tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81517332012-01-26T01:41:55.799-08:00<i>concert dispatches from near and far</i>pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.comBlogger3981100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-31512474417782897912011-12-31T10:09:00.000-08:002011-12-31T11:51:15.916-08:00

This was a close one. I mean, December 23? And I have to get back to Northern California in time for the family celebration, preferably on a reasonably priced flight? But it worked out, and in a way, it's fitting that Jon Brion's show is indeed the last gig of the year at Largo. It should be as such forever and ever (amen).Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, December 23, 2011: It started with a game

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-52520700681916470522011-11-24T08:39:00.000-08:002011-11-24T08:39:00.847-08:00

Here's to childhood friends, especially those who remain dear and beloved, such as my oldest pal, who extended the invite (and late birthday present) to Noel Gallagher's show at the Orpheum Theatre. I'd been dragging my feet on this gig, due to my venue snobbery, but in actuality, I'd been scoping out available seats just the week before. I had no problem deciding when the offer came through.Noel

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-37202792693919966322011-11-08T09:02:00.000-08:002011-11-08T09:02:00.617-08:00

The least interesting thing you can ask me is how many times I've seen a band or a musician. I stopped counting a long time ago, but I also know numbers don't tell the whole story. Though this blog makes my obsessions abundantly clear, there are certain bands I love that will never show up in these posts, while others are woefully underrepresented. It's always a kind of a homecoming to write

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-45019531595457980722011-10-09T08:49:00.000-07:002011-10-09T16:25:06.864-07:00

This and the last four posts, capped off by my report on Gillian Welch at the Fillmore, may represent the most music I've seen in such a short span, and that includes previous festivals, rock tourism, and multigig evenings already covered in this blog. I'm not complaining, and I realize it's small potatoes in this age of music blogs. Still, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on this

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-25959873424095653092011-10-08T09:55:00.000-07:002011-10-09T00:13:14.348-07:00

On its own, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival offers plenty of music, but there's a bonus: The tunes flows all over the city, with extra shows booked across town and the Bay Area. Broken Social Scene filled up the Fillmore for purportedly their final show, at least in North America and at least for a while. I don't want it to be true, but if they disappear for however long, I can safely say

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-51511497048693052422011-10-06T10:36:00.000-07:002011-10-09T16:27:49.864-07:00

Rocktober has arrived, and in San Francisco, that means Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is in session. This marks the 11th year of the festival, and by those standards, I'm a relative newcomer, but I can't imagine my year without this grand gathering. Also, it gives me a reason to never move out of the Richmond District.Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, September 30 to October 23, 2011: Certainly,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-37236947831088892952011-10-05T10:47:00.000-07:002011-10-05T12:54:03.914-07:00

These Jon Brion doubleheaders at Largo at the Coronet have eased my travel decisions in many ways, and I'll never skip one if I'm in town. Still, I can safely say the Friday shows continue to rule the roost. The house is brimming, the bar is bustling, the crowds are buzzing, and when you've been absent for four months as I have, they feel even more special.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-11384889388461023092011-10-04T10:12:00.000-07:002011-10-04T13:53:49.541-07:00

Buried deep in these blog pages are my initial guidelines about rock tourism, most of which I threw out when whims and finances agreed. I'm not necessarily happy about revisiting these tenets, but I have to, including the notion of scheduling only one trip per month. Since I spent the summer flying around the United States, it took this long to return to Los Angeles for Jon Brion's shows at Largo

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-1591237607991584402011-08-16T08:23:00.000-07:002011-10-04T13:00:08.077-07:00

Just to get this out of the way, my concert calendar for August now appears depleted, but maybe next month will be a little livelier. In the meantime, I hit the Great American Music Hall for the eels.Eels, Great American Music Hall, August 11, 2011: I've fallen into the formerly anathema habit of not buying concert tickets ahead of time and letting the chips fall where they may. This often means

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-91414537344014128502011-08-11T08:07:00.000-07:002011-08-11T10:28:56.672-07:00

I've never been to Hawaii, though I live in the state that probably has the most direct line to the island paradise. Well, guess what finally got me there? If you said a Jeff Tweedy and/or Wilco show, then you have been paying attention (and, understandably, silently judging). Give yourself a gold star! Jeff Tweedy, Hawaii Theatre, August 4, 2011: I have no problem admitting that my main

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-10041937243730885802011-07-14T09:42:00.000-07:002011-07-14T10:07:00.278-07:00

The thumb--that's what I was told, though it turned out to be closer to the cuticle bed (see below). A fish boil, custard, primo seats, and a welcome confluence of friends were also promised, and that's how I ended up with a snug little sojourn to Wisconsin--specifically, Fish Creek--to see Jeff Tweedy at the Door County Auditorium. Jeff Tweedy, Door County Auditorium, July 8, 2011: I'm the very

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-87354304568395459502011-07-11T08:18:00.000-07:002011-07-11T21:50:45.422-07:00

I've clocked an atrocious concert attendance record this year, and it doesn't look to improve a whole lot. But Julie's generous offer (again) and expert finagling helped get me to Neko Case's show at Stern Grove.Neko Case, Stern Grove, July 3, 2011: Talk about a rarity--for the first time in a long time, you could see the Fourth of July fireworks in San Francisco. But before that waste of

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-88126620796726716002011-07-03T08:12:00.000-07:002011-07-11T22:01:29.810-07:00

By unfortunate coincidence, another double-header came up on my side of the country this very same weekend, but my tickets had long been booked and arrangements made. I was headed to North Adams and Mass MOCA for Wilco and friends at the second annual Solid Sound Festival--the right decision through and through.Solid Sound Festival, June 24-26, 2011: I've scoffed and recoiled at many images of

