san francisco

April 12, 2008

Hey everyone. My life lately has been exhausting! Working in a busy bar, and fitting in the time to go out and see live music as much as possible to write about it for you, makes me feel a little bit like I’m on tour! I’m in a bar at least 5 nights a week, and have become extremely nocturnal. I don’t know how bands can handle the life. Why do I do it? Because seeing live music and discovering new bands I like is my absolute passion.

This update, I’ll be catching you up on my trip to Austin for the annual South by Southwest music festival, which was March 12-15. Currently, I’m preparing to leave for another annual weekend music festival, Viva Las Vegas, April 10-13, so I’ll have a lot more bands to tell you about in a few weeks.

I’m sure most of our readers are familiar with SXSW, but in case you aren’t, it’s an annual music festival held in Austin, TX, where bands from all over the world play to fans, media, and music industry people to gain exposure… and in most cases, they are also there to party. SXSW is 4 days and nights of music, happening mostly around the main 6th Street strip where many bars and clubs are, but there are also shows all over the city at venues and record stores off the beaten path. There are a lot of VIP parties with free booze, and every kind of music is represented. I had an unbelievably fun time. The only complaint I could possibly have about it is, that it sucks I can’t be in multiple places at once! There are a lot of great bands that I missed seeing.

Some of the bands I’m going to tell you about are: Deguello, The Aggrolites, Motorhead, The Ringers, Whole Wheat Bread, Mink, Yo Majesty, Lou Reed with Moby, N.E.R.D. featuring Pharell Williams, The Boss Martians, 2 Live Crew, Necromantix, Horrorpops, The Royal Heist, Hyro da Hero, and The Cute Lepers.

I’ll start off by telling you about my favorite discovery of the weekend! The Ringers from LA were amazing. I walked into a club called Red Seven and heard only the last half of a song. I knew the moment I walked in that I loved them. Then I saw the singer and his hilarious goofball style, and was pretty much sold. He was shirtless, covered in mud, wearing tight pants and red cowboy boots and looked like a lunatic.

I went up and spoke to him and the band, and told them how disappointed I was that I only caught part of the last song. They were nice enough to invite my friend and I to a VIP party the next day that they would be playing at, so I made sure to show up. I’m so glad we went, because in addition to getting to see the band, there was open bar!

They did not disappoint! They remind me of a cross between Iggy and the Stooges and the New York Dolls, with a little bit of The Dirtbombs thrown in. Singer, Joe, has a great, soulful, powerful voice, and voracious energy. They are the kind of band that shows up and just KILLS IT every time. I can just tell that from seeing that one show, and the bit of the one before.

They put all their energy into it, and front man, Joe, is someone you want to keep a constant eye on because you might miss him doing something crazy, hilarious, or brilliant (like stealing someone’s flip flops and throwing them out into the crowd to leave the guy shoe-less)! I’ve been listening to their CD, and I really like it. The whole band has awesome energy and fun style. They got the best crowd response of almost any band I saw for days as well. (One of the guys was wearing an 80s Billy Idol ‘Rebel Yell’ shirt, which wins points with me!) If you like dirty rock and roll, you will love The Ringers! myspace.com/theringersband

My next favorite band of the weekend was Seattle’s Boss Martians. I have been seeing them for about 7 or 8 years now, and have loved every show I’ve seen them do. They are another band like the Ringers, who have the kind of enthusiastic energy that is infectious and crazy.

I saw their last show of the weekend, and it was their 3rd show that day. They had played that day at 1pm somewhere, 3pm somewhere, and I saw them at 5pm. They had also played San Francisco before SXSW, and at least one show every day of the festival. I can’t believe the energy they brought to that last show, even though I was later told that the singer, Evan, was sick! He was on stage singing straight from the diaphragm with a viciousness that not many can match. They are so talented. They play dirty, soulful, energetic rock and roll with keyboards that bring in a bit of a 60s garage rock sound.

My friend and I took a $10 cab out of our way to catch their last show, and we both looked at each other and agreed that it was well worth it, and we were so glad we did! Evan is great to watch on stage, because in addition to belting out his vocals so impressively, he has an extremely expressive face… he basically communicates the lyrics on his face while he’s performing. He put so much raw energy into the performance, that he was soaking wet when it was over. I love this band. The Boss Martians ROCK! myspace.com/thebossmartians

I have to say that my next favorite performance of the weekend would have to be 2 Live Crew! Are you surprised? Well, some people might be surprised that someone like me- meaning a total rock and roll, punk rock chick, would be a 2 Live Crew fan, but I totally am. I like a lot of old hip hop, and used to have some 2 Live Crew 12” singles (yes- vinyl!) They played at the Levis Fader party to a packed house on my last night of SXSW debauchery. Tons of girls got on stage to dance with the band, and the free Southern Comfort and Lone Star beer were flowing.

When my friend and I arrived, we were told they wouldn’t let anyone else in, but we were determined to get in to see them, so we snuck in the back door like we owned the place. They did all the old favorites: “Me so Horny,” “We Want some P****,” “Banned in the USA,” “Face Down Ass Up,” “Hoochie Mama,” etc. The crowd loved it! It’s worth mentioning that the crowd was predominantly white, which was amusing, and I would guess might not be the norm for a 2 Live Crew show. Watching all these white folks getting so into 2 Live Crew was highly entertaining. That was a highlight of the weekend for sure. On the way out, I hugged the security guard for letting me sneak in the back (for the second time of the weekend)!

