Pete Seeger on Letterman tonight! Sep 29, 2008

Tonight, Monday, Sep 29: PETE SEEGER, GUY DAVIS, plus MAMMALS members TAO, GUY, JAKE & RUTHY on the CBS “Late Show with David Letterman.”
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Info, http://lateshow.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/
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NEWS FEATURES, Sep 28 edition, Acoustic Americana Music News 2008

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Here are the hottest pieces of up-to-the-minute news. Our editor has just returned from an extended and epic adventure, off-line, in the High Sierra. Hundreds of notices of events arrived in email while we were away, so the next calendar update will be hefty. And in case you were wondering, the annual MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL near Bishop, CA, was wonderful!
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"Tied to the Tracks"
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC NEWS
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NEWS FEATURES for September 28, 2008
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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WELCOME to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS, our weekly news feature companion to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC CALENDAR. Here, you’ll find news for artists and music fans alike, ranging from the immediately useful to the merely informative, from gig opportunities and festival deadlines to early bird discounts, from venue openings and closings to career tips, and hot tips for acoustic music fans.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar with frequently updated posts of upcoming events well into 2009, is available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and various other places around the web. We post links for current editions on our Myspace page, but new editions of the calendar are no longer there. Myspace has made changes that limit the size of posts, and that makes it far too time-consuming and ponderous to post the calendar there in far too many small pieces.
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Our myspace site, www.myspace.com/laacoustic is still the place to go for news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and its new TV counterpart that launches soon.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES always post separate from the calendar.
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MOST RECENT previous News Features posted SEPTEMBER 10, 2008, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/09/news-features-acoustic-americana-music.html
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Most recent previous News Features posted SEPTEMBER 5, 2008, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/09/news-features-sep-5-edition-acoustic.html
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Recent months’ editions are available on Blogspot at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com; older archived editions are available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button and scrolling, and if you don’t see what you want, then journey farther back by using the “older entries” button and scrolling, as many times as necessary. You can go all the way back to when acoustic music was made by trees crashing to the floor of the primeval forests when the dinosaurs got too rambunctious.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Music Calendar & News, or “Tied to the Tracks,” at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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Please don’t send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, can’t be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. So, communicate through the above address (except we’ll be gone for a week and a half, so bear that in mind…)
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NEWS FEATURES:
September 28, 2008
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1) SOUTHERN CAL ARTISTS WIN “WESTERN MUSIC GROUP OF THE YEAR”
The TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, who headline today’s (Sunday) 2 pm fundraising concert for the Western Music Association at the Autry Museum’s Wells Fargo Theatre, just won the top honor Tuesday night from the genre’s other major organization, the Academy of Western Artists. The band’s first recorded tracks debuted on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The Tumbling Tumbleweeds are the 2008 “Western Music Group of the Year,” named by AWA at the awards gala in Garland, Texas. They are also nominated for the 2008 Western Music Association Crescendo (Most Promising Talent) Award, and for the WMA 2008 Duo / Group of the Year.
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There is no Grammy for any aspect of original or traditional western, cowboy, or western swing music, so the AWA and WMA awards are indeed prestigious.
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TUMBLEWEED ROB tells us, “BIG DADDY CADE and I were there at the ceremony to accept the award. We were not expecting to win. We went to show our thanks and extreme appreciation for having been nominated along with the likes of the SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN and THE TEXAS TRAILHANDS, both of whom we respect and admire beyond measure, so when they called our names, [we] just sat there with our mouths open for what felt like an hour before we finally looked at each other and got up to make our way to the stage. We stumbled up in a state of shock and said what we could but we definitely want to thank the Academy of Western Artists and Mr. Bobby Newton for recognizing our efforts and making this incredible honor possible! The awards show was held in the Granville Theater and many of our friends in the Western Arts world were present, including JOYCE WOODSON who won the ‘Western Female Vocalist of the Year’ and CAROLYN MARTIN who won the ‘Western Swing Female Vocalist of the Year!’”
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JIM JONES won the Academy of Western Artists "Male Vocalist of the Year." Complete details on all the awards at www.cowboypoetry.com/sincenews.htm#News
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The Tumbling Tumbleweeds began as a tribute to the legendary SONS OF THE PIONEERS. More on the group and Tumbleweeds Rob, Cade, Chris & R.J., at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com and www.myspace.com/tumbleweeds4 and get the new CD that brought them the honor at www.cdbaby.com/tumblingtumbleweeds
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For info on the concert at the Autry, see our calendar listing.
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2) SAVING INTERNET RADIO – HERE WE GO AGAIN, WITH LITTLE TIME TO ACT
We have visited this subject often, and always it seems that’s because we’re alerting you to act promptly. Web radio is a tale like the “Perils of Pauline,” with the evil Snydley Whiplash-like villain always determined to do her in. Today, the Pauline of the silent film era is internet radio’s PANDORA, along with LIVE365 and hundreds of other smaller webcasters, including the legendary DR. DEMENTO SHOW.
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This time, word arrives from TIM WESTERGREN (tim.westergren@pandora.com) founder of Pandora, that “PANDORA urgently needs your help: Bill Just Introduced to Save Internet Radio.” If you thought we had already won this one, we haven’t.
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Tim says, “After a yearlong negotiation, Pandora, SoundExchange and the RIAA are finally optimistic about reaching an agreement on royalties that would save Pandora and Internet radio. But just as we've gotten close, large traditional broadcast radio companies have launched a covert lobbying campaign to sabotage our progress.”
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RIAA – the Recording Industry Association of America – is basically the shill of the few remaining big labels, while Sound Exchange was spun-off from it by governmental pressure to become the nonprofit watchdog and gate keeper for digital music rights (along with the for-profit DiMA).
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Pandora’s founder continues, “Friday, Congressman JAY INSLEE and several co-sponsors introduced legislation to give us the extra time we need, but the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), which represents radio broadcasters such as Clear Channel, has begun intensively pressuring lawmakers to kill the bill. We have just days to keep this from collapsing.”
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As usual, big money has a vested interest in retaining control. Tim says, “This is a blatant attempt by large radio companies to suffocate the webcasting industry that is just beginning to offer an alternative to their monopoly of the airwaves.”
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Musician CARL GAGE (gage@usa.net) who is proactive in this battle, is succinct when he says, “Internet Radio has been under attack by the major broadcasters since people started discovering that they didn't have to listen to the same 100 or so songs of each genre available on the airwaves, mostly Hip-hop, Rap, Spanish-language stations, Oldies (limited) and Classic Rock & Roll (also very limited).”
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How concerned is Gage? He says, “I don't think I've ever sent an e-mail to all the music lovers in my address book but this one is just way too important.”
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Tim pleads, “Please call your Congressperson right now and ask them to support H.R. 7084, the Webcaster Settlement Act of 2008 - and to not capitulate to pressure from the NAB. Congress is currently working extended hours, so even calls this evening and over the weekend should get answered. If the phone is busy, please try again until you get through. These calls really do make a difference. Representative Elton Gallegly: 202-225-5811.”
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Carl Gage adds, “I urge you to replace [the call to] Gallegly with [one to] your Congressperson, and either call or go to their web site and send an e-mail. OR BOTH! And, if you are not listening to Pandora, Live365 or any of the thousands of independent Internet Broadcasters, take a little time and find out about all of the great music available, much free, some with a reasonable charge to avoid commercials. GREAT STUFF! I broadcast it all over the house with an FM transmitter hooked up to my computer.”
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So, BOB DYLAN’s iconic admonition that “The Times, They Are A’ Changin” – well, it ain’t necessarily so, unless we all speak truth to power to enable variety, choices, and diversity of music that the public – and we ourselves – can hear.
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3) DOES NEW MEDIA = NEW PARADIGMS?
For the second quarter of 2008, US mobile phone subscribers sent and received, on average, 357 text messages per month, compared with making and receiving 204 phone calls a month, according to a Nielsen Mobile survey released Sep 22. The fact that American cell phone users originate more text messages than phone calls is certainly not the same thing as the potential of web radio vs the limited offerings of traditional broadcast “appointment” radio programs, but it is indicative of how quickly people will change behaviors when they perceive advantages. We’ll leave it to the psychologists to explain why sending a text message is preferable to risking two-way communication and (gasp) actual conversational exchange and compromise. But this does have one thing in common with web radio: it demonstrates that people want to do what they want to do when they want to do it, with less latitude for delays and interruptions.
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4) STEVE GOODMAN BOOK GAINS ACCLAIM
The late singer-songwriter Steve Goodman has, for decades, been best-known for his authorship of the song, “City of New Orleans,” the railroad ballad that gave ARLO GUTHRIE his biggest hit song and a best-selling album, “Hobo’s Lullaby.” But there was so much more to Goodman and his music, and his live performances were magic. We reported, when author CLAY EALS was in town, the opportunities for artists to appear with him and perform Goodman’s songs during Eals’ national book tour. Now, Eals’ book, "Steve Goodman: Facing the Music," is benefitting from generous and insightful media coverage. Doug Miller of Major League Baseball filed a comprehensive report on the book (that’ll make sense in a moment), and Bob Elisberg of the trend-setting “Huffington Post” penned an extended first-person column as could only be written by someone who saw Goodman perform. The coverage hasn't all been online. Chicago's WGN-AM had Eals on the air for a pre-game interview, and his hometown local weekly, the “West Seattle Herald,” ran a profile. You can read those and more at www.clayeals.com.
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Clay Eals tells us, “It's difficult to concisely convey the good feelings that emerged from my California tour July 25-28, timed for Steve Goodman's would-have-been 60th birthday. In six events over four days, I was joined by 31musicians who contributed 55 performances of 33 Goodman or Goodman-related songs. Whew! The audiences were strong and engaged, and I was on Cloud 10 the entire time. I cannot thank everyone enough.” The musicians’ photos can be seen on the schedule page of his site.
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Catch a soundboard recording of the complete July 28 event at Moe's Books in Berkeley at: www.moesbooks.com/moes/mondayarchive/2008/080728.htm. Clay says, “It's nicely divided into five parts, each labeled according to the songs therein, making it easy to find the segment you may want from the 2-1/2-hour show.”
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Eals also tells us, “Shortly before I left for California, I learned that DR. DEMENTO, the legendary purveyor of novelty songs and other fun fare over the radio for nearly 40 years, was coming to Seattle to put on a live show Aug 1 at the Triple Door. For decades, Steve Goodman's songs have been a staple of the Dr. Demento Show (syndicated on radio and now on the Internet), and Steve even was a studio guest in 1977 and 1983. For the Triple Door show, the Good Doctor (aka BARRY HANSEN) kindly invited me to introduce Chicago newsman BOB SIROTT's ultra-rare 1981 footage of Steve performing ‘A Dying Cub Fan's Last Request’ while dressed in a Cubs hat and jacket and sitting in the Wrigley Field grandstand. You can see photos of this on the schedule page of my site.” Goodman was a huge Cubs fan, with a repertoire of baseball songs.
