Two years after “Spencer Gets It Lit” (Marc Riley’s BBC6 Music Album of the Year, “hugely entertaining”**** MOJO, “a sonic witchdoctor who’ll blow your mind” UNCUT****) there is still more work to be done saving rock'n'roll music.

“Sick of Being Sick!” will be released on limited clear 45rpm Super-Stereo cut vinyl.

Jon Spencer has been innovative force in the independent music scene since the mid-80s. An acclaimed live performer, he has toured all the continents except Antarctica and has amassed a dizzying discography as the leader of Pussy Galore, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Heavy Trash, and Jon Spencer & the HITmakers, as well as with Boss Hog, The Honeymoon Killers, The Gibson Brothers, and Taxi Girls.

His collaborations include (but are not limited to) working with Steve Albini, Add N To X, Nicole Atkins, Beastie Boys, Beck, Bomb The Bass, R.L. Burnside, James Chance, Coldcut, Chuck D, Dan The Automator, Jim Dickinson, DJ Shadow,  Einsturzende Neubauten, Guitar Wolf, GZA, David Holmes, Japanese Popstars, Dr. John, Calvin Johnson, Steve Jordan, Khan, Moby, Money Mark, The Muffs, The North Mississippi All Stars,   Princess Superstar, Puffy AmiYumi, The Sadies, Nancy Sinatra, Solex, Solomon Burke, Speedball Baby, Rufus Thomas, UNKLE, Unloved, Andre Williams, and Bernie Worrell.

His production credits include: Cheater Slicks, Demolition Doll Rods, Experimental Tropic Blues Band, Perrosky, Mike Edison, Jesper Munk, Sunshine & The Rain, The Bobby Lees, and Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton.

 

Coco is coming back to Moe's! 

Sunday, February 23rd
Doors: 3pm / Show: 4pm 
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

COCO MONTOYA
"One of the most prodigious and gifted electric bluesmen on the planet…a deeply soulful singer and incendiary guitarist [with] a seemingly endless penchant for invention." –AllMusic

"Smoking songs and heavy hitting guitar full of fire and passion…Montoya’s rough-edged voice is filled with feeling. Bluesy, powerful and unpredictable…[It]really gets the blood flowing." –Blues Music Magazine

"Montoya is a show-stopper…heartfelt singing and merciless guitar with a wicked icy burn. He is one of the truly gifted blues artists of his generation." –Living Blues

“’Just play what you feel, be real about it, and enjoy yourself.’ That’s what Albert Collins taught me,” says the award-winning guitar virtuoso and soul-deep singer Coco Montoya. The self-taught, left-handed Montoya mastered his craft under Collins’ tutelage. Incorporating lessons learned from his mentors, the iconic Collins (for whom he originally drummed), and UK legend John Mayall, Montoya puts his own stamp onto every song he performs. Since his first solo album in 1995 (which won him the Blues Music Award for Best New Artist), Montoya’s endlessly inventive guitar work and passionate, hard-hitting vocals have kept him at the top of the blues world. With his new Alligator Records album, Writing On The Wall (his sixth for the label), Montoya delivers what he is already calling one of the best records he’s ever made. For the very first time on Alligator, he decided to bring his road-tested band—noted keyboardist and songwriter Jeff Paris (Keb’ Mo’, Bill Withers), bassist Nathan Brown, and drummer Rena Beavers—into the studio with him. Between the camaraderie of the long-time bandmates and the sheer talent of all involved, the results have left Coco, in his words, “over the moon.”
 

(((folkYEAH!))) presents Norwegian instrumental group Orions Belte with special guest Alex Siegel

Tuesday, February 25th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

ORIONS BELTE
There are some places and moments that tie people together forever, whether it be a place, a song or something you can't quite define through words. The origins of Orions Belte stemmed from one of those mystical moments in time, which spawned a lasting creative connection. Øyvind Blomstrøm (guitar) and Chris Holm (bass) first met while playing in a touring band for another Norwegian artist. During that time, they bonded over their love for instrumental music and began talking about trying their hand at it themselves. After their work as touring band ended, they recruited drummer Kim Åge Furuhaug, one of Holm's longtime friend and collaborators, to join their new project.

The three met in Bergen, located along the west coast of Norway, to start working on ideas and demos. Instead, within just a few days, they ended up recording their entire first album, Mint. From there, the universe propelled them forward, resulting in a record deal, their live debut as a band at Norway's biggest pop festival Øyafestivalen and the release of their debut record all happening within the following year. Mint drew international interest and praise from outlets including Atwood Magazine, who called the record "an eclectic fusion of disparate styles and exciting sounds that says what it wants to say through memorable melodies, ambient drones, and a stockpile of wicked guitar riffs."

They quickly followed up Mint with their funk-infused 2019 EP Slim, which features reimagined versions of Ghostface Killah's “Cherchez La Ghost,” Milton Nascimento's "Tudo O Que Você Podia Ser" and an original cut that pays homage to Norwegian beat group The Pussycats and the late Mac Miller. 

Amidst the unexpected chaos of 2020, Orions Belte kept the music flowing. They released another EP of inspired and experimental music, once again pushing the boundaries of what "instrumental music" can be. 600m per minute takes its name from an elevator in Tokyo, Japan that can transport 40 people at time at a maximum speed of 600 meters per minute. The supercharged, slightly nervous energy that the invention often evokes is mirrored in the EP's rocking title track, while "Orbit" brings a funky, worldly feel with a rhythm that urges you to move. 

Now, the trio is back with a new album that explores new creative and aural depths. Villa Amorini boasts the energy of a busy downtown sidewalk, with instruments intricately layered to draw you in and leave you wondering where it will lead.

Moe's Alley presents some East Bay grease with 8-piece funk and soul powerhouse The Grease Traps! F-Spot Records trio Fat Produce opens the show with DJ Archive 65 on the 1s and 2s!

Thursday, February 27th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$15 in advance / $20 day of the show
21+

THE GREASE TRAPS
The Grease Traps are an 8-piece funk and soul powerhouse based in Oakland, CA.  Featuring a well-oiled rhythm section, tight horns, and stirring vocals by that sharp-dressing, all-around fly dude, The Gata, their musical mix of hard-driving funk and lowdown soul is guaranteed to get your head noddin' and cure your dance jones.  The rhythm section takes its cues from the soulful sounds of the MG’s, the Meters, the JB’s, and the rhythm sections of the Atlantic, Hi and Fame labels.  In addition to their original material, the Traps are crate diggers as well, breathing new life into lost grooves culled from rare funk 45’s and obscure oft-sampled records.  

The Grease Traps released their debut 45 single on the well-respected funk & soul label, Colemine Records.  Their first full-length album, Solid Ground, was recorded all to analog on their trusty Tascam 388 and put out in 2021 by Italy’s funk/soul label, Record Kicks.  They have played at multiple California festivals and some of the Bay Area's best venues sharing the stage with touring acts such as the Commodores, Shuggie Otis, Rebirth Brass Band, Monophonics, Neal Francis, Orgone, and Durand Jones among many others.  

Moe's Alley presents slowcore icons IDAHO touring on their first new record in 13 years! Special guests The Shimmers open the show! 

Friday, February 28th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

IDAHO
Led by Laurel Canyon-based singer-songwriter Jeff Martin, IDAHO are the unsung cult heroes of 90s slowcore. Often grouped amongst post-grunge indie rock pioneers like Low, Songs: Ohia, and Codeine, IDAHO is distinguished by the desert atmospherics of frontman Jeff Martin’s four-string guitar, echoing out his elegant songcraft in a canyon of alien tones and melancholic feedback. Founded in 1992 in Los Angeles by singer/songwriter Martin and lifetime collaborator the late John Berry, IDAHO exemplified an adventurous and original take on the American underground, fusing fuzzed-chord grunge rock, pedal-pushing shoegaze, and post-hardcore experimentalism with an overall ambiance of beautiful despondency. Across its catalogue of now ten full length releases, including 2024’s return, Lapse, its first new album after a thirteen year hiatus, IDAHO has defined modes of longing, mystery, grace, and dreamy-yet-edgy nuance entirely its own. Celebrated as a “brutally beautiful return to form” (Paste), Lapse has ushered in a renaissance for the band, including the career-spanning documentary Traces Of Glory and The Devil You Know vinyl anthology, all together honing in on the muse that ignited more than three decades IDAHO’s  canon of deliberate and devastating beauty.

THE SHIMMERS
The Shimmers are a four-piece based out of Santa Cruz, CA whose sound pulls inspiration from many beloved subgenres, including a hint of power pop, a dash of goth, a pinch of glimmering indie rock with walls of vocal harmony and an ever-present love of Thin Lizzy. 
 

Afrobeats Nite Santa Cruz – ft. Father Taj, Afro HiLife Band and DJ Mai Girl

Saturday, March 1st
Doors: 8pm / Show: 8pm
$22 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Follow @afrobeats_nite_santa_cruz for announcements about how to get free tickets to the show*

Moe's Alley presents Mark Hummel's 33rd Annual Harmonica Blowout!

Sunday, March 2nd
Doors: 2pm / Show: 3pm
$40 in advance / $45 day of the show
21+

MARK HUMMEL'S 33RD ANNUAL HARMONICA BLOWOUT

Moe's Alley presents the return of Jaime Wyatt with special guests Kentucky Mule!

Tuesday, March 4th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

JAIME WYATT 
Hailed by Pitchfork as one of the “most exciting and skillful storytellers” working today, Jaime Wyatt is the kind of generational talent whose raw, honest lyricism is matched only by the power of her huge, unmistakable voice. A West Coast native, Wyatt first began turning heads with her breakout 2017 debut, Felony Blues, which chronicled her now much-publicized battle with addiction and transformative journey through the criminal justice system. Her 2020 follow-up, Neon Cross, tackled even more profoundly personal revelations and arrived to similar acclaim, with NPR praising Wyatt’s “remarkable voice” and Rolling Stone lauding her “lush, layered, and complex” performances. With Feel Good, her third and most ambitious album yet, Wyatt pushes her sound to new sonic and emotional heights, blurring the lines between classic roots, southern soul, and vintage R&B.

