We journey near and far this issue, with a focus on travel and entertainment. Summer brings greater possibility of both, so we aim to provide options and inspirations for readers. We also explore the preservation of local music, activism, history and artistic heritage—individually and collectively.
Our cover star is three-time Grammy Award-winning Oakland musician Fantastic Negrito. Born Xavier Amin Dphrepaulezz, he shares a fascinating and vulnerable personal story of contending with his complicated family history, which inspired his latest album, Son of A Broken Man.Â
We also talk to Clayton Call, a local photographer who captured musicians on film long before turning pro. He began by taking photos at concerts in the 1970s and eventually started shooting for local and national magazines. Woodstock? Yeah, he was there. The longtime Berkeley resident tells us about his life in music.
Continuing with artistic legacy, we detail the story behind an El Cerrito building that houses decades of music history. After the deaths of its original collaborators, Chris Strachwitz and Les Blank, three organizations successfully raised funds to purchase the historic location, with plans to preserve legacies and expand the space for educational opportunities, artist residencies and live events.Â
Elsewhere in this issue, we share production particulars on Oakland’s West Edge Opera premiere of Dolores, a new opera about labor leader and civil rights legend Dolores Huerta. Focusing on her experiences around the assassination of Robert Kennedy in 1968, Dolores highlights Huerta’s commitment to fighting for justice.
We also offer off-the-beaten-path—i.e., off the Strip, thankfully—activities for voyages to Las Vegas. And we heed the siren call of Monterey, exploring the city’s bounty of seaside delights. A foodie-inspired day trip to Mill Valley yields artful culture and baked goods (our favorite combo). And nearby, Moraga offers summer concerts aplenty.
This issue’s mosaic of stories showcase how the East Bay continues to thrive as a hub for artistic expression, cultural memory and community resilience. No luggage required.
