Silver Anniversary for High Sierra

July 2nd-5th

Most music festivals are in still in their infancy, or maybe their adolescence, not High Sierra—it turns 25 this Fourth of July. Silver anniversaries are a pretty big deal. Here's a quick roundup of the artists I enjoy who've been announced thus far.

The Word (John Medeski, Robert Randolph, Luther Dickinson, Cody Dickinson & Chris Chew), Joe Russo's Almost Dead, Galactic, Shovels & Rope, Lotus, The Wood Brothers, Surprise Me Mr. Davis, The Barr Brothers, Dopapod, and Marco Benevento. 

Quincy, CA is always a gracious host and this year is sure to be no different. Tickets are on sale now. High Sierra begins July 2nd and runs through the 5th. Enjoy.

eightychoices.

The Besty's 2014

Tis the season for the Besty's. Time has flown by, am I the only one who feels this way? In the proverbial blink of an eye, we are approaching New Year's Day. Before we ring in the new year, I'd like to revisit some of my favorite live performances of 2014. Seeing live music is more like a therapeutic ritual. Concerts are an invaluable presentation of art which unfolds in real time, while being shared with an audience. So without further ado, here are the Besty's.

Marco at The Independent

*Marco Benevento | Independent | 03.29.14

Captivation is a seamless tool for the creations of sound Marco produces. Yearly he makes a pit stop in the Bay area for one reason or another. My favorite's are when it's his show, or his band. This was one of those nights. Masterfully he fuses his ideas into the lush and uninhibited music he is known for, and that I am unwilling to escape from. Does a genre really apply to a talent such as this? 

Witnessing his incredible control, while simultaneously veering into experimental landscapes, shows his understanding and appreciation of the process. Is there a more genuine smile than Marco's in all of music? He never lets you down. On this night there were plenty of eclectic rhythms and idiosyncratic pulses that oozed in all directions. There were a lot of great tracks played and this was perhaps the only show I didn't attempt to write a set list for. With that being said, I can tell you they played RISD, Green Point, It Came From You, Limbs of a Pine, At the Show, Real Morning Party, and If I Get to See You at All. There were plenty of others that have slipped my mind. Catching his show however, is a no-brainer.

Thao at The Castro

*Thao & The Get Down Stay Down | Castro Theatre | 04.29.14 

The SF international film festival hosted Thao and her crew of noise makers for an incredibly unique performance. Live music and silent films—a match made in heaven. What better contemporary music heroine is there than Thao?

'Holy Roller' was partnered with a Harry Smith animated short, getting things started. The next film, "Torture de Luxe," was a laughable exercise film from the 1920's that was the visual spring board for the song 'Body.' The timing of the film allowed for an epilogue in the form of, 'When We Swam.'

In between the vintage silent pieces were Thao's very own Talkies, a sort of Portlandia series of sketches based on her observations and inside jokes, that we would all be privy to now. There were vintage news reels that were extremely captivating when embellished by the sound of live instruments, in an almost Prairie Home Companion type of way. 

My personal favorite of the night was when The Get Down started to play the riffs to, 'Baby Got Back,' while a fitness film from 1928 showed us modern folk what it took to be in shape. It was so F'n cool. The night came to a close with Charlie Chaplin in, "The Pawn Shop." The Stay Down performed four stellar tracks during this 1916 silent film. This was a truly a special event. I felt so good just to have been a participant in the evening. It was a happening. Inspiration was thrust upon us, wanting us to be aware, showing us how to take action. 

setlist: Holy Roller (Early Abstractions 2, 1946-48), Body (Torture de Luxe 1926), When We Swam, The Day Long (Life and Death of 9413, 1928), City, The Feeling Kind (Metrotone News, 1930), Kindness Be Conceived (Early Abstractions 3, 1947-48) & (Metrotone News. 1932), Baby Got Back (Perfect back Contest, 1928), Every Body, Beat, Cool Yourself, We The Common (Pawn Shop, 1916)

Sturgill Simpson | Big Meadow | High Sierra

High Sierra Music Festival | Quincy | 07.03.14

High Sierra served up the perfect schedule on day 1 of this annual shred-a-thon. For a complete review click here. I saw a total of six bands. There were three that really stood out... 

