Monday, December 31, 2012

NYE @ The LaFayette #LFNYE

OK kids, last minute scoop for The Lafayette New Year's Eve Party:

The event is SOLD OUT.

Hotel guests can begin check-in at 7pm. All room guests must be present for wristbands.

General will-call/guest list opens at 8:30. Have your ID's ready for security and keep them out to expedite will-call check in. Your entire group should be together for faster check-in.

SET TIMES:

Essex Room:
The Creepy Creeps 11:45
Shake Before Us 10:30

Mississippi Room:
Little Hurricane 11:45
Get Back Loretta 10:30
Blackout Party 9:30

Lobby/Veranda:
Creepxotica 9:15
The Heavy Guilt Trio 10:15
The Amandas 11:30

Hashtag for the event is #LFNYE. Follow me on twitter @sddialedin for updates.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Things To Do In San Diego: December 31, 2012-January 1, 2013

It is the last day of 2012, and I don't know about you but I have SO.MUCH.TO.DO today before heading over to the Lafayette Hotel for the SOLD OUT party. I'll catch you up on a bunch of other stuff later, but for now will just say once again, thanks to everyone who made 2012 such an amazing year. It started off pretty shady but every reader, friend, family member, venue, and contributor to this site helped things turn around in a big way and I'm forever in your debt. Darren and I will both be working tonight, but we'll get our fix on New Year's Day and I can't even begin to guess what 2013 will bring. Love to you all. Be safe tonight. (Archives after the jump)

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Rock n Roll Circus at the Che Cafe!


Clear your calendars for January 5th! help us start the new year right!
A special message from Tan Sister Radio!

We are Tan Sister Radio and, with the help of our friends at Clever Void, this is our rock and roll circus.This is the first of a monthly series of festivals celebrating the underground arts culture of San Diego, curated by your friends at Tan Sister Radio. We've grown up in the city's culture and seen some of the amazing artists, musical and otherwise, who go unnoticed. We're putting them all under the same roof, for all to notice.Saturday, January 5th. 2013$5
LINEUP:Tan Sister Radio (https://www.facebook.com/tansisterradio)Requiem for the Rockets (https://www.facebook.com/RequiemfortheRockets)Big Bad Buffalo (http://www.facebook.com/iwasamanonce)Meraki (http://www.facebook.com/merakimusic)
also featuring:Sledding With Tigers acoustic set (https://www.facebook.com/sleddingwithtigers)the art of Bleu Avina (http://www.bleuavina.com/murals.html)the photography of Andy Siannthe culinary talents of Andrew Velascoand more!
On the first Saturday of every month, we will be banding together the best of San Diego arts culture, in our humble opinion. We're not bounding it by genre or scene. We're trying to unite all the best of San Diego under a single roof, the roof of the Che Cafe. It is a circus of San Diego talent, a band of like and right minded humans, our Rock and Roll circus.-Tan Sister Radio




Thursday, December 27, 2012

Alt-J w/ Wildcat! Wildcat! @ Casbah- 12.13.12

Photobucket

Fresh off of their Mercury Prize award for 2012 Album of the Year, Leeds natives Alt-J made a stop at the Casbah in benefit of the exceptional An Awesome Wave.  Second time in SD, first as headliners and they did not disappoint.  The toned down yet exquisitely performed set included the entirety of their debut album as well as a new track- Buffalo- which was a sure sign of more good things to come.  Continue below for a few more select photos from their set, as well as some of opener Wildcat! Wildcat! (or click here for the full set).

Things To Do In San Diego: December 27-30 2012

I spent the day after Christmas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with Darren and his family. It was raining in the morning, but I'd studied the Doppler radar on Weather.com and was convinced that by the time we got there around 10 or 11, that the rain would mostly be gone and we'd have an enjoyable day at the park, while Darren was convinced the park would be packed wall to wall with people. We were both right in a way, though the crowds came later in the afternoon after we were able to enjoy the wide open spaces of the park and  eventually took a late afternoon tram without a wait. Mostly I was happy to escape the post-Christmas mayhem at malls and stores and just have some fun times meeting his mom and nephews, acting like a kid and splashing puddles with Nova, and eventually taking a night off from shows and bars and enjoying some Pinot Noir in my pajamas as I got around to ignored emails and looking over the next week of listings, courtesy of Jordan, Tennessee, and Jeff. It has been a great relaxing week and though I feel compelled to write some deep and lengthy year end wrap-up, I think I'll save a diary post for another time and I really don't have any lists of good, bad, and ugly, mostly because my life is so saturated with great music that to single out the best, I know I would completely omit far too many worthy of accolades. Maybe I'll get around to something of the sort, but for now I'll just say that this year has blown my mind, from the low-lows I experienced at the start of the year to the incredible and unexpected highs I've experienced through the latter half of the year and just say I am grateful for all of it, for all of you, and I hope that we can all get through the crazy shit life throws our way and end up on the other side. It might not all be rainbows and unicorns all the time, but life can be pretty damn awesome if you let it be so.  Thursday through Sunday archives are after the jump.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 25-27, 2012

I hope your week has been as awesome as mine was. Friday night was great up at the Belly Up with Dead Feather Moon, The Heavy Guilt, and Trouble In The Wind, on Saturday I hit the tennis courts with Darren for the first time since my crutches, checked out Japandi at Soda Bar, went on a nice bike ride then worked at the X show at the Casbah. Last night was pretty awesome with some family time followed by another amazing Exile On Kettner Boulevard. We're about to have our Christmas feast in a moment, but I wanted to update the listings a little. I generally post bars open on Christmas but didn't get around to it, but I believe that the Ken Club, Bar Pink, and Whistle Stop are all open later this evening, and Mike told me that Local Habit and Toronado are open as well. I hope everyone has a very merry Christmas.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Bah Humbug! (Anti-Christmas Music For Your Ears)



You all know how much I love Christmas, but as it gets closer and I realize I've pretty much spent all my money and still have gifts to buy and the thought of going shopping anywhere is pretty much the worst idea ever. I'm pretty lucky to not have any major holiday stress but I know some of you might be pulling your hair out so here's a little gift. Every year, I get a lot of Christmas music sent to me but this is easily my favorite Anti-Christmas song in a long time. It's called "Santa Is An Asshole" by Erin McKeown.
This song comes from Erin's Anti-Holiday Album, "F*ck That!" It’s the world’s first anti-capitalist, pro-queer, suspicious of christmas-as-patriotism, sex-positive, not safe for work, multi-ethnic, radical leftist Anti-Holiday record. There is nothing redeeming about christmas in any of these 10 songs. Please note this album contains adult language and themes completely inappropriate for children. On purpose.

PLEASE NOTE: from now until new years, i’ll be donating 20% of every purchase of F*ck That (cd, digital, hymnal, packaged etc) to Occupy Sandy as they coordinate relief efforts in NY and NJ. here’s your chance to be a responsible scrooge and give to a very important cause.
 I think I will put up the old Christmas tab and maybe this weekend I can add all the Christmas stuff I've received over the past two weeks. Keep an eye out for that.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 20-24, 2012

On Wednesday night I was working at Brick By Brick for the High On Fire show. It was a Casbah presents show, so I was working the door, but as I worked, I had my laptop and had put together all of the listings that Jordan and Jeff provided, but I never actually posted them. Such is December, we get sidetracked so easily, so much is going on and there are so many things pulling us in different directions, but hopefully you take the time to take a step back and enjoy the spirit of the season, whether that's celebrating Christmas or Hannukah or just enjoying friends and family as the temperatures drop and make it tempting to just curl up under a blanket. It's also a good time to reach out to those around you who might be alone for the holidays. There are plenty of ways to engage and enjoy the season, and the music scene is still here for you. If you're still looking for last minute gifts, the Casbah dropped merch prices through Christmas Eve (not valid for online orders). Hoodies are $30, Tees are $12, and our new Koozies are $3.50. Archives Listings through next week are after the jump, supposing we survive the apocalypse.

