August 2011

Fri, Aug 26, Y&T

Ace of Spades, 7 p.m., $35

Ace of Spades1417 R St.
Sacramento, CA 95814

(916) 448-3300

aceofspadesca@gmail.com

If you grew up in the Bay Area during the hard-rocking ’80s, chances are you’ve seen Y&T on more than one occasion. The band’s hallmark 1981 release, Earthshaker, was a monumental piece of work, replete with screaming guitar solos, bombastic drums and a vocalist (Dave Meniketti) with a near-perfect range. Although the band is now reduced to only one original member—bassist Phil Kennemore passed away recently and Leonard Haze and Joey Alves exited years ago—the current incarnation pays homage to those who have moved on. Expect to hear loads of classic tunes and a handful from the band’s recent album Facemelter1417 R Street, www.meniketti.com.
(SN&R)

Fri, Aug 19, Conducting From the Grave

The Boardwalk, 6:45 p.m., $12-$14

The Boardwalk9426 Greenback Ln.
Orangevale, CA 95662

(916) 988-9247

Looking to get the most bang for your buck? How about eight bands for a mere $12 or $14? Sacramento’s own Conducting From the Grave will headline this heavy-handed bill as part of the Slaughter Survivors 2011 tour. Managed by the folks at The Artery Foundation, a local management company that has made quite a name for itself over the last couple of years, CFTG has been supporting Revenants, its latest release on Sumerian Records. If you’re looking for a quiet, sit-down affair, steer clear of The Boardwalk. If you’re in the mood for some action, obey the metal command. Horns up! 9426 Greenback Lane in Orangevale, www.facebook.com/conductingfromthegrave.
(SN&R)

Fri, Aug 12, Forever Goldrush

Harlow’s, 9 p.m., $8

Harlow’s2708 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95816

(916) 441-4693

Back in the mid-’90s, I lived on the same street as Forever Goldrush when the band was in their infancy. I’d often see singer Damon Wyckoff on P Street, and he’d hand me copies of their music. After finally sitting down and listening to their tunes, I knew there was something special. Although the band dissolved far too quickly, it was only a matter of time before the boys from Amador would pick up the pieces once again. This Friday they’re releasing Amador Frequency, a collection of songs about life’s ups and downs that includes both heartfelt ditties and full-on barn burners. Two thumbs way up. 2708 J Street, www.forevergoldrush.com.
(SN&R)

Sat, Aug 13, Non Stop Bhangra

Quad at UC Davis, 7:30 p.m., no cover

UC Davis Quad1 Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616

(530) 754-2787

If venturing out of your comfort zone isn’t a common occurrence, perhaps it’s time to break your dormant streak with a lesson in Indian dance. Non Stop Bhangra is driven by the sounds of DJ Jimmy Love (pictured), and the beautiful ladies of the Dholrhythms Dance Company provide the visuals. Bhangra dance is a celebration of life and is spiritual by its very existence within Punjabi culture. If you’re a fan of poly-rhythms and South Asian culture, you’re hereby summoned to this soiree. Non Stop Bhangra’s troupe will make even the most stubborn curmudgeon smile from ear to ear. 1 Shields Avenue in Davis, www.nonstopbhangra.com.
(SN&R)