Acoustic Americana Music Guide July 23 through 27, 2009

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A fun and free festival happens on Sunday in Altadena. Cal Phil performs under the stars with the Cabar Feidh Pipe Band at the L.A. County Arboretum on Saturday evening (yes, you can wear your kilt). There are dozens and dozens of acoustic music concerts and club gigs and outdoor concerts in parks -- astonishing in number and variety and quality -- today through next Monday, and a few workshops for musicians this weekend. If you hole-up in front of the air conditioner at home this weekend, you’ll miss much that’s wonderful and memorable and quite probably inspiring. It’s all here for the taking!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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JULY 23 through 27, 2009 EDITION
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WELCOME!
Without question, the Los Angeles region now has the greatest number of live acoustic performances of anyplace in America, and possibly in the world. Much of it is simply WONDERFUL, including club and coffeehouse gigs, performing arts center and theater concerts, indoor and outdoor shows, and a steady parade of festivals that include a healthy acoustic music presence. In addition, for those planning travel and our readers elsewhere, the Guide always includes a vast variety of acoustic music festivals all over the planet. And unique to the Guide, descriptions are included in our extensive listings, rather than simple calendar listings where you need to recognize a performer’s name to know the genre of acoustic music. (Lots of places tell you who, where, and when. We tell you that, plus the all-important “what.”) Yep, we “Guide” you through the live acoustic music scene.
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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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RADIO SHOWS that regularly feature live acoustic performances are included, provided there is a way to hear them in Los Angeles. With precious few exceptions, hearing these in L.A. requires internet listening, and we give you the necessary URLs.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana and acoustic renaissance 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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WHERE TO FIND WHAT WE DO…
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WE’RE ON NO DEPRESSION as a new presence, and enjoying that site. Find us there at http://community.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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WE’RE IN FOLKWORKS with the latest edition of the “Somewhere Out There” column, available online at http://www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89 and for the edition before that, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35941/3176. (We received MANY compiled pages of feedback about the last column, so feel free to send us yours!) We contribute occasional reviews or feature stories to FolkWorks. You can read the work of many good writers there, and you can sign-up for a free FolkWorks e-newsletter, too, all at www.FolkWorks.org
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News of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show is happening faster than we can report it. But we will, soon!
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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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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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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!) We don’t update the Myspace site very often anymore. It’s really just an archive of old news at www.myspace.com/laacoustic
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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JULY 23 through 27, 2009 EVENTS
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And, for those who appreciate music festivals, read Larry Wines big round-up for FolkWorks of the Spring Music Festival circuit, at
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http://www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks!
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THURSDAY, JULY 23
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Thursday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are abundant, and all at 8 pm. First and foremost is the free show at the Skirball with Sweden’s fiddle-driven Väsen performing with Americana string wizards Mike Marshall and Darol Anger. Meanwhile, free, at Pershing Square in downtown L.A., dobro virtuoso Rocco de Luna shares a bill with Jeremy Buck & The Bang, named for its leader’s simultaneous handling of both drums and keyboard. At the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena is Stephanie Bettman, this time with her entire acoustic band, and they’re so good you should catch ‘em while you can still afford tickets. And at the Hollywood Bowl, the L.A. Phil plays a strong program that includes a world premiere piece, live with a film.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Thu-Sat, Jul 23-25; in Colorado:
“TELLURIDE AMERICANA MUSIC WEEKEND” featuring SHANNON WHITWORTH, KEVIN WELCH, WALT WILKINS, SLAID CLEAVES, TIFT MERRITT, IRENE KELLEY, & ERIC BIBB, in Telluride, Colorado. Info, www.tellurideamericana.com. Festival is billed as “where folk, country, rock'n'roll, and the blues come together to have a party.” Telluride, at 9,000 feet, and the surrounding mountains, are filled with hiking, plus there is whitewater rafting, horseback riding, golf, or just hanging out on Colorado Avenue with a cup of coffee. This festival brings nights “filled with the best in acoustic Americana singer-songwriter music,” presented in the intimate (240-seat) historic Sheridan Opera House, a jewel of a restored, century-old theater in the old mining town, nestled in a Colorado box canyon. Two acts share the bill on each of three nights:
Thu, Jul 23 is Shannon Whitworth, plus Kevin Welch and Walt Wilkins
Fri, Jul 24 is Slaid Cleaves, plus Tift Merritt
Sat, Jul 25 is Irene Kelley, plus Eric Bibb
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More on the featured artists:
SHANNON WHITWORTH lives in the mountains of western North Carolina. Her album No Expectations was one of the best records of 2008. Bluesy, sultry, mesmerizing vocals over acoustic instrumentation. More at www.myspace.com/shannonwhitworth
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KEVIN WELCH and WALT WILKINS are two of Texas’ best songwriters. Storytellers and poets of the highest order, they will participate here in a classic song swap. More at www.kevinwelch.com and www.waltwilkins.com
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IRENE KELLEY has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” She is a delightful Nashville-based performing songwriter with a collection of warm, wonderful, personal bluegrass-tinged songs. More at www.irenekelley.com
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SLAID CLEAVES is a troubadour with one foot in the Maine woods and one in Texas; another great storyteller whose often-tragic characters – loggers, jockeys, drinkers, and ordinary folks - come to life in song. More at www.slaidcleaves.com
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ERIC BIBB is one of the top acoustic blues musicians in the world. His smooth, gospel-inflected style reflects deep roots in the African-American folk tradition. And a fabulous picker. More at www.ericbibb.com
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TIFT MERRITT is a soulful performer with a gorgeous voice and moving songs . Her album Another Country is widely considered one of the best Americana offerings of 2008. More at www.tiftmerritt.com
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Telluride and/or nearby Montrose, Colorado are served by Continental, American, Delta, United/United Express, Great Lakes, and AmericaWest/US Airways, with direct flights from Houston, Chicago, Newark, Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, and L.A. The Telluride Americana Music Series is a joint presentation of Barbed Wire Productions, LLC, and the Sheridan Arts Foundation (www.sheridanoperahouse.com).
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Tix available through the Sheridan Opera House at www.sheridanoperahouse.com or Telluride Ticket at www.tellurideticket.com. If you would prefer to send a check via snail mail, email barbedwiremusic@earthlink.net for a mailing address. Three-night gen’l admission pass for the full weekend is $95. Single-night tix, $32 gen’l, $37 reserved.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET” 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, Jul 23, Wed & Thu, every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23:
5:30-7 pm “WARM NIGHTS, COOL SOUNDS” summer concert series continues tonight with THE ROBERT KYLE BRAZILIAN TRIO at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge; 818-949-4200; www.DescansoGardens.org. Outdoor entertainment at the Under the Oaks Theatre brings a new series’ name for this season’s “Summer Twilight Thursdays” because this season is devoted to top local Latin jazz talent. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets and picnics (normally not allowed) and settle back to savor the music. THE ROBERT KYLE BRAZILIAN TRIO performs instrumental bossa novas and Brazilian jazz classics. Free with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students and $3 children 5-12 and free for children 4 and younger.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu: 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, Jul 23, 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, Jul 23, 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, Jul 23, every Thu through the summer:
6:30-8:30 pm BUDDY ZAPATA at Buster's Coffee & Ice Cream Shop, 1006 Mission, South Pasadena; 626-441-0744. He’s performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” with PETER CASE (Plimsouls), solo, and in an all-pro “Blues Song Circle.” Buddy tells us he’s trying-out new material for an upcoming CD, and the little venue with the great ice cream (and good sandwiches) is the beneficiary. No cover, tips to the artist are welcome.
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Thu, Jul 23:
7-9 pm 15th annual weekly “CULVER CITY SUMMER CONCERT SERIES” continues tonight with KATIA MORAES & SAMBAGURU; series runs every Thursday through Sep 3, at Culver City City Hall courtyard, 9770 Culver Bl (at Duquesne Av), Downtown Culver City; www.culvercity.org/articles/articles.asp?id=390&sec=arts; 310-253-5716; info@culvercitymusic.org. KATIA MORAES & SAMBAGURU present a repertoire of Brazilian music with Asian and African influences. Parking is free for two hours in designated structures including underneath City Hall. Bring the family and dine-out in various eateries in downtown Culver City, either before or after the show. All concerts in the series are free.
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Thu, Jul 23:
7-9 pm “MARINA DEL REY SUMMER CONCERT SERIES” at Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way (at Admiralty Way), Marina del Rey; 310-305-9545; www.marinadelrey.lacounty.gov. Series includes Thursday and Saturday evening concerts in alternate weeks. Thursdays bring classical concerts featuring world-class artists appearing with the MARINA DEL REY SUMMER SYMPHONY, conducted by Musical Director Frank Fetta. Saturday evening concerts bring “internationally famed artists from the worlds of pop and jazz.” To see what you’re getting into, check their web site. Wheelchair accessible. Free.
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Thu, Jul 23:
7-9 pm MARIACHI DIVAS play the L.A. County “Free Concerts in Public Sites” series outdoors in the City of Baldwin Park park, 4100 Baldwin Park Bl, Baldwin Park 91706. Info, contact: Armando Nava, 626-813-5245.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with BRAD COLERICK and BEN CARR as guest artists this week, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe.
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BRAD COLERICK had a song recorded by the late Johnny Cash. Brad is a superior alt-country / folk-Americana acoustic singer-songwriter, and he’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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An endorsement of the series come from DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes) who tells us, it’s “becoming quite a scene. 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, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
7-10 pm “FLAMENCO GUITAR NIGHT” with award-winning flamenco guitarist STEPHEN DICK at Manchego Food From Spain Restaurant, 2510 Main St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-450-3900; www.manchegoonmain.com. Venue serves great tapas and Spanish dinner plates in an elegant and intimate space. STEPHEN DICK - "Esteban de Los Angeles" - has won numerous prizes for his compositions and performances, including an award from the Sur Jerez Flamenco Competition in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, for his original 1st album, "Naranjas Amargas." A versatile artist, he is the winner of the Peter Frampton award for excellence in contemporary music, and his compositions for the guitar have been published in Italy, and in the US by Columbia Music Company. He won the Paulo Barsacchi award for guitar composition for his "Sonatina for Solo Guitar," and a Meet the Composer's grant for his realization of Federico Garcia Lorca's romantic ballad, "Romance Sonambulo." He a 2008/2009 winner of a grant from the Spanish Ministry of Culture and US Universities for a new flamenco concert featuring GarciaLorca's mystical lullaby, "Nana del Caballo Grande."
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23, every Thu; in Lancaster:
7-10 pm “CEDAR OPEN MIC” at Cedar Center, 44345 Cedar Av (at Lancaster Bl), Lancaster 93534; www.myspace.com/cedarcenteropenmic. Hosted by Ms. Shell Marie and Cleen. It’s open to all ages, however there is no censorship rule. It welcomes poets, spoken word, “freestylers,” and acoustic musicians. Free.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23; literary even:
7:30 pm STEVE ABEE and MILO MARTIN at Stories, 1716 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-3733. L.A.’s own beat poets-observers-ranters-ravers Expect the two to deconstruct words and rhythm with their poetry. More at www.myspace.com/milomartin and http://home.earthlink.net/~pero/steveabee.html. Venue is in the Jul ’09 ish of Sunset magazine (p.22). Summer afternoon or summer evening you can enjoy the venue’s back patio with an iced Americano, peppermint green iced tea, freshly-baked root beer flavored cookie, or an assortment of popsicles, ice cream bars and other frozen treats. Hear readers, writers, ranters, poets; be inspired, have some ice cream, indulge in a vegan cookie.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
7:30 “MUSIC NIGHT” at Lulu’s Beehive, 13203 Ventura Bl (1 blk E of Fulton), Studio City; 818-986-2233. After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Three featured acts, “plus special guests and surprises each week.” After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Or as they say, “the buzz has returned to the Beehive.” Light fare, sandwiches, coffeehouse beverages available. No cover.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MIKE MARSHALL, DAROL ANGER, & VÄSEN play the ”Sunset Concert” summer series at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Expect a stellar show, and a central conceret experience of the summer. And, it’s another L.A. premiere for the Skirball. Experience an evening of sophisticated arrangements, rich global sounds, new acoustic music, and enduring melodies when American bluegrass masters MIKE MARSHALL and DAROL ANGER (Republic of Strings) join forces with Sweden’s influential fiddle-driven trio VÄSEN. You may remember that VÄSEN was a giant hit at the CalTech concert series during their US tour last year. Free; but get there promptly, as this will surely fill-up and turn-away latecomers. No street parking permitted in area. Plentiful on-site parking, $5 per car.
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Thu, Jul 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8-10 pm Free double bill as ROCCO DE LUNA plays Dobro, plus JEREMY BUCK & THE BANG do a set, at the Pershing Square Concert Series, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90013; www.laparks.org.
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ROCCO DE LUNA - Rolling Stone writes, “The echoes of Neil Young, Robert Plant, Jeff Buckley and Pearl Jam blend into something unique, especially when performed live. Using the Dobro steel guitar to cut deep on tracks such as ‘Soul,’ ‘Dope,’ and the title song, the group packs the heat and rocks aggression to work its way into your head and stay there.” Variety says, “…wailing Robert Plant-style vocals to sliding Dobro guitar riffs -- as a soulfully intense talent who fuses jazz, rock, blues and folk elements to potent impact.” Great press like that, and he’s from Torrance.
