2 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
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UP FRONT | FROM THE EDITOR
It’s OK to root for the Chargers
L
ooking at the sports page of the UnionTribune, one could easily assume that the Chargers never moved away. And while it’s nice to see familiar names like Nick Canepa still sounding off about the state of the team, his coverage of the Los Angeles Chargers just doesn’t feel right. But the Chargers are good. In fact, they’re really good and if you’re ready for a hot take, here it is: I think they’re going to the Super Bowl. But I want to stick with the U-T’s sports coverage for a minute. So if I’m to go by our paper of record’s, eh, record, San Diego is a huge sports town and the U-T’s sports section reflects this. Aside from the front-page section of the paper, which includes national and some local news, the sports section is almost always the biggest section of the Sunday edition of the paper. It’s bigger than the Arts & Culture section, and much bigger than the Business and Local sections. But why though? For a city that has only one team within the four major sports leagues and, basically, only one college team that longtime locals care about (San Diego State University), why is sports seemingly so popular that it should warrant so much media attention? Well, I’m here to say, yet again, it doesn’t. I love Nick Canepa and look forward to reading his column, but that doesn’t mean that I also can’t think that entirely too much attention and ink is spent on sports. I wrote in this space back in June 2017—and I stand by it—that San Diego simply isn’t a sports town and we should stop trying to make it one. Personally, I love sports. To quote writer Eric Simons, when he was discussing the topic on the popular radio show and podcast Radiolab, competitive sports are beautiful because they’re “a proxy for real life, but better. It renews itself and is constantly happening in real time. There are conflicts that seem to carry real consequences, but at the end of the day, [they] don’t. It’s war where nobody dies.” But we are a city of transplants and we bring our sports allegiances with us. I remember attending Chargers at the Q where more than half the fans were cheering for the visiting team and the L.A. Chargers
have fared no better. Watching their “home” games at the StubHub Center, or whatever the hell that thing is called, are just sad. You just feel bad for them—playing in a makeshift stadium, surrounded by even more Chiefs, Raiders and Broncos fans than they did when they played here. If San Diego didn’t love them enough, L.A. doesn’t love them at all. And they’re stuck. In case readers didn’t catch the news back in October, the Chargers organization signed a “firm” lease agreement, according to the NFL, to stay in L.A. until the end of the 2039 season. Just before this news, there had been murmurings—especially with the SoccerCity and SDSU West initiatives being on the ballot at the time—that the Chargers failing in L.A. could result in the team somehow (anyhow) moving back to San Diego where there’d be a cool new stadium waiting for them. That rumor was squashed relatively quickly, with the NFL banking on the idea that 20 years will be sufficient for the Chargers to build a loyal, local fanbase in Los Angeles. So let’s put it to bed, shall we? Barring some miraculous turn of events, the Chargers are never coming back to San Diego. There’s a better chance that the Spanos family will lose the Chargers name altogether and rebrand the team the Los Angeles Wildfires before ever coming back to San Diego. In fact, that’s really the best we can hope for. They rename the team and somewhere down the road, another team moves here or we’re awarded an expansion franchise that we can lovingly redub the Chargers. This is looking way into the future, by the way. But you know what? We can still root for them now. No really, it’s OK. They’re not that far away and, geographically speaking, they’re still the closest team. And they’re really good right now. We will never be a sports town and we probably won’t ever have an NFL team again, but who cares? We can still enjoy this “proxy for real life” and there are certainly worse things than rooting for a Los Angeles team.
—Seth Combs
Write to seth.combs@sdcitybeat.com
This issue of CityBeat is on the same flight as Duncan Hunter.
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 3
UP FRONT | LETTERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
JUST SAYING...
UP FRONT
WE WANT FEEDBACK Did you read a story in San Diego CityBeat that made your blood boil, or caused you to laugh so hard you pulled a stomach 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 Seth Combs at seth.combs@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.
4 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
From the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Letters to the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spin Cycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Backwards & In High Heels . . . . . . . . . . . Well, That Was Awkward . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 4 5 6 7
FOOD & DRINK
World Fare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Anatomy of a Cocktail Scene. . . . . . . . . . 9 Final Draught. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
THINGS TO DO
The Short List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
ARTS & CULTURE
Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Feature: Holiday Gift Guide. . . . . . . 15-22 Film. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-24
MUSIC
Feature: Author & Punisher. . . . . . . . . . 25 Notes From The Smoking Patio . . . . . . 26 About Last Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 If I Were U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Concerts & Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30
IN THE BACK
Astrologically Unsound . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 CannaBitch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
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UP FRONT | OPINION
SPIN
JOHN R. LAMB
CYCLE
JOHN R. LAMB
Mel & Gene & Myrtle & Lorie It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels. —Saint Augustine
S
an Diego’s political universe, poised for a tectonic shift to the left, will have to do so without the keen eyes of two of its most astute and well-regarded watchdogs. And Spin is not happy about it. On a cheerier note, San Diego City Council incumbents Lorie Zapf and Myrtle Cole will soon be looking for new employment after 10th-floor careers that were anything but stellar. Local television coverage of regional politics is a near-barren desertscape and, for years, San Diegans could rely on one baritone oasis of relevant queries and deftness with the spoken word. At his core
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a newspaperman, Gene Cubbison— who announced his retirement last month at the age of 70—gifted San Diego with four decades of journalistic integrity, insight and wit. And this city is the better for it. Spin has always felt a special kinship with Cubbison, having traversed a few similar steps along the local Fourth Estate trail. These include stints under the tutelage of the iconically hilarious Herbert “Woody” Lockwood at the San Diego Daily Transcript, for whom a local annual humor award is named. (CityBeat’s own Ryan Bradford is the most recent recipient.) It will also likely embarrass Cubbison if Spin notes just how uplifting his personal messages of encouragement were when this column was in its infancy. He frequently asked Spin to come on his Sunday-morning show, Politically Speaking, but was always gracious
to understand Spin’s penchant for the shadows. Spin likes wordsmiths and Cubbison could deliver. Former councilmember Donna Frye recalled once waiting in the wings before an appearance on Politically Speaking. “I’d be standing there because he’d do his intro, and I’d try not to burst out laughing. I’m like, ‘Oh my god, did you just say that, Gene?’” Cubbison told the San Diego Union-Tribune that he hopes to mentor student journalists in retirement. Message to future student journalists: Do not miss a word he offers you. Including these that concluded the U-T piece: “Keep your cool. Keep your head about you. It’s important to write well, think your story out and stay on the good side of your colleagues.” Mission accomplished, Gene-o! Spin and Cubbison would also agree that San Diego recently lost a giant in the pursuit of political skullduggery and decision-making opacity. Mel Shapiro may not be a household name to everyone, but in political circles he caused more than his fair share of clenched cheeks. A Brooklyn native and former accountant, Shapiro spent a great deal of his retired life, and personal capital, chasing after nu-
Lorie Zapf, Council President Myrtle Cole, Gene Cubbison, Mel Shapiro, transitioning in different ways. merous misbehaving government agencies. A dogged researcher and public-document gatherer, Shapiro—who died last week at the age of 91—hated government obfuscation with a passion. “Mel was not looking for recognition,” Frye told Spin. “Mel was looking for justice. Mel was looking for that light that would open up the troves of government information. Because he believed— and rightly so—in the very simple concept that the public has a right to know. It [secrecy] offended and bothered him.” “It was his calling,” Frye continued. “And he stayed true to that. And a lot of people don’t. He did.” Attorney Bob Ottilie doesn’t recall representing Shapiro in any of his numerous lawsuits against local agencies, but he was an admirer. “Mel was the original city watchdog,” he said. “He taught and mentored the rest of us. If he said something was wrong at the city, you could bank on it.” Attorney Craig Sherman had the pleasure of representing Shapiro and worked on several of his legal efforts “toward the end of his long run in beating the City of San Diego into compliance on an array of open-government and taxspending matters…” Sherman said Shapiro “was very astute in both identifying improper governance and improprieties, and successfully enforcing them to get correction and compliance.” Two of his landmark cases, Sherman noted, had statewide implications: the successful challenge of an illegal tax scheme to expand the San Diego Convention Center, and the crushing of a ridiculous City Council decision to limit non-agenda public comment to one day out of the two days it regularly meets per week. “He put his name and own money on the line each time he challenged the city and other agencies, knowing full well that, if he lost, he would be paying the other sides’ legal costs,” Sherman said. “The handful of people who do this, go-
ing it alone, are very limited and unique and deserve very special recognition, especially with a track record of winning that he had.” When the local chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists decided to bestow its Sunshine Award (an award that recognizes individuals who make contributions in the area of open government) to Shapiro in 2012, it was noted that he could have picked from several posh locations to receive the honor. Instead, he picked the city clerk’s office, where he had spent countless hours filling up on informational ammunition. Described often as cantankerous, Shapiro proved over the years to have a sharp wit to those he trusted. Stacey Fulhorst, executive director of the city’s Ethics Commission (which, some would argue, Shapiro singlehandedly forced into existence), recalled one meeting where she asked if he was happy with a procedural change he had requested. “He literally blanched and said, ‘Happy? I’m never happy!’ But then smiled,” she told Spin. As for Zapf and Cole, no personal offense, but whatever new adventures await these two outside City Hall, “happy” doesn’t begin to express the feeling of anticipation for the transfusion of new blood soon to course through the listless veins of regional governance. When last seen, Cole was busy removing her Twitter account and Zapf was holding back tears as she chaired her final Audit Committee meeting last week—having arrived 20 minutes late. Zapf said she’s “not sure where I’ll land,” but described herself as “kind of a watchdog, a fighter.” She mentioned some past stint as a “news reporter,” which had somehow slipped past Spin’s radar during her eight years on the City Council. Somehow, Spin figures the legacies of Cubbison and Shapiro are safe wherever Zapf lands. Spin Cycle appears every other week. Write to johnl@sdcitybeat.com.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 5
UP FRONT | OPINION
AARYN BELFER
BACKWARDS & IN
HIGH HEELS
Concentration camps for kids
I
n my earlier email, I wrote about how cleansing the rain was today. But then I read about the sheer misery happening in the caravan camp in Tijuana, the sick kids and all, and now I feel very sad about it. Fucking asshole cruel mean president.”
“
—Postscript email from a friend last week.
It should surprise no one that the Trump regime would authorize our military to use tear gas and rubber bullets against asylum seekers at our borders. Just like he has since the moment he bombasted his way onto the political stage, our so-called president told us exactly what he was going to do. We need only have looked at Gaza to know what was coming and, sure enough, images from the San Ysidro border crossing are echoes of those out of the West Bank. The news over the last 10 days has been relentless, exhausting, and brutal. This is by design: The constant onslaught is meant to overwhelm, and one of the many consequences of our 24-hour news cycle comprised almost entirely of Top Stories and Breaking
News, is that some pretty important stuff gets buried. Important and related stuff. Like the expansion of the tent city in Tornillo, Texas. Recall, if you will, the halcyon days of June 2018, when the regime—with the blessings of the GOP vipers—gifted to the Lonestar State an adorable little concentration camp. It’s a temporary shelter, they said. It will only house 360 children, they said. The lying liars who have infiltrated every branch of our government and usurped much of the fourth estate offered up their best shrug emoji when groups of children—with their worldly belongings stuffed into clear backpacks—were filmed holding hands with caretakers as they shuffled them along in the dark of night and into transport vans. Today, after the postponement of three planned closures—as we Americans bustle through the mall to throw down our highinterest-rate credit cards to get the best deals on flat-screen TVs and smartphones and designer jeans; as we nod at the Salvation Army volunteer with her little bell and
6 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
drop pennies, nickels and dimes into her red bucket; as we set our housed-and-un-gassed children on Santa’s knee and place the elf on the shelf; as we toast to peace on earth and good will toward men with moderately priced champagne (because we don’t want to be garish)—as we do all of this, a staggering 2,324 children fill Trump’s “temporary shelter.” This “temporary shelter” is now larger than all but one of the 204 federal prisons in America. Think about that for a minute: The Tornillo concentration camp for children (yes, that’s what it is) was supposed to be open for a few weeks. Six months after welcoming the first group of kids, it is more crowded than our biggest prisons. If you feel like that champagne isn’t settling so well, just wait, there’s more: There doesn’t look to be any plans to shutter this spot given the current contract is good through 2020. And, too, construction is happening right now as the private company that owns this facility is expanding it. At an estimated $775 per child, per night, detention of babies is turning out to be a lucrative business. Meanwhile, there is no shade outside of the tents and no formal schooling at this facility. There are few mental health professionals equipped to provide support for these kids whom, the government claims (remember the lies), were not separated from their parents but rather came to the U.S. alone. Either way, they have experienced deep trauma and are now incarcerated like criminals.
