June, key events, Acoustic Americana Music Calendar 2008

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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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Key events, June, 2008 (updated June 15)
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(more are added as news arrives, and recurring events are added as dates approach)
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Why we’re here, on Blogger.com: after a long presence on MySpace, that site suddenly changed parameters to accept only short posts, so we had to endure a ponderous and VERY time-consuming process to list events in small increments, usually only one day at a time. It was too much, so we have begun posting the calendar and news here. We’ll see how it works, and if everyone adjusts and gives positive feedback, we’ll move here, and soon.
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FUTURE EVENTS are posted into 2009. We update often, and we add a BUNCH of concerts, club gigs, and recurring events as dates arrive.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES always post separately. The most recent edition is dated June 13; previous news features posted June 7; earlier editions are still available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button, and if you don’t see what you want, then you’ll need to journey farther back than recent editions by using the “older entries” button as many times as necessary, to find what you want (curiously, to see into the future as well as into the past) and you can go all the back to when acoustic music was made by indigenous natives pounding on hollow logs with rocks.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every week:
6-9 pm GARRET SWAYNE does his weekly residency at Giovanni Ristorante, 21926 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; reserv 818-884-0243; www.GiovanniRistorante.com. Ample parking behind restaurant. No cover, $15 minimum per person on food or drink.
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Wed, Jun 18; every week, Jun-Aug:
6:30 to 9 pm “CULTURAL ELEVATIONS - Get High on Culture at the Southwest Museum of the American Indian” at the Southwest Museum of the American Indian, 234 Museum Dr, L.A. 90065; 323-221-2164; www.southwestmuseum.org. Every Wed, June-August, journey up the hill for a new cultural high at the Southwest Museum, featuring a mix of local and Native American artists and performers. Bring a picnic, enjoy diverse bands and musicians, and view the best of Native and world cinema. View of the city from atop Mt. Washington, and elevate your mind. You can ride the Gold Line light rail to the Southwest Museum station, and hike up the hill.
June Line-up:
June 18 – Native Performances by TED & DENNIS GARCIA (Chumash) / Native Storytelling and Dancing and the COSTANOAN RUMSEN CARMEL DANCERS
June 25 – World Cinema, “We of the Never Never” (Australia) (PG)
Free.
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Wed, Jun 18:
7:15 pm MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY plays a solo-acoustic concert for Autry National Center Benefactors and members of the Western Music Association, in the Wells Fargo Theater at the Autry Museum, 4700 Western Heritage Way, in Griffith Park, L.A. 90027. Show at 7:15 pm, followed by a meet-and-greet with Michael at a complimentary wine and cheese reception. Tix $20, adv only, by calling 323-667-2000 x380. Open to Autry members and WMA members.
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Wed, 3rd (and 1st) Wed, every month:
7:30-9 pm twice-monthly “COWBOY WESTERN JAM” has MOVED to its NEW HOME at Rattlesnake Slim’s, 23127 Lyons Av, Newhall (Santa Clarita) 91321; 661-877-4165; www.myspace.com/rattlesnakeslims. Note: it is no longer at Vincenzo’s Pizza, as of June 4, 2008. All pickers invited. No cover.
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Wed, Jun 18; 3rd Wed, every month:
7:30-10 pm monthly “SONGWRITER'S NETWORK SHOWCASE” with about 15 performing songwriters, at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001. Songnet’s monthly showcase brings an assortment of accomplished artists trying-out new songs, talented up-and-comers, and others. It provides performing songwriters and other musicians an opportunity to perform their originals on a professional stage, for songwriting peers, in a supportive atmosphere. Info on attending or performing and on the organization, at www.thesongnet.org. Pre-register to perform, or arrive before 7:30 pm for any spots that may remain. Coffeehouse fare available. Free entry, $5 suggested donation.
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Every FIRST Wednesday, (except for July, when its on Tue, Jul 1) SongNet has seminars here with industry guests that discuss the business side of music. That’s also FREE and interesting to all those who want a "behind the scenes look" at what it's all about.
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Info, articles, links to the music business, and CGB impresario BOB STANE’s "boilerplate," explaining why some artists do not get booked on a regular basis, are all at www.thesongnet.org.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session; call for location, 805-579-6416; www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Jun 18; 3rd Wed every month:
THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, Jun 18:
8 pm ANNA BENTHOLM-JENSEN at Room 5 lounge, 143 N La Brea Bl (2nd Floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A.; 323-938-2504. Anna is from Denmark, making her second US tour. We heard her last time she was in L.A., and she has some fine original songs, in English.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member of venue in advance to gain entry. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20; live theater:
8 pm TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’ “SUMMER AND SMOKE” for “L.A. Theatre Works” at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This sensuous play tells the story of a repressed minister's daughter who secretly longs for a man who is focused only on sexual conquest. Runs Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20 at 8 pm; Sat, Jun 21 at 3 pm; Sun, Jun 22 at 4 pm. Skirball Members eligible for discount; gen’l $47 & $39.50; $20 students.
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Wed, Jun 18; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX begins its run, Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” (Show on Jun 19 is a charity benefit; see that listing.) Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Wed, Jun 18:
8:30 pm DEBRA LEE & THE TRIGGER HAPPY at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, Jun 18:
9 pm SEAN WIGGINS & LONE GOAT play a full band all-acoustic show at The Derby, 4500 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90027; 323-663-8979. She’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and scored a “Listener Favorite of 2006” with her song, “L.A. Blues.” Artist info, www.seanwiggins.com. 9 pm sharp, one set. $5 cover.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 19
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Thu-Sun, Jun 19-22; in Colorado:
The TELLURIDE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL (www.bluegrass.com/telluride) as much acoustic roots music as bluegrass, it includes the prestigious Telluride Troubadour singer-songwriter competition. If you're looking for an early summer road trip, this one is fabulous. Tix went on sale in Dec, and it always sells-out. The venue is in the bottom of a box canyon, 10,000 ft above the sea, in Telluride, Colorado, and the view to the left of the stage includes a 600 waterfall. You must go, at least once.
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For those who just need to get out of town, and want an escape with a lot of music, consider the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, then the South Park Music Tour in Central Colorado, which is a FREE festival of all music genres, June 26-29 (see calendar listing). Now, THAT’s a Rocky Mountain High!
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Thu, Jun 19 (through Sun, Jun 29):
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” opens today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Thu, Jun 19:
Noon-2 pm JUMPIN’ JOZ brings swing music to the “Pershing Square Lunchtime Concert Series” at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. Ride the Red Line subway to the Pershing Square Station and avoid expensive downtown L.A. parking. Grab a take-out lunch across the street, and enjoy a FREE lunchtime concert downtown.
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Thu, every week:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, every week; in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, Jun 19:
6–9 pm NOHO WEST plays the “WESTERN FLING” the new series every Thu in June, at the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; 323-667-2000; www.autrynationalcenter.org. Grab your hat and boots and come on down for summer evenings of music, dancing, food, and fun. Dust off your two-step and head out to the dance floor as the Autry presents some of the hottest swing bands from California to Texas. DAVID KATZ, former member of the Swingtime Dancers, the Silk `n' Spurs Dancers, and Sonny Watson's A Team, offers complimentary dance lessons at every event. The Golden Spur Café and Bar is open for business, and the museum stays open until 8 pm. Doors open at 6 pm, dancing until 9. Free for Autry Members, gen’l admission $5 includes museum admission.
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Thu, Jun 19:
6 pm KRISTIN KORB, KATHLEEN GRACE, INGA SEEARINGEN, bring their “DIVA DEN” show back to the LAX Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5985 W Century Bl, L.A. 90045; 310-642-7500. The delightful Kristin has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” with her alter ego group, COW BOP. She is an amazing standup bass player and vocalist. Kristin tells us, “Diva Den returns. Better than Sex and the City. Estrogen surges are predicted on the west side as I team up again with Kathleen Grace and Inga Swearingen. We packed the clubs in March. Don Heckman raved. Ladies, let's all dress up and be our fabulous selves. Guys, you're welcome to watch.” Info, www.kristinkorb.com. No cover.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, Jun 19:
7 pm “SOUTH BAY SONGWRITERS ROUNDTABLE MAY WORKSHOP,” with guest speaker PAUL ALDRICH, at Kings Harbor Church, 23915 Garnier St, Torrance 90505; info, http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/SouthBaySongwritersRoundtable; 310-376-6555; mike@mikevmusic.com. Guest speaker info: “Paul Aldrich is Pure Comedy, 100% Clean / 100% Funny.” Paul has spent the last 20 years performing in churches, theaters, comedy clubs, and on TV. www.paulaldrich.com. July 17 is Kenny Metcalf, original keyboardist for Stryper and Justa Band; www.myspace.com/worshipwithkennym.
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The monthly workshops are hosted by Mike V and feature two parts. First, a guest speaker, sharing insights regarding the craft of songwriting. Then, a song presentation and critique, where present original songs live, or on CD or tape for the group. (Songwriters, please bring 15 to 20 copies of the lyrics). The group then provides feedback to the songwriter, always in a loving, positive manner. The group describes themselves as “A place where songwriters who write from a Christian world view perspective can come together and share their songs in an atmosphere of love and acceptance. Our Mission is to provide a forum and tools for songwriters enabling them to excel at their art. The group is open to all styles of music.” They meet on the 3rd Thu, every month.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm “One last chance for dance lessons before Long Beach BAYOU FESTIVAL” at the WEEKLY ZYDECO DANCE in Long Beach, every Thursday at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 562-596-1631. Come early for Bar Happy Hour with free food, 5-7 pm. Evening costs $5 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lesson included, 7-8 pm; raffle 8-8:15; CD dancing 8:15-10 pm or so. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. (Total cost for the evening is $10 if you buy two bottled waters.)
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Thu; third Thu, every month:
7-10 pm “BEACH CITIES FOLK MUSIC CLUB” at a private home in Manhattan Beach; for info & loc, 310-376-8760, Aprilstory@aol.com, www.beachcitiesfolkclub.org. Hosts say, “Please bring yummy snacks, drinks to share. Since we meet on a weeknight, we ask that you respect the ending time and leave at 10 pm.” Coordinator is April Halprin Wayland.
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Thu, every week:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with guest artists each week, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, third Thu, every month:
7:30-10:30 pm L.A. SONGWRITERS CO-OP monthly meeting, with music industry guest speaker, at The Pig & Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl (1 blk E of Highland), Hollywood. Event info, 323-551-1000; www.SongwritersCoOp.com. Meets here every 3rd Thu, hosted by Alex Del Zoppo. Info: 323-551-1000; info@songswritersCoOp.com; www.SongwritersCoOp.com. Get feedback from songwriting professionals and your peers on what's working in your original song and how to make it even better. Bring 15 to 20 copies of your lyrics (with chords if possible) and your music on CD or tape or play it live. Meetings start promptly. $5 admission fee.
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Thu, every week:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Jun 19:
8 pm TOM SMITH plus MARGIE NELSON-ARIAS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. Tom is a guitarist gaining national attention with his highly original guitar and banjo tunes and his ability to connect his audiences with life through his bantering style of humorous stories from his own unique viewpoint. He has been called a "virtuoso guitarist" by the Nashville Tennessean, and "one of the finest acoustic guitarists in the country" by the Boston Phoenix. It’s his second performance at The Coffee Gallery Backstage.
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Plus...MARGIE NELSON-ARIAS, probably best-known to the Coffee Gallery's audience as having song with 5 WHEEL DRIVE, a popular local group. Margie has performed with CHICK COREA, MAXENE NIGHTENGALE, EDGAR WINTER, and taken her own show to Japan and Europe. She is one of Tom's all time favorite singers and he was very pleased when she agreed to do this show. (Note: TRAILS & RAILS, previously scheduled, will perform at a later date.) $18.
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Thu, third Thu, every month:
8 pm “100% ACOUSTIC & OLD TIME JAM” hosted by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, always fun, at the Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion Av (look for barber pole just S of Lyric), L.A. 90027. “The Foot” has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” No cover.
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Thu, Jun 19; in Fullerton:
8 pm LUTHER HUGHES & THE CANNONBALL-COLTRANE PROJECT at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. With their brand-new third CD, "Spectacular," already on the national Jazz charts, the "CCP" has been playing recently to full housesand raves in Salt Lake City, San Diego and around Southern Cal. Adv tix $20, $25 door; all ages.
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Thu, Jun 19:
8 pm “THE BAD ARM – CONFESSIONS OF A DODGY IRISH DANCER” at Bang Theatre, 457 N Fairfax Ave, L.A. 90036; 323-653 6886. Presented in association with Heather Woodbury’s Fomenting Arts Unlimited, performed by MÁIRE CLERKIN and directed by DAN O’CONNOR, this one-hour show follows the life and times of a girl growing up in a North London Irish community during the 60s & 70s. Tales of dysfunctional family strife, embarrassing adolescence, not to mention a hapless adulthood, are punctuated by ear-bashingly good jigs. The premise is, “Have you ever felt as if the world had failed to notice your brilliance?” Máire Clerkin takes this opportunity to air her grievances against those who so cruelly overlooked her, and to prove, for once and for all, that she should have been a famous Irish Dancer. This is an ugly duckling story in which the beautiful swan refuses to emerge.