*Sturgill Simpson on the Big Meadow Stage (5:45-7:00)

Lord Huron at the Grandstand (7:00-8:30) 

STS9 also at the Grandstand (9:15-11:30)

*J. Roddy Walston & The Business | Lagunitas | 07.14.14

Right away they blasted the subdued Sonoma County crowd with fiery riffs. They were on a mission to Rock the F out, and they totally succeeded. The Business are best described as sounding like a cross between Jerry Lee Lewis and the guitar shredding rock of the 80's, except smarter and with lyrics that are on point. Did I mention they rock? 

Most of the calamitous action of the night was off of their Essential Tremors record from 2013. There were also some choice cuts from the 2010 Self Titled album. 

setlist: (?), Black Light, Don't Break the Needle, (?), I Don't Want to Hear It, Don't Get Old, Take It As It Comes, Caroline, (?), (?), (?), E: (?), Marigold, (Irish jig ?), Brave Man's Death, (?), I Used to Did, E2: (?), Full Grown Man, (cover)

Steve Gunn | Lagunitas | 08.04.14

This performance exposed me to Gunn's humble persona, as well as his high quality musicianship. He cares about his craft and the songs are his own personal treasures. He cares. Many of the tracks he played were from his album Time Off. His most recent record, Way Out Weather, had not yet been released, but he did showcase some of those unknown tunes during his set. This amazing guitarist and songwriter is a true diamond in the rough. Take some time to explore his work.

Lucius in the crowd at Lagunitas

*Lucius | Lagunitas | 08.11.14

Although there were 5 member in the band, it was all about the two ladies fronting the outfit. Lucius came in and conquered. This was the secret show that Lagunitas decided to leave as a surprise. I hadn't heard them live prior to this and what I had seen/heard online seemed pretty good. But the way they performed was immediately captivating. I was genuinely entertained. Because their music was brand new to me, I only took notes as the show unfolded. A few of my ramblings are as follows...

Cool First track. They went poppy and upbeat. A rock n roll song that made me think of picnics and love. Cool percussive intensity with vocal power (Nothing Ordinary). A stripped down slide guitar number with grimy pop vocals. A late night-style throw down (Genevieve). A modern take on 50's rock (Turn it Around). Encore number one was Strangers! They played nine songs and encored with three more to treasure. They straight finished the audience. Here's a fan-shot video of Lucius covering the Kinks.

setlist: ?, Tempest, Don't Just Sit There, Nothing Ordinary, How Loud Your Heart Gets, Go Home, Wildewoman, Genevieve, Turn It Around E: Strangers, E2, E3

The Uptown Theatre in Napa

Built to Spill | The Uptown Theatre | 08.15.14

A little more than a week later this same downtown would be rattled by a 6.0 magnitude earthquake. This was one of the last performances to grace the Theatre before they closed for repairs due to the damage from the quake. Doug and his gang of Idaho reverb-rockers gave the wine-country attendees a ripping show. They wasted no time in finding their rocking, fuzzed-out groove. Prior to the show I had mentioned that I wanted them to play 'Kicked it in the Sun.' Three songs in I was treated to this amazing track off of Perfect From Now On. Going into the aisle I had to dance. Built to Spill showcased material from throughout their entire career. The encore even had a Metallica cover which was followed by an incredible Untrustable/Part 2 (About Someone Else). They were straight rock'n the joint, apparently causing me to jump around like a mad man. The show was rad and the three of us that escaped to the balcony were treated kindly.

setlist:  (?), Reasons, Kicked It In the Sun, The Plan, Hindsight, (?), (?), I Would Hurt a Fly, (?), Things Fall Apart, Time Trap, Fly Around My Pretty Lil Miss, (?) E: Metallica cover (Orion), Untrustable/Part 2 (About Someone Else)

Me & Chris Isaak in Golden Gate Park

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival | Golden Gate Park | 10.04.14

The best free fest in America did it again. Everyone should experience this event at least once. Due to the masses we typically attend the one day that appeals to us the most. That day this year was Saturday. We caught three acts on three different stages, but it was *Chris Isaak who stole the show. Built to Spill and Dave Rawlings Machine played great sets as well. For a comprehensive review click here.

*STS9 | Fox Theater | 11.22.14

The anticipation for Sound Tribe's return to their adopted home (Santa Cruz) was enough to stimulate the hype. The Fox has been their spot in the Bay area for a few years now. They played the night before in Los Angeles, debuting, 'West LA Fade Away.' The Fox, the fans, and the band were locked and loaded.

