Let's take a closer look at the bands in our current Artist of the Month poll, shall we? Then be sure to take a second and vote! Polls close next week.

60 Watt Kid

The band becomes a band due to the efforts of Kevin Litrow (voice, guitar), Derek Thomas (guitars, keys, samples and electronics) and Garrett Pierce (tom drum, percussion and xylophone). They released their debut self-titled album via Absolutely Kosher back in November 2007. Since then, they've been playing shows both locally and elsewhere, including a recent appearance at SXSW. 60 Watt Kid's music pays tribute to the best of the Brian Eno-meets-Animal Collectives while maintaining a well-rounded sense of originality. The songs are noisy with edges of sublime melody, chaotic with a sense of consistency, dance-club-sleaze with a tone of elegance. It's this underbelly of contradiction that makes the music so very fresh and interesting, and it ought to be enjoyed sooner rather than later. Check out 60 Watt Kid by visiting their MySpace.

Mud

Mud's music is crazy-upbeat pop punk that's both interesting and irresistable. The local establishment known as Talking House Records appear to agree, as they've signed Mud and released the band's debut full-length, entitled Yearbook. I think Talking House speak the truth in their description of their new label inhabitant: "As a fixture of the San Francisco music scene since 2001, Mud has developed a strong loyal following of fans addicted to the band's heavy guitar riffs, infectious melodies and collection of high energy pop songs, that draw comparisons to successful crossover bands like Blondie, Green Day, and Jimmy Eat World." You can read more, and check out Yearbook's tracklist, by clicking here. And more info can be found and more songs can be heard by visiting Mud's website and MySpace.

Rademacher

Rademacher's music comes alive with heavy beats and catchy synths, raw and edgy hooks, Stephen Malkmus-like vocals and intelligent lyrics. The songs jump from schizo to melodic and back to schizo, and it's this eclectic unpredictability that makes the music so truly enjoyable. Consisting of Malcolm, Bananus, Bhecky, and Greer, the band released their first batch of music back in 2003, and in addition to many of their own shows up and down California, they've also shared the stage with John Vanderslice, David Dondero and the Silversun Pickups. Rademacher's releases include the Rademacher EP, Ice Age EP, Heart Machine EP, Stunts, and Live at the Echo, all of which can be purchased here. You can see for yourself why we like this band by a) visiting their website, b) visiting their MySpace, and/or c) going to their SF shows on May 11th (Make-Out Room) and June 25th (the Knockout).

The Botticellis

Among this month's "band of the month" entries are The Botticellis. Coming off a wave of buzz, and probably their surfboards, The Botticellis recently landed what is considered by many to be the holy grail for up-and-coming indie rockers, a live recording session with Daytrotter.com (see The Botticellis on Daytrotter here). The Botticellis have a sound that is inspired by, but not totally derived from, the reverbed-out surf classics of the American 60's. In addition, they have a wonderful blend of vintage organs and sweet vocal harmony that is often attempted, but seldom executed so impeccably. The Botticellis' 1st full length, Old Home Movies, is out on Antenna Farm Records at the end of the month, just before they kick off a full national tour on June 1st. You can find The Botticellis at their home studio (Sea In The Sand) in San Fran's Outer Richmond, or you can check them out on May 22nd, at The Independent, with Cave Singers. For more on The Botticellis see what the San Jose Mercury had to say about these sea-loving guys and gal(s): http://www.mercurynews.com/thebotticellis. - Phil M.

The Dilettantes

The Dilettantes are a sonic force: their upbeat, garage-fueled rock comes at you like a one-two punch of music vitality. That's just the summary, really. But one of the most prominent facts about the San Francisco band is that it's fronted by Joel Gion, one of the founding members of the Brian Jonestown Massacre. Joel takes the lead with his vocals, tambourine, and maracas, while the rest of the band lays out like this: Jefferson Parker and Nic Russo on guitars, KC Kozak on drums, and Nick Marcantonio on bass guitar. The Dilettantes released their debut album, 101 Tambourines, in July 2007, and have solidified themselves as a uniquely talented band within the Bay Area. Tunes like "Marzipan" and "Subterranean Bazaar" are epic and infectious in their broad soundscapes, while "Don't You Ever Fall" and "The Whole World" are peppy and cheeky. Check out the band's music by clicking here.

It's time to break out your funky shoes. The amazingly ridiculous dance music of Wallpaper will be busting out the walls tonight at Rickshaw Stop, in an effort to shake you up and promote their new T Rex EP. The whole thing goes down at 8:00 p.m., $10 gets you in.

Additionally, Wallpaper wants to hear your voice. From this MySpace blog:

"YO

CALL ME UP LEAVE ME A MESSAGE i wanna hear urrrrr VOICE!!!

510 493 7835

or text TREX to 729669"

I think you know what to do.

Super Adventure Club are taking their ridiculousity (yes, I meant to make up a word - these things are allowed in Super Adventure Club-land) to the streets with their new video "Former Ladies of the Cold War." Check it out - I'm wagering you won't be able to resist placing your own online bets on the "internets" after watching.

One sure bet is marking your calendar for June 18th when Super Adventure Club takes over Cafe Du Nord for the evening. I was quite impressed with their performance at Hotel Utah back on January 6th. You can check out my review here. If there's one thing I know about this duo it's that there is rarely a dull moment when they are around so don't delay - become a member of Super Adventure Club today! Seriously though, these guys will entertain you. You can believe it because the internets say so.

- Rachel Allgood

Lovely grrrls and rocking pals,

Like a beautiful little tree with psychedelic flowers, The Deli this spring branches out in new directions... after NYC, LA, and SF, please allow me to introduce you to...

I feel as if San Francisco is the only city cool enough to pull off the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival. Since it first began back in 2001, HSB has continuously managed to present tons of quality music against the beautiful Golden Gate Park backdrop . . . and all for FREE. There really truly are no reasons NOT to go, unless you have some sort of problem with free banjos. Or a fear of banjos. (Is there such a thing? Banjo-phobia? Hmm . . .)