Back to new discoveries, I saw a band from NYC called Mink that I really enjoyed. I happened upon them at the Creekside Lounge while looking for free vodka, which had just ended at the club; but stayed when my friend and I found them getting ready to go on. Their singer and bass player were both really good-looking guys, and they had a kick ass girl drummer. Their singer, Neal, is good at engaging the crowd, and has a cool confidence that was fun to watch. I thought I saw him pick me out of the crowd and stare at me when they started to play, but then I thought maybe I was imagining it.

It turns out it wasn’t my imagination, because he totally embarrassed me in front of the audience by saying in the microphone, “Hey pretty girl, I need to make eyes at you. Come stand in the front so I can make eyes at you.” Ha ha… um, okay. My friend and I went to the front since I got called out. I really liked them. They are a rock band with melodic, power-pop sensibilities. I got their CD and have been really enjoying it a lot.

Their lyrics are clever, and the melodies are solid. There is something eerily familiar about some of the songs to me, but I can’t put my finger on why, and I can’t think of any other bands to really compare them to for you. I think it’s because this band is more pop than what I normally listen to. The only band I listen to along the same vein is The Killers, but they don’t really sound like them, they just play a similar kind of rock. They have a great sound that I could see being really big in popular music. I hope they go places.

It also doesn’t hurt that they were collectively cute to look at too! At one point in the show, the singer jumped on a guy and started rolling around on him, so I grabbed my friend and we topped the pile. It was totally funny and the audience got a kick out of it. I hope Mink makes their way out to tour the West Coast soon. myspace.com/mink

After Mink, I met a guy from a NYC band called Rosetta Stone, who recommended we stay to see a female MC called Yo Majesty from Tampa Florida, who was really awesome. She played to a very small crowd with a DJ in a courtyard, but the energy and her rhymes and beats were really fun. The little crowd (including myself) loved her. I felt like I was in a scene from a movie about NYC hip-hop in the 80s. myspace.com/yomajesty4life (Thanks to Chris Carr of Sunspot Photography for photos! Check out his awesome blog for more SXSW photos, commentary, etc.: eatthecaketina.blogspot.com)

Another band I saw that I really enjoyed was Jacksonville, Florida’s Whole Wheat Bread. Okay, okay, I know… the name is really lame. (So is the song where they say,” When I say ‘whole wheat,’ you say ‘bread’…” Don’t make me say bread!) I saw this band open for Bad Brains at Slim’s in San Francisco a few months before SXSW, and I thought they were cheesy; but when I saw them at SXSW, I thought they were great fun.

Like Bad Brains, they are an all-black punk rock band, which even today, is still pretty rare; and since they’re from Florida, they have shirts that say, “Dirty South Punk Rock,” which I thought was cool. So what I’m getting at is, they are not just another typical punk band. Their sound is loud, fast, snotty punk rock, but they also throw some clever, fun rap in, which the crowd really enjoyed. I remember laughing a lot and having fun during this performance.

The show they put on at Red Seven in Austin was high energy, entertaining, tight, and a lot of fun. The band are all very talented musicians, and I’m glad I got to see them again and had a totally different opinion of them the second time around. (That is rare for me.) I believe the difference for me was in the sound system and type and size of the venues. Red Seven is more of a punk rock intimate setting where I feel right at home and think I could appreciate them more, but Slims is more of a “rock show” big sound stage kind of venue. I’d definitely be into seeing them again. myspace.com/wholewheatbread

Another band I saw that I really liked were The Aggrolites from LA. I had never heard of them before, but they are a ska/ reggae band. They are really talented, fun, light, danceable, and made the crowd move with positive energy. I hope to get to see them again. I saw on their myspace page that they will be on the Vans Warped tour this summer. (I am going to try to go this year now because of The Aggrolites.) I really liked all the songs on their page too. If you like ska and regggae, check them out. myspace.com/theaggrolites, www.aggroreggae.com.

One big surprise of the weekend, was when I went to a night at the Levis Fader party to see a band my friend wanted to check out, N.E.R.D., and the band playing before them was playing Lou Reed’s “Take a Walk on the Wild Side.” I got a little closer to the stage, and realized that it WAS Lou Reed performing. Not only that, but Moby was playing guitar. I am not a huge fan of Lou Reed, but I do recognize and respect his and the Velvet Underground’s innovative contribution and importance in music history. It was really cool to happen upon this performance by accident, and they sounded really good. I was in the room with a legend!

After Lou Reed, hip-hop group, N.E.R.D. featuring Pharrell Williams (member of the Neptunes, producer of Justin Timberlake, Usher, Nelly, Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, etc.) took their damn sweet time going on. I stood waiting forever, and gave up. When they finally did go on, I went up and snapped a few photos, then got totally bored and resigned to hang in back and drink and hope it was over soon. Even though I have to give Pharrell Williams respect for his producing accomplishments, N.E.R.D. were just not my cup of tea. Even though I like a lot of hip-hop, I just felt like shooting myself in the head when they performed. I really hated it and wanted it to end.

I got even more annoyed when Pharrell said, “The girls and the photographers might want to get out of the way, cause it’s SXSW and we’re here to f*** shit up,” or something to that extent. Being both a girl and a photographer, that really pissed me off. Get over yourself. A fan is a fan, and should be appreciated and respected whether they are male, female, black, white, purple, or have a camera. Have some respect for the fans. I guess they’re a big deal in some circles, but not in mine… to each his own. I got rubbed the wrong way.