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JEREMY BUCK & THE BANG - once upon a time, a little boy grew up on a farm in a very small town in rural Indiana. At age 9, he helped sell a cow by leading it around a ring at the Lawrence County 4H Fair, and received a very generous $600 payout from his late grandfather. With that money, he purchased his very first set of drums, and the rest is history. Jeremy Buck & The Bang are known for having one of the most energetic and highly entertaining live shows anywhere. They have been recently named one of 2009's “Top 100 Unsigned Bands” in the country by Music Connection Magazine, and are The Easy Reader’s pick for "Best Original Band" and "Best Live Performance". Jeremy Buck's powerful and soulful vocals take you on a wild journey, all while he bangs the hell out of his drum kit, and simultaneously plays the keyboard parked front and center stage. Backed by The Bang's dynamic guitar duo, Chris Hanna, and Jeff George, along side animated bassist Joel Geist, this band has an incredible force of dynamic energy. Their exciting and entertaining live performances have built up a huge following of diehard supporters and fans over the past few years. With 20+ US tours, 2 international tours, and supporting slots for Blues Traveler, Marcy Playground, Cheap Trick and many more, these guys have proven they can rock the house in front of thousands of people. With the release of their brand new self-titled EP in 2009, the buzz is building fast, with a lot of exciting things in store for the bang this year, including a potential international tour to China and Hong Kong. Concert is free.
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Thu, Jul 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN & HER BOYS 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. "A phenomenal singer/songwriter/fiddler…an artist of great promise destined for huge success." - Richard Greene, Grammy winning Fiddler (Bill Monroe, Seatrain).
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Stephanie reports, “Bob Stane, owner of The Coffee Gallery Backstage, and indie music impressario; a man who does not give out compliments blithely, says about us, ‘This is a fiddle star. She will blow you away. Bring your young girls for inspiration and show them how a lady of music wows an audience. Very fine music. Bigger every month. A steady diet of delight and music. Filling up. Call now. A winner +.” Stephanie adds, “Believe me, I didn't bribe him!”
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They have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and the radio show brought the world premiere of her CD tracks. Since then, Stephanie was named in FolkWorks among the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” Female Singer-Songwriters in Los Angeles. Former theater actress and trapeze artist Stephanie Bettman is an award-winning singer-songwriter and fiddler. She and her band were the Grand Prize winners in the 2008 “Southern California Live Acoustic Music Competition” and among the winners in the prestigious 2008 “Topanga Banjo Fiddle contest.”
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In March 2009, a radio show in New Zealand named her CD “Album of the Week,” saying, "How can such a classy performer go wrong with quality moments channeling Emmylou? My album of the week ... without question." - Eddie O’Strange, Town & Country, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
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The same month, Stephanie reported, “As if that weren't enough, news has it that my album, ‘Get Close To Me,’ has charted at #8 on the Folk DJ chart, and my track, ‘Evening Prayer Blues,’ came in at number #6 - I BEAT ROBERT PLANT AND ALISON KRAUSS! Now, I suppose, I can die.” Yikes, Stephanie, don’t say THAT.
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"A fiddle playing charmer with a set of pipes she knows how to use and gift of gab that regularly amuses her audiences" - Jesse Lilly, Mondo Cult Magazine.
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Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “If you have not yet discovered this terrific group, do yourself a favor and come to the Coffee Gallery the first Thursday of the month [second Thursday, this month] for some sublime original roots / bluegrass / Americana.” When they played the Sedona Bluegrass Festival, buzz on the street labeled her "the next Alison Krauss." The band features multi-instrumentalist LUKE HALPIN, late of Border Radio. Luke was pegged early-on as a "musical phenom" by the Southern Cal press, and he brings beautiful harmonies and fine pickin' to the ensemble, who perform some of his original songs. More at www.stephaniebettman.com and www.myspace.com/stephaniebettman. Tix, $15.
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Thu, Jul 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm The LOS ANGELES PHILHARMONIC plays a strong edition of its “THURSDAY CLASSICS” summer series at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 323-850-2000. Tonight, it’s MICHAEL RIESMAN, conductor; the PHILIP GLASS ENSEMBLE; the LOS ANGELES MASTER CHORALE, Grant Gershon, music director. Tonight’s program is
GLASS, piano solo (tba)
GLASS, “Facades”
GLASS, “Spaceship,” from “Einstein on the Beach”
GLASS, “Koyaanisqatsi: Life Out of Balance” – film with live accompaniment (LAPA commission; world premiere of arrangement)
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Thu, Jul 23:
8 pm RENAISSANCE performs a short summer residency at Cafe-Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; 323-931-4636 or 323-556-1046. Recognized as one of Los Angeles' premiere a Capella vocal groups, RENAISSANCE takes their audience on a nostalgic, musical journey; singing songs of joy, hope, love and redemption. Their repertoire creatively brings back memorable music, covers of legends of Doo Wop and Soul music, including The Drifters, The Moon Glows, Sam Cooke, The Orioles, Clyde McPhatter, Pookie Hudson and the Spaniels, and many more. This group is on a mission to preserve an important American musical art form - "Street Corner Doo Wop / A Capella" singing. In their own, cool, creatively unique and soulful style, are doing all they can to accomplish that goal. Comprised of founding members MAURICE KITCHEN, TORRE BRANNON REESE, & KWAME ALEXANDER, over time these core members teamed-up with ANTHONY SNEAD & CHARLES (SONNY) BANKS of the trio "Banks Epps &Snead." Their new CD, "Meet Me on the Corner," has been accepted with overwhelming enthusiasm and great success. Not just another singing group, Renaissance intertwines social and cultural themes in their music, offering "food for the spirit" as well as the soul. As their website proclaims, “Doo Wop Ain’t Dead.” Artists info, www.doowopaintdead.com. They’re here Thursdays, Jul 23, Jul 30, & Aug 6.
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Thu, Jul 23:
8 pm AMY KUNEY playing with a band called THE RESCUES at the Troubadour, 9081 Santa Monica Bl, West Hollywood 90069. Amy Kuney has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which brought the world premiere of her music that’s now heard on radio, worldwide. All ages. Tix $10 advance, $12 door.
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Thu, Jul 23, Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz; 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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Thu, Jul 23, 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 - 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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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
8-11 pm “BLUES JAM” hosted by the DENNIS HERRERA BAND, and guest musicians often include BERNIE PEARL, at El Dorado Restaurant, Spring & Studebaker, Long Beach. 562-421-2122. Bernie tells us, “It stays pretty close to the blues, doesn't get too loud, offers a small dance floor, a nice bar, good food, and a friendly atmosphere.” No cover.
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Thu, Jul 23, 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, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23:
9 pm DANIELLE TAYLOR plus CHRIS JAMISON at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com. Danielle Taylor is known for her bright energy and creative spirit. Singer-songwriter Danielle Taylor is rapidly becoming known as piano pop's "new sound." Intricately weaving a combination of classical and pop rock piano lines, Danielle delivers passionate vocals and powerful melodies. Her music is uplifting and insightful- her lyrics paint a picture in the mind that resonates with the soul. More at www.danielletaylormusic.com and www.myspace.com/danielletaylortunes. Plus, Chris Jamison at 10 pm. More at www.chrisjamisonmusic.com. Venue has tasty light fare and coffeehouse drinks. No cover.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
9 pm-2 am “ALL ACOUSTIC WITH ANGEL” hosted by ANGEL, with different artists each week (except 3rd Thursdays, when it’s the Old Time Jam, hosted by Triple Chicken Foot) always fun, at the Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion Av (look for barber pole just S of Lyric), L.A. 90027. The Thursday series has its own web page, complete with weekly lineups, at www.myspace.com/hyperiontavernallacoustic.
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Angel tells us, “This night is acoustic, old timey, ukuleles, barbershop quartets, dedicated to creating a community of artists and musicians who don't need the use of flashy lights, amps or mics. Our grandpappies didn't need it so why do we? Inquiry about playing can be sent to HyperionTavernAllAcoustic@gmail.com or even better, stop by and have a beer! Entry is always free and 21+! We'll get the barberpole up and running soon.”
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
9 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES play their residency at The Office, 3516 W Victory Bl (at Hollywood Wy), Burbank. Preston says, “Great sound, great food, wine and beer!” New residency, began Apr 9, 2009.
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Thu, Jul 23, every Thu:
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, Jul 23, 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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FRIDAY, JULY 24
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Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are all wonderful, as are many other offerings tonight. Our picks are: The Riders of the Purple Sage in Citrus Park, Riverside, at 6:30 pm; “The Great Americana-Bluegrass Extravaganza” with Fur Dixon & Steve Werner plus Susie Glaze & Hilonesome at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm; Van Dyke Parks & Inara George at McCabe’s in Santa Monica at 8 pm; and, “The Art of Song” with Jewel and Michael Feinstein joining the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra at the Hollywood Bowl at 8:30 pm.

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“Out-of-Town” Events (and there’s a bunch of ‘em!):
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Fri, Jul 24; Thu-Sat, Jul 23-25; in Colorado:
“TELLURIDE AMERICANA MUSIC WEEKEND” featuring SHANNON WHITWORTH, KEVIN WELCH, WALT WILKINS, SLAID CLEAVES, TIFT MERRITT, IRENE KELLEY, & ERIC BIBB, in Telluride, Colorado. Info, www.tellurideamericana.com. Festival is billed as “where folk, country, rock'n'roll, and the blues come together to have a party.” Telluride, at 9,000 feet, and the surrounding mountains, are filled with hiking, plus there is whitewater rafting, horseback riding, golf, or just hanging out on Colorado Avenue with a cup of coffee. This festival brings nights “filled with the best in acoustic Americana singer-songwriter music,” presented in the intimate (240-seat) historic Sheridan Opera House, a jewel of a restored, century-old theater in the old mining town, nestled in a Colorado box canyon. Two acts share the bill on each of three nights:
Thu, Jul 23 is Shannon Whitworth, plus Kevin Welch and Walt Wilkins
Fri, Jul 24 is Slaid Cleaves, plus Tift Merritt
Sat, Jul 25 is Irene Kelley, plus Eric Bibb
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More on the featured artists:
SHANNON WHITWORTH lives in the mountains of western North Carolina. Her album No Expectations was one of the best records of 2008. Bluesy, sultry, mesmerizing vocals over acoustic instrumentation. More at www.myspace.com/shannonwhitworth
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KEVIN WELCH and WALT WILKINS are two of Texas’ best songwriters. Storytellers and poets of the highest order, they will participate here in a classic song swap. More at www.kevinwelch.com and www.waltwilkins.com
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IRENE KELLEY has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” She is a delightful Nashville-based performing songwriter with a collection of warm, wonderful, personal bluegrass-tinged songs. More at www.irenekelley.com
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SLAID CLEAVES is a troubadour with one foot in the Maine woods and one in Texas; another great storyteller whose often-tragic characters – loggers, jockeys, drinkers, and ordinary folks - come to life in song. More at www.slaidcleaves.com
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ERIC BIBB is one of the top acoustic blues musicians in the world. His smooth, gospel-inflected style reflects deep roots in the African-American folk tradition. And a fabulous picker. More at www.ericbibb.com
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TIFT MERRITT is a soulful performer with a gorgeous voice and moving songs . Her album Another Country is widely considered one of the best Americana offerings of 2008. More at www.tiftmerritt.com
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Telluride and/or nearby Montrose, Colorado are served by Continental, American, Delta, United/United Express, Great Lakes, and AmericaWest/US Airways, with direct flights from Houston, Chicago, Newark, Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, and L.A. The Telluride Americana Music Series is a joint presentation of Barbed Wire Productions, LLC, and the Sheridan Arts Foundation (www.sheridanoperahouse.com).
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Tix available through the Sheridan Opera House at www.sheridanoperahouse.com or Telluride Ticket at www.tellurideticket.com. If you would prefer to send a check via snail mail, email barbedwiremusic@earthlink.net for a mailing address. Three-night gen’l admission pass for the full weekend is $95. Single-night tix, $32 gen’l, $37 reserved.
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Fri, Jul 24; in Oklahoma:
“DFEST” at Dirty’s, 325 E 2nd St, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120; www.dfest.net. Headliners: MANDA MOSHER (aka Manda) playing at 7 pm, THE BLACK CROWES, OZOMATLI, and others, including Cake, Gogol, Bordello Blue, Oct, Citizen Cope, Bassnectar, Metro Station, Delta Spirit, Dengue Fever, The Cool Kids, Carney Mates (of State), Dusty Rhodes & The River Band, Ra Ra Riot, Other Lives, The Uglysuit, The Knux Dub Trio, Gil Mantera’s Party Dream, Gringo Star, Here II There, Joe Pug, Bill Hamel, DJ Rekha, & Ian Moore. Obviously, it’s a mostly-electric festival, but we wanted you to see where Manda’s career is going. Tracks from Manda’s debut CD are getting global airplay, after debuting on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Check-out Manda’s recent performance on the CBS “Late Late Show” with Craig Ferguson at http://tiny.cc/MandaCF. More at www.mandamosher.com. Tix, $36.
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Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in New York State:
Annual “GREAT AMERICANA IRISH FESTIVAL” at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Frankfort, NY, is a lively weekend of music, culture, food and fun with 4 stages of continuous live music. Acts include regional to traditional to the hottest bands on the contemporary Irish music scene. Festival includes a kids area, a cultural building, fun stuff of teens and plenty of Irish music. Irish Mass on Sunday morning. Event is all under cover, so it’s held rain or shine. Just minutes off the NYS thruway.
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Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in Maine:
Annual “COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Fort Fairfield, ME, is a family bluegrass music festival featuring THE LEWIS FAMILY, WHITE MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS, BLISTERED FINGERS, THE DOUTHWRIGHTS, THE MUELLERS, BLUE HORIZON, BORDERLINE BLUEGRASS, AROOSTOOK COUNTY BLUEGRASS.
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Fri, Jul; 24; in Pennsylvania:
“AUSTIN DAM MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Coudersport, PA. L.A.-based world-travelers VOCO perform at 8 pm. More at www.damshow.com
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Fri, Jul 24, every Fri:
Morning show (after 8:30 am) HEATHER LOCKIE & FRIENDS bring violin, cello, clarinet, and voices to Stories, 1716 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-3733. Venue is in the Jul ’09 ish of Sunset magazine (p.22). Summer afternoon or summer evening you can enjoy the back patio with an iced Americano, peppermint green iced tea, freshly-baked root beer flavored cookie, or an assortment of popsicles, ice cream bars and other frozen treats.
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Fri, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24, every Fri:
5:30-10 pm “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” along Myrtle Av, in old downtown Monrovia.