This year's festival will take place October 3rd-5th. Here are the beginning stages of the lineup, with more TBA:

- Robert Plant & Allison Krauss ft. T Bone Burnett
- Earl Scruggs
- Robert Earl Keen
- Iris DeMent
- Bad Livers
- Gogol Bordello
- Loudon Wainwright III
- Bonnie “Prince” Billy
- Mike Farris & the Roseland Rhythm Revue

It might seem kinda silly to highlight a sold-out show at the Fillmore for a band that's become as prominent as Rogue Wave - because the band doesn't seemingly need the publicity. However, last night's (Saturday night) show was more than just an average homeward bound for the Oakland boys. While they've played the more average-sized venues within the Bay Area several times over, Rogue Wave's set last night was their first time ever headlining the Fillmore, one of San Francisco's largest and most historically significant concert venues. And to boot, they managed to pack the house. I saw scalpers outside the venue selling tickets for $65 each; I think that says something.

Rogue Wave's hometown pride was bursting from their indie pop seams throughout the evening, and their humble appreciation for making it as far as they have was palpable. They played with incredible energy and spirit, throwing everything they had into every single song. "Lake Michigan" was ushered in by an incredible entourage of percussion, while "Christians in Black" and "Chicago X 12" were enhanced by the presence of one John Vanderslice, who came out on stage as a surprise guest (giving Golden Gram a little pat on the tush as he departed the stage). Zach Rogue played two acoustic solo numbers during the encore, and was then joined by the rest of the band to close the night with a Neil Young song. Rogue Wave have come a long way, and the ferociousness with which they attacked last night's show demonstrates that they haven't forgotten their Bay Area roots. Just a great evening, all around. Cheers!

P.S. Anyone have any pictures from the show? Let me know!

As part of our continued coverage of the SF International Film Festival:

Every year at the San Francisco International Film Festival they invite one person to speak on the current state of cinema. This year it will be Kevin Kelly who is the Cofounder of the tech magazine Wired. He will be talking about the exciting things that are available in this era as well as troublesome issues that exist in this digital age. Lately Kevin has been covering issues such as digital distribution and how anyone can start their own distribution in this digital age.The state of the address is called "Beyond Moving Pictures: Possibilities for the Future of Film" and will be happening at the Clay Theatre today. More info here.

- Nick Codling

Back in action this fair Friday (technical difficulties soured our efforts to post last weekend's plans). Check our list below for some noteworthy shows for the first weekend of May:

Friday, May 2nd

- Audrye Sessions, An Angle, Picture Atlantic, Scott Allbright at Bottom of the Hill

- Death of a Party at Edinburgh Castle

- The Privies and Matadon at the Hotel Utah

- Lyrics Born at the Independent

- The New Up and Crowsong at the Red Devil Lounge

Saturday, May 3rd

- mcmxlv45 at Edinburgh Castle

- Rogue Wave at The Fillmore

- New Thrill Parade, The Late Young at Hemlock Tavern

- Christina Kowalchuk and True Margrit at the Hotel Utah

- Sean Hayes at the Independent

- Beatbeat Whisper (CD release) and Emily Jane White at the Starry Plough

Sunday, May 4th

- Skygreen Leopards at Hemlock Tavern

- Wayward Sway at Twang Cafe

Any others? Leave a comment!

As part of our continued coverage of the SF International Film Festival:

Cloud Eye Control and Anna Eye Oxygen will be showing tonight at 8pm in Kanbar Hall at the Jewish Community Center. This is going to be a live show with a bunch of media involved with the performance. The performance will have three parts to it, all of which will be live, with some incredible video from what I have seen that will be intertwined within. Anna Oxygen, who will be part of the performance, has released music with The Microphones and has worked with Mirah as well, releasing an album of her own on Kill Rock Stars. Make sure to wear your best aerobics outfit when you arrive since there's word that Anna will have the audience do an interactive workout with you. So, make sure to have your short shorts with a headband and leg warmers when you head on in. See below for information on the event and trailer at the link listed below.

May 1st, Thursday @ Kanbar Hall Jewish Community Center

Cloud Eye Control and Anna Eye Oxygen 8:00 pm 3200 California Street

More info

- Nick Codling

Deli SF favs known as Film School have a brand spankin' new video ready now for your general consumption - for "Compare," from 2007's Hideout. It's a big wash of the band in fuzzy black-and-white, with enough flashes of color to keep the eye entertained:

The band's currently on tour, a jaunt that includes a stop at the Fillmore on May 29th:

05/01 New York, NY: Mercury Lounge

05/03 New York, NY: Death By Audio

05/04 Cleveland, OH: Beachland Ballroom

05/06 St. Paul, MN: Turf Club

05/07 Chicago, IL: Schubas

05/08 Iowa City, IA: Picador

05/10 Denver, CO: Hi-Dive

05/12 Los Angeles, CA: The Viper Room

05/22 Malibu, CA: The Malibu Inn

05/26 Seattle, WA: Neumos (w/ Swervedriver)

05/27 Portland, OR: Wonder Ballroom (w/ Swervedriver)

05/29 San Francisco, CA: The Fillmore (w/ Swervedriver)

05/30 San Diego, CA: Casbah (w/ Swervedriver)

05/31 Los Angeles, CA: Henry Fonda Theater (w/ Swervedriver)

This Thursday evening, May 1st, the Bay Area music community comes together to host a benefit in support of one of its treasured members, Andrew Griffin, who is currently battling cancer both physically and financially. The benefit, known as the Coconut Bangers' Ball, will be held at the Red Devil Lounge with an impressive line-up of performers, including Paul Manousos, Jesse DeNatale, Duff Ferguson, Victor Krummenacher (along with other members of Camper Van Beethoven), Jeff Rolka and The Viv All-Stars. Proceeds will go towards Griffin's ongoing medical expenses.