Since I’m on the topic of well-known bands, I almost forgot to mention seeing Motorhead! They played early in the day, so I showed up a bit drunk from the night before, a bit tired, free energy drink in hand, and began my day with Motorhead. It was surreal having ‘breakfast with Motorhead’ in the sweltering sun, but definitely a cool experience. They sounded in top form, and I enjoyed being a part of that. It was one of those ‘once in a lifetime’ kind of moments, and it was extra weird when I ran into a guy I work with at the bar in San Francisco who I didn’t even know was in town!

I’m not going to review Motorhead, because, what the hell can I say? C’mon, it’s Motorhead! It’s all been said before. But this really was a top-notch show, and the crowd loved it.

I saw a band that I think I would really like if the sound mix had been different for their performance. The band was L.A.’s The Royal Heist. The band had a good look, good stage presence, a good sound, but something in the mix was off at this particular show. I was kind of bummed about that, because I could tell I’d probably be into them otherwise. They were fun to watch, and I liked what I could make out. I listened to their tracks on myspace and really liked them. I especially like the song, “Lips Tool,” which I remember liking at the show. A line in the song is, “hey, hey, hey, I like your outfit… sh-sh-sh-shoes and that dirty little outfit.” It’s catchy-- give it a listen. I hope they make it to San Francisco soon so I can see them again. myspace.com/theroyalheist

One night at an after-party, I accidentally ran into Bushwick Bill of the Geto Boys! (He’s a ‘little person’ and one of the songs he was know for is “Size Ain’t S***.”) I am a big fan of theirs, even though they are widely perceived to be offensive and sexually degrading to women. I always liked the music, and personally thought they were more amusing than offensive. I had just missed his performance, but he gave me a CD. I gave it a listen, and was surprised to find it was totally Christian! That’s not my thing, but it was funny to meet him and get a photo taken!

Another hip-hop artist I came across by accident and liked, was Hyro da Hero from Houston, TX. I didn’t catch much of his set, but he gave me a CD and I really like it. His samples are catchy and his rhymes are tight. He’s clever and quick. He even has a rap where he says he’d “rather be a punk rocker,” and another where he mentions being “tatted up.” He was adorable too, with some crazy bling and good energy. I’d like to see him perform again. Check him out: myspace.com/hyrodahero2

I have to mention a band called Deguello from Austin. Their front man, singer and master guitarist, Nick Curran is an old acquaintance of mine who used to play with Rockabilly act Kim Lenz and her Jaguars, and he has gone on to play in multiple well-known bands including The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Deguello is his solo band, which plays roots, rock, and punk rock music. He is immensely talented, and it was great to see him perform at the Jackalope. Nick Curran plays a mean guitar-- I don’t care if you hear it from the bathroom (which I did at one point, and it sounded great), or from the front row looking at his adorable style, HE ROCKS! myspace.com/deguelloloco

One of the shows I most enjoyed of the weekend was the TKO Records showcase at Red Seven. I got to see the Nekromantix, who I love, and hadn’t seen in many years. They are a great Psychobilly band who I’ve seen many times in the last decade, and who I have grown to have a greater appreciation for with time. Singer/ bass player Kim Nekroman is married to Patricia from Horrorpops, who he also plays with, and who performed right after.

Both bands are great fun to watch, high energy, and have awesome bass lines thanks to Nekroman, who’s been doing it a long time, and builds his own custom basses. I really like Patricia’s voice a lot, and they look great on stage, complete with hot psychobilly go-go dancers. This was a super fun show with a fun punk rock crowd.

myspace.com/nekromantix

myspace.com/thehorrorpops

A another new discovery of the weekend, which I made at the TKO Records showcase night at Red Seven, was Seattle’s The Cute Lepers; a band that has members from The Briefs (who I love). They sound a lot like The Briefs as a result. They are touring in Europe the next month or so, so if you are Europe, check their tour schedule on myspace and check them out! If like me, you aren’t in Europe, you can at least give a few of their songs a listen. Until that night, I didn’t know this band existed, so I’m stoked I came across them. myspace.com/thecutelepers

So that’s it for the bands I wanted to single out. The bands I was especially bummed to miss were: The Supersuckers, Carbon Silicon (featuring Tony James of Generation X and Sigue Sigue Sputnik) and Mick Jones of (The Clash and Big Audio Dynamite), Lower Class Brats, The Heart Attacks (who I saw in Dallas and wrote about in the past and liked a lot), CH 3 (who I like and haven’t seen in 3 years), Jay Reatard, who I’ve heard a lot of good things about, and Black Flag (featuring I wonder who now—really??).

In all, SXSW was such a fun experience! There is so much to see and do, that each person who attends has a completely different take on things. I got to see several old friends of mine from Texas, see so many bands, and meet so many interesting people, that 4 days felt like 2! I have no idea where all the time went! I hope to be able to go back next year, and I hope you readers will check out some of the bands I mentioned.

As I said, I am heading off to Las Vegas to the annual Rockabilly weekender, Viva Las Vegas, April 10-13. I’ll have a lot more to tell you about that in my next update, if this whirlwind lifestyle doesn’t kill me!

Until Next time,
XXXOOO
Alisha Amnesia

December 29, 2007

Hey Readers! I am so glad this year is over! 2007 has been a really tough year, being the first year that I’ve lived with out my Dad alive, who was such an inspiration and important part of my life. I’ve gotten past the hard part now, and I am hoping to have a better year next year. I haven’t updated you since late summer, so here is my Fall/Winter update.

I’ll start where I left off last time. On Tuesday September 4, I went to see Sham 69 at the Red Devil Lounge. A lot of people in the punk scene were adamant about not attending because original singer, Jimmy Purcey, is no longer fronting the band. I guess he has written some information online somewhere and is angry that the band is using the name ‘Sham 69’ without him.

