Your Guide To This Week’s North County Concerts
Coming off the high or lows brought to you by Valentine’s Day? North County has plenty of punk this week to help you achieve some sort of catharsis. If punk doesn’t sound appealing, how about some vaudeville or Americana? Pick your poison.
The English Beat – 2/17
The Belly Up
Solana Beach
The English Beat is Dave Wakeling’s incarnation of 1979 band The Beat. Wakeling believed a band only has three good albums in it before going under. Sticking to this philosophy, The Beat called it quits after its three studio albums.
However, Wakeling and fans just didn’t get enough. Wakeling revived the group, and 38 years later the group is still touring and playing upbeat ska for your enjoyment.
Parsonsfield – 2/17
Brick 15
Del Mar
Parsonsfield comes from Connecticut, but its name comes from the rural Maine town in which the band recorded its debut in a farmhouse-turned-recording studio. A fitting spot for an Americana band that plays bluegrass sprinkled with folk and jazz.
You may know Parsonsfield from hit series “The Walking Dead.” The band’s tune “Weeds or Wildflowers” appeared in season six of the show.
The Widows – 2/18
The Pour House
Oceanside
Do you like brass with your punk? A little harder than ska, The Widows keeps the horns but ups-the-ante on strings.
The Widows has been making noise around San Diego since 2004 and has a few LPs to its credit. Catch them where there’s space to get wild.
Steam Powered Giraffe – 2/18
California Center for the Arts
Escondido
Formed in San Diego, Steam Powered Giraffe is the project of twins David and Isabella Bennett. Known as The Spine and Rabbit, the twins have created a rich lore for their vaudeville, steampunk band. They even have a webcomic detailing the band’s adventures.
Combining elaborate costumes with automation pantomime, Steam Powered Giraffe is definitely an act to be seen as well as heard.
Godspeed McQueen – 2/18
Mr. Peabody’s Bar & Grill
Encinitas
Godspeed McQueen plays the “classic punk songs that stole your virginity.” Do you want some Sex Pistols with your Social D?
Whether you favor The Ramones or Misfits, Godspeed McQueen has you covered. Check-in for a gritty good time.