San Diego CityBeat • Aug 3, 2016 by San Diego CityBeat

2 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

#SDCityBeat

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 3

UP FRONT | FROM THE EDITOR

San Diego: Like Bosa, be wary of Chargers

Y WONDERFUL NEW WIFE had never heard of Joey Bosa. “Is he the downtown condo guy?” she sweetly guessed. No, that’s Nat Bosa, the high-rise developer building Pacific Gate, where the low-end units start at $1.2 million. Soon, Joey Bosa may be able to make a down payment in cash on a Pacific Gate condo. But for now, the San Diego Chargers’ top draft pick is going head-to-head with the team over who pays what and when. Sound familiar, San Diego? The headline last week on sportingnews.com was, “Joey Bosa vs. Chargers a case of mutually assured dysfunction.” Sports diehards know this refers to a contract dispute with a top player who remains unsigned even though training camp started over the past weekend. If such news is outside your regular radar, consider honing in for a moment. It’s not hard to make the connection that the way Dean Spanos’ ownership team approaches a financial deal with a potential marquee employee is not far afield from how it would hardball the city (i.e., taxpayers) if a proposed new stadium deal gets voter approval this November. Any shade of lipstick you put on this pigskin predicament with Bosa makes the Chargers look shamelessly stubborn and Scrooge-ishly cheap. Is that the stuff of a trusted partner who deserves a billion-dollar public handout for a new stadium? “…it is no secret around the league that the Chargers prudently manage their cash flow.” That’s how unabashed stadium supporter and San Diego UnionTribune sports columnist Kevin Acee recently described the team’s historical approach to business dealings and its current impasse with Bosa. In a nutshell, here’s what has happened with the team and the Ohio State University defensive end. The Chargers picked him third overall in the college draft. He was offered a four-year contract and a $17-million signing bonus. Boo-hoo, right? Well, the former Buckeye and the Chargers disagree on two aspects of the contract. One is “offset language,” which refers to who compensates a player if he is released by a team and resigns with another one before his rookie contract is up. The second issue is

about when the signing bonus gets paid. Bosa wants it ASAP. The team wants to pay the bonus in an installment plan. Doing that could save the Chargers a couple hundred thousand dollars. (Google the phrase “penny wise and pound foolish” and don’t be surprised if the Bolts logo pops up.) Fact is, the NFL has guidelines for rookie contracts. And the Chargers are approaching this negotiation outside the norm, according to Mike Florio of Profootballtalk.com. He reports that 16 of 20 of top-five picks from 201215 received either no offset language or no deferral of signing bonus. Various reports say the Chargers want Bosa to suck it up and take both, and that since back in May, Bosa’s agent has asked for just one or the other (like most NFL teams agree to). This year, Bosa is now the only first-round draft Joey Bosa pick—among all NFL teams—who has not signed a contract for the upcoming season. Later this year, the Chargers want the citizens of San Diego to go to the polls and vote to raise the local hotel occupancy tax by 4 percent to raise one billion dollars to help pay for a new downtown stadium. Can those who would vote for the Chargers Initiative look at the Bosa negotiation and expect that if this stadium deal miraculously passes the team won’t nickel and dime the city at every turn and try to pass on covering any potential cost overrun? Unvarnished, the team is stubborn and cheap. Even a fanatic would say the Chargers “prudently manage their cash flow.” National sports experts call the team financially “dysfunctional.” Team Spanos would be well served at the ballot box by putting a winning team on the field. By all reports, Bosa could be a big step in that direction. But the local team has a history of doing financial deals “The Charger Way,” and that means keeping a tight fist on its wallet with one hand while the other is stuck forward with palm facing upward and open wide. Vote to give this team a billion dollars and it’ll find reasons to keep squeezing taxpayers for even more. Joey Bosa is the latest example of The Charger Way.

—Ron Donoho

Write to rond@sdcitybeat.com

This issue of CityBeat also keeps a copy of the U.S. Constitution inside its breast pocket.

Volume 14 • Issue 52 EDITOR Ron Donoho MUSIC EDITOR Jeff Terich ARTS EDITOR Seth Combs WEB EDITOR Ryan Bradford ART DIRECTOR Carolyn Ramos STAFF WRITER Torrey Bailey COLUMNISTS Aaryn Belfer, Edwin Decker, Minda Honey, John R. Lamb, Alex Zaragoza

CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Baldwin, David L. Coddon, Beth Demmon, Andrew Dyer, Tiffany Fox, Michael A. Gardiner, Glenn Heath Jr., Peter Holslin, Jessica Johnson, Scott McDonald, Sebastian Montes, Jenny Montgomery, Susan Myrland, Michelle Poveda, Jim Ruland, Ben Salmon, Tom Siebert, Jen Van Tieghem, Amy Wallen EDITORIAL INTERNS Duncan Moore, Chloe Salsameda

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jason Noble ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Beau Odom Mark Schreiber Jenny Tormey ACCOUNTING Kacie Cobian, Sharon Huie Linda Lam HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea Baker VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Kacie Sturek

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4 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

#SDCityBeat

TABLE OF CONTENTS UP FRONT From the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Letters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Spin Cycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

FOOD & DRINK The World Fare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Dishing It Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Final Draught. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

THINGS TO DO Short List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . 11-12

ARTS & CULTURE Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 FEATURE: University Heights. . . . . . . . 15-18 Well, That Was Awkward . . . . 20 Seen Local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Films . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

MUSIC FEATURE: Touche Amore . . . . 24 Notes from the Smoking Patio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 If I Were U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Concerts & Clubs. . . . . . . . . 27-29

LAST WORDS Advice Goddess. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

ON THE

COVER

UP FRONT | LETTERS

A WRONG TURN

I am so amazingly disappointed in the [July 20] Backwards and in High Heels column, “Driving with Philando Castile.” I completely understand the desire to have shocking articles in the interest of selling advertising. I am disappointed that this article was allowed to use social consciousness as an excuse for terrible journalism and complete disrespect toward law abiding San Diegans as well as our police force. The only privilege that was apparent was the privilege of being an employed journalist. I feel this privilege was wasted by your writer—in an attempt to make her social mark. The inference that police officers are unintelligent because in some parts of the country a GED is the minimum required education is outlandish. When you are so confident to advertise your trade as a professional writer and are permitted to use “amirite” and “that scares the fuck out of me, and that’s not alright,” as your intelligent thoughts, I lose respect for the point. CityBeat would do better having #Googleeditor check their articles in the future. This would allow the writers to have free range of their ideas and use of their friends as their most relevant sources, and continue to allow the readers to believe they are just reading a witty Instagram post and should not consider it seriously. You should both be grateful for the privilege of writing (most likely viewed as another white privilege). Don’t waste it trying to make it your responsibility to only write issues that are correct to yourselves. Thank you for your time.

Bob Howell, North Park

BAD FOR THE BARRIO

This week our monthly Neighborhood Watch coverage, anchored by staff writer Torrey Bailey, focuses on University Heights. The boundaries of this eclectic hood are oft debated, but one thing is for sure—there’s an unusual connection here to a certain flightless bird. Posing for the cover photo (snapped by Bailey) is local colorful character Shantih Beeman; turn to page 16 to read about the unofficial mayor, and why ostriches are historically revered in University Heights.

#SDCityBeat

This is bad news for Barrio Logan residents [“What’s the Good word,” July 27]. Now the Neil Good Day Center will be across the street (Commercial) from the Barrio Logan border, pushing the effects of homelessness (and the city’s lack of mitigation of the effects) into a residential community. The mini skid row tent city that has popped up on the sidewalks on National Ave. between Commercial and 16th will grow exponentially. Once again Barrio Logan residents and small businesses here have to deal with an issue that is not of our making. And I have no faith in the city to help mitigate the problems that arise from people living on the sidewalks, parks, and alleys of my barrio.

Brent Beltran, Via sdcitybeat.com

HOMELESS FRONT LINES

Excellent editorials in your July 13 issue, including “Murdering San Diego’s homeless people” and “Our perception of homeless people is part of their downfall,” both better than I could write on those two topics. As for Cathy Ostrom’s letter, “The Homeless Issues,” she obviously does not understand the homeless situation, which is true of most people. Since I believe the press is an essential part of conquering homelessness, I thank CityBeat for being on the front lines.

Dr. John Kitchin Publisher, San Diego Homeless News

THE EYES HAVE IT

Lizz Huerta, your eyes are beautiful, with or without modified eyebrows [“Of brows and blades,” July 27]. As a man, I’ll tell you a secret. As far as looks are concerned, the kind of man worth your interest cares about one thing besides sex. That thing is being warm and kind. Listen when he talks, looking right in his eyes. If he says something that touches and moves you or amuses you, give him a sincere smile. He will be yours. Of course be clean and thoughtfully dressed and made up. He won’t notice any of those details, but he will fall into those deep soulful eyes like I did with my wife 51 years ago. Buena suerte!

Wings_42, Via sdcitybeat.com

WE WANT FEEDBACK Did you read a story in San Diego CityBeat that made you vomit a little bit in the back of your mouth, or caused you to laugh so hard you pulled a groin muscle? If something inspires you to send us your two cents we welcome all letters that respond to news stories, opinion pieces or reviews that have run in these pages. We don’t accept unsolicited op-ed letters. Email letters to editor Ron Donoho at rond@sdcitybeat. com, or mail to 3047 University Ave., Suite 202, San Diego, CA 92104. For letters to be considered for publication you must include your first and last name and the part of town where you reside. Note: All comments left on stories at sdcitybeat.com will also be considered for publication.

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 5

UP FRONT | OPINION

SPIN

CYCLE

JOHN R. LAMB

Former mayor and Chargers honcho feel the convadium love I cannot live under pressures from patrons, let alone paint.

—Michelangelo

he only thing missing was the cheesy ’70s porno soundtrack. Bow-chicka-bow-wow. “Ohhh Dean, you’re a man who needs no introduction!” Wakka-chickawakka-chicka. “Oooo Jerry, once a leader, always a leader! Yes, yessss, YES!” Bom-chicka-wah-wah…. Spin Cycle teases somewhat, but if only San Diego could bottle the gushing goodwill shared last week by San Diego Chargers Chairman Dean Spanos and San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce big cheese Jerry Sanders when the former mayor announced that his influential organization would back the team’s stadium/convention-center annex

ballot measure come November. Conspicuously missing from the Friday press conference was Mayor Indecision himself, Kevin Faulconer, who was reportedly out of town. His office did not say where when asked, but he issued a flaccid statement that “we are looking forward to additional analysis and information that is coming that will give greater clarity on the project’s finances and, ultimately, whether this is a fair deal for taxpayers.” The chamber, which boasts on its website that it “spearheaded” Faulconer’s 2014 mayoral campaign, was immediately excoriated by downtown stadium foes. April Boling, a Republican stalwart and former chairwoman of the San Diego Convention Center, blasted the endorsement as a decision “based on a relationship, not

6 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

a policy discussion…Dean Spanos is important to the Chamber and that, unfortunately, was more important than good public policy.” Indeed, A.G. Spanos, Dean’s son, sits on the chamber’s board of directors, but Margie Newman, a chamber member who helped wade through the Chargers’ complicated ballot language and spoke at Thursday’s press conference, insisted that the decision was made “after an extensive number of hours of policy discussions and analysis.” She said the ad hoc committee she was a part of initially had their doubts about the measure, which would raise the city’s hotel tax from 12.5 percent to 16.5 percent and dedicate the lion’s share of the increase toward construction of a stadium/convention-center facility in East Village. “There were several people on the committee, myself included, who were quite skeptical of this deal,” Newman said in an interview Monday, “and then over time and as we really dove in we realized that it’s in the best interest of San Diego commerce.” At the press conference, Sanders alluded to concerns that remain about the initiative. “No ballot is ever perfect,” he said, adding that “considerations” the team should address include the “long-

