Hardly Strictly is Heavy Hitting

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass | Oct. 3rd, 4th & 5th

This year's Hardly Strictly lineup is way beyond impressive (only three weeks to go). Those who are willing to brave the masses within Golden Gate Park are sure to be rewarded. It's one of those years where attending all three days could become a reality, in which case you sacrifice some sanity.

October 3rd—I'm excited to see are Ryan Adams*, John Prine, and Thao & The Get Down Stay Down.

October 4th—I will definitely be glued to Dave Rawlings Machine*. I would also enjoy catching Jason Isbell, Chris Isaak*, Justin Townes Earl, and Built to Spill if at all possible. Considering I'll have to post up wicked-early at the stage hosting Rawlings Machine, I'm probably going to be camped at one stage.

October 5th—I will be geared-up to hear Jeff Tweedy* perform with his son Spencer. Bela Fleck and his wife, Abigail Washburn, also play on Sunday.

TBD—Other performers who've yet to announce their day (at time of publishing) are, Lucinda Williams*, Yo La Tengo, Deltron 3030 & the 3030 Orchestra*, Cibo Matto, and The Apache Relay. Be sure to check out the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. Below is an audio sampling of what to expect. Enjoy.

Lucinda Williams | "Can't Let Go"



Ryan Adams | "Oh My Sweet Carolina"



Chris Isaak | "Wicked Games"



Deltron 3030 | "Virus"



* those I most want to see.

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Cibo Matto

Cibo Matto 

For the first time in 15 years Cibo Matto dropped a new record. Hotel Valentine houses ten tracks and reminds us how unique their international hip-pop sound can be. This Hotel is not for everyone, and it's not as catchy as 1999's, Stereo Type A (which I loved). Maybe this album was intended to be a bit more indirect, the listener has to glean something richer from the atmospheric lyrics. Make no mistake, these two pop artists fully recognize the impact of a global culture that is constantly competing to stimulate and distract. The aforementioned process often leads to human disconnect or the loss of organic communication skills. Cibo Matto coaxingly gives us just enough, intentionally leaving the connections up to interpretation.

I'll attempt to decipher Valentine's sound. The second song, Deja Vu, collides with a world-beat blend of Sade and 90's Beck. Hard to imagine I know. I dig the upbeat pulse and funky twang of, 10th Floor Ghost Girl. Lounge music got the make over it's needed thanks to the title track. You can catch this duo at Slims on the 26th of this month. Below is a video of the first single, MFN.



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