According to an article in The Stranger the Crocodile Cafe’s main booker quit abruptly last week, due to personal conflicts with the venue’s owner Stephanie Dorgan. Peter Greenberg had been primary booker for the Crocodile since earlier this year, and had worked as an assistant booker at the venue for four years prior to quitting, according to the story.This is not surprising as many people involved in Seattle music have heard rumors swirling about the Crocodile’s business strategies  for years. A year or two ago there was buzz about a musician who worked at the venue being wrongfully fired. The story mentions Portland band Viva Voce receiving a bad check from the venue. The Crocodile Cafe is located in Belltown at 2nd and Bell. It offers a full bar as well as a restaurant, and hosts a variety of shows including touring and local bands of every shape and size. 

I’ve been listening to a lot of Bob Dylan lately, which is why this show really excites me.

Every year at Christmas time the Tractor Tavern in Ballard has an album cover show. This year’s is Bob Dylan’s Blonde on Blonde as performed by North Twin, Sean Nelson, the Tripwires and others. This being one of Dylan’s most innovative records it should be interesting to hear interpretations of the songs from these local musicians. 

 Information from  The Seattle Weekly:

5th Annual Double Album Christmas Show featuring Blonde on Blonde as performed by North Twin

Tractor Tavern

$7. Sat., December 8, 9:00pm

Also this weekend is KEXP’s annual Yule Benefit featuring Yeasayer, Dead Confederate, Feral Children and the Valley.

From John Richards‘ playlist: 

“On Saturday, December 8th, KEXP presents The 5th Annual Yule Benefit at The Showbox (1426 1st Avenue).  KEXP’s Yule Benefit helps further the station’s mission of bringing music into people’s lives.  This event has become a holiday tradition and is fast becoming recognized as a significant event that focuses on presenting up and coming artists.” 

Doors at 8pm, show at 9pmTickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com and at the Showbox .

21 and over. $20 advance and $25 at the door

All proceeds will benefit KEXP programming.