May 1 & 2, Acoustic Americana Music Guide, 2009

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There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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First week for May …
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MAY 1 & 2, 2009 EVENTS
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Updated April 30, 2009; recurring events are included.
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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, write to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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THIS is the place for acoustic music that’s REAL MUSIC, from blues-to-bluegrass-to-borderlands, Cajun-to-cowboy-to-Celtic-to-Cape-Breton-to-Quebecois, new-old-trad-alt-post folk, and the exciting artists of today’s acoustic renaissance! People who love real music tend to love all real music. So, yes, we do include listings for many classical music performances. (When is a fiddle a violin? We’ll leave that to you.)
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We are, of course, true to the nature of live acoustic music, “keeping it real.” So, if you’re looking for that Britney Lohan sh-thump-thud, revolving-door-rehab, pop-tart-du-jour junk that infests the radio and is recorded one note at a time, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
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Here you will find news of live performances of acoustic music and musicians, events that we know you’ll enjoy attending. We include festivals everywhere, and provide a comprehensive guide to concerts, club gigs, coffeehouse performances, and more in the Los Angeles region, from Santa Barbara to Orange County. The Guide includes musicians’ workshops, music conferences, seminars, panel discussions, and more.
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This is the “big half” of what we publish. The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE and the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS post separately. The latest edition of the NEWS, published April 15, is available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/04/news-acoustic-americana-music-news.html
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IF YOU USED A SPECIFIC URL to reach this edition of the Guide, and more than a few days have passed since the date it posted, THERE MAY BE A NEWER EDITION. Use the basic url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com - and check the side bar on the left to look for THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events.
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FUTURE MONTHS are published separate from the current month. If you’re looking for “long looks ahead,” remember they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list and tabs to the left for guidance. And we occasionally post a Guide / 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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THE MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES, as well as other recent news posts that are often still relevant, are always available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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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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UPDATES TO THE CURRENT MONTH’S GUIDE / CALENDAR are made at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events get booked into a vast number of venues, with more added all the time. And, we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, workshop presenters, etc.
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FUTURE EVENTS are currently posted past 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 Guide’s 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.
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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 info that you have locked into 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 Guide is waaaay too comprehensive to fit anywhere that imposes limitations. 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. And it’s where you can find archived Acoustic Americana Music News editions published prior to Spring, 2008.
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PLEASE DO COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Americana Music Guide and / or the Acoustic Americana Music News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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PLEASE DON’T send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, it cannot be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. (Myspace “friends” are great, and we DO welcome you there!) But, communicate through email only at the above address. And, yes, we get HUNDREDS of emails every week, so please give us as much advance notice as possible for your event!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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It’s MAY…
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The name of the month, MAY, and the number of days it contains have a curiously mixed history. The name goes back to “Maia,” the goddess of “growth and increase.” But some contend it was named for the older branch of the Roman Senate, the Majores or Maoires. (Sounds suspiciously sexist to us: a bunch of old guys vs. a goddess of increase?) The number of days in May has varied from 22 to 30 to today’s 31. Regardless of the thing about their Senate, ancient Romans associated the month with flowers, fertility, and the rich bounty of nature.
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MAY 1 & 2, 2009 EVENTS (yes, yes, yes, MUCH more later…)
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks, plus NEW, just for musicians, our “PICK OF THE WEEK FOR ARTISTS,” spotlighting the best workshops, seminars, and more!
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Recurring events are included in this edition.
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FRIDAY, MAY 1
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FLASH! IMPORTANT NEWS:
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Fri, May 1; LAST DAY for discount tix:
Inaugural “L.A. ACOUSTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL” is June 6 & 7 on the Santa Monica Pier for the pier’s 100th Anniversary. It has an AMAZING line-up. “Early Bird” opportunity for discounted tix ends today; buy yours before the prices go up! Info & tix at www.laacousticmusicfestival.com
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Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the Ojai Storytelling Festival (Fri-Sun); Aztec Stories at 9:30 & 11 am, and Will Ryan & the Cactus County Cowboys at 8 pm.
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This WEEKEND’S LOCAL FESTIVALS that start today:
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Fri, May 1 (Thu-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at Libbey Bowl, Ojai; Info & tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ojaistoryfest.org. Tix at the Libbey Bowl Ticket Center, in front of the tennis courts in Libbey Park, at Signal St & Ojai Av, Ojai. “The Ojai festival is to storytelling what Sundance is to film. If it's rare and magical and quirky, you'll find it at this wondrous gem of a festival.” - Carmen Deedy, acclaimed storyteller and author.
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With storytellers JIM COGAN, DONALD DAVIS, GLENIS REDMOND, SCOTT AINSLIE, LELAND FAULKNER, CARMEN DEEDY, NIALL DE BÚRCA, PETER COOK, “and lots of special surprises.” Bios available on event website.
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“The Ojai Storytelling Festival has it all: entertaining, nationally known storytellers, wonderful organization and the ideal location to sit out under the oaks and hear stories that will move you, make you laugh and remind you it is great to be alive.” - David Holt, Storyteller and Grammy Award-winning musician.