Weekend Kickoff: Dead Feather Moon @ Belly Up Friday December 21, 2012

The year has nearly come to an end, literally and also when it comes to looking for touring bands to visit San Diego. This happens each and every year but has an upside since local bands bridge the gap until the tour cycle renews itself in 2013. Three of San Diego's best will be gathering this Friday at the Belly Up in Solana Beach. Headlining will be none other than North County's alt-rockers Dead Feather Moon. This band has been gathering steam since its formation in 2007, led by guitarist/vocalist Justen Berge. Their debut full length album, Dark Sun, won the award for Best Alternative Album this year at the San Diego Music Awards.

The middle band performing will be The Heavy Guilt, currently in the studio preparing their third album, due to be released next spring. Tireless writer/member Al Howard formed the band as a way of expressing his passion for life and the city in which he lives. All six members form a cohesive unit of folk driven rock and roll. Their performances are always inspiring.

Opening the "locals only" night are Carlsbad based rockers Trouble In the Wind, led by vocalist Robby Gira. This band has a loyal and passionate following, and this becomes clearly evident once one sees them perform. The young quartet recently took home the prize for Musicpalooza's Best Musical Talent at the San Diego County Fair. A great way to start the night, if I do say so myself. There is no better way to support local music than at a show featuring three of San Diego's finest bands.

Watch a video of Lion Heart (The Brother) below.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 17-19, 2012

So I never got around to modifying the weekend listings because they were pretty complete and turns out there wasn't really anything special to add. I personally had a great weekend and I hope that you did, too. Things are gonna slow down a bit as far as touring acts go, but get out and support some of the great local talent that abounds to entertain you through the holidays. Don't forget ticket prices for New Years Eve at the Lafayette are going to keep going up and rooms are running out, so don't wait. Monday through Wednesday archives are after the jump.

Holidays Rule

I hate to disappoint my readers who think I'm always scouring the internet for new music and am on top of everything that comes out. The truth is that when I'm working at home, I'm generally tuned into one of the government access channels on TV (C-Span, California Channel, Local Government Channel), KPBS through MusicChoice, or the Adult Alternative station, also on MusicChoice. I feel it's getting my value out of the nearly $200 I pay for my Cox bundle. To be honest, I only like about 65% of the music on the latter, but it's unimposing and helps me get my work done. Tonight I heard a track, however, that made me pay attention because I recognized the voice as Andrew Bird and love holiday music, in this case, the song was "Auld Lang Syne". Apparently the record is called Holidays Rule and features several artists with their own take on the holidays. It also appears that it was released by Starbucks, so maybe when you're ordering your triple skinny egg nog latte, you can pick it up. Or, you can just stream it on Spotify. This oughta get me in the mood for Jungle Bells at the zoo, which kicked off on Saturday, and means lots of lights and longer hours at the zoo, which will be open until 8pm nightly through January 6, with the exception of Christmas Eve and Christmas.

Friday, December 14, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 14-16, 2012

I came home to a plumbing crisis that I really have to deal with right now, so I haven't combed Facebook and my other sources for anything beyond my standard venue list (thank you, Jordan!). If I missed things, feel free to email me. I don't need any crazy information, just the listing in the format and I'll add it. I already have the first part of next week, too, but I'll post them over the weekend when I have the chance to update everything at once. Incidentally, I think I found a fossilized dead mouse while investigating my plumbing. I cannot wait for my superhero to arrive in the morning.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

FM 94/9 Session with Alt-J @ Iacon Sound Studio, 12.13.2012

 I have been looking forward to tonight's Alt-J show at the Casbah for some time. Tickets were selling well, but the day after the band won the coveted Mercury Prize the show sold out and I have to say I haven't seen so many old friends come out of the woodwork, all to ask if I have some magical hook-up for the show. Sorry, kids, the list has been full for a long time and I can't help ya. Unfortunately, I found out yesterday that I will be working tonight, which is cool because The Sword at Brick By Brick will be awesome, too, and that one just sold out, so it will be a fun night, but still, I'll be missing Alt-J.

That's why when Pyles asked me if I wanted to come to an Alt-J session at Iacon Sound Studio in Golden Hill, my face totally lit up. It isn't a full show with the full band, but it will have to do because, well, it's Christmas and this girl has to work when I can. 

Iacon Sound was formerly Black Box, and Sulo King has taken over and it is beautiful and open for business, by the way. They have six rehearsal rooms plus the live room, a vocal room, and if you rent rehearsal space, they're available 24/7, which means when you get the inkling to rehearse at 3:30 in the morning, you can do so. 


Anyway, today's session was attended by a bunch of FM 94/9 folks as well as some listeners and it was pretty damn awesome. We were told that this was the first time they had ever done something like this for radio, so it made it all the more special. The three video playlist is below.  (The station shot much better photos and video, so be sure to check out their site here.)

Photos: Paul Banks w/ The Neighbourhood @ HOB

Photobucket

Rosey got a jump on the review already, so here's a few more pix to go with the evening.  After The Neighbourhood cleared the stage, Paul Banks and his accompanying three-piece powered through a mix of songs from the new LP Banks and a few from the Julian Plenti era including crowd favorites from Julian Plenti Is... Skyscraper. Musically, it was a great performance.  However, he won't be winning any awards for his stage presence any time soon (though when you have a voice like his, maybe jumping all over the stage isn't high on the priority list).  That, no photo pit and the lowest lighting I've experienced at HOB didn't make for very dynamic photos, but there were no complaints at the end of the night, especially considering the show ended with rocker 'Games For Days'.  Click here for a full set from the show and here for other concert photography.

The Neighbourhood:

Photobucket

Photobucket

Paul Banks:

Photobucket

Photobucket

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Wednesday Night: Public Enemy @ House of Blues - TICKET GIVEAWAY

We just rolled out of our weekly Casbah meeting and my phone rings. My buddy Chuck D is calling to tell me that Public Enemy is in town tonight and and he's busting my balls to try and drum up some awareness of the show since it was moved from 4th & B and asks if I want to give some tickets away. Of course, I say, I'd be happy to!!

Okay, so hopefully it is obvious that Chuck D is not my buddy and did not call me and did not bust my balls, but I did get an email from a friend and I DO in fact have tickets to giveaway to the show tonight. So here's the skinny:

Public Enemy at the House of Blues with X-Clan, Monie Love, Schoolly D, Leaders of the New School, Wise, Son of Bazerk & No Self Control, Awesome Dre, Davy DMX, DJ Johnny Juice

TONIGHT! 12/12/12 
7pm
21+ 
TICKETS: $27.50 + service charge BUY NOW
(or buy at the box office)

Things To Do In San Diego: December 12-13, 2012

Last night I was thinking about getting out a diary post, but as I was looking over the past month (my last entry ended on 11/12), I realized that I have been keeping up to date in each of my headers for the listings. So maybe I'll write one later and cram way too much stuff that nobody cares about into a post, but for now, here's some Casbah stuff you should care about: besides Alt-J, there aren't currently any sold out shows, but X tickets are almost gone, we expect both shows with The Growlers to sell out, and tickets to The Sword on Thursday at Brick By Brick are selling swiftly, too.  The most important thing I need to tell you is that the Lafayette Hotel is already 50% sold out for room packages. If you plan on getting a room, or hanging out with friends who get a room, YOU MUST buy your NYE tickets through the hotel reservation desk. Last year sold out a couple weeks in advance of the party and we expect the same this year. Save money and buy tickets/reserve hotel packages now. Click that little banner at the top of the page (or if you're on mobile, click here). Wednesday and Thursday archives are after the jump.