Sector was firing on all cylinders after a season of touring with Alana. Now their sites were set on blistering the Oakland crowd with dances beats and crazy-cool covers or teases. Things got going with 'New Dawn, NewDay,' a regular since reformation. I didn't mind as they segued into 'Golden Gate'—a sound choice in the Bay area. Next down the pipeline came 'Ramone & Emiglio,' which was old school-esque and nasty. They used subtlety to create anticipation—soft piano keys, solid guitar work by Hunter, and the rhythm section was keep'n shit on lock. Velmer's a machine. At the 5:28 mark R&E went all frenetic until it unfurled into bass-gnarl. Then Phipps, Rocklin and Velmer just owned it. At one point the keys began to sound reminiscent of Bernie Worrell as the song dissolved into an art of story telling. There wasn't time to catch your breath as 'Monkey Music' came barreling down. Near the 6:00 minute mark it got real dirty with electronic effects and thick bass lines. There were some unneeded vocal samples during 'Walk To The Light,' (not my favorite addition). The ride continued as they tore up 'Frequencies Peace 2 > 3.' The first set closed fashionably funk-tastic with 'World Go Round.' 

'Dance' fired up the second set as they teased 'Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)', those listening early on could hear it. Seamlessly they weaved in and out of their own standard, as well as Sly's. A couple of tracks later a sampled voice became too prevalent. I didn't care much for their use of the sample, it took away from an otherwise solid 'Only Light Remains.' Less than half-way through 'Kamuy' the percussionists treated us to a drum driven interlude. It felt like they were tapping into their past. The combination of 'Orbital,' merging into 'Hubble,' was a tactical appetizer for what would happen next. The swirling sounds of 'Abcees' pulsated into a classic cover of 'No Quarter.' At the 8:50 mark they began the rock homage, melding their sound into and around that of Led Zeppelin. They were surgically precise at augmenting their own sound, for that of the rock gods. Anytime you get the Led out you know it's been a party. They would return for an extended 'Circus.'—encoring in an attempt to satiate the Sector withdrawals. 

STS9 | Fox Theater | Oakland

setlist: (1st set) New Dawn New Day, Golden Gate, Ramone & Emiglio > Monkey Music, Poseidon, Walk to the Light, Frequencies Peace 2 > 3, World Go Round

(2nd set) Dance>Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)>Dance, Vapors, Only Light Remains, Kamuy, Orbital > Hubble, Abcees > No Quarter > Abcees > No Quarter > Abcees (encore) Circus




Steve Kimock w/ Bobby Vega, Jeff Chimenti, Dan Lebowitz, Bill Vitt & J.M. Kimock | SweetWater Music Hall | 12.06.14

This show marked my inaugural visit to the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley. What an invite. There was an absurd amount of talent on display here. It's also worth mentioning up front that the sound was awesome in this former Masonic Hall. And there bar is top notch too. 

Kimock might be an alien. He's on that rare list of being able to do whatever he wants on a guitar. Vega is also always on point, pressing the envelope while remaining super tight. Together they bring out the best in each other. Throw in Chimenti, a demon on the keys, and those three alone could hold it down for hours on end. Lebo was the icing on the cake. Very few guitarist can co-exist with Kimock and this creative union made sense. Dan would also carry the burden of lead vocals throughout the night, which he handled incredibly well. When an intimate show starts with, 'It Takes A lot to Laugh It Takes a Train to Cry,' all bets are off and anything could be played. Which is pretty much what happened. Jeff and Bobby were locked in from the get go. Steve's vibe felt so pure, as if they had already been playing for hours. Near the end of the first set they treated us to 'Scarlet Begonias.'

The second set opened with the best 'Deal' I've heard in quite some time. Hopefully this show will appear on archive. Jeff could've stole the show leading up to, 'Boogie on Reggae Woman,' but instead continued to be a team player. After '5B4 Funk' they went all yesteryear with, 'After Midnight > Eleanor Rigby > After Midnight.' This portion of the show was fire. They would play more songs, most notably, 'Mississippi Moon.' When one night exposes you to the sounds of Dylan, JGB, The Grateful Dead, JJ Cale, Stevie Wonder, and the Beatles, it's a night worth mentioning. Great show, great venue, and a new friend to boot. 

-------

In the spirit of Mr. Salty—the Man, the Myth, the Legend—His top three would be STS9 at the Fox (he's a big fan), Chris Isaak & probably J. Roddy, with Lucius oh so close. The Roo Ratings stamp of approval holds the highest of standards. My favorite shows were preceded by an asterisk.

Happy New Year,
eightychoices.

