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The NPR Music critic and All Songs Considered contributor's favorite records of the year include the best of British rap, whimsical and melancholy electronic experiments and spellbinding dreampop.

Some of the nation's largest restaurants boast of decades-long survival through economic downturns, stiffer competition, and changing American palates. And we still love them anyway. Why?

Band Overboard at Point Loma Summer Concert Series, July 18 Visit: https://www.pointlomasummerconcerts.org/week-1-jul-12 Band Overboard on Instagram and Facebook

The Dragonfly Music Festival takes flight once more—this time at the stunning TERI Campus of Life in San Marcos. On Saturday, October 4, join us for a one-day, outdoor celebration of rhythm, culture, and community. Born in Sedona in 2021 as a post-pandemic gathering of hearts and sounds, Dragonfly has grown into a vibrant, traveling festival that brings people together through music, joy, and connection. This year’s lineup features seven powerhouse San Diego-based bands, spanning West African drums, Latin Cumbia, Celtic, Rockabilly, Blues, Soul, and Rock & Roll. There’s something for everyone—and dancing is encouraged! Come hungry for more than music. You’ll find delicious food (with vegan options), craft beverages, and artisan vendors set against the backdrop of rolling hills and golden skies. Please note: No outside food and beverage allowed. Limited unreserved seating available. Beach chairs and blankets welcome. Parking is included. Want the VIP experience? A VIP ticket includes: -Preferred Reserved Seating -Access to Private Indoor Lounge Areas & Restrooms -Exclusive Chef Curated Food Stations -2 Drink Tickets -VIP Collectors Badge with Lanyard -Collectors Poster -Invite Only VIP Pickup Party -Artist Meet & Greet Gates open at noon | Music until dusk Reconnect. Celebrate. Soar. Everyone is welcome. Always. Need more info on the featured performers and the Dragonfly Music Festival? Learn more at https://dragonflymusicfestival.com/home. TERI Campus of Life on Facebook / Instagram

Saturdays in the Courtyard is a free outdoor performance series that brings the community together for fun, music, and connection at the Ann Kulchin Courtyard. Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with live entertainment, laughter, and great company. It's the perfect place to meet up with neighbors, soak in the beautiful weather, and experience performances for all ages. The Prevailing Winds Woodwind Quintet is one of Navy Band Southwest’s two superb chamber ensembles. This ensemble blends the individual sounds of the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and saxophone to create a unique Quintet sound. City of Carlsbad on Facebook / Instagram

Montana natives turned Angelenos, Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo’s intoxicating music feels like a walk through mountain wildflowers and Southern California Joshua trees. Their live arrangements feature finger-picked guitar, tenor ukulele, and percussion, allowing Joselyn’s voice to shine through with strength and vulnerability, joined by Don’s powerful harmonies. Joselyn is the founder of legendary women’s global fusion band, ADAAWE, while Don is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and editor for television’s long-running animated series “The Simpsons.” The duo sees their music as a powerful way to share truth and build community. Thirds Apart is a duo comprised of Doug Presnell and Rich Chagnon, and they are relatively new to the San Diego folk music scene. Their original songs range from humorous to nostalgic to thought-provoking, with a few infrequently-heard covers. Their extensive choral experience is evident when they sing; while harmony is nice, blend is what makes for excellent wine, a great cup of coffee, and the engaging sound of these two musicians. Visit: sdfolkheritage.org/events/joselyn-don-and-thirds-apart/ San Diego Folk Heritage on Facebook / Instagram

Sabrosas Latin Orchestra, San Diego’s first and only all-female salsa band and a 501(c)(3) organization, is celebrating five years of community, music, and fun in 2024. Founded after identifying a unique opportunity to unite as female musicians, the band brings a shared love of salsa and Latin music to audiences throughout Southern California. With a commitment to serving the community, Sabrosas partners with local schools through mentorship programs as well as organizations like the San Diego Latino Film Festival and San Diego Pride, enlivening the cultural landscape. Sabrosas is proud to have performed at venues such as Cafe Sevilla, the Belly Up, NAMM, and numerous community festivals. Looking ahead, the band is focusing on writing and recording original music, and of course, will continue to inspire and entertain, reinforcing their dedication to bringing Latin music to audiences of all ages. Established in 2019, Sabrosas Latin Orchestra, a 501(c)(3) organization, is proud to be the first all-female salsa band in San Diego. The talented musicians of Sabrosas infuse high energy into a variety of Latin styles including salsa, cumbia, and cha cha. Sabrosas Latin Orchestra has performed at the Belly Up, Rock N Roll Marathon, San Diego Pride, NAMM, the Carlsbad TGIF Concerts In the Park Series, live on KUSI and CBS 8, and on the stages of numerous festivals. Sabrosas Latin Orchestra seeks to bring the joy of music and dance to people of all ages and backgrounds and to encourage women to grow their talents in music for generations to come. Sabrosas Latin Orchestra on Facebook / Instagram

Special Saturday Matinee! The first film adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s beloved play, "Peter Pan" (1924) almost needs no introduction. The story of a joyous young boy, soaring over a magical land and refusing to ever grow up, has endured through decades and generations. Upon its release, Fred Schader of entertainment industry giant Variety said: “'Peter Pan' is a picture that will go down the years as a delightful fantasy and crop up again and again as time rolls along, and with each return be welcomed with a new joy by a new band of children, who will join the ranks of the never-grownups.” And it’s safe to say, he was right. All children will receive a Balboa Theatre coloring book! This is just one screening in our Silent Movie Mondays series at the Balboa Theatre. Learn more and see the full lineup! San Diego Theatres on Facebook / Instagram

The Mad Hat Hucksters return to Golden Island Dim Sum & Asian Cuisine for the 223rd session of Dim Sum & Jazz. The Mad Hat Hucksters are a swing band from San Diego, playing the music of the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. Founded by swing dancer Morgan Day in 2015, this sextet finds their sound in the style of small combo jazz bands of the swing era, emulating greats like Fats Waler, Sydney Bechet, and Louis Armstrong. Playing a variety of music from traditional jazz to swing to early rhythm and blues, listeners are guaranteed to hear music that will get your feet tapping and up on the dance floor. Visit: https://www.bardicmanagement.com/golden-island/live-music/san-diego/the-mad-hat-hucksters/september-26-2025 The Mad Hat Hucksters on Instagram and Facebook

George Harrison tribute band "By George", at Point Loma Summer Concerts July 11th. Visit: https://www.pointlomasummerconcerts.org/copy-of-jul-14-big-time-operator By George on Instagram and Facebook