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MÁIRE CLERKIN founded The Hairy Marys and Clerkinworks Irish Dance Theatre in London, touring extensively. Other credits include Enter Achilles / DV8 Physical Theatre; Dancing on Dangerous Ground / Colin Dunne & Jean Butler; Fennels, Flannels, Funnels / John Hegley; Countess / Broadway Theatre; London; Centenary Knees Up / South Bank Centre; Music Makers / BBC TV and Revolver / BBC World Service. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2003, she has choreographed for Cadence Theatre in Arizona, the Portland Irish Dancers (winning Western US dance drama title) and A Gaelic Gathering. She is a teaching artist with the Los Angeles Music Center and Orange County Performing Arts Center.
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DAN O'CONNOR is an actor, writer and director. He is the co-founder of both Bay Area and Los Angeles Theatresports. Most recently he directed "Sons and Daughters" for ABC/Broadway Video and "Campus Ladies" for the Oxygen Network. In August he goes to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival to perform "Shakespeare UnScripted," an improvised play in the style of William Shakespeare. $12 adv at www.bangstudio.com; $14 door.
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Thu, recurring:
8-11:30 pm RICK SHEA AND THE LOSIN' END at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rick and his honky-tonk blues band’s Thursday series, with guests. Rick & co play 8-9, then from 10-12. At 9 is the guest band, different each week. Artists’ info: www.rickshea.com. Venue serves dinner, has drink specials most nights. $5 cover.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz. The boys say, “Come down for great music, dancing and a green beer!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Thu; repeats every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu, Jun 19 & Fri, Jun 20; live theater:
8 pm TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’ “SUMMER AND SMOKE” for “L.A. Theatre Works” at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This sensuous play tells the story of a repressed minister's daughter who secretly longs for a man who is focused only on sexual conquest. Runs Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20 at 8 pm; Sat, Jun 21 at 3 pm; Sun, Jun 22 at 4 pm. Skirball Members eligible for discount; gen’l $47 & $39.50; $20 students.
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Thu, Jun 19; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX is a benefit tonight only for the “Elevate Hope Foundation” (www.elevatehope.org); show runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” “Elevate Hope” provides alternative therapy for abused and abandoned children. As for “Tommy,” sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Thu, Jun 19:
8:30 pm LARRY DEAN & THE SHOOTERS at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County, California’s only public radio station; live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, every week:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 20
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Fri, Jun 20:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Fri, every week:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every week:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, Jun 20:
7-10 pm LUIS OLIART at Rodrigo’s, 150 W Parkridge Av, Corona 92880; 951-738-0373.
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Fri, Jun 20:
7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SUNG” with MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & THE RIO GRANDE BANK is the “Best of the West” program with the PASADENA POPS ORCHESTRA at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; www.DescansoGardens.org; 818-949-4200. Audience members will be transported to the Wild West when cowboy poet and singer MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY (“Carolina in the Pines” and “Wildfire”) saddles-up with the POPS. From Ennio Morricone's "Once Upon A Time in the West" theme to Jay Livingstone's theme for TV's "Bonanza," Maestra RACHAEL WORBY, the POPS and Murphey will take the audience down the trail of the best of the Old West. (Show runs Fri & Sat, Jun 20 & 21.) Dinner available. Free parking. Reserv recommended. $20.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8 pm LOWEN & NAVARRO plus STONEHONEY opening, at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. Get your tix immediately for this L&N small-band show, with PHIL PARLAPIANO on keys and accordion and PHIL HURLEY, DAVE PHENICIE and SCOTTY LUND of STONEHONEY backing.
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ERIC LOWEN & DAN NAVARRO are two of the greatest songwriters of our time. They wrote “We Belong,” which became a worldwide #4 hit for PAT BENATAR. You’ve heard them perform live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where their previous album had its world premiere. Their songs have been recorded by many other top-selling artists, but no one delivers them with the marvelous harmonies of the pair themselves. They sparkle. Their new CD, “Learning to Fall,” is due in July. Dan tells us, “In the meantime, please enjoy the first video from the album, with 30-voice ALS Choir including patients (PALS), friends, family and caregivers, all joining in song to make a point. That life is beautiful with or without a serious disease. The love in the room was huge. Come savor some of it at http://lownav.c.topica.com/maalI5KabHEyLbPhQnzbaehoil.”
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ERIC LOWEN continues to battle ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and, as trite as it sounds, he is always an inspiration. The pair is playing some of then top folk festivals in America this summer. If you’ve seen Eric and Dan perform before, you already know why you want to be at this show. If you have never seen them, go. It is always a special privilege to see then perform live. Specific link for this show, http://lownav.c.topica.com/maalI5KabHD4sbPhQnzbaehoil. $20.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8 pm brings I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. plays “CALTECH UNDER THE STARS” an acoustic concert series, outdoors on Caltech's Beckman Mall, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652 or 888-222-5832. You’ve heard them performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Formed in 1999 by ROB WALLER and brothers PAUL & ANTHONY LACQUES during a philosophical discussion on an East Mojave desert trek, I See Hawks In L.A. wrote their first songs and then sought advice from local country rock / roots / cowboy swing guru DAVID JACKSON, sideman with John Denver, Dillard & Clark, and Emmy Lou Harris. Jackson recorded Rob and Paul, adding his own melodic bass lines. This demo turned into featured songs on the Hawks debut on Ethic Records, featuring legendary fiddler BRANTLEY KEARNS (Dwight Yoakam, Dave Alvin, Hazel Dickens). The CD established the Hawks signature sound: high lonesome three-part harmonies, twangy guitar, and unadorned acoustic arrangements, with lyrics musing on mortality, whales, and the geography of pre-apocalyptic Los Angeles. Parking for Beckman Mall at 332 S Michigan Av, Pasadena (south of Del Mar Bl). Texas barbeque and beverages will be available for purchase on site from Barn Burner. This event is open to the public, free of charge, and no tickets are required.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8 pm O.C.TIMES bring innovative barbershop quartet to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. The music of OC Times is inspired by artists like Michael Buble’, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis. This young, energetic quartet breathes new life into some of our favorite swing standards and rock and roll classics. Hailing from Orange County, CA, SHAWN YORK (tenor), SEAN DEVINE (lead), CORY HUNT (bass), and PAT CLAYPOOL (baritone) have taken barbershop harmony back to where it started over a century ago, as pop-culture. As a competing barbershop quartet, all four are proud members of the International Barbershop Harmony Society. OC Times won the 2007 2nd place International Quartet Silver Medal, and were 2004-2005 Far Western District Quartet Champions. In addition to their quartet accomplishments, all four are active members with the 6-time International Chorus Gold Medalists, THE MASTERS OF HARMONY, as well as section leaders of the 2007 International Gold Medal Chorus, WESTMINSTER. In April 2006, OC Times headlined a show in the Alice Tully Hall of the world famous Lincoln Center in New York City, and in Oct 2007, the quartet performed in Nottingham, England. Tours in 2008 will take the group to Sweden, Finland, and Russia. $15.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8 pm ANNA BENTHOLM-JENSEN at Suzy's Bar & Grill, 1141 Aviation Bl (at Prospect), Hermosa Beach; 310-379-0082. Anna is from Denmark, making her second US tour. We heard her last time she was in L.A., and she has some fine original songs, in English.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8-10 pm monthly “AMERICANA MUSIC CIRCLE” with MARK “POCKET” GOLDBERG, ERNEST TROOST, NICK KIRGO, JOHN STOWERS, and performing host LAUREN ADAMS, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1-2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Tonight’s show is a benefit for the venue’s legal defense fund.
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The Americana Music Circle in Los Angeles has been a local showcase for eight years. One artist or band opens the show, followed by a three-artist song circle, then Lauren Adams closes the show. The circle is designed to encourage the artists to play and sing each other's songs, and that leads to some magical musical moments.
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Featured performer is MARK "POCKET "GOLDBERG at 8 pm. One of L.A.'s most respected "roots" bass players, he is also a singer-songwriter and producer. His songwriting credits include covers by Jack Mack & The Heart Attack, Peach, Kirk "Eli" Fletcher, Finis Tasby, Randy Sacks, Jeffrey P. Ross, Big Buck, Paraphenalia, Twinkle Twang, and others. Some of the collaborators and musicians who contributed to Mark’s own album are Denny Freeman (Bob Dylan, Taj Mahal, Jimmy Vaughn), John Herron (Wolfman Jack, Fleetwood Mac, Doobie Bros.), Mike Thompson (the Eagles, Rod Stewart, Johnny Rivers), Barry Goldberg (Electric Flag, Gladys Knight, the Ramones), Danny Timms (Bonnie Raitt, Highwaymen, Delbert McClinton), Matthew Nelson (Nelson, Red 37), Rick Shlosser (Van Morrison, Etta James, Dolly Parton), Zeke Zirngiebel (David Crosby, Warren Zevon, Tower o' Power), Stan Behrens (Willie Dixon, Jimmy Smith, Canned Heat), Phil Bloch (Ry Cooder, Terry Evans, T-Lou Zydeco), Dave Morgan (Rick Nelson, Ray Charles, Jim Messina), and others.
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The music circle brings at 8:30 pm with ERNEST TROOST, NICK KIRGO, and JOHN STOWERS. Emmy-winning and multiply Emmy-nominated composer ERNEST TROOST has written more than one hundred scores for films and television. He has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where the title track of his bluesy CD, “All the Boats Are Gonna Rise,” was a “Listener Favorite of 2006.”
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LAUREN ADAMS performs at 9:15 pm. She’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and take a look at this piece by Laurie Joulie in “Take Country Back” magazine: “One listen and I was hooked. Superb, intelligent, thought-provoking songs written with the heart and soul of someone's who's been there and survived to write songs about it. Real songs for real people wrapped in melodies that , promise to capture, inspire and pull the listener in again and again. Songwriters of Lauren Adams' level are few and far between. "Secret Heart" not only begs to be heard, it deserves it!"
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More on the artists and the series at www.myspace.com/americanacircle and www.americanacircle. No cover, but it’s a benefit show.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8-9:15 pm CROSS TOWN COWBOYS at Borders, 24445 Town Center Dr, Valencia 91355. Info, www.CrossTownCowboys.com.
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Fri, Jun 20:
8 pm TRISH LESTER at Rattlesnake Slim’s Coffee, Tea, and Tack, 23127 Lyons Av, Newhall; 661-877-4165; www.myspace.com/rattlesnakeslims. Trish has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and she is part of the ensemble of the “Women on the Move,” the charity CD for domestic violence shelters, and the CD that’s spent more time than any other, ever, as the top editors’ pick on CD Baby, where over 190,000 CDs compete for that honor. Also, we love the venue’s self-promo: “If you like pre-made concentrated coffee from a plastic bag or tea that comes from concentrate than keep goin’ down Lyons. If you prefer music that is produced by a giant media conglomerate and a computer, than stay away. If your preference for music is generated by Pro-Tools, not by people with talent, than stay away. Yeah, we know that we seem like a hick joint. We would rather be hick than fake. We have the blues all the time. We love Howlin Wolf and Ella. We listen to Billie and Willie. We design our own clothes. We have a nice selection of vintage hand made cowboy shirts perfect for the rockabilly in your family. Oh yeah and we are a tack and saddle shop too. Lets see you try and saddle up at Hollister. We brew our coffee and blend our shakes from beans not bags. We bring in live music Fridays and Satudays. If you want to be on our mailing list than just drop us a line at RattlesnakeSlims@earthlink.net.”
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Fri, Jun 20; live theater:
8 pm TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’ “SUMMER AND SMOKE” for “L.A. Theatre Works” at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This sensuous play tells the story of a repressed minister's daughter who secretly longs for a man who is focused only on sexual conquest. Runs Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20 at 8 pm; Sat, Jun 21 at 3 pm; Sun, Jun 22 at 4 pm. Skirball Members eligible for discount; gen’l $47 & $39.50; $20 students.
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Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member of venue in advance to gain entry. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Fri, Jun 20; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Fri, repeats 3rd Fri, every month:
8:30-11 pm CONTRA DANCE at the War Memorial Hall, 435 S Fair Oaks Av, South Pasadena. Music by live band. Recent musicians have included TOM & PATRICK SAUBER, STEVE LEWIS and MIKE SAUBER. Dance instruction at 7:30 pm.
