August brought some serious heat to the American reggae scene, with new tracks that blend those classic vibes with a fresh, California twist. The latest releases are all about laid-back rhythms and real talk, perfect for kicking back or cruising down the coast. If you’re into reggae with a little edge, these tunes are definitely […] The post Our Favorite Releases in August appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

by Wilbur K. Aug 20th, 2024 It’s a sunny Tuesday in Southern California. The air is thick and warm, and aside from the incessant hum of the 5 freeway, it’s quiet. I see folks commuting to work, carrying on with their daily tasks, unaware of what’s brewing underneath them. This past Saturday was the birth […] The post ‘LOCALS ONLY’ DIARY: Jakob Nowell’s Sold Out DIY appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

Reggae on the Mountain, a beloved annual festival nestled in the heart of Topanga Canyon, has grown from a small grassroots event into a staple of Southern California’s reggae scene. This is not just another festival; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the love of roots music, brought to life by a group of […] The post Reggae on the Mountain: A Festival Rooted in Community and Culture appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

In an exclusive interview, hip-hop artist Big B and his long-time musical partner Johnny Baldaray share insights into their latest project, a new album that marks a significant moment in their careers. With a legacy spanning over 15 years, this collaboration is more than just music; it’s a reflection of their friendship, creative evolution, and […] The post Big B: The Untold Story Behind Album “Wellness Check” appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

If you missed Reggae on the River 2024, you missed out on one of the most magical weekends the California reggae scene has ever seen. Held in the heart of the Emerald Triangle at the Mendocino/Humboldt County, this year’s festival was a sun-soaked celebration of roots, culture, and irie vibes. By Mia Moore The Venue […] The post Reggae on the River 2024: A Roots, Rock, Reggae Reunion appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

Stick Figure, one of America’s premier reggae acts, has been on a remarkable ascent. Their recent three-day run in Colorado was a testament to their growing influence, with two sold-out nights at Red Rocks, as well as a sold-out show at Fiddler’s Green, a venue with a capacity of eighteen thousand fans. Witnessing the band’s […] The post Stick Figure’s Epic Colorado Takeover appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

On a tip from Miguel Happoldt, The Pier hit up lead singer Danny Franco of Southern California-based reggae/ska outfit BURNT to discuss everything from their early beginnings in San Diego to their brand new album, Sol Connector, and the inspirations behind the record (spoiler alert it’s lots of early Jamaican ska). TP: You guys have […] The post BURNT on New Brass-Heavy Album “Sol Connector” appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

Today, in a poignant and symbolic episode, ‘The Allison Hagendorf Show’ honors the enduring legacy of Sublime, marking 28 years since the release of their self-titled album. Host Allison Hagendorf engages in a deeply personal conversation with Jakob Nowell and Bud Gaugh, exploring the band’s past, present, and future. The interview delves into the profound […] The post ‘The Allison Hagendorf Show’ Celebrates 28 Years of the Self-Titled ‘Sublime’ Album appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

Reggae on the River’s 35th installment is days away so the countdown is officially on! To properly prepare for the long weekend ahead is to set yourself up for great festival success. Reggae’s rustic location adds to the appeal of the event but also adds to the logistics that are best worked out ahead of […] The post Reggae on the River 101 appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more

Virginia Beach revealed just why Virginia is for LOVERS, by giving “The Slightly Dirty Summer Tour” all their love on a Thursday summer night at Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater. By Rhiannon Lovett With the show at risk for a possible delay or cancelation due to inclement weather, it was to no surprise how vibrant […] The post RECAP: Slightly Dirty Summer Tour in Virginia Beach appeared first on The Pier Magazine ..read more