Hear 'Em Make Some Noise

With its calendar packed with rock, electronic, and hip-hop events, SOMA live venue Slim's may not be thought of as the most spiritual place in San Francisco for most of the year. But everything changes when the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Ensemble descends on the joint to perform its annual holiday concert there. It is a compact version of the larger Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, which both fall under the artistic direction of Terrance Kelly, a musician who has worked with Linda Ronstadt. That the Ensemble encompasses different faiths is socially significant. However, its multicultural makeup is the key to its unique sound, which organically blends operatic tones with soul stirrings. Hold on to your joyfully soaring spirits for two Christmas Eve shows.
Mon., Dec. 24, 7 & 9:30 p.m., 2007