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Fri, Jun 20:
9 pm MANDA performs an acoustic set at the “BOHEMIAN SHINDIG” on The Key Club’s Main Stage, 9039 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood 90069; 310-786-1712; www.acousticplayhouse.com. MANDA’s brand-new debut album, “KEEPS ON TURNING,” was an early pick by “Tied to the Tracks” host Larry Wines as a hit, when he wrote, “It’s outstanding, with a folk-rock temperament and songs that, if there is any justice in the world, will be hits you’ll hear for years to come.” Now her CD is nominated as Record Of The Year, with her song, “Wash It All Away,” nominated for Single Of The Year, in the Los Angeles Music Awards. Manda tells us, “The LAMAS have awarded me in the past with Female Singer-Songwriter Of The Year in 2005, and Indie Rock Single Of The Year for ‘Mr. Madness’ in ‘06, so here we go again =) The LAMAs take place on November 20th at The Music Box, so some time to wait for the final results.” Meantime, you catch her show tonight and hear her music. Artist info, www.mandamusic.net. $10.
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Fri, Jun 20:
9 pm COLDWATER CANYON at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 21
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Sat & Sun, Jun 21 & 22; in NY State, w/ LIVE WEBCAST:
7 am (Pacific time) 2008 “CLEARWATER FESTIVAL” in NY State, with PETE SEEGER, THE KENNEDYS, CHERYL WHEELER, KEVIN SO, THE BLUERUNNERS, MAGPIE, GANDALF MURPHY, THE FELICE BROTHERS, THE SLEEPY HOLLOW STRING BAND, THE STRANGELINGS, and many others, on five stages, at Croton Point Park, on the shores of the Hudson River, Village of Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester County, New York; www.clearwater.org/revival/index.html. Runs Sat & Sun, 10 am-dusk, in New York (hence, 7 am simulcast time, Pacific). A joint project of the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc, and Westchester County, NY, the Clearwater music and environmental festival offers music, dance, storytelling, and more, in “a natural park on a river peninsula with sandy beaches and sweeping views of the Hudson, on the Summer Solstice.” Festival Camping, call 845-454-7673 x142 by June 9. “Sail on Tall Ships at the Festival” offers river excursions aboard the sloop “Clearwater,” a replica of a 19th century river sloop, or aboard the schooner “Mystic Whaler,” for a two-hour sail on the Hudson River. Book passage at 800-67SLOOP x107.
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LIVE WEBCAST from the festival on WBAI 99.5 FM, www.wbai.org, Listener-sponsored community radio for peace and justice will broadcast live from the festival. You can listen to the music and sounds from the festival all weekend. (Remember the time zones: the festival begins both days at 10 am Eastern, which is 7 am Pacific. It goes until local dusk in NY, which is about 5 pm Pacific.)
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Sat, repeats every week:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 21 & 22:
11:30 am-9 pm 22nd Annual “LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL” at beautiful Rainbow Lagoon Park, on N side of Shoreline Dr, between Shoreline Village Dr and Linden Av, Long Beach; www.longbeachfestival.com; 562-427-8834. Featuring Grammy Award winner TERRANCE SIMIEN, THE PINE LEAF BOYS, SAVOY-DOUCET, GUITAR SHORTY, DEBBIE DAVIES, BARBARA MORRISON, LINDA HOPKINS & many more. The festival is always superbly well-done, and it’s the principal annual fund-raiser for Comprehensive Child Development, which helps families in the Long Beach area. This year brings THREE stages for the first time (it’s always been two).
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Cajun & Zydeco Bands on Saturday are:
SAN DIEGO CAJUN PLAYBOYS, BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO, SAVOY-DOUCET CAJUN BAND, NEW ORLEANS TRADITIONAL JAZZ BAND, CHUBBY CARRIER & THE BAYOU SWAMP BAND, TERRANCE SIMIEN & THE ZYDECO EXPERIENCE (Grammy Winner).
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Cajun & Zydeco Bands on Sunday are:
T-LOU & HIS SUPER HOT ZYDECO BAND, PINE LEAF BOYS, NEW ORLEANS TRADITIONAL JAZZ BAND, CHUBBY CARRIER & THE BAYOU SWAMP BAND, GENO DELAFOSE & FRENCH ROCKIN' BOOGIE (Grammy Nominee).
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Blues Bands are:
GUITAR SHORTY, DEBBIE DAVIES, BARBARA MORRISON, LINDA HOPKINS, MICHAEL WARD, BERNIE PEARL, CASH MCCALL; there’s a “TRIBUTE TO MOTOWN” by SEVILLE BIG DADDYS.
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All ages event. Parking across from site at Marina Green Lot. Adv tix online (w/ adv savings) or buy at the gate. Children 12 & under are free; gen’l, $30 adv (by Jun 13), $35 at gate; Srs (age 60+) & college students (age 18+) $25 per day; teens (ages 13-17) $10 per day.
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Sat, Jun 21:
All day “PASADENA FETE DE LA MUSIQUE” aka “MAKE MUSIC PASADENA” is a city-wide event including various venues in Pasadena; info at www.makemusicpasadena.org. It’s a FREE musical celebration throughout the main districts in Pasadena, including Old Town Pasadena, One Colorado, the Playhouse District, and throughout the city. It happens on “World Music Day,” which is also the Summer Solstice.
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On that day, sidewalks, parks, courtyards, alleys, lobbies of buildings and other unconventional performance spaces will become spontaneous musical stages and social gathering places. Professional and amateur musicians will bring their talents to the streets of Pasadena and perform to new crowds.
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Top selling and internationally known artists will perform at FOUR themed main stages. What better way to jump start the summer than by dancing in the streets, throughout the day, to these wonderful music performances? One to catch: WILLOW HALE & BRUCE CERVI (www.willowhale.com) play a half hour set at 44 N Madison Av, Old Town Pasadena, 5-5:30 pm.
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All performances are FREE and open to the public.
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Sat, Jun 21:
8 am “RUN LIKE A GIRL 10K” with lots of music, including KELLY’S LOT, at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Info, www.montrain.com/runlikeagirl.
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Sat, Jun 21:
11:30 am-3 pm “VOCAL JAZZ PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP” with CATHY SEGAL GARCIA & KATHLEEN GRACE at a private residence; reserv get directions at kg@kathleengrace.com or cathy@cathysegalgarcia.com. Kathleen tells us, “CATHY SEGAL GARCIA is one of LA's shining lights of vocal jazz education. I am excited to be a part of her ‘Vocal Workshop Network’ next Saturday. I will be conducting a Saturday workshop focused on jazz performance, vocal exploration, the ‘new standards’ and even some free vocal improvisation. After a few weeks off from USC, I am really looking forward to teaching again and meeting new vocal jazz friends. MATT POLITANO will be joining me and will provide professional accompaniment for all participants. Please forward to anyone who might be interested.” $40, space limited.
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Sat, Jun 21:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 21 & 22; in the OC:
Annual “IRISH FAIR” in Irvive; more later, or check www.michaelpatrickbreen.com for info.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Oklahoma:
“SUMMER JAMBOREE” in Gene Autry, OK.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Bishop:
DAVE STAMEY performs at the Laws Museum, old narrow gauge railroad town, 6 mi NE of Bishop on US Hwy 6.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Fullerton:
10 am THE ALLEY CATS play the Kids Series at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-3134; www.themuck.org. Renowned Doo-Wop group currently performing in Vegas with Jay Leno. The “MucKids” shows include a toddlers' area for younger siblings. $15 adults, $10 kids.
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Sat, Jun 21:
Noon-2 pm EL TAMBOR brings Latin / world music to Café Z at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. El Tambor is a Los Angeles-based Afro-Cuban folkloric ensemble of talented musicians and dancers. Minimum café purchase required for table seating.
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Sat, Jun 21; live theater:
3 pm TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’ “SUMMER AND SMOKE” for “L.A. Theatre Works” at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This sensuous play tells the story of a repressed minister's daughter who secretly longs for a man who is focused only on sexual conquest. Runs Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20 at 8 pm; Sat, Jun 21 at 3 pm; Sun, Jun 22 at 4 pm. Skirball Members eligible for discount; gen’l $47 & $39.50; $20 students.
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Sat, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
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Sat, Jun 21:
“SUMMER SOLSTICE IN THE EVENING” at the Learning Garden at Venice HS, 13000 Venice Bl, L.A. 90066; 310-722-3656; learninggardenmaster@yahoo.com. Garden master and “Tied to the Tracks” associate producer DAVID KING says, “Come watch the sun set over the Garden on the longest day of the year. Ice tea with fresh mint or lemonade will be our drinks of choice. Bring a poem, song or a munchie to share.”
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Sat, Jun 21:
6 pm-midnight “WORLD PEACE FOR LIFE EVENT 2008” at The Los Angeles Convention Center, downtown L.A. Promoters say, “For the first time in history, top artists and performers from different countries come together in the shared vision of promoting Peace for the World. This Event will be broadcast through television, the internet, newspapers, magazines to over 2 billion people worldwide. This Event will expand the concept of a ‘Live Aid’ type event, into a Global Media campaign.” Info, www.worldpeaceevents.com.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Oak Glen:
6-7:30 pm THE O’BRIEN FAMILY BAND plays “Bluegrass on the Green," 714-388-7088.
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Sat, every week:
6:30-10:30 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS CONCERT at Me n’ Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl (at Carson), Lakewood; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Jun 21:
7 pm CLAUDIA RUSSELL & THE FOLK UNLIMITED ORCHESTRA with MARVIN ETZIONI at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001, reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. Veteran songwriter-producer MARVIN ETZIONI is a special guest. Berkeley-based Claudia Russell makes her sixth return appearance at the Coffee Gallery, joined by her band, the Folk Unlimited Orchestra. The band is BRUCE KAPLAN on mandolin and lead guitar, session ace CARL BYRON on piano and accordion, MARK PETRELLA on acoustic bass with CLAUDIA RUSSELL on acoustic guitar and vocals. Russell is an award-winning singer-songwriter and was named “Best Musician” in the East Bay Express Reader’s Poll 2006, “Best New Artist” from Boston Radio station WUMB, and was nominated this year for “Best Song” by the Texas Music Awards.
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Special guest MARVIN ETZIONI is a veteran songwriter-producer who has worked with Lucinda Williams, Lone Justice, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Victoria Willians and many others.
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Russell and her band are a Coffee Gallery Backstage favorite. Says venue impresario Bob Stane, “Russell is such a natural. I would have her back four times a year if I could.” Russell and her band play an eclectic blend of folk that is woven from blues, country, pop and traditional music to form a unique sound. She has an expressive voice that is as much at home on a whispery ballad as a full-tilt Buddy Holly-styled romp. Her songs deal with the classic themes of songwriting: love, longing and loss – in a distinctive voice.
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In a review of Russell's recent CD, “Live Band Tonight,” Sing Out Magazine wrote, "Claudia Russell is a great performer and a vocalist in the old-fashioned sense. She can really sing. And her band - let’s just say they’re hot. Connect them to the power grid and they’d light up a medium-sized town.” In fact, the gig is a warm-up for the band’s Midwestern tour that takes them to Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Iowa and features live broadcast from Chicago's WFMT and Iowa Public Radio. Russell’s music can be heard online at www.claudiarussell.com or on YouTube for by searching “Claudia Russell.” $15.
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Sat, Jun 21:
7 pm CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY plus SIMON PURE bring a double-dose of bluegrass to The Cage Venue, at Gateway Four Square Church, Agoura Hills; www.myspace.com/thecagevenue. Chris also tells us, “We're also finishing-up our new album, which should be available by July 1. It's called ‘Crooked Man.’” Artists’ info, www.chrisstuart.com.
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Sat, Jun 21:
7-10 pm “DADDY BONE & FRIENDS” at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-450-6052. An evening of music and fun with:
LIZZY WILLIAMS at 7; RIC LASHEVER at 8; DADDY BONE at 9 pm. Artists’ info, www.daddybone.com.
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Sat, Jun 21; 3rd Sat every month; in Lancaster:
7-8 pm “AN EVENING OF ACOUSTIC MUSIC” monthly artist showcase with a featured artist and an open mic, at the Treehouse Café (formerly Health Tree), 2797 W Ave L, Lancaster 93536; 661-478-9039. Event info and lineup at http://desertsongfest.org .
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Sat, Jun 21:
7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SUNG” with MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & THE RIO GRANDE BANK is the “Best of the West” program with the PASADENA POPS ORCHESTRA at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; www.DescansoGardens.org; 818-949-4200. Audience members will be transported to the Wild West when cowboy poet and singer MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY (“Carolina in the Pines” and “Wildfire”) saddles-up with the POPS. From Ennio Morricone's "Once Upon A Time in the West" theme to Jay Livingstone's theme for TV's "Bonanza," Maestra RACHAEL WORBY, the POPS and Murphey will take the audience down the trail of the best of the Old West. (Show runs Fri & Sat, Jun 20 & 21.) Dinner available. Free parking. Reserv recommended. $20.
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Sat, Jun 21; in the OC:
7:30-10 pm SWAY plays their CD release show, with LOSERS LIKE US opening, at The Neighborhood Cup, 1 Journey, Aliso Viejo; 949-716-5100. Release show for the country band’s CD, “Let it Roll.” They tell us, “food, fun, raffle.” SWAY is GINA QUARTARO, PERRY MARTIN, LAURENS VERNOT, & TREVOR HANDS, and LOSERS LIKE US is DAVE SMITH, BILL STORMS, & CLIFF NELSON. Band info, www.swaymusic.com. No cover.
