Tuesday, September 25, 2012
The Dirty Clergy, The Groggs, & The George Orwell Experience @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 10/10/12
Garage Rock/Alternative
Birmingham, AL
Birmingham, AL
New E.P. "Shake" now available on iTunes
The Dirty Clergy formed in 2009 by Brian Manasco and Tyler Evans as a folk duo and has since then has evolved into a rock & roll band who has toured from the east coast to west coast and places in between. The Dirty Clergy consist of five members - Brian Manasco (Guitar/Vox), Joshua Pope (Lead Guitar), Brad White (Vox), Kyle Estes (Drums), and Michael Pope (Bass).
The Dirty Clergy released their first “demo” album, “Truth Wars” in 2010 with original frontman Tyler Evans and original drummer Colin Webster. They also worked with The Strokes/Regina Spektor producer Gordon Raphael in the early months of 2011 on the digitally released only - Breakdown EP Pt. 1
After a couple of departures from the band the future was unclear. They traveled as a 3-piece for several months until the 2nd drummer exited. This left Brian and Josh to make a decision. That decision was to make an album. They ended up doing all instruments on the album and the music was completed in late Summer of ‘11. All intentions were to have Brian on vocals, but while on vacation in New York City Brian welcomed Brad White as the new front-man and upon return to Alabama Brad immediately went into the studio to lay vocal tracks for the now released album “Revival“.
The band introduced Michael Pope in early 2012 and welcomed back previous drummer Kyle Estes and hit the road. The band recently released the highly anticipated EP “Shake”. The future of this band is bright with new and broadening material being created everyday - they are poised for great success.
Garage Rock
Santa Cruz
The Groggs from Santa Cruz, CA play an amalgam of reverb-soaked vintage rock in the tradition of their wide-ranging influences but tend to favor the early garage-punk spirit of bands such as The Seeds, The Stooges, Them, The Standells, Hasil Adkins and a healthy dose of late '70s street sensibility. A little bleary. They are commonly referred to as a Garage Rock band, but it is known to the band members' girlfriends that The Groggs are a tougher nut to crack. Always the social chameleon, this group adapts to its audience whether slumming it up in punk mayhem or masquerading in the parlors of high society. But at home the sound resembles a rollercoaster ride through the fading annals rock and roll, much like that Aerosmith attraction in Florida.
Embarking in 2007 on a quest for the purest experience possible in music, in the same ironic graffiti-laced bedroom where fellow Santa Cruz alumnus Camper Van Beethoven once ignited their meteoric ascension (yes we can qualify this), The Groggs named themselves after their corner liquor mart (Buy Beer At The Grog Shop in Santa Cruz!) and became more apt to settle for free drinks and gas money.
In 2008 the group self-recorded and released their seminal EP, Up To No Good, and followed up with a tour of the Northwest and Southern California. During this time it became evident that by doing right by rock and roll, rock and roll will do right by The Groggs and audiences on all fronts tend to agree. And when they don't, they aren't too bothered by it.
In their own home setting, The Groggs have shared their favored local stages (and have had foggy encounters) with groups from abroad, starting in no order with groups like The Black Lips, Kid Congo Powers and the Pink Monkeybirds, King Tuff, Starlite Desperation, The Mantles, Crocodiles, The Flakes, Sleepy Sun, Slang Chickens, The Mean Jeans, Shannon n The Clams, Clorox Girls King Lollipop, The Teutonics, Prima Donna, Pink Films, Glitter Wizard, and a whole bevy of other artists who are really quite relevant. Through these so many occasions the gang has distributed records across the pond and beyond Dirty Water Records in the UK and Green Cookie Records down there in Greece, not to mention and up and down the West Coast and across the great US via mailorder. Yes it's really humming along.
As the group's universal appeal became known and it was declared that The Groggs had taken on a life of its own as a spiritual entity, the group's members once again entered the studio, but this time in much nicer digs. Get this, lead guy Keith, still in the prime of his youth, had been slaving away as intern for a top notch recording facility deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains called Compound Recordings where a bevy of vintage and modern gear doth reside. What came out on the other end was drums recorded with ten microphones, squeezing the life out of many an old amp and much reverberal regeneration that resulted in a Wall Of Sound take on early 80's punk not dissimilar to the collision of The Ramones and Phil Spector.
At this time, real working class guy Keith was manning the paper cutter at a copy shop whose only available radio reception was inclined to the ubiquitious Soft Rock KWAV, and those same soft sensibilities undeniably informed the shimmering Wall Of Sound that sizzles a little too hotly off of their 7" record as it plays. Since those days, he'd be the first to tell you that a modest career in production has begun and as an engineer / producer he has delivered several albums for other groups now for sale such as The Wild Ones, Critic (Side Project to Blackbird Raum) and Up All Night. Many other projects lay shelved but the group anxiously eyes its coming studio full length, this time across the reels of analog tape.