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Tonight, catch a fine show with PAUL MARSHALL and STEVE SMITH as “Steve sings a bunch of country songs and Classic Rockers,” according to Paul Marshall (I See Hawks in L.A.). More at www.paulmarshall.net.
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The street fair festival is year-round and weekly, combining a carnival, music and other entertainment, and a farmers market. It’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, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24, in Riverside; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6:30 pm RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE play a free outdoor show in Citrus Park, Riverside; www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=649. It’s a beautiful venue in the historic citrus groves. This band is splendid, the best, and they have performed with numerous symphony orchestras across the country to great acclaim. The Riders, with mandolin phenom EVAN MARSHALL (aka “Relaxin' Jackson”), are not simply included in FolkWorks magazine’s “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” feature, they are picked as THE best in the “Top Ten Live Acoustic Bands in L.A. in 2008: #1 - Riders of the Purple Sage. That notation reads, “They’re amazing and transcend their genre, as they prove when they perform with symphony orchestras. Endorsed by the widow of band founder Foy Willing, and with mandolin wizard Evan Marshall now solidly a member, they are the best acoustic band in L.A., period.” In addition, Evan Marshall is named in that same FolkWorks feature among the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” live instrumentalists in L.A.
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The Riders of the Purple Sage have enjoyed L.A.’s most successful monthly residency, routinely selling-out six weeks in advance. They are one of, if not "the" most historical Western band in the world, having starred in films and radio from pre-war days to the present. Today's Riders, under the leadership of CODY BRYANT, put on a show rich with old and new music. Band members are instrumental virtuosos, including five-string banjo, hot lead guitar, twin fiddles, steel guitar, upright bass, drums/percussion, steel guitar, and consummate vocals. While keeping alive the tradition of the original Riders' sound and enjoying the endorsement of SHARON WILLING, widow of band founder FOY WILLING and author of the book, “No One to Cry To,” the band continues to write and perform new material that carries on and builds upon their signature style. Adding a strong swing influence (ala Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys), their performances appeal to listeners and dancers of all ages.
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Larry Wines wrote of one performance that they were “ethereal” and “orchestral,” and indeed, they often perform with symphony orchestras. Larry added in that review, “They exceeded musicianship. They exceeded their genre.” Coffee Gallery Backstage impresario Bob Stane adds, “You owe it to yourself to see this most amazing and amusing exhibit. Forget what you think you like and don’t like. See The Riders Of The Purple Sage.”
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Read all about the honors in the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” feature in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. More at www.ridersofthepurplesage.com. Free concert.
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Fri, Jul 24:
7-10 pm ESPERANTO on the Fountain Plaza at the Sherman Oaks Galleria, 15301 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks 91403; www.shermanoaksgalleria.com/live/index.php. Lead by Grammy-winning woodwind player Rick Rossi and featuring multi-lingual vocalist and songwriter Rebecca Kyler Downs, it’s an evening of European lounge, Middle Eastern rhythms, and jazz, called “Global Ecclectic.” The band’s name is perfect, if you know the origin of the word as the fusion of many languages into a singular, international one. They play a blend of world rhythms and jazz in five languages. They are a chic, world music ensemble, with members from Columbia, Venezuela, Sri Lanka and the Philippines, as well as from different corners of the US.
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The “Sherman Oaks Galleria LIVE!” series is a summer-long, free music series featuring a wide variety of music genres. This season brings an unprecedented 42 nights of free music on Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings, May 30 through Sep 14.
Monday evening performances and dance floor run 6:30-9:30 pm.
Friday & Saturday evening performances are 7-10 pm. Parking does cost, so watch it; validation is possible. Music is free.
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Fri, Jul 24; in Palmdale:
7-9 pm DAN & RAY HOFSTEDT play “some really cool” slack-key guitar, plus featured guitarist GOH KUROSAWA, at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530; www.butlerscoffee.com/music.html. Sponsored tonight by the Antelope Valley Guitar Society. More at http://avgs.freezoka.com.
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Fri, Jul 24; in Tehachapi:
7 pm AUDREY AULD plays Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi 93561; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. "Audrey Auld's songwriting is honest, passionate and accessible. She's also one of the hardest workers I know. She has the most heartfelt contagious laugh I have ever witnessed and just thinking of her makes me smile. Having her near you will improve your day. She's a friend of mine, I love her dearly...give her a listen." Mary Gauthier.
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Devils are not the only thing to come from Tasmania. Audrey Auld's heart is in acoustic roots music and her presence is as big as the Outback. Audrey's songs are the wry observations of a Tassie girl living in California and Nashville for the past 5 years. She tells tongue-in-cheek tales that shed clear Australian light on familiar icons. She describes her sound as "music with the dirt left on".
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"Audrey Auld is a great singer songwriter. She holds a unique place in contemporary Americana/Roots music. I believe that this uniqueness is largely due to the fact that she is Australian. This affords her a totally different attitude as an artist than traditional American contributors to this genre. Audrey is one of the most honest original artists I know." ~ Fred Eaglesmith. More at www.recklessrecords.com. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Go hungry and eat there. Tix, $8 adv, $10 door.
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Fri, Jul 24:
7:30 pm “FRIDAY NIGHT KICKBACKS” OPEN MIC series debuts tonight in the San Fernando Valley, hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA at the Valley Life Improvement Center, 10667 White Oak Av (at Chatsworth St), Granada Hills 91344; 818-366-9899. Info, 818-428-1377. Series runs Jul 10, Jul 24, Aug 14, Aug 28, Sep 18, Oct 9, Oct 23, Nov 8, Nov 28. More at www.cathysegalgarcia.com. Suggested donation: $5.
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Fri, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “THE GREAT AMERICANA-BLUEGRASS EXTRAVAGANZA” brings two great Southern California bluegrass / roots-Americana bands, FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER plus SUSIE GLAZE & HILONESOME to 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. Both bands have performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they have always delighted listeners, and both bands have given “TttT” listeners world premieres of their originals and recordings.
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FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER (aka, Fur & Steve) hail from Van Nuys, but are equally at home anywhere under the western sky. The well-traveled California folk favorites are a combination that can’t be beat, with a show that’s fun, heartfelt and drenched in the rich traditions of bluegrass, western and good old American folk music. They are best known for their dazzling two-part harmonies, spectacular yodeling, fine guitar picking and wise-cracking humor, all of which compliment their old- and new-timey traveling songs. Their latest CD, "Travelers," released earlier this year, will be available, along with their first, "The Pearl and The Swine." More at www.myspace.com/furandsteve and www.furandsteve.com
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SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND are multiple-award-winners, bringing everything from the best in Appalachia roots to new bluegrass-Americana fusion. Classic Heartland radio’s Marvin O’Day wrote, "Susie Glaze does something with a song that only great singers can do...she grabs hold of a song's deepest emotion and purpose and wraps it tightly around your soul." Folk music legend Jean Ritchie has called Susie Glaze "a fresh young voice - a communicator - to me the most important of qualities in a singer..." and Bluegrass Unlimited calls her "an important voice on the California Bluegrass scene." Winner of the Just Plain Folks 2006 Music Awards for Best Roots Album, and Folkworks Magazine's Pick for Best Bluegrass Album of 2005 for her "Blue Eyed Darlin.'" The Hilonesome Band is Steve Rankin on mandolin, Rodger Phillips on banjo, Rob Carlson on dobro and guitar, and the amazing Fred Sanders from The Eight Hand String Band on bass. Check out the songs included in this show from the critically-acclaimed new CD "Green Kentucky Blues." More, including videos, songs, and CDs, at www.susieglaze.com. A real deal for this double bill: $20.
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Fri, Jul 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm VAN DYKE PARKS & INARA GEORGE at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. It’s the amazing pairing of legendary VAN DYKE PARKS and the beguiling INARA GEORGE. Inara is a musical chameleon; whether playing breezy lounge-pop with the celebrated Bird And The Bee, indie-rock with Merrick, her terrific singer/songwriter fare as showcased on her solo album, she is nothing short of captivating. Now with long-time friend Van Dyke Parks- a bona fide legend himself- she has teamed up to create An Invitation- a beautiful album of modern torch songs. The two have played the Coffee Gallery Backstage and they played McCabe’s in May as part of the Peter Case benefit, where McCabe’s booker, Lincoln Myerson, says they “absolutely dazzled.” He adds, “If you were here that night, you already know of the magic they created. If you weren't, then now is your chance! There are just a few tickets left for this one, so act quickly!” Tix, $22.50.
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Fri, Jul 24:
8 pm CITY FRITTER plays a pool party, with “special guest Fritters” for the evening, ANN DONOHUE, DAVID WHITE, & DARRYL BLEASE, poolside at The Sportsmen's Lodge, 12825 Ventura Bl, Studio City 91604. Somebody’s brilliant, booking a fine and fun band to play a poolside gig in this heat. Johnny & Jewels (City Fritter) have twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and report “They're hipping up the groovy, historic Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel, so of course - they booked City Fritter! We're playing poolside at 8 pm and other acts follow. Come early to swim with us. Pool closes at 10 pm. Hope to see you rocking out in your bathing suit, Jewels & Johnny.” More, www.cityfritter.com - www.myspace.com/cityfritter
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Fri, Jul 24:
8 pm JOY ANN with guest ALISSA MORENO at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Alissa just played the monthly “Venice Songfest” on Tuesday, and your editor was the guest emcee. Here are his introductory remarks for her, there:
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“ALISSA MORENO is a pianist and vocalist whose music has been featured in many productions, including her song, ‘Far from Here,’ was licensed as the theme song for the Lifetime hit ‘Army Wives’ and on MTV's ‘Laguna Beach.’ Alissa co-wrote and co-performed the theme song for the ABC hit series ‘Hope and Faith.’ Her music has been heard on the CBS show, ‘How I Met Your Mother,’ on MTV’s ‘The Hills,’ ‘Laguna Beach,’ and ‘Newport Harbor,’ on ABC's ‘Dancing With The Stars,’ on Fox's ‘Wonderfalls,’ on NBC's ‘Will And Grace,’ on ABC Family's ‘Greek,’ and on numerous soaps, including ‘The Guiding Light,’ ‘General Hospital,’ ‘Days Of Our Lives,’ and others. Her song ‘Next Time’ was added to the Interscope Records soundtrack release ‘Laguna Beach - Summer Can Last Forever.’
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“It gets better. Alissa wrote the RASCAL FLATS hit, ‘Every Day,’ which went to #2 on the country charts and received a Grammy nomination. And in June, their cover of Alissa’s song won them ‘Group Video of the Year’ at the CMT Awards.
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“This past Sunday, July 19, she played an Acoustic Americana Music Guide ‘SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK’ pick with ALICE PEACOCK at McCabe’s. And this coming Friday, Jul 24, at 8 pm, you can catch her at Molly Malone's sitting-in with JOY ANN.
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“Now, when I do artist consultations, which I do professionally, I always tell the artist not to indulge in that ‘I was born in a log cabin and learned to play guitar by the light of the fireplace’ stuff. But if the artist is Alissa Moreno, I wouldn’t say that to her. Alissa was born on a Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico, and she began playing violin at age 2. As a teen, she moved to Kona, Hawaii to spend time with her grandfather, established musician BOB MORENO. He guided and encouraged her as she developed her piano, guitar, and vocal skills. Eventually, Alissa moved to Los Angeles where she has become both a successful artist and an accomplished songwriter.
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“Alissa's 2008 debut album, ‘In Your Wake,’ was released on her own label, Pi Records, and has sold over 10,000 copies. Her first single, ‘Far From Here,’ the one with the multiple TV series placements, is playing on Hot A/C, AAA and college radio stations across the U.S.
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“Alissa is a renowned piano and vocal talent, having worked on the set of ‘Hollywoodland’ (Focus Features 2006) as vocal coach to BEN AFFLECK. Plus, Alissa is an actress, appearing in commercials and indie films. She created and starred in the short film ‘Superchicks,’ which received honors at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival. Alissa currently divides her time between L.A. and Nashville, and can be seen performing live around the world.”
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We don’t know Joy Ann, but we would certainly go anywhere to see Alissa Moreno.
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Fri, Jul 24:
8 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Barrones Italian Jazz Supper Club, 13726 Oxnard St, Van Nuys 91401. Preston sings “blues & beyond,” soul and jazz. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger July 28, ‘06 Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Fri, Jul 24, 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, Jul 24, every Fri:
8 pm BLUES LABEL plus THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE BAND 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. Info on tonight’s show, http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=3015949&s=93914888. 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. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm). Blues Label at 10:30 pm, with Bobby Bluehouse at 8 pm. Tix $10.
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Fri, Jul 24, fourth Fri, every month:
8-10 pm “OUT-OF-THE-BLUE” songwriter showcase at the venue named as co-winner for “Best Free (no cover) Acoustic Music Venue,” The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. This monthly event is specifically cited as a reason for the venue’s 2008 co-win. It’s a lineup of invited songwriters (often some prominent ones) whose individual sets each include a song written to the unique pre-assigned theme of tonight’s event. Though former performing host DANIEL McFEELEY has moved to Australia, the popularity of this event enables it to continue. Venue has good sandwiches, soups, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Fri, Jul 24, 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 & Sat, Jul 24 & 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm “THE ART OF SONG” with JEWEL and MICHAEL FEINSTEIN joining the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 323-850-2000. Tonight, the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA with THOMAS WILKINS, conductor, and special guests JEWEL and MICHAEL FEINSTEIN lead audiences though some of the most memorable melodies created, from pop tunes to movie themes to treasures from the Great American Songbook. Presented in the “WEEKEND SPECTACULARS” series, it’s got fireworks to conclude the concert.