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Eals continues, “Two weekends later, on Aug. 16-17, DR. DEMENTO devoted a 20-minute segment of his online show to Goodman and to my biography. The Good Doctor's assessment – ‘a remarkable book ... very highly recommended’ - is deeply appreciated. He went on to say, ‘I'm quite a fan of musical biographies. I've read at least 100, but I have to say that this book about Steve Goodman is like no other one I've ever seen. ... The book comes to 778 pages plus a CD, and you might think that's overkill, but the story never lets up, and besides, it's a real pleasure to read.’”
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5) ANOTHER TAKE ON TODAY’S “COUNTRY” VS “WESTERN” MUSIC
It’s been awhile since our editor, Larry Wines, authored a cover story for FolkWorks magazine on the essential differences between western music - as an essential genre of folk music - and country music, which in the hands of Nashville’s Music Row, has morphed into Red State Trailer Park Rock with a ubiquitous, annoying, and essentially goofy fah-ke ack-a-scent. So, we welcome a fresh take on the subject.
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MARGO METAGRANO, founder of CowboyPoetry.com as a project of the non-profit Center for Western and Cowboy Poetry, tells us, “It's a pleasure to have a new feature, ‘What is Western Music?’ at CowboyPoetry.com, with contributions from the WMA's RICK HUFF and DON CUSIC. Your opinions and comments are welcome: www.cowboypoetry.com/whatiswesternmusic.htm. We'll be posting some of the comments received.”
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Margo adds, “We have a companion feature, ‘What is Cowboy Poetry?’ [at] www.cowboypoetry.com/whatis.htm.”
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There are many Western musicians and cowboy poets featured at CowboyPoetry.com, along with a comprehensive collection of Rick Huff's reviews, the latter available at www.cowboypoetry.com/rickhuffreviews.htm and they have other regular columns and features. News posts daily about western music, poetry, radio, gatherings, new releases, publications, awards, and more, at www.cowboypoetry.com/sincenews.htm#Curren.
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Their most recent e-newsletter is available at www.cowboypoetry.com/news.htm and you can subscribe to that newsletter, free, at www.cowboypoetry.com/subscribe.htm.
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Margo adds, “Your news is always welcome.” In addition to the root url, learn more about Cowboy Poetry at the BAR-D Ranch at www.CowboyPoetry.com/aboutus.htm
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6) CHARLIE GARNER BENEFIT
Charlie was bass player & frontman for DEL REEVES of Grand Ole Opry fame, and he is currently Host of the “Grinder's Switch Hour” Radio Show. Charlie is undergoing treatment for cancer - a tumor on his brain stem - and he needs help with the enormous medical bills. Local musicians in Tennessee have scheduled an Oct 4 marathon benefit at the Centerville Church of Christ Annex, from 9 am-9 pm. They say, “It will be a great day of wonderful entertainment as some of Charlie's friends from the Opry will be there, as well as a host of other great entertainment. We invite you all to attend.” In addition to inviting donations, they will also hold a fundraising auction, and invite you to donate a CD, book, T-shirt, etc, that attendees may buy through bid. Monetary donations can be sent to WNKX Kix 96, PO Box 280, Centerville TN 37033, ATTN: Sheila B, Charlie's Benefit. Write checks to “Charlie Garner Fund.” Info, Woody, 615-418-2164.
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NEXT WEEK, we’ll bring lots more news.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Be sure to check EVERY WEEK for
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+ the extensive and always huge ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC CALENDAR’s event listings at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, or at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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+ news of the “TIED TO THE TRACKS” radio & TV shows coming soon in syndication.
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+ the latest NEWS FEATURES from the acoustic music universe!
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WANT TO CONTACT US?
tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com (Bear in mind, we’re gone for an entire week, plus the bracketing weekends.)
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September 27-30 events update, Acoustic Americana Music Calendar 2008

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Yes, we’re back from a much-needed two weeks away! Recurring events, through the end of the month, are included in this edition.
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If you were to print it, it’s 22 pages of acoustic Americana music events in just four days.
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And, we’re sure there are even more shows that we missed. Our editor has just returned from an off-line, extended and epic adventure in the High Sierra. As time allows, we’ll add more events from the hundreds of notices that arrived in email while we were away. And in case you were wondering, the annual MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL near Bishop, CA, was wonderful!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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September 27 through 30 events, 2008
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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WHY WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM: after a long presence on MySpace, that site suddenly changed parameters to accept only short posts, now requiring a ponderous and VERY time-consuming process to list events in small increments. It’s far too time-consuming. So we began posting the calendar and news on Blogspot. We’ll see how this works, and we welcome your feedback, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com .
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FUTURE EVENTS are posted into 2009. We update often, and we add a BUNCH of concerts, festivals, club gigs, workshops, and recurring events as dates arrive.
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NEWS FEATURES always post separate from the calendar.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES posted SEPTEMBER 10, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/09/news-features-acoustic-americana-music.html
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MOST RECENT previous News Features posted SEPTEMBER 5, 2008, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/09/news-features-sep-5-edition-acoustic.html
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Recent months’ editions are available on Blogspot at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com; older archived editions are available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button and scrolling, and if you don’t see what you want, then journey farther back by using the “older entries” button and scrolling, as many times as necessary. You can go all the way back to when acoustic music was made by trees crashing to the floor of the primeval forests when the dinosaurs got too rambunctious.
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ANNIVERSARIES – things that happened in music, entertainment, and elsewhere in history – are on hiatus. Let us know if you miss them, and maybe that’ll prod us to start doing them again.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Music Calendar & News, or “Tied to the Tracks,” at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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Please don’t send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, can’t be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. So, communicate through the above address (remember that we’ve been gone and off-line for two weeks, so we have HUNDREDS of backlogged emails to open; please so bear that in mind…)
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SEPTEMBER 27 through 30, 2008 EVENTS
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
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Sat, Sep 27 (Sep 26-28); in Sanger, CA:
Annual “HOBBS GROVE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Hobbs Grove Park, Sanger, CA; info, www.krblue.net/index.html. Info, Henry or Nancy Zuniga, at 559-338-0026. Performing are THE DEL WILLIAMS BAND, THE KATHY KALLICK BAND, ERIC UGLUM & SONS, THE GRASSKICKERS, DALTON MOUNTAIN GANG, SAM CRISWELL AND GROUNDSPEED, KENNY HALL & THE LONG HAUL STRING BAND, BALONEY CREEK, HEARTLAND HARVEST, SMILEY MOUNTAIN, KINGS RIVER GOSPELAIRES, THE GRASS LESS TRAVELLED, FRANK SOLIVAN & KIDS ON BLUEGRASS, & COUNTRY GRASS. It’s on a beautiful site with lots of shade, lots of jamming, workshops, concessions and fun. Also a Sunday morning Bluegrass Church, and an instrument raffle to raise money for kids programs. Ice, food, drink and concessions on site. Free camping Fri, Sat & Sun; showers available. There's plenty of room for RV's (no hookups), and lots of shade for tent campers (dry camping only). Music runs Fri 3-10 pm, Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun 10 am-4 pm. Rain or shine, no refunds. Tix at gate, 3 day pass $40. One day only: Fri $15; Sat $20; Sun $10.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Vinton CA (near Reno):
Annual “VINTON COWBOY POETRY FESTIVAL” in Vinton CA; info, Betty Ramelli, 530-993-4692, or bramelli@gotsky.com. JUNI FISHER tells us, “There is a charming Grange Hall in the northeast corner of California, not far from Reno, and it is the site of a delightful Cowboy Poetry Gathering. I will be so happy to join my friends, poets GARY ROBERTSON and JIM PARSONS. Cowgirl singer JUNI FISHER (www.junifisher.net) has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and she is touring her new album, “Gone For Colorado.” She holds more awards than we can count, but here are some: 2007 WMA Song of the Year Songwriter; 2006 WMA Female Vocalist of the Year; 2005 AWA Western Female Performer of the Year; 2005 WMA Crescendo Award.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Tehachapi:
11th Annual “BEAR VALLEY BUCKAROOS GATHERING” with DAVE STAMEY and LARRY MAURICE, in Tehachapi; 661-821-6615. Champion cowboy poet Larry Maurice and multiple-award-winning cowboy singer-songwriter Dave Stamey do a delightful, but rare, duo show. Larry tells us, “This show sells out every year. If you are in that area and think you would like to try for a ticket, make sure you call ahead. It is a guarded-gate equestrian facility and ya can't get in without a pass. No tickets at the door. Some of you folks, this might be your opportunity to see Dave and I together again.”
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Sat, Sep 27; in the OC:
All day (9 am-8 pm) 14TH ANNUAL “HARVEST OF DULCIMERS FESTIVAL” at OC Sailing and Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Pl; Dana Point 92629. Featured teachers / performers include JEFF HAMES, 2006 National Mountain Dulcimer Champion and JEM MOORE, Nationally Acclaimed Hammered Dulcimer Teacher / Performer. Info, www.scdh.org.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 27 & 28; in Julian, CA:
10 am-5 pm 22nd Annual “MENGHINI WINERY ARTS, WINE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” includes music from mandolin windirkind SCOTT GATES. Sat at 4 pm, Bonny Jean with Scott Gates; Sunday morning gospel set with Scott Gates on Mandolin, then 3 pm, The Scott Gates Band.
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Sat, Sep 27; in South Carolina:
“THE ALBINO SKUNK FESTIVAL” in Greer, SC, 4063 Jordan Rd, Greer, SC 29651. With I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., more.
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Sun, Sep 27:
10 am “FAMILY STORYTIME” at the Pasadena Central Library Storyhour Room, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events. A storytime for preschoolers with stories, songs, fingerplays, flannelboard stories, and a short video. For ages 3-5 and their families. No registration required. Free.