The release of their "3D" EP comes packed with digital download and one pair of 3D glasses for the true enjoyment and total fulfillment of a keepsake level packaging experience that has them flying off the shelves worldwide. And all this came delivered on bowling-ball colored vinyl, it was really too good to be true. But it's a darn good spinner at any roller rink, petting party or teenaged doper scene.
It's live and in the ring where The Groggs really pay off - past press has remarked upon the prowess and stature, physical ability, almost fearsome nature and utter omnipotence of the group's bemuscled foreperson, Keith "Jeffrey" Thompson who delights fans of all age groups with high-flying guitar pageantry and only the most careful of crooning to accompany.
Generally while this happens, bassist and think-tank Ryan "The Snake" Allbaugh gazes in approval, assuring any uninitiates that everything is "going to be fine". Known for a big, round and fuzzed out sound, he's just as well equipped in bedside manner and provides a soothing male presence. In his own right, Ryan is a seasoned performer in past outfits such as Glitter Wizard, and currently as front person for Up All Night, delivers a low down Detroit hustle.
Drummer Dom Gullo has a beard and is the same relative height as his cohorts. This gives the group a striking, proportionate image on stages of any size. And on the drums, he's no slouch. He can play the cymbal faster than a lambs tail. He maintains is mainstay as drummer / vocalist to the progressive two-piece outfit Smokin' Ponies, who are available for parties and functions of any size.
An early encounter between band members Ryan Allbaugh and Keith Thompson laid a hard rock stone in the foundry of the popular Bay Area Psych Rock Band Slash Cult that calls itself Glitter Wizard, fronted by longtime cohort Micah Warren. The band currently resides on in neighboring San Francisco and these old mates frequently reunite to toss one out.
Since those days, The Groggs have become a people's favorite in the Bay Area and beyond, commanding a wide swath of rock and roll lifer's from all corners and out of all woodworks. If you love rock and roll, you will love The Groggs. Or, you won't much dislike them if they are coming to play at your place of business.
When asked about their future, as they are so frequently pestered with their newfound favor in press outlets such as Shindig! UK, Performer Magazine, Maximum Rock N Roll, and an outcropping of esoteric online shanty rags, The Groggs mostly think about the next gig, what's wrong with the van and how to trick someone into releasing their upcoming 12" LP which stands to put a lot of smart record collecting people over the moon upon its inevitable release.
Yes, it's clearly no better time to give this group exactly what they are asking for, and to know that the promise of rock and roll will be fulfilled to you, and in person if you choose by The Groggs.
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What the Critics Say :
"A very excellent band" - RVCA.com
"A return to good ol' dingy, hard hitting rock & roll for all the hungry purists" - Good Times Santa Cruz
"Scuzz Rock Luminaries" - Metro Santa Cruz
Formed in 2008, this shaggy local trio continues to electrify venues alongside the likes of the Black Lips and Kid Congo Powers; but don’t think for a second the Groggs are rock stars. “We have no false aspirations to ‘make it,’” says singer Keith Thompson, “‘Make it’ all the time, I say.” With this motto in hand, the Groggs deliver a staggering blast of new garage rock, with hints of punk and power-pop sing-alongs, all wrapped up in a gritty package for a classic sound that spans decades. With openers from Olympia, Western Hymn, Wednesday promises to be a true experience in the lost art of rock ’n’ roll with steady beats and audience interaction—giving anyone in earshot a sense that the show is less about the bands and more about everyone leaving with a good time; just as the gods intended.
THE GROGGS
Since its inception, the hard-hitting garage rock trio known as the Groggs has given new hope to the Santa Cruz music scene. Lead singer and guitarist Keith Thompson's slightly surfish licks blend beautifully with punch-packing power chords and grungy, soulful singing. All the while, he struts onstage with more swagger than a rooster in the hen house, backed up by the bountiful bass rifts of Ryan Allbaugh. Justin Ward rounds out the group, hammering away on the skins and keeping the beat for the infectiously catchy yet dingy tunes. Overall, the Groggs are a band to be reckoned with, and they put on a show not to be missed. Crepe Place; $5; 9pm. (Brian Harker)
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The Groggs
Working-Class Heroes
It’s 6:30 p.m. and I feel out of place hitting up the Blue Lagoon so early. Its black walls and empty stage stand quiet as red lights pulsate overhead in the vacant band room, flickering hints of what will come alive later in the evening. I’m sitting at a table as Keith Thompson, the sound engineer, speedily preps the room for the night’s concert. Finally, irked by the quiet, he puts on The Seeds’ “Satisfy You” as background music for our chat about his own band that’s riled up the very room we’re in many times over, the Groggs.
“It’s working class,” Thompson says of the Groggs’ sound, after joining me with a can of Pabst nestled in his hand, his Golden Boots T-shirt peeking out from his denim jacket. “Most people can relate to it. If we showed up at a veterans’ VFW bar we could probably not get killed.” The singer adds, “It’s not about how intellectual we are, it’s about how we can connect, write kick-ass songs and get everyone pumped and moving.”