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-80940681651578394252011-06-04T09:32:00.000-07:002011-06-04T10:07:13.759-07:00

Howdy, I'm back! I had to skip Jon Brion's April engagement after indulging in the Robyn Hitchcock double header, but the May date worked out nicely. Advance notice: I can't make the June shows, so you'll have to get the lowdown elsewhere. In the meantime, here's what I saw at my most recent visit to Largo at the Coronet.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, May 27, 2011: I often forget how Los

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-7875450366757097432011-05-12T08:33:00.000-07:002011-05-18T18:29:00.469-07:00

Note: This post went up last week but was apparently eaten by the Blogger outage. Let's try this again.First off, thanks to Julie for the extra ticket, even if it came about due to her lack of oversight. I appreciate the night out and the opportunity to check out a marathon performance by the eternally charming Rhett Miller at the Swedish American Hall. Rhett Miller, Swedish Music Hall, May 7,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-45781237477244599502011-04-28T08:11:00.000-07:002011-04-28T13:37:08.022-07:00

I'm not going to update the tally of these shows, nor will I make any other declarations on what will become of these gigs. The previous dates have been chronicled, so I'll stick with a report of the 2011 gathering at the Hotel S'n'S for an evening with Jeff Tweedy.Jeff Tweedy, Hotel S'n'S, April 23, 2011: First off, Jeff didn't play us the new Wilco album, as he had in years past. Apparently,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-5618202531759526632011-04-18T08:40:00.000-07:002011-04-19T22:34:00.579-07:00

The Coachella runoff is in full effect in the Bay Area, with a few particularly overbooked nights around town. Personally, I felt no such conflicts and even cut back on my concert plans. However, as with Noise Pop, I always feel a little disappointed when I don't hit at least one of the annual satellite shows. This year, Broken Social Scene's date at the Warfield fulfilled my goal.Broken Social

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-49477068619489269652011-04-14T08:52:00.000-07:002011-04-14T08:52:00.753-07:00

The fact that I'm still listening to British Sea Power four albums into their career is somewhat surprising. Sure, I'm a fairly faithful listener, and it helps that the band has maintained a level of notoriety that lets me see them at the kind of venues I prefer. However, it was a huge relief to hear such compelling chords at the opening of Valhalla Dancehall. Way to keep the streak alive, guys (

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-24045296292487839222011-04-12T09:03:00.000-07:002011-04-12T10:06:39.077-07:00

At my day job, we have a lot of fun concocting stories for April Fools' Day, but I'm less enthused when those jokes affect my areas of interest. Fortunately, the Largo show featuring Robyn Hitchcock, Grant-Lee Phillips, and Jon Brion scheduled for April 1 was as serious as a heart attack--albeit without any of the medical complications and delivering all the physiological benefits that a cardiac

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-9671090656583402222011-04-09T08:23:00.000-07:002011-04-09T08:31:23.280-07:00

I'm getting better at not freaking out over show times, but this gig--the last evening of Robyn Hitchcock's three-night stand in the Little Room at Largo--required more precision than your average club date, as it involved three flights (one of which was changed specifically to accommodate this show), two Los Angeles-area airports, the freaking 405, dozens of text messages, and far too many red

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-71408904027772153872011-04-07T08:17:00.000-07:002011-04-07T11:53:08.416-07:00

It may look like I'm back to hitting every Jon Brion show at Largo, but don't let appearances deceive you--the schedule is unsustainable, and I'll take a break soon enough. But boy, am I glad I made it to the March gig, and I hope I can do it some justice in the account below.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, March 25, 2011: My first thought at seeing Jon Brion's entrance at this show: He wasn't

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-55987996592867421112011-03-30T10:08:00.000-07:002011-03-30T10:19:11.540-07:00

This may be the week I'm making up for past concert omissions, what with finally catching a Destroyer show and trying to compensate for the Liam Finn gigs I should've been attending for the past several years. You can expect more compensatory concert reports in the weeks to come, but for now, check out Liam Finn's return to the Independent.Liam Finn, the Independent, March 24, 2011: As an

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-23712638218299470692011-03-24T08:12:00.000-07:002011-03-24T09:16:44.912-07:00

The rise and fall of my Anglophilia has been documented on this blog, but lately, I've been nursing a significant fascination with another Commonwealth country, thanks to its lovely citizens, dreamboat golden god indie actors, Asian drug gangs, and of course, wealth of talented musicians. I'm talking about Canada, of course, and I can add Destroyer to the list of northern-nurtured luminaries now

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-46983062536037316622011-03-06T10:36:00.000-08:002011-06-15T13:03:26.958-07:00

I always feel bad when I miss Noise Pop, partly because it's a local tradition worth supporting and partly because the festival attracts so many amazing bands, often before they catch on with the general public. In the last several years, my attendance has been spotty--often due to my goofy travel schedule--so I was glad to squeeze in one gig this year: Ben Gibbard's solo appearance at the Great

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-62855726910597589992011-03-03T09:36:00.000-08:002011-03-03T10:50:00.005-08:00

Late last week, there was talk of San Francisco seeing its first snowfall in decades. But rather than stick around for this meteorological miracle, I dragged myself through torrential rains and into economy class to head to Jon Brion's February show at Largo at the Coronet--a perfect distillation of my priorities. In case I needed any justification (and who doesn't?), the snow never materialized

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-26195880316785140092011-02-06T18:20:00.000-08:002011-02-06T18:38:23.799-08:00

