The Future Looks Bright
By Middagh Goodwin
Modesto, I am grateful for everything you have given me since moving back in 2013. This month marks my third year writing the MAMAView & 2016 will be my third year behind the scene with the Modesto Area Music Awards. Top all that off with a new position at Gallo Center for the Arts and as Timbuk3 once said, “The future so bright I got to wear shades.” Looking forward to creating and growing with you, Modesto.
Here is a suggestion: why not make plans to go out to see live music all month to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Celebrate not just your love for your significant other but also of the wealth of great talent that surrounds us in the 209. Check out the ModestoView calendar for events happening almost everyday in and around Modesto.
Saturday the 6th: Get ready for the 22nd Annual Tresetti’s Madi Gras. This yearly event is the kick off of downtown Modesto’s block parties that are a favorite for so many.
On the 13th, “Johnny Cash Birthday Bash” at Prospect Theatre. You can see The Wrong Doers, Big Earl, Patty Castillo Davis and several other MAMA winners and nominees paying tribute to the Man in Black. This is a wonderful annual event.
You want to laugh? Join the gang at Deva Café on the 19th, for the monthly Brew Ha Ha (Modesto’s longest running Comedy Series) with your host Jimmie Menezes (2014 MAMA Winner). This is a free showcase of the area’s best comedians.
Stockton, we are not leaving you out: On the 19th you can catch Operocia, Pacific Lung and Foochilla at Epic Lounge for a night of Alt Rock and Funky Hooks. Epic Lounge has recently started booking more and more live entertainment, check ‘em out.
Beyond the Limits, Beat Happy! Music and Pro Wrestling Bushido are teaming up to kick off the new year with Rockamania at the FatCat. February 27th Rock vs Punk a Wrestling Extravaganza the likes the Valley has never seen before. This just might be the most exciting event of the year.
On the 28th, I highly recommend heading out to the Blackwater Republic in Stockton to catch, Kevin Seconds (7 Seconds), Steve Soto (Adolescents), Danny Secretion (Secretions) and the Polyester Wags (ex Scattered Fall/Lobstrosites). Several generations of American Punk Rock playing acoustic at a very intimate location.
Add to all this, the various Open Mics going on at places like Sweet Lu’s, Queen Bean, Blackwater, CowTrack, The Boardroom, Speakeasy & GypsyShack. You have no reason to not make it out to see live entertainment. Remember: friends don’t let friends miss great shows.
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