October events - 20 update, Acoustic Americana Music Calendar 2008

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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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October, 2008 events
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October 20 update
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WELCOME! And after reading this little section of relevant stray facts, if you feel lost or mystified about any of this, BE SURE to read our “Welcome” post (find it in the list, at left) – it’s a good idea to do that if you are new to the calendar & news. It’ll help you understand how all this works!
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The CALENDAR and the NEWS FEATURES post separately.
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THE MOST RECENT CALENDAR is identifiable by the date it was posted at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. We DO post future months separate from the current month, so they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list on the left side for guidance. And we occasionally post a calendar of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.)” events, for those great festivals and special happenings in other parts of the country, and to help everyone include music with travel plans.
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MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES posted:
OCTOBER 17, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/10/news-features-oct-17-edition-acoustic.html but that’ll ONLY get you to the current edition.
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Recent week’s and month’s editions are available by reading the list of posts at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and clicking what you want.
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WHAT’S IN THE NEWS THAT WE COVER? Our latest news features always include things of interest to acoustic music fans AND artists (musicians and songwriters). Topics include trends in the industry, radio, internet radio, music conferences, artists who have recently won awards and recognitions, charity benefits, festival lineups and booking information, our picks for on-line music videos, music-related books, things that are fun to know, and more – but NEVER any “who’s-sleeping-with-who” gossip crap. (That’s YOUR business, and it’s not the public’s business just because you work in show biz.) Current and recent news editions are found at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. Old archived editions are on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), accessible by using the “View All” and the “older entries” button and scrolling all the way back to when acoustic music happened because dinosaurs got rambunctious.
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CALENDAR UPDATES TO THE CURRENT MONTH are made at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events are posted all the time, and we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, etc.
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FUTURE EVENTS are currently posted into mid-2009, and will soon go farther than that.
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RECURRING EVENTS include residencies, series, showcases, and open mics, and all these are numerous in the Southern California acoustic music universe. We generally add them to the calendar one week at a time, as dates approach, because there are so many of them, AND because it gives us a chance to learn who is playing. These are currently included through –
the entire month of October.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana music shows (send us gig notices in our format, please; see any listed show for an example) please DON’T expect us to re-type all the info in a jpg – send us plain text, so we can work with it! Send to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com .
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WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM after a long presence on MySpace, because that site now accepts only short posts. The calendar is waaaay too comprehensive to fit there. We began posting to Blogspot in early 2008.
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Our MYSPACE PAGE (www.myspace.com/laacoustic) has current news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and what’s happening with its TV counterpart. It’s also where you can find archived Acoustic Americana News editions from prior to Spring, 2008.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Music Calendar & News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com. 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. And, yes, we get HUNDREDS of emails every week, so please give us as much advance notice as possible!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Updated October 20, 2008;
recurring events are included through all of October.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 20
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There are “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks tonight at USC and Caltech, and in Altadena.
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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, Oct 20; 3rd (and 1st) Mon, every month:
7-10 pm DALE LaDUKE & FRIENDS play a twice-a-month singer-songwriter night, this time with HAROLD PAYNE, & FREEBO, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; http://arniescafe.com; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, it’s “a new little coffee house that is becoming quite a scene.” DALE and FREEBO have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” For more info on these artists, check out www.myspace.com/freebo and www.myspace.com/freebomusic and www.HaroldPayne.com. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Mon, Oct 20; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm “CLAZZICAL NOTES” performance / discussion program is a free event at Caltech, in Ramo Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5741.html; info, 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). It’s a free evening of music and discussion among renowned musicians to bridge the gap that currently exists between the jazz and classical music communities. Performing artists for this evening include classical singer JOHN ATKINS and jazz singer JAMES TORME (www.jamestorme.com). Moderator is BUBBA JACKSON (www.jazzandblues.org) award-winning television and radio personality and concert producer. An adult educational outreach program sponsored by THE PASADENA SYMPHONY, (www.pasadenasymphony.org), it’s free.
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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, Oct 20; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm JIM JONES & JIM WILSON bring Western / cowboy music to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. They are award-winning Western songwriter / entertainers who sing songs about the American West, cowboy songs, love songs, silly songs, love gone right, love gone wrong, you name it, they'll pick it on their acoustic guitars. They’ll be digging up legends of Billy the Kid, spinning yarns about tourists invading South Texas... you know, everyday life. Artists info, www.jimjonesmusic.com & www.sheriffjimwilson.net
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These good friends have a lot of fun together and they're obliged if you saddle up and go along for the ride. Jones has won multiple awards for his songwriting and was named a finalist for the Academy of Western Artists “Male Western Singer of the Year.” Wilson's CD, "Border Bravo," was named the Western Music Association's “Best Traditional Western Album” of 2003. This’ll be a fine evening ride. $15.
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Mon, Oct 20; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm MARK O’CONNOR plays the first in a series of events as Artist in Residence for 2008-2009 at UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music; in UCLA’s Schoenberg Hall, 1200 Schoenberg Music Building, Westwood 90095; www.schoolofmusic.ucla.edu/events; 310-825-2101. Tonight, he performs an unaccompanied violin recital of original music, featuring 6 caprices, 3 improvisations, two re-tuned pieces, and tributes to a pair of his violin mentors, BENNY THOMASSON and STEPHANE GRAPPELLI. In the following days, O'Connor will hold classes at UCLA on American Classical Music, before his special guest spot at Carnegie Hall, Oct 29, performing with virtuosos CHRIS THILE on mandolin and EDGAR MEYER on double bass, where the trio will perform one of O'Connor’s rearranged violin caprices. On Nov 21, O'Connor performs with ROSANNE CASH at the Library of Congress for a special collaborative concert with a four-movement piano, violin, and cello trio named POETS AND PROPHETS, inspired by the life and music of one of O'Connor's boyhood heroes, JOHNNY CASH, as well as a joint performance with ROSANNE CASH later in the program. He begins the fall performing with the Baltimore Symphony in Sep. More info on his UCLA performances when we have it, or check www.markoconnor.com. $15.
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Mon, Oct 20:
8 pm VERONIQUE CHEVALIER performs her CD release show for “POLKA HAUNT US,” just in time for Halloween, at Club Good Hurt, 12249 Venice Bl, Santa Monica 90066; 310-390-1076. It’ll be quite a night, celebrating Veronique’s new record, with performances by host and MC VERONIQUE CHEVALIER, BROOKE TROUT AND THE ANCHOR MEN, THE RHYTHM COFFIN, COUNT SMOKULA, TRACY DEAN & JESUS, THE REVEREND AND THE DOCTOR, and a special appearance by “Gothic Icons” KYNT & VYXSIN of the reality TV series, “THE AMAZING RACE.” Artist info, http://MySpace.com/PolkaHauntUs. $10 cover includes a new “Polka Haunt Us” CD.
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Mon, Oct 20
8 pm KATIE COSTELLO at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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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, Oct 20:
10 pm FISHTANK ENSENBLE plus RUPA & THE APRIL FISHES at the Roxy, 9009 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-276-2222; www.theroxyonsunset.com. Fishtank Ensemble has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they bring a delightfully dazzling array of instruments and an engaging hybrid of acoustic styles. Artists info, www.fishtankensemble.com and www.myspace.com/aprilfishes. $13.50.
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Mon, Oct 20:
10 pm DAVE GLEASON & OLD CALIFORNIO at Redwood Bar & Grill, 316 W 2nd St (between Broadway and Hill), downtown L.A. 90012; www.theredwoodbar.com.
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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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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are tonight in Tarzana and Altadena.
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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, Oct 21; every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” brings DAVID MASSENGILL and JIMMY MUFFIN 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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DAVID MASSENGILL is a modern-day folk icon who played two of our “Show of the Week” picks when he did his full concert at the Coffee Gallery Backstage Oct 17 and his concert in Anaheim for “The Living Tradition” series, Oct 18. By birth a Tennessean, David Massengill emigrated to the Greenwich Village folk scene in the mid-‘70s, walking the same streets and playing the same storied coffee houses as BOB DYLAN and DAVE VAN RONK. Thirty years later, David is still walking those streets, but now he’s being recognized universally for his pivotal role in keeping the American folk music tradition alive. Called “a master of vivid lyrical imagery” by the Boston Globe, David continues to create beautiful and poignant “story songs” that are intimate and relevant and tug at your emotions. His song, “Rider On An Orphan Train,” was described by the Washington Post as “a narrative ballad ringing with truth and anguish.” The Boston Globe writing about his song “Number One In America,” calls it, “a riveting and ironic civil rights anthem.” And his biting political statement, “The Gambler,” was aptly called “a thing of beauty about all things ugly” by Barry Crimmins.
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JOAN BAEZ, THE ROCHES, LUCY KAPLANSKY, TOM RUSSELL, NANCI GRIFFITH and his mentor, DAVE VAN RONK, have all covered David Massengill’s songs.
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David Massengill is also about the dulcimer. In a memorable compliment, Dave Van Ronk said David “took the dull out of dulcimer!” Music Boulevard has noted, “That David made the lap dulcimer his instrument of choice tells us a lot about the soft-spoken native of eastern Tennessee. He accompanies his performance with an instrument indelibly Appalachian, yet conquers even the most urban of musical communities. He does it without losing that remarkable gift for true storytelling.” David has released six albums, nine bootlegs and nine books to date, including his album, “Partners in Crime,” the debut album ffrom THE FOLK BROTHERS, David’s duo project with JACK HARDY. More on David at www.davidmassengill.com and www.thefolkbrothers.com
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“JIMMY MUFFIN is a passionate live performer who connects instantly with his audiences,” says MSSS host Garret Swayne. Garret continues, “Jimmy has been an artist, manager, producer, song screener and performing songwriter for over 25 years. He produced and edited radio spots for the films ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Jaws,’ ‘The Deer Hunter,’ and many more. He also produced weekly songwriters nights at the world famous Palomino and Jack’s Sugar Shack. He has performed around the country, France and Italy on the same bill, or has worked with artists as diversified, as JEFFREY STEEL, ALLAN RICH, STEVE DORFF, AL ANDERSON, BILLY DEAN, GARY BAKER, TIA SILLERS, MARK SELBY, MARTIN PAGE, JAMIE O'NEIL, CHUCK CANNON, WALT ALDRIDGE and others. In June of 2001, he was appointed VP of Creative Development for Ash Street Music Publishing, in charge of signing and developing writers; and he also signed an exclusive writers agreement with the company.Jimmy co-produced and wrote all the material for his acclaimed CD. ‘On The Brink Of Disaster.’ His song, ‘Stand Tall America,’ dedicated to the 9/11 tragedy and co-written with GARY BAKER (‘I Swear,’ and ‘I’m Already There’) and JERRY WILLIAMS, was featured in the PBS-aired documentary film, ‘One Voice / The Healing Pole’ and is the lead song on ‘The Inspiration New York’ CD. Currently, Jimmy is pitching songs from his personal catalog, in pre-production mode for his upcoming CD project, and he is head chef running a business called Dinner-Music. (www.dinner-music.com). Jimmy Muffin remains a well-loved figure in both the L.A. and Nashville songwriting communities. You can hear some of his music at www.soundclick.com/jimmymuffin. It's been over three years since Jimmy has played the MSSS and we're glad to have him back. And it's his birthday, no less!”
