Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Things To Do In San Diego: May 30, 2011

I'm sorry I didn't post listings yesterday, I just couldn't bring myself to go online. I had such a great weekend between the trip to LA with The Heavy Guilt, two great parties and John Vanderslice on Saturday, and an adventure on Sunday that started with brunch and West Coast Tavern and turned into a pub crawl with friends between Toronado, URBN, and a failed attempt to get in the Casbah thanks to a friend misplacing his ID. It was really good. And then Monday came around and I dunno what, but I needed some hibernation.I think it's part of being a freelancer; every subsequent month is a question of slinking by one more month. Whatver. I'll get over it. Daniel Lanois should help. Wednesday and Thursday listings are after the jump.

Tuesday May 31, 2011:
  • Gruff Rhys, Y Niwl @ Casbah
  • OK Go, Buddha's Playlist @ Price Center West Ballroom UCSD
  • Daniel Lanois' Black Dub, Rocco Deluca @ House of Blues
  • The Breezes, The Goomies, The New Nostalgic @ Soda Bar
  • An Evening with Aaron Neville @ Belly Up
  • Alex Arndt & The Sonic Universe, Accoustic Minds @ Eleven
  • Rips Entertainment Presents: Heart Like Fire, One I Red, Operation Project One, Interrobang @ Tin Can
  • Algernon Cadwallader, Small Talk, Snowing, 1994, Joyce Manor @ Che Cafe
  • Family Night Presents: Grand Tarantula, Bully @ El Dorado
  • Local Brews Local Grooves feat. Foreing Film @ House of Blues Voodoo Stage
  • Tuesday Night Jazz Collective, DJs Jared & Jason @ Til-Two Club
  • Darkwave Garden @ Club Kadan
  • Katy Wompus Trio @ Riviera Supper Club
  • The Misspent Warhead Premise, Sundrop Electric @ Ruby Room
  • Gregorio Luke Presents: Frida Khalo: A New Look @ Anthology
  • 52nd Street (Billy Joel Tribute) @ Humphreys Backstage Live
  • Trent Hancock @ Tiki House
  • Train of Thought @ Queen Bee's
  • Comedy Night @ Lestat's
  • Johnny Vernazza @ Patrick's ll
  • Street Heart @ Valley View Casino
  • Tomcat Courtney @ La Gran Tapa
  • Tommy Price & The Stilettos @ Henry's Pub
  • Doug Allen, Suzy Bongo @ The Kraken
  • The Shocks of Mighty, Klownfish @ Winston's
  • Friends Chill @ Whistle Stop
  • 2 Guys Will Move You @ McP's Irish Pub & Grill
  • Karaoke @ Kensington Club
  • Stress Free Standup Comedy @ U-31
  • Quintinn @ Davina's Cabo Grill

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Jeff's Weekly Pick: Diego Garcia @ Anthology Saturday, June 4, 2011

For those unfamiliar with the New York based indie rock band Elefant, led by singer Diego Garcia, released three albums before officially calling it quits last year. The albums reflected sounds of The Cure and other 80s inspired music. Garcia was born in the US, eventually settling in New York to pursue a career in music, with an economics degree as a financial backup. Raised in Argentina, Diego started playing acoustic guitar in his teens and has gone back to his musical roots since going it on his own. The recently released Laura, on upstart Latin label Nacional Records, is nothing short of phenomenal. The title is in reference to Garcia’s wife, and he definitely has found a musical style that suits him. The songs flow with ease from start to end and is a must listen. Radio station KCRW has been promoting the talented singer songwriter and deservedly so. San Diego gets its opportunity to see Diego Garcia live this Friday at the beautiful supper club Anthology. This should be the perfect venue for Diego to showcase his talent. Don’t miss this artist as a great way to spend a romantic Saturday night.

Watch a video of You Were Never There below.




Friday, May 27, 2011

Low Volts Electrifies Nashville

Low Volts here- Just got back from an action-packed week in Nashville, Tennessee. Flew out with my 2 guitars, kickdrum, all five tambourines and my throat-box to play some shows and film a music video.  Played a fun show at The Basement and saw the singer from Deer Tick and his fiancé Nikki from Those Darlins in the crowd so that was kinda nice. Overheard them talking about eating fried Cicada larvae…nasty…I wanna try it. It's the 13 year cycle for the Cicadas so all of Nashville is vibrating from the high-pitched buzz of millions of those hideous creatures and their beady red terminator eyes. Sounded kinda like an approaching army of angry Sleestaks!
Some wicked storms also passed through while I was there that ripped giant trees from their roots and smashed cars n' houses. Got woken up at four in the morning by Stacie Huckeba (our video producing badass) screaming, "GIT IN THE CLOSET!!!!!!" The wind and hail were whipping' through the town just shy of a little hurricane. Next thing you know I'm in my boxers, wiping drool off my chin in a dark closet with two women and 'Earl' the whimpering dog. The power was knocked out for a day and half so video production was halted for a bit but we got all that we needed. 
All the footage is wrapped so now we wait for the editing magic to be conquered. The vid is for the song "Huntin' Feedin' Drinkin" and it's gonna be a DOOZY! We shot at the Marathon Motor Works building which was built around 1880. Half of it is crumbling away so it makes for a great location to shoot a dark/creepy/sexy video. 
On the final night in Nashville, I was fortunate enough to sit front row at a private event at The Country Music Hall of Fame where I got to meet and chat with Tom T. Hall, Lloyd Green, Duane Eddy, Patty Griffin and more.
Stacie shot a video for the remake of Tom T's record 'I Love: Songs From Fox Hollow' so all these country legends were all in the same room performing and talking story together. What a night. 
I'm back in town and looking forward to playing the 94.9 Independence Jam on June 5th and back-to-back nights at Casbah with Dax Riggs on the 8th and The Black Lips on the 9th. Hope to see you all at a show!! Over n' out.

6/5 : 94.9 Independence Jam w/ Cold War Kids, Lykke Li, Silent Comedy & more
6/8 : Casbah w/ Dax Riggs
6/9 : Casbah w/ Black Lips



Save The Date: First Friday at Eleven- June 3, 2011



I'm excited to announce my new First Friday showcases at Eleven. I was approached a while ago, but the North Park Festival of Arts required a lot of my time. With that behind me, I can tell you to save the date for the launch of San Diego: Dialed In First Friday showcases at Eleven.

