Two thousand eleven was a good year for shows in Oakland. And by shows, I mean the thriving underbelly of warehouses and house parties about town where all your favorite up and coming musicians are playing for (almost) free.

Giving the gift of music is nice, but giving the gift of local music is even better.

Here’s a selection of recent albums from Oakland artists - all on independent labels - which run the gamut from world music to R&B to funk-rock.

They make great stocking stuffers, but be forewarned: they sound so good, you may just want to buy two copies so you can keep one for yourself.

Want to see an amazing and beautiful video set in Oakland?

Take a look at The Bones, a new video and music collaboration from Oakland's own photog/videographer John Coyne and Oakland Faders deejay, DJ Platurn.

The video was created with 90,000 HDR images shot by Coyne over several months, and scored with a really enticing track by DJ Platurn, another local talent.

Flamenco, a dance style associated with the Roma or Gypsies of Spain, is the dance of the disposessed; the song of the 99%.  See the most stunning flamenco in the Bay Area at Peralta Hacienda Historical Park on December 1st, and your ticket will support programs for low-income youth and families in Oakland.