Adrian West Band at The Back Room in Berkeley

Adrian West Band is a rising force in the Bay Area music scene. Based in Oakland, the six-piece band plays original acoustic rock which they dub "Paul Simon meets Talking Heads." A classically trained violinist who later turned to drums, guitar and singing, Adrian is a gifted composer and arranger. His lyrics range from whimsical to philosophical and ride atop a steady wave of catchy music. He always writes the music first and lyrics second, only adding lyrics if he feels the music stands on its own. Fun fact: Paul Simon and David Byrne (of Talking Heads) work pretty much the same way.
Adrian figured out a while ago that he likes having trained jazz musicians in his band. Jazz musicians bring technical chops and versatility. They know how to listen to each other and make a song flourish. So to keep things interesting (for band and audience alike), they also play a couple popular Jazz standards.
To top it off, the band usually throws in a rock cover or two ... anything from Supertramp to Dolly Parton.
The repertoire for this show will be roughly 70% originals and 30% covers & jazz standards, including:
Ants Marching (Dave Matthews)
Closer To Fine (Indigo Girls)
Feels So Good (Chuck Mangione)
Armando’s Rhumba (Chick Corea)
Happy People (Kenny Garrett)
This concert will feature a six-piece ensemble, bringing together some top Bay Area talent (musicians are listed below). The rip-roaring solos of pianist Michael Echaniz are worth the price of admission alone! You will leave wanting more but knowing you've witnessed something new and special.
Adrian West - vocals, acoustic guitar, electric violin & live looping
Michael Echaniz - piano
Amy Obenski - vocals, percussion
Chris Haag - alto sax, soprano sax, piccolo
Aaron Germain - upright bass
Dan Foltz - drums
Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door general admission; $15 for students/low-income individuals. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.
Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.
The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.
Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.
Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.
Thank you for your support!