There was a magical time in musical history when men dressed in glam costumes and killed it with the ladies more than any folk, hip-hop or classical artist could. Stryper was and still is a rare hybrid of Christian rock and heavy metal, donning themed yellow-and-black stage garb, operatic vocals and more guitar solos than you’d ever need. Expect to hear the entire To Hell With The Devil record as well as some sweet, honey-drenched glam ditties. It’s gonna get mighty hot in the Lord’s house. Hallelujah. Expect a near sell-out crowd.
Some musicians were specifically meant to play performing arts centers and grandiose halls around the globe. Such is the case of minimalist pianist and Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi, whose current tour has been selling out everywhere. He’ll be joined by an ambitious ensemble that includes live electronics, synthesizers, keyboards, cello, steel drums, vibraphone, waterphone and violin. Expect to hear music from his 2015 release Elements as well as selections from his already immense catalog made specifically for piano, harp, string quartets and more. 1 Shields Avenue in Davis, www.ludovicoeinaudi.com.
Tues., Oct. 4 and Wed., Oct. 5, 8p.m., Golden 1 Center, $49.50-$250
The Golden 1 Center is finally open to the public after much ballyhoo from downtown residents and, of course, Kevin Johnson’s many opponents. Only time will tell if the new arena will turn around a flailing basketball team and coerce many new, cutting-edge acts to the area. Paul McCartney (of that little group the Beatles) is coming for two special nights. There are still many seats left, and for those who weren’t able to catch his set at the former Arco Arena many years ago, expect a whirlwind, all-encompassing set replete with hits. 500 David J Stern Walk, www.paulmccartney.com.
Sat., Oct. 1, 8:30 p.m. a.m., Nevada County Fairgrounds, $21-$67
Grass Valley residents take pride in their annual Celtic Festival set amongst luscious scenery, featuring some amazing, natural acoustics. Kansas City’s the Elders will be playing both days to share much of its rock-infused catalog, including its seventh studio record titled Story Road. For the uninitiated, expect a high-energy show steeped in rich Celtic tradition without feeling dated or derivative. The annual Celtic Festival also offers much more, including even more musical choices, countless vendors, local dance ensembles and myriad opportunities to join in on the fun. 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, www.eldersmusic.com.
The Trouble Makers have always flown under the radar, yet they’ve had a fervent following here and in neighboring cities. And while the quartet is known for its intensely loud and crazy shows, the guys are really quite nice once they’re offstage. As luck would have it, they’re opening Gear Fest with a bevy of the greatest acts from its label, Gearhead. Label owner Michelle Haunold has displayed a fierce sense of loyalty to her bands and has always produced top-notch recordings with a wicked sense of style akin to some of the coolest car shows. Get there early at to see all hell break loose. 1400 Alhambra Boulevard, www.facebook.com/The-Trouble-Makers-433272836747926.
Led Zeppelin set the bar exceedingly high with its self-titled release in 1969. And while the band didn’t officially explode until Led Zeppelin IV, die-hard fans across the globe already knew what a nasty brew of blues, rock and folk fare these four lads were capable of concocting. This event pairs the music with the Sacramento Philharmonic in what could be the audio equivalent of nirvana to Zeppelin fans. Sure, classical may put some folks to sleep and others into a deep coma, but rest assured, this ensemble features some uber-talented players. 1600 Exposition Boulevard, www.sacphilopera.org.
First formed in 1989, the Mavericks have developed a formidable and devoted fan base. And even though the group has endured more transitional periods than should be allowed, including a hiatus that ran from 2004 to 2012, the highly ambitious tour in support of their latest release, 2015’s Mono, thankfully seems to have no end in sight and features an extended West Coast run of dates.
“During [Mono‘s] writing process, I found myself wanting certain things,” says bandleader Raul Malo. “When you hear Cuban or world music of any kind, you may have no idea what the singer is saying, but you can feel it. That was what I wanted: to evoke a feeling.”
On Mono‘s standout songs like “Stories We Could Tell” and “The Only Question Is,” the group excels at several different music styles including (but not limited to) country, Americana, blues and swing, without sounding dated or derivative.
This weekend, the Mavericks play Earle Fest alongside Lucinda Williams, the Paladins, Girls + Boys and others. The annual event supports Santa Rosa’s Earle Baum Center, which serves to heighten awareness of the visually impaired and blind through numerous services.
Earle Fest happens Saturday, Sept. 17, at the SOMO Village Event Center, 1100 Valley House Drive, Rohnert Park. 2pm. $55 advance. All ages. 707.664.6314.
Throwback Thursday: For the brave 40-or-so in attendance at Cafe Colonial last Thursday, it was clear that Hatchet Job stole the show. Featuring members of sadly defunct acts Pounded Clown, Los Huevos, Filibuster, Scenes From The Struggle and more, this was one for the Sacramento band history books. Also on the bill was Government Flu from Poland along with Sacramento’s Cross Class and Bad Outlets.
Led by Ed Hunter (guitar and vocals), Hatchet Job ripped through a raucous, upbeat set that recalled early Clash, British reggae and oi! punk rock. And while the frontman struggled to coerce concertgoers to move closer to the stage, there was no shortage of approval and head nods.
Some of the group’s quirkiest numbers included “Fryolator Man,” “Kidney Stone” and the oddly-yet-appropriately titled “Disremember,” which proved the quartet was comfortable playing cut time and straightforward grooves.
Drummer C.B. laid down some awkward grooves and played traditional style—loose grip like the jazz greats—in one hand and straight on the other with great effect, while bassist Alan Fulstone provided the low-end rumble. Guitarist Bill Econome filled in the dead spots with cool, simplistic lead licks rather than applying speed and nonsensical notes. A snare drum broke mid-set, but that didn’t stop highlights such as “Torture Drone” and the shuffling rhythms of “Mack The Knife.”
Check out Cafe Colonial if you haven’t already. Shows are cheap and always all-ages, with ample space to play video games, a cool bar, great staff and beer prices that rival your supermarket.
Eddie