One 17-year-old boy from Honduras, who was released from Tornillo earlier this year, told an AP reporter about his experience there: “The few times they let me call my mom, I would tell her that one day I would be free, but really I felt like I would be there for the rest of my life.” He continued: “I feel so bad for the kids who are still there. What if they have to spend Christmas there? They need a hug, and nobody is allowed to hug there.” Nobody is allowed to give a hug there. Sick as it is, we also must face the likelihood that some of the children are getting the very wrong kind of hugs. Several employees at detention centers run by the nonprofit Southwest Key have been charged with molestation. This is ominous. At the Tornillo camp, background checks are limited in scope and farmed out to—wait for it—a private contractor, and therefore none of the 2,100 staff have been properly screened for criminal backgrounds. The Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services warned in a memo that this increases “the risk that an individual with a criminal history could have direct access to children.” All of this is happening on our watch, yours and mine. It’s a deal with the devil. Whether the sun is shining or rain sweeps through or storms blast the east or fires destroy the west—the creation and proliferation of child prisons continues. While the private prison industry profits from this horror show, our society will pay a steep price for it. Happy holidays!
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UP FRONT | VOICES
RYAN BRADFORD
WELL THAT WAS
AWKWARD
A gift guide for anxiety
T
here will always be gift guides. When the world is ending, when the coasts dry up, when racists empower fascist governments, when an increasingly chic distrust of vaccines enable super flu epidemics, when everyone is killed in a mass shooting, when artificial intelligence knows us better than we know ourselves, when there will be no gifts to give, when the memories of the past haunt us on our deathbed—like the time I blamed my acne medication on my loss of appetite while on a date with a girl in high school—there will still be gift guides. So, here’s a gift guide for people who are prone to be anxious. I mean, not that I would know anything about that. Gift option #1: A pass to stay home This is like a “Get Out of Jail Free” card, but for social situations. Doesn’t matter how important the event is, this baby would provide an out for any concert, art opening, birthday party, or even wedding with no questions asked. I’m not trying to be a bad
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friend—it’s just that sometimes social situations can be too overwhelming what with all the talking, mingling, elbow-rubbing and whatnot. In a perfect world, this would also restrict anyone at the event from posting about it on social media, because even though I’ve chosen to opt out, it still gives me anxiety to know people are having fun without me. In an even more perfect world, there would be no event at all and everyone would stay home, waiting for the moment when I’m ready to be social again. Gift option #2: Permission to carry out a routine Hitting all the checkmarks in my routine produces a bigger dopamine release than drugs (but I would not say no to drugs). Ideally, this gift would look like a week of writing x number of words, exercising x number of days, along with wine on Wednesday night, whiskey on Thursday, and getting a nap in at exactly 3 p.m. on Saturday. There would be no surprises, and definitely no spontaneity. This probably sounds boring to a lot of people who like to seize the day or whatever, but my brain is horny for predictability.
Gift option #3: No loud voices I have a lot of loud people in my life— hell, some of my best friends are loud! But maybe for a day, it’d be nice for everyone just to turn it down to a two or three. Shouting makes me nervous. When people start shouting, I know it’s just a matter of time before a fight breaks out. Same goes for joyful shouting. Not really a fan of exuberance of any sort. Gift option #4: Dinner out at an easy restaurant Please, for the love of God, spare me the indignity of having to modify something at a restaurant. There’s so much that can go wrong in that situation: what if they forget to take the mayo off? What if my food accidentally touches one of the pickles? What if they talk shit about me in the kitchen? Don’t make me expose my unsophisticated toddler palate, or, perhaps worse, make me seem like I’m an inconvenience in any way. Gift option #5: An offer to be confrontational on the phone I feel like I’m a pretty skeptical consumer when it comes to memberships and recurring payments, which means I don’t usually sign up for things without days, weeks, months of careful consideration (it’s crazy how I can drop $7 on a craft beer without any second thought, but I’ll hem and haw about upgrading my Google Drive storage for 99-cents a month). But I have been known to make mistakes, like the time I signed up for stamps.
com. Why did I need stamps? Why did I think I had so much outgoing mail that I needed a cumbersome, inconvenient process to streamline all my correspondences, when, in fact, I mail maybe two or three things a year? Stamps.com doesn’t let you quit online, so I had to call them to cancel my membership, and I was not happy. If someone had just offered to call stamps.com for me, I wouldn’t have had that brief moment of discomfort that I’ve held onto for years. Gift option #6: Silent rideshares I’m aware that this is a very classist request. The current evils of capitalism has forced an entire workforce into a gig economy, where tech companies fuel competition amongst their crowdsourced labor without having to pay for medical coverage or any of the other perks that used to be standard at a place of employment. Just talking to an Uber or Lyft driver is the most basic human courtesy one person can give to someone just trying to make ends meet. However, there are some fucking weird rideshare drivers out there! Why would I ever want to hear a business pitch while I’m on my way to get shit-faced? Why would I ever talk about politics with a stranger? I’m definitely not going to start believing in God in the 10 minutes it takes to get to The Casbah. I’m sure there are anxietyridden drivers out there, too. Let’s meet up, drive and be happy-quiet together. Well, That Was Awkward appears every other week. Write to ryanb@sdcitybeat.com
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 7
UP FRONT | FOOD & DRINK
BY MICHAEL A. GARDINER
THE WORLD
FARE
Do San Diego tacos really suck? Part I
A
few years back I claimed, “The Taco Stand is proof that San Diego tacos suck.” Hyperbole? A tad clickbaity? Maybe. Have I never enjoyed a good taco in town? Sure I have, but I stand by the notion that tacos south of the border tend to be superior to the majority of those in the north. Tacos “El Chino” (22710, Ensenada-Rosarito 286, Rosarito) is Exhibit A. El Chino’s logo and menu both bear the legend “tacos al pastor la especialidad de la casa,” and rightly so. Al pastor (“shepherd’s taco”) is Lebanese shawarma that landed in Mexico with lamb subbed out for pork, not to mention the Mexican flavors subbed in for Middle Eastern and tortillas instead of pita. El Chino’s innovation is the addition of a white sauce (crema and mayonnaise). The result is a taco completely in balance: sweetness from the pineapple, savory from the pork and the chile, and with the white sauce’s slight acidity pulling it all together. I’ve tasted no better al pastor. El Chino’s menu seems extensive: from carne asada and arracherra, to an offal and a vegetarian option. Physically, it stretches over the entire breadth of the kitchen. On closer examination though, it consists of a deceptively small group of proteins with different delivery systems: tacos, tortas, burritos, huaraches, etc. Delivery system choice can be important. The buche (stomach) is offered as a taco but not a torta. I ignored this point only to learn later that the same exact filling that was great in a taco was less so in a torta. Why? It was partly mechanical (the tortilla held them in better) and partly a matter of flavor (the corn tortilla made the best of the offal’s minerally notes). If the buche tacos were good, the tripa (chitterling) versions were nearly perfect: seared to
8 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
the point of caramelizing the outside while leaving the inside fully cooked and tender with just a hint of minerality. Choice of delivery system also mattered with the chicken. At gringo “Mexican” places, chicken tends to range from tough to tasteless. At El Chino, the breast was beautifully cooked, tender and juicy. It was good whether as the filling for a taco or a burrito (bigger, almost American-style). But the way the chicken combined with the burrito’s cheese and guacamole created a whole greater than the sum of its parts. MICHAEL A. GARDINER
Tripa taco There’s precision of flavors and textures in everything El Chino does. North of la linea and it almost doesn’t matter what you order; the flavors aren’t distinct and the textures are nearly uniform. At El Chino, it matters. Take those tripa and buche options: on paper they might seem similar, but El Chino’s takes were significantly different in both flavor and texture. That’s how it was with everything: the chicken is moist, the al pastor crispy and the flavors of each are all their own. Tacos El Chino isn’t some high-end restaurant. It’s one of innumerable taco joints on a touristy stretch in one of Baja’s most touristy towns. But it also just happens to be a step above the others. While it may not answer the question of whether San Diego tacos actually suck, it certainly tends to show how much easier it is to find really good ones south of the border. The World Fare appears weekly. Write to michaelg@sdcitybeat.com.
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UP FRONT | FOOD & DRINK
BY IAN WARD
ANATOMY OF A
FINAL
COCKTAIL SCENE #46: A Christmas surprise at Monkey King
is something about these emails that slightly grinds me. It’s like when I go down to Puerto Nuevo and I’m starving o, for almost two years now, I have and all I want is a lobster, but I have to been receiving around an email a day walk past all the street callers trying to from total strangers. I usually don’t drag me into their establishments. Anyway, I succumbed to one of these open them but, every now and then, I do. And when I do, I am mostly disappointed emails recently. It was an email directing by their contents. The strangers sending me to a cocktail called Christmas in these emails are publicists and the emails Thailand at Monkey King (467 Fifth Ave., they send are full of content regarding one monkeykingsd.com) in the Gaslamp. I of their restaurant, bar or spirit company am a sucker for Christmas-themed things clients. The emails are chock full of ex- this time of year. Movies, dumb songs, tinsel, whatever—I love it. clamation points and euphemisms. They I’ve watched Home Alone almost all read something like this: twice since Thanksgiving. Hello, So based on the name of the cocktail alone, I was sold. Have you not been to [insert It also helped that the business here] lately to try their cocktail was made by Ryan new standout [insert cocktail Andrews (in collaboration with name here]? Heath Wetherbee), one of the Full of the best seasonal bartenders in town for whom I ingredients San Diego has to offer, have nothing but respect for. I was [insert cocktail name here] has been already aware of Andrews’ talents blowing minds across the county. From and was excited about the Chula Vista to Oceanside, people Christmas in Christmas gift that I was about come from far and wide to bathe in Thailand to receive. the glory of the [insert cocktail name The Christmas in Thailand is a tropical, here]. We have even been told recently that it is Michelle Obama’s drink of choice! Can you refreshing cocktail with notes of spice and imagine that? And you still haven’t tried it? deceiving aromatics. I like cocktails that are a bit of a mind-fuck, and that’s a little What are you waiting for? of what happens when the cocktail arrives And that, essentially, is how they and customers first smell it. The gin in all read. Ok, maybe not the Michelle the cocktail is infused with Kaffir lime, Obama part. But now I know my email which throw off huge aromatics. For those is not exactly a private space and there unfamiliar, they smell exactly like Fruit Loops, which is great but, when combined with spice notes, it kind of plays tricks on CHRISTMAS IN the brain, but in a good way. THAILAND And when I took that first sip, those as prepared at Monkey King aromas gave way to a light but creamy cocktail that plays back in to the mind2 oz. Kaffir lime 1/2 oz. coconut leaf-infused liqueur fuck. It was a delightful Christmas surprise, Tanqueray 10 gin 1 oz. spiced milk like opening a present that magically gets 1 oz. lime juice syrup me drunk.
S
IAN WARD
Add all ingredients in a shaker and whip. Pour over pebble ice and garnish with lime wheel.
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Anatomy of a Cocktail Scene appears every other week. Write to ianw@sdcitybeat.com.
