San Diego natives Switchfoot made a triumphant return to the main stage at the San Diego County Fair. Opening night saw the band in fine form as they delivered a tight set of favorites and …
June 10, 2016
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Stories by Kip Lyda
Switchfoot — a perfect kickoff to summer
The Waterboys pour it on at Humphreys
The Waterboys stormed the stage at Humphreys by the Bay and delivered a high-energy set that encompassed their career. Mike Scott and the band delivered a tight set with highlights throughout the evening. The six-piece …
May 22, 2015
Dick Dale surfs into Solana Beach
Dick Dale returned to San Diego for a holiday show at the Belly Up Tavern. The “King of Surf Guitar” seemed fit and healthy, engaging with the audience and showing some camaraderie with the rhythm …
January 2, 2015
World Party trio stirs Solana Beach
World Party concluded its U.S. tour with a dynamic performance at the Belly Up Tavern. The Karl Wallinger–led trio transcended the expectations of the crowd, which led to several standing ovations. Wallinger, comfortable in his …
July 12, 2014
M.I.A.'s Matangi
M.I.A. has once again delivered an engrossing platter of ear candy with her latest effort Matangi. From the opening of “Karmageddon” through the closing track “Sexodus,” M.I.A. brings the listener along as she dominates the …
January 10, 2014
The Next Day, a new Bowie classic
David Bowie’s latest is a testament to his iconic status as a musical and artistic chameleon. The Next Day ranks as one of the most surprising and rewarding efforts produced this year. This album deals …
July 26, 2013
Mindbending Mexicali
Musicians and fans from around the globe descended upon Mexicali for Baja Prog 2013 lured by the possibility of aural utopia. This international festival brought out many musical giants in the progressive-music world, including the …
April 12, 2013
Midge Ure captivates Brick by Brick
Midge Ure, former singer and guitar player for seminal new wavers Ultravox, stopped by Brick By Brick as part of his current tour. Playing before a loyal, enthusiastic crowd, Ure covered much of his solo …
February 1, 2013
The Soft Pack storm the Griffin
Former San Diegans the Soft Pack stormed back into town for a one-off at the Griffin in Bay Park. Playing short, sweet, three-minute pop-punk songs, the band entertained the sparse rain-dampened crowd for over an …
December 29, 2012
Peter Gabriel Transports Valley View
Peter Gabriel arrived in San Diego to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his commercial breakthrough album So. Beginning with a short yet stunning acoustic set that featured such highlights as “Shock the Monkey” and “Come …
October 12, 2012
Matisyahu's Spark Seeker
Matisyahu's Spark Seeker is not a reggae album. On the first offering from the artist since his break with the Hasidic faith, Matisyahu deftly weaves traditional Hebrew chants and Middle Eastern textures with the ego …
August 30, 2012
Wavves Crash at Del Mar Track
San Diego's Wavves took the stage in the inaugural event of this season’s 4 O'clock Fridays at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Despite playing in front of one of the smallest crowds in the events …
July 26, 2012