Pop-punk band All Time Low has the recipe for infectious, upbeat songs down to a science. With the recent release of its third album, “Nothing Personal,” garnering the band praise from fans and critics alike, All Time Low has significantly ratcheted up its position in the music world.
Current MCASD exhibit display similar to an industrial forest of artwork
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is currently showcasing several pieces downtown from its permanent collection, which is focused on minimalist art in an exhibition titled “Primary Forms.” The focus of this exhibition is neat and obvious — minimalist sculptural pieces.
Canadian DJ, Deadmau5, spun the night away at House of Blues
Glow sticks and mouse ears appeared to be the accessories of choice at House of Blues in San Diego during Sunday night’s dazzling performance of progressive house music by world-class disc jockey, Deadmau5 (pronounced “dead mouse”) and his opening act, DJ Burns.
An auditory journey spanning years of punk rock was the featured item last Thursday night at House of Blues.
House of Blues was packed to the rafters at 8 p.m. on Monday for Regina Spektor’s sold-out show with openers Jupiter One. New and old fans alike united to hear this seasoned songstress take to the stage with an eclectic mix from her catalog of fantastic music.
San Diego State’s Autumn Poetry Reading features poets Brian Teare and Rae Armantrout from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday at Scripps Cottage. This event, free and open to the public, is sponsored not only by SDSU’s Poetry Society, but is also supported by Poetry International and the Hugh C. Hyde Living Writers Series.
Providence, R.I. is attempting to rebrand itself as the “creative capital.” With a surge of bands and record labels appearing in its local scene, it’s no wonder this college town is sculpting its arts and culture output.
How does a person properly prepare oneself to meet their parents for the first time?
This question, along with many others, is answered in the documentary, “Going Home.”
San Diego will receive plenty of 'Satisfaction' at 4th & B tomorrow
A taste of heaven will be spun with “hella” good electro-house music for 4th & B’s Halloween Heaven & Hell party featuring Benny Benassi tomorrow night. This event is bound to be a hot spot for the 21 and older crowd of electronic music enthusiasts who are looking for a freakishly memorable time.
Those who were lucky enough to catch the sold-out show at Belly Up Tavern last Wednesday were able to experience a rare and fulfilling night of live musical bliss. Contemporary indie pop-folk bands Beach House and Grizzly Bear made magic on the stage, creating a majestic vibe that transferred into the crowd.
Decade-spanning artist reaffirms his legacy during on-campus performance
Never has a concert been so “Smooth.” Rob Thomas’ performance last Wednesday night at San Diego State’s Open Air Theatre was just that, giving the crowd something to remember forever.
Band members include Jim James, Conor Oberst, M. Ward and Mike Mogis
Monsters of Folk, now touring the U.S., brings together the talents of Jim James, the singer of My Morning Jacket who also solos as Yim Yames; Conor Oberst, the former frontman of Bright Eyes; Mike Mogis, who was Oberst’s producer / mixer and now joins the group onstage in a very necessary way and M. Ward, who has released solo albums and has been Zooey Deschanel’s music partner in the band She & Him.
San Diego State’s recent play promises to “vacuum the dust off the meaning of love and family.” With a talented cast of 5 people, an amazing set and a gigantic yew tree, it does just that, with a few laughs along the way.
Lack of barbeque was the only ingredient missing from Smokin' in the Park event
“Bring on the barbecue” was the mindset for attendees at the fifth annual Smokin’ in the Park event, held at the Viejas Casino and Outlet Center this past Saturday. Sizzling heat, smoking sounds, cold beer and indulging in finger-licking barbecue was the set menu. Days of fasting prior to the event was probably the standard diet for barbecue enthusiasts, given one could indulge in some of the finer and more filling culinary this country has ever produced.
The sun, surf and sand of Byron Bay, Australia is now available at home courtesy of the band Parkway Drive.
Released in the U.S. on Sept. 22, the DVD “Parkway Drive” is an innovative addition to the ranks of band tour and live-set chronicles.