Having quaked stages alongside Bob Log III, Kid Congo Powers and the Black Lips, the Groggs have stepped up as one of Santa Cruz’s premier rock acts, delivering on a promise of classic rock and big-hit songwriting based around basic chords. Thompson may claim an aversion to over-intellectualizing art rockers, but don’t be fooled: the Groggs don’t lack introspection. Along with gritty, high-adrenaline garage rock and plenty of nods to ’70s guitar punches and punk rock, the trio delves into country and soul influences (think Townes Van Zandt and the Byrds) and current crowd favorites include some nearly-shoegaze-infused pop rock ballads.
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“We want to show that everyone should have a band in Santa Cruz—even the guy who cuts my hair can have a band. There’s no line or distinction between who can play.”
—Keith Thompson, The Groggs
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Throughout our conversation, Thompson affectionately refers to his girlfriend and primary source of inspiration, Luxury Sweets bassist Rachael MacKenzie Chavez, as “my chick,” and Groggs bassist Ryan Allbaugh as “my bro,” and the 27-year-old talks about his songwriting intentions with the same unabashed candor and casual confidence.
“We’re trying to unite the reverb-drenched Wall of Sound with classic songwriting and punk energy,” the frontman says of the band’s upcoming debut album, recorded at Compound Recordings where Thompson labored as an intern in exchange for studio time. “I hope it’s a great rock record. Like one for the ages, to put on the shelf next to your Clash and Ramones records. You could put on the Ramones’ Rocket to Russia and then you could put on our album and draw a line to it.”
Twenty minutes into our talk, Allbaugh rushes in. Sporting long hair and a black Pestilence hoodie, the bassist’s death metal background is obvious. Apologizing for being late due to a water pipe bursting on River Street, Allbaugh’s darkness seems to end with his attire. Smiley and lighthearted, the Chico native chimes in to describe his rising band with Thompson and drummer Justin Ward as “unpretentious and enjoyable and a little in your face—old fashioned bar rock in the best sense of the term.” Then he laughs with an afterthought, “Well, maybe we don’t want to emphasize the beer too much!”
“We don’t play to any specific class or social group,” Thompson states. “It’s something to bring all those people together. We want to show that everyone should have a band in Santa Cruz—even the guy who cuts my hair can have a band. There’s no line or distinction between who can play.” Allbaugh agrees, “Yeah, why not? It’s just fun.”
So what’s next for the Groggs in their searing rock plight for the everyman?
“We’re going to attempt another West Coast tour
in the spring once we have the record out,” Thompson says. “That’s if we can get our van to smog—which is not looking good.”
For more information on The Groggs, check out myspace.com/thegroggs.
The Groggs
Written by Linda Koffman
Tuesday, 20 January 2009 - gtweekly.com
"The purists of the local rock scene"
Having a MySpace is a necessity for every band these days. Having a MySpace without any music on it will likely get a band nowhere. Unless you’re The Groggs. Peruse their site and you’ll find show dates, plenty of retro black and white photos, and a quirky little bio that so insightfully begins, “Many years ago, three men were born.” Music for a quick listen? Nope. “I’m kind of a purist,” explains singer and sound engineer Keith Thompson about the curious absence of tunes, “I want it to sound like the nuggets of the psychedelic ’60s. In the meantime, through the local network, we’ve been doing all right.” More than all right, the trio has found its niche playing heavy, wall-trembling shows for audiences of all kinds. Thompson, formerly of psych outfit El Sonido, started the band with visions of Gram Parsons and Townes Van Zandt in mind. That plan was soon ditched, and they’ve instead been procuring a set encompassing stoner rock, grinding punk, and the softened edges of power pop—with some Billy Bragg and Sam Cooke thrown in. They’re as accessible as that initial country rock, but as fiercely adrenaline-rousing as Raging Bull. “The origin was that we were going to be the sweethearts of the rodeo, but then we realized that might be a little limiting,” the singer reflects. “So far we get the hipsters diggin’ us, the old folks diggin’ us, and it’s pretty cool.” More like sweethearts of the corner store, the band’s hoping to cement a grassroots sponsorship from their infamous namesake—The Grog Shop, which he calls “a notoriously dingy liquor store that we’re so proud of.” Tacking on that extra ‘g’ as a nod to The Troggs, the threesome pays homage to its neighborhood beverage outlet, and may soon just sport the store’s T-shirts onstage in exchange for, yep, that DIY rock gold: beer. “We’re happy to pay for our beer in the meantime, but it’d definitely be nice to save a little money that way,” the frontman muses with hope. And, if we’re lucky, those savings will lead to some official recordings for the rest of us.
Underground Alt Indie
Santa Cruz
we play music and feel real good about it. maybe we are silly dreamers but we like to think we can help heal those who tune in to our vibration. we play conscious music while retaining the edge of the underground.
we are a collective of friends who play music for the love of it. we are a core who rehearse along with the others who cannot always attend but are still a part of the experience. the band has been evolving for the last five or so years. now that the line-up has solidified we are rolling.