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Ojai was the place chosen by film director FRANK CAPRA as Shangri-La for his film, “Lost Horizon,” and few places can lay claim to a storytelling pedigree that compares to that. Imagine sitting beneath ancient oaks at the famed Libbey Bowl and listening to some of the world’s finest storytellers. It’s the Ojai Storytelling Festival, celebrating its 10th year with an international lineup of storytellers “guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat and thoroughly entertained,” reads their promo. It continues, “You’ll hear tales filled with uproarious comedy, high adventure and drama told with music, movement and even magic. With a menu of stories that will appeal to families all the way to spicy tales for adults, the Ojai Storytelling Festival truly offers something for everyone. You won’t believe what you’ll hear. It’s not just a festival, it’s an experience.”
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Here are some interesting “Out-of-Town” events:
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Fri-Mon, May 1-4; in Mexico:
“BAJA OFF THE GRID” MAYDAY RETREAT led by AMY CLARKE, “for anyone in L.A. for the ASCAP ‘I Create Music Expo,’ ‘the MUSExpo,’ etc., Gaia Grove has a creative, spiritual retreat if enough wish to attend.” Info at www.bajaoffthegrid.com and http://mysticalmaydayretreat.eventbrite.com. Contact Amy at gaiagrove@gmail.com to reserve space. She says, “only a 4 hour scenic coastal drive from L.A.”
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Fri-Sun, May 1-3; in Kansas:
“PRAIRIE ROSE CHUCK WAGON FESTIVAL” in Benton, Kansas, has a Friday night show, and runs all day Saturday and Sunday; tix & info, 316-778-2000.
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Fri-Mon, May 1-4; in Ireland:
“BALLYDEHOB INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL” in the heart of West Cork, Ireland.
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Fri-Sun, May 1-3; in Louisiana:
Annual “BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Info, and tantalizing things to make you wish you were there, at www.bbcrawfest.com.
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Fri, May 1; in Denver:
8 pm ANGIE STEVENS & THE BEAUTIFUL WRECK with BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY, as Angie & her band play the CD RELEASE PARTY for their new album, at Tavern HG, 7401 E 1st Av, Denver, CO; www.tavernhg.com/soiled_dove/show/8380. More at www.angiestevens.com. If you’re in Denver, this is absolutely the place to be. BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and played all the big Southern Cal performing arts centers. ANGIE STEVENS’ music has been heard on “TttT” and one of her earlier albums was recorded live at Red Rocks, Denver’s Hollywood Bowl. She is named, every year by the local media, as the top singer-songwriter in Denver.
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L.A. AREA EVENTS: here are the club gigs, coffeehouse shows, concerts, and all kinds o’ things… (the local FESTIVALS are already listed, ahead of this!)
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Fri, May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9:30 & 11 am AZTEC STORIES presents “A VISIT WITH MOTECUHZOMA,” a very unique once-a-year educational program, with MICHAEL HERALDA and special guest musician XAVIER QUIJAS YXAYOTL, at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, on the Plaza of Mesoamerican Heritage, 6300 Forest Lawn Dr, L.A. 90068; reservations & info, contact Shannon Lawrence, 800-204-3131 or slawrence@forestlawn.com. (2 shows.) Michael, who has presented excerpts from Aztec Stories on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” tells us, “If you work with students, I highly encourage you to consider scheduling your class or group (a bus trip) to attend this program. This is a rare opportunity for students and anyone studying the ancient native/indigenous cultures of this continent to experience a first-person account of a society that produced remarkable achievements in art, philosophy, science, math, and horticulture, and more. I look forward to speaking to you in my persona as the legendary Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin - the 9th elected Huey Tlatoani of Mexico - Tenochtitlan!”
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More on the web at www.forestlawn.com/Special-Events-And-Facilities/Event-Detail.asp?EventID=75. Free, but make a reservation.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri, on web radio:
5 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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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
5:30-10 pm “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” along Myrtle Av, in old downtown Monrovia. It’s year-round and weekly, a street festival and farmers market, that’s been running 17 years. KATTYWOMPUS STRING BAND plays 8-10 pm at 412 S Myrtle Av; contact Jennifer Ranger, 877-365-5744. RON ELY does authentic and original maritime songs most weeks, usually at Myrtle Av & Colorado or Myrtle Av and Lemon Av, on the North end of the festival. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely. There’s lots of other music throughout old town Monrovia, several acoustic performers each week – singer-songwriters, duos or bands – plus specialty vendors, lots of food, and local merchants. Event is large during the summer when it includes a carnival (rock climbing wall, balloon man, bubble man, petting zoo, pony rides, etc.) It scales-down from 4 blocks to 2 blocks during winter months, following the Christmas holidays. Myrtle Av exit, N of 210 Fwy, free parking, free event.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
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, May 1; every Fri:
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, first Fri, every month:
6:30-10 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” is a featured act / OPEN MIC monthly event at the The Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Includes music and raffles of merchandise from indie artists and sponsors, including massage, life coaching, and acting coaches. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. Javelyn holds a companion event every 3rd Sat at another venue, at 8 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com. $2 cover.