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Sat, Jun 21; in the OC:
7:30 pm CONJUNTO LOS POCHOS plus DAFNI & HER BAND play the “LIVING TRADITION” series at the Anaheim Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; www.thelivingtradition.org; reserv, 949-646-1964 or tinkersown@ca.rr.com.
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The delightful DAFNI has performed live, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and proven a huge favorite of the show’s listeners. She is a multi-instrumentalist and fine songwriter whose originals evoke Billie Holliday, Paul Kelly and Nina Simone, though her songs are just as apt to remind you of the style of Elizabeth Cotton sung by an evocative female vocalist from the 1930s. Dafni gave TttT the world premiere of her most recent CD, “Charlie’s Lonely Sunday.” Info, www.dafni.us.
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CONJUNTO LOS POCHOS scored a “Listener Favorite of 2006” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” with the title track of their album, “Margie’s.” Their songs are in both Spanish & English, with great accordion playing by OTONO LUJAN. Info, www.lospochos.com. (Note: the Palm Wine Boys, previously scheduled, will not perform tonight.) Reserv strongly recommended. $14, $11 for Living Trad mbrs; children under age 18 free w/ paid adult.
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Sat, Jun 21:
7:30 pm “SOUNDS & VOICES OF J-TOWN” is a special Hawaiian music and more concert featuring Grammy nom TIA CARRERE with Grammy winner DANIEL HO, JENNIFER PAZ and MARIKO with THE MUSIC CO., at the Aratani / Japan America Theatre, 244 S San Pedro St, Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles. It’s a benefit concert to kick-off a year-long 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Aratani/Japan America Theatre in Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles. For more than two decades Downtown Little Tokyo Los Angeles has been home to the Aratani/Japan America Theatre, established in 1989 as part of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC). It’s become a symbol of artistic brilliance of Japanese, Japanese-American and Asian Pacific Islander cultural expression, preservation and innovation.
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This one-time concert brings the sounds of classic Hawaiian songs from TIA CARRERE accompanied by DANIEL HO, JENNIFER PAZ sings inspirational new Broadway ballads while the Aratani/Japan America Theatre welcomes community songstress MARIKO with THE MUSIC CO. as she brings her classic dance songs to life on stage. Threaded throughout the evening are poetry and comedic sketches by local poet and performers TRACI KATO KIRIYAMA, KEIKO AGENA and ALISON DE LA CRUZ. “Sounds and Voices of J-Town” illuminates the textured soul of these Asian Pacific American women.
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Grammy nominated TIA CARRERE (Wayne’s World, Relic Hunter, Lilo and Stitch) accompanied by three-time Grammy award-winner DANIEL HO will share some of her favorite classic Hawaiian songs from her newest solo album, Hawaiiana.
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Seattle native and musical leading lady JENNIFER PAZ (Miss Saigon, Evita, The Fantasticks) will share selections from her solo album, Awakenings. Paz brings the bright lights of Broadway with this new collection of ballads and inspirational tunes.
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Simply known throughout Southern California as MARIKO, Mariko Nishizu has been a local singer at community dances and fundraisers throughout the Japanese American Community since the 1970’s. Sounds and Voices will celebrate her journey as an artist in this special homecoming to the Aratani/Japan America Theatre.
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To round out the evening, TRACI KATO KIRIYAMA, KEIKO AGENA and ALISON DE LA CRUZ will offer poetic and comedic interludes linking this amazing collection of textured voices.
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TRACI KATO KIRIYAMA has performed as a solo theater artist and as part of several productions in Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Miami. As a community based artist she has been the leading force behind Tuesday Nights at the Café – a local performing arts venue that began on the steps of the Union Center for the Arts in Little Tokyo.
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KEIKO AGENA is probably best known for her roles as Leila Foster on “Felicity” and Lane Kim on “Gilmore Girls”. Agena is also a big fan of the band Los Denudos and can be scene frequenting their shows and Tuesday Nights at the Café in Little Tokyo.
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ALISON DE LA CRUZ is a multi-disciplinary artist who has toured her solo shows Sungka and Naturally Graceful throughout the country. Locally she has performed at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, Highways Performance Space and the Aratani/Japan America Theatre. She is also the narrator and writer for the full length documentary, Grassroots Rising produced by Visual Communications.
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A “Meet the Artists” reception and benefit raffle (two round trip tickets to any American Airlines destination in the U.S.) immediately follows the concert, on the plaza. Proceeds from the concert and raffle go to theatre equipment upgrades to sustain the Aratani / Japan America Theatre’s ability to showcase extraordinary artistry in Los Angeles. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this concert, by contacting Johnny Mori at 213-628-2725, ext 139 or mori@jaccc.org. For tix, call the Box Office at 213-680-3700 (Mon-Sat, 12-5 pm) or www.jaccc.org. Tix $45 balcony, $50 orchestra, $100 VIP.
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Sat, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. New in April, 2008. Performers have included DAVID SERBY, GRANT LANGSTON, 29 MULES, BOB WOODRUFF, OLD BULL, PSYCHEDELIC COWBOYS, PAUL CHESNE, NICOLE GORDON, and BUCKSWORTH. Parking: 2 hours free with validation from EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. $3 for the third hour; $1 for each additional 20 minutes; $15 max. Addt’l parking at The Grove, next door. Get validation for their structure from Grove merchants. No cover.
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Sat, Jun 21:
8 pm ROY BOOK BINDER at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Combining country blues, ragtime, bluegrass, and folk music, Roy Book Binder has captured the essence of the front porch bluesman of yore. With this music, he's entertained audiences for over 35 years, not only preserving a rich musical heritage, but earning himself a place alongside the men and women he's long admired. Doors at 7:30 pm. $15.
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Sat, Jun 21:
8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & HILONESOME with special guests RICK CUNHA and DAN SANKEY at The Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills 91344; Tix & info, 818-282-9001, www.pickinparlor.com. Susie and the band bring their brand-new CD, “GREEN KENTUCKY BLUES,” produced by LAURIE LEWIS, for a live performance of all its tracks and much more. Susie has performed live, numerous times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where her Appalachian mountain roots meet new bluegrass. One reviewer wrote, "Susie Glaze does something with a song that only great singers can do...she grabs hold of a song's deepest emotion and purpose and wraps it tightly around your soul." Folk music legend Jean Ritchie has called Susie Glaze "a fresh young voice - a communicator - to me the most important of qualities in a singer..." and Bluegrass Unlimited calls her "an important voice on the California Bluegrass scene." Susie's last CD "Blue Eyed Darlin'" had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” then went on to win the Just Plain Folks 2006 Music Award for Best Roots Album, with over 70,000 people voting in the selections. Before that, the CD won Folkworks Magazine's pick for “Best Bluegrass Album of 2005.” Susie’s long-awaited new CD was produced by bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis in a series of Southern California concerts. "Green Kentucky Blues" features nationally-recognized artists HERB PEDERSEN, DENNIS CAPLINGER, TOM & PATRICK SAUBER, MIKE WITCHER, LAURIE LEWIS, TOM ROZUM, RICK CUNHA, BILL BRYSON and ROB CARLSON.
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Tonight, Susie and her Hilonesome Band play the entire new CD live, from start to finish, with hot Southern California bluegrass players collected to showcase the songwriting mastery of lead guitarist ROB CARLSON, whose seven songs on this new album will likely receive plenty of radio play. These and songs of Jean Ritchie, Iris Dement and Bob Dylan comprise the program.
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Susie had this written about her in Entertainment Weekly: "...she can blow the roof off any joint lucky enough to book her." Info, www.susieglaze.com. Doors at 7:30 pm. $20.
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Sat-Sun, Jun 21-22:
8 pm MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & THE RIO GRANDE BANK, with the PASADENA POPS, at Descanso Gardens in La Canada-Flintridge; 626-584-8833. Runs Fri, Jun 20-Sun, Jun 22.
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Sat, Jun 21:
8-10 pm HIGH HILLS at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583. This all-girl bluegrass band has opened for The Dixie Chicks. In addition to High Hills' two CD's, "Coming Home," and "Leaves on the River," band-member Laura's brand new fingerstyle guitar CD, "Something Blue," will be available for sale at this show. Tix on sale on June 7; $15.
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Sat, Jun 21:
8 pm PERLA BATALA at the “Caltech Presents” series, outdoors on Caltech's Beckman Mall, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652 or 888-222-5832. Grammy nominated vocalist, composer, and arranger Perla Batalla takes the timeless songs she heard growing up and molds their rhythmic and melodic forms to create a cross-pollination of trend and tradition. Born in Los Angeles, Batalla's father was a musician who owned a popular Spanish-language record store. She first gained international attention as a backup singer for LEONARD COHEN, who later encouraged her to embark on a solo career. Perla released her debut "Perla Batalla" on the Warner/Discovery label in 1994. Parking for Beckman Mall at 332 S Michigan Av, Pasadena (south of Del Mar Bl). Food and beverages available for purchase on site from Manna Mexican. This event is open to the public, free of charge, and no tickets are required.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Santa Barbara:
8 pm ANNA BENTHOLM-JENSEN at North Star Coffee, 916 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-965-5593; www.northstarcoffee.com. Anna is from Denmark, making her second US tour. We heard her last time she was in L.A., and she has some fine original songs, in English.
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Sat, Jun 21; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Sat, Jun 21; in Seattle:
8-10 pm THE WHATEVERLY BROTHERS and BOWI play the “Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert” series at the The Boat House at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, in the new Lake Union Park, Seattle, WA. Hosted by Phillip Morgan. Info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html.
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THE WHATEVERLY BROTHERS present “A blending of the finest traditions of vocal harmony: homemade three layer harmonies with instrumental frosting! Drawing from a rich and varied musical history, The Whateverly Brothers harken to the folksinger tradition that: “No musical style is sacred!” Weigh Anchor! Raise the Glass! Sing Along! You might also recognize them as CHRIS GLANNISTER, MATTHEW MOELLER, and DAN ROBERTS.
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BOWI presents “Kickin’ Celtic Music! For years, Seattle-based BOWI has been entertaining audiences with a blend of traditional Celtic music and unique energy. The BOWI sound encompasses a wide range of music including driving jigs and reels, exciting vocals, and beautiful ballads.” Info, www.bowiband.com.
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Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youths and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member of venue in advance to gain entry. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Sat, recurring:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “WEST VALLEY HOOT” Group Singing in Woodland Hills; call for loc, 818-887-0446.
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Sat, Jun 21:
THE CHEATIN' KIND plus GROOVY REDNECKS do a mostly electric show at The Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; 310-390-1328; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar; music series hotline 310-250-1317. They tell us they’ll “celebrate the summer solstice in our own particular fashion.” THE CHEATIN' KIND also tells us they are now working with JOEY VERA (Armored Saint, Anthrax, Fates Warning) as their new producer and engineer. They say, “Stay tuned for what transpires!” No cover, artists play for tips.
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Sat, Jun 21:
9 pm ANTHONY RIVERA & THE RAINING HORSESHOES at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Sat, Jun 21:
9 pm “THIRD SATURDAYS” show with THE CHEATIN' KIND and GROOVY REDNECKS at The Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317.
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Sat, Jun 21, in Big Sur:
9 pm ”SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION” with LAURIE LEWIS AND THE RIGHT HANDS (TOM ROZUM, SCOTT HUFFMAN, CRAIG SMITH and TODD PHILLIPS) at Chappellet Barn, Big Sur, CA. Info, lukiecv@yahoo.com.
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Sat, Jun 21:
9:30 pm-closing NICK PETERS & MARCK SMITH at Café Mundial, 514 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-303-2233; www.cafemundial.net. Marck tells us, “This may be our last gig there for the summer, so come on out and help us celebrate a year-and-a-half of bringing great music to Monrovia. There is no cover and Café Mundial is a very cool, stylish restaurant with excellent food and a great wine list in the heart of Monrovia's Old Town. Their web site has menus, wine list and other details. We will be playing two sets, including some new original songs and old favorites for your listening and toe tapping pleasure. If you're free that night, come on down, have a glass of wine or a bite to eat (they have wonderful desserts... their chocolate soufflé is to die for), sing along and share in the fun! If you want dinner or dessert, be sure to get there early to get a good seat and get your order in… they usually close the kitchen about 9:30 pm or so.”
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recently moved from Friday night to this new time.
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SUNDAY, JUNE 22
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Sun, Jun 22:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Sun, every week:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Also, free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun; repeats every fourth Sun:
11 am-4 pm OLD TIME MUSIC JAM, TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN FIDDLE AND BANJO, hosted by BRETT WALLER, at Audubon Nature Center, Debs Park “in the Arroyo,” 4700 N Griffin Av, Highland Park; off the 110 Fwy. Link to the Audubon center has a map: http://www.audubon-ca.org/debs_park.htm. Enter through the main portal of the Audubon center, out to the grounds, pass the pond and wind up the path to under the shade of the old pepper tree. Info, call Brett, 323-441-2113.