JOHN R. LAMB

term security of the Tourism Marketing District,” “absolute protection” of the city’s General Fund, and downtown parking and infrastructure needs. The Tourism Marketing District is currently collecting 2 percent of that 12.5 percent—roughly $30 million a year—that hoteliers approved Mayor Faulconer: “Hey, Jerry and Dean, in 2008 and was I might cut in after further analysis...” extended in 2012 for 40 years by the few blocks away, and some East San Diego City Council. That as- Villagers are crying foul over their sessment has been challenged in preferred vision of a job-driving court by activist attorney Cory innovation district. Briggs and is likely not long for Spanos, however, seems to this world. have his game face on, noting The ballot language in the last week, “It’s a long, hard road Chargers’ Initiative—similar to ahead of us, and we’re up for the a competing measure in Novem- challenge. We’re committed to get ber known as the Citizens’ Plan, this thing approved, and we’re gochampioned by Briggs—would ing to do it.” eliminate that 2 percent surcharge. Toward that end, the team has But the team’s measure would im- hired a formidable campaign field mediately dedicate 1 percent of the general, former Rick Perry devotee hotel-tax increase to a tourism- Dave Carney, a behemoth of a New marketing fund and make up the Hampshirite known for his nearremainder, with fingers crossed, religious belief in voter analytics. through robust cash flow. Carney, a long-time RepubliWhatever monies remain can operative, rose from political would trickle into the city’s Gen- operations in the George H.W. eral Fund—although skeptics Bush White House to becoming wonder if there will be any left, Newt Gingrich’s top political adconsidering that Sanders has viser during his 2012 presidential noted that the hotel-tax increase, run before jumping on the Perry once the Chargers complex is bandwagon and gaining him nacomplete, could be used to fi- tional attention. nance a long-desired expansion of Known for an unconventhe downtown convention center. tional style, Carney turned GOP In contrast, the Citizens’ heads when he hired Yale politiPlan—which would boost the ho- cal scientists to study campaign tel tax to 15.5 percent—directs methods while working for Perall of the increase to the General ry—they became known as the Fund and creates voluntary path- “eggheads.” His White House ofways to finance a host of endeav- fice was adorned with a pinball ors, with the exception of paying machine and “toy airplanes and for a new Chargers stadium unless Happy Meal trinkets,” according voters later agreed to it. A cham- to author Sasha Issenberg in her ber spokesperson said the organi- 2012 book, The Victory Lab. zation has not yet taken a formal In the book, Carney said that position on the Citizens’ Plan. rather than “being a good team Sanders claimed the Chargers player,” he’s learned that “it’s betmeasure would create an esti- ter to be a loud, obnoxious permated 7,000 permanent jobs and son,” admitting he once punched 15,000 construction-related posi- a hole in a wall after Perry nixed a tions, the latter having drawn the negative ad campaign. support of the county’s San Diego But he also noted that he cares Building and Construction Trades more about results than effort, Council. colorfully explaining that “if a guy Polling suggests that the Char- can create his TV ads sleeping in gers face a tough challenge con- his boxer shorts in his mother’s vincing voters to throw so much basement, I don’t give a shit—I money—$1 billion by some es- just want to win.” timates—at a downtown bauble Sanders—known for the occawhile the city’s roads and side- sional profanity—likely couldn’t be walks continue to crumble and happier. Bow-chicka-bow-wow… 911 calls languish. Barrio Logan residents fear accelerated gentri- Spin Cycle appears every week. fication in their neighborhood a Write to johnl@sdcitybeat.com.

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UP FRONT | FOOD

BY MICHAEL A. GARDINER

THE WORLD

Conversely, the chicken meatballs—for which I had low expectations—were wonderful. They were surprisingly savory for chicken balls yet paired well with all of the sauces and cheeses. It’s hard to be a meatball when you’re not meat, as the quinoa discovered. The “meatball” Modular meatballs at Soda & Swine though, name suggested texture the quinoa simply could not deliver. But accepted on its own terms the quihoose one from Column A and two from noa ball was tasty and worked well with different Column B.” If that sounds familiar to you it sauces and cheese. probably means you spent some time in a My favorite meatball dish was the chicken, quiMid-century American-Chinese restaurant, and noa and beef skillet with the marinara sauce and moo goo gai pan may hold a special place in your mozzarella. At one level it was a classic Italian comheart. But just as Chinese restaurants in America bination: meatballs, marinara and cheese. Of course have gone far beyond those old clichés, modular it worked, but ordering it in a skillet of different ordering has gone far beyond the Chinese restau- kinds of balls lent the old trick some new flair. Each rant. Soda & Swine (2943 Adams Ave.) in Univer- ball said different things and each said them well. sity Heights is an excellent example of what can But why call smoked pork with Siracha aioli go right and wrong with that approach. a “banh mi?” Just because of the pickled vegetables? It didn’t taste like a MICHAEL A. GARDINER banh mi, didn’t look like one and the smoked pork meatballs beat everything else into submission. Scotch eggs are deepfried sausage-wrapped hardboiled eggs. Soda & Swine swaps mild pork sausage for chorizo and pairs it with a mustard aioli. I could eat those all day. The Scotch eggs are the best dishes in the place. Indeed, the sides shine. The pickled vegetables of the Smoked pork, beef and chicken meatballs in chipotle bbq giardiniera cut through the weight and fat of the meatballs and cheese. The fish sauce makes the fried Soda & Swine is all about the meatballs: beef, Brussels sprouts. And the garlic, lemon and Parsmoked pork, chicken, chorizo and, curiously, qui- mesan are perfect accompaniments to the brocnoa. Pick a “style”—slider, sub sandwich, on top colini. of spaghetti or in a skillet of three balls—and add a Ultimately, though, Soda & Swine is about choice of sauces and cheese. Alternatively pick one the meatballs. When paired wisely they’re wonof the restaurant’s “favorites” and a “style.” The derful. When paired improvidently they’re less success of the dish is largely in your choices. so. The freedom leads to something as good and The tastiest sounding of the meatball options surprising as the quinoa ball with marinara and was the smoked pork. Tasting deeply of both pork mozzarella—or something that ought to work, and smoke, the problem is that it was so strongly like smoked pork with chipotle BBQ that plainly flavored it dominated everything it touched. Ei- doesn’t. Your choice. ther it doubled down on a big flavor like the chipotle BBQ sauce, overwhelmed more delicate op- The World Fare appears weekly. tions like the mushroom cream sauce or went to Write to michaelg@sdcitybeat.com. war with a cheese like the feta.

FARE C

“

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 7

UP FRONT | FOOD

BY JAMES VERNETTE

DISHING IT

MURPHY O’BRIEN

OUT

Respecting red meat

teakhouses are the restaurant equivalent to a blues band. Blues is a basic music form, often using just three chords and a steady rhythm. It sounds like simple music, but playing it right can take a lifetime to master. Likewise, steakhouses are playing with variations on a theme. Ideally, the beef is high quality, prepared simply, with style. No, you won’t find a lot of musical experimentation at a good blues club and you don’t go to a steakhouse expecting fancy sauces or cross-culture fusion. Thank God. The foodie frenzy is fun, but sometimes you just want a huge steak prepared in a way that respects the quality of the meat. Bob’s Steak and Chophouse (2100 Costa Del Mar Road) in Carlsbad is the culinary equivalent of a superstar blues musician—we’re talking Muddy Waters. The restaurant is part of a nationwide chain that started in Texas, but recently opened its first southern California location at La Costa Resort, which in decades past was known for having mafia clientele. The goodfellas are long gone, but the restaurant plans to allude to the mafia past with its decor. This is a good idea: I know that if a steakhouse has even the slightest hint of mobster past, the food is probably going to be really good. You don’t want to get Johnny Two-Nose angry, you get my drift? Bob’s has all the qualities of a great steakhouse: high quality meat in large (and expensive) cuts, relaxing booths and tables spaced apart enough so there’s room for your expanding belly. Let’s talk about that meat: I had a 16-ounce filet ($59) that was flavored with kosher salt and pepper and cooked until there was a delicious black crust on the outside and a perfect mid-rare center. My friend, who has a culinary background, was impressed: “It’s really hard to cook a steak that huge that perfectly.” He had the 22-ounce bone-in rib-eye ($48), which had lots of flavor and fat. I usually prefer the rib-eye to a filet, because it usually has more flavor, but I took the filet on the manager’s recommendation. It was a good call.

8 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

Filet and lobster There were a lot of happy customers at Bob’s, like the guy celebrating with some co-workers who held up a huge piece of meat and loudly announced to his pals: “This is a Porterhouse.” All steaks come with a huge carrot flavored with butter and brown sugar and a choice of potato: baked, smashed or skillet-fried with onions and peppercorn gravy. I went with the skillet-fried and loved how the gravy complemented my steak. Bob’s also provides other steakhouse essentials: a damn good dirty martini with stuffed blue cheese olives, a comprehensive wine list and waiters who know the menu and provide good service that you barely notice. Oh, and there are some tasty sides, including a very good wedge salad that has a creamy blue cheese dressing and thin bacon bits. Bob’s gets bonus points for having late 1960s-era Miles Davis in the background when I arrived, and a bowl of fruit sours when you exit. I honestly was so looking forward to those that I skipped dessert. I don’t always listen to blues, but there are times when no other music will do because it’s basic and true. I feel the same way about steakhouses. They are a splurge for me on special occasions, and Bob’s will definitely be a top choice for me again. Dishing It Out appears every other week.

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 9

UP FRONT | DRINK

FINAL

BY BETH DEMMON

DRAUGHT Boozy broadcasts, part 2

known brewers like Tomme Arthur (Lost Abbey) to spirits pioneers like Mike Skubic (Old Harbor Distilling Co.), the heart of the segment remains qual parts “thank you” and “suck it!” to all about passion for craft beer punctuated with the beer writers who did and didn’t take me bottle-popping playlists. up on my cold, dead fingers challenge from “We all know some have sold to larger Part 1. Now, with minimal smart-assery, here are companies, but I still drink Sculpin… it’s still made some other local media outlets to quench your here, by the hands of brewers that I respect.” thirst for all things craft beer. — Jeremy Pritchard Video: What’s on Draft FM Radio: Beer for Breakfast on 91X After a successful Kickstarter, this two-yearAs an alumnus of the Rock & Roll Happy old video production company has reason to Hour, Beer for Breakfast’s host Tommy Hough celebrate. Director Tom Keliinoi and producer knows what makes a successful beer show. Aaron Mayer (also head brewer at Acoustic After a stint in the wannabe craft beer capital of Ales) are now gearing up for season two, which the country (keep dreaming, Portland), Hough promises a few episodes shot outside of San returned in 2015 to reboot the then-defunct Diego and is slated for release January 2017. If you Beer for Breakfast segment haven’t caught one of their COURTESY OF WHAT’S ON DRAFT with a little help from Karl anti-macro, pro-indie beer Strauss’ Paul Segura, 91X videos already, I strongly producer Danielle Stuht encourage metal and nonand What’s Hoppening metal heads to feast their curator Abel Garcia. With eyes on the “Life of a Beer” Segura’s expertise and collaboration with Poison universal likability paired Headache, Metal Blade with Hough’s colorful Records and Coronado commentary, Friday Brewing Company. You’ll be mornings at 8 a.m. are able to say you knew about undoubtedly unusually them before they were energetic when you’re syndicated. Aaron Meyer and Tom Keliinoi spoof tuned in. “It looks like macro “The wonderful thing Game of Thrones in What’s on Draft conglomerates are starting about the beer scene here in to focus less on acquisition, San Diego is that it’s almost akin to a music scene; and more on using their acquired craft portfolio/ there’s healthy competition in the best sense possible. lobbying strength to push independent beer off the Everybody knows each other and likes working with shelf. This is bad for smaller guys like Intergalactic each other.” — Tommy Hough or Pure Project, because they don’t have the brute strength of a multi-billion dollar corporation Once you realize that every one of these outbehind them.” lets—as well as the podcasts mentioned previ — Tom Keliinoi ously—embrace continued growth in both their

FM Radio: Rock & Roll Happy Hour on 94.9 Since 2009, 94.9’s Rock & Roll Happy Hour has cycled through numerous hosts and time slots, currently occupying the 7-8 p.m. hour on Friday nights with host Jeremy Pritchard, Stone Brewing’s Minister of Evangelism and Indoctrination Ken Wright and cocktail expert Casey Pukl. While the guests range from well-

10 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

respective niches as well as the industry at large, it’s almost as refreshing as a Plenty for All in 100-degree weather. I’ll definitely drink to that spirit of camaraderie and inclusion.

Write to bethd@sdcitybeat.com, check her out on Instagram at @thedelightedbite, or via Twitter at @iheartcontent.

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SHORTlist

EVENTS

ART

the

THREE YOU HAVE TO SEE

COORDINATED BY

SETH COMBS

CHULA VISTA

BEST COAST

dozens of restaurants, wineries, breweries and farms coming together for a night of snacks and When it comes to tourist attractions, the sips. This year’s event chair, Eclipse Chocolate big names often get all the attention. Even Bar & Bistro’s Will Gustwiller, has tapped more for locals, it’s easy to settle on simply taking our than 40 food-and-beverage vendors for the event, COURTESY OF ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO including grub from Amore relatives and visiting friends to the zoo or the beach. It’s Cheesecakes, Big Front Door a safe bet for sure, but there and Suzie’s Farm, as well as are some fantastic hidden drinks from Modern Times, gems that often go unnoticed Old Harbor Distilling and or unrecognized by even the Westfall Winery. most knowledgeable of locals. And of course there will Case in point: the Livbe plenty of animal encouning Coast Discovery Centers, including shark and ter (1000 Gunpowder Point ray feedings, birds of prey Drive) in Chula Vista. Nesshowcases, reptiles, snakes tled in the bayside Sweetwaand more. ter Marsh National Wildlife “There are a lot of people Refuge since 1987, the center who come and this is their is dedicated to education and first time here. It’s certainly sustainability and provides a nice way to widen our aueducational, hands-on expedience,” says LaFave, who riences in aquatic, plant and points out that the 21-andbird life. over Farm to Bay event is a “A lot of people might not great way for adults to exknow it’s here, but we have Chef Will Gustwiller perience the center without a lot of really great outdoor worrying about the kids. “A spaces that highlight San Diego Bay and the sur- lot of school trips come here, but they’re not necrounding refuge,” says Jessica LaFave, develop- essarily with their parents so a lot of them come ment manager at the center. for this event and then end up bringing their famiSo why not discover it at the Farm to Bay lies after.” tasting event on Saturday, August 6, from 4 to Tickets for Farm to Bay are $85 and are avail7:30 p.m.? The seventh annual event includes able at thelivingcoast.org.

