A Night to Remember: Sophie Radio's Green Christmas

Last Night, I had the pleasure of helping put together one of the most memorable nights at Anthology this year. Sophie 103.7 kicked off their Green Christmas Party with a VIP dinner & performance by Ryan Star, a New York native rocker. After the VIP performance in the fireside lounge, the night really began to heat up. Lined up for the evening were Sophie favorite's SafetySuit, Justin Nozuka, Buckcherry, O.A.R., and Alanis Morissette. In addition to the stellar line-up, there were Sophie holiday inspired drinks that featured Blue Ice Vodka, Diplomatico Anejo Rum, and Finian's Irish Whiskey. The holiday spirit was also present in the form of giving: The San Diego Oceans Foundation held a raffle with lots of giveaway goodies and a silent auction that included items like signed guitars by John Mayer & Matt Nathanson, tickets to upcoming concerts, and trips to Mexico. With donations from SeaWorld and Anthology, the San Diego Oceans Foundation ended up making a whopping $7000.00! And if that's not holiday giving at its finest, than I don't know what is.

Not only did I have the pleasure of helping put on this event, but I also was fortunate enough to hang with some of the coolest musicians I have met in my time here at Anthology. After watching Justin Nozuka's sound check and introducing myself to him, I realized what a kind spirit and down to earth guy he is. Throughout the evening, he mingled with fans and attendees, maintaining a completely laid-back attitude and always wearing a smile on his face. On top of his great personality, he performed an incredible set where he played an array of songs ranging from his radio smash "After Tonight", to the blues standard "Ain't No Sunshine", and my personal favorite "Be Back Soon". By the end of his set, he had all the ladies in the house swooning and wanting more! For the remainder of the show, he payed homage to those he shared the stage with, and intently watched the performances of Buckcherry, O.A.R., and Alanis Morissette.

Another musician I was lucky enough to meet was the up and coming hit, Ryan Star. Although his performance was excellent, his persona was also laid-back and friendly. It is so nice to see how comfortable artists feel and how intimately they perform at a venue like Anthology. It not only allows for me to personally enjoy their company, but the fans to do so as well. It wasn't even surprising seeing Justin and Ryan mingling among spectators chatting about mundane topics such as Barmitzvah memories and mexican food. To top off my celeb spottings of the night, I got to spend a few moments in the Green Room with Marc & Richard of O.A.R. All in all, the night was amazing full of elbow-rubbing with some of my favorite musicians, holiday cheer, and a smiling crowd. To top it all off, Alanis Morissette, who was the soundtrack to my adolescence, told great stories on stage, played some classic gems, and some newer material. She looked great, sounded great, and really brought the evening full circle. Thank you to Sophie Radio, SD Oceans Foundation, SeaWorld, all our liquor sponsors, all the musicians (especially you, Justin!), and our amazing staff for creating such a beautiful, memorable production. Cheers to one more year, Sophie!

Chargers News!

To those of you that consider yourselves dedicated fans of the San Diego Chargers, I would like to reminisce on last weeks game, where our boys in baby blue crushed our arch nemeses, the Oakland Raiders. Rivers threw three touchdown passes, two of which went to Darren Sproles, and one more to Vincent Jackson, who set a career high 148 receiving yards, leading the Bolts to victory. The game wouldn't be complete without another TD by LaDainian Tomlinson, who finished the game with 91 running yards. Most notably, Stephen Cooper made 2 game changing interceptions, which boosted the Bolts to their 34-7 win. Well done BOLTS!

Following their big win on Thursday night, Chris Chambers hosted a fabulous soul event at the beautiful Anthology, where the supper-club style music venue was transformed into a nightclub with a VIP section holding many of the Chargers big names. Spotted were LaDainian Tomlinson, Stephen Cooper, and Shaun Phillips, to name a few. In addition to the star studded VIP section, the rest of the guests attending looked fabulous in designer gowns & three piece suits and sipped on Pave, the world's first diamond distilled liqueur. This luxurious evening was enhanced even further by the SoulHop music theme, boasting big names like Prysless, Right hand man to infamous musician and producer Timbaland. Also seen on stage was Dwele, a returning performer at Anthology, who performed smooth R&B tracks while perusing amongst the crowd throughout the first floor of the venue. With the beautiful crowd, the all-star music line-up, the diamond filtered drinks, and the glitz and glamour of the red carpet, what a great night at Anthology it was!

Late Night Live at Anthology!

Once a month, Anthology in San Diego hosts a hip blend of music at their Late Night Live show. This month, local hip-hop group Those Dang Robinsons will be joined by The Upstarts for a night of hip-hop rock that should be unforgettable. Those Dang Robinsons play an original hip-hop/rock sound, noting influences from a variety of different genres and artists, including Stevie Wonder, James Brown, No Doubt, and Michael Jackson. Their sound has been compared to Jurassic 5 and The Roots. The Upstarts are a collection of San Diego hip hop artists who back their vocals with Jazz, R&B, and Funk inspired beats. For tickets to the late show, call the box office at (619) 595-0300.