I'm really excited about the lineup. We've got Fierce Creatures from Fresno (you've probably seen them play with The Silent Comedy around town), Michael McGraw who just released a new record, and Golden Days, a young group from Orange County who will be playing San Diego for their first time ever but they're already making a name for themselves in their hometown.

The show is only $6 and will kick off around 9:30.

You can RSVP on the Facebook event page. Huge shoutout to Chris from Michael McGraw's band for making these AMAZING flyers. I think we're gonna have a limited amount of printed posters the night of the show. I'm already looking for a proper frame. See you next Friday!!

Things To Do In San Diego: May 27-29, 2011

It's a holiday weekend, which means there are tons of awesome events all over town by day or by night. I'll be taking another roadtrip up to LA tonight, this time with The Heavy Guilt who are playing at the Mint. I'm sure you'll all hold down the fort at the sold out Transfer show or with the great bands at the Belly Up and other places around town. Saturday and Sunday listings are after the jump if you click 'keep on reading'.

Friday, May 27, 2011:
  • Transfer , Black Hondo , The Howls , Little Hurricane @ Casbah (Sold Out)
  • Casbah presents The Twilight Singers with special guests Margot and the Nuclear So & So's @ Belly Up
  • An Horse, Gun Runner, The New Kinetics @ Soda Bar
  • Ale Mania, Northern Tigers, Shiva Trash @ Tower Bar
  • Audible Mainframe, After-School Special, Chill Clinton @ Ruby Room
  • Weatherbox, Helen Earth Band, TONS and guests @ Epicentre
  • Children of Nova, Save Amos, Of Sons and Ghosts, Housewives @ Eleven
  • Bonkers @ Bar Pink
  • Pocket @ Whistle Stop
  • In Transit Audio, Misc. Ailments, Monday’s Alibi @ Tin Can
  • Connect Four feat Mane One, hosted by Archie Dean, DJs Steven Flex, DJ Pnutz, J. Blow, Myson King @ Til Two Club
  • The Revivers, Amalgamated & The Night Doctors @ Ken Club
  • Feel The Noise Electro Dance w/DJs Gabe Vega , Chris Cutz, The OfficeTwins @ U-31
  • Motion To Sever @ O'Connell's
  • Josiah Leming, Savannah Philyaw @ Lestat's
  • Gravity @ Belly Up (Happy Hour, 5pm)
  • Adema, Etched in Redm Beneath Lanston, Deprav@ Brick By Brick
  • Roots Covenant @ Winston's
  • Full Moon Fever, Way Cool Jr. @ 710 Beach Club
  • Mr. Fahrenheit (CD Release), The New Nostalgic, Make It Last Kid, Act Natural, Oversoul, Innerscape @ Soma
  • Nilsson Matta with Roni Ben-hur, Richard Sellers and Shunzo Ohno @ Dizzy's (San Diego Wine & Culinary Center)
  • The Steely Damned @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge (Early show 7:30pm, late show 9:45 pm)
  • Byron Blocker @ Hensley's Flying Elephant
  • Don Omar @ 4th & B
  • Vivian Green and Eric Roberson @ Anthology (Early Show 7:30pm)
  • Almost Islanders @ Gallagher's
  • Memorial Day Weekend Party with DJ Mike 2 Bless & DJ Hevrock, Jahkobeats, Robone and the Squad
  • John Foltz @ The Marble Room
  • James Zabiela, Tara Brooks @ Voyeur
  • Zenbu Fridays with DJ Leif @ Zenbu Cardiff
  • Grandmasta Rats & Charlie Rock @ El Dorado
  • Thomas Gandey, DJ Ideal, Kid Wonder, Stillwell, Daniel Furth, Dj Schugar, Mrz, Adam Arlia @ Spin
  • Nas, DJ Homicide @ Fluxx
  • Craig Shoemaker is the Lovemaster, Sindy Somers, Beach Eastwood, Pat Puccini @ Ramona Mainstage
  • Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony @ Copley Symphony Hall
  • Vicente Fernandez @ Valley View Casino Center
  • Super Bailazo @ Harrah’s Rincon Casino
Saturday, May 28, 2011:
  • John Vanderslice, Leslie Stevens @ Casbah
  • Puma Fest Soccer + Rock feat. InTransit Audio, Jaws Went Swimming, Mondays Alibi @ Southwestern College (Free, All ages, 1-4pm)
  • 10 year Anniversary Party feat Booty Bassment (10pm), DJ Claire & Jay Porter (5-8pm), The Fremonts (4pm), Shawn Rohlf & 7th Day Buskers (3 pm) @ Whistle Stop (Free, Open at noon)
  • Kelsea Rae Little, Meg and Brian, Rob Deez @ Lestat's
  • Grand Reopening feat. DJ Maite @ The Village Hatshop Hillcrest (6-8pm)
  • Jesse LaMonaca @ Urban Bar and Grill
  • Lessons From Zeke, Forgiving Yesterday, Ankla Luz @ Eleven (9pm)
  • Deke Dickerson, Roy Rapid and the Rhythm Rock Trio, The Palominos @ O'Connell's
  • Kenny Loggins @ USS Midway
  • 40 oz to Freedom, Social Green, Califarians@ Belly Up
  • Pink Punk Lotto Showcase @ Bar Pink
  • Just Like Jenna, Boats!, Gloomsday!, Saywhen @ Tin Can
  • Roxy Blue and the Handful @ Eleven (6pm)
