The musical forecast this week: A little bit of everything, with some big names visiting our little beach town to perform in some intimate settings. Start off your week with a groovy, mellow vibe and end it wild and sweaty.
Monday, February 15
Matisyahu at The Catalyst Club Atrium
Long before “King Without a Crown” was No. 1 in the charts and “Live at Stubbs” was charting as a gold album, Matisyahu was a fixture of the East Coast improvisational and jam band community. While some of this style may have fallen by the wayside on his path to the top, his new project takes him back to his roots. His new work features an incredible lineup of talented musicians and old friends, including original Stubbs guitarist and staple of the downtown New York improv scene Aaron Dugan, Dub Trio bassist and frequent Matisyahu collaborator Stu Brooks, percussionist and Cyro Baptista go-to-drummer Tim Keiper, and Addison Groove Project founder Rob Marscher. Tickets $25 adv/$20 at the door
Tuesday, February 16
Lisa Fischer and Grand Baton at the Rio Theatre
Lisa Fischer’s career is as illustrious as her amazing voice. She has been singing backup for the Rolling Stones since 1989, and her vocal prowess garnered a solo performance during their set. She’s also worked with Luther Vandross, Tina Turner, Chaka Khan and Nine inch Nails, and was a featured artist in the Oscar-winning documentary Twenty Feet from Stardom. Now, Fischer is taking front and center with her innovative new band, Grand Baton. Come see this show-stopping delight. Tickets $35
Thursday, February 18
Euphoric Presents at Moe’s Alley
Once again Euphoric Styles has brought some heavy electronic hitters to Santa Cruz for a night lovers of all things bass won’t soon forget. The night features performances from Texas electronic legend Govinda, Psymbionic, KR3TURE, and our own hometown hero The Big Delight. Grab your tickets early and bring your dancing shoes, this one is gonna get wild. Tickets $12 adv/$16 at the door
Friday February 19
Local Showcase at The Blue Lagoon
As usual, if you’re looking for something local with a little extra bang for your buck, The Blue Lagoon has got you covered. This week they have four of Santa Cruz’s weirdest, loudest, and most entertaining groups hungry for a little more of that Friday night downtown spotlight. Beach Fuzz, Mountain Tamer, Supernaut, and Solar Glory will be on stage doing things loudly for your pleasure, and all for only 500 cents. Tickets $5 at the door
Friday, February 19
DIO Fest Showcase at The Crepe Place
Do It Ourselves Festival is an awesome local grassroots music and arts festival featuring some of the most talented musicians and artists in the Bay Area. In order to give you a little taste of what is in store at their 2016 event (coming April 29-May1), DIO Fest is taking over The Crepe Place along with two bands on the 2016 lineup—Scary Little Friends and Sky Country. Come on down and support the people dedicated to bringing you more cool stuff to watch and look at. Tickets $8
