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André Jaquez on October 5, 2017
Buyepongo’s infectious pan-Latin sound takes the traditional Afro-caribbean beat of Belize and Guatemala to L.A. for a funky makeover. When Edgar “Meshlee” Modesto, the group’s founding member, had the opportunity to visit Central America, he discovered a new direction for Buyepongo and was enlightened by the rhythm of Garifuna culture. The buyangú…
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The Bay Area’s best BYOB festival returns for its 17th year with another eclectic lineup that pairs celebrated Americana songwriters with a handful of acts that put the “Hardly” in Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. More than 90 performers and upwards of 700,000 attendees will cycle through Golden Gate Park for the three-day festival,…
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One of my earliest musical memories isn’t so much a recollection as it is inherited wisdom. I have no clear memory of this, but I am told that as a toddler I would bounce around the house singing the chorus from “I Won’t Back Down.” “You can stand me up at the…
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Living close to work is often great for reducing stress. But for UC Santa Cruz earth sciences professor Gary Griggs, it’s a bit of a blessing and a curse. His commute is easy, but getting a front-row seat to the degradation of California’s coasts and rising sea levels is alarming. He documents…
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While many across Silicon Valley and the world are celebrating Oktoberfest with German beers and Bavarian brats, San Jose’s Little Italy district is gearing up for a celebration of pasta, wine and everything else that makes Mediterranean living so fine. The second annual Little Italy Street Festival takes over the short but culturally…
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Satvir Saini on September 29, 2017
There is no such thing as too much salsa. Whether it’s the shimmying rhythm of the musical style, the hip-swivelling steps of the Latin dance or the tangy, tongue-torching tastes of the traditional taco topping, it seems everything can benefit from a little spice. The Salsa Festival returns to downtown Redwood City…
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Satvir Saini on September 29, 2017
Ein Bier bitte! Oktoberfest has arrived, and Silicon Valley is celebrating. Last weekend marked Redwood City’s annual beer bash, and this week it is Mountain View’s turn. The annual event closes out the final days of September at Steins Beer Garden, with musical performances by The Alpiners USA, SF German Band and…
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The Legacy of Bhangra annual dance competition celebrates the rich culture and history of a traditional form of Indian dance and music that originated in the Punjab region of the subcontinent. Those unfamiliar with the Bhangra may expect dynamic and energetic choreography that include props, vibrant garments and coordinated rhythmic movements. The…
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André Jaquez on September 28, 2017
Known for his unique to Chicago house music, DJ Mark Farina is one of San Francisco’s premier selectors. Since 1989, Farina has continually evolved his sound—which he calls “mushroom jazz”—a toe-tapping, downtempo, fusion of acid jazz and deep house. Originally released on cassettes in 1992, the Mushroom Jazz series has grown to…
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Bill Kopp on September 27, 2017
Oscar Hernandez already had a long-established career and sterling reputation as a musician and arranger when he got a call from Aaron Levinson in 2000. The producer had an idea for a new project, and he was sure Hernandez was the right person to bring the idea to life.
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