  • The Grims, The Vamps, Cannibal Mad Men, The Revhawks, DJ Johnny Badblood@ The Shakedown
  • Roric, Jane of the Jungle, Stepkilla, Peligro, NTRO, Rebellion, Sixfootunda, Shook, RFX @ Ruby Room
  • Tramlife, DJ Tru, DJ Matrox, Parker & The Numberman @ Soda Bar
  • Thee Strychnine DJs @ Tower Bar
  • The Burnsville Band @ House of Blues (Salvation Alley)
  • Eventvibe & Amplified Access Present Animal House ft. Stir Crazy, Dipsia, & Mr. NiceGuy @ House of Blues
  • Indicator Dogs, Oliver Trolley @ Brick By Brick
  • Polynesian Underground Present- Tribal Theory and Sono Vero @ Winston's
  • Battle of the Bands @ 710 Beach Club
  • OttlyMercer, Mayors of Sexytown, Shoot Z Pier, Sherm the band, Shame and Scandal @ Soma
  • For The Win, My Iron Lung, Teamwork!, In Her Own Words, The Rundown, Mascots @ Epicentre
  • Igor & Red Elvises @ Tio Leo’s
  • Missy Anderson @ Marble Room
  • Gilbert Castellanos Trio @ Dizzy's (San Diego Wine & Culinary Center)
  • Rock Against MS @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge (4-8pm)
  • Betamaxx @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge (9:30pm)
  • The Mocking Byrds @ Hensley's Flying Elephant
  • Waken Dey Cook Game Up Tour! feat. Messy Marv, Mike Spitz, B-HOP, M.H.B @ 4th & B
  • Brenday Russell @ Anthology (Early Show 7:30pm, Late Show 9:30 pm)
  • Battle Cry @ Gallagher's
  • CHILLAX showcase feat. QP7000, Kastle Creeps, Decimal, Lady Jemini, Rinasanz, Kaus and Krazed, Its Mental, Black Sun, Blankspeech, Ceazar Sanchez, 5th Child, Big Slim, Funk Bazzurka, Beatsmith, Resist @ Kava Lounge
  • Groundfloor, Gabe Vega @ El Dorado
  • Green Velvet, Audrey Napoleon @ Voyeur
  • Groovejet feat Paul Najera, Impera, Lucky J and more @ Spin
  • Fluxx*adelic with Sid Vicious and Rico DeLargo @ Fluxx
  • Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony @ Copley Symphony Hall
Sunday, May 29, 2011:
  • Resurrection Brunch with Robin Roth @ West Coast Tavern (Brunch 10a-3p, Robin will spin from noon-2pm)
  • The Local 94/9 presents Cry for Us Black Swans , The Napoleon Complex, Incomplete Neighbor, Dogcatcher @ Casbah (Free, doors at 7pm, free food from Gaglione Brothers, Live radio broadcast)
  • Acrassicauda (from Baghdad, Iraq), Found Face Down, Ruines ov Abaddon, A Battle To Fight @ Brick By Brick
  • Too Many Creeps/Whistle Stop 10 year Anniversary feat. Plateaus (record release) Ghost Shores, DJs Charles Rowell & Mario Orduno @ Whistle Stop
  • Postals, Rebel Set, Stalins of Sound, Mother’s Worry, DJ Sarah Doublie @ Ken Club
  • Jivewire @ Casbah (Free, starts after the early show)
  • Todo Mundo, Moon Mama @ Ruby Room (Night show)
  • Mega Memorial Day All Day Rock n Roll BBQ Blackout Blowout feat. Archons, The Widows, Crime Desire, Ghettoblaster, Otro, The Lumps, The Tuggs, Secret Fun Club, The Marsupials @ The Shakedown (2 pm)
  • Trash80, Wizwars, Mike Bleeds, Space Town Savior @ Soda Bar
  • Cash'd Out, Lexington Field, DJ Gonzo @ Belly Up
  • Pints for Prostates Afternoon Drinkabout @ Whistle Stop, Eleven and more (free shuttle, 1-5pm)
  • Trivia/Pants Karaoke @ Eleven
  • Katie Leigh and the Infantry @ Ruby Room (4pm)
  • Victory Nightlife presents The Block Party: Memorial Day Weekend @ House of Blues
  • Dave Humphries, Jim Hinton @ Lestat's
  • I Scream Sunday @ WorldBeat Center
  • Summer Madness feat. Von Kiss, Moniq, Artistic, Beatnik, hosted by Miki Vale @ El Dorado
  • Laidback Luke, PeaceTreaty, Mr. White @ Voyeur (18 and up show)
  • The Cactus Jacks and friends @ Winston’s (6-9pm)
  • Above & Beyond @ Hard Rock Hotel
  • Safety Orange @ Handlery Hotel poolside
  • Jose Sinatra's OB-O-ke @ Winston's
  • Tribe of Kings/Reggae Vibes @ U-31
  • Mark Dresser Quartet @ Dizzy's (San Diego Wine & Culinary Center)
  • Memorial Day Jazzfest @ Humphrey's Backstage Lounge(6 pm)
  • Michele Lundeen @ Marble Room
  • My Life Every Day feat. Laidback Luke, Chris Lake, funkagenda, Aeroplane, Sandro Silva, Van Toth, Deth Hertz @ 4th & B
  • Marshall Tucker Band @ Anthology (Early Show 7pm)
  • ‘One Night Only’ @ Kava Lounge
  • Destructo Bunny and guests @ Gallagher’s
  • Reggae Sundays @ Spin
  • Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony @ Copley Symphony Hall (2 pm)
  • Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy presents Circus @ San Diego Civic Theatre (2 pm)
  • Glee Live @ Valley View Casino Center
  • Earth, Wind and Fire @ Harrah’s Rincon Casino Open Sky Theatre