In September 2006, Griffin was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic colon cancer at the age of 36. He has since had two major surgeries as well as several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Griffin is founder of the East Bay Drummers Studio, a rigorous teaching studio that has trained hundreds of rock and jazz drummers of all ages since 1998. He has performed, recorded and toured as an in-demand session drummer with many influential bands and artists, including a summer 2007 tour of Europe with CAKE.

As a producer I'm extremely particular about my taste in drummers. I've had the good fortune to work with some of the absolute cream of the crop and Andrew Griffin definitely falls into that category. Few drummers are as creative with the groove as Andrew, even fewer exhibit the conceptual sensitivity Andrew brings to the table. A producer in his own right, Andrew is always thinking beyond the drums to the bigger picture a song evokes.

Bay Area legend Jesse DeNatale puts it into words like this: "Time and Music are the two big mysteries. When Andrew Griffin sits down behind the drums, the alchemy begins and something turns into gold."

I've gotten to know Andrew a bit in the last couple of years and I can tell you he's not one to sport his battle scars on his sleeve. In fact, I daresay he tried desperately to keep his health struggles under wraps, which I find hard to imagine myself doing in a similar situation. With such strength of character, it is no surprise that this particular drummer is so beloved among the Bay Area music community. I know the support of those who attend this benefit will not be taken for granted by Andrew and his family.

Griffin lives in Alameda with his wife and one-year-old son. After the toll of nearly two years in his fight against cancer, he shares that "unfortunately, my family's savings are depleted, as I've been able to work only sporadically for the last 18 months. Despite the fact that we have health insurance, we still have to pay a lot of out-of-pocket for various treatment expenses that aren't covered. I am so grateful to my friends in the music community for generously offering their time, talent and energy to help out."

Not only will your attendance support one of the Bay Area's most talented drummers in a time of deep personal need, you will also be in for a genuine night of entertainment as a group of uniquely gifted individuals comes together to weave a wonderful night of music. In addition to the artists listed above, you are bound to stumble across other bay area gems filling out the stage as unbilled band members. Andrew's talent has given much to the Bay Area music community through the years, and now there is a whole musical family that wants to come together and give back by performing for your enjoyment in Andrew's honor.

Thursday, May 1st - Red Devil Lounge, 1695 Polk St, SF - Doors at 7:30pm, show begins at 8pm. Cost: $12

Advance tickets are recommended and can be purchased here.

- Rachel Allgood

We are resurrecting a previous Deli SF feature, "For Your Consideration," where we showcase the bands in our Artist of the Month poll.

This week we will be running some information on all of the bands who are in the current Artist of the Month Poll. Note: there was no preference as to when the story would run, the band's names were picked at random. Check out all of the bands and vote by clicking here. Polls close tomorrow night, April 30th, at 10:00 p.m.!

The last, but certainly not least, "band of the month" contender is Man/Miracle. Man/Miracle are among the eclectic, high-energy, rock bands that have been making the move up to the San Fran/Oakland scene after school lets out down at UCSC (Tempo No Tempo, Battlehooch, Sleepy Sun, etc...). Their high-energy "roots of rock & roll" sound could be compared to a dynamic list of artists, ranging from the early Bowie records to energetic power-poppers like The Spinto Band, while retaining a sound that is uniquely American in nature.

Man/Miracle blew-up the proverbial internet charts (OurStage.com) in July, August, and September ... helping them land a set at this years Noise Pop festival. These lads bring it, and they will be around for a while (they are youngins).

Man/Miracle's upcoming shows include The Stork Club on May 17th with The Chop, May 24th at The Hemlock with The New Centuries (CD Release) & The Dont's, June 20th at Caffe Pergolesi (Santa Cruz) with Finn Riggins (a totally badass band from Idaho), and June 21st @ Fort Gallery with the whole Santa Cruz crew (Sleepy Sun, Vox Jaguars, and Tempo No Tempo).

- Phil Matarese

Band: Post Ventura

We finished our recordings and ask you to give it a listen and let us know what you think.

Download: New Post Ventura EP

This link will start downloading a .zip file of 8 songs (39mbs). You'll need win zip, win rar, or a mac to open it up.

(as posted in The Deli's Open Blog - post your band's entries and Mp3s here)

Please vote for Adrian Bourgeois in the OurStage quarter-finals at www.ourstage.com. Winning means a performance slot at the Newport Folk Festival for Adrian. Quarter-finals end and semi-finals begin at 9pm on Sunday.

Final voting is April 30th. Help a great San Francisco artist win big on a national stage! Go to www.ourstage.com, click on judge and vote in the Newport Folk Festival category. More details on the site.

(as posted in The Deli's Open Blog - post your band's entries and Mp3s here)

(Look! Shiny new poster complete with day-to-day lineup!!)

When the Outside Lands Festival was first announced, there was an initial cry of excitement: "OMG! A full-blown music & arts festival in our own beautiful Golden Gate Park! Beck! Wilco! RADIOHEAD!! OMG OMG!" And then, not surprisingly, came a cry of apprehension: "$225? Ohhh maaaaan . . . ."

BUT, apprehensive feelings be damned! The folks over at Another Planet Entertainment have announced the availability of single-day tickets, which go on sale this Thursday, May 1st, at 10:00 a.m. More info here.

Lastly, the already-stellar lineup has been rounded out with the following additions:

- Lupe Fiasco

- The Black Keys

- Stars

- Jackie Greene

- Kaki King

- Liars

- Nicole Atkins & the Sea

- Culver City Dub Collective

The San Francisco Film Festival just began last night and will be running through May 8th and we are going to spotlight some of the music related stuff happening during the Festival through the next couple of weeks.

