All Reviews Articles

Danny’s Live Dead Welcomes Skeleton Krewe Trio on Board for an Epic Throwdown at Peri’s

It’s almost certain that no musical act in history has produced as many “cover” bands as the Grateful Dead. In nearly every major city in America, as well as countless smaller towns and rural communities, Dead cover bands regularly celebrate the music of that storied band. Some are long-established lineups of cats who gather regularly… Continue reading Danny’s Live Dead Welcomes Skeleton Krewe Trio on Board for an Epic Throwdown at Peri’s

Still 'Too Hot ta Trot': The Commodores Electrify the Crowd

On the evening of October 4, 2024, the iconic band The Commodores took the stage at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, delivering an electrifying performance that transported fans through decades of funk and soul. With an illustrious and enduring history in music, The Commodores’ presence was a testament to their status as… Continue reading Still 'Too Hot ta Trot': The Commodores Electrify the Crowd

Farm Fresh Jams: Skeleton Krewe Brings Deadly Grooves to the Farm Stand

In West Marin County, California, on Saturday afternoon, a benefit performance by Skeleton Krewe, a unique trio (Stephen Inglis, Barry Sless, and Rob Barraco) in which each member possesses decades of high-level Grateful Dead-esque experience, was enhanced by the presence of two powerhouse musical guests (Pete Sears and Jay Lane), both of whom have displayed… Continue reading Farm Fresh Jams: Skeleton Krewe Brings Deadly Grooves to the Farm Stand

Lobero Legends: Hot Tuna’s Americana Masterclass

On September 30, 2024, the iconic folk/blues duo Hot Tuna graced the stage of the historic Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, delivering a night of timeless and exhilarating music. Known for their blend of Americana, blues, and rock, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady once again proved their enduring talent and connection with the audience. The… Continue reading Lobero Legends: Hot Tuna’s Americana Masterclass

Lyrics in Stereo: One Album, Two Interpretations

Maybe it’s just me, but I think we all have a favorite cover of one of our favorite songs. In fact, there are a few covers I actually prefer over the originals—though I won’t mention any titles. To me, a cover is like your favorite variety pack of adult beverages—same base, different flavor. I could… Continue reading Lyrics in Stereo: One Album, Two Interpretations

The Cult Forges Goth and Hard Rock Music Into Their Own Musical Conception

On September 27th, 2024, a hot, dry wind blew across the Vina Robles Amphitheatre, nestled in the Central California mountainside, setting the stage for The Cult‘s electrifying performance in Paso Robles. With its scenic backdrop and superb acoustics, the venue became a sanctuary for devoted fans eager to immerse themselves in decades of the band’s… Continue reading The Cult Forges Goth and Hard Rock Music Into Their Own Musical Conception

Trading Shorts for Jeans as Pushing Daisy's Rocks into Fall

As summer fades and the days grow shorter, people here in Northwest Indiana are trading their shorts and t-shirts for jeans and hoodies. Outdoor concerts are moving to indoor venues, and tonight, I’m headed to Burn’em Brewery’s Back Room in Michigan City, IN, to catch a performance by Pushing Daisy’s Band from Indianapolis. This progressive… Continue reading Trading Shorts for Jeans as Pushing Daisy's Rocks into Fall

A New Road to California: How Grace Bowers Keeps the Song but Changes the Journey

My editor asks if I’d like to review a new song from a rising blues guitarist. Is that even a question? As a blues lover, the chance to hear an up-and-coming artist bend the strings and bring forth those sweet, soulful sounds is an immediate and resounding yes. Send it my way, I beg. My… Continue reading A New Road to California: How Grace Bowers Keeps the Song but Changes the Journey

The Brooklyn Bowl Hosts Lettuce as Part of Its Fifteenth-Year Celebration

The last time Lettuce played at the original Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY, they performed a vibrant New Year’s celebration to cap off a three-night stand on December 31, 2017. The Boston, MA-based sextet is no stranger to the jam band-friendly venue, as they were tapped for a two-night stand as part of the venue’s… Continue reading The Brooklyn Bowl Hosts Lettuce as Part of Its Fifteenth-Year Celebration

Barefoot and Funky: Don Was's Pan-Detroit Ensemble Rocks the Lobero

The Mercurial Don Was, an American musician, record producer, music director, film composer, documentary filmmaker, and radio host, brought his new band of exceptional jazz talents from his hometown of Detroit to the historic Lobero Theatre on October 2. The audience consisted mainly of local and well-known musicians living in Santa Barbara, a testament to… Continue reading Barefoot and Funky: Don Was's Pan-Detroit Ensemble Rocks the Lobero