Happy new year! By the Gregorian calendar, I'm lagging, but according to another cultural schedule I sometimes follow, I'm right on time for Tet--so happy new year! In case you were wondering, January's concert plans sort of slipped by, and I failed to act on backup blogging ideas. Then again, it's no hardship when it paves the way for the Nels Cline Singers with Yuka C. Honda to open up my

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-25410445929120157572010-12-29T08:29:00.000-08:002010-12-29T08:31:05.367-08:00

Did you notice anything missing from this blog for the last couple of months? Oh, you didn't realize this banana stand was still in operation? I can't promise the updates will continue at the same clip as before, but for now, I offer an account of the last Jon Brion show of 2010. Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, December 17, 2010: I already made too much noise about commemorations and milestones

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-57228927440724161882010-12-25T15:06:00.000-08:002010-12-25T15:13:09.941-08:00

This may be a first for me: The same night Badly Drawn Boy was scheduled to play upstairs at the Swedish American Hall, the honest-to-goodness Swedish Society held a meeting downstairs. Though we didn't have as many yummy snacks as the Swedes, I have no doubt Damon's gig matched them in December cheer. Badly Drawn Boy, Swedish American Hall, December 14, 2010: I don't take recommendations lightly

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-13985928798611247302010-11-22T10:04:00.000-08:002010-12-07T09:52:48.787-08:00

This post has been brought to you by the good people at Noise Pop! In addition to putting on some of the finest music events in San Francisco, the kind staffers picked my name out of what I imagine to be a mountain of entries--you can't convince me otherwise--and awarded me with a pair of tickets to see Bob Mould. They not only allowed me to see a longtime favorite, they did it at the exact right

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-39322691880075133012010-10-18T09:41:00.000-07:002010-10-18T09:48:22.968-07:00

Although Rocktober is in full swing around these parts, my blog will not reflect the grand span of events and opportunities available to the gig-going public. In fact, it won't represent a narrow view either, but certain shows can't be missed, and Teenage Fanclub at the Great American Music Hall is non-negotiable.Teenage Fanclub, Great American Music Hall, October 12, 2010: Say what you will

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-17747037983437042452010-10-15T09:34:00.000-07:002010-10-15T17:08:29.987-07:00

Despite appearances on this blog, I haven't lost my enthusiasm for live music, but other priorities come up, and I'm making peace with the idea of not seeing every band that comes through town -- or, more pointedly, necessitates a trip outside of city limits (sigh, but more on that later). In fact, I probably would've skipped Aimee Mann's three-night stand at Yoshi's entirely if it weren't for a

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-48807944958047252422010-10-06T09:15:00.000-07:002010-10-06T15:10:33.356-07:00

Last week, I managed to hurt myself in a manner that would probably be hilarious if (1) it were caught on video and (2) it happened to someone else. This ridiculous injury, along with my bruised ego, almost kept me away from Hardly Strictly Bluegrass this year, but the combination of good prescription anti-inflammatories and the muted music heard through my window convinced me I should at least

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-39984469589209843292010-10-01T11:37:00.000-07:002010-10-02T21:45:10.671-07:00

I've clocked exactly one gig in September, and for various reasons, this may be the trend for a while--but all in due time. Until that ugly day arrives, however, you're allowed to take a wild guess at the show that forced me out of the cave. And if you figured anyone other than Jon Brion at Largo, you've clearly been reading the wrong blog.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, September 24, 2010: I

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-86359804234774412192010-09-07T08:58:00.000-07:002010-09-07T08:58:00.878-07:00

What's the only thing that can make me skip town and miss a musical meeting between two of my favorite artists? An even more intimate show with that other favorite musician, of course. Thus, I bid adieu to Los Angeles (by way of Ontario) and said hello to Chicago for our sixth annual show with Jeff Tweedy at the Hotel S'n'S.Jeff Tweedy, Hotel S'n'S, August 28, 2010: Ordinarily, it'd be hard to

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-48465260565274139442010-09-04T09:23:00.000-07:002010-09-12T20:28:20.659-07:00

I made some noise over the last couple of months about not being able to attend Jon Brion's August show, but things worked out, as they're wont to do when you jump through hoops of fire to get the result you crave. I can safely say I made the correct decision, but decide for yourself after reading the report.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, August 27, 2010: Last month, Jon Brion put on a fine, if

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-85371801602028455362010-09-02T10:05:00.000-07:002010-09-02T10:19:16.364-07:00

I've cooled on reunion tours in the last few years, but I reserve the right to change my mind, especially when it comes to a band whose music I've loved for more than two decades. That band is Crowded House, and after missing their last two tours of the United States, I mended the errors of my ways by hitting their gig at the Warfield.Crowded House, the Warfield, August 23, 2010: Regular readers

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-14207807444565818552010-08-21T10:34:00.000-07:002010-10-06T22:24:56.682-07:00

Eyes on the prize--I feel like an ass comparing concert attendance to a society-altering humanitarian campaign, but the phrase has been on my mind throughout this summer of frugality. I'd be an even bigger idiot to claim to have made any great sacrifices during this interim, so I'll cut to the chase instead: After a somewhat protracted journey, I arrived at Wilco's inaugural Solid Sound Festival-

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-65626898676423240492010-07-30T09:40:00.000-07:002010-08-02T02:06:31.018-07:00

I mentioned my current cheapskate status in the last post, but my hypocrisy will be revealed as I file my monthly Jon Brion report for his show at Largo at the Coronet. I went against my better judgement and made the trip to Los Angeles, but hey, if it means eating ramen for the next month, so be it.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, July 23, 2010: I'll say one thing about these monthly Jon Brion

