Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 29-March 1, 2012

It's Leap Day and though I'm running on just a few hours sleep, I've been back into an all-nighter groove because I'm trying to stay on top of all of the things that I can control and trying to worry less about the things that I can't change. Sounds like AA. But seriously, I got a glimmer of good news today in that after I was rejected for a SXSW press badge, I appealed and at least got a wristband which means I'm going to have to bust some serious ass to try to make Texas really happen for me. I suppose I also decided that I'm gonna fight my housing situation as long as I can. I hope everyone has a great time wherever you might go tonight, though I think I'm gonna stay bunked up. It seems to be the best thing for me at the moment, though I suppose I still have a couple hours to think about it and possibly change my mind. Wednesday and Thursday archives are after the jump. Apologies to The Griffin for missing tonight's free show on the listings, it has been added now.

Photos: Mat Keaney & Robert Francis @ House Of Blues, 2.25.2012


On Saturday night, Elliott and I went to the House of Blues for the sold out Mat Kearney & Robert Francis show. I hadn't seen Robert Francis since he opened for Noah and the Whale at the Casbah in 2009 and though Mat comes to town relatively frequently, I think the last time I caught him was on a KPRI summer cruise, also in '09. Mat released his third major label full length, Young Love, in August of 2011 and while his singles "Hey Mama" and "Ships In The Night"have gotten steady radio love, it is critical TV and ad placements that make his music so familiar and it is his consistent touring that makes him so loved by his always growing fanbase. I have to admit that over the years, I've only been a partial fan...I dig his voice and many of his songs, but I've never ever been into the white-guy-raps-with-a-guitar-thing. Fortunately at this show, it was kept to a minimum and I was bopping my head along to the sugary music along with the rest of the crowd.

As for Robert, I hear he's releasing a new record soon, so hopefully we'll get him back at the Casbah where he can be a tad rougher around the edges than he is for this polished crowd. There's not a lot of edge here, but this is definitely music I could play on a roadtrip with my parents and my 13 year old godsister and everyone would be okay with it. These aren't just sexy guys with guitars wooing the ladies with their songs (though it doesn't hurt that they're so good looking), but they woo the dudes in the crowd into thinking they're just bros singing between surf sessions and they're gonna grab a brewski with them after the show. Mat remains likable even during awkward moments, like when he engaged with the crowd. I didn't hear the first part of the exchange, but it evolved into him chatting with an audience member. "What do you play?" "Drums." "What kind of kit do you play?" "Pearl." Mat went on to insult that the guy played Pearl. Then to backpedal, said something like, 'No, I didn't mean it that way, you probably can't afford something better'.  To apologize for that, he pulled the guy onstage to beat on a suitcase during an acoustic performance of "All I Have".  The setlist is pictured above, though I will add that since it was the final night of the tour, Robert Francis and his band were invited out for the encore when they performed Adele's "Fire To The Rain" and added Tom Petty's "Learning To Fly" before closing with "Hey Mama". Click the jump for more photos.




Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 28, 2012

Last night I attempted to catch up on email. An all-nighter and over 800 emails later (most read, many deleted, many archived, some requiring action or a response that I still need to get to), and I'm still bummed I haven't found a better way to do this. Publicists are so pushy, working their cush jobs from offices in NYC, LA, Chicago, Portland...while the bloggers on the receiving end of their blasts have to sort through a whole lot of bullshit to find some gems worth posting, and in my case, things that are relevant to San Diego, i.e. don't send me shit unless the band is from here or playing here. Oh, and we do our part for free. It would actually be awesome to read email for 12 hours straight knowing there was actual compensation for such tedium, but alas, that ain't the way it works. To be honest, though, I'd probably feel out of the loop if suddenly all of the email throttled in some way, and I wouldn't have had an excuse to watch all four of the blind audition episodes of "The Voice" had I not been working through the night, so perhaps there are better ways to spend my time, I just haven't quite figured them out. Tuesday archives are after the jump.

Tuesday: Reptar at Soda Bar


Reptar is performing tonight at the Soda Bar, and if you had the chance to see them open for Foster the People at Soma last fall, you know they're worth catching live. Use the widget to get a free download. Click after the jump to see the band's press release and info.

Snakesuit Premiere "The Hangover"

Snakesuit filmed a video for their song, "The Hangover", and will be performing their second show this Wednesday at Commune, a free show at the Whistle Stop. Here's the bio the band asked me to post:

Snakesuit is Howard Goldstein’s baby, birthed from the recesses of his cerebrum. For months he kept his creation under lock and key in a fortress made of cast iron, deep in the forest, only feeding it a steady diet of his wife’s casseroles. Snakesuit became strong and virile.
On a Tuesday in December 2011, on his way out to the deep forest, Howard Goldstein met the acquaintance of one Brett the Salesman who had been taking shelter from the elements under an Elderberry Bush. Brett the Salesman was in a bad way. He hadn’t made quota for the second quarter in a row and his future was full of anxiety.

