(Free) Summer Music

Take the path less traveled, it's free!

Sonoma County has plenty of cool towns to hang out in, or if you're lucky enough, live in. Another inviting aspect of these Mayberry's of the North Bay are their summer concert series. More than a few of these idyllic communities eagerly throw some of the region's best free concerts. The word is out on Live at Lagunitas—city folks are buzz'n up for these shows. This year's slate of artists include Thao & The Get Down Stay Down (July 19) and White Denim (September 5). Other performers who will surely please are, Charles Bradley (August 29) and Unknown Mortal Orchestra (August 30).

If you travel north of Santa Rosa you'll hit Healdsburg. Every Tuesday there's live music in the plaza, a picturesque town center lined with cafes, wine tasting and boutiques. Might I suggest stepping into Bergamot Alley if you have the chance. They scene they've created is a much needed aesthetic to the area; they also have a concert series that follows the plaza performances. Tuesday's concerts are already occurring and will continue until August 30th. 

Keep trucking north and you'll be presently surprised by the blue collar/mid-west feel that Cloverdale emits. Each Friday night of the summer this beautiful town hosts a wonderful farmers market and food bazaar, later in the evening the music kicks off. I got hooked last year by a diverse lineup that rocked. Friday Night Live is definitely one of the best bets to make this summer. The lineup is as unique as it is impressive. Highlights on the schedule consist of, The Monophonics (June 17), David Luning (July 1), Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars (July 8), John Cleary and the Monster Gentlemen (July 29). The last performance of the season, which is most likely Ruthie Foster (September 2), should be a good one. If you have transportation I highly recommend making it to one of these events over what is sure to be a hot summer. You can't clover if you don't dale. Enjoy the California sunshine. 

eightychoices.