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-85425707832330933412010-07-20T09:52:00.000-07:002010-07-20T10:53:47.598-07:00

The blog lives! This summer has turned out to be one of semi-austerity; coupled with my low concert drive these days--well, let's say I don't get out much. Of course, there's always an exception, and the New Pornographers' first show in Oakland--at the Fox Theater, no less--does that to me. The New Pornographers, Fox Theater, July 18, 2010: You have to admit that when the New Pornographers

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-101653559867182812010-07-02T12:38:00.000-07:002010-07-02T12:55:10.025-07:00

I'm pretty useless at predicting, well, anything, so I sure as hell can't foresee how many people might turn up at any given Jon Brion show. However, I'm happy to play the ex post facto reporter who notes that Jon's June gig (singular, after the Saturday date disappeared from the online calendar) at Largo at the Coronet posted good numbers. Sorry, stat nerds--that's as close to "Mad Money" as I

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-83707017275947950942010-06-09T20:08:00.000-07:002010-06-13T04:34:07.294-07:00

I admit it: Social factors influence my concert schedule. Of course, I go to gigs because I genuinely want to hear music, but it always helps when I can look forward to meeting up with old friends at the venue. These reunions are less common as our tastes diverge and domestic responsibilities take precedence--and truth be told, it's one reason I've cut back on seeing shows. However, I love

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-82794912611273471602010-06-05T09:19:00.000-07:002010-06-05T15:48:47.000-07:00

My gig inclinations run on the feast/famine mode these days. Either wild horses can't keep me away from a show, or those same steeds can't drag me to the concert either. Though I bought a ticket to see She & Him at the Fox Theater in Oakland as soon as they went on sale, I was on the fence until close to showtime. But I made it and was reminded that the trip can be worth the effort.She & Him, Fox

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-13282515251972333342010-06-03T10:22:00.000-07:002010-06-04T16:33:28.231-07:00

My blogging habits are already way out of step with the current zeitgeist, but it never helps when such annoyances as work and other commitments eat into what should be free time. Anyway, the second Jon Brion report for the month of May is finally in. Check it out, if you're curious.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, May 22, 2010: Toofer--no, not the black guy from Harvard. I'm referring to the

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-82320145996011822632010-05-31T09:21:00.000-07:002010-05-31T12:41:47.912-07:00

The calendar says it's almost June, but I'm catching up on my May entries. For now, no month is complete without at least one Jon Brion show at Largo at the Coronet to round out the calendar.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, May 21, 2010: I gave up on trying to guess how any Jon Brion show will proceed a long time ago. Heck, some nights I can't even tell what song Jon is doing before he hits the

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-73016860366693285762010-05-25T10:20:00.000-07:002010-05-25T14:22:23.147-07:00

In all my years of reading UK music magazines, the question of British bands breaking America came up regularly, despite the indifference of all but the most rabid Anglophiles over here. If the question still arises, music writers across the Atlantic might be heartened to know the United Kingdom seems to be enjoying another good run, if Frightened Rabbit's show at the Fillmore is any

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-10609534716917846042010-05-24T00:50:00.000-07:002010-05-24T02:20:56.978-07:00

I have no intentions of giving up rock tourism, but if it ever comes to pass, at least I know my hometown ranks up there in terms of cool gigs and uncommon engagements, such as Frightened Rabbit's acoustic show at the Rickshaw Stop.Frightened Rabbit, Rickshaw Stop, May 18, 2010: I like to think I've disabused myself of many rock 'n' roll myths, but I reserve the right to cling to certain beliefs.

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-34562354886236504972010-05-17T16:14:00.000-07:002010-06-06T16:23:39.473-07:00

After a slow start, May should shape up to be a decent concert month. Unsurprisingly, it was a Nels Cline show--and the promise of two new (to me) incarnations of his musical muse--that got me out of the house.Stinkbug/Fig, 21 Grand Gallery, May 13, 2010: Even when I think I know what to expect of a Nels Cline gig, you can rest assured my head is decidedly in the dark. The Nels Cline Singers

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-47026883922303048142010-04-29T13:48:00.000-07:002010-04-29T14:50:20.555-07:00

For returning readers, here's the Largo Line Watch, April Edition: Jon Brion's show for this month was very well attended, but not sold out. All comers were welcome. Now, your regularly scheduled concert recap awaits below.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, April 23, 2010: Nostalgia is kind of my kryptonite, but that doesn't preclude me from recognizing and enjoying an old-school type of night at

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-56184050722179173582010-04-11T10:59:00.000-07:002010-04-11T10:59:00.631-07:00

A couple of posts ago, I mentioned scheduling my vacation around a set of gigs. The time has arrived for second of those shows: Miles Kurosky, the former lead singer/songwriter of Beulah, in his return to San Francisco and Bottom of the Hill after far too long.Miles Kurosky, Bottom of the Hill, April 8, 2010: Every now and then, I can look forward to a show by an artist whose music colors an

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-61154622442977025382010-04-08T10:27:00.000-07:002010-04-09T09:42:09.867-07:00

I've navigated these roads before, but driving through several states in the same amount of time it'd take me to get halfway up the coast back home is still a novel experience for this California resident. On this occasion, the interstate eventually led from Scranton to the charming suburb of Montclair, New Jersey, where Wilco played a pair of jaw-dropping shows at the Wellmont Theatre.Wilco,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-45590100171524638002010-04-06T09:14:00.000-07:002010-04-27T10:08:57.231-07:00