A British playboy in his 30s seducing a 16-year-old girl is hardly Hollywood's definition of a love story. But "An Education" hands off the relationship to a pair of actors that not only take the borderline-pedophilia outside of creepy Roman Polanski territory, but into a sweet, romantic tale of a bright schoolgirl's coming-of-age in 1961 England.
Like to whistle to lovely, catchy melodies? Do happy little beats get those feet tapping? If so, the name Regina Spektor should sound familiar. Die-hard fans of Spektor would already know that she is bringing her soulful, eclectic mix of pop sounds and vocal stylings to House of Blues NEXT Monday.
Midwest rap icon Tech N9ne returns to San Diego this Saturday where he will be performing at House of Blues. This will be the last of four California stops on his “K.O.D. Tour 2009,” which has consecutive U.S. dates scheduled through November. Known for his high-energy performances and elaborate set designs, the show should generate a large response.
Ghouls, vampires and superheroes alike came out en masse to honor the best of the past year’s film and television offerings in the categories of fantasy, science fiction, comics and horror at Spike TV’s 2009 Scream Awards.
The Daily Aztec: The film draws a lot of comparisons to “The Blair Witch Project,” stylistically was that your biggest influence?
Oren Peli: It was definitely an influence. “Blair Witch” is the most successful movie that employed this kind of style, the cinema variety mockumentary style, but I’ve been a fan of that even before since “Spinal Tap.” But “Blair Witch” definitely showed that if it’s done right with good acting and good writing and good editing, that type of movie can actually be very commercially successful.
Last Saturday’s concert started off with a bang.
While the spotlight dropped down on lead singer Tom Higgenson, audience members welcomed the rest of Plain White T’s as it opened with the song “Let Me Take You There.” The band had a full set including guitarists Dave Tirio, Tim G. Lopez and Higgenson, bassist Mike Retondo and drummer De’Mar Hamilton.
Adapted children's book pleases its young audience members
In Maurice Sendak’s beloved book “Where the Wild Things Are,” the ferocious beasts roar their terrible roars, gnash their terrible teeth, roll their terrible eyes and show their terrible claws. In Spike Jonze’s latest film adaptation, the wild things are misunderstood, moody creatures that are anything but terrible.
Electric pop energy was in full swing last Friday night at The Fall Ball ‘09 presented by AP Tour at the House of Blues in San Diego.
It’s not often a band that plays in the U.S. has its roots in the United Arab Emirates; let alone one that hails from the metalcore genre.
Perhaps the most misunderstood lyrics are “Nants ingonyama bagithi baba. Sithi uhm ingonyama. Siyo Nqoba, ingonyama. Ingonyama nengw’ enamabala.” These words are not gibberish but actually the African language Zulu for “Here comes a lion, Father. Oh yes, it’s a lion. We’re going to conquer, a lion and a leopard come to this open place.”
However, they may be more familiar than one might think: They are the opening lines to the Disney film “The Lion King.”
In 1996, a group of elementary school basketball players teamed up in Akron, Ohio. Within the next nine years, the team transitioned into high school players winning two state championships and, in their senior year, a national title. Now all in their mid-20s, the group is still friends. Oh, and one of those players is Cleveland Cavaliers perennial NBA All-Star, LeBron James.
“New York, I Love You,” the afterthought to French charmer, “Paris, je t’aime” (Paris, I Love You), may not be as promising as the title suggests.
Scottish sensation Snow Patrol will be playing at SDSU with Plain White T’s this Saturday.
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but they’re Rob Thomas’ best friend too. The singer’s latest hit “Her Diamonds,” off his newest record “Cradlesong,” will be showcased next Wednesday night at San Diego State’s at Open Air Theatre.
Times are always tough for college students. The constant struggle of finding events that offer an array of sights and sounds, without coughing up cash is almost extinct. Well, almost.
The fifth-annual Smokin’ in the Park barbecue is offering free admission to those willing to soak in the smell of great barbecue and the sounds of soulful music from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, at the Viejas Casino and Outlet Center in Alpine.