“I wanted to make music you could move to,” Wyatt explains, “but I still wanted it to have heart and integrity.” 

Recorded with Black Pumas’ Adrian Quesada, the album is bold and ecstatic, built on tight, intoxicating grooves that belie the songs’ substantial emotional stakes. Wyatt’s writing is unguarded and intuitive here, tapping into the deep recesses of her subconscious as she reckons with grief and growth, and her delivery is visceral to match, cutting straight to the bone with equal parts sensitivity and swagger. Taken as a whole, the collection stands as a radical act of creative liberation from an artist already known for pushing limits, a genre-defying work of healing and self-love that tips its cap to everything from Al Green and Otis Redding to Waylon Jennings and Bobbie Gentry in its relentless pursuit of peace and pleasure.

KENTUCKY MULE
Kentucky Mule is an alternative country band based in Santa Cruz, California. The vocalist and songwriter, Coleton Joe Tidwell, effortlessly weaves small-town storytelling and metropolitan modernity. This pairs well with an old-school outlaw rhythm section provided by his backing band of Scott Willis (lead guitar), Will Iermini (bass & vocals), Lizzy Smith (fiddle & vocals) & Troy Nadeau (drums). Altogether the band tips it’s cap to the full spectrum of country music while seamlessly blending in their outside influences.
 

(((folkYEAH!))) presents An All-Star Tribute to Neil Young featuring members of Jerry's Middle Finger, Midnight North, Phil Lesh & Friends, David Nelson Band, Casual Coalition, Melvin Seals & JGB, Kelly McFarling and Stone Foxes!

Wednesday, March 5th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

ALL-STAR TRIBUTE TO NEIL YOUNG
The band features a Bay Area collective of musicians that all met through years of performing music together & the community built at the fabled Terrapin Crossroads, in Marin County, who share a common love for Neil Young and his songs. The band perform their original takes on some classic NY tunes, as well as some beloved "deep cut" tracks.  Featuring Garrett DeLoian (Jerry's Middle Finger), Elliott Peck (Midnight North, Phil Lesh & Friends), Mookie Siegel (David Nelson Band, MoonAlice), Craig "Cmac" MacArthur (Casual Coalition, The Basement Tapes), JP McLean & Jeremy Hoenig (Melvin Seals & JGB), Tim Marcus (Kelly McFarling), Shannon Koehler (Stone Foxes), and some surprise special guests!  

Moe's Alley presents th golden voice himself Jason Joshua! 

Thursday, March 6th
Doors: 7pm/ Show: 8pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

JASON JOSHUA
Jason Joshua, known as La Voz De Oro (The Golden Voice), is a rising star in the music industry. Born in Miami, Florida, to Puerto Rican parents with roots in the North and South sides of Chicago, Jason’s diverse background has influenced his soulful and unique musical style. Described as a multi-talented musician, he composes and produces his music, as well as playing a variety of instruments.
 
In his latest bilingual album, “La Voz De Oro”, Jason takes fans on a journey through a range of themes, including love, happiness, heartache, sadness and betrayal. His devotion to and loyal inspiration from iconic record labels such as Fania, Motown, Curtom, and Stax, among others, are evident in the album’s unique soundscapes of Latin Soul, Pop, Funk, Salsa and Cinematic Psychedelia. The album’s hit single, “La Vida Es Fría”, and Jason’s all-Spanish debut, a Son Montuno drenched Boogaloo track named “Forget It”, are highlights that showcase his musical genius.
 
With his 14Karat Masterpiece, Jason Joshua is a force to be reckoned with. His dedication to his music and his soulful voice inspire his fans and have captivated listeners worldwide. Whether he’s performing live or in the studio, his passion and commitment to his art is undeniable. Get ready to be wowed by an unforgettable talent, and take a journey through the soulful sounds of La Voz De Oro.
 

Moe's Alley present world soul artist Mitchum Yacoub and The Brass Empire with special guests Floratura! 

Saturday, March 8th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

MITCHUM YACOUB AND THE BRASS EMPIRE
Mitchum Yacoub an Egyptian-American multi-instrumentalist, producer, and DJ based out of San Diego, CA. As a lifelong drummer that has supported many projects in the vein of Afrobeat, Soul, Funk, and Reggae, he's been slow-brewing a unique feel for roots and dance music. Inspired by artists like Fela Kuti, Dr. Dre, and James Brown, his music harkens back to Africa in the 70’s with the bass and drums turned up a notch. Strong, repetitive grooves layered with Afro-Latin percussion and vibrant, tightly executed horn lines that call all dancers to the floor. Since beginning his first live performances in late 2019, Yacoub has played alongside roots music heavies like The Wailers, Antibalas, Jungle Fire, and Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto. In 2022, his group supported Seun Kuti for six shows across the U.S., while he traded on percussion and drum kit for Kuti's band: Egypt 80 (formerly of Fela Kuti). The experience trained him well in the rhythmic strength of the music and earned him and his band a place in the global scene of Afrobeat. Originality, musicianship, and a massive sound are three marks keeping Yacoub’s band on the road and a fast-growing festival favorite. The highly acclaimed release of his debut album, “Living High in the Brass Empire”, (2023 All-Town Sound) brings the experience home as a showcase in his unique approach to roots music; forming explosive intersections of Afrobeat, Cumbia, and Soul that will lift you from your seat and leave you wanting more.

FLORATURA
A dynamic and innovative band hailing from Santa Cruz, CA. Beloved for its unique blend of flavors, electrifying live performances and creative songwriting. Weaving genre defying music made of diverse rockin' funky grooves, psychedelic adventures, and blissful soul. Tatiana Peña (mandolin, vox), Treetop (guitar, vox), Jack Reed (keys), Noah Mogor (bass), and Jacob Gilmore (drums). Inspired by the wondrous environments that surround them, this group is propagating the seeds of connection and inspiration that provoke movement of the body and mind. 
 

Moe's Alley presents 2024 Blues Artist of The Year – John Németh! 

Sunday, March 9th
Doors: 2pm / Show: 3pm
$20 in advance / $25 at the door
21+

JOHN NÉMETH
As a teenager in the early ‘90s growing up in the muddy potato fields of Idaho, Németh was drawn to the hard-edged hip hop sounds and rock bands of the day, until a friend, Tom Moore, introduced him to the Junior Wells and Buddy Guy classic “Hoodoo Man Blues.” Together they formed Fat John & the 3 Slims, which is still regarded as a legendary band in the Boise region. John played harp and sang in local bands, often opening the show for nationally touring blues acts and quickly caught the ear of established blues musicians. It didn’t take long before he was releasing his own recordings, “The Jack Of Harps” (2002) and “Come And Get It” (2004), featuring Junior Watson, and performing in Junior Watson’s band.

In 2013 John relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where he teamed up with producer Scott Bomar and his classic Memphis Soul band, the Bo-Keys, to create an album of revisited soul classics, “Memphis Grease” (2014 Blue Corn), which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Blues Chart. John won the 2104 BMA for Best Soul Blues Male Artist, followed by “Memphis Grease” winning Best Soul Blues Album in 2015.

 In 2017 Németh released “Feelin’ Freaky” (produced by Luther Dickinson) on his own Memphis Grease label, crushing all barriers of style and genre with an album of original songs that defied all the usual pigeonholes, drawing from his strong influences in blues and R&B, as well as contemporary sounds in hip hop and rock ‘n’ roll. Later that same year, Németh was part of a side project “The Love Light Orchestra Featuring John Németh” recorded live at one of Memphis’ favorite watering holes, Bar DKDC. The 10-piece band was initially envisioned by guitarist Joe Restivo, vocalist John Németh and arranger/trumpeter Marc Franklin.

 Németh returned to Electraphonic in December of 2019  with his seasoned road band of young gun players, The Blue Dreamers, featuring 19 year-old guitar phenom from Philadelphia, Jon Hay, drummer Danny Banks and Matt Wilson on bass for a rowdy southern swamp roots session resulting in his 10th album, “Stronger Than Strong” demonstrating, yet again, his uncanny ability to skillfully blend retro and modern blues and soul into compelling music that is simultaneously old and new. 

Moe's Alley presents Bitch and Skip The Needle: The Never Going Back Tour!

Thursday, March 13th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+
 

BITCH AND SKIP THE NEEDLE: THE NEVER GOING BACK TOUR

In celebration of Women’s History Month, queer icon Bitch (Bitch and Animal, Shortbus, recently on tour with Indigo Girls) is co-headlining a west coast tour with the Bay Area “black dyke rock” legends Skip The Needle.  Bitch will be fresh off an off-Broadway run of her one-woman show “Bitchcraft,” based on songs from her recent Kill Rock Stars album of the same name. Skip the Needle will be debuting their newest EP “Wake Up Wake Up Wake Up,” released on Soulectric Records – a division of Little Village. Come out for a night of politically defiant, righteously rocking and radically joyous feminist music. 

BITCH
Bitch is a longstanding queer music icon who Yahoo Entertainment called “a feminist force that the world needs now more than ever” when she released “Bitchcraft,” her 9th studio album, on the legendary label Kill Rock Stars in 2022. Come for an evening of electric violin-forward “poet pop,” storytelling and humor. Bitch is known for her bold and colorful live shows and this one will not disappoint.  

“Bitchcraft is a masterpiece,” said Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls. Both Indigo Girls and Ani Difranco took Bitch on tour as their opener. 

Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. The band toured with Ani DiFranco, and released two albums on her label Righteous Babe Records. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in John Cameron Mitchell’s film “Shortbus,” co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, and  produced two albums of her elder and folk hero Ferron.  