For someone with no ties to Pennsylvania, I've seen an awful lot of shows in the state. It dates back to my best friend's stint at Penn, but it picked up steam with--who else?--Wilco, starting with the band's concert at Messiah College on Oct. 12, 2002, to be exact. This time, my travels took me to Scranton, a city I'd previously known only as the punchline on The Office. Ultimately, though,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-58490450173280628732010-03-30T00:25:00.000-07:002010-04-04T08:43:13.899-07:00

It's official, kids: Three months, three shows, and three sellouts--Jon Brion's shows (mach, er, four?) at Largo at the Coronet are no longer casual affairs. Procrastinate at your own risk. Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, March 26, 2010: Technically, with the late announcement of Jon's Saturday date, the count is up to four shows, but I couldn't make it to the Saturday gig, despite the promise

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-62653109654208297042010-03-18T02:22:00.000-07:002010-03-18T02:33:46.754-07:00

I don't make it to Chicago as often as I used to, but certain engagements require little thought on my part. Take, for instance, a pair of Jeff Tweedy benefit shows at the Vic. As always, I packed accordingly.Jeff Tweedy, Vic Theatre, March 12-13, 2010: During the course of these shows, I started to wonder how long it's been since I've seen a "normal" Jeff Tweedy gig--er, apart from that one-off

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-23883146099800719442010-03-07T17:05:00.000-08:002010-03-08T16:27:43.932-08:00

Last month, I promised some eventual variation in the blog. You got it: Midlake's return to the Great American Music Hall in support of their new record The Courage of Others--if, that is, your definition of "new blood" encompasses a band touring behind their third album. If you're just happy that I'm writing about someone other than the usual names, thanks for slogging through, and check back in

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-29259760936783307302010-02-28T12:11:00.000-08:002011-04-07T14:29:02.412-07:00

For the second month in a row, a sold-out crowd took in Jon Brion's show at Largo at the Coronet, and patrons were turned away at the door--in a monsoon downpour, no less. Sound familiar? I don't think it's too soon to call it: Buy your tix ahead of time, show up early for your seat assignments, and dress for the weather. History may be repeating itself.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, February

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-16988488443924901042010-02-23T01:01:00.000-08:002010-02-23T02:23:33.605-08:00

Timbits, I promise, are the key to getting through customs. Hell, it's worked for me twice now, and I'll never bid Vancouver good-bye without a pack in my bag. The next stop was Seattle (again) for the express purpose of seeing the Dave Rawlings Machine at the Showbox.Dave Rawlings Machine, Showbox at the Market, February 14, 2010: Once upon a time, I used to see bands--plural--and not just a few

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-7925767513580135422010-02-21T17:25:00.000-08:002010-04-26T14:21:11.422-07:00

When I really want to see a gig, it takes a lot to deter me, but a couple of words, when applied to a concert, instantly inspire dread: "free" and "festival." Throw Wilco into the mix, however, and all previous statements fly out the door. Thus, we made our way to Vancouver's David Lam Park for the band's free show--quadrennial international sports gathering be damned!Wilco, David Lam Park,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-52283654380111470562010-02-20T20:17:00.000-08:002010-03-03T21:21:40.756-08:00

Allow me this indulgent proposition: There are, in fact, parallels between us humble rock tourists and the rock stars that we follow. Take away the entourage, the adoring fans, the paycheck, the performance, and the catering to every whim and we're mirror images. Well, no, that's not true, but I can assure you that we enjoyed our day off, so to speak, before Wilco's show at the Royal Theatre in

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-90458858541405813532010-02-18T17:34:00.000-08:002010-04-26T14:28:45.928-07:00

We left Portland early in the morning, but not before running into a familiar bearded face at the train station. Next thing I knew, we were in Seattle and loading up on porcine pleasure at Salumi--as, I'm confident, any sane person with taste buds would do. It was only after a few more orders of business (hotel, coffee, record shopping) that we set about fulfilling the purported reason for our

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-86651834348925786832010-02-17T01:26:00.000-08:002010-02-17T01:52:25.561-08:00

What do you call it when the exact opposite of what you wished for comes true? Bad luck? Murphy's Law? A curse? Because when this current batch of Wilco dates was announced last fall, in addition to making all the usual arrangements, I crossed my fingers in hopes that a certain group wouldn't tour at the same time -- three guesses as to how that turned out. Well, I now have more confirmation of

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-1854301997782004842010-02-16T02:34:00.000-08:002010-02-17T01:41:59.298-08:00

Before I get started, a warning: If you're looking for anything approaching a change of pace in this blog, don't come back until next month. It's going to look a lot like Groundhog Day around here for the next few weeks, and kicking off this coming chorus is the Dave Rawlings Machine with a show at the Mystic Theatre.Dave Rawlings Machine, Mystic Theatre, February 8, 2010: Years ago, when a

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-60756639920676275852010-02-07T11:28:00.000-08:002010-02-09T00:43:02.288-08:00

I'm back in Los Angeles for the second weekend in a row, but this time for (ostensibly) a family gathering. You know me, though--I will carve out a few hours for my entertainment needs. Thus, I headed over to Largo, where Chris Thile was wrapping up a short series of solo shows in the L.A. area. While I didn't see any of the preceding engagements and, thus, have no points of comparison, I have no

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-67186113310451897342010-02-03T12:49:00.000-08:002010-02-08T11:50:30.211-08:00

Though I have no qualms traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles for a concert, the prospect of dragging myself off the couch and catching a couple of buses across town to get to a gig can sometimes be daunting. It helps, though, when I know that a group of good friends, one of my all-time music heroes, and a great club await me at the end of my journey. That may sound like a tall order, but