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
The Ghost Of Wrights, Crazy Eyes, & Animal Super Species @ The Blue Lagoon Tuesday 10/9/12
Tuesday 10/9/12
Folk/Rock/Experimental
Santa Cruz Mountains, CA
In the 1880’s a railroad was completed that traversed the Santa Cruz Mountains. This was accomplished with the construction of a small number of tunnels that connected the small towns and communities that dotted the countryside between the Santa Clara Valley and Santa Cruz. One of these communities was the train depot of Wrights Station.
The railroad was shut down in the 1940’s with the entrances to the tunnels blown up. As a result these small communities dwindled and disappeared becoming ghost towns. Although little remains today but crumbling stone and overgrown foundations, the souls of these towns and tunnels linger on to this day… We are The Ghost of Wrights.
Seattle
We make music in our basement/cave/dungeon.
Our brand new debut album is streaming online here: http://animalsuperspecies.bandcamp.com/
where you can also download the new single "Leave It Dead" and our first EP, Phobos, for free!
You can also listen to and download tracks from here: http://soundcloud.com/animal-super-species
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Illusion Of Self, The Repair, & LeMay @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 9/26/12
Wednesday 9/26/12
Illusion Of Self
Alternative Rock
Alternative Rock
San Francisco
Illusion of Self is an alternative rock band formed by Frank Salazar, Miles Deiaco, and Raymond Jones. They blend the vibe and tones of the 60′s and 70′s rock with an aggressive, emotional, feel of the 90’s while remaining modern and progressive. Frank’s vocals capture the audience with his slightly bluesy yet over-driven attack. Miles’ sultry low end on the bass lays a melodic foundation for the intense array of guitar sounds. Raymond’s (Random Mysticks) intricate and hard hitting drum patterns force the audience to listen up and jump around. This 3 piece trio came out of San Francisco and wouldn’t have it any other way. The sound can be defined as classic yet ahead of its time.
The Repair
Alternative
Sacramento
The most memorable music that a listener experiences is music that they can feel in their heart and their soul. The thumping on your chest and the conviction of lyrics leaves a lasting impression on our brains and causes emotions to arise. The Repair started in 2010 as an experiment of new songs written by Walter Bere, lead singer and guitarist. The objective was to create an atmosphere where the listener can close their eyes and be taken to another place, whether it was back to the first feelings of romance, or to the hustle and bustle of a busy city street. In early 2011, the band was formed and geared up for a show in Hollywood at the world famous Whisky a Go Go, where they would begin their journey as a new Rock band from Sacramento, CA. Passion and Intensity are revealed in the tone and vibe of every song they perform. That is the experience that The Repair brings.
LeMay
Alternative
Van Nuys, CA
Lemay emerged in late Autumn of 2010 with an ineffable amount of musical tenacity. Steaming from the dissolution of one band, Harker Russell (vocals & guitar) and Devon Steelman (drums & production) collaborated together to continue the pursuit of making it in the music industry. It didn't take long for a few tracks to legitimize the band; a marriage of melodic creativity ensues with perseverance. Matt Stevenson (lead guitar & self-proclaimed ice-box of energy) joined the group after hearing a few of the songs. Matt added fuel to the Lemay fire and quickly became a fixture. Devo (lead bass) joined the band and completed the mixture. "Green Street" is Lemay's first release, available on iTunes. Not to be underestimated, Lemay's music is something that one must introduce themselves to in order to fully comprehend the innovation of the band's product. Lemay is currently booking shows and tour dates to follow the "Green Street" EP's release, and engaged in intense online marketing efforts. Check out twitter.com/lemayband, reverbnation.com/lemay, vibedeck.com/lemay, youtube.com/lemayband, and the Lemay facebook fan page for more updates! Lemay is poised to take the music world by storm and hopes to touch people all around the world with their music.
Illusion of Self is an alternative rock band formed by Frank Salazar, Miles Deiaco, and Raymond Jones. They blend the vibe and tones of the 60′s and 70′s rock with an aggressive, emotional, feel of the 90’s while remaining modern and progressive. Frank’s vocals capture the audience with his slightly bluesy yet over-driven attack. Miles’ sultry low end on the bass lays a melodic foundation for the intense array of guitar sounds. Raymond’s (Random Mysticks) intricate and hard hitting drum patterns force the audience to listen up and jump around. This 3 piece trio came out of San Francisco and wouldn’t have it any other way. The sound can be defined as classic yet ahead of its time.
The Repair
Alternative
Sacramento
The most memorable music that a listener experiences is music that they can feel in their heart and their soul. The thumping on your chest and the conviction of lyrics leaves a lasting impression on our brains and causes emotions to arise. The Repair started in 2010 as an experiment of new songs written by Walter Bere, lead singer and guitarist. The objective was to create an atmosphere where the listener can close their eyes and be taken to another place, whether it was back to the first feelings of romance, or to the hustle and bustle of a busy city street. In early 2011, the band was formed and geared up for a show in Hollywood at the world famous Whisky a Go Go, where they would begin their journey as a new Rock band from Sacramento, CA. Passion and Intensity are revealed in the tone and vibe of every song they perform. That is the experience that The Repair brings.
