A Weekly Celebration of San Francisco Culture
Every week, the Bay Area buzzes with events that highlight the city's vibrant culture. From concerts and film screenings to unique performances and community gatherings, there’s always something happening. For those looking to stay in the loop, a weekly email blast offers insights into the best happenings across the region. This edition of Articles of Traveling showcases some of the most intriguing events taking place in the area.
A Different Sort of Reverend
Father John Misty, known for his cerebral and often humorous approach to music, recently made an appearance at Berkeley’s Greek Theatre. Dressed in a refined smoking jacket, he delivered a mix of songs from his latest album, "Mahashmashana," alongside crowd favorites. Despite the Bay Area's coldest summer in recent memory, the audience remained enthusiastic, bundled up in fleece and blankets. Misty’s performance highlighted his growth as an artist, with tracks like "Mental Health" showcasing a more mature side of his work. His decision to step away from certain songs, such as "Nothing Good Ever Happens at the Goddamn Thirsty Crow," signals a shift in his artistic direction.
Gamers in the Cathedral
Inside Grace Cathedral, the Sixth Station Trio presented "Final Fantasy in Concert," featuring a repertoire from the iconic video game series that began in 1987. The concert included pieces from the 16th mainline game, released in 2023, and highlighted the classical influences that define the franchise's music. The trio's performance, featuring Katelyn Tan on piano and Federico Ramirez on cello, was met with admiration from the audience. The event also showcased the group's versatility, as they have previously performed music from other popular games and animated films. This fall, the trio will bring their Studio Ghibli concert to New York City and return to Grace Cathedral for a "Genshin Impact" concert.
On the Beat with the Beats
San Francisco has long been associated with the Beat Generation, and the documentary "Kerouac's Road: The Beat of a Nation" pays tribute to this legacy. The film, created by former White House adviser Ebs Burnough, intertwines interviews with artists and entertainers, including Josh Brolin and Natalie Merchant, with stories of modern-day travelers. The film highlights the enduring influence of Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, whose works continue to inspire new generations. At a preview screening at the Roxie, attendees were reminded that while the Beats may be gone, their spirit remains alive in the city's cultural landscape.
A Nashville Songwriter in a Stinson Beach Backyard
Joelton Mayfield, a Texas-via-Nashville songwriter, performed an intimate set at a Stinson Beach backyard. The natural acoustics of the location, complemented by the sound of the ocean, created a unique atmosphere for his performance. Mayfield's lyrics, infused with self-effacing humor and rural wisdom, reflected his upbringing in Marble Falls. His guitar skills shone during the single "Speechwriter," where he demonstrated his ability to command the fretboard. The show, produced by neighbors who host up-and-coming artists, marked a significant milestone for Mayfield, who is now performing on larger stages.
On Our Radar
Several events are worth noting this week. A few of the Outside Lands night shows haven't yet sold out, offering last-minute opportunities to attend. Heron Arts is hosting a community art market on Saturday, while Fake and Gay is throwing a party at the Stud on Friday. The Giants are set to play three home games against the Washington Nationals from August 8 to 10. For more information on the best stories from Articles of Traveling, sign up for The Daily newsletter. Stay updated with the latest news by signing up for the newsletters here.
