tempting, but consider shopping local and supporting your local businesses. It's those local businesses that fund the local business associations who in turn, fund all of the free events throughout the year, like street fairs and holiday parades. Think about it.

    I'm not quite sure where I'll end up tonight, but maybe I'll see ya out on the town. Listings archive after the jump.

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 22-23, 2011

    It's only Tuesday but I'm feeling the pressure of a Thursday because I have to get my weekend listings done today and I have two open dates at the Casbah that I need to book ASAP. I know, first world problems, right? But it still keeps me up tossing and turning at night. I have a gajillion emails to go through, too, but I guess I can read through those on the way to Anaheim for Noah and The Whale. There are some cool shows in town tonight, too, so enjoy them for me and for my local bands, hit me up if you're in town this December. Listings archive after the jump.

    Monday, November 21, 2011

    Rosey's Diary: November 16-21

    I realize that for the number of shows I attend, I sometimes really suck about posting about the things I go to after the fact.  This was just going to be a rant about Monday, but I realized there was a lot of cool stuff in the last week, so I'll save the bitching till the end and try to get back in the routine of writing my diary posts. This is gonna be a long post, so check it after the jump.



    Tomorrow: Noah and the Whale at House of Blues Anaheim

    This is a song for anyone with a broken heart. This is a song for anyone who can't get out of bed. I'll do anything to be happy. Oh, 'cos blue skies are coming. But I know that it's hard.
    The last time Noah and the Whale toured through San Diego, I was working the door, so while I had an amazing time listening to the band soundcheck to an empty room, I didn't get to catch much of the actual show. Fortunately I got wind that the band is playing at the House of Blues in Anaheim tomorrow, so while many of you might be at the Morrissey show in Escondido, I will be smack in the middle of Downtown Disney. Tickets are available for the show, so if you're looking for a Tuesday getaway, I'd say it is worth the drive.

    This is the last San Diego show, filmed by this amazing guy named Blake who I like to think of as a kindred spirit.

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 21, 2011

    I didn't know what my family was doing for Thanksgiving until my parents called over the weekend to tell me they bought a roast and would see me on Thursday. Often they head off to Vegas or Harrah's Rincon for holidays, so I'm glad we'll all be cozying up in Chula Vista for the holiday, though I'm a little bummed they're not doing a turkey because my mom makes a mean stuffing. Maybe I can convince her to make it anyway. This week still has plenty of music going into the holiday and everyone knows that Wednesday night is one of the biggest bar nights of the year, so even if you skip the music, on Wednesday, get out to your favorite local watering hole and enjoy the company of friends and neighbors.  There won't be any listings for Thursday but if I get around to it, I'll post all the spots that will be open after you've had your fill of family and gluttonous food. Monday archive after the jump.

    Saturday, November 19, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 20-21, 2011

    I wasn't going to repost these listings but there were a couple updates and I just heard that Diplo is going to be taking the stage at the America's Cup and the attendance is pretty dismal, so if you want to see Diplo up close and personal, head down to Broadway and Harbor Drive like now. Otherwise, I'll see you all tonight at the Ken Club. If you don't already have tickets to the Casbah, the show is sold out, just so ya know. Weekend archive after the jump.

    Dylan Leblanc at the Casbah (11.18.2011)



    Dylan Leblanc opened for Rich Robinson at the Casbah last night and I can't really begin to tell you how amazing it was. I was there early and had a chance to talk to Dylan before his set, telling him how much I appreciate his record and whatnot. He told me that I'll like his new record even more (to be released around March), that some people find Pauper's Field boring, and then he asked if there were any particular songs I wanted to hear. Besides all of them? I said I'd think about it and before he played I decided that "Low" and "5th Avenue Bar" were my picks. Dylan had a short set, so after playing a new song (didn't catch the title), he played Low, Changing of the Seasons, 5th Avenue Bar, I Still Miss You (Johnny Cash cover), If Time Was For Wasting, Jack, If The Creek Don't Rise, and Harvest Moon (Neil Young cover). Unfortunately after that he realized he'd already played too long and abruptly ended the set. I would've loved to hear Emma Hartley, too, but I guess I'll have to wait till the next time around.