BALBOA PARK

DUB SUPREME

Anybody who’s seen or read High Fidelity knows there’s a fine art to making a mixtape. Bringing a mixtape to life is an even bigger and potentially more rewarding challenge. Last year, San Diego Art Institute (1439 El Prado) held an event titled MIXTAPE Vol. 1 that brought together local, national and international bands for a live show that was eventually turned into—you guessed it—an actual cassette mixtape (a download link is naturally included). The second installment, MIXTAPE Vol. 2, happens on Saturday, August 6, at 7 p.m. and features performances from local punk weirdos Vaginals, Baltimore’s Wet Brain and Swedish electro duo KITE. There will also be visuals from Xavier Vasquez JONAS ANDERSSON and records spun by DJ Ana Brown. Tickets are $10 advance, or $12 at the door. sandiego-art. org

KITE

#SDCityBeat

POINT LOMA

STATION TO STATION

Liberty Station has come a long way since its days as a Naval Training Station. Over the past two decades the area has evolved into a cultural hotspot, with an ample selection of galleries, theatres, restaurants and, most recently, a fine public market. One of the most exciting performance spaces is White Box (2590 Truxtun Road), a progressive dance studio run by the San Diego Dance Theater. The studio prides itself on curating a variety of performing artists, and for the month of August will be hosting White Box Live Jazz, a weekly music series featuring San Diego’s top artists. The series kicks off on Sunday, August 7, with a performance by the group Derek Cannon Quintet with Rebecca Jade on vocals. The show starts at 5 p.m. and tickets range from $10 to $30. sandiegodancetheater.org

JESSY PARR

HArtOASIS Showcase at MCASD - La Jolla, 700 Prospect St., La Jolla. More than 75 active duty armed forces members showcase artwork that was created as a means of coping with the effects of combat-related stress. Opening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 858-454-3541, mcasd.org HPhysique at Sparks Gallery, 530 6th Ave., Gaslamp. San Diego artists will explore the elegance of the human form and the body as a landscape with paintings, photography and sculpture. Includes work from Andrea Rushing, Irina Negulecu, Larry Caveney and 18 more. Opening from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 619-696-1416, sparksgallery.com HBakelite In The Age Of Plastics at Women’s Museum of California, 2730 Historic Decatur Road, Barracks 16, Point Loma. This exhibit features Bakelite items from local collectors, curated by historian Darlene Davies. Bakelite is probably the most collectible and valuable jewelry made of a plastic material which brightened the Great Depression. Opening from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free. 619-2337963, womensmuseumca.org Friday Night LIberty at NTC at Liberty Station, 2640 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma. This monthly gallery and studio walk features open artist studios, galleries, live performances, shopping and entertainment throughout NTC’s Arts and Culture District. From 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free. 619-573-9300, libertystation.com

Raoul Contreras at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. Ruben Navarrette will moderate a discussion with Contreras, who will be promoting his new novel, Murder in the Mountains: War Crime in Khojaly and the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict. At 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 858-454-0347, warwicks.com Timber Hawkeye at Upstart Crow Bookstore and Coffeehouse, 835 West Harbor Dr., Suite C, Downtown. Author of Buddhist Bootcamp will be signing his new memoir, Faithfully Religionless, about the journey of a young man’s pursuit of happiness and his curiosity about faith. At 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 619-2324855, upstartcrowtrading.com S.B. Divya and Greg Van Eekhout at Mysterious Galaxy Book Store, 5943 Balboa Ave., Ste. 100, Clairemont. The two speculative fiction authors will be promoting their respective new titles, Runtime (Diyva) and Pacific Fire (Eekhout). At 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. 858-2684747, mystgalaxy.com Gerald Bunch at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. As part of Warwick’s ongoing Weekend with Locals Program, Bunch will discuss and sign Warrior to Whisperer: An Odyssey Into the Quantum Field with Oscar the Cat. At noon. Sunday, Aug. 7. Free. 858-454-0347, warwicks.com

HOceanside Art Walk at Downtown Oceanside, Pier View Way and Tremont St., Oceanside. Over 20 businesses throughout downtown Oceanside transform into galleries to showcase local art. From 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free. oceansideartwalk.org

HStephen Metcalfe at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. The screenwriter and professor of writing at UCSD will discuss his new novel The Practical Navigator with fellow writer Lacy Crawford. He’ll also sign copies. At 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. Free. 858-4540347, warwicks.com

Endangered at The Studio Door, 3750 30th St., North Park. An exhibition from Hyacinthe Baron showcasing the beauty of endangered and threatened species or habitats. Ten percent of the proceeds will go to designated wildlife nonprofits. Opening from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. thestudiodoor.com

HKaui Hart Hemmings at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. The bestselling author of The Descendants will discuss and sign her new novel, How to Party with an Infant, the story of a quirky single mom in San Francisco. At 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10. Free. 858-4540347, warwicks.com

HLight As Poetry at Madison Gallery, 1055 Wall St., La Jolla. New work by Scottish artist and poet, Robert Montgomery, who creates thought provoking sculptures out of LED lights and text. Opening from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. madisongalleries.com Paperworks at Sophie’s Kensington Gallery, 4186 Adams Ave., Kensington. St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, a nonprofit organization for adults with developmental disabilities, is presenting a selection of works from artists at a similar organization in Japan. Opening from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. 619-534-8120, stmsc.org HThe Erik Gronborg Experience at Mingei International Museum, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park. The first major retrospective devoted to the local artist, woodworker and sculptor. Gronborg’s writing will also be featured. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free-$10. 619239-0003, mingei.org HCandy Ego at Ocean Beach Dog Beach. Presented by SPF15, a live taping of the farcical web show about SoCal life created by artists Kim-Anh Schreiber and Ash Eliza Smith. From 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. Free. spf15.info

BOOKS HDouglas Brinkley at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. The CNN Presidential Historian and contributing editor at Vanity Fair will discuss and sign his

Rebecca Jade

new book of nonfiction, Rightful Heritage: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Land of America. At 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3. Free. 858-454-0347, warwicks.com

H = CityBeat picks

COMEDY Jim Gaffigan at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, 5800 Aztec Walk, College Area. The popular comic, widely known for his comical books and voice-over work, stops by on his current “Fully Dressed” tour. At 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3. $29$75. 619-594-0234, as.sdsu.edu Kaaboo Discovery Night at American Comedy Co., 818 B Sixth Ave., Downtown. Vote for which stand-up comedian will go on to perform on the HUMOR ME stage at the Kaaboo music festival. From 8 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. $5 619795-3858, americancomedyco.com

DANCE Maks & Val at San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., Downtown. Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy, the sibling stars of ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars, stop by on their “Live On Tour: Our Way” tour. At 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10. $45-$80. sandiegotheatres.org

FILM America’s Finest Film Fest 2016 at Irwin M. Jacobs Qualcomm Hall, 5775 Morehouse Dr., Sorrento Valley. A festival featuring 20 different short films from San Diego filmmakers. The event coincides with a Maker’s Market, which highlights the work of San Diego craftspeople, and

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 11

EVENTS EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

5. $20 suggested donation. 619-2987261, SDSCF.instantencore.com

features local food and craft beer. From 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $15. americasfinestfilmfest.com

Sing Along with Broadway at Embarcadero Marina Park South, 206 Marina Park Way, Downtown. Broadway veterans Doug LaBrecque, Debbie Gravitte and Christiane Noll will join the San Diego Symphony Orchestra to perform music from Great White Way and Guys and Dolls. At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6. $20-$85. 619-686-6200, sandiegosymphony.com

HOceanside International Film Festival at Various locations. The fall film-festival season kicks off in Oceanside with a collection of features, documentaries, shorts and more. It runs Sunday, Aug. 7, through Sunday, Aug. 14, and all event details and venues can be found on the website. Various times. Sunday, Aug. 7. $10-$50. osidefilm.org

FOOD & DRINK HThe Fashion of Food and Spirits at The Headquarters at Seaport District, 789 West Harbor Drive, Downtown. A two-day event that showcases culinary tastings from numerous restaurants across San Diego. Includes wine education, fashion, master mixology and live entertainment throughout both evenings. From 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 and Friday, Aug. 5. $20-$75. fashionfoodspirits.com Hops on the Harbor Craft Beer Dinner Cruise at Flagship Cruises & Events, 990 N. Harbor Drive, Enjoy Ballast Point Brewing Company beers and a special evening of food, craft beer and waterfront views. Includes food that pairs with the distinctive flavors of each brewer’s beer selections. From 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. $40.70$64.50. 800-442-7847, flagshipsd.com Chili Cook Off at Del Mar Racetrack, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. The Western Regional Chili Cookoff returns to Del Mar. Taste free chili samples, hang out at the beer garden, and cast a vote to help decide which cooks will advance to the 2016 Word Championships. From 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. 858-7551141, delmarscene.com HFarm to Bay at Living Coast Discovery Center, 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr., Chula Vista. The seventh annual event includes dozens of restaurants, wineries, breweries and farms coming together for a night of snacks and sips. Benefits LCDC’s programs to educate locals on ways to protect and sustain coastal wildlife. From 4 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $85. 619409-5900, thelivingcoast.org Phil’s Big BBQ at the Ballpark at Petco Park, Park & Imperial, Downtown. Guests will enjoy Phil’s ribs and chicken plus two sides, blended beverages from Dlush, live music and a ticket to that night’s Padres game. All proceeds benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters Operation Bigs Military Mentoring Program. From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. $25-$50. sdbigs.org

MUSIC HGirl Talk at Del Mar Racetrack, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. The pioneering mash-up artist will perform a concert shortly after the last race as part of the Del Mar Summer Concert Series. From 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. $6$20. 858-755-1141, delmarracing.com Jazz Jam Sessions at California Center for the Arts Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd, Escondido. The Charlie Arbelaez Quintet performs as part of California Center For the Arts’ weekly jazz showcase. Community musicians and singers are invited to join in. From 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free-$40 artcenter.org San Diego Pro Arte Voices and Festival Faculty at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 2728 Sixth Ave., Downtown. The season premiere concert for the choir-in-residence for the San Diego Summer Choral Festival, who will present a repertoire from the choral canon as well as from emerging living composers. At 8 p.m. Friday, Aug.

COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

Sounds of Summer at Downtown San Diego, North Harbor Drive, Downtown. Local musicians perform in different places around Downtown. This week: Kettner and Ash, Justin Froese and Bob Peace. From noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free. downtownsandiego.org Del Mar Summer Concert Series: Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot! at Del Mar Racetrack, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. The former lead singer of the Stray Cats and the man ostensibly responsible for the swing music revival of the ‘90s plays a free concert with racetrack admission. From 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $6$20. 858-755-1141, delmarracing.com HMixtape Vol. 2 at San Diego Art Institute, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park. The San Diego Art Institute celebrates the release of their second mixtape album with a release party that will include music, sound, video, and performance art. Lineup includes KITE, Wet Brain and Vaginals. From 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $10-$12. sandiego-art.org San Diego Summer Choral Festival Chorus at St. Andrews by the Sea, 1050 Thomas Ave., Pacific Beach. The finale concert for the summer choral festival. Repertoire will include Bruckner’s “Locus Iste” and Schubert’s “Ständchen.” At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. SDSCF.instantencore.com HVinyl Junkies Record Swap at The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown. Vendors selling thousands of collectible and vintage records in all genres, plus DJs spinning throughout the day. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $3. 619-232-HELL, facebook.com/VinylJunkiesRecordSwap HA Midsummer Night’s Concert at Embarcadero Marina Park South, 206 Marina Park Way, Downtown. An evening of music inspired by William Shakespeare. Actors will present short excerpts from sonnets and plays by the Bard and music by Prokofiev and Mendelssohn will be featured. From 7:30 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. $20-$85. 619-686-6200, sandiegosymphony.com Summer Jazz Concert in the Garden at San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas. The timeless sounds of Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie and more, as performed by the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame Orchestra amongst the Botanic Garden grounds. From 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. $10-$25. 760-4363036, sdbgarden.org HWhite Box Live Jazz at White Box Theater, 2690 Truxtun Road, Point Loma. San Diego Dance Theater presents a live jazz music series with different performers every week. This week: the Derek Cannon Quintet. From 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. $10-$30. 619-225-1803, whiteboxlivejazz.brownpapertickets.com Justin Bischof at Spreckels Organ Pavilion, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park. The Director of Music at The Church of St. James the Less and Artistic Director of The Canadian Chamber Orchestra of New York City, performs on the Spreckels Organ as part of the Centennial International Summer Organ Festival. At 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8. Free. 619-7028138, spreckelsorgan.org

12 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

“Liquid Love” by Irina Negulescu will be on view at Physique, a group show opening from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, at Sparks Gallery (530 6th Ave.) in Downtown. HTraveling Dialogues at James S. Copley Auditorium, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park. This Art of Elan concert showcases young talent and renowned faculty from around the world playing side-by-side in unique chamber ensembles. At 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. Free. 619-232-7931, artofelan.org