Tomorrow there will be 2 showings of Glass: A Portrait of Philip in 12 Parts and will be shown April 30th as well. This is a documentary on the composer Philip Glass who has worked with everyone from David Bowie, to Aphex Twin and Leonard Cohen. He won a Gold Globe Award for the score in The Truman Show and was nominated for Best Original Score in The Hours. The documentary covers a year of his life and interviews range from family members, to friends and start start of his career in New York's Soho.

April 26th Saturday / 3:00 pm / Pacific Film Archive Theater 2575 Bancroft Way (at Bowditch), Berkeley April 26th Saturday / 8:30 pm / Sundance Kabuki Cinemas 1881 Post Street (at Fillmore) April 30th Wednesday / 3:00 pm / Sundance Kabuki Cinemas 1881 Post Street (at Fillmore)

Glass: A Portrait of Philip in 12 Parts

- Nick Codling

I stumbled upon Stacy Kray last November. Long story short she was rehearsing with her band in a studio where I was getting ready for a session the next day. Essentially I got my own private performance, and what a treat it was. I still remember how enthralled I was with the cover she did of Chris Isaac's "Wicked Game." The band played a lovely arrangement and between her guitar player Yair Evnine's tasty lines and Stacy's vocal delivery I felt like I was being reeled into a beautiful musical web. Stacy brings a true sense of authenticity to the table as an artist, and the lyrical depth of her originals attests to this. For more on Stacy's lyrics and musical mojo, check out the review of her 2007 release My Last Eye.

This past week I had the privilege of sharing lunch with Stacy and it was extremely refreshing to kick back with a talent who is so down to earth about her art and who genuinely embraces the art of living in all arenas of life. This is an artist who is not afraid to look deep within herself while at the same time taking that depth up on stage and "just rocking out" with it. So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a night with Stacy Kray at the Hotel Utah this Saturday, April 26th. Stacy takes the stage with her band at 11pm, preceded by Michael Tiernan at 9pm and Saul Kaye and his band at 10pm.

Not only will you be in for a great night of music, you will also be able to meet a very large salmon named Fin who will be helping educate folks about the plight of wild salmon. Artists will be donating a portion of merchandise proceeds from the night to SalmonAid. Check out Fin's restoration (as Stacy says, "Apparently even inanimate mascot salmon are in trouble these days...") and more about saving wild salmon. Stacy Kray and Saul Kaye will also be performing with their respective bands at the SalmonAid Fesitval in Jack London Square on May 31st-June 1st.

- Rachel Allgood

We are resurrecting a previous Deli SF feature, "For Your Consideration," where we showcase the bands in our Artist of the Month poll.

This week we will be running some information on all of the bands who are in the current Artist of the Month Poll. Note: there was no preference as to when the story would run, the band's names were picked at random. Check out all of the bands and vote by clicking here.

We've become quite familiar with the subgenre "freak folk," mostly due to the well-deserved popularity of artists like Joanna Newsom and Devendra Banhart. Of the current freak folk clan, however, Little Teeth seem to be the freakiest.

Known for using anything and everything that will make noise during their live shows, the trio of Ammo Eisu, Andy Tisdall, and Dannie Murrie make music that's truly compelling in all its eccentricity. Take a look at this laundry list of instruments that they utilize, and you'll start to understand the levels of bizarre sonic levels that the band manages to achieve: drums, keys, cello, accordian, banjo, violin, vox, bass, guitar, synth, cello, and misc. Not to mention Dannie Murrie's vocals, which bring a new definition to the term "cackling wail."

Basically, the band's self-description as "spastic circus-rock musical" on their MySpace is deadly accurate. Check out their tunes for yourself on said MySpace, and click here to watch Little Teeth's episode on good ol' Pacific Noise.

From In With, the sophomore album from the Ex-Boyfriends (available now via Absolutely Kosher) - this new video for "Situation" was directed by Simone Grudzen and gets us all up-close-and-personal with the San Francisco trio. And the song totally rocks:

We are resurrecting a previous Deli SF feature, "For Your Consideration," where we showcase the bands in our Artist of the Month poll.

This week we will be running some information on all of the bands who are in the current Artist of the Month Poll. Note: there was no preference as to when the story would run, the band's names were picked at random. Check out all of the bands and vote by clicking here.

Darker My Love are a well-appreciated throwback to the days of the Velvet Underground and My Bloody Valentine. The music is drenched in fuzz and psychadelia, and bursts forward powerfully in each sprawling, distorted tune.

The band is made up of Tim Presley (formerly of The Nerve Agents, vocals and guitar), Andy Granelli (formerly of both The Nerve Agents and The Distillers, drums), Rob Barbato (bass and vocals), Jared Everett (rhythm guitar), and Will Canzoneri (organ and clavinet). They released their debut self-titled album back in 2006, and are set to release their follow-up, 2, on August 5th.

Like what you hear so far? Then be sure to visit Darker My Love's MySpace and listen to "Blue Day," "Summer is Here," and "Helium Heels," all ready and waiting for your attention.

Dear musicians and audiophiles,

The Deli is proud to introduce you to Delicious Audio Blog, a new web page that deals with recording (both at home and in the studio) and news about audio equipment (with a particular focus on plug-ins, effects pedals and microphones). We hope that those of you who are into the magic world of recording might find useful information in this new section of our site, which also features a step by step advice section on how to plan the recording of your CD.

P.S. You can find the link to the Delicious Audio Blog in our menu under the artist of the month ("recording blog" link).

We are resurrecting a previous Deli SF feature, "For Your Consideration," where we showcase the bands in our Artist of the Month poll.

This week we will be running some information on all of the bands who are in the current Artist of the Month Poll. Note: there was no preference as to when the story would run, the band's names were picked at random. Check out all of the bands and vote by clicking here.

The Blacks could probably be summed up in one sentence: "infectious garage-rock trio featuring a powerful female lead singer and insane tambourine playing." But who wants to leave it at that?

