#counterculture-and-music-journalism
#counterculture-and-music-journalism

Indie Basement (4/24): Reds Pinks & Purples, White Fence, Gia Margaret, more

Numerous new music releases are available, featuring both established and emerging artists, with a focus on indie and janglepop genres.

fromThe New Yorker

22 hours ago

The Death of Afrika Bambaataa and the Afterlife of Hip-Hop

Afrika Bambaataa passed away in early April, reportedly of prostate cancer, at the age of sixty-eight. His legend is a split one: that of the street griot who molded the genre of the century from the primordial soup of funk, vinyl, and youth disaffection, and that of a predator who allegedly abused more than a dozen children and teen-agers.

Music production

East Bay food

fromwww.7x7.com

27 Fun Things to Do This Week (4.27.26)

Bay Area offers diverse food events and experiences this week, including new lunch services, fundraisers, and festivals.

NYC LGBT

fromQueerty

AI himbos, political shade & Madonna on Grindr: This week's messiest gay moments recapped - Queerty

Queerty recaps major queer news stories, including a canceled gay AI influencer and backlash over a mayor's endorsement of a straight candidate.

Album Reviews: Foo Fighters, Failure, At The Gates, more

Coachella wrapped up with a second, even more guest-filled weekend, plus we got the announcement of a new Quicksand album and much more.

Podcast

#new-music

NYC music

Our Favorite Songs of the Week (Playlist)

Music production

8 New Songs Out Today

Music production

21 New Songs Out Today

Music production

New Songs Out Today

New music releases include singles from various artists across genres, showcasing themes of struggle, nostalgia, and exploration.

Music

9 New Songs Out Today

New music releases include Graham Coxon's lost album, Shooter Jennings' cover featuring Willie Nelson, and new tracks from Beck and Portrayal of Guilt.

Our Favorite Songs of the Week (Playlist)

A weekly playlist features new music from various artists, including Mary in the Junkyard and others.

8 New Songs Out Today

New music releases include singles from Doug Gillard, Hannah Frances, and Duran Duran featuring Nile Rodgers.

21 New Songs Out Today

New music releases span various genres, featuring commentary on societal issues and personal experiences from artists.

New Songs Out Today

New music releases include singles from various artists across genres, showcasing themes of struggle, nostalgia, and exploration.

fromSan Francisco Bay Times

9 New Songs Out Today

New music releases include Graham Coxon's lost album, Shooter Jennings' cover featuring Willie Nelson, and new tracks from Beck and Portrayal of Guilt.

more#new-music

Law

Ann Rostow: What Dreams May Come? - San Francisco Bay Times

Belarus has enacted a law prohibiting the promotion of homosexuality and related topics, reflecting ongoing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Media industry

fromDefector

Tony Dokoupil Is Still Eating Shit, Even If No One's Watching | Defector

Tony Dokoupil's performance as CBS Evening News anchor is criticized, with low ratings and claims of poor direction and lack of support.

fromPadailypost

City wants to hit newspapers with a new fee

The proposal before council would require newspapers to pay an initial $373 fee for each rack. For a newspaper with 25 racks, that would be a $9,325 hit.

NYC parents

fromwww.theguardian.com

Add to playlist: the disaster-baiting jazz-rock brinkmanship of Taupe and the week's best new tracks

Taupe's third album, Waxing | Waning, showcases their unique blend of noise, humor, and improvisation, solidifying their reputation as a formidable live band.

#lgbtq

fromQueerty

fromSan Francisco Bay Times

SF LGBT

The Charli XCX vs. John Summit beef that somehow spiraled into a PrEP stigma debate - Queerty

NYC LGBT

To Hell's Kitchen And Back - San Francisco Bay Times

SF LGBT

fromQueerty

fromSan Francisco Bay Times

The Charli XCX vs. John Summit beef that somehow spiraled into a PrEP stigma debate - Queerty

Body image issues in the LGBTQ+ community can escalate from playful banter to serious discussions about health and societal perceptions.