High Sierra 2K14

High Sierra Music Festival at Quincy

The Feather River and Quincy: both are amazing hosts when it comes time to make the pilgrimage to the High Sierra Music Festival. This year I blasted up for one day, perhaps the best day. Before the lineup was ever given a schedule, I had made a list of the bands I most wanted to see. When the daily grids were released, all but two of those band were slated for Thursday. This meant that I was barreling up north for the heat of the music as well as the sun. Highway 70 is a gorgeous path that bends and crosses the Feather River as it snakes away from its headwaters. As you peer over the shoulder of the road, swimming holes reveal themselves as the water cascades onward. I had left the cooler side of coastal California and was racing toward the parched highlands to the east in an attempt to catch the first act at the Vaudeville tent.


Hollow Wood | Vaudeville Tent | 1:30-2:45

Hollow Wood - Vaudeville Tent

This youthful 5-piece hailing from Boise was far more rocking than I had expected. But then again, what was I suppose to expect? This was their coming out party so-to-speak. Early on in the set they emitted a sort of 90's alt vibe with heavy guitars and plenty of reverb. The periphery notes of the third track opened up to reveal perhaps their most noticeable track - Little Bird. The next couple of tunes had an Irish-driven pulse. A rattling tambourine was followed by the cadence of their lyrics. This seemed to help the band morph into a more melodic mixture. Track 6 slithered with a slower, groovier tone until it unwound itself into a Teen Spirit sort of frenzy. On the next offering they built momentum with some cool key work and scratchy vocals. It felt more like a song fit for 3am. The frontman, Adam, has a gravely voice and at times it resembles a young, more friendly Tom Waits. Hollow Wood ended about 30 minutes early and after an on-stage huddle they came back and played a series of instrumental pieces with Adam on the keys. They cooled down their set as the crowd dispersed into the afternoon sun.

Thao and the Get Down Stay Down | Grandstand | 4:45-6:15

Thao & the Get Down Stay Down - Grandstand Stage

After linking up with a slough of friends, we were off to the grandstand to get down with Thao. I've been a bit spoiled as of late, having seen this outfit a few times in the last calendar year, which is why I wanted to see their mojo on display at High Sierra. The Get Down Stay Down played faster and with more purpose on the festival stage. Opening with the title track from their most recent album, We The Common, I was pleased with the increased paced with which it was played. Next they lunged into a New Orleans-tinged take on The Feeling Kind. This song felt properly aged from the first time I'd heard it. Thao's City reminded festival goers to, "rest and be strong, wash and be clean." Whether they chose to is another story. During Holy Roller she sang what we all want... "love in the aftermath." Five songs in, Thao decided to rock out on the peddle steel and she didn't disappoint. The song after was more subdued and allowed for some time to chill out. Once in a while I wonder why pop music is so generic. The Get Down showed us all what the radio should sound like. As a few of us started to make our way to the next overlapping artist, she dusted off another gem from her latest album. Thao and the Get Down Stay Down are a staple in my current audio diet. I trust she and her bandmates worked up an appetite for others in attendance.

Sturgill Simpson | Big Meadow | 5:45-7:00

Sturgill Simpson - Big Meadow Stage

Bouncing from Thao over to the Big Meadow stage, I was stoked to see Sturgill and his gang of outlaw-country sidekicks. He was definitely treating the people to some real county music. He's rocking, but with roots. His music does a tightrope walk between being slow enough to feel, yet quick enough to punch you in the mouth. These four men seem to embody both western and southern country—I guess it's called being gutsy. Real life is present in Simpson's offerings and observations. When something feels familiar, it feels good. Near the end of the set they unleashed a T-Rex type of country jam. It was filthy-good. This group of boot-wearing musicians was a surprise treat and a high point of the night. Thanks Sturgill for being the real deal.

Lord Huron | Grandstand | 7:00-8:30

Their intelligence and honesty are still on display, but they've figured it out. Something else has transformed within Lord Huron since their appearances at High Sierra last summer. The sound they create is warm - reminiscent of hearing your own echo. Strangers in the high country sun were being lyrically staggered by, "bones in the sand." Later, the singer's harmonica and the moon seemed linked. Huron has a way of making us all feel the same while their music remains different. When the line, "that girl" was being reeled in and out, we could all conjure our own images, though we'd been baited by the same lure. This time around they were playing to their advantage. Asking the right questions makes a big difference. The sound was full of change as their licks intensified. Crooning the lines, "gonna find me a place baby way out west" could not have been more fitting, considering our geographic location. I felt like we were on a string as they continued to catch and release the crowd. One of their song lines states, "doesn't mean I'm ready." Maybe we weren't ready, maybe they aren't ready, but one thing's for sure, Lord huron is already good.