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Fri, 1st & 3rd Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri, 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, May 1:
7:30 pm “INTO THE WOODS” a musical version of Grimm’s fairy tales with “the insightful music” of STEPHEN SONDHEIM, at Janet and Ray Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Countrywide Performing Arts Center, 2100 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks. Presented by California Lutheran University Theatre & Music Depts. Ten years after “Into the Woods” won the biggest Tony Awards on Broadway and the equivalent Olivier Awards in London, CLU revives this rich and entertaining collection of tales and characters who must journey into the woods to get their heart’s desire: Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, The Childless Baker and his Wife, Rapunzel and more. In finding “Happily Ever After” initially, all are later challenged by those choices and are forced to confront what really matters in life. “Into the Woods” is full of humor, irony, sophistication and tender humanity. It’s a musical to enjoy, and in which you may well see yourself, and ultimately learn about tolerance in times of challenge. Runs Thu, Apr 30 at 7:30 pm; Fri, May 1 at 7:30 pm; Sat, May 2 at 7:30 pm; Sun, May 3 at 2:30 pm. Tix at the Civic Arts Plaza Box office, or at Ticketmaster. Discount tix for students with school id. Gen’l adm, $25.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
7:30-10 pm “SCOTT AND MELANIE BOMAR'S FIRST FRIDAY” show with different performing guests each month, at The Spot Cafe & Lounge, 4455 Overland Av, Culver City 90230; 310-559-8868. Scott & Melanie tell us, “There is no charge for the show but please support The Spot Cafe & Lounge with food and drink purchases. We like to help businesses that support independent music! Please carefully read the parking restriction signs in the neighborhood as some are hard to read and parking enforcement is aggressive in the area.” More at www.TheBomars.com and www.MelanieBomar.com and www.ScottBBomar.com. No cover.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
7:30 pm “SONGSALIVE! FIRST FRIDAYS LOS ANGELES SHOWCASE” at Hallenbeck's & Cahuenga General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; www.hallenbecks.net. Featuring talented songwriters from around the globe, and held around the globe, Songsalive! Showcases are a cozy, intimate and acoustic environment where media and music industry representatives often drop-by to check-out the latest talent. Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches & salads. Info on sponsoring organization at www.songsalive.org/losangeles. $8 cover at the door.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
7:30 pm “OPEN MIC” at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica; 310-315-0056; www.unurban.com
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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Fri, May 1:
8 pm ALICE STUART at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. More at www.alicestuart.com. $15.
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Fri, May 1:
8 pm LIL DAVE THOMPSON plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. Lil Dave Thompson plays at 10:30 pm, with Bobby Bluehouse opening at 8 pm. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=2840026&s=93914888. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm). $15.
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Fri, May 1; “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm .WILL RYAN & THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. It’s a night of "Modern cowboy classics sung by authentic Western characters!” and the band / cast of characters includes Grammy-winner IAN WHITCOMB. BMI has awarded WILL RYAN a Pioneer/Silver Circle Award, the animation industry has given him an Annie Award and the TV industry has awarded him Emmy and Writers Guild Award nominations. And there’s more:
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WILL RYAN, "The King of the Radio Cowboys," and the Cactus County Cowboys, "the Band that Won the West," have been entertaining horses, cattle and people since those dimly remembered, far-off days before the Barack Obama administration. Will and the boys have perplexed audiences near and far with their unique repertoire, their tricky pickin' and what they proudly call their "inadvertent humour" (note the British spelling, to placate Ian Whitcomb). In fact, their first appearance (Will Ryan, backed by Westy and Presto) was at the Golden Boot Awards with Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and a whole slew of Cowboy Legends as their captive audience. Wait. Let's make that "captivated audience".
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WILL RYAN handles guitar, ukulele and song-writing chores. He’sa Westerner who has written hundreds of songs for people like the Pointer Sisters, Patti LaBelle and the O-K Corral Chorale, and for characters like Elmo Aardvark, Tigger, the Grinch and the Muppets (really!). Over the years he's written many a Cowboy tune and continues doing so, thereby keeping the band in fresh supply of material.
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Known in certain circles as a cineloquist ("voice-actor", to the layman), Will Ryan has provided dozens of voices in many an Oscar-nominated animated film (e.g. Petrie in "The Land Before Time", Seahorse in "The Little Mermaid", a dozen characters in "Thumbelina", featured roles in "Looney Tunes: Back in Action!", Mickey's Christmas Carol", etc.). He is also heard in hundreds of episodes of award-winning TV shows (e.g. Tigger and Rabbit in Disney's long-running "Welcome to Pooh Corner", Willie the Giant in the current hit series "Mickey Mouse Club House").