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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, 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, Oct 21; third Tue, every month; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:15-9 pm FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER plus opening act SEAGRASS are this month’s performing artists at the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR,” BASC (Bluegrass Assoc of Southern Cal) show at Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana 91356. Event info, www.socalbluegrass.org/bascnite.html. Take 101 Fwy to Reseda Bl, exit S, go 2 1/2 miles up the hill to the entrance on the right.
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FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER played to a sold-out crowd at the prestigious Getty Museum in September, and an enthusiastic audience at the recent “Taste of Folk Music / Taste of Encino.” They have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which had the world premiere of their second studio CD. Now working on their third CD, they have lots of new songs to share, along with earlier originals that always have the crowd singing-along on the choruses. They’re both excellent songwriters who share a love for backroads and blue skies. The bluegrass influences are clearly there, but they are pure Americana originals.
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SEAGRASS plays 7:15-7:45 pm; Fur & Steve and their acoustic band follow.
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Show is free; dinner is an optional pasta buffet, complete with soup, dinner salad (you can add chicken breast), rolls, butter, coffee, tea and dessert, $14 (tax and tip included). Buffet served beginning at 6:30 pm. Bar service available. Ample seating, safe, secure free parking. Info: contact Joy Felt, Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at 818-705-8870 or bascinfo@socalbluegrass.org.
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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, Oct 21:
7:30-9:30 pm “SAN GABRIEL VALLEY STORYTELLERS” at Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 S Hill Ave, Pasadena 91106; monthly meetings include discussions of storytelling issues and resources, plus a story swap. Info, www.inlandstorytellers.org; contact Nick Smith, 626-298-6532; nick@inlandstorytellers.org. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Tue, Oct 21; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE STARLINGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. The Starlings are wrapping-up six months of a national tour, making their way up the West Coast to return to their hometown of Seattle. This is their L.A. area stop. Along with AIMEE ZOE TUBBS on a stand-up drumkit and backing vocals, JOY MILLS & TOM PARKER perform songs from their two releases "Songbook" and "Marveling the While," which was in its 16th week, as of this writing, on the Roots Music Report Charts. The UK's Maverick Magazine, a fine journal of Americana roots music, celebrates them as being, "For the lo-fi country enthusiast...” While the Seattle Post Intelligencer newspaper calls them, “a band buoyed by shimmering vocalist, Joy Mills." Their engaging performance proves why they are winning over new fans in every new town. Mills and Parker, known for their sweet blend of vocals, exchange of guitar and banjo tunes, explore the themes of Americana over and under: twilight on the prairie, divining rods, river beds, and the long ride home. $15.
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Tue; third (and first) Tue, every month:
“BACK PORCH AT THE UNURBAN” hosted by swamp grass band KILLING CASSANOVA, on the back porch at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica. The back porch is “a night of acoustic singer-songwriters, folk and freak folkers” sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova. The Unurban is a free thinking, all ages, speakeasy-style coffee house, with food for vegeterians and deli lovers alike, and the usual coffeehouse fare. The hosts also say, “Please contact us if you're interested in sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova,” through www.myspace.com/killingcassanova or www.myspace.com/backporchattheunurban.
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Tue, Oct 21
8 pm “TAKING BACK TUESDAY” show with ADJOA SKINNER, JASON DIAZ, JT SPANGLER, plus 9:30 pm show with SUSAN CALLOWAY, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. Sponsored by ASCAP and Adrenaline Music. No cover.
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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 week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, Oct 21; in Everett, WA:
NEIL YOUNG with DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE, & EVEREST, at the Comcast Arena, 2000 Hewitt Av, Everett, WA 98201; 425-322-2600.
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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, Oct 21:
9 pm CONOR OBERST & THE MYSTIC VALLEY BAND at the Henry Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl between Argyle & Gower, Hollywood; 323-464-0808. First of two nights, this one is sold-out; at presstime, tix still available for tomorrow.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22
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Tonight’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Hollywood, at 7 pm.
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every week:
6-9 pm GARRET SWAYNE does his weekly residency at Giovanni Ristorante, 21926 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; reserv 818-884-0243; www.GiovanniRistorante.com. Ample parking behind restaurant. No cover, $15 minimum per person on food or drink.
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Wed; 2nd & 4th Wed every month; in Lancaster:
6 pm UKULELE CLUB at Nicks Pizza, 43755 15th St West, Lancaster. Uke players begin arriving about 5 pm, meeting starts at 6 pm. Newcomers welcome.
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Wed, Oct 22; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm MARINA V, ARDEN OF EDEN, AMILIA K. SPICER, at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. They’re two of L.A.’s best performing women songwriters, MARINA V (at 7 pm) and AMILIA K. SPICER (at 9 pm) and each has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and scored a “Listener Favorite” there. They bracket an hourlong set and CD release show by ARDEN OF EDEN (at 8 pm). RYAN CALHOUN follows at 10, and AYA LARKIN at 11 pm. Marina V was classically trained in Russia, and she performs on keyboard and guitar, backing her wonderful vocals; we also just learned that it’s her birthday, so expect something special. Amilia Spicer is a folk festival favorite who plays the main stage every year at Kerrville, and everywhere else from there to Newfoundland. A great night to go to Hollywood!
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Wed, 2nd & 4th Wed, every month; in Lompoc:
7-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM” at Southside Coffee Co, 105 S "H" St, Lompoc. Info, call Bill, 805-736-8241.
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Wed, every week:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, Oct 22:
7:30 pm BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com. A four piece band with a new take on American roots music, Aaron, Brad, Kailin and Scott are accomplished multi-instrumentalists who captivate audiences with guitar, fiddle, string bass, marimba, ukulele, percussion, banjo and mandolin. Their deep respect for tradition, passion for innovation and intriguing instrumentation creates a remarkable and memorable listening experience. The music is modern and accessible, subtle yet virtuosic and serious yet light hearted. BAS is known all over North America for their genre-blending song writing, amazing improvisation and intimate, personal vocals.” The Colorado-based band has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they amply proved all that. Musician / arranger / composer DAROL ANGER says, "Here, for us, is the future of String band music on a silver platter." Internationally touring Boulder Acoustic Society is circling the US in support of their fourth album, “Caged Bird,” released in March 2008.
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A recent review by Brian Johnson in Marquee Magazine says, “The band, which has become known and critically acclaimed for their avant-garde instrumental arrangements - even going so far as to win the 2007 Independent Music Award for Americana Song of the Year for their track “Does It Really Matter ” - has maintained their multiple genre roots, but has added into the fold a feel of country, Eastern European folk (think DeVotchKa) and back porch storytelling on Caged Bird.”
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The new album showcases the Boulder Acoustic Society’s ability to weave together the old with the new in a different way. Featuring classic acoustic instruments such as the guitar, ukulele, violin and accordion, BAS infuses old-timey tunes with a modern pop sensibility. Expect lots of the incredibly executed arrangements you have come to know, with new vocal layers and harmonies mixed-in. Band info, www.boulderacousticsociety.net
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session; call for location, 805-579-6416; www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Oct 22:
CANCELLED; will be rescheduled: 8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE TRAVELING BAND featuring SUSIE GLAZE, TOM CORBETT, & BOB APPLEBAUM play their debut concert at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av., Altadena 91001; Information, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Check out the “Bluegrass / Folk Fusion” sound of "Contemporary Appalachia" as defined by this new band of seasoned all-stars. Artist info, Artist info, www.susieglaze.com and www.myspace.com/susieglaze. $15.
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Wed, Oct 22:
8 pm MARTIN SEXTON at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Wed, Oct 22:
8 pm FELICE BROTHERS at the Troubadour, 9081 Santa Monica Bl, West Hollywood; 310-276-6168.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed,: 4th Wed every month:
8:30 pm “FESTIVAL OF THE EGG” the monthly all-female musicians’ event, at the Universal Bar & Grill, 4093 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-2114. $7.
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Wed, every Wed:
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 line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, Oct 22:
9 pm CONOR OBERST & THE MYSTIC VALLEY BAND at the Henry Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl between Argyle & Gower, Hollywood; 323-464-0808. Second of two nights; also Oct 21, which sold-out early. Tix for tonight are still available at press time. $25.
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Wed, Oct 22:
9 pm THE GHOST HOUNDS, PHILIP SAYCE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. $10.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
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Tonight’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are in Tujunga, Altadena, L.A., & West Hollywood.
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Thu-Sat, Oct 23-25; in Canada:
Annual “OCFF FOLK FESTIVAL” in Ottawa, Canada, is that nation’s largest folk festival, and the companion OCFF conference is the key event for Ontario's folk, roots, and traditional music community. Details at www.ocff.ca.