    After the set, I sat in the back bar to enjoy some cocktails and hang out. Rich Robinson sounded great but it was incredibly loud and I was in my warm fuzzy mode after Dylan's set. Dylan came to the back and laid down in the back booth and got a little nap in. He told me he has an inner-ear/sinus infection that has been really draining. When he awoke, he came and sat with me at the bar and we ended up chatting about all kinds of shit. He's shy and says he suffers from paralyzing anxiety and it was cool to see him loosen up the more we talked (and the more we drank). Eventually the show ended and the bar was cleared out but we kept shooting the shit. He told me he wanted to meet Bob Mould and since I'd worked for him the night prior, I was happy to introduce them. Turns out they have the same agent and didn't even know it. Their bus was heading to Phoenix straight from the Casbah, so we said our goodbyes and he was on his way. Dylan Leblanc is an amazing talent and has a lot of the right people in his corner. His songwriting suggests a full life lived beyond his 21 years, and his guitar skills are astounding. At one point earlier in the night, Dylan said something like, "Man, I don't think I'll ever be famous." I beg to differ.


    This is the full set (minus the first song).

    TRANSFER TOUR BLOG /// TITTY TIME

    TITTY TIME /// NEW SHIT HAS COME TO LIGHT

    Our drive from Milan to Munich, through the mountains of Austria was incredibly scenic. Saw the most amazing view from the lobby of a McDonalds while eating a Big Mac. Fat ass.

    Looked like a Bob Ross original


    .




    MUNICH - This had to be the most bizarre performance experience to date. First off, the room was completely full when we took the stage which was a pleasant surprise. Germany has been good to us.


    We spent time backstage playing acoustic songs with Tribes and getting lightly buzzed before we went on. These lads write good songs and it was pretty cool to hear the foundation of their influences through their selection of Stones songs they were playing. OK, on to the weird - As we were playing I noticed a man, probably in his 60's, that looked exactly like Dr. Kevorkian with his lady friend that looked like an aged Sinead O'conner right at the front of the barrier wearing a see through blouse. Ok, cool, but the guy had his hand on her tit the entire show. Casually nodding along to the music, occasionally switching to the reach-around maneuver and groping the other tit DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF US. So incredibly weird and creepy.

    After we played Tribes went on and played a great set as usual. When they came off the stage, same story! "Hey, did you guys by chance see the tantric grope-fest happening at the front of the stage?" Yes, in fact...we did.


    I came out to the second song of the Kaiser Chiefs and noticed they were still there, only now, it had graduated to both hands. Oh man...we made eye contact with the fellas as they performed and they were so distracted by titty time at the barrier, it was all they could do to keep it together. THREE HOURS of this? Really?




    Nobody could figure this one out and we all left this show totally perplexed. No answers...no logical explanation could be deduced. It was a confusing enough scenario that one could only walk away with the response, "Well...THAT just happened."


    BERLIN - We wound up back at one of our new favorite spots, The Michelberger Hotel to play an acoustic set in the lobby. If you are ever in Berlin, do yourself a favor and stay here. It is very artsy and celebrates one of the greatest films of all time, The Big Lebowski. The marquee out front reads, "NEW SHIT HAS COME TO LIGHT", the movie is constantly streamed on flat screens mounted in the hallways and there was an amazing 8' chalk drawing of The Dude. So cool.

    Feeling a little road weary and slightly unprepared, we came up with a set of ten songs we deemed suitable for our performance. Shaun played piano the whole time with myself on the acoustic, Card on his electric, and Andy on brushes with a kick, snare and one cymbal.




    ACOUSTIC SET


    Take Your Medicine


    Waltz


    Deerskin


    Dark Behavior


    Like a Funeral


    Get Some Rest


    Blaine Osborn


    Bed of Nails


    Sinking Sailing


    Losing Composure


    We wound up having a terrific time playing our tunes in this format. Being a sometimes obnoxiously loud band, it was difficult to imagine the translation but it all worked and tempted us to do more shows like this.


    The atmosphere was very relaxed and everyone seemed to have a great time. One of the hotel employees wound up giving us shot after shot of homemade schnapps so that pretty much put a nail in it.




    On the ferry now to arrive in Copenhagen to stay for a night on our way to Oslo AND Card owes me a euro for fucking up my motorcycle racing game. Looking forward to Christiania. ;)

    Friday, November 18, 2011

    Things To Do In San Diego: November 18, 2011

    I am having such a great week. I have to say, the America's Cup has been SO AWESOME and so sadly underattended. People complain that Street Scene is gone and then some massive organization with tons of money to blow on a FREE concert series comes to town...well, San Diego, sometimes I just don't think you appreciate how good we have it. You take too much for granted. Hopefully you don't blow it this weekend because the series continues through Sunday and even if you're not into sailing, I'm telling you, it's hard not to get caught up in the moment as they call the races like the track and then give you free music to boot. Personally I'll be running all over town this weekend to get posters posted, to see the AMAZING Dylan Leblanc, head to the Tin Can, hit up the Ken Club for a killer Saturday lineup and then have to make the decision on Sunday between El Dorado and the Casbah. Life sucks, it's hard, but music is the great escape and I plan on taking full advantage. You should, too. Friday archive after the jump.