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The CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS are a select group of top musicians hand-picked by Will Ryan. Most of them have been recording with Will for years on TV and movie projects. Together they are the founders and principal perpetrators of the nascent musical/dance style known as "Cowboy Skiffle." Westy Westonhofer, "the Continental Cowpoke," plays upright bass, euphonium and tuba. though rarely simultaneously. As a long-time member of the Beverly Hills Unlisted Jazz Band, Westy was notable for his refined behavior. Ditto his impersonation of a gentleman in the internationally popular music act, the Palm Springs Yacht Club. John "Presto" Reynolds, "the Fastest Drawer in the West," takes care of lead guitar, banjo, jazbo, whistling and the Windsor number two brush. One of the most in-demand acoustic guitarists in Hollywood history, and he is a talented visual artist.
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When Will, Westy and Presto join in three-part singing "the harmonies are so smooth they sound like they came out of a Waring Blendor!" says critic "Tex" McClintock, which just might be a compliment. The three – Will, Westy and Presto - are the vocal and instrumental core of Will Ryan and the Cactus County Cowboys. Usually playing with the band is Ralf Reynolds, the cowboy who invented the automatic washboard. He handles washboard percussion like Thurston handled disappearing elephants: with stunningly magical finesse. Another regular on the Cactus County buckboard is Bennie Brydern who, when he's not busy flabbergasting crowds with hot his fiddle-playing, spends time scoring movies and television shows for American and European producers. A real bargain at $18.
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Fri, May 1:
ERIC SCHWARTZ at Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA
First Friday show. Time TBA
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Fri, May 1:
8-10 pm monthly “FIRST FRIDAY” show with SEVERIN BROWNE & FRIENDS, this time, with JIMMY MUFFIN opening, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166.
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“Muffin is back stronger than ever, so come out and hear his new songs!” - Severin Browne. And what of Severin Browne himself? Well, he’s been a performing guest, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He’s been playing in the Southern California area for many years. After standing in line to play the Troubadour hoot in the seventies, he was taken to lunch by an ASCAP rep and given lots of names and numbers of publishers to contact. So Severin visited some of these publishers with guitar in hand. The first one offered him a deal, but Severin was advised to turn it down. The second one, Motown's Jobete Music, had a surprise visit by Berry Gordy who casually walked in while Severin was playing. After asking Severin to play a few more songs, he offered him a staff songwriting deal on the spot. Severin waited a few weeks until after his 21st birthday to sign the deal, but stayed there for four years. Six months after he signed the publishing deal, he also signed on with Motown Records as an artist and made 2 LPs over the next few years. On leaving Motown, Severin swore that he was quitting the music business. After a couple years, though, he was back to writing and playing again both solo and in bands. But it was still quite a few years before making his next album. His friend and collaborator Yoshio Maki was slowly wining and dining Severin (with sake and sushi) back into the studio. The album they made was released on the Moo Records label in 1996 and titled "From the Edge of the World." Some of the songs from this CD were used in the indie film "Plan B" starring Jon Cryer. Then Severin found himself recording a few years later with Ed Tree, a producer friend with great guitar chops. Over the next year or so they made the CD "This Twisted Road" and Severin released it under the name of his publishing company, Sub-Dude Music. (The name "Sub-Dude Music" was chosen as the third possibility on the BMI Publishing Company form, and Severin never thought that it would actually be used. He sends his apologies to "The Subdudes", a very cool band...) More at www.severinbrowne.com.
$10 Donation.
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Fri, every Fri:
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. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every Fri:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUES HOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry,” at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am.
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Fri, every Fri:
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 - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. 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, every Fri:
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’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the Ojai Storytelling Festival (Fri-Sun), Berkley Hart at 7 pm, and the Capitol Steps at 8 pm.
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There are “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-EVENTS-FOR ARTISTS” at 10 am and 1 pm…
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This WEEKEND’S LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3:
10 am-6 pm annual “REDONDO BEACH PIER ART & JAZZ FESTIVAL” on the Redondo Beach Pier. Free admission.
FESTIVAL LINE UP:
Saturday, May 2:
10-11 am The JazzAmerica Tentette conducted by Richard Simon
Noon-2 pm The Swingsations
2-4 pm Mark Shapiro & El Blamo
4-6 pm Thelonious Dub
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Sunday, May 3:
10 am-Noon Abe Lagrimas, Jr. (ukulele) & Yohei Nakamura (guitar)
Noon-2 pm Mark Fitchett
2-4 pm Karl Grossman & Camino Rio
4-6 pm Scott Martin Trio
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Sat, May 2:
Noon-4:30 pm Annual “SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA HERITAGE FAIRE” with THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, and others, at Rancho Los Alamitos, 6400 Bixby Hill Rd, Long Beach 90815; 562-431-3541; www.rancholosalamitos.com. Free.
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Sat, May 2 (Thu-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Ojai:
10th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at Libbey Bowl, Ojai; Info & tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ojaistoryfest.org. Tix at the Libbey Bowl Ticket Center, in front of the tennis courts in Libbey Park, at Signal St & Ojai Av, Ojai. “The Ojai festival is to storytelling what Sundance is to film. If it's rare and magical and quirky, you'll find it at this wondrous gem of a festival.” - Carmen Deedy, acclaimed storyteller and author.
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With storytellers JIM COGAN, DONALD DAVIS, GLENIS REDMOND, SCOTT AINSLIE, LELAND FAULKNER, CARMEN DEEDY, NIALL DE BÚRCA, PETER COOK, “and lots of special surprises.” Bios available on event website.
