November 2016

Eight Gigs: Hang the Old Year

Mon., Nov. 28, 8 p.m., Press Club, $8

One listen to the hypnotic groove and chorus of “Breathe, Ascend, Become” from this Portland ensemble should make any fans of the indie record label Constellation get on board with these guys, too. Without sounding dated or derivative, and driving forward with utter disregard for consequence, this is one experimental group that manages to create a big sound—almost like a musical version of the Occupy Wall Street movement. They simultaneously avoid sounding patronizing or easy; a stellar find for a Monday night, especially during times like these, no? 2030 P Street, www.facebook.com/hangtheoldyear.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Hed PE

Thu., Nov. 17, 7 p.m., The Boardwalk, $18-$20

Huntington Beach’s purveyors of gangsta-styled punk rock return to their favorite haunt in the suburbs for yet another night of debauchery. Don’t be fooled by the massive amount of vaping and weed references; this is one group that knows how to craft clever, groove-laden songs. Since releasing its fantastic self-titled record back in 1997, singer Jared (real name Paulo Sergio Gomes) has rotated many talented members into the band, including current members Major Trauma (drums), Gregzilla (guitars) and Kid Bass (bass). 9426 Greenback Lane in Orangevale, www.hedperocks.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Ringo Starr

Thu., Nov. 17, 8 p.m., Bob Hope Theatre, $79-$125

Unbeknownst to some, Ringo Starr was not the only drummer of the Beatles. He is, however, the group’s most popular skinsman by far and away. This week, the living legend will be out on the road playing with a star-studded band that some might assert can play circles around his former bandmates. Fans of classic rock (and especially diehard Beatles fans who might’ve missed Sir Paul at the new arena) won’t want to miss Ringo’s latest lineup, featuring members of Toto, Journey, David Lee Roth, Mr. Mister and even Todd Rundgren. 242 East Main Street in Stockton, www.ringostarr.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Michael Doucet & Tom Rigney with Flambeau

Wed., Nov. 9, 8 p.m., Harris Center for the Arts, $20-$40

10 College Parkway in Folsom, www.beausoleilmusic.com.

Those lucky enough to have caught Michael Doucet at Harlow’s in Sacramento earlier this year know to expect nothing short of a barn-burning set. This show pairs arguably the best names on the cajun touring circuit for one special early evening mass. Doucet has been touring and releasing records well before most millennials were born and Rigney is a regular in the Sacramento region, drawing capacity crowds wherever he roams. Spontaneity and random acts of silliness are encouraged.

(SN&R)