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Fri, Jul 24, 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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Fri, Jul 24:
9:30 pm FREDDY & FRANCINE at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com. The duo of Freddy & Francine was formed in early 2008 by multi-talented singer-songwriters Lee Ferris and Bianca Ferrari Caruso. Both have performed in many musical projects over the past five years including the award winning Los Angeles production of HAIR. They are now taking the stage together with their exciting, original project -- Freddy & Francine. Drawing on influences from musical icons that include Aretha Franklin and The Fleetwoods and modern day indie pop stars Feist and Yael Naim, Freddy & Francine create a dazzling combination of retro panache and up-to-date jaw dropping vocal harmonies.This combination leaves the listener begging for more of Freddy & Francine's distinct, soulful and memorable tunes. Freddy & Francine recently got back from a successful tour in Austin, TX promoting their new self-titled EP (now available on iTunes) and look forward to more tours in the coming year. More at www.freddyandfrancine.com and www.myspace.com/freddyandfrancine. Venue has tasty light fare and coffeehouse drinks. No cover.
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Fri, Jul 24:
11:30 pm ERIC SCHWARTZ plus JUSTIN LANNING, & SATELLITE THIEVES, at Cinespace, 6356 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; 323-817-FILM. Yes, there are two performers out there named Eric Schwartz. THIS is the one with the brilliantly comedic music, including “Clinton Got a Blowjob” (www.ericschwartz.com.) He tours frequently these days, and it’s difficult to catch him in L.A. Hear song samples from all three acts in this lineup at www.reverbnation.com/venue/cinespace?eid=2242722_17255518 (click “More Info.”) Show is 21+. $10.
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SATURDAY, JULY 25
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Today is the “NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY” proclaimed by Congress in the US and by the Canadian Parliament. There’s one local observance, pard, when the multiple-top-award winning TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS perform at Boulevard Music in Culver City at 8 pm.
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Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are Cal Phil’s “Swords and Chivalry” concert with the Cabar Feidh Pipe Band, at the L.A. County Arboretum in Arcadia at 7:30 pm; “Parlor Performances Variety Night” with Teresa Tudury, Vicki Juditz, & Jonathan Solomon at Steinway Hall (under Fields Pianos) in Santa Monica at 7:30 pm; The Tumbling Tumbleweeds at Boulevard Music in Cilver City at 8 pm; The Perfect Gentlemen at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm; Stan West at the Fret House in Covina at 8 pm; Sweet Talk Radio (Kathrin Shorr & Tim Burlingame) plus Nathan McEuen at the Thousand Oaks Library at 8 pm; and, “The Art Of Song” with Jewel and Michael Feinstein joining the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra at the Hollywood Bowl at 8:30 pm.
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The “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS” events are the pair of workshops offered by Emmy winner Walt Richards at the Autry Museum in Griffith Park; Walt offers a comprehensive banjo workshop from 9 am to noon and a mandolin workshop that teaches the instrument’s use in melody as well as rhythm, from 1 to 4 pm.
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“Out-of-Town” Events (there are a lot, if you’re traveling or want to tell friends):
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Sat, Jul 25; Thu-Sat, Jul 23-25; in Colorado:
“TELLURIDE AMERICANA MUSIC WEEKEND” featuring SHANNON WHITWORTH, KEVIN WELCH, WALT WILKINS, SLAID CLEAVES, TIFT MERRITT, IRENE KELLEY, & ERIC BIBB, in Telluride, Colorado. Info, www.tellurideamericana.com. Festival is billed as “where folk, country, rock'n'roll, and the blues come together to have a party.” Telluride, at 9,000 feet, and the surrounding mountains, are filled with hiking, plus there is whitewater rafting, horseback riding, golf, or just hanging out on Colorado Avenue with a cup of coffee. This festival brings nights “filled with the best in acoustic Americana singer-songwriter music,” presented in the intimate (240-seat) historic Sheridan Opera House, a jewel of a restored, century-old theater in the old mining town, nestled in a Colorado box canyon. Two acts share the bill on each of three nights:
Thu, Jul 23 is Shannon Whitworth, plus Kevin Welch and Walt Wilkins
Fri, Jul 24 is Slaid Cleaves, plus Tift Merritt
Sat, Jul 25 is Irene Kelley, plus Eric Bibb
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More on the featured artists:
SHANNON WHITWORTH lives in the mountains of western North Carolina. Her album No Expectations was one of the best records of 2008. Bluesy, sultry, mesmerizing vocals over acoustic instrumentation. More at www.myspace.com/shannonwhitworth
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KEVIN WELCH and WALT WILKINS are two of Texas’ best songwriters. Storytellers and poets of the highest order, they will participate here in a classic song swap. More at www.kevinwelch.com and www.waltwilkins.com
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IRENE KELLEY has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” She is a delightful Nashville-based performing songwriter with a collection of warm, wonderful, personal bluegrass-tinged songs. More at www.irenekelley.com
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SLAID CLEAVES is a troubadour with one foot in the Maine woods and one in Texas; another great storyteller whose often-tragic characters – loggers, jockeys, drinkers, and ordinary folks - come to life in song. More at www.slaidcleaves.com
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ERIC BIBB is one of the top acoustic blues musicians in the world. His smooth, gospel-inflected style reflects deep roots in the African-American folk tradition. And a fabulous picker. More at www.ericbibb.com
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TIFT MERRITT is a soulful performer with a gorgeous voice and moving songs . Her album Another Country is widely considered one of the best Americana offerings of 2008. More at www.tiftmerritt.com
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Telluride and/or nearby Montrose, Colorado are served by Continental, American, Delta, United/United Express, Great Lakes, and AmericaWest/US Airways, with direct flights from Houston, Chicago, Newark, Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, and L.A. The Telluride Americana Music Series is a joint presentation of Barbed Wire Productions, LLC, and the Sheridan Arts Foundation (www.sheridanoperahouse.com).
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Tix available through the Sheridan Opera House at www.sheridanoperahouse.com or Telluride Ticket at www.tellurideticket.com. If you would prefer to send a check via snail mail, email barbedwiremusic@earthlink.net for a mailing address. Three-night gen’l admission pass for the full weekend is $95. Single-night tix, $32 gen’l, $37 reserved.
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Sat, Jul 25; Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in New York State:
Annual “GREAT AMERICANA IRISH FESTIVAL” at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Frankfort, NY, is a lively weekend of music, culture, food and fun with 4 stages of continuous live music. Acts include regional to traditional to the hottest bands on the contemporary Irish music scene. Festival includes a kids area, a cultural building, fun stuff of teens and plenty of Irish music. Irish Mass on Sunday morning. Event is all under cover, so it’s held rain or shine. Just minutes off the NYS thruway.
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Sat & Sun, Jul 25 & 26; in New York State:
Annual “FALCON RIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL” in Hillsdale, NY, is one of the nation’s best. Southern Cal-based Lisa Haley and the Zydekats, Grammy nominees for “Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album” and past guests on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” are among the headliners.
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Sat, Jul 25; Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in Maine:
Annual “COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Fort Fairfield, ME, is a family bluegrass music festival featuring THE LEWIS FAMILY, WHITE MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS, BLISTERED FINGERS, THE DOUTHWRIGHTS, THE MUELLERS, BLUE HORIZON, BORDERLINE BLUEGRASS, AROOSTOOK COUNTY BLUEGRASS.
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Sat, Jul 25; in Seattle:
8-10:15 pm SHANGHAIED ON THE WILLAMETTE play the Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert Series at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, Seattle WA; : www.nwseaport.org; 206-447-9800. This lively musical duo perform songs and tunes "plundered from land and sea," including traditional Celtic, English, and Old-Time American music, especially music of the sea and waterways. They accompany their vocal harmonies with a "fleet" of acoustic instruments. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. $12 general, $10 srs, youths and mbrs of Northwest Seaport and the Center for Wooden Boats.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sat, Jul 25, every Sat:
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, Jul 25; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS:”
9 am-Noon (Banjo) & 1-4 pm (Mandolin) “WALT RICHARDS BANJO AND MANDOLIN WORKSHOPS” at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; www.autrynationalcenter.org; 323-667-2000. In the ANC Classrooms. Cosponsored by the Western Music Association’s California Chapter and the Autry National Center.
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Emmy-winning arranger and receiver of multiple “Top Five Instrumentalist of The Year” nominations by the Western Music Association, Walt Richards is a sought-after instructor with students coming to his San Diego studio from all over the Southwest and beyond. Walt is offering two hands-on instrumental workshops. Both are suitable for those interested in western, folk, Celtic, roots, blues and bluegrass music. Beginning and intermediate players are encouraged to attend. Bring an instrument and a recording device. Your instrument's set up / playability will be checked and you will receive handouts of the material covered in the workshop.
+
BANJO WORKSHOP: Bring your 5-string banjo on Saturday morning for a session that explores both Clawhammer / Frailing and Fingerpicking styles. Basic chords and banjo fills will be covered.
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MANDOLIN WORKSHOP: the afternoon session will focus on using the mandolin for melodic leads as well as for rhythmic accompaniment. Walt will cover mandolin chord forms that allow you to easily play in any key.
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“Workshop Bonus” - Do you have an old banjo or mandolin in the closet ? Bring it with you for an evaluation of playability and approximate value. Repair and appraisal resources will be shared.
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Reserve your space by calling Marilyn Tuttle at 818-365-8709 or email lindaleegreen@earthlink.net
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Better directions than you’ll get online: You’ll want to avoid the tangle and delay of Zoo traffic on Sunday afternoons (as in, avoid the Zoo Dr exit from the 5 Fwy). There is one main road through Griffith Park which changes names every half mile or so, alternately known as Zoo Dr, Griffith Park Dr, Crystal Springs Dr and Western Heritage Way. You can exit the 5 at Los Feliz Bl, heading west, and turn right into Griffith Park on Griffith Park Dr/Crystal Springs Dr; follow Crystal Springs Dr past the merry-go-round and past the golf course. The Autry is on the right. Or, exit the 5 at Western Av, heading west, and turn left on Victory Bl / Riverside Dr; cross the 134 Fwy; turn left at the T-intersection onto Zoo Dr; follow Zoo Dr to the Autry, on the left.
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Coming next: “HARMONICA WORKSHOP” with GARY ALLEGRETTO, Aug 15, 2-4 pm at the Autry National Center. More at www.westernmusic.org
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Workshop fee includes a complimentary museum admission. Banjo Workshop is 9 am to noon; Mandolin Workshop is 1 to 4 pm. Fee is $25 for either one or $40 for both.
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Sat, Jul 25; world music for children:
10 am MASANGA MARIMBA brings songs, stories and dances of Zimbabwe to the “BIG!WORLD!FUN!” family series at the Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood 90068; 323-GO1-FORD; www.FordTheatres.org. Series details, www.fordamphitheater.org/en/events/Family.asp. Children admitted FREE to these programs for families, one-hour-long performances designed for children ages 4 to 10 and their parents and grandparents. Arrive early for crafts and fun at 9 am.
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The refreshing sound of Zimbabwean marimbas – metal keys mounted on a hardwood soundboard – and other unusual instruments are the centerpiece of “Musical Raindrops: Songs, Stories & Dances from Zimbabwe.” The Masanga Marimba ensemble, directed by Dr. Ric Alviso, brings an interactive event.
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This season’s family performances are inspired by the four elements – earth, air, fire, water - and science-based crafts and fun begin at 9 am each Saturday during the series. “Musical Raindrops” is rooted in the culture of the Shona people of Zimbabwe. Dr. Alviso - a Cal State Northridge ethnomusicologist, professor of World Music, and the director of the CSUN African Music Ensemble - studied African music in Senegal and Zimbabwe for two years. The program includes songs for marimba, drums, percussion and voice and stories about animals. Two other rarely encountered Zimbabwean instruments, in addition to the marimba, will be heard: mbira (thumb piano) and chipendani (mouth bow). Children in attendance will have a chance to learn some of steps from Zimbabwean dances and come up on stage to play the marimbas with the ensemble at the end of the program.
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Featured artist Julia Tsitsi Chigamba grew up in the Shona cultural traditions. She is a longtime member of Mhembero, the Chigamba family dance and mbira ensemble. She arrived in the United States in 1999 and two years later, in Oakland, California, established the organization Tawanda muChinyakare and the music and dance company Chinyakare to share the beauty and wisdom of her culture.
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Masanga Marimba, formed in 2000, has performed at Grand Performances, Skirball Cultural Center, Hollywood Bowl, Santa Monica Festival, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s inauguration and World Festival of Sacred Music.
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All Big!World!Fun! attendees receive coupons for discount admission to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Parking is only $1. Admission to all events is free for children, $5 for adults.
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Sat & Sun, Jul 25 & 26:
All-day: 47th Annual “SOUTHWESTERN YOUTH MUSIC FESTIVAL” on the campus of: California State University at Long Beach. Held on Jul 25, 26 and Aug 1, 2, 3. It’s a CMS category competition (CMS 1, for ages 12 and under, CMS 2 for ages 18 and under). It features categories for mulitple soloists (concerti such as the Bach Concerto for Two Violins, Concerto for Violin and Oboe, Vivladi Concerto for Four Violins, Brahms Concerto for Violin and Cello, etc. One movement only, memorized.) Piano is accompaniment-only and is not a student entry. 5 minute time limit. First Place winners in Young Pianist, Young Violinist/Violist, Young Flutist/Clarinetist and Young Cellist categories may be invited to appear as soloist with the SYMF Festival Orchestra under Dr. Frances Steiner. This is a strictly structured competition.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS:”
1-4 pm (Mandolin) “WALT RICHARDS BANJO AND MANDOLIN WORKSHOPS” at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; www.autrynationalcenter.org; 323-667-2000. In the ANC Classrooms. Cosponsored by the Western Music Association’s California Chapter and the Autry National Center.
+
Emmy-winning arranger and receiver of multiple “Top Five Instrumentalist of The Year” nominations by the Western Music Association, Walt Richards is a sought-after instructor with students coming to his San Diego studio from all over the Southwest and beyond. Walt is offering two hands-on instrumental workshops. Both are suitable for those interested in western, folk, Celtic, roots, blues and bluegrass music. Beginning and intermediate players are encouraged to attend. Bring an instrument and a recording device. Your instrument's set up / playability will be checked and you will receive handouts of the material covered in the workshop.