BY BETH DEMMON
DRAUGHT Confessions of a beer drinker
BETH DEMMON
F
orgive me, Father, for I have sinned. I am guilty of drunkenness at Hodad’s Brewing (hodadies.com). To be fair, it was only a slight buzz, but I’ll admit there was a worshipful edge to the sacrament. Don’t blame the brewer; I’ll happily say some Hail Marys to pay for my transgressions. (Would Bloody Marys work instead? No? Sorry, had to ask.) I know I indulge more freely than others, but I’m just as devout about beer as you are to the priesthood. Okay, maybe not quite as much, but what greater pleasure is there than pairing a well-made beer with a wickedly delicious burger? On second thought, please don’t answer that. I think I’m entitled to some divine mercy. After all, the burgers and fries at Hodad’s are too heavenly for a weak soul like mine to resist. And how is one expected to absorb such immaculate idols of caloric opulence without washing it down with a few beers? My apologies Father, I know I should resist these false gods of flavor. If you really want to know, Father, I’d be happy to expound on the brews. Hodad’s currently has four beers available at their Ocean Beach and Downtown locations: a brown ale, an IPA, a kolsch and a hefeweizen. The brewer, Marlow Myrmo, released his first batches into the wild only a few weeks ago and, bodywise, they’re about as opposite from the burgers as John the Baptist was from Judas Iscariot. All four were tasty and crisp, but ended up on the flabby side of mouthfeel. To be honest, it was a nice respite from the cholesterol bombs I was eating, but could have used a little more oomph to stand by themselves. With time and prayer, there’s no reason why these beers can’t achieve salvation. My favorite? I’ll have to go with the brown ale, I suppose. It was moderately light-bodied with some cocoa sweetness and a hint of drip coffee from a diner. Oh,
Hodad Brewing’s brown ale and IPA you don’t drink caffeine, Father? Well, just use your imagination. Of course, the IPA was also nice between bites of onion rings. I’d actually say it’s more close to a hoppy American lager—there wasn’t a ton of lingering bitterness—but goddamn, it paired well with a juicy beef patty. (Sorry about the blasphemy, Father. I’ll add some penance to my tab.) The rest of the beers weren’t bad either. The kolsch was as basic as it gets, and I mean that as a compliment. Its nofrills approach was the perfect antidote to the fatty burgers and fries served alongside it. I wish the hef had a little more body and no orange wedge on the side of the glass (I find it a little gauche, personally), but if Hodad’s bumps up the banana and clove notes, drinkers will be blessed by the fruits of their labor. I’ll assume you’re a wine drinker, Father. Hodad’s beers are no blood of Christ, but if you’re interested in expanding your drinks dogma, these beers are a decent bunch to start with. Shall we continue this conversation over a few pints, or am I leading you into temptation? Write to bethd@sdcitybeat.com or check her out on Instagram at @thedelightedbite.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 9
EVENTS
SHORTlist
ART
the
THREE YOU HAVE TO SEE
COORDINATED BY
SETH COMBS
GASLAMP
ALL IS BRIGHT With so many performances of holiday classics all playing at the same time, it can be hard to find something truly unique, much less something that isn’t telling the same story we’ve heard over and over again (seriously? Another Christmas Carol?). That’s where San Diego Opera steps in. Part of the Opera’s dētour Series, All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 is a heartwarming and profound a cappella opera about a little known occurrence during World War I where Central and Allied troops agreed to cease fire for one day so that they could celebrate Christmas. Within that day, they met along the trenches of the Western Front to exchange gifts, bury the dead and even play soccer. “The powers above these soldiers said the war had to continue,” says San Diego Opera general director David Bennett. “And just of their own making, being inspired by song, they stopped the war.” “The story is about the capacity that each individual person has to make peace happen,” Bennett adds. “That’s a message that’s important today and any time.” This is technically the third year that All is Calm has been presented locally, but as Bennett points out, this is the first time the Opera has staged the show with help from Bodhi Tree Concerts and SACRA/PROFANA. Making it even more accessible is
GASLAMP
COURTESY OF THE SAN DIEGO OPERA
Let’s face it: we could all use a drink right about now. The holiday season is enough to drive anyone to booze it up. But what if we could combine the two? Well, that’s the main idea behind the Toast of Gaslamp, a 21-and-up, selfguided walking tour through two-dozen of Downtown San Diego’s best bars, restaurants and retailers, all of who will be showcasing seasonal specials. Participant bars include Side Bar, Smoking Gun, Tin Roof and more, while there will be shopping deals at Bubbles Boutique, Lucky Brand Jeans, Oakley and more. Raffle tickets will be given to those rocking ugly holiday sweaters or reindeer ears for a chance to win goodies and gift cards. The festivities take place from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 and check-in is at 614 Fifth Ave. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event. toastofgaslamp.com
All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 the fact that, for the most part, the opera is made up of music that’s well-known to audiences. These include regional holiday classics and carols, as well as military and patriotic songs. “It’s really a piece that is entirely celebrating the potency and power of the human voice, both in spoken form, as well as choral and soloing,” says Bennett. “It celebrates the expressive power of the human voice in all its iterations.” All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 opens Friday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Balboa Theatre (868 Fourth Ave.). There will also be a performance on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $30 to $160 at sdopera.org.
THE CRACK IS BACK In case there’s someone who’s reading this and they’ve been living in a bunker up until recently, The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition. And while we could fly to Russia and drop some serious change to see some prestigious ballet company perform, we’re more than fine with our homegrown City Ballet’s production of Tchaikovsky’s classic. Featuring some of the region’s best dancers and a live orchestra, City Ballet always goes all-in when it comes to costumes and scenery. And when the story involves life-sized mice, a Sugar Plum Fairy and a giant Nutcracker, the finer details are important. The Nutcracker opens Friday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) with 11 more performances through Dec. 23. Tickets range from $25 to $89 at cityballet.org. COURTESY OF CITY BALLET
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Ashley V. Blalock at Lux Art Institute, 1550 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas. The local artist will lead a discussion about her work and artistic process alongside live music, a wheel thrown demonstration, drinks and more. Opening from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. Free-$10. luxartinstitute.org HSin & Salvation in Baptist Town at jdc Fine Art, 2400 Kettner Blvd. #208, Little Italy. A reception and West Coast book release for photographer Matt Eich, who documents the Black citizens of the Baptist Town neighborhood of Greenwood, Mississippi. Opening from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. 619-985-2322, jdcfineart.com
GASLAMP
SHOP ‘N’ SNACK
New Beginnings II: Hanalei Artworks One Year Anniversary Exhibition at Mike Hess Brewing Company North Park, 3812 Grim Ave., North Park. This 30-day group art exhibition curated by Cayce Hamalei includes beer, food, vendors and more. From 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5. Free. 607-349-9599, hanaleiartworks.com
The Nutcracker
Valency Genis: Animal Masquerade at Distinction Gallery, 317 East Grand Ave., Escondido. A solo exhibition by sculpturist Valency Genis, who is known for creating hybrid creatures of fancy, many of which look like taxidermy heads. Opening from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. distinctionart.com HPhantasmagoria at Thumbprint Gallery, 920 Kline St., La Jolla. A group art exhibition including sequences of real or imaginary images. Opening from 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. 858-3546294, thumbprintgallery.com HSketchparty San Diego Art Show at La Bodega Gallery, 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan. This family-friendly, third annual exhibition will display hundreds of art pieces for sale, all created at Sketchparty San Diego events. From 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. 619-255-7036, labodegagallery.com Conception Art Show at Mission Brewery, 1441 L St., Downtown. See over 20 local emerging artists display and sell their latest works. Artists include Nicole K. Moncree, Jerrell Jacobs, Ciera Vida and more. From 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $20. conceptionarts.com
HBenefit for Unscripted Learning at National Comedy Theatre San Diego, 3717 India St., Mission Hills. A performance by teens who are impacted by autism and other disabilities joined by the cast of the National Comedy Theater. Includes cheese reception and silent action. Benefits Unscripted Learning’s programs. At 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $55. 619-2954999. nationalcomedy.com Matthew Binder at Verbatim Books, 3793 30th St., North Park. San Diego-based author Matthew Binder will be reading and discussing his newest novel, The Absolved. Also includes readings from Sam Hooker, CityBeat’s Ryan Bradford, Keith McCleary and Julia Evans. At 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Free. 619-501-7466, verbatim-books.com
DANCE HThe Nutcracker at Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, Downtown. City Ballet of San Diego’s annual production of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic that includes a full orchestra and regional dancers. At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Performances through Sunday, Dec. 23. $25-$89. cityballet.org
FASHION Frock the Halls Huge Frocking Sale at Frock You, 4121 Park Blvd., University Heights. Frock You will be putting some choice vintage clothing and accessories on sale and joined by great guest vendors. From noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8, and noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. 619-220-0630, frockyouvintage.com
FILM HSinging Our Way to Freedom at Sherman Heights Community Center, 2258 Island Ave., Sherman Heights. Outside the Lens presents a screening of this multi-layered look at the life of local Chicano musician, composer and community activist Ramon “Chunky” Sanchez. From 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. Free. espinosaproductions.com
FOOD & DRINKS
Erin Hanson: The Petite Show at The Erin Hanson Gallery, 9705 Carroll Centre Road, Miramar. Browse through impressionist oil paintings sized between 8x10 and 20x24 inches with live music, wine tasting and holiday treats. Opening from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. 858324-4644, erinhanson.com
Tequila, Taco and Cerveza Fest at Ingram Plaza, 2640 Cushing Road, Liberty Station. This fiesta showcases over 30 tequila brands to sample, unique taco recipes from San Diego’s favorite food trucks, live Mariachi bands, lawn games, Lucha Libre fights and more. From 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $35-$65. ttcfest.com
BOOKS
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Jay Paris at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Ave., La Jolla. The celebrated sports journalist will discuss and sign his new book, Shohei Ohtani: The Amazing Story of Baseball’s Two-Way Japanese Superstar. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. Free. warwicks.com
HHoliday Market by Shop Mingei at Mingei International Museum, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park. Annual holiday market with craft cocktails and handmade gifts from local artists including Helena Angelides, Sally Klann, Clyde Turner and more. From 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. Free. 858-964-8805, mingei.org
HJill G. Hall at Women’s Museum of California, 2730 Historic Decatur Road #206, Point Loma. The bestselling historical fiction author of The Black Velvet Coat and The Silver Shoes will offer a book talk and discuss some of the photographs that have influenced her work. At 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Free. jillghall.com.
Snow Mountain at Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 First St., Coronado. Snow in southern California with holiday crafts, face painting, visits with Santa, jumpees, prizes, entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies. From 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. Free. 619-435-6029
Jon Peterson at Mysterious Galaxy Book Store, 5943 Balboa Ave., Ste. 100, Clairemont. The co-author of Dungeons and Dragons Art and Arcana: A Visual History, will sign and discuss the book alongside artist Caleb Cleveland. At 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Free. 858-268-4747, mystgalaxy.com
HHoliday in the Village at La Mesa Downtown Village, La Mesa Boulevard and Palm Avenue, La Mesa. Explore dozens of local craft vendor stands, dance to live music, sing along to caroling, taste food and more. From 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. 619233-5008, lamesavillageassociation.org
COMEDY
HCarols by Candlelight Benefit Concert at California Center for the Arts,
H = CityBeat picks
EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 @SDCITYBEAT
EVENTS 340 North Escondido Blvd., Escondido. Country music artists including Hunter Hayes will perform their hits and holiday favorites to raise funds for Rady Children’s Hospital. From 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8. $19$87. carolsbycandlelight.com HMakers Arcade Holiday Fair at The Port Pavilion at Broadway Pier, 1000 N. Harbor Drive, Downtown. This annual fair includes one-of-a-kind makers, live music, free make-and-take crafts, a photo booth, food and cocktails. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $5. makersarcade.com
HSkating by the Sea at Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Now in its 13th year, the outdoor ice rink on the Windsor Lawn features views of Coronado beach. Skating sessions will be offered daily and a portion of the proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Price includes skate rental. From 3:30 to 10 p.m. Through Tuesday, Jan. 1. Prices vary. 800-468-3533, hoteldel.com
MUSIC
Santa Paws Pup Crawl at Miralani Makers’ District, 8680 Miralani Drive, Miramar. Help raise funds for an animal rescue group with craft beverages, “hosPETality” booths, animal rescue and adoption opportunities and more. From 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $10-$30. rescueexpress.org
HCelebrate San Diego at Beach House, 3125 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach. This family-friendly event features a large-scale beachside stage setup, a second-story art installation and a curated line-up including Eddie Zuko, Amon, Spooky Cigarette and more. From 6 p.m. to midnight. Thursday, Dec. 6. Free. thetravelersclubsd.com
HSan Diego Bay Parade of Lights at Shelter Island Pier, 1776 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island. Gather on the shores of the bay to watch the annual procession of about 80 boats decorated to the theme of “A Tropical Island Christmas.” From 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Free. 619-814-2370, sdparadeoflights.org
HBaroque and the Mandolin at Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., Downtown. Renowned mandolin player Avi Avital is featured on a program that celebrates Baroque and one of Antonio Vivaldi’s best-known concertos from The Four Seasons. From 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. $20-$45. sandiegosymphony.org
Seas ’n’ Greetings at Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. A month-long holiday celebration featuring water-based, “SEAsonal” activities for the whole family. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Through Monday, Dec. 31. $16-$19.50. 858-534-3474, aquarium.ucsd.edu
Altai Kai: Throat Singing from the Altai Mountains of Southern Siberia at WorldBeat Cultural Center, 2100 Park Blvd., Balboa Park. Performers skilled in kai and indigenous folk instruments will share stories of nature’s beauty and mighty folk heroes through melodies. From 7:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. $20. 619-2301190, centerforworldmusic.org
HGarden of Lights at San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas. The San Diego Botanic Garden will be a winter wonderland with snow, carolers and over 100,000 sparkling lights illuminating the Garden. From 5 to 9 p.m. Through Sunday, Dec. 30. $5-$20. 760436-3036, sdbgarden.org
