2017

Eight Gigs: Lucinda Williams

Eddie May 25, 2017 No Comments

Sat., May. 27, 9 p.m., Nevada County Fairgrounds, $20-$95

Unlike other festivals of its ilk, the annual Strawberry Music Festival brings a long tradition of quality artists. Additionally, the lovely setting of the fairgrounds couldn’t be more apropos for a Memorial Day weekend festival that prides itself on exposing new, emerging and heritage artists. Lucinda Williams headlines the Saturday festivities and brings with her a sizable following of her own fans who enjoy her songcraft and ability to produce a fine live show. Get your tickets in advance. 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley, http://lucindawilliams.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Hapa

Eddie May 18, 2017 No Comments

Sun., May 21, 7:30 p.m., Crest Theatre, $30-$45

The word “hapa” in Hawaiian culture translates to “half.” The Hapa group—Barry Flanagan and Radasha Ho ’ohuli and guests—exemplify their namesake with one member from New Jersey and one from Hawaii. For those who’ve never been to a Hawaiian show, a Hapa gathering could be a great way to start the tradition. With multiple albums to choose from, the group knows how to fill up a night without having to rely solely on a new release. Already a sensation in the States and abroad, the Hapa group will deliver a night you should never forget. 1013 K Street, http://hapa.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: The Chainsmokers

Eddie May 4, 2017 No Comments

Thu., May 4, 7 p.m., Golden 1 Center, $34-$290

The dynamic duo of Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall will grace Sacramento’s newest arena this Thursday as part of their Memories…Do Not Open tour. If you listen to pop radio, it’s more than likely you’ve heard their infectious hits like “Don’t Let Me Down” or the No. 1 charting single, “Closer.” And while the duo only formed in 2012, their climb up the ranks of pop radio has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. With only two extended plays and their latest full-length, it would seem they’re just getting started. 500 David J Stern Walk, www.2lin.cc/memories.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Weedeater

Eddie April 27, 2017 No Comments

Sat., April 29, 7 p.m., Starlite Lounge, $20-$25

North Carolina’s stoner metal merchants Weedeater are back as part of a totally stacked bill that includes The Obsessed, Primitive Man, Fatso Jetson and Karma to Burn. Nearly every genre is on the menu, including (but not limited to) stoner metal, doom, desert rock, punk and even instrumental fare. Weedeater’s Dixie Dave is a sight to behold, looking much like a Duck Dynasty character and playing bass at a ridiculously loud volume. He also has an affinity for cough syrup (which he chases with hard liquor). If the Weedeater boys are in town, you know it’s going down. 1517 21st Street, www.weedmetal.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Wrekmeister Harmonies

Eddie April 20, 2017 No Comments

Sat., April 22, 8 p.m., Starlite Lounge, $10

JR Robinson is back in Sacramento after a triumphant show supporting his magnificent 2015 release, Night Of Your Ascension, which received heaps of critical acclaim and helped him gain a cult underground following in the process. Under the moniker of Wrekmeister Harmonies, he’s embarked on an ambitious U.S. tour. Besides fellow core member Esther Shaw (keyboards, piano, violin), he is debuting a leaner group of talented musicians, including Godspeed! You Black Emperor’s Thierry Amar (bass), Sophie Trudeau (piano) and Timothy Herzog on drums. 1517 21st Street, www.facebook.com/
wrekmeisterharmonies23.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Cage The Elephant

Eddie April 13, 2017 No Comments

Sat., April 15, 8:30 p.m., Crest Theatre, $47

Although point of origin should not be an issue, Cage The Elephant formed in Kenucky and then made the move across the pond to London years ago. And while the band’s sound has changed drastically, let’s just say that’s a good thing. They defy categorization and cross musical genres including punk, classic rock, blues and even funk without sounding dated nor derivative. Their current theater tour is dubbed Live & Unpeeled: The Acoustic Tour and will feature songs from their storied catalog and, most importantly, their latest album, Tell Me I’m Pretty. 1013 K Street, www.cagetheelephant.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Marco Benevento

Eddie April 6, 2017 No Comments

Wed., Apr. 12, 8 p.m., Harlow’s Restaurant & Nightclub, $15-$18

2708 J Street, http://marcobenevento.com.

For those who have never witnessed Marco Benevento live, expect a set riddled with keyboard calisthenics and some jam-based rock that lights up the dance floor. Already known from touring and playing countless festivals, Benevento also has a history in the New York jazz scene even at the young age of 39. This Wednesday’s show will feature songs from his latest concept album, The Story Of Fred Short. One looking for inspiration need not look any further than his musical exercises staged in a live setting.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Let It Be (A Beatles tribute)

Eddie March 30, 2017 No Comments

Fri., March 31, 7:30 p.m., Harris Center, $39-$75

Even though Sir Paul still tours on occasion, only the tribute act Let It Be captures the spirit and fervor of the Beatles’ younger years. Expect some well-coordinated costume changes and a stroll through multiple eras from the greatest band on Earth. The two-hour show features a bevy of Beatles hits sprinkled with greats like George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord,” “Hey Jude,” “Live and Let Die,” “Come Together” and many more. Fans who’ve been yearning for a reunion that would never happen will get their money’s worth. 10 College Parkway in Folsom, www.letitbelive.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Ariana Grande

Eddie March 23, 2017 No Comments

Sun., March 26, 7 p.m., Golden 1 Center, $26.45-$176.45

This pop star cut her teeth in the Broadway scene but was soon discovered after being included on the Victorious soundtrack in 2011. As luck would have it, she was quickly scooped up by Republic Records, and the momentum she’s gained since has been nothing short of groundbreaking. Although she is still supporting an album released in mid-2016, Ariana Grande’s current “Dangerous Woman” tour couldn’t have a more apropos moniker. The album spawned several singles to date and debuted at a whopping No. 2 on the Billboard chart. 500 David J Stern Walk, www.arianagrande.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: An Irish Hooley

Eddie March 16, 2017 No Comments

Sun., March 19, 7 p.m., Harris Center for the Arts, $12-$39

Looking for a real Irish celebration aside from the ones held at nearly every watering hole across the globe? Look no further than this soiree held in Folsom each year much to the delight of showgoers. This year’s festivities will be headlined by the Kerry Traditional Band, which features all the right festive instruments, including (but not limited to) flutes, guitar, banjo and even uillean pipes. Also included on the bill is a talented dance troupe led by champion dancer and team leader Connor Leider that bring its own twist to traditional Irish dance. 10 College Parkway in Folsom, www.harriscenter.net.

(SN&R)