I agree with him, but since I used to book at the Red Devil and am friendly with the owners and staff, I wanted to go check it out at least. I was pleasantly surprised that they sounded really great, even with a different singer. The small crowd that did show up seemed to really enjoy the show, and (unfortunately for me), an impromptu pit started really suddenly, which knocked me down hard and messed me up! I had the biggest bruises of my life, and was in pain for about a week. I actually got knocked senseless there for a few minutes, and it really scared me! I didn’t know what hit me. After that, I had a hard time enjoying the show, but the band was good. www.sham69.com; myspace.com/hershamboys

On September 11^th, I went to see MDC, (Millions of Dead Cops) from Portland, OR at Annie’s Social Club. I was really bored with this show. I ended up leaving before it was over, and was kind of disappointed by it. The singer was (admittedly during his stage banter) an ex-speed freak, and was amusing, but old and kind of sad. myspace.com/mdc

On September 21st, I went to Annie’s again, to see local female-fronted band, The Struts. Their singer has a deep soulful voice, and can really belt it out! I highly recommend this band, and think that they have a bright future if they keep at it. I hope they end up playing SXSW and get discovered by the right people. hoecake.xbuild.com

On September 23^rd, I saw Bad Brains at Slims. I had seen their singer, HR’s, solo tour last time he came through San Francisco, which was a mellow reggae show, with no Bad Brains songs. I was a huge fan of Bad Brains, and I couldn’t wait to see them when they came to town to play 2 sold out shows with their original line-up.

The band sounded amazing, incredible, raw, energetic, and tight, just like they did in the distant past. I saw a few of their tours between 88 and now, but this might have been the only (or maybe the second) time with all original members.

Musically, they did not disappoint. HR, however, sang all the songs at his own pace, which seemed a little less energetic than the band, which were ferocious as always. He has a really interesting voice, but has mellowed with age, which was no surprise… (almost everyone does, except maybe Iggy Pop). He also played guitar for a while, which seemed to be distracting from his vocals. I don’t remember ever seeing him play guitar in the past, and I could have lived without that.

They played all the songs the fans were expecting, and everyone was really excited by the show. I’m really glad I went and saw the show, but it wasn’t so earth shattering that I felt like making the effort to go to the second night. I felt seeing it once was awesome, but was enough for me. www.badbrains.com

On October 11^th, I went to see The Adicts at a newly resurrected venue, The Mabuhay Gardens. This venue was the original place to see punk bands back in the beginning in SF, nicknamed “the Fab Mab.” They remodeled and re-opened this fall.

The Adicts, whom I’ve seen several times before, always put on an awesome show, and this night was no exception. I really thoroughly enjoyed it. My favorite song, which they did perform, is called ‘Chinese Takeaway.’ They did all the songs I love, and put on a great performance, complete with makeup, confetti, lots of people on stage, the works, Adicts-style. I look forward to seeing more shows at the Mab as well. www.adicts.us; myspace.com/mabuhaygardens

On October 23^rd, I went to the Southern Wine and Spirits Import Wine Convention. Attending free booze conventions is a perk I always enjoy, being in the bar industry. This one was no exception. I tasted tons of fabulous wines and champagnes, and enjoyed a delicious catered spread with a few of my co-workers and manager from the Elbo Room. At the end of the event, we all took home cases of bottles that we absconded with!

The following week, I went to see Control, a film about Ian Curtis, the singer of Joy Division, who committed suicide. It was a very well done film, and I really enjoyed it. Of course it is pretty sad, considering the ending, but I do recommend it to fans of Joy Division and New Order (whom the band evolved into after Curtis’ death). momentum.control.substance001.com

When the film ended, my friend and I ran into local Goth band, Veil Veil Vanish, who exited the theatre at the same time. They are a band I just recently saw at ‘Club Debauchery’ at Annie’s that I really liked. They reminded me in bits of The Cure, Christian Death, and The Damned. I hope to see them again soon. I invited them all over after the movie, and we polished off the case of wine I had from the wine convention. myspace.com/veilveilvanish

On November 7^th, I went to see the Phantom Rockers at Annie’s. They are a really fun psychobilly band from England and Texas. Their singer, Mark, has been fronting this band forever… I remember seeing them about 14 years ago in Dallas. Their drummer for this tour, Scottie, used to be in rockabilly band, Kim Lenz and her Jaguars, many years ago. The band sounded really good, and was a lot of fun to watch. There was a sparse turnout on this particular Wednesday night, which was unfortunate. I really enjoyed seeing them again, and hope they tour again. I love their psychobilly version of ‘Tainted Love.’ www.phantomrockers.com

At the beginning of November, a new movie about Joe Strummer came out, called ‘The Future is Unwritten,’ which was directed by Julien Temple, who did Sex Pistols’ ‘The Filth and the Fury’ and ‘The Great Rock n Roll Swindle.’ This movie was awesome. I absolutely loved it. I enjoyed this the best of Julien Temple’s films that I’ve seen, and it showed a more personal side of Joe Strummer, which was absent from other films about him and The Clash. All Strummer and Clash fans should go and see it. You can see and hear a lot on the official website. joestrummerthemovie.com

On November 30^th, I went to see my friend’s band, The Lustkillers at Grant and Green. My buddy Adam fronts the band, and also plays with the Black Halos and Lords of the New Church. He’s a very talented fellow, and I love his music. They put on a great show. Another really talented, promising new SF band, Absinthe Boy opened the show. Their singer, Darryl has been a friend of mine a long time, and has been in many bands over the years, but this one is the first one I really connect with. I’ll be seeing and updating you about them sometime in the future I’m sure. (They have an awesome logo too, which you can see on their page.) myspace.com/lustkillers - myspace.com/absintheboysf

On December 7^th, I went to see, and FINALLY got to meet THE CULT! I wrote about seeing them in my last update, and they have been one of my favorite bands since I was 14 years old. I feel like this band has been the soundtrack for my life, and I’ve always wanted to meet Ian Astbury. Unfortunately, meeting him was anti-climactic and really disappointing. The show was really good, and of course I would recommend seeing them to anyone who likes good rock music. That’s a given.