Recently, Bitch played a role in  the new Audible podcast of Alison Bechdel’s “Dykes To Watch Out For.” The series was directed by Leigh Silverman, and Bitch co-wrote a song for it with Faith Soloway. She has been developing a one woman show, which had a run in Provincetown this Summer.

SKIP THE NEEDLE
Skip The Needle is an Oakland-based queer female quartet made up of Bay Area superstars; Vicki Randle, Shelley Doty, Kofy Brown and Katie Cash who fashion punk, funk and soul influenced rock they like to call black dyke rock. As the name Implies, they are musically diverse and bring a biting, socially conscious message, delivered with radical joy. Formed in 2014, Skip The Needle has released two full-length albums and their latest EP – Octavia Of Earth, Volume 2, inspired by black feminist icon Octavia E. Butler, released on Soulectric – A division of Little Village Foundation and digitally released by Side Hustle Records in July of 2024. They are honored to have received the Local Sirens Residency from WAM, writing 5 new songs for the project; slated to be released in spring of 2025.

Moe's Alley presents a special double bill with Toubab Krewe and Hot Buttered Rum! 

Friday, March 14th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

TOUBAB KREWE
Some music cannot be found on a map or within iTunes categories. Some music is so original it seems snatched from the great, invisible substrata that runs below all human activity, a sound aching to be born without a flag or fixed allegiance – free, questing, overflowing with immediate, tangible life. This is the music of Toubab Krewe, the vibrant Asheville, NC-based instrumental powerhouse that creates a sonic Pangaea that lustily swirls together rock, African traditions, jam sensibilities, international folk strains and more. While nearly impossible to put into any box, it takes only a few moments to realize in a very palpable way that one is face-to-face with a true original who recognizes no borders in a march towards a muscular, original, globally switched-on sound.

HOT BUTTERED RUM
Hot Buttered Rum, a souped-up, left-coast string band, is the brainchild of uniquely gifted musicians who weave their love of bluegrass, folk, jazz and soul into a riveting strain of Americana. String bass and five-alarm fiddle merge with guitar, banjo, mandolin, drums and keyboards to frame the voices of its two contrasting writers, fueling a dance party with roots in Appalachia and its branches in California. It’s a sound that’s as tough to describe as it is easy to love. Twenty years into its journey, HBR's music, dreamed up in the backcountry of the High Sierra and the basements of San Francisco, has found its way into the hearts, minds and bodies of fans nationwide. The band continues to tour year-round in support of its many albums and social causes. Don't miss the chance to see them soon!

Moe's Alley presents the long-awaited return of The Motet for their Love Time Tour with special guests Jive Machine!

Saturday, March 15th
Doors: 7pm/ Show: 8pm
$27 in advance / $32 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Nov. 15th at 10am PT*

THE MOTET
Formed over two decades ago, the funk six-piece The Motet have learned to work as an interlocking unit, with each member bolstering one another towards the best creative output. This symbiosis has led to a unique style and cohesive musical chemistry, as seen in the band's immaculate live performances and seamless blend of funk, soul, jazz, and rock. With a fervent fanbase in tow, The Motet have sold out shows across the nation, performed six headlining slots at Red Rocks and sets at festivals such as Bonnaroo, Bottlerock, Electric Forest, Bumbershoot, Summer Camp, and High Sierra. 

But even after their 20+ years of accolades and recognition, the legendary outfit – composed of Dave Watts (drums), Joey Porter (keys), Garrett Sayers (bass), Drew Sayers (keys and saxophone), Ryan Jalbert (guitar), and new singer Sarah Clarke – are still exploring new sonic ideas and finding new ways to showcase each other’s skill sets. 

The band released All Day in 2023 – an eclectic instrumental voyage threaded by the infectious grooves and immaculate, layered arrangements that The Motet have become known for.

Now with vocal powerhouse Sarah Clarke in tow, the band continues their journey with their highly anticipated 10th studio album Love Time, out November 15, 2024.

JIVE MACHINE
Jive Machine habitually bends the rules, blurs the lines, and stretches musical boundaries. Their music takes listeners on a sonic rollercoaster that fuses elements of old-school funk, progressive rock, blues, and soul. Throughout their set, you can hear diverse influences such as Tower Of Power, Jimi Hendrix and Trombone Shorty. Jive Machine is uniquely able to incorporate new ideas while paying homage to the great artists who came before them. The band is defined by a strong rhythmic foundation, infectious melodies, tasteful lead guitar virtuosity, and crisp horn lines.  Recently, Jive Machine has become notorious for their "pop-up" performances in downtown Santa Cruz. These events always erupt into a massive dance party, and within moments, you'll see It's impossible not to be captivated by the talent and contagious energy of their live shows! 
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of King Yellowman with special guests Pacific Vibration plus DJ Aye Que Linda!

Thursday, March 20th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$30 in advance / $35 day of the show
21+

YELLOWMAN
King Yellowman has an incredible history in Reggae music. His upbringing at the Maxfield Home orphanage in Kingston and being albino in Jamaica were two obstacles the he overcame and went on to be (at one time) the biggest reggae artist since Bob Marley. 

After winning a talent contest at Tastee Patties in Kingston, Yellow went on to excite reggae crowds all over Jamaica and the rest of the world with his boastful and sometimes bodacious lyrics. His ability to ride rhythm and excite a crowd made Yellow an instant hit in Jamaica. He also began to work with the Ace Sound System in St. Thomas and drew big crowds at his dancehall performances.

Later in his career, Yellow began to spread out and work for a number of different producers, sometimes releasing as many as five albums per year.   This led to a recording contract with CBS Records. Yellowman recorded one album with them before he was diagnosed with jaw cancer and was given six months to live. This was in 1986. After surgery an extended leave of absence from the record industry, Yellowman began his comeback with the song "Blueberry Hill", and his career was re-launched. His first album for RAS came from producer Phillip 'Fatis' Burrell and was called "Yellow Like Cheese". Coincidentally this was the start of a long and fruitful relationship with RAS and Yellowman and also RAS and 'Fatis' and his exterminator production.

PACIFIC VIBRATION
Pacific Vibration is a premiere Bay Area based Cali/Island roots reggae band fronted by singer-songwriter Kerry Wing. The music is original & soulful, and is driven by their heartfelt songwriting, explorative lyrics, and vocal harmonies.  The band has been teaming up with producer E.N Young (formerly of Tribal Seeds) on their latest releases. Pacific Vibration dropped the single Truth last year, and by grace they connected with and featured Akae Beka, the voice of Midnite, on the song shortly before he passed.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of the heavy metal mariachi band Metalachi! with special guests Coffee Zombie Collective!

Friday, March 21st
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Thursday, Dec. 12th at 10am PT*

METALACHI
Metalachi was born over a decade ago as the result of a night of tequila-fueled mariachi debauchery and wild abuelitas screaming for the popular metal and mariachi songs of their youth; the resulting love child has had the power to remove bras and bring smiles to many people in the subsequent years, with performances ranging from iconic venues such as The Viper Room and Whiskey A Go-Go to Heavy Montreal Festival, Monsters of Rock Cruise, Netflix is a Joke with Burt Kreischer, and even a nationally airing AT&T commercial.

“Metalachi is not your mama's mariachi band." –
Julian Gill, Houston Chronicle

COFFEE ZOMBIE COLLECTIVE
Coffee Zombie Collective formed in 2010 as a loose group of sleep-deprived musicians playing their favorite lesser-heard songs alongside karaoke barn burner hits. The band has continued to evolve, mixing in their own originals alongside twisted acoustic reimaginings of contemporary pop hits such as Lourde's "Royals" and cult classics such as Motörhead's "Ace of Spades." Coffee Zombie Collective takes the songs you love, or love to hate, and weaves them into medlies, or upside-down interpretations that always leaves audiences smiling. The band's high-energy stage performances whip audiences into a sing-along dance frenzy. The repeated on-stage mantra is "If you know the words, sing along. If you don't know the words, sing louder!" If you're at the show, you're part of the collective, and highly encouraged to contribute in the frisky, sweaty, ad-libbed sound explosion that is Coffee Zombie Collective. It's never the same show twice.
 

The 3rd annual Coffis Space is coming back to Moe's with two days of music, comedy, food and art featuring performances from The Coffis Brothers. Saturday's lineup includes a set by Tim Bluhm from The Mother Hips and comedy from DNA. Special food and drink options include Sleight of Hand Pizza and Humble Sea Brewery. and special guests soon to be announced. 

Saturday, March 22nd
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$22 in advance / $27 day of the show
21+

THE COFFIS BROTHERS
With two songwriters, six albums, and more than a thousand shows under their belt, The Coffis Brothers have earned their reputation as modern-day torchbearers of all-American rock & roll. It's a sound caught halfway between amplified Americana, acoustic folk, roadhouse R&B, and electrifying roots music, crafted by a pair of California-born siblings who've been sharing the stage since childhood, and the five piece band filled out by their childhood friend, Kyle Poppen on lead guitar, and the rhythm section of Aidan Collins (bass), and Cory Graves (drums).

That sound reaches a new peak with Kaw-fis Bruth-urs. The band's third collaboration with Bay Area legend (and longtime Mother Hips frontman) Tim Bluhm, who serves as the album's producer, Kaw-fis Bruth-urs finds Jamie and Kellen Coffis letting their guard down, enjoying the creative ride as much as the destination itself. For every signature-sounding song like "Cut Right Through" — a heartland rock anthem built for highway drives and long horizons, as sunny as the band's Golden State homeland and as hook-driven as a Tom Petty classic — there's another track that stretches the band's sound into new territory. The result is The Coffis Brothers' widest-ranging album yet, running the gamut from bluesy, blue-eyed soul ("Face the Music") to jangling, harmony-heavy power pop (“Do You Want To").  