LeMay
Alternative
Van Nuys, CA
Lemay emerged in late Autumn of 2010 with an ineffable amount of musical tenacity. Steaming from the dissolution of one band, Harker Russell (vocals & guitar) and Devon Steelman (drums & production) collaborated together to continue the pursuit of making it in the music industry. It didn't take long for a few tracks to legitimize the band; a marriage of melodic creativity ensues with perseverance. Matt Stevenson (lead guitar & self-proclaimed ice-box of energy) joined the group after hearing a few of the songs. Matt added fuel to the Lemay fire and quickly became a fixture. Devo (lead bass) joined the band and completed the mixture. "Green Street" is Lemay's first release, available on iTunes. Not to be underestimated, Lemay's music is something that one must introduce themselves to in order to fully comprehend the innovation of the band's product. Lemay is currently booking shows and tour dates to follow the "Green Street" EP's release, and engaged in intense online marketing efforts. Check out twitter.com/lemayband, reverbnation.com/lemay, vibedeck.com/lemay, youtube.com/lemayband, and the Lemay facebook fan page for more updates! Lemay is poised to take the music world by storm and hopes to touch people all around the world with their music.
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
A Thousand Shall Fall, HowDareYou, Vultures At Arms Reach, & Just Breathe @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 10/3/12
Wednesday 10/3/12
Metal
Santa Cruz
Emerging as a duo in the Summer of 2010 with the musical engineering prowess of Kevin Loftus and the guitar styling's of Dhruva Noel, A Thousand Shall Fall was a metal-based recording group with hopes of gaining a few more members and turning it into the real thing. In late August the duo became a formidable trio with the addition of Daniel Johnston, a highly skilled guitarist previously part of various local bands such as Descending Forth and others. With the addition of Dan A.T.S.F. found a direction for their music and added an important piece to their onslaught. In late 2010 Jesse Williams joined on vocals, and in early 2011 Gena Krupa joined the band to finalize the A.T.S.F. lineup. Currently in the process of composing, booking, and recording the band's sound is strongly melodic while simultaneously staying true to the heavy hitting rhythms they've all grown fond of. Keep your eyes and ears open for some upcoming tracks on Myspace other sites and look out for A Thousand Shall Fall coming to a city near you in 2012.
Power Violence
Santa Cruz
Post Metal/Sludge/Atmosphere
Santa Cruz
Punk Rock / Hard Core
Santa Cruz
A product of old friends and former band mates jumping back in the ring together for another round. Felix and Cory from DRY HEAVERS have joined up with Eddy and Rory from CHANCES ARE to form JUST BREATHE! The history behind this group of guys goes much further than these bands, all the way back to kick starting a punk scene where there was none in a small farm town as 13 year old 8th grade punk rockers in King City California... but at the end of the day, who cares! JUST BREATHE is here... deal with it!
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Cobra Skulls, Holding Onto Sound, & Tater Famine @ The Blue Lagoon Friday 9/21/12
Friday 9/21/12
Cobra Skulls
Punk Rock
San Francisco
Holding Onto Sound
Progressive Punk Rock
Las Vegas
Tater Famine
American/Folk/Punk
Santa Cruz
Russ Rankin
Rock/Punk/Dissent
Santa Cruz
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
FroadZ, Bird Not The Body, & Strawberry Girls @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 9/19/12
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Wednesday 9/19/12
Post Rock
San Francisco
sometime in 1995, Patrick moved into a house down the street from Jared. shortly thereafter, Patrick called Jared's house and invited him to go ride bikes. then they became friends.
sometime in 2001, Michael and Jared decided to eat toast at Denny's, lamenting recent entrance to high school as well as sharing common fondness for blink-182, the misfits, and general self-deprecation.
sometime in 2010/11, Patrick's old band played at Jared's house in Santa Cruz which prompted Jared to get back in touch with Patrick.
sometime shortly thereafter, Patrick and Jared had some sweet jams in Jared's Santa Cruz garage-room.
sometime shortly thereafter that, Patrick Jared and Michael had some sweet jams in Jared's San Jose basement-hangout.
sometime shortly thereafter that, Patrick Jared and Michael started rehearsing at a sweet practice space in San Francisco (motivational posters hung) and played a word game that led to "froadz".
Patrick and Jared found it hilarious, but Michael was not impressed. Eventually, Michael thought it was funny too.
sometime in 1995, Patrick moved into a house down the street from Jared. shortly thereafter, Patrick called Jared's house and invited him to go ride bikes. then they became friends.
sometime in 2001, Michael and Jared decided to eat toast at Denny's, lamenting recent entrance to high school as well as sharing common fondness for blink-182, the misfits, and general self-deprecation.
sometime in 2010/11, Patrick's old band played at Jared's house in Santa Cruz which prompted Jared to get back in touch with Patrick.
sometime shortly thereafter, Patrick and Jared had some sweet jams in Jared's Santa Cruz garage-room.
sometime shortly thereafter that, Patrick Jared and Michael had some sweet jams in Jared's San Jose basement-hangout.
sometime shortly thereafter that, Patrick Jared and Michael started rehearsing at a sweet practice space in San Francisco (motivational posters hung) and played a word game that led to "froadz".
