It would be a mistake to oversimplify the blues by defining the genre as nothing more than “songs about sad stuff.” Surely, like certain religions that tell us all life is suffering (and yes, that is also an oversimplification), the blues are rooted in humankind’s universal, lizard-brain responses triggered by heartache, loss, and lowered expectations.… Continue reading Samantha Fish and Friends Scale Blues Heights at The Fillmore
The end of the year, along with Goosemas, is upon us once again. It’s hard to believe how fast 2024 flew—and flew it did. Goose delivered the first night of the bingo-themed Goosemas XI without a hitch at the North Charleston Coliseum on Friday, December 13th, much to the delight of the fans. The show… Continue reading Goosemas | North Charleston Coliseum | 12/13/2024
On a crisp November evening, music aficionados gathered at the intimate Soho Restaurant in Santa Barbara for a night that promised a blend of talent, charm, and unparalleled musicianship. Eighty-year-old Albert Lee, the legendary guitarist renowned for his virtuosic playing and versatile style, took the stage with his band, delivering a performance that reaffirmed his… Continue reading Ageless Chops: Albert Lee’s Guitar Mastery in Santa Barbara
On November 18, 2024, the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks, California, was transformed into a sonic playground as the members of BEAT reunited for a spellbinding concert. In a bold move, bassist Tony Levin and guitarist/singer Adrian Belew decided to revisit the classic King Crimson albums from the 1980s, and the… Continue reading BEAT Reimagined: Tony Levin and Adrian Belew Bring a Futuristic Twist to King Crimson’s ’80s Legacy at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard closed out the concert season at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles, California, on November 3rd. Although some music journalists have described them as one of the hottest new bands on the planet, the ensemble has actually been together for 13 years, producing no fewer than 26 studio… Continue reading Down Under and Over the Top: King Gizzard’s Wild Ride at Vina Robles
The spotlight on Dawes has always focused primarily on the Goldsmith brothers, Taylor and Griffin. Now, after numerous lineup changes and departures, it’s all about the bros. That’s not to say their touring band isn’t up to snuff. But the title of Dawes’ latest album, Oh Brother, is more than an expression of exasperation following… Continue reading Band of Brothers: An Evening with Dawes at The Fillmore
Rising jam band artists Eggy and Dogs in a Pile co-headlined a post Turkey Day two night stand at the Capitol Theater. This was the first time that either band headlined this legendary 1800 person capacity venue, which has previously hosted both Jerry Garcia and Bob Dylan. Both bands brought some serious A game on… Continue reading Eggy + Dogs in a Pile | The Capitol Theatre | 11/30/2024
During the holidays, we come together to celebrate another year and share stories of our adventures. This year, Joe Marcinek has brought his extended family together to share the love of music and laughter. Calvin Rodgers, Sharay Reed, John Hanrahan, Pennal Johnson, and Rick King formed this year’s Dead Funk Summit at Lincoln Hall, delivering… Continue reading Holiday Funk and Psychedelic Cheer: Joe Marcinek’s Dead Funk Summit Lights Up Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall is dressed in its holiday regalia, helping the merchants along Lincoln Avenue transform the area from business as usual to a scene straight out of a holiday movie. Light snow is falling as I glance at the marquee: “Tonight: Joe Marcinek and Liquid Soul.” I’m intrigued by tonight’s lineup. Tracy Silverman, a world-class… Continue reading Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Horns: Liquid Soul’s Electrifying Set
Winter has finally arrived in the Windy City. As the temperature drops, the streets come alive with the colors of the impending holidays, while brightly colored toy soldiers stand guard over shiny ornaments. The first celebrations of the season have reached the city, but the biting wind keeps shoppers and revelers moving quickly, seeking refuge… Continue reading Harmonic Frost: Tracy & Co. Turn Chicago’s Chill into Cheer