Howard Goldstein shared some of the casserole intended for the Snakesuit with Brett the Salesman. Brett the Salesman was humbled by Howard Goldstein’s generosity and promised to one day repay that kindness with a kindness of his own.
On the second Wednesday after their initial meeting on a Tuesday in December 2011, Howard Goldstein was in his own bad way. He had broken a tooth biting into a handful of mixed nuts. It also so happened that Howard’s car was in the shop on this very same day. He needed a ride to the dentist. Howard Goldstein called upon Brett the Salesman.

Brett the Salesman rushed Howard Goldstein to the dentist who did a bang up tooth repair job. The three of them retired deep into the forest to celebrate the successful dental procedure. There Howard Goldstein shared the Snakesuit with his two friends. They convinced him to go public with his creation.

Music Video: Snakesuit from campbellicious on Vimeo.

Little Hurricane featured in Sport Illustrated Swimsuit Video

Tons of good things have been happening for Little Hurricane over the past year and as the band is about to set off for more touring and performing several showcases at SXSW, the band's song was recently used in a promo video for the release of Sports Illustrated's annual Swimsuit Issue. Each model's shoot was paired with a song- catch Little Hurricane soundtrack Genevieve Morton's shoot.

Catch Tone and CC at the Casbah on April 28. Tickets are onsale now.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 27, 2012

Monday, Monday, Monday. The month is nearly over and I just can't believe how fast time moves, especially when you have a looming deadline or situation. I'll talk about that stuff another time, but what I really want to say is happy birthday to Jesse LaMonaca. Easily one of my favorite people on this planet, Jesse has been an amazing friend to me since the day we met and I couldn't be more lucky and proud to have such a kind, giving, and talented friend. There's a lot of fun stuff happening this week...Monday archives are after the jump.

Friday, February 24, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 24-26, 2012

Okay, I'm finally done with the weekend listings. (Again, thanks to Jeff for doing Friday). I am not gonna lie, lately I pretty much feel like everyday something else kicks me in the teeth and today is no exception. If anyone knows any brilliant/legal ways to make about $3k in 3 weeks (for eviction/moving expenses & holding onto the fantasy that I'm attending SXSW 2012), let me know. I honestly don't know how I would exist without music to keep me from completely sinking. Sorry to be a downer, but shit is getting real. See you tonight at the Whistle Stop. Friday through Sunday archives are after the jump.

Things To Do In San Diego: February 24, 2012

I'm working on the rest of the weekend, but for now, here are your Friday listings (thanks to Jeff for pulling these together). I am not gonna lie, lately I pretty much feel like everyday something else kicks me in the teeth and today is no exception. If anyone knows any brilliant/legal ways to make about $3k in 3 weeks (for moving expenses & SXSW), let me know. I honestly don't know how I would exist without music to keep me from completely sinking. See you tonight at the Whistle Stop.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Video: Jesse LaMonaca and The Dime Novels

Last Saturday night, Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels celebrated the release of their second record, The Lament Of Tumbleweed Hawk, to a sold out crowd at the Casbah. Joined by The Blackout Party, The Black Sands, and The Fire Eaters, the mood of the night was quite celebratory. Since the crowd was packed into the venue, I decided to shoot some video from above and behind the soundboard. Below is a playlist with four songs from the night: "The Well Has Run Dry", "Heaven Knows", "You Don't Wanna Talk To Me", and the title track from their first record, "Until The Stars Came Out".

Listen: The Twilight Sad; See Them Live at the Casbah on March 5

The Twilight Sad are coming back to San Diego and I couldn't be more thrilled because if I remember correctly, they had to cancel their last show that was supposed to fall sometime around my birthday last year...or maybe I was out of town...for whatever reason, it has been ages since I've seen the band live though their albums are definitely in my go-to pile of most listened to around the house.

The band will be at the Casbah on March 5th and tickets are only $10. Get them here. Check out the videos and free tracks below.







Drawing with Chase...Sleigh Bells

Sleigh Bells released their newest album, Reign of Terror last Tuesday, February 21, and in honor of their new album, their appearance on Saturday Night Live, The Spin Magazine cover, and everything else that is blowing them up right now, I present you with the never before released drawing that Sleigh Bells Derek E. Miller and Alexis Krauss made for me when I was interviewing for audio current during their last tour.  Enjoy.



Wednesday, February 22, 2012

SD@140bpm recommends....

