Hi friends,
The ongoing “debate” about immigration, particularly when it relates to Africa, is sickening enough, if for no other reason than the humane and noble argument for America as a beacon for immigrants is so rarely articulated these days. Just to clear out all the noise and get me back on solid ground on this topic, I turn to Kenyan-born singer-songwriter J.S. Ondara and his almost painfully poignant song “God Bless America” (no, not that “God Bless America”). If you need to get galvanized, take a moment and soak in the tenderness of this truly spectacular song, in which the song’s title isn’t a prideful boast but a beseeching to a higher power. I can’t get enough of it.
Now, on with the show.
THIS JUST IN
Bookshop Santa Cruz is presenting a big-name author/TV star, but curiously, the event will not be in Santa Cruz County. Bookshop will host Nick Offerman on the occasion of his latest book, on Feb. 9 at the Golden State Theatre in downtown Monterey. Closer to home, Bookshop is also bringing in celebrated novelist Ann Packer on Jan. 20, and investigative journalist Ben Eden on Feb. 11, both at Bookshop in downtown Santa Cruz. The great ska band known as The English Beat returns to Felton Music Hall on Feb. 27. Jazz guitarist and composer Mary Halvorson is having a moment. She’ll visit Kuumbwa Jazz Center on April 2. Nick Hexum, better known as the frontman for hitmakers 311, performs at Felton Music Hall on Feb. 3. Jamie and Kellen Coffis return with their two-day mini-festival “Coffis Space” on March 21 and 22 at Moe’s Alley. And, yes, in case you’d been wondering, there is such a thing as a heavy metal mariachi band. They’re called Metalachi, and they’re coming to The Catalyst on March 20.
Be sure to check out Lookout’s carefully curated and constantly updated planning guide, Down the Line, for the staggering riches and amazing choices awaiting Santa Cruz audiences. It’s our look ahead at the best shows, concerts and events through the rest of the year at clubs, stages and venues all over the county.
CHECK THIS OUT
Best 9: Top events for the week ahead in Santa Cruz County arts & entertainment, Dec. 11-18
THIS WEEK IN A&E
Revved up and ready: The Chop Tops reunite for two final shows
Iconic local rockabilly trio The Chop Tops come to Moe’s Alley for sold-out shows Friday and Saturday. It’s the last stop on a small tour touting their reunion of sorts, but mostly their new album, “Fabrikate.”
What The Catalyst means to Santa Cruz’s music scene, its culture and its sense of itself
With The Catalyst in the news as the possible site of a new downtown housing development, maybe it’s time for a reminder of just how influential and central this performance venue has been to Santa Cruz’s musical subcultures.
‘A Christmas Carol’ highlights a busy holiday season in Santa Cruz County
The holiday season is in full swing, and Santa Cruz County is the stage for a number of performances, festivals and shows to celebrate.
That’s all I got, friends. Come at me with comments, ideas, complaints or thundering insights. Thanks to all Lookout members for your faith and support, and please, spread the word on what we’re doing.