The line was wrapped around the building and yet kids just kept on coming, Seemingly in droves, San Diego music fans descended upon Soma on Sunday for what would truly be a night to remember.
If you’re interested in garage-pop with a retro-inspired rock ‘n’ roll flavor, then Locksley is the band for you. This fab four, heavily inspired by the original Fab Four, are comprised of Jesse Laz on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, his brother Jordan Laz on bass, Kai Kennedy on lead guitar and vocals, and Sam Bair on drums. On tour right now with Mae and playing with opening acts Good Morning Milo and Deas Vail, Locksley made a stop at local venue Soma for an impressive show.
Decade-spanning music heard by thousands at Viejas Arena
Pearl Jam’s 32-song marathon on Friday night at Viejas Arena was comparable to a railroad-raucous eccentricity, not unusual of its typical shows. This was demonstrated by classics such as “Corduroy,” “Even Flow” and “Yellow Leadbetter,” and also carried into new potent tracks, “Amongst the Waves,” “Got Some” and “The Fixer.”
Who knew vacuuming could be so funny? In San Diego State’s newest play “The Clean House,” doing chores takes on a whole new spin. The plot centers around a young Brazilian woman named Matilda, whose parents are the funniest people in the country.
'Paranormal Activity' wows viewers despite low budget
Every once in a while there comes one of those rare, original horror movies that actually lives up to its hype. Oren Peli’s directorial debut “Paranormal Activity” is one of those films.
Shot in his own home for less than $15,000 over a period of seven days, Peli inadvertently set a new standard for minimalist, micro-budget horror.
Midterms on the horizons do not do much to help with the stress levels students might be feeling these last few weeks. Whether it’s the declining economy or the weather change that is taking its toll, there are a few things that might cheer even the most humdrum souls.
Circling the musical wagons for more than 20 years, Pearl Jam (Eddie Vedder / guitar, vocals, Stone Gossard / guitar, Jeff Ament / bass, Mike McCready / guitar, Matt Cameron / drums and percussion) has built a remarkably consistent career in terms of quality, success and principles.
Duet uses recorded sound to produce a refreshing take on today's music
United Kingdom shoegaze duo The Big Pink recently released its debut album, “A Brief History of Love,” on Sept. 14 to much worldwide admiration and intrigue. The performing pair is Robbie Furze and Milo Cordell, who take the synthesized guitar-romp to a mature level with singles such as “Velvet,” “Dominos” and “Too Young To Love.”
Band's sophomore album continues trend of blazing riffs and vocals
For Texas-based metal band, The Destro, its years of relentless touring may have finally paid off.
San Diego got down with their bad selves with a medley of hip-hop artists
Canes Bar & Grill, located in Mission Beach next to Wave House and Belmont Park, was host to a variety of hip-hop acts last Saturday, all determined to keep the crowd partying into the night.
The Daily Aztec: How are you different from most directors?
Drew Barrymore: Well, one of the things I think is a little unorthodox is I don’t have a video village, which can be a place a lot of producers gather around and critique performances or shots. Or they all sort of get involved.
I have everyone stay far away from the actors and trust in our process. And I work right next to the camera, so when I’m working on a performance I’m able to say to the actor “Please do what you would do naturally. I don’t want to get in the way of your instincts.”
“Enjoy the little things” is the message of Columbia Pictures’ new horror-comedy “Zombieland.” Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), an unlikely young hero who lives by his own set of survival rules, introduces audiences to a world where nearly every human on earth has been infected with a zombie virus.
Despite a butt-kicking female cast, film falls short
“Bliss” is defined as a type of supreme happiness. In the new film “Whip It,” however, Bliss is a 17-year-old girl who is anything but happy.
The handmade craftsmanship of Robert Earl Keen’s songs comes from a tradition that is not common these days. Keen’s influences draw from the practitioners that surrounded his upbringing in his native state from country legend Bob Wills to one of the godfathers of slick blues, Lightnin’ Hopkins. Such broad yet unified cultures of music surrounding his residency has made Keen one of the more gifted songwriters to come from the Lone Star state in the ‘80s and ‘90s.