For those of you who have a minimal understanding of Dubstep and want to know more regarding the origins of the genre need to check out the documentary Bassweight.  The documentary gives great insight to the early days of Dubstep, with its origins in South London, its growth in popularity, and how it became popular in the United States.  One of the main reasons that the sound jumped across the pond is because of American Dubstep artist Joe Nice.  In the early days of Dubstep, Joe Nice hosted a Dubstep night in New York which featured a lot of the original and up and coming DJ/Producers from London and around the world.  Tonight you can catch Joe Nice at Dub Dorado and witness one of the early pioneers of the Dubstep movement in person.  Make sure to be at Dub Dorado tonight at El Dorado $5 free before 10:30 with RSVP.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Lucinda Williams at Sunset Sessions 2012

Another great performance at the 2012 Sunset Sessions was from Lucinda Williams. I hadn't seen Lucinda perform live since Car Wheels On A Gravel Road, and at the time, I wasn't aware of her history and amazing catalog of music. Recently, Lucinda has been the subject of criticism by Bob Lefsetz for using a lyric book when she performs, but seeing her in person, in a brightly lit banquet room, with a room full of industry professionals, it was actually shocking how someone so experienced could still seem so nervous and shy, and when you see how many songs are in that binder, dating back to the 1970's, it's no wonder she has it available for performances. I felt very lucky to be in that room.

Below is the full playlist from her show, which deviates slightly from her setlist.

1. Pineola
2. Side of the Road
3. World Without Tears
4. Born To Be Loved
5. Port Arthur
6. Stowaway
7. Lake Charles
8. Angel (Jimi Hendrix Cover)
9. Blessed

Monday, February 20, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 20-23, 2012

I'm gonna keep it brief because I'm gonna go enjoy the day with my nieces and nephew while they're all still here. I was looking at this week's listings and there are a ton of rad shows (making Tuesday and Thursday frustrating at the sacrifices to be made), but that is always a good problem to have because it means that our music scene is alive and well. Monday through Thursday archives are after the jump.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Jason Mraz at Sunset Sessions 2012

I have a bunch of videos and photos to share with you from the weekend, but thought I'd start off by sharing the videos of Jason Mraz's appearance at Sunset Sessions 2012. To be completely honest, I hadn't seen Jason perform since Java Joe's a bazillion years ago and I still think that "You And I Both" is the best song he's ever written, but there's a really sappy unicorns-and-rainbows girl inside of me that thinks that "I Won't Give Up" might just knock that to the second best and I imagine it will be the song for many weddings to come. He performed four songs- "I Won't Give Up", "I'm Yours", "The Woman I Love" and "You Fuckin' Did It", though there were a lot of kids around so he cleaned it up.

"I Won't Give Up"


See the other videos after the jump.

Friday, February 17, 2012

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

If I am already this exhausted at 6pm on Friday, this weekend is going to kill me. I'm heading out from Sunset Sessions for the night to celebrate Al Howard's birthday at the Loft. I hope to see you there!! Archives are after the jump.

Sunset Sessions 2012





Sunset Sessions 2012 is underway at the Rancho Bernardo Inn. The mostly private event is the annual get together for music supervisors and radio program directors in the AAA format (also known as "Triple A" for Adult Album Alternative. Think KPRI, and about a third of the playlist of Radio Sophie...). I've been fortunate to come to the event for a few years now and it is an interesting education into the music business...how radio stations come to play the songs they do, how songs get placed on your favorite TV shows or movies or commercials...and seeing the inner workings of the relationships between bands, labels, artists, publicists, and supervisors. At times it is quite inspiring and makes me think that if I just keep working my ass off in the numerous ways I'm involved in music, one of these days something will stick. And to be completely honest, sometimes it is completely frustrating, with a distinct insider's club feeling and the impression that you have to have money to make money. I can easily name a dozen San Diego independent acts who deserve the eyeballs and earholes of this elite group of music gatekeepers if they only had the financial backing that is required to perform here.

All of that said, besides Everest, the first day of music left a whole lot to be desired so I didn't really shoot video or photos, though I have been representing SoundDiego around the panels and such. I did however take full advantage of the open bar (which is only open for a small window of time throughout the night.), and I also took the time to reconnect with familiar faces like Incan Abraham and The Makepeace Brothers. You can see some performances and photos from throughout this weekend over at SoundDiego or Radio Sophie.