The band is comprised of Luisa Black (lead vocals/guitar) and JDK Blacker (percussion/backup vocals) and New York-based drummer Gavin Black. They've found themselves a home at San Francisco's Tricycle Records, and have become particularly well-known for their incredibly energetic live sets. Their music, a cross between the Gossip and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, combines raw guitar edges with hip-shaking percussive assaults, and is undeniably enjoyable. Songs like "Raincoat" and "The Split" will hit you over the head in the most rockin' way possible, while "The Flame" and "Back to Black" will bring forth more subtle and sophisticated imagery that simultaneously rips and shakes.

Take a listen to the Blacks' music by visiting their MySpace. Their new album, Nom de Guerre, is currently available for purchase via Tricycle Records.

If you ask me, not nearly enough music videos of today pay tribute to old skool Nintendo. Err, I mean, not enough videos feature "complicated special effects and Orwellian story lines," in the words of Pants Pants Pants. Really, the band's new video (for "Bonk Argh Bonk Dink Smash") proudly "tells a deep and complex tale," and is full of "overt social and political commentary."

And there's a GIANT BRAIN:

Pants Pants Pants will be at the Hemlock Tavern next Wednesday, April 30th, sharing the bill with Vows and Deli SF favs Master/Slave. Don't miss it!

We are resurrecting a previous Deli SF feature, "For Your Consideration," where we showcase the bands in our Artist of the Month poll.

This week we will be running some information on all of the bands who are in the current Artist of the Month Poll. Note: there was no preference as to when the story would run, the band's names were picked at random. Check out all of the bands and vote by clicking here.

Here Here represent everything that's great about today's indie pop scene. The band's music is shaded with layers of chamber pop, rock & folk, creating songs that are lush, dynamic, and infectious. Utilizing a range of instruments (acoustic guitar, violin, banjo, upright and electric bass, trumpet, accordion), Here Here make music that fully encapsulates the eclecticism of the Bay Area scene.

From the band's debut EP, The Boy With An Orange, "Poor Sailor" and "Trainwreck" are light as air yet deep in character. "You Sold Your Shadow" and "Those Kids Outside" are intricately arranged and artfully created. Really, every song is beautifully executed, and more than worth checking out. The Boy With An Orange EP is available now via iTunes, eMusic, and at San Francisco's own Amoeba Records.

You can experience Here Here for yourself by visiting the band's MySpace, and by seeing them play at 330 Ritch on May 9th.

Band: Evacuee

The band will be playing the Bike Kitchen again on May 24th.

(as posted in The Deli's Open Blog - post your band's entries and Mp3s here)

Tuesday's show at Bottom of the Hill had a twofold dose of local awesomeness.

1) The concert was presented by Bagel Radio, and DJ Bagel Ted himself was there. PSA for today: whenever you have the chance to experience a Bagel Radio DJ set, don't miss it, as the variety of music is always stellar. This includes the live show every Friday. /End PSA.

2) Railcars opened for Handsome Furs, one of the best show pairings I've seen in awhile.

Railcars are currently in a unique place, having just solidified themselves as a full band (instead of simply Aria C Jalali) and starting to make more music and play more shows as a unit. Their set on Tuesday was fresh and unique, and served as a rather apt opening for Handsome Furs' minimalistic synth-rock. Railcars' sound is chaotic fuzz-rock that comes through cleanly (if not a tad subdued) in the live setting, leaving me to believe that they'll only get better as they soldier on. Combine this with the fact that they like to offer up free condoms at their merch tables, and you'll be sure to check out their next jaunt. So FYI, Railcars are playing at Kimo's on April 19th and in the KZSC studio on April 21st.

And on a parting note, Handsome Furs (comprised of Wolf Parade's Dan Boeckner and his wife, Alexei Perry) put on a truly awesome show. I shan't elaborate if I'm to stay true to the Deli SF's rule of "local only" (they hail from Canada), but let's just say that a Handsome Furs' show is well worth your while.

The first half of our April Artist of the Month poll ended up much like the second half of our March poll, as once again it was a nail-biter right down to the finish. At the closing of the poll, however, Oakland's HIJK just barely nudged out Old Hack for the win. A big Deli SF congrats to the boys of HIJK, and thanks to Old Hack, Persephone's Bees, the Fucking Champs, and Finest Dearest for participating.

The second half of April's Artist of the Month poll currently features the following bands:

- Man/Miracle

- The Blacks

- Darker My Love

- Little Teeth

- Here Here

Go, learn, vote!

Herman Dune opened the show, a duo from France who are brothers. Probably one of my favorite lines that they had was "Swallows migrate and it is amazing." If I had to list them in a genre at a record store, I think I would create a new one called nature core.

Aloha were next, and they are a band that gets no where near the amount of press that they should, and for the life of me I can't figure out why. They now have a new touring bassist and I believe Matthew is still in the band as a studio musician. The band played some songs from their Light Works EP released last year for which they are touring.

The Velvet Teen headlined this show and have a new lineup with Matthew Izen playing guitar, who is from the Santa Rosa band Polar Bears. They played some new songs that haven't been released yet, which means they must be working on a new album. Judah's voice was as solid as ever and he would switch back and forth between playing keyboards and the bass. From the new stuff I heard, their sound is heading in a different direction again and will give everyone something to look forward to.

- Nick Codling

Photo credit: Susie Martinez

"Those Icy Streams Would Be Just As Cold If You Left Them Alone" is one of the more recent installments in the continuously stellar Daytrotter series, this time featuring Beatbeat Whisper from Oakland (and let's not forget April 8th's session with Kelley Stoltz).

The band performed three new songs from their forthcoming Wonder Continental, out on May 1st, as well as one song from their debut self-titled album. Lyrics and commentary from Ayla and David themselves are provided along with each track, bringing the listener even closer to the heart of their music. Beatbeat Whisper's subdued folk songs come alive in a beautiful flurry of keys and vocals, further demonstrating Daytrotter's ability to pick artists whose music will translate perfectly when featured in their intimate recording sessions.