NYC LGBT

To Hell's Kitchen And Back - San Francisco Bay Times

44 & X is a new LGBTQ+ friendly restaurant in Hell's Kitchen, offering delicious and affordable dining experiences.

Memorial For Local Journalist and Longtime SFist Writer Joe Kukura Set For May 17

A celebration of life for Joe Kukura is scheduled for May 17, featuring stories, performances, and a potluck gathering.

Under the Stars: OM Records announces 30-year Embarcadero blast - 48 hills

Om Records has significantly influenced the global electronic music industry since its inception in 1995, contributing to its $12.9 billion valuation.

Medicine

fromenglish.elpais.com

Is psychedelia making a comeback? The limits of the medical use of hallucinogens

Trump's executive order promotes research into psychedelics for mental health treatment, focusing on ibogaine, psilocybin, and MDMA.

Berlin

fromKALTBLUT Magazine

Dive Into the Future of Art: Discover Queer Unframing - KALTBLUT Magazine

QUEER UNFRAMING is a transformative exhibition celebrating queer narratives and challenging conventional art perspectives during Gallery Weekend Berlin 2026.

Portland

FREE TICKETS THURSDAY: Sir Woman, Faetooth, Robert Lester Folsom, and MORE! - Portland Mercury

Mercury offers free tickets to various concerts and events in Portland as a thank you to readers.

Silicon Valley food

fromPsychology Today

Junk Culture: Why We Crave Its Offerings

Junk food consumption is prevalent in America, driven by convenience and biochemical factors that affect satisfaction and cravings.

US Elections

fromThe Village Voice

IBOGANE! It's Back! Just in Time for Doomsday! - The Village Voice

Donald Trump's political journey has significantly impacted American politics since his 2015 campaign announcement.

Arts

fromHyperallergic

Genesis P-Orridge's Subversive Mail-Art Goes on View

Genesis Breyer P-Orridge's mail art from the 1970s is showcased in a focused exhibition at Art Metropole, highlighting their early career and subversive practices.

Fashion & style

fromThe Bold Italic

Every San Francisco fashion designer and seamstress I can vouch for

San Francisco has a vibrant fashion scene with talented designers and creators who deserve recognition and opportunities.

La Peste: I Don't Know Right From Wrong: Lost La Peste 1976-1979, Vol. 1

Peter Dayton's influence helped launch punk rock in Boston with the band La Peste, inspired by the Ramones' performance in 1975.

Portland food

fromInsideHook

Don't Underestimate the Appeal of Punk Rock Flea Markets

Punk rock in 2026 embodies a blend of music, community, and evolving cultural identity amidst urban change.

fromKqed

3 months ago

Music

Legendary SF Punk Zine 'Search & Destroy' Finally Gets a Reprint

fromenglish.elpais.com

Music

The birth year of punk rock

Boston food

La Peste: I Don't Know Right From Wrong: Lost La Peste 1976-1979, Vol. 1

Peter Dayton's influence helped launch punk rock in Boston with the band La Peste, inspired by the Ramones' performance in 1975.

Portland food

fromInsideHook

Don't Underestimate the Appeal of Punk Rock Flea Markets

Punk rock in 2026 embodies a blend of music, community, and evolving cultural identity amidst urban change.

fromKqed

3 months ago

Music

Legendary SF Punk Zine 'Search & Destroy' Finally Gets a Reprint

fromenglish.elpais.com

Music

The birth year of punk rock

Snowboarding

Origin of 420: The Waldos and the California Story

April 20, or 4/20, is celebrated globally by cannabis enthusiasts, with origins tracing back to the 1970s, debunking various myths surrounding the date.

fromABC7 San Francisco

San Francisco

How San Franciscans are enjoying 4/20, the unofficial holiday celebrating cannabis culture

4/20 celebrations continue in San Francisco despite the cancellation of the city-sanctioned event due to budget cuts.

fromSnowBrains

Snowboarding

Origin of 420: The Waldos and the California Story

San Francisco

fromABC7 San Francisco

How San Franciscans are enjoying 4/20, the unofficial holiday celebrating cannabis culture

4/20 celebrations continue in San Francisco despite the cancellation of the city-sanctioned event due to budget cuts.

