WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: Mystic Roots “Things To Say”

Cali reggae staple Mystic Roots returns with the world video premiere for one of their top fan-favorite songs, “Things To Say”! Debuting exclusively today on Top Shelf Music before it hits their YouTube channel, be one of the first to view a wonderful compilation of the band’s European voyage to entertain U.S. troops overseas. From […]

HIRIE at San Diego’s Observatory North Park

On December 3rd, HIRIE headlined a show at the iconic Observatory North Park in San Diego, CA. They were further supported by two of the greatest local bands, Boostive and Tribal Theory, with live painting being done during each set by another amazing San Diegan, Jimmy Ovadia. Boostive was first… I got in a bit late […]

The Movement sells out Solana Beach’s Belly Up

On November 19th, The Movement headlined a sold out show at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, CA. They were supported by up-and-coming Vana Liya and DENM.  Vana Liya got the night started off getting everyone going on a high note. She has such a great stage presence and is always so happy and […]

KBong, Boostive & Vana Liya at Solana Beach’s Belly Up

On Thursday September 23rd, San Diego’s Belly Up Tavern hosted some of the best local southern California reggae and soul groups — KBong, Boostive and Vana Liya. The venue had a warm, intimate setting, filled with great vibes and fans excited to finally attend more fun-filled concerts. It was a pleasure to attend and see […]

Experiencing Reggae Rise Up Florida 2021

The seemingly endless live music drought inflicted by COVID-19 has had its impact on fans, musicians, crews, promoters and everyone else associated with the live music industry. There has been a lot of articles and opinion pieces published on this over the last couple years, so this will not be belabored here. What is of […]

ExpendaHOO! hits House of Blues, San Diego

I decided to take a break from my usual hardcore metal shows and explore some different vibes! The Expendables were at the House of Blues in San Diego on October 9th! They had support from Amplified and Tunnel Vision. Ballyhoo! was on the bill to support, but unfortunately had to cancel their appearance in San […]

Reggae Rise Up Vegas 2021: Day One

Las Vegas is more known for its high-end casinos, nightlife, entertainment, fine dining and wild activities. But, reggae fans had their weekend to rock on! On October 9th and 10th, Las Vegas hosted its first Reggae Rise Up. It was so interesting to see reggae fans from all over the country gather together in the […]

311, Iration & Iya Terra absolutely stun Irvine

On October 15th, 311’s Live From The Ride Tour made its Orange County stop at FivePoint Amphitheatre in Irvine. They were joined by tour support bands Iration and Iya Terra.  Iya Terra started the night out strong, hitting the ground running.  Even with some minor technical difficulties, they still put on an amazing set. Next up […]

Fortunate Youth drops ‘Good Times (Roll On)’ full-length LP

POV: You’re at your first Halloween party since COVID ruined everyone’s life and the vibe is kinda off… (who isn’t suffering from quarantine-induced social anxiety and awkwardness?). The host frantically asks you to “put on something everyone will want to dance to”. What do you do? You throw on Fortunate Youth’s newest album, obviously. Their […]

Enormous Cali Vibes Fest to hit Long Beach in 2022

A new festival just hit the market…or is it? For those who have made the connection, Cali Vibes — an epic, jam-packed three-day reggae and hip hop fusion event set for February 2022 — is just a new chapter for the renowned One Love Cali Reggae Festival (that would’ve been in its sixth year if […]

Through The Roots at Orange County’s Garden AMP

On September 24th, Through The Roots headlined a show at Garden Amphitheater, supported by Sensi Trails and SGV Vibes. The show was sponsored by Elite Solutions and SupHERB Relief.   SGV Vibes got things going everybody warmed up for the fun night ahead.  They were followed by the boys in Sensi Trails that had everyone out […]

A night with Kyle Smith at The Boardwalk, Orangevale

On September 24th, fans descended upon The Boardwalk in Orangevale, CA for a night of music, featuring K-Rizz, Eazy Dub, Skunk Funk and headliner Kyle Smith. Fans traveled from all over the greater Sacramento area to catch Kyle Smith’s official CD release party. If you don’t know of Kyle Smith yet, buckle up, because you will hear […]

Cali Roots Presents: J Boog & The Green in Monterey

On the evening of August 28th, Top Shelf Music I descended upon Monterey County Fairgrounds to photograph a magical night of reggae music. The lineup included GRAMMY-nominated J Boog, The Green, Josh Heinrichs and special guest Saritah. It is nights like this that remind us of simpler times spent dancing in ‘The Bowl’ with friends […]

Slightly Stoopid headlines San Diego’s Petco Park

On September 11th, Slightly Stoopid took over Petco Park in San Diego. They were supported by Boostive, The Elovaters and Thievery Corporation, with live painting by artist Jimmy Ovadia. Stoopid shows are always a party, but they are extra fun when at their home in San Diego, and this show was no exception. Walking around the venue, it […]

Florida gears up for Reggae Rise Up’s return

It’s almost time for Reggae Rise Up Florida, one of the largest and most beautiful festivals in the country! Every year (well, almost every year) it’s held at St. Petersburg’s Vinoy Park, with its stretching views of the Tampa Bay waters with boaters, dolphins, art, palm trees, hammocks and plenty of space to spread out […]