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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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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-2 pm “CONTINENTAL DRIFT” Celtic and British Isle folk show, on KUSP in Santa Cruz, includes live performance-interviews with host CINDY ODOM on her long-running show. From the highlands of Scotland to the midlands of England and beyond, it’s traditional and contemporary music from Ireland and the other British Isles, with Celtic lore and Celtic-influenced folk and ethnic music from Europe and North America. Info, playlists, and web simulcast at www.kusp.org.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-1 pm “UNSIGNED MUSIC SHOW” on WPMD with TEE-M and MIKE STARK is “a genre-busting show, where the UNsigned Revolution is on.” On the web at http://wpmd.org. Mike and TEE-M spin CDs 11 am-noon “from cutting-edge indie artists and bands,” (acoustic and electric) then welcome guests at noon, usually for all-acoustic live performances. The show also rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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…continuing daily through Sun, Sep 28:
“ESCAPE TO HAWAII” with HANA HOU POLYNESIA at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, in the Flower & Garden Building. The drums of the islands fill the air as the Hana Hou Polynesia dancers take you on a journey to the islands of Hawaii. From the fast hip shaking of the Tahitian Otea to the graceful stories told through hula, guests will explore the sights and sounds that make Polynesia unique and alluring. “Hana Hou,” a Hawaiian phrase meaning “encore” or “one more time,” is often chanted by audiences after seeing a spectacular performance by this talented troupe. You may have seen some of their dancers featured on Kaiser Permanente’s award winning float in the 2008 Tournament of Roses Parade. It’s amusic-and-dance escape to Hawaii with a Polynesian group that has passion for sharing the beauty and traditions of an enchanting island experience. More at www.hanahopolynesia.com. If you go the right evening, fireworks light-up the skies in celebration of the world’s largest county Fair (Sep 5 & 6, 12 &13, and 19 & 20). Info, www.pyrospectaculars.com.
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…continues daily, through Sun, Sep 28:
THE VAGABOND PIRATES perform at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, on the “A Pirate’s Life” show stage, daily, Sep 5-28. Step back in time with Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of fearsome and funny pirates as they perform lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Two of the pirates battle sword-to-sword, bringing added dimensions to the show. More at www.vagabondtroupe.com.
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Saturdays, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
2 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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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, Sep 27; 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, bring your instruments & join in, beginning at 5 pm; free.
Slow jam, 5-5:45 pm
Fast jam, 5:45-7 pm
Potluck, 6:30 pm
Contra dance introduction lesson, 7:30 pm
> CONTRA DANCE at 8-11 pm is $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, 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, 4th 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, Sep 27:
7 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND with special guest DAN SANKEY at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. They’ve performed live, several times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and Susie has done the radio show live with DAN SANKEY. Even without her extremely talented quest artist, SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND are easily among Southern California's best Appalachia to bluegrass / Americana fusion artists. One radio host 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." Winner of the Just Plain Folks 2006 Music Awards for “Best Roots Album,” and Folkworks Magazine's Pick for “Best Bluegrass Album” of 2005, both for her album, "Blue Eyed Darlin,'" Susie and her Hilonesome Band are hot Southern California bluegrass players collected to showcase the fine songwriting of lead guitarist ROB CARLSON. It's a show featuring songs from the new album "Green Kentucky Blues" and award-winning "Blue Eyed Darlin'" along with mountain standards from the JEAN RITCHIE collection, old favorites from Gillian Welch, Iris Dement and the band’s new version of the Dylan classic "Lay Down Your Weary Tune" (featured recently on Sirius Radio). The band is STEVE RANKIN on mandolin, RODGER PHILLIPS on banjo, ROB CARLSON on dobro and guitar, and FRED SANDERS from THE EIGHT HAND STRING BAND on bass, with guest DAN SANKEY on fiddle (Charlie Otte, the band’s regular fiddler, is elsewhere tonight). Entertainment Weekly writes of Susie, "...she can blow the roof off any joint lucky enough to book her." Artist info, www.susieglaze.com and www.myspace.com/susieglaze. $20.
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Sat, Sep 27:
7-9 pm PIPER~GREY plus author JOEL HARPER and a children’s craft program, at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena 91107; 626-398-5420. The tuneful and harmonious duo of singer-songwriters DAVID PIPER & EARL GREY have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where their recordings had their world premieres. JOEL HARPER wrote “All the Way to the Ocean,” and he is with the Heal the Bay project. Children will participate in environmentally-friendly crafts. $3 cover.
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Sat, Sep 27:
7 pm annual “FIESTA MEXICANA VI – SONES, BAILES Y CANTARES” presented by Star Entertainment & Education Group at the John Anson Ford Amphitheater, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood 90068; 323-GO1-FORD; www.FordTheatres.org; box dinner orders (in adv) 310-652-3797. Viva Mexico! It’s fiesta time at the Ford as the bold colors, spirited movement and myriad rhythms of Mexican music and dance fill the stage in the 2008 edition of this beautifully produced festival. More at www.starconcerts.net. Tix, $48 / $40. Buy 3 or more and pay $39 / $32.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Tehachapi:
7 pm GARY MAZZOLA & JOHN KAMPLAIN perform “ACOUSTIC PLANET MUSIC” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. A long time resident of Tehachapi, Gary Mazzola is well known for his extraordinary singer-songwriter gift and as a principal member of the local arts community. His music has been described as "touching insights to the human condition." Gary is an accomplished musician known for playing a variety of instruments, and as a frequent actor/director with Tehachapi Community Theatre. Artist info, www.garymazzola.com and www.myspace.com/garymazzola. Link to a performance on YouTube at http://www.mamahillybeans.com/calendar.html#083008. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Sat, Sep 27:
7:30 pm “WORLD FESTIVAL OF SACRED MUSIC” presents ENZO AVITABILE & THE SACRO SUD PROJECT at The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; http://getty.edu; parking is $10 (raised from $8 on Sep 10). The Festival comes to the Getty Center for two nights; also see Fri listing, 7:30 pm. Tonight, Enzo Avitabile & the Sacro Sud Project combine voice, saxophone, and launeddas (triplepipe) in a musical journey across time and space. Tix $20 gen’l, $15 students & srs.
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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” this week brings NICOLE GORDON plus BROKEDOWN CADILLAC for an 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. NICOLE GORDON has twice performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and scored a “Listener Favorite” with an original from her “SONGS OF SHILOH” project with MARTY AXELROD. 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, Sep 27; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm COUNTRY JOE McDONALD’s “TRIBUTE TO WOODY GUTHRIE” plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. In his highly-entertaining Tribute to Woody Guthrie, Country Joe McDonald deftly conveys all the charm, talent, and social and political consciousness of the legendary folksinger from Oklahoma. McDonald, whose father Worden shared Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl roots with Guthrie in the ‘20s & ‘30s, opens the tribute with a moving performance of Woody’s best-known tune, “This Land is Your Land,” and ultimately sings 13 Woody Guthrie songs, all in a strong clear voice that doesn’t mimic Guthrie’s style, but conveys the emotion and energy that defines Guthrie. Artist info, www.countryjoe.com/cjmbio.htm. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $22 gen’l, $18 mbrs.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Ojai:
MICHAEL HURWITZ, from Wyoming, plays a cowboy/western music show at the Thacher school in Ojai (open to the public; Don Edwards and Dave Stamey have both played there); info when we have it, or check his website, www.mikehurwitz.com. He was a hit at the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival.
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Sat, Sep 27:
8 pm ERIC ANDERSEN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $20.
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Sat, Sep 27:
8 pm THE ANDY RAU BAND at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. They perform a brand of Americana they call “New Acoustic Folk Rock,” an innovative, up-to-date blend of bluegrass, folk, rock and pop. Andy formed the band 20 years ago (before anyone called the genre Americana) with the intent of showcasing new material, illustrating the versatility of the 5-string banjo and breaking the mold of the homogeneous music that was being played with folk instrumentation. All the musicians are familiar with a wide variety of musical styles which enable each song to shape its own identity without borrowing from old tried-and-true formulas. From the very beginning, and through its continuing evolution, the band has always been true to its roots which reflect the diverse musical backdrop that is Southern California. Doors at 7:30 pm. $15.
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Sat, Sep 27:
8-10 pm LISA O'KANE at Vitello's Italian Restaurant, 4349 Tujunga Av, Studio City; 818-769-0905; www.vitellosrestaurant.com. Upstairs 100-seat supper club room featuring LISA O'KANE accompanied by PETER KAVANAUGH on guitar. Lisa tells us, “Long time established venue with fabulous Italian food! Come bring friends for dinner and a wonderful night of music. Perfect for couple’s date night! Children welcome. Please call for reservations for dinner.” $10 cover charge, or pay $15 and get entry plus a copy of Lisa's new CD, "It Don’t Hurt." Artist info, www.lisaokane.com.
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Sat, Sep 27:
8 pm THE CAPITOL STEPS at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, at College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 91355; www.canyonspac.com; 661-362-5304. The Capitol Steps, the only group in America that attempts to be funnier than Congress, returns to the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons following their hilarious engagement there two seasons ago. They've "been there, done that," because they are a troupe of current and former congressional staffers who comedically interpret events and personalities on Capitol Hill, in the Oval Office, and in other centers of power and prestige around the world. They take hilarious looks at sometimes serious issues. Capitol Steps has recorded two dozen albums and been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS and PBS, as well as National Public Radio. Tix go on sale Jul 16; prices tba.
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Sat, Sep 27:
8 pm BORROMEO STRING QUARTET at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com. Revered by the Chicago Tribune as “a remarkably accomplished string quartet, not simply for its high technical polish and refined tone, but more importantly for the searching musical insights it brings,” the award-winning Borromeo String Quartet is one of the most sought-after acts in the world. Extolled by audiences and critics, the group has been described by the Los Angeles Times as “a live act, caught in the moment.”
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Program:
BACH - Fugue in c-sharp minor from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I
BEETHOVEN - Quartet in c-sharp minor, Op. 131
BACH - Fugue in b minor from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I
SHOSTAKOVICH - Quartet No. 8 in c minor, Op. 110
BEETHOVEN - Grosse Fugue in B-flat Major, Op. 133
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Seating is ‘’recital configuration,” $40, $28, $20.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Lancaster:
8 pm RICHARD MARX at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, downtown Lancaster 03534; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. "Rockin’!” According to fans, this is the only way to describe a Richard Marx concert. Marx understands great music and proves it each time he takes the stage. He will perform hits from his early career like “Angelia,” “Right Here Waiting,” and “Hold Onto the Nights,” in addition to new music from his most recent album. www.richardmarx.com. $50 & $45.
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Sat, Sep 27:
7:30-10 pm monthly “ANIMAL NIGHT” benefit brings performing host JULIE CHADWICK, & MICHAEL MISHAW, JOE HAMILTON, DANNY PECK, & THE TURNER FAMILY, to Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. This month's Animal Night is for HART, a group that rescues mostly senior dogs from people who can no longer care for their dogs, or who have passed away. All artists donate their performances, and Julie asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, 4th Sat every month:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “WEST VALLEY HOOT” Group Singing in Woodland Hills; call for loc, 818-887-0446.