Video: Kopecky Family Band @ Soda Bar

A week ago the Soda Bar was alive with the sounds of Kopecky Family Band. The Nashville based group was in San Diego a year ago, opening for GIVERS at the Casbah, and it was great to see them again. Jeff wrote a great piece last week, but in case you're unfamiliar, here's their latest record, Kids Raising Kids.



I haven't pulled out my camera at a show in a while, so I thought I'd share some videos. Sorry, they're without titles, but they'd never see the light of day if you had to wait on me to go through and edit all of them. 

Paul Banks X-Session and House of Blues with The Neighbourhood

Photo by Justin McKee, 91X
Last week San Diego was graced with the ultra-cool and charming stylings of Paul Banks, the notable baritone of Interpol who has also recorded under the name Julian Plenti. His latest effort, Banks, released in late October, though largely ignored by commercial radio, is getting plenty of critical praise and play on other outlets like Sirius and Slacker. Still, it is curious to me that Interpol could sell out such massive venues, but those same fans were hardly found at his show at the House of Blues. That was fine by me because the show was awesome and the normally overcrowded venue was comfortable and full of fans devoted to the energy of the show.

Earlier that same afternoon, Banks performed at the 91X Studios for an X-Session and it was pretty cool to be there to check it out. The three songs he performed, "Young Again", "Summertime Is Coming", and my favorite, "Over My Shoulder".



The show at the House of Blues was opened by The Neighbourhood out of Thousand Oaks. Their look defied their sound, and I enjoyed their performance. It was kinda one of those situations where I should've paid better attention to their set because there was one song I particularly loved, but it doesn't look like it's on their EP. You can check out their latest single below.



I had a photo pass for the night, but there was no photo pit, so I took just a few snapshots of the night. You can see more on my Facebook page here.

Paul Banks Setlist:


The Neighbourhood

Add caption

It was a totally fun day...thanks Robin Roth for the X-Session invite and to Mike Halloran for letting me hang out in the studio while I waited for my superhero boyfriend to pick me up.

It was pretty great, too, because the show ended early enough to make it to the Casbah for Hot Snakes and Night Marchers. Not too shabby for a Monday night, right?

More photos after the jump. Incidentally, Nate was there shooting, too, so I'm sure he'll be posting much better photos of the night sometime soon.


Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 11, 2012

Nesting. That's the only way I can explain my lack of posting lately. Now that it's a bit colder at night and I'm spending time at home, I've been trying, albeit slowly, to unpack boxes that have been laying around since I moved into this place in May. I think it's a bit of a mental somersault to finally call this place HOME, but that also means a lot less time on my laptop. I usually try to compensate for the lack of writing full posts with intermittent tweets and facebook commentary while I'm at shows, but even that can be tedious (and really annoying to the people around me). Or maybe there have just been so many great shows lately that I didn't want to interrupt them with my BlackBerry commentary. Whatever it is, things have been really great and I will get around to oversharing when I have a chance, but there are a bunch of new shows announced at the Casbah so I better get back to updating that calendar before I can even think about sharing videos and photos from the past couple weeks. Wednesday and Thursday listings Tuesday archives are after the jump.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Event Reminder: The Mountain Goats @ The Irenic Monday December 10, 2012

Tonight is loaded with many live music options here in San Diego. I cannot think of a better way to start the evening with none other than the prolific songwriter/performer John Darnielle. He is better known as The Mountain Goats, whether alone or with a band (tonight). It is hard to believe this band, which started as a bedroom project, has been in existence for over 20 years. While professing to be far from a skilled guitarist, John is proficient in a capacity which suits his style, which is a passionate form of story telling with seemingly no subject being out of bounds. The Mountain Goats recently released their second album from Merge Records, Transcendental Youth. This is as good a starting place as any for those unfamiliar with Mr. Darnielle to discover why this band has developed such a rabid and loyal following.

A reminder for those planning to attend tonight's show: This is a Casbah Presents show at The Irenic in North Park, doors are at 7 pm with the opener, Matthew E. White, starting around 7:30. Beer and wine will be on sale for those 21 and older. This is an all ages show and tickets will be available for purchase at the door ($20).

Watch a video of Cry For Judas below.


Thursday, December 06, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 6-10, 2012

It occurred to me that I haven't really posted in a few days. While Elliott and Jeff and Jordan  and Nate have been posting and handling listings, I've been more hands off lately. The Casbah is keeping me busy and I feel myself going into the inevitable nesting mode for the holidays when I'm home, and there are shows galore keeping me busy, so I'll have photos and video to post soonish. My studio is too small for a Christmas tree, but that doesn't mean I'm not in the spirit, so I'll hopefully make a trip to storage (aka mom & dad's house) to retrieve some of my holiday motif this weekend, too. I'm really looking forward to the next few days...with David Bazan tonight, Wrex The Halls tomorrow, hopefully last minute tickets to Metric on Saturday, and O'Death on Sunday. There's all kinds of fun neighborhood holiday stuff, too, as well as Bike The Boulevard and December Nights. I have no idea when I'll actually sleep but I'm sure I'll fit that in somewhere. Friday through Monday archives are after the jump. Let me know if I missed anything.

Wednesday, December 05, 2012

ET's Pick: David Bazan @ the Casbah December 6th

David Bazan

Back in my “Christian Rock is the only rock” days, I had a particular fondness for the Christian ska band Five Iron Frenzy. I actually still do, but that’s another story. Anyways, I always loved reading the liner notes of every CD of theirs and they always thanked the band Pedro the Lion. I never made any effort to seek out this band for a while and, by the time I did, Pedro the Lion was long gone. All that remained was David Bazan and that has been more than fine.

Tomorrow night, if you were so lucky to get tickets to the sold out show at the Casbah, David Bazan will be playing Pedro the Lion’s classic album “Control” in its entirety in celebration of its 10 year anniversary. David Bazan has come through San Diego many times in the past few years and has played some wonderful shows with various themes. He has played intimate acoustic sets in living rooms and brought searing jams to the Casbah. All the while playing songs from the prolific songwriter’s back catalog. But tomorrow night, it will be all “Control” and I can barely contain my excitement.

For a taste, check out David Bazan playing “Magazine” at the Casbah three years ago (which, coincidentally, was my first time seeing a show at my favorite venue). Tickets are sold out and Stagnant Pools is opening.

-ET (@phone_home)

 

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 4-5, 2012

It was just brought to my attention that it is 9 in the morning. I've been up all night...after the Paul Banks show at the House of Blues I went to the Casbah in time for Night Marchers and Hot Snakes. But that wasn't enough, so I closed down the night at Eleven, inventing a drink (Knot Vanilla Whiskey + Fireball + Ginger Ale =Rosey Christmas). Then I came home and reorganized my closet, cleaned the house, sorted through 300 email, all while catching up on the new season of Top Chef. The truth is I was just finding excuses to be awake when my boyfriend arrived. He has made me aware that it is 9 am, and I should cringe, but at least I accomplished some things in the time that I was waiting, but now I am going to shut this computer down now so I can get to my Tuesday. (I'll sleep later at some obnoxious afternoon hour.) Seems like a good day to hit Balboa Park and the Zoo. I should mention that the Casbah is closed tonight because we have our employee photo, but if you want to come to Death Grips tomorrow, at this moment there are exactly 35 tickets left. If you want to come to David Bazan, there are 14 tickets left. Seriously. Don't wait. Tuesday and Wednesday archives are after the jump.