Be sure to listen, download, and read Daytrotter's words on the band's session by clicking here.

There are certain bands - no matter how much you may already love them - whose live shows will increase your respect for them tenfold. Xiu Xiu is such a band. The Oakland-based experimental rock group has been around, in one form or another, since 2000, and Saturday night's sold out show at Bottom of the Hill marked an impressive end to their Women as Lovers tour.

Opening with "Bishop, CA" (from the 2006 release The Air Force), Jamie Stewart doubled as vocalist and percussionist, beating a snare drum as his melancholy voice swept over a soft synth and woodblock. Then, with suspended cymbal rolls and tom fills, Ches Smith drew out explosive crescendos before the song returned to its initial peace with subdued "walla walla heys." An excellent choice for an opener, the song foregrounded the band's technical musicianship, raw emotion, and skillful use of dynamics. Its final note, punctuated by the echo of a snare drum, resonated through the silent venue before the crowd broke into applause.

Xiu Xiu's music is filled with variety of tempo, instrumentation, and volume, and hushed moments are broken with startling bursts of powerful sound. During "In Lust You Can Hear the Axe Fall," crashing rock beats and dissonant chords alternated between segments of slowed calm. In the acoustic-y "F.T.W.," a sunny glockenspiel interlude was interrupted by an outpouring of noise and a rhythmic complexity that can only be achieved in percussive duet. As the music alternated between extremes, the crowd stood transfixed, allowing its rise and fall to wash over them.

The venue was filled with an air of worship and awe. Fans cheered at the start of each familiar song, but between songs, the venue maintained an eerie level of silence as audience members waited in anticipation.

With guest Howard Wiley, "I Do What I Want When I Want" was one of the show’s high points. His improvisational-style jazz saxophone performance was an indelible act of virtuosity. But "Apistat Commander" from the A Promise album was likely the evening's apex. A barrage of snare hits provided a harsh backdrop for the song's raging emotion. The crowd, not holding back, threw their heads forward as Stewart sang, "All that you left you left for someone/ All of this hurt that's wilted off/ All this relief, it's the oddest thing/ Oh my God, oh my God, oh my God."

Local folk rockers Thao with the Get Down Stay Down, and noise group VC4, kicked off the night.

- Liz Iversen

I would like to know where the Bay Area Girls Rock Camp was back when I was young enough to actually attend. Regardless, I am extremely happy that this organization exists, because the camp's ability to encourage and show young girls that they can rock just as hard as the boys do is absolutely priceless, not to mention imperative.

So what's the deal with the Bay Area Girls Rock Camp? According to the website:

"The Bay Area Girls Rock Camp (BAGRC) is a nonprofit organization which aims to empower girls through music education, promoting an environment that fosters self-confidence, creativity and teamwork. The BAGRC strives to challenge gender stereotypes, encourage collaboration and tolerance among peers, and provide a comfortable space for people of all backgrounds to express themselves. Through music lessons, workshops, group activities and performance, girls will acquire skills that will help guide them throughout their lives."

The camp will take place this year from July 7th-11th at the Julia Morgan School for Girls, with the special showcase performance taking place on the night of the 12th at a local venue. Campers will form bands on the first day and spend the remainder of the camp learning and playing their instruments of choice, and will also collaborate with their fellow bandmates to write an original song. The campers will also attend workshops which will cover a variety of topics, such as songwriting, self-defense, image and identity, live sound tech, etc. And there's still more where that came from, so give the website a good once-over if you or someone you know are thinking of participating. Applications are being accepted through April 30th for female campers, ages 8-18.

If you're anything like me, you're a female and over 18, but would still like to participate and help out in some way. Well, we're in luck! The awesome ladies behind the Bay Area Girls Rock Camp are currently accepting applications for volunteer positions. There are lots of things we can do to help, such as. . .

- Instrument Instructors (in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals, Keyboards)

- Band Managers/Coaches (Songwriting/Band experience is suggested, but not entirely necessary)

- Workshop Leaders (Screen-Printing, Zine-Making, Songwriting, Self-Defense, Image & Identity)

- Front Desk People -Tech People -Production Crew (for camp and for the showcase)

- Food coordinators and more. . .

Check the website for additional info, including the volunteer application.

Girls rock!

Presented proudly by our friends over at The Bay Bridged and Playing in Fog: a full night of local indie rock this Thursday, April 17th at Bottom of the Hill:

- The Ian Fays

- The Catholic Comb

- Here Here

This concert is meant to celebrate the release of Dylan's Lost Days, the sophomore album by San Francisco's The Ian Fays.

The fun starts at 8:30 p.m., cost is $8. Don't miss it!

From the MySpace blog of All Teeth and Knuckles:

"I wanted to write a quick blog to let everyone know what the deal with All Teeth and Knuckles is.
Basically, we're taking an official, long-needed break. After our tour last summer it was a rough time for everyone to get their shit back together. Getting new jobs, moving, and procuring new living situations was a bit more rough than we anticipated. Even still some of us are putting back together the pieces of what our lives were before giving up everything to try and take ATAK to the next level. Sadly, not as much happened as we had hoped. We want everyone that did help us out with a write up, a show, a place to sleep, gas money, free drinks, etc. to know that it truly meant a lot to us.
The music business is a different game since we were kids, and you truly do need to give up a lot to take your project anywhere. Right now, the parts that make up All Teeth and Knuckles can't truly give up everything needed to make this band a serious endeavor. We very well may be back for another album (which is already being worked on) and another tour afterwards, but for now ATAK is all done.
Our last show will be Thursday, April 17th at The Rickshaw Stop for The Instant Messengers album release show for Slammers. We're going all out so don't miss it!
Thanks again for all those that listened to our music, went to our shows, and bought our album. We hope it was as much fun for you as it was for us. Take care."