    Thursday, November 17, 2011

    TRANSFER TOUR BLOG

    Day 27
    Kaiser Chiefs had sold out two nights at Ancienne Belgique, which is touted as one of the best venues in Europe. After a triple shot of the place in one week, and in our most recent experience touring over here I would have to agree. Our show with Mona was in the club part of the venue so we had some new Belgian fans that came to the show early to support, which was cool.
    Here's where the second half of this tour has has taken us so far:
    BRUSSELS - We somehow scored a sweet dressing room and after-partied with Tribes, Kaiser Chiefs and crew at a pub across the street from the venue. All great people. After many spirits I looked over as we were about to leave and Shaun was playing keys in the Acid Jazz band in the corner! Nice one, Corn!



    AMSTERDAM (again) - We stayed at a rad hotel for the second time on this trip called Backstage. Big ups to Marcel and the crew for making our stay there so comfortable. The rooms had flight case bed frames, snare drum light fixtures and killer views of one of the canals that ran through the city. The street below was bustling with trains, cars and bicyclists, all hauling ass and seemingly coming within an inch of their lives. Jesus Christ. I was rehearsing my summer camp C.P.R. exam in my mind. This was of course, before the "Cafe" erased any chance of proficiency I may have had in resuscitating anyone. Card drew a wicked ram skull on the wall before we left.




    The following day we played the Heineken Music Hall. It was our second time there so we knew what to expect. The largest venue of this tour, the room holds around 6K and was pretty full when we went on. We were blessed with someone that was interested in doing our lights for us when we played so we walked away from that one feeling pretty good.
    We watched Kaiser Chiefs perform from the side of the stage. If you haven't seen a show, you are missing out. Incredible energy with one of the best front men I have seen. At one point in the show, Ricky, (singer) says, "Hey, that guy in the crowd looks like Seinfeld!" then he proceeded to part the 5,000 person crowd and runs about 50 yards out in the middle of everyone to check it out. I lost sight and could only hear him over the microphone amongst the screaming audience...then he emerged through the crowd riding on someone's shoulders all the way back to the stage...all while singing the song. So rad.


    ZURICH - This show was a long drive from Amsterdam so we wound up showing up just before our soundcheck a little wiped out. The Kaiser's had a bus breakdown so we made a stop to grab some of their things for them out of the bus, on our way to the venue. The show went pretty well and we all kicked it on the balcony above the floor, which made a great vantage point to watch both Kaiser Chiefs and Tribes performances. We are stoked to be on such a good bill.

    LAUSANNE - What a beautiful place. A predominantly French speaking town in Switzerland on the edge of Lake Geneva. We played a one-off club show at a place called the Bleu Lezard with Tribes. This was the pre party for the Metropop festival the following night. The room was a small basement bar and had all the makings to be a struggle with sound as the monitors were duct taped to the backs of chairs that were sitting in front of the tiny stage. When we took the stage and played our set we were pleasantly surprised that the stage sound was fantastic and the club was packed with a very responsive crowd. I guess you can never tell...


    *Highlight of this one for me was the dreadlocked DJ spinning records in the back of the room. He was wearing shades inside AND at night AND having an air-guitar meltdown, leaping up into the air, getting juiced up beyond belief. Fucking incredible.






    MILAN - Our first time. The venue was pretty cool and we had some food and wine at the restaurant connected to the venue before the set so we were feeling good and loose. A great thing about this show was the no decibel limit on the sound. Most venues in Europe have a limit to the volume of the show, so you wind up being at a lower volume than you might expect. We are a loud ass band and when we have to turn way down it feels weird. Not the case at this one...


    The stage sound was killer and the crowd seemed quite receptive. Save for the Jack-off at the barrier Facebooking on his cell phone. I understand that our music isn't for everyone and it's not our crowd we're playing to, but i will say that if you make your way to the front at a show and spend your time "social networking", you're a douche.




    Traveling from Milan, Italy to Munich, Germany through Austria, our van started to have some problems up the steep, mountain climbs. It seems like pulling over to let it rest for a few minutes helped it regain some gusto in acceleration but it's freaking everyone out. I got out to shake out the air filter in an uneducated attempt to help. Seems to be running a little better but I suppose we won't know until we hit some more mountains...most likely at 3AM in an unfamiliar country. Pray for us sinners...