courtesy of Sons and Daughters
While we haven’t been blessed with the much-needed proverbial showers of April, or the true springtime restlessness that’s synonymous with this month, we have been granted a pretty solid 24-days of music. From start to finish April has been hands-down the best month for music in 2008; with past shows ranging from the Black Keys, Cat Power and Digitalism and end of the month hot tickets like MGMT, Hot Chip, Calvin Harris (all occurring on the same night, mind you) Simian Mobile Disco and Goldfrapp, it’s impossible to stay copped up in your apartment. It might be coincidence, or that fact that the Bay Area is the perfect sonic pit stop before bands embark of the music monolith that is the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, but no matter what it's been working in our favor.
With April being a solid music month, you might be wondering about the live show forecast for May. I’m happy to report that we won’t have to go back into hibernation; especially since the first weekend in May is packed full with must-see aural treats. Here’s a few Hot List-approved shows to catch early next month.
The Black GhostsonThursday, May 1 at Mezzanine
This London, England-based duo are more than just your run-of-the-mill electro tag team. With soulful hooks, dark synth-pop leanings and live vocals, the Black Ghosts will have you happily working up a sweat on the dance floor.
Sons and Daughterson Friday, May 2 at the Great American Music Hall
If frenetic garage rock is what you’re after, then don’t miss these Glasgow rockers when they bring their pop-laced retro sound to SF.
Lyrics Born on Friday, May 2 at the Independent
Catch the eclectic Bay Area hip-hop phenom Lyrics Born when he plays tracks off his latest effort Everywhere at Once with the help of a live band.
Playboy’s Rock the Rabbit Party featuring the Heavy on Saturday May 3 at Mezzanine
With a sound that’s equal parts fierce ’70s soul, gritty vaudeville-esque theatrics and hip-hop-inspired beats, UK’s the Heavy are a unique to-to-miss show. Stick around at this Playboy sponsored party for DJs Omar and Vin Sol.
Yo Majesty and Does it Offend You, Yeah? on Saturday, May 3 at Slim’s
Feminism-fueled lady rap outfit Yo Majesty rip misogyny and male chauvinism to shreds with their powerful lyrics and electro-infused beats. Get there early for openers UK dance group Does it Offend You, Yeah? for Rapture-like handclap-heavy dance jams.
M83 on Saturday May 3 at the Great American Music Hall
French electronic group M83 makes dreamy, atmospheric music fit for one of Sofia Coppola’s visually tantalizing movies.
