It’s not Far

If you grew up in Sacramento, chances are you’ve heard of Far. One of the area’s most revered bands, Far unfortunately never quite achieved the super-stardom of its friends the Deftones. Nonetheless, Jonah Matranga, Far’s ex-frontman and a current member of Gratitude, has become somewhat of a rock icon, drawing hundreds of kids to his shows in every state across the nation. What’s his secret? Perhaps it’s his modest, well-mannered nature and his ability to bring a crowd into his world. Gratitude, which has a new album out on Velvet Hammer via Atlantic Records, is arguably his best post-Far project (others included Onelinedrawing and New End Original). Catch the band on Friday at Cesar Chavez Plaza, located at Ninth and J streets. The 5:30 p.m. show is absolutely free and includes Headrush (featuring ex-members of Simon Says and Splender) and Zero To Heaven (members of the unfortunately defunct Pocket Change). Visit www.downtownsac.org for more information.