"This is what we do, and we're giving ourselves license to evolve and get better at it, too" says Jamie, who was raised in the Santa Cruz Mountains of northern California alongside his mother — a children's musician — and his younger brother. Decades after Jamie and Kellen made their stage debut alongside their mom, singing three-part blood harmonies at a young age, their musical bond has only grown stronger, sharpened by hundreds of live shows as much as their shared DNA. "It's the natural evolution of us performing together and spending so much of our lives together," Kellen adds. "We didn't set out to make anything in one particular direction — we just wanted to make a batch of really great songs."

The 3rd annual Coffis Space is coming back to Moe's with two days of music, comedy, food and art featuring performances from The Coffis Brothers. Sunday's lineup includes The Coffis Brothers plus Jasckon Emmer and Coyote Moon!  Food and drink from Sleight of Hand Pizza and Humble Sea Brewery and vendors Plants by Joseph Covey and Everything & Nothing. 

Sunday, March 23rd
Doors: 2pm / Show: 3pm
$22 in advance / $27 day of the show
21+

THE COFFIS BROTHERS
With two songwriters, six albums, and more than a thousand shows under their belt, The Coffis Brothers have earned their reputation as modern-day torchbearers of all-American rock & roll. It's a sound caught halfway between amplified Americana, acoustic folk, roadhouse R&B, and electrifying roots music, crafted by a pair of California-born siblings who've been sharing the stage since childhood, and the five piece band filled out by their childhood friend, Kyle Poppen on lead guitar, and the rhythm section of Aidan Collins (bass), and Cory Graves (drums).

That sound reaches a new peak with Kaw-fis Bruth-urs. The band's third collaboration with Bay Area legend (and longtime Mother Hips frontman) Tim Bluhm, who serves as the album's producer, Kaw-fis Bruth-urs finds Jamie and Kellen Coffis letting their guard down, enjoying the creative ride as much as the destination itself. For every signature-sounding song like "Cut Right Through" — a heartland rock anthem built for highway drives and long horizons, as sunny as the band's Golden State homeland and as hook-driven as a Tom Petty classic — there's another track that stretches the band's sound into new territory. The result is The Coffis Brothers' widest-ranging album yet, running the gamut from bluesy, blue-eyed soul ("Face the Music") to jangling, harmony-heavy power pop (“Do You Want To").  

"This is what we do, and we're giving ourselves license to evolve and get better at it, too" says Jamie, who was raised in the Santa Cruz Mountains of northern California alongside his mother — a children's musician — and his younger brother. Decades after Jamie and Kellen made their stage debut alongside their mom, singing three-part blood harmonies at a young age, their musical bond has only grown stronger, sharpened by hundreds of live shows as much as their shared DNA. "It's the natural evolution of us performing together and spending so much of our lives together," Kellen adds. "We didn't set out to make anything in one particular direction — we just wanted to make a batch of really great songs."

Moe's Alley presents Australian trio The Grogans! 

Wednesday, March 26th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$18 in advance / $23 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Dec. 20th at 10am PT*

THE GROGANS
Genre-fluid outfit The Grogans are one of Australia’s hardest working young bands. Forming in 2016 whilst in high school, the Melbourne/Naarm trio haven’t stopped since, releasing 3 EPs ‘Cacteyed’, ‘Twangs n Cans’ and ‘Grogan Grove’, and 4 albums in ‘Just What You Want’, ‘DayTo Day’, ‘Which Way Is Out’ and most recently 'Find Me A Cloud'. Each release has seen the genre-hopping trio showcase their musical ability, touching on blues, surf and garage rock as well as manoeuvres in punk and psych.The Grogans have supported an array of Australian & international acts including Ocean Alley, WAVVES (US), Hockey Dad and The Chats as well as sharing festival line-ups with Franz Ferdinand, Los Bitchos and The Teskey Brothers. The band have completed a plethora of AUS/NZ and UK/EU tours which have included sell out shows all over the world as well as appearances at national and international festivals including Your & Owls (NSW), Wanderer Festival (NSW), NYE on the Hill (VIC), Dauwpop Festival (NL), London Calling (NL), Beast Of A Feast (NZ), Ninch Fest (VIC) among others.
 

Moe's Alley presents the triumphant return of the high-energy, rock n' roll-tinged, country of Jenny Don't and The Spurs with special guest Henry Warde (Hank & Ella) debuting his new band. 

Thursday, March 27th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$17 in advance / $22 day of the show
21+

JENNY DON'T AND THE SPURS
Jenny Don’t and the Spurs have been pioneering their own path in the music world for over a dozen years. Known for their high-energy Country Western style and captivating stage presence, they've garnered a global following with their infectious enthusiasm,  and extensive discography, featuring three albums, an EP, and nine singles.

Their 2021 LP, Fire on the Ridge, expanded their horizons, leading them on tours to continents where few other country bands have had the opportunity to perform, affirming their formidable presence in the country music scene. This latest release, "Broken Hearted Blue," set to debut on June 14th, 2024, adds even more fuel to their fire.

With their exciting new album, Broken Hearted Blue Jenny Don’t and the Spurs present 10 dynamic songs that channel the essence of the Northwest’s music sounds while evoking the nostalgia of the Western frontier. The album bursts forth with the explosive energy of the opening track, "Flyin' High," akin to a wild horse spurred by a crack of lightning. The song skillfully merges the band's garage-rock origins with their distinct western sound, characterized by a driving tempo and gritty fuzz tones. From the outset, this album asserts itself as a standout in the country music scene, with its high-octane rockin' western delivery approach setting it apart from the herd.
 

Moe's Alley presents two nights of reggae legend Don Carlos! Night 1 includes Salinas' own The Rudians with DJ Moi! 

Friday, March 28th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$40 in advance / $45 day of the show
21+

DON CARLOS
Don Carlos (born Euvin Spencer) Legendary Reggae Artist was born and raised in one of the most deprived regions of Western Kingston, Jamaica, in a district notoriously known as Waterhouse, which incidentally is also a musical spawning ground for many of Reggae’s greatest ever talents, such as King Tubby, Black Uhuru, The Jays, Junior Reid and King Jammy, to name but a few. Don Carlos started his singing career in 1973 as one of the original members of Black Uhuru, alongside other founding members, Garth Dennis who later went on to joining the Wailing Souls, and Derrick Ducky Simpson. As part of the trio, Don sang lead on the highly acclaimed Love Crisis album, for producer Prince Jammy in 1977. This album was later re-released and re-titled as Black Sounds of Freedom. A year after the trio’s groundbreaking debut, Don Carlos surprisingly decided to leave Black Uhuru in pursuit of a solo career. 

THE RUDIANS
The Rudians, Danceable Reggae from Salinas, California. We all found each other in this sacred valley. Our art tells stories of reflection, spirituality, love, and the struggles in our communities. We draw inspiration from Roots, Dub, and Dance hall and also Metal, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Spoken Word.

Through Peace, Wisdom, and Strength — We are The Rudians.
 

Moe's Alley presents two nights of reggae legend Don Carlos! Night 2 includes Santa Cruz' own Kava Jah and The Remedy plus DJ Spleece! 

Saturday, March 29th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$40 in advance / $45 day of the show
21+

DON CARLOS
Don Carlos (born Euvin Spencer) Legendary Reggae Artist was born and raised in one of the most deprived regions of Western Kingston, Jamaica, in a district notoriously known as Waterhouse, which incidentally is also a musical spawning ground for many of Reggae’s greatest ever talents, such as King Tubby, Black Uhuru, The Jays, Junior Reid and King Jammy, to name but a few. Don Carlos started his singing career in 1973 as one of the original members of Black Uhuru, alongside other founding members, Garth Dennis who later went on to joining the Wailing Souls, and Derrick Ducky Simpson. As part of the trio, Don sang lead on the highly acclaimed Love Crisis album, for producer Prince Jammy in 1977. This album was later re-released and re-titled as Black Sounds of Freedom. A year after the trio’s groundbreaking debut, Don Carlos surprisingly decided to leave Black Uhuru in pursuit of a solo career. 

KAVA JAH AND THE REMEDY
Kava Jah, born Junior Johnson, in Cumberland, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, is a reggae artist who writes, sings, and chants his own lyrics in his own style. Born into a family with musical roots, Kava Jah's father Levi Johnson was a teacher of music at the Spalding's Comprehensive High School and choir master in the church. He was a leader in the community both musically and spiritually. Kava Jah began working with Gumption Music Production out of Kingston, Jamaica creating, recording, and preparing to tour. In 2012 Kava Jah joined the I-Kronik band as lead singer and songwriter touring internationally and sharing the stage with artists such as Romain Virgo, Luciano, Protoje, David Hines of Steel Pulse, Junior Reid, I-Wayne, and many more.   In 2016, Kava Jah joined The Root System band after relocating to Santa Cruz, Ca.   Many of his original song works made up The Root Systems live performances.  In 2017, Kava Jah and The Remedy formed and is still active with performances throughout California.   Kava Jah and The Remedy has played for many venues and has supported international reggae acts ranging from The Gladiators, Cocoa Tea, Yellowman, Prezident Brown, Sister Carol, The Mighty Diamonds, Collie Buddz, The Itals, Israel Vibrations and Black Uhuru.  Kava Jah has released many singles having worked with a variety of producers.  Most recent works from Kava Jah and The Remedy released February 2022 with another full length album to drop in 2023.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of the legendary Rick Estrin and The Nightcats!

Sunday, March 30th
Doors: 1pm / Show: 2pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

RICK ESTRIN AND THE NIGHTCATS
Blues vocalist, harmonica master and songwriting legend Rick Estrin, leader of the musically fearless, wildly entertaining, award-winning band Rick Estrin & The Nightcats, doesn’t like to talk much about his own musical superpowers. But ask him about the Nightcats—multi-instrumentalist/musical mastermind/producer Christoffer “Kid” Andersen, keyboardist/organ wizard/bass player Lorenzo Farrell and endlessly creative drummer Derrick “D’Mar” Martin—and he’ll be happy to sing their praises. “This band is killer. I’m enjoying this all more than ever,” says the man who’s been performing and recording professionally since the early 1970s. “It’s a blessing—there’s so much energy, so much collaboration. The band is just so good right now. And the live show is better than ever.” Living Blues calls Rick Estrin & The Nightcats “a terrific blues band with a real character for a front man,” continuing, “Clever, well-crafted songs framed by first-flight musicianship…hugely entertaining, intelligently conceived and executed roots rock with a wickedly cool and otherworldly twist on tradition. Estrin’s harp work is masterful.”