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Sun, Jun 22:
11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm JAMBO brings roots music to the Skirball Family series’ Summer Family Performances, at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Jambo takes audiences through the roots of American music. Show is included with Museum admission.
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Sun, Jun 22:
Noon-8 pm “MALIPALOOZA” at Malibu Bluffs Park, crnr of Malibu Canyon Rd & Pacific Coast Hwy; www.Malipalooza.com. Lots of music, including, at 7 pm, KELLY’S LOT, who have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Sun, every week:
Noon-3 pm “AMERICANA BRUNCH” with different live performers each week, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027. Hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff W, who David Serby says, “Not only puts these Sunday shows together, but he spins some serious old school country, honky tonk and rockabilly music, too.”
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Sun, every week:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun; 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun; repeats every fourth Sun:
1-5 pm BLUEGRASS JAM at Torrance Elks Lodge, 1820 Abalone Av, Torrance. Info, Bill Elliott, 909-678-1180 or Bob & Lynn Cater, 310-678-1180.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, Jun 22; in Oakland:
2 pm 3rd Annual “BLUEGRASS FOR THE GREENBELT” with LAURIE LEWIS AND THE RIGHT HANDS (TOM ROZUM, SCOTT HUFFMAN, CRAIG SMITH and TODD PHILLIPS) with THE WRONGLERS and HOT BUTTERED RUM at Dunsmuir Historic Estate, 2969 Peralta Oaks Ct, Oakland. Benefit Concert for Greenbelt Alliance, benefit concert / festival to raise funds for and awareness of the organization. $25 mbrs, $40 gen’l, children under age 12 are free.
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Sun, Jun 22; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Sun, Jun 22:
3 pm ROBBIE FULKS does a matinee at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGuWUpziC_o and click on ‘Cigarette State.’ If this does not make you call-in for a reservation to see, and hear, Robbie Fulks, you need some musical help.”
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ROBBIE FULKS is a country musician with 8 records, including his latest, "Revenge!" His radio show, "Secret Country," is heard on XM. His writing has appeared in GQ, Playboy, Blender, Journal of Country music, and Dacapo's annual "Best Music Writing" series. He has written the musical scores for films and TV shows, and twice served as a judge at the Guitar Flatpick Competition at Walnut Valley, Kansas. As producer, he has overseen recordings by DALLAS WAYNE, GEORGE JONES, and MAVIS STAPLES, and others. His songs have been covered by SAM BUSH, ROSIE FLORES, JOHN COWAN, and many others you may or may not know. His commercial work includes music for Bud Lite, Applebee’s, Old Style, and McDonald’s. His TV & radio performance credits include "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," "Austin City Limits," NBC's "Today Show," NPR's "Fresh Air With Terry Gross," "The Laura Ingraham Show," and the “Grand Ole Opry.” His live performances feature his original compositions, both light "Real Money", and dark "She Took A Lot Of Pills and Died," as well as lots of flatpicking and improvisation. $15.
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Sun, recurring:
3-5:30 pm JAZZ COMPOSERS WORKSHOP at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sunday.
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Sun, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
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Sun, Jun 22; live theater:
4 pm TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’ “SUMMER AND SMOKE” for “L.A. Theatre Works” at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This sensuous play tells the story of a repressed minister's daughter who secretly longs for a man who is focused only on sexual conquest. Runs Wed, Jun 18 to Fri, Jun 20 at 8 pm; Sat, Jun 21 at 3 pm; Sun, Jun 22 at 4 pm. Skirball Members eligible for discount; gen’l $47 & $39.50; $20 students.
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Sun, every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” country & roots series runs weekly through the spring and summer at The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. All ages, no cover.
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Sun, Jun 22:
6 pm NEIL MORROW performs, and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 6, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun, Jun 22; in La Mesa:
6 pm TRAILS & RAILS play the “Sundays at Six Concert Series,” in the Amphitheater at Harry Griffen Park, 9950 Milden St, La Mesa; www.ci.la-mesa.ca.us.
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Sun, Jun 22:
7 pm MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO plus a special “in-the-round” opener, with SALLY DWORSKY, ANDREW TABB, & JASON MANDELL (U.S.Mail Band), at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917.
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Voted #1 a cappella band in the U.S., since they performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” they continue to receive great acclaim across America. Moira Smiley & VOCO sing powerful, emotional music with lush harmony and the delicious vaudevillian combo of cello, accordion and banjo. Sprinkled throughout their rebel-harmony songs are rompin' stompin' choreographed body percussion sets, arranged by the beautiful and formidable Moira Smiley. The four members of VOCO create “post-folk,” improvisation-built songs that dig-into old Americana and Eastern European sounds, creating original music and new fruits from the old songs, roots Americana to Bartók, ethereal to gritty.
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SPECIAL OPENING, ARTISTS-IN-THE-ROUND: No less than “A Prairie Home Companion” host GARRISON KEILLOR says SALLY DWORSKY has “the voice of an angel,” and the Minnesota-born songwriter has spent the last ten years touring and writing songs with the best in the folk and pop songwriting world; artist info, www.sallydworsky.com.
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ANDREW TABB, from Portland, Oregon, plays powerful finger-style guitar, and writes emotional, playful songs - recently recording a new EP. Info, www.andrewtabb.com.
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JASON MANDELL is one-half of the remarkable new vintage-country performing-songwriter duo, U.S. MAIL BAND, recently featured in the L.A. Times and curiously enough on non-folk-friendly KCRW. Band info, www.myspace.com/usmailband. $18.
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Sun, Jun 22:
7 pm ROY BOOK BINDER at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. $16.
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Sun, Jun 22; in Los Osos:
7 pm New England fiddler LISSA SCHNECKENBURGER plays a House Concert in Los Osos; reserv gets loc, at stu@helmintoller.com or 805-534-9021. Artist info, www.lissafiddle.com. (Previous info that appeared elsewhere was incorrect.) $15 at the door.
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Sun, every week:
7 pm PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP WITH MARC PLATT at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member in advance to gain entry. Limit 10 performers per week. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/workshop.shtml. Each week's workshop is $20, with all proceeds to the venue.
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Sun, every week; on broadcast & web radio:
7-9 pm "FOLKSCENE" on 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 in Santa Barbara, and at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a performance-interview, recorded live. In February, the show celebrated its 37th year on the air. Info, www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, every week; on web radio:
7 pm On-air interview on “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by Dave Strauss. Listen at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live broadcast featuring interviews, music and live performances by Los Angeles-based songwriters. It airs (on the web) every Sunday at 7 pm Pacific time.
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Sun, Jun 22:
8 pm MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & THE RIO GRANDE BANK, with the PASADENA POPS, at Descanso Gardens in La Canada-Flintridge; 626-584-8833. Runs Fri, Jun 20-Sun, Jun 22.
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Sun, Jun 22:
8 pm ANNA BENTHOLM-JENSEN at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; 310-450-6052; www.thetalkingstick.net. Anna is from Denmark, making her second US tour. We heard her last time she was in L.A., and she has some fine original songs, in English.
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MONDAY, JUNE 23
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Mon, Jun 23:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Mon, Jun 23:
10 am ANDY RAWN plays the “Monday Morning Concerts for Children” free series at the Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park 91303; 818-347-9419. Requires reserv at 818-347-9938. ANDY RAWN performed Mephistopheles in Gounod’s “Faust” on a U.S. tour and sang recently in solo concerts with a trio honoring American Songwriters. His beautiful, dramatic voice is in the tradition of EZIO PINZA, the most famous romantic basso of the 20th century. The Valley Cultural Center's children’s series places professional musicians in an intimate, educational setting with five hundred K-5th grade children each week throughout the summer. Exposure to music at an early age has been proven to increase academic achievement in math and language and increased comprehension and communication skills. The joy of music and song in our daily lives strikes a personal chord and is invaluable in bridging the gap between peoples of varying cultures and ethnic backgrounds. This interactive program includes a brief history lesson of each musical style, a dynamic performance with selected children invited to the stage, and an opportunity for children to ask questions of the performers. Monday Morning Concerts for Children serves 6,500 young students each season.
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Mon, Jun 23:
7:30 pm “FIDDLE WORKSHOP” with New England fiddle wizard LISSA SCHNECKENBURGER at Jan Tappan's home in Pasadena. Reserv by email, fiddlechris@gmail.com or 626-793-3716 but they say, “Calls can't be returned - email is best!” Artist info, www.lissafiddle.com. $20 per person.
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Mon, Jun 23:
8 pm PURE DROP brings Irish Pipes & Whistle to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. The duo known as Pure Drop brings amazing acoustic music to venues, with a lively mix of traditional dance tunes and the odd somber Irish song air. Listeners sometimes dance, sometimes sit back and relax as the duo transports them to the four corners of musical Ireland. JOEY ABARTA and KIRA OTT, both of the late and delightful band CIUNAS, have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” They have been performing music together for the past six years, traveling to study music in Ireland, and playing together with two popular Los Angeles-based bands. They have shared the stage at The Los Angeles Music Center, The Ford Amphitheater, The Millpond Festival, numerous small venues and Irish pubs in the US and in Tokyo, Japan. Now they bring their energy and shared love for the traditional music of Ireland to the intimate musical setting of the Coffee gallery Backstage.
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JOEY ABARTA, on uilleann pipes and tin whistle, is one of the most gifted and versatile musicians performing traditional Irish music and teaching on the West Coast today. Joey's piping is both lyrical and rhythmic.
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KIRA OTT, on fiddle, has been performing since age 17. Her playing is often heard around L.A. in sessions and in a number of local bands. Kira often studies in Ireland with some of the greatest traditional fiddlers alive today. She has taught fiddle workshops at the California Traditional Music Society’s CTMS Solstice Festival and is a private fiddle teacher in the Los Angeles area. Reserv recommended, as this may sell-out. $15.
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Mon, Jun 23; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 24
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Tue, Jun 24:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Tue, Jun 24:
Noon-2 pm SUGARWALL brings pop music to the “Pershing Square Lunchtime Concert Series” at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. Ride the Red Line subway to the Pershing Square Station and avoid expensive downtown L.A. parking. Grab a take-out lunch across the street, and enjoy a FREE lunchtime concert downtown.
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Tue, Jun 24:
7 pm THE WATSON TWINS at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Celebrating the release date of their new album "Fire Songs" on Vanguard Records. "The Watson Twins live and breathe ochre-tinged folk-rock, each track sinking into the twilight - most often drowsily but with a thunderous undercurrent..." - Filter Magazine. Free.
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Tues, Jun 24; every 4th Tue:
7-8:30 pm “COMMUNITY FOLK MUSIC JAM” led by Bea Romano & Jim, it’s a traditional folk music jam at the Barbara J. Riley Center, 7810 Quill St, Downey 90242; 562-904-7226. Bring your acoustic instrument(s) and join in. Bea says, “It's a lovely facility. We hope you will enjoy playing / listening to music. Bring your acoustic instruments and join in the fun. There are plenty of armless chairs. Best of all, it's free!”
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Tue, Jun 24; every Tue, Jun 3-Aug 26:
7-9 pm FRANK CATALANO plays this week’s “WINE, JAZZ & MOONLIGHT” 5th annual summer series at the Hollywood & Highland Center. Enjoy free concerts by some of the country's top jazz performers on summer Tuesday evenings in the central courtyard of Hollywood and Highland Center. The event is FREE to the public and a wine tasting donation with wine provided by Wente Vineyards benefits Project Angel Food. Come early, and grab some dinner at one of the local restaurants.
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Tue, Jun 24:
7-8:30 pm “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046. Venue is known for its Chinese food; dinner reserv, 323-653-0640. Plenty of parking, $7 cover.
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Tue, Jun 24:
8 pm LISSA SCHNECKENBURGER brings her award-winning New England fiddle playing to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. Lissa performs tonight with DAVE CORY on guitar and COREY DiMARIO on double bass. New England fiddler and folk singer LISSA SCHNECKENBURGER grew up in Maine as an active member of the contra dance community, where she cut her teeth as a musician at a very young age. She has continued to explore music throughout her life, leading to an exciting and continually blossoming solo career. While embracing a diverse pallet of musical influences, she still stays true to her New England roots. Her annual shows in Southern Cal are a favorite of FolkWorks magazine’s editors and writers. She gets feet tapping to lively jigs and reels, and voices singing-along on every sweet chorus of her folksongs.
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Venue impresario BOB STANE says...“And we like her. Many times back. A winner. Bring in your violin students to see how a pro does it.” Sing Out magazine calls her, a “World class fiddler... far from just offering one dance tune after another, simple settings allow the true beauty of the music to shine through."
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The traditional music of New England can be as warm and comforting as a winter fire or as potent and exhilarating as a summer thunderstorm. Fiddler and singer Lissa Schneckenburger is a master of both moods, a winsome, sweet-voiced singer who brings new life to old ballads. She’s a skillful, dynamic fiddler who captures the driving rhythm and carefree joy of dance tunes old and new, specializing in the sprightly New England dance tunes that combine influences from the British Isles and Quebec with homegrown twists that have been evolving since Colonial days. A 2001 graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music with a degree in contemporary improvisation, Lissa has performed around the US and internationally for a growing audience of enthusiastic listeners. She has recorded seven CDs, four solo and three with various groups. Make reservations, this will likely sell-out. $15.