PERFORMANCE HFairy Queen at Palisades Presbyterian Church, 6301 Birchwood St., Allied Gardens. Opera NEO presents this “semistaged semi-opera” from the English Baroque composer H. Purcell that is based on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6. Friday, Aug. 5. $12$45. 619-582-0852, operaneo.com HThe Male Intellect: An Oxymoron? at North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach. Robert Dubac plays multiple roles in this hit one-man show exploring the differences between the sexes. At 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10 and Friday, Aug. 12. $32$37. 858-481-1055, northcoastrep.org

SPECIAL EVENTS HOceanside Art Walk at Downtown Oceanside, Pier View Way and Tremont St., Oceanside. Over 20 businesses throughout downtown Oceanside transform into galleries to showcase local art. From 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Free. oceansideartwalk.org HArt Bazaar at Museum of Photographic Arts, 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park. A nighttime shopping pop-up event at MOPA’s Late Night Thursday featuring dozens of local artists from all over the world. From 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 619238-8777, mopa.org Autism Speaks San Diego Walk KickOff at Dave & Busters, 2931 Camino del Rio North, Mission Valley. More than 100 families, service providers and autism advocates will register participants for the October 1 walk. Event will feature food, performances, games and prizes. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. facebook.com/ events/1140500302667903 HSan Diego Made First Thursday at Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd., North Park. Monthly event featuring makers, music, workshops and booze. This month will feature live tunes by Nathan Oleson Musicand a San Diego Made pop-up Shop with 22 local makers From 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Free. 619-296-2101, sandiegomade.org/ HLatin American Festival and Mata

Ortiz Pottery Market at Bazaar del Mundo, 4133 Taylor St., Old Town. The annual fest features San Diego’s largest collection of Latin American folk art and Mata Ortiz pottery. Includes a vast array of artisan jewelry, vibrant Mexican clothing and colorful collectibles. From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. Free. 619-296-3161, bazaardelmundo.com Casino Royale: Betting on the Mission at San Diego Yacht Club, 1011 Anchorage Lane, Point Loma. This fundraiser for the San Diego Rescue Mission will include casino-style gaming, dinner and live music. Benefits the expansion of their licensed preschool and for new educational opportunities. From 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $100. 619-221-8400, sdrescue.org HGypsy Fest at Deanza Springs Resort, 1951 Carrizo Gorge Road, Jacumba. The annual festival will feature independent performers, street musicians, live art, various gypsy entertainers and many independent vendors. Bands include BandapArt, Clint Westwood, Bricktop Blaggers and more. Saturday, Aug. 6. $25. 619-766-4301, sdgypsyfest.com Reunion on the Bay at Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, Downtown. This evening lawn party will feature food, hosted bar, silent auction, live entertainment and performances by special guest Judy Tenuta. Proceeds benefit local LGBT senior charities. From 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. $135. 619-291-2900, sdhdf.org HChula Vista Lemon Festival at Third Avenue Chula Vista, Third Ave., Chula Vista. The 20th annual fest will feature live bands, a Lemon Pie Eating Contest, a Largest Lemon Contest, a beer garden and much more. The family-friendly event takes place on Third Ave. from E to G St. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. Free. thirdavenuevillage.com HMIX Sound Series: Acoustic Brunch at Museum Of Making Music, 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad. The new quarterly event series kicks off with MoMM transforming their parking lot into a gathering space for live music, coffee, mimosas and Belgian waffles by Marcel’s Belgian Waffle Food Truck. At 11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. $10. 760-438-5996, museumofmakingmusic.org

TALKS & DISCUSSIONS The Writer’s Coffeehouse at Mysterious Galaxy Book Store, 5943 Balboa

Ave., Ste. 100, Clairemont. Author Jonathan Maberry hosts this informal group to discuss all things writing over coffee. No previous publishing experience necessary. From noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. Free. 858-268-4747, mystgalaxy.com 100 Years of Scripps Pier Science at Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Guest lecturers will discuss the 100th anniversary of the collection of data on ocean conditions and plankton that have been measured from Scripps Institution of Oceanography’s Pier. At 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8. Free-$8. 858534-FISH, aquarium.ucsd.edu Suds & Science: Zika and Flaviviruses at Turquoise Cellars, 5026 Cass St., Pacific Beach. Join Dr. Deborah Spector from UCSD, as she explains the nature of zika and flaviviruses, the current research efforts around them and if a vaccine for zika virus will be available in the foreseeable future. From 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8. $5. 858-4125377, rhfleet.org HTime, Mathematics, and the Mind of God at UCSD Calit2 Atkinson Hall Auditorium, Voigt Dr. and Equality Ln., La Jolla. A panel discussion that will highlight personal perspectives from working scientists and a leading science-fiction author regarding what science has to say about some of our deepest cosmic mysteries. At 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10. Free. imagination.ucsd.edu

WORKSHOPS HCrafts & Culture: Printmaking 101 at Art Produce Gallery, 3139 University Ave., North Park. Enjoy a beer while making block prints, leaf prints, mono-prints and more from instructor Michelle Montjoy. From 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3. $45. 619-584-4448, artproduce.org Beekeeping 101 at City Farmers Nursery, 3110 Euclid Ave., Oak Park. Learn to set up and maintain a thriving hive, how to safely help maintain the bee population, and how to harvest honey. From 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. 619284-6358, cityfarmersnursery.com Exploring the Human Brain: A Bio Lab Workshop at La Jolla Library, 7555 Draper Ave., La Jolla. UCSD scientists will take participants on an interactive exploration of the human brain and its neurons, constructing models of brain structures and using the online Brain Atlas to go deeper into the science. From 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Free. 858-552-1657, lajollalibrary.org

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 13

THEATER COURTESY OF BROADWAY SAN DIEGO

Abby Mueller stars as Carole King in Beautiful.

A Beautiful retrospective

eautiful is not only an entertaining musical biography of the incomparable Carole King, but a retrospective on the gifted songwriters of the ’60s (King, her husband and partner Gerry Goffin, and the team of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil) whose tunes recorded by others dominated the American pop charts. Unlike some jukebox musicals which are little more than impersonations augmented by screen projections, Beautiful, which I caught last month at L.A.’s Pantages Theatre and which is now at the Civic Theatre in downtown San Diego through Aug. 7, is a play with music–and what music! If

14 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

you ever needed a reminder of King’s towering talent, Beautiful is it. You also learn about the road she took from songwriter-for-hire to solo superstar in the early ’70s. On this national tour of Douglas McGrath’s Beautiful, the Carole King role is very ably handled by Abby Mueller, whose sister, Jessie, won a Tony for her original Broadway performance. Less interesting but potentially delightful to music historians or Baby Boomers is the side plot involving Mann (Ben Fankhauser) and Weil (Becky Gulsvig), who tried to go headto-head with King and Goffin in hit-making. Also depicted on stage are music luminaries who sang both teams’ hits, including the Drifters, the Shirelles and the Righteous Brothers. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical runs through Aug. 7 at the San Diego Civic Theatre, downtown. $22.50 to $187.50. broadwaysd.com HHH oonlight Stage Production’s summer seasons always offer musicals that are family friendly. Some, however, will be more appealing to adult audiences, like its first show

of the 2016 season, Sister Act. Others seem strictly for the kiddies. So it goes with Peter Pan, which runs at Moonlight’s outdoor amphitheatre through Aug. 6. The flying scenes and skirmishes with pirates will dazzle the young ones, and the athletic Misty Cotton is a likable Peter Pan (though neither she nor the spirit of Mary Martin can make the rooster-imitating “I Gotta Crow” anything more than annoying). Robert J. Townsend sinks his teeth into the role of villainous Captain Hook, and James Vasquez turns in the choicest comic part as Hook’s lackey, Mr. Smee. Peter Pan runs through Aug. 6 at the Moonlight Amphitheatre in Vista. $10-$55. moonlightstage.com

—David L. Coddon

Theater reviews run weekly. Write to davidc@sdcitybeat.com.

OPENING: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised]: This fast-paced performance will feature three actors performing 37 Bard plays in 97 minutes. Presented by Luminary Arts, it opens Aug. 5 at Patio Playhouse in Escondido. luminaryarts.org

Last Train to Nibroc: Arlene Hutton’s moving play about two strangers who meet on a train in the ‘40s and whose lives clash and coalesce in the subsequent years. Presented by Different Stages, it opens Aug. 5 at the La Jolla Commons Theatre. differentstages.biz The Music Man: The Tony Award-winning musical comedy about a salesman who attempts to con a small town, but ends up falling in love with the town’s librarian. Presented by Ovation Theatre, it opens Aug. 5 at the Howard Brubeck Theatre at Palomar College in San Marcos. ovationtheatre.org Oklahoma!: Two cowboys fight for the women they love in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical. Directed by Teddy Eck, it opens in previews Aug. 5 at the New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad. The Last Five Years: This two-person musical play about a tumultuous relationship is told backwards with the actors also doubling as musicians. Written by Jason Robert Brown, it opens in previews Aug. 6 at ion’s BLKBOX Theatre in Hillcrest. A Conversation with Edith Head: Susan Claassen stars in this one-womanshow about one of Hollywood’s most iconic costume designers. It opens for two performances Aug. 8 at the North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org

For full theater listings, visit “T heater ”at sdcitybeat.com.

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 15

DUNCAN MOORE

TORREY BAILEY

“We were lucky that we came to this neighborhood,” says Mahin Mofazeli, owner of Persian restaurant Soltan Banoo (4645 Park Blvd.) Mofazeli is the classic American success story. An Iranian immigrant, she moved to New York in 1988 so her two daughters could get an education. In 2000 she moved to San Diego, and with the help of her daughters, opened a small café specializing in Iranian breakfasts. She quickly outgrew the space and three years later moved across the street to open Soltan Banoo, which translates to Lady King in Persian. In a time when establishments open and close at a rapid rate, her restaurant has been a fixture for more than a decade. Mofazeli credits the close-knit community of University Heights with helping her succeed, “I know many people that come here once a week, twice a week. I know them by name. Sometimes it feels like I am the mama of the neighborhood.” While she no longer does all of the cooking, allowing herself two days off a week, Mofazeli has no plans to stop. “This is my child. As long as I am alive, this restaurant has to be here.” —Duncan Moore

Sitting outside Small Bar (4628 Park Blvd.), Beeman works out the kinks in his friend’s shoulders just like Mueller College’s massage therapy instructors (4607 Park Blvd.) taught him back in 2000. He’s typically easy to spot in his red velvet hat and equally eclectic outfits. His ensembles accompany his renowned side burns, which are the inspiration behind the name and logo of his leatherworks company, Nice Chops. People recognize him from trivia night at Lancers, his trumpet playing and the time he shut down a few blocks of Park Boulevard to get married under the University Heights sign. Since he and his mom moved to University Heights in 1998, he has spent the majority of his life there. “I moved back here because screw everywhere else in the country,” he says. “This place is awesome.” He’s cautious about the direction it’s heading though. “It’s getting more Gaslamp,” he says, citing “PB douchebags” who filter into Park and Rec (4612 Park Blvd.), which he says is known as “Wreck my Parking.” In case trouble follows the changing scene, he’s joked about starting up a University Heights militia, a citizen’s patrol group like North Park’s Xtreme Justice League, with the slogan: Welcome to University Heights, don’t be an asshole. —Torrey Bailey

There are two on top of the landmark sign. A likeness is featured on the logo for Parks and Rec. There’s even a life-sized statue on Mission Cliffs Road. Depictions of the ostrich are everywhere in University Heights, yet the significance remains a mystery to most people. How is it that an African flightless bird came to represent a San Diego neighborhood? The answer goes back to the turn of the century, when University Heights was a burgeoning streetcar suburb. At the time ostrich feathers were the hottest trend in woman’s clothing (the Coachella flower crowns of the 1910s). Ostrich farms were common throughout Southern California and one of the most popular was Harvey Bentley ’s on Coron a d o “Island.”

16 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

In a big city, it isn’t easy to find a coffee shop filled with baristas who know your dog’s name, how you like your eggs and which direction you walk home. But Twiggs Bakery & Coffeehouse (4590 Park Blvd.) has encapsulated that small town feel, with owners Bernie Horan and Dan Stringfield working to fill the community with homemade pastries and a sense of welcoming. Twiggs has served up more than coffee since the two took over. “Dan and I would meet at Twiggs and discuss opening a bakery,” Horan says. “When we realized it was going to close, we offered to buy it.” Since reopening in 1997, Horan has helped it grow into not only a bakery, but also a music venue and community center. “I was a drug-and-alcohol counselor, and one group asked if they could use our green room for their meetings. Now, there’s at least two meetings here a day. “We’re proud to be a part of their recovery,” he says. Although Twiggs no longer houses live music, its claim to fame is that Jason Mraz was discovered at one of its open mic nights, and he credits Twiggs with having some of the best cakes in town. Outside of Twiggs, Horan serves as president of the University Heights Community Association. “We’re trying to maintain the character of the community because there’s nothing like it.” —Chloe Salsameda

In 1904 he decided to move his farm to Adams Avenue in University Heights, where it became a popular tourist attraction. Visitors could buy feathers and fresh eggs, feed the birds and even ride on their backs. After World War I, ostrich feathers became unfashionable and many of the farms closed up, including Bentley’s. While the ostriches are long gone, the world’s largest flightless bird remains a symbol of University Heights and its unique history.