This will supposedly be the band's last show for a very long time, so get in while the getting's good:

Rickshaw Stop

With the Toy Soldiers and the Instant Messengers

$8

$6 if you dress up in gold

For the weekend is short, but the hours are long. Does that make sense? Maybe not, but it's fun to say. And shows are fun too, so check out what's going on this weekend, why dontcha?

Friday 4/18

- Beatbeat Whisper (CD release) at Million Fishes Gallery

- Two Sheds opening for Flowers Forever and Elf Power at Bottom of the Hill

- Papercuts, the Botticellis (CD release), the Mantles at Cafe du Nord

- Everything Gone Green and Kapowski at Edinburgh Castle

- Thriving Ivory and Elliot Randall at Great American Music Hall

- Les Hormones and The Aerosols at the Hemlock Tavern

- Stitchcraft and Boy in the Bubble at the Hotel Utah

- Boneless Children, the Faulty Plum, MayaDorn at the Stork Club

Saturday 4/19

- Facing New York and Built for the Sea at Bottom of the Hill

- Diego's Umbrella, Dogman Joe, La Gente at Cafe du Nord

- Battlehooch and Daddy Crimbo at Edinburgh Castle

- Telephone Jim Jesus, Change!, the Buttercream Gang at the Hemlock Tavern

- Roger Rocha & the Goldenhearts, oona dos tres, Scott Simmons at the Hotel Utah

- Forrest Day at the Red Devil Lounge

- The Tongues (CD Release) at the Stork Club

- Parker Street Cinema and Raised by Robots at the Retox Lounge

- Beatbeat Whisper at Samuel P. Taylor Park (Earth Day Celebration)

Sunday 4/20

- Kanvus and Dave Stein Bubhub at 12 Galaxies

- Anxious Me at Bottom of the Hill

- Mist and Mast at Cafe du Nord

- The Interchangeable Hearts (CD release) and Adrian Bourgeois at the Hotel Utah

What's going on this weekend, you ask? Quite a bit, actually! There's The Chop tonight (featuring the Deli SF's own Phil Matarese), the Pacific Noise 2-year celebration tonight, the Deli SF presents show this Saturday, and a whole bunch more. Check 'em out here:

Friday 4/11

- Pacific Noise party at Balazo Gallery

- The Chop, Warren Teagarden (CD release), Goodbye Nautilus (debut show) at the Retox Lounge

- The Actors and Better than Aliens at the Make-Out Room

- Big Blue Whale, Hurry Up Shotgun, The Dashing Suns at Eli's Mile High Club

- Birdmonster and The May Fire at Bottom of the Hill

- Buzzer at Edinburgh Castle

- Colossal Yes and Leigh Gregory at the Hemlock Tavern

- Shake Your Peace, Sonya Cotton, Justin Ancheta at the Hotel Utah

- The Cheeseballs at the Red Devil Lounge

Saturday 4/12

- The Deli SF presents 20 Minute Loop, The New Up, Silver Griffin at the Starry Plough

- Xiu Xiu, Thao with The Get Down Stay Down, VC4 at Bottom of the Hill

- Accolade at Edinburgh Castle

- Hot Challenge and Dangraham at Great American Music Hall

- Snakeflower 2 and Tea Elles at Hemlock Tavern

- Seven Stories Falling, The Atomic Love Bombs, Dirty Dave and the Deviants at the Hotel Utah

- The Feed and Sean Tabor at the Red Devil Lounge

Sunday 4/13

- The Blacks opening for Enon at Bottom of the Hill

- The Old-Fashioned Way and Tempo No Tempo (with string quartet) at Cafe du Nord

Our good friends over at Pacific Noise are celebrating TONIGHT, April 11th, at Balazo Gallery. The occasion for celebration? The video podcast's two-year anniversary of being on the air - i.e., two years of showcasing the best indie rock of the Bay Area via weekly video podcasts (see here, here, and, well, the list goes on and on).

Tonight's event will feature performances by:

- Disgust of Us

- Sister Grizzly

- Project Alpha

- The Union Trade

And there will also be an art show, featuring paintings by Marc Tweed and Jon Weiss.

Art at 7:00, music at 8:00, cost is $5 - all at Balazo Gallery, 2183 Mission St.

BAND: The Atomic Love Bombs

GE: 21+

ADMISSION: $9 (proceeds benefit the Silicon Valley Roller Girls)

DETAILS: All proceeds to Benefit the Silicon Valley Roller Girls!

Bands playing: Seven Stories Falling, The Atomic Love Bombs, Dirty Dave & the Deviants.

A great night of fun and alcohol for a worthy cause! Free autographs and drink specials all night! Support roller derby in the Bay Area!

(as posted in The Deli's Open Blog - post your band's entries and Mp3s here)

Tonight, at El Rio in the Mission, 8:00 p.m.: old school reggae, "Small Axe-era" Bob Marley, known in San Francisco as Coup de Ska.

Formed in San Francisco in 2007, Coup de Ska is an upbeat 7-piece traditional ska and Jamaican jazz group. Their sound is rooted in old school ska and reggae influences like Desmond Decker, The Skatallites, and Toots and the Maytals. The musicians of Coup de Ska have been playing to skankin' crowds on both coasts since the '80s.

This is a great way to spend a Wednesday in the Mission, and it's FREE!

- Phil Matarese

San Francisco singer-songwriter Kelley Stoltz did a recent session with the good folks at Daytrotter, where he performed his tunes in an intimate, stripped-down setting, as recorded and distributed in true Daytrotter style.

Stoltz's music has always boasted a down-home, lo-fi sound, and his "Will Work For And Is Worked By The Ear Candy" session brings this to a whole new level. The songs (three from February's Circular Sounds, two from 2006's Below the Branches) are performed with an organic and lively edge, and his dedication to sunny 1960's pop shines through seamlessly.