Patrick and Jared found it hilarious, but Michael was not impressed. Eventually, Michael thought it was funny too.
Math Rock
Monterey
Intrumental
Salinas
Zachary Garren parted ways with his previous band, Dance Gavin Dance, in early 2010. While pursuing his solo project, Good Health, he crossed paths with local drummer, Ben Rosett, who was playing with a local band called The Trees. Ben, who was interested in starting a new project, asked Zac if he wanted to jam to see if anything cool would happen. Fortunately, everything clicked, and Strawberry Girls was formed in April, 2011.
After their first performance as a duo, Ben's friend and previous band-mate, Ian Jennings, excitedly wanted to be a part of the project. Ben and Zac, wanting to take the project to the next level, brought Ian on board to play bass for Strawberry Girls.
During the writing process for their first album, a live demo was released on Bandcamp titled, "Demo 2011", containing 5 raw live studio tracks. Months later, Ben, Zac, and Ian brought these tracks to life, producing the album at their home studio. "Italian Ghosts" was released in August 2011 as their first official EP. Soon after, another demo was released titled, "Do Peace (EP)", comprised of two tracks "Do Peace" and "Fight Club". Those two tracks were recorded live in the home studio, intended to hold their fans over until their next release.
Strawberry Girls have a lot planned for 2012. With their 2nd full length album, French Ghetto, on it's way, they have also taken on the task of remixing and remastering "Italian Ghosts" for a second edition release, as well as currently recording "Acoustic Ghosts", which includes mostly acoustic arrangements of new and old songs played on different instruments. There are also other special projects that may surface eventually. In the midst of all these different musical endeavors, Strawberry Girls has also been releasing various cover songs, filmed live and/or recorded in the studio, and put on YouTube.
You can look forward to Strawberry Girls' upcoming releases in 2012:
• "Italian Ghosts" 2nd Edition [re-mixed/re-mastered]
• "Acoustic Ghosts" [acoustic album featuring old and new tracks]
• "French Ghetto" [sophomore album]
• + more...
Zachary Garren parted ways with his previous band, Dance Gavin Dance, in early 2010. While pursuing his solo project, Good Health, he crossed paths with local drummer, Ben Rosett, who was playing with a local band called The Trees. Ben, who was interested in starting a new project, asked Zac if he wanted to jam to see if anything cool would happen. Fortunately, everything clicked, and Strawberry Girls was formed in April, 2011.
After their first performance as a duo, Ben's friend and previous band-mate, Ian Jennings, excitedly wanted to be a part of the project. Ben and Zac, wanting to take the project to the next level, brought Ian on board to play bass for Strawberry Girls.
During the writing process for their first album, a live demo was released on Bandcamp titled, "Demo 2011", containing 5 raw live studio tracks. Months later, Ben, Zac, and Ian brought these tracks to life, producing the album at their home studio. "Italian Ghosts" was released in August 2011 as their first official EP. Soon after, another demo was released titled, "Do Peace (EP)", comprised of two tracks "Do Peace" and "Fight Club". Those two tracks were recorded live in the home studio, intended to hold their fans over until their next release.
Strawberry Girls have a lot planned for 2012. With their 2nd full length album, French Ghetto, on it's way, they have also taken on the task of remixing and remastering "Italian Ghosts" for a second edition release, as well as currently recording "Acoustic Ghosts", which includes mostly acoustic arrangements of new and old songs played on different instruments. There are also other special projects that may surface eventually. In the midst of all these different musical endeavors, Strawberry Girls has also been releasing various cover songs, filmed live and/or recorded in the studio, and put on YouTube.
You can look forward to Strawberry Girls' upcoming releases in 2012:
• "Italian Ghosts" 2nd Edition [re-mixed/re-mastered]
• "Acoustic Ghosts" [acoustic album featuring old and new tracks]
• "French Ghetto" [sophomore album]
• + more...
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Bummer City, Warm Soda, & Natural Child @ The Blue Lagoon When Tuesday 9/18/12
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Tuesday 9/18/12
Bummer City
Garage Rock and Roll
Santa Cruz
Warm Soda
Pop
Oakland
Natural Child
Rock & Roll
Nashville
"…YEAH, WELL, NOW THEY SOUND LIKE BOB DYLAN, THE STONES, STOOGES, NEIL YOUNG, WAYLON JENNINGS… WELL, EVEN WILLIE. I GUESS THEY’VE BEEN AT IT FOR A COUPLE YEARS NOW. BACK IN SUMMER OF '09, BACK WHEN I MET EM, WEZ AND ZACK WERE EATIN WEED BROWNIES AND THEY REALIZED THEY NEEDED SETH IN THE BAND. WELL, THEY DECIDED THEREFORE AND THEN TO START THE GREATEST ROCK N’ ROLL BAND IN THE WORLD-- NATURAL CHILD. PROBABLY KNOWN AS MUCH FOR WHAT THEY SAY AS WHAT THEY DO, THEY’VE EARNED A REPUTATION OF GIVING AUDIENCES THE STRAIGHT DEAL. WORLDWIDE. THEY ARE CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF BUYING BILL WYMAN’S BASS AMP FROM 1970. GOD BLESS EM.”