CHLOE SALSAMEDA

The observer

The medical student

—Duncan Moore The unproductive couple

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TORREY BAILEY

Jeff Terich at Cheers: “This is not my beautiful house!”

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows…the words to The Killers’ “All These Things That I’ve Done.” But sometimes that place can feel right out of a David Lynch movie, where everything feels a little bit surreal—peculiar in a way that’s hard to put your finger on. Five of us ventured deep into Cheers (1839 Adams Ave.), a multicolored, reasonably priced gay-friendly watering hole as if we were wandering our way into the Black Lodge—one in which the hallucinatory giant won’t just be saying “It’s happening again,” but follows it up with a

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stirring rendition of a mid-’00s hit. The mood at Cheers is friendly and vibrant, but on a recent Tuesday night the age-diverse crowd leaned heavy on ballads, some of them delivered with a curiously emotional conviction. When CityBeat arrived, we did our best to keep it lively; I belted out Simple Minds’ “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”; web editor Ryan Bradford took Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn” (and was asked if he lost a bet); columnist Alex Zaragoza sang the hell out of Mary J. Blige’s “Real Love”; art director Carolyn Ramos killed “My Humps” and staff writer Torrey Bailey offered up some Vanessa Carlton. We earned some kudos from regulars, particularly Larry, an older

man in a bright pink outfit who can sing himself some Roberta Flack. In Cheers, everything is fine. —Jeff Terich

Cheers is right up the street, but Derrol Murphy is truly the guy who knows everybody’s name. The bartender at the Diversionary Theatre (4545 Park Blvd.) has been a staple at the famously LGBTQfriendly playhouse for more than 17 years, and has worked in nearly every department in the theatre, from house manager and usher, to dresser and actor. “Pretty much everything but directing,” says Murphy laughing. The Maine native moved to San Diego to pursue acting and originally worked at the 6th @ Penn Theatre before landing some parts in several Diversionary productions. Still, he says he’s just as happy socializing with the theatre regulars or having their favorite drink ready for them when they arrive. “I’ve always considered Diversionary my home,” says Murphy. “Some people still remember me from when I was a baby an onstage, but I wasn’t quite as tattooed as I am now.” —Seth Combs

DUNCAN MOORE

Derrol Murphy

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 17

TORREY BAILEY

Late-night taco shops are so pervasive in San Diego that you can throw a Sublime CD in any direction and you’ll likely hit one, but El Zarape (4642 Park Blvd.) stands above the rest. And like any quality late-night food joint, El Z draws the stoners out like totally high moths to the, like, hella-rad flame. Here’s a guide on what to order based on your level of high. You hit a joint: Gotta go with the fish tacos, bro. It’s a classic San Diego food, and they’re so cheap, man. Get ’em in a combo plate. You hit a pipe: You should totes get the veggie supreme burrito and feel good about your life choices cuz it’s, like, healthy? You hit a bong: OMG get the house burrito. Only four ingredients, nothing confusing: mole, rice, beans and chicken...wait, what is a burrito? What if we’re all the house burrito? You take a dab: Just drink the free cilantro-lime salsa from your hand.

18 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

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CULTURE | ART

SEEN LOCAL

says. “I should have painted BunnyKitty, but I was probably tired of painting her on that particular day.” Nearly four years later, the result has become somewhat of a selfie staple in the neighborhood, with everyone from hippies to hipsters stopping to snap a pic in front of the psychedelic looking fairy. Ross says there were no blueprints for the mural and that it took about eight hours and 10 cans of spray paint to fully complete. Still, while Ross says A monthly feature where we track down the stories he’s proud of what he calls the “community service” behind San Diego’s most colorful murals. piece, he also remembers not getting paid much. “Unless you count sandwiches as a form of payor one of the smaller San Diego burgs, Uniment,” says Ross, who adds that while he agreed versity Heights does seem to have a noticeto do the piece for free, he feels the popularity able amount of public murals. Outside of more of murals could be a s t r e e t- a r t- f r i e n d l y DUNCAN MOORE double-edged sword neighborhoods like for artists. Barrio Logan, Univer“I have been doing sity Heights was one of work like this for close the first uptown areas to 30 years so I’ve seen to embrace spray paint neighborhoods change beautification. a lot,” he says. I think While not everyone with the popularity of knows him by name, this type of work, and Dave “Persue” Ross people’s knowledge of (davepersue.com) has the artist, that ownlong been one of the ers of businesses are go-to graffiti artists more open to this type and muralists in town. of work on their buildHe’s probably most ings. We are seeing The Park Boulevard Foods Fairy recognized by his sigit worldwide with all nature BunnyKitty charthe mural festivals. If developers want to gentrify a acter that he’s painted all over the city. But when he and three other local artists—Eyemax, Dexx and certain neighborhood, they usually invite artists to Kuya—began work on the mural on the side of Park start painting the walls. The only issue is that there’s Boulevard Foods near the corner of Park and Mon- seldom any real money in it. That is where it needs roe Avenue, Ross says he wanted to try something a to change. The artist needs to be taken more seriously and put in the community’s budget for beautilittle different. “I painted the girl and Dexx painted her wings. It fication purposes.”

MURAL WATCH: THE PSYCHEDELIC FAIRY AT PARK BOULEVARD FOODS

was the first time I painted such a character,” Ross

MEAN STREETS

f all the startlingly strange and surreal drawings hung on the walls at the Out Here art space in Tijuana, “Puente” (or “Bridge”) is without a doubt the most terrifying. In it, the bloated and naked bodies of men and women hang from nooses. Above the graffitied bridge where the bodies hang, a banner relays a message to the people below: Nuestra ley es la ley. To hear it translated would rattle any sensible human being: Our law is the law. “It doesn’t happen too much anymore, but you used to see it a lot here in TJ,” says artist Toni Larios, who drew the picture in 2014. “The narcos used to hang people from the bridges so that people driving by would see it. It doesn’t happen much anymore, but it used to happen a lot.” While most of Larios’ work doesn’t directly reference Tijuana’s drug violence, it does, collectively, tell tales of a gritty city whose inhabitants are just as colorful as the drawings themselves. On the surface, it appears as if Larios has reoccurring characters in the work displayed at Espejos, which opened on July 22 and will have a closing reception on Aug. 19. However, he says his subjects are more “archetypes” of the people and characters of the city he lives in.

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—Seth Combs

“It’s a mix of the stereotypical people you see on the streets here. This one is based on the alley where I live,” says Larios, pointing out a piece called, “Casa Azul.” “There’s always been a lot of cholos and stuff where I live. Sometimes I go out of my house and I’ll see a guy on the ground with a needle or something.” Larios was born and raised in Tijuana. When he was a kid he was a bit of an introSETH COMBS vert, preferring to create comic books and play his own made-up games. He says he started to get serious about his work in 2007. He sold it on the streets of Tijuana and had a few shows in local cafes. It was enough to garner some attention stateside, and he landed a solo show in 2013 at the Disclosed unLocation gallery and another in 2014 at Low Gallery. As shocking as Larios’ work can sometimes be (which readers can see at historiaincorrecta.tumblr.com, as well as on Instagram Toni Larios and Facebook), the drawings come across not as indictments, but almost as love letters to Tijuana. One distinctive feature is that almost all of his characters appear nude. “I don’t know, I guess I’ve always thought that when you see a character that’s naked, you see them as they actually are,” Larios says. “No defense or anything. Vulnerable.”

—Seth Combs August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 19

CULTURE | VOICES

RYAN BRADFORD

WELL THAT WAS

AWKWARD

A guide to your first month of playing Pokémon GO 1. Download the game the day it comes out. Tell yourself that you’re just going to try it for a month as an experiment. You don’t know anything about Pokémon except maybe the vague notion of a “Pikachu.” You don’t even really play video games. Honestly, most zeitgeisty stuff is kind of bullshit, but with Pokémon, it’s different. You’re getting in at the ground level; you’re an OG. Imagine all the kids you’ll be able to impress in your theoretical scenarios where you’re hanging out with cool teens. 2. You find your first Pokémon: a Squirtle. It’s hanging in the hall of your office building. It’s a vaguely frightening experience, this “augmented reality,” and you briefly check outside your screen to make sure the Squirtle is not really there. After catching the Squirtle, you return to your co-workers and proudly proclaim, “I just caught a Squirtle.” Thus begins the normalization of sounding like an idiot. 3. Leave work. It’s the start of the weekend and you’re excited about that but also stoked to try out your new game. You walk around North Park, looking at your familiar neighborhood with new eyes. There are Pokestops everywhere! You walk past a burly, bearded punk-type with a phone in his hand. You’re both trying to play it cool, but he sees your screen and says, “You’re playing the game.” “Yeah,” you say. He says: “It’s pretty ridiculous, huh?” You agree. The two of you stand in silence for a little bit. Then, he says: “There are a lot behind the library,” and you say, “Thanks!” 4. Text your friend in Salt Lake City to see if Pokémon’s as big of a deal over there. He says, “Yes,” and also: “Have you found the dignity Pokémon yet?” Ignore him. 5. Notice the gradual increase of people walking along the road at night by themselves, guided by blue light emanating from their hands. It’s not an aimless walk, per se, but their goals are ultimately insatiable. You get the eerie feeling you’re witnessing some sort of zombie apocalypse: bodies never fulfilled and moved by instinct instead of logic. 6. When your co-worker tells you about the Pikachu he found in his backyard over the weekend, pretend you’re not bubbling with white-hot jealousy. 7. Go to a punk show with a friend who you haven’t seen recently due to the fact that he’s recently bought a house and got promoted—two undeniably grown-up milestones. While he talks about the new stresses of adulthood, you ache to pull out your phone to see if there are any Pokémon in the bar. You’re there until the bar closes, and when it’s time to leave, you two part in separate directions. As you walk toward the darkened parking lot, you see two bros hanging out. This late at night, anyone is

a threat, so you pull up Pokémon to avoid talking to them. “I’ll give you $100 to drive us to my house,” one of them says, slurring his words. Keep walking. A Rhyhorn pops up on your screen. “Or,” the guy continues, louder, “How about you suck my dick?” Keep walking. Keep looking down. Don’t stop to catch the Rhyhorn. 8. Decide last minute to make a Zubat costume for Comic-Con. Create it using a spray painted basketball and art supplies meant for elementary kids. Your wife finds you sticky with Elemer’s glue and purple fabric, and asks what you’re doing (you’re 31 years old by the way). Try not to sound too frustrated or on-the-verge-of-tears when you say, “CAN’T YOU TELL? I’M MAKING A ZUBAT!” She retreats to her computer to look up “Zubat.” Listen to her say, “Cute!” 9. Within a minute of entering Comic-Con, a Wonder Woman rushes up to take your picture. She shows you all the Pokémon she’s caught at the Con. “I’m from Oregon and we don’t have any of these Pokémon up there.” She scrolls her Pokédex in front of you and your awe at her bounty is genuine. “Fucking caught all of those within the last 20 minutes,” she says. You spend the rest of ComicCon standing off to the side, playing the game. People walk by and swipe imaginary Pokéballs at you and your anguished reaction delights them. You’re a star—a bright and shining Pokéstar. 10. Attend the late-night Pokémon meet-up at Balboa Park. The crowd is insane—it’s like being at the park on a busy day, but at night, and everyone is playing Pokémon. You find a Pikachu, and you realize that it’s as emotionally/spiritually/ physically fulfilling as you could’ve hoped. Across the bridge, in Balboa Park’s unlit cactus garden, countless blue screens flutter against a dark landscape like digital fireflies. Someone yells “DRAGONITE!” and it’s akin to yelling “FIRE!” in a crowded movie theater. You overhear someone tell his friend, “Turn your phone off so you’ll have enough battery if the Dragonite comes back.” Some joker close by sets off a firecracker, its boom is deafening. The firework lights up the cactus garden briefly and, despite the terrorist attacks that happen on a weekly basis, nobody seems to care. They’re all looking at their phones. But so are you. You wonder if the best Pokémon was right here all along: in this darkened cactus garden, in this community, within us all. No. Just kidding, the best Pokémon is Pikachu, and you caught him. You set out to play Pokémon for one month, but one more won’t hurt. Well That Was Awkward appears every other week. Write to ryanb@sdcitybeat.com.

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You get the eerie feeling you’re witnessing some sort of zombie apocalypse.