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats’ new album and the band’s sixth release, The Hits Keep Coming, packs a powerful punch, with phenomenal musicianship and lyrics—both serious and humorous. Produced by Andersen at his legendary Greaseland USA studio in San Jose, California, the record captures the band’s chemistry and magic in what is certainly among their strongest, most urgent and most cohesive releases so far. The Hits Keep Coming is modern blues at its most potent, intense and fun in all the right places, as Rick Estrin & The Nightcats deliver twelve groove-heavy, hard-hitting songs, including ten written or co-written by Estrin and two surprising covers (one obscurity from Muddy Waters, one from Leonard Cohen that Estrin would have liked to have written). From the foot-stomping opener Somewhere Else, to the harsh reality of the title track (with backing vocals by The Sons Of The Soul Revivers), to the musically infectious, lyrically harrowing song about addiction, The Circus Is Still In Town, The Hits Keep Coming is a lyrical and musical tour-de-force.

(((folkYEAH!))) presents the legendary songwriter Ramblin' Jack Elliott.

Sunday, March 30th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$30 in advance / $35 day of the show
21+

RAMBLIN' JACK ELLIOTT
One of the last true links to the great folk traditions of this country, with over 40 albums under his belt, Ramblin' Jack Elliott is considered one of the country's legendary foundations of folk music. Long before every kid in America wanted to play guitar – before Elvis, Dylan, the Beatles or Led Zeppelin – Ramblin' Jack had picked it up and was passing it along. From Johnny Cash to Tom Waits, Beck to Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder to Bruce Springsteen, the Grateful Dead to The Rolling Stones, they all pay homage to Ramblin' Jack Elliott.

In the tradition of roving troubadours Jack has carried the seeds and pollens of story and song for decades from one place to another, from one generation to the next. They are timeless songs that outlast the musical trends of any given day. He wrote one of the first trucking songs-Cup of Coffee-recorded by Johnny Cash, championed the works of new singer-songwriters such as Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson and Tim Hardin; and became a founding member of Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue. He continued the life of the traveling troubadour influencing Jerry Jeff Walker, Guy Clark, Tom Russell, The Grateful Dead and countless others.

Ramblin' Jack is a two-time GRAMMY winner, National Medal Of Arts recipient, and in 2016, received a Folk Alliance Lifetime Achievement Award. Featured in the recent Rolling Thunder Revue film by Martin Scorcese and also in the early 2019 PBS release of the Woody Guthrie All Star Tribute Concert Center, Ramblin' Jack is an icon of American roots and folk music. A lover of storytelling and veteran troubadour style musician, on tour he is in his element and known for telling the tales gathered along his magnificent journey through the roots of Folk, Blues, Americana and Cowboy music and poetry. His permanently enshrined seat at Woodie Guthrie Center Theater in Tulsa, OK., sits among other greats, including Lead Belly, Cisco Houston and Pete Seeger.

"Nobody I know—and I mean nobody—has covered more ground and made more friends and sung more songs than the fellow you're about to meet right now. He's got a song and a friend for every mile behind him. Say hello to my good buddy, Ramblin' Jack Elliott." -Johnny Cash, The Johnny Cash Television Show, 1969.

Moe's Alley presents the legendary Jamaican sounds of The Skatalites! 

Tuesday, April 1st
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$30 in advance / $35 day of the show
21+

THE SKATALITES

2024 marked the 60th Anniversary of The Skatalites. The original members played on hundreds of recording sessions before forming the band in 1964.  Backing most of the vocalists in Jamaica at that time, including Bob Marley, Toots and The Maytals, Jimmy Cliff, Alton Ellis, Ken Boothe and many more The Skatalites secured their place in musical history early on. After disbanding in 1965 the individual members continued playing in various groups as the music evolved from ska to rocksteady to reggae.

In 1983 The Skatalites reunited to play Reggae Sunsplash in Montego Bay and subsequently in London at The Crystal Palace for the U.K version of The Sunsplash event. A few years later they began emigrating to the U.S.A and in 1986 the first US shows began at The Village Gate in NYC. The band supported Bunny Wailer on The Liberation Tour in 1989 and followed it up in 1990 embarking on their first-ever headline tour of The U.S.A.  The Skatalites have not stopped touring the world ever since and continue to be available for festivals, casinos, and intimate venue settings. Their unique infectious brand of authentic Jamaican ska excites audiences of all ages across the globe year after year.

“We hope you will enjoy listening to our music as much as we enjoy performing it for you.”

Moe's Alley presents the high-energy, Afro-Latin band out of Oakland – La Misa Negra!

Friday, April 4th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$22 in advance / $27 day of the show
21+

LA MISA NEGRA
La Misa Negra is a 7-piece band from Oakland, California, known for their unique blend of cumbia and high-energy, Afro-Latin music. On stage, they deliver an electrifying performance that explodes with infectious dance grooves and punk rock energy, powered by horn and accordion-driven riffs, a fierce rhythm section, and a vintage-inspired sound. Since their live debut in the fall of 2011, La Misa Negra has toured the country, sharing stages and festival bills with the likes of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Wonder, Lenny Kravitz, Thievery Corporation, SZA, Mon Laferte, Julieta Venegas, Ana Tijoux, Bomba Estereo, George Clinton, Antibalas, Budos Band, and Ozomatli.
 

Moe's Alley presents the 20-Year Celebration of Mammatus with special guests Terry Gross and Supernaut! 

Saturday, April 5th
Doors: 7:30pm / Show: 8:30pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

MAMMATUS
Mammatus, the pioneering psychedelic space rock trio, is thrilled to announce their 20th anniversary. For two decades, the band has been pushing the boundaries of heavy music, blending elements of riff heavy psychedelic rock, progressive rock, and ambient soundscapes into a unique and immersive sonic experience. 

Formed in the Santa Cruz Mountains in early 2005, Mammatus quickly gained a reputation for their expansive compositions, otherworldly atmospheres, and captivating live performances. Their music draws inspiration from the vastness of the cosmos and the mysteries of the natural world. 

Over the years, Mammatus has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, each one a journey further into their sonic universe. From their raw head banging self-titled debut to their latest epic, "Expanding Majesty," the band has consistently challenged themselves and their listeners, evolving their sound while staying true to their core vision. 

Mammatus's 20th anniversary is a testament to their enduring creativity and their unwavering commitment to their craft. To celebrate this milestone, the band is planning a special anniversary concert featuring the return of their classic four piece lineup and rare performances of songs of old, casting spells and tales of wizards and dragons, excellent sword fights, and traveling upon the Righteous Path through Forests of Old. 

Mammatus invites fans old and new to join them in celebrating 20 years of cosmic exploration. Prepare to be transported to another dimension as Mammatus unleashes their sonic forces and takes you on a journey through the depths of space and the realms of the mind.

TERRY GROSS
Few bands are as primed to capture their ecstatic live energy in masterful sonic detail like Terry Gross. Composed of three renowned engineer/producers whose studio doubles as their jam spot and communal gathering place, the trio are able to document their longform psychedelic  escapades with granular precision.

On their second full-length Huge Improvement, Terry Gross embody a complex web of emotion with songs as ferocious and precise as they are agile and care-free, delighting in the catharsis of excising tension alongside one’s most trusted peers. 

SUPERNAUT
Heavy rock from Santa Cruz.
 

Moe's Alley presents the Grammy-winning Venezuelan band Los Amigos Invisibles with DJ Wyze 1 on the 1s and 2s! 

Sunday, April 6th
Doors: 6pm / Show: 7pm
$35 in advance / $40 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Dec. 13th at 10am PT*

LOS AMIGOS INVISIBLES
Los Amigos Invisibles is a Grammy-winning Venezuelan band that blends of disco, acid jazz and funk mixed with Latin rhythms. In addition to releasing eleven critically acclaimed albums, the band have been lauded internationally for their explosive, live shows, spanning nearly 60 countries. They are considered the Venezuelan band with the greatest international recognition
 

Moe's Alley presents Swami John Reis (Hot Snakes, Rocket From The Crypt, Drive Like Jehu) with special guests Thanks Buddy and King Tide! Swami's new single "Fed To The Dogs" is out now on all major streaming platforms.

Tuesday, April 8th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale at Jan.15th at 10am PT.*

SWAMI JOHN REIS
SWAMi jOhN REiS, SWAMi ReCORDS, Rocket from The Crypt, Hot Snakes, PLOSIVS, Night Marchers, Drive Like Jehu, The Sultans, City Of Refuge, etc, etc, etc

THANKS BUDDY
Thanks Buddy are friends playing for the love of it.  Rock-n-roll sprinkled with Americana, Punk and Folk.  Established in Santa Cruz, California in 2013

KING TIDE
Spearheading the rock revival in Santa Cruz, King Tide is undeniably, unabashedly rock. Frontman Daniel Nemire works alongside veteran drummer Zen Perry with a variety of other musicians to create everything from hard rock, bordering on metal to funky blues rock that forces you to dance along.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of Joshua Ray Walker with special guest Nate Bergman!

Wednesday, April 9th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

JOSHUA RAY WALKER
Dallas native Joshua Ray Walker’s latest release, Thank You For Listening, is a self declared love letter to his fans and supporters. The album is a compilation of acoustic renditions from his critically acclaimed trio of albums Wish You Were Here, Glad You Made It, and See You Next Time. Although the majority of these songs have previously been released, these new renderings strip these fan favorites down to their raw and intimate core, highlighting the essence of Joshua Ray Walker’s songwriting and vocal talent. The project also includes the newly released title track “Thank You For Listening,” which has been described as a “gorgeous and melancholic ballad” by Brooklyn Vegan.