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“The Ojai Storytelling Festival has it all: entertaining, nationally known storytellers, wonderful organization and the ideal location to sit out under the oaks and hear stories that will move you, make you laugh and remind you it is great to be alive.” - David Holt, Storyteller and Grammy Award-winning musician.
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Ojai was the place chosen by film director FRANK CAPRA as Shangri-La for his film, “Lost Horizon,” and few places can lay claim to a storytelling pedigree that compares to that. Imagine sitting beneath ancient oaks at the famed Libbey Bowl and listening to some of the world’s finest storytellers. It’s the Ojai Storytelling Festival, celebrating its 10th year with an international lineup of storytellers “guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat and thoroughly entertained,” reads their promo. It continues, “You’ll hear tales filled with uproarious comedy, high adventure and drama told with music, movement and even magic. With a menu of stories that will appeal to families all the way to spicy tales for adults, the Ojai Storytelling Festival truly offers something for everyone. You won’t believe what you’ll hear. It’s not just a festival, it’s an experience.”
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3:
24th annual “UCLA POW WOW” Native American cultural event, very open to all peoples, on the UCLA Campus in Westwood. Call for info, 310-206-7513.
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Sat, May 2; in the OC:
“SOKA UNIVERSITY’S ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL” on the campus in Aliso Viejo, CA. Held the first Sat of May, celebrating the anniversary of SUA’s dedication on May 3, 2001. The Festival is part of Orange County’s Imagination Celebration (www.ocimaginationcelebration.org) and features international food, dance, music, street painting, art, ceramic sales and demonstrations, student project presentations, ceramic demonstrations, games, inflatable rides and over 100 non-profit and business exhibitors. Over 600 volunteer international musicians and dancers perform on three stages throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to wear international attire and to celebrate their own heritage. Admission is FREE to encourage family participation. Parking is $10 on campus and free at off-campus shuttle stops. 4800 people attended in 2008. All proceeds from the International Festival go to the SUA Education Fund. Info, www.soka.edu/festival
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Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4:
ON HIATUS THIS YEAR: SEE YOU IN 2010! - 10 am-9:30 pm 29th Annual “CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL” at Sycamore School, 225 W 8th St Claremont; info, 909-624-2928; www.myspace.com/claremontfolkfestival. Lineup and info when we have it. For now, here’s some history: In 1970, a small group of dulcimer players began meeting in Memorial Park in Claremont. They established the annual Dulcimer Festival that grew quickly and soon became known as the Claremont Folk Festival. In 1979, the group formalized into the Claremont Spring Folk Festival forming its own non-profit organization under the auspices of the Folk Music Center Museum’s Articles of Incorporation. After 26 years, the Festival has dropped the "Spring" to become once again the Claremont Folk Festival. The Festival is supported by fund raising efforts, donations, and sponsors in order to continue the Folk Music Center and Folk Music Center Museum's nearly 50 years of bringing sensational musical talent to the Claremont community.
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Here are some interesting “Out-of-Town” events:
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3; in Arizona:
Annual “TUCSON FOLK FESTIVAL” in Presidio Park, Tucson. BOB MALONE plays at 5 pm. An excellent free event with many fine folk acts.
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May 2 (Fri-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Texas:
“MAYFEST” in Fort Worth, TX, is a four-day family festival featuring live music, dancing food and beverage. Free children's area offering 25 things for children to make.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Mon, May 1-4); in Mexico:
“BAJA OFF THE GRID” MAYDAY RETREAT led by AMY CLARKE, “for anyone in L.A. for the ASCAP ‘I Create Music Expo,’ ‘the MUSExpo,’ etc., Gaia Grove has a creative, spiritual retreat if enough wish to attend.” Info at www.bajaoffthegrid.com and http://mysticalmaydayretreat.eventbrite.com. Contact Amy at gaiagrove@gmail.com to reserve space. She says, “only a 4 hour scenic coastal drive from L.A.”
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Sun, May 1-3); in Kansas:
“PRAIRIE ROSE CHUCK WAGON FESTIVAL” in Benton, Kansas, has a Friday night show, and runs all day Saturday and Sunday; tix & info, 316-778-2000.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Mon, May 1-4); in Ireland:
“BALLYDEHOB INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL” in the heart of West Cork, Ireland.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Sun, May 1-3); in Louisiana:
Annual “BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Info, and tantalizing things to make you wish you were there, at www.bbcrawfest.com.
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Sat, May 2; in Delaware:
76th annual “OLD DOVER DAYS FESTIVAL” in Dover, the Capital City of Delaware, the First State. Event features 150 arts and crafts, food festival, maypole dancing, huge parade, museum open houses, re-enactments, live musical performances, pancake breakfast, more.
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SATURDAY’S L.A. AREA EVENTS: here are the club gigs, coffeehouse shows, concerts, and all kinds o’ things… (the local FESTIVALS are already listed, ahead of this!)