In continuation of San Diego State Associated Students’ free student events, Aztec Nights, a concert will be held on campus tomorrow.
The event will feature the mixed-reggae genre group, Pepper, hailing from Kailua Kona, Hawaii. The mellow-toned trio is currently moving its way through the U.S. on a tour from California to New York.
Architects (UK) and Bring Me The Horizon talk with The Daily Aztec
The United Kingdom has churned out some memorable musicians. From the smooth rock ‘n’ roll of The Beatles in the ‘60s to the piano-driven sounds of Coldplay at the cusp of the new millennium, the small cluster of water-logged land has provided the world with some serious auditory pleasure.
The Daily Aztec gets chatty about San Diego State's new play "Dear Harvey"
Any child can talk about the greats: Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, to name a few. But what about those who changed lives and didn’t make the history books?
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay political candidate, is one such person. Although he was as much an activist as any other famous political figure, what he fought for was more forbidden. His battle for gay rights and AIDS awareness may have been one of the first, but it was not the last. Now, the lives he changed and people he impacted can be seen in San Diego State’s latest play “Dear Harvey.” Recently, The Daily Aztec was able to sit down with actor Derek Smith for an interview.
Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel is one of the most renowned fashion influences of the last century, building an empire of clothing, accessory, shoe and perfume that continues to be idolized worldwide.
Photography is a powerful medium in which the art of storytelling is taken to another level, where nonfiction can be turned into fiction, and a real-world image can be bent to the photographer’s intent and perspective. Balboa Park’s Museum of Photographic Arts “Picturing the Process: The Photograph as Witness” explores the photographer’s purpose for making their art.
Corn is in everything: syrup, cereal and even pet food. It’s the most grown crop worldwide and no one knows as much about corn than Mark Whitacre (Matt Damon), the main character in director Steven Soderbergh’s newest movie “The Informant!” This movie’s dry humor, eclectic cast of characters and caper film (comical-crime subgenre) structure makes “The Informant!” a unique and entertaining film for all audiences.
Viejas Arena, formerly known as Cox Arena, is no stranger to big names in music. Rock legends such as Metallica and Aerosmith have graced its stage and in early October of this year, even Pearl Jam will rock Viejas’ roof.
The year of 1997 got off to a less-than interesting start, especially with the results of Super Bowl XXXI and President Bill Clinton’s second term in office. Yet, lo and behold, when June rolled around things would get a little bit better.
With film, television, music, sports, theater, dogs, cats and race awards, Hollywood seems to roll a new awards show on television every Sunday night.
Oh, did “race” sneak in there? That’s referring to “The Racial Draft,” a skit featured on “Chappelle’s Show,” an awards-style parody (complete with winners and acceptance speeches) that provided much more entertainment than last week’s tiring MTV Video Music Awards.
This past Sunday gave us couch potatoes yet another awards show to tune into when television spent a night celebrating ... itself?
Welcome, The Entrance Band. Finally, a contemporary band that embodies the aural soul so many talented musicians in the ‘70s possessed.
Kanye West’s ego has given him so much arrogance it often explodes out of his personality, causing numerous MTV Video Music Awards tantrums. His 2007 backstage blow up came first and his latest outburst, degrading country music star Taylor Swift on stage this past Sunday, are prime examples. And both are currently available for your YouTube pleasure.
Sony film portrays a town that gets edibly stormed in by a barrage of tasty foods
In the mood for a big, juicy cheeseburger? How about some steamy macaroni and cheese? In the small town of Swallow Falls in Sony Pictures Animation’s newest film “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs,” a person’s greatest craving may just fall from the sky. Never has a movie been more mouth- watering.
Balboa Park is home to many museums and has plenty to offer any San Diego local looking for a new gallery to visit. Unique among these galleries, however, is the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, which provides a hands-on experience with science and boasts Southern California’s only IMAX theater. Currently, the IMAX theater is showing three different films: “Adventures in Wild California,” “Under the Sea” and “Bugs!” each showing an average of three times a day.