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Sat, Sep 27; in the OC:
8:30 pm SIMON LYNGE at the Gypsy Den, Grand Central Cafe, 125 N Broadway in the Artists Village, Santa Ana; 714-835-8840. He’s played live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and delighted listeners. Since moving to the Pacific Northwest, Simon doesn’t get to Southern Cal very often to perform. This gig comes just after his NYC show. Music Connection wrote a splendid review of his new CD, “A Beautiful Way to Drown,” giving it 7 of 10 stars: “Top Cuts: ‘Beautiful Way to Drown,’ ‘One Day at A Time,’ ‘Love Comes Back To You.’ Summary: This fresh singer-songwriter from Denmark, who currently calls the U.S. home, is receiving well earned airplay around the country. Lynge's calling card is his pin-point harmonies and the sort of soft melodies that turn with the driver's wheel and hug the curves of your memory. His organic songwriting style will spark comparison to Jackson Browne, or Elliott Smith, but Lynges' unique inflections and bold, professionally produced compositions are enough to put him in his own category.” Learn more and hear some of Simon’s new songs at http://www.myspace.com/simonlynge. We especially like “Love Comes Back to You,” with its very welcome banjo. Call venue for cover amount.
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Sat, Sep 27:
9 pm DAN JANISCH plus JEREMIAH & THE RED EYES for JEREMIAH’S FAREWELL SHOW 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. Dan Janisch has performed liv eon radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and he always delivers a fine show. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar for each act.
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Sat, Sep 27:
9 pm KILLING CASSANOVA at Prince of Whales, 335 Culver Bl, Playa Del Rey; 310-823-9826.
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Sat, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) 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, Sep 27:
9:30 pm DAVID SERBY & THE SIDEWINDERS plus MOBETTA LORETTA at The Vault Martini Bar, 14 E Vine St, Redlands 92373. David tells us, “I’m playing with my good friend and very talented singer-songwriter Mobetta Loretta. Mo’s got her own great tunes, plus she’ll be playing old-time country swing tunes by Hank Williams, Curley Williams, and maybe a couple other Williams, too.”
9:30pm – Mobetta Loretta, www.mobettaloretta.com
10:30pm – David Serby and The Sidewinders, www.davidserby.com
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Sat, Sep 27:
10 pm “CANS FOR COMEDY” charity benefit standup comic showcase at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv, 626-398-7917. Coffee Gallery Coffee Bar proprietor and professional comic JULIE SANDOVAL says, “In a world saturated with reality TV there's only one place a comedian can go to be him or her self. To the stage to feel the embrace of an audience.”
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CANS FOR COMEDY has a simple premise to help others. Bring in one-or-more canned food donations for admission to enjoy a comedy show. All food is donated to Friends-n-Deed Food Bank. All shows are held in The Coffee Gallery Backstage. All shows include pizza and soft drinks. Reserv strongly recommended. Comedians interested in performing, go to www.comedytrain.net.
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Shows are once-a-month, on Saturdays at 10 pm (after the music performance in the Backstage). Remaining shows in 2008 are Oct 18, Nov 8. Info, www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com.
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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, SEPTEMBER 28
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Sun-Tue, Sep 28-30, in Mammoth:
“MAMMOTH LAKES PACK OUTFIT FALL HORSEDRIVE” with award-winning cowboy singer-songwriter DAVE STAMEY; info, 888-475-8747; www.mammothpack.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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Sat & Sun, Sep 27 & 28; in Julian, CA:
10 am-5 pm 22nd Annual “MENGHINI WINERY ARTS, WINE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” includes music from mandolin windirkind SCOTT GATES. Sunday morning gospel set with Scott Gates on Mandolin, then 3 pm, The Scott Gates Band.
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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, Sep 28:
11 am-noon THE SQUEEGEES play this year’s final offering in 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.
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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, Sep 28 & Sat, Oct 18:
11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm KAREN GOLDEN plays the “Summer Family Performances” series at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Celebrate the Jewish New Year with storyteller Karen Golden as she tells humorous tales about human nature and the natural world around us. Included with Museum admission.
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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; repeats every fourth Sun; in Temecula:
OPEN JAM SESSION IN TEMECULA at The Nettworks Ranch, Menifee Valley, in the Temecula / Murrieta Valley, a few miles N of the I-215 / I-15 split, in that triangle. Take Scott Rd W 2 miles off I-215, or Bundy Canyon Rd E 4 miles off I-15. Turn S on Daily Rd; first ranch on right; info, Diana Nett, The Nettworks Ranch, 951-679-7951 or 909-239-5154.
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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, Sep 28:
CONJUNTO LOS POCHOS performs at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, on the Plaza de las Americas Stage. Their music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they scored a “Listener Favorite” with the title tracks to their CD, “Margie’s.” The band’s unique sound combines elements of both Texas and Mexican styles with original music and classic favorites. Their type of music historically stemmed from the merging of European and Texas-Mexican cultures in the late 1800’s and continues to reflect the process of acculturation through its lyrics and music, successfully presenting a genuinely L.A. expression of traditional conjunto music to a steadily growing audience that cuts across race, nationality, and social status. Info, www.lospochos.com.
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…continuing daily, through Sun, Sep 28:
PERSON TO PERSON performs daily, Sep 5-28, at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, on the Hit the Road traveling stage. Probably not AT ALL acoustic, it’s the Summer of Love meets the ‘70s. More at www.persontopersonband.com. Fireworks light-up the skies in celebration of the world’s largest county Fair on Sep 5 & 6, 12 &13, and 19 & 20. Info, www.pyrospectaculars.com.
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…continues daily, through Sun, Sep 28:
THE VAGABOND PIRATES perform at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, on the “A Pirate’s Life” show stage, daily, Sep 5-28. Step back in time with Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of fearsome and funny pirates as they perform lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Two of the pirates battle sword-to-sword, bringing added dimensions to the show. More at www.vagabondtroupe.com.
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Sun, Sep 28:
2 pm “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONCERT” with THE TUMBLIN’ TUMBLEWEEDS, NANCY LEE, GEORGE DICKEY, BUCK CORBETT, RODGER MAXWELL, and cowboy poet J.D. SEIBERT, in the Wells Fargo Theater, Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027. A sterling and diverse lineup of talented western artists, this show will be a cowboy version of Ed Sullivan. Tix and info, 818-365-8709 or LindaleeGreen@earthlink.net. Tix $20 adults ($15 for WMA or Autry Museum mbrs), $10 for children under age 12.
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Sun, Sep 28; world music:
2 pm KAL brings “THE ROM SOUND & FURY TOUR” to The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. Their self-titled first album topped the European World Music Charts in 2006. It’s a rare opportunity to hear this 7-piece band of Romani (Gypsy) multi-instrumentalists from Belgrade, Serbia. Kal is on a US tour. “They are unique in the so-called ‘Gypsy’ fusion genre, playing music from Bosnia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Macedonia and their home base in Serbia, with an exciting blend of traditional instruments, rock'n'roll in attitude, fueled on dance beats and rooted in the Balkan blues. In their wit, imagination, ability to throw disparate sounds together and refusal to play by ‘folkloric’ rules, Kal mark themselves as both part of Balkan Gypsy tradition and 21st Century Roma cultural activists.” - Garth Cartwright, author of “Princes Among Men: Journeys with Gypsy Musicians.” The band is Dragan Ristic (guitar & lead vocal), Dragan Mitrovic (accordion), Vladan Mitrovic (accordion & vocals), Djordje Belkic (violin), Branko Isakovic (double bass), Neat Junuzi (percussion) and Vladimir Stojkovic. Check out You Tube at www.galbeno.com/kal-rom-sound-fury and see www.voiceofroma.com/kal/kal.htm. $18.
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Sun, Sep 28:
3 pm CECILIO & KAPONO “35TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR” at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com. It’s a musical journey to paradise as the award-winning duo Cecilio & Kapono celebrates its 35th anniversary with lively and beautiful Hawaiian music. The pair, which won the Na Hoku Hanohano Award (Hawaii’s equivalent of the Grammys) for its albums Night Music, Goodtimes Together, and Lifetime Party: 30 Years of Friends, has thrilled sold-out crowds with its unique blend of Aloha spirit and island tunes. Seating is “lyric configuration,” $45, $33, $22.
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Sun, Sep 28:
3 pm to sundown (at 6:41 pm) “HONORING THE SEA” is the “WORLD FESTIVAL OF SACRED MUSIC” CLOSING CEREMONY event, at Santa Monica Beach at the end of Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; info, 310-825-0507; www.festivalofsacredmusic.org. Three hundred artists present sacred traditions from seven lineages of world cultures. The opening procession resounds with the festive sounds of the brass BANDA JUVENIL SOLAGA from Oaxaca and the PASADENA SCOTTISH PIPES & DRUMS ensemble. One hundred dancers led by KEALI’I CEBALLOS and SISSY KAIO chant and dance on the sands in reverence of Kanaloa, the Hawaiian deity of the ocean. SWING BRAZIL welcomes their guests VIVER BRASIL, CAPOEIRA BATUQUE, SEARA DE CARIDADE DO CABOLO TUPINAMBA, and THE ELDERS OF THE DIASPORA, lead a celebration of Yemanja, the Afro-Brazilian sea goddess. Drummers and dancers from BURKINA FASO led by OLIVIER TARPAGA and DAFRA pay homage to the Yuroba Orisha. Playing a central role is CINDI ALVITRE and TI’AT SOCIETY. The traditional canoe of the Tongva will be paddled beyond the breakwaters, carrying the offerings to the sea and sacred blessings to the four corners of the Earth, guided by energy of the AGAPE CHOIR and the rhythms of REMO DRUM CIRCLE facilitated by CHRISTINE STEVENS. Produced by WFSM-LA and sponsored in part by the City of Santa Monica Cultural Affairs Division and 18th Street Arts Center.
Event is outdoors and free.
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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, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, every week:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, Sep 28:
5-9 pm “ZYDECO DANCE SERIES” with live music by GINO DE LA FOSE (lead man of FRENCH ROCKIN’ BOOGIE) at the Gardena Elks Lodge, 1735 W 162nd St, Gardena 90247. Info, call Sydney, event producer, at 323-401-8859. $20.
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Sun, every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” brings DAVE GLEASON & OLD CALIFORNIO, BUCKSWORTH, and VICKI HILL to this week’s edition of the fun alt-country & roots series, 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, every week:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. (BBQ changed to 5-8 pm, effective July 4.) 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 5, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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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, Sep 28:
6:30-8 pm “CHAMBER MUSIC AND WINE SERIES” at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; 818-949-7984; www.descansogardens.org. It’s a series of four evenings that combine music, wine and tapas on the scenic Boddy House Terrace. The Orchestras of Pasadena and Patina Catering team-up at Descanso’s historic hilltop Boddy House. Meet the musicians of the Orchestras of Pasadena at these intimate evening events where you can watch the sun set, enjoy beautiful music, and savor fine wines and food on the scenic Boddy Terrace. The performers talk about each evening’s program while a sommelier guides guests through three wine selections. Small, plated dishes accompany the wine. The series runs summer Sundays, Jun 29, July 13, Aug 10 and Sep 28. Series reserv & adv payment req’d, at 626-793-7172, ext 3050; $65.
