Coming into Oh Brother, I wasn’t familiar with Dawes‘ earlier work. I am not privy to how they flow or what the themes might have been. I hadn’t experienced the flows of their past albums, but certain lyrics always stuck with me. One in particular stands out: “Yes, you can stare into the abyss, but… Continue reading Kewl Uncle Rock: A Dive into Dawes’ Oh Brother
On a balmy October evening, the Lobero Theatre served as the perfect venue for a musical odyssey led by the legendary Herb Alpert and his equally talented partner, Lani Hall. At an impressive 89 years of age, Herb Alpert remains a towering figure in the music world, celebrated not just for his illustrious career but… Continue reading Bossa Nova Nights: Alpert and Hall Serenade the Lobero
Legendary performer Tom Jones graced the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday night, October 7th, marking his long-awaited return to the city after a two-year hiatus and his first performance at this iconic venue since 2018. The 84-year-old music icon took the stage with his impressive band of blues-rock musicians, delivering a mesmerizing set… Continue reading Timeless Triumph: Tom Jones Returns to the Greek Theatre
Friko, man. Fucking brilliant. Friko‘s 2024 album Where We’ve Been, Where We Go From Here is one of the most interesting, emotional, and exciting albums of 2024. It’s everything rock is supposed to be. Anthemic, loud guitars? Check. John Lennon-ish angst and introspection? Check. Earwormy, Paul McCartney-ish melodies? Check. Youthful passion, poetry, and poignancy? Check.… Continue reading ALT ROCK JOURNAL: FRIKO & ROYEL OTIS AT THE FOX THEATER, OAKLAND CA OCTOBER 18, 2024
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
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
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
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
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
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
