SPOTLIGHT
Australia is known for its great rock ‘n’ roll bands, and The Hoodoo Gurus (above), who appear at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay on Sept. 27, are no exception. Formed in 1981, the band became worldwide favorites upon the release of their first album, “Stone Age Romeos,” establishing their brand of garage rock with classic tunes such as, “I Want You Back.” The Hoodoo Gurus recently released an excellent new album, “Chariot of the Gods,” but this tour will be a celebration of the 40th anniversary of that debut disc, with the album played in its entirety, plus a set of hits. For fans of the band, this tour is a dream come true, but anyone who enjoys their rock with equal parts melody and passion will love this show.
Hoodoo Gurus: Friday, Sept. 27 at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. 7 p.m. $67. humphreysconcerts.com.
RECOMMENDED
The La Jolla Art & Wine Fest, taking place Sept. 28-29, might as well add “& Music” to the name. The free event has a well-curated lineup of performers across both days, with everything from costumed tribute bands to opera on offer. Saturday kicks off with multiple SDMA winner, funk, and soul musician Jonny Tarr, and also features the likes of themed cover band, Gilligan’s Island, as well as the world’s most traveled dance group, Liquid Blue. Meanwhile, the San Diego Opera will perform on both days, with Sunday additionally showcasing the likes of premier West Coast jazz duo, Ride Share, and top dance band, The Platinum Beat. While the spotlight at this event is on wine and art, their terrific entertainment lineup also offers up something for just about every musical taste.
La Jolla Art & Wine Fest: Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 28-29, along Girard Avenue. 10 a.m. Free. ljawf.com.
The music of influential jazz pianist Bud Powell will be celebrated on the occasion of his 100th birthday on Sept. 27, with a special concert at the Baker Baum Hall. Considered to be the father of modern jazz piano technique, Powell’s influence on music is so broad, that most listeners don’t realize how different the modern musical landscape, across genres, would be without Powell. The night will feature performances from The Bill Mays Trio and solo piano works from Alan Broadbent, however, the night’s highlight will be a set from the Gilbert Castellanos Quintet featuring Joshua White, the latter a brilliant pianist, in the tradition of Powell.
An All-Star Bud Powell Centennial Celebration: Friday, Sept. 27 at The Baker Baum Concert Hall at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave. 7:30 p.m. $60-$125. theconrad.org.
The 25th Annual Pacific BeachFest takes place on Oct. 5 along the boardwalk, between Felspar Street and Thomas Avenue. It’s a family-friendly day of fun in the sun with plenty of activities for folks of all ages. Music will be one of the main focuses of the day, with highlights to include an appearance from the Mission Bay High School Preservationists and Mambo Orchestra. The event will be topped by San Diego-based reggae group, Roots Covenant. Reggae fans won’t want to miss their set, where they’ll be joined by special guest Brinsley Forde, frontman from acclaimed British reggae pioneers, Aswad.
Pacific BeachFest: Saturday, Oct. 5, on the boardwalk. 9 a.m. Free. pacificbeachfest.org.
One of the cornerstones of San Diego’s music community, Jeff Berkley, performs at the Athenaeum on Oct. 7 as part of the venue’s free lunchtime concert series. A gifted singer-songwriter-storyteller, Berkley’s Americana-tinged mix of folk, country, and rock earned him the 2023 Artist of the Year trophy from the San Diego Music Awards. Just the tip of the iceberg in accomplishments when it comes to Berkley. A serial collaborator, session musician, and one of the best producers in town, he’s had a major impact on the Southland’s music. Berkley’s latest album, “Tumbleweed,” is a welcome addition to his canon, but whatever part of his catalog he chooses from for this show, it’s full of gems.
Jeff Berkley: Monday, Oct. 7 at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, 1008 Wall St. Noon. Free. ljathenaeum.org.
Florida-based roots rocker JP Soars stops in at Humphrey’s Backstage Live on Oct. 7. Soars has been touring and recording for nearly two decades building a nationwide following with his blend of barroom blues and touches of funk. His original tunes are strong, however, it’s his lead guitar work that will impress the most, with fluid, improvised solos seemingly conjured up effortlessly. Currently touring in support of his new album, “Brick by Brick,” Soars songs such as “Something Ain’t Right,” about the plight of the homeless, are stadium ready, sounding like a mix of Santana and Led Zeppelin.
JP Soars: Monday, Oct. 7 at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. 6 p.m. $18-$29. humphreysbackstagelive.com.
Discussion about this post