The aforementioned trio of albums, released from 2019 to 2021, are packed tight with character-driven songs that put multiple national-tours worth of crowds on the precipice of staining their shirts with either beers or tears, depending on the song. The third of the trio, See You Next Time, led to Walker appearing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and CBS Saturday Morning, brought with it performances at the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and Gruene Hall in Texas, landed him on Rolling Stone’s “Best of 2021” list, and prompted SPIN to call him “one of country’s most exciting storytellers.” 

In 2023, Walker followed up “The Trilogy” with What Is It Even?, an 11-track cover album consisting of songs made famous by female pop acts. Seemingly unafraid of whether it stripped him of the “standard bearer of authentic country music” label that some circles have tagged him with, Walker said What Is It Even? is a specific snapshot of some of his inspirations. The song choices make the album feel something like an Alice In Wonderland version of your most fun-loving friend’s iPod shuffle dug out of their closet. There’s a country version of Cher’s “Believe”, a sort of grunge/country adaptation of Q Lazarus’ “Goodbye Horses”, a rendition of The Cranberries’ “Linger” with Kyle Gass of Tenacious D on the recorder, and the crown jewel, a cover of Lizzo’s “Cuz I Love You” that is a vocal showcase. That cover of Lizzo led Rolling Stone to say that the cover “…should be his star-making turn” and resulted in a performance of the song on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

NATE BERGMAN
Nate Bergman is an American singer-songwriter known for  his powerful voice and genre-blending style that fuses rock,  soul, country, and folk. His deeply personal song material is  often balanced by equally sardonic and dark lyrics.  

Bergman has embraced creative freedom, showcasing a  diverse sound that Classic Rock Magazine says is “like  Bruce Springsteen mixed with Otis Redding.”

Moe's Alley presents two incredible nights with The Brothers Comatose! with special guests Two Runner!

Thursday, April 10th (Night 1)
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$30 in advance / $35 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Dec. 6th at 10am PT*

THE BROTHERS COMATOSE

The Brothers Comatose are a roots-infused bluegrass band known for their infectious blend of Americana, folk, and traditional bluegrass. Based in San Francisco, California, the band has developed a reputation for their high-energy performances, heartfelt songwriting, and impressive musicianship. Founded in 2009 by brothers Ben and Alex Morrison, the group features a revolving lineup of talented musicians, but the core of their sound is defined by tight harmonies, virtuosic string instrumentation, and a foot-stomping, back-porch spirit.

In 2024, the band welcomed multi-instrumentalist Addie Levy into the fold, adding a new layer of depth and dynamic to their sound. As a talented fiddle player and vocalist, Levy's contribution brought a fresh energy and a new dimension to the band's harmonies, seamlessly blending with the Morrison brothers' voices while enhancing their already distinctive bluegrass stylings. Her presence not only broadened the band's musical range but also enriched their live performances, creating an even more compelling and cohesive sound.

The Brothers Comatose’s sound draws from a variety of influences, including old-time bluegrass, country, and rock, but they make it uniquely their own with a modern twist and a strong emphasis on storytelling. Their songs often delve into themes of love, loss, adventure, and the human experience, all while maintaining an upbeat, rollicking energy that keeps fans coming back for more.

The band has earned praise for their live shows, which are marked by their lively stage presence and infectious enthusiasm. Whether performing intimate club shows or festival mainstages, The Brothers Comatose deliver an unforgettable experience that showcases their deep passion for music and performance.

TWO RUNNER
Two Runner is songwriter Paige Anderson and fiddler Emilie Rose from the hills of Northern California. The folk duo emits a ray of unprocessed realness through their well-crafted songs and instrumental skills. Both growing up in a rural mountain town, best friends Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose learned folk music and performance from a young age, and now tour nationally as Two Runner. Through the mediums of clawhammer banjo, vocal harmonies, oldtime fiddle, and flatpicking guitar, Two Runner has a sound that is strongly rooted in American folk music combined with Paige’s wistful songwriting. Two Runner self-released their debut album, Modern Cowboy, in the spring of 2023 and have shared the stage with Sierra Ferrell, Watchhouse, Jesse Daniel, Nick Shoulders, Charlie Parr and many more.
 

Moe's Alley presents two incredible nights with The Brothers Comatose with special guests Two Runner!

Friday, April 11th (Night 2)
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$30 in advance / $35 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Dec. 6th at 10am PT*

THE BROTHERS COMATOSE

The Brothers Comatose are a roots-infused bluegrass band known for their infectious blend of Americana, folk, and traditional bluegrass. Based in San Francisco, California, the band has developed a reputation for their high-energy performances, heartfelt songwriting, and impressive musicianship. Founded in 2009 by brothers Ben and Alex Morrison, the group features a revolving lineup of talented musicians, but the core of their sound is defined by tight harmonies, virtuosic string instrumentation, and a foot-stomping, back-porch spirit.

In 2024, the band welcomed multi-instrumentalist Addie Levy into the fold, adding a new layer of depth and dynamic to their sound. As a talented fiddle player and vocalist, Levy's contribution brought a fresh energy and a new dimension to the band's harmonies, seamlessly blending with the Morrison brothers' voices while enhancing their already distinctive bluegrass stylings. Her presence not only broadened the band's musical range but also enriched their live performances, creating an even more compelling and cohesive sound.

The Brothers Comatose’s sound draws from a variety of influences, including old-time bluegrass, country, and rock, but they make it uniquely their own with a modern twist and a strong emphasis on storytelling. Their songs often delve into themes of love, loss, adventure, and the human experience, all while maintaining an upbeat, rollicking energy that keeps fans coming back for more.

The band has earned praise for their live shows, which are marked by their lively stage presence and infectious enthusiasm. Whether performing intimate club shows or festival mainstages, The Brothers Comatose deliver an unforgettable experience that showcases their deep passion for music and performance.

TWO RUNNER
Two Runner is songwriter Paige Anderson and fiddler Emilie Rose from the hills of Northern California. The folk duo emits a ray of unprocessed realness through their well-crafted songs and instrumental skills. Both growing up in a rural mountain town, best friends Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose learned folk music and performance from a young age, and now tour nationally as Two Runner. Through the mediums of clawhammer banjo, vocal harmonies, oldtime fiddle, and flatpicking guitar, Two Runner has a sound that is strongly rooted in American folk music combined with Paige’s wistful songwriting. Two Runner self-released their debut album, Modern Cowboy, in the spring of 2023 and have shared the stage with Sierra Ferrell, Watchhouse, Jesse Daniel, Nick Shoulders, Charlie Parr and many more.

Moe's Alley presents international reggae legends and the "Reggae Ambassadors" themselves – Third World – with special guest Kumar Fyah and Estrella!

Saturday, April 12th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$35 in advance / $40 day of the show
21+

THIRD WORLD
One of the longest-running reggae acts of all time, Third World remained one of Jamaica's most consistently popular crossover acts among international audiences for over 50 years. Regularly appearing on American and U.K. charts throughout the '80s, the band embraced a fusion sound that married elements of pop and soul to reggae.

ESTRELLA
Estrella, a dynamic West Coast singer/songwriter, masterfully fuses reggae, R&B, jazz, andsoul, creating a distinctive sound marked by her velvety tones and heartfelt performances. Born and raised in Salinas, California, Estrella's multicultural roots influence her unique artistry. Her journey began in Oahu, where she embraced her passion for music and crafted songs inspired by themes of love and self-empowerment. After releasing her debut EP "Why Wait" in 2021, Estrella has been enchanting audiences up and down California, gaining a loyal following and promising new music on the horizon.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of soul, blues rocker Eddie 9V!

Tuesday, April 15th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Tickets go on sale Friday, January 24th at 10am PT*

EDDIE 9V
Eddie 9V has an endless stockpile of cool stories – and you’ll find twelve of them on new studio album ‘Saratoga’, releasing November 22, 2024 on the fabled Ruf label. It’s a record that will thrill both newcomers and fans who have trailed Eddie since the start, showcasing his fresh, fiery spin on Southern soul, blues, rock and funk, with his signature wit and sharp observations of modern America placing him squarely in the here-and-now. “I do think it’s a wonderful road trip album,” he nods.

Eddie 9V has powered up. From the day he first slung a guitar on a local stage, the Georgia-born band leader announced himself as an artist to watch. But in the last few} meteoric years, Eddie’s music has crossed oceans and airwaves, transcending his cult-hero status to become a beacon for fans of real music everywhere. “Eddie 9V is something else,” wrote the UK’s Classic Rock. “A man who genuinely inhabits golden-era American roots, playing the most instinctive blues you’ll hear all year.”

Check out the gig listings and you’ll find this rising star playing a bigger club every time he blows through town. Scan the charts and you’ll find his most recent album, 2022’s ‘Capricorn’, locking horns with the giants of rock ‘n’ roll. “Capricorn debuted at #1 and that was a cool feeling for a week, until Bonnie Raitt kicked us off,” reflects Eddie with a smile. “But hey, that’s a cool story to be able to say…”

Moe's Alley presents Chuck Fenda featuring Lawgiver The Kingson backed by the Purity Attack Band plus Selecta 7!

Thursday, April 17th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

CHUCK FENDA
Chuck Fenda, born Leshorn Whitehead, is an international reggae artist whose career spans nearly three decades. From his beginnings as a young boy impersonating his favorite musicians to becoming a global force in reggae, Chuck has consistently delivered music that uplifts and inspires. Known for his conscious lyrics and authentic representation of Jamaica and Rastafarian culture, Chuck Fenda is a true ambassador of reggae music.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in the parish of St. Catherine, Jamaica, Chuck Fenda's journey reflects the duality of his roots. In 1997, under the mentorship of legendary producer King Jammy, he released his debut single, “Jah It’s All About You.” This marked the start of a remarkable career that includes global hits like “I Swear,” “Life Ruff Out Deh,” “Gash Dem,” and the chart-topping “Are You Coming Over Tonight?” featuring Cherine Anderson, which remained in the Top 30 for an incredible 26 weeks.