+
BANJO WORKSHOP: (9 am) Bring your 5-string banjo on Saturday morning for a session that explores both Clawhammer / Frailing and Fingerpicking styles. Basic chords and banjo fills will be covered.
+
MANDOLIN WORKSHOP: (1 pm) the afternoon session will focus on using the mandolin for melodic leads as well as for rhythmic accompaniment. Walt will cover mandolin chord forms that allow you to easily play in any key.
+
“Workshop Bonus” - Do you have an old banjo or mandolin in the closet ? Bring it with you for an evaluation of playability and approximate value. Repair and appraisal resources will be shared.
+
Reserve your space by calling Marilyn Tuttle at 818-365-8709 or email lindaleegreen@earthlink.net
+
Better directions than you’ll get online: You’ll want to avoid the tangle and delay of Zoo traffic on Sunday afternoons (as in, avoid the Zoo Dr exit from the 5 Fwy). There is one main road through Griffith Park which changes names every half mile or so, alternately known as Zoo Dr, Griffith Park Dr, Crystal Springs Dr and Western Heritage Way. You can exit the 5 at Los Feliz Bl, heading west, and turn right into Griffith Park on Griffith Park Dr/Crystal Springs Dr; follow Crystal Springs Dr past the merry-go-round and past the golf course. The Autry is on the right. Or, exit the 5 at Western Av, heading west, and turn left on Victory Bl / Riverside Dr; cross the 134 Fwy; turn left at the T-intersection onto Zoo Dr; follow Zoo Dr to the Autry, on the left.
+
Coming next: “HARMONICA WORKSHOP” with GARY ALLEGRETTO, Aug 15, 2-4 pm at the Autry National Center. More at www.westernmusic.org
+
Workshop fee includes a complimentary museum admission. Banjo Workshop is 9 am to noon; Mandolin Workshop is 1 to 4 pm. Fee is $25 for either one or $40 for both.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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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Sat, Jul 25, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
1:30 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, Jul 25, in Santa Barbara:
2-5 pm KELLY’S LOT at Cold Spring Tavern, 5995 Stage Coach Rd, Santa Barbara 93105. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and their blues music is wonderful. More at www.myspace.com/kellyslot and www.sonicbids.com/kellyzirbes for some new acoustic tracks and a few oldies but goodies. Kelly tells us, “We have a new CD coming out soon. We recorded some covers and a few originals while hanging out one day at Hallenbeck's Cafe (owned by our guitar player Rob and his sister Anita). Folks who have bought a pre-release copy at our gigs are loving it. If you want one now and can't make a show, please go to the website www.KellysLot.com and buy ‘The Light’ (discount price there, only $10) and you will receive a free copy of the new CD with your order. That’s 2 CDs for $10 - come on folks!”
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Sat, Jul 25; film screening:
2:30 pm ”RETURN TO GORÉE,” award-winning documentary film, at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Film chronicles African singer YOUSSOU N'DOUR's epic journey to follow the musical trail left by slaves and the jazz music they invented. Presented as part of the Skirball's FREE “Passport Screenings” series. Film was a coproduction in Switzerland & Luxembourg in 2007, runs 108 minutes. In English and French, with English subtitles. No MPAA rating. Free; no reservations.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, 4th Sat every month; in the OC:
5 pm Monthly JAM, POTLUCK, & CONTRA DANCE at The Living Tradition series at the Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; www.thelivingtradition.org; info, 949-646-1964. Dance caller TBD, band TBD. Monthly jam sessions allow musicians (instrumentalists and singers) to learn, practice, and enjoy traditional music in a relaxed atmosphere; held 4th Sat every month, before the contra dance. Jam participants play a wide array of instruments, from accordions to zithers, and a variety of traditional folk tunes, mostly from the Fiddlers’ Fake Book (by David Brody) and the Portland Collection (by Susan Songer). Open to all ages and levels of experience. Vocalists and song circles are welcome. Slow jam encourages novices. Fast jam challenges old-timers.
Schedule:
Jam begins at 5 pm, bring your instruments & join in; free.
Slow jam, 5-5:45 pm
Fast jam, 5:45-7 pm
Potluck, 6:30 pm
Contra dance introduction lesson, 7:30 pm
> CONTRA DANCE is 8-11 pm, $8 per person, $7 for Anaheim residents, $6 for Living Tradition mbrs; children under 18 are free with paid adult.
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Sat, Jul 25:
6-10 pm BRYAN CHAN AND FRIENDS at House of Brews coffeehouse, 231 N Maclay Av, San Fernando. Lineup is:
Barry Cullison, www.barrycullison.com, 6-6:40 pm
Jeannie Willets, www.myspace.com/jeanniewilletsmusic, 6:40-7:20 pm
Bryan Chan, playing slide / blues, www.scvblues.org, 7:20-8 pm
Shaun Cromwell, www.shauncromwell.com, 8-8:40 pm
Holly Overin, www.myspace.com/hollyoverin, 8:40-9:20 pm
Justefanie, www.myspace.com/justefanie, 9:20-10 pm
Venue serves good sandwiches. Street parking, plus parking lot in the back.
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Sat, Jul 25:
6-8 pm LOUIS VAN TAYLOR brings jazz / r&b to the L.A. County “Free Concerts in Public Sites” series at Adventure Park, 10130 S Gunn Av, Whittier 90605. Info, contact Bryan Spragg, 562-698-7645.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, last Sat, every month; in Lancaster:
6:30-10 pm CONTRA DANCE with live music by DANANCE BAND at its new location, Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster; info, 661-733-8106 or rm.trochim@verizon.net. Band includes FRANK JAVORSEK (longtime teacher at Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor), & DOUG MOON (banjo player, former Captain Beefheart guitarist). Please bring a snack or dessert to share in the potluck. $6 per adult, $2 for ages 14 and younger. Live caller.
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Sat, Jul 25:
7-10 pm “MONROVIA TRADITIONAL MUSIC GATHERING” brings WHEN PIGS FLY! with guest JIM COPE, plus BANNA BEAG MALL, 4th STREET MESSAROUND, & THE KATTYWOMPUS STRING BAND, to play a four-band lineup at the monthly (summer only) series in the Plaza Courtyard, 412 S Myrtle, Old Town Monrovia 91016; 626-367-1091. More info at www.sokattywompus.com. Free.
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Sat, Jul 25:
7 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES play a “Jazz Dinner” show at Cena Bistro Wine Bar, 22900 Vanowen St (at Fallbrook, in the Fallbrook Shopping Center), West Hills. Venue has great food French vibe, an art gallery feel, offers dinner, drinks. Preston sings “blues & beyond,” soul and jazz. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger July 28, ‘06 Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, every week, in Palmdale:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St.West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Butler's owners, Pam & David Logan, are long-time lovers and supporters of acoustic music. Indeed, Pam is an accomplished musician and a member of the BROWNE SISTERS, Celtic festival favorites who earned a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The venue serves food and drink, featuring fresh-roasted coffee, in a rich, comfortable setting. Butler's music guy, Kevin Burton Smith, has had great success in attracting excellent acoustic music to Butler's.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, in Ozana Valley, CA:
7-11 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7 at the Reyes Creek Bar and Grill, 26905 Scheideck Rd, Ozena Valley, CA.
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This week’s FOCUS FEATURE:
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Sat, Jul 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm “CAL PHIL FESTIVAL ON THE GREEN” series brings “SWORDS AND CHIVALRY” with THE CABAR FEIDH PIPE BAND, and guest pianist ROBERT THIES, to The L.A. County Arboretum, 301 N Baldwin Av, Arcadia. Tix & info, 626-300-8200 or www.calphil.org.
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Your editor is enthusiastic. This is one of those golden opportunities for a concert that will produce enduring summer memories. It brings a bagpipe and drum ensemble that played for the White House, swashbuckling movie music, opera excerpts (Wagner, no less!), and the first American pianist to win the Prokofiev Competition since Van Cliburn pulled it off in 1958.
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Tonight’s “SWORDS AND CHIVALRY” program explores music of courage, daring and romance with stirring and inspiring music from Broadway, Hollywood, and opera house blockbusters. It’s music from “The Mask of Zorro” and “Braveheart,” by Academy Award winning composer James Horner, medleys from Broadway and Hollywood blockbusters “Kiss Me Kate” by Cole Porter, “Camelot” by Lerner and Loewe, and “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” by Michael Kamen. In addition, the orchestra performs highlights from Richard Wagner’s operas “Tristan und Isolde” and “Lohengrin.” It’s “an array of works by artists from Cole Porter to Richard Wagner that highlight the spirit of bravery, daring and romance in mankind throughout the ages, from Medieval times and even earlier to today,” explains Cal Phil’s founder and music director Dr. Victor Vener.
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Plus the orchestra performs Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini,” featuring guest pianist ROBERT THIES.
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CABAR FEIDH wears the Fraser tartan, and is an award-winning pipe and drum band led by Pipe Major Alan Weidlich and Drum Sergeant John Davis. Formed in 1976, they were “Western United States Pipe Band Association Grade III Champions” in 2001 and 2002, and have won at highland games throughout their history, traveling extensively. In addition, they produce concerts to promote public knowledge and awareness of Celtic music. Band members have appeared in feature films, everything from “The Onion Field” to “L.A. Story” to “The Fugitive,” recorded with everyone from Joan Baez to the band Kansas to the Bay City Rollers, and performed in concert with the Glendale Symphony, the Garden Grove Symphony Orchestra and Rod Stewart, and played private engagements for the Duke of Edinburgh and President Reagan. Cabar Feidh’s P/M Weidlich and D/S Davis wrote a musical drama, “The Road to the Isles,” that showcased the talents of Celtic music luminaries the Browne Sisters, Golden Bough, and Silent Planet. The band has featured and performed with Eric Rigler (flute player in the opening of the film “Titanic”) and his band, Bad Haggis, in “An Evening in the Highlands” and “Bagpipes at the Beach.”
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“We’re looking forward to welcoming them back to Cal Phil, where they’ve long been a favorite,” says Maestro Vener about Cabar Feidh.
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ROBERT THIES is the only American pianist in four decades to win a Russian piano competition since Van Cliburn's 1958 triumph in Moscow. He performs Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini.” Vener says, “Robert is the perfect guest artist to appear in a concert musically exploring all facets of courage. In one season alone, he performed 13 different concertos – that’s an incredible feat for an artist.”
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Thies has performed around the world, with orchestras from the Mexico City Philharmonic and the Auckland Philharmonia in New Zealand to the Louisville Orchestra, Fort Worth Symphony, and Naples Philharmonic in the United States. After his recent performance in Louisville, conductor JoAnn Falletta wrote, "Conducting the Brahms Second Piano Concerto with Robert Thies was one of the most beautiful and deeply satisfying musical experiences of my life." Conductor Jorge Mester – who has worked with Thies in Naples and Pasadena – calls him, simply, “a genius.” This is Thies’ first appearance with Cal Phil.
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The 2009 “Summer Magic” season runs Saturdays at The Arboretum and the adjacent Sundays at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Renowned guest artists are always to be expected. “The special ‘summer magic’ of Cal Phil is that we truly offer something for everyone,” says Tom O’Connor, Executive Director. “And when it comes to music you’ve never experienced before, there’s no one better to guide you on your journey than our Maestro [Victor Vener]. He has a doctorate in musicology…but he also has a great sense of humor. It’s a magical combination.”
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Upcoming productions include “Movie Magic” on Aug 8 and 9, a program of favorite Holllywood soundtracks from classic films, everything from “Gone With the Wind” to the 2008 Academy Award winning “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and a program of Broadway’s Best, highlighting moments from Tony-award winning productions ranging from “Wicked,” “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” and “Hairspray,” to “The Merry Widow” and “Die Fledermaus.”
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Gates of The Arboretum open at 5:30 pm for picnicking, and you can bring your own wine. Over 4000 (last time, nearly 5,000) music lovers from throughout Southern Cal attend each of these concerts. The California Philharmonic – Cal Phil – does a Saturday evening series here. Each concert repeats Sunday afternoon at 2 pm at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A., preceded by “Talks with the Maestro” at 1 pm. As the upcoming season’s brochure for Cal Phil Festival on the Green and Cal Phil at Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles proudly proclaims, “Whichever venue you choose, you’ll laugh, learn and live the music like never before.” Your editor concurs. This is a delightful place, creatively selected and crafted program themes, and a splendid way to spend an evening. Tickets range from $20 to $95, with subscriptions available.
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Sat, Jul 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm “PARLOR PERFORMANCES VARIETY NIGHT” with TERESA TUDURY, VICKI JUDITZ, & JONATHAN SOLOMON at Steinway Hall, 12121 W Pico Bl (one door W of Bundy under Fields Pianos, level P2), Santa Monica; free parking; reserv, 310-471-3979.
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TERESA TUDURY started writing songs at age 12 and was performing in San Francisco nightclubs at age 15. With a deep, sultry voice that magnetizes audiences, and a scathing comedic wit to match, Teresa is a consummate performer who pours out her original songs with power, verve, passion, and disarming humor. The LA Weekly describes her voice as a cross between Bette Midler and Bonnie Raitt. She has recorded and/or performed with such greats as Leonard Cohen, Rickie Lee Jones, Lyle Lovett, Taj Mahal and Leo Kottke. "It's not clear yet whether singer/comedienne Teresa Tudury is another Tracey Ullman, a new Sophie Tucker or a revitalized Bea Lillie. Her utterly madcap performance...managed to include reference to all of the above-and then some...What we're talking about here, folks, is a star in the making." - Don Heckman, Los Angeles Times.
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VICKI JUDITZ. The Los Angeles Ovations winner has a hilarious and poignant new show, “The Adventures of The Green Housewife.” In her never-ending quest for the zero carbon footprint, the Green Housewife rides forth in her loyal, dependable Prius to battle foes both seen and unseen. At her side is her skeptical daughter, who refuses to let the fight against global warming keep her from looking good or partying with friends. Frequently compared to Sara Vowel and David Sedaris, Juditz performs her compelling and quirky personal narratives throughout the US and beyond. "Juditz employs empathy and a self-deprecating humor that lay bare the foibles and tragedy of the human condition, causing us to reflect on our own moral choices," writes the LA Weekly. The L.A. Times calls her, “...a born storyteller... what sets her writing, and her performance, apart is her sense of humor, and an eye for the incongruous and ridiculous."