Sound Tribe Sector 9 | Grandstand | 9:15-11:30

First off, I was totally stoked to see the new STS9. I hadn't yet caught the new ensemble but was intrigued to have their sound and energy either wash over me or mash straight through me. It turned out to be a collision of the two. Kicking it off with some amazing LED visuals set to the Musical Story voice-over, I was super hyped. The initiation began with 4 Year Puma as I was readying myself for battle. Click Lang Echo followed, introducing the Quincy faithful to a new song. One of the tracks that's been making the rounds since Rocklin joined the band has been Rent. This was the beginning of their grandeur. I'm pretty sure this was the point at which I began to dance freely as the new tweaks to a familiar song rang true. Equinox followed and was the catalyst for their return to Poseidon. This track was full of the jazzy roots that distinguish Sector from the rest of the EDM scene. Following the old-school grooves of the water king, they explored their way into 20-12. Following the lead of their own doing, Tribe launched into a ripping New Dawn, New Day. Another new track that was full of guitar licks, vocal samples, and thick beats. Needless to say I was in full-on dance master mode. What Is Love? came into view as the crowd pleaded for more. Sound Tribe was on stage to wage a war. They were prepared to battle for our attention. During March, Blu Mood, and Golden Gate, they built upon the present to bring us back to the previous. The onslaught that occurred next was probably the highlight of the whole festival (remember, I only attended one night). Frequencies Peace 2 & Frequencies Peace 3 brought this sonic storm to a head. As the high pressure continued to rise, so did the collective mindset of the Grandstand's attendees. If I could have, I would have stomped a hole in the earth where I was getting down. Dance moves and positive vibes were conquering all else. It was as if Sound Tribe had been architecting this blue-print from the onset, using the prior tracks as a foundation. Their pace was fervent, corrupting us because of what we thought we knew. Musically, their mission was unmistakeable—take no prisoners. The five of them were all fighting for our attention and it was wonderfully harmonious. Their power was full of detailed precision, pounding us with what they had. Rocklin and Velmer smashed the rhythm section. Chunky is an understatement. Totem held us hostage as they worked toward the closing. Another new track came next in the form of an upbeat World Goes Round. I personally really dig this fresh new tune. It lends itself to movement. Even though we could have all danced the night away, STS9 had to shut the door to this dance party and they used Circus as the vehicle to take us away. Sector showed us the way to something special and new without losing track of where they had been.

Rocklin & Velmer of STS9

STS9 setlist | High Sierra | Grandstand | 07.03.14

4 year Puma, Click Lang Echo, Rent, Equinox, Poseidon, 20-12, New Dawn New Day, What Is Love?, March, Blu Mood, Golden Gate, Frequencies Peace 2, Frequencies Peace 3, Totem, World Goes Round, Circus

Special shout out to Parker for gifting me into the Funk'n Jam House for a late-night treat in the form of Dopapod. They registered well and had a darkness to them. It was a reminder to me - why do the Biscuits and UMs of the world try to sing?

eightychoices.

California Festivals

All across the Country we look forward to spring and summer for many reasons. I feel blessed to call California home. Something that brings out the masses quite literally, is the plethora of music-driven festivals dotting our Nation throughout the year. This post focuses on the array of happenings that will take place right here in beautiful California. The Golden State is boundless in its ability to captivate. Below is just a small sample of the festivals catching my eyes, and ears, with a handful of selections. Click the links for full lineups and details. Whether or not we all attend is another story. Spring has been gorgeous thus far, here's to summer's steady approach, and its chance to up the ante.