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET,” brand new in October ’08, with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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Thu, every week:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, every week; in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, 4th (and 2nd) Thu, every month; in Ventura:
6-9:30 pm “ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin, who says, “Check-out Ventura's Bluegrass Jam website, at http://home.earthlink.net/~generubinaudio/index.html. All skills welcome, friendly folks, great food and drink, and even better jammin'. Generally we number 25 to 35 musicians. We now have additional space for even more jam circles. Spectators are appreciated and welcome.” Contact Gene with your email address to receive regular reminders and details: 805-658-8311 or generubinaudio@earthlink.net.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists ERNEST TROOST and NICOLE GORDON & MARTY AXELROD (Songs of Shiloh), at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; www.myspace.com/arniescafe; 818-951-9089. Piedmont bluesman ERNEST TROOST has won music Emmys. NICOLE GORDON & MARTY AXELROD are both accomplished songwriters and performers who developed the thematic “Songs of Shiloh” album and show. All of tonight’s guests have performed live, several times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Hosted by MARK “POCKET” GOLDBERG & “BROTHER” RANDY SACKS. Musician DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive, past guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) tells us, “This bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase every Thursday night, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, tip jar donations to artists are welcome. (Also see 11 pm listing for Nicole Gordon’s other show tonight).
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Thu, every week:
7 pm WEEKLY ZYDECO DANCE in Long Beach, every Thursday at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 562-596-1631. Come early for Bar Happy Hour with free food, 4-7 pm. Evening costs $7 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lessons included: 7-7:30 basic zydeco; 7:30-8 pm intermediate / advanced dance moves. CD dancing 8-9 pm. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. Dance instruction by Karen Redding of LouisianaDanceLA.com; Karen has taught at L.A. Music Center, “Long Beach Bayou Festival,” San Diego's “Gator By The Bay” Festival, “Simi Valley Cajun Festival,” Galaxy Theater, private parties and corporate events. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, Oct 23; in Palm Springs:
JIM JONES & SHERIFF JIM WILSON perform a house concert in the home of Marvin and Theresa O'Dell in Palm Springs. Info & reservations, contact Marvin at MEOTEO@aol.com. (There were an Oct 20 “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick when they performed in Altadena at 8 pm):
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Thu, every week:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Bob Stane calls them “Ethereal, orchestral. Catch this show. This is a 3rd encore. A four piece band with a new take on American roots music. Aaron, Brad, Kailin and Scott are accomplished multi-instrumentalists who captivate audiences with guitar, fiddle, string bass, marimba, ukulele, percussion, banjo and mandolin. Their deep respect for tradition, passion for innovation and intriguing instrumentation creates a remarkable and memorable listening experience. The music is modern and accessible, subtle yet virtuosic and serious yet light hearted. BAS is known all over North America for their genre-blending song writing, amazing improvisation and intimate, personal vocals.” The Colorado-based band has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they amply proved all that. Musician / arranger / composer DAROL ANGER says, "Here, for us, is the future of String band music on a silver platter." Internationally touring Boulder Acoustic Society is circling the US in support of their fourth album, “Caged Bird,” released in March 2008.
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A recent review by Brian Johnson in Marquee Magazine says, “The band, which has become known and critically acclaimed for their avant-garde instrumental arrangements - even going so far as to win the 2007 Independent Music Award for Americana Song of the Year for their track “Does It Really Matter ” - has maintained their multiple genre roots, but has added into the fold a feel of country, Eastern European folk (think DeVotchKa) and back porch storytelling on Caged Bird.”
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The new album showcases the Boulder Acoustic Society’s ability to weave together the old with the new in a different way. Featuring classic acoustic instruments such as the guitar, ukulele, violin and accordion, BAS infuses old-timey tunes with a modern pop sensibility. Expect lots of the incredibly executed arrangements you have come to know, with new vocal layers and harmonies mixed-in. Band info, www.boulderacousticsociety.net. $18.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm DAR WILLIAMS with SHAWN MULLINS at the El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-4790; www.theelrey.com. This is an outstanding Americana double-bill. Doors at 8 pm, showtime not specified. Tix on sale Sep 6 at 10 am. $26.50.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “TAJ MAHAL: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS” brings Taj with the PHANTOM BLUES BAND to House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Thu, Oct 23:
8 pm JACK FRIS RADIO CHOIR, SHOTGUN HONEYMOON, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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Thu, recurring:
8-11:30 pm RICK SHEA AND THE LOSIN' END at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rick and his honky-tonk blues band’s Thursday series, with guests. Rick & co play 8-9, then from 10-12. At 9 is the guest band, different each week. Artists’ info: www.rickshea.com. Venue serves dinner, has drink specials most nights. $5 cover.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz. The boys say, “Come down for great music, dancing and a green beer!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Thu; repeats every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu; 2nd & 4th Mon every month:
8-9 pm “MONDAY NIGHT POETRY” at the Santa Catalina Branch Library, 999 E Washington Bl, Pasadena 91104 ; info, www.home.earthlink.net/~mondaynightpoetry/; contact Don Kingfisher Campbell, mondaynightpoetry@earthlink.net or 626-744-7272. Featured poets and open readings; sign-up by 8 pm. They say, “This is your chance to share your poetry with the public and to hear professional poets performing their newest creations.” Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Thu, most Thursdays:
8:30 pm THE WATKINS FAMILY HOUR at one of the two Largo locations, either the original “little stage” venue at 432 N Fairfax Av, LA; 323-852-1073, or the new “big stage” Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, L.A. 90048; http://largo-la.com; 310-855-0350. They are alumni of NICKEL CREEK. Cover is $15 in the small venue, $25 in the big venue.
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Thu, every week:
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 line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, every week:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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Thu, Oct 23:
11 pm NICOLE GORDON at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. She’s performed live, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where she also scored a “Listener Favorite” with her “Songs of Shiloh” collaboration with Marty Axlerod. Come earlier for a full evening of music: ERIC HIMAN at 8 pm, JOSH CANOVA at 9 pm, and ERIC CORNE’s CD release show at 9:45 pm. $8, door.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks tonight are in Cerritos, Altadena, Santa Monica, and Pasadena.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26; in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. Many performances on stages and in hotel suites, officially-sanctioned by the conference and both sanctioned and unsanctioned “guerilla” showcase performances, together with annual awards, panels and workshops on acoustic performance, bookings, career promotion, jam sessions, and more. Many attend to promote their careers or find bookings, others attend simply to enjoy many wonderful performances in one place over three days. Organization’s web site has all info for attending, and registering at the host hotel.
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A highlight is the Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (5:30-7 pm) 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.
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Here’s the conference schedule, not yet on the FAR West website when posted here:
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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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Fri, every week:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every week:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. 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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Fri, Oct 24:
Sold-out; try waiting list:
7:30 pm THE DEVIL MAKES THREE at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; www.getty.edu. Admission to the Getty Center and the show are FREE. Parking is $10. Reservations for the performance are required, and the free tix for these shows go quickly. Reservations status at 310-440-7300 or at www.getty.edu on or after that date.
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The Devil Makes Three create music that's been described as "powerful, reckless, and beautiful" (East Bay Express). With a slightly funky perspective on vintage American blues, this band is a breath of fresh musical air. The critically acclaimed trio of PETE BERNHARD on vocals & guitar, COOPER McBEAN on guitar, banjo, & vocals, and LUCIA TURINO on upright base, combines ragtime, country, folk, and rockabilly into contagious rhythms and three-part harmonies in a "jug-band-meets-punk-band" approach that has attracted a passionate following. Hear a music excerpt from their song, "Beneath the Piano" from the Devil Makes Three's self-titled CD (2007, Milan Records), at www.getty.edu/visit/calendar/events/Performances.html?cid=egetty084
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Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26:
7:30 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain. Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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Fri, repeats 4th Fri, every month:
7:30 pm monthly “COFFEE HOUSE AT THE ONION” is an OPEN MIC at The Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, 9550 Haskell Av, North Hills. Songmakers tell us, “A great place to showcase your new stuff.” Coffee & cookies available (in return for your donation). Free event.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
KRIS KRISTOFFERSON plays a “Solo Acoustic Show” at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. This locally-based big time Irish act performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006, and that time EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. . Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After" still gets international airplay, and was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine. Two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this highly-entertaining ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, Sligo Rags is taking the local and not-so-local Celtic music scene by storm. Says the San Diego Troubadour, "This band can light up an atmosphere as dim as the Guinness stout you just ordered at the bar... Sligo Rags really know their Celtic music." Don't be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz, and swing manage to sneak their way into the act, as well. Much fun. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “This is a money back, no-questions-asked-if-you-are-not-thrilled act. Bring friends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles.” $18.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm ELIZA GILKYSON 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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Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Fri, Oct 24:
8 pm SONNY LANDRETH, plus others, at The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm RENAISSANCE at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, Marjorie Branson Performance Space, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; addt’l info, 323-556-1046. Renaissance is one of America's premier all a cappella doo wop singing groups (street corner style). Their live stage performance is revealed on their critically acclaimed CD, “Meet Me On The Corner (a virtual street corner experience).” They tell us, “We want to take you back to a time and place. A time when songs had meaning and lyrical taste. We want to take you back to that moment of your first kiss, a time before cell phones when it was your little sister that told you about the calls that you missed.” More at www.sonicbid.com/renaissance and hear excerpts of their entire CD at www.cdbaby.com/renaissancegroup.
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Bob Davis, of Soul Patrol," observes, “people want REAL MUSIC. And these are the TOP artists in 2008 who are giving it to them,” with Renaissance’s "Meet Me On The Corner" CD at #2. The group is welcoming new Renaissance member, Jason Powell who has replaced Charles "Sonny " Banks in the group.
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Fri, 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 dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Saturday include evening shows in Culver City, L.A., Hollywood, and a big one at Caltech in Pasadena.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26:
9th Annual “RAGFEST” Ragtime Weekend Music Festival in Southern California, location tba; info, 714-680-6684 or www.RagFest.com. Featuring, in alphabetical order, ALBANY NIGHTBOAT RAGTIMERS, PATRICK ARANDA, ANDREW BARRETT, THE BRADSHAWS, SHIRLEY CASE, BILL EDWARDS, MARK ALLEN JONES, HELIOTROPE RAGTIME ORCHESTRA, BRAD KAY, ERIC MARCHESE, ERIKA C. MILLER, BILL MITCHELL, BOB PINSKER, GALEN WILKES, IAN & REGINA WHITCOMB, THOSE SYNCOPATING SONGBIRDS, and “many surprise guest artists.” All-weekend pass $60 in adv; select event tix $20-$25.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26; not music, but fun:
9 am-4 pm Annual “PUMPKIN ROUNDUP FESTIVAL” with 15 vintage farm tractors at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge (near the interchange of the 2 and 210 freeways); 818-949-4200; www.descansogardens.org. The Topa Topa Flywheelers Club will display original and restored tractors dating from 1937-1957, chugging into Descanso Gardens to delight children and adults alike. Coming from across Southern California, the tractor owners talk to the public about their machines, and a few owners will invite folks to climb on board to start-up one of these old-time agricultural wonders. Celebrating fall and Halloween, the festival also features a bevy of activities for all ages, including pumpkin decorating, honeybee demonstrations, a handmade items boutique, kids’ costume parades, nature activities, dance performances, a children’s maze and rides on the Enchanted Railroad. Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums. The festival is included with Garden admission. $8 adults; $6 srs & students; $3 children ages 5-12; free for children age 5 and younger and for Descanso members.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25-26; in Tucson, AZ:
Annual “TUCSON BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Tucson, Arizona, with CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY, ERIC UGLUM, and others.