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-38415329152249938282010-01-26T23:34:00.000-08:002010-04-26T14:40:16.119-07:00

Did you make any New Year's resolutions? I didn't, but I'm vaguely trying to be more relaxed and less clinical--the tortuous setlists that pepper this blog exempted, of course. Thus, I didn't bother with year-end wrap-ups or rankings, though I think my favorites are all too clear. Still, you gotta know some things aren't going to change--such as my continuing attendance at Jon Brion's shows,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-52535163660612196062010-01-01T11:03:00.000-08:002010-01-31T14:54:44.238-08:00

Happy new year to you all! This post was supposed to go up before the end of 2009, but as it turned out, I had less downtime than expected during my holiday break. I'm not complaining, though, as I managed to lodge the requisite hours with family and get in a quick road trip to Phoenix for a Jeff Tweedy show. You don't have to find out how it went at the homestead, but you can read a little about

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-89416076676554440832009-12-25T22:02:00.000-08:002010-01-24T02:35:44.009-08:00

There were, in fact, vague plans to see some shows and, when those dates fell through, post some fill-in blogs in the past month, but pesky real-life details, especially those unique to this time of the year, got in the way: annoying holiday parties, peripatetic cash flow, grinchiness. As much as I would've loved to catch a couple more Largo gigs this month, I set my sights on Jon Brion's last

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-32201640574353694412009-11-29T09:25:00.000-08:002009-11-29T11:06:29.893-08:00

I'm back in the gig game, however briefly, after a visit to--surprise, surprise--Largo at the Coronet for a Jon Brion show. As the year wanes, I'll post less often, but the well won't dry up completely. However, the names will look awfully familiar--I mean, moreso than usual--in the weeks to come. Caveat lector!Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, November 21, 2009: In case you've been wondering, I

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-24421150318237692602009-11-19T10:40:00.000-08:002009-11-19T20:30:11.093-08:00

Welcome back to Obscurity Knocks, an intermittent series of posts highlighting my favorite unheralded albums. Coincidentally, these posts could also be titled British Bands I've Never Seen Live but Really Wish I Had. For this installation, we'll check in on the band Six by Seven, who qualify under both of the above guidelines.Six by Seven, The Things We MakePicture this: The curtains open on a

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-64051673042639466782009-11-01T09:13:00.000-08:002009-11-01T15:55:51.735-08:00

I dream of this kind of concert bill: one that brings together artists who've never before been mentioned in the same breath--say, Jay Farrar and Ben Gibbard--and that won't likely be duplicated any time soon. Novelty factor aside, there's another advantage to seeing a major musician's side projects: It'll up your insufferable superfan cred in no time flat. Take it from me!Jay Farrar and Ben

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-35286804359818176082009-10-29T01:27:00.000-07:002009-10-29T21:03:39.104-07:00

Among the more egregious oversights of my concert schedule of the last few years is the dearth of Liam Finn shows. Despite his exhaustive touring runs, I've seen him only in supporting roles at Largo--one of which took place several years ago--and I had to miss his recent series of shows with Wilco. Man, I dropped the ball on this one, but at least I won't have to concoct another excuse, now that

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-76299522265171362522009-10-23T17:48:00.000-07:002009-10-30T14:43:24.537-07:00

It's not the same as an early show, but the timing worked out perfectly for this triple bill with Brakes (or, I suppose, Brakesbrakesbrakes) sandwiched right in the middle. Call it a surgical strike--after the all-day undertaking known as the Treasure Island Music Festival, it was a relief to wander into the Rickshaw Stop five minutes before the music started and depart even more quickly as soon

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-28110772905282878082009-10-20T01:13:00.000-07:002009-11-19T15:27:30.256-08:00

Despite recent appearances to the contrary, I am not and will never be a festival person, but occasionally, I can be convinced to agonize over scheduling conflicts and painstakingly map out itineraries between multiple stages. The Treasure Island Music Festival, now in its third outing, brought the promise of the Flaming Lips, the Decemberists, Bob Mould, and Spiral Stairs. In the end, I would

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-22624645478909583022009-10-12T01:21:00.000-07:002009-10-14T09:51:39.240-07:00

After the hullabaloo of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, the cloistered, controlled Swedish American Hall couldn't have been more welcoming. Leading the services, Fran Healy and Andy Dunlop of Travis brought to mind the band's own words of wisdom from many years ago: back to that good feeling.An Evening with Fran Healy and Andy Dunlop from Travis, Swedish American Hall, October 8, 2009: If there's one

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-74059516483920820832009-10-08T08:46:00.000-07:002009-10-08T08:46:00.245-07:00

The prospect of attending a huge, free musical festival featuring some of my favorite artists and several more appealing performers mere blocks from my apartment is both exhilarating and maddening. Even as my eyes grew wide at the sight of all those great names populating the bill, I knew that the explosion in talent would correspond to an uptick in audience. The question, then, becomes whether

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-19480810617656037432009-10-06T02:22:00.000-07:002009-10-10T16:29:34.382-07:00

Some people say that you don't find music--that music finds you when you're ready for it. I typically don't agree with this opinion, but I'm not immune to it. Witness: Gillian Welch and David Rawlings. No early adopter, I missed a good 10 years of their collaboration, but these days, I can't get enough of them, which is why I grabbed a ticket to their Fillmore gig, two days ahead of their

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-27771800626762497252009-09-21T02:17:00.000-07:002009-09-21T02:51:20.795-07:00

