Buskerfest 2019

Unless indicated, I took all the pics posted on this blog. Feel free to repost – just remember to give credit. Cheers!

Since the last couple months have been busy, with both music events and work, I’m finally now getting Long Beach’s Buskerfest, which took place back on September 7. I’d previously written about past Buskerfest events, but wanted to focus on this local event, and some highlights:

• The first act I caught when I arrived was Fellow Robot, and they set the bar pretty high. I was even lucky enough to get a vinyl copy of their first album. Think of a band that belongs on a much bigger stage, i.e. Kings of Leon or The Killers.
• I also caught a former student, Gemma Castro, as she proved to be the most audience engaging. She jumped off the stage with her mic, and performed part of her set walking around the crowd.
• The fest’s winner, BLCKNOISE, definitely earned the accolade. Packing one of the larger crowds, they entertained with their set, highlighted by their take on Radiohead’s “Creep.”
• Jade Jackson (backed by guitarist Julian Ness, son of famed Social Distortion frontman Mike Ness), showcased her her country-tinged songs, with that weighty soulful voice. I became a fan right there.
• Primrose Forever Sanctuary consists of Korey Dane (who won Buskerfest years ago) and Alyssa Miller. Their dreamy set consisted of the Ricky Nelson cover of “Lonesome Town.” The chemistry between the two, made for some intense stares, haunting harmonies, and even some laughs.

Artists, from Top to Bottom: Fellow Robot, The Captain’s Son, Gemma Castro, Jade Jackson, Spirit Mother, and Primrose Forever Sanctuary

Current Albums/Playlists Spinning…

Sound & Fury – Sturgill Simpson // The newest offering from Sturgill Simpson, out today. Again departing from his two previous albums’ sound, Simpson sounds more rock here than ever.

Hey, I’m Just Like You – Tegan and Sara // The newest offering from Tegan and Sara, offers more of their brand of indie/pop. Check out the lead-off track, “Hold My Breath Until I Die.” It’s a catchy album.

Blue World – John Coltrane // Another collection of previously unreleased cuts, highlighting a transition period for Coltrane in the mid-60’s. Here’s an article elaborating: New York Times

Abbey Road – The Beatles // It was 50 years ago (yesterday)…this ‘super deluxe’ version of one of my favorite albums came out, highlighting outtakes from the last great album the Beatles would make. Still need to listen to it this weekend.

Current Tracks Spinning…

Lonely Generation – Echosmith // The newest cut from Echosmith out today, reminiscent of Foster The People. I think it’s their best cut since their first album.

Into The Surf – Foals // The newest cut from one of the most underrated live acts I’ve ever seen, the cold vocals immediately reminded me of Depeche Mode.

 

Other Music Stuff…

Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives (Netflix) – No A&R figure shined larger on the last 50 years of the music business, than Clive Davis. When I was in college, I’d considered going into the music business, namely as an A&R guy who discovered the next big thing. Davis did it, time and time again. From Janis Joplin to Barry Manilow, from Whitney Houston to Alicia Keys, this doc covers a lot of ground. After all, who else would have the foresight to see that Kenny G’s band of instrumental pop would go on to sell millions of records? The scope is overwhelming, and inspiring, and this film covers a lot. The movie is more on the inspirational side, than the gritty music business side. Sure, there are the bumps in the road (his departure from Columbia, Whitney Houston’s sad and untimely passing). But the film primarily focuses on the man, who at his core is the center of the music business we know today. If you have any interest in this business of music, give it a watch.

Miles Davis music video? – In a previous blog, I’d highlighted the new Miles Davis album. Now, there’s a music video for it. Here’s the link to the NPR article highlighting it: NPR article . (Though, as someone noted in the comment section, it’s not technically his first music video.) Not bad for a jazz legend who’s been dead for decades.

Here’s my ongoing playlist, updated weekly with both new and old tracks I’m listening to.