You can listen/download the songs and read Daytrotter's words on Kelley Stoltz by clicking here. Also, Mr. Stoltz will be opening for fellow locals Vetiver at Great American Music Hall on May 6th - $16, 21+.

Soooo, what are you doing on Friday, May 2nd? Have you considered going to a local show? Have you considered, perhaps, a local show in the form of rockabilly punk rockers Privies and experimental psych-rockers Matadon playing Guitar Driven Psychedelic Rock Night at the Hotel Utah?

Well, whether you have or you haven't, you're in luck, as the Deli SF has a pair of FREE tickets to give away for this particular show. These tickets are valued at $9 each, so you save $18 between you and the lucky friend that gets to go with you. The show starts at 9:00 p.m., 21+, with General Jones Band and Jeff Zittrain also on the bill.

Free admission, rock and roll, and an evening at the Hotel Utah? What's better than that, I ask you?

First person to email me at anna@thedelimagazine.com gets the tix!

This Saturday, April 12th - the Deli SF is proud to present:

- 20 Minute Loop

- The New Up

- Silver Griffin

at the Starry Plough Pub at 3101 Shattuck Ave. in Berkeley (less than 1/2 a mile from the Ashby BART station). Three excellent local bands (ranging from charming, eclectic pop to more hard-edged psych-pop to broad, energetic indie rock), all in one place. The whole shebang starts at 9:00 p.m., and a 21+ age and $8 gets you in the door.

Really, there's no excuse to miss this event - it's an easy trip no matter where you reside in the Bay, and all three bands know how to put on a great show. Hit up Lanesplitter's on Telegraph beforehand for a fully kick-ass evening.

Including, of course, the post below this one about the Finest Dearest record + release show.

Lots of great shows as usual! By the way, if your band or your friend's band or whoever's band is playing any particular weekend, be sure to let us know and we'll do our best to include the show in our weekly listings.

Friday 4/4

- The Hot Toddies, Agent Ribbons, Or, the Whale, The Attachments @ Blakes on Telegraph

- My Chemical Romance @ Warfield Theatre

- Groovy Judy, Oranger, Parker Brothers, The B-Cups, The Blank Stares @ 12 Galaxies

- The Magic Bullets, Le Soup, and The Ruby Suns @ Bottom of the Hill

- Parker Street Cinema, Sundowners, Joshua Gabriel @ Edinburgh Castle

- The Avett Brothers @ Slim's

Saturday 4/5

- Dragon Cloud, Campo Bravo, The Blank Tapes @ GOT GREASE! Warehouse on 23rd @ York (SW corner)

- Earthless, Hot Fog, Cheetah Speed @ 12 Galaxies

- Deke Dickerson @ The Knockout

- Autechre @ Mezzanine

- Manicato, Valerie Orth Band, Meli & Earthen @ Cafe du Nord

- Death of a Party @ Thee Parkside

- Triple Cobra @ The Independent

- The Moonlight Sexy, Get Back Loretta, The Silent Comedy, Planes Over Bridges @ The Rockit Room

Sunday 4/6

- AM Magic, Light FM, Ted and Kate of The Music Lovers @ Hotel Utah

- Subhumans @ Slim's

- Oh Darling, Chairman Wow, Jefferson Street @ The Make-Out Room

- The Greatest Hits, The Luxury Sweets, Avenue Rose @ Hemlock Tavern

- Liz Iversen

Friday April 5th marks the official premier of Finest Dearest’s self titled debut LP (Bloodtown Records). This debut, to take place at indie-underground hotspot The Bike Kitchen, will also signify the beginning of a national tour to support the record, a tour that will not bring Finest Dearest back to San Fran until mid-May.

The album from the guys and gals in Finest Dearest is a clear level up from the vast majority of indie records that are circulating the SF/East Bay scene right now. The record sports strings, tight compositions, and extremely high production value while avoiding both the "art/baroque rock" and "boo hoo hoo for me-emo" pitfalls that have begun to clutter the indie rock landscape.

Influences and soundscapes on Finest Dearest range from Kid A-era Radiohead, particularly in the drumming, to alt-pioneers like U2. Carly's melancholy yet feminine voice carries most of the tunes from top to bottom, with a tone and delivery reminiscent of The Cranberries' Dolores O'Riordan (and I mean that in a good way). Special praise goes to bassist A.J. for his twistingly melodic basslines that run in perfect counterpoint to Carly's vocal and an almost antique bass tone (ala Yes' Chris Squire), which adds a degree of musicality to the songs that most bass players leave on the table. Choice cuts include "Your Hometown," "Tunnel Vision," and the three-song epic "Making A Sound" (Parts 1, 2, and 3).

Check out Finest Dearest (with Maus Haus and Saything) tomorrow night at The Bike Kitchen and wish them luck on the road in April and May. And don’t forget to vote for them as The Deli SF's band of the month.

- Phil Matarese

The Deli SF has been a fan of Aria C Jalali for awhile now. In fact, he won our Band of the Month poll back in October 2007. However, it's important to note that the name of this musical project has been changed to RAILCARS, and lest confusion erupt everywhere, we caught up with Aria to find out more and get the word out about this recent development. Check out Railcars' music, tour dates, etc. on their MySpace.:

The Deli SF: What prompted the name change from Aria C Jalali to Railcars?

Aria: Originally I had this name, because well, it's my full birth name (the C is actually my full middle name), and I could never pick a project name. We put a band together and I felt awkward using my name for more people than me. That's total Bon Jovi douchebaggery. But the band wanted to keep it because the name was already out there. Finally one night we were playing a show and some kids shouted out WHAT ARE YOU GUYS CALLED. I think we knew saying my whole name, which is hardly easy to hear over guitar hum and harder to spell wouldn't work.

The Deli SF: How did you come up wi