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Sat, Oct 25 (runs Oct 24-26); in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. Many performances on stages and in hotel suites, officially-sanctioned by the conference and both sanctioned and unsanctioned “guerilla” showcase performances, together with annual awards, panels and workshops on acoustic performance, bookings, career promotion, jam sessions, and more. Many attend to promote their careers or find bookings, others attend simply to enjoy many wonderful performances in one place over three days. Organization’s web site has all info for attending, and registering at the host hotel.
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A highlight is the Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (5:30-7 pm) 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.
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Conference schedule, remaining events:
> 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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Sat, repeats every week:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Sat, Oct 25:
Noon “JERRY COLE MEMORIAL CONCERT” with HAL BLAINE & DON RANDI of the WRECKING CREW, TOMMY SANDS, GLEN GLENN, JEWELL ATKINS, PAUL JOHNSON of the SURFARIS, JOHN & THE NIGHTRIDERS, THE ORIGINAL TORNADOES, GEORGE TOMSCO AND THE FIREBALLS, 3 BALLS OF FIRE, SLACKTONE, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027; www.safari-sams.com. Event info, www.myspace.com/thejerrycole. $10.
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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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Sat, Oct 25:
1-4 pm “INDIE MUSIC FOR FILM & TV” INDUSTRY PANEL sponsored by Los Angeles WoMen in Music (LAWIM) at the YAHOO! Center Community Room, 2500 Broadway, Santa Monica. Event info, 213-243-6440 or www.lawim.com. A film music panel presenting and discussing the acquisition and use of independent music for film & TV, with emphasis on indie films.
Among the topics to be covered:
* Getting the right composer and the right price
* Using music supervisors and contractors
* Music Libraries: new business models to consider
* Legal elements of music use, copyright & clearance
* Budget and business considerations... How to Get Paid!
* Technical considerations of video, digital and film
* Use of internet and website tools
* Distribution and marketing strategies
* Union contracts for very low budget films
* Resources for making the connection between composers, songwriters and filmmakers
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PANELISTS are Charlyn Bernal, Assoc. Dir., Film & TV Music ASCAP; Rob Case, Music Publisher; Allison Wright Clark, Music Supervisor; Amy Salko Robertson, Film Producer; Penelope Spheeris, Film Director; Jennifer Yeko, Composer's Agent & Music Supervisor. MODERATOR is Ritch Esra, The Film & Television Music Guide, Music Business Registry.
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Plenty of street parking or park in the Yahoo! Center Garage, Level P1, P2 and P3, with event validation. Make reservations by Oct 23, at info@lawim.com. Advance tix $15 gen’l, $10 LAWIM mbrs. At door (space permitting) $20 gen’l, $15 LAWIM mbrs
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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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Sat, Oct 25; in Palmdale:
3 pm FREE PREVIEW of scenes from the “DISNEY SPECTACULAR MUSICAL REVUE” presented by Cedar Street Theatre company at Barnes & Noble in Palmdale. There is no charge to "sneak a peek" at the upcoming musical revue, and coupons will be offered there, good for up to 45% off tickets to the full production, Oct 31 and Nov 1 at 8 pm and Nov 2 at 2 pm, at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center (LPAC). Kids are encouraged to come to the Halloween night show dressed as their favorite Disney characters, where they can participate in a free trick-or-treat after the show. Tix for the full show at LPAC start at $10 for youth 17 and younger. Info & tix, 661-723-5950 or www.lpac.org.
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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, Oct 25; 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; info, 949-646-1964; www.thelivingtradition.org. 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, Oct 25; in the OC:
6-8 pm WHEN PIGS FLY! at the Santa Ana Zoo. Band member BEA ROMANO tells us, “It's lots of fun and laughter for a merry, not scary, Halloween celebration.” Confirm the set time at www.whenpigsflymusic.com.
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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, Oct 25:
7 pm THE MIGHTY ECHOES plus VICTORIA VOX opening, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Grab this show.”
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VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. Tonight, she graciously opens the show with, as Bob Stane says, “a full sack of magic charms.” She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “in between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs.
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THE MIGHTY ECHOES are an award-winning a cappella quartet specializing in the “Doo-Wop” sound of the 1950’s and 1960’s. Their repertoire includes the classics of that era plus an eclectic mix of contemporary material. This is a “pure fun” act; not only are they thrilling to hear singing but are as funny as a comedy troupe. The Echoes are solid faves at the venue. The Mighty Echoes began singing at a storefront theatre in L.A.’s Silverlake District in 1986. They are CHARLIE DAVIS, a native New Yorker whose low bass is deep as an ocean trench; he was the voice of God on TV’s Power Rangers; Second tenor JOHN LATHAN, the newest Echo, has performed on Broadway and at the Apollo in Harlem. First tenor JON RUBIN, also the lead singer of the teen idol band, The Rubinoos, has thrilled audiences worldwide with his soaring tenor; Mellifluous baritone HARVEY SHIELD, who started as a drummer in Swinging ‘60s London, is also an accomplished songwriter as exemplified by his composition, “The Way I Feel Tonight,” an international hit for The Bay City Rollers. $18.
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Sat, Oct 25:
7 pm DANIEL NAHMOD plays the “Starlight House Concert Series” in North Hills (North San Fernando Valley), in a show co-sponsored by Spiritworks Center of Spiritual Living; reservations get directions, at 818 895-8414 or jayneecat@earthlink.net. Host Jaynee Thorne tells us, “Singer-songwriter and humanitarian DANIEL NAHMOD (www.DanielNahmod.com, pronounced Nay-mod) has performed his profound, heart-opening original music for over one million people in 45 US states and Canada since beginning his music career in 1999.” He has sold 55,000 CDs to date, and received thousands of standing ovations along the way. Jaynee continues, “Daniel's poetic and evocative message of peace, love and compassion across all nations, cultures and faiths has found overwhelming acceptance wherever he has performed. Join us for an inspiring evening under the moonlight. The evening is POT LUCK. Bring a side dish, drinks, sweets, whatever is your specialty. Suggested donation $20 at the door. Checks can be made out to SPIRITWORKS Center of Spiritual Living. Doors open and POT LUCK STARTS at 7 pm. Show starts at 8 pm.”
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Sat, Oct 25:
7 pm CINTHIA MEJIA at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com.
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Sat, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. 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, Oct 25; in Yosemite:
7 pm MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. Reservations get directions, at info@coolwaterconcerts.com or 559-658-2974. He says, “God what a great excuse to go to heaven-on-earth for a weekend. Coming to California (Van Nuys and Yosemite) and have a new pop tune arrangement available on the web site.” He also plays Oct 26 at 1pm, in Van Nuys; see that listing. New Mexico-based Michael is a marvelous musician, so we’ve gotta laugh when he says, “I will be playing lot’s of stuff that you didn’t hear last month when I came to L.A. (and I got better :-)...really).” He continues, “I will be joined again, for a few tunes, by singer-songwriter genius STEVE POSTELL. I wrote with Steve and played on the title track of his amazing new CD, ‘Time Still Knocking,’ which features all kinds of stars like DAVID CROSBY, JENNIFER WARNES, ROBBEN FORD, etc.”
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Finally, Michael adds, “Also, my arrangement of ‘Heard it Through the Grapevine’ is now available from my web page. Go to www.michaelchapdelaine.com, then ‘music,’ then ‘pop tunes and others.’”
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Sat, Oct 25:
7:30 pm RICHARD GILEWITZ at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Known as one of the strangest men in acoustic music today, Richard Gilewitz fascinates his audiences with fingerstyle gymnastics on his 6 and 12-string guitars while spinning yarns too unbelievable not to be true. His ability to make one guitar sound like an entire orchestra stems from 33 years of well-honed technique and 25 years of on the road worldwide touring. Live shows bring out the best in this author, composer, guitarist, humorist, AND storyteller who follows a distinct cadence and creates a glow that grows a little brighter with each tune. Artist info, www.richardgilewitz.com. $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm KENNY BLACKWELL & DORIAN MICHAEL at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. KENNY BLACKWELL is one of California's foremost mandolinists (band member of LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS and RHYTHM BROTHERS); tonight, he plays outside the bluegrass genre and delves into many styles. He plays together with fingerstyle guitarist DORIAN MICHAEL, with the latter’s vast knowledge of musical styles from the blues masters to Hawaiian Slack Key and classical influences. Together, they create a performance of exciting and tasteful music. A winning & fun combo. Venue’s site has a good local dining guide. Tix on sale Oct 11; $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” brings NICOLE GORDON plus TERRY HANSON to the weekly 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. 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, Oct 25 (runs Oct 11, through Nov 9); stage play:
World premiere run of “THE SEQUENCE” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.com. “The Sequence,” by Paul Mullin, directed by John Langs, follows the real life race between scientists Craig Venter and Francis Collins to sequence the human genome. And in the midst of the frenzy to determine what makes a human being, three people - each in hot pursuit of scientific discovery and enduring fame - discover their own humanity. This unpredictably hilarious story, based on true events, depicts the double-talk and double-cross in the pursuit of double-stranded DNA. Partial funding generously provided by The Ensemble Studio Theatre / Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Project in Science & Technology Project.
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The theater advises us that shows are selling out, so purchase tix promptly online or by phone.
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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, Oct 25 (runs Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26):
7:30 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain.
Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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Sat, Oct 25; in Victorville:
7:30 pm SCOTT GATES & NATHAN McEUEN play their “SMOKIN’ BLUEGRASS” duet show at the High Desert Center for the Arts, 15615 8th St (at C Ave), Victorville 92395www.highdesertcenterforthearts.com; 760-243-7493. NATHAN McEUEN is a son of NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND founding member JOHN McEUEN (his brother JONATHAN McEUEN is also a musical progeny). SCOTT GATES is the California High Desert's 16-year-old mandolin wunderkind. Both have been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and Scott has performed live on the radio show. Jonathan & Scott conclude their Southwest tour tonight at the latter’s hometown venue. Show is family friendly. Reservations suggested. $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm NATALIE MacMASTER at the Caltech music series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5481.html; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832).
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Canada’s MacMaster is the master of Cape Breton’s fiddle style of fiery jigs and reels, quieter waltzes, and new contemporary pieces. NATALIE MacMASTER brings fiery jigs and reels, quieter waltzes, and new contemporary pieces, backed by a first-rate band. She continues to delight audiences around the globe with her boundless energy, amazing fiddling, and mesmerizing step dancing. The Cape Breton artist last played in L.A. at the Hollywood Bowl, where she received standing ovations from the members of the L.A. Philharmonic who backed-up her trademark fiddling-while-dancing performance. Artist info, www.nataliemacmaster.com.
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Presented by Caltech Public Events, Folk Music Society as marketing partner; discounted tix available if you mention the Folk Music Society. Info & tix, Caltech Ticket Office, 626-395-4652 or 1-888-2CALTECH. Gen’l, $32, $27, $22; $10 youth.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “L.A. PHIL PRESENTS - AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH VINCE GILL” at Walt Disney Concert Hall, 135 N Grand Av, L.A.; 213-972-7211. Tix & info, www.LAPhil.com. The most decorated country artist in history comes to Walt Disney Hall for an acoustic performance. Gill has won 19 Grammys, including his latest, a 2008 Grammy for “These Days.” the Country Music Hall of Fame member will perform an intimate evening featuring new songs, classic hits, and more. Link to program page, at www.laphil.com/tickets/performance_detail.cfm?id=3595.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm JANIVA MAGNESS 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. $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm KATHLEEN GRACE BAND plays their CD release show at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. She is a lovely singer and piano artist, and if all jazz sounded like Kathleen Grace, everyone would love jazz.
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Sat, Oct 25:
8 pm “HOW CISSY GREW” featuring the music of LAUREN ADAMS, continues its world premiere at the El Portal Theater, 5269 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood. The show runs there Oct 18-Nov 23, following previews Oct 16 & 17. Lauren has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.laurenadams.com.
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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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, 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, Oct 25:
9:30 pm-1:30 am WUMBLOOZO brings the blues to Joe's Great American Bar and Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505.
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We’re suckers for good, creative, self-promotion. They tell us, “We hear that things ain't so great out where you are. Banks are goin' belly-up, the stock market keeps doin' nose-dives, and folks are plenty worried. Well, we know that worryin' ain't good for much, and we don't do much of that. We just play our music, givin' folks the rockin', down-home good times they've come to expect from us, and let them worries float away in the breeze!
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“Things are great here. The music's always playin', the river runs gently by, and folks are always dancing out there by the edge of the woods. And some are sneakin' off into them woods, too, usually in couples! But that's nobody's never mind.
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“Nowadays, that's just what everybody needs, now more than ever. So we're lettin' you know where we'll next be bringin' the Wumbloozo Corner magic, so you can come by!”
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The band is Ben Beckley on drums, percussion and vocals; Mark Peters on bass guitar and vocal; Herbie Katz (aka “Doctor Fun” on harmonica and vocals; Bruce Boyers on keyboard and vocals; Michael Richard on guitar and vocals. Artists info, www.myspace.com/wumbloozo. Venue is 21+. No cover.
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Sat, Oct 25:
CANCELLED: 10 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. return to the Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St (between Broadway and Hill), downtown L.A. 90012; www.theredwoodbar.com. $5 cover.
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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, OCTOBER 26
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Sunday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are both in the local High Desert, in Palmdale and Lancaster.
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Sun, Oct 26 (began Oct 25):
9th Annual “RAGFEST” Ragtime Weekend Music Festival in Southern California, loc tba; info, 714-680-6684 or www.RagFest.com. Featuring, in alphabetical order, ALBANY NIGHTBOAT RAGTIMERS, PATRICK ARANDA, ANDREW BARRETT, THE BRADSHAWS, SHIRLEY CASE, BILL EDWARDS, MARK ALLEN JONES, HELIOTROPE RAGTIME ORCHESTRA, BRAD KAY, ERIC MARCHESE, ERIKA C. MILLER, BILL MITCHELL, BOB PINSKER, GALEN WILKES, IAN & REGINA WHITCOMB, THOSE SYNCOPATING SONGBIRDS, and “many surprise guest artists.” All-weekend pass $60 in adv; select event tix $20-$25.
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Sun, Oct 26 (runs Oct 24-26); in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” concludes today at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. See Fri and Sat listings.
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Sun, every week:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Also, free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun, Oct 26:
11 am PARKER BENT plays a kid’s show 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. $8; kids under age 2 are free.
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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, every week:
Noon-3 pm “AMERICANA BRUNCH” with different live performers each week, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027. Hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff W, who David Serby says, “Not only puts these Sunday shows together, but he spins some serious old school country, honky tonk and rockabilly music, too.”
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Sun, every week:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun; 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun; repeats every fourth Sun; 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, Oct 26:
1 pm MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE plays Ellie Kahn’s House Concert series in Van Nuys. Reservations get directions, at ekzmail@gmail.com. Michael checked-in to say, “Coming to California (Van Nuys and Yosemite) and have a new pop tune arrangement available on the web site.” New Mexico-based Michael is a marvelous musician, so we’ve gotta laugh when he says, “I will be playing lot’s of stuff that you didn’t hear last month when I came to L.A. (and I got better :-)...really).” He continues, “I will be joined again, for a few tunes, by singer-songwriter genius STEVE POSTELL. I wrote with Steve and played on the title track of his amazing new CD, ‘Time Still Knocking,’ which features all kinds of stars like DAVID CROSBY, JENNIFER WARNES, ROBBEN FORD, etc.”
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Finally, Michael adds, “Also, my arrangement of ‘Heard it Through the Grapevine’ is now available from my web page. Go to www.michaelchapdelaine.com, then ‘music,’ then ‘pop tunes and others.’”
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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, Oct 26:
2 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain.
Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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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, Oct 26:
CAMERON CARPENTER, dubbed “The Maverick Organist” by The New York Times, showcases the historic Skinner pipe organ at “UCLA Live” in Royce Hall, UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. Carpenter is known for his intensely personal, often flamboyant performances and repertoire spanning the organ and piano literature, featuring original compositions, film scores (especially from Japanese animé), and improvisations influenced by folk songs, jazz, disco and pop.
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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, Oct 26; in Seattle:
4-6:30 pm “RUNNING DOG SHANTY SING,” held the last Sunday of every month, at Running Dog Guitars / Sound Guitar Repair, 118 N 35th St, Suite 105, Fremont, WA. Hosted by Rick Davis & Cat Fox. Sea chanties (shanties) are fun to sing and the choruses are always easy-to-learn sing-alongs. The hosts tell us, “The building is tall, grey cinderblock and green metal. Suite 105 is in the back, facing the alley between 36th and 35th. Parking available on the street. Over 21 years of age please. Potluck beverages and snacks.” Free.
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Sun, Oct 26; every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” brings OLD CALIFORNIO, DAVID SERBY, GENTLEMAN FARMERS, MADAME PAMITA to the weekly country & roots series runs weekly through the summer and fall at The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. Music on indoor stage & outdoors on the “back porch” stage; BBQ on outdoor patio. 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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Sat, Oct 26:
6 pm “BREEDLOVE & FRIENDS” concert, with RICHARD GILEWITZ and others, sponsored by Breedlove Guitars, at Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Doors at 5:30 pm. Adv tix $12, $15 door; kids age 12 & under, $10.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Palmdale; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
6 pm ELIZA GILKYSON plays a benefit show at the Larry Chimbole Cultural Center, 38350 Sierra Hwy (at Palmdale Bl, E of 14 Fwy), Palmdale. She’s one of the reigning folk goddesses, and she was delightful performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Eliza has just released a new CD, "Beautiful World." It’s a full concert by Eliza, sponsored by WORD AV, a local coalition of nonprofit agencies whose mission is to promote and expand literacy awareness in the Antelope Valley. It could be the start of a singer-songwriter series sponsored by WORD AV, if this one is successful. You can purchase tix, or buy and donate tix for low-income and at-risk clients of various WORD AV agencies. Adv tix $15, by mail, to Rod Williams, Palmdale Library Literacy Program, 700 E Palmdale Bl, Palmdale, CA 93550. Write check to "WORD AV." Info, 661-267-5682 or 661-947-4172.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm MUSICàNTICA at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Superb musicianship and musical fun, with international music as a bonus. Attend this show, and you’ll learn to play two ersatz musical instruments and take one home. ROBERTO CATALANO & ENZO FINA are a Southern Italian duo playing traditional and experimental folk music of Mediterranean Italy. Venue impresario BIOB STANE says, “MUSICàNTICA offers the finest collection of world music to come out in recent years. Unless you are an Italian native, it's unlike anything you've heard before, with music performed on mostly traditional Italian folk instruments like the launeddas and benas with cow horn (Sardinian cane clarinets), putipù (friction drum), tamburieddhru (frame drum), chitarra battente (ten string Renaissance guitar), mandolin, bouzouki (Greek lute), mule bell collar, sheep bells, and marranzanu (jaw harp). You can dance your heart out, too.” $15.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm “ILLUSIONS OF GRANDEUR” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. MICHAEL OCHS presents an anecdotal, illustrated history of rock and roll, Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $12.50.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm “MUSIC Q&A with IAN MacKAYE” at Hollywood High School, Main Auditorium, 1521 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028. Presented by Goldenvoice Concerts; more info, www.myspace.com/goldenvoice and www.goldenvoice.com. IAN MacKAYE is best known as the front man of the influential bands MINOR THREAT, EMBRACE, FUGAZI, & THE EVENS. He also co-founded and co-owns the Washington, D.C.-based independent record label, Dischord Records, now in its 28th year of operation. Always challenging convention, MacKaye has continued to develop an ethic that holds to a staunchly independent, do it yourself (DIY) mindset, refusing to cater to or advertise in mainstream corporate media, and performing only in venues that welcome all-ages and keeping concert ticket prices under $10. Using only an open, impromptu Q&A setting, MacKaye hopes to join the audience in a “public interview.” Doors at 6 pm. Street parking available. $5 at the door; Hollywood High students are free with student I.D.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm MICHAEL DRANGE at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com.