Two awards ceremonies of note occurred last weekend. The 19th Annual San Diego Music Awards occurred on Thursday in Alpine, hosting not only an array of local musicians but also non-performing music industry dignitaries. The 2009 MTV Video Music Awards aired live on Sunday night in New York City to many more high-profile celebrities and much more low-class drama. Sure, it would have been nice to see a bleeding Lady Gaga perform while sitting next to Lauren Conrad, but here are some reasons why attending the SDMAs was far more worthwhile.
Eye-catching lights and soaring sounds from an unbeatable music troupe recreates one of the most memorable acts from the ‘60s: Pink Floyd. Since its 1988 formation in Adelaide, Australia, The Australian Pink Floyd Show proves it has other things in mind than just throwing another shrimp on the barbie. Among the sea of tribute bands, TAPFS proves again and again that its talent is unparalleled and continues to draw attention to tribute show enthusiasts worldwide. The members even managed to impress David Gilmour, original Pink Floyd guitarist and vocalist, enough to hire TAPFS to perform at his 50th birthday party.
San Diego-based band We Shot the Moon is primed and ready to ride the success its new album, “A Silver Lining,” promises to provide.
Taking Back Sunday attempts to lay claim to a new sound in its latest album “New Again.” In the three-year gap between “New Again” and its 2006 album “Louder Now,” new lead guitarist Matt Fazzi shifted the band’s approach toward its lyrics and musical composition to a more mainstream direction, which can be easily detected in its song titled “New Again.”
Soma San Diego usually hosts the youthful angst of our society, teens crammed together in the cement box of a venue. The all-ages musical haven was packed on Friday night — but there was a wider range of ages and styles found in attendance.
Recent film teems with anecdotes and history on three generations of epic rock guitarists
It’s rare that a documentary focuses on its subjects long enough for the audience to truly connect, but the recently released “It Might Get Loud” does just that, with the subjects being three generations of rock royalty in Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), The Edge (U2) and Jack White (The White Stripes).
While the sun was going down and struggling to set, I steadily made my way to the Fulano Stage for Band of Horses, a band I’ve never seen before. But rumors of country twang and clever harmony always keep my curiosity pumping.
It wouldn’t be a musical Pu Pu platter without a splash of electronic spice to Street Scene.
Take one part lounge music, one part electronic beats, one part political consciousness and a thick spoonful of international flair and you have Washington D.C.-based DJ duo Thievery Corporation. As one of the last acts on the second day of Street Scene, many people were tired. They were tired from the heat and tired of hearing similar-sounding bands play again and again. And this was just the right stage for them.
If you don’t know Donald Glaude, you don’t know entertainment. This dreadlocked DJ was probably Friday night’s MVP, creating quite the stir on the Casbah Stage at Street Scene 2009. While he may be better known for his onstage antics than his musical abilities, Glaude puts on a show as interactive as performance gods Freddie Mercury and Mick Jagger.
A super-group like none other, The Dead Weather blends blues and rock perfectly
An unquestionable highlight of this year’s Street Scene was the performance of Jack White’s recent project, The Dead Weather. Gracing one of the headliner stages at 8:35 p.m. on Saturday night, guests of this music festival were treated with the raw sounds of the Tennessee-based band. Starting off the set was “60 Feet Tall,” track one off its debut album, “Horehound,” which proved this fresh band is a force to be reckoned with.
Singer-songwriter made a soothing appearance Friday
Venezuelan-raised Devendra Banhart is one of the artists connected to the New Weird America musical genre, as well as a variety of folk styles. Despite his quirkiness, he may be best remembered for dating Natalie Portman, who even gave quite the performance in one of his music videos.
Four guys. Guitar, bass, keyboards, drums. Such a simple equation has been taken by Nebraskan natives The Faint and electronically warped into a unique indie rock sound unlike any band. It’s hard to believe from the rock-out performance at day two of Street Scene, that Bright Eyes’ Conor Oberst was once a member of this band.
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