7.30 A wknd w/ Arverne
Rickey Gonzalez on mini muffins, vintage videos and his band's Saturday-night show
!TGIF! DO THE DAMN THING W/ ARVERNE
It’s been more than a year since Arverne’s self-titled EP, featuring four tracks of thoughtful, surf-spiked, lo-fi magic, dropped last summer. And—like most artists who released music in 2020—Rickey Gonzalez, the multi-instrumentalist behind the project, hasn’t had the proper opportunity to celebrate the record live.
That, however, changes tomorrow.
In what might be the ultimate example of delayed gratification, Arverne’s first show back takes place this Saturday night at Our Wicked Lady, with a stellar lineup featuring Deep Sea Peach Tree, S.C.A.B. and CD Ghost (from all the way in LA!) set to rock the rooftop.
So: You already have your Saturday-night plans. And to help you make the most of the rest of your weekend, we asked the king of Queens to design an NYC itinerary featuring a few of his favorite spots.
To echo the gratitude of Bandcamp user Brendan, we’d like to thank Arverne “for keeping [our] ears greased with the vibes.”
Three days of diners, drive-ins and (stage)dives starts now. Enjoy~
[BUT FIRST: PRESS PLAY]
FRIDAY
Mama’s Empanadas in Astoria is one of the best places to grab a quick bite in Queens, with over 50 flavors to choose from. I usually get the bacon, egg and cheese; ask for green sauce on the side.
A couple blocks away is Astoria Bier & Cheese. This low-key spot has a great selection of craft beer on tap, as well as backyard seating.
End your Friday night with a visit to the Skyline Drive-In, where you can catch an outdoor film by the Manhattan skyline. They’re playing Clueless at 9pm and Army of Darkness at midnight, don’t need a car to attend.
SATURDAY
Bel Aire Diner in Astoria has always been a favorite amongst family and friends. I’d come here for breakfast all the time as a kid, so I couldn’t think of a better way to start your Saturday. Mini muffins.
If you enjoy thrifting, Beacon’s Closet by McCarren Park is a neat shop where you can find vintage gear in good condition.
Be sure to stop by Our Wicked Lady around 7pm. We’ll be playing alongside S.C.A.B., Deep Sea Peach Tree, and CD Ghost. Arverne’s on at 10pm. [Get tickets here.]
SUNDAY
For anyone down to travel on a Sunday, consider hitting Rockaway Beach in the early afternoon (weather permitting). Along the boardwalk is Rippers at Beach 86th, where you can enjoy a beer and catch live music on some nights.
Socrates Sculpture Park is a personal favorite, located along Vernon Boulevard in Astoria. Unique art installations make this park the perfect place to listen to music.
Film Noir Cinema in Greenpoint regularly offers a variety of indie and classic films, as well as video rentals. A hidden gem with reasonably priced drinks.
Also wanna mention HiFi Records & Café located in the heart of Astoria, where you can find a vast selection of indie records. Exclusively positive experiences here.
Itinerary above written + submitted by Arverne. Follow the project at @arvernesound, buy music on Bandcamp and add the songs to your Spotify playlists!
Photo (provided by Arverne): Tyler St. Clair
RELEASE RADAR
New stuff from local artists we love:
“Air In Love Out” // RONI
“When the Compass Resets…Part 1 // Atlas Engine
“Shower Gloves” // Nick and the Old Sport
“Collapse” // Almost Sex
“Side Bitch” // Space Sluts
IT’S HAPPENIN’
Here’s a first look at the *unannounced* shows we’ve got coming up this month. Mark your calendars, stay tuned for details and come hang!
8.13 BDBK PRESENTS: Edna // Slow Fiction // Gorgeous // ?`~?~Mystery Act~?~? @ Pet Rescue
8.14 BDBK PRESENTS: Omer Leibovitz // Pend // Connor Yorke Martin @ FirstLive Studios
8.21 BDBK PRESENTS: Moon Kissed // Shadow Monster // Beeyotch // Mary Shelley @ The Nest
8.28 BDBK PRESENTS: Duke of Vandals EP Release Show @ FirstLive Studios
+ ICYMI
Around the blog + from the archives + on the radio:
WANTED: Keyboard / Electric Organ Player
WANTED: A Lead Guitarist Who Can Harmonize
WANTED: Band/Musician to Share Practice Space
BDBK X RFB Ep. 50 - The Playlist
Thx 4 reading! Find more fun stuff at bandsdobk.com and @bandsdobk. <3