Monday, December 03, 2012

Jeff's Weekly Pick: Kopecky Family Band @ Soda Bar Wednesday December 5, 2012

Nashville has become home to countless bands of every musical genre. Six piece Kopecky Family Band bring their brand of folk infused indie rock to San Diego this Wednesday with a headlining gig at Soda Bar. Currently on tour promoting their sophomore release, Kids Raising Kids, the band maintains an upbeat attitude which is readily evident in their music. Playing various instruments and sharing vocals on many songs keeps the music interesting throughout the record (performance). I believe this marks the first time as headliners here, and the reward is well deserved. Five years of hard work seems to be paying off, and there is no telling how far Kopecky Family Band have yet to grow in the future. Be sure to catch them while you still can in an intimate setting. Tickets for the show can be purchased here.

Sir Sly and Sundrop Electric set the stage.

Watch a video of Heartbeat below.

Saturday, December 01, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: December 1-3, 2012

I hope everyone had a great week and jumped on all of those tickets that went onsale at the Casbah on Friday, but don't forget to buy tickets to the Casbah's NYE show at the Lafayette that go onsale today. There will be room packages that we'll be announcing early next week, too, so if you think you might want a room, hold off on tickets until those packages are posted. I don't know about you, but this week was pretty awesome and since I've already tweeted and facebooked and foursquared my adventures, let me just say that next time it is slightly drizzly in the afternoon, do yourself a favor and go to the zoo. Today Darren and I went and it was nearly empty and it isn't often that you get the amazing sound of rain on that beautiful botanical tree canopy. We caught the second to last skyfari back to the front and it was just stunning. Anyway, this weekend is full of family holiday fun as well as great shows, so don't let the rain keep you from enjoying this city. Sunday through Monday archives are after the jump.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Monday Night Preview- Paul Banks @ House of Blues

Photo Credit- Helena Christensen

This Monday night, Paul Banks (aka Julian Plenti, aka lead singer of Interpol) returns to San Diego with his eponymous act in benefit of his new album Banks.  Thousand Oaks, CA- based The Neighbourhood opens.  More from Matador Records:
 
Paul Banks, lead singer and guitarist for Interpol, finally steps fully out from behind his Julian Plenti alter-ego on his second solo album, Banks.  Following this summer’s limited-edition Julian Plenti Lives... EP, Banks is a tour-de- force of exhilarating minor-key intensity.

Banks was recorded in New York and Connecticut with producer Peter Katis (Interpol, The National, Shearwater, Jónsi...).  The album is both personal and epic, catchy and serpentine - much like your favorite Interpol albums - with Paul's wry humor, bare emotion, and varied influences all in full effect.  

Tickets available through the HOB website here or at the box office- doors @ 6:30, show starts @ 7:30.  See you there! 

More Casbah Show Announcements

I feel like a Christmas Elf today because I have spent the majority of my afternoon adding shows to the Casbah's website and there is SO.MUCH.GOOD.STUFF!! Many of these shows are already on sale, but a few of them will go on sale tomorrow at 10am. The New Years Eve show at the Lafayette will go on sale on Saturday.

Here's a rundown of shows that have been added to the Casbah's website:

Dec 20 - Dublin Mob XXXmas with Royal Crown Revue, Stephen Rey and the Sex Trash, Hands Down South $15 TICKETS

Dec 23 - X, My Jerusalem $35 TICKETS

Dec 20 - Dublin Mob XXXmas with Royal Crown Revue, Stephen Rey and the Sex Trash, Hands Down South $15 TICKETS

Dec 27 - Louis XIV $15 Onsale Fri Nov 30



NEW YEARS EVE:

Dec 31 - Steve Poltz and Friends $15/20 TICKETS

Dec 31 at the Lafayette Hotel: Little Hurricane, Get Back Loretta, Blackout Party, Shake Before Us and guests 8pm
Tickets:
$15 for 1 week beginning Dec 1
Dec 8 - $25
Dec 15 - $30
Dec 22 - $35
Dec 29 - $40


Jan 4 - Uncle Joe's Big Ol' Driver, Fluf, Black Hondo, Ghetto Blaster $10/12 TICKETS


Jan 16 - The London Souls $10/12 TICKETS


Feb 6 - That 1 Guy $12 TICKETS


Feb 10 - Big Freedia $14 TICKETS


Feb 20 - Buke and Gase,Aleuchatistas $10 TICKETS


Feb 28 - Electric Six announce today/onsale Fri Nov 30 $14 TICKETS


Mar 8 - Why?, Astronautilus, Dream Tiger $18 @ The Irenic All Ages 7pm TICKETS


Mar 30 - Veronica Falls, Brilliant Colors $10 TICKETS

Pay Attention San Diego: Upcoming Shows

I realize that I am lucky to work a life I love. Being on the inside of information at the Casbah still gives me a little tug of "is this reality?"  Sometimes this also means that you benefit when I get to give you little sneak peeks at our music goodness. The Casbah has some really great shows in December, and we're actually doing presales for a couple of them. Later today we'll be announcing two New Years Eve shows for you, but for now, we have a couple presales you might wanna get a jump on...

Click below to get tickets for some Big Deal shows coming to the Casbah:

December 23: X, My Jerusalem $35-  Presale Thursday 10am-Friday 10am

December 27: Louis XIV, The Howls, Boy King  $15- Presale Thursday 10am-Friday 10am 

Please Donate, Only a Couple of Days Left

Donate Here

I am not going to lie I cannot wait until I get to shave this thing off of my face, I will have it for a couple of more days.  I will not lie, I did receive more complements then I thought I would however my moustache will become a Wyclef Jean song if I reach my goal.  When I decided to do Movember I thought that maybe I could raise 100 dollars for prostate and testicular cancer research.  With only two days left I am almost to that goal.  Right now I have raised 95 dollars and if I could raise over 100 I will be thrilled and will do it again next year.  So please donate, if 5 readers donate one dollar each I will make the hundred dollar mark.  I want to take this time again to thank the following for donating:

Douglas Kinner
Sheila Sondergard 
Anonymous for donating without giving your identity I want to give you an extra special thank you
Amanda
Britney
Byron
Mitch
Utz
April
Jessie
Geo
Chandler

And thank you who contribute in the next couple of days and again you can DONATE HERE



Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 28-30, 2012

November is coming to an end and December is just around the corner. Josh and Jeff got the listings in early and I've been up till the wee hours of the day going through anything they might've missed. I love Christmastime and something I miss about working in an office (probably THE ONLY thing I miss about working in an office) is all of the fun holiday stuff that comes with the season. Fortunately, this city is full of freelancers and entrepreneurs and people who work in the service industry so there are many ways to celebrate the holiday season and find surrogates for gift exchanges, potlucks, and general gatherings. I'm sure there are plenty of things I still left out, but I tried to be a bit more thorough by mixing in some art shows, walkabouts, MOVEMBER mustache parties, and even a parade. Of course, as December progresses I hope to keep you up to date with all of these things while enjoying many of them with my friends and family, so if you see something missing, feel free to let me know. I'd also like to say that while we all generally shop at big box stores from time to time (not like you're buying artisan toilet paper, right?), during the holidays you can always find amazing local business, artisans, and restaurants, wineries, or breweries that have thoughtful gifts or gift certificates for services for the ones you love. Or just buy everyone you know a Casbah hoodie and your shopping is all done.

Wednesday through Friday archives are after the jump.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Under the Radar: Moon Duo @ Casbah Friday November 30, 2012

Psychedelic indie rockers Moon Duo are comprised of Eric "Ripley" Johnson (guitar) and Sanae Yamada (keyboards), forming one of San Francisco latest and most interesting spin off bands. Johnson also spends time as the lead guitarist for Wooden Shjips. Circles is the sophomore release from Moon Duo, reinforcing their signature heavy guitar riff laden sound. What separates this band from other noise/drone bands is the song structure that never gets lost during the longish length of most songs. Yamada's keyboard work plays well off her band mate, with an overall well balanced effort. Has 2012 become the new 1969?