Enjoy the warm months,

Bottle Rock | May 30-June 1 | Napa Valley CA
*TV On the Radio, *The Black Angels, Weezer, De La Soul, Ben Sollee, Thee Oh Sees, & Outkast (I'm not so sure after Coachella)

Sierra Nevada World Music | June 20-22 | Boonville CA
*Seun Kuti, Sly & *Robbie, Barrington Levy, Ozomatli

Kate Wolf | June 27-29 | Laytonville CA
*Garth Hudson w/ his sister Maud, *The Wood Brothers, Playing for Change Band, Poor Man's Whiskey (Allman Brothers & Old and In the Way), Patchy Sanders, Anne & Pete Sibley

High Sierra | July 3-6 | Quincy CA
*STS9, *Darkwave, *Thao & the Get Down Stay Down, *Carolina Chocolate Drops, Lord Huron, Trampled By Turtles, Hard Working Americans, The Budos Band, Widespread Panic, The Del McCoury Band & the Travelin' McCoury's

Reggae on the River | July 31-August 3 | Humboldt Co. CA
*Alpha Blondy & the Solar System, *Third World, Jimmy Cliff, Israel Vibration

Outside Lands | August 8-10 | Golden Gate Park | SF
*Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, *Ray Lamontagne, *Lykke Li, *Jenny Lewis, *Phosphorescent, The Killers, Macklemore, Death Cab for Cutie, *Flaming Lips, Spoon, Atmosphere, Tegan & Sara, Haim, Chromeo, Local Natives, Tycho, Nicki Bluhm, Dum Dum Girls

First City | August 23-24 | Monterey CA
*Best Coast, *Beck, The National, Phantogram, Tokyo Police Club, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Dawes

Russian River Jazz & Blues | September 20-21 | Guernville CA
Gary Clark Jr., Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Roy Rogers & the Delta Rhythm Kings,

Treasure Island | October 18-19 | San Francisco Bay
Save the date, the line up has yet to be revealed. Those with an * are my must sees.

eightychoices.

Shredding High Sierra

The Parade that is High Sierra!

The 23rd annual High Sierra Music Festival took place over the July 4th weekend in scenic Quincy, California. It surpassed my expectations. Having a gang of your best friends in attendance never hurts either. With a slew of great artists who tap into the many genres of today's diverse musical landscape, I was thrilled to be returning to this annual right of passage. Readying ourselves for anything, my younger cousin and I set out for Plumas County. High Sierra is the secret gem within the crowded summer circuit. Here's a rundown of what I took in...

Thursday, July 4th

Reaching the camp site at 5:00pm I had missed a few opportunities, yet still managed to check out three great performances. White Denim hit the Grandstand stage around 7:15. My initial take is that they need to open up the lead guitarist. He may not sing but his tone is great. When they get fuzzy and psychedelic they're stellar, meandering toward a sound that resembles the Black Angels. I enjoyed their set and they rocked it pretty hard.

Robert Plant & the Sensational Space Shifters unleashed some nasty good renditions of the Led Zeppelin tracks we were all fawning for. It was especially awesome to hear his voice sing the words. "Goin' to California with an achin' in my heart." The Shifters were impeccably tight and came across as true professionals. I personally liked the almost world beat-esque Namibian jams performed with a special guest. Mr. Plant still knows how to work an audience. He bantered throughout the night as if his wish came true, to perform for Yankees on the 4th of July. Often times he referenced Independence Day. An off the cuff comment regarding past Comanches of America sparked the crowd. Friends said that it was one of the best HSMF shows they'd experienced. Another pondered if it was a top 5. Whatever the F it was, I'm sure as hell glad I was there. The amazingly vibrant and enormous tapestry behind the band was mind blowing. Special shout out to the light tech and to whomever created that beast. The Grandstand had been set ablaze.

The North Mississippi Allstars threw down some dirty rock n roll. The Type that can only be spawned deep in the South. Music like theirs is real. Those white boys get down and dirty. Cheers to them for dropping bombs on the Vaudeville tent post Plant. 

Late night brought me into the High Sierra Music Hall for a killer set from Leftover Salmon. Much of the night was fire. With a start time of 1:45am anything is possible. That anything mutated into an early highlight. Near the end of their mega set they let loose a, Tangled Up In Blue, that would ultimately turn into a fierce cover from Exile on Main... As the morning continued to creep they let go of an unseasonal, however totally appreciated, Jack London. "Every time it snows I feel like Jack London, all I want to do is take a hike."

Friday, July 5th

A revolving door of musicians doesn't hinder the Pimps of Joytime from starting a party. Sure it was hot, sure it was too early for some, but it was still a chill upbeat vibe. They persevered despite the tough time slot on the Grandstand stage. On a side note, have I mentioned my love for the Big Meadow Stage? I love it's intimacy and central location. During day time hours the stage set up allows for additional shade, which is in short supply. Plus you're incredibly close to a cocktail station (more on that later) and a Lagunitas beer tent. Clutch.

