22 February 2024

BISS List 2.22.24: Spotlight on Lukas Nelson & POTR (2.28 & 2.29) + Best of BISS this Week

Greetings, BISS Listers, and a joyful National Margarita Day to you all!

To kick off our weekly update, let’s dive into another fascinating BISS List fun fact: did you know we’ve been curating a couple of playlists on Spotify just for you? It’s true! If you’ve been following BISS List faithfully, you’re likely already acquainted with #ListenToThis. For the last 56 consecutive weeks, we’ve been spotlighting fresh, funky, and groovy tunes in our #ListenToThis segment on BISS List. These tracks, released in either the current or previous year are guaranteed to get you up and moving. Thank you all for the input, keep submitting new music (2023-2024)! That’s not all – we also have another gem for you on Spotify called “It’s All Good.” This playlist has been curated for over a decade & gets updated monthly. Put it on shuffle anytime, cause it’s ALL GOOD!

Recap of Last Week’s Musical Adventures

In last week’s BISS List, I anticipated my Guitarmageddon weekend to commence on Friday. Yet, as the electrifying Jackie Greene set ignited last Thursday with three phenomenal guitarists, I swiftly realized my mistake. It was undoubtedly a Guitarmageddon-worthy evening, check out #BISSlistLive @ Jackie Greene (2/15)! Rumor has it that the subsequent nights of Jackie Green at SWMH only got better! For us, that wasn’t enough for one night through. We rushed back to the city for DangerAte’s “JazSFunk” fusion musical collective at the Boom Boom Room, #BISSlistLive @ DangerAte (2/15). PS. Save the date: DangerAte returns on 3/21 at BBR.

Double-Bill Magnificence at Boom Boom Room

Fast forward to Friday 2/16, where BISS List Presents hosted a night of double-bill magnificence at the Boom Boom Room. The crowd gathered eagerly and early to witness Sean Leahy’s triumphant return to the stage, accompanied by an exceptional ensemble including Jordan Feinstein, Daria Johnson, Pamela Parker, & Jennifer Curriel, #BISSlistLive @ Sean Leahy Band (2/16). And then, LAZWELL ft Lady Chi commandeered the stage, delivering a nearly three-hour dance marathon that left the audience spellbound. With their infectious blend of funk, soul, and rock, they created a euphoric atmosphere where time seemed to stand still. From the relentless rhythms to the soaring vocals and dynamic brass, each moment was a testament to their musical prowess. As the crowd surrendered to the music, they closed out the night after 2:30am, ending the night with another awesome tribute to Ziggy Stardust, #BISSlistLive @ LAZWELL (2/16)

Don’t get me wrong, I also got lucky that there was just enough of a break from soundcheck at BBR before Sean Leahy’s set that I was able to catch some Galactic at The Fillmore front & center on the rail. The energy at The Fillmore was electric as Galactic unleashed their signature blend of funk and jazz-infused jams, setting the stage on fire with their infectious grooves and virtuosic performances. Even in the brief interlude, their music lingered in my mind, a testament to their undeniable talent and captivating stage presence. It was a whirlwind of a night, hopping between venues and immersing myself in the rich tapestry of sounds that San Francisco had to offer. And as I made my way back to BBR, the anticipation for Sean Leahy’s set only grew, knowing that the night was far from over and that more musical magic awaited. #BISSlistLive @ Galactic (2/16).

Gov’t Mule Takes The Fox by Storm

Saturday night, Gov’t Mule took me to church at The Fox. Despite the challenge of it being a sit-down show, the atmosphere was charged with reverence and anticipation. Gov’t Mule, led by the legendary Warren Haynes, delivered a performance that transcended the confines of the venue. While Warren may have been the only original member on stage that night, the band’s spirit remained unyielding, amplified by the remarkable talents of its members. With Matt absent, Molo admirably covered for him on drums, infusing each beat with passion and precision. And then there was Kevin Scott on bass, a revelation in his own right, earning himself a new fan in me with his electrifying presence. But it was Warren who truly stole the spotlight. As Sunny aptly put it, “Warren shredded it to confetti”. it was a night where the music soared to celestial heights, reaffirming Gov’t Mule’s rightful place as one of the all-time greats. IMHO #BISSlistList @ Gov’t Mule (2/17)

I have heard from everyone who attended that Jon Batiste delivered two unforgettable performances during his Sunday shows at The Fillmore. If anyone was fortunate enough to capture some video footage, we’d love to see it!