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JONATHAN SOLOMON is a (retired) stand-up comedian who appeared regularly on Late Night with David Letterman and the Late Show with David Letterman, co-hosted the MTV morning show, Awake On the Wild Side and was the host of the late, great, sorely missed NBC children's program, Kid's TV. Among the television shows Jonathan has written for are Michael Moore's TV Nation and Mad About You. These days he is a blogger at The Huffington Post and Politico.Com writing on political topics - sometimes taking it all seriously, sometimes not. You can listen to him sharing fact-filled punditry on NPR and other stops on the radio dial.
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Steinway Hall is beneath Fields Pianos, 12121 W Pico Bl (one door W of Bundy on Level P2), Santa Monica. It’s an intimate 100-seat hall, and you can park free in the lot. (Yes, it is the venue that everyone thought was closing a few months ago, but it has a reprieve.) Group & tough-times discounts are available. Producer Jennine Frank says, “We need you there -- and you need to laugh!” Tix $20 with advance reservation, $25 at door without reservation; cash / check only.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25, 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. 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, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS perform for the “NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY” (it’s today!), at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583.
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It’s a rip roarin', rootin' tootin' cowboy celebratin' good time with the top Western group of 2008! Yep, they won pury near everything a body can win, with the AWA “Western Music Group of the Year” and the the WMA “Crescendo Award.”
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Not wasting any time since their premiere in 2005, the Tumbling Tumbleweeds have captured the 2008 Academy of Western Artists Will Rogers Award for Western Music Group of the Year and the Western Music Association Crescendo Award for Most Promising Talent along with the Marilyn Tuttle "Best in Show" Harmony Award. They were named one of the Top 10 Live Acoustic Acts in Southern California by FolkWorks Magazine. Their debut self-titled album hit #1 on the Cowboy/Western Music CD Charts and is receiving critical acclaim as well as radio airplay all around the World.
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As their name suggests, The Tumbling Tumbleweeds are a tribute to the Silver Screen Cowboy legends, including The Sons of the Pioneers, Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. They’ll acknowledge the Sons of the Pioneers as their blueprint, and they add their own performance artistry and brand of entertainment. Their world of Western Music is a show complete with singing, humor, storytelling and a bit of fancy western footwork, with reinvigorated classics and their own original songs.
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The Tumbling Tumbleweeds strive to reach and engage as many young people as possible, keeping the legacy of Western Music alive, and assuring it isn't lost in the midst of the ever declining state of "pop-culture." They vibrantly help it live on for the next generation of music lovers. Their blend of western heritage and movie nostalgia is “Family Entertainment” through and through, and brings those of a certain age back to their stick ponies and Radio Flyer stagecoaches. What better way to celebrate the “National Day of the Cowboy”-?
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More at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com and www.myspace,com/tumbleweeds4 and you can buy their CD (with tracks that had their world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) at www.cdbaby.com/tumblingtumbleweeds
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Venue’s web site has a helpful local dining guide. Doors at 7:30 for the best seats. Tix, $15.
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Sat, Jul 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN 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. They provide the perfect blend of harmony and humor harkening back to the days of Vaudeville. Preserving America’s great vocal sounds from a time when music was music, this vocal quartet, named the 2002 National A Cappella Champions, recreates the close harmonies of such legendary groups as The Ink Spots and the Pied Pipers, while including the era’s great comic songs made famous by the likes of Louis Jordan and The Hoosier Hotshots. A typical performance by The Perfect Gentlemen includes marvelous melodious music mingled with masterful mirth, mischief, and merry-making. The group’s versatility allows for effortless shifts between vocal styles with an air of ease, whether singing a cappella or accompanied by guitar or ukulele. Their signature piece, Salute to the 20th Century, is a humorous take on the de-evolution of music over the last century, illustrated by singing the same song in the style of barbershop, Dixieland, blues, big band, doo-wop, bluegrass, disco, techno punk, and rap, complete with visuals that delight audiences of all ages, time and again. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Once you’ve heard The Perfect Gentlemen, you won’t settle for anything less.” $20.
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Sat, Jul 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8-10 pm STAN WEST plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Stan has a new CD, “Live at Mr. Mike’s,” and this should be a great evening of his guitar-slide blues. Playing with the bluesman, who previously gained acclaim for his country and blues, are PAUL DORN on standup bass, STEVE WILKE on mandolin and guitar, and BRIAN HALL on guitar.
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As the venue notes, “Stan West is something of an institution on the Southern Californian blues scene, delighting the patrons of the area's blues clubs with his potent slide guitar riffs for around thirty years, as well as opening for artists like Bo Diddley, Johnny Winter and Robben Ford. A rather astute observer of that four-letter word called ‘life,’ Stan West knows the blues.”
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Stan has quite a history, indeed, including performing on stage with Janis Joplin. In 1977, a stroke paralyzed one side of his body and robbed him of the ability to play for many years. Overcoming that with a new and unique slide guitar style, he launched the Stan West Band in ’79. Beginning in ’83, he became proprietor of Stan’s Guitar Shop in Glendora, and released two CDs, in ’94 and ’97. He was more recently diagnosed with coronary artery disease, and has been forced to declare “no more smoke-filled clubs!” Catching Stan perform these days is a rare treat.
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Stan’s bassist, Paul Dorn, tells us “This is a great bunch of musicians with a totally different sound. There are lots of places to get good food in the neighborhood as well. Make a night of it!” More at www.stanwest.com. Tix, $15, kids under 12 half-price (free under age 3).
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Sat, Jul 25; in Thousand Oaks; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SWEET TALK RADIO plus NATHAN McEUEN at the Thousand Oaks Library (Grant R. Brimhall Library), 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks 91362; presented by the Bodie House Concert series; info & tix, www.bodiehouse.com.
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SWEET TALK RADIO says, “It's all about chemistry. The science of matter. Properties and reactions.” The band is the husband and wife team of KATHRIN SHORR & TIM BURLINGAME. Their new record, "My Hallelujah," much like the lyrical images it references - Hank Williams, the mighty Mississippi River or the changing current of a love affair - is full of strength and vulnerability. With undeniable chemistry both on and off stage, they create Americana-pop songs full of depth and yearning delivered with passion and an earnest desire to connect. Together, Kathrin and Tim have had songs featured in numerous television series, including "In Plain Sight," "Joan of Arcadia," "Beautiful People," "Dawson's Creek," and "Party of Five," as well as commercials for Sears and Mattel. Their touring has taken them throughout much of the US, the UK, and Denmark. Sweet Talk Radio have opened for or shared the stage with Glen Phillips (Toad The Wet Sprocket), Kelly Jo Phelps, Shawn Colvin, Kenny Loggins, Crosby Loggins, John Gorka, and Jimmy LaFave. Their debut CD, "My Hallelujah," was written and produced by Shorr and Burlingame at home and is a sonic ride of beauty and grit, heavy on hooks and harmonies. SWEET TALK RADIO delivers a sound more expansive than most singer-songwriters today, and fans are tuning in.
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Plus, NATHAN McEUEN, a musician whose career in music is not unexpected. He grew-up in and around the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by incredible music and talented musicians, and his childhood was spent on the road being roadie #2 for his dad John McEuen (founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band) and learning as much about the business of music as he could soak-in. He wrote his first song by the age of eight, and started singing at an early age backing his brother Jonathan and his Dad at festivals, bars, theaters, and radio stations. Inspiration was never in short supply, as he grew-up around people like Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash. Though his early experiences ignited his passion for music, it is his own hard work and creative magic that have gotten him to stages like The Grand Ol' Opry and the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has opened for David Crosby and Graham Nash, Dave Mason, Kenny Loggins, John Denver, Dwight Yoakam, Monte Montgomery, and performed with Kevin Nealon (SNL), Brett Dennen, and Mario Calire (Ozomatli, Wallflowers). He has worked with Greg Penny (producer K.D. Lang, Elton John), Paul Williams, Willie Nelson, and many others. His work has been called "future retro folk rock," but while his music acknowledges folk traditions, little of his music seems overtly folk. Categorize it however you want, it’s good music. $15.
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Sat, Jul 25:
8 pm RICK ESTRIN & THE NITE CATS plus THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE BAND 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. Info on this show, http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=3015950&s=93914888. 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.
Rick Estrin & the Nite Cats at 10:30 pm, with Bobby Bluehouse at 8 pm. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Jul 25; in the OC:
8 pm “ORIGINS” CD RELEASE SHOW at The Yost Theater, 307 N Spurgeon St, Santa Ana 92701 (near 1st St & Main St). It’s an evening of cello, silent film, dance, and electronics, celebrating the release of the album, “Origins.” Performed by Carter Dewberry with special guests Peter Sprague, jazz guitar, Harry Grammer, didgeridoo, Definiens Project musicians Ryan Zwahlen and Jennifer Stevenson, Emily A. Morrow and dancers, and footage from the upcoming release of the gothic thriller, “At Knife's Edge.” Music performed tonight is by J.S. Bach, Carter Dewberry, David Lefkowitz, George Sarah, Dante De Silva, Peter Sprague, and Adriana Verdie. Additional music included on the album by Lenny Carlson, Robin Cox, Lou Harrison, and Veronika Krausas. Info and advance tix at www.carterdewberry.com or tix at the door, $15 each, includes CD; under age 18 and students with ID are free.

Sat, Jul 25, 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 - 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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Sat, Jul 25; literary event:
8 pm D. R. HANEY and BRUCE LISTI at Stories, 1716 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-3733. The venue says, “We appreciate the wordy emotional roller coaster, the verbal one-two punch, and the life views from an oncoming train or beat up Ford Falcon. The two authors for this event, D.R. Haney and Brad Listi read from their novels that tell those kind of stories peppered with a punk rock soundtrack and Gen X upbringing.
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“D. R.’s book takes you down all the roads of the seventies and eighties that most people never knew existed. Those who traveled those roads will recognize the tribulations of youth and essence of that time that D. R. captures perfectly. Those that weren’t will regret that they never dared. In Jason, D. R.’s lead character, all of us who dared, or, more likely, had no choice but to live on the outside, will see ourselves, not only in light but in shadow. Which in these days of pat, one-dimensional characterizations is not just a relief but something profound.” - Sab Grey, author of “Skinhead Army” and “Hated and Proud.” More at www.myspace.com/bannedbook
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“Brad Listi’s writing, in this post-modern meditation on love and loss, is spellbinding, knowing, intelligent and hip. The primary side effect is epiphany.” -Susan Compo, Life After Death, Malingering and Pretty Things. More at www.powells.com/biblio/17-1416912304-0 and www.bradlisti.com
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Venue is in the Jul ’09 ish of Sunset magazine (p.22). Summer afternoon or summer evening you can enjoy the venue’s back patio with an iced Americano, peppermint green iced tea, freshly-baked root beer flavored cookie, or an assortment of popsicles, ice cream bars and other frozen treats. Hear readers, writers, ranters, poets; be inspired, have some ice cream, indulge in a vegan cookie.
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Sat, Jul 25, 4th Sat, every month:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “WEST VALLEY HOOT” in Woodland Hills; for location, contact Kay Conroy, 818-887-0446, WestValleyHoot@songmakers.org; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat, Jul 25; Fri & Sat, Jul 24 & 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm “THE ART OF SONG” with JEWEL and MICHAEL FEINSTEIN joining the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 323-850-2000. Tonight, the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA with THOMAS WILKINS, conductor, and special guests JEWEL and MICHAEL FEINSTEIN lead audiences though some of the most memorable melodies created, from pop tunes to movie themes to treasures from the Great American Songbook. Presented in the “WEEKEND SPECTACULARS” series, it’s got fireworks to conclude the concert.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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, Jul 25:
9:30 pm MIKI HUBER & FRIENDS at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com.
www.mikihuber.com
www.myspace.com/mikihuber
As a performer and recording artist, Miki was a wave maker in the New York anti-folk scene. "...compelling, dream-like, and commendably weird." Venue has tasty light fare and coffeehouse drinks. No cover.
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Sat, Jul 25, 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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Sunday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the “Altadena Arts Festival” with plenty of music, 10 am-3 pm, in Altadena; “Cal Phil Summer Magic” series “Swords And Chivalry” concert with The Cabar Feidh Pipe Band, and guest pianist Robert Thies, at 2 pm in Walt Disney Concert Hall in L.A.; Elemental Harmony plus Chloe Mons, from France, at 7 pm at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena; and, George Thorogood & the Destroyers are joined by prodigy Jonny Lang, at the Greek Theatre at 7:30 pm.
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Local Festivals:
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Sun, Jul 26; a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 am-3 pm “ALTADENA ARTS FESTIVAL” in Loma Alta Park, 3330 N Lincoln Av, Altadena. Lots of music, following the The Naked Crow Mountain Bike Challege.
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There’s a Pancake Breakfast (Altadena Rotary Club) and BBQ lunch, plus “Craftsman Brewery,” and lots of other food and beverages for sale. So, come hungry and thirsty. Numerous artist and vendor booths in the park, including painters, sculptors, watercolorists, doll makers, jewelry artisans, card makers, knitters, photographers, woodworkers, quilters, candle makers and more. Event is sponsored by Julie Sandoval and the Coffee Gallery.
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It’s an impressive acoustic music line up, including some who have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and even more whose music has been heard on “TttT:”
SLIGO RAGS
THE PIRATES OF THE BLACK SWAN
BILL BURNETT & FRIENDS
THE BOHEMIAN SOUL RUSTLERS
DALE LaDUKE
THE BROTHERS LANDAU
ROBERT HILTON
LESLIE PERRY
LANCE ANDERSON
THE BLUEGRASS JAM
SONGNET SHOWCASE
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SLIGO RAGS are stars of the Celtic-Americana world. At the time they perfomed live on “TttT,” eight of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were theirs, and no other artists in the Top 100 appeared more than once. DALE LaDUKE plays a solo acoustic set at 11 am; he has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where his song, “Lone Ranger” became a “Listener Favorite,” en-route to being nominated in the L.A. Music Awards.