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Tues; every 4th Tue:
8 pm SUZY WILLIAMS and HER SOLID SENDERS play live jazz and jump blues at Temple Bar, 1026 Wilshire Bl, Santa Monica 90401; www.templebarlive.com; 310-393-6607. It’s their new 4th Tue residency, every month, for 2008. They play two sets, 8;30 & 9:30 pm. Jitterbug Janet gives free swing dance lessons at 8:15 & 9:15 pm. Suzy Williams has played Carnegie Hall with Stormin' Norman Zamcheck, performed with Moses Pendleton's Pilobolus dance troupe, and has worked with Van Dyke Parks, Buster Poindexter, Marc Shaiman, Nicholas Ray among many others. Bette Midler, Horace Silver, Roosevelt Sykes, Ann Magnuson, Eubie Blake and Hadda Brooks have praised her passionate singing and vibrant energy. The SENDERS are KAHLIL SABBAGH (band leader and vibes), BRAD KAY (piano), DAVE JONES (bass), NICK SCARMACK (drums), DANNY MOYNAHAN (sax), DAN HEFFERNAN (sax), DAVE WEINSTEIN (trombone) and COREY GEMME (trumpet). Celebrate being alive with Suzy and her swinging 8-piece band, evoking the rockin' dance music of Louis Jordan, and the recent release of “Suzy & The Jtones,” her new ten inch record / CD (www.jtonerecords.com). The NY Times John Rockwell wrote, "Williams is an enormously amusing, endearing presence...with tough, belting authority." “All About Jazz” critic Rex Butters wrote in Venice Beachhead, "Suzy and Her Solid Senders teach old standards (Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Anita O'Day, Fats Waller) new tricks, but it's their originals that will bring you back for more." Read the Santa Monica Mirror article at www.smmirror.com/MainPages/DisplayArticleDetails.asp?eid=6706. Catch ‘em at www.youtube.com/watch?v=rADpTDcq98Y. Artists info, www.puddingbench.com/suzy.htm. $10 cover.
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Tue; repeats every 2nd and 4th Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL MCCARTHY the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm; you can sign-up in advance at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, Jun 24; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Tue, Jun 24:
8:30 pm DAVID REEVES CARPENTER at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; 818-341-0166; www.cowboypalace.com. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25
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Wed, Jun 25:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Wed, Jun 25; 2nd & 4th Wed every month; in Lancaster:
6 pm UKULELE CLUB at Nicks Pizza, 43755 15th St West, Lancaster. Uke players begin arriving about 5 pm, meeting starts at 6 pm. Newcomers welcome.
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Wed, Jun 25; every week, Jun-Aug:
6:30 to 9 pm “CULTURAL ELEVATIONS - Get High on Culture at the Southwest Museum of the American Indian” presents world cinema, “WE OF THE NEVER NEVER” (Australia) (PG)at the Southwest Museum of the American Indian, 234 Museum Dr, L.A. 90065; 323-221-2164; www.southwestmuseum.org. Every Wed, June-August, journey up the hill for a new cultural high at the Southwest Museum, featuring a mix of local and Native American artists and performers. Bring a picnic, enjoy diverse bands and musicians, and view the best of Native and world cinema. View of the city from atop Mt. Washington, and elevate your mind. You can ride the Gold Line light rail to the Southwest Museum station, and hike up the hill.
Free.
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Wed, Jun 25:
7 pm AMOS LEE at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Amos Lee seamlessly glides between blues, soul, gospel and folk with straightforward yet graceful songwriting on his latest CD, "Last Days at the Lodge," due June 24 on Blue Note. Free.
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Wed, 2nd & 4th Wed, every month; in Lompoc:
7-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM” at Southside Coffee Co, 105 S "H" St, Lompoc. Info, call Bill, 805-736-8241.
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Wed, Jun 25:
8 pm LAURIE LEWIS AND THE RIGHT HANDS (TOM ROZUM, SCOTT HUFFMAN, CRAIG SMITH and TODD PHILLIPS) at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City.
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Wed, Jun 25:
8 pm DAMN COYOTES, aka JOHN AMOS & DAVID VIDAL, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. JOHN AMOS’ current CD, “Bending the Light,” has been charting on X-Country XM Radio for almost 3 months now. It has entered the top 100 on the Americana Music Association charts during the last 4 weeks, and is steadily climbing. It was also on the AMA radio “top 5 added” chart, tied with MARSHA BALL and VAN MORRISON in its first week. John is steadily gaining airplay across the country. If you've not heard him, his music is a refreshing blend of acoustic, country, blues and folk rock, with an original twist. John's comfortable humor and stage presence, brilliant lyrics, and fascinating rhythmic fingerstyle guitar work will send you home with a smile.
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DAVID VIDAL plays “cowboy hippy blues,” with infusions of New Orleans funk, hardcore country and huge doses of original whimsy, “brought to a hard boil and turned down to a slow simmer.” He is an outstanding acoustic slide guitarist and award-winning songwriter. His 2006 CD, “Nasty Habit,” was named one of the top 100 releases of the year by the “American Roots” radio Show, and his songs appear in movies, including “My Cousin Vinny,” and television shows, including “Friday Night Lights.”
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Together, as DAMN COYOTES, John Amos and David Vidal combine their substantial talents, so expect an evening of superb entertainment. $15.
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Wed, Jun 25; last Wed, every month:
8-10 pm “HOBO SOUP” monthly folk music evening with performing host “BANJO FRED” STARNER, usually joined by PHIL VAN TEE and KAREN KRANTZ, at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St, in the Old Bank District, downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. The venue is the big lobby of a 1905-era bank building. Fred says it has “a fine sound system, and a no-alcohol good vibe.” FRED STARNER is the officially-named “GRAND DUKE OF HOBO MINSTRELS” by the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Musical funnyman PHIL VAN TEE has taken his homemade cookie-tin banjo to stages everywhere, opening for nearly all the big-name country music acts. Previous guests have included JILL FENIMORE, ORGANIC DEMO, and DADDY BONE. Venue is just down the gated alley between Main and Broadway; it’s a coffeehouse that serves coffee drinks and tasty light fare.
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Wed, Jun 25:
8 pm THE DYSFUNCTIONAL ROMANTICS (PHIL JOHNSON & CHRIS VALENTI) plus ALISON BLOCK and TUPPER & PIPER at The Gas Lamp, in Long Beach. CHRIS VALENTI is that wonderfully funny comedic singer-songwriter who is the self-proclaimed poster child of the failed relationship. He’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Chris tells us, “I've put together a great comedy/music show of my own in Long Beach. If you haven't been [to the venue], the place is one huge room with a very classy atmosphere. There is NO cover charge.” Artist info, www.ChrisValentiMusic.com.
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Wed, Jun 25; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Wed, Jun 25:
8:30 pm COLDWATER CANYON at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, Jun 25; 4th Wed every month:
8:30 pm “FESTIVAL OF THE EGG” the monthly all-female musicians’ event, at the Universal Bar & Grill, 4093 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-2114. $7.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 26
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Thu, Jun 26:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Thu-Sat, Jun 26-28; in Colorado:
"SOUTH PARK MUSIC TOUR & MUSIC INDUSTRY CONFERENCE" in the great South Park of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado (the real and very historic place, not the goofy cartoon town on TV). McGoon Productions presents the 2nd annual event, billed as "A totally unique music experience, located in historic South Park, Fairplay, and Alma, Colorado.” Presenting over 70+ independent musicians from around the globe, in all genres of music, from Americana roots, bluegrass, country, blues, jazz, rock, indie, emo, funk, hip-hop, metal, alternative, reggae and more. Performances on 9 showcase stages, 30+ juried arts, crafts and food vendors, all attracting an average of 5,000+ music fans per day from the surrounding area for the four-day event. It's called "the Highest Independent Music Festival in the U.S.," (presumably based on the altitude). .
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The festival is FREE to the public, on 10 stages over 4 days.
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In addition to the music, it is also a music industry conference on Fri, June 27, where musicians can learn about “branding their band, reaching their audience, touring, getting a record deal, and getting their music on radio, TV, and film.” Industry professionals from Warner Brothers Records, BMI, Blue Metallic Entertainment, Warrior Girls Music, Songsalive! and more will be at the conference, for a networking opportunities.
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On Sat, Jun 28, “Songsalive! Songcamp” (www.songsalive.org.songcamp) is an all-day “focused songwriting camp,” where songwriters and composers can get feedback on their music, collaborate and co-write with guidance of Songsalive! Mentors and co-founder, Gilli Moon.
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An All-Access VIP badge is $50, and get you free food and drinks throughout the weekend, all VIP parties, the industry conference, and the songwriting camp. Info on the entire event, at www.SouthParkMusicTour.com.
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For those who really want to get out of town for an escape with a lot of music, consider the Telluride Bluegrass Festival (thousands of feet higher that South Park) in SW Colorado, June 19-22, then the South Park Music Tour, June 26-29. Now, THAT’s a Rocky Mountain High!
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Thu-Sun, Jun 26-29; in Nebraska:
"THE COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL" in Wahoo, Nebraska, produced by Sharon and Roger Kenaston, is, says Les Gilliam of the THE LES GILLIAM TRIO, "A major event in country music. There will be a host of top country music professionals appearing there." Les will be performing at the Thu evening concert at 6:30 pm, the Fri afternoon concert and the Fri night dance. Info & reserv, 402-687-9594.
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Thu, Jun 26:
Noon-2 pm PRESENT TENSE brings jazz to the “Pershing Square Lunchtime Concert Series” at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. Ride the Red Line subway to the Pershing Square Station and avoid expensive downtown L.A. parking. Grab a take-out lunch across the street, and enjoy a FREE lunchtime concert downtown.
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Thu, Jun 26:
6–9 pm THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS play the “WESTERN FLING” the new series every Thu in June, at the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; 323-667-2000; www.autrynationalcenter.org. Grab your hat and boots and come on down for summer evenings of music, dancing, food, and fun. Dust off your two-step and head out to the dance floor as the Autry presents some of the hottest swing bands from California to Texas. DAVID KATZ, former member of the Swingtime Dancers, the Silk `n' Spurs Dancers, and Sonny Watson's A Team, offers complimentary dance lessons at every event. The Golden Spur Café and Bar is open for business, and the museum stays open until 8 pm. Doors open at 6 pm, dancing until 9. Free for Autry Members, gen’l admission $5 includes museum admission.
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Thu, Jun 26:
7 pm SWAYNE plus BRANT VOGEL provide an unusual early start for tonight’s live music at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. SWAYNE is described as “contemporary country with a sprinkling of bluegrass,” formed by founding members PERRY MARTIN & GINA QUARTARO. Swayne plays 7-8:15, Brant Vogel from 8:30-closing. Live music here 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. No word on whether the regularly-scheduled free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm, will happen at a different time, or at all tonight. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, Jun 26:
7-10 pm THE BONEDADDYS and CROWN CITY ROCKERS, play the opening night dance party at the 24th Annual “SANTA MONICA PIER TWILIGHT DANCE SERIES” presented by Amoeba Music on the Santa Monica Pier; info, www.twilightdance.org; 310-458-8901. This year brings a new 3-hour show format (past years were 2 hrs). Parking near the pier is limited - walk, bike or take the MTA (www.mta.net) or Big Blue Bus (www.bigbluebus.com) or call 310-451-5444 for info. Bike valet starts at 6:30 pm on concert nights, offering safe and convenient parking for thousands of bikes. Santa Monica Pier is wheelchair accessible. THE BONEDADDYS are “L.A.’s favorite Worldbeatniks.” They’re mostly electric - and a perennial favorite with Twilight Dance audiences, bringing their mélange of beats, funk and dance grooves to the Pier since the earliest days of the concert series. The 13 grooves on their new release "waterslide" are a merry-go-round of styles, ranging from funk, rock, blues, Mambo, Soca, Latin, rock-steady and psycho-billy two-step to an Afro-surf twang meets spaghetti-western instrumental; The Bonedaddys are a musical gumbo stirred up in light refracted through a prism called Los Angeles.
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CROWN CITY ROCKERS have been described as “Imagine Herbie Hancock meets A Tribe Called Quest at a party…where the deejay has a Jimi Hendrix hangover…but he’s rockin’ Stevie Wonder and Biz Markie…sounds like the Crown City Rockers are in town!” Okay, so now you know what you’re getting into if you go to this one! Free.
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Thu, 2nd and 4th Thu, every month; in Ventura:
“ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin.
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Thu, Jun 26:
7:30 pm LAURIE LEWIS AND THE RIGHT HANDS (TOM ROZUM, SCOTT HUFFMAN, CRAIG SMITH and TODD PHILLIPS) at Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, Memorial Park, Walnut & Raymond, Pasadena; 626-666-4156. Ride the Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station. Free concert.