-Leon Russell
Cool Ghouls
Rock N Roll
Santa Cruz
The Blue Lagoon
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Gypsyhawk, Highness, & The Bad Light @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 9/12/2012
Wednesday 9/12/2012
Modern Wave of Classic Heavy Metal
Los Angeles
"Gypsyhawk is four metal dudes playing rock and roll and bringing the party every time they get on stage," states guitarist Andrew Packer, and there is perhaps no better way of surmising the spirit and sound of the Pasadena quartet. Revisiting the electrifying sounds of bullshit-free 70s rock, the band are a breath of fresh air compared to the endless onslaught of breakdown obsessed bands cluttering up heavy music. Marinating their wares in whiskey and weed, they hurl out blistering riffs and irresistible hooks and grooves, doing their damnedest to ensure that everyone at their shows is having as much fun as they are. With Revelry & Resilience, their second full-length and Metal Blade debut, this vibe bleeds from the speakers from start to finish, determinedly putting a smile on your face and compelling you to throw your hair around, no matter how much or how little you might have. "It's music for girls to shake their asses to and dudes to bang their heads," states vocalist/bassist Eric Harris. "It's good-time rock and roll, and we don't take ourselves too seriously, but at the same time we're not one-dimensional 'yeah-dude-let's-party-all-the-fucking-time!' guys, and I like to think there's something for everyone in our music."
If one thing is for sure it's that the four guys in Gypsyhawk are not looking for overnight stardom and want to put the work into building something that lasts, and deservedly so. "I really want to take this band as big as it can possibly go but because it's good music that people want to hear, and I want the chance to try different things on the records we make in the future, to really see what we're capable of," says Packer. "We're just going to write the best music that we can and we're gonna write the truest music that we can," Harris adds. "We want to play this music everywhere that will have us, but we're pretty realistic about everything, and we're just having a good fucking time while we can."
Highness
Heavy Psychedelic Forest Riffs
Santa Cruz
Delta Sludge
Santa Cruz
"Kinda like RL Burnside and Electric Wizard"
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Monday, September 3, 2012
The Redlight District, Callow, & Ant Lion @ The Blue Lagoon Friday 9/7/12
Friday 9/7/12
Psychedelic Rock and Roll
Santa Cruz
Sex on acid
Indie Rock
San Francisco
A commanding amalgam of ambient indie art rock, driven by emotive vocals, haunting atmospheres, and gritty, poignant guitar. Red's raw contralto is reminiscent of Vic Chestnutt while Sami creates a dark, primordial landscape with the simultaneous use of keyboard, percussion, and vocals.
The two met at a house party in San Francisco in the fall of 2006, but didn't begin playing music together until 2009. Red, who was playing in a jagged rock band at the time, wanted to strip back his approach to song-writing to emphasize the vocals, as he had done when composing score for college theater. Sami, while dancing in a modern dance company and studying Haitian dance, gradually became more involved in the song-writing process and started playing drums.
Catapulted by a crashing economy, their philosophical and artistic perspectives came together, and a musical project was born. They've been writing music and touring around the western US ever since. Their musical influences include Built to Spill, Pink Floyd, The Black Heart Procession, and PJ Harvey.
Their debut album, Orb Weaver, was released in May, 2012 on NxNW Records.
"A raw contralto will get you far in the indie world, particularly if you specialize in songs about heartbreak, death, and the fallout after a bad relationship. Singer Red Moses has it. Whoever did him wrong paved the way for some forceful emo-folk, buoyed by heavy chords and portentous lyrics. Don't let the name fool you." - Rachel Swan, East Bay Express
Ant Lion
Ant Lion
923 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Island Of Black And White, The Honeypot, & The Sea People @ The Blue Lagoon Wednesday 9/5/12
Wednesday 9/5/12
Island of Black and White first appeared on the music scene in CA in 2004. Their music is a sweet, humble yet raw blend of acoustic rock, funky reggae, and soulful blues. It is a mixture like no other. The “duet, sometimes quartet” exerts high energy performances while frequenting local and out of town venues, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, music festivals and various events. The unique sound of Island of Black and White today captures the attention of those young and old: with Chris Haislet on guitar, keyboard, accordion, melodica, flute and vocals, Nawal Alwareeth on drums and vocals. It is apparent for anyone watching, that the band shares an immense love for music. Not only does the band enjoy playing, but their incredible performances engage all who listen; and the energy is shared with the entire crowd.