My experience meeting them went like this. I got a backstage pass, and was told to wait in a line on some stairs with everyone else. We were yelled at, kind of like kids in line at an amusement park or something. Everyone could go up to this table where the band would sign your poster, then you had to wait in the line again and get a photo taken.

It was my turn to approach the table and I passed right by the 2 newer members of the band, and I went directly to Ian and Billy Duffy (singer and guitarist, original members who ARE The Cult). They said, “What about them?” They were referring to the way I passed the 2 other guys and didn’t ask for autographs from them. I said, “I’ve been waiting 20 years to meet the 2 of you.” I told them my name, got my poster signed, tried to ask a few questions, but was shuffled off out of the way and told to go in line.

I was really kind of upset that I didn’t get a minute to ask questions or anything, but I understand the whole rock star meet-and-greet process and that they may be over meeting their long-time fans. Maybe they had a long night, a bad one, were in bad moods, or they don’t like blonde girls… who knows? All I do know, is that being in a room with them made me feel like the teenage girl who has worshipped them forever, and my soul felt truly crushed when I didn’t get to converse. I was really upset by it, however silly or irrational that might have been.

I left the room to try to calm down for a few minutes and then I was the last to get a photo taken. I was standing next to Ian, and I said, “Please, could I get one with just you and I?” And he said, “No,” and walked off into a room and shut the door. I was crushed all over again. I actually ended up crying. I don’t know why I was so emotional, but I was very upset by the whole thing. It may have been better for me not to have tried to meet them, and to have just stayed on the other side of things. Some say it’s better not to meet your heroes, and now I understand why. www.thecult.us

On December 18^th, I went to see local female-fronted band, The White Barons at the Knockout. They are a really awesome band. The singer, Miss Eva Von Slut, also does burlesque and fronts all girl psychobilly band, Thee Merry Widows, as well as the re-united band, The Insaints. She has an awesome voice, and I love this band. My favorite song is called ‘Champagne and Cocaine,’ which you can hear on their page, myspace.com/whitebarons.

On December 27^th, I went to see Conflict at Slims. I hadn’t heard their music in years, and was skeptical about how the show would be, since seeing older bands can often be disappointing. They were so much better than I could have imagined. I didn’t remember many songs, but they sounded really awesome. I’m so glad I went to see them, and if you’re a fan of old punk, check them out again. www.conflict-uk.com

Okay, readers, I have crammed in and glossed over 3 months worth of my goings on in San Francisco. I promise to have more to share next time. On December 29th, I’m going to see The Psychedelic Furs, which I’m looking forward to, as I’ve never seen them live. For New Years Eve, I'm going to Mezzanine to see a band called BLAQK AUDIO. "BLAQK AUDIO IS THE ELECTRONIC SIDE ENDEAVOR OF AFI'S DAVEY HAVOK AND JADE PUGET, IT CARRIES ALL THE BOMBAST OF EARLY BLACK FLAG WITH THE HOOKS OF DEPECHE MODE AND DANCE GROOVES OF NILE RODGERS." I'm also looking forward to some upcoming shows: the Circle Jerks are coming in January, and Siouxsie is coming in February. Until then,
Best of luck to all in 2008!
XXXOOO Alisha Amnesia

July and August have been really beautiful in San Francisco, and I’ve been continuing to stay busy with short out-of-town jaunts. Friday July 13^th, I went to Vegas again- this time to meet up with awesome SF rock and rollers, the All Time Highs, who played at Vegas’ Dive Bar. I helped the band out with their merch, and they gave me a reason to go back to Vegas. myspace.com/alltimehighs

The band rocked as usual, and we did some bar hopping after their show. One of the places we went was the Beauty Bar, which was pretty cool. (The original is in NYC, and we have one in SF too. I think there may be one in LA as well.) I recognized the DJ (Morpheus), but couldn’t figure out why I remembered him… I think from when I lived in LA in 2004…? (Well, there’s a reason my name ends with Amnesia.)

Anyway, Vegas was crazy! I ended up meeting a lot of strangers at the MGM Grand pool, and a crazy friend from LA met up with me as well. I partied like it was my last weekend on earth or something. After 3 crazy nights in Vegas, I realized I needed to calm the hell down! I went back to SF and tried to ignore the fact that there is something to do pretty much every night!

I’d finally recovered after some r-n-r, and I went to check out one of my favorite female-fronted bands, Theo and the Skyscrapers, at Thee Parkside on Sunday July 22^nd. (I’ve written about them before. Theo used to sing for the Lunachicks, and the guitarist, Sean is her husband and a former member of the now defunct Toilet Boys.) myspace.com/theo

I really love this band. Their first album and tour were great, and this time around, they were touring to promote their second release, “So Many Ways to Die,” which I also really like. The new release is much heavier on keyboard and synth-organ sounds, and sounds a bit more dark and goth than the first release, which was more pop influenced. I think anyone who was a fan of the Lunachicks should give this band a listen.

