Tuesday, May 23, 2017

High Sierra

@eightychoices
The best kept secret of music festivals, not just in California, but perhaps the entire U.S. of A., is High Sierra. Hidden in the valley town of Quincy, this year's fest begins on Thursday, June 29th and runs through Sunday, July 2nd. There are a slough of ticket options, ranging from single day to four day, and late night shows that party into the morning sun. It truly is a gem. This year's lineup is heavy on the jam scene, as well as newer artists, whom tend to shine brightest within the friendly confines of the Plumas County fairgrounds. 

If I could only do one day, I'd definitely choose Thursday. Tank and the Bangas kick things off with an early set inside the vaudeville tent, followed later in the day by a diverse collection of acts such as, White Denim, Galactic, and headliner STS9; there's also a late night bender with Dopapod. In case you miss them, three of the aforementioned bands play again on Friday. Ween could be fun to catch Friday night and I'm a big fan of Andrew Bird who plays on Saturday. There are plenty of other bands and some fun things to do while in American Valley. I recommend taking a break to swim in one of the Forks of the Feather River. There are countless creeks that should be full with winter's thaw as well. The clarity of the Feather is legendary and life giving. The parade is a nice distraction too. Bikes are always useful if you have the extra space. Stay hydrated and enjoy a fun-filled summer.

eightychoices.

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Monterey

Monterey International Pop Festival 
The Monterey International Pop Festival turns 50 this summer. This year's festival gets underway during the weekend of June 16th-18th, the same days as back in the day. Overall, the lineup doesn't quite do it for me, but single day tickets are now available. Other than Jim James, everybody else that I prefer to catch live plays on Friday: Leon Bridges, Father John Misty, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Charles Bradley & his Extraordinaires, Sara Watkins, Eric Burdon & The Animals. As the old saying goes, "It happened in Monterey."

eightychoices.

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

ID10T

Music, comics and comedy at Shoreline. Personally, I'm far more interested in the music, the lineup is strong. Top artists for an array of comics will also be on hand. The musical guests for this two day festival are almost enough to overcome the venue (Shoreline's not the best, but oh well). Saturday's main stage acts include, Weezer, OK Go, Lord Huron, plus Tank and the Bangas. Sunday's list is not quite as robust in my opinion, but will feature two of my favorite bands, TV On The Radio and Animal Collective. This event takes place over the weekend of June 24th & 25th.

For more details on the comedy and dance tents, comic con information and tickets: CLICK HERE.

eightychoices.

Friday, May 5, 2017

LCD Soundsystem

They're Back! Well, they've been back, but now there's fresh material to consume, "Call the Police" & "American Dream." Eagerly awaiting their upcoming LP? Tune in this Saturday, May 6th, to become fully baited. LCD Soundsystem will be performing on SNL. Thanks LCD. They played the previously mentioned titles and a track called, "Tonight," during their residency in Brooklyn.

"Call the Police"


"American Dream"

eightychoices.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

BREAKING2


Lelisa Desisa | Eliud Kipchoge | Zersenay Tadese

Just Do It.

eightychoices.

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Brew Detective: Windows Up IPA

Windows Up IPA | Alpine Beer Co.
Hiatus is an understatement; I may not be reviewing as many beers as in the past, but I have been enjoying my fair share nonetheless. Not only have I been consuming the cornucopia of California's beer scenes; I recently binged on the mecca that is the Carolina's—Mmm, Burial, Hi-Wire and the rest of Asheville's bounty is extraordinary. My favorites list is growing strong and will show  up on eightychoices down the road. Today's quick hitting and delicious review will focus on Alpine's new-ish IPA, Windows Up.

The nose is quite dank with the slightest notes of peppercorn. The scent reminds me of Pliny The Elder (an ultimate compliment).

The initial taste also took me to Russian River, conjuring a flavor reminiscent to Blind Pig. Amazing combination, I know. The pour created a billowing head, you could lay a 50 cent piece on it. After each subsequent drink I began to register stone fruit, most notably apricot. The colorful liquid gleams copper-yellow and orange peel. My senses were being pleased and I wanted to nurse this beer, it kept revealing new layers of itself. Alpine did a wonderful job with this IPA (7% ABV). If you see Windows Up at your local bottle shop or grocer, I highly recommend picking up a six pack. Enjoy responsibly and stay cool.

eightychoices.