Pianist, computer scientist, mother, and climate activist Vienna Teng is set to perform at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley this week. Teng, known for her deep and introspective songs, gained critical acclaim with her debut album Waking Hour in 2002. Her music has garnered attention from NPR’s Weekend Edition, The Late Show With David Letterman, and even Amazon’s top charts. Teng’s passion for climate action led her to launch a project that hosts monthly Zoom meetings and workshops to raise awareness about the importance of individual actions in saving the world. With her thought-provoking music, Teng continues to inspire and captivate audiences. The performances will take place on Thursday and Friday and tickets are available for $40 to $75.
The Roots, a transformative hip-hop collective, will be performing at the Fox Theater in Oakland. Founded by Tariq Black Thought Trotter and Ahmir Questlove Thompson, the Roots have pioneered the live rap-band genre by blending jazz, rap, funk, and soul. Their impressive resume includes being the house band for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and developing the Roots Picnic music festival. Questlove is also set to direct and oversee the music for Disney’s live-action remake of The Aristocats. The band’s performance at the Fox Theater promises to be a dynamic and memorable experience. The show will begin at 8pm and tickets are available for $75.
For those seeking a joyous and diverse musical experience, the String Cheese Incident will be performing at the Fox Theater on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Celebrating three decades of buoyant rhythm and hanky-panky fun, the String Cheese Incident’s music combines elements of bluegrass, rock, jazz, R&B, calypso, reggae, and electronica. Their unique sound, characterized by soaring waves and a blend of retro and new influences, guarantees an elevated and unforgettable performance. Don’t miss the opportunity to dance into 2024 with the infectious energy of the String Cheese Incident. Tickets for their shows are available for $69.50.
Renowned percussionist Pete Escovedo will be showcasing his rich musical heritage at Yoshi’s in Oakland. With a career spanning 67 years, Escovedo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the stage. Having been mentored by Tito Puente and touring with Carlos Santana, Escovedo seamlessly fuses Latin jazz, smooth jazz, salsa, and contemporary music. Accompanied by a dynamic rhythm-and-percussion ensemble and a five-person horn section, Escovedo’s performances are a masterclass in rhythm and melody. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the culmination of a lifetime of musical excellence. There will be shows on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with tickets available for $39 to $125.
Terrie Odabi, hailed as the most dynamic blues and soul woman to emerge from the Bay Area since Etta James, will be performing at the Sound Room in Oakland. Odabi’s powerful voice and sharp lyricism have earned her a reputation as one of the greats, drawing comparisons to blues legends. Having studied with renowned musicians such as Gwendolyn Brown and Dr. Bill Bell, Odabi’s talent and passion shine through in her performances. Born in Oakland, Odabi knew from a young age that she wanted to sing the blues, and now she is celebrated as a true icon. The performance will take place at 7:30pm, and tickets are available for $28.50.
Key Elements, a quintet led by Latin jazz pianist Patricia Thumas, will be enchanting audiences at the Back Room in Berkeley. Featuring some of the region’s most seasoned women instrumentalists, the band specializes in original compositions and arrangements by Thumas. Their repertoire encompasses the rich musical traditions of Cuba and Brazil, taking listeners on a rhythmic journey through Latin America. Get ready to swivel your hips and immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms of Key Elements. The performance will begin at 8pm, and tickets are available for $20.
Fleetwood Mac fans are in for a treat as a Bay Area-based tribute band takes the stage at the Ivy Room in Albany. The band, consisting of Linda Moody as Stevie Nicks, Jai Bird as Mick Fleetwood, Tori Fulkerson-Jones as John McVie, Owen Adair Kelley as Lindsey Buckingham, and Lindsay Everly, captures the essence and magic of Fleetwood Mac’s timeless hits. From Dreams to Don’t Stop, the band will deliver a captivating and nostalgic performance that will leave the audience singing along. Don’t miss this chance to fall in love with Fleetwood Mac all over again. The performances will take place on Saturday and Sunday, and tickets are priced at $20 in advance and $22 at the door.
Boston’s punk cabaret duo, The Dresden Dolls, will be performing at the UC Theatre in Berkeley to celebrate the New Year. Formed in 2000, the duo draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including rock legends like the Doors, jazz singer Nina Simone, and German playwright Bertolt Brecht. With their unique aesthetic and Amanda Palmer’s darkly humorous lyricism, The Dresden Dolls offer a thrilling and captivating musical experience. Although their last album was released in 2008, fans are eagerly anticipating new material from the duo’s first global tour in almost two decades. The show will begin at 9pm, and tickets are available for $100.
Jerry’s Middle Finger, a Los Angeles-based Grateful Dead tribute band, will continue the tradition of playing New Year’s Eve shows in the Bay Area. Known for their soulful interpretations of Grateful Dead classics, the six-piece band is set to ignite the stage at the Cornerstone in Berkeley. Prepare to be transported back to the golden era of the Dead as Jerry’s Middle Finger takes you on a nostalgic journey filled with loving vibes and unforgettable music. Adding to the experience is the Mad Alchemy Liquid Light Show, which enhances the visual spectacle of the performance. Join the celebration and make this New Year’s Eve one to remember. The show will begin at 9:30pm, and tickets are available for $43.50 in advance and $51 at the door.
As the year comes to a close, the Bay Area offers a diverse range of musical performances to satisfy every taste. From Vienna Teng’s thought-provoking melodies to the electrifying rhythms of the Roots and the String Cheese Incident, there is something for everyone. For fans of Latin jazz, Pete Escovedo’s performances at Yoshi’s promise to be a masterpiece of musical fusion. Meanwhile, Terrie Odabi will captivate audiences with her powerful voice and soulful blues. Key Elements will bring the intricate melodies of Latin America to life, while Fleetwood Mac lovers can look forward to a tribute band at the Ivy Room. The Dresden Dolls will add a touch of punk cabaret to the New Year’s celebrations, and Jerry’s Middle Finger will keep the Grateful Dead spirit alive. With such an exciting lineup, there’s no better way to bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the start of a new year filled with music and joy.