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HJenn Grinels + Jenn Bostic at Queen Bee’s Arts & Cultural Center, 3925 Ohio St., North Park. The local award-winning singer/songwriter (Jenn Grinels) will return for a performance accompanied by
the acclaimed Nashville based artist Jenn Bostic. From 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7. $20. queenbeessd.com HVivaldi and Bach at Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., Downtown. Renowned mandolin player Avi Avital will perform two Baroque concertos in his Jacobs Masterworks debut with the San Diego Symphony. At 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8. $20-$100. sandiegosymphony.org Michèle Renoul at Conrad Prebys Music Center, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla. The winner of a virtuosity prize for piano from the Geneva Conservatoire will perform a program of works by Debussy, Stravinsky, Rameau and more. From 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free. musicweb.ucsd.edu Rock Goddess Tribute Benefit Night at Brick by Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave., San Diego. A night of female musicians and singers to benefit the Tariq Khamisa Foundation, which works to create safer schools and communities. Artists include Roni Lee, Bobbi Baur, Juliet Hawkins and more From 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. $15. 619-276-3990, brickbybrick.com Over, Above, Beyond at Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10620 John J. Hopkins Drive, Torrey Pines. The classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim will celebrate the national release of her newest album with a performance accompanied by visual art from Moonsub Shin. From 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. $30. jeeyoonkim.com Henry Doktorski at La Jolla Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave., La Jolla. The leading concert accordionist will give a performance of his musical interpretations of classic symphony compositions. At 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Free. 858-5521657, lajollalibrary.org
PERFORMANCE HAll is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 at Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp. Part of the Opera’s detour Series, this a cappella opera tells the true story of a World War I incident where Central and Allied troops agreed to a cease fire so that they could celebrate Christmas. at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. $30-$160 sdopera.org. A Holly Jolly Cabaret at New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St., Carlsbad. A festive Holiday musical celebration featuring songs and sketches from San Diego’s greatest musical theatre performers including Zachary Scott Wolfe, Eboni Muse, Marlene Montes and more. At 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 and 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10. $23. newvillagearts.org HAsk Me Another at Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp. The popular MPR show that mixes trivia games with comedy and music will be recording a broadcast with special guests Adam Lambert and Tony Hawk. At 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12. $25-$80. sandiegotheatres.org 2018 In Review: An Original Sketch Comedy at The Women’s Museum of California, 2730 Historic Decatur Road, Liberty Station. “A Living Newspaper,” directed by Tisha Tumangan and written by Kathryn Schellinger, covers the past year’s newsmakers. Times vary. Thursday, Dec. 6 through Saturday, Dec. 29. $16. blackkattheatre.com
POETRY & SPOKEN WORD HKarla Cordero at Link Soul Lab, 530 S. Coast Hwy., Oceanside. The lo-
cal poet will be reading from her new book, How To Pull Apart The Earth Book. There will also be performances from Edwin Bodney, Mario DeMatteo, Alfredo Aguillar, Charlie Beaz and more, as well as a Latinx Chicanx art exhibit. From 7 to 10 p.m. facebook.com/ events/330978254395270 HInsta-Anthology #5 at Verbatim Books, 3793 30th St., North Park. A night of open-mic readings that includes a holiday food drive. Bring 40 copies of one single poem to be included in an anthology to take home at the end of the night. From 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10. Free. 619-501-7466, verbatim-books.com
SPECIAL EVENTS HToast of Gaslamp at Gaslamp Quarter, Downtown. Seasonal self-guided holiday walking tour featuring 20 sips, 20 bites and 10 shopping deals for participants. Includes a raffle where participants can win gift cards and other prizes. From 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $25-$30. 619233-5008, toastofgaslamp.com Island Food & Beer Fest at Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Hwy., Downtown. This 21-and-up event includes island food for purchase, games and raffles, a vendor village and live entertainment that includes multi-platinum recording artists The Jets. From noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. $32-$75. 619-231-4711, facebook.com/ events/2194735647421721 Tiki Trader at Bali Hai Restaurant, 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Point Loma. Artists and vendors partake in the “Dreaming of a White Krampus” theme selling seasonal art alongside Tiki items. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8. Free to attend. 619-222-1181, balihairestaurant. com
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 11
12 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 13
THEATER JIM CARMODY
Nora makes a house call
tation. Also worthy of acknowledgement for their contributions to this production are scenic designer Sean Fanning and costume designer Jennifer Brawn Gittings. A Doll’s House Part 2 runs through Dec. 16 in the San Diego Repertory Theatre’s Ly� ceum Space, Horton Plaza, downtown. $25$69; sdrep.org
F
rom the instant������ that ��� Sofia ��� ����� Jean ��� Go� mez appears—as if transported to the stage from the canvas of some magnificent painting—the San Diego Rep� ertory Theatre’s production of A Doll’s House, Part 2 bursts into life. Command� ing and charismatic, Gomez is perfect as Nora Helmer, the heroine of Henrik Ibsen’s 1879 masterpiece, who exited that play empowered and ready to take on the world. She returns twice as empowered in Lucas Hnath’s 2017 sequel. Even with a morethan-capable supporting cast of Rene Thornton Jr. (as Nora’s spurned husband, Torvald), Linda Libby (as the Helmers’ faithful nanny, Anne Marie) and Danny Brown (as Emmy, Nora’s grown daughter), Gomez proves wholly magnetic in one of 2018’s most exquisite performances. As for the play itself, A Doll’s House, Part 2 suggests that 15 years after Nora walked out on her husband and young children (slamming the door with righteous em� phasis at the end of Ibsen’s original), she returns not out of contrition or affection, but for a much more pragmatic reason. En� joying a career as a popular writer who’s crusading as an unencumbered woman against the institution of marriage, she discovers that Torvald never officially di� vorced her. Until he does so, she faces being forced to repudiate her convictions or risk
—David L. Coddon
Theater reviews run weekly. Write to davidc@sdcitybeat.com.
OPENING: Mark Twain’s A Christmas Carol: The original take on the holiday classic takes place in the rural South shortly after the Civil War. Presented by the North County Players, it opens for eight performances Dec. 6 at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. northcountyplayers.org
A Doll’s House prosecution. (Remember: this play, as with its inspiration, is set in pre-20th-century Norway where women’s rights were few.) In Hnath’s play, Nora must convince Torvald to grant her the divorce she needs without compromising the very principles of iden� tity and self-determination that caused her to storm out in the first place. Her efforts seek to involve Anne Marie and then (re� luctantly) Emmy, setting up the one-act
14 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
production as a series of confrontations between Nora and the other three. How Go� mez’s Nora responds to these retaliations, entreaties and bargaining is the main at� traction of this show, dutifully directed by Sam Woodhouse. There’s little doubt what Nora will eventually do, but that does not diminish the tension of her interactions or the strength of Gomez’s restrained����������������������� , yet intense interpre�
The Lightbulb: A staged reading of Stephen Metcalfe’s “dystopian drawing-room comedy” about a couple that hosts a dinner party during the apocalypse. Presented by the La Jolla Theatre Ensemble, it happens Dec. 10 and 11 at the La Jolla Community Center. ljcommunitycenter.org Always… Patsy Cline: The musical story of the legendary country singer and her unlikely friendship with a fan named Louise Segar. Written by Ted Swindley, it opens Dec. 12 at the North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org
For complete theater listings, visit sdcitybeat.com
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W
e’ve played with a variety of themes for our annual holiday gift guide. We’ve asked local boutique owners for their “hot item” picks of the season. Last year, we singled out items for specific types of people that are always hard to shop for (the gardeners and goths in your life, for example). We’ve even kept it simple and picked items that we liked and thought readers would appreciate as well. This year, however, we decided to go with a white elephant theme. For those who don’t know what that is, it usually involves some kind of party or get-together where loved ones, friends or colleagues come together to
exchange gifts. The rules can vary, but more often than not, the white elephant party also involves some kind of swapping and stealing element. That is, participants pick a present at random and if they don’t particularly like that gift, they can always swap with another person. It sucks to be the first person to pick. It’s great to be the last. There’s usually a price cap on the amount of money the invitees to a white elephant party can spend. That’s why, this year, we’ve arranged our gift guide in price ranges. And while it’s much more likely readers are attending a white elephant party where there’s a $20 or
Cheap thrills: $1 to $20 The adage “less is more” is true for a lot of things: guitar solos, onions and especially gift giving. A small budget, $20 or less, not only forces us to think creatively about the gifts, but it’s also punk AF—and if there’s one thing that the holidays could benefit from, it’s a punk mentality. That mentaility is on full display at Re-Animated Records (8320 La Mesa Blvd., facebook.com/ReanimatedRex). The store has only been open for a little over a year, but it’s quickly become a mecca for used music and movie nerds. They also offer some of the coolest goodies I’ve seen in a specialty shop. RYAN BRADFORD
Re-Animated Records
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$40 price limit, we don’t want to assume that’s the case. Some families don’t put a limit on price, thus guaranteeing (at least in theory) there will be some quality goods under the tree to loot from others. One tradition we haven’t changed is that we always include items that can be found at local boutiques and stores instead of the corporate chain stores. This way, readers can rest easy knowing they’re supporting local businesses and also showing up to the white elephant party with something truly special that everyone will fight over. And isn’t that what the holidays are all about?
BY RYAN BRADFORD
Re-Animated’s original merch is top-notch. Their green monster line-up shirt is $15 and was designed by local artist McHank. Wearing one of these shirts is sort of like a bat signal for horror punks in that it will likely attract other like-minded, rad-ass degenerates. They also have a nice cache of high-quality horror movie shirts for $18. Perhaps a Frankenhooker shirt for grandma? Re-Animated also has a fun selection of rock candles ($8 each) in the style of Mexican religious veladoras. Instead of Our Lady of Guadalupe, these candles are adorned with the likes of Danzig, Prince and Tom Petty, who—for all intents and purposes—might as well be religious figures. North Park’s Verbatim Books (3793 30th St., verbatim-books.com) is notable for its well-curated selection of used books, but the fact that it engages and promotes so many local artists and writers is what sets it apart. Any poetry-lover would be lucky to receive Adam Stutz’s new tidy but complex poetry collection, The Scales ($10). Burn All Books—a small press that operates out of Verbatim’s backroom—puts out a variety of beautiful, limited-edition zines and comics for under $20. I recently picked up Oldwise Jaguar by Charles Glaubitz, which has such vibrant art that I keep it by my workspace for whenever my eyes need a pick-me-up. Tokyo Central + Main (8151 Balboa Ave., tokyocentral. com) in Kearny Mesa is a Japanese market with so much fun, cute and affordable stuff, it’s almost impossible to even be in there without constantly squee-ing. It’s especially great for cat people, and there are few better presents for a toxoplasmosis-infected brain than kitchenware from Nyammy,
Nyammy kitchen utensils a company that incorporates cat designs in all their kitchen utensils. For instance, a cat-shaped cheese grater ($8.59) may seem illogical, but say that to my face, dog-lover, and I’ll grate you! During my visit, I picked up two little plush cats that look very similar to my IRL cats for $5 each. And if your white elephant friends are not cat people (get new friends), get them some candy they might not be familiar with. CityBeat’s art director Carolyn Ramos introduced us to Hi-Chews, and now we’re all addicted. They really are the rich man’s Starbursts, and a family-size bag goes for about $5.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 15
Twenty large: $20 to $40 Of all the white elephant budgets, the $20 to $40 range is a personal favorite because it allows for a variety of gift options without breaking the bank. In Little Italy, Love and Aesthetics (621 W. Fir St., loveandaesthetics.com) has a wide selection of unique gifts, as well as everyday kitchen items that anyone can enjoy. For example, most of the deco-
Seletti enamelware plate rative plates go for at least $24 each, but I’d recommend their creative enamelware selection by Seletti. It seems silly to buy just one plate but white elephant participants can’t expect people to stock all their tabletop needs. Love and Aesthetics also carries the cutest teacups like their “Queen” cup and saucer plate. I could see a baddie sip-
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PHOTOS BY ANDREA LOPEZ-VILLAFAÑA
BY ANDREA LOPEZ-VILLAFAÑA
ping some earl grey out of that one. The set goes for $32. And for those who enjoy the little things in life, Love and Aesthetic carries tiny muse votive receptacles that are perfect for holding loose change, keys, jewelry or just about anything small. These go for $28. There are plenty of gift store options in Barrio Logan, but my new go-to is Simon Limon (2185 Logan Ave., shopsimonlimon.com). This little shop has Mexican-inspired art, home decor, clothing and accessories, but with a modern style that’s completely different from other shops on the block. The owner of the small boutique, Alexandra Perez Demma, makes an effort to showcase the work of talented artists and there’s no greater example of this than the beautiful printouts all over the store. My favorite was the large Frida Kahlo print by artist Ilse Almazan. That goes for $30. She also has colorful prints by artist Gustavo Rimada. There are also some really cool coasters, which crazy coaster people like me know how to appreciate. The coaster set of four goes for $32 or can be purchased individually. Still, one of my personal favorites at Simon Limon were the donkey-shaped planters with succulents inside. And I mean, what’s cuter than a tiny donkey with a tiny succulent inside? Nothing. These modern Burritos Maceteros are made in Tijuana by Graymass and are available in different sizes and colors. The donkey planters are priced depending on size, but the large one goes for $40. Simon Limon also carries planters by Graymass that come in a variety of shapes. And of course, no white elephant gift list is complete
Graymass Burritos Maceteros without a taxidermied insect. I went to Little Dame (2942 Adams Ave., littledameshop.com), in North Park, which recently celebrated its third anniversary. While many of the taxidermied items were out of my price range, I did find a cool taxidermied fly. “The Fly” from Java, by local artist Pray and Profit, goes for $40. Aside from their selection of taxidermy items, Little Dame also has colorful espresso cups that can be purchased individually or as a set for $32. And for the coffee lovers who prefer a whole cup, there is a wide selection of mugs. The “Stay Home Club” mug is the flyest and goes for $26.