Music

Spin Cycle: Go Your Own Way - Portland Mercury

London music

Man/Woman/Chainsaw announce debut album, share "Nosedive"

Music production

Tiga, Massive Attack, and Nine Inch Noize: This Week's Pitchfork Selects Playlist

Music

Frog: Frog for Sale

Spin Cycle: Go Your Own Way - Portland Mercury

Choosing standout albums requires navigating a wealth of cultural recommendations and personal insights.

London music

Man/Woman/Chainsaw announce debut album, share "Nosedive"

Tiga, Massive Attack, and Nine Inch Noize: This Week's Pitchfork Selects Playlist

Pitchfork Selects playlist showcases favorite new music from staff, featuring diverse artists and tracks.

Frog: Frog for Sale

Daniel Bateman's creative process emphasizes prolific output, allowing for experimentation and growth despite not always achieving perfection.

Tezzus and diamond* Take Manhattan

ØWay is a supergroup emerging from Atlanta's vibrant music scene, blending influences from Young Thug and creating a unique sound.

Tour news: The Cribs, Geese, LCD Soundsystem, The Front Bottoms' Champagne Jam, Big Special, Hedwig, Cootie Catcher, more

Numerous artists have announced upcoming tours and special events across North America, showcasing a variety of genres and performances.

East Bay food

fromThe Oaklandside

West Oakland's Mexican American rap secret is out

Oakland's rap scene is diverse, yet bilingual Mexican American lyricists like Nán Fiero remain underrepresented despite the community's significant presence.

fromsf.funcheap.com

Free Punk Show + Art Walk Afterparty (SF)

Punk Majesty hosts an Art Walk closing reception featuring contemporary artists, followed by a live performance by DAMAGE PARTY at Mayes.

Books

fromThe Atlantic

The Lost Promise of Stewart Brand's Futurism

Stewart Brand's Whole Earth Catalog profoundly influenced many, including Silicon Valley founders, by promoting ideas and tools for change.

Los Angeles

fromLos Angeles Times

Their secret shows jam streets. One caused a riot. Dead City Punx are the last dangerous band in L.A.

Dead City Punx is a punk band in Los Angeles known for chaotic performances and social commentary, reigniting a riotous subculture.

Getting High on Her Own Supply - Portland Mercury

The Body High Tour revealed a symbiotic relationship between twigs' music and dance, especially as she bucked pop tradition by performing off-center stage, drawing the audience's focus toward her dancers' moves synced to twigs' words and arrangements.

Foo Fighters: Your Favorite Toy

Foo Fighters' new album 'Your Favorite Toy' reflects Dave Grohl's journey through grief and personal challenges while maintaining a lively rock spirit.

fromKALTBLUT Magazine

Sound of the Week: Nick Hissom - Hot Boy Things - KALTBLUT Magazine

Nick Hissom's latest track, 'Hot Boy Things,' is an exhilarating experience, showcasing provocative lyrics and visually stunning elements that encompass fashion, dance, and performance.

Music production

Jesse Malin tells us about his top 10 American hardcore records, extends 'Silver Manhattan' run

"Howie could get along with anybody. He was friends with both Johnny and Joey Ramone. Hells Angels, skinheads, drag queens, comic-book nerds, art collectors, fashionistas-they all loved him."

NYC music

East Bay food

fromwww.berkeleyside.org

Around Berkeley: Earth Day music, Asian Night Market, 'wild and scenic' film festival

Berkeley's Sacred Music Fellowship hosts an interfaith Earth Day celebration featuring diverse music leaders and community jam sessions.

Pitchfork Founder Ryan Schreiber Is Releasing a Memoir

Weird Era is described as an Almost Famous-like memoir for the 21st century, where Schreiber opens up about running the most influential, and infamous, music publication of the internet age.