Not only do they totally rock, but Theo’s also a lot of fun to watch on stage. She looked like a gorgeous punk rock bad girl prom queen, who seems to enjoy herself and have a sense of humor, which makes her seem down to earth. The turnout was disappointing, but the performance was enjoyable all the same.

At the beginning of August, I accepted an invitation to go visit an old friend in San Diego. I’d never been there, but I love the beach, and I found out one of my all-time favorite bands, The Cult would be performing at the horse race track out there. That was all I needed to hear! I booked a flight and laid on the beach for days. It was really beautiful and mellow down there, like a little dream world. I wished I could get a little rental house and live there all summer, writing, tanning, and drinking wine. Well, that would’ve been lovely, but having the opportunity to do that for a few days was nice as well. www.thecult.us

On Saturday Aug. 4^th, I could not wait to go to the racetrack and bet on horses and see my true loves, The Cult. I realized that the first time (of like 7 or so times) I saw them was the Electric tour in 87 with Billy Idol… I was 14! Wow! It’s been 20 years that I’ve loved them. My first tattoo that I got when I was 15 was a symbol from a Death Cult record… thank god it wasn’t a phase and I still love them as much as I ever did. That’s exactly how the entire crowd obviously felt. Everyone seemed thrilled to be there.

I was so excited by that whole show. They played at sunset, and opened with one of my favorite songs, ‘Spiritwalker,’ from their first album, ‘Dreamtime.’ Next, they played ‘Nirvana,’ from the Love album, and they followed up with many favorites from the span of their career, including ‘Love Removal Machine,’ ‘Revolution,’ ‘Edie,’ ‘Wildflower,’ ‘Fire Woman,’ as well as a few songs from their upcoming new release, ‘Born Into This,’ which comes out Oct. 2^nd. They closed the show with an encore of ‘She Sells Sanctuary,’ which made the crowd go into appreciative hysterics. It was perfect.

I don’t care that Ian Astbury doesn’t look 25 anymore… (I think he may be a bit self-conscious about that because he performed wearing a jacket for the whole show.) So he may have gained a few pounds? Take it off, Ian! We love you the way you are! Nobody has his style and incredible ethereal voice. I love him. They’ll be touring to support the new album in October, and I’ll be there again to support them for sure. I wonder if I’ll EVER get to meet him?! If I did, I’d probably be too shy to speak.

Anyway, when the show was over, I found myself wishing I could go back! I didn’t want it to end, and I didn’t want to leave beautiful, perfect San Diego. That was an awesome trip.

Back in SF, The 4-year anniversary of my friends’ Adrian and the Mysterious D’s Bootleg Mash-up club, Bootie was on Sat. Aug. 11^th at DNA Lounge. There were 1300 people there going nuts! There was a line around the block like I’ve never seen there before! There were crazy dancers, mad energy, photographers, film crews, and a stretch limo! (It was honestly a bit too much for me!) This club was voted best dance club in the San Francisco Bay Guardian. Congrats, A & D!!! (They also have monthly clubs in LA, NYC and Paris.) The next Bootie SF is Sat. Sept 8. www.bootiesf.com

On Friday Aug. 24, I went to Peaches Christ’s Midnight Mass to see Elvira, Mistress of the Dark perform and speak IN THE FLESH, and then afterward, the movie shown was ‘Creature from the Black Lagoon’ in 3D!!! Elvira looked beautiful and amazing, Peaches and Vinsantos did a great opening number, and there was a fun Q & A with Peaches, Elvira, and a guy named Mr. Lobo, and the movie was a ton of fun too. I’d never seen an old 3D movie, but I loved it! My friend Miss Lynda made good use of her usually-garaged ‘76 Cadillac Hearse by playing chauffeur to Elvira for the appearance. This was a truly unique San Francisco night. www.peacheschrist.com
myspace.com/peacheschrist

I’ve seen a lot of new local bands lately, but nothing so great that I feel like going into right now. Not to worry though, I always have a lot on the calendar, and will keep on bringing you tales of my city (and others since I don’t stay put all the time)!

Coming up, I’m going to see the Subhumans on Sept 1 at Slims, Sham 69 at The Red Devil Lounge on Sept 4, and a few monthly clubs that I try to catch when I’m around: Jason El Diablo’s ‘Die Die my Darling’ on Fri Sept 7^th at SF Underground, and Adrienne Scissorhands’ ‘Club Debauchery’ on the last Sunday of Sept. at Annie’s Social Club. Also, I just found out that NYC Coolgrrrl Kitty Kowalski is coming to play Fri. Sept 7 at Thee Parkside with her band, The Kowalskis!

Also on Friday Sept. 7^th, at the deYoung Museum, their Friday night series features CATTYCHISM: A Peaches Christ Retrospective, from 5 to 8:45pm.

“Celebrate a decade of art inspired by and created for San Francisco's very own drag superstar, Peaches Christ! Explore the meticulous craftwork behind the internationally renowned hostess of the Midnight Mass Movie Series.” For more info,
www.deyoungmuseum.org

Before I over-extended myself, I began the summer with some fun shows. You may have read my Lady Sovereign show review, from Friday June 9^th already, but if not, you can click here.

On Tuesday May 23^rd, I was invited to a party thrown by Jack Daniels where Flogging Molly played at the Regency Ballroom. This is a beautiful venue, with tall molded ceilings and chandeliers, but the acoustics are not very good for seeing bands. The sound at this show made me unable to really enjoy this talented band as much as I could have. I saw them a few years back at the Key Club in LA, and they were great that time. Anyway, I’m sure most of you are familiar with Flogging Molly, but if you’re not, they are worth checking out. They have bagpipes, violins, and very infectious energy. They play Irish traditional music mixed with rock, which is a rowdy, fun combination that often inspires fan sing-a-longs. www.floggingmolly.com. (The night was fun even though the sound wasn’t up to par. My friends and I spent the duration of the night filling up on free Jack Daniels, as this was a promotional party we all got invited to somehow.)