Blame all those years of listening to critical punching bags for developing my tin ear to music reviews. Fortunately, I have friends who don't rest on their musical laurels, who recognize the haphazard potpourri that comprises my musical tastes, and whose opinions I respect. Thanks to everyone who's urged Frightened Rabbit on me over the last year. Your patience and your prescience have won

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-3727961221441835332009-09-11T14:06:00.000-07:002010-04-26T15:14:54.116-07:00

I didn't expect to be back at Largo and a Jon Brion show so soon, but somehow, it always works out. I'll skip the usual rigmarole of concocting an excuse and simply proceed to the report.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, September 4, 2009: Most visitors may not know this about Los Angeles, but this city of transplants is a veritable ghost town for the holidays. There's no better time to visit than

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-41199355441786254512009-09-08T22:37:00.000-07:002009-09-08T22:43:16.605-07:00

As much as I mythologize that city to the south, there's no place like home. I'm duly reminded of this fact by concerts such as this: the Nels Cline Singers recording a live album over two nights at Cafe du Nord. Nels Cline Singers, Cafe du Nord, Sept. 2-3, 2009: I've seen plenty of shows that have been filmed for TV, video, or movie purposes, but to the best of my recollection, I haven't

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-60017125493406292102009-09-01T20:25:00.000-07:002009-09-07T01:25:58.536-07:00

The two words that guaranteed my attendance at Joe Pernice's gig at Cafe du Nord? Early show. It's shameful, I realize, but I've been exhausted for the better part of the last month and a half transitioning to a new place--apartment downsizing sucks. I'm just happy I made it out for a night.Joe Pernice, Cafe du Nord, August 30, 2009: According to my records, I last saw Joe Pernice in concert

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-41940970034711303062009-08-26T17:52:00.000-07:002009-08-27T16:30:43.926-07:00

At a club known for its residencies and regulars, with a rich roster of celebrated singer/songwriters, Neil Finn qualifies as something special at Largo. Maybe it's the incredible music he's made over the years; maybe it's his ability to charm and win over everyone within earshot; maybe it's the relative rarity of his visits. Whatever the case, any show with Neil at Largo is one for the books,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-32935588274044488432009-08-21T14:52:00.000-07:002009-08-21T15:51:48.308-07:00

Spending two consecutive weekends at Largo--much less almost a full week in Los Angeles--in the same month that I'm supposed to be packing boxes and moving into a new apartment is probably not the most advisable course of action. However, I never gave it a second thought, and it all started, of course, with Jon Brion's Friday night show.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, August 14, 2009: Even if

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-13196892454067769472009-08-14T17:20:00.000-07:002009-08-20T11:23:14.541-07:00

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a year since the last Nels Cline/Jon Brion show at Largo. In between, Nels hasn’t exactly been a stranger, paying at least a couple of visits to the Coronet (one of which I sadly missed), but as an avid fan of this series, I love having them back. Nels Cline and Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, August 8, 2009: The show opened with a short greeting from Jon,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-51745159445257284092009-08-11T12:12:00.000-07:002009-08-11T13:05:45.179-07:00

It was a luxury and a treat to see two Jon Brion shows (too bad we didn't get the third gig) in the Bay Area just a few weeks ago, but for follow-up fixes, you gotta go to the action--at Largo, of course.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, August 7, 2009: At this point, it'd be disingenuous to claim that I just happened upon all these Jon Brion shows in the last few weeks. Trust me, it's no

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-9708351867343448412009-08-02T09:23:00.000-07:002009-08-02T09:23:00.765-07:00

Jarvis Cocker is back for a show at the Fillmore in San Francisco in the same decade?! Sometimes I love to be proven wrong.Jarvis Cocker, the Fillmore, July 28, 2009: As you may have guessed, I'm a repeat customer. When I find a band or a musician I really like, I'll come back as often as possible. Jarvis Cocker definitely qualifies for that list, and I intend to attend his concerts--as sporadic

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-35525364184659578202009-07-29T17:37:00.000-07:002009-07-29T22:26:12.260-07:00

If I had known that Jon Brion would follow up his gig opening for Of Montreal with his own show at the Swedish American Hall, I might've spared myself a trip to Southern California last weekend--but probably not. Jon Brion, Swedish American Hall, July 25, 2009: I should've seen this coming. After all, Jon appended two visits to Chicago with intimate, hastily arranged gigs. It made perfect sense

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-48744523026023500922009-07-27T01:19:00.000-07:002009-07-30T13:51:16.564-07:00

This blog may indicate otherwise, but I like seeing gigs at home, and I love it when the Bay Area get exclusive engagements. Take, for example, Jon Brion's sole date with Of Montreal, scheduled for the Fox Theater in Oakland, of all places. I'm in!Of Montreal/Jon Brion, The Fox Theater (Oakland), July 24, 2009: I admit it; Google was my friend in discovering that Jon Brion was scheduled to open

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-12705445133988760692009-07-23T01:03:00.000-07:002009-07-23T10:31:29.458-07:00

You know the drill by now: If I'm at Largo on a Thursday (or a Saturday--heck, or a Sunday), I'm also going to be there on Friday for Jon Brion's gig. You can set your clock by it.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, July 17, 2009: First things first: Jon didn't wear exactly the same outfit on Friday as he had on Thursday. In fact, we'd see a costume change before the end of the night, but I'll get

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-61252894107343774802009-07-22T00:36:00.000-07:002009-07-22T01:12:20.142-07:00

I hope no one was holding their breath after the last Rawlings Machine show at Largo; that would've been a long, asphyxiating three-plus months between gigs. But the duo has returned to Los Angeles, with one crucial variation: They were operating under the Gillian Welch moniker, with all the fanfare that such an occasion entails.Gillian Welch, Largo at the Coronet, July 16, 2009: For those