Today has been really beautiful up at the Inn and there was a really cool keynote/interview with Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips, as well as a great afternoon panel with the dream team of today's most important music gatekeepers, like Kevin Lyman (Warped Tour) and Alex Patsavas (Chop Shop Records and holder of my dream job). Since The Heavy Guilt has a show tonight and Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels have their CD release show tomorrow (which is close to selling out so you should buy tickets in advance if you're planning on going), I'm gonna have to miss the night sessions with performances by the likes of Jimmy Cliff, fun., Gary Clark Jr., and The Parlotones, but I'm still hoping to close out the weekend with more informative panels and some of the daytime music sessions. Happy hour is about to start and Audra Mae is performing, so I better scoot. xoxo

Friday Night at The Loft: The Heavy Guilt, The Howls, Low Volts

Tonight is an amazing lineup of local talent at The Loft. The show features The Heavy Guilt, The Howls, and Low Volts. If after all this time, you still haven't been to the venue, tonight is the perfect excuse to try something different. It is Al Howard's birthday, so he's gonna go even more ballistic on the chains than usual. See you there tonight!

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Bombay Bicycle Club @ Casbah- 02.14.12


Love was in the air on Valentine's Day at the Casbah as London-based Bombay Bicycle Club brought their twee-tinged indie rock to a packed house.  More words and photos below.

Things To Do In San Diego: February 16, 2011

I don't know about you, but I loved the rain this week, though admittedly I turned into a typical San Diegan and stayed bundled in pajamas a lot of the time. In my defense, I knew the next few days are going to be pretty busy...between Sunset Sessions, The Heavy Guilt at the Loft and Gardens and Villa at the Casbah on Friday, and then Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels CD release on Saturday...well, I suspect I won't be getting much sleep. On top of all that, my brother is still here with my niece and nephew so I'm hoping we get some more family time in. This weekend is jam packed with good stuff, so even if I can't convince you to be where I'll be, get out and support live music. Thursday archives after the jump.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Download/Stream "The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk" by Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels

In anticipation of Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels' CD release show on Saturday, Jesse decided to share "The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk" with the world. For free. Download/stream the record below, then show your support on Saturday night.

The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk by Jesse LaMonaca

SoundDiego Spotlight: Jesse LaMonaca

Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels spent much of 2011 working on their sophomore record, "The Lament Of Tumbleweed Hawk". Since I'm not a musician, I've never experienced the thrill and stress of recording a record, but I feel like I was very close to the process with Jesse and I feel so proud of my friend for putting his heart on his sleeve and writing an amazing record. I'm so looking forward to the CD release party this Saturday night at the Casbah. Check out his profile on NBC.


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

 Feb 18 2012 at the Casbah- OFFICIAL ALBUM RELEASE SHOW w/BLACKOUT PARTY, THE BLACK SANDS, THE FIRE EATERS
(BUY TICKETS)


Tuesday, February 14, 2012

RE:GENERATION Mixes Things Up

It is no secret that I tend to steer clear of electronic music. When I get email that says "remix" anywhere in the subject, they go largely unread and certainly not listened to. Chase has recently started writing about some of these things...dub and DnB and such because- I know I'm gonna sound just like my mom- but to me it all sounds the same and I don't like it. But sometimes I try. I went to IDentity Festival last year, have seen Crystal Method a grip of times, and while watching the GRAMMYS, tried to embrace that Skrillex, after performing at Petco Park last year, is probably someone to pay attention to (even if the 130bpm set rejects him as their representative.) I get that it is a cultural phenomenon and by many predictions, the future of music. Though to the initiated, that's probably like when people say "with the advent of the internet" after we've all been online for 20 years. In large parts it can be argued that is the present of music. I still believe in a voice & a guitar, but I find the culture shift fascinating nonetheless, even if I shake my head and mutter, "kids these days"...

That said, I was given the opportunity to screen a documentary called RE:GENERATION. The film is largely supported by the GRAMMYS foundation, so it is worth bearing in mind, but I found the film to be completely intriguing. The premise is this: take five producers, give them a genre to explore, have them assemble musicians within the genre and create something brand new out of something old. Mark Ronson was assigned Jazz, Pretty Lights got Country, Crystal Method got R&B/Motown, Skrillex got Rock, and my personal favorite, DJ Premier was given Classical.

The film documents the learning and exploration by each producer as they delve into their genre, scouring record stores, meeting people with expertise in the genre. While Skrillex worked with The Doors and Mark Ronson worked with Erykah Badu, Trombone Shorty, and the Dap Kings, they didn't seem to require such a stretch of imagination that it took for DJ Premier to work as an actual conductor with the Berklee School of Music or Pretty Lights trying to get Dr. Ralph Stanley to deliver a song the way he wanted. ("I'd rather just do it my way.")

The film follows the entire recording process, and in the end, the tracks are revealed, edited with studio footage and festival footage of the "live" debut, including some scenes of Skrillex at Petco Park from last fall and The Crystal Method at last summer's IDentity Festival at Cricket Wireless Amphitheater.

The film is screening in select cities, including San Diego, this Thursday, February 16 and if you're a fan of music of ANY genre, I promise this is a documentary that will open your eyes and ears.