Guest Review: TheMixster.com Reviews Yelle

[ed. note: I don't know how many of you know Taylor Doms, the gorgeous woman behind TheMixster.com but if you ever get the chance to meet her, you must. As obsessive as I am about live music, Taylor exceeds that enthusiasm for dance music, DJs, and electronic music. On Friday night, she went to the sold out Yelle show at the Casbah and had agreed to write a guest review. I was expecting maybe a photo and a couple paragraphs. Crazy-T went above and beyond. This is her review. The full post can be seen if you click 'keep on reading' at the bottom of this post.]

Although my social vocation in nightlife usually leads me to San Diego’s electronic dance music, Yelle, is one of those few names that's capable of pulling me away from North Park on a Friday night. Simply because, Yelle’s delightful brand of French electropop is jiggy enough to move any room. Despite the fact I don’t know/can’t pronounce 99% of her lyrics, it certainly doesn’t stop me from dancing around and singing-a-long to her addictive little tunes with my own made-up French-sounding words. And as long as she kept that cute little smile on her face she could be telling me to go lie facedown in the middle of the 8 freeway and I’d still happily bounce along to her music.. And I couldn’t have been more excited to see her “Safari Disco Club” perform live at my favorite hipster haunt for incredible live music, at The Casbah.

We strolled in around 9:15pm, what we considered early, to find the place was completely PACKED, with a reasonably-sized crowd already formed on the dance floor and totally fixated on the opening act, French Horn Rebellion. (Note: You certainly don't see this kind of early-bird enthusiasm in my "scene" unless there's free booze and hot single promoters.)

Upon first impression I thought French Horn Rebellion were just a couple of synth pop-playing, stand-in-front-of-a-strobe-light-and look-down-the-whole-time-á-la- “Miike Snow-style”- shaggy-haired-shadows. However that all changed and fairly quickly, with the on-set of “boogie dance” breaks, white boy freestyle rap attempts, and of course eponymous to their name, French horn solos.




(For more, click 'keep on reading' below.


With no lack of pitchy xylo synth lines, groovy funk rhythms, rambunctious energy, and pretty flashing lights, Milwaukee-born brothers French Horn Rebellion were an absolutely fine and English-speaking precursor to Yelle’s bubbly, experimental dance-pop. I would absolutely go out of my way to see French Horn Rebellion perform again.

Following FHR, the crowd in front of the Casbah’s stage nearly doubled in size and the temperature of the room went up at least 100 degrees upon the very first measures of heavy floor-tom rumbles by Yelle’s drummers, appropriately-clad in safari gear. Sheathed in a grimy-looking mythic sea creature gone couture concept coat, Yelle appeared and opened the show with her equally enthralling single, S'eteint le Soleil, beckoning the attention of the entire room; and proving her total crowd-wide captivation as rows upon rows of arms mimicked her every motion between builds.



If the music wasn’t enough to ascertain the attention of every individual in the crowd, I can guarantee that all eyes were endlessly fixated on sweet Yelle as soon as she shed her icky seaweed-monster coat: revealing the sexiest red leopard-print pointy shoulder-padded skin-tight cat suit – leaving little, and yet somehow SO MUCH to endlessly fantasize to the imagination...

Flouncing around the stage, with the occasional head-banging breakdowns, Yelle performed ol’ booty-movin’ favs from her first album “Pop Up”, like “Ceu Jeu” as well as drop a number of new shoulder-shaking sparkly-pop tunes from her latest album “Safari Disco Club” such as her garage-synthy “C’est pas une Vie” with an undeniably reminiscent “O Mickey You’re so fine” percussion line and her positively addictive floor-filler “Comme un enfant”.



The highlight was Yelle’s performance of “Que Veux Tu”. I felt as if I was right back at home with my fellow ravers, as the room swooned back and forth and each person cupped their hands in the shape of hearts in sync with Yelle, as she cooed lovingly to the crowd. Yelle & her indecipherable French, the audience, the whole moment, was simply heart-flutteringly magical.



Following her set and a two-song encore, instead of fleeing to the haven of their tour bus, Yelle graciously stayed and signed countless numbers of tour memorabilia and knick-knacks and even conversed their with fans before they said their final farewells. Trust me, I've been to my fair share of shows, but it was really quite neat to see even a European pop sensation be so willingly approachable and genuinely amiable.

I saw Yelle’s performance at Coachella this past Spring. Heck, I was even front row for the whole thing. Yet, having the opportunity to see a globally-renowned and world-wide adored artist like Yelle within an intimate context and at a local spot, like at The Casbah, was an insanely special experience. If the Casbah wanted to have an experimental French-electro dance party every week, I’d be far from opposed. In fact, I think I’d probably even get there before 11pm, sneaky incentives involving free booze removed! An amazing crowd of people who are there for the music, non-stop dancing all night long, cheap drinks, and top-notch talent – yea, I could definitely get used to this.

Thanks for a wonderful evening folks, I'm sure you'll be seeing me back at The Casbah very soon.

By: Taylor Doms (Founder, TheMixster.com)

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Noah and the Whale Tour Kickoff Video

!!! At the Noah and the Whale show, I gave a stranger my card because I saw him shooting video, and just now, Blake sent me his video and he filmed the entire show without interruption. Now I can have that cathartic cry during "Give A Little Love" that I held back from on Tuesday. The sound is phenomenal. Now you have evidence of the show you missed. One thousand thank yous to Blake.

Bahamas + Noah and the Whale Tour Kick-Off Images

[ed. note: As promised, these are photos from Phillip DeFalco. See more photos by clicking 'keep on reading' at the bottom of this post.]

























Noah and the Whale Kick Off Tour In San Diego: May 24, 2011

On Tuesday night, I was quite excited to be working at the Noah and the Whale/Bahamas show. I've recruited Phil, another photographer for shows, so he'll be posting some photos later, but in the meantime, I thought I'd give a little rundown of the show.
As I've been endlessly whining about,I've had kind of a shit week and kinda felt on the edge of...well, something...it felt like nothing I was doing was worth anything and I've been feeling really delicate, like one more little thing happens and I'm just going to lose it. I only say all of this because I wasn't prepared for just how emotional and eventually cathartic this show ended up being. I got there early...around 5:45...and walked in on Noah and the Whale soundchecking with "Blue Skies".
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

So imagine walking in all fragile and being one of 4 people in a room as Charlie sings this. Talk about intense. The rest of the soundcheck was more rockin and we just cleaned up loose ends before opening doors at 7. I was taking tickets at the front door, but we got everyone in really quickly because we didn't have stamps or wristbands or ID checks or anything like that. This ultimately meant that those of us working were able to peek in on the show. We were blown away by Bahamas...guitar, drums, and two women singing backup harmonies. They were phenomenal and I suggest seeing them if and when they come to a town near you. They felt really appropriate at the Woman's Club...it felt timeless, like you could've walked into the room with that band performing in 1955, 1965, 1975 and it would've felt exactly the same which is a pretty rare quality for a musician/band to have. You can check out Bahamas' Daytrotter Session here.