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Coffee Gallery Backstage impresario Bob Stane says, “Awe-inspiring music from some of California's finest musicians will fill the air, as customers stroll and mingle. Brush up on your mingling skills. Slather on the sun block. Bring an umbrella if you wish to dally in the shade. Or bring that snazzy parasol that matches your twinkling eyes. If you've got it, flaunt it.”
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More at www.AltadenaMusicAndArtsFestival.com. Free admission, free entertainment.
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Jul 26-Aug 1; in Tehachapi:
Summer music camp “CAMP KIYA: EXPLORING KERN ARTS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS,” at Tehachapi Mountain Park. Sponsors ask, “This summer, why not vacation locally! Bring your family to the beautiful, clean, cool air of the lower Sierras and explore music, art, and our local native culture. There is something for everyone- from beginners to advanced.” Info & registration forms, call Mountain Music in Tehachapi at 661-823-9994 or email folky@creativewireless.net
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Learn from this fabulous line-up of guest teachers:
Interm/Advanced Fiddle with JAMIE LAVAL and JAN TAPPAN
Fiddle, mandolin, and percussion with JOE CRAVEN
Guitar, mandolin, bagpipes and more with ZAC LEGER
First-time fiddle with SUZANNE BOTHA
Cello/bass, improvisation with DEBORAH HAND
Beginning guitar, singing with BILL LORENZ
Tin whistle with JILL EGLAND
Harmonica with KEN LEIBOFF
Ukulele with KEN & LAUREN LEIBOFF
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Sponsors say, "’Kiya’ (Kee-ya) means fun and laughter in the local Tehachapi native language, Nuwa (or Kawaiisu). There will be plenty of both this summer at the first Tehachapi music and arts camp held among the pines of Kern County's Tehachapi Mountain Park. The camp is rustic, with a mess hall for meals and dancing, a campfire circle for gathering and singing, and cabins, campsites and shower facilities. Bring the whole family, or come and make new friends while you explore music, art, crafts, drama, the Nuwa language and culture, and the natural world of the mountains. Sleep in a cabin, your own tent or RV, or go home every night if you are local. Working spouses are welcome to join us for dinner and evening activities. Music will be taught mostly by ear, and based on fiddle as the most popular lead instrument in traditional music. Fiddle and guitar classes will include all levels, entirely from scratch to advanced. Workshops will also be available for other instruments, as well as Irish step-dancing, contra-dancing, singing and improvisation. Art workshops may include painting, cartooning, jewelry making, cake decorating, tie-dying and rock carving. Drama workshops, nature hikes, and the Nuwa language and culture classes will round out the program. On Aug 2, we will perform at Concerts in the Park, to show what we have learned. Those who live out of town may stay over at the camp the night of Aug 1.”
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Sponsored by the Arts Council of Kern and the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Parks District, the camp includes arts, crafts and other interests, including painting, jewelry making, cake decorating, drama, Native American culture and language, hiking with Jon Hammond, evening campfires, contra dancing, and jam sessions. More possibilities with dulcimer, Irish or hula dancing, ukulele, banjo.
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Costs are inclusive of camping/cabins, all activities and food. (No discounts for sleeping at home). Camp accommodates 80 to 100 campers. Stay in a rustic cabin, bring your own tent or park you own RV (up to 30 footer). Fiddles, guitars, ukuleles and cellos are available for rental for a contribution of $25 to the scholarship fund. Rentals must be arranged for in advance.
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Weekly Camping Fee (for applications received by May 15) adults $435 (after May 15, $460); Under age 18 / full-time student $375 (after May 15, $400); children age 4 and under free, with paid camper. Evening dinner for non-camping spouse is $10 per night.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Sat & Sun, Jul 25 & 26; in New York State:
Annual “FALCON RIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL” in Hillsdale, NY, is one of the nation’s best. Southern Cal-based Lisa Haley and the Zydekats, Grammy nominees for “Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album” and past guests on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” are among the headliners.
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Sun, Jul 26; Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in New York State:
Annual “GREAT AMERICANA IRISH FESTIVAL” at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Frankfort, NY, is a lively weekend of music, culture, food and fun with 4 stages of continuous live music. Acts include regional to traditional to the hottest bands on the contemporary Irish music scene. Festival includes a kids area, a cultural building, fun stuff of teens and plenty of Irish music. Irish Mass on Sunday morning. Event is all under cover, so it’s held rain or shine. Just minutes off the NYS thruway.
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Jul 26-Aug 1; in West Virginia:
“SWING WEEK” adult music camp at The Auga Heritage Center in Elkins, WV. Includes classes in ukulele, guitar, fiddle, piano, horns/reeds, drums, mandolin, bass, and vocal technique. LIZ MASTERSON (Liz@LizMasterson.com) tells us, “This will be my 22nd year to teach at Auga and I can't even begin to describe the magic of this experience. I assure you these folks are among the most fun people on the planet. I'll be teaching Cowboy songs, Yodeling, Swing Vocal Repertoire, and hosting jam sessions, MC at the concert etc.” Elkins is in the Green Rolling Hills of West Virginia, about 5 hours from Washington DC, 3 Hours from Pittsburgh. The website is www.Augaheritage.com and click on Swing Week.
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Sun, Jul 26; Fri-Sun, Jul 24-26; in Maine:
Annual “COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Fort Fairfield, ME, is a family bluegrass music festival featuring THE LEWIS FAMILY, WHITE MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS, BLISTERED FINGERS, THE DOUTHWRIGHTS, THE MUELLERS, BLUE HORIZON, BORDERLINE BLUEGRASS, AROOSTOOK COUNTY BLUEGRASS.
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Sun, Jul 26, last Sun, every month; 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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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sun, Jul 26, recurring:
9 am-1 pm “CLAREMONT FARMER'S MARKET” has live acoustic music in downtown Claremont. RON ELY plays songs of the sea and more on 2nd St between Yale Av and Indian Hill, in old downtown Claremont. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely .
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Sun, Jul 26; Sat & Sun, Jul 25 & 26:
All-day: 47th Annual “SOUTHWESTERN YOUTH MUSIC FESTIVAL” on the campus of: California State University at Long Beach. Held on Jul 25, 26 and Aug 1, 2, 3. It’s a CMS category competition (CMS 1, for ages 12 and under, CMS 2 for ages 18 and under). It features categories for mulitple soloists (concerti such as the Bach Concerto for Two Violins, Concerto for Violin and Oboe, Vivladi Concerto for Four Violins, Brahms Concerto for Violin and Cello, etc. One movement only, memorized.) Piano is accompaniment-only and is not a student entry. 5 minute time limit. First Place winners in Young Pianist, Young Violinist/Violist, Young Flutist/Clarinetist and Young Cellist categories may be invited to appear as soloist with the SYMF Festival Orchestra under Dr. Frances Steiner. This is a strictly structured competition.
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Sun, Jul 26; a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 am-3 pm “ALTADENA ARTS FESTIVAL” in Loma Alta Park, 3330 N Lincoln Av, Altadena. Lots of music. Free admission, free entertainment.
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See the detailed listing in the “Local Festivals” section at the beginning of Sunday’s listings.
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Sun, Jul 26, every week:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Includes 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, every week, on web radio:
11 am-1 pm (Pacific time) “COWTRAILS SHOW” from Mancos, Colorado, features live on-air performances by Western music artists hosted by “Western Belle Barb” (Barbara Richhart) on KSJD, simulcast at www.ksjd.org. Phone-in number to studio to talk to host and on-air guests is 970-564-9727. More at www.myspace.com/mancosbelle
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Sun, Jul 26, every week:
12:30-5 pm “BRUNCH AMERICANA” show, hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff at The Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St, downtown L.A. 90012. It’s a four-act musical afternoon. David Serby has played it, and he tells us, “Get there early for great food and drinks. [It’s] live, independent Western Country Music in Los Angeles!”
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, repeats every fourth Sun:
1-5 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM SESSION IN THE PARK” at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, in Encino Park, 18953 Ventura Bl, Encino. Info, call Jeff, 310-390-4391. Free.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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This week’s FOCUS FEATURE is Cal Phil’s show last night, outdoors; this is the same show, indoors:
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Sun, Jul 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm “CAL PHIL SUMMER MAGIC” series brings “SWORDS AND CHIVALRY” with THE CABAR FEIDH PIPE BAND, and guest pianist ROBERT THIES, at Walt Disney Concert Hall, 135 N Grand Av, L.A.; 213-972-7211. Tix, 213-365-3500 or www.ticketmaster.com. More info, www.calphil.org. The California Philharmonic – Cal Phil – does a Saturday evening series at the L.A. County Arboretum. Each concert repeats Sunday afternoon at 2 pm at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A., preceded by “Talks with the Maestro” at 1 pm.
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Your editor is enthusiastic. This is one of those golden opportunities for a concert that will produce enduring summer memories. It brings a bagpipe and drum ensemble that played for the White House, swashbuckling movie music, opera excerpts (Wagner, no less!), and the first American pianist to win the Prokofiev Competition since Van Cliburn pulled it off in 1958.
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This afternoon’s “SWORDS AND CHIVALRY” program explores music of courage, daring and romance with stirring and inspiring music from Broadway, Hollywood, and opera house blockbusters. It’s music from “The Mask of Zorro” and “Braveheart,” by Academy Award winning composer James Horner, medleys from Broadway and Hollywood blockbusters “Kiss Me Kate” by Cole Porter, “Camelot” by Lerner and Loewe, and “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” by Michael Kamen. In addition, the orchestra performs highlights from Richard Wagner’s operas “Tristan und Isolde” and “Lohengrin.” It’s “an array of works by artists from Cole Porter to Richard Wagner that highlight the spirit of bravery, daring and romance in mankind throughout the ages, from Medieval times and even earlier to today,” explains Cal Phil’s founder and music director Dr. Victor Vener.
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Plus the orchestra performs Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini,” featuring guest pianist ROBERT THIES.
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CABAR FEIDH wears the Fraser tartan, and is an award-winning pipe and drum band led by Pipe Major Alan Weidlich and Drum Sergeant John Davis. Formed in 1976, they were “Western United States Pipe Band Association Grade III Champions” in 2001 and 2002, and have won at highland games throughout their history, traveling extensively. In addition, they produce concerts to promote public knowledge and awareness of Celtic music. Band members have appeared in feature films, everything from “The Onion Field” to “L.A. Story” to “The Fugitive,” recorded with everyone from Joan Baez to the band Kansas to the Bay City Rollers, and performed in concert with the Glendale Symphony, the Garden Grove Symphony Orchestra and Rod Stewart, and played private engagements for the Duke of Edinburgh and President Reagan. Cabar Feidh’s P/M Weidlich and D/S Davis wrote a musical drama, “The Road to the Isles,” that showcased the talents of Celtic music luminaries the Browne Sisters, Golden Bough, and Silent Planet. The band has featured and performed with Eric Rigler (flute player in the opening of the film “Titanic”) and his band, Bad Haggis, in “An Evening in the Highlands” and “Bagpipes at the Beach.”
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“We’re looking forward to welcoming them back to Cal Phil, where they’ve long been a favorite,” says Maestro Vener about Cabar Feidh.
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ROBERT THIES is the only American pianist in four decades to win a Russian piano competition since Van Cliburn's 1958 triumph in Moscow. He performs Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini.” Vener says, “Robert is the perfect guest artist to appear in a concert musically exploring all facets of courage. In one season alone, he performed 13 different concertos – that’s an incredible feat for an artist.”
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Thies has performed around the world, with orchestras from the Mexico City Philharmonic and the Auckland Philharmonia in New Zealand to the Louisville Orchestra, Fort Worth Symphony, and Naples Philharmonic in the United States. After his recent performance in Louisville, conductor JoAnn Falletta wrote, "Conducting the Brahms Second Piano Concerto with Robert Thies was one of the most beautiful and deeply satisfying musical experiences of my life." Conductor Jorge Mester – who has worked with Thies in Naples and Pasadena – calls him, simply, “a genius.” This is Thies’ first appearance with Cal Phil.
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The 2009 “Summer Magic” season runs Saturdays at The Arboretum and the adjacent Sundays at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Renowned guest artists are always to be expected. “The special ‘summer magic’ of Cal Phil is that we truly offer something for everyone,” says Tom O’Connor, Executive Director. “And when it comes to music you’ve never experienced before, there’s no one better to guide you on your journey than our Maestro [Victor Vener]. He has a doctorate in musicology…but he also has a great sense of humor. It’s a magical combination.”
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Upcoming productions include “Movie Magic” on Aug 8 and 9, a program of favorite Holllywood soundtracks from classic films, everything from “Gone With the Wind” to the 2008 Academy Award winning “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and a program of Broadway’s Best, highlighting moments from Tony-award winning productions ranging from “Wicked,” “Mamma Mia!,” “Gypsy,” and “Hairspray,” to “The Merry Widow” and “Die Fledermaus.”
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Gates of open at 5:30 pm for picnicking, and you can bring your own wine. Over 4000 music lovers from throughout Southern Cal attend each of Cal Phil’s Saturday evening concerts at the Arboretum. Sunday’s repeat performance at 2 pm at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A. is preceded by “Talks with the Maestro” at 1 pm.