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Sat; recurring:
8-10:30 am FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT at Strings Music Store, 146 N Glendora Av, Ste 101, Glendora 91741; 626-914 4100. Sometimes featuring VIN FIZ FLYER. Another in a series of MORNING concerts. Free entertainment, tips only, in a great place, with nice people and good music. Vin Fiz Flyer tells us, “Old town Glendora is a kinda sleepy small Midwest town plopped into Southern California. These early morning concerts sound like a wacky idea, but they’re well-attended by musicians as well as music lovers! A car club meets at the Cafe next door every Saturday for breakfast, and they park their assorted ‘babies’ out front for you to peruse too. Come on by and start your weekend out right.” Check with venue to see if there is a concert scheduled for today.
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Sat, May 2; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-FOR-ARTISTS” event:
10 am-1 pm “ARTS TUNE-UP” in Whittier offers “free arts advice for individual artists and arts organizations,” at the Senior Center in Parnell Park, 15390 Lambert Rd, Whittier 90604. Individual artists and small budget organizations can benefit from free expert advice and information on various aspects of arts management at Even though the event is free, it is recommended that participants register via SurveyMonkey, at www.surveymonkey.com/atuwhittier09. Ample free parking is available.
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Sat, repeats every week:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-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 rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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Sat, May 2; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-FOR-ARTISTS” event:
1-4 pm “CREATIVE SONG WRITING WORKSHOP” with MICHAEL FLEMING (New West), in the Wells Fargo Theater, at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; 323-667-2000.
Admission to the workshop includes museum admission, so come early and enjoy the current “Sparkle & Twang” exhibit on the history of country music.
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About the workshop, the Western Music Association, sponsor of the event, says, “Join us for an in depth look at the philosophy and approach to creative songwriting as seen through the eyes of award winning songwriter, Mike Fleming. Mike grew up in Colorado where he developed his performing and songwriting skills in theater and music. He has been described by reviewers as ‘a creative and perceptive songwriter’ whose work is ‘among the most innovative in Western Music.’ Mike has won the Academy of Western Artists Will Rogers - Best Western Swing Song award for ‘Sometimes This Old Cowboy Gets the Blues,’ and the 1997 WMA ‘Song of the Year’ and 1998 AWA ‘Best Song’ with co-writer, Les Buffham, for ‘Below the Kinney Rim.’ His band, NEW WEST, won the 1999 ‘Will Rogers Award’ for ‘Best Western Group.’ The last hour of the workshop will encourage participants to present a song in progress or a finished piece for an objective look at their work. Feel free to bring your instrument and please bring a lyric sheet along.”
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To register, call Marilyn Tuttle 818-365-8709. All proceeds from the workshop series benefit the California Chapter of the Western Music Association; more at www.westernmusic.org. Workshop fee (includes museum admission) is $25.
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Sat, May 2:
1 pm CITY FRITTER, KILLING CASSANOVA, & THE WEST OF WAYLAND BAND play Happy Trail, in the heart of Topanga Canyon. CITY FRITTER has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.cityfritter.com. It’s “MAYDAY!” A fundraiser party for, as they tell us, their “good friend and faithful flunky, Claire A. Dactyl. She finds herself in a tough financial predicament so we're passing the hat to help her out - an all day BBQ and concert in our neighbor's yard featuring KILLING CASSANOVA and THE WEST OF WAYLAND BAND, plus lots more special guests” Check their web page for directions. $5 suggested donation.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
1-3 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, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
2 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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Sat, May 2:
4 pm PACIFIC SERENADES do a classical music house concert at the home of Susan Key & Michael Pratt in Brentwood; reservations get directions, at jeninebaines@yahoo.com or 818-952-5544. Pacific Serenades presents World Premiere of new work by GRAMMY winning jazz pianist/composer Billy Childs - plus works by Ravel and Mozart. Program is:
Circle of blue
Ravel: String Quartet in F major
Mozart: Duo in G major, K. 423, for violin & viola
Billy Childs: New Work for string quartet (their 93rd premiere) World Premiere, commissioned by Pacific Serenades composer and jazz pianist Billy Childs, who for years, has been blurring the lines between jazz and Western classical music.
Performing are:
Roberto Cani, violin
Connie Kupka, violin
David Walther, viola
David Speltz, cello
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Additional performances are Sun, May 3, at 4 pm, in The Neighborhood Church in Pasadena; and, Tue, May 5, at 8 pm, at the UCLA Faculty Center, on the campus in Westwood.
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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, first Sat every month:
4 pm “CHARITY AUCTION” at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Host Brently Heilbron presides over the event, bringing a good time and money for a variety of charitable causes.
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Sat, May 2:
5 pm KELLY'S LOT at St. Francis DeSales Annual School Fair, 13368 Valleyheart Dr, Sherman Oaks. The fair is all weekend Friday through Sunday. Kelly's Lot have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” They have been playing music together for over 13 years, and Kelly says, “We plan on hitting 25. We have 2 CDs in the works and 6 gigs already booked for our European tour in September.” More at www.KellysLot.com
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Sat, first Sat every month:
6-10:30 pm monthly “PICKIN’ NIGHT” at the Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Beginner’s Jam 6-7:30 pm (main store); Intermediate Jam 6-7:30 pm in their additional space at 17824 Chatsworth St, 2 doors E of the main store; Open Jam 7:30-10:30 pm in main store.