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20 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 21

CULTURE | FILM

Honor among thieves

The DC Cinematic Universe trips into the realm of super villains by Glenn Heath Jr.

t’s a sad day in hell (or Gotham) when the most interesting thing about your movie is Jared Leto’s demonic cackle. But that’s Suicide Squad in a nutshell. The notoriously annoying method actor brings his particular brand of crazy to David Ayer’s neon-tinted tent pole as The Joker. While other super villains battle with goodness and feelings and honor, Leto’s rotten clown revels in being bad; he could easily star in a spinoff titled The Day the Clown Screamed. Still, The Joker resides merely on the fringes, seemingly biding his time until a more suitable narrative reveals itself. This latest chapter in DC’s ongoing and evolving cinematic universe focuses on other baddies recruited by ruthless government agent Amanda Waller (Viola Davis) to combat future meta-human threats facing the United States. They include Will Smith’s eagle-eye assassin Deadshot, Margot Robbie’s psychiatrist gone mad Harley Quinn, and Jay Hernandez’s firespewing gangster Diablo. Ayer spends much of the first act clumsily introducing these prolific killers and their backstory, leaning on a back catalogue of popular tunes to cue each transition (Eminem’s “Without Me” is a strange curatorial choice). Despite the multiple murders and carnage, this prologue comes across as mostly fooling around. Special forces officer Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman) is tasked with babysitting duties, looking frustrated at every turn. Shit eventually hits the fan when an illusive witch named Enchantress (Cara Delevigne) begins to terrorize Chicago stand-in Midway City. Why is less important than how; she possesses the souls of regular humans, turning them into gun-toting monsters who can survive multiple headshots. They make for good fodder when Deadshot and company finally assemble and engage. Ayer’s never been one to to shy away from

Suicide Squad the physical brutality of violence (Fury’s final tank showdown remains his career showstopper), but here he seems stymied by the PG-13 rating. When the characters aren’t dispatching faceless monsters they are relentlessly bickering with each other. Suicide Squad’s bad attitude resembles that of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, another “bridge” between franchises featuring more popular superheroes. If James Gunn’s snappy sci-fi disregarded plot in order to build chemistry between characters, Ayer’s somber action film ends up explaining too much. Most scenes are smothered in a SUICIDE SQUAD thick layer of exposition. Directed by David Ayer A relevant thematic pattern Starring Will Smith, emerges from all the jive talk. Margot Robbie, Jared Leto Each anti-hero has lost or been and Viola Davis displaced from someone they love because of their bad behavRated PG-13 ior. Diablo’s tale of woe confirms how ego and natural instinct can ignite self-destruction. The film itself is a wakeup call in short for them to either change course or die trying. Oddly, Adam Beach’s wall-scaling Slipknot fails to even get the chance for redemption. The most demented example of this motif is expressed through Quinn’s relationship with The Joker, who she treated as a patient during their time at Arkham Asylum. Suicide Squad often cuts away from its tired central narrative to spend time with the face-painted couple. Their candy colored embrace in a vat of bubbling chemicals is a visual high point, the perfect culmination of style and mania. Zach Snyder’s surprisingly vital Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice ended with the death of Superman (Henry Cavell), and Suicide Squad capitalizes on the desperation and fear that follows. Waller’s brazen actions throughout suggest that the most evil super villain is the American government. Ayer isn’t interested in taking that idea any further than the surface blackmail and manipulation perpetrated on members of the team, and Deadshot most aggressively. For all its posturing as a dark portrait of super sociopaths, Suicide Squad (opening Friday, Aug. 5) never becomes nightmarish enough. It lacks the necessary teeth and ambiguity to connect cartoonish evil with the relatable horrors of everyday life. Only The Joker seems to understand that actions scream louder than words. Film reviews run weekly. Write to glennh@sdcitybeat.com.

22 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 23

MUSIC

From left: Jeremy Bolm, Clayton Stevens, Elliot Babin, Tyler Kirby and Nick Steinhardt

EREMY BOLM KNOWS something about getting kicked while you’re down. The vocalist of Los Angeles post-hardcore band Touche Amore spent 2015 grieving his mother’s death after a battle with cancer. And in the process, a good friend of his also died. By the end of the year, as if the grief he was holding onto wasn’t enough, both his cat and his dog passed away, capping a tragic year with more loss. Not one to let a bad year get him down, Bolm was optimistic for the future at the beginning of 2016. And 10 days in, he wrecked his car. “When I got in that accident...I thought, hey it’s a new year and things will turn around,” he says in a phone interview from his home in L.A. “But that proved me wrong 100 percent. It was like, ‘When is this gonna let up? How does all this bad shit keep happening?’ And then the new year came up, like OK fresh start. It was January 10 and I got in that car accident, and it was like, ‘Fuck.’ At this point, it was almost like comedy.” Bolm directly references the crash in “Displacement,” the second song on the band’s new album Stage Four, a record that directly deals with and documents the process of grieving after the loss of his mother. In the second verse of the song, Bolm yells, “Last week I crashed my car and walked away unscathed—maybe that was you, asking me to keep my faith,” referencing just one of many autobiographi-

cal moments in a particularly hard year. Another is “Palm Dreams,” which turns one of the most anguished moments—a harmonized refrain of “On my own!”— into one of its catchiest. Along with guitarists Nick Steinhardt and Clayton Stevens, bassist Tyler Kirby and drummer Elliot Babin, Bolm guides a set of songs that are some of Touche Amore’s most intimate and emotionally honest. Not that Touche Amore ever held back before; the emotionally driven narratives of past songs have also been inspired by personal events. Yet this one cuts deeper. For Bolm, putting his thoughts into the lyrics was a way of coping with loss, though he admits he was hesitant to get started in channeling those feelings. “I didn’t want to write lyrics until we had a good amount of music written,” he says. I didn’t want to, I guess, open the floodgates of feeling. And if I started going down that path, I wanted to make sure I had a lot of material to go to. When you have such a traumatic thing happen in your life, you’re filled to the brim with feelings and different thoughts. So when it came time to sit down and write a song, I can think of all these things I was going

24 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

through. Like I can write about the night I learned it happened. Or cleaning my mom’s house and came across some of her personal things that I had no idea what the backstory was. “It doesn’t make it any easier but that’s how I dealt with handling it,” he adds. On Stage Four, out in September via Epitaph Records, catharsis and emotional exorcism comes in a wider variety of forms and styles. Compared to the visceral attack of the group’s previous album (2013’s Is Anything), Stage Four is a more expansive work that finds the band challenging themselves in ways they haven’t before. Here they embrace more traditionally pretty sounds like those on “Rapture.” There’s an epic rise and climax in closing standout “Skyscraper,” which finds Bolm singing melodically rather than belting out his signature scream, as does “Water Damage,” a melancholy number more reminiscent of The Cure than At the Drive-In or The Blood Brothers. There are also still 90-second bruisers like “Eight Seconds,” which rip and roar just as hard as any of the band’s harshest songs of before. Yet Bolm says the subject matter of the album necessitated a change in musi-

cal tone as well. “As bands grow, especially for bands that play aggressive music, you’re most likely relatively young,” he says. “You’re full of angst and you want to write the most aggressive music as possible. Punk and hardcore bands also rarely last more than three years, so if you get over that hump and you grow as a person, you grow up or whatever, you get into other kinds of music, or your influences start to show a little more. I feel like when it came to songs that had more singing elements...if a song like that was written in the past I’d be like ‘What do you expect me to do over that?’ I’ve always toyed with the idea of singing here and there, and if there was ever a record to do that it’d be this one.” Stage Four presents an affecting stage in Touche Amore’s evolution, and one that brings about an even more personal level of catharsis. Yet even with old songs, Bolm says, that feeling sometimes never goes away. And that’s thanks in large part to their audience. “I’ve sung certain songs so many times that I’ve gotten over certain things,” he says. “But it could be something as simple as looking at someone in the crowd who’s maybe singing those songs back, and I see their face, and I can tell that maybe something I’ve experienced is what they’ve gone through. That can reignite everything.” Write to jefft@sdcitybeat.com and follow him on Twitter at @1000timesjeff

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MUSIC

NOTES FROM THE SMOKING PATIO ASH ELIZA SMITH

embers of Mrs. Magician and The Sess have formed a new band called Teach Me. The group features Mrs. Magician’s Tommy Garcia and The Sess’ Jeremy Rojas and Andrew Montoya, and have already recorded their debut seven-inch, which is tentatively slated for release later this month via Volar Records. The band also is playing a show on Aug. 19 with Audacity and Violent Human System at Che Cafe. That’s not their debut show, however. The group’s first set went a bit under the radar when they performed at Soda Bar in February for talent buyer (and Mrs. Magician drummer) Cory Stier’s birthday, forming a new band just for the occasion. “We wrote six songs in a week,” says Garcia in a phone interview. “Jeremy had the idea for the band just kind of in his head. He had some song ideas and sounds that would be used. Just the overall vibe of the band.” This is the trio’s first official band together, though they’ve been friends since they were teenagers, and used to have informal jam sessions. For this band, however, there was a loose but somewhat specific objective: To be punk as fuck. “We just wanted to be a punk band,” he says. “We’re not trying to do anything overly technical.

Teach Me Just rad, loud, old punk. Some of it’s noisier like The Jesus Lizard or Big Black. Some of it’s more like Black Flag. And there’s some poppier stuff, kinda like Buzzcocks riffs.” The band’s Aug. 19 show is their unofficial release show for their debut single, and after that they’ll be lining up more dates. However, because of the three musicians’ combined schedules and obligations, Teach Me won’t necessarily become a full-time gig. “We’re all really busy with work and family stuff,” Garcia says. “I don’t think we’re going to be doing any big tours, maybe just West Coast. We’re also going to be working on a record. Hopefully it’ll be out early next year.”

—Jeff Terich

TAG IT AND BAG IT If you search for albums tagged “San Diego” on Bandcamp, you’ll find some interesting stuff. In this semiregular report, we sift through recent postings and relay the findings.

spin on cloud rap. Indeed, it is weird. It’s pretty nerdy too—Skyler’s cadence in “My Journey” is less rapping than odd, semi-melodic sing-speak with just a hint of Shatner.

Bliss, High Sunn: The spelling of High Sunn’s name Here He Comes, Mortal Bicycle: Mortal Biimmediately made me think of drone doom band Sunn cycle has apparently been releasing a new album O))), which was a plus in my book. They actually sound every month in 2016. Having not heard the others, nothing like Sunn O))), instead more like a hybrid of I can’t say if this is characteristic, but the music is Washed Out and Mac DeMarco, so all over the place that it’s hard with lo-fi vocals and drum machine to make much sense of it. There’s beats. It’s fairly standard chillwave some gentle acoustic music. Some cassette fare—decent enough pop rhythmically jumbled electronic songs that would probably benefit beats. A weird reinterpretation of from better production quality, but the melody from “Lay Lady Lay.” nice enough. And some overwhelming, terrifying digital noise. I don’t actually Last Call, Peter Lansford: On know if this is good, per se, but it’s the subject of challenging expecdefinitely interesting. tations, the glass of water on the cover of this album, along with No Woman Please Die, Goth the title “Last Call,” made me Marley: I literally laughed out loud think it’d be a bluesy folk record. when I saw this. The title No WomIt isn’t. It’s spacey and dark techan Please Die is all I needed, though no that’s best heard around midnight in a dark club the description of Goth Marley being “the world’s very with your choice of intoxicant. first gothic reggae band” is a little misleading. They’re mostly witch-house style covers of Bob Marley songs Life of Skyler, PKSkyler: This blend of vaporwave with industrial noise and lots of distortion. It’s stupid, (electronic music made from corporate advertising/ and I love it. promotional/training samples) and hip-hop posi- —Jeff Terich tions PKSkyler as a producer with his own weird

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August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 25

MUSIC

JEFF TERICH

IF I WERE U A music insider’s weekly agenda WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3

PLAN A: Cerulean Veins, Sundrop Electric, The Bum Deals @ The Casbah. San Diego is becoming an unusually strong locale for post-punk and darkwave bands, and Cerulean Veins is one of them. They have some excellent, dark vibes reminiscent of The Chameleons, and I recommend you spend some time on their Bandcamp page.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4

PLAN A: People Under the Stairs, Blame One, Ric Scales, DJ Artistic @ Belly Up Tavern. People Under the Stairs have a long history of conscious, feelgood hip-hop under their belts. Revered more in the underground than the mainstream, they’ve put out a number of underrated albums with solid jams. PLAN B: The Bassics, The Gargoyles, Los Sweepers @ The Casbah. Thursday’s as good a night as any for some mod-garage tunes. San Diego Music Award winners The Bassics put on a great live show, so let them prove it to you. (Mod apparel encouraged.) BACKUP PLAN: Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Some Kind of Lizard, Bit Maps, DJ Ryan Hand @ Soda Bar.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

PLAN A: Metalachi, Electric Warrior @ Music Box. Metalachi make regular stops in San Diego, and it’s hard to imagine any of their shows being less than raging parties. They play heavy metal covers mariachi style, which is a novel enough concept to continue producing fun material. PLAN B: Girl Talk @ Del Mar Racetrack. Girl Talk shows also, incidentally, have a tendency to become drunken dance parties. Since this is a free show at the racetrack, all you have to worry about is the gas money. And (most likely) the beer money. BACKUP PLAN: Emily Wolfe, Spero, Jimmy Ruelas @ Soda Bar.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6

PLAN A: Earthless, Lexicon Devil, Sacri Monti @ Belly Up Tavern. Local heavy psychedelic rock heroes Earthless are a trip to see live. That’s sort of the point of psych-rock, after all. Once their riffs start to kick up, their soaring freakouts can last up to 20 minutes. Rock out or just find

26 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

a good stool to zone out on, either way you’ll see a great show. PLAN B: Jungle Fire, Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, DJs Bob Green, Marsellus Wallace, Inform @ Soda Bar. Who’s ready to get funky? Afro/ Latin funk outfit Jungle Fire certainly is, as are local favorites Sure Fire Soul Ensemble. There’ll be grooves for days (not literally). BACKUP PLAN: Stage Kids, Weatherbox, Nicely, JR Jarris @ The Casbah.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7

PLAN A: Shabazz Palaces (DJ set), DJ Artistic @ The Casbah. It’s not that common I put a DJ set as a Plan A, but when it’s Shabazz Palaces spinning records, I’ll make an exception. The Seattle hip-hop duo not only has an innovative sound, but impeccable taste, so you’ll definitely hear some good jams. PLAN B: Luigipalooza w/ Take Offense, Tiltwheel, Drug Wars, The Gloomies, more @ Luigi’s Pizza (Golden Hill). You know what makes a show instantly better? Pizza! Luigipalooza returns Kurt Vile this year with a lineup full of great bands and, of course, pizza. So come hungry for punk rock and a slice of Spicy Kevo. BACKUP PLAN: The Nightowls, The Schizophonics, DJ Claire @ Soda Bar.

