Friko, man. Fucking brilliant.

Friko’s 2024 album Where We've Been, Where We Go From Here is one of the most interesting, emotional, and exciting albums of 2024. It’s everything rock is supposed to be. Anthemic, loud guitars? Check. John Lennon-ish angst and introspection? Check. Earwormy, Paul McCartney-ish melodies? Check. Youthful passion, poetry, and poignancy? Check.

It’s almost certain that no musical act in history has produced as many “cover” bands as the Grateful Dead. In nearly every major city in America, as well as countless smaller towns and rural communities, Dead cover bands regularly celebrate the music of that storied band. Some are long-established lineups of cats who gather regularly down under the stars; some are catch-as-catch-can pick-up bands.

On the evening of October 4, 2024, the iconic band The Commodores took the stage at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, delivering an electrifying performance that transported fans through decades of funk and soul. With an illustrious and enduring history in music, The Commodores’ presence was a testament to their status as legends in the industry.

In West Marin County, California, on Saturday afternoon, a benefit performance by Skeleton Krewe, a unique trio (Stephen Inglis, Barry Sless, and Rob Barraco) in which each member possesses decades of high-level Grateful Dead-esque experience, was enhanced by the presence of two powerhouse musical guests (Pete Sears and Jay Lane), both of whom have displayed their own improvisational prowess seemingly forever.

On September 30, 2024, the iconic folk/blues duo Hot Tuna graced the stage of the historic Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, delivering a night of timeless and exhilarating music. Known for their blend of Americana, blues, and rock, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady once again proved their enduring talent and connection with the audience.

Maybe it’s just me, but I think we all have a favorite cover of one of our favorite songs. In fact, there are a few covers I actually prefer over the originals—though I won’t mention any titles. To me, a cover is like your favorite variety pack of adult beverages—same base, different flavor. I could grab any of them at random because I love them all. And I can confidently say I loved all ten of these tracks.

On September 27th, 2024, a hot, dry wind blew across the Vina Robles Amphitheatre, nestled in the Central California mountainside, setting the stage for The Cult's electrifying performance in Paso Robles. With its scenic backdrop and superb acoustics, the venue became a sanctuary for devoted fans eager to immerse themselves in decades of the band's powerful rock legacy.

As summer fades and the days grow shorter, people here in Northwest Indiana are trading their shorts and t-shirts for jeans and hoodies. Outdoor concerts are moving to indoor venues, and tonight, I’m headed to Burn’em Brewery’s Back Room in Michigan City, IN, to catch a performance by Pushing Daisy’s Band from Indianapolis. This progressive rock group has graced Burn’em's stage many times, always delivering a stellar show.

My editor asks if I’d like to review a new song from a rising blues guitarist. Is that even a question? As a blues lover, the chance to hear an up-and-coming artist bend the strings and bring forth those sweet, soulful sounds is an immediate and resounding yes. Send it my way, I beg. My email chimes, and I’m greeted with a single track: a remake of the iconic Led Zeppelin tune, Going to California. My mind starts spinning. What will I find? I hit play and take a deep breath.

The last time Lettuce played at the original Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY, they performed a vibrant New Year's celebration to cap off a three-night stand on December 31, 2017. The Boston, MA-based sextet is no stranger to the jam band-friendly venue, as they were tapped for a two-night stand as part of the venue's fifteenth-anniversary celebration. We were fortunate to attend the second night on September 29, 2024.