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Thu, Jun 26:
8 pm JUNI FISHER plays a benefit concert for Hart High School’s Music Department at Rattlesnake Slim’s Coffee, Tea, and Tack, 23127 Lyons Av, Newhall; 661-877-4165; www.myspace.com/rattlesnakeslims. JUNI FISHER has won top awards in Western music and top songwriting awards, and she has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” In addition, we love the venue’s self-promo: “If you like pre-made concentrated coffee from a plastic bag or tea that comes from concentrate than keep goin’ down Lyons. If you prefer music that is produced by a giant media conglomerate and a computer, than stay away. If your preference for music is generated by Pro-Tools, not by people with talent, than stay away. Yeah, we know that we seem like a hick joint. We would rather be hick than fake. We have the blues all the time. We love Howlin Wolf and Ella. We listen to Billie and Willie. We design our own clothes. We have a nice selection of vintage hand made cowboy shirts perfect for the rockabilly in your family. Oh yeah and we are a tack and saddle shop too. Lets see you try and saddle up at Hollister. We brew our coffee and blend our shakes from beans not bags. We bring in live music Fridays and Satudays. If you want to be on our mailing list than just drop us a line at RattlesnakeSlims@earthlink.net.”
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Thu, Jun 26:
8 pm BANSHEE IN THE KITCHEN at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations 626-398-7917. The all-girl Bakersfield-based band plays Celtic music with eclectic skill and merry abandon. Touring nationally and recording since 2002, the trio has delighted audiences in festivals, theaters, living rooms, and countless other venues from New York to Los Angeles, and even to Japan. They take traditional Celtic tunes, find the sweet spot between old and new, stirring it all up with trademark playfulness and musicality they term “banshee-fying.”
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Russ & Julie, producers, “Russ and Julie’s House Concerts,” say, “Banshee in the Kitchen's performance at our house concert brought the audience to its feet with a standing ovation, and a well deserved encore. Fun, fun, fun!” Critics praise their instrumental precision and flair for arrangement, concert producers love the way they can pack a house, educators rave over their ability to tap into the passion of their students, while audiences applaud the fun and oh-so-musical experience of being with Banshee in the Kitchen.
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On stage, National Champion hammered dulcimer player BRENDA HUNTER, who also plays fiddle, and JILL EGLAND on flute, accordion, and whistle, trade-off inspired flights of lead and counter melody over fine backing by MARY TULIN on six- and twelve-string guitar, and Irish bouzouki. The three trade-off lead and backing vocals on a choice selection of songs, as well as jocular commentary in between. Likely to sell-out. $15.
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Wed, last Wed, every month:
8-10 pm “HOBO SOUP” monthly folk music evening with performing host “BANJO FRED” STARNER, usually joined by PHIL VAN TEE and KAREN KRANTZ, at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St, in the Old Bank District, downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. The venue is the big lobby of a 1905-era bank building. Fred says it has “a fine sound system, and a no-alcohol good vibe.” FRED STARNER is the officially-named “GRAND DUKE OF HOBO MINSTRELS” by the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Musical funnyman PHIL VAN TEE has taken his homemade cookie-tin banjo to stages everywhere, opening for nearly all the big-name country music acts. Previous guests have included JILL FENIMORE, ORGANIC DEMO, and DADDY BONE. Venue is just down the gated alley between Main and Broadway; it’s a coffeehouse that serves coffee drinks and tasty light fare.
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Thu, last Thu, every month:
8-10 pm monthly “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica 90405 (16th Street at Ocean Park); last Thu, every month. A full evening of entertainment from local songwriters, hosted by Maureen Doherty. Songsalive is now booking for various dates in 2007, and seeking singer-songwriters to perform; info: hotline at 310-238-0359 or email usa@songsalive.org; www.songsalive.org. No cover, $5 donation requested.
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Thu, Jun 26; in Fullerton:
8 pm GLENN CASHMAN & THE SOUTHLAND BIG BAND at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. Featuring 14 top LA/OC jazz musicians exploring the unique possibilities of the modern big band, with a musical tribute to legendary bassist HOWARD RUMSEY, ballads, bossa nova, and hard-swinging jazz. Adv tix $20, $25 door; all ages.
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Thu, Jun 26; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 27
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Fri, Jun 27:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Fri-Sun, Jun 27-29; in Northern Cal:
Annual “KATE WOLF MEMORIAL MUSIC FESTIVAL” at Black Oak Ranch, five miles N of Laytonville; info, www.cumuluspresents.com. Featuring the ANI DiFRANCO BAND, GREG BROWN, LOS LOBOS, DAVID LINDLEY, THE WAIFS, JIMMY LaFAVE, TODD SNIDER,TAJ MAHAL TRIO, KEB' MO' BAND, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY w/ NINA GERBER, RUTHIE FOSTER, THE WAILIN' JENNYS, PIETA BROWN, CRIS WILLIAMSON, ROSALIE SORRELS, BLAME SALLY, VANCE GILBERT, THE GREENCARDS, MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO, KEITH GREENINGER, WOODY SIMMONS, LOVE CHOIR, JAMMIN' 101 W/SID LEWIS, CHRIS CASWELL, and more.
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This year’s festival is dedicated to the memory of the late UTAH PHILLIPS. Full festival pass, incl camping, is $160 adult (adv, by Jun 26) or $180 at gate; youth (age 7-14, w/ adult) is $55 adv, $60 gate; one-day passes (no camping) are $60 adv, $65 gate for adults, $25 adv, $27 gate for youth. Age 6 and under, free w/ adult. See their site for info on area lodgings.
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Fri, Jun 27:
6:30-10 pm “DANCE DOWNTOWN” presents swing dance music with a live band (tba), at the Music Center Plaza, 135 N Grand Av, downtown L.A.; 213-972-3660; www.musiccenter.org. Dance floor provided. You don't need a partner. No matter what your dance style of choice or level of expertise, spend a Friday evening dancing under the stars on the Music Center Plaza. UPCOMING EVENTS: Bollywood / Bhangra on July 11; Samba on July 25. Information is subject to change. In case of rain, events are cancelled. Parking available in the Music Center garage for $8 (weekends). Public transit, on MTA’s bus or the Metro Red Line subway, is available; info at 1-800-Commute (weekdays) or www.mta.net. Free event.
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Fri, Jun 27; repeats 4th Fri, every month:
7:30 pm monthly “COFFEE HOUSE AT THE ONION” is an OPEN MIC at The Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, 9550 Haskell Av, North Hills. Songmakers tell us, “A great place to showcase your new stuff.” Coffee & cookies available (in return for your donation). Free event.
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Fri, Jun 27:
8 pm THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS plus THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS share the night at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001, reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com.
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THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS are four-time winners of a top award, voted the international WMA “Western Swing Group of the Year” in 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007. This is a special treat, as the Coffee Gallery Backstage brings these two groups together for the first time. It'll be a fine evening of lively Western music and fun.
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Meanwhile, back at the ranch…
THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS tell us their “official CD release party" will be announced soon. Artists’ info, www.TheTumblingTumbleweeds.com and www.texastrailhands.com. (Was prev billed as DEVON DAWSON with the Tumbling Tumbleweeds.) Tix for tonight, $18.
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Fri, Jun 27:
8 pm ALVERADO plays at Rattlesnake Slim’s Coffee, Tea, and Tack, 23127 Lyons Av, Newhall; 661-877-4165; www.myspace.com/rattlesnakeslims. We love the venue’s self-promo: “If you like pre-made concentrated coffee from a plastic bag or tea that comes from concentrate than keep goin’ down Lyons. If you prefer music that is produced by a giant media conglomerate and a computer, than stay away. If your preference for music is generated by Pro-Tools, not by people with talent, than stay away. Yeah, we know that we seem like a hick joint. We would rather be hick than fake. We have the blues all the time. We love Howlin Wolf and Ella. We listen to Billie and Willie. We design our own clothes. We have a nice selection of vintage hand made cowboy shirts perfect for the rockabilly in your family. Oh yeah and we are a tack and saddle shop too. Lets see you try and saddle up at Hollister. We brew our coffee and blend our shakes from beans not bags. We bring in live music Fridays and Satudays. If you want to be on our mailing list than just drop us a line at RattlesnakeSlims@earthlink.net.”
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Fri, Jun 27:
8 pm DUOZONA plays a classical guitar & flute concert for The Long Beach Classical Guitar Society, at St Luke’s Episcopal Church, 525 E 7th St, Long Beach 90808; info & reserv, 562-377-0591, www.lbcgs.net. Phoenix, Arizona-based DUOZONA is rapidly becoming recognized as one of the top flute and guitar duos, excelling at balancing artistic depth, style, and interpretation, with inviting, warm, and often humorous commentary and dialogue. CHARLES & THERESA HULIHAN have been described as “understated yet virtuosic,” their concerts hailed “truly an evening of Bravos” and their programming called “a global trek of sound.” A vibrant and gifted pair that presents a rich and colorful palette of musical styles from all over the world, their joy in music-making and their unique abilities to communicate, both with one another and with audiences, is displayed in their compelling performances and magnetic presence on the concert stage. The duo has been coached by a wide variety of musicians including guitarists Frank Koonce and Sharon Isbin, flautists Ransom Wilson and Trygve Peterson, and oboist Martin Schuring. They first met while students at Arizona State University, and since have performed throughout North America. In June 2006, the duo performed at the first “Wood Flute Conference” at the University of Washington, where they were featured in concert, discussed their work as a duo in symposium, and had the honor of performing in a memorial concert for renowned flutist and wooden flute revival pioneer Felix Skowronek. The duo shares a love for the music of Django Reinhardt, for their college teaching jobs, and for their English Bulldogs. John Duarte, composer-guitarist-writer says, "Duozona are blessed with excellent technique and fine musicality, and are pleasing to watch. What more needs to be said?" Artist info, www.nigroclassicalguitar.com. $10.
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Fri, Jun 27:
8-11 pm CYNTHIA JONES at Club 705, 705 Pier Av, Hermosa Beach; www.club705.com. Cynthia is entertaining for Warner Bros. Music producer Jerry McClain. Her music is currently available on CD Baby.
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Fri, Jun 27; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Fri, Jun 27:
9 pm NEIL MORROW at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Fri, last Fri, every month:
9 pm “LAST FRIDAYS AT THE SCENE” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and MIKE STINSON and guests, at The Scene, 806 E Colorado Bl, Glendale; 818-241-7029; www.thescenebar.com. I See Hawks and Mike Stinson do this monthly gig with a different guest each month, where “The worst stage monitors in California contribute to the fun.” Artists info: www.paulmarshall.net. No cover.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 28
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Sat, Jun 28:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” continues today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Sat, Jun 28; in Fullerton:
10 am LIZARD WIZARD comes to the Kids Series at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-3134; www.themuck.org. Exotic reptiles you get to touch and hold. The “MucKids” shows include a toddlers' area for younger siblings. $15 adults, $10 kids.
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Sat, 4th sat every month:
5 pm monthly JAM, POTLUCK, & CONTRA DANCE at “The Living Tradition” series at the Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; www.thelivingtradition.org; info, 949-646-1964. Dance caller TBD, band TBD. Monthly jam sessions allow musicians (instrumentalists and singers) to learn, practice, and enjoy traditional music in a relaxed atmosphere; held 4th Sat every month, before the contra dance. Jam participants play a wide array of instruments, from accordions to zithers, and a variety of traditional folk tunes, mostly from the Fiddlers’ Fake Book (by David Brody) and the Portland Collection (by Susan Songer). Open to all ages and levels of experience. Vocalists and song circles are also welcome. Slow jam encourages novices. Fast jam challenges old-timers.
Schedule:Jam begins at 5 pm, bring your instruments & join in; free.Slow jam, 5-5:45 pm Fast jam, 5:45-7 pmPotluck, 6:30 pmContra dance introduction lesson, 7:30 pm> CONTRA DANCE is 8-11 pm, $8 per person, $7 for Anaheim residents, $6 for Living Tradition mbrs; children under 18 are free with paid adult.
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Sat, repeats last Sat, every month; in Lancaster:
6:30-10 pm CONTRA DANCE with Live music by DANANCE BAND at Lancaster United Methodist Church, 918 W Ave J (across from Doublz Hamburgers and Popeye's Chicken), Lancaster; info: 661-272-5648 or rm.trochim@verizon.net. Held the last Saturday of every month. Please bring a snack or dessert to share in the potluck. $6 adults, $2 for age 14 and younger.
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Sat, Jun 28:
7 pm HIGH HILLS return to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv, 626-398-7917. The all-girl bluegrass band is a favorite of the venue’s habitués, bringing "Strong solid and energetic bluegrass,” and featuring “superb instrumental leads on fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar and standup bass joined by magical blend of vocal harmonies.” High Hills has headlined with the DIXIE CHICKS, RICKY SKAGGS, The DEL MCCOURY BAND, and others. Humor and multi-instrumental diversity make for a most enjoyable and memorable evening with HIgh Hills. The band is VIRGINIA STARLING with award-winning vocals and fiddle, LESLIE REAGAN with hot mandolin and guitar flatipicking, LAURA SILVERSTEIN with banjo and fingerstyle guitar, and CHERYL RICHARDS on standup bass. Info, www.highhills.com. $18.