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 17
Forty-something: $40 to $60 Having a $40 to $60 budget for white elephant gifts allows us to splurge on some special finds for our friends. The Patio Express (929 Fort Stockton Drive, thepatioexpress.com) in Mission Hills has a great concept—a coffee bar and wine lounge in store. But they also have a stellar selection of local, handpicked items. One of my favorites is the locally made Andrea’s Artisan Truffles ($45). This 12-piece assortment of chocolates is delicious, and each piece has a unique design on it. Fancy water bottles have been a craze for quite some time, and Patio Express doesn’t disappoint with their waSARA HARMATZ
Thymes Frasier Fir aromatic candle
18 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
BY SARA HARMATZ
ter bottle selection. Why get a basic Hydro Flask when Swell makes ones with gold stars on it? Oh, and, ahem, the 25-ounce flask can fit an entire bottle of wine. The wine bottles, eh, I mean water bottles go for $45. The Patio Express also has a variety of styles and sizes of Christmas trees; I decided to go for one with frosted pines that could be used year-round. This one goes for $50. In addition to the Mission Hills location, The Patio Express also has a store in Mission Beach. From cozy blankets and robes to fashionable décor, Del Mar’s Fairen Del (2690 Via De La Valle, fairendel.com) is on the pricier side when it comes to purchasing gifts, but their selection does not disappoint. Whether it comes in the form of candles or bath-related products, nice scents are always popular gifts. Fairen Del has a variety of scented items, including their Archipelago Black Forest Reed Diffuser. The aesthetically pleasing diffuser has a nice warm scent sure to keep the whole house smelling wintry and homey. This limited edition item goes for $54. Another scented item from Fairen Del, and my personal favorite, is the Thymes Frasier Fir Aromatic Candle. Beyond the gorgeous gold packaging, it smells just like Christmas. This boutique offers a variety of candles but this one goes for $58. Fairen Del also offers free gift-wrapping service, which is definitely a nice touch. Carmel Valley’s The Perfect Pineapple (5980 Village Way #103) is a reasonably priced boutique specializing in host or hostess gifts and offers a wide range of cookbooks, table decor
Faye Passow California Casserole dish and witty signs. The beer lovers out there will appreciate the sign that reads like a biblical quote (Brews 24:7, to be exact), “As for me and my house, we will serve beer” ($43). For the self-proclaimed chef in the white elephant group, The Perfect Pineapple sells a Faye Passow-designed California Casserole dish ($50) with a map of the state imprinted on it. I don’t cook, but I would admire this as a piece of art because the detail is just stunning.
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 19
Ballin’ on a budget: $60 to $80 For many of us, spending $60-and-above on a gift for a human friend seems indulgent, but not so much when it comes to buying something for our four-legged companions. If you want to get friends and family throwing elbows for the big steal during the white elephant soirée, then bring a gift for the fur baby in their lives. Barkin’dales Dog Wash & Boutique (4834 Rolando Blvd., barkindales.com) in RoAARYN BELFER
Gift basket at Barkin’dales Dog Wash & Boutique
20 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
BY AARYN BELFER
lando is small but mighty, carrying a great range of products. Owner Meghan Riva is offering custom gift baskets this holiday season ($60-and-up) that includes things like the DuraForce Junior Boomerang, Plato Pet Treats, Down Dog Snacks and Earth Animal No-Hide Dog Chews. If you’re looking to go more low profile, but still want to hit it out of the dog park, pony up for a gift certificate. Barkin’dales is a full-service doggie salon, after all, and it’s always beach season in San Diego. Strolling through Balboa Park during the holidays is a ritual for many, as is picking up unique, handmade gifts at the Mingei International Museum. These days, however, Mingei is but a few months into its temporary closure for renovations, but holiday shoppers can drive west to Liberty Station where the folks at Mingei have opened a sweet mini version of The Collector’s Gallery (2640 Historic Decatur Road, mingei.org). I love the handwoven and dyed Wool Cactus Chiapas ($62 for the large ones). Stuffed with cotton fabric and with thorns made from tufts of agave cactus thread, these are a lot less menacing than their living inspiration and just as decorative. You’ll create lots of oohs and aaahs with a Shupaca scarf or throw from Ecuador ($50$100). Each fair trade item is made from sleek alpaca wool for maximum warmth on chilly winter nights. Finally, All Across Africa Baskets from Uganda and Rwanda are spectacular (up to $98). You may end up keeping the colorful sweetgrass and raffia baskets for yourself and showing up empty-handed to your gift exchange (don’t be that person).
Diane Arbus: A Box of Ten Photographs There is never a time—ever—that a book doesn’t make an excellent gift. And The Book Catapult in South Park (3010-B Juniper St., thebookcatapult.com) has got you more than covered. When obtaining gifts here, the one-for-me/ one-for-you approach is the best, so after you buy the Beastie Boys Book and The New Yorker Encyclopedia of Cartoons for yourself, grab something like California Captured: MidCentury Modern Architecture Los Angeles ($59.95) for the white elephant. This collection of iconic images by Marvin Rand of some of the most celebrated architectural creations will be the prize of the night. Unless, of course, you go with Diane Arbus: A Box of Ten Photographs ($80). Curated by the photographer herself in 1969 and reprinted thanks to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, this astounding collection includes the artist’s handwritten notes. Anyone tired of humans will be trying to hide Wildland ($65) from any potential gift snatchers. With this book, renowned wildlife photographers Peter and Beverly Pickford remind us that there are sacred spots on our planet still unspoiled and not yet degraded by humans.
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 21
Hey, big spender: $80 & above It occurs to me that there probably aren’t that many CityBeat readers who will be spending more than $80 on a white elephant party. I mean, most of our readers don’t live in Rancho Santa Fe or have a C-note to drop on a gift even if it will score them cool points with partygoers. So maybe consider the items below as options for someone truly special. First, there’s the Sage Sisters’ Self Care Gift Box ($111). Anyone who’s visited the quaint North Park store (3060 University Ave., shopsagesisters.com) is already aware of their amazing collection of flowers and bouquets, but they also carry some pretty sweet-smelling items COURTESY OF SAGE SISTERS
Self Care Gift Box
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SETH COMBS
BY SETH COMBS
perfect for any occasion. The curated gift box includes a number of items that are gender-neutral and agreeable to any nose (I actually tried Under Aurora’s “The Artist” body spray and received many compliments throughout the day). In addition to the botanical body spray, there’s a New Moon Intention candle, a bomb-ass meditation bath bomb, Under Aurora organic hand lotion, a lavender smudge stick and a rose quartz tower, which is perfect for getting all that love energy sent your way in the New Year. If lotions in a basket (actually, it’s a box, but I can never pass up a Silence of the Lambs reference) ain’t your cup of organic herbal tea, perhaps any number of items at Super7 will be. The geek toy and clothing mecca in downtown (701 Eighth Ave., super7.com) has all kinds of items that will appeal to old-school movie and cartoon fans, as well as an awesome selection of high-end art books and clothing. While it’s certainly tempting to buy $80-plus worth of mini M.U.S.C.L.E. figurines or several spools of Masters of the Universe villains wallpaper (it’s felt), both might be a little too geeky for a white elephant party. Maybe stick with the Universal classics (pun intended) like The Creature (the Black Lagoon one) Coaches Jacket or the sweet JCRT Skeletor Flannel. I honestly believe anyone would like these so don’t be surprised if either becomes a hit at the party. I also really like the super-limited She-Ra resin figurine from artist Amanda Visell. All items are $80 and above, but vary in price depending on whether they’re bought in the store or online. Finally, what holiday presents experience would be com-
Baghera Speedster plete without a trip to North Park’s go-to destination for gifts? Some boutiques come and go, but Pigment (3810 30th Ave., shoppigment.com) has been at it for over a decade for a reason. One could easily get all their shopping done here. For that high-end white elephant or that extra special someone, what’s cooler than a Fjällräven Kånken Original backpack ($80)? These things consistently remain trendy and anyone who’s dropping $80-plus on a gift probably already knows this. Same goes for the Falcon Bake Set ($99), which includes three enamelware baking pans and two pie dishes. Or, if you’re already aware that the white elephant participants have kids, go for one of the Baghera Speedster ($150-$190) vehicles. Sure, they’re technically made for toddlers to enjoy, but the classic design of these pieces (metal bodies, real rubber tires, etc.) make them a nice home accessory as well.
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CULTURE | FILM
Cat and mouse
The Favourite
Yorgos Lanthimos has a blast playing with devious palace intrigue in The Favourite by Glenn Heath Jr.
M
onarchies are propped up by the illusion of specialize in spinning reality. For most of the film, Queen all-encompassing power. A single figurehead Anne is deemed passive and sickly, an observer whose comes to represent the living embodiment of unhappiness remains secondary to the more glamorous that authority, creating a top-down institution made evils of her subordinates. But Coleman’s tortured perforpossible by the complicity of others. These people mance is one of endurance more so than strategy. Coming off The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Lanthimos’ may see regal hierarchy as a way to ensure their own economic advancement. If and when that confidence antiseptic modern drama that indulged in Haneke-lite wanes, however, so too does the falsely constructed suffering, the director has clearly chosen to lighten things up considerably with The Favourite. The anmythology surrounding kings and queens. In The Favourite, Greek provocateur Yorgos Lanthi- tiquated rules and regulations of upper crust living mos revels in the madness and absurdity that comes simply act as cover for wealthy acolytes who thrive on with such a vacuum of leadership. At first, the status recycling systems of stagnation and apathy. The irony behind Abigail’s ruse is that she doesn’t quo reeks of controlled chaos. Certain longstanding manipulations have been put in place to convince aim high enough. For her, wealth and access seem to the puppet that they are actually the one pulling the be good enough, which ultimately leaves her vulnerstrings. But an outside force threatens this fragile dé- able to those with more imaginative tactics. After all, tente, revealing issues of class and privilege as a result. these people have survived by feasting on ambitious Domineering patriarchs and masculine ideologues young things. “Love has limits,” Sarah have populated Lanthimos’ bluntly tells Anne early in coldly devilish previous work the film. “It should not,” the (Dogtooth, The Lobster), but queen, replies moments later. his latest baroque period piece THE FAVOURITE Signifying an amazingly arrobelongs to a trio of deceptive Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos gant, aristocratic perspective, women. Opulence and opporStarring Olivia Coleman, Rachel Weisz, her response provides a crucial tunism defines the royal court Emma Stone and Nicholas Hoult window into the expectations of Queen Anne (Olivia Coleassociated with one-way adoman), offering warm refuge for ration. Sarah and Abigail try human vipers looking to nest. to manipulate that reality for While war and economic unrest ravage the European landscape in the early most of the film, but like many a Lanthimos movie, 18th century, lords and ladies looking to cement their the institution ultimately prevails over the individual. The Favourite (opening Friday, Dec. 7) equates the upward social mobility help fortify a tight bubble of act of servitude with self-destruction, which makes gossip, misinformation and betrayal. Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz), the Duchess of Abigail’s brazen defiance admirable on the surface. Marlborough, has positioned herself as the Queen’s But her end game is entirely selfish, motivations that confidant in all matters personal and political. She’s are ultimately devoid of ideological or political subpushing for an escalation in the most recent conflict stance. As both women twist each other into knots with France, while the opposition party leader named just for the opportunity to con Queen Anne, they fail Harley (a sulking Nicholas Hoult) seeks diplomatic to ultimately consider the social infrastructure put into place to protect monarchical symbols. and legal recourse. Lanthimos illuminates the silliness of it all. But for The arrival of Abigail (Emma Stone), Sarah’s distant cousin who has fallen on disgraced times, upends every duck race and lobster hunt, there’s an unlucky this power struggle permanently. Taking a page out of subservient just waiting to get pinned against the Eve Harrington’s playbook, the ambitious young lass wall. Under a hail of uproarious rage and absurdity, starts to chip away at the relationship between the The Favourite subverts the idea that only one kind of Queen and her nastily loquacious right hand by acting person can become a slave to the process. the innocent understudy. Casual backstabbing quickly evolves into full-blown Film reviews run weekly. warfare between advantageous political operatives who Write to glennh@sdcitybeat.com
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DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 23
CULTURE | FILM
Divide and Conquer: The Story of Roger Ailes
The predator
L
ong before Trump, Fox News and the #MeToo Movement, Roger Ailes was an upstart producer on The Mike Douglas Show, one of the most popular daytime talk programs of the 1960s and ’70s. It was during an episode taping in 1967 that he met Richard Nixon, impressing the future president with his strong opinions about television’s role in the future of politics. That encounter would eventually land Ailes his first professional job as a media consultant for high profile Republican candidates. Divide and Conquer: The Story of Roger Ailes, positions this moment as a turning point, not only for the 28-year-old wunderkind, but the nation’s burgeoning relationship with on-screen spin. Alexis Bloom’s practical and deeply monotonous documentary takes a holistic look at Ailes’ life instead of focusing on his malicious and nefarious sexual misconduct. By doing so, the film tries to understand those personal and historical forces that propelled him to such a position of power. As a result, it tends to gloss over the potential intricacies of a specific event or perspective. Instead, the film favors the tired talking-heads model employed by countless filmmakers, which leaves much to be desired stylistically. Dubbed a GOP kingmaker for his influential role in the Nixon, Reagan and Trump campaigns, Ailes would eventually lead to the inception of Fox News in 1996. The network quickly became known for producing incendiary talk shows that helped mythologize Conservatism as the valiant outsider in an unjust political spectrum. Divide and Conquer (opening Friday, Dec. 7, at the Ken Cinema)
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finds its groove discussing this topic in particular, deftly examining how Ailes’ brand of predatory journalism could have lead to the current iteration of Fox News as the state run television channel for Trump’s administration. The film is even less successful giving voice to the women that Ailes preyed on throughout the years. Bloom may tell some of their traumatizing stories, but she doesn’t convincingly represent the massive scope of Ailes’ quid pro quo viciousness.