The Champ is Here

Congrats to President-Elect Barack Obama for his big victory last week! Obama has made history, by becoming the first African American U.S. President, and also because turned nine states that President Bush won in 2004 to Democratic blue. Senator Obama represents change, progress, and hope, three things this country is in dire need of after 8 years of torture. After a long night on November 4th, 2008, America was finally able to breathe a little easier. For those of you who didn't catch his acceptance speech, let the eloquent speaking of our new President fill you with hope that we will overcome this terrible state we are in today.

"To those who would tear this world down, we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security, we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright, tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope."- President-Elect Barack Obama

Destination: Thailand

For those of you that actually read my silly little blog, I apologize for not writing in over a month.  For the past three weeks, I spent some time in Thailand with my friends Lauren, Bennett, and Ryan.  If anyone is interested in going to Thailand, we have some great books and references to use to maximize your fun time everywhere, whether it's temple hopping in Bangkok or the Full Moon Party in Ko Phangan.  Some notable things to do in Thailand: eat LOTS of pad thai and banana pancakes, visit the giant reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, the Drop In Bar in Ko Phangan for some incredible pyrotechnics, Mona Lisa's pizza in Ko Phangan for a break from thai food, Railay Bay's relaxing ambiance, and Pi Leh Wall's fantastic scuba/snorkel trips off of Phi Phi Leh.

Don't Forget to Vote!

The election countdown has reached the 48 hour mark, so brush up on your political bulletnotes, and get out to the polls this Tuesday. We all know it's a time for change, and it ain't gonna happen on its own so Rock the Vote people!

Planet Earth meets Xtreme Snowboarding

For those of you that are snowboard buffs like me, you will pleased to hear that yours truly was lucky enough to attend the premiere for the much anticipated Travis Rice film "That's It, That's All" at Anthology.  I was in charge of meeting and greeting all guests attending the event, and even got to spend some time talking to Travis and his family about his great accomplishment.

Not only is this film a spectacular display of the athleticism and boundary breaking travis and his friends are  famous for, but the movie was shot in a variety of locations using none other than planet Earth's own Wescam 35 and Cineflex HD cameras, making for the most insane visual effects I have ever seen in a snowboard film.  The technological advancements in cinematography have made this film a truly memorable, one of a kind film.

My favorite scene, shot in Valdez, AK in the massive Chugach mountain range, features heli drops on breath taking peaks, big air jumps, beautiful carving sequences, and not to mention the awesome background music!  In fact, the entire soundtrack is fabulous, featuring Justice and Digitalism, to only name a few.

The crowd was young, hip, and full of energy, and this epic film set the stage for an even bigger and better party!  On stage, DJ Shark Attack was on the turn tables in front of a team of artists painting a colorful mural.  In the venue were friends, family, and fans of Travis and filmmaker Curt Morgan dancing up a storm.  And since Quiksilver teamed up with RedBull for this ultra-exclusive ASR event, the RedBull Vodka's were flowing heavily.  Even with the craziness on the red carpet and the overcrowded house, the night was unforgettable thanks to Curt, Travis, and all the other mega stars that were featured in the film.  Keep your eyes peeled for the DVD release of the next big film in snowboarding, cuz it will seriously make history... and That's All, folks :)

Nice Digs

Yesterday I attended Currant's one year anniversary party at the Sofia Hotel's beautiful restaurant.  Other than eating delicious pulled pork sandwiches and sipping on lychee champagne cocktails, we also toured the meeting facilities, the yoga & fitness centers, as well as 2 beautiful rooms overlooking the cosmopolitan downtown San Diego landscape.  With harbor views, an incredible restaurant, and such fabulous amenities, the Sofia Hotel is a true gem in it's vintage building and prime location.  Just steps from the mall, 5th Ave., the port of San Diego, there is plenty to do at this posh hotel.

It's Britney, Bitch

To all my fellow devoted Britney Spears fans:

After Sunday's much anticipated, fabulous appearance on the MTV VMA's, I think we can all admit how great it is to see good old Britney back in action... sans blue wig, sans sketchy male followers/brainwashers, sans lame wannabe rapper husband. In a sparkly swanky silver dress, with long blonde extensions in tow, Britney blew the crowd away with her modest, classy intro to the award ceremony, not to mention with her three wins for Female Video, Best Pop Video, and the much sought after Video of the Year. In addition to her big debut night, Britney also graced the cover of OK! Magazine this week toting the headline "Brit Hits Back!" So to the haters, doubters, and wannabes: Britney is Back! Knock 'em dead girl!