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Sat, Jun 28; in Ojai:
7 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. This "Energetic Celtic bluegrass fusion band" performed live on radio's "Tied to the Tracks" last St Patrick's Day, at the time when they had EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on the Celtic music chart. Multiple-year winners of the Orange County Music Awards, they are locally-based, internationally-formidable, musicians on the global Celtic music scene. Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $15 adv, $18 door.
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Sat, Jun 28:
ABIGAIL WASHBURN & THE SPARROW QUARTET (BELA FLECK, BEN SOLLEE & CASEY DRIESSEN) at Troubadour, 9081 Santa Monica Bl, West Hollywood; 310-276-6168. A true Americana super band. Cellist BEN SOLEE has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and recordings from the band and each of its members have been heard on the show. Recently, they performed on NPR’s “All ThingsConsidered,” and PRI’s “The World,” they’re playing festivals all summer, including Bonnaro, Grey Fox, Calgary, Rockygrass, Vancouver, and the Austin City Limits Festival.
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The Nashville Scene writes, "Besides Fleck, the Sparrow Quartet features banjo-playing singer-songwriter Abigail Washburn, fiddler Casey Driessen and cellist Ben Sollee. (For anyone counting, that’s a total of two banjos, zero guitars, a fiddle and a cello—not a bass—to anchor everything.) The group’s vibrant new album— “Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet” (Washburn’s second, not counting two with all-female string band UNCLE EARL)—is full of intricate compositions that flit from Appalachian ruggedness to R&B punch, alongside their takes on traditional Chinese and American folk songs and Washburn’s singing in English and Mandarin Chinese."
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The New York Times says, "Although the revered banjo player Béla Fleck provides expert plucks-and-strums, Abigail Washburn, the Nashville vocalist for the Sparrow Quartet (and a member of Uncle Earl) is the outfit’s main attraction: Ms. Washburn, herself a gifted banjoist, sings with a loose, mesmerizing drawl, and her voice is textured and bright."
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Artists’ info, www.sparrowquartet.com and www.abigailwashburn.com. This’ll sell-out, so get tix right away.
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Sat, Jun 28:
8 pm WILLIE NILE at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. $20.
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Sat, Jun 28:
8 pm DORIAN MICHAEL & KENNY BLACKWELL at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Dorian Michael and Kenny Blackwell bring their justly-famous duet show to The Fret House for a night of ffolk, blues and jazz. Their music has been featured on NPR and across the national scene. KENNY BLACKWELL studied with Jethro Burns before moving to California where he joined fiddler Richard Green's band in '93. DORIAN MICHAEL has played in about every style and in every type of work situation that a blue collar musician could hope. After years of honky-tonk electric guitar, followed by concentrating on solo fingerstyle guitar, this project is a whole new challenge. "The picking is crisp and clean and never hurried, with the emphasis on the melody and not the playing. Thoroughly enjoyable." - Dirty Linen. Doors at 7:30 pm. $15.
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Sat, Jun 28:
8 pm GRIEVOUS ANGELS, ALICE WALLACE, THE COASTS at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. You’ve heard the Grievous Angels CD tracks on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and you’ve heard their fine banjo player, WIL FORBIS, playing live on the show as a member of DAFNI’s band.
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Sat, Jun 28:
8 pm BARRY McGUIRE with JOHN YORK at Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks area); www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts; www.houseconcerts.us. Reserv & directions at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. Features coffee & dessert buffet, to which contributions are welcome. Doors at 7:30 pm. $15, and all proceeds go to the artist.
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(Upcoming at Russ & Julie’s: Jun 28 - Barry McGuire with John York; Jul 26 - Sligo Rags; Aug 16 - The Duo-tones; Sep 13 - Rosalie Sorrels; Oct 11 - Eliza Jane; Nov 7 - Ellis Paul.)
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Sat, Jun 28; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Sat, Jun 28; in the OC:
8 pm ANI DiFRANCO with MARTYN JOSEPH at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sat, Jun 28:
9 pm LARRY DEAN & THE SHOOTERS at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; 818-341-0166; www.cowboypalace.com. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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SUNDAY, JUNE 29
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Sun, Jun 29:
Annual 2008 “LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” closes today, runs Jun 19 through Jun 29, showcasing more than 100 feature films, alongside star-studded premieres, outdoor screenings, live musical performances, and a Family Day. Info and sched at www.lafilmfest.com.
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Sun, Jun 29:
MOVED to Jul 5; see that listing: 10 am RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE play the annual “COWBOY CHURCH” at La Crescenta Church, 4845 Dunsmore, La Crescenta 91213. (Previously announced as Jun 29.)
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Sun, Jun 29:
11 am-noon DAN CROW plays the “KIDS KONCERT” SERIES at The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicam, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; tix & info, www.theatricum.com; 310-455-3723. This year’s series brings a great lineup of shows:
Jun 29 - DAN CROW - silly songsJul 6 - ROBBO - laugh and learnJul 13 - MR. MARK - Topanga's ownJul 20 - PETER ALSOP - sing along funAug 3 - DEBI DERRYBERRY - cheery and funAug 10 - JUSTIN ROBERTS - rockin' kids musicAug 17 - MASANGA MARIMBA ENSEMBLE - Zimbabwe musicAug 24 - RHYTHM CHILD - drums and kidsAug 31 - KATHERINE DINES - lively and uniqueSep 7 - BUCK HOWDY & BB - wild west rompSep 14 - JUMBO SHRIMP CIRCUS - circus folksSep 21 - PARACHUTE EXPRESS - super stars in the world of children’s musicSep 28 - THE SQUEEGEES - good clean fun
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Sun, Jun 29:
1-4 pm “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION BENEFIT CONCERT” with THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS, plus JOE HERRINGTON and GENE CULKIN, in a fund-raising concert for The Western Music Association’s California Chapter, at the “Concerts at the Rancho” series at Rancho Cordillera del Norte, 9015 Wilbur Av (just W of Reseda Bl; crnr of Wilbur & Nordhoff), Northridge. THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS are repeat winners of top awards, voted the international WMA “Western Swing Group of the Year” in 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007. Also on the lineup is JOE HERRINGTON, award-winning cowboy poet, author and storyteller, and GENE CULKIN, tunesmith, recently relocated to the real west from Pennsylvania, where he was ‘purt near the only cowboy singer-songwriter. Everyone in the lineup has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and between his gigs for Disney, JOE HERRINGTON has performed live on the radio show. The WMA is an international nonprofit organization that preserves and promotes western & cowboy music, cowboy poetry, and other western-related arts. This is a great lineup at a fine venue, and very likely to sell-out. Adv tix strongly recommended, from Marilyn Tuttle at 818-365-8709 or LindaleeGreen@earthink.net. $20 for WMA mbrs & their guests; $25 gen’l; $10 for children under age 12.
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Sun, Jun 29:
2-3 pm BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO plays the “Descanso Gardens Summer Concert” series in the Under the Oaks Theater, outdoors, at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; 818-949-4200; www.DescansoGardens.org. Info, 818-774-0570. You’ve heard BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO bandleader BJ DECULUS on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He and his band bring a Fais do-do Cajun dance party to a beautiful garden setting. Dance to the vibrant sounds of bayou music, where the alligators got soul and the good times roll. Good lunches available. Show included with Garden admission. Tram or Enchanted Railroad ride is $3. Free parking. Guild mbrs & children under age 5 get in free. Admission $7 gen’l, students & srs $5, children (age 5-12) $2.
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Sun, Jun 29; rock-opera:
“THE WHO’S TOMMY” with ALICE RIPLEY & NONA HENDRYX closes today, runs Jun 18-29, at the Ricardo Montalban Theater, 1615 Vine St, Hollywood 90028. Somehow, the L.A. Times found it, even though it isn’t classical or jazz (usually the only music they acknowledge), and they have named it their “#1 L.A. Times Summer Theater Pick.” Sure, it’s largely an electric performance, but we’re sure you want to know about it. Info & tix, www.TheWhosTommy.com.
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Sun; repeats last Sun, every month:
5:45 pm OPEN MIC at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabesguitar.com.
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Sun, Jun 29:
6 pm LEE HARPER performs, and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 6, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun, Jun 29:
6 pm PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND plays the “Concerts in the Park” outdoor series at Lou Bredlow Pavilion in Warner Center Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Bl, Woodland Hills. The New Orleans-based band brings high kickin' sounds, whether performing at Carnegie Hall or for British royalty, and this music embodies a joyful, timeless spirit. The sponsoring Valley Cultural Committee has an upgraded food court with sixteen vendors serving a variety of food and beverages. The Children’s Play Zone is also upgraded this year with bounce rides, clowns, face painting and balloon artists. Parking is available for a $8 in three nearby parking structures; Califa St between Topanga & Owensmouth and Owensmouth Av between Oxnard & Califa. Proceeds help offset the cost of the concerts. Info on shows and free parking with incentives at VCC, 818-704-1358 or www.valleycultural.org.
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Sun, Jun 29:
7 pm ROY ZIMMERMAN at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv, 626-398-7917. Roy has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” doing his scathingly funny songs about politics and the state of humanity. What's funny about war, poverty, ignorance, bigotry, neo-conservatism, homophobia, greed, lust and fear? Ask Roy Zimmerman. He's been writing satirical songs for twenty years. He’s shared the stage with such diverse talents as GEORGE CARLIN, ARLO GUTHRIE, KATE CLINTON, BILL CLINTON, ARIANNA HUFFINGTON, BILL MAHER, and PAUL KRASSNER, and played a series of shows swapping songs with The Pixies' FRANK BLACK. Zimmerman founded and wrote all the material for the satirical folk quartet THE FOREMEN, who recorded for Warner Reprise throughout the Nineties. As a solo artist, Roy has released five albums.
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A video of Roy’s performance of his song “Creation Science 101” recently made the front page of YOU TUBE and garnered over 730,000 views and 11,000 comments, many of them coherent.
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The Los Angeles Times says, "Zimmerman displays a lacerating wit and keen awareness of society's foibles that bring to mind a latter-day Tom Lehrer." Tom Lehrer himself says, "I congratulate Roy Zimmerman on reintroducing literacy to comedy songs. And the rhymes actually rhyme, they don't just 'rhyne.'" Joni Mitchell adds, "Roy's lyrics move beyond poetry and achieve perfection." Your editor says, “Highly recommended. Some of Roy’s funniest songs need to be heard before the November election.” $15.
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Sun; repeats last Sun, every month; in the OC:
7-9 pm monthly “ORANGE COUNTY SONGSALIVE! SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” at Spires Restaurant (in the Meeting Room), 13030 Goldenwest Av (crnr of Garden Grove Bl), Westminster 92683; 714-636-0442; event info, 714-333-8222 (Rodney). Songwriting workshop, critique session and songwriting exercises. Event gathers songwriters to share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the global Songsalive! songwriting communities. First half is an in-the-round workshop where writers present one song each (on tape, CD or live) followed by a guest speaker or industry discussion in the second half, with time to talk and network. Moderated by Rod O'Riley. Directions, info, www.songsalive.org/losangeles.
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Sun; repeats last Sun, every month:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; 909-624-2928. Sign-ups at 7 pm. $1 cover.
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Sun, Jun 29:
9 pm BRIAN TRAVIS BAND opens for British Rockers GENE LOVES JEZEBEL at Safari Sam’s, 5214 W Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027. BRIAN TRAVIS has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” While Brian and his band are fine acoustic players with recorded acoustic tracks, we expect this show will be mostly electric, even before the British rockers hit the stage. GENE LOVES JEZEBEL features JAY ASTON and JAMES STEVENSON (current guitarist for THE ALARM and CHELSEA). Hear their music at www.myspace.com/therealglj. Doors at 8 pm. Artists’ info and adv tix, www.myspace.com/briantravisband. $10 adv; $15 at door.
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MONDAY, JUNE 30
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Mon, Jun 30:
10 am THE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND plays the “Monday Morning Concerts for Children” free series at the Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park 91303; 818-347-9419. Requires reserv at 818-347-9938. THE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND has traveled worldwide spreading their mission to nurture and perpetuate the art form of New Orleans Jazz. Whether performing at Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center, for British Royalty or the King of Thailand, this music embodies a joyful, timeless spirit. The Valley Cultural Center's children’s series places professional musicians in an intimate, educational setting with five hundred K-5th grade children each week throughout the summer. Exposure to music at an early age has been proven to increase academic achievement in math and language and increased comprehension and communication skills. The joy of music and song in our daily lives strikes a personal chord and is invaluable in bridging the gap between peoples of varying cultures and ethnic backgrounds. This interactive program includes a brief history lesson of each musical style, a dynamic performance with selected children invited to the stage, and an opportunity for children to ask questions of the performers. Monday Morning Concerts for Children serves 6,500 young students each season.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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