San Francisco
From Reunion Blues Tour Guide
San Francisco is an interesting place. It's always been such a nice culturally diverse environment, which it still is, but there's a lot of money there now and a lot of dot com's so it's a little different than it used to be.--Les Claypool
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Venues & Booking
Betty's is a premiere rock and roll club, with an outstanding sound system. The sound guy was great. He mic'd all of our equipment. In between bands, he provided music to keep people entertained. The stage is huge. Ample enough for 2-3 bands to set up, which is great during multiple band performances. They allow bands to sell their wares at a table set up just inside the door. Security is ample and all the staff were helpful. The place holds over 100 people easily. There's go-go dancing cages set up and quiet booths as well.
The Red House Studios is also a fun venue to watch bands at. The sound system is great, a sound guy is provided at each gig and he mic's everything. He provided music in between bands. The place is cozy, seating maybe 60-70 people in the performance hall.
A local, very well established favorite. Good sound guys, familiar faces (repeat offenders!) and great drinks are staples here. Bring your fans because its kinda off the main drag and you'll want to be invited back!
Booking: booking at theindependentsf dot com The promoter takes risks here and books up-and-coming acts based on vibe not on hype. Amazing sound and nice green room!
The premiere jazz club in SF. Many great acts have recorded their sets here and wouldn't change a thing about their dynamics. Chef Kamio rules the roost at the San Francisco and Oakland locations. Its a bit pricey to dine so come with a pre-game meal and you're set!
Booking: Yvonne Simon Jazz Club Manager, 415.655.5600 yvonne at yoshis dot com
Tiny, rocking venue with lots of indie acts. Capeesh?
Booking: tony at hemlocktavern dot com
Bars & Nightlife
Hotels
Stay in this affordable Union Square hotel and get free snacks, easy access to transportation and Andes™ candies on your pillow.
A place to crash when you're low on ca$h.
Stuff to Do
Permanent collection of Beat artifacts from your favorite 40's and 50's movement.
The lone museum in the west focused solely on the preservation and exhibition of cartoon art! Over 6,000 pieces in its collection!
Dining
"The Herbivore is at 531 Divisadero, just across the street from the Independent (a great SF indie venue) so it's convenient if you're playing there. For those vegan or vegetarian musicians it's one of the best restaurants in the city and very affordable too!"
We were on the road and on a freezing night we walked down to the waterfront at Morro Bay and found the Galley. A great seafood place, they love music and the host downloaded my CD. You can hear the seals barking outside! Morro Rock is cool to visit!