—Glenn Heath Jr.
OPENING 3100: Run and Become: This non-fiction film tells the story of a Finnish paperboy’s attempt to complete the Self-Transcendence 3100 Miler, the world’s longest race. Opens Friday, Dec. 7, at the Digital Gym Cinema in North Park. Calling All Earthlings: In this documentary by local professor Jonathan Berman, the unconventional residents of the Joshua Tree area discuss the original “doit-yourself” desert counterculture. Opens Friday, Dec. 7, at the Digital Gym Cinema in North Park. Divide and Conquer: The Story of Roger Ailes: Documentary about the GOP kingmaker and eventual CEO of Fox News whose sexual misconduct was finally made public in the 2016. Opens Friday, Dec. 7, at the Landmark Ken Cinema. The Favourite: A bitter power struggle between two fierce opportunists (Rachel Weisz, Emma Stone) threatens to rip open the royal court of Queen Anne (Olivia Coleman) at the beginning of the 18th century. Opens Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Landmark Hillcrest Cinemas.
For complete movie listings, visit Film at sdcitybeat.com.
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JAMES REXROAD
MUSIC
Tristan Shone he noises that Tristan Shone makes are fucking terrifying. For the past decade, he’s been creating the soundtrack to a long industrial nightmare under the moniker Author & Punisher. Harsh, metallic screams haunt his records while pummelling beats drive them. The low-ends in his music are not necessarily heard, but felt in the lower regions of the abdomen. Essentially, it’s the type of music that a cenobite from Hellraiser would probably cue up. Perhaps the most shocking thing, however, is how catchy it can be, especially on his newest album, Beastland. It’s also Author & Punisher’s first release for metal powerhouse label Relapse Records. Now, that’s not to say that Beastland is something that mom and dad would typically put on (unless they’re cool), but discernible fans of extreme music can find genuine hooks underneath the sonic assault on songs such as the creepy “Night Terror” and the album’s first single, “Nihil Strength.” Even the album’s closing track, “Beastland,” allows solemn beauty to bleed through the bleakness. All of this is to say that Beastland is a huge musical step for Shone.
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“I’ve had this kind of crowd who like the industrial side of it,” Shone says during a phone call from Little Rock, Arkansas—a stop on Author & Punisher’s current tour. “They like the gear, spectacle. I appreciate that, but when it comes down to it, I’m making songs. I’m making albums. Not really thinking about the gear so much.” About that gear… It’s nearly impossible to talk about Author & Punisher without talking about the machines Shone has built to produce his terrifying sounds. They don’t look so much like instruments, but robotic extensions of the body that are primarily used for torture. It’s awe-inspiring to watch Shone operate his inventions, but they do provide an easy focus point for people who don’t normally engage with harsh music. Still, this seems like a bit of a double edged sword for Shone, who ultimately wants to get his more nuanced messages across. “A lot of people want my lyrics to be about the tech,” says Shone, who built a whole new set of what he calls “drone machines” for Beastland. “If [it] was ever commodified, I’m sure the companies would force me to call them something terrible, like ‘Terminator’ or Robocop-type of names.” “[People] want this package of ‘Oh yes, I
write about the effects of technology on my life,’” Shone continues. “And I do have songs about that. Of course, they’re not about the positive effects of technology. They’re about self-destruction, and that’s the kind of the sad, ironic, thing about what I’m doing. But what does that have to do with politics? How can I bring it around to that?”
And therein lies the thesis—if not heart— of Beastland. Sure, Author & Punisher can satisfy the cyberpunk contingent who just want to see robots create loud sounds, but like all good sci-fi writers, Shone wants his work to reflect and speak out (or scream) against injustices like racial inequality and the alarming acceptance of authoritarianism.
It’s harsh music for a harsh world, but also a wake-up call. “This whole album is about people in power taking advantage of people of lesser power,” Shone says. A lot of Beastland was inspired by the Broken Earth trilogy, a sci-fi/ fantasy epic written by N.K. Jemisin, which Shone saw as a poignant allegory to how minorities are treated in the U.S. today. “When I first thought of writing songs for Beastland, I sort of liked the idea of creating this parallel world where beasts were taking advantage of weaker organisms, and I was trying to come up with ways of making each song a different [beast].” “It kind of didn’t work out that way,” he continues. “But in the abstract, or maybe ambiguous way, that’s what the album is about.” Of course, the old-school metal scene isn’t necessarily known for its wokeness, and often does not take kindly to the type of messages that Author & Punisher delivers. It’s a community that often mocks political correctness and harbors white nationalism in its more fringe corners. But when it comes to tackling vileness, Shone is as confrontational as his music. “I think bands should be political, and bands that don’t speak out against other metal bands dropping n-bombs backstage, or sympathizing with nationalist leaders— they’re basically just total cowards. That’s what metal is about. Metal is protest music.” When asked what scares him—because what could terrify a purveyor of such terrifying music?—Shone responds without hesitation: “Violence at shows.” He relates one recent incident where he posted an image of a patch on his Instagram, which had a design of two guitar cables that looks strikingly similar to an Antifa symbol. “I was absolutely trolled,” Shone says. “My dad called me after that and said ‘You’re going on tour for a couple months, you should be careful what you say.’ I said ‘I’m not going to stop. I’m going to say whatever I want.’ [My dad] was in Vietnam, and he didn’t believe in the war, but all that music—stuff like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan—I’m sure he wasn’t saying those guys should watch what they’re saying. We had a good dialogue, though.” “But I did learn that I have Nazi fans, and that’s scary.” Indeed it is. But if Beastland can teach us anything, it’s that beauty can emerge out of the fear, noise and terror—at least for those who know where to look.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 25
MUSIC
AFTER HOURS: ABOUT LAST NIGHT
NOTES FROM THE SMOKING PATIO
Stay golden
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LOCALS ONLY
T
“I was a bit worried about the response in the beginning,” he holiday season is filled with indie shopping events showcasing any number of local artisans and crafters, says Garcia. “But so far it’s brought together some amazing but for Charlie Garia, there was a market that he felt people and has pulled a lot of interest.” Similar to other successful swap meet-style events in San just wasn’t being tapped into. “I felt there was a need for a flea market and swap for Diego, such as the San Diego Punk Flea Markets (at the Che locals who are into the macabre, goth-esque and darker art Café Collective) and the Casbah’s semi-regular Vinyl Junkies Record Swap, the Goth Swap features and oddities,” says Garcia, who goes by the a curated collection of items for sale and alias and DJs under the name Disorder. new vendors are encouraged to contact Thus, the San Diego Goth Swap was the coordinators (they can email Garcia born. Along with his colleague and SPACE at disorder1904@gmail.com). The latest bartender V.H. Pretty, Garcia set up a flea “Black Christmas Edition” of the event market-style event where fellow goths, will be held on Dec. 9 at SPACE from 1 to punks, death-rockers and metalheads could 6 p.m. Garcia says he and Pretty plan to come and peruse any number of items that make the Goth Swap a regular event movwould likely be considered a little too dark ing forward. for most conventional shopping events. “So far we’ve have some killer art, Along with drink specials and food, there San Diego Goth Swap paintings, zines, of course records and casare DJs throughout the day. Pretty has coordinated several swap meet events at SPACE (3519 El Cajon settes and clothes etc.,” Garcia says, quickly adding that some Blvd., spacebarsd.com) in Normal Heights, but Garcia says of the items are a bit more unique. “We had a killer display of he was still tentative when they threw the first Goth Swap some bondage gear and some insects at the first one.” in October.
ALBUM REVIEWS
—Seth Combs
Canyon only to end up somewhere on the shores of Sunset Cliffs. With songs like “Fun Fear” and “Marine Layer,” it would be easy to simply label them folk, but tracks like Daytrip Daytrip EP (Self-released) “Werewolf” and the Cars-esque “Unspecified Targets” are Pocket Hole Marine Layer EP (Self-released) proof that Pocket Hole are capable of crafting poppy rock songs that, as a whole, seamlessly coalesce into an overall ’ve been thinking a lot lately about what, exactly, the “Cal- sound that is both distinctive and unique. ifornia sound” sounds like. Being that we’re a state with Daytrip live up to their name in more ways than one. several distinct metropolises, each with their Even their album features a hula girl on top of a own vibe and character, it’s often difficult to dashboard with a beach in the background. The pinpoint a distinct sound or even a type of mufour songs on the trio’s self-titled EP veer more sic that fully encompasses our entire state. It’s on the pop-punk, almost emo spectrum, two even more difficult when it comes to San Diego. genres that have been making a bit of a comeThe conclusion I came up with is that there back lately. Still, that description doesn’t fully simply isn’t a succinct and all-encompassing encapsulate it. Songs like “Fuzzy” and “Extra way to describe the “California sound.” HowCredit” are more akin to bands like Big Star and ever, it’s like that famous quote from the SuWeezer, two bands that, one could argue, owe a preme Court justice who famously remarked debt to the “California sound.” that he knew pornography when he saw it. I Overall, Daytrip’s sound is a bit derivative, Marine Layer EP know the “California sound” when I hear it. but just as with Pocket Hole, I’m interested Local indie-rock bands Daytrip and Pocket Hole en- to see how they develop. They probably won’t like that I compass this sound in beautiful ways. The latter’s new EP, lumped them in with the “California sound,” but I know it Marine Layer, sounds as if it was lifted out of a Monterey when I hear it. jetty, packaged carefully, and sent cruising down Highway —Seth Combs One while making stops at the Los Pardes Forest and Laurel
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26 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
think El Dorado is just one of those places that you want to go to, even if you don’t necessarily want to drink. You just want to be around other people that you know,” says Reese Honse, general manager of El Dorado (1030 Broadway, eldoradobar.com). The East Village-based bar is celebrating its 10th anniversary this month, a feat Honse says El Dorado achieved by investing in local talent. “Around year five, we started to switch up entertainment, dial it back and make it more of a local, neighborhood spot,” Honse says. “I would go ahead and say that a lot of people, after ARLENE IBARRA the transition, thought we were going to shut down and, you know, kind of got written off as a bunch of green bartenders trying to run a business.” At the time, El Dorado had been booking bigHickies and Dryhumps name international DJs and bands, such as Dillon Francis and Prayers. They instead decided to stick with what they were already good at: highlighting existing nights, such as Hickies and Dryhumps, a ’90s party that began at El Dorado in 2010. “We’re just blessed that Hickies was conceived at El Dorado,” says Hickies and Dryhumps DJ and co-founder Jason Huggins. “It really helped us make our ’90s night great. I would have never guessed that we would still be playing nostalgic throwback music eight years later and that our night would still be as popular and consistent as it is.” Hickies and Dryhumps will be back for El Dorado’s 10Year Anniversary celebration, which spans three days. On Friday, Dec. 14, there will be DJ sets by Adam Salter and special guest Designer Drugs. On Saturday, Dec. 15, there will be a two-part party starting off with Mexico-based band Azucar earlier in the day, followed by Hickies and Dryhumps at night. On Sunday, Dec. 16, there will be an RSVP-only gathering between former and current El Dorado bartenders, promoters, DJs and more. “We can’t wait to see the old EL D heads,” says Huggins. “It’s been 10 years now, and we’re all a lil’ bit older… It’s like our 10-year high school reunion we never went to.” Moving forward, El Dorado will be incorporating a few new elements, but mainly, it’s going to keep doing what it’s been doing. “Not a lot is going to change,” says Honse. “There’s just going to be a lot more energy put into what we think we do well.”