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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, 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, Oct 26; in Lancaster; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm KRIS KRISTOFFERSON at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Guitar, harmonica and distinctive vocals prominently figure in this solo acoustic performance by influential Americana & country music songwriter, singer and movie star Kris Kristofferson. Best-known musically for hits including "Me and Bobby McGee," "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," Kristofferson is an icon. www.kriskristofferson.com Order tix promptly, this will sell-out. $60 & $55.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Phoenix, Arizona:
7 pm KEN O'MALLEY plays a solo acoustic show, bringing traditional and original Irish music to the Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N Central Av, Phoenix, AZ; 602 258 0109; www.azirish.com. KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS recently played for 2,000 people at a “Concert in the Park” in Santa Clarita, CA. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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Sun; repeats last Sun, every month:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; 909-624-2928. Sign-ups at 7 pm. $1 cover.
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Sun, Oct 26:
8 pm-midnight “FOD FEST” with SONIA of DISAPPEAR FEAR, DANNY GILL, JAKE WALDEN, JUDITH DE LOS SANTOS, MICHELE JUSKO, NECTARPHONIC, NOUSH SKAUGEN, TODD MACK at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. SONIA of DISAPPEAR FEAR has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and she is a truly exciting performer with powerful and interesting songs. This lineup will undoubtedly be mostly electric, so be prepared with earplugs.
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Sun, Oct 26:
8 pm SONIC IMPULSE, the “groundbreaking techno-bagpipe band” does a concert and video shoot, complete with laser light show and the Sonic Impulse go-go dancers, at Paladino’s, 6101 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; www.paladinosclub.com. (We know, not “acoustic Americana,” but it’ll likely be fun, it features the talented “Desert Piper” ERIC BOYD on bagpipes, and you can consider it our offering of, “Now, for something completely different.”)
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 27
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Monday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Hollywood at 9 pm.
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Mon-Fri, Oct 27-31; across Canada:
“2008 COWBOY TRAIN” with IAN TYSON, TOM RUSSELL and ELIZA GILKYSON. A journey across Canada from Vancouver to Winnipeg on board a private section of Via Rail's Canadian. Includes all Cowboy Train activities, all meals on board, sleeper accommodations (upper or lower semi-private berth accommodations: bench seat by day, roomy single bed by night), shower in each car, private dome car/lounge, concerts and workshops in Performance Car, kickoff and farewell concerts in Vancouver and Winnipeg, hotel room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and hotel TBA in Winnipeg. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net, or call 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Info, www.rootsontherails.com. $2569.00 CN per person.
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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; repeats every 4th (& 2nd) Mon:
7-10 pm CORONA BLUEGRASS JAM at Crossroads Christian Church, 2331 Kellogg Av (at Ontario Av), Corona. Info, contact Todd Holtkamp, 951-347-2597 or onetoad@adelphia.net. Todd says, “Open Jam, all levels welcome. Having a good time is mandatory. If the weather is good we will be outside in front of the main building. If the weather is bad we will be inside.”
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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, Oct 27:
7:30-9:30 pm “COME CELEBRATE ARTS WITH US!” at the Pasadena Central Library Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events.
This is a visual arts/photography event. Info, contact Mira Mataric, 626-578-0470, mira016@hotmail.com. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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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, Oct 27:
8 pm HOT FRITTATAS ITALIAN TRIO plus VICTORIA VOX at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. The HOT FRITTATAS serve-up tasty arrangements of traditional Italian and Sicilian music. Based in the Bay Area, this lively trio of accordion, mandolin/fiddle and guitar has been together for eight years, releasing two CDs and performing regularly at wineries, festivals and Italian events throughout Northern California, Oregon and Nevada. Their original music has been used by several independent filmmakers, and on the ABC-TV series, “The Bachelor.” Recent performances include Portland’s “Festa Italiana,” Reno’s “Festa Italiana,” the “San Francisco Mandolin Festival,” “Cotati Accordion Festival,” Napa’s COPIA Center, and the nationally-syndicated radio show, “West Coast Live.” Expect tarantellas, tangos, polkas and espresso. Buon appetito!
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VICTORIA VOX is here, right in the middle of her once-a-year California tour, during which she is recording and playing three appearances at The Coffee Gallery Backstage. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Singing, musical charm, trombone imitations, fun, wit and ever-so-cute. She does it all. Victoria, along with THE HOT FRITTTATS, this is an enviable evening. Bring friends. This is as good as it gets.” VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. Tonight, she graciously opens the show with, as venue impresario Bob Stane says, “a full sack of magic charms.” She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “in between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs. $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, Oct 27; not music, but cool:
8 pm AMORY LOVINS: “PROFITABLE SOLUTIONS TO CLIMATE CHANGE” at Caltech’s FREE seminar series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; info on this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5861.html; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Presented by Caltech's divisions of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Geological & Planetary Sciences. The premise is, “Climate protection, like the Hubble Space Telescope's mirror, got spoiled by a sign error: in fact, climate solutions are not costly but profitable, because saving fuel costs less than buying fuel. Many leading companies are making billions of dollars' profit by cutting their carbon intensity or emissions at rates. When politicians who lament climate protection's supposed costs, burdens, and sacrifices join the parallel universe of practitioners who routinely achieve profits, jobs, and competitive advantage by wasting less fuel, the political obstacles will dissolve faster than any glacier.” Amory Lovins, an internationally recognized expert on energy independence, is Chairman and Chief Scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute. Newsweek called Lovins "one of the Western world's most influential energy thinkers," and he has been described by The Economist as an "energy visionary" who "sounded the first alarm about the potential damage that climate change might bring." His nearly four decades of advocacy for resource efficiency, energy innovation, and holistic design have finally captured the world's attention because of today's interrelated energy and climate issues. The seminar series is directed by Nathan S. Lewis, Caltech's George L. Argyros Professor and professor of chemistry. Free, no reservations required.
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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, Oct 27; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
9 pm the excellent KAT PARSONS returns to L.A. after a long time playing many other parts of the world, for just one show at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. After playing extensively in Australia and Europe, Kat tells us, “I have a few gigs in Singapore and Brunei in January 2009,” and she’s booking gigs again in Singapore, Vietnam, and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. She adds, “’Hold A Moment,’ a song I wrote with LIBBIE SCHRADER, is available on iTunes as part of the ‘Abrazos Compilation’ benefitting Breast Cancer Awareness. The compilation also features Glen Philips, Veruca Salt, Jen Trynin, Alice Peacock, Charlotte Martin, and more. I didn't realize it had been released...but it has been for a while now. I've posted a ton of pictures chronicling my travels and shows in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. Check them out at www.myspace.com/KatParsons. Still working on getting my Vietnam photos going!”
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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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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28
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Tuesday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Altadena at 8 pm.
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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, Oct 28:
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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Tues; every 4th Tue:
7-8:30 pm “COMMUNITY FOLK MUSIC JAM” led by Bea Romano & Jim, it’s a traditional folk music jam at the Barbara J. Riley Center, 7810 Quill St, Downey 90242; 562-904-7226. Bring your acoustic instrument(s) and join in. Bea says, “It's a lovely facility. We hope you will enjoy playing / listening to music. Bring your acoustic instruments and join in the fun. There are plenty of armless chairs. Best of all, it's free!”
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Tue, every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at 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. 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, 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, Oct 28; in Ojai:
7 pm SMITTY WEST plays his CD release show at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. It’s his first solo CD, “Your World,” and songwriter-pianist-singer Smitty West performs a concert of originals and his favorite covers, “backed up by local favorites and some of Southern California’s finest musicians.” Smitty West (stage name for SCOTT SMITH) has assembled an eclectic solo collection of 12 original songs, spanning genres of folk, rock, metal, and country. Backing Smitty are some of Southern California’s finest musicians: Legendary bass guitarist Jim Monahan, drummer/percussionist Bob Nichols, Scott Luedke on guitar, and vocalist Julija Zonic. Smitty is the founder of Ojai Songwriters Anonymous, a collaborative support group of local songwriters. He has recently completed the scoring of Christopher Devine’s “Fighting With Sticks,” a high-definition movie shot in Ojai. In September, Smitty produced and recorded Jim Monahan’s political satire “Wasilla Girl,” which has received national radio play and is a YouTube favorite. Smitty is the manager and keyboard player for the Ojai-based original rock band MYRIDIAN, and produced the band’s full-length CD, “Prime Myridian,” in 2007. He owns and operates Euterpe Farms, a California native plant farm that supports the efforts to support the local ecosystem with the cultivation of local plants and food crops. All profits from Smitty’s music are donated to supporting "Landmine Action” which helps bring hope to people in war-torn countries. Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $10 adv, $12 door.
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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, 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, Oct 28; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm STONEHONEY and VICTORIA VOX doing a rare double-headliner billing at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. This is a double headline bill with each act doing about an hour. As venue impresario Bob Stane says, “STONEHONEY & VICTORIA VOX. What a night!”
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STONEHONEY is, says Bob Stane, “something new and wonderful descends from Nirvana. The Buzz on this act is hot and electric.” Stonehoney began as a bunch of “songwriters in the round.” It’s that simple. Nothing contrived or planned, just a group of songwriters that enjoy playing and singing together. “We would meet up at Nick’s house in Beachwood Canyon and play songs around the circle,” says band member Shawn. “With four singers we just naturally started singing harmonies and this sound began to develop, reminiscent of the country rock sound of the ‘70s, that we all really loved.” In August of 2005, the band took their “Songs From A Hillside Living Room” live with a monthly show at the Knitting Factory in Hollywood. Since then, they’ve repeatedly headlined at McCabe’s and elsewhere.
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STONEHONEY is SHAWN DAVIS, PHIL HURLEY, DAVID PHENICIE, NICK RANDOLPH, & SCOTTY LUND. They’ve generated several albums’ worth of new material and along the way, caught the attention of hit maker and record producer Ric Wake. Ric took the band into the studio to capture the magic of their live “living room” sound and they cut over 40 tracks. The first record is planned for release early next year.