While this band has been grouped with fellow space rockers, there seems to be a more varied offering on display here. The future looks bright for Moon Duo, and the band will be playing the Casbah this Friday. A great way to close a memorable month.

Life Coach (Phil Manley) & Wild Wild Wets set the stage.

Watch a video of Sleepwalker below.




Things To Do In San Diego: November 27, 2012

It's starting to feel like winter, at least by San Diego terms, and I've been completely content hunkering down at home, sleeping in a little bit longer in an attempt to beat back this cold that seems like it's going to knock me down the second I stop fighting. Fortunately I've got loads of vitamins, juice, and Emergen-C to fight with all I've got. I had a great weekend, hopping around town on Saturday with Abraham and friends at Whistle Stop, Bar Pink, and the Casbah, though I ended up at home on Sunday catching up on episodes of The Walking Dead before they get yanked from OnDemand. Yesterday I had a great afternoon at the San Diego Zoo and walking around Balboa Park before checking out the great performance by Three Mile Pilot at the Griffin. Today I guess I'm ready to go face the world, albeit a later start than I'd planned, but only after I update the Casbah calendar. I'm adding a bunch of shows, so check the site to see all the good stuff coming up in December and beyond. Tuesday archives are after the jump.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Other Lives w/ Indians @ Casbah- 11.04.12


A couple weeks ago Stillwater, OK- based five piece Other Lives made their return to SD and treated the sold out Casbah crowd to an outstanding set of genre bending tunes.  Danish multi-instrumentalist Indians kicked off the evening with his one man show as the sole Sunday night opener.  More words and photos below.

Monday Night: Three Mile Pilot @ The Griffin

Three Mile Pilot, Vampires @ The Griffin. Doors at 8pm, show at 9pm. $20, Buy Tickets

Monday nights are always pretty great here in San Diego because you can always trust the Tim Pyles has put something cool together for Anti-Monday League at the Casbah, but tonight you might want to switch things up a bit because Daydream Nation has returned to San Diego and is bringing some great shows including Monday night with Three Mile Pilot and Vampires. The show is $20 and when I spoke to Joe at the Griffin early on Sunday night, he mentioned that there were tickets still available but he expected the show would sell out with a walk up crowd. Why risk it? Just grab your tickets in advance and then you won't have to worry about it being sold out when you arrive. If you're one of the lucky ones with a Black Card, they'll be honored for tonight's show. Me and D will be there and you should be, too!!

Photos: SDDialedIn 6th Anniversary!

Once again, Happy 6th Anniversary to SDDialedIn and we all owe a debt of gratitude to Rosey and her tireless efforts that benefit our local San Diego music scene. It is a rare occasion that I'm at a show where I've never seen or shot any of the bands on the bill, but I'm certainly glad I had the fortune to see these bands that turned out to be a super talented lineup. After the jump are some essential shots of all four bands, or click here for a full gallery.

The Howls


Friday, November 23, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 23-26, 2012

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Mine was pretty fantastic, I have to say. I prepared some things at home and lounged until the afternoon until we went to my parents' house. My mom's feast was amazing, Darren met my dad for the first time, and I got some fun time with my nieces who got to play with Pascha for the first time in months. Johanna seemed particularly interested in the concept of her tia having a boyfriend and was calling him a prince, and I of course, his princess. There was this hilarious moment where she hugged both of us and told us she loved us, then made us kiss and then made pukey gagging noises when we did. Far too much Disney in that girl's diet, for sure. By night, we went on a bike ride through Kensington and realized we were just in time for This Must Be The Place starring Sean Penn at Ken Cinema, so we had a couple drinks at the Ken Club, took in a movie, then enjoyed some wine at home. (The movie is no longer playing, but it was fantastic nonetheless and you should see it when it's available on NetFlix or whatever). Today we avoided Black Friday and made a picnic with Thanksgiving leftovers and hung out at Morley Field where we watched some older ladies play doubles then shot some arrows at the Archery Range. Now the weekend is upon us...are you ready?  Coda Reactor will NOT be at Soda Bar tonight due to the hospitalization of their drummer with pneumonia...so best wishes to him on a speedy recovery, and I added a special weekend edition of Ken Club Karaoke for tonight. Friday through Monday archives are after the jump.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 21-22, 2012

It has been such a beautiful week and hopefully everyone gets to spend time with the ones you love for Thanksgiving. While I'm sad I can't see my niece and nephew on the east coast, I'm fortunate to have the majority of my family right here in San Diego and can't wait to bust out the stretchy pants to overindulge in turkey and ham and potatoes and pie and whatever else my family will have for the feast. Darren and I had a super week, though he's a little sick. We went on this cool little hike in the Normal Heights Open Space (who knew??), spent a day at the Safari Park, caught The Faint at House of Blues and Tamryn at the Casbah, and tonight we'll be at Anthology and maybe pop into the Casbah for a bit, too. I'm adding the weekend listings but haven't added any special events or Facebook listings. I'll try to get to those later. Wednesday & Thursday archives are after the jump. There's not a lot happening on Thanksgiving, but I tried to list some of the spots that will be open so you can unwind after your feast.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Shows Worth Feasting On

Anyone who is a regular reader of this blog knows how thorough the daily show listings are at all times. The dilemma becomes choosing those events which are more promising than others. Rather than focus on any specific show, what follows are recommendations for the upcoming week.

Tuesday November 20, 2012
Tamaryn, Young Prisms, Cathedral X @ Casbah...shoegazing at its finest...
The Faint, Trust, Casket Girls @ House of Blues...cannot go wrong on this one...

Wednesday November 21, 2012
Rachael Yamagata @ Anthology...the perfect venue for this talented performer...
Sofia Talvik @ Lestat's...Swedish singer/songwriter in an intimate venue...

Friday November 23, 2012
The Paragraphs, Trouble In the Wind @ Flying Elephant...head to North County for this one...
Unwritten Law @ House of Blues...hometown heroes hit downtown...

Saturday November 24, 2012
The Blasters @ Casbah...30 years and still going strong...
Karl Denson's Tiny Universe @ Belly Up...night #2, check out his world...

Sunday November 25, 2012
Wild Belle, Deep Sea Diver @ Casbah...Chicago siblings buzzing into town...
Delicate Steve, Dana Buoy @Soda Bar...Mr. Marion is a one man band tour de force...

In closing, just like turkey or ham (or something else), there are always musical choices here in San Diego. More importantly, get out and enjoy the shows.



Sunday, November 18, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 18-20, 2012

It doesn't happen often, but tonight I'm taking a hall pass and staying home bundled up in pajamas. The past week and weekend kicked my ass and I'm just beat. The Friday show at the Casbah was great with Generationals and Races, though I missed The Watson Twins over at the Griffin, arriving just as they ended. Saturday was awesome, too. I saw Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots and they've made some tweaks since my first viewing and it was even better the second time around. It was also pretty cool because it was media night, so along with seeing several media buddies like Tim Pyles and Chris Cantore, and Madison from KPRI, Des McAnuff and Wayne Coyne were both there and we had a cool little moment with them before the show. I followed La Jolla Playhouse with Transfer at the Casbah and it was really, really sold out and really, really fun. So yeah, I wish I had the energy to catch Al Howard's newest band, Midnight Pine at the Casbah, but I think even the Casbah is sick of seeing me since I've been there 8 of the last 10 nights. It's Thanksgiving week, so I might chill out on the posts this week, but Sunday-Tuesday archives are after the jump.