—Torrey Bailey
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MUSIC
IF I WERE U
BY CITYBEAT STAFF
Our picks for the week’s top shows
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5
PLAN A: Fucked Up, Narrow Head @ Soda Bar. Hopefully you caught our Spotlight section last week where we sang the praises of Canadian hardcore freaks Fucked Up. Their live shows live up to the band’s name. PLAN B: Big Business, Qui, DJ JUSTIN PEARSON @ Whistle Stop. The team of Jared Warren and Coady Willis make some wicked noise for just two dudes. The L.A.-via-Seattle duo play a brand of metal that’s somewhere between the sludge and stoner varieties. Either way, it melts your face and makes your ears bleed, but, like, totally in a good way. BACKUP PLAN: Redd Kross, Dale Crover Band @ The Casbah.
her new album, Hell-On is packed with empowered, but nonetheless heart-wrenching, indie-rock that moves the soul. PLAN B: Author & Punisher, Lingua Ignota, Street Sects, Otherr, New Crimes @ The Casbah. Check out this week’s music feature on local industrialist Tristan Shone. His one-man project, Author & Punisher, is not for the faint of heart, but you’ve never heard anything like it. BACKUP PLAN: Beach Fossils, Wavves @ House of Blues. MELISSA WAX
THURSDAY, DEC. 6
PLAN A: Laura Gibson @ Grand Ole BBQ, El Cajon. We profiled singer/songwriter Gibson in last week’s issue and can’t say enough nice things about her new album, Goner. This show is a little off the beaten path so pack some friends into the van and roadtrip it. You won’t regret it. PLAN B: Irradio, Dewey Defeats Truman, Demasiado, Miss New Buddha @ The Casbah. It’s truly nuts to realize that the soul punks in Irradio have been playing off-and-on in the local scene for nearly 20 years, but they sound as good as ever. With the haunting vocals of Jon Piotrowski, Demasiado is another fine local band that recently reunited. And Miss New Buddha plays some excellent math-punk so show up for the whole show. BACKUP PLAN: Castle, Nebula Drag, Hours, Dhatura @ Tower Bar.
FRIDAY, DEC. 7
PLAN A: Sextile, BOAN, O/X @ Whistle Stop. Our editor saw Sextile last year and has been raving about their hard-edged post-punk that includes elements of industrial and even rockabilly. Show up early for L.A.-based electro duo BOAN, who play dark and sexy electro-pop songs with names like “Freak Snake” and “Secretos.” PLAN B: Magic Sword, Crystal Ghost @ Soda Bar. Speaking of weird electro music, Magic Sword is a Boise-based electronic trio who plays synthy instrumental music that’s straight out of an epic ’80s movie montage. They also wear cloaks and masks during shows, which only adds to the sci-fi feels. BACKUP PLAN: Heart Bones (Har Mar Superstar and Sabrina Ellis), Geezer @ The Merrow.
SATURDAY, DEC. 8
PLAN A: Neko Case, Destroyer @ The Observatory. Neko Case is a goddess and
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Skating Polly
SUNDAY, DEC. 9
PLAN A: Suuns, Graham Van Pelt @ Soda Bar. For over a decade, Montreal-based quartet Suuns have been producing some of the most interesting electro-rock around. Fans of bands like Clinic and Neu! will want to check out Suuns’ latest, Felt, which is arguably their most sexy and melodic to date. PLAN B: Skating Polly, Potty Mouth, ConTact @ SPACE. It’s the Polly/Potty tour! A night of badass, all-female pop-punk that isn’t afraid to get in your face. BACKUP PLAN: Kurt Vile & The Violators, Jessica Pratt @ The Observatory.
MONDAY, DEC. 10
PLAN A: Doyle, Society 1 @ Brick By Brick. Look, it’s the guitarist from the Misfits playing with a guy who looks like Hugh Jackman circa X2: X-Men United and who sings like an angry Wolverine as well. BACKUP PLAN: Mainsail, Avenue Army, Teazed @ The Casbah.
TUESDAY, DEC. 11
PLAN A: Gothic Tropic, Mt. Pleasant @ Soda Bar. While it’s not exactly gothy or tropical, the one-woman project from Cecilia Della Peruti is beautifully poppy with a just hint of sadness. PLAN B: Call of the Wild, Hocus, Space Farce @ The Casbah. The frontman for local hard-rockers Hocus lovingly trolls our editor on social media so that’s reason enough for this to make the cut. BACKUP PLAN: Amine, Buddy, Kayo Genesis @ The Observatory North Park.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 27
MUSIC
CONCERTS HOT! NEW! FRESH!
Dirtwire (Music Box, 1/11), Rob Garza (Music Box, 1/18), Whitey Morgan (Observatory, 1/26), Gang of Four (Casbah, 2/5), Katchafire (Music Box, 2/8), Dreamgirl (Soda Bar, 2/13), Justin Nozuka (Music Box, 2/20), Gordon Lightfoot (Balboa Theatre, 3/13), Mike Doughty (Casbah, 3/23), Electric Six (Casbah, 3/28), Broods (Observatory, 3/29), Donna Missal (Casbah, 3/30), Black Moth Super Rainbow (BUT, 3/31), Al Stewart (BUT, 4/3), Mt. Joy (Music Box, 4/7), Hillsong UNITED (Viejas Arena, 6/7)
GET YER TICKETS Neko Case, Destroyer (Observatory, 12/8), Fleetwood Mac (Viejas Arena, 12/8), Kurt Vile (Observatory, 12/9), Amine (Observatory, 12/11), Middle Kids (Soda Bar, 12/13), Thou (Che Café, 12/13), Earthless (BUT, 12/16), The Soft Moon (BUT, 12/17), Ministry (HOB, 12/18), Thundercat (Music Box, 12/23), No Knife (Casbah, 1/27), Donavon Frankenreiter (BUT, 12/28-29), Sublime with Rome (HOB, 12/29-30), Weatherbox (Soda Bar 12/31), Hot Snakes (Casbah, 1/4), T.S.O.L., Forest Grove, Blood Ponies (Casbah, Jefferson Starship (BUT, 1/9-10), Adolescents (Casbah, 1/19), Corrosion of Conformity (Brick By Brick, 1/26), Parquet Courts, Snail Mail (Casbah,
1/21), Via Satellite (Casbah, 1/22), Bananarama (Observatory, 1/27). MØ (Observatory, 2/5), KISS (Viejas Arena, 2/7), Panic! At the Disco (Valley View Casino Center, 2/16), Sharon Van Etten (Observatory, 2/28), Saves the Day (Observatory North Park, 3/2), Queensrÿche (Casbah, 3/27).
DECEMBER WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5 Big Business at Whistle Stop. Fucked Up at Soda Bar. The Devon Allman Project at Music Box. Aaron Lewis at House of Blues. The White Buffalo at Observatory.
THURSDAY, DEC. 6 Squirrel Nut Zippers at Belly Up Tavern. The Buttertones at The Irenic.
FRIDAY, DEC. 7 Beach Fossils, Wavves at House Of Blues. Har Mar Superstar, Sabrina Ellis at The Casbah. Pale Waves at The Irenic. Chris Robinson Brotherhood at Observatory North Park.
SATURDAY, DEC. 8 Neko Case, Destroyer at Observatory North Park. Fleetwood Mac at Viejas Arena. Author & Punisher at The Casbah.
SUNDAY, DEC. 9 Kurt Vile & The Violators, Jessica Pratt at Observatory North Park. Skating Polly at The Casbah. Suuns at Soda Bar. AFI at Observatory North Park.
28 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
MONDAY, DEC. 10 Doyle at Brick by Brick. AFI at Observatory (sold out).
TUESDAY, DEC. 11 Amine at Observatory North Park.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12 Bernhoft and the Fashion Bruises at The Casbah. Valley Maker at Soda Bar. KSHMR at Observatory North Park. Atreyu at House Of Blues.
THURSDAY, DEC. 13 Robert Cray Band at Belly Up Tavern. Thou at Che Café. Barry Manilow at Viejas Arena. Middle Kids at Soda Bar. Mariachi Sol De Mexico at Balboa Theatre.
FRIDAY, DEC. 14 Death Valley Girls at Soda Bar. Fu Manchu at The Casbah. Third Eye Blind, Lord Huron at Valley View Casino Center.
SATURDAY, DEC. 15 Fu Manchu at The Casbah. Queen Naija at SOMA. Green Jellÿ at Brick By Brick. Daybreaker at Music Box.
SUNDAY, DEC. 16 Earthless at Belly Up Tavern.
MONDAY, DEC. 17 Thom Yorke at Observatory North Park (sold out). The Soft Moon at Belly Up Tavern.
TUESDAY, DEC. 18 Ministry at House of Blues. Vera Sola at Soda Bar.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 19 Fishbone at Music Box. Aviator Stash at The Casbah.
THURSDAY, DEC. 20 Hippie Sabotage at Observatory North Park. Lumerians, JJUUJJUU at The Casbah. Dick Dale at Belly Up Tavern.
FRIDAY, DEC. 21 Banes World at Observatory North Park.
SATURDAY, DEC. 22 Missing Persons at Viejas Casino. Pulley at Soda Bar. Slushii at Parq.
SUNDAY, DEC. 23 Thundercat at Music Box. El Vez at Casbah.
MONDAY, DEC. 24 The Claypool Lennon Delirium at Observatory North Park.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 26 Easy Wind at Belly Up Tavern.
THURSDAY, DEC. 27 Poolside at Music Box.
FRIDAY, DEC. 28 Hideout at Soda Bar. Donavon Frankenreiter at Belly Up Tavern.
SATURDAY, DEC. 29 Donavon Frankenreiter at Belly Up Tavern. Mannheim Steamroller at San Diego Civic Theatre. X, Los Lobos at Observatory North Park. Sublime with Rome at House of Blues. Grupo Corrupta at Music Box.
SUNDAY, DEC. 30 X, Los Lobos at Observatory North Park. Sublime with Rome at House of Blues.
MONDAY, DEC. 31 Weatherbox at Soda Bar. Ekali at Bang Bang. BoomBox at Music Box. Michael Frenti & Spearhead at Belly Up Tavern.
TUESDAY, JAN. 1 Keith Sweaty at Bar Pink.
THURSDAY, JAN. 3 Aviator Stash Belly Up Tavern. DJ Claire at The Casbah.
FRIDAY, JAN. 4 Hot Snakes at The Casbah.
SATURDAY, JAN. 5 The Farmers at Belly Up Tavern. Illuminati Hotties at House of Blues. The Winehouse Experience at Music Box.
SUNDAY, JAN. 6 T.S.O.L., Forest Grove, Blood Ponies at The Casbah. Leo Kottke at Belly Up Tavern.
MUSIC CONTINUED ON PAGE 29
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BY CHRISTIN BAILEY
MUSIC MUSIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 MONDAY, JAN. 7 Man Man at The Casbah.
TUESDAY, JAN. 8 Gary Wilson at Che Café.
rCLUBSr
710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. Wed: Open Mic. Thu: Karaoke. Fri: Marujah, No Kings. Sat: ‘Pacific Beach Party’. Sun: Karaoke. Tue: Sensi Trails, The Gentle Giants. Air Conditioned Lounge, 4673 30th St., Normal Heights. Wed: ‘#HipHopWednesday’. Thu: Funky Lil Beat. Fri: ‘House Music Friday’. Sat: DJ Mike Czech. Sun: Brandon Fabio. Mon: Organized Grime. Tue: Jonathan Lestat. American Comedy Co., 818 B Sixth Ave., Downtown. Wed: Jeremy McLellan. Thu: Robert Kelly. Fri: Robert Kelly. Sat: Robert Kelly. Tue: Open Mic. The Bancroft, 9143 Campo Road, Spring Valley. Wed: Karaoke. Thu: Samsara, Missing Limbs. Fri: Bruja, Rust, Pedal Strike, Akrid. Sat: Watch Me Burn, Cave Bastards, ARToWAR. Sun: The Primals, This White Life. Tue: Karaoke.
Mike Delgado. Sun: Rat Sabbath. Mon: DJGIRLGROUPGIRL. Beaumont’s, 5665 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla. Thu: Joanna Gerolaga. Fri: Fish and the Seaweeds. Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach. Wed: ‘Atomic Groove’s Xmas Show’. Thu: Squirrel Nut Zippers. Sat: The Young Guns. Sun: Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn. Black Cat Bar, 4246 University Ave., City Heights. Wed: Thu: Fri: The Division Men, Roger!, Jasse Nova and the Second Line. Sat: Drainbows, Black Hesher, The Resinators. Blonde, 1808 W. Washington St., Mission Hills. Wed: ‘Dance Klassique’. Thu: Harvard Bass & Friends. Fri: ‘We Are Your Friends’. Sat: ‘Late Night Jackin Holiday Party’. Sun: ‘Divinity Presents Chvrch’. Mon: ‘Blue Monday’. Tue: ‘Techno Tuesdays’. Brick by Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave., Bay Park. Thu: Psyclon Nine, MXMS, Guidance, Striplicker. Fri: The Guitar Collective: Angel Vivaldi and Nita Strauss. Sat: Shred for Dime Tribute Show. Sun: Rock Goddess Tribute Night. Mon: Doyle, Society 1, Vuture, SouthTown Sham, Cylon 78.
Bang Bang, 526 Market St., Downtown. Fri: Darius.
The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown. Wed: Redd Kross, Dale Crover Band. Thu: Irradio, Dewey Defeats, Truman, Demasiado, Miss New Buddha. Fri: The Ataris, Mainsail, Wanted Noise. Sat: Author & Punisher, Lingua Ignota, Street Sects, Otherr, New Crimes. Sun: Wafia. Mon: Mainsail, Avenue Army, Teazed. Tue: Call of the Wild, Hocus, Space Farce.