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VICTORIA VOX is tonight’s co-headliner. A once-a-year treat for patrons of the arts at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, Baltimore-based Victoria returns to her favorite Southern California haunt to delight audiences with her musical skills and pixie-like stage persona. What a show she puts on with delightful ditties on the uke, while her vocal cords and lips imitate a trombone. She sings unique songs and standards. This is her only CGB show this year where she performs a full hour. Bob Stane adds, “She is so cute and cuddly you will want to adopt her.” VICTORIA is in the middle of her once-a-year California tour, during which she is recording and playing three appearances at the CGB. Bob Stane says, “Singing, musical charm, trombone imitations, fun, wit and ever-so-cute. She does it all.” VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “In Between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs. $15.
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Tues; every 4th Tue:
8 pm SUZY WILLIAMS and HER SOLID SENDERS play live jazz and jump blues at Temple Bar, 1026 Wilshire Bl, Santa Monica 90401; www.templebarlive.com; 310-393-6607. It’s their new 4th Tue residency, every month, for 2008. They play two sets, 8;30 & 9:30 pm. Jitterbug Janet gives free swing dance lessons at 8:15 & 9:15 pm. Suzy Williams has played Carnegie Hall with Stormin' Norman Zamcheck, performed with Moses Pendleton's Pilobolus dance troupe, and has worked with Van Dyke Parks, Buster Poindexter, Marc Shaiman, Nicholas Ray among many others. Bette Midler, Horace Silver, Roosevelt Sykes, Ann Magnuson, Eubie Blake and Hadda Brooks have praised her passionate singing and vibrant energy. The SENDERS are KAHLIL SABBAGH (band leader and vibes), BRAD KAY (piano), DAVE JONES (bass), NICK SCARMACK (drums), DANNY MOYNAHAN (sax), DAN HEFFERNAN (sax), DAVE WEINSTEIN (trombone) and COREY GEMME (trumpet). Celebrate being alive with Suzy and her swinging 8-piece band, evoking the rockin' dance music of Louis Jordan, and the recent release of “Suzy & The Jtones,” her new ten inch record / CD (www.jtonerecords.com). The NY Times John Rockwell wrote, "Williams is an enormously amusing, endearing presence...with tough, belting authority." “All About Jazz” critic Rex Butters wrote in Venice Beachhead, "Suzy and Her Solid Senders teach old standards (Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Anita O'Day, Fats Waller) new tricks, but it's their originals that will bring you back for more." Read the Santa Monica Mirror article at www.smmirror.com/MainPages/DisplayArticleDetails.asp?eid=6706. Catch ‘em at www.youtube.com/watch?v=rADpTDcq98Y. Artists info, www.puddingbench.com/suzy.htm. $10 cover.
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Tue; repeats every 2nd and 4th Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL MCCARTHY the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. You can also pre-signup online at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, Oct 28:
8 pm “TAKING BACK TUESDAY” show with ADJOA SKINNER, JON PETER LEWIS, VICTORIA CLEMMONS, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. Sponsored by ASCAP and Adrenaline Music. No cover.
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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 week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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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, Oct 28:
8:30 pm JONATHAN BLAKE, TERESA WALKER, PAUL STARLING, NEW DAY MILE, at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. This is a full and long evening, with TERESA WALKER playing her CD release show at 9:30 pm, and New day Mile taking the stage at 11:15 pm. Adv tix $20; $8 & $20 at door.
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Tue, Oct 28 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
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There are three “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Wednesday, one each in L.A. and Altadena, both at 8 pm, and one in Hollywood at 9 pm.
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Wed, Oct 29:
10:30 am, noon, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm KEN WALDMAN, “Alaska’s Fiddling Poet,” political satirist, and prolific book author, performs for the Pasadena Library concert series, with one show each at four different library branches in Pasadena; 626-744-7076; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/libraryevents.asp.
> 10:30 am at the San Rafael Branch, 1240 Nithsdale Rd, 91105; 626-744-7270;
> Noon at the Allendale Branch, 1130 S Marengo Av, 91106; 626-744-7260;
> 1:30 pm at the Hill Avenue Branch, 55 S Hill Av, 91106; 626-744-7264;
> 3:30 pm at the Lamanda Park Branch, 140 S Altadena Dr, 91107; 626-744-7266.
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Ken Waldman draws upon his 23 years in Alaska to produce poems, stories and fiddle tunes uniquely his own. His Alaskan travels have included visits to the Yukon and outer regions of Alaska, bringing music and poetry to small towns and Inuit villages. Check his web site for info on these shows and his “very cool new book,” published in August. As for his new double CD, Ken says, “It’s so new (and I'm so busy), it will take a few weeks to get it out on my site.” That site is www.kenwaldman.com.
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every week:
6-9 pm GARRET SWAYNE does his weekly residency at Giovanni Ristorante, 21926 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; reserv 818-884-0243; www.GiovanniRistorante.com. Ample parking behind restaurant. No cover, $15 minimum per person on food or drink.
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Wed, Oct 29:
7 pm monthly “GILLI MOON'S SONGSALIVE SHOWCASE” with GILLI MOON, JASON CORCORAN, CHRIS MOUCH, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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Wed, every week:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session; call for location, 805-579-6416; www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Oct 29 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Wed, Oct 29; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm RONNY COX and JACK WILLIAMS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. RONNY COX, musician and noted actor, is joined tonight by South Carolina-born singer-songwriter-guitarist JACK WILLIAMS. Ronny and Jack have collaborated musically many times in recent years, touring together on the US folk circuit and recording & producing Ronny’s most recent CD. Each will present his own music and stories in two separate sets, with Jack accompanying Ronny on guitar.
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While RONNY COX started out as a musician and has emphasized that side of his career for the past few years, he is still one of the most respected and sought-after character actors in Hollywood. Since his debut as “Drew” in John Boorman's film "Deliverance" - including playing guitar in the famous "Dueling Banjos" scene - Ronny has appeared in over 50 films, including "Beverly Hills Cop (I & II)," "Bound for Glory" where he played Woody Guthrie’s sidekick, "Robo Cop," and "Total Recall," and Ronny has played the president of the U.S. at least four times, including in “1600 Pennsylvania Avenue,” and usually with a more convincing competence than the actual occupant of that address.
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In his most recent CD, “HOW I LOVE THEM OLD SONGS: RONNY COX SINGS MICKEY NEWBURY,” which was produced by Jack Williams and had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” Ronny pays tribute to the music of the legendary Texas songwriter. His previous recordings, "Ronny Cox Live," "Cowboy Savant," and "Acoustic Eclectricity," all showcase Ronny’s homegrown style of folk music and his lively story-telling that is an integral part of it. Steadily increasing his following on the U.S. folk music circuit, he has headlined at such venues as the prestigious Old Town School of Folk in Chicago, the New Bedford SummerFest, and the Kerrville Folk Festival, a favorite of Ronny’s held annually in Kerrville, Texas. Whether it is in his acting or his music, Ronny is a storyteller who says, “I’ve never felt the truth should get in the way of a good story!”
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JACK WILLIAMS is well known in the contemporary US folk community as a Southern singer-songwriter-storyteller and unique guitarist. He continues to tour the country, as he has for the past 50 years, motivated by his love of music and performing. Jack books an annual circuit of approximately 100 US festivals, house concerts and major folk venues each year, and has been a featured performer on the stages of the Philadelphia, SummerFest, Kerrville, Boston, and Newport Folk Festivals. In addition to his US audience, Jack has also become a favorite in England, Canada and Europe. Jack Williams’ music is born at the meeting ground of the traditional and the contemporary, and it’s original Southern-American songwriting and performance at its best, drawing deeply from the eclectic well of musical heritage. Loaded with delightful influences from his career in jazz, classical, rock, blues, country and folk, Jack’s music is an easy, natural fusion of guitar, voice, songs, and stories. This is a must-see show, and a bargain in an intimate venue at $18.
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Wed, Oct 29; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm CORB LUND, GRANT LANGSTON, THE RUNNING KIND, MICHAEL O’NEILL at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. This is a full and long evening of alt-country/Americana, with THE running Kind at 8, Grant at 9, Corb at 10, and Michael O’Neill at 11:15 pm.
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Wed, last Wed, every month:
8-10 pm “HOBO SOUP” monthly folk music evening with performing host “BANJO FRED” STARNER, usually joined by PHIL VAN TEE and KAREN KRANTZ, at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St, in the Old Bank District, downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. The venue is the big lobby of a 1905-era bank building. Fred says it has “a fine sound system, and a no-alcohol good vibe.” FRED STARNER is the officially-named “GRAND DUKE OF HOBO MINSTRELS” by the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Musical funnyman PHIL VAN TEE has taken his homemade cookie-tin banjo to stages everywhere, opening for nearly all the big-name country music acts. Previous guests have included JILL FENIMORE, ORGANIC DEMO, and DADDY BONE. Artist info, www.hobobanjofred.com. Venue is just down the gated alley between Main and Broadway; it’s a coffeehouse that serves coffee drinks and tasty light fare.
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Wed, 5th Wed, when there’s a fifth Wed:
8 pm THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, every Wed:
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 line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, Oct 29:
9 pm THE BITTERSWEETS play the Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. The Bittersweets live up to their name - they fuse yellows and blues, sunny-ness and melancholy, with evocative lyrics and lush arrangements, transcendent melodies and Prater's alluring voice. On every track of their new album, “Goodnight, San Francisco,” The Bittersweets weave a captivating tension between hope and poignancy that rings true. They are CHRIS MEYERS on guitar, keyboards, vocals, and HANNAH PRATER on vocals & guitar. Tonight, they excitedly return to California to wrap-up their West Coast dates. The Nashville Tennessean newspaper said of their new album, "Goodnight, San Francisco is a melancholy beauty, built from melody and poetry." Though they are apt to go electric, they are a fine Americana duo. More at their label’s website, www.compassrecords.com.
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Wed, Oct 29:
9 pm THE GHOST HOUNDS, PHILIP SAYCE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. $10.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Thursday are in Los Feliz, Altadena, and Culver City.