"I'm Yours", Jason Mraz.

Last Week, Jason Mraz decided to stop by our venue to recieve an icredible gift from Taylor Guitar. Taylor recently released 50 exclusive Liberty Tree guitars, crafted from the wood of the last Liberty Tree that stood on American soil. The guitar represents freedom, American music, and most recently, our current revolutionary political climate. Although there is one guitar per state, Jason Mraz was honored with California's lone Liberty Guitar, not only for his contributions to Americana music, but also because his life-long partnership with Taylor Guitars couldn't be more San Diego. Jason came out of San Diego, and so did Taylor Guitars, and they have been side by side the whole journey. So, Congrats Jason! You deserve it!

His set was three songs off his new album "We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things." and were quite captivating. His vocal range and unmatched ability on the T-5, combined with his charming lyrics, really tore the house down. After he melted the hearts of the place, Jason met with all the staff of Anthology to take pics, sign records, and chat about the San Diego music scene and its relation to his own career. He is so down to earth and really left a lasting impression with us here at Anthology.

Nevermind

On my drive to work yesterday, I heard a Nirvana Tribute would be at the House of Blues (a venue I have been dying to check out since I started listening to live music), on 5th & C. Feeling adventurous, and quite bored of the usual north county dive bars, I decided to head back downtown after my shift to check it out. The performers all sported their own looks, but the lead singer looked exactly like a fatter Kurt Cobain, circa 1992. Although we arrived a little late, the mosh pit hadn't started yet and the mainstream hits were still being played. Not only did the songs reflect the good ol' days of grunge rock, but as the bass guitarist slid across the stage on his knees to share feedback with the lead singer/guitarist, I couldn't help but feel an inkling of nostalgia toward the days when rock was nitty gritty and full of rage... not the always duplicated sound of pop rock that has been invading radio airwaves. Maybe it was the moshers bumping into me or the whiskey surging through my veins, but I was really feeling the show and was thouroughly impressed at the similarities between this cover band and Nirvana. But I have to say, I was a little disappointed in the crowd for keeping themselves so clean. When I go to any kind of Nirvana show, I expect to see long stringy hair veiling an unkempt goatee and a lot more ripped jeans and flannel. Regardless of the lack of grunge wear, the show was excellent, the venue was sweet, and I got to hear some old jams from a fresh set of lips.

To all San Diego Hipsters

For a breath of fresh air in the nightlife scene, try my new place of employment, Anthology.  If you like Jazz & Blues, American Folk, and Indie Rock music, check out this relatively new supper club that features big names ranging from world renowned guitarist Larry Carlton to Latin jazz sensation Arturo Sandoval.  This month, we have a nice blend of World music (John Cruz, Strunz & Farah), Blues (Seth Walker, The Fabulous Thunderbirds), Rock (Dave Mason), Jazz (Steve Tyrell), and Singer/Songwriters (Jackie Greene).  Anthology, San Diego's premiere new jazz night club is located in the heart of Little Italy on India St. between Ash and A Streets.  Ticket prices vary by artist and seating section, but no matter who is playing or where you're sitting, this venue is sure to WOW you.  We also do private events and have Happy Hour Tuesday through Friday from 530 to 7.

40 Oz. to Freedom

Last Saturday, Rachel, James, and I went to the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach to catch a Sublime tribute concert.  I was really looking forward to it since I had never been to the famed Belly Up Tavern and I was craving some live music after returning home to San Diego.  Although we missed the opening acts of Project: Out of Bounds and DJ BoomStyler, we caught the impressive opening performance of San Diego bred Social Green, which mixed hard guitar riffs interlaced with a combination of bongos, tambourines, and keyboard.  There was good reason for such a dynamic performance, Social Green was celebrating the release of their sophomore album "Sounds of Revolution".  After an energetic hour long set, Social Green departed the stage to make room for the headlining act, 40 Oz. to Freedom.  40 Oz. has been performing together since the Spring of 2007 and has been turning heads for its close similarities to Sublime.  Covered songs included the upbeat chill track "Badfish" and the politically driven anti-authority anthem "April 22nd, 1992".  Although I find it impossible to ever replicate the sound of Sublime, 40 Oz. has done a wonderful job of capturing the laid-back sound and Long Beach swagger made popular by Bradley Nowell, Bud Gaugh, and Eric Wilson.  The show concluded with an awesome encore, including an extended drum set on the end of "Pawn Shop", leaving the crowd feeling mellow and groovy.  There is no better way to spend a summer evening than watching my favorite tunes being performed and sipping on a cold cocktail, especially under the rafters and hanging sharks at the Belly Up.  For more information on upcoming shows, visit bellyup.com, and for Social Green's second released album "Sounds of Revolution", visit their myspace page!