When Noah and the Whale came on at 8:30, we didn't have much to do in the lobby, so I went in for the first song and almost had a total meltdown. It was "Give A Little Love"

Well I know my death will not come
'Til I breathe all the air out my lungs
'Til my final tune is sung
That all is fleeting
Yeah, but all is good
And my love is my whole being
And I've shared what I could
But if you give a little love, you can get a little love of your own
Don't break his heart

Well my heart is bigger than the earth
And though life is what gave it love first
Life is not all that it's worth
'Cause life is fleeting
Yeah, but I love you
And my love surrounds you like an ether
In everything that you do
But if you give a little love, you can get a little love of your own
Don't break his heart

Well if you are (what you love)
And you do (what you love)
I will always be the sun and moon to you
And if you share (with your heart)
Yeah, you give (with your heart)
What you share with the world is what it keeps of you


The rest of the show was equally intense, and the production, sound, and lights were amazing, impacting the half full room that much more. It really did bum me out that this show wasn't a sell out because Noah and the Whale are amazing with every performance, but at the same time, a half house with passionate fans is a far more comfortable show. At the end of the show, I was filming the final song of the encore, "L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N", and I looked to my left and there was a guy filming and wiping tears from his eyes. It was pretty amazing to see that I wasn't the only one completely moved by this show.



Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Yeasayer w/ Smith Westerns & Hush Hush @ Belly Up- 05.21.11



Nate: Calling last Saturday night at the Belly Up 'interesting' or 'eventful' would be an accurate description, but would not do justice to the evening. Heading in to the show, I was the proud owner of my very first band-issued photo pass. This ratcheted up the excitement even more for a show that I had been looking forward to for about four months. Having left the group of friends I came up from SD with at Pizza Port, I situated myself front and center before opening act Hush Hush took the stage. The decision to not drink (thus eliminating any trips to the restroom) would prove beneficial as the evening progressed.

Rosey: I have to admit, I was a little late to the show, but still arrived in time to maneuver up the Belly Up stairs to the left, crossing through the handicap ramp, passing across the bar almost toward the restroom, then passing through the stage left seating to maneuver up to the front to catch up with Nate and Jeff. At that point in the night, Elliott and I were still lucky enough to grab some space along the stage to catch some photos of the magnificent Hush Hush, in all his sweaty backing tracks (including stadium applause), and caught him during his dramatic finish, shirt off, cape on, fall to the knees, aaaand *scene*. We, too, chose not to drink in order to maintain our positions along the stage. Nate, where did it start to go so wrong?

Hush Hush:




Nate:I think the first indication of trouble ahead came at the very end of Hush Hush when a juuuust a little bit tipsy female fan decided to help Mr. Hush with his broken sunglasses. After he left the stage, she turned her attention to me, stating in very specific terms that 'the front row is for true fans' and something about how she was in a Smith Westerns video. After some back and forth as to the definition of a 'true fan', we settled in as the rapidly growing crowd filled in around us. By the time Smith Westerns started their set my new friend was very persistently giving me photo tips and when those fell on deaf (read: earplugged) ears, decided to get my attention in a different sort of manner. Not that I don't enjoy aggressive full body massages from the fairer sex, but it did make it slightly difficult to stay focused on the task at hand (even the part of me that kept repeating 'focusfocusfocus' was starting to drift away from the show). Chicago-based Smith Westerns have a very developed sound considering they're barely two albums deep and everyone in the band is between 19 and 21. Playing mostly tracks off their recently released Dye It Blonde, they did very well to duplicate the studio quality of their guitar heavy indie pop- much to the approval of those in attendance.

Smith Westerns:





Rosey: Man, that girl was all up on your shit. Like I told you, most people don't know what a jealous girlfriend I can be (lacking the required boyfriend, most people never see that side), but I was getting pretty protective over you because you were being so nice. My patience was certainly being tested because "Ashleigh" (as I decided the privileged and very drunk white girl must spell her name) was not only fondling you, but started to move into my space. Yes, I realize it's a concert and yes, I know that people are gonna get bumped, but this chick was at several points ass to ass with me and there wasn't even a band on stage. I was waiting for the right moment to say something, and then all of the sudden your altercation happened. I did not expect that one at all. I suspect you want me to tell what happened there?

So as far as I could tell, some random girl tried to put her beer on the stage (where there were at least 6 signs saying "no drinks on stage") as her ploy to elbow between you and Jeff. When you told her at least twice she couldn't put her drink there, she still tried to elbow in at which point you blocked her. She whined that she was just trying to get her beer (um, yeah right...like this was your first rodeo) and then went into an outburst about you were pushing her (blocking and pushing are NOT the same thing) at which point that random bro popped in about pushing a girl, blah blah, and next thing I know, I see him palm your face! I'm glad you defended yourself, but the obvious concern was for your camera. You pushed him back and then he tried punching your head at which point I stuck my hand in and took some punches on my hand and wrist before people separated you guys. At that point I hailed security and they threw that dude out and I thought we were all done. Then Ashleigh came back around to fondle you a little more, at which point I dared ask the question, "Do you have *ANY* boundaries???"

Nate: Yup- priorities #1a and 1b were avoiding incidental damage to my gear and not getting kicked out. Success on both points. This was another instance that I was glad I wasn't drinking that night because my actions toward that dipshit would have been completely different. As an added bonus(?), one less person up front meant more room for Miss Ashleigh to continue her heavy petting. Shortly after the drama was over, Yeasayer took the stage accompanied by some serious lights and a healthy dose of fog machine. Sometimes when I'm shooting I get so wrapped up in what I'm doing that I hardly have time to enjoy the music- this was not one of those times. Regardless of the distraction coming from behind me and a fairly constant crowd push, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the show. There was some snipping during Yeasayer's performance coming from over my right shoulder which seemed to be directed at Rosey but, as a seasoned vet of situations like these, she handled it like a pro (and without any punches being thrown). Like I said earlier- the night was both interesting and eventful, but was primarily pretty damn awesome.

Yeasayer:


Rosey: Well, there were no punches thrown, but after settling with Ashleigh and a girl who apologized for her friend's public drunkeness that they would mind their space, the show got nuts. As I said, I understand it's a concert and some level of bumping and pushing is expected, but after the third elbow to the head and losing both earplugs to the idiots trying to grab the bassist's instrument, I tried the backing into the crowd approach with some exchange of words that went something like "it's fine if you wanna keep pushing, but I'm gonna push back" and when that didn't work, my ginglymus met her stomach. The situation being "resolved", I went back to the concert and couldn't believe how phenomenal Yeasayer were and how much I'd missed seeing them live. Incidentally, a new girl popped up and picked up groping Nate where Ashleigh had left off, but the rest of the show was pretty chill and we finally got to take a breath and enjoy the show. If you didn't catch the setlist, photos, and video I posted, you can check that out here. And to Nate, you are my hero. Can't wait to shoot another show by your side.