MONDAY, AUGUST 8

PLAN A: Jason Hanna and the Bullfighters, The Rosalyns, Hiroshima Mockingbirds @ The Casbah. All three bands on this bill sound different—Jason Hanna and the Bullfighters play jazzy exotica, Rosalyns do retro garage and Hiroshima Mockingbirds are rock ‘n’ roll— but the diversity should make it pretty fun all around.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

PLAN A: Kurt Vile and the Violators, Pall Jenkins @ House of Blues. Philadelphia singer/songwriter Kurt Vile has released three of my favorite records of the decade so far, the most recent being last year’s b’lieve i’m goin down. He mixes rootsy folk rock with a dreamy surrealism that’s as easy to enjoy as it is weirdly profound. BACKUP PLAN: Ben Sollee, Citrus & Katie @ Soda Bar.

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MUSIC

CONCERTS HOT! NEW! FRESH!

The Game (Observatory, 9/1), Kenny Loggins (Harrah’s Resort, 9/2), Retox (Soda Bar, 9/16), Alice Bag Band (Casbah, 9/23), Frankie Cosmos (Irenic, 9/29), Parkway Drive (HOB, 10/25), Sweater Beats (Soda Bar, 10/29), Ms. Lauryn Hill (Copley Symphony Hall, 11/1), Daughters (Soda Bar, 11/6), OM (Casbah, 11/12), Lucius (BUT, 11/19), Red Fang (Casbah, 11/22), Daughter (Observatory, 12/1), Two Door Cinema Club (Harrah’s Resort, 12/3), Pere Ubu (Casbah, 12/10).

GET YER TICKETS Joey Purp (HOB, 8/11), Dillinger Escape Plan (Casbah, 8/14), Riff Raff (Observatory, 8/18), Parquet Courts (The Irenic, 8/19), Digable Planets, Camp Lo (BUT, 8/20), Guns ‘n’ Roses (Qualcomm Stadium, 8/22), Todd Terje and the Olsens (Observatory, 8/25), Hot Chip (Observatory, 8/26), Dave Matthews Band (Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 8/26), Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa (Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 8/27), Deftones (Open Air Theatre, 8/29), Baroness, Pallbearer (Observatory, 8/30), Squirrel Nut Zippers (BUT, 8/31), Flamin’ Groovies (Casbah, 9/2), Yes (Humphreys, 9/4), Los Lonely Boys (BUT, 9/4), The Kills (Observatory, 9/4), Tr/st, Cold Cave (Music Box, 9/8), Zombies (BUT, 9/8), Floating Points (BUT, 9/5), Ray Lamontagne (Open Air

#SDCityBeat

Theatre, 9/13), Local Natives (Observatory, 9/15), Porches (Irenic, 9/15), Carla Morrison (Observatory, 9/16), Luke Bryan (Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 9/17), Crystal Castles (Observatory, 9/17), Xenia Rubinos (Soda Bar, 9/20), Cold War Kids (Observatory, 9/21), The Naked and Famous (Observatory, 9/22), Atmosphere (Observatory, 9/23), Tegan and Sara (Observatory, 9/25), Ash (Soda Bar, 9/23), Molotov (Observatory, 9/26), DJ Shadow (HOB, 9/27), Glen Hansard (Observatory, 9/28), Okkervil River (BUT, 10/1), Phantogram (Irenic, 10/1), Alice in Chains (Copley Symphony Hall, 10/2), KT Tunstall (HOB, 10/2), Ani DiFranco (BUT, 10/2), Between the Buried and Me (Observatory, 10/4), Sia, Miguel (Viejas Arena, 10/5), Failure (Music Box, 10/6), Bad Boy Family Reunion (Viejas Arena, 10/6), Wynton Marsalis (Balboa Theatre, 10/6), Buena Vista Social Club (Balboa Theatre, 10/7), Kamasi Washington (Humphreys, 10/7), Florida Georgia Line (Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 10/9), Colbie Caillat (Humphreys, 10/12), Halestorm (HOB, 10/12), RJD2 (Observatory, 10/13), The Selecter (Casbah, 10/13), Legendary Pink Dots (Soda Bar, 10/13), Danny Brown (Observatory, 10/14), The 1975 (Open Air Theatre, 10/15), Schoolboy Q (Observatory, 10/15), Prophets of Rage (Sleep Train Amphitheatre, 10/16), Yellowcard (HOB, 10/16), Jethro Tull (Balboa Theatre, 10/17), The Faint, Gang of Four (Observatory, 10/18), Alessia Cara (Copley Symphony Hall, 10/18), Young the Giant (HOB, 10/18-19), Willie Nelson (Humphreys, 10/19), Tricky (BUT, 10/21), Gorguts (Brick by Brick, 10/21), Saint Vitus (Brick by Brick, 10/22), Preoccupations (Irenic, 10/26), Alice Cooper (Harrah’s, 10/28), Ingrid Michaelson (Humphreys, 10/28), Black Rebel Motorcycle Club,

Death from Above 1979 (HOB, 10/28), M83 (SOMA, 10/29), Andra Day (Humphreys, 11/2), Tory Lanez (Observatory, 11/3), Diamond Head (Brick by Brick, 11/5), Sleigh Bells (Observatory, 11/11), Neko Case (Poway OnStage, 11/19), John Mayall (BUT, 11/20), Henry Rollins (Observatory, 12/27), The Devil Makes Three (Observatory, 1/4-5), Blind Boys of Alabama (BUT, 1/29).

AUGUST WEDNESDAY, AUG. 3 Gary Clark Jr. at Humphreys by the Bay. Anderson .Paak at House of Blues (sold out). Weezer, Panic! At the Disco at Sleep Train Amphitheatre. The Claypool Lennon Delirium at Observatory North Park.

THURSDAY, AUG. 4 Allen Stone at Music Box. Kansas at Humphreys by the Bay. People Under the Stairs at Belly Up Tavern.

FRIDAY, AUG. 5 Girl Talk at Del Mar Racetrack. Last Shadow Puppets at Observatory North Park. Metalachi at Music Box. ‘Warped Tour’ w/ Sleeping With Sirens, Sum 41, New Found Glory at Qualcomm Stadium.

SATURDAY, AUG. 6 Earthless at Belly Up Tavern. Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot at Del Mar Racetrack. Redlight at Music Box.

MONDAY, AUG.8 Touche Amore at Che Café (sold out). Jason Hanna and the Bullfighters at The Casbah.

TUESDAY, AUG. 9 Kurt Vile and the Violators at House of Blues. Skyterra at The Casbah.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 10 Ducktails at The Hideout. Monsieur Perine at The Casbah. Inspired and the Sleep at Belly Up Tavern.

THURSDAY, AUG. 11 Foghat at Belly Up Tavern. Joey Purp at House of Blues.

FRIDAY, AUG.12 Indigo Girls at Humphreys by the Bay. Dead Feather Moon at Belly Up Tavern. Chris Young at Del Mar Racetrack. Jeremih at Observatory North Park. Ozzmania at Music Box.

SATURDAY, AUG. 13 311, Matisyahu at Del Mar Racetrack. Steve Martin and Martin Short at Harrahs Resort (sold out). Lucy Dacus at The Casbah. The White Buffalo at Belly Up Tavern.

FRIDAY, AUG. 14 Galactic at Belly Up Tavern. Rhett Miller at Soda Bar. Demi Lovato, Nick Jonas at Sleep Train Amphitheatre. Dillinger Escape Plan at The Casbah.

SUNDAY, AUG. 7 America at Humphreys by the Bay. Shabazz Palaces (DJ set) at The Casbah.

MUSIC CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 27

MUSIC MUSIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 MONDAY, AUG. 15 Grace Potter at Humphreys by the Bay. Ala Fringe at The Casbah. Rodrigo y Gabriela at Belly Up Tavern (sold out).

TUESDAY, AUG. 16 Lincoln Durham at The Casbah. Rodrigo y Gabriela at Belly Up Tavern (sold out).

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 17 Guided by Voices at Belly Up Tavern. James Supercave at The Hideout. Chastity Belt at The Casbah.

THURSDAY, AUG. 18 The Weight: Members of the Band/ Levon Helm Band at Belly Up Tavern. Riff Raff at Observatory North Park. Globelamp at Che Cafe.

FRIDAY, AUG. 19 Parquet Courts at The Irenic. Thievery Corporation at Del Mar Racetrack. Audacity at Che Café. Castle at The Merrow. Diane Coffee at The Hideout. Pato Banton at Music Box.

SATURDAY, AUG. 20 David Bazan at The Casbah. Digable Planets, Camp Lo at Belly Up Tavern. Bully at Harrahs Resort. Russell Peters at Humphreys by the Bay.

SUNDAY, AUG. 21 Burt Bacharach at Belly Up Tavern (sold out). Gipsy Kings at Humphreys by the Bay (sold out).

MONDAY, AUG. 22 Guns ‘n’ Roses at Qualcomm Stadium.

TUESDAY, AUG. 23 Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Melissa Etheridge at Open Air Theatre. Ben Harper at Humphreys by the Bay (sold out). Midnight Clergy at The Casbah.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 24 The Black Heart Procession at The Casbah. Culture Club at Humphreys by the Bay. Rotten Sound at Brick by Brick. Helen Money at The Merrow.

THURSDAY, AUG. 25 A Storm of Light at Brick by Brick. Todd Terje and the Olsens at Observatory North Park. Soft Lions at Soda Bar.

FRIDAY, AUG. 26 Hot Chip at Observatory North Park. Dave Matthews Band at Sleep Train Amphitheatre. Pepper at Del Mar Racetrack. Tower of Power at Humphreys by the Bay.

SATURDAY, AUG. 27 Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa at Sleep Train Amphitheatre. Gov’t Mule at Humphreys by the Bay.

SUNDAY, AUG. 28 Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears at The Casbah. Dave Koz, David Sanborn at Humphreys by the Bay. Atomic Bitchwax at Soda Bar.

MONDAY, AUG. 29 Deftones at Open Air Theatre. Jackson

28 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

Browne at Humphreys by the Bay (sold out). He Whose Ox is Gored at Soda Bar.

rCLUBSr

Jolla. Thu: Simeon Flick Duo. Fri: Jimmy Lewis Band. Sat: Sofa King Bueno. Sun: Kenny Eng.

710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave., San Diego. Pacific Beach. Wed: The Huddle. Thu: Live Band Karaoke. Fri: The Baja Bugs. Sat: HaleAmano, Pali Roots. Tue: Rubbish.

Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach. Wed: Beth Hart. Thu: People Under The Stairs, Blame One, Ric Scales, DJ Artistic. Fri: Pine Mountain Logs. Sat: Earthless, Lexicon Devil, Sacri Monti. Sun: Mark Hummels Golden State-Lone Star Blues Revue. Mon: Big Youth, Soul Syndicate, DJ Richie. Tue: 10,000 Maniacs.

98 Bottles, 2400 Kettner Blvd. Ste. 110, San Diego. Little Italy. Fri: The Benedetti Trio. Sat: 145th Street. Sun: The Matt Smith Neu Jazz Trio.

Brick by Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave., San Diego. Bay Park. Fri: Black Pussy, Monolith, Harsh Toke, Petyr. Sat: Arena, Blaze of Jovi, Lords of Sabbath.

Air Conditioned Lounge, 4673 30th St., San Diego. Normal Heights. Wed: ‘Breezy Bliss’ w/ DJs Josh Taylor, Volz, Jus Sven, Gianna, Viking. Thu: ‘Libertine’ w/ DJs Jon Wesley, 1979. Sat: ‘Juicy’ w/ Mike Czech. Sun: ‘Chvrch’ w/ DJ Karma.

Cafe Sevilla, 353 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Sat: Flamenco Dinner Show. Sun: Buena Vista Sundays.