Friday, November 16, 2012

The Yes Team EP Release Party Featuring The Paragraphs, Old Tiger and DJ Man Cat! A STACHE BASH! Friday, Movember 30th


By Caitlin Prenga of AMD Entertainment: 

Gentlemen, put away those razors. Ladies, start practicing your sharpie skills. It’s time to start growing your best Movember ‘stache in preparation for A Stache Bash brought to you by AMD Entertainment and One Hart Events and hosted by The Ruby Room on Movember 30th at 8pm. Along with raising proceeds to aid in the fight against prostate cancer, we’ll be celebrating The Yes Team’s latest EP release, “Life is Good”, with special guests The Paragraphs, Old Tiger, and DJ Man Cat.   
Less than two years ago, Kinnie Dye, Jonathan Walsh, and TJ Moss manifested the power of positive thinking into the sweet, folk sounds of The Yes Team. Their affirmative thinking and sheer raw talent has already led them to win an Emmy Award, numerous songwriting contests, and several fans from the west to the east coast. Their 2011 debut EP, “Back to the Sea”, consisted of mesmerizing harmonies and fresh lyrics that effortlessly lifted the spirit of anyone listening. 

Things To Do In San Diego: November 16-17, 2012

What a week! There were so many great shows, I worked merch three times in the past week, had an incredible VIP night at Cavalia on Tuesday, and last night was super awesome and it was so great to see so many of you turn out for the sixth anniversary of this site. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for making this little thing worth doing. The bands were awesome as always, and I was truly grateful that the night went off without a hitch. Jeff sent me some listings for Thanksgiving, but if you know of other spots open that night, please feel free to send me that info. Tonight is a good night, make sure you catch Races if you're heading to the Casbah tonight...definitely a band worth keeping an eye on. Friday and Saturday archives are after the jump.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Tonight's The Night: SD:Dialed In 6 Year Anniversary at the Casbah

I am so excited for tonight! In fact, it was one of those nights where I was up all night working just so I wouldn't have the cloud of email hovering over my head. Instead of sleeping this morning, Darren and I went on a nice bike ride to test out the Biria I'm likely going to purchase. Now I'm completely wiped out and ready to catch some sleep, but in a few hours I'll be all revved up. I hope to see some friendly faces tonight at the Casbah. I also want to let you know that the SoulCal Gourmet Food Truck will be outside if you need to get some tasty grub, and if you don't feel like driving, my friends at Uber set up a promo code. If you create a new account and use the promo code "ubersddialedin", you'll get a $10 credit for your first ride in the car service and since your fare and gratuity are linked to your account, you don't have to worry about having enough cash to get home. Darren and I tested it out a couple weeks ago and it is a pretty sweet service. Hope to see you all tonight!

Thursday, November 15, 2012 at The Casbah
featuring
Burning Jet Black (formerly The Whiskey Saints)
$10
Doors 8:30pm/Show 9pm

From the San Diego Reader:

“'Opinions expressed are subject to being personal, unfunny, and full of typos.' Rosemary Bystrak, blogger and all-around all-arounder, will celebrate six years of her very excellent reportage on the San Diego scene @SD:Dialed In. I like how the colon and the big D in “Dialed” make a smiley face, just like every picture I see of her on her site. She’s a fun-lover and just about the best booster of local bands San Diego ever had. Go celebrate with Rosie tonight at Casbah, buy her a beer, and enjoy rootsy barroom rock by The Howls, Trouble in the Wind, Michael McGraw & the Butchers, and Burning Jet Black."

Things To Do In San Diego: November 15, 2012

My oh my. Last night my cable box freaked out and flashed back and was set to three hours back. I wished that it was a gift of time because there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to enjoy everything we have at our disposal. Still, when it corrected itself, I was still grateful to be living this life in this time and I am just constantly amazed by all of the greatness that abounds in this city. Of course, I hope that if you're a regular reader that you come on down to the Casbah tonight for the sixth anniversary of this site. I mean, it all started by me being a super fan-girl of local music and has evolved into so much more than I ever dreamed. I have amazing contributors who help me out with listings and show previews and beer blogs and spectacular photography and I promise to keep bringing you inside soundchecks and private shows and shooting video at the sold out ones. Anyone who says music is dying is on the wrong side of history. As long as we participate, there will be the generous givers of their souls to play for us each and every night. I hope to see so many of you tonight at the Casbah, and I thank everyone for constantly clicking and making this my life. I never take for granted that I am a lucky girl. Thursday archives are after the jump.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Jeff's Weekly Pick: A.C. Newman @ Casbah Wednesday November 14, 2012

Music is, like any art form, both highly subjective and personal. It can trigger memories from the past, mostly good and sometimes bad. When I first listened to Carl (A.C.) Newman's third solo record, Shut Down the Streets, I was mentally transported back to one of my first "indie" shows at the Casbah. Wandering into the back to say both hello and thanks to Mr. Newman after his set, it became apparent I was hooked on the music of a different generation. There is little doubt Carl has achieved far greater success fronting the Canadian band The New Pornographers than as a solo artist. It is interesting to see this musician stepping away from the band and becoming more personal on his solo records. There is a consistency of power pop sprinkled with folk relating tales about all the issues we all deal with, including death. With vocal assistance from fellow New Pornographer Neko Case, the songs sometimes change rhythm but never lose their ability to keep the listener interested. Stating that I am a fan of A.C. Newman would be an understatement. I feel he is truly one the real treasures in the indie rock world. The chance to become the newest member of his fan base happens this Wednesday at the intimate Middletown venue.

Harriet sets the stage.

Watch a video of There's Money in New Wave below.


Things To Do In San Diego: November 13-14, 2012

Beer Week is over but the good times certainly never go away. I hope everyone enjoyed Veteran's Day and can get through the short work week with lots of great stuff to keep you entertained through the weekend. I'm ecstatic to head down to opening night of Cavalia tonight, sling merch for AC Newman tomorrow, and then it's the big SD:Dialed In 6 Year Anniversary show at the Casbah on Thursday. Keep in mind it is cheaper to buy advance tickets than to wait till the day of show. I also got word that my friend Nadia will be there with the SoulCal Gourmet Food Truck, so don't eat too much before you come down so you can try their delicious grub. Things are still all unicorns and rainbows over here, and I'll try to get weekend listings up as soon as they're sent my way.  Tuesday and Wednesday archives are after the jump.

Rosey's Diary: Love Is In The Air (10/22-11/12/2012)



I was trying to keep up with these diary posts because they always seem to get really long winded, but despite the fact that I actually prepared this post after I returned from Mexico (10/28), it has been sitting in a draft format in the queue since then. My last diary post was on 10/21, and naturally there have been so many things to add since then, even beyond my little headers that I write when I post listings. I guess mostly it's long winded because I have a lot to share-as the title suggests- and it would be cheap to leave any of the good stuff out.

So yeah, as always, if you're just here for listings or show recommendations, or contests or scene news, you can skip this post entirely. On the other hand, I've learned that I essentially have three types of readers: people who have a lot of free time to read anything and everything on the web, friends who live vicariously through me and/or want to keep up with me, or people who read my writing to judge me, though hopefully there aren't too many of those. Whatever category you may find yourself, by all means, click the jump.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Donate to Movember


It's November, that means Movember! time to grow out that moustache and or donate to the cause.  For those of you that do not know what Movember is, it is a time for people to grow out their moustache's in the month of November to raise vital awareness and funds for men's health, specifically prostate and testicular cancer (you can sign up here).  Last year in 2011, Movember had over 854,000 join the cause worldwide raising 126.3 million US dollars.  I hope this year matches or beats that amount.