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-44813265332103985012009-07-06T00:25:00.000-07:002009-10-05T12:57:21.877-07:00

I can still think of lots of good reasons to live in California: the gorgeous landscape, the diverse population, and the abundance of avocados, to name just a few. Also, it doesn't hurt that Wilco scheduled six shows for this state alone. For my last gig on this run, we crossed just a few yards over the border to Harveys Outdoor Arena in Lake Tahoe--the band's first concert in this town.Wilco,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-85991560057065210832009-07-04T22:59:00.000-07:002009-07-05T21:25:40.832-07:00

In my rush to get us to Bakesale Betty before Wilco's Berkeley show, I forgot my camera at home. At the time, it didn't matter so much, since the stage at the Greek Theatre is notoriously tall and imposing. Little did I know, however, that the night would include some prime photo ops. The photo-free account, then, will have to do instead.Wilco, Greek Theatre, June 27, 2009: Berkeley, unlike

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-52355403828923575172009-07-03T23:57:00.000-07:002009-07-04T02:40:07.342-07:00

I often stretch the definition of where I grew up, but let me be clear: It was not in Saratoga. Those 15 minutes down the freeway (that didn't even exist when I lived in San Jose) might as well have been a light-year. And after seeing Wilco's show at the Saratoga Mountain Winery, I couldn't distance myself fast enough.Wilco, Saratoga Mountain Winery, June 26, 2009: If it weren't for our front-row

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-56574494317240561602009-07-02T23:49:00.000-07:002009-07-06T22:39:12.642-07:00

As you may have noticed, I go to great lengths to see Wilco, but sometimes I luck out and settle into a town for more than a day--say, for a Chicago residency or those multiple-night stands the band used to do at the Fillmore. This year, the extended roadshow landed a little closer to home, bringing Wilco to the Wiltern for three dates, and then some.Wilco, the Wiltern, June 22, 23, and 25, 2009:

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-15727997991333154312009-06-30T23:19:00.000-07:002009-07-04T02:44:55.036-07:00

Growing up, I spent many summers in Southern California, hanging out a week or more at my aunt and uncle's house far away from all the cool places I read about. More specifically, I whiled away those seasons practically right next door to Pomona. I never would've guessed, though, that Wilco would end up here all these years later and that I'd be in attendance for their show at the renovated Fox

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-25355128795273308502009-06-26T14:45:00.000-07:002009-06-26T17:10:13.175-07:00

You can take your official openings and one-year anniversaries. (OK, I'll take those too.) But to attend the Jon Brion show coinciding with the day the taps started flowing again at Largo at the Coronet? I'll drink to that.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, June 19, 2009: One of the best things about Jon Brion returning to a weekly schedule is that the odds are all the greater I can append a Largo

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-64111445448519083042009-06-14T09:42:00.000-07:002009-06-14T21:22:27.839-07:00

A mere 48 hours before Neko Case's show at the Warfield--er, I was waiting for a delayed connection in Salt Lake City. But a bit of change before that, I was about as far away from June gloom as you can imagine. One of the better substitutions for those sunny skies and warm rays? Neko Case's amazing pipes, of course.Neko Case, the Warfield, June 10, 2009: Officially, it's been three long years

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-52206255217640638142009-05-26T00:16:00.000-07:002009-06-11T16:57:25.163-07:00

After the Great Club Die-Off of the dot-com years, it's great to see new venues opening again in the Bay Area. The Fox Theater has to be the most glorious addition, and the Decemberists show marked my first visit to this rococo palace in the heart of downtown Oakland.The Decemberists, Fox Theater, May 20, 2009: I've hemmed and hawed over the Decemberists in previous posts, but I wouldn't see them

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-27498693788641403562009-05-24T01:30:00.000-07:002009-05-27T21:00:54.064-07:00

According to my concert diary (a.k.a. this blog), it's been more than a year since I've seen a show at the Fillmore. Wow, I really have been out of the loop--or, more appropriately, I've been tracing a pattern on a completely different Moebius strip. For Doves, though, I'd be willing to circle in a holding pattern for some time. (You could also argue I've, in essence, done exactly that.)Doves,

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-35907707729319371912009-05-21T20:26:00.000-07:002009-07-11T22:07:35.543-07:00

If I were less uptight, I would take advantage of this platform to fire off odes, diatribes, and general musings about whatever band whenever the spirit hit me. Alas, I'm as buttoned-up in blogging as I am with everything else, so I confine my posts to specific events. This limited scope also means that sometimes, I really, really look forward to writing about certain bands. Such is the case with

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-3826278410472251672009-05-20T00:11:00.000-07:002009-07-11T22:11:09.193-07:00

In case you're wondering, I didn't give up Largo for Lent. In fact, I don't even really know what Lent is, but it makes for a more colorful culprit for the recent dearth of Jon Brion shows than the usual *yawn* constraints of time, economy, and distance.Jon Brion, Largo at the Coronet, May 15, 2009: A little past the Blockbuster parking lot, I realized I was smiling to myself for no reason other

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8151733.post-81468888470376022362009-05-14T08:37:00.000-07:002009-05-14T12:11:30.466-07:00

Buttercream is a bitch--and it kept me grounded the other night when I had provisionally planned on seeing a show. Who am I kidding, though? How often do I get to gigs anymore that don't owe some ties to that one band or that other place? Sara Watkins, of course, qualifies for the latter category, and that was enough to bring me out for her visit to the Swedish American Hall.Sara Watkins, Swedish

pneyuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11268926446201427729noreply@blogger.com2