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Sat, 1st Sat, every month; in the OC:
6 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” in Mission Viejo; for location, contact David Borger & Ann Carroll, OrangeCountyHoot@songmakers.org; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat; 1st Sat every month; in Oak Glen:
6 pm monthly “HOMETOWN JAMBOREE” show & jam at Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho, in the beautiful hills of Oak Glen above Yucaipa and Beaumont; info & tix, 909-797-1005 or www.losriosrancho.com. They tell us, “Folks can tuck into a tasty meal and enjoy a hand-clappin', knee-slappin', toe-tappin' good time as RILEY'S MOUNTAINEERS and special guest performers pick, fiddle and sing their favorite old-time bluegrass, western, and gospel tunes, as well as a few surprises along the way. Guest musicians are always welcome to tote along an instrument or two and join in the free-wheeling jam after the show. You never know who'll turn up, or what you'll hear next!” No shows in Dec and July. Jamborees start at 6 pm. Upcoming: Apr 4, May 2, Jun 6, Aug 1, Sep 5, Oct 3, Nov 7. Advance tix $15 adults, $10 kids age 12 & under.
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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, May 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm BERKLEY HART play their CD RELEASE show at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Bob Stane guarantees (money back) that you will, absolutely, strongly like this show. He sent us this testimonial “We have seen close to one hundred shows at The Coffee Gallery Backstage over the last few years. Berkley Hart is in our top five shows. I have never seen a group charm an audience like Jeff Berkley and Calman Hart. Excellent musicians, original songs, mellow harmonies make them an amazing act. The sound of the Backstage gives this great act the venue they deserve. Thanks so much for booking them.” - Kerry and Pat Bower.
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BERKLEY HART have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and were just as impressive for the radio audience. Hailed as masters of both two-part harmony and dazzling song craft, Berkley Hart have established themselves as one of the premier acoustic duos touring the country. In concert the duo shines, the obvious camaraderie between these two top singer-songwriters driving each performance. Add in virtuoso guitar playing from Jeff Berkley and Calman Hart as well as their good natured humor and it’s easy to see why the two have become live favorites. That said, it’s their acclaimed albums which have racked up the accolades, each filled with tunes as catchy as you’re likely to come across. Over their four albums to date, the duo has honed their approach, experimenting with format and instrumentation, even using a band. Now the pair has stripped their sound down to the basics, using only what they can carry, their guitars and their voices. Tixs: $20.
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Sat, every week:
7-9 pm “JUST PLAIN FOLKS ORANGE COUNTY” Group Singing, sponsored by the local chapter of the international Just Plain Folks; for info & loc, go to www.JPFolks.org.
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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, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. New in April, 2008. Performers have included DAVID SERBY, GRANT LANGSTON, 29 MULES, BOB WOODRUFF, OLD BULL, PSYCHEDELIC COWBOYS, PAUL CHESNE, NICOLE GORDON, and BUCKSWORTH. Parking: 2 hours free with validation from EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. $3 for the third hour; $1 for each additional 20 minutes; $15 max. Addt’l parking at The Grove, next door. Get validation for their structure from Grove merchants. No cover.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
7:30-11 pm “FIRST SATURDAY CONTRA DANCE” with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS the merry acoustic band of TOM SAUBER, PATRICK SAUBER, STEVE LEWIS, & MIKE SAUBER, playing the 1st-Sat-of-every-month contra dance at the Brentwood Youth House, 731 S Bundy Dr (just S of San Vincente). Instruction at 7:30, dance from 8-11 pm.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
7:30-11:30 pm “SANTA MONICA TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC CLUB” at Santa Monica Synagogue, 1448 18th St (corner of 18th & Broadway), Santa Monica. Info, coordinator April Halprin Wayland, 310-376-8760, Aprilstory@aol.com; www.santamonicafolkmusicclub.org.
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Sat, every Sat:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Sat, May 2:
8-10 pm JAY KING AND FRIENDS, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. “Music industry legend and icon Jay King has blessed the airwaves and ear drums of the masses by recording his first solo epic, ‘Open Book’ a ten song adventure through adult contemporary textures of love, life and feeling,” says the promo for this one. Working with Larry Dunn of Earth, Wind and Fire, and guitar virtuoso Tony Dewayne, veteran industry staple John Barnes brought his expert production assistance and engineering to his state of the art complex, Innersound Studio-Los Angles. Music composition and production was added by Kevin Techmeier, Ched Tolliver and James L. Richard II, The Sekret Service. Jay is said to have “created a masterpiece in the realm of audio experience that is a destined to become a standard for all time.” We haven’t heard it.
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“Friends” tonight include the multi-talented David Stone on drums, and backup vocals; plus he does his own songs on guitar, ukulele or piano. David spent his late teens working in the Catskills, so he got to hang around many of America’s jazz greats. Fortunately, David had the innate talent to absorb all that genius. He’ll do original songs and old standards and charm the socks off you.