This is my first year doing Movember as I generally look terrible with a moustache, but my face can take a month of punishment for a good cause. Per the rules I clean shaved on November first and the current picture is from November 7th, I will put up a weekly picture so you can see the progress.  As of right now  I have raised 5 dollars,  I am glad I raised something (thank you Douglas Kiner) but I believe that I can raise much more.  I ask the sddialedin readers and community to contribute.  I don't care if you give five dollars or five hundred dollars anything helps.  To make a contribution just follow this link and I appreciative your support and I will continue to grow this moustache (hopefully into a Ron Swanson).  In addition, by contributing to my Movember page you are also contributing to team 91X.

Again you can donate here, thank you

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Bowerbirds on SoundDiego TV

Last night I worked at the Casbah, selling merch for ...And You Will Know Us From The Trail of Dead, so I didn't get a chance to see my interview with Bowerbirds air on NBC. I was hanging out with my editor and we were talking about my interview. I have not watched the clip yet, in fact I probably wouldn't embed it if I watch it first, so in case you missed it, here's the clip. I think I will have to drink a couple bottles of wine before I can actually press play and watch myself. I did get some pointers...like I should've had a mic on my hoodie so The Bowerbirds could share the stick mic, and that I should've used my arm closest to them so as not to turn my shoulder to the camera. I also felt super rushed toward the end because Strand of Oaks started soundchecking in the other room as we wrapped it up. Still, I felt okay about my first time.

I also wanted to repost my Facebook status from last night, because as Darren pointed out, it is something that is normally posted in my Diary posts and not so much on Facebook, but it was an amazing night so I thought I'd share again to anyone outside of the 10% of my friends who can actually see my facebook entries.

I couldn't have asked for a better night of work at Casbah San Diego. The tour manager, Arne, was awesome and even tipped me out at settlement (which doesn't happen often), ...And You Will Know Me From The Trail of Dead gave a stellar performance, singer Conrad was so kind and had great stories about his art and even gave me a super cool print that he drew when he was 17, I got to hang out with friends that I don't see often, I may have been offered a new writing gig with a prominent local mag, I got great feedback on my SoundDiego interview, and I got a safe ride home from my superhero boyfriend Darren Whittaker and am now just waiting for him to come over after work as I listen to the new Joshua James record.

We learned the simplest fact in one of our earliest taught nursery rhymes...."Life is but a dream."

merrily, merrily, merrily living and loving it.



View more videos at: http://nbcsandiego.com.

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 10-12, 2012

Bring on the cold! Shawn Styles is telling me that it isn't going to rain tonight, but I'll still be bundled up as I sell merch on the Casbah's patio for ...And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead. It was a pretty glorious day, Darren and I had a very late breakfast and then rode bikes through Normal Heights, Kensington, Talmadge, and City Heights enjoying the brisk 64 degree weather. I think I'm gonna buy my new bike next week and I can't wait to ride it everywhere. Mostly though, I just wanted to update the listings to remind you that I make my SoundDiego TV debut tonight! My interview with the Bowerbirds from a few weeks ago is finally going to air. SoundDiego TV airs on NBC 7/39 at 1 am, after Saturday Night Live, which should be great in the wake of the election. Saturday through Monday archives are after the jump.

SUNDAY NIGHT: Casbah Presents Those Darlins at Soda Bar

I keep telling you how busy the Casbah has been keeping me over the past couple months. I think October was a new record for the number of outside shows we put on, and this month hasn't slowed down at all. There are three Casbah Presents shows tonight (Japandroids at Porter's Pub, ...And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead at the Casbah, and Titus Andronicus at the Irenic- technically a Soda Bar show but we're helping to get the word out) and we have three more tomorrow- Minus The Bear at House of Blues, The Sea and Cake at the Casbah, and Those Darlins' at Soda Bar. There are still tickets for all six shows. Save service charges and just pay at the door, at this point it doesn't appear that any of them will sell out in presale, but definitely make plans to check out some great live music. It seems that perhaps San Diego hasn't gotten hip to the magic of Those Darlins' so I thought I'd share some quotes and music for you to check them out. Full lineups below.

“Those Darlins come off like the toughest, most dangerous group around. They deliver thrilling song after thrilling song that’ll have you hyping them to all your rock & roll friends as soon the album stops spinning.” - ALL MUSIC GUIDE

“Hooky, saucy, punky songwriting in a mood somewhere between Be Your Own Pet and the Donnas, only savvier. Those Darlins have mouths on them, yes they do. But their mouths are connected to their hearts and minds, and amped by loud guitars” - ROBERT CHRISTGAU A-, NPR’s ALL THING CONSIDERED

“an instant garage/power-pop classic that would make everyone from Iggy Pop to King Tuff proud.” - PASTE: 8.5 out of 10




SATURDAY:
JAPANDROIDS, BLEACHED at Porter's Pub $16

... AND YOU WILL KNOW US BY THE TRAIL OF DEAD, TECHNICOLORS, GHETTO BLASTER at Casbah $20

TITUS ANDRONICUS, CEREMONY, WEATHERBOX at the Irenic $15

SUNDAY:
THOSE DARLINS, HEAVY CREAM at Soda Bar $12

MINUS THE BEAR, CURSIVE, GIRL IN A COMA at House of Blues San Diego (All Ages) $22

THE SEA AND CAKE, MATTHEW FRIEDBERGER (of Fiery Furnaces) at Casbah San Diego $15

Thursday, November 08, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 8-9, 2012

When I moved into my new space back in May, I never expected to still be living out of boxes in November, but I guess there are a lot of things about November that I didn't expect. I certainly didn't expect to see a heatwave like we did last week, but maybe that's why I'm so excited to pull out my box marked "scarves/gloves/jackets". Last night it started raining and I went out on the bike and it was glorious. Today was the perfect day to be bundled up in pajamas as I caught up on some work. I've been sitting on these listings a couple days, but I just have a funny schedule and have to take advantage of the time I do have whether for shows, working, catching up on my shows, or my bi-weekly 24 hour date when Darren's schedule and mine completely align. We saw Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots last night and I've been specifically asked not to review the show or give any spoilers, but it is really, really great and not at all what I expected. At all. It runs through December 16 and I've mentioned discount tickets, but I also learned that you can buy tickets in the first two rows for only $15 because they're partially obstructed, though it seemed that the people in those seats only had to crane their necks a couple times throughout the show. You don't have to know the Flaming Lips catalog to enjoy the show, but you do have to appreciate musical theatre. I hope you take the time to look through these listings because there are so many great shows this weekend. I haven't gone through my off-venue sites for other events, but hopefully I can update those tonight after Jon Spencer. Friday and Saturday archives are after the jump. 

New Local Music: sm57



sm57 is a collaborative effort between (UK signed/California super-producer) Room E and San Diego rap-pair Parker and the Numberman.  This is the first endeavor for Parker and the Numberman after their SDMA award win (for Clockwork Slang). sm57 upcoming album promises to be ..."the return of the avant-garde."  Check out the new track Horseback as a sample of the new album coming out November 26th 2012.  Enjoy.





Wednesday, November 07, 2012

Jeff's Weekly Pick pt. 2: Jens Lekman @ Belly Up Thursday November 8, 2012

Whenever I listen to Jens Lekman I am taken back to the night many years ago when the Swedish pop troubadour performed solo in front of a smallish crowd here in San Diego. Fast forward to the present where  Mr. Lekman will be appearing alongside a full four piece band Thursday at the Belly Up. On the last leg of a North American tour promoting his third full length, I Know What Love Isn't, Jens is basically the same off kilter singer we have all come to appreciate for his unusual and honest look at love and many other topics. Lyrically he has few equals with the ability to state the obvious in ways Jens has mastered. It becomes so easy to just feel like you have known him for years, even if you are seeing him perform live for the first time. There are many singers that visit our city, but none like Jens Lekman. Those willing to make the trek to North County should be well rewarded with a memorable night of music. Worth noting is this show is presented by the Casbah.