Next up on my schedule was Houndmouth, who were more than stoked to see a large crowd getting down to their sound. It was a really warm set full of candidness. The front-woman can flat out sell it. She has the ability to tremble during, I Shall Be Released, agonizingly spewing"any day now, any day now... I shall be released." Songs like that deserve apprehension and uncertainty. The entire band makes sense of the poetry within a performance. Back to the front-woman. On a dime she's able to transform that same voice and cause it to ring. She has pipes.

While nearing the end of the set it became apparent, due to some honest on-stage dialogue, that they had more time than they knew what to do with. As the milling about and unneeded tuning persisted the other front-person asked the riled up crowd if we liked John Prine. Is that a trick question? His songs tend to be amazing. Their sound is what I want to hear spilling out of more garages in my neighborhood.

White Denim kept the non-Grandstand trend rolling. I wanted more from the Denim, getting just enough at times. This set had a cleaner feel, it was tidy. They repeated a few tracks but ultimately prevailed with their keen skills. If nothing else, White Denim is a band of musicians. But they're probably more. 

The guys from Lord Huron were on point and incredibly timely. Sounding clear and portraying themselves as a band that had obviously been touring, their youth is professional. Four of the first five songs were totally engaging. Track selections were predominantly from the Lonesome Dreams album. They brought a harnessed wrecking ball with them and smashed through the performance, while still maintaining a studio like quality. Songs from this LA outfit meld lyrics and melody, allowing the art to become accepted. I'm stoked to have caught them at High Sierra.

Saturday, July 6th

This was the day that just kept ascending, literally. Holy hot guano batman.

Tom Tom Club meets a young Bjork and the year is 2013. That's what came to mind after digging on Rubblebucket. The collection of young talent on stage was fresh like the hyphy neon ribbons that hung form the mic stands. Fun is the easiest way to describe their eclectic buzz. By no means is that all they are. Some say choices make all the difference. If that's the case, Rubblebucket made the right ones. Their style, all blended up and working hard, makes you notice how to enjoy the choices worth making. This journey lasted a little more than an hour and half. It was my first time catching them live. It probably won't be the last.

Hanging around at the Grandstand paid off, it was time for an uber jam with John Scofield's new project band. The Uberjam Band was laying down grooves. They're way too cool. The quartet knew exactly what to do with their gobs of intellect. The festival setting may have been the perfect outlet for what they needed to do. Often times the element of surprise becomes the vehicle for an entire experience. The trio that accompanies Scofield is ridiculous (Avi Bortnick on guitar/samples, bassist Andy Hess & Luis Cato on the drums). I preferred it when they were allowed to explore on their own. The three of them had more of an ability to go static and produce tones that are more modern, more in the moment. Don't get me wrong, there were obviously good grooves carving out space in the late day sun, no matter who was showcasing their skills. My hankering for the trio's mojo led me to feel their emotional exploration on a personal level. The newness of their layers were subject to different interpretations compared to the jazzy resonance familiar to Scofield. It was an afternoon shred party. Among friends is the best way to get after it. I was feeling tipsy after the hyper brilliance. These guys are top shelf musicians. Big ups to the band. Mad love to my friends who shared in the experience. 

Houndmouth had me rope-a-doped for a second round over in the Tent. They played the same set and yet I didn't mind. Once again they felt honest and raw. Their appreciation of the festival crowd was also well received. At one point a voice on stage blurted, "I try not to sing this one when my mom's around." Which segued into Halfway to Hardinsburg, off of the debut album, Houndmouth.

Bouncing to the Big Meadow stage I was eager to travel with the imagination of the Barr Brothers.  I wanted to see the skillful merger between their guitar and drums, with that of extraordinary harp player, Sarah Page. It was quite the presentation. I hadn't really felt anything like what they were emitting. It had an ethereal presence with the strength of rock and roll tethered to it. They're able to mine something from their songs that other bands are unaware of. Their set was impeccably tight, yet organic, allowing them to integrate the likes of Mike Dillon, the horn section from Rubblebucket and a howling harmonica into their very personal sound. Later on, a slide guitar was opened up, ripping through the blue lights of the night. Simply put, the Barr Brothers delivered. There was no note taking from here on out, I was simply awash in the energy and magic of live music.

With new life injected into me, a Barr Brothers serum, it was time for the dance party. Of course that translates into Thievery Corporation obliterating people their unique sound. A blend that has catapulted them into the mainstream consciousness. Whether they were pumping out their own jams or rocking covers of David Byrne and Chuck Brown, the Corp was demolishing shit. I'd like to thank them, for being themselves. This DC based outfit is a world blaster. They created an atmosphere that was intoxicating. Their unabashed galactic buzz resulted in a frenzied dance off. This was the best set I'd ever seen from them. Hot damn.