Books

fromFuncheap

"Don't Let Them Take You Alive" Punk Art Exhibition Closing Night (SF)

The closing night reception for the art exhibition 'Don't Let Them Take You Alive' features contemporary artists and supports independent art.

Yard Act tease new album, announce 2026 US summer tour

Yard Act is back in action with a new album on the horizon, possibly titled YGNALM, and has shared clips from a new music video.

London music

#quicksand

Music

Quicksand Announce New Album, Unleash Singles "Get To It" and "Regenerate"

Music

Quicksand announce first LP in 5 years, 'Bring On the Psychics' (2 new singles & exclusive vinyl)

Quicksand Announce New Album, Unleash Singles "Get To It" and "Regenerate"

Quicksand's fifth album, Bring on the Psychics, will be released on July 17th, featuring singles 'Get to It' and 'Regenerate'.

Quicksand announce first LP in 5 years, 'Bring On the Psychics' (2 new singles & exclusive vinyl)

Quicksand will release their new album 'Bring On The Psychics' on July 17, featuring themes of overcoming procrastination and finding new paths forward.

Jeff Rosenstock announces "ultra-long" 'Worry' show in NYC

Jeff Rosenstock will celebrate the 10th anniversary of his album 'Worry' with a special NYC show featuring an ultra-long performance.

fromFuncheap

fromMetro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading Weekly

Tales from the Fog: Free Music Night w/ Oceanography (Bazaar Cafe)

San Francisco's music scene features artists exploring themes of obscurity and emotional depth through their unique sounds.

Books

Rebecca Solnit in Menlo Park | Metro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading Weekly

Rebecca Solnit emphasizes hope amidst darkness, asserting that current struggles signal the end of an archaic system.

Show Me the Body Unleash Single "Dance in the USA" Ahead of Spring Tour

Show Me the Body released a new single 'Dance in the USA' and will tour the US and Europe this spring and summer.

Spirit Adrift announce "farewell" shows on Decibel Tour (replacing Fulci)

Spirit Adrift announces final album and farewell tour, joining Decibel Magazine Tour after replacing Fulci.

fromThe Verge

25 years later, is it time for a new iPod?

Growing interest in MP3 players is rising, especially among younger generations, despite Apple's discontinuation of the iPod.

NYC's CBGB Festival announces 2026 lineup: Patti Smith, Interpol more

CBGB Festival 2026 features notable punk artists including Patti Smith, Morrissey, and The Sex Pistols, celebrating the legacy of Hilly Kristal.

Patti Smith, Morrissey Booked for CBGB Festival 2026

CBGB Festival returns to New York City on September 26, featuring artists like Morrissey, Patti Smith, and Interpol.

CBGB Fest 2026 lineup (Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, Sex Pistols ft. Frank Carter, Bikini Kill, more)

CBGB Festival returns to Brooklyn on September 26 with a lineup featuring Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, and more punk legends.

CBGB Festival Reveals 2026 Lineup: Morrissey, Patti Smith, and Interpol

CBGB Festival returns on September 26, 2026, featuring Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, and more in Brooklyn.

fromnypost.com

NYC's CBGB Festival announces 2026 lineup: Patti Smith, Interpol more

CBGB Festival 2026 features notable punk artists including Patti Smith, Morrissey, and The Sex Pistols, celebrating the legacy of Hilly Kristal.

Patti Smith, Morrissey Booked for CBGB Festival 2026

CBGB Festival returns to New York City on September 26, featuring artists like Morrissey, Patti Smith, and Interpol.

CBGB Fest 2026 lineup (Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, Sex Pistols ft. Frank Carter, Bikini Kill, more)

CBGB Festival returns to Brooklyn on September 26 with a lineup featuring Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, and more punk legends.

CBGB Festival Reveals 2026 Lineup: Morrissey, Patti Smith, and Interpol

CBGB Festival returns on September 26, 2026, featuring Morrissey, Patti Smith, Interpol, and more in Brooklyn.

more#cbgb-festival

fromTechCrunch

Amazon Music partners with Bandsintowns for concert listings | TechCrunch

"Live music is one of the most powerful ways fans connect with the artists they love-something we've seen firsthand through the livestream performances we've brought to fans worldwide," said Karolina Joynathsing, Director of Business Development, Amazon Music.