On Memorial Day, Monday May 29, I had the pleasure of going to see Theo and the Skyscrapers at Café DuNord. Theo is the singer from punk band, The Lunachicks; and the guitarist of the band is (her husband) Sean from the Toilet Boys. Both bands are old favorites of mine, and I really love Theo’s voice, as well as her style. Sean’s signature guitar riffs stand out on the album, and work well with this new band. They performed a flawless set. I really like and recommend their new album, and they sounded as good live as they did on the record. www.theoandtheskyscrapers.com, www.myspace.com/theo, www.ilovetheo.com

My favorite song on the album is ‘Unraveled,’ about how seeing a particular person makes you feel like you’re falling apart. I think anyone can relate to that feeling, as most of us have felt that at some point. The chorus lyrics are, “Whenever I see you, I go to pieces. When you pull my strings, I’m unraveled.”

Theo looked beautiful, and invites the obvious comparisons to Debbie Harry of Blondie, both with her looks and her voice. This album invites those comparisons more than ever before in her career, as the songs and vocals are more melodic, she is fronting a band of rocker guys now, and the music is more new wave and rock than her previous punk rock roots. Any fan of Blondie would probably enjoy Theo and the Skyscrapers. I also occasionally hear something in Theo’s vocals that slightly reminds me of certain Siouxsie Sioux’s vocals, who I also really love.

The beginning of June was my birthday, and as I dressed for my Birthday dinner, I got a phone call saying I was hired for the bartending position I’d applied for at a Bar and Lounge/ Nightclub in downtown SF. It was an awesome birthday present, and I am really enjoying working there so far. Afternoons into evenings, the bar hosts an upscale, mellow happy hour from 4 to 7pm, comprised of local retailers, office people, and tourists. Nights there vary from packed hip-hop, reggae, dancehall, and soul nights, with some occasional slower nights mid week. We make lots of specialty drinks, and I’ll be learning a lot about mixology. So far I like it a lot, even though it is not like the kind of nightspots I normally frequent.

On Thursday June 8^th, I went to see Arnocorps at Annie’s Social Club. Arnocorps are totally funny. They talk, dress, and act like Arnold Swarzenegger in his most famous roles - Terminator, Predator and the like. They speak with Austrian accents, wear camouflage, make jokes about working out and nutrition, and reference Arnold’s infamous movie quotes. They have a great time doing it, and the crowd always enjoys watching them. The music is obviously what holds it together, because if they couldn’t play, they would have stopped getting gigs a long time ago. They’ve been at this a while (I booked them over 3 years ago), and the novelty hasn’t worn off for fans yet, especially since Arnold is now the Governor of California! They are a really great, unique San Francisco band, which I recommend seeing if you get the opportunity. www.arnocorps.com www.myspace.com/arnocorps

The next night, I went to see Lady Sovereign, which I already mentioned, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Afterward, I went to Adrian & Mysterious D’s monthly Mash up club at DNA Lounge called Bootie, which is always a blast. www.bootiesf.com

The following weekend, June 16 and 17^th was a debut photography exhibit for Bill Wyman’s (of Rolling Stones fame) work at the San Francisco Art Exchange, called “Wyman Shots.” His photos had not been previously shown to the public, so this was a rare treat to get to attend. He had captured amazing early Stones candid moments, beautiful photos of young Jerry Hall, other musicians, and more. The opening night was really uncomfortably hot though, and I didn’t end up staying as long as I’d like to take it all in. To view some of his work and for more info, go to: sfae.com/gallery

Sunday June 18^th, I went to the Zeitgeist to see 2 films showing on the back patio by Cecil Barfeeder (drummer of punk band the Barfeeders). I know him from the music scene and wanted to check out his 2 films, Meter Maid Me Massacre, and the Tamale Lady, which is about the Tamale Lady, who is known for frequenting local bars selling her homemade tamales all over town. www.cecilbfeeder.com I got there and was surprised by a long line to get into the bar, which I waited in until I gained entry. Once I was in, I found out about an offer to pay $10 for all-you-can-drink Speakeasy Brew beer and 2 tamales. I paid the 10 bucks and got a beer and tamale while I watched the film about the Tamale Lady. I was having fun, and the patio out back was packed with tons of people I knew, and even more that I didn’t.

When I went in about 20 minutes later to get another beer, a girl offered to buy me a shot, which I accepted. She ordered it and then she realized she didn’t have the cash on her and needed to use the ATM in the bar to get some quick cash. I guess this made the bartender (who was also apparently the manager) angry with her. I fished out $10 more of my own money and put it on the bar for him, and she returned with her cash about half a minute later.

She then said to me, “Alisha, I didn’t do anything, but he hates me and is throwing me out.” I responded by saying, “Really? That’s lame.” The bartender heard my reaction and started yelling at me, “F*** you too, you’re out of here! Security, escort her out! She’s out of here! F*** off! F*** you!” And I am almost speechless. What? I’m being thrown out of a bar when I’ve only had one beer, and have not caused any trouble whatsoever? I could not believe it. I’ve been going to the Zeitgeist for years, and I have always been a respectable patron.