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET,” brand new in October ’08, with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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Thu, every week:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, every week; in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, Oct 30:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists ED TREE (John Schneider, Lacy J. Dalton, Spencer Davis), and JOHN STOWERS, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; www.myspace.com/arniescafe; 818-951-9089. Hosted by MARK “POCKET” GOLDBERG & “BROTHER” RANDY SACKS. Musician DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, past guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) tells us, “This bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase every Thursday night, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, tip jar donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm WEEKLY ZYDECO DANCE in Long Beach, every Thursday at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 562-596-1631. Come early for Bar Happy Hour with free food, 4-7 pm. Evening costs $7 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lessons included: 7-7:30 basic zydeco; 7:30-8 pm intermediate / advanced dance moves. CD dancing 8-9 pm. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. Dance instruction by Karen Redding of LouisianaDanceLA.com; Karen has taught at L.A. Music Center, “Long Beach Bayou Festival,” San Diego's “Gator By The Bay” Festival, “Simi Valley Cajun Festival,” Galaxy Theater, private parties and corporate events. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, Oct 30:
7:30 pm “SONGWRITER CIRCLE” with GARRET SWAYNE, LAUREN ADAMS, JOHN M, & CARRIE WADE, solo sets from DEBLOIS, and KELLY MCGRATH, presented by Shout it Out Promotions and NIXA country radio; followed by other acts at 8:45 pm: DEBLOIS, MOLLY MARLETTE, KELLY McGRATH, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. JOHN M (www.myspace.com/johnmmusic), owner of M-Pire Records and M-Pire Recording Studio, is a “classic rocker;” CARRIE WADE (www.myspace.com/carriewade) identifies herself as an “alternative musician,” though we’ve heard her play acoustic; LAUREN ADAMS (www.myspace.com/laurenadams101) is a solid Americana songwriter, and Main Street Songwriters Showcase host GARRET SWAYNE (www.myspace.com/garretswayne) have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” All four are taking part in a Songwriter Circle, beginning at 7:30 pm. Following them at 8:45 pm is DEBLOIS a “Florida-native-surfer-turned-musician” (www.myspace.com/debloismusic) performing “Americana / reggae / cajon,” music. At 9:30 pm is up-n-coming folk artist MOLLY MARLETTE (www.myspace.com/mollymarlette). The closer at 10:15 pm is L.A.-based KELLY MCGRATH (www.myspace.com/kellymcgrath) with her “countrified sounds.” Venue is known for its Chinese food and reasonably-priced drinks. $7 cover for the songwriter circle, $10 cover for the rest.
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Thu, every week:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Oct 30:
“STAY AWAKE: THE OFFICIAL 20TH CENTURY ANNIVERSARY CONCERT” (West Coast premiere) at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. From record producer HAL WILLNER comes this celebration of Willner’s historic compilation of music from the vintage Disney Songbook by an eclectic range of artists from SUZANNE VEGA and LOS LOBOS to RINGO STARR and BONNIE RAITT. The soon-to-be-announced lineup will include many of the album’s original performers in this one-time-only event.
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Thu, Oct 30 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Thu, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE HACKENSAW BOYS at Tangier, 2138 Hillhurst Av, Los Feliz; 323-666-8666; www.tangierrestaurant.net. We caught them last year at the Knitting Factory on their ’07 national tour. They’re just as exciting as their record label mates, OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW, and this is a show to see. At last year’s venue, they got frustrated with the half-deaf old rocker doing sound, so they just climbed down from the stage and did a fully acoustic show in the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by gyrating fans. Make a dinner reservation here, so you’ll have a table.
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Thu, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm RILLIAN & THE DOXIE CHX bring acoustic seafaring and “pyrate” music to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “Watch what ye do when you go out with those women, Aye, never give an inch when that Rillian’s with them. Keep them warm and they will all agree. Yer a hard one lad. Best keep yer eye on me. Ye’ve seen and heard Ruby Cruzado and McAleenan O’Malley play with their mates, 'Pirates of the Black Swan', now come hear the Premiere Pyrate Band of Southern California, Rillian and The Doxie Chx!” They’re a raucous crew of six that will delight you with traditional sea shanties, jigs and reels, contemporary “pyrate” rock as well as their own original piratical songs, all played on traditional acoustic instruments - fiddle, mandolin, guitar, flute, tin whistles, Irish pipes, button accordion, and bodhran. For the past five years, they’ve played for Disney’s Red Carpet and El Capitan theater premieres for the blockbuster movies “Pirates of the Caribbean ‘Dead Man’s Chest’” and “At Worlds End,” and they’ve played venues as diverse as Las Vegas, The Olivia Adobe, Ventura Harbor, the “Pyrates4CHOC” event, and the “Revenge of the Sea Pyrate Cruise” aboard the schooner “American Pride.” They’ll have you swinging your glass and singing along, and maybe steppin’ lively on your table. $15.
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Thu, Oct 30:
8 pm RAY LaMONTAGNE at the Wiltern Theatre, 3790 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 213-380-5005.
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Thu, last Thu, every month:
8-10 pm SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE at The Talking Stick, (apparently still at the “old” location, at 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica 90405; call ahead to see if the venue has made the move to its new location in Venice; this series is the last Thu of every month. A full evening of entertainment from local songwriters, hosted by MAUREEN DOHERTY. Songsalive is now booking for various dates in 2007, and seeking singer-songwriters to perform; info: hotline at 310-238-0359 or email usa@songsalive.org; www.songsalive.org. No cover, $5 donation requested.
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Thu, recurring:
8-11:30 pm RICK SHEA AND THE LOSIN' END at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rick and his honky-tonk blues band’s Thursday series, with guests. Rick & co play 8-9, then from 10-12. At 9 is the guest band, different each week. Artists’ info: www.rickshea.com. Venue serves dinner, has drink specials most nights. $5 cover.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz. The boys say, “Come down for great music, dancing and a green beer!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Thu; repeats every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm DAFNI 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. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar.
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Thu, most Thursdays:
8:30 pm THE WATKINS FAMILY HOUR at one of the two Largo locations, either the original “little stage” venue at 432 N Fairfax Av, LA; 323-852-1073, or the new “big stage” Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, L.A. 90048; http://largo-la.com; 310-855-0350. They are alumni of NICKEL CREEK. Cover is $15 in the small venue, $25 in the big venue.
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Thu, every week:
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 line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, every week:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31
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Friday’s Halloween “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Fri, Oct 31-Sun, Nov 2; in Arizona:
Annual “TOMBSTONE WESTERN MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Tombstone, AZ, with THE DUE WEST TRIO, GEORGE DICKEY, RODGER MAXWELL, MARVIN O’DELL, JOE BETHANCOURT, PATTY CLAYTON, BILL BARWICK; info, www.tombstonewesternmusicfestival.com.
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Fri, every week:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every week:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. 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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Fri, Oct 31; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm Halloween show, “THE ALL SAINTS' MELODY MASQUERADE,” with HOBO JAZZ, MADAME PAMITA & HER PARLOUR OF WONDERS, and TIPPY CANOE, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “Join us on Edgar Allan Poe's favorite holiday weekend for an evening of swirling old-time melodies, costumed revelers, mysterious ladies, fiery vagabonds and a peek behind the curtain of your fascinating future.”
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HOBO JAZZ might be called a skiffle band, or blues, hillbilly, folk, or even jazz. Just say Hobo Jazz & dispense with all the fancy words. They play the music of the contemporary 1930s hobo country bluesman. This is part rail ridin' music, part field holler sonnet, part rock-a-billy Cadillac, part 1932 Ford wagon. One part dirty hobo, one part hot jazz, all parts kick up your heels and live a little! www.hobojazz.com

MADAME PAMITA & HER PARLOUR OF WONDERS always brings a unique show. Enter into a curious and sublime world, an old-time medicine show filled with mysticism, music and melodrama, an entrancing array of spectacles and song. Madame Pamita uses the powers of euphonious prognostication to tell audience member fortunes and plays songs written both by herself and by those who have moved on to the great beyond, including rural blues, old time, jug band and proto-jazz numbers about romance and revenge, mirth and mayhem, performed on an assortment of odd and bizarre vintage instruments (Imperial Banjeaurine, Banjolele, Ukelin, Marxophone, Polka-Lay-Lee, and Tiple; as well as a 115 year-old banjo and early 20th century ukuleles). http://madamepamita.com
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TIPPY CANOE is Oakland, California's songbird and uke-slinger. Tippy Canoe is on a mission to bring sincere uplift in a severely down-slanted era. Her voice is a mixture of ‘60s “girl group sound” and classic country with its own quirky nature. Her songwriting bears the stamp of a person who has absorbed a variety of influences, from ‘20s and ‘30s acts like THE BOSWELL SISTERS & JACK TEAGARDEN to ‘50s and ‘60s performers like BRENDA LEE & THE CHIFFONS and catchy post-punk bands such as SQUEEZE & BLONDIE. You can call it old-timey, you can call it retro, you can even make up a word and call it 20s-jazz-country-doo-wop-pop, but whatever the moniker, just let yourself go and enjoy it. www.tippycanoe.net. $20.
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Fri, Oct 31 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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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Fri, Oct 31
9 pm “HALLOWEEN PARTY AND COSTUME CONTEST” with prizes, and music by MIKE OFFICER AND THE M.O.B., CHARLIE SUPERFLY, SUPERBROKE BRASS, TIN AND WHISTLE ENSEMBLE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com.
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Fri, Oct 31:
9 pm VON COTTON at Joe’s Great American Bar and Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505; 818-729-0805; www.rootsatjoes.com , www.myspace.com/rootsatjoes .
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Fri, Oct 31:
9 pm DAVE GLEASON, DANIELLE TUCKER, & LARRY DEAN at Borderline Bar & Grill, 99 Rolling Oaks Dr, Thousand Oaks; 805-446-4435.
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Fri, last Fri, every month:
9 pm “LAST FRIDAYS AT THE SCENE” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and MIKE STINSON and guests, at The Scene, 806 E Colorado Bl, Glendale; 818-241-7029; www.thescenebar.com. I See Hawks and Mike Stinson do this monthly gig with a different guest each month, where “The worst stage monitors in California contribute to the fun.” Artists info: www.paulmarshall.net. No cover.
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Fri, 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 dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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As always, more to come, and a FULL UPDATE of the NOVEMBER calendar will post soon!
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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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