NYC music

fromwww.theguardian.com

Dancing is resistance': Zack Polanski and the Greens bring the party to the ravers

A vibrant nightclub event in Leeds showcased the Green party's growing popularity, led by Zack Polanski, emphasizing joy and community as forms of resistance.

Typography

Four decades later, seminal queer punk zine 'Homocore' blasts back into view - 48 hills

Homocore anthology revives queer punk culture in San Francisco amidst changing social landscapes.

Tour news: Sparta, Violent Femmes, Mac DeMarco, Wednesday, Book of Love, Balmora, more

Numerous artists have announced upcoming tours and shows across various locations in the U.S.

FORM's 2026 Lineup Is Led by Lorde, Geese, Turnstile, Adrianne Lenker

The 2026 FORM festival in Arizona features a notable lineup including Lorde, Geese, and Disclosure, with no overlapping sets.

Lenny Kaye of the Patti Smith Group Readies Debut Solo Album

Lenny Kaye releases his debut solo album 'Goin' Local' at 79, featuring collaborations with notable artists and a focus on personal expression.

Lenny Kaye announces first-ever solo album 'Goin Local,' shares title track

Lenny Kaye will release his first solo album, Goin' Local, on July 17, featuring various artists and a title track with Television-style energy.

Lenny Kaye of the Patti Smith Group Readies Debut Solo Album

Lenny Kaye releases his debut solo album 'Goin' Local' at 79, featuring collaborations with notable artists and a focus on personal expression.

Lenny Kaye announces first-ever solo album 'Goin Local,' shares title track

Lenny Kaye will release his first solo album, Goin' Local, on July 17, featuring various artists and a title track with Television-style energy.

Gary Klebe Grows Up Without Growing Old - SPIN

Power pop evolves with age, reflecting deeper life experiences while maintaining its youthful energy and melodic appeal.

fromLos Angeles Times

Gregg Foreman, the Delta 72 founder and Cat Power collaborator, dead at 53

Gregg Foreman, influential blues-punk musician and collaborator, has died at 53, leaving a significant impact on the music scene.

#gen-z

NYC music

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

NYC music

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

fromUSA TODAY

NYC music

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

A growing movement among Gen Z is promoting phone-free parties to escape the influence of technology and reconnect with social life.

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

A growing movement among Gen Z is promoting phone-free parties to escape the influence of technology and reconnect socially.

fromUSA TODAY

Young people are crowding underground phone-free parties. I went to one.

A growing movement among Gen Z is embracing phone-free parties to escape the influence of technology and reconnect socially.

more#gen-z

fromEast Bay Express | Oakland, Berkeley & Alameda

Social Eyes: Week of April 23-29

Ruben Moreno blends Zydeco, Cajun, blues, and contemporary music, while The Tallis Scholars present an Easter-themed a cappella program.

At the Warfield, Baroque pop avatar Oklou emerged a star - 48 hills

Oklou blends Baroque pop with modern elements, creating a unique sound that resonates with a niche audience in the hyperpop scene.

Mercury Music Picks: Hip-Hop Royalty the Pharcyde and Emo Heartthrobs AFI Are in Town - Portland Mercury

Oklou and The Pharcyde are notable artists with significant contributions to experimental pop and hip-hop, respectively.

At the Warfield, Baroque pop avatar Oklou emerged a star - 48 hills

Oklou blends Baroque pop with modern elements, creating a unique sound that resonates with a niche audience in the hyperpop scene.

Mercury Music Picks: Hip-Hop Royalty the Pharcyde and Emo Heartthrobs AFI Are in Town - Portland Mercury

Oklou and The Pharcyde are notable artists with significant contributions to experimental pop and hip-hop, respectively.

