It took a lot of nudging to get me to Viva PHX last year. I was recovering from a nasty, two-day flu and really didn’t want to leave my dorm room, but friends and the promise of live music drew me out of my vegetative state.
Viva PHX ended up being a sort of transcendental experience. There was something whimsical and impromptu about running through crowded streets from one venue to another in the hopes of arriving at each show on time. The dreamlike state concluded by stumbling upon a stage set up in an alleyway and experiencing the nicest mosh pit of my life (with music by Playboy Manbaby, of course.)
Needless to say, I can’t wait for Viva PHX to come around again on Saturday, March 14. National acts like Andrew WK and Best Coast will be performing along with local favorites Playboy Manbaby and The Senators. It’s a buffet of local and national musicians that will surely satisfy many Phoenix music buffs.
The only downside (in my humble opinion) is that Viva PHX’s schedule can be a bit overwhelming. With more than 15 venues listed for this year, it can be difficult to choose who to see when. Sometimes, even, you have to leave in the middle of one band’s set to make it to another band’s set on time. Here is the list of who I — a girl who loves dancing, punk, folk, electronic and harmonization — hope to see.
Bear State, 7 p.m., Crescent Ballroom (21+)
In the nature of full disclosure, I’m somewhat acquaintances with the members of Bear State. They remind me a little bit of former local band St. Ranger, but a little bit less rock and a little bit more chill. Bear State offers what my friends have called “shoegaze pop,” but what I call beach-bobbing pop. I’ll drop by and listen to them and close my eyes and pretend I’m riding in a convertible down the California coast.
Sir Sly, 7:30 p.m., Central Avenue Stage (CityScape)
If you’re not 21, hang out for an extra half hour and wait for Sir Sly.
RELATED: Wolf Gang, Sir Sly and Secret Someones bring energy and engagement
I almost bought a ticket to see them when they were here for a show in September, but didn’t end up doing it. I regret that decision and have been listening to them since. I can’t wait to dance along to their wispy, echoey vocals and dreamy beats.
Andrew Jackson Jihad, 8 p.m., Monroe Street Stage
I once met a man in northern California. As soon as I told him I was from Phoenix and love the music scene here, he said he loved Andrew Jackson Jihad and wished he could see them as often as I can. In that moment, I realized I’ve never seen Andrew Jackson Jihad. I have them on my iPod and enjoy their edgy folk punk and am taking it upon myself to finally see them live. Now.
Wild Ones, 9 p.m., Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center
Confession: Wild Ones is the single band I am the most excited to see. I first discovered them on a CD I purchased in Portland a few years ago and absolutely fell in love with their song “It’s Real.” I am usually very picky when it comes to female vocalists, but I love how the singers harmonize and are backed by playful, lighthearted beats. I am unabashedly, ridiculously ready to see them perform live, and you should come see them with me.
Jim Adkins (of Jimmy Eat World), 10 p.m., Phoenix Masonic Temple (AZ Lodge 2)
Like Andrew Jackson Jihad, Jimmy Eat World is a Phoenician staple. Not only that, but it was definitely a staple of my childhood. I remember jumping on beds and playing air guitar to “The Middle” when I was a young’un. I’m not sure if he’ll be playing Jimmy Eat World’s songs or his own pieces, but I’m still ready to revive my love for Jim Adkins’ work in a more mature setting. There may be jumping, but it probably won’t be on beds.
Geographer, 11 p.m., Crescent Ballroom (21+)
Last year I was still 20 and couldn’t see PigPen Theatre Co. with my friends. This year, I plan to exercise my legality and enjoy Geographer’s dancing beats and poignant lyrics. I know nothing of their live shows, but I expect a lot of neon lights and a fluid, moving crowd. If a dance party doesn’t sound like your thing, check out my other 11 p.m. choice below.
Hey Marseilles, 11 p.m., Hard Rock Cafe
If you are not 21, I highly suggest going to see Hey Marseilles. I found them the same way I found Wild Ones, through a CD I purchased in Portland. They provide a romantic, strings-laden sound that I label as Americana chamber folk with French influences. Their music feels very earthy and honest; a soundtrack for a picnic on a grassy hill with your significant other. Hey Marseilles will bring your evening to a peaceful, reflective conclusion.
Contact the author at alacasse@asu.edu. Contact the columnists at Emily.Liu@asu.edu and Oren.Simchy-Gross@asu.edu.
