Ransom B. Shelden and his family learned the hard way in 1909 that even a well-packed White Steamer canât escape misfortune. From a backfiring gas tank to a total loss, their fishing trip to San Antonio Canyon became an unforgettable adventure.
Australian instrumental band Surprise Chef will perform Thursday, July 24, at the Farm House Collective, bringing their smooth, eclectic sound to the University Avenue venue.
The Australian quartet plays what could be described as microdose psychedeliaâinstrumental soul and R&B with subtle psych touches. Their groove-heavy sound is danceable, but a mid-emphatic head bop is certainly appropriate.
Surprise Chef sits at the mellow end of the spectrum in an exploding Australian psych rock scene that includes King Gizzard and rock radio rulers Tame Impala.
Farm House Collective, located at 1393 University Ave., opened in March after developers transformed a 1953 motor court into a dining, retail and entertainment destination. The venue features both indoor and outdoor spaces with string lights and a concert stage, creating an atmosphere well suited to Surprise Chef's effortless, easy-listening style.
The restored motel maintains its mid-century aesthetic while housing 15 local businesses, including restaurants, retail shops and entertainment spaces. Music programming is curated by Phil Pirrone of Desert Daze festival fame, explaining the quality booking of acts like Surprise Chef.
The venue provides a relaxed setting where conversation can flow alongside the music.
