July 2011

Mon, Aug 1, Instagon

Eddie July 28, 2011 0 Comment

Luna’s Café & Juice Bar, 7 p.m., $5-$10

Luna’s Cafe & Juice Bar1414 16th St.
Sacramento, CA 95814

(916) 441-3931

If you’re looking to witness a live group that constantly changes members and doesn’t practice, Instagon should be right up your alley. With nearly 600 shows under his belt, Lob and his cohorts have been mesmerizing new and old fans around the Sacramento Valley. Fans of jam-oriented fare or that simply like improvisational garage jazz should head on over to Ross Hammond’s weekly Monday showcases at the pint-sized Luna’s Café. This week’s installment also features saxophonist Sheldon Brown and opening act Crossing the River. The talent level is higher than average when compared to other local entertainment. 1414 16th Street, www.instagon.com.

(SN&R)

Thurs, Aug 4, Red Molly

Eddie July 28, 2011 0 Comment

CSA Event Center, 7:30 p.m., $15

Center for Spiritual Awareness1275 Starboard Dr.
West Sacramento, CA 95691

(916) 374-9177

New York’s Red Molly will be busy in 2011. Not only does its tour itinerary read like Gideon’s Bible, but with the amount of accolades and press this trio has been getting, one can only expect more additions. Its latest album, James, was released in 2010 on its own label and is a perfect addition to any bluegrass or traditional country collection. For three-part harmonies, stellar musicianship, and a feeling like you’re transplanted into the Ozark Mountains, make this trip. One listen to any of the four releases in the band’s catalog should be enough reason to venture out for the night. 1275 Starboard Drive in West Sacramento, www.redmolly.com.

(SN&R)

Fri, July 22, George Winston

Eddie July 21, 2011 0 Comment

Crest Theatre, 8 p.m., $25-$33

Crest Theatre1013 K St.
Sacramento, CA 95814

(916) 476-3356

Perhaps hearing someone “tickling the ivories” isn’t exactly your idea of a night on the town. For those in the know, however, George Winston solo performances are an event unto their own. Known mostly for his earlier (and better-selling) works which chronicle the changing seasons, he also tributes such disparate artists as the Doors and the late Vince Guaraldi. One of the best-selling artists on the Windham Hill Records label and one of the most consistent live performers around, this multi-instrumentalist shows depth beyond the all too limiting New Age tag. Do yourself and others a favor and remember to turn your phone off. You’ll thank me later. 1013 K Street, www.georgewinston.com.
(SN&R)

Wed, July 27, The Fresh & Onlys

Eddie July 21, 2011 0 Comment

Sol Collective, 8:30 p.m., $7-$10

Sol Collective2574 21st St.
Sacramento, CA 95817

(916) 832-0916

sol@solcollective.org

The smart, angular music of San Francisco’s the Fresh & Onlys has been catching fire both at home and across the pond. Mix one part psychedelia with one part lo-fi garage rock, throw in a heaping wall of layered vocals and reverb-soaked guitars, and you’ll probably understand what these lads listened to. If you’re a fan of early Kinks, ’70s and ’80s guitar pop, and enjoy a little sloppiness thrown in, this band delivers on every level. They’re out on a West Coast tour that hits all the usual spots for a developing act on the verge of breaking into larger theaters and halls. 2574 21st Street, www.myspace.com/thefreshonlys.

(SN&R)

Thurs, July 21, Hapa

Eddie July 14, 2011 0 Comment

Harlow’s, 7 p.m., $25

Harlow’s2708 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95816

(916) 441-4693

Hawaiian music has seen a huge resurgence over the last 20 years. Although seemingly relegated to the yuppie crowd at its onset, the genre has taken on a life of its own. More and more touring artists have been visiting the West Coast as of late (and for good reason). Hapa will swing by the intimate Harlow’s venue this Thursday, courtesy of SBL Entertainment. With early start and end times, this show is a perfect cap to a long workday. World-class acts like Hapa are a rarity in the Sacramento Valley. Show up en masse, and let ’em know we care. 2708 J Street, www.hapa.com.

(SN&R)