Blue Turtle Seduction

BORDER CROSSING: Rock en Espa±ol might not be the most well-known musical genre here in the States, but there is no doubt that its influence has certainly begun to cross the border in meaningful ways. One of the preeminent bands of the genre is Cafe Tacvba, based out of Mexico City. It’s a four-man band named after a popular pachuco coffee house in the Mexican capital, which reached its highest popularity during the late 1940s. (Think zoot suits and the genesis of modern rock ‘n’ roll.) They cite that particular scene as an early influence, along with an interesting conflation of American electronica, punk sounds, and norte±o music-including Spanish boleros. To experience Cafe Tacvba’s emergent, exuberant style, check them out at the Majestic Theatre in Ventura (26 S. Chestnut St., Ventura) on Friday, November 30. Visit venturatheater.net for details.-Tyler Vickers

JAMMIN’ ON THE ONE: Progressive bluegrass jam-band sensation Blue Turtle Seduction continue their year of relentless touring; swimming through Santa Barbara-and stopping by Velvet Jones-on Thursday, December 6, at 9 p.m. Like many New Age jammers (Phish, Aquarium Rescue Unit), Blue Turtle Seduction’s sound is as transient as their aquatic namesake-a blend of punk, world fusion, gypsy rock, and much more. Though hard to peg, Turtle Seduction provide a rich palette of melodies and textures through improvisation, folky instrumentation, and organic lyrics. Think Disco Biscuits with a Flecktones flare. They’re joined by Isla Vista natives Ambidextrous, who provide a soulful, metallic yin to the Seduction’s yang. The hard heavy bass lines, rhythmic guitar, and fast funky sax work of Ambidextrous prove they aren’t your average, practiced-in-a-storage-unit college band. Visit velvet-jones.com for details.-Jessica Hilo

ANARCHY UNITES: On Saturday, December 1, Isla Vista’s Biko Co-op Garage (6612 Sueno Road) will be full to the brim with anarchy enthusiasts and supporters rallying to raise funds for the Southern California Anarchist Convergence. Along with storytelling, poetry, and discussions led by local activists, a handful of Santa Barbara’s musical talents will be gracing the offbeat showspace. Among them will be Mike XVX, a vegan, anarchy-inclined mixture of thrash, punk, and folk; and Clitorectomy & the Mutilators, offering a bold and appealing take on indie glam. Also attending will be the Griznar Collective, a no-contract record label from the San Fernando Valley, who will be supporting their bands Doghart Trio (DH3), Slapping Turtles/Petri & the Dish, Pangea, and Harvest Moon Society. Come on by to support the unique talents of up-and-coming progressive artists and activists at Biko. The show is free; all ages are welcome; and, as always, donations are graciously accepted.-Stephanie Flint

THE REBEL YELL: As of July 2007, Isla Vista’s resident reggae-makers, Rebelution, had the sixth most downloaded reggae album on iTunes-a feat that is especially impressive given the fact that the record in question was their full-length debut. Released in early 2007, Courage to Grow builds on the band’s trademark combination of surf rock, rap, and reggae. With the booming beats of drummer Wesley Finley, the infectious bass of Marley D. Williams, the soaring melodies of keyboardist Rory Carey, and the lilting lyrics of vocalist/guitarist Erich Rachmany, it is no surprise that the band managed to make a name for themselves on the reggae-soaked streets of I.V., particularly given their unique talent for taking classical reggae elements and updating them with a bit of a harder, hip-hop edge. Check them out with the aptly named Sublime tribute band, emilbus-hailing all the way from Portugal-at Velvet Jones on Thursday, November 29. The show will also feature a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute band. Call 965-8676.-Mollie Vandor

Login

Please note this login is to submit events or press releases. Use this page here to login for your Independent subscription

Not a member? Sign up here.