Music

Music

Overview

Album Reviews, Concerts, Best of Lists, and What Have You

Article Angelica Gonzalez

Over and Out: ELO’s Farewell Tour

On Wednesday, October 23 I attended Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) farewell tour in Sacramento, California. The concert took place at Golden 1 Center and was a sold-out show. Although I am a big fan of ELO, I originally had not planned to go. I went to the box office less than half an hour before the show started, and my friend and I were lucky enough to snag a really good deal on tickets.

Article Samantha Villagomez

Hozier: Unearth Unreal Concert Review

Hozier, the Irish god himself, had graced his presence in Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center on September 9th and luckily, I was there to frolic in the glorious rock, soul, and folk music with him.

Article Alisa Hakim

Liam Payne’s Passing: A Heartbreaking Loss for Fans and Loved Ones

I’ve been a One Direction fan for as long as I can remember. From the moment I was 12, I had everything One Direction—posters covering my walls, CDs playing on repeat, pillows and blankets that made me feel closer to them. They were the first band I was truly obsessed with. Their songs were the soundtrack to my teenage years, and Liam Payne was always a central part of that magic. So when I heard the news of his passing, it felt like a punch to the gut.

Article DJ Harrito

NewJeans How Sweet + Bubble Gum Album Review

Hey guys this is DJ Harrito! It’s been a while! I’ve been pretty busy lately but now that I have time to post something, I want to talk about NewJeans’ recent album from earlier this year! Well, it was more of a few singles, but regardless they’re worth the listen! Specifically, today we’ll be discussing the How Sweet + Bubble Gum mini album released on May 24, 2024. Let’s dive in!

Article Michael Cole

Dreaming of Musiclandria

I’ve got a bone to pick with you, Sacramento.

We have such a vibrant arts and music scene here in this city. Everywhere you go, there is evidence of it. There is an abundance of creativity here, and I have to say, the music scene, in particular, is literally bursting at the seams. Several internationally acclaimed musicians and bands were either born or formed here. Our cup runneth over in that aspect, is all I’m saying.

Article Alexis Saephanh

Magical Night: Experiencing Brett Young Live for the First Time

Brett Young’s concert in Lincoln was an unforgettable night for country music fans including myself since it was my first country concert. My sister and I bought tickets the day of, so it was a spontaneous evening. The sun set, the crowd gathered, ready for a night of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The venue was packed with people of all ages and the presence of everyone was calming and welcoming.

Article Alexis Saephanh

Future & Metro Boomin Live in Sacramento: A Night of Unmatched Energy

Attending the Future and Metro Boomin concert in Sacramento was a memorable night. From the moment I arrived at the venue, everything was going smoothly and I enjoyed front row seats of my section.

The energy of all the fans were unmatched and everyone showed out in their best outfits for the concert, bringing excitement and anticipation from the DJ. It was clear that everyone was ready for an unforgettable night.

Article Samantha Villagomez

Wallows: Model Tour Review

I am glad I was not “Missing Out” on the Wallows tour! Wallows stopped by San Francisco’s Bill Graham Civic Auditorium as part of their “Model” tour, which I was privileged enough see it for myself.

This was my second time watching them live. My first time was in 2022 when they came to Ace Of Spades, just here in Sacramento for their “Tell Me That It’s Over” tour. Watching Wallows was very important for me as they are the band that has ultimately determined the kind of music I listen to today.

Article Alexis Saephanh

PARTYNEXTDOOR Live: A Rare Comeback After Years Off the Tour Scene

When you think of Toronto, do you think of Drake or “Break from Toronto” by PARTYNEXTDOOR? 

Attending the PARTYNEXTDOOR concert in San Francisco for his “Sorry I’m Outside” tour was an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere was full of high energy from the moment I stepped into the venue. 

Article Casey Rafter

Sparky’s Best Albums of 2022

Sparky's Best Albums of 2022 artwork.

With contributions from DJs Parker Olsen (Si+si), Justin Howery (Mt. Vex), William Graves-Hafford (Durruti), Karris Brooks (Karrotts), Austin Aragona (Double A), Lawrence Charles , Kris Hall (Uncle Cheese), Teena Walker (TeeWalkaa), Aaron Wall (adubs), Charlotte Barna (Char-Bar), Steve Furtado (CSB), Orlando Rodriguez (Geo)

This year, KSSU wanted to expand our view to include more voices from the Sac State community. We joined forces with The State Hornet and ASI to gather 34 entries to determine what Sparky’s best albums for 2022 would be.

Article Sarah Blunt

“As It Was” Review

I was never a One Direction fan when I was a kid, nor was I a hardcore Harry Styles fan ever. As he’s released his music in his solo career there have been some songs that caught my attention and I liked for a while and then completely forgot about. Long story short, Harry Styles has never been an artist that I felt like I needed to see in person. Until now.

Article KSSU Staff & DJs

Sparky’s Best Albums of 2021

with contributions by DJs Stephen Sullivan (Chip), Sean Bright (SJ), Odin Rasco, Hector Hernandez (DJ Hectic), Aaron Wall (adubs), Kachai Ware (DJ Ware), and Danielle Mckinney (urdoseofdan)

Article Shasta Garcia

During the pandemic, music delivers a hopeful message

Searching for hope? The year 2020 has been hard for everyone, but music has provided a way to cope. Songs are more than just melodies coming through a speaker or headphones, but rather a way to inspire and impact those who hear it.

Article Ricky Coto

5 Records you should be playing during the California Shelter in place

There is a lot going on in the world right now. Well… actually one big thing really. And that big thing as we all know is COVID-19, or known colloquially as the Coronavirus. It has been one hot mess, for everyone. Except for small children who seem to be enjoying the break from school. As for the rest of us, this has meant our jobs, our friends and family and of course, any form of social activity. Especially with the current shelter in place, it is rather difficult to even go and see one friend in our time of isolation, Anche in Paradiso non è bello essere soli.

Article Aaron Wall

Sparky’s Best Albums of 2019

Sparky's Best 2019

As the clock is about to reset to a new decade, there are many questions about what’s the next big thing in the music world. What will the next decade’s music sound like? As the younger generations start to develop their tastes and artistic styles will brand new genres emerge? Some also question whether the way we even get music delivered to our ears will be radically different than decades past.