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Sun, Sep 28:
6:30 pm “THIS BEAUTIFUL CITY,” a new musical at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Bl, Culver City. Local roots music mainstay TOM CORBETT tells us, “The play is based on real interviews with the Evangelicals and the community of Colorado Springs, and the fall of Ted Haggard. It's an interesting look at both sides of the picture. I'm playing mandolin, fiddle and electric and acoustic guitar in the group that represents the praise group that would have played in the New Life Church. This is a new experience for me, so it's kind of fun and a new challenge. It's a nice theatre and very professional troupe that will go to the Vineyard Theatre in New York after this. The play runs from Sep 28th until Oct 26th.” The official info says, “In this new play with music, Center Theatre Group tackles the fervor behind the Evangelical movement, the effect its growth had on its unofficial U.S. capital, Colorado Springs, and the confusion of a community in crisis following the scandalous fall of pastor Ted Haggard. Created from interviews with actual persons and featuring music by the award-winning composer MICHAEL FRIEDMAN of Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson.” Runs nightly except Mondays, with an additional matinee on Saturdays, through Oct 26. More at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org.
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Sun, Sep 28:
7 pm JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. Ukulele Chanteuse JANET KLEIN delivers an early 20th-century rollicking feast for the ears, eyes and heart. Janet and her distinctive musician pals bring to life "Obscure, Naughty and Lovely tunes of the 1910s, ‘20s & ‘30s, delivering a bundle of spirited and inspired renditions of clever, fun but often forgotten tuneful gems from Tin Pan Alley, early hot jazz, saucy bits and late ragtime. Adding to the band's already extensive repertoire, these merrymakers zestfully branch into obscure vaudeville and Vitaphone numbers, Hawaiian, Yiddish novelty tunes, and even French and Italian knock-out ballads.The PARLOR BOYS feature Grammy-winner IAN WHITCOMB on accordion and ukulele (Venue impresario Bob Stane notes that Ian is “A Backstage favorite”), together with TOM MARION on guitar, banjo, & mandolin – he’s an alumni of R. CRUMB'S CHEAP SUIT SERENADERS, along with a bevy of hot musicians on Hawaiian lapsteel guitar, washboard, violin, and more. Bob Stane adds, “Watch out for the charming and alarming Ms. Klein! Ho Do Dee Do! Hotsy Totsy!” $20.
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Sun, Sep 28:
7 pm SLAID CLEAVES at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $16.
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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; 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, Sep 28; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC EIDOLON plays Mama Hillybeans, 426 E. Tehachapi Blvd, Tehachapi, 93561; info & adv tix, 661-750-3261; www.mamahillybeans.com. They’re excellent and innovative Colorado-based musicians. ACOUSTIC EIDOLON performs from the Vancouver Island MusicFest to the Kerrville Folk Festival, from the Kennedy Center in D.C. to St. Paul's Cathedral in London and the Spandau Theatre in Berlin, Germany, where people praise their sound. They are JOE SCOTT & HANNAH ALKIRE and they combine their musical talents to create an exciting new acoustic sound. Joe plays an instrument he invented, the double-neck guitjo, a custom acoustic guitar with two necks, each with 7 strings, built exclusively for him. This one-of-a-kind instrument has incredible range and tonal qualities, sounding at times like a piano, dulcimer or harp. Combine that with Hannah's stunning tone and impeccable cello, and you have the ingredients for some very moving music. Swallow Hill Music Association says, "...an evening of brilliant instrumentality." Artists' info, www.acousticeidolon.com.
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Sun, every week, on web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” is a long-running folk music show from Los Angeles, hosted by ROZ LARMAN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 FM in Santa Barbara, and simulcast at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live, with a guest recording artist. The show celebrated its 37th year on the air in February 2008. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, every week, on web radio:
7 pm “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by DAVE STRAUSS, features live on-air performance-interviews at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live web-only show focused on Los Angeles-based songwriters of all genres, but the live segment is generally an acoustic performance.
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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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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
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Mon-Sun, Sep 29-Oct 5; in Nashville:
INT’L BLUEGRASS MUSIC ASSOCIATION “WORLD OF BLUEGRASS” at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel, Nashville; info & tix, www.ibma.org; 888-438-4262. This is THE big, weeklong, annual event of the BG world. It’s structured to be three events in one:
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(a) “IBMA BUSINESS CONFERENCE” Sep 29-Oct 2, at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel. The annual business conference for the bluegrass music industry with artist showcases, an exhibit hall with more than 100 booths, professional development seminars, member constituency meetings, one-on-one industry networking and much more.
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The “Business Conference” includes “Official” and “After Hours” (also official) showcases that include some big names, including KATHY MATTEA. If you go, here are some to catch at the late-night shows, including some who have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks:” APRIL VERCH BAND, JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET / JOHN JORGENSON BLUEGRASS BAND, MISSY RAINES AND THE NEW HIP, CHARLIE SIZEMORE (solo) / CHARLIE SIZEMORE BAND, THE PACKWAY HANDLE BAND (from Georgia), LONESOME RIVER BAND (from Virginia), CLAIRE LYNCH BAND, DAVID GRIER, PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD, ALECIA NUGENT, STEEP CANYON RANGERS, MOUNTAIN HEART & TONY RICE, CHERRYHOLMES, RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER, J.D.CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, THE BROMBIES, TONY TRISCHKA, ROBIN & LINDA WILLIAMS, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, GRASSTOWNE, RUSSELL MOORE & IIIRD TYME OUT, MARK JOHNSON / MARK JOHNSON & EMORY LESTER.
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(b) “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS SHOW” Oct 2, at the historic Ryman Auditorium. This is the most anticipated night of the bluegrass music year, akin to Grammys or Emmys. The envelopes are opened to salute the year's most outstanding achievements amid a fast paced evening of performances and the music's top awards.
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(c) “BLUEGRASS FAN FEST” Oct 3-5, at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel. More than 60 artists from around the globe perform on multiple stages. Fan Fest has been called the “indoor bluegrass music festival of the year.” It features performances by the industry's top acts on the Masters Workshop Stage, Roots & Branches Stage, and in the exhibit hall, and there scores of jam sessions. Artists include: THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS, SIERRA HULL & HIGHWAY 111, TONY TRISCHKA, JOSH WILLIAMS BAND, GRASSTOWNE, BLUE HIGHWAY, DALE ANN BRADLEY, RUSSELL MOORE & IIIRD TYME OUT, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, CHERRYHOLMES, THE DAN TYMINSKI BAND, THE GRASCALS, TONY RICE & MOUNTAIN HEART, MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHY, THE GREENCARDS, RALPH STANLEY II, VINCE GILL, KATHY MATTEA, THE LONESOME RIVER BAND, DAVID PARMLEY & CONTINENTAL DIVIDE, CODY SHULER & PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD, THE APRIL VERCH BAND, THE FREIGHT HOPPERS, MIKE SEEGER, THE RED DESERT RAMBLERS, ROBIN AND LINDA WILLIAMS & THEIR FINE GROUP, THE TENNESSEE MAFIA JUG BAND, LARRY CORDLE & LONESOME STANDARD TIME, DENNIS CASH AND FRIENDS, THE SONGCATCHERS, THE MAYBELLES, and many more.
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Prices vary, from a 7-day full-event pass for $385 mbr / $480 non-mbr, to a one-day pass for $150 mbr / $170 non-mbr. Single-day conference passes are $50 adult, $30 student. Awards Show tix are $110-$70. The 3-day “Fan Fest” has adv tix (before Sep 5) for $70 mbr / non-mbr $85; at gate, they are $90; children under 16 are free at Fan Fest, with an adult.
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Mon, Sep 29; on web radio:
12:30 pm (Pacific) “BLUEGRASS BREAKDOWN” Radio Show with host Dave Higgs does a special “IBMA Edition,” for the International Bluegrass Music Awards, featuring PACKWAY HANDLE BAND, a Georgia-based bluegrass-roots band that made good impressions when they toured California. Live broadcast on WPLN 90.3 FM in Nashville, simulcast at www.wpln.org.
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Mon, every week:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon; every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon, every week:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com.
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Mon, every week:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676.
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Mon, every week:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Hosted by LISA TURNER. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Sign-ups 7-7:15 pm, show at 7:30 pm. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Sep 29:
8 pm SISTERS MORALES at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. San Antonio-based SISTERS MORALES observe that “The best music knows no boundaries, transcends borders and genres, and mixes, matches and melds styles into something all an artist's own.” And doing just that comes naturally to Sisters Morales. A veritable spectrum of sounds and styles are heard in the music created by LISA & ROBERTA MORALES and their longtime multi-guitar cohort DAVID SPENCER: Theiur music is rooted in the Southwestern spirit of Texas (where they live), Arizona (where the sisters grew up), and Mexico (source of their family and cultural roots). Describing their childhoods, they explain that, at any given moment, the music playing in the Morales home could be Johnny Cash, The Beatles, Amalia Rodriguez, The Buffalo Springfield, Dionne Warwick, Led Zeppelin or countless other acts from a global range of styles. It was also a home where noted poets, authors and writers would drop by for dinner and to stay overnight.

“Talking To The River,” the fourth album by SISTERS MORALES — and most definitive to date — is one of those discs that could be stocked throughout your favorite record store and heard on any number of radio formats, if the music biz wasn’t bent on excluding everything good. It was produced by STEVE BERLIN of the esteemed rock'n'roll band LOS LOBOS. They also released an all-Spanish traditional CD in 2002, "Para Gloria", which earned rave reviews around the country. With songs in both English and Spanish, and an all-Spanish mariachi group to complement the acoustic / electric band with whom the sisters most frequently play, SISTERS MORALES have proved their mettle as working live performers for all generations. Ultimately, the sisters music is the sound of family. "If your mind is open," concludes Lisa, "you just want to hear good music." And that is exactly what Sisters Morales deliver. $15.
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Mon, every week:
8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL hosts the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. Bernie says, “If you haven't been in, you owe it to yourself to join us either to play or just to listen, and be sure to bring an appetite for home-made soul food and home-baked cobbler, cake and pie. We have a ball, every Monday, 8-11.” Bernie was great performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.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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Mon, every week:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, every week:
9-11:30 pm "IRISH MUSIC SESSION" weekly at Celtic Arts Center’s new shared location, Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Schedule every week is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon, every week:
10:30 pm MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Social, 6525 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. No cover.
