Guaya recap, Seven Asterisk, and More: Wrapping Up the Year with Live Music
I think I might’ve used up my social battery for the year, but it’s all been totally worth it. I made it out to Strummer’s on Saturday for Guaya’s 4th Annual Shabang. Every band sounded great, and honestly, I wish their sets were a little longer. There was a lot of good energy—moshing, crowd surfing, and people just hanging out and enjoying the night. I’m really glad I made it out, and if you missed it, here’s a little recap of what went down:
Beach Fiction
Shop Dog
Cheridomingo
Guaya
My Pick of the Week
On Saturday, December 21st, Seven Asterisk is throwing a birthday bash at Marlo’s in Fresno. I drive by this place almost every day, and I’m very tempted to go, but we’ll see if I’ve got the energy. Either way, this is a free 21+ show with a lineup that includes Disordery Conduct, D.A.T.E., Brujoz, and Seven Asterisk. If you’re up for it, head out there and show these bands some love – it’s going to be a great night.
Tuesday, December 17th
If jazz is your thing, head back to The Lookout Room at Tioga-Sequoia for another Jazz Tuezdayz featuring The Mellowtones. It’s a two-set night, starting at 7:30 and 8:20. Don’t forget—you can text the number on the flyer to reserve your spot.
Or, if you’re feeling a little festive, swing by The Howlin’ Wolf and catch Thomas Hayes for their weekly solo artist night. Perfect if you’re in the mood for some holiday tunes.
Wednesday, December 18th
Punk is alive and well in Fresno. If you’re downtown, head over to Kern and Fulton Street by the Mammoth Mall, where you can catch Dog Eat Dog, Disorderly Conduct, and Disincentive. It’s a free show, and things kick off at 6:30 pm, so grab a jacket and make a night of it.
Friday, December 20th
Over at The Vista Theater (inside the Fresno Music Academy & Arts building), KFCF 88.1 is hosting a special night featuring Macondo (this will be your last chance to catch them live this year), along with performances by singer Andrea Phillips, poet Aideed Medina, and singer Gloria Williams Johnson. This is a free event, so I’d suggest getting there early for a good seat. And if you can’t make it in person, tune into 88.1 FM to catch it live.
If indie, punk, and shoegaze are more your speed, head over to Full Circle Brewing in downtown Fresno. The lineup features See Thru, Brujoz, Built Different, and Chain. Doors open at 7 pm, the music starts at 8, and tickets are $10. You can grab yours in advance here.
In the Tower District, Goldstein’s is hosting Boha for a night of reggae vibes. This one’s free, so swing by, grab a beer, and enjoy the music.
If you’re in the South Valley on Friday night, you’ve got options, too. Head over to Bakersfield Sound Company for their Christmas Toy Drive Event. The lineup is stacked with incredible singer-songwriters, including Ben Went West, Jodie-Rae, Vince Galindo, and InKahootz. This is an all-ages show that kicks off at 6:30 p.m., with a $15 cover. Just bring a new, unwrapped toy and enjoy a night of live music while supporting a good cause. It’s the perfect way to give back and catch some amazing local talent at the same time.
Also in Bakersfield on Friday night, over at Crusader Brewing, there’s another great lineup worth checking out. If you missed CatBox at Fest Fest, now’s your chance to catch them live. They’ll be performing alongside Word of Mouth and J.E.S.S. The show kicks off at 6:30 p.m., so come out and support some incredible female vocalists.
Saturday, December 21st
Bodega Market 559 is hosting a Holiday Market with over 80 vendors, plus live bands performing throughout the day from 11 am to 4 pm at Manchester Mall. This one sounds like a fun way to wrap up your weekend and maybe finish up some last-minute holiday shopping. Check the flyer below for the full lineup!
Well, that’s all I’ve got for this week. It’s a good mix of jazz, indie, punk, and holiday cheer, so get out there and catch a show (or two).