Nate: For more pix from the evening click here and the rest of my concert photography click here.
_______________________
All images copyright © Nate Vandermeulen, All Rights Reserved.
Please ask for permission before downloading or linking to them.

TRANSFER VIDEO TAKES PRIZE IN HOUSTON

TRANSFER "TAKE YOUR MEDICINE" wins The Platinum Remi, (aka 1st Prize) at Houston's 2011 International Film Festival, Worldfest.
(click image to view trailer)

The video will also be featured at Washington D.C. World Music and Independent Film Festival where it has been nominated for BEST ANIMATION, BEST ROCK VIDEO, BEST CREATIVE VIDEO and BEST DIRECTOR as well as THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD.
CONGRATULATIONS to Nader Husseini and the whole team at ReelFX!

Only takes a second - Support the cause and VOTE HERE!

Things To Do In San Diego: May 25-26, 2011

Time to get positive. Thanks for everyone who helped make yesterday suck a whole lot less, and those shows last night...between Bahamas, Noah and the Whale, and White Denim...certainly helped make the night a whole lot better. There's a ton of things coming up this weekend including Lightning In A Bottle up in the OC, so I'll try to get as many things posted tonight as possible. Thursday listings are after the jump.

Wednesday May 25, 2011:
  • Sam Bradley, Holly Conlan @ Casbah
  • Little Hurricane @ The Saloon (Encinitas)
  • Art Alexakis of Everclear @ Anthology 9:30 pm
  • Kasey Anderson & The Honkies, Ron Franklin's Gasoline Silver @ Bar Pink
  • Barenaked Ladies, Abbey Bernstein @ Humphrey's Concerts by The Bay
  • Pikacyu- Makato, Mugu Guyman, Joy, DJ Mikey Ratt @ Tin Can
  • Michael Tiernan, Jane Lui, Roy Ruiz Clayton @ Belly Up
  • Anthology House Band @ Anthology 7:30 pm
  • John Helix, Tori @ Lestat's
  • Klub Isolation @ Til-Two Club
  • Tommy Graf @ Riviera Supper Club
  • Comedy @ Eleven
  • Bomba Estereo @ The Loft
  • Endoxi @ Humphreys Backstage Live
  • Rock Out Wednesday's - Live Band Karaoke @ House of Blues
  • Kyle Clary @ Hensley's Flying Elephant
  • Wayne Hancock, The Cactus Jacks @ The Shakedown Bar
  • Urban Underground @ Kava Lounge
  • Stoney B. Blues @ Patrick's II
  • MVR Presents: Terry Matsuoka, Calling Morocco @ The Office
  • Reggae Meets Hip Hop w/ DJ Artistic, Tribe of Kings @ Ruby Room
  • Jimmy Lewis @ Tiki House
  • Jeff Moore & The Witchdoctors @ The Kraken
  • Live Music Showcase @ O'Connell's
  • Battle of The Bands @ Coyote Bar & Grill
  • Glacier Skies @ Porter's Pub
  • Gilbert Castellanos w/ The New Latin Jazz Quintet @ El Camino
  • Wednesday Night Shakedown @ Henry's Pub
  • Dub Dorado Presents: Proper Villains, Mr. Biggs, Austin Speed, Headshake @ El Dorado
  • Club Kingston Presents: Lloyd Hemmings and The Mandeville Band, DJ Carlos Culture @ Winston's
  • Evolution @ Club Kadan
  • Sue Palmer @ Croce's
  • Lady Dottie and The Diamonds @ Gallagher's
  • Manwhore Night @ Ken Club
  • Firehouse Swing Night @ Queen Bee's
  • Dusty and The Lovenotes, 5 to Midnight, Shaka Buku @ Stage Saloon
  • Avradelix @ Sunshine Brooks Theatre (Oceanside)
  • Jeff Bristol @ Davina's Cabo Grill
  • Karaoke @ Chico Club
  • Laguna @ McP's Irish Pub
  • The Bill Shreeve Quartet @ The V Lounge Viejas Casino
Thursday May 26, 2011:
  • Little Deadman, Chairs Missing, Plateaus, DJs Mario Orduno & Brandon Welchez @ Casbah
  • Discover SD Party feat. Miss Erika Davies @ West Coast Tavern
  • SoundDiego Live Presents Kevin Martin, Illuminauts @ The Fleetwood (639 J Street, 6:30-10pm)
  • Tim Pyles hosts Mary Jane's Underground with Grand Tarantula and The Howls @ Mary Jane's (Hard Rock Hotel, FREE, 10pm-midnight)
  • Jamuel Saxon @ W Hotel (Free, doors at 7pm, show at 8pm)
  • The Billy Nayer Show, Lee Vilensky Trio, Roxy Jones @ Soda Bar
  • Birdzilla, Dreamgoatz, Craig, Men Seeking Women @ Tin Can
  • Brick Layer Bosh, Samhears, Starcrossed @ Eleven
  • Skatalites, Stranger, DJ Carlos Culture @ Belly Up
  • Del Mar Fair Musicpalooza Showcase @ Anthology
  • The Ratt's Revenge @ Tower Bar
  • Drew Grow & The Pastor Wives @ Bar Pink
  • Crème de la Crème & Mood Swing 360 Present: Donnis @ House of Blues
  • Missy Andersen @ Marble Room
  • Ashley Campbell, Austin Hartley Leonard, Paulina @ Lestat's
  • Old Tiger @ Riviera Supper Club
  • Bill Magee Blues Band @ Patrick's II
  • Battle of The Bands, DJ Paul D @ Coyote Bar & Grill
  • Night of Comedy w/ Rob Stapleton, Kevin Millard @ 4th & B
  • A Book About Elephants, Seed, The Boyish Charms @ Park Gallery
  • Lady Dottie and The Diamonds @ El Dorado
  • Bertram Turetzky Presents: Lorie Kirkell, Francesca Savage, Alyze Hammer, Nancy Turetzky, Chuck Perrin @ Dizzy's
  • Mark Stuart @ Tiki House
  • Moonlight Serenade Orchestra @ The Lucky Star Restaurant (54th & University)
  • DJ John's Birthday Celebration @ Humphrey's Backstage Live
  • Dead Technology @ Kava Lounge
  • L.E.D. Presents : Mr. Oizo, Deth Hertz @ Voyeur
  • EDM Presents: Ferry Corsten, Cowboy Mike @ Fluxx
  • Soul Jazz @ Croce's
  • Purdy Spit, The Uncivil, Nuclear Tomorrow @ The Shakedown Bar
  • Play It Forward Presents: Sour Soul @ Ruby Room
  • Bitter Sober, Saucy Monky @ Rich's (1051 University Ave)
  • The Flock of 80's @ Henry's Pub
  • Club 80's @ Club Kadan
  • Karaoke @ O'Connell's
  • Munson Keef @ Boar Cross'n
  • The Aggronauts, Six Cents, Heretic @ Winston's
  • Sister Speak, Podunk Nowhere @ Claire de Lune
  • The Fabulous Pelicans @ Valley View Casino
  • Ricardo R @ Davina's Cabo Grill
  • Lenny Morris @ Hard Rock Cafe
  • Sinizen @ Gallagher's
  • Tommy & Tina @ McP's Irish Pub
  • Fiery 1 @ Hennessey's Carlsbad
  • The Tilt @ RT's Longboard Grill
  • Ben Powell @ Zel's Del Mar