Bar Pink, 3829 30th St., North Park. Thu: Niña Coyote eta Chico Tornado, Le Ra. Fri: ‘First Friday HipHop Night’. Sat: DJ
MUSIC CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
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ASTROLOGICALLY UNSOUND Weekly forecasts from the so-called universe ARIES (March 21 - April 19): This week will occur entirely in one moment when the elevator makes a little bounce right before it stops and, for a split second, you prepare to plummet to your death. But then the doors open.
LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): You do not owe perfection to anyone, not even yourself. However, if you’re unsure, it’s probably good to double check if that’s salt or sugar before you put it in the mixing bowl.
TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): It’s important to be true to yourself but, above all else, it is important to always clean out the lint trap of the dryer before you start it.
SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): This week, or any week for that matter, don’t trust people who are constantly paranoid that service professionals and food service workers are taking advantage of them.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): You cannot expect others to know what you do not tell them. Well, unless they get your Social Security number and run a credit check. Then you might have some explaining to do. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): It’s true, you know—that life is a highway. From an economical, environmental and ethical perspective, it just makes more sense to carpool with other people while you’re riding it all night long. LEO (July 23 - August 22): This week, your oversized spirit will be visible from space. Now that I think about it, you can technically see everything from space, just not in very good detail. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Forgiveness is a gift that you give yourself. This is especially true if you’re trying to live a life unburdened from the guilt of spending all your time trying to sabotage others for imagined offenses against you.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 December 21): There is no secret formula for success. There is only the sacrificial dark rites and accompanying ceremonial chants, which are widely available in many disreputable bookstores. CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19): The early bird may get the worm but it is the ninth caller to the radio station who gets the two passes to Disneyland. Is that inspiring? AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Beyond the path you walk, there are many worlds outside your perception. One of those worlds is coming into focus now… It’s a cashier saying “next customer!” to you for the third time. PISCES (February 19 - March 20): Jealousy is a constricting snake. It kills and suffocates. Oh, you know what? I actually read it wrong. It says that other people are jealous of you. That’s usually good.
Astrologically Unsound appears every week. Follow Christin Bailey on Twitter at @hexprax.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 29
MUSIC MUSIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 Che Cafe, UCSD campus, La Jolla. Fri: Slow Caves, Moth Wings, Rain on Fridays, South Beacons. Sat: The Rinds, PUKE, Suburban Park, Remedelics, AVO. Dizzy’s, 4275 Mission Bay Drive, Bay Park. Fri: Jazz Ensembles of the San Diego School of Creative Performing Arts. Tue: ‘Depicted Vibrations vol.9 presents percussionists’. House of Blues, 1055 Fifth Ave., Downtown. Wed: Aaron Lewis. Thu: The Slackers. Fri: Beach Fossils, Wavves. Sat: Allison. Sun: Beach Fossils, Wavves. Tue: Little Steven & The Disciples of Soul. Humphreys Backstage, 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island. Wed: Bob James. Thu: Rosy Dawn. Fri: Pop Vinyl. Sat: GruvMatic. Sun: Major Interval. Mon: Michele Lundeen. Tue: Billy Watson. The Irenic, 3090 Polk Ave., North Park. Wed: nothing,nowhere, Wicca Phase Springs Eternal, smrtdeath, St. Panther. Thu: The Buttertones, Tracy Bryant. Fri: Pale Waves, Kailee Morgue, The Candescents. Sat: Hands Like Houses, Emarosa, Devour the Day, Arlington. Kava Lounge, 2812 Kettner Blvd., Midtown. Sat: Galactic Goddess. Sun: MALU, Suhi Neko Roll, Ba Bete, Vaginals, Modesty. Kensington Club, 4079 Adams Ave., Kensington. Thu: Dead at Midnite, Busted Coffins, The Midnight Block, Gut Punch. Lestat’s Coffee House, 3343 Adams Ave., Normal Heights. Fri: Julian Jaime, Ricky Garcia. Sat: Fashion Jackson, Retra, yujin13. Mon: Open Mic. Mc P’s Irish Pub, 1107 Orange Ave.,
30 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · DECEMBER 5, 2018
Coronado. Wed: Goodall Boys. Fri: Bonneville 7. Sat: Misty & The Mobys. Sun: Street Heart. Tue: Steve Brewer. Martinis Above Fourth, 3940 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest. Wed: ‘A Well-Strung Christmas’. Thu: ‘Lee Squared: A Tribute to Liberace and Miss Peggy Lee’. The Merrow, 1271 University Ave., Hillcrest. Thu: Half Eaten, Heir Gloom, The Colour Monday. Sat: Club Sabbat. Sun: The Playground. Tue: Vertical, Daytrip, Ignant Benches. Mr. Peabody’s, 136 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas. Thu: The Sickstring Outlaws. Fri: The Jackstones. Sun: Anthony Ortega Jazz Quartet. Mon: Open Mic. Tue: Karaoke. Music Box, 1337 India St., Little Italy. Fri: Sammy Johnson. Sun: Mud Slide Slim Holiday Show. The Office, 3936 30th St., North Park. Wed: ‘Instant Crush’. Thu: ‘No Limits’. Fri: ‘All-Vinyl Happy Hour’. Sat: ‘Strictly Business’. Mon: ‘Motown on Monday’. Tue: ‘Trapped in The Office’. OMNIA Nightclub, 454 Sixth Ave., Downtown. Fri: 3LAU. Sat: Brohug. Panama 66, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park. Wed: Young Lions, The Wednesday Jam Session. Thu: Tommy Guerrero. Sun: Besos Trio. Parq, 615 Broadway, Downtown. Fri: Crooked. Sat: Justin Credible. Pour House, 1903 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside. Wed: Open Mic. Sat: Inspired, the Sleep. Tue: DJ Lexicon Devil. Proud Mary’s, 5550 Kearny Mesa Road, Kearny Mesa. Wed: ‘Blues Jam Night’ w/ Janet Hammer. Thu: Tomcat Courtney. Fri: Missy Andersen. Sat: Lenny “Fuzzy” Rankin.
The Rail, 3796 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest. Sat: ‘Sábados En FUEGO!’
Sycamore Den, 3391 Adams Ave., Normal Heights. Wed: Paul Gregg.
Rich’s, 1051 University Ave., Hillcrest. Wed: ‘Mischief with Bianca’ & LAGANJA ESTRANGA. Thu: ‘#Lez’ + Techniche, Delos, Myxzlplix, John Vilotti. Fri: DJs dirty KURTY, John Joseph, Moody Rudy. Sat: ‘Stripper Circus’, DJs Taj & Casey Alva. Sun: DJ Hektik.
Til-Two Club, 4746 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights. Thu: ‘Original Stylin’. Fri: Teach Me Equals, Joey Sprinkles, Of Ennui, Polux. Sat: Crimeapple w/ Eto & Big Twin. Sun: Pants Karaoke.
Riviera Supper Club, 7777 University Ave., La Mesa. Wed: ‘Boss Jazz’ w/ Jason Hanna. Thu: Swing Thing. Fri: Babydoll Warriors w/ The Rollers. Sat: Surf Farmer. Sun: ‘Acoustic’.Tue: ‘Everything and Anything Jam’. Rosie O’Gradys, 3402 Adams Ave., Normal Heights. Thu: DJ Dunekat. Fri: Black Market 111. Sat: Wild Heart. Mon: ‘Jazz Jam’ w/ Louis V. Tue: Shayna Zeigen, Rebekkah Darling. Soda Bar, 3615 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights. Wed: Fucked Up, Narrow Head. Thu: Con•tact, Shoot The Glass, Braggers, Post Elvis. Fri: Magic Sword, Crystal Ghost. Sun: SUUNS, Graham Van Pelt. Mon: Distressor, Sway, The Rightovers, hug. Tue: Gothic Tropic, Mt. Pleasant, EST. SOMA, 3350 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway. Thu: Spite, Left Behind, Orthodox, Depths of Hatred. Fri: Dom Kennedy, Cozz, Jay 305, Warm Brew. Sat: Don Vedda, Ben Limpic, 33 North, The Adam Bruck Experience, The Infidels, Why July. SPACE, 3519 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights. Fri: Mortal Boy. Sat: DJs Disorder, Deadmatter and Israel. Sun: Skating Polly, Potty Mouth, Con·tact. Tue: Karaoke. Spin, 2028 Hancock St., Midtown. Fri: Tiga, The Black Madonna. Sat: Emancipator, Lapa.
Tin Roof, 401 G St., Downtown. Wed: The Corner. Thu: Keep Your Soul. Fri: John Demps and The Full Effect. Sat: Coriander. Sun: Jenny and The Tramps. Mon: Evan Diamond Goldberg. Tue: Keep Your Soul. Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., Bay Park. Wed: Leonard Patton, Matt Dibiase. Thu: Tommy Price and The Stilettos. Fri: Bump City Brass. Sat: Detroit Underground. Sun: Nikki Hill w/ Laura Chavez, The Sleepwalkers. Mon: ‘Sexy Salsa & Sensual Bachata’ w/ DJ Sonero. Tower Bar, 4757 University Ave., City Heights. Thu: Castle, Nebula Drag, Hours, Dhatura. Fri: Gonkama, Strangely, Strange, Tranzformer. Sat: Drac & The Swamp Rats, The Writhers, Busted Coffins. Sun: DAIKAIJU!!! w/ Secret Samurai, Dinosaur Ghost. U-31, 3112 University Ave., North Park. Thu: ‘BoomBox Thursdays’. Mon: ‘#31 Flavors’. Whistle Stop, 2236 Fern St., South Park. Wed: Big Business, Qui, DJ Justin Pearson. Fri: Sextile, Boan, DJ Jon Blaj. Sat: ‘Booty Bassment’. Sun: Single Lash. Mon: ‘Electric Relaxation’. Winstons, 1921 Bacon St., Ocean Beach. Wed: Something Like Seduction, Eureka Sound. Thu: Bitter Kiddos, The Powerballs, Subsurfer. Fri: Tatanka, Sanollar. Sat: Boostive, The Routine. Sun: Karaoke. Mon: Electric Waste Band. Tue: Band of Gringos.
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IN THE BACK
CANNABITCH
BY JACKIE BRYANT COURTESY OF GOLDLEAF
The CannaBitch gift guide
two keys, a lock and a drawer for any smoking accouterments. Several layers of wood and a beveled edge prevent , hark! The first season of legal cannabis gift giv- smells from escaping. ing is here and, boy, is it a doozy, thanks to the Nerds, rejoice! Goldleaf, a company creating products sheer diversity of products released in the past catering to cannabis’ scientific side, recently released a line year. Without a doubt, the most fun and fascinating as- of journals ($14.99 each, shopgoldleaf.com) geared toward pect of reporting on cannabis since Jan. 1, 2018 has been the meticulous consumer who thrives on note-taking. The sampling, learning about and—yes—laughing at the types recreational tasting journal is just that: a thoughtfully deof products makers have dreamed up and put to market. signed repository for strain names, flavor notes and feelSo, without further ado, here is what to give all the weed- ing notes that extends to both concentrates and edibles. loving someones during this holiday season. They range The patient journal is geared toward those who need weed from functional to completely ridiculous. for medical purposes and it was developed with a team of The classy cannabis smoker will require only the finest doctors to serve as an aid in finding the right treatments. products around, which is where the Cannador ($169-228, Canndescent Gift Boxes are beautifully designed limited cannador.com) comes in. Made from either walnut or cher- edition box sets from Canndescent ($300, canndescent.com) ry wood, this weed humidor is outfitted with two glass jars, are good for both aesthetes and beginners, and are available at Torrey Holistics. Each individually numbered orange box includes either two or five jars of proprietary cannabis flower, organic hempwick, rolling papers, crutches and matches. Ideal for someone who eats, sleeps, drinks and breathes cannabis, the Nuggy Hybrid ($44.95, nugtools.com) is an extremely useful for obsessives of the devil’s lettuce. Clocking in at half a pound, this heat resistant, aluminum oxide-shelled, stainless steel smoking tool comes in blue and pink. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for stoners and includes a rotating selection of a pick, scraper, spoon, paddle, knife, as well as other smoking functions and can be used for both concentrates and flower. For those who are a bit more creative, it could also be useful with other drugs Cannador with a little stretch of the imagination.
O
@SDCITYBEAT
Goldleaf tasting journal Beautifully designed vape pens as potent as they are pretty, Eden Extracts’ Diamond line of pens ($50, edenextracts.com) are among my favorites because the burn technology most closely resembles smoking actual flower more than any pen I’ve ever used. Eden Extracts is based in Hayward, California, and its premium line of pens and accompanying oil cartridges are free of pesticides and impurities. Also available is a line of PAX Era-compatible pods for those who use the popular portable vape system. Finally, Shine’s six-pack of 24-karat gold rolling papers, made with a hemp-blend base ($45, shinerollingpapers. com), is perfect for the smoker concerned with Instagram likes above all else. A good rule for gift giving is to buy something luxurious that no reasonable person would buy for themselves. What fits the bill better than a joint made with pure gold? CannaBitch appears every other week. Follow Jackie Bryant on Twitter at @jacqbryant.
DECEMBER 5, 2018 · SAN DIEGO CITYBEAT · 31