I said, “I’m sorry, calm down. I didn’t do anything.“ The security is pulling me away from my new drinks on the bar, and saying to me, “It doesn’t matter.” I said, “Yes it does! I work at bars; I don’t get thrown out of them! Hell, my dad owns a bar. I’ve never been thrown out of a bar in my life!” They were still like, “It doesn’t matter, you have to go.”

Needless to say, I missed the films I went there to see. I planned to write about them, but can’t now. I am still livid about this unfair and irrational treatment by a bar manager. I was further irritated by the fact that he kicked out 2 non-trouble-making girls, but continually allows loads of people to smoke illegal marijuana on the patio.

I later found out the guy’s name is Liam and he used to own a bar called Benders, which recently burned down due to arson. Rumor has it, the place was torched by a Molotov cocktail. When I heard this, I was not the least bit surprised. He made me so mad, I would have loved to burn his shit down myself. (I’d never do such a thing to ruin my own life but one can dream.) He probably pissed someone with a crazy streak off, and brought the bad karma on himself. He is the biggest asshole that I’ve met in so long, that I can’t remember a bigger asshole! I am mad enough to say even though I have spent lots of money in both of those bars, I won’t be going back to the Zeitgeist, and I am glad that asshole’s bar Bender’s burned down! Fuck me? No, fuck you.

The following weekend, I was on the list to see Ferry Corsten, an Internationally known and respected Dutch electronic dance DJ and producer. He has remained in the top 10 DJ’s on the planet for over 5 years. I didn’t know anything about him beyond what I read in the press release and bio on him, but I thought the new album he produced, L.E.F., (Loud Electronic Ferocious), was interesting and thought it would be cool to check out something out of my realm of experience for a change of pace.

Well friends, I tried. I just couldn’t stand the venue and it’s sound system. The event was held at Ruby Skye, a big loud dance club for the kind of crowd I just don’t really understand. I still showed up intending to give it a chance, but it was SO LOUD and the people were not cool, so I bounced out of there and on to another club before Ferry Corsten even began his set. All I can say is, if you are open to electronic dance music like I am, he is worth checking out. I obviously cannot recommend anyone ever hang out at Ruby Skye though! www.ferrycorsten.com

That night I ended up at Boca on Jessie Street, which is an alley South of Market between 5^th and 6^th streets. It was a super fun little club that night. This was Gay Pride Weekend, and I had heard that one of SF’s most well known drag queens, Heklina, was throwing a party there. They played great dance music with lots of old school 80’s and funny video projections, but I don’t recall seeing Heklina by the time I made it to the club. I still had a blast though.

The following night, I went to a club night called Pop Rocks at DNA Lounge. Friends of mine, Adrian and Mysterious D were DJing the upstairs lounge, and I always enjoy the parties they DJ at. The club was packed with interesting and fun people. I made a hundred friends, hung out with new and old ones, danced like a fool, and then stayed up till morning with some of them.

The following day was the big Gay Pride celebration, which I had trouble getting my ass out the door for. I’m so glad I did though, because as usual, it was an absolute blast!

I ran around the Civic Center, listened to Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam and Crystal Waters, ate meat on a stick, drank all day, saw a dancing bear, went to another party A & Mysterious D DJ’ed at, then ended up at the fabulous Bambuddah Lounge party at the Phoenix Hotel until the sun went down. It was full of fabulous people, a drag show, naked boys in the pool, drag queens, straight people, hotel rooms hosting parties outpouring into the courtyards, and I even saw some girl climb a tree! When I had finally had my fill of it, I headed over to a private party at the Hemlock called The Bartenders Ball, which featured a midget Kiss band called Mini Kiss (which I tragically missed), and free Jameson’s all night. It was another action-packed, fun Gay Pride weekend. (Never mind that I stopped attending the actual parade years ago. It’s the gallivanting that I most enjoy.)

On Friday June 30^th, I went to see a band that is among my new local favorites now. They’re called The All Time Highs. They are loud, fast ROCK and f’***ing ROLL! They were tight, and put on a great high energy set. I will totally go see them again. The singer is Mark from an internationally well-known Death Metal band called Death Angel. (I would never know that if friends didn’t clue me in, as I’m out of that loop). Sammy from The Sick, and Jason from a bunch of local bands: Gun and Doll Show, Tres Pistolas, and Feed, that I know of; are also in the band. I’m sure the other guys have past pedigrees I am unaware of, but the really important point I was trying to make is that this band TOTALLY ROCKS! They rock in an AC/DC, Cult Electric, Motorhead kind of fashion, which I totally dug. Check them out. www.myspace.com/alltimehighs

On 4^th of July, I hung out at a bar called the Homestead with friends that had an all day BBQ. Later that night, I ended up going to the wharf for fireworks, which were totally amazing and beautiful. I then ended up bar hopping till last call. It was a fun 4^th of July, but mellow compared to the past. The rest of July, all I have been doing is slinging drinks 6 nights a week, and having my day of rest on Sundays. I’ve been working so much I haven’t had time for much else besides popping in at other bars when I get off work occasionally before last call.

On Thursday July 27^th, I’m going to see The Buzzcocks at Mezzanine. Then, I am taking the last weekend of July off to go to LA for a big party a good friend of mine is throwing to kick off the remodeled Grand Opening for his hair Salon, The Purple Circle in Los Feliz on Vermont Street www.purple-circle.com, www.myspace.com/pcsalon. Not only am I looking forward to the party, but also it will be great to see some on my old friends in LA again. I haven’t gone back since I moved back to SF at the end of Dec of 2004! LA, here I come! I hope it cools off a bit before I arrive though, as it was over 110 degrees this week there!

I hope to have more to share with you all really soon.

XOXO Alisha Amnesia