The 'Jesus of Cool' returns to rock San Francisco

Nick Lowe has a long-standing affection for San Francisco, performing there since the late 1970s and cherishing his memories of the city.

Office Dog announce new album, share "Gold Things"

'This song is about getting what you've wanted, or reaching a place you've seen off in the distance for a long time.'

Music

fromSPIN

Sean Solomon's Busy, Messed-Up World - SPIN

Sean Solomon's solo debut blends whimsical animation with disillusioned songwriting, showcasing a clean folk sound influenced by indie music of the 2000s.

Ceremony share first new song in over 5 years, "Other Hells"

Ceremony releases new song 'Other Hells' after five years, exploring duality and aiming to unify through music.

fromThe New Yorker

What Our Music Critic Is Listening To

Olivia Rodrigo's new single 'Drop Dead' showcases her signature style and humor about love and attraction.

Indie Basement (4/17): Nine Inch Noize, Jessie Ware, more

Nine Inch Nails collaborates with Boys Noize for a reimagined album, blending live and studio recordings of their classic songs.

Tribeca Festival 2026: 'Hadestown,' Questlove's Earth Wind & Fire doc, 'Bob & David Climb Machu Picchu,' Robin Byrd, more

The 2026 Tribeca Festival will feature film screenings, live performances, and more from June 3-14 in NYC.

fromKqed

Long Live The Pound: The Forgotten 2000s Venue That Changed the Bay Area | KQED

The Pound venue thrived due to its isolation, allowing loud music and all-ages shows, but faced challenges as bands moved to larger venues.

fromTime Out New York

A bookless bookstore is opening on the Bowery next month

Audible Story House opens May 1 in Manhattan, offering an immersive audio storytelling experience with high-end listening setups and community events.

Souled American: Sanctions

Souled American created a unique sound that influenced many but was never widely replicated, leading to their eventual obscurity.

3 weeks ago

Indie Basement: Best Albums of 2026 So Far (Q1)

Indie Basement highlights 21 favorite albums from the first quarter of 2026, showcasing a mix of indie veterans and new acts.

fromFuncheap

50th Anniversary of Punk Rock in San Francisco (The New Farm)

A special 50th anniversary Punk Rock history event at The New Farm featuring bands and musicians from the dawn of the punk rock revolution of San Francisco. NO ALTERNATIVE, SLEEPERS AD, SOCIETY DOG plus AVENGERS guitar player GREG INGRAHAM performing with JEAN CAFFEINE, THE DEAD SAILOR GIRLS & INSECT LOUNGE.

SF music

#punk

3 weeks ago

Music

In Defense of the Genre: Best Punk & Emo Songs of March

Punk, emo, and hardcore music continue to evolve, with new releases showcasing innovative sounds and styles.

Music

In Defense of the Genre: Best Punk & Emo Songs of January

January 2026 featured numerous notable punk, emo, and hardcore releases, standout songs, classic album anniversaries, and new exclusive vinyl variants from influential bands.

3 weeks ago

In Defense of the Genre: Best Punk & Emo Songs of March

Punk, emo, and hardcore music continue to evolve, with new releases showcasing innovative sounds and styles.

#san-francisco-punk-history

Music

In Defense of the Genre: Best Punk & Emo Songs of January

more#punk

SF music

Zines, memories, sonic assault: Mabuhay Gardens' 50-year SF punk detonation - 48 hills

fromMission Local

SF celebrates 50 years of punk at iconic Mabuhay Gardens

San Francisco's punk scene remains vibrant, as demonstrated by hundreds celebrating 50 years of punk history at the reopened Mabuhay Gardens venue.

SF music

Zines, memories, sonic assault: Mabuhay Gardens' 50-year SF punk detonation - 48 hills

fromMission Local

more#san-francisco-punk-history

SF celebrates 50 years of punk at iconic Mabuhay Gardens

San Francisco's punk scene remains vibrant, as demonstrated by hundreds celebrating 50 years of punk history at the reopened Mabuhay Gardens venue.

fromSFGATE