Get ticket & showtime information here

Poway Creekside Plaza 10
13475 Poway Road
Poway, CA 92064

Mission Valley Cinemas
7510 Hazard Center Drive
San Diego, CA 92108

Mission Marketplace 13
431 College Boulevard
Oceanside, CA 92057

San Clemente Cinema 6
641 B Camino de los Mares
San Clemente, CA 92673



More information and videos from all of the final songs after the jump.


Produced in association with The Grammys, the film looks at the history, songwriting and studio process of different musical genres through the eyes of five of the most influential electronic producers/DJs in music today, who write and record a brand new track with a grouping of influential collaborators in that genre. The tag line for the film is “5 DJ’s Turn the Table of the History of Music.” The stories of these five DJs are documented in RE:GENERATION.

In the film, current five-time GRAMMY®-nominated artist Skrillex heads into a Los Angeles studio with members of the iconic rock band The Doors to collaborate on a new song, “Breakn’ A Sweat.” Meanwhile, The Crystal Method touched down in Detroit to work with Martha Reeves of The Vandellas and The Funk Brothers on the R&B number “I’m Not Leaving.” Mark Ronson created a southern brew of New Orleans jazz in “A La Modeliste” that boasts a veritable all-star cast of Erykah Badu, Trombone Shorty, Mos Def, Zigaboo Modeliste and Members of The Dap Kings. DJ Premier tapped NAS and Boston's very own Berklee Symphony Orchestra for his “Regeneration,” and the documentary culminates in Nashville on the dusty, intergalactic twang of Pretty Lights' "Wayfaring Stranger" featuring vocals from LeAnn Rimes and Dr. Ralph Stanley.


DJ Premier — Classical — “Regeneration” (with NAS and the Berklee Symphony Orchestra)



Pretty Lights — Country — “Wayfaring Stranger” (with Dr. Ralph Stanley and LeAnn Rimes)



Mark Ronson — Jazz — “A La Modeliste” (with Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Trombone Shorty, members of the Dap Kings and Zigaboo Modeliste)



Skrillex — Rock — “Breakn’ A Sweat” (with members of The Doors)



The Crystal Method — R&B — “I’m Not Leaving” (with Martha Reeves of the Vandellas and the Funk Brothers)



Happy Valentine's Day

I have confessed to you on numerous occasions that I watch a lot of television. One of my favorite new comedies is Happy Endings, which airs on ABC on Wednesday nights. Actually, it is part of a pretty solid comedy block (The Middle, Suburgatory, Modern Family, Happy Endings) that leads into Revenge (which is going to be sooo good this week because they finally reveal what happened to Daniel the night of the engagement party). I'm rarely home for primetime TV, however, so it's nice that you can view most of ABC's shows on Hulu, on the network's website, or On Demand.

Anyway, in honor of Valentine's Day, I thought I'd share last week's episode because if you can't relate to the "break-up window", well, you have a better dating track record than me. It's also pretty great how the show embraces the comparisons to Friends. I don't know if my age allows me to relate more, or if I'm just glad there's not a character as annoying as Ross, but I think you should really check out the show if you haven't already.

Monday, February 13, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 13-16, 2012

What a weekend. The Young The Giant show was insane on Friday, I got some good family time in on Saturday, went to the Loud + Clear show, watched the GRAMMYS red-carpet, was on FM 94/9, and went to Los Campesinos! while also watching pieces of the GRAMMYS at the Casbah. I want to sleep for the next week, to be honest, but that is just not gonna happen. Drag The River is at the Casbah tonight and O is performing solo, so you should really check it out if you're on the fence or looking for something fun to do tonight. Monday through Wednesday archives are after the jump.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 11-12, 2012

I realized I had these done yesterday but I completely forgot to post them. For that, I'm sorry, but I was working at the Young The Giant show and it was crazy. Man, 2300 kids, completely rabid for merch, and we were completely overwhelmed. Good on them, I guess. Anyway, tonight is the Loud + Clear records anniversary and you should really head out to the Casbah to support local record labels, especially this one. I'm gonna go spend some much needed time with my family, so don't expect to hear much from me. Have a great weekend. Archive after the jump.

Thursday, February 09, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 9-10, 2012

Have you entered my Unwritten Law contest yet? I'm gonna pick a winner soon, so read the post and enter yourself. I went ahead and did Friday listings individually because it was taking me forever to get through the whole weekend. I suppose I can post those later tonight. I'm so looking forward to this weekend because my brother and sister in law just arrived in town, so I finally get to meet my niece, Gia, who was born in September. I also get to see my nephew, Gabe, for the first time in nearly a year. Family time is always good and helps keep things in perspective. Archive after the jump.