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Michael Doman migrated to L.A. about 10 years ago from the East Coast, determined that his music remain a true instrument for his self-expression, not some product formulated for consumption by the music industry. He has an offbeat style that, as tyhey say, “can't be compared with anybody else.” More at www.myspace.com/michaeldoman
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Philadelphia-born, self-taught musician Nick Mundy started his musical odyssey at the young age of 17 as lead singer and guitarist for the London Records family group, "The Beck Family." Nick continued his journey with another Philadelphia family group, "Sister Sledge," as their musical director and guitarist. He performed on their album titled “My Guy.” Columbia Records industry veterans Cecil Holmes and Ron Mosley saw green in Mundy. Nick left the East Coast for Los Angeles to pursue his artistry, armed with only one hundred dollars and 14 songs. He promptly landed himself a publishing deal with MCA Publishing and Warner Chapell Music. Nick found time to co-write and produce songs including “Talk to Me” for Chico DeBarge; “Trade Him In” with Janice Ian; “What Comes Naturally” for Sheena Easton; “This Song” for Jeffrey Osborne, and many more. More at www.cdbaby.com/cd/nickmundy. 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, May 2:
8 pm IAN McLAGAN (ex Faces and Rod Stewart Band member) plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE, at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm). Show info, http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=2840027&s=93914888. Ian McLaglan plays at 10:30 pm; Bobby Bluehouse at 8 pm.
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THE BOBBY BLUES HOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry.” The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am. Tonight’s show is $20.
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Sat, May 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE CAPITOL STEPS, the political satire musical group comprised of former DC insiders, play the Caltech Public Events series in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech Campus, 332 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; reservations & tix, 888-2CALTECH; www.events.caltech.edu
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Sat, May 2:
8 pm HIGH HILLS, the popular all-women bluegrass band, plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. More at www.highhills.com. $17.50.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
8-10 pm monthly “JUKE JOINT GANG” show at the venue named in FolkWorks as co-winner for “Best Free (no cover) Acoustic Music Venue, The Talking Stick (new location), 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. This monthly event is specifically cited as a reason for the venue’s 2008 co-win in FolkWorks. It’s an evening of fine acoustic roots music, with four acts, each playing a 30-min set. Hosted by ERNEST TROOST, sometimes with LAUREN ADAMS, who have each performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches, salads, soup. No cover.
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Sat, first Sat every month; in the OC:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” meets in a private home in Mission Viejo. Info, www.songmakers.org/hoots/orange_county_hoot.htm.
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Sat, May 2:
8:30 pm FAY WOLF at The Pig 'n’ Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com; 323-463-0000. We liked her a lot when we heard her perform at a recent LAWIM Soiree showcase. Check-out Fay’s piano and vocals at www.myspace.com/faywolfmusic and at www.youtube.com/user/faywolfmusic.
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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, May 2; in the OC:
9:30 pm-1:30 am DENNIS ROGER REED BAND at Marlin’s Bar and Grill, 16651 Gothard Av, Huntington Beach; 714-842-5587. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they’re very musical and a lot of fun. Dennis says, “Country Roots returns! Join the boys and welcome the new drummer and guitar player. This gig is a benefit for Laguna Hills High’s Grad Nite. www.dennisrogerreed.com. For $10 tickets, contact dennisrogerreed@pacbell.net or mark_loos@dell.com.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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[Updated editions with more (as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events in MAY - in and around Los Angeles, plus the many, many, many upcoming acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, will post soon.]
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, as chronological date listings, and longer “looks ahead.” The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar updates often, and News Features post weekly (more-or-less).
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Current chronological date listings are available for
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(1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana / folk-Americana / acoustic renaissance music events, and,
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(2) festivals and other events of great note featuring acoustic Americana and acoustic renaissance music, THROUGHOUT THE US & CANADA (and sometimes beyond), are included in the Guide, and listed separately in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which we publish here from time to time. THIS Guide edition contains the most current listings, as of the date it was published.
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If you used a url for a specific edition to reach the Guide, THERE MAY BE A MORE RECENT EDITION. Use the basic url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com - and check the side bar on the left, to see if more recent editions have been published.
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If you want to explore our Myspace page and you’re interested in what’s available there, you’ll probably need to use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore the archives.
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The MOST RECENT EDITIONS - both the GUIDE’s event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the Acoustic Americana Music News Features – are available 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 and on No Depression, at http://community.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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As always, more to come, as we (believe it or not) continue to make updates to all the months of 2009 in the “long look ahead” posts.
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…So many truly fine shows, so few evenings and weekends to see them. With a new spirit of HOPE in America, why not celebrate by going out for a tunefully good time?
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copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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“There’s nothing as quiet as night without music, as dark as a night without stars...” - from “THE FIDDLER,” learned from Guy Carawan
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CAJUN PROVERB OF THE MONTH (yikes! We don’t have it yet for May!)
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Yes, it’s true -
There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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If you have trouble believing that, recent editions, covbering 10 days each, have required 95 and 107 pages of paper!
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