Taken By Trees set s the stage.

Watch a video of I Know What Love Isn't below.


Things To Do In San Diego: November 7, 2012

 What a glorious day, no? I don't think I've slept quite so soundly as I did last night, when all my election enthusiasm finally let my head hit the pillow around 4a.m. At the same time, today has been a little chaotic because it is very rare for an artist to cancel a show with such little notice, but when you're sick, you're sick, and unfortunately the Nick Waterhouse show for tonight has been canceled, with hopes of rescheduling in January. The Casbah will be closed tonight, but there are plenty of other great shows to catch...I'll probably check out Benny Marchant or New Cassettes, depending on what time Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots gets out. Happy, happy birthday to intern Jordan and thank to he and Josh for handling weekend listings, which I hoped to post today but realistically won't go up until tomorrow. In the meantime, I have a 24 hour date ahead of me so peace out my lovelies. Wednesday archives are after the jump.   

SD @ 140 BPM Recommends.............



Now that the election is over it is time to celebrate (or cure your sadness) with some great dance music.  Tonight Wednesday, November 7 at The Kava Lounge The Good Vibe Production presents Acoustic Minds, J*Labs, urBn:LgNd and Phunky Brewster with Live Painting by Ashley Bowers.  This is a night for the ladies as all artists performing include female members.  Acoustic Minds is a Portland based project composed of identical twins Jenni and Amanda Price who have been working on music together since the age of 3.  Their new project is a 5 piece band who take a live instrument approach to electronic, drum n bass, down tempo and dub step.  J*Labs will bring an original set with hopefully the same amount of energy that she brought to Electric Daisy Carnival, and local favorite urBn:LgNd will be closing the night out with a heavily UK influenced set.  Doors are at 9:00 pm and the event goes until 2:00 am.

Four More Years! Election Results Are (Mostly) In

(via Facebook)
I spent the majority of Monday and Tuesday dodging election information. While at home, for example, I caught up on some shows OnDemand so I didn't have to see the cluster of political ads on the networks and then went out to hang out with Darren and caught the Diamond Rings show at Soda Bar. Tuesday was an all-errand/no-TV day until I finally let myself pay close attention to social media as polls closed on the east coast (which is still better than watching cable news). It was a great moment, as Emily Wells performed at Luce Loft. She was dedicating a song to Obama and said she hoped for good news when I told her that the election had been called in favor of Obama mid-set. Barack Obama tweeted the photo seen here with "Four More Years" which quickly became the most retweeted tweet in history. She rejoiced, the crowd clapped, and the show's mood definitely lightened up.

Once the presidential election was called, I was happy to follow along with our local races and state propositions. I'm not going to go through everything, but am happy to say that it looks like some important things happened here. Bob Filner appears to be beating Carl DeMaio for mayor, Prop 30 passed which is a win for education, and it appears that Scott Peters defeated Brian Billbray, which is awesome even though I'm not in their district. Unfortunately, some things will never change, as evidenced by Districts 49 & 50 (where Darrell Issa and Duncan Hunter held their Congressional seats, respectively). Still, we can be happy that nationally there were big wins for gay marriage, marijuana, and women.

Obviously there are better places than this site to see results and what they mean to all of us, so check out KPBS Election Results to check on all the races and in case you missed Obama's victory speech, you can see/read it all here.

I believe we can seize this future together because we are not as divided as our politics suggests. We're not as cynical as the pundits believe. We are greater than the sum of our individual ambitions and we remain more than a collection of red states and blue states. We are, and forever will be, the United States of America.

Monday, November 05, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: November 5-6, 2012

Election Day is nearly upon us, so perhaps you're like me and have already cast your ballot via mail or early voting at the Office of the County Registrar. That means that on Tuesday you can either make yourself absolutely insane as you follow along with early returns or follow social media all day, or you can get out tonight for a show or #SDBW and make sure you're just hungover enough to warrant a day  under your covers without media, or keep really busy with a day at the Zoo or free museum day at Balboa Park, or at work if you're tied to a 9 to 5. I mean, once your own vote is cast, there's nothing you can do until the official results are in so all I'm really saying is that unless you're volunteering at a polling place or canvassing or driving people to polls or doing something productive, don't let this thing make you too crazy. I hope to see plenty of you out tonight because there are great shows all the way from the Casbah to the Belly Up, Soda Bar, Eleven, and Bar Pink and down on through the line. Monday and Tuesday archives are after the jump.

Let's Get Political: Election Day 2012

I have never been crazy about the idea of getting too political on this site and I do so with great caution and respect, but I have a voice (as do we all) and an audience and I just can't with good conscience go into tomorrow's election without speaking up.

It seems that every election is "the most important election in our lifetime", but you better believe that in 2012, this is no joke. I have never been quiet about my support and participation with organizations like MoveOn.Org, Courage Campaign, Planned Parenthood, and the Human Rights Campaign. It is also no secret that I lean far on the lefty progressive side of the spectrum and support Democratic candidates, even if they weren't necessarily the best of the best, they seemed better than the alternatives (Al and John, I'm looking at you). This presidential election, to me, is the strongest tug-of-war between the haves and the have-nots, the wealthiest of Americans not even trying to hide their cronyism, and the Republican goal of completely decimating women's rights. I believe that with the tremendous wealth of our nation, the lack of health care and a good education for everyone is shameful; Mitt Romney believes these are better handled in the private sector. With the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision in 2010, there has NEVER been so much money in an election, and just completely misleading and horrific political advertising (sadly from both parties).

If you haven't been keeping up, 90 Days, 90 Reasons has some great essays in support of Obama or check out this quickie site, What The Fuck Has Obama Done So Far?



I feel like I am a pretty informed voter, I've been watching endless state and city hearings about all of the propositions, but I still consult voter guides and my great friend and personal political advisor Lucas O'Connor and my brainy superhero boyfriend and other friends and relatives to make all of it make sense. I always believed that voting is a very private matter, but we're in a whole new oversharing social media world and for the first time, I'm going to post my ballot positions. I'm in 92104, so I know your local races may differ, but here goes.

from top to bottom:
President: Barack Obama,
US Senator: Dianne Feinstein
US Rep District 53: Susan Davis
State Senator 39th District: Marty Block
State Assembly 78th: Toni Atkins
Superior Court No. 25: Robert Amador
SDCCD Board District B: Bernie Rhinerson
SDUSD Board District A: John Lee Evans
SDUSD Board District D: Richard Barrera
SDUSD Board District E: Marne Foster

San Diego Mayor: Bob Filner
Prop 30 (1/4 Cent Sales Tax for Education)-YES!!!
Prop 31 (State Budget)-No
Prop 32 (Political Contributions)-No
Prop 33 (Auto Insurance)- No
Prop 34 (Death Penalty Repeal)-Yes
Prop 35 (Human Trafficking Penalties)-Yes!
Prop 36 (Three Strikes)- Yes!
Prop 37 (GMO Food Labeling)-Yes!!
Prop 38 (Income Tax increase for education)-No!!
Prop 39 (Multistate Corporate Taxation/Clean Energy)-Yes
Prop 40 (Senate redistricting)-Yes
Prop Z (School Bonds)-Yes!!

Vote as you will, but I truly believe that it is your responsibility to vote. Feel free to comment, though all comments are moderated and I will not post any hate, vitriol, or crazy rants. Save that for your own blog/Twitter/Facebook/Tumblr.

Here's a little song a friend recorded for the election:


My friend Grampa Drew wrote a great (and really long) post on Facebook about Prop 30. Read it after the jump.