Limited Edition Los Campesinos! release





Los Campesinos!, the great seven piece Cardiff band with the same last name “Campesinos!,” have released a special musical offer that usually is only available to subscribers and not the general public.  Part of the Heat Rash subscriber’s series the newest edition issue 3 is entitled Footnotes, and is intended to be a great companion piece to their latest album Hello Sadness. The issue includes a detailed track by track guide to the lyrics of their new album as well as a very transparent look into the bands recording process.  Footnotes also includes a seven inch and two digital downloads that are previously unreleased.  This package is available at the Los Campesinos! blog and the prices are in GBP.  In addition see Los Campesinos! this Sunday, February 12th at The Casbah (tickets here)

Enjoy the video for “By your hand” my favorite song off their new album Hello Sadness and make sure to catch them at The Casbah.


Wednesday, February 08, 2012

Things To Do In San Diego: February 6-8, 2011

This morning I read a statistic that 7 million people call in sick the Monday after the Super Bowl. Personally, I went to a party and stuffed my face with so many nachos and chicken wings that I didn't have room for more than one beer and after the party, was asleep sometime around 9, but if I had to report to an office this morning, I'd probably be one of those slackers. Instead, in typical Monday panic attack fashion, I woke up at 5:30, so I figured I'd get these posted early before I go back to hiding from the universe. I know I've been absent and haven't posted much lately, I just have way too much personal shit going on and haven't been dealing with any of it very well. I'll find a way to turn the lemons into lemonade. In the meantime, here are your listings. Listings archived after the jump.

California Overturns Prop 8

I originally posted this photo on my site on November 22, 2008. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the Mission Gathering, but appreciated their billboard posted in the heart of North Park. A little more than three years later and I've worked with and become friends with the Mission Gathering community and even hosted a show at the Irenic. In light of the fact that the 9th Circuit Court in California struck down Prop 8 as unconstitutional, I thought I'd repost the most viewed photo I've ever posted on this website. If you've been under a rock, you can read more about the ruling here.



The billboard reads:

Mission Gathering Christian Church
Is Sorry
For The Narrow-Minded, Judgmental, Deceptive, Manipulative
Actions Of Those Who
Took Away The Rights And Equality
Of So Many
In The Name Of God.

Win an Unwritten Law Prize Pack!





Unwritten Law and Big B are performing at Sycuan Casino this Friday night. We've got a pretty amazing prize pack for one lucky winner and their guest:

Sycuan Casino Concert Experience Package
-Complimentary Room for 1 Night at Sycuan Resort
-Lunch or Dinner for 2 at Sycuan Resort & Casino
-2 tickets to Unwritten Law on Friday, February 10th at Sycuan Casino

There is also a free Hart & Huntington motocross racing event taking place at the casino right before the concert that is free and open to the public (18+).

To enter, "like" the San Diego: Dialed In Facebook page and post anything- a funny link, music, anything...just be sure to hashtag #UnwrittenLaw so I know you're entering. (Must be 21+ to enter.) I will notify the winner on Thursday afternoon.

More info on the racing event after the jump.

OTR: February 8, 2012

I don't know how frequently I'll do these OTR posts, but since I worked through nearly 600 emails overnight, there are some things I wanted to share with you.

1.  Enter to perform at perform at "The Warner Sound at SXSW captured by Nikon".  It's an industry showcase and they'll cover your travel and such if you're the winner. All you have to do is submit a live performance video. The deadline is February 20 at 10am. For information, CLICK HERE. If you're in a San Diego band and planning on attending SXSW, please let me know. There might be an opportunity to play a San Diego party in Texas.

2. Red Bull hosts the Red Bull Music Academy in New Year in the fall and you can APPLY FOR ADMISSION & A SCHOLARSHIP. The thing is pretty cool, with participants getting lectures with industry leaders and artists, studio time, the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and attendees, and perform and/or attend nighttime showcases. Deadline for entries is April 2.

3. Margot and the Nuclear So and So's have a new album, Rot Gut, Domestic, coming out on March 20, and they've released a video for the first single, "Prozac Rock". I love these guys and am sure that they'll be coming through on a proper tour at some point this spring or summer. You can also just stream the track on soundcloud.


Margot-Prozac Rock from Margot Cloud on Vimeo.

4. Little Hurricane have announced the release date of their debut full length, Homewrecker which drops May 1 on Unknown Breakthrough. You can download the first single, "Haunted Heart", throught the widget below.



5. Hot Snakes are performing at the Casbah on March 27. Tickets go onsale today at noon here.

SD@140bpm recommends...