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Mon, Sep 29; in Nashville:
11:30 pm “BLUEGRASS ASSOCIATION OF MAINE IBMA SHOWCASE” (local time) during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. In Nashville Convention Center 1st Floor (Lowest level), Room 104. If you go, see www.bmam.org/cfm/bmam/index.cfm and see www.ibma.org/events.programs/wob/afterhours.asp for info on the “After Hours Showcases.”
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Mon, Sep 29; in Nashville:
1:30 am (yes, am!) “VIRGINIA BLUEGRASS IBMA SHOWCASE” (local time) during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville Convention Center 1st Floor (Lowest level), Room 109, Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. If you go, see www.vabluegrass.com; www.ibma.org/events.programs/wob/afterhours.asp for info on the “After Hours Showcases.”
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
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Tue, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm SONGMAKERS “SOUP JAM,” country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, Don Rowan, 562-883-0573; http://songmakers.org. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice, soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is 1st entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, every week:
7 pm An exceptional “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” this week brings STAN SILVER plus DUTCH NEWMAN & THE MUSICAL MELODIANS to Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing host GARRET SWAYNE, followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com.
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STAN SILVER does “folky country eclectic” music. Sometimes alone and sometimes in collaboration with other renowned writers such as Cande de Rouge (who wrote “Power of Love” recorded by Jennifer Rush & Celine Dion) and Peter Hoffmann (who produced Falco), Stan is now working on his first full length CD. Even before its release, the title track from his EP “Higher Ground” is getting a lot of play on various internet radio stations and reached #5 on Toronto’s “The Country Edge” chart. MSSS host Garret Swayne says, “He plays a mean slide guitar, and I thought he must have spent his whole life in the backwoods of Kentucky…then he told me he was from Germany! I was taken aback (and über-impressed!) and wanted to book him as a featured artist. Well he's back in the States this month, and we’re pleased to welcome him back to the MSSS stage.” More at www.stan-silver.com
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DUTCH NEWMAN & THE MUSICAL MELODIANS bring original ragtime blues. Garret tells us, “Some time back, after visiting the Silent Movie Theater on Fairfax and seeing JANET KLEIN AND HER PARLOUR BOYS perform as pre-show entertainment before the film, Dutch Newman became hooked on 1920's- and 1930's-style blues and jazz. Dutch is a very authentic period songwriter, influenced by the likes of Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Earl (Fatha) Hines. He formed the Musical Melodians with bass player (and Parlour Boy) DAVE JONES, later adding DAVID BARLIA on uke; TOM MARION on banjo, guitar, and mandolin; DAN "THE BONE" WEINSTEIN (from RAY CHARLES' band) on tuba, trombone, violin, and trumpet; BOB MITCHELL on piano; COREY GEMME on trumpet, clarinet, and C-melody sax; and female vocalist MIKAL SANDOVAL (aka ‘The San Francisco Songbird’). Dutch and his Melodians have become well-known in music circles as one of the sharpest-dressed bands around, always appearing in their natty period suits with tie and fedora. The songs are all original. But they're so in-the-style of the ‘20s and ‘30s, it feels like you've gone back in time. Dutch and his crew have performed at numerous auspicious venues around town. He's appeared with THE HOLLYWAIIANS (a Japanese-Hawaiian ‘20s band), with the PARLOUR BOYS, and with musicologist/Grammy award-winner IAN WHITCOMB. Dutch is also the twin brother of original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast member LARAINE NEWMAN and he appeared on SNL in a short film called ‘Twins’ that was aired in 1981. His other sister is TRACY NEWMAN, also well known and loved in our local songwriter community. So it's all in the family!” More at www.musicalmelodians.com
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MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, Sep 30:
7-8:45 pm GILLI MOON plays her monthly residency and “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; 323-653-0640. It’s a mostly-acoustic event with guest artists. Gill says, “It features 'moi,' plus a couple of cool cats from Songsalive! - and we all perform in the round on stage. It's really a wonderful night, and starts early, 7 pm stage time.” Venue is known for its Chinese food; call for dinner reserv. Plenty of parking, $7 cover.
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Tue, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, Sep 30:
7:30-10 pm ERIC SCHWARTZ with CRAIG MACINTYRE (Josh Groban), ERIC HOLDEN (Bodeans), and sometimes STEVIE GURR (Dr. John) at The Moose Lodge, 1901 W Burbank Bl, Burbank; 818-842-5851. Eric is that wickedly funny satiric / comedic / political performing songwriter. You’ve heard him on “Air America.” He plays all over the country, so he’s not in L.A. all that often these days; but here he is, doing a lil’ ol’ September residency with everyone named above. With such stellar talent in this ensemble band, Eric says they’ll be “playing whatever we feel, my stuff, soul, r&b, funk, country, whatever.” Info, www.ericschwartz.com. Runs Tuesdays, Sep 2, 9, 23, 30.
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Tue, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Sep 30:
8 pm MICHAEL HURWITZ, from Wyoming, plays a cowboy / western “Prairie Blues” show at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reserv 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. He was a hit at the 2008 Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival. MICHAEL HURWITZ is a Wyoming cowboy with a unique style, somewhere between the delta blues and western cowboy swing. With high plains ranching roots going back four generations, Mike learned the old cowboy songs his dad sang, and the southern country blues from his Mississippi mother, stirring them with a little honky-tonk, swing, and rockabilly into the tasty gumbo he calls Prairie Blues. Mike has rambled the nation, playing his music, for over 30 years. He’s picked guitars with the famous and the unknown, in the spotlight and in the moonlight, worked as a cowboy, broncbuster, dude-wrangler, hunting guide, carpenter, and surveyor, written a saddlebag full of great songs, and released several critically-accclaimed albums of country blues and cowboy music. His performances are a compelling mix of stories and humor from a life well spent, combined with outstanding musicianship and songwriting, and a warm relaxed singing style. Sing Out! Magazine celebrates him for "an effortless delivery that goes down like a smooth, perfectly aged shot of fine scotch whiskey." Top-award winning cowboy songwriter/performer DAVE STAMEY says, "Mike Hurwitz writes song the way Larry Mahan rode broncs."
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He’s collected no shortage of accolades. "Hurwitz is a superior writer with a sure eye for the foolish and the tragic in the new-old West, and he recounts it all in a wise weathered baritone" -Rambles.net. "Wearing it like an old coat, Hurwitz's Prairie Blues comes across as natural as breathing" - 3rd Coast. More at www.mikehurwitz.com. $15.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly summer series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, every Tue:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) 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 swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Sep 30:
9 pm DAFNI & her band at The Pike, 1836 E 4th St, Long Beach 90802; 562-437-4453. The delightful and talented Dafni has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where she scored a “Listener Favorite.” Artist info, www.dafni.us. She tells us, “My band will play two sets. No cover / great food!”
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Tue, Sep 30:
10 pm “ACOUSTIC ARTIST SHOWCASE” includes JEANNIE WILLETS and others, at McMurphy’s, 72 N Fair Oaks Av, Pasadena 91103. JEANNIE WILLETS has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Jeannie performs solo set of her original songs tonight. She tells us, “I will be going to Nashville this month, to make some new songwriter contacts and do some performing! I've never been to Nashville before … if any of you all singer/songwriters out there know anyone in Nashville that I should contact or meet while I'm there, please let me know. And, if any of you songwriter-types out there know of anyone hosting a showcase at Far-West that should have me playing at it, please let me know or let them know.” Artist contact, jwmuzic@yahoo.com. Tonight’s show is no cover.
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Tue, Sep 30; in Nashville:
11:30 pm “DEERING BANJOS IBMA SHOWCASE” during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. In Nashville Convention Center, Music City Ballroom. Info, www.deeringbanjos.com
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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[As always, more to come…]
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, where all is presented as chronological date listings, for today/tonight, this week, this month, and longer “looks ahead.” The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar updates often, and News Features post weekly.
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Current chronological date listings, to May, 2009, are available for
(1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana music events, and,
(2) festivals and other events of great note THROUGHOUT THE US & CANADA (and sometimes beyond) in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which also updates often. If you don’t see the dates you need in the first window, browse-around on the site. If you are exploring the ancient archives on our Myspace page, use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore into the paleozoic.
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NEWS FEATURES as well as the calendar’s MOST RECENT EDITIONS – that’s both event calendars with descriptive write-ups, and news for and about acoustic musicians and music – can be found conveniently at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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News of the “Tied to the Tracks” radio & TV shows is at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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NEWS FEATURES, Acoustic Americana Music News, September 10 edition, 2008

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News continues to arrive at a rapid pace, but this is our LAST edition for awhile! We’ll be gone to the MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL near Bishop, CA, and then elsewhere, a week and a half in all. So, expect our next edition in TWO weeks.
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"Tied to the Tracks"
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC NEWS
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NEWS FEATURES for September 10, 2008
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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WELCOME to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS, our weekly news feature companion to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC CALENDAR. Here, you’ll find news for artists and music fans alike, ranging from the immediately useful to the merely informative, from gig opportunities and festival deadlines to early bird discounts, from venue openings and closings to career tips, and hot tips for acoustic music fans.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar with frequently updated posts of upcoming events well into 2009, is available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and various other places around the web. We post links for current editions on our Myspace page, but new editions of the calendar are no longer there. Myspace has made changes that limit the size of posts, and that makes it far too time-consuming and ponderous to post the calendar there in far too many small pieces.
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Our myspace site, www.myspace.com/laacoustic is still the place to go for news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and its new TV counterpart that launches soon.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES always post separate from the calendar.
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MOST RECENT previous News Features posted SEPTEMBER 5, 2008, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/09/news-features-sep-5-edition-acoustic.html
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The most recent edition before that posted AUGUST 28, 2008, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-august-28-edition.html and a compilation of previous editions published in August, 2008 are available, from most recent to oldest editions (posted August 22, August 16, August 10, August 4) at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-all-august-editions-to.html
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Recent months’ editions are available on Blogspot at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com; older archived editions are available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button and scrolling, and if you don’t see what you want, then journey farther back by using the “older entries” button and scrolling, as many times as necessary. You can go all the way back to when acoustic music was made by trees crashing to the floor of the primeval forests when the dinosaurs got too rambunctious.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Music Calendar & News, or “Tied to the Tracks,” at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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Please don’t send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, can’t be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. So, communicate through the above address (except we’ll be gone for a week and a half, so bear that in mind…)
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NEWS FEATURES:
September 10, 2008
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1) WANT TO ATTEND A PRIVATE FILM SCREENING?
