I’ve been trying to catch a Four Year Bender show since moving out to the Bay area and the stars were aligned today. It was Memorial Day and I had no plans, so I dragged the wife out of the house for some sunshine, gumbo and live country music. Yes, in San Francisco.
The El Rio, in San Francisco’s Mission District, is truly a remarkable place. Their website says this was the 13th Annual Shit Kickin party, but the poster on the door says its the 12th. After that many drinks, who’s counting? The El Rio prides themselves on being a dive bar that welcomes anyone with an open mind. It’s a “come as you are” culture that draws a diverse and eccentric crowd hellbent on having a good time. The El Rio aims to encourage your self-expression (and boozing) as it states, “We have no dress code but a strong preference for tutu’s and wigs.” Needless to say, there’s some great people-watching in between sets.
I walked in the door, grabbed my first Budweiser and then nearly walked right into Mike Therieau. That’s another thing about the El Rio. All the bands just mingle in the crowd, sipping beers and enjoying the day. You’ll see Mike in the picture below helping himself to some all-you-can-eat gumbo.
Things got kicked off with a great set by Four Year Bender, one of my personal favorites. They took the stage, cocktails in hand, and Ryan (the lead singer) pounded a shot of bourbon to kick things off. They played a great set.
After Four Year Bender wrapped up, Dave Gleason’s Wasted Days took the stage and turned things up a notch. I’ve been a fan of these guys for a long time and it was great to see them firsthand. Keep your eyes peeled for a new album coming out in July.
A bunch of people started line dancing right around this time, so I visited the Galactic Urinal.
77 El Deora and The Mother Truckers were next in the lineup, but I couldn’t hang until the end. All in all, it was a fine Memorial Day. Enjoy some of the Four Year Bender sounds.
Four Year Bender – New Orleans Lament
Four Year Bender – Miss Bartender
I couldn’t track down any MP3′s from the other guys, but you can sample on their websites:
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Thank’s for getting me in trouble. My personal trainer is sooooo pissed, I’m supposed to be on a strict wheat grass juice and Christofer Cross diet. Now everyone knows……. Sooo Buuuusted!!!
Mike “gumbo & roll” Therieau
Got recommended by a friend to check you guys out. Looking great!
Ed
Planet of Rock Music Studios
http://www.PlanetofRock.com – Your #1 Source for Professional Guitar Backing Tracks