“Every once in a while a band transcends time because they redefine music and remain relevant throughout the generations. The Island of Black and White (IBW), a Sacramento rock/reggae/funk/folk/blues band, is on their way - destined for greatness. Chris Haislet (vocals, guitar, keyboard, flute, accordion, talk box, melodica . . . etc.) and Nawal Al Wareeth (drums) have such raw sincerity and technical expertise that you must submit to the moment and let their music run through your veins. IBW keeps their fans coming back for more with their improvisational solos and poetic originals. With lyrics like, "We are stronger than we know" and "We must hold on," IBW writes about embracing life and empowers its audience to "Rise above." Do not hesitate to watch this band perform live . . . it will be like hearing The Beatles for the first time.” –Matthew Jaoudi, 2012
“a lifetime of stories crammed into a couple years of experience create the perfect formula that makes up the Caribbean-drenched, edgy and folky sounds of Island of Black and White, El Dorado Hills’ own slice of pure musical originality.”
-Andy Laughlin, Village Life, El Dorado Hills NewsPaper 2011
Crunchy Delicious
Santa Cruz, CA
Socially-Conscious Disco, Indie Erotica
Bay Area, CA
With a sound that could be described as socially conscious disco, or perhaps indie erotica, the Sea People's gritty, punchy, crunchy, and wavy funk-folk-dance-rock soundscapes electrify the limbs of listeners with colorful soul vibes.
The band was formed at Stanford University in late September 2009 by keyboardist Chris Beachy and guitarist Charlie Glick; very soon the lineup included Dan Bardenstein bangin' at them drums and Ella Cooley up front on the lead vocals. In late January of '09, David Kettler, one of Charlie's friends from Delaware, began to slap basses with Sea People.
The People are people who enjoy playing music, eating cereal and taking medium-length walks on the beach; they are people who enjoy making people dance; they are people who want to see people. They are The Sea People.
923 Pacific Avenue
Candlelight Tent Vigil Protesting Homeless Sweeps Friday 9/7/12
Please join us in community as we express our sadness and outrage at this campaign of harassment of those who're the most vulnerable.
We will gather at City Hall at 7pm, Friday Sept. 7th
After a brief circle there will be a slow march through town carrying candles and lofting tents above our heads. We'll traverse Pacific Ave, then visit the river levee and then back to City Hall.
There will be dixie cup hooded candles but please bring flashlights and tents if you have them.
This is the first step in a new multi-tiered campaign to address the city's criminalization of outside night sleep.
We welcome you to join us.
The City of Santa Cruz has been using the SCPD & the City Parks Dept. to attack homeless camps.
We are in the 7th week of this campaign that has seen more than 300 citations given, more than 100 camps destroyed and personal belongings trashed and more than 150 arrests.
While the Santa Cruz has closed the Paul Lee Loft shelter it has offered no other solutions to people who are survival camping in the woods, river levee and downtown.
It is illegal to sleep outside in Santa Cruz btwn 11pm - 8am and it is illegal to lay under a blanket... EVEN IF ONE IS AWAKE!!
Where are these folks supposed to sleep safely and legally?
Sunday, September 2, 2012
A Thousand Shall Fall, Section 5150, & Grimpire @ The Catalyst Atrium Sunday 9/30/12
Sunday 9/30/12
Metal
Santa Cruz, Ca
Emerging as a duo in the Summer of 2010 with the musical engineering prowess of Kevin Loftus and the guitar styling's of Dhruva Noel, A Thousand Shall Fall was a metal-based recording group with hopes of gaining a few more members and turning it into the real thing. In late August the duo became a formidable trio with the addition of Daniel Johnston, a highly skilled guitarist previously part of various local bands such as Descending Forth and others. With the addition of Dan A.T.S.F. found a direction for their music and added an important piece to their onslaught. In late 2010 Jesse Williams joined on vocals, and in early 2011 Gena Krupa joined the band to finalize the A.T.S.F. lineup. Currently in the process of composing, booking, and recording the band's sound is strongly melodic while simultaneously staying true to the heavy hitting rhythms they've all grown fond of. Keep your eyes and ears open for some upcoming tracks on Myspace other sites and look out for A Thousand Shall Fall coming to a city near you in 2012.
Thrash Metal
San Jose, Ca
5150 formed in 2009 with Dave and Chris coming from the same company both working as mechanical engineers. In 2010 Yakamz was added and we began playing shows throughout San Jose and Santa Cruz. After a brief hiatus recording our demo in May and June of 2010 we thrashed out the bay.
2011 halfway gone in a haze of hangovers 5150 Adopted the name Section 5150 and produced our 1st full length album "Bide Your Time."
Currently planning a West Coast tour. Stay tuned kids and check out our website for tour dates!!!
Death Metal Hobbyists
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA
Doors: 8:30 pm / Show: 9:00 pm
$8
Tickets Available at the Door
This event is 16 and over
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