Last week scientists, legal experts and advocacy groups from more than 20 countries attended a global summit on genetic engineering in New York City to establish a set of guidelines that would cover the use of gene-editing in humans. While the assembly acknowledged that gene-editing in humans has opened up vast possibilities in medical research, it drew the line at using it for reproductive purposes. So fire up that Gene Machine you have gathering dust in the garage and invite over that one weird friend who “doesn’t really like live music” and perform some at-home gene splicing before heading out to one of these amazing live shows happening this week in Santa Cruz.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9
Junior Toots & The Fyah Squad Band CD release party at Moe’s Alley
If you like reggae, there is no better place to see your favorite artists than at Moe’s Alley. This week, Moe’s welcomes Junior Toots (son of reggae royalty, Toots Hibbert of Toots and the Maytals) and his band. Junior got into music at a young age and after practicing and touring with his father’s band for many years, he set off on a solo career. While he performs, Junior transitions from rap to singing with ease as he works the crowd into a frenzy. Wednesday’s show celebrates the release of his latest album, Guidance Star, with special guests King Hopeton, Kurrency, and Irae Divine. 9 p.m. Tickets: $12.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11
John Brown’s Body at The Catalyst Club
If you like your reggae a little more on the modern side, then The Cat has got you covered. John Brown’s Body bring their unique “future roots” style to town this week. The band has been called “more Massive Attack than Marley,” an astute description of their progressive, synth-heavy, almost dystopian style of reggae. They will be joined by Los Angeles-based roots reggae all-stars, The Expanders. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12/$15.
The Brave Kind are a fun and heartfelt rock and folk band hailing from Ventura, Calif. Fronted by sisters Megan and Laura Sexton, the band consists of seven total members who play an assortment of instruments including piano, drums, Hammond Organ and an upright bass. The wide range of instruments produce deep and layered melodies, which are intensified by Megan and Laura’s beautifully haunting vocals. Mimi Gilbert opens. 8 p.m. Free.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13
The Doubleclicks at The Crepe Place
As Ogre from Alpha Betas would say, NERDS! With their quirky and charming geek ballads, The Doubleclicks have taken the Internet world captive with their songs about Dungeons and Dragons, dinosaurs, and super villains. Their 2013 album Lasers and Feelings charted in the Top 10 Billboard Comedy chart. For a one-of-a-kind experience, come nerd out with us. Sammus opens. 9 p.m. Tickets: $10 at the door.
Contact Sam at [email protected]. Pictured: John Brown’s Body via Facebook