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Things To Do In San Diego: May 24, 2011

I'm frustrated and this week just might kill me before it's over, so I've got nothing to say right now except here are your listings.

Tuesday May 24, 2011:
  • Casbah Presents: Noah And The Whale, Bahamas @ San Diego Women's Club (all ages)
  • White Denim, White Arrows, Hotel St. George @ Casbah
  • Denison Witmer, Josh Damigo, Great Power @ Soda Bar
  • New Artist Showcase w/ Frame Of Reference @ Eleven
  • Noel Jordan, Justin Rodriguez, Jason De La Torre @ Tin Can
  • Local Brews Local Grooves @ House of Blues
  • Family Night Presents: Red Fox Tails @ El Dorado
  • Tuesday Night Jazz Collective, DJs Jared & Jason @ Til-Two Club
  • Darkwave Garden @ Club Kadan
  • Katy Wompus Trio @ Riviera Supper Club
  • Christian Taylor, FMera, Love, The City and Space @ Ruby Room
  • Tiki Tuesday feat. Mr. Craig Prior @ Bar Pink
  • Upright Citizens Brigade Tourco @ The Loft
  • Gregory Michaels @ Hensley's Flying Elephant
  • Len Rainey & The Midnigjht Players @ Humphreys Backstage Live
  • Christy Bruneau @ Claire de Lune
  • Train of Thought @ Queen Bee's
  • Comedy Night @ Lestat's
  • Jeff Moore's Witchdoctors @ Patrick's ll
  • Missy Andersen @ Valley View Casino
  • Tomcat Courtney @ Le Gran Tapa
  • Tommy Price & The Stilettos @ Henry's Pub
  • Doug Allen, Suzy Bongo @ The Kraken
  • The Squirming Coils, The Werks @ Winston's
  • Friends Chill @ Whistle Stop
  • Ron's Trio @ McP's Irish Pub
  • Purple Faze Band, Run Hit Run @ Stage Saloon
  • Karaoke @ Kensington Club
  • Stress Free Standup Comedy @ U-31
  • Steve Payne @ Davina's Cabo Grill

New Video: Archery For The Blind "Perils of Pauline"

My friends in Archery For The Blind just sent this video over to me and I'm digging it. You can check out more about the band here.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Jesse LaMonaca's Left Coast Sunshine Tour- Fall 2010


Late last summer, Jesse LaMonaca, at the suggestion of friends and family, decided to take trip to Australia. He booked ten shows and with the help of those close to him and a Canon T2i camera, he was off to the Other Side of the World. Since his return and in between his crazy busy performance schedule, he's been working with Aaron Browning of Flicker Fusion Video to compile some video diary webisodes of the adventure. The videos are FINALLY done, as is the live video shoot of the song that came from that journey, "Other Side of The World" at Lost Ark Studios in Pacific Beach.

"Other Side of the World" Live at Lost Ark Studios:


All three episodes are embedded after the jump. Go to JesseLaMonaca.com for more info, videos, photos, and free downloads of four tracks from the Dirty Thursday podcast he did about a month ago.

Episode 1-San Diego To Sydney


Episode 2-Western Australia to Melbourne


Episode 3- Back To Sydney


Things To Do In San Diego: May 23, 2011

I'm writing this at 3:43 in the morning and I already have a case of the Mondays. boo. At least there's a lot to look forward to this week, particularly Noah & The Whale on Tuesday. It's gonna be busy regardless, so hopefully I can snap out of my funk. Hopefully your Monday kicks off well.
Monday May 23, 2011:
  • Anti-Monday League Presents: Devin The Dude, Black Resumes @ Casbah
  • Jaill, Mrs. Magician, The Speculators @ Soda Bar
  • Monday Dance Party w/ The Schitzophonics. Unruly Bangs, Jet Kill Radio, Interrobang @ Eleven
  • Make Believe Monday w/ Stevie & The Hi-Stax, DJ Mean Hands @ Bar Pink
  • Good Camping, David Liebe Hart, John Kilduff @ Tin Can
  • Foundation, Mother of Mercy, Stick Together, Dead In The Dirt, Xibalba @ Che Cafe
  • April Ventura @ Riviera Supper Club
  • Dirty Mondays w/ DJ Gabe Vega @ The Saloon (Encinitas)
  • Massakro, Clepto, Eukarist @ Ruby Room
  • Michele Lundeen @ Humphrey's Backstage Live
  • Danny Green Jazz trio @ Lyceum Theatre noon
  • Taking Back Monday w/ Special Guests, Rotating DJs @ U-31
  • Open Mic @ Lestat's
  • Club MAW @ Henry's Pub
  • Doug Allen, Susie Bongo @ The Kraken
  • Chet Cannon & The Committee @ Patrick's II
  • Three Chord Justice @ Bar Leucadian
  • Electric Waste Band @ Winston's
  • Pro-Invitational Blues Jam Hosted by Mystery Train @ O'Connell's
  • Monday Night Mic @ Club Kadan
  • Mellow Mondays w/ DJ Mello D @ House of Blues Voodoo Stage
  • Dave Scott @ Croce's
  • Karaoke @ Coyote Bar & Grill
  • Electro Mondayz @ 710 Beach Club