American Comedy Co., 818 B Sixth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Thu: Kaaboo Discovery Night. Fri: Heather McDonald. Sat: Heather McDonald. Sun: Heather McDonald. The Bancroft, 9143 Campo Rd., Spring Valley. Thu: ‘Darkwave Garden’. Fri: The Sickstring Outlaws. Sat: Cowgirls From Hell, Mexican-American Psychos. Sun: Farooq, Infinite Sleep, Refuse, JasonXvorhees. Bang Bang, 526 Market St., San Diego. Downtown. Fri: Hotel Garuda. Sat: Walker & Royce. Bar Pink, 3829 30th St., San Diego. North Park. Wed: DJ Grandmasta Rats. Thu: Ceremony Night. Fri: DJ Artistic. Sat: DJ Old Man Johnson. Sun: Rat Sabbath. Mon: Wreckord Mania. Tue: The Fink Bombs. Beaumont’s, 5662 La Jolla Blvd., La

The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego. Midtown. Wed: Cerulean Veins, Sundrop Electric, The Bum Deals. Thu: The Bassics, The Gargoyles, Los Sweepers. Fri: Warped Tour afterparty. Sat: Vinyl Junkies Record Swap, Stage Kids, Weatherbox, NICELY, JR Jârris. Sun: Shabazz Palaces (DJ set), DJ Artistic. Mon: Jason Hanna and the Bullfighters, The Rosalyns, Hiroshima Mockingbirds. Tue: Skyterra, Midnight Clergy, Luneaux. The Che Cafe, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla. La Jolla. Thu: 100 Watt Horse, Bad Kids, Holling, DNLL. Fri: Theater One, Common Misconception, Oak Palace. Sun: Lora Mathis, Dogbreth, Foozle, Cereal Milk. Mon: Touche Amore, Ceremony, Gouge Away (Sold out). Dirk’s Nightclub, 7662 Broadway, Lemon Grove. Fri: Dirty Pennies. Sat: DJ Alex. Dizzy’s, 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego. Mission Bay. Fri: Sara Gazarek and Josh Nelson. Sat: Joshua White Trio.

#SDCityBeat

MUSIC F6ix, 526 F St., Downtown., San Diego. Downtown. Fri: Deejay Al. Sat: Arizona Takeover. Sun: DJ Brett Bodley. The Field, 544 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Wed: The Chrome Domes. Thu: Eamon & George. Fri: Banda Part, Quel Bordel. Sat: Feel Good Band. Fluxx, 500 Fourth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Wed: Anderson Paak afterparty. Fri: Kyle Flesch. Sat: Jami. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Fri: Night Swim. Henry’s Pub, 618 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Wed: Ride the Mule, Ride the Mule. Thu: Night Skool. Fri: Good Times. Sat: Rock Star Saturday. Tue: ‘50s/60s Dance Party. The Hideout, 3519 El Cajon Blvd. (City Heights), San Diego. City Heights. Thu: Group Sex. Fri: The Orphan The Poet, The Body Rampant. Sat: Drab Majesty, Some Ember, DJ Jon Blaj. Tue: Tele Novella. Hoffer’s Cigar Bar, 8282 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa. Sat: Ray Brown. The Holding Company, 5040 Newport Ave., San Diego. Ocean Beach. Wed: Lady Dottie & the Diamonds, Jonathan Lee Band. Thu: DJ Reefah, 3 Finger Lid. Fri: DJ Green T, The Fooks. Sat: DJ Chelu, Green Light. Sun: Dark Water Rebellion, Jefferson Jay Band. Tue: You Rock It (live band karaoke). House of Blues, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Wed: Industry Night, Anderson .Paak, Little Simz, Pomo (sold out). Thu: Cousin Stizz, Vintage Lee. Sat: Golden Ganga. Tue: Kurt Vile & the Violators, Pall Jenkins. The Irenic, 3090 Polk Ave., San Diego. North Park. Thu: Declan McKenna. Kava Lounge, 2812 Kettner Blvd., San

#SDCityBeat

Diego. Midtown. Wed: J. Lately. Thu: ‘Psilo’. Fri: ‘Vapor Wave’. Sat: ‘Ascension’. Sun: ‘Cumbia Machin’. Tue: ‘High Tech Tuesday’.

EdRoc, Kanye Asada. Sun: ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ w/ Tribe of Kings. Mon: ‘Hair Metal Monday’. Tue: ‘Trapped’ w/ DJs Sliksound, Ramsey.

Lestat’s West , 3341 Adams Ave., Normal Heights, San Diego. Normal Heights. Wed: Kaitlin Butts, Amber Pastor. Thu: Geena Fontanella, Marian Murlock, Willem & Jacob. Fri: Famous October, Max Minardi. Sat: Lee DeWyze, Wakey Wakey, Savannah Philyaw.

OMNIA Nightclub, 454 6th Ave, San Diego. Thu: BRKLYN. Fri: Audien. Sat: Fergie (DJ set).

The Merrow, 1271 University Ave., San Diego. Hillcrest. Wed: Imagery Machine, Sights & Sages, Chameleon Baby. Thu: The Roman Watchdogs, Midnight Track, Making Incredible Time. Fri: Domination CFH, Powerslaves, A Perfect Tool. Sat: Dizney on Vice burlesque. Tue: Surly Bonds, The Bright Smoke, The Local. Moonshine Flats, 344 7th Ave., San Diego. Gaslamp. Fri: Honky Tonk Boombox, Coffey Anderson. Mother’s Saloon, 2228 Bacon Street, San Diego. Fri: Modern Day Moonshine. Sat: Blasting Idiots. Sun: The Fooks. Mr. Peabody’s Encinitas, 136 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas. Wed: Society Beat Big Band Orchestra. Thu: Clint Westwood. Fri: LoFi Nipple. Music Box, 1337 India St., San Diego. Little Italy. Thu: Allen Stone, Great Caesar. Fri: Metalachi, Metalachi, Metalachi, Electric Warrior. Sat: Redlight, Wax Motif, AC Slater. Numbers, 3811 Park Blvd., San Diego. Hillcrest. Thu: ‘Tagged’. Fri: ‘Uncut’. Sat: Bear Night. The Office, 3936 30th St., San Diego. North Park. Wed: ‘Grand Ole Office’. Thu: ‘No Limits’ w/ DJ Myson King. Fri: ‘Nite Moves’ w/ DJs Beatnick, Waldo, Noaa. Sat: ‘Strictly Business’ w/ DJs

Panama 66, 1450 El PradoBalboa Park. Wed: Gilbert Castellanos. Thu: Miss Erika Davies. Fri: Mochilero Allstars. Parq, 615 Broadway, San Diego. Fri: Crespo, Waka Flocka. Sat: Ikon. Patricks Gaslamp, 428 F St., San Diego. Downtown. Wed: The Upshots. Thu: Fuzzy Rankins Band. Fri: Mystique Element of Soul. Sat: The Upshots. Sun: Johnny Vernazza. Mon: The Groove Squad. Tue: Paddy’s Chicken Jam. Plaza Bar @ Westgate Hotel, 1055 Second Ave., San Diego. Downtown. Fri: Gilbert Castellanos. Sat: Allison Tucker. Mon: Julio De La Huerta. Rich’s, 1051 University Ave., San Diego. Hillcrest. Wed: DJ Kiki. Thu: DJ Moniq. Fri: DJs Dirty Kurty, K-Swift. Sat: DJs Taj, Hektik. Sun: DJs Hektik, Nik Ayler. Soda Bar, 3615 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. City Heights. Wed: T.O.L.D., Kid Bloom, 9 Theory. Thu: Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Some Kind of Lizard, Bit Maps. Fri: Emily Wolfe, Spero, Jimmy Ruelas. Sat: Jungle Fire, Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, DJs Bob Green, Marsellus Wallace, Inform. Sun: The Nightowls, The Schizophonics, DJ Claire. Mon: Whiskeydick, Archer Nation, Deadbrokedown. Tue: Ben Sollee, Citrus & Katie. SOMA, 3350 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego. Midway. Sat: The Chili Banditos, King Bloom, Small Culture, Bad Kids, Stick Bitz, Pueblo.

Sycamore Den, 3391 Adams Ave., San Diego. Normal Heights. Thu: Mojo Jackson. Sun: Tori Roze and Johnny Alexander. The Tin Roof, 401 G Street, San Diego. Gaslamp. Wed: John Hull Duo. Thu: J Liberio. Sat: Big Flavor, Coriander, Chad Lada Duo. Sun: Andy Mauser. Mon: Kenny and Deez. Til-Two Club, 4746 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. City Heights. Thu: Lo-Fi Nipple, Hocus. Fri: Backyard, Spazboy, Mexico City Rollers. Mon: Ben Ballinger. Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., San Diego. Bay Park. Thu: Blue Largo. Fri: Suspicious Minds. Sat: Sabor Caliente. Sun: Tardeadas with Colour. Tower Bar, 4757 University Ave., San Diego. City Heights. Wed: Lost Love, Cut Up, Squarecrow, Runway Nine. Fri: ‘Hip Hop vs. Punk Rock’. Sat: The Plainfield Butchers, Name The Band, Los Shadows and Bad Kids at The Tower Bar, The Plainfield Butchers, Name the Band, Los Shadows, Bad Kids. Sun: Subtropics, Steel Cranes. Turquoise Cellars, 5026 Cass St., San Diego. Pacific Beach. Mon: Suds & Science: Zika and Flaviviruses. Ux31, 3112 University Ave., San Diego. North Park. Wed: DJ Mo Lyon. Thu: ‘Throwback Thursday’. Fri: DJ Ayla Simone. Sat: DJ Julio Velasquez. Whistle Stop, 2236 Fern St, San Diego. South Park. Wed: ‘St. Vitus Dance Party’ w/ DJ Handsome Skeleton. Fri: The Amandas. Winstons, 1921 Bacon St., San Diego. Ocean Beach. Wed: Psydecar, Rubbish, DJ Non Profit. Thu: South Bay Dub Allstars, A New Urban Groove. Fri: Gene Evaro Jr, AJ Froman. Sat: The Verigolds, Boostive. Sun: The Sceamin Yeehaws, Drunkin Punkin Idiots, Se Vende and The Desert Suns. Mon: Electric Waste Band.

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 29

LAST WORDS | ADVICE

AMY ALKON

ADVICE

GODDESS Crazy Cad Lady Four months ago, I started hooking up with this hot guy I met on Tinder. He isn’t someone I’d normally go for; he’s a total mess and serious trouble. He always made me come to his place, and I always left feeling gross rather than satisfied. However, about once a month, I’d feel attached and confess this to him. He’d go into hiding, but he always came back for sex. The whole thing made me worried, anxious and sad, so I deleted his contact info, but I miss him and think about him constantly. How do I stay strong? If he texted me, I’d just run back to his bed. —Detoxing Sex that turns your stomach is a small price to pay for romance,

like a man whispering sweet nothings in your ear: “Just leave your coat on. This won’t take long.” Yes, it’s pretty amazing to find yourself missing a man you dislike and maybe even despise. This probably comes out of how there’s a potentially higher price for women from naked fun—ending up with a sex dumpling (uh, child)—and whoops, where did that Hunky McHunkington run off to, now that the kid needs food, diapers and a college education? Because women can get “impregnated and abandoned,” anthropologist John Marshall Townsend explains, female emotions evolved to act as an “alarm system” to monitor the “quality and reliability” of male investment and “remedy deficiencies even when (women) try to be indifferent to investment.” In a study of Townsend’s I’ve referenced before, even when women

wanted nothing but a shag from some dude—basically seeing him as useful meat—they often found themselves fretting the morning after about whether he cared about them or only wanted sex. These women aren’t mushyminded idiots. Chances are, they’ve been roofied into these feelings—by their own bodies. Oxytocin—a hormone associated with emotional bonding—gets released in both men and women through cuddling, kissing and orgasm. However, men’s far greater supply of testosterone—especially when they aren’t in a committed relationship—can act as a sort of nightclub bouncer, blocking the uptake of oxytocin. As for the monthly pull this guy has on you, research by evolutionary psychologists Kelly Gildersleeve and Martie Haselton suggests that once a month—during ovulation—a woman seeking casual sex is more likely to be drawn to a cad’s more masculine features (like a square jaw and a muscular build). As for how you might quit this particular cad, let’s get real. Deleting somebody’s number doesn’t stop them from calling. You’ve got to block his number. You might also use free smartphone apps—such as Productive, to motivate yourself by ticking off the days you’ve gone cadless, and Clue, to track your ovulation. For added fortitude, make a list of the ways sex with him makes you feel. Being worried, anxious, sad and grossed out can sometimes be a reason to get a man over pronto— but only if he’s a miracle worker of a plumber. (c)2016, Amy Alkon, all rights reserved. Got a problem? Write Amy Alkon, 171 Pier Ave, #280, Santa Monica, CA 90405, or e-mail AdviceAmy@ aol.com (advicegoddess.com). Weekly radio show: blogtalkradio. com/amyalkon

30 · San Diego CityBeat · August 3, 2016

#SDCityBeat

August 3, 2016 · San Diego CityBeat · 31