Chuck's most recent album, Eternal Fire, released on February 24, 2023, continues his legacy of powerful reggae music. Anchored by hits such as “One Burner,” “You Saved Me,” and the title track, Eternal Fire, the album exemplifies his commitment to the roots of reggae. In November 2023, he released “Heartless,” a bold anthem defending women and children, which quickly became a household favorite.

LAWGIVER THE KINGSON
Lawgiver The Kingson was born Oneil Phoenix in Kingston Jamaica.

Lawgiver is without a doubt one of Jamaica's most versatile recording artists. Throughout his career Lawgiver The Kingson has been gaining recognition for his unique blend of reggae music with a powerful message of unity and positivity. His lyrics and rhythms resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making him a versatile performer for a range of events.

Lawgiver The Kingson's stage presence is a dynamic fusion of energy and captivation, creating an atmosphere that is both invigorating and mesmerizing.  With an electric charisma, Lawgiver commands attention effortlessly, drawing the audience into the heart of his music.  Whether he's delivering the soulful melodies of reggae or infusing the stage with high-energy vibes, Lawgiver The Kingson ensures that every moment is an immersive experience. His stage presence is a testament to his passion for the music and a commitment to delivering performances that resonate with authenticity and leave an indelible mark on the audience

Moe's Alley presents the return of Rob Leines! 

Thursday, April 24th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$15 in advance / $20 day of the show
21+

ROB LEINES
"I'm burning down the interstate," Rob Leines sings halfway through Headcase, an album that finds the road warrior occupying the intersection of blue-collar rock & roll and outlaw country. Pulling triple duty as a songwriter, southern storyteller, and modern-day guitar hero, Leines fills his third album with tales from the fast lane, punctuating each song with amplified riffs and a voice sharpened by a heavy touring schedule. The result is a record for dive bars and dance halls, for highways and honky-tonks, for wheels that spin and and horizons that linger just out of reach. 

Before recording Headcase with co-producers Mike Harmeier (the longtime frontman of Silverada, formerly known as Mike and the Moonpies) and Adam Odor, Leines quit his longtime job as a welder and hit the road in support of 2021's Blood Sweat and Beers. That record became his breakthrough release, earning Leines a year's worth of gigs with marquee acts like Dwight Yoakam and The Mavericks. Night after night, he hit the stage with his power trio, mixing rock & roll bang with Telecaster twang. Recorded between shows, Headcase captures that live chemistry with songs that dig beneath the blacktop for stories about love lost, chances taken, and life lived between the mile markers.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of ORGŌNE with very special guests Mestizo Beat! 

Friday, April 25th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

ORGŌNE
With a signature sound signified by lockstep rhythms & a deep grasp of soul and funk, ORGŌNE has built a reputation over the past 2 decades as being one of the tightest, fieriest live bands in the country & a top notch crew in the studio.

"Orgone make life-affirming music; their irresistible funkiness and ability to transcend genre will force anyone out of their seat and onto the dance floor. Even the band's name – a cosmic amalgamation of the words orgasm and hormone – is a reference to a spirit of creativity and universal life force that they hope will have an inhibition-canceling effect.”
– L.A. Weekly

MESTIZO BEAT
The West Coast Latin Funk Ensemble, Mestizo Beat, coming out of Los Angeles,  CA is an instrumental group that blends the sounds of 60’s-70’s Funk & Soul,  Latin Jazz, Afrobeat, Psychedelic Rock and Hip-Hop. The band’s music carries a  certain sense of nostalgia, using their creativity to fuse the old with the new,  constantly paying homage to the greats who came before. 

Mestizo Beat was formed in late 2016 in Topanga, CA by The Magaña Brothers,  Aquiles (Guitar) and Agustin (Drums). After years of developing the sound through  gigging and recording with different players in the Los Angeles area the group  truly found their sound by adding key players Jose Castro (Bass) Pedro Flores  (Percussion) and Jesse Audelo (Saxophone/Flute). 

(((folkYEAH!))) presents Sean Hayes!

Saturday, April 26th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

SEAN HAYES

Sean Hayes is a Bay Area singer-songwriter who makes music to dance to or cry to, or maybe both at the same time. He was born in New York City, raised in North Carolina, and honed his earliest musical chops in a band playing Irish and old-time tunes — but his unique style of deeply felt, R&B-inflected folk really matured during his two decades singing and playing in cafes, bars, and night clubs of San Francisco.

His voice layers wonder and heartache upon grit and gravel, sex and soul. His lyrics carry an unpretentious wisdom. He’s dueted with Aimee Mann; been covered by the Be Good Tanyas; and toured with Anais Mitchell (performing songs from Hadestown, before it was an award-winning Broadway show). His songs have appeared on NPR, NBC and HBO.

Moe's Alley presents Canadian post-punk band ACTORS with special guests Holy Water! 

Tuesday, May 13th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

ACTORS
ACTORS began by releasing a string of popular singles, starting with “Post Traumatic Love” in 2012 and building a dedicated fanbase while eschewing a debut album release for the band’s first six years of existence. In 2018, the Jason Corbett-led foursome signed with Toronto-based Artoffact Records and released its long-awaited debut, It Will Come to You, quickly becoming one of the marquee acts on the label and following with their sophomore release 'Acts of Worship' in 2021. In Late 2020, ACTORS announced a new single, “Love U More,” with Juno-Award winning director Peter Ricq contributing his talents to the accompanying video.

Songs like “L’appel du Vide,” “Slaves,” “Face Meets Glass,” and “Bury Me” are bangers that glisten via Corbett’s production job: infectious beats propelled by the warm layers of synth, bass, and drums contributed by the rest of the band. Corbett writes, produces, mixes, and masters all ACTORS music at his own Vancouver studio, Jacknife Sound and names David Bowie as a fundamental influence – Bowie’s sense of confidence and creativity are in full effect on It Will Come to You. Much more than a retro act, this is music that stands all on its own, full of life and complete with unforgettable hooks. Perhaps best described as a “post-post-punk” band, ACTORS belongs in the mix alongside bands like The Soft Moon and Cold Cave. 

ACTORS have spent the last several years touring the USA, Canada, and Europe, while hitting many of the best-loved festivals, including Amphifest, Wave-Gotik-Treffen, Cold Waves, Substance, Death Disco, Verboden and many more.”

HOLY WATER
Hard-hitting electro house from Sacramento, CA.
 

Moe's Alley presents the return of Jamaican reggae legends Israel Vibration with very special guest Duane Stephenson all backed by the iconic Roots Radics band! 

Friday, May 16th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$40 in advance / $45 day of the show
21+

ISRAEL VIBRATION
A living lesson in fortitude, the vocal trio of Cecil "Skeley" Spence, Albert "Apple Gabriel" Craig, and Lascelle "Wiss" Bulgin overcame adversity, illness, and poverty to become one of the finest roots groups in Jamaica's history. All three had been afflicted by polio and first became acquainted, albeit briefly, at Kingston's Mona Rehabilitation Clinic.

The three teens had individually all previously converted to rastafarianism, now their shared faith and childhood experiences helped forge a strong friendship. They spent the next six years singing around Kingston for their suppers and by 1975, Israel Vibration was a vocal force to be reckoned with. The group's exquisite dread sound and militant cultural themes made an instant impression and the trio now found themselves on-stage opening for the likes of Bob Marley and Dennis Brown. 

The trio's deeply devotional songs, cultural themes, inspirational lyrics, and original take on the roots style had struck a chord with reggae fans around the world. They relocated to New York City, perhaps believing that the large immigrant community could sustain them, or that America was now ready to embrace roots. But a few occasional live appearances aside, the group swiftly disappeared from view. All three attempted solo careers, but only Bulgin made it on to record; his Mr. Sunshine album paired him with the Freedom Fighters Band.

In 1997, Apple Gabriel left the group to pursue a solo career, releasing the album Another Moses in 1999. Skelly and Wiss continue to record albums and tour the world as Israel Vibration, backed by longtime associates Roots Radics.In December 2014 they were reportedly recording a new album set for release in early 2015. The new album, entitled "Play It Real" was released on 31 March 2015 via Utopia. On March 23rd, 2020, Albert "Apple Gabriel" co-founder and former member of the group died due to 'compilation sickness', earlier reports indicated that Albert was not well for quite some time, this was supposedly due to some of the polio infections left in his body. On a Facebook post on March 7, 2020, he had indicated that he had suffered a stroke. He died on March 23, 2020. On August 26th, 2022, Cecil "Skelly" Spence died of lung cancer.

DUANE STEPHENSON
Duane Stephenson has distinguished himself as a respected singer and songwriter with a purity of heart and sound that can be felt from the first note of his melodic instrument. From the quality of his voice to his potent lyrics and memorable melodies, Duane ably addresses a variety of issues, ranging from powerful social commentary to romance. Duane’s work as a singer and songwriter are reflective of his early artistic exposure to the music industry veterans, many of whom have provided guidance and inspiration along his path.

Moe's Alley presents Anna Moss! 

Tuesday, May 20th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$20 on advance / $25 day of show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Feb. 21st at 10am PT*

ANNA MOSS
Vocalist/ multi-instrumentalist Anna Moss hails from the verdant forests and lush limestone of the Ozarks; yet her musical personality oozes New Orleans, the artist’s adopted hometown for many years. Anna’s newfound brand of sultry stripped-down-soul is steeped in Southern R&B, Americana, porch jazz; apocalyptic love songs, gritty hymns of humanity, abolition, and compassion busked to fruition in the historic French Quarter streets.
 