SESAC & Planet LA Records Showcase: Josh Damigo, May 22, 2011




I just got back from LA and wanted to post some quick photos of the night. Last week I saw Josh Damigo post that he was playing at the Troubadour. To me, if any of my friends are playing the legendary stage, I'd love to support, and in this case, at the last hour, his friend Madeline offered a ride up (the magic of Twitter!). Within an hour, Mike Beebe and I were running last minute errands (I needed cash, doggles needed food) and we were in the back of Maddie's Jetta with her friend Johnathan heading to LA.

Fortunately we mostly avoided traffic and made it up quite swiftly, arriving by 6:45 for the would be 7pm set. Doors didn't actually open until about 7:20, but we all got in and enjoyed Josh who played a set that included "Pocket Change", "LA Is Not My Home" (appropriately buffered so as not to offend the LA crowd), "Cougar", and a few others. Josh even got the LA crowd to sing and clap along for his songs...a rare feat indeed. Because it was a showcase, the lineup was a mixed bag of acoustic, rock, and a band who seems to only write songs about sex, pot, and strippers, but Josh definitely left an impression on the crowd and the venue and I have to say, seeing my friend own that stage with those glowing blue "TROUBADOUR" letters above him made me so proud of where he's been and where he's going.

There are a few more pictures after the jump. (Click 'keep on reading' at the bottom of this post.) Huge thanks to Alysia for the hookup. I owe ya one!

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Yeasayer at the Belly Up- May 21, 2011


Last night was the long awaited and sold out Yeasayer show at the Belly Up. I went up with Elliott and we got there just as Hush Hush was starting and made our way up front where Jeff and Nate were hanging out. There is so much to tell you about this show that it's going to get two posts. This one is just the snapshot...my photos, video, and a series of tweets from throughout the night. The next one will have photos from Nate, as well as a joint dialog about what turned out to be a pretty crazy night. I mean, I go to a ton of shows and I'm used to getting in some shit on occasion, but tonight was just beyond.

I was really looking forward to this show for a long time...the band's last show here was at the Casbah in 2008. My friend Jake had been on the road with them as a sound tech or tour manager (not sure which) for a couple tours and basically made me believe they wouldn't be coming back to our market as long as they could help it. But they finally returned and kicked off the tour here in San Diego.

Here are some nuggets from the night. The tweets are from me (@sddialedin), Elliott (@Phone_Home), and some random people I found on search. It might also be relevant that I mention we didn't ever leave our spots and Elliott, Nate and I were all dead sober. I'll also apologize in advance for the video...between the brawling and the lighting and working next to Nate and working around his lens, and trying to be discreet, there's a lot of bad framing and shaking and such. Sounds pretty good though...


Yeasayer! Now! Yesssss!!!!! (via @chriscotetws)

About to watch @yeasayer blow up the Belly Up! So stoked!! #musicmakesmehappy (via @ACTIONSPORTSLAW)

Surprised at how many rich white kids are here at the @Yeasayer concert @BellyUpMusic #ohwait #noimnotsurprised (via @phone_home)

I now know why @BellyUpMusic is the best venue in San Diego... @Yeasayer is about to go off! (via @BrandonStella)


To see all of the videos, click the right or left arrows.


More photos and tweets after the jump. Click 'keep on reading' at the bottom of the post.

Poor Nate. Too nice to fend off the fondling drunk girl who dropped her airplane liquor bottles @BellyUpMusic. #ElbowsUp (via @sddialedin)

Poor photographer, drunk chick is just hanging all over him as he's trying to get a shot cc:@BellyUpMusic @Yeasayer @sddialedin (via @phone_home)




Drunk girl is earning the ire of @sddialedin. This can't end well...(via @phone_home)

I see where this is gonna go. I'm gonna be the "mind your boundaries" girl; she's gonna be the "it's a concert; I'm just dancing" girl.(via @sddialedin)

This crowd sucks. Glad I am not the only one suffering ha!(via DM from @chinoluxa)


Well now a fight broke out between some asshole and the poor photographer from before. #notinthehoodyo (via @phone_home)

Holy shit. Random dude just tried to fight Nate. Didn't see that coming. He's outtie. I took some punches to the wrist. Who's next? #brawler (via @sddialedin)

It was hard to fight with a camera in his hand, but that photographer took those shots like a champ. #gangsta (via @phone_home)


Aaaand Drunk Ashley returns. Actually, I bet she's an Ashleigh. Just because we shook hands doesn't mean I won't throw elbows. (via @sddialedin)

Now some drunk geriatric hipsters are all rubbing up on @sddialedin... not her night.(via @phone_home)

Didn't expect as much douchey moshing at the Yeasayer concert. I had to throw some elbows like I was at a metal concert. (via @egaal)

OH from drunk chick bumping into me constantly: "I don't even know if i like them" #thengtfoplease (via @phone_home)


Yeasayer kicked ass! (via @ericagharrell)

@Yeasayer live @BellyUpMusic, so freaking awesome! (via @Odette_Alvarez)

@Yeasayer rocked @BellyUpMusic tonite! Sound system was awesome, loud but vocals were crystal clear! (via @kurisub)

Amazing show, just the general assholery of the crowd became intolerable at a certain point. cc:@sddialedin @Yeasayer (via @phone_home)

Setlist, blocked punches, elbows thrown, and I think I made that girl cry. Thanks @Yeasayer! (via @sddialedin)

Eventful evening at Belly Up- near fight with some random jackass (hat tip to Rosemary Bystrak for blocking some punches), three hours of aggressive fondling courtesy of the drunk girl behind me, my first band-issued photo pass and a kick ass show by the sensational Yeasayer. Good times.(via Nate Vandermeulen/Facebook)


Hush Hush


Smith Westerns