From the worldly haze of Thievery to the pure soul of Lee Fields, I was a garnish in the cocktail of High Sierra's Saturday night. Thank god for The Expressions and their preacher who was giving the good word to the vaudevillian congregation. Mr. Field's powerful voice and charisma enable him to channel the nostalgia of James Brown. When firing on all cylinders this clergyman produces a service's worth of soulful rhythm and blues. It was a hot show filled with a mixture of dancing and the sometimes frozen stares of those who fell victim to his faithful sermon. Saturday night was a match made in High Sierra heaven. 

Sunday, July 7th


The final countdown included an odyssey for the treasure that is a morning bloody Mary. A good friend and I went out into the early light in need of the alcoholic salad of champions. Our attempt to partake in the bloody Mary ball was thwarted by the out-of-control line that continued to grow. Bo and I were informed that, they might still be mixing at the Big Meadow cocktail stand. We trekked over and found ourselves with the last two bloody's anyone could muster. I guess it's better to be lucky than good. 

Mike Dillon & Carly Meyers

True luck made us stand pat as we were treated to the abrasive talents of Mike Dillon. His new configuration of musicians has the ability to punch an audience from the opening bell. They certainly are an electronic vibraphone go-go punk funk band, embracing the snare and snarl of rock. Anyone in attendance was doused in punk inspired energy. Special shout out to Carly on trombone. She was a whirling dervish of excitement and skill. I'm pretty sure those on stage were having just as much fun as those of us kicking up dust. Dillon and his cohorts  have more than enough in their tank to fuel a good time. Most of the songs played were from the album Urn. Dillon would later pop up all over as a special guest for many of the other artists.


Lee Fields and the Expressions had done enough the night before to Bogart me for their Grandstand set. No matter how many times you hear him or which tale he is telling, he remains faithful to his soulful story. History is in him.


Guitar-maggedon is an annual play shop with an array of guitarists from multiple bands. This year's theme was arena rock. The ax wielding music makers covered scores of songs that are familiar to classic rock fans. When the faux Mick Jagger showed up we were thrust into the restless ease of the Rolling Stones. The men on stage powered through standards from Neil, Frampton and Zeppelin.

Anders Osborne has been one of my favorite under-the-radar slayers since the late 90's. Early on his set had built momentum. He tackled two tracks from Living Room, an early record in his catalog. One of which was Greasy Money, personally I relished that selection. Moving into the special guest portion of the show he welcomed out Lukas Nelson for a take on Neil Young. Later he would bring out Mike Dillon as they marched through the song Jealous Love. Adding a saxophonist, the members of his band and Dillon would bring out some spirit with, Franklin's Tower. Needing to re-up on beverages and other amenities we left his set with the sound of rock and roll carrying in the baked air. So much to do, so little time to do it.



To the Grandstand for our reggae fix. Steel Pulse has been a pillar of the roots-rock-reggae scene for over 35 years. I'm not well enough versed to determine whether or not they're the best live reggae band, but I for one was swaying to their up-beat messages. Highlights of the set included the banger, Steppin' Out and Put Your Hoodies On (for Treyvon Martin). With an overarching message of love and justice, they do reggae right. 

Moe closed down the Grandstand with their jam inspired prog-rock. Saint Augustine flew out to get things started. They followed with Y.O.Y. and Skrunk before bringing out Carly Meyers and Mike Dillon to spice up Time Ed. Next the dueling percussionists set fire to the vibes. Pushing on they dropped, Wind It Up and Waiting for the Punchline. Then came Lukas Nelson to the stage for a take on Opium. They shut the proverbial door with Happy Hour Hero and Buster. 

It takes a lot to persevere through 4+ days of High Sierra. My friends and beloved lobsters took it to the max. Cheers to High Sierra and to all of the musicians who turned it up a notch. Of course props go out to everyone who attended. We need the music and the music needs us. Enjoy.

eightychoices.

High Sierra Music Fest

Having just returned from High Sierra, my review of the festival has yet to be written. Until then I'll leave you with the image that hung above the late night hall. I lifted it from my Instagram feed @eightychoices. It embodies the event in a lunar nutshell.

Check back in for the low-down and other tidbits from the little town of Quincy.

A Dance Party it was. And I'm out.
eightychoices.