There are some great shows to see this Saturday, February 11:

First start the night out right at the Kava Lounge.  The amazing promoters of Dragon Lounge bring San Diego another great lineup of dubstep, future jungle, breaks, drum and bass, future garage, and glitch. MACRODOT from Arizona is headlining and will be closing out the night with his chilled up futuristic new age glitch.

Be sure to get to the Kava Lounge before 10 pm this Saturday night, not only admission free before 10 but you will also be able to see the Kava Lounge debut of local producer/DJ urBn:LgNd.  She will be warming up the dance floor with her sexy slammin garage/dubby tracks to get the party started and the bass a-thumpin.









After you start your night out at the Kava Lounge head down to Winstons in Ocean Beach to continue the dance party.  Freddy Todd is gracing our fair city with his presence.  One of the hottest producers out there right now who mixes dub electronica and hip hop perfectly into some pounding bass and great melodies that combine to be great music to hit the floor and bring the party.  This is one that you do not want to miss.

Loud + Clear Records Celebrates 10 Years





A couple weeks ago, I ran into Brad Lee at the Casbah. "I have a package for you," he said. "I bet you do." After I realized he wasn't coming on to me, I remembered that Loud + Clear Records was celebrating 10 years of being an awesome San Diego based label. The very next morning, I found a box on my doorstep chock full of CDs and records. It is an amazing collection of music and I couldn't wait to break into it, with CD releases by  Via Satellite, Goodbye Blue Monday, John Meeks, to name a few. It also had some vinyl from Mrs. Magician, Writer, Chairs Missing and Goodbye Blue Monday. I'll check my collection and do a giveaway for some of these because several of them are duplicates of my own collection.

Anyway, to celebrate 10 years, there will be a few events around town. First, Brad Lee hits the decks as he spins some records tonight at Starlite.  Then this weekend there are two special Loud + Clear shows. On Saturday night, the celebration moves to the Casbah with Goodbye Blue Monday, Via Satellite, and Neonthief.  (BUY TICKETS HERE) Then on Sunday, you can catch stripped down sets by John Meeks, Via Satellite, and Rafter at the Luce Loft. (BUY TICKETS HERE)

Tuesday, February 07, 2012

The Burning Of Rome release "Ballad Of An Onion Sprout"

It has been awhile since we've heard some noise from The Burning of Rome. Aside from their show last week, the band had slipped off the radar a bit and it turns out that was because the band was busy readying some new music for our earholes. Check out the new single, Ballad Of An Onion Sprout and get ready for the band to make some serious waves in 2012.

Monday, February 06, 2012

Video: The Blackout Party "Wanna See You Smile"

The Blackout Party have a new video for their song "Wanna See You Smile", off their latest release, Closed Mouth Don't Get Fed. The video was shot at Lost Ark Studio while it was under reconstruction and is the second video from the album. If you missed the first one, check out "Spanish Gold".

OTR February 7, 2012

I ran into Michael McGraw last week and we got to talking about sddialedin.com. "Let me ask you something. Why don't you do a year end best of list? I think people really would like to see something like that." My response was something like when I'm not at a show, I pretty much listen to the same 10 albums. Plus, my perspective is narrow because I rely so heavily on what I'm sent in the mail and digitally. It isn't a complaint, but there's no way I could keep up with everything that comes out. Truth be told, I'm pretty old school and rely on being turned on to good new stuff by friends. I pass those things along on this site when I get them, so a year end list is just sometimes way too daunting. Fortunately, other people take the time, and today, I dug this guy's list (which, funny enough, has a Michael McGraw track at number 15.)

I have been thinking about the conversation and when I get my Entertainment Weekly in the mail, I always look at their "Watchlist" (and usually roll my eyes to at least half of their suggestions) and CityBeat does a similar "Redlist" with suggestions, though they often feel like paid endorsements. Long story short, I'm gonna try my hand at this. I'm gonna call it OTR (On The Radar, On The Rag, Occupying The Resources, whatever) I'm not gonna limit the boundaries and as in my last diary, you might discover just how much TV I watch.

1. TONIGHT: Cory Chisel at the Casbah. This show is tonight and I almost missed it entirely because he isn't the headliner. There are plenty of tickets available to the show, so just show up. He'll probably be on around 9 or 9:30, so don't be late.



2. Later Tonight: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Reunion Part 2. Yes, I watch this show. I don't watch all of the franchises, Atlanta and New Jersey just have way too much yelling, but I've followed NY and Beverly Hills since they've been around. I was particularly interested in this season because last summer I was close to being hired by Dana Wilkey to run her social media and online presence. Her contract kept getting pushed back and her appearances were more limited than originally planned, and then Taylor's husband committed suicide. Dana was pretty flaky and after months of email and phone tag, it just never happened. I will say it is too bad for her because her tweets are out of control. Anyway, there were a whole bunch of ladies visiting crazytown this season and I watched every minute of it.



