The good vibrations of summer are here in full force, and even the names of the bands playing this week are getting in the mood. Get out there and see some shows—it’s a bright week for music. And best of all, the price of admission for our picks this week ranges from free to less than $10.
Thursday, June 30
Paradise Soul Savers at The Crepe Place
The Crepe Place has long been known as a tastemaker venue in Santa Cruz, and their new menu item for the summer is The Paradise Soul Savers, who will be in residence this month and playing every Thursday in July. These sultry old-school crooners bring back fond memories of Motown with their southern style and down-home vibes. Known for epic ten-minute long jam ballads and for playing the crowd almost as well as their instruments, we’re pretty sure they won’t leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Show at 9pm. $5 at the door
Saturday, July 2
Solar Glory at The Blue Lagoon
These instrumental ambient sound rockers follow in the footsteps of bands like Explosions in The Sky and Boards of Canada. Solar Glory describes themselves as a “Kosmische Gamelan Rock group bearing powers of black magic from deep space. From horrific explorations of the id to textural contemplations at the endless wonder of the cosmos to unabashedly celebratory, epic riffs—accompanied by an intense projector light show.” Black magic and light shows? Count us in.
Show at 9pm. $5 at the door
Saturday, July 2
The Path To Northern Nights at The Catalyst Main Stage
In celebration of Northern Nights Music Festival, Euphoric Styles and The Catalyst are putting on a free show featuring some of the most talented artists performing at the festival. The night is a cutting edge electronic extravaganza featuring Lafa Taylor, Trevor Kelly, Tiger Fresh, and AB CLU, and all are donating their musical efforts strictly in return for some of your ear time. If you don’t have time for festivals this season, get a little taste of the experience here.
Show 8pm. Free
Sunday, July 3
Soul Majestic and Pacific Vibration at Moe’s Alley
Soul Majestic and Pacific Vibration are a reggae powerhouse tag team. Both bands are on a “California Dreamin” tour and have been tearing up the California coastline all summer. Soul Majestic actually got their start on college radio here in Santa Cruz and have gone on to enjoy fifteen years playing on stages and airwaves all over the US and Canada. Pacific Vibration has roots in the Santa Cruz Mountains but is based in San Francisco, but this ukelele playing Hawaiian-tinged reggae group has spread their message all over the continental US. If you’re a reggae fan, this night is all but unmissable.
Show at 9pm. $9 in advance/$12 at the door