“A SINGLE WOMAN” is the Story of Congresswoman JEANNETTE RANKIN, with music by JONI MITCHELL, and there is a private screening on Sunday, Sep 21, at 5 pm, at Culver Plaza Theater, 9919 Washington Bl, Culver City 90232. Advance tix at kamala@asinglewomanmovie.com or fdorrel@addictedtowar.com or show up at the theater for any remaining seats.
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This screening is presented to celebrate the “International Day Of Peace.” The film is the story of Congresswoman Jeannette Rankin, who voted against every war in which the US engaged during her two different spans of time in Congress. Guests at the screening are actress JEANMARIE SIMPSON, who stars as Jeannette Rankin; Director / Producer KAMALA LOPEZ; Producer FRANK DORREL; other surprise guests.
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Co-producer FRANK DORREL writes, “JEANMARIE SIMPSON could easily win the Academy Award for Best Actress in her role as Jeannette Rankin; JONI MITCHELL's music in this film is absolutely magical; and MARTIN SHEEN's narration is wonderful.”
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Congressman DENNIS KUCINICH has arranged for “A Single Woman” to be screened at the Capitol in Washington DC; he says, "Congratulations on the screening of ‘A Single Woman.’ Your work will make it possible for the singularly important life of Jeannette Rankin to receive much deserved attention. Her life becomes more relevant for this nation and the world as we continue to proceed along a path of war. Perhaps your film will point the way to a different path, the road less traveled, the path of A Single Woman. All of our love is with you as your work begins to emerge. We look forward to introducing it to Washington, DC so that our nation's Capitol can rediscover the deeper meaning of Jeannette Rankin's life, and in doing so, it may discover the possibility of peace. Sincerely, Dennis Kucinich”
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More at www.asinglewomanmovie.com and www.asinglewomanmovie.com/trailer.html
Tix $10 at the door.
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2) SEVEN YEARS SINCE 9/11
Yes, there were many, many, many songs from all over the world within the days, weeks, and months that followed the shock, anger, grief, and efforts to understand September 11, 2001. We would have had a lot from which to choose, had we even attempted to select a song through a process of consideration. But even after seven years, we just were not up to doing that. Fortunately, platinum-selling songwriter HARRIET SCHOCK (“Ain’t No Way to Treat a Lady,” the hit sung by HELEN REDDY) sent us a fine music video that enables us to offer you a most appropriate song, and one with a beautifully-produced set of video images of the “everyday heroes” of 9/11. Harriet has been in the news rather often the past couple of years, doing the musical scores for a string of theatrically-released films directed by HENRY JAGLOM.
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Still, it was no surprise when she told us, “I wrote a song with GEOFF LEVIN for which he created a video. It’s called ‘Everyday Hero’ and it’s performed beautifully by CARALYN PERCY.” It certainly is, Harriet. She continues, “We both feel that music is the best way to honor our memories of the people and events that should not be forgotten.”
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We commend this beautiful video to you, with a final comment. Your editor was there, in New York, in the aftermath of 9/11, and wrote a piece that ran in newspapers all over the world, so a number of the photographs still have a personal immediacy. There is a picture near the end of the video that shows the temporary memorial, done in blue vertical spotlights, approximating the soaring lines of the lost Twin Towers. Watch for it. It’s a poignant image. “Everyday Hero,” at www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQuGwsSVQek
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3) BEST AMERICANA EVENTS IN “WORLD FESTIVAL OF SACRED MUSIC”
It’s got 1,000 artists playing 41 events over a 16 day span, Sep 13 to 28, all over the L.A. area, and yes it has an extensive website of its own, at www.festivalofsacredmusic.org. If something seems deju vu all over again, we previewed a portion of the festival in our August 28 edition, where we identified the world music events that include artists you know; this time, we offer guidance to the events you’ll most want to attend, those with Americana and Americana-influenced music. True, the massive, area-wide, annual event is much more a “world” festival than one focused on music with North American roots, or forms that have undergone development or transformation or experienced influences here. Still, the festival’s events that DO belong in the Acoustic Americana Music Calendar are hopefully all there, and they include some that are very special, not likely to be accessed at other times, and some that are truly formidable. As you know, “world music” is NOT what we cover here; FolkWorks has worked hard to be the place to go for that (www.folkworks.org).
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Now, all that said, it’s one of those times when we get in trouble: we’ve sifted-through the entire schedule, and we’re picking and choosing the “Americana” events for your consideration. We were not happy to learn that the Americana events are all scheduled on just two of the festival’s 16 days, though it is possible to attend 3 of the 4 events on Sep 21; unfortunately, on Sep 26, you must choose which of the three Americana music events you will attend, because they are scheduled at the same time in three different places. (Let’s hope that dividing the audience into fractions does not become a reason for festival planners to declare “limited public interest” in Americana music, and reduce next year’s offerings.) We’ve also including the half-day closing event, since two of the seven cultures represented have Americana relevance. So, here are the Americana-music-themed events; each is described more extensively in our companion on-line publication, the Acoustic Americana Music Calendar & News:
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“EVERY TIME I FEEL THE SPIRIT - GOSPEL MUSIC AT THE HISTORIC FIRST A.M.E. CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES” is a Folk-Americana event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music” at the First African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2270 S Harvard Bl, L.A. 90018; 323-730-7750; www.famechurch.org. Three performances, all on Sat, Sep 21, 8 am; 10 am; Noon. Freewill Offering.
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“THE VISION SONGS’ OF THE SHAKERS” is a Folk-Americana event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music.” performed by THE SHAKERS N’ BAKERS in the Mark Taper Auditorium, Los Angeles Central Library, 630 W 5th St (at Flower), downtown L.A. 90071; reservations, www.aloudla.org. Sun, Sep 21, 3 pm. $7 gen’l admission.
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“WE SING TOGETHER: SOWING SEEDS OF PEACE WITH HARMONY SONGS OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN AND BALKAN TRADITIONS” with the GWEN WYATT CHORALE and NEVENKA is a Folk-Americana event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music” at the Wilshire United Methodist Church, 4350 Wilshire Bl, L.A. 90010; tix & info, www.itsmyseat.com/wfsm; 323-292-9227. Sun, Sep 21, 4 pm. $20 gen’l, $15 students.
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“FOREVER FLAMENCO!” presents “ADORATIONS,” as part of “The World Festival of Sacred Music,” at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (Fountain at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. Sun, Sep 21, 8 pm. Parking is $5; tix $30.
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“INTERSECTIONS OF SOUND AND SPACE - STRING THEORY” is an event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music” at the Fowler Museum at UCLA, North Campus, UCLA (Park in campus Lot 4), Westwood 90095; 310-825-4361; www.fowler.ucla.edu. Fri, Sep 26, 6:45 pm. Open seating, no reservations required, free.
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“FAITH ACROSS THE CITY & ACROSS GENERATIONS - A CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL MUSIC” is a Folk-Americana event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music” at Mayfield Senior School, 500 Bellefontaine St, Pasadena 91105; tix & info, 626-799-9121 ext 0; www.mayfieldsenior.org. Fri, Sep 26, 7 pm. $10.
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“GUARDIANS OF SOUND AND SPIRIT” with LESA TERRY & THE WOMEN’S JAZZ ORCHESTRA, is a Folk-Americana event in the “World Festival of Sacred Music” at First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica, 1008 11th St, Santa Monica 90403; 310-393-8258; www.santamonicaumc.org. Fri, Sep 26, 7:30 pm. Free admission, donation appreciated.
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“HONORING THE SEA” is the “WORLD FESTIVAL OF SACRED MUSIC” CLOSING CEREMONY event, at Santa Monica Beach at the end of Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; info, 310-825-0507; www.festivalofsacredmusic.org. Three hundred artists present sacred traditions from seven lineages of world cultures, including the festive sounds of the brass BANDA JUVENIL SOLAGA from Oaxaca and the PASADENA SCOTTISH PIPES & DRUMS ensemble. One hundred dancers led by KEALI’I CEBALLOS and SISSY KAIO chant and dance on the sands in reverence of Kanaloa, the Hawaiian deity of the ocean. Complete description in our calendar. Sun, Sep 28, 3 pm to sundown (at 6:41 pm). Event is outdoors and free.
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4) LOCAL AMERICANA UP-AND-COMING STARS TO PLAY PRESTIGIOUS GETTY
There’s more at stake here than you having a good time. This is a test for the Getty, to see if the L.A. crowd will support locally-based Americana artists. On Friday, Sep 19, at 7:30 pm, FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, backed by PAUL MARSHALL (I See Hawks in L.A.), play the “GETTY CONCERT SERIES.” It’s FREE, for those who have the reserved-in-advance tix, acquired by calling 310-440-7300. Full info at http://getty.edu/visit/calendar/days/09192008.html. The Getty Center is that landmark institution and architectural icon atop the hills above the 405 freeway, at 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; show is free, parking is $10 (raised from $8 on Sep 10). We must emphasize, you must phone in advance for free tix, and don’t dawdle. Performance is in the Getty Center's Harold Williams Auditorium, a venue with fine sound.
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You’ve heard FUR & STEVE perform live, with and without PAUL MARSHALL, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they scored as a “Listener Favorite.” They’ve been hits everywhere they’ve played, including their featured set at the 2008 Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival. As the Getty publicity says, “Equally at home anywhere under the western sky, well-traveled folk festival favorites Fur and Steve will take you on a rollicking musical joyride through the back roads and highways of the West. Their dazzling two-part harmonies, spectacular yodeling, awesome guitar picking, and wise-cracking humor framed by their old- and new-timey traveling songs, folk songs, and singalongs will delight oldsters and youngsters alike.” Artists info, www.myspace.com/furandsteve.
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How can you beat free tix to see a musically fine and really fun show?
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5) FAR WEST CONFERENCE ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE, DEADLINES
The Folk Alliance Region West (FAR West, www.FAR-West.org) 5th Annual Regional Conference is October 24-26, in Phoenix, AZ. RENEE BODIE (BodieHouse@aol.com; 818-621-8309) of the well-known house concert series in Southern Cal, also serves as Vice-President of and she is the Conference Coordinator for the upcoming annual conference/festival in Phoenix. Renee tells us, “We have some wonderful events planned, starting Thursday night with our pre-conference concert, and including a Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES, as well as a full schedule of panels and workshops on Friday and Saturday, and a full day on Sunday of Master Classes and ‘Songwriting One on One's.’ The full schedule is below, and will also be up on our website soon. If you haven't gotten your hotel reservation yet, it would be wise to act quickly, as we are getting close to selling-out our room block. For hotel reservations, call 1-888-236-2427 and mention code, ‘Far-West Folk’ or go to www.Marriott.com/phxmm and enter "fwffwfa" as the group code to make reservations.”