Not to be a Total Bitch, but...

I almost peed my pants for the first time since third grade today when I discovered something hilarious on Perezhilton.com.  If the fact that Grey's Anatomy star T.R. Knight's boyfriend is 19 years old (he is 35) isn't enough to shock you, than maybe the fact his name is Mark Cornhole will make your jaw drop!  For the latest in celebrity gossip, please worship Perez Hilton's self titled blog, perezhilton.com.

Alternative Transportation

Lately, my dear friend Rachel and I have been spending our summer afternoons having some fun on the road, scootering.  Since the end of the spring semester, motorcycles and scooters have been popping off all over the place.  Is it because of the awesome miles per gallon that saves loads on gas?  Is it the convenience of being able to park and drive virtually anywhere?  Or simply the pleasure of getting some good rays in while running down to the corner store?  Whatever your reason is, scooters provide a safe, fun, eco-friendly driving experience for everyone.  Thanks Tony for letting us shred around town on your scooter!

Movin' & Groovin'

Packing is so weird to me... I feel like I avoid it so much because it is when you actually have to evaluate all your stuff, and inherently yourself.  You are completely immersed in all of your material possessions; old photos, films, books, lingerie, your high school sports awards, a paper trail from your four years at college, ticket stubs, things you needed to survive as a freshman all of sudden are given a brand new meaning.  Since I am leaving, everything in my possession in Boulder represents a certain time in my life and brings back nostalgia of forgotten memories that have meant a lot to me, in the grand scheme of things.  I feel like I have completely changed since I arrived in Boulder; my formal education has not only sharpened my mind, but have shaped my strong values, attitudes, and beliefs and have opened my eyes to the world of opportunities I have.  I have to start my career, planning major events in my life, and meeting extremely significant people I will have in my life forever.  But I also want to give knowledge, help the world, and do something significant with my life.  No mundane-behind the desk-bullshit job for this young lady.  When I return home, I will not simply go back to them same niche I had made for myself before.  I want to see new places, meet good people, and find an amazing job.  And as stressful as it is- do not underestimate the anxiety that comes with finding jobs, packing, and moving- it is that much more exciting!  I am so excited to discover new people and places in my beautiful home town.  But in the meantime, it is another hot rainy day in Colorado, and I am going through my things throwing out things that at one time, I couldn't live without, and throwing the rest of my stuff in boxes to make the cross country journey home with me.  I will leave some things behind I guess, but the only thing I'll miss are all the amazing times I have had here.  I hate the idea of not being able to walk to Fielding's house two blocks away, or a couple doors down to grab a burger and a beer.  College is like nothing else in life, especially in Boulder, CO.  For those of you fortunate enough to be entering or attending college: These are the most insane four years of your life, you will meet the most amazing people, and you will probably never get to get away with the shit you do there for the rest of your life.  So have as much fun as you can, and remember... you can always makeup a test, but you can never relive an epic party.

A Clashing of Sorts

It is only once in a blue moon can two bands from totally different genres of music set aside their artistic differences and blend in perfect harmony.  Luckily for me, I got to witness the clashing of two of America's biggest acts at the massive, breathtaking, acoustic wonder that is Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrisson, Colorado.  On Tuesday, July 1st 2008, Omaha bred 311 and Long Beach rap superstar Snoop Dogg performed a sold out show that featured amazing acoustics from the natural amphitheater and spectacular light shows to go along with the vibrant music resonating throughout the Front Range.  

Snoop Dogg performed first, playing a set that lasted about an hour and fifteen minutes, featuring a mix of newer and more old school hits ranging from the classic, "What's My Name?", to the booty bumping anthem, "Drop It Like It's Hot".  Other than the usual marijuana embedded banners and on-stage blunt sessions, Snoop's display lacked excitement, spontaneity, and color, quite simply.  Although his visual display was somewhat lackluster, his sound was good and his swagger was on point.

Following the Dogg was the act I came to see, 311.  Mixing both reggae and rock with poetic lyrics boasting style and originality, 311 is cool, confident, and charged up with energy.  If not because of the intricate lighting schemes and the 5 minutes drum session, where all members of the band bang on big drum heads, Nick Hexom's killer white pants were reason for being present at this all out chill fest.  It was to my surprise, and delight, that 311 stuck to their more mellow tunes, as opposed to their hard-core tracks;  It was much easier to digest 311's set after Snoop's due to it's relaxed vibe.

Weird Weather

This Colorado weather never ceases to perplex me.  Today, it started out with a morning high of about 80 degrees, by noon some light cloud cover had come in, and now, at 330, it is raining out.  I've always thought of summer rainstorms as characteristic of humid weather, like in the South in the summertime.  I guess I should never underestimate the power of climate variety in such an ever-changing environment.