(((folkYEAH!))) presents L.A. Witch wtih special guests chokecherry!

Friday, June 13th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$20 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Feb. 14th at 10am PT*

L.A. WITCH
L.A. Witch have always exuded an aura of effortless cool, whether it manifested as the Americana noir and laconic back-to-basics rock n’ roll of their self-titled debut or the blistering austere adventurism of their sophomore album Play With Fire. The band—comprised of Sade Sanchez (guitar/vocals), Irita Pai (bass), and Ellie English (drums)—began as an informal affair, but the sultry and beguiling reverb-draped songs they created caught on with the public, moving the project beyond the insular space of the band’s friends and peers in Southern California into the broader world. On their latest album, DOGGOD, the trio push their craft beyond their previous creative and geographical confines, opting to craft the material in Paris, recording the tracks at Motorbass Studio on the Rue de Martyrs. DOGGOD explores broader swaths of sonic terrain, employs a greater arsenal of tones, and probes larger existential and cosmic themes, all while retaining the band’s signature sense of the forbidden, the forsaken, and the foreboding.

chokecherry
SF based band chokecherry is dark, black widow energy wrapped in the foil of our generation. Self-produced with a head rush of garage band sonics overlaid with a siren ensemble of layered vocal poise, “Glass Jaw” puts an original fingerprint on a histor scene. This being just their debut single, the song amassed over 1 millions streams on Spotify without a single editorial playlist. With their second single, “Around Around Around,” the duo continued to show they are paving their own way with a fusion of influences including shoegaze, classic rock, and grunge. The duo is set to perform at number of festivals in the U.S. this year, while working on new singles and a debut album.
 

Moe's Alley presents 45 Grave with special guests Dark Ride and Critical Response! 

Sunday, June 29th
Doors: 6pm / Show: 7pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

45 GRAVE
Forming in 1979 from Hollywood, 45 Grave scorched MTV with their hit songs “Evil” and “Partytime” – from the cult classic movie “Return of the Living Dead”. Today the Queen of Deathrock, Dinah Cancer, performs all the 45 Grave favorites from the legendary album Sleep in Safety as well as modern tracks like “Night of the Demons” from the 2010 movie release. There may even be a few from the elusive album “Autopsy”.

DARK RIDE
The Bay Area's premiere "Horror-Punk" band, Dark Ride has quickly established a following with their melodic, punk-rock anthems influenced by the likes of The Misfits, AFI and Alkaline Trio. Since the release of their debut EP in 2021 has played all over the US and will soon be releasing their first full length record "Blade Manor". The passion project of Santa Cruz native Emilio Menze (Stellar Corpses, Ambivalence, Plan 9).

CRITICAL RESPONSE
Since their debut in 2022, Critical Response, led by charismatic frontwomen Celina Bottini, has been wowing audiences around the SF and Monterey Bay area. Their sound is a mix of old-school punk, rock, grunge, and blues, melding it into a raw, relentless and uncompromising mix.

While not overtly political, Bottini writes to empower women. She rants, screams, and sings with conviction, often all in the same song. The rhythm section includes Mark Hanford on bass and backing vocals (ex-Haggis – Boise, ID and SA90, of which Bottini was also a member) and Nick Priess. They lay down a solid backbeat for the grungy guitar of Ms. Lani White, teacher by day, rocker by night.

(((folkYEAH!))) presents Surprise Chef!

Saturday, July 26th
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$22 in advance / $25 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Feb. 7th at 9am PT*

SURPRISE CHEF
From little things, instrumental juggernauts grow. 

The members of Surprise Chef first gathered in 2017 with the modest aim of recording to tape a couple of spontaneous funk jams. As planned, those analogue sessions gave rise to a series of collectable 45’s but the unexpected gold they uncovered was a chemistry and camaraderie that has come to define the lives of the band-members ever since. 

Three LP’s and countless international tours later, Surprise Chef is globally recognized and respected with their emotive brand of cinematic soul, a sound that has been informed equally by their isolation in Australia and their deep love for soul, funk and classic film-scores. Their first album, All News Is Good News, established the foundation for their distinctive sound, and each subsequent release has pushed their creative boundaries. Along the journey they've garnered praise from the likes of Questlove and Jurassic 5's DJ Nu-Mark and were sampled for a collaboration between 88 Rising's Rich Brian and Wu Tang's legendary Ghostface Killah. They also provided the soundtrack to a Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime advertisement. 

After spending the first half of 2024 immersed in their critically acclaimed re-score of the 1970s Australian cult classic Wake in Fright – performed live alongside a never-before-seen 4K screening of the movie – the band found themselves in an entirely new creative space. Fresh from the intensity of that project, the recording sessions for Superb were intended to be the opposite process-wise; lighter, less intense, more free and spontaneous. 

Guitarist and songwriter, Lachlan Stuckey says: “Superb was a real shift in process for us… we care a great deal about the music we make being purposeful and meaningful and that mentality has given birth to a bunch of records we’re really proud of, but also can leave little room for spontaneity. On this record 

we wanted to embrace a kind of unbridled joy that inspired us when we first started making music. Making Superb showed us that when we’re more relaxed during the process, we get a whole different kind of record out of it.” 

(((folkYEAH!))) presents UK legends The Mekons!

Tuesday, July 29th
Doors: 7pm / show: 8pm
$28 in advance / $32 day of the show
21+

*Tickets on sale Friday, Nov. 20th at 10am PT*

THE MEKONS

Sonic adventurers, punk rock fundamentalists, exuberant luddites, willing outcasts.

 “The mekons are the most revolutionary group in the history of rock ‘n’ roll” – wrote rock critic Lester Bangs

The genre-defying mekons formed in Leeds, England in 1977.  Born from the emerging British punk scene, they progressed from art students with no musical skills to the prolific, raucous progeny of Hank Williams. This current classic line-up has remained intact since the mid-1980s, continuing to regularly tour and release new music through to now.  Theirs is an improbable history – a surprising and influential embrace of folk and country music with occasional forays into the art world. They have always worked collaboratively and collectively with all work credited to the band, never to individuals. Their mind-boggling output consistently blurs the lines between high art and low and has included exhibitions in the UK and US, a deranged pirate musical recorded and staged with Kathy Acker, an art performance with Vito Acconci, and several books including the unique art catalog/unfinished novel Mekons United.   "Revenge of the mekons", a documentary about the band received nationwide release in 2015 on Music Box Films.  The mekons continue to make bold, unpredictable music while staying true to the punk ethos. Their mind-boggling output consistently blurs the lines between high art and low and they remain one of the truly great live bands.  

Their last album "Exquisite" was recorded completely remotely during the early months of lockdown and released on Bandcamp in June 2020.  The band are working with Fire Records on their new album which comes out in 2025.  The single from that album "You're Not Singing Anymore" will be released on Fire Records in early November 2024.

JILL SOBULE

(((folkYEAH!))) presents critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and composer Ezra Furman!

Wednesday, August 6th
Doors: 7pm / Show: 8pm
$15 limited quantity / $25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

*Tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 14th at 9am PT*

*A limited number of reduced-priced tickets are available for purchase by unemployed/low income fans, who might not otherwise be able to afford to attend. No questions asked.*

EZRA FURMAN

Ezra Furman is a boundary-breaking artist whose fearless creativity and emotional honesty have made her one of the most compelling voices in modern music. Blending punk energy, heartfelt lyricism and genre-defying innovation, Furman’s work is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The albums she’s released over the past decade demonstrate both her extraordinary talent and artistic evolution. Perpetual Motion People (2015) is a vibrant, genre-hopping explosion of wit and melody, while Transangelic Exodus (2018) pushed boundaries with its dystopian storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes, exploring themes of love, defiance, and identity. Twelve Nudes (2019) delivered raw, punk-fueled catharsis, channeling anger and resilience into fiery anthems. Her last album, All of Us Flames (2022), is a cinematic and deeply moving exploration of queer liberation, weaving intimate storytelling with grand, sweeping arrangements. She also found time to record the soundtrack for the Netflix smash hit TV series Sex Education. Ezra Furman’s music is a testament to the power of individuality and authenticity, marking her as a truly unique voice in modern music.

Moe's Alley presents two nights of The Chop Tops, celebrating their two final hometown reunion shows! Friday night's show includes Los Dryheavers, The Swillbillys and Astro Zombies. 

Friday, December 12th (Night 1)
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

THE CHOP TOPS
After 10 years of retirement, they are back…   

Sometimes They Come Back, and this time it’s with a red-hot reunion album Fabrikate! This final 7th addition to The Chop Tops discography covers a lot of musical ground in the genre-blurring style they’re known for. Features tracks ranging from; Spaghetti Western and Santa Cruz Surf Instrumentals, Bluegrass Tales of the Devil & Woe, Revved-Up Punk, Red-Hot Rockabilly, Jump Blues Rock'N'Roll, topped off with its Haunting Hot Rod title track! This final reunion album cruises to all the right stops along the way.
 

Moe's Alley presents two nights of The Chop Tops, celebrating their two final reunion shows! Saturday night's show includes the Backyard Blues Band, The Swillbillys and The Inciters! 

Saturday, December 13th (Night 2)
Doors: 8pm / Show: 9pm
$25 in advance / $30 day of the show
21+

THE CHOP TOPS
After 10 years of retirement, they are back…   

Sometimes They Come Back, and this time it’s with a red-hot reunion album Fabrikate! This final 7th addition to The Chop Tops discography covers a lot of musical ground in the genre-blurring style they’re known for. Features tracks ranging from; Spaghetti Western and Santa Cruz Surf Instrumentals, Bluegrass Tales of the Devil & Woe, Revved-Up Punk, Red-Hot Rockabilly, Jump Blues Rock'N'Roll, topped off with its Haunting Hot Rod title track! This final reunion album cruises to all the right stops along the way.