2017

Eight Gigs: Jose Gonzalez & The String Theory

Eddie March 2, 2017 No Comments

Fri., March 3, 8 p.m., Mondavi Center, $12.50-$45

By Eddie Jorgensen

Although point of origin should not be an issue, singer-songwriter Jose Gonzalez was born in Sweden. And while he hasn’t been as prolific as his fans would like, his catalog has been used all over the place. His live show pairs him up with a talented team of string players that is sure to please both newcomers and longtime fans alike. Showgoers can expect a set featuring songs from is latest long-player, the fabulous Vestiges & Claws, as well as earlier works dating back to 2003 and possibly beyond. Get your tickets in advance. 1 Shields Avenue in Davis, http://jose-gonzalez.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Bon Jovi

Eddie February 23, 2017 No Comments

Tue., Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m., Golden 1 Center, $16-$330

Back in the day, the guys in Bon Jovi were MTV darlings who had countless other acts trying to ape their sound. What separated the band from the glam-rock diaspora, however, was the band’s songwriting skills and a keen attention to melody. Their current 20-city trek is dubbed “This House Is Not For Sale” in support of their latest release, which came out in November 2016. For those who’ve never seen the band live, expect a set heavy on the hits and, of course, their latest platter. Not bad for Tuesday night, Sacramento. Not bad at all. 500 David J Stern Walk, www.bonjovi.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: House of Floyd

Eddie February 23, 2017 No Comments

Sat., Feb. 25, 8 p.m., Harlow’s Restaurant & Nightclub, $18-$20

This seven-piece Pink Floyd tribute is one of a handful of acts who can recreate the band’s sound by adding extra instrumentation. Although Pink Floyd was normally a quartet, their multilayered music takes on even further dimension backed by extra singers and musicians, and this Bay Area tribute band certainly does right by the originals. As is to be expected with anything associated with Pink Floyd, there will be a light show to accompany the bevy of hits like “Money,” “Time,” and “Wish You Were Here.” 2708 J Street, www.houseoffloyd.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Uli Jon Roth

Eddie February 16, 2017 No Comments

Thu., Feb. 23, 8 p.m., Goldfield Trading Post, $18

Most classic rock fans know the Scorpions from their massive ’80s hits like “Rock You Like a Hurricane” and its rock ballads. Former guitarist Uli Jon Roth, however, took a left turn musically many years ago, and with him, a loyal legion of followers. His current run of shows this year is dubbed “The Tokyo Tapes Revisited Tour” and will find him and his band playing songs from the Scorpions’ now-classic Tokyo Tapes live record from 1978. Fans of classic rock and jam-based guitarists should catch this rare show while they can. 1630 J Street, www.ulijonroth.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Experience Hendrix

Eddie February 16, 2017 No Comments

Wed., Feb. 22, 8 p.m., Mondavi Center, $42-$100.50

Jimi Hendrix left the earth much too soon, but his stamp on rock music was undeniable. On this special night, a handful of notable guitarists, including Zakk Wylde, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Dweezil Zappa, will gather to pay tribute to his immensely popular catalog of music. Hendrix’s own bassist Billy Cox will round out the rhythm section with interpretations of the now-classic songs that are sure to raise hairs on the audience’s skin. For diehard collectors, a free live CD will accompany every pair of tickets. 1 Shields Avenue in Davis, www.experiencehendrixtour.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Chicago

Eddie February 9, 2017 No Comments

Fri., Feb. 10, 8 p.m., Sacramento Community Theater, $65

Since forming some 50 years ago, Chicago has proven its staying power with unforgettable grooves and rock-solid musicianship. And while the group lost pivotal members—Terry Kath died from an accidental gunshot wound and Peter Cetera later left to launch a solo career—the group has always delivered on numerous musical fronts. To date, they’ve sold a whopping 40 million records, including eight multiplatinum records, 18 platinum records, and 23 gold-selling records. Come see this big band sensation in a much more intimate venue than they usually play. 1401 L Street, www.chicagotheband.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: The Piano Men

Eddie February 2, 2017 No Comments

Wed., March 8, 7:30 p.m., Harris Center for the Arts, $19-$55

Although both fantastic players in their own right, these two great piano players on one bill couldn’t be more apropos. This bill combines the work of Elton John played by Craig A. Meyer along with the songbook of superstar Billy Joel interpreted by the uber-talented Donnie Kehr. The two artists will share two star-studded nights chock full of hits by both artists backed by their own equally talented backing band. If you’ve been yearning to hear “Rocket Man” and “Just The Way You Are” together without having to pay upward of $300, this is the ticket. 10 College Parkway in Folsom, www.pianomenmusic.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Ace Frehley

Eddie February 2, 2017 No Comments

Sat., Feb. 4, 7 p.m., Jackson Rancheria, $40-$50

Former Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley makes a rare appearance in Jackson this week. For those only familiar with his old band’s repertoire, Frehley also had a very successful solo career playing as Frehley’s Comet or simply under his own name. And while the axeman may not be as prolific as his fans would like (his latest record is a collection of covers called Origins Vol. 1), his live show cannot be denied. Expect to hear lots of Ace’s Kiss material along with tracks from his last original album, 2014’s exceptional Space Invader. 12222 New York Ranch Road in Jackson, www.acefrehley.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Amarok

Eddie January 26, 2017 No Comments

Thu., Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m., Starlite Lounge, $7-$10

Doom metal outfit Amarok hails from Chico, though far be they from a kegger frat band that plays covers. Amarok’s bleak brand of sludge has earned the band a small following of devoted, underground fans. And while their particular flavor of harsh, depressing metal may not be for everyone, this band is worth checking out if your own misery loves a little company. Pick up their split release with Hell in 2014, which features one track clocking in at nearly 21 minutes dubbed “V-Red Oak Wisdom.” Battle Hag will play support, and a couple of TBA locals will be joining the lineup as well. 1517 21st Street, https://amarok.bandcamp.com.

(SN&R)

Eight Gigs: Sergio Mendes & Brasil 2017

Eddie January 26, 2017 No Comments

Sat., Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m., Harris Center for the Arts, $29-$64

For those who’ve yet to indulge in Brazilian music fare, any record in Sergio Mendes’ vast catalog is a good place to start. The 75-year-old composer, producer and bandleader shows no signs of slowing down and still plays semi-regularly in the Bay Area. His 2014 album Magic is his latest—a Grammy-nominated record that features songwriting and collaborative efforts with such disparate artists as John Legend, Milton Nascimento, Carlinhos Brown and more. Whether you’re a newbie or a world music aficionado, Mendes’ music and crossover influence cannot be denied. 10 College Parkway in Folsom, www.sergiomendesmusic.com.

(SN&R)