Upcoming Musical Highlights in SF This Weekend

Looking ahead to the upcoming weekend, the lineup in SF promises to keep the momentum going: Eric Lindell will be bringing his soulful tunes to Cafe Du Nord on Thursday 2/22, setting the stage for a night of unforgettable music. Then, on Friday, prepare to be dazzled as Cory Wong takes the spotlight at The Fox, showcasing his unparalleled talent and infectious energy. And if that’s not enough to satiate your musical cravings, head over to The Fillmore on Saturday 2/24, where The Budos Band will be delivering their signature blend of afro-soul and psychedelic rock, ensuring a night of pure sonic bliss. And as the evening winds down, don’t miss Tony Glaser‘s performance at Boom Boom Room (*WIN*), providing the perfect finale to an epic night of live music in the city. With such an incredible lineup, the weekend ahead is bound to be nothing short of extraordinary!

Next Week’s Musical Extravaganza in SF: Anticipation and Excitement

Honestly, I’m already counting down the days until next week! If by some stroke of luck, a ticket for Madonna’s 2/27 Tuesday night performance at The Chase were to magically appear in my hand, count me in – it’s high time I experienced her legendary showmanship firsthand 😜. If not, it’s ok, cause I’ve got my sights set on Lukas Nelson w/ Promise of The Real at The Fillmore on Wednesday 2/28 (*WIN*), marking the first of two nights of what promises to be an unforgettable experience. More details about Lukas Nelson can be found in our Spotlight section below!

Come and celebrate Leap Day with the Monophonics as they take the stage at The Sweetwater on Thursday 2/29 (*WIN*), marking the beginning of two spectacular nights! Then, on Friday, 3/1, Afrolicious returns to The Boom Boom Room (*WIN*), promising a night filled with infectious rhythms and soulful vibes. Meanwhile, across the street at The Fillmore, the Wood Brothers kick off their first night (*WIN*), setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend. Personally, I’ll be saving my excitement for Saturday 3/2, when I’ll be catching the Wood Brothers with Rainbow Girls opening at The Fillmore for the second night of their two-night engagement. Can you blame me for already counting down the days to next week? With a lineup like this, anticipation is inevitable!

As always, check out the Best of BISS section with our show picks of the week and Win Tickets page. And don’t forget there is always more on the Full Calendar.

But wait there’s more! Check out “Feel the Love” by Major Funk in #ListenToThis section below!

Cheers to another week of music-filled adventures with BISS List!

#seeyouattheshows,
~ Pamela aka Miss BISS

SPOTLIGHT ON SOULFUL GRIT

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real

Feb 28 & 29 @ The Fillmore

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real aren’t your typical arena act. This California-forged outfit transcends genre, weaving raw Americana storytelling with bluesy riffs and Lukas Nelson’s soulful vocals. Witnessing them live is an experience – an electrifying tapestry of electrifying energy and introspective songwriting. Imagine classic rock’s spirit infused with modern grit, where singalongs erupt effortlessly and emotions flow freely. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or seeking a musical adventure, POTR delivers. Come experience their journey, from collaborating with Willie Nelson to carving their own distinct path. This is music that resonates, lingers, and leaves you wanting more. Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of Americana unfold on stage.

For more upcoming BISS selections at The Fillmore, be sure to consult the Best of BISS, which includes The Wood Brothers on 3/1 (*WIN*) and 3/2, The Record Company on 3/14 (*WIN*), and Andy Frasco on 4/5 (*WIN*).

*Check out all of our Featured Shows.

LISTEN TO THIS

Listen to “Feel the Love” by Major Funk, from the album The In Between (Released 2023).

Hailing from the Yukon, Major Funk brings infectious pop-funk grooves and bilingual vocals, guaranteed to get your feet moving. We spoke with the band and they told us that “Feel the Love” is about “hitting up the dance floor once again after a long hiatus; or maybe the feeling of rediscovering a passion/thrill after you’d almost forgotten about it. You’ve always loved it but somehow life got in the way and here you are, amazed at how long it’s been, and by the energy it gives you. A rally cry to go out and remember why you did it in the first place, and the vow to keep feeling the love it brings! The song came together collaboratively with demos being shared by Brent (guitar), Etienne (bass) and Adrian (vocals and trumpet) during the tail end of the pandemic quiet time- perhaps the long hiatus that inspired the lyrics!”