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DEADLINES are impending. Renee tells us, “The deadline for registering to host a ‘Private Guerilla Showcase’ is Sep 20, so you have only [a few] days to register,” if you are planning to host a showcase room. Full info is on the FAR West website at www.far-west.org. Renee also says, “If you already are hosting a [showcase] room, the deadline for submitting your lineups for the Program Book is Friday, Sep 26.” Also, discount hotel room rates expire Sep 30.
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Here’s the conference schedule (not yet on the FAR West website):
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> Thursday:
7:30-9:30 pm Pre-conference concert at Arizona State University
10 pm-midnight Tote Bag Stuffing Party & Jam, following concert
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> Friday:
8:30-11:45 am Registration
9-10 am Intro class
8:30-10:30 am Exhibit Hall setup
10:15-11:30 am Panels & Workshops
11:30 am-1:15 pm Exhibit Hall opens
1-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
11:45 am-1 pm Lunch (dine arounds)
1-4:30 pm Registration continues
1:15-2:30 pm Panels & Workshops
2:45-4 pm Panels & Workshops
2:30-4:15 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
4:15-5:15 pm Welcome Reception in Exhibit Hall (no competing activities)
5:15-6 pm Registration open
5:30-7 pm Red House Records concert with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES
7-8 pm Registration open
7 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
7:30-10:30 pm Main Showcases
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Saturday:
9-11:45 am Registration open
9-10:30 am Exhibit Hall opens
10 am-noon Instrument Check open
10:30-11:45 am Panels & Workshops
noon-2 pm Awards Luncheon
2:15-5 pm Registration open
2:15-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
2:15-5 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
2:15-3:30 pm Panels & Workshops
3:30-6:30 pm Exhibit Hall open
3:45-5 pm Conversation with Special Presentation
4:30 pm-6:30 pm Dinner break
6:30 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
6:30-7:30 pm Registration open
6:45-10:15 pm Main Showcases
8-10 pm Contra Dance
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Sunday:
10-11 am Breakfast & Board Meeting
10 am-noon Exhibit Hall open
11 am-12:30 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
1:30-3 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
Noon-2 pm Exhibit Hall breakdown
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6) HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BOSTON COURT!
This summer, Boston Court Performing Arts Center (www.bostoncourt.com) in Pasadena turned 5 years old. The state-of-the-art facility includes two performance spaces. One is a 99-seat equity theater with all the amenities and a production balcony that is the envy of theaters fivetimes its size. The other is the “Branson Performance Space,” a smaller theater that hosts the “Music at the Court” and the “Zebulon Productions” music series, with a reconfigurable floor and acoustically-engineered walls. The Center is “proudly and unashamedly accepting birthday presents.” The Theatre at Boston Court productions, on the main stage, have earned more than fifty awards and nominations over the past five years, and ten of their nineteen productions have been world premieres, helping Pasadena to further its reputation as a destination for groundbreaking theater. The Music at the Court series, held in the Center’s Branson Performance Space continues to provide our audiences with a world-class menu of jazz and classical music. The future looks exciting, as we continue to expand our programming of dance, poetry readings, and visual art.
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A tax deductible donation to Boston Court makes their extraordinary work possible, helping to pay artists’ fees and production costs, and helping to keep ticket prices accessible. More at www.bostoncourt.com/donate.htm.
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7) THE REFUGEES MUSIC, WHERE YOU CAN HEAR IT
They are, without stretching the superlative, a “super group” of three veteran female singer-songwriters, and an exciting convergence of songwriting and high-level performing talent. If, like most of us, you were unable to catch the The Refugees’ performance-interview (and its replays) on XM Satellite Radio that we listed in the Acoustic Americana Music Calendar, you can find music samples and their new album, "Unbound," on their website, www.therefugeesmusic.com.
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They are WENDY WALDMAN (of the band, BRYNDLE; Wendy wrote “Save the Best for Last,” and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band hit, “Fishin’ in the Dark”); CINDY BULLENS (ELTON JOHN’s guitarist, she’s played with a “who’s who” of the music world); and DEBORAH HOLLAND (her band was ANIMAL LOGIC). Cindy lives in Maine. Deborah & Wendy in different parts of L.A. They have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and are still establishing their identity as a trio. Well-known as established individual performing singer-songwriters, or from their previous bands, each has written and/or played on Top 40 hits and earned Grammy nominations. Together, they say of their new CD, “We are VERY excited and we hope you enjoy our first recorded collaboration as THE REFUGEES!” They have been busily touring, as they told us between dumping suitcases into the washing machine, “all over the country,” so check their website for that info, as well.
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8) MUSIC PICKS - EARLY FOR THE HOLIDAYS, OR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE
A couple of editions back, we said we would get started early with some suggestions and guidance on great music for yourself and your friends. Then, we promptly seemed to drop the idea. Well, we didn’t, we just had too many news features to include it last week. Hopefully, you’re happy to see that we are serious, and that it’s back. In the coming weeks, we’ll let you know about books, DVDs, CDs and more. Here are this week’s picks:
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a) THE REFUGEES new album, "Unbound," available at www.therefugeesmusic.com. See the news feature on THE REFUGEES in this edition for more about this one.
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b) LOWEN & NAVARRO’s latest CD, “Learning to Fall,” available at www.lownav.com. We had the world premiere of their previous album, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and ERIC LOWEN picked the radio show to go public in 2005, with musical partner DAN NAVARRO, that he, Eric, was battling ALS, also known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” The duo have had many hits, includinga global #4 hit by PAT BENATAR of their song, “We Belong.” This new album is a gem, with 11 tracks, performed with PHIL PARLAPIANO on pianos, organs, mandolins and guitar, TARAS PRODANIUK on bass (Lucinda Williams, Richard Thompson), RAFE BRADFORD on bass (Chicago bassist, also works with Michael McDermott), HUTCH HUTCHINSON on bass (Bonnie Raitt, Brian Wilson, Paul Simon), GREG LEISZ on guitars (Dave Alvin, Joni Mitchell, many others), DOUG PETTIBONE on guitars (Lucinda Williams, Jewel), PHIL HURLEY on guitar (Stonehoney) and backing vocals by STONEHONEY, WENDY WALDMAN, & JULIE CHRISTENSEN. A video of "Learning To Fall,” featuring Lowen & Navarro, many other accomplished musicians, and a choir of 30 ALS patients, friends, family and caregivers, is currently featured on the charitable website established by JOHN ONDRASIK of FIVE FOR FIGHTING at www.WhatKindOfWorldDoYouWant.com. Every viewing thee earns $1 for "Augie's Quest", an ALS charity seeking a cure. Also see the next two News Features, items # 9 & 10.
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c) BLUEGRASS INSTRUMENTAL ALBUM, titled “High Desert Bluegrass Sessions,” is brand new, by DAVID NAIDITCH (www.davidnaiditch.com), joined by banjoist PAT CLOUD (author of the Mel Bay music series book, “Key to Five-String Banjo: Home Improvisation Workshop”), guitarist ERIC UGLUM, and his musical sons, fiddler CHRISTIAN WARD, and bassist AUSTIN WARD (they were just profiled in “Bluegrass Now” magazine.) The new album is thirteen instrumentals with David on his trademark chromatic harmonica, along with that band of bluegrass greats. His previous album received lots of airplay on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and both the old and the new albums are favorites at the Coffee Gallery Backstage before and after the live shows. Listen to samples from, or buy, this one at http://cdbaby.com/cd/naiditch2 or listen to 6 tunes in their entirety at www.myspace.com/highdesertbluegrasssessions. Individual track downloads are available on iTunes.
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9) RESERVATIONS DEADLINE FOR 11TH ANNUAL L&N CONCERT CRUISE
For ten consecutive years, LOWEN & NAVARRO have cruised the high seas with fans and friends, singing, laughing and making merry. Now, if this otherwise sounds like a commercial for their cruise, please consider that no one knows how well Eric Lowen will be a year from now. So, their eleventh cruise, they tell us, “will be our best yet, with a new longer itinerary - Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, Mexico, over seven days and nights - on a new more-modern ship - Carnival's ‘Pride.’ There'll be two concerts, a cocktail meet-and-greet, great food, a Q&A autograph session, late night jams, great food and three full Fun Days at Sea! Did we mention the great food (all included in the cruise fare!)” Reservations close soon. For more info, call Phil or Doris of Fanclub Cruises at 800-754-3170, or go the L&N webpage, at http://lownav.c.topica.com/maamcVoabKifobPhQnzbaehoil/
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10) THIS WEEK’S YOU TUBE, ETC., VIDEO PICKS
Okay, two categories this week.
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First, go News Feature #8, where we recommend “music picks,” and read about the remarkable video by LOWEN & NAVARRO of the title track for their latest CD, “Learning to Fall.” You can take the time to go there and click the link, or just click it here. We recommend this one because it speaks loud and clear about the things that truly matter in life, and the power of a music performance to empower those making the music and to convey that to anyone who will take time to listen. This is our pick for video of the year, so far: www.WhatKindOfWorldDoYouWant.com. (Every viewing there earns $1 for "Augie's Quest", an ALS charity.)
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We said we have two categories this week. Here’s the next one. It was inevitable, and it’s begun. SARAH PALIN videos are infesting the web. The first good musical one we’ve seen is by singer-songwriter-composer-pianist DEAN “DOC” DOBBINS, and the surprise is that it’s his first YouTube video, though he has some impressive musical credentials. It’s called, “I‘M A WOMAN (a tribute to Sarah Palin)” and it’s at www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrnWRaKBS7g&fmt=18 or www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLBwf8OPtx8&fmt=18
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We were also entertained by some non-musical YouTube videos on the same topic:
“SARAH PALIN VLOG #1” is a fun parody at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEW12XLUM7A&NR=1
And if that, JOHN STEWART, and STEVEN COLBERT are not enough to satiate your appetite, try the “RED STATE UPDATE,” at
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-W5IAPK0hbU&NR=1
and finally, are we the only ones who wish it was MICHAEL PALIN, of MONTY PYTHON, instead of Sarah Palin? Hold the hate mail. Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition… www.youtube.com/watch?v=jf1y9s73Nos
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This is usually where we say,

“NEXT WEEK, we’ll bring lots more news.” Except we won’t.

We’re taking a much-needed week and a half off, and we’ll return with a fresh edition of the Acoustic Americana Music News, and Calendar updates, the following week.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Be sure to check EVERY WEEK for
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+ the extensive and always huge ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC CALENDAR’s event listings at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, or at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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+ news of the “TIED TO THE TRACKS” radio & TV shows coming soon in syndication.
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+ the latest NEWS FEATURES from the acoustic music universe!
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WANT TO CONTACT US?
tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com (Bear in mind, we’re gone for an entire week, plus the bracketing weekends.)
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