3. Tuesday: Dr. Dog at the Belly Up. The show is sold out and I can't wait.

4. Drive. I haven't seen the film and it comes out on DVD on Tuesday. Me and a friend have been devouring Red Box movies and cheap wine and I suspect this will happen again this week, if not on Tuesday.

5. Wednesday: Saint Motel & The Heavy Guilt at the Casbah.



6. TV SWEEPS! February is one of the most important ratings books for networks so they all roll out their big shows. The Walking Dead returns to AMC on February 12, the same night as The GRAMMYS, airing on CBS. (Read why you won't see a Bon Iver performance.) Revenge and Once Upon A Time promise new episodes, while The River and Smash might offer some new pleasurable brain mush. Some people are anti-television, but watching this stuff On Demand helps me get through the bazillion emails I get. In fact, I blame my backed up inbox on the lack of new programming in January. TV makes me productive. I'm gonna go with that.

COMING UP/GET YOUR TICKETS:

2/11- Loud & Clear Records 10 Year Anniversary @ The Casbah
2/13- Drag The River @ The Casbah
2/17- The Heavy Guilt & The Howls @ The Loft, UCSD
2/18- Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels CD RELEASE, The Blackout Party, Black Sands, The Fire Eaters @ The Casbah

Portlandia: I Dream Of The 90s

I've been watching a lot of Portlandia lately (thanks for finally putting it On Demand & on Hulu, IFC!) and kept laughing about this clip over the weekend. The clip is old...from the first episode of Season 1, so I'm not shedding light on anything new, but I thought I'd post it anyway because so many themes from the show translate to the the indie/hipster crowd in any city, including our own. Check out more on the show here.


Friday, February 03, 2012

Fujiya & Miyagi @ Casbah- 01.31.12

This past Tuesday the Casbah brought the Krautrock-fueled electro-funk stylings of Fujiya & Miyagi to the stage.  Local act Pal & Drome opened with their beat machine/ guitar combo before giving the stage and the dance floor over to the Brighton-based quintet.  More words and photos below...

Things To Do In San Diego: February 3-5, 2012


I couldn't sleep at all last night, which means I ended up getting these listings done. It also means I'm going to either sleep all day or be a zombie to the world today. I'll be working at the Mutemath show tonight, so be sure to say hi. Weekend archives are after the jump. 

Thursday, February 02, 2012

Video: Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels Release "The Lament Of Tumbleweed Hawk"

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As you probably know, I've been a cheerleader for Jesse LaMonaca & The Dime Novels for some time now. I've seen firsthand the heart and soul that went into the recording of their sophomore release, The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk, and I'm really proud to have been let in on the process. The album is done and ready to spread its wings. The official release of the record is February 18th at the Casbah and as a teaser, we've launched a new website, added a couple tracks from the record, and now have the video for the title track of the record. I felt a little too close to the process to write a review of the forthcoming album, but Al Howard of the Heavy Guilt has some great things to say.

Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels are poised to release their second record, the Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk. The music is both eclectic and focused, subtle and potent. At moments it is driving early Motown soul, with Stax era horn stabs and a deep pocket. At other points it explores Americana’s roots with sighing trumpets and whispering violins. The band’s seasoned musicians can seamlessly move between genres with the tightness of a road tested soul unit and the loose feeling of a Friday night dive bar. But the key to this album is Jesse LaMonaca’s powerful vocal delivery. He tests his range and delivers with a supple falsetto. He can move from a delicate hush to a robust sandpaper growl. He can weave a story, plead for your heart and demand your attention. This album conjures elements of so many sections of great American Music, there are homages to blues, ragtime, rock, soul and folk, yet the band finds itself comfortably traversing all these different terrains, creating something all their own.
-Al Howard, The Heavy Guilt
You can get tickets to the release show here.


Jesse LaMonaca & The Dime Novels - The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk from Kevin Joelson on Vimeo.

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

What you need to know about Doomtree


Doomtree is a hip hop collective from Minneapolis, MN whose members are P.O.S., Sims, Lazerbeak, Cecil Otter, Dessa, Mike Mictlan, and Paper Tiger, and are currently touring their new release No Kings.  The entire collective, that's right the entire collective is playing this Friday, February 3rd at the Casbah (tix).  Individually any of these artists would be worth seeing, and having the entire lineup of artists together is an amazing opportunity; as Doomtree's members are usually on tour solo or with their other projects including Atmosphere's Rhyme Sayers label, mash up perfection Wugazi, and Bon Iver's super group side project Gayngs.  Together as Doomtree their diverse musical backgrounds creates honest unstoppable rap and hip hop.  DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW because the opportunity to see the entire collective does not happen often.

           

 Photo by Kelly Loverud