As the season’s brochure for Cal Phil Festival on the Green and Cal Phil at Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles proudly proclaims, “Whichever venue you choose, you’ll laugh, learn and live the music like never before.” Your editor concurs. This is a delightful series, with creatively selected and crafted program themes, and a splendid way to spend a hot afternoon escaping the heat. Tickets range from $20 to $95, with subscriptions available.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, every Sun:
4-8 pm “SANTA CLARITA VALLEY BLUES SOCIETY MONTHLY JAM” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES BAND at The Londoner Pub, 18511 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country (near Santa Clarita) 91351. They tell us, “You never know who will show up. There’s always lots of great music and fun. The Londoner serves up some free food for these Sunday Jams, so come hungry. Don’t forget to bring your instrument - we’d love to hear your music!” More,www.myspace.com/santaclaritavalleybluessociety and www.scvblues.org. All ages, free.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, every week, through the spring & summer:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” country & roots series this week brings DAVID SERBY, JAIMI SHUEY, & THE LINCOLN BEDROOM to The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. Several acts on the main stage indoors, plus more live music on the Back Porch Stage, where there’s a BBQ available. Venue has a full bar. As David Serby astutely notes, “Kim Grant and Pam Moore have put together a great summer of music at The Grand Ole Echo.” You can learn more about tonight’s acts and those in coming weeks, at www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. Learn more about David and his music at www.myspace.com/davidserby and www.davidserby.com. All ages, no cover.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 4th Sun, every month:
5-9 pm SONGMAKERS “WEST L.A. HOOT & POTLUCK” in West L.A.; for location, contact Mha Atma Khalsa, WestLAHoot@songmakers.org or 310-203-0162; www.songmakers.org.
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Sun, Jul 26, every week; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Jul 26:
5:30-8 pm The L.A. County “FREE CONCERTS IN PUBLIC SITES” series presents a show at Rosewood Park, 5600 Harbor St, Commerce 90040. Info, contact Beverly Wiggins, 323-722-4805.
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Sun, Jul 26, 4th Sun, every month; in Arroyo Grande:
5:30-8:30 pm “BLUEGRASS SLOW JAM” for beginners, at SLO Down Pub, 1200 E Grand Av (at Brisco), Arroyo Grande. Info, 805-473-0102.
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Sun, Jul 26, repeats last Sun, every month:
5:45 pm OPEN MIC at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabesguitar.com.
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Sun, Jul 26:
6-8 pm L.A. BLUESCASTERS play the L.A. County “Free Concerts in Public Sites” series at Memorial Park Bandshell, 222 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre 91024. Info, contact Adam Matsumoto, 626-355-5278.
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Sun, Jul 26, every week:
6-8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD NUMBER 7 play a new “Sunday Happy Hour” residency at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar. Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar. You’ve seen them on TV, as final-round finalists on “America’s Next Great Band,” and they made it to #29 on the Americana charts at the close of 2008. Bluegrass-Americana music and drink specials on the West Side. More at www.oldnumber7.net.
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Sun, Jul 26; a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm ELEMENTAL HARMONY plus CHLOE MONS 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. Elemental Harmony is an a cappella trio of women singing earthy, world, funky eclectic stuff. From exquisite close harmonies to barking like a coyote, their eclectic repertoire includes original compositions, world music, classical, modern and everything in between. An evening with Elemental Harmony will leave you breathlessly waiting for their next performance! Elemental Harmony is a trio of women who delight in sharing their love of a cappella vocal music. Drawn together by the sheer joy of singing, these three talented performers light up the stage with their enthusiasm, vocal harmonies and gentle sense of humor. Elemental Harmony has performed in venues across America, including concert stages, music festivals, college campuses, house concerts and corporate events to rave reviews.
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“An amazing performance, with the most astonishing harmonies we’ve heard...especially with only three voices!” - Andrea Epel, The Treehouse.
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“If there had been a ‘Most Avant-Garde’ award for the evening, Elemental Harmony would have grabbed it with six hands. The trio of angel-voiced women boldly confused the audience with their folk/operatic/whistle tube/coyote calling rep. Bravo to this group!” - Amy Bob Engelhardt, The Bobs.
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“This group had incredible arrangements and were vocally very tight. Rarely have I heard a cappella done so well.” - Herman Saunders, arranger/producer.
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Plus CHLOE MONS, on tour from Paris. As venue impresario Bob tane notes, “Her photo at www.chloemons.com will wake up the casual observer.” She brings smoky French songs done on a ukulele, in the style of the 1930’s. Slow and sensual. Chloé Mons, coming from Paris France, is alone on stage with an electric ukulele and a bunch of effects,and she takes you in a sensual ballad between punk and country music. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Jul 26:
7 pm THE HANDSOME FAMILY plus DANIEL KNOX opening, at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497.
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TWO separate shows tonight at McCabe’s, beginning with THE HANDSOME FAMILY at 7 pm. For 15 years, BRETT & RENNIE SPARKS have been making beautiful, haunting, harmony-driven music that can best be described as "Gothic Americana." Mojo magazine named their “Through The Trees” as one of the 10 essential Americana albums made, and “NME” says "Each song is like an abridged Flannery O'Connor story read aloud by Johnny Cash, hovering between the metaphysical and the mundane..." McCabe’s booker Lincoln Myerson says, “We've been trying for 5 years to get them to McCabe's and now the wait is over!” Chicago-based pianist-singer-songwriter DANIEL KNOX opens the show. Tix, $15.
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Then, at 9:30 pm is a late show with MEKONS. See that listing.
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Sun, Jul 26; world music:
7 pm “SEEKER OF TRUTH” CONCERT AND CD RELEASE SHOW, at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, 12000 San Vicente Bl (at Bundy), West L.A. 90049. This is a special evening that brings a rare opportunity to see WHIRLING DERVISH AZIZ with the great Arabic singer NAJWA GIBRAN, Qawwali master singer from Pakistan SUKHAWAT ALI KHAN, the soulful Israeli singer MAYA HADDI and the YUVAL RON ENSEMBLE with JAMIE PAPISH, in an evening of Sufi music, poetry and teaching stories. They are celebrating the release of the YUVAL RON ENSEMBLE's new CD / DVD "Seeker of Truth: Sufi music traditions of the Middle East and South Asia." Info, info@yuvalronmusic.com. Advance tix recommended, this may sell-out. Tix at www.itsmyseat.com/DisplayEvent.html?sse=982528.

DVD includes complete concert footage plus, a bonus documentary about the Yuval Ron Ensemble by director Mischa Hedges. CD includes original recording of Yuval Ron Ensemble live at the World Festival of Sacred Music, plus bonus track “Erev Shel Shoshanim.” CD and DVD available for purchase at the concert and on the Ensemble’s website starting July 26. Tonight’s emcee is actor / producer Steven Memel. Reception with artists follows the concert, and Middle Eastern appetizers will be served. More at www.yuvalronmusic.com and www.myspace.com/yuvalronensemble and www.myspace.com/yuvalron. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Jul 26, every Sun:
7-8 pm JES HUDAK plays her weekly residency at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). JES HUDAK is a singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. Her weapons of choice are the piano and her voice, and she has been known to wield a guitar from time to time. Her live performance “takes her audience on a journey through laughter and love and sadness and heartbreak. Her voice is powerful and soulful, and her songs are original, emotional, and real.” Artist info, www.jes-hudak.com and www.myspace.com/jeshudak
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, on radio and web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” tonight airs the recorded hour-long performance-interview with JACK TEMPCHIN, stellar songwriter who wrote the Eagle’s first big hit, “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” and much more. 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 38th year on the air in February 2009. 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, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26; a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS plus special guest JONNY LANG, at the Greek Theatre, 2700 N Vermont Ave in Griffith Park, L.A.; Greek Theatre hotline, 323-665-1927; http://greektheatrela.com. Okay, so it’s electric. Legendary blues rockers George Thorogood & the Destroyers are joined by prodigy Jonny Lang, who played from a young age alongside B.B. King and other greats.
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“It’s always been about the live show for me,” says George. “From day one, I set out to be a live performer more than anything. All of my favorite artists -- Little Richard, J. Geils, Mitch Ryder, Chuck Berry -- they were all great live. And the Destroyers, we strive for that. We’re still working at it, and we’re still working.” The brash, iconic and outspoken Thorogood spent the majority of the past year on the road, and has done the same in 2009.
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The signature magic of George Thorogood kicks into high gear on stage. The Boston Herald said, "His righteous set was built on refreshingly basic 12-bar blues tunes that'd keep any joint jumping (8/4/07)," while the Ventura County Star added, “George Thorogood & the Destroyers has been re-energizing the electric blues from those old blues guys and then some, ripping through his nearly three decades of rockers, and leaving the joint hooting and dancing. Thorogood gave them what they wanted--all those rockin' blues songs off all those albums over all those years (3/2/2008).”
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George Thorogood & The Destroyers released their self-titled debut album in 1977 and quickly established themselves as radio favorites and as a touring machine. Described as “the world’s greatest bar band,” the group has had tremendous success with Thorogood’s original compositions like “You Talk Too Much,” “I Drink Alone” and of course “Bad To The Bone;” he’s also had hits with covers of iconic blues-rock songs like “Who Do You Love” (Bo Diddley), “Move It On Over” (Hank Williams) and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” (John Lee Hooker). 2004’s Greatest Hits: 30 Years of Rock was Billboard magazine’s #1 Blues Album in both 2004 and 2005, and the band’s 16th studio album--2006’s The Hard Stuff--hit #2 on Billboard’s Blues Chart. Tix, $50 / $45 / $40 / $35.
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Sun, Jul 26, 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, Jul 26, every Sun:
9 pm “RUSTY SUNDAYS” weekly showcase of “L.A.’s best up-and-coming rock, country, blues and folk music acts, on the Wild-West side” at Rusty’s Surf Ranch, 256 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 90401. Musical hosts are MATT OWENS & THE GOLDEN WEST, plus another act or two. $3 cover.
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Sun, Jul 26:
9:30 pm MEKONS plays the second of two separate shows tonight at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. MEKONS is a London-bred, Chicago-based punk / roots collective who, says McCabe’s booker Lincoln Myerson, “Have been going strong for 30 years, and now have a staggering 25 albums to their credit (not to mention numerous side projects and solo efforts from bandleaders Jon Langford and Sally Timms). Their blend of biting political commentary and country-punk musical stylings is best captured in their legendary live performances, and this is one of our most anticipated shows of the year. You really should be here for this one!” Tix, $16.
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MONDAY, JULY 27
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Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks will bring you out on the most unlikely night of the week: Flattop Tom & His Jump Cats, play the “Swing Night” series at the Sherman Oaks Galleria, 6:30-9:30 pm; I See Hawks in L.A. add virtuosos Brantley Kearns and Rick Shea tonight, 7-8:30 pm in Whittier’s Central Park; the Stephanie Valadez Ensemble plays El Cid in L.A. at 7:30 pm; and, guitar luminaries Jim Stubblefield and Ruben Ramos team-up at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm.
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There are two “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS” events today. First is the “LAWIM Summer Happy Hour Hang” in Burbank, 5-8 pm. Then comes the “Indiegrrl Conference - Los Angeles Prelude,” 7-10 pm, with performances by Amanda Abizaid, Amy Clarke, Kathryn Grimm, & Genevieve, in Venice.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Mon, Jul 27, every week; on radio & web simulcast:
1-4 pm “BUFFALO BAYOU” radio show hosted by Jake Bacon on KUCI, simulcast at http://www.kuci.org. Sometimes with live performances. It’s “a swamp pop, Cajun, Zydeco, and all things bayou sonic gumbo laced with international flavorings and a wild attitude, cooked up, and served live to the world on the web and on itunes, and at 88.9 FM in Irvine since 2003. In addition to the KUCI webstream, the show is live on myspace at www.myspace.com/jakebacon889.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon, Jul 27; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS:”
5-8 pm “LAWIM SUMMER HAPPY HOUR HANG” at Burbank Bar & Grille, 112 N San Fernando Bl, Burbank; www.bbgrocks.com. Los Angeles Women in Music sponsor these periodic industry mixers. Meet new people, re-connect with old contacts, find that new job opportunity in or out of show biz. It’s open to everyone. Join men and women from all walks of the music industry. Venue is in the heart of the studios, 5 & 134 freeway close. Free parking, $1 off all drinks, complimentary appetizers. Bring a friend and your business cards. More at www.lawim.com. No cover.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, and he composed a film score for a movie due out soon. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6:30-9:30 pm FLATTOP TOM & HIS JUMP CATS play the “Swing Night” series on the Fountain Plaza at the Sherman Oaks Galleria, 15301 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks 91403; www.shermanoaksgalleria.com/live/index.php. This is a group of energetic, talented musicians dedicated to keeping traditional swing & blues alive. Besides being lead singer, Flattop Tom is a professional swing dancer. He prides himself that he keeps the tempos right for the swing dancers who flock the dance floor.
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Free Swing Dance Lessons during the intermission, approximately 7:20 pm.
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The “Sherman Oaks Galleria LIVE!” series is a summer-long, free music series featuring a wide variety of music genres. This season brings an unprecedented 42 nights of free music on Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings, May 30 through Sep 14.
Monday evening performances and dance floor run 6:30-9:30 pm.
Friday & Saturday evening performances are 7-10 pm. Parking here does cost, so watch it; validation is possible. Music is free.
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Mon, Jul 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7-8:30 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. with BRANTLEY KEARNS and RICK SHEA sitting-in, bring their wonderful Americana-roots music to the L.A. County “Free Concerts in Public Sites” in Central Park, 6532 Friends Av, Whittier 90602. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and proven hugely popular when they’ve tourd Europe. Info, contact Virginia Santana, 562-464-3350. Free.
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Mon, Jul 27; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS:”
7-10 pm “INDIEGRRL CONFERENCE - LOS ANGELES PRELUDE” brings events to town as a prelude to the big event in Nashville, including tonight’s “PITCH A SONG” and musical friends AMANDA ABIZAID with guest star MAX VASQUEZ on trumpet, AMY CLARKE, KATHRYN GRIMM, & GENEVIEVE, at The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Your editor has heard live performances by AMY CLARKE, KATHRYN GRIMM, & GENEVIEVE, and is heppy to recommend them. That makes this an unusually good showcase to see.
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The upcoming “Indiegrrl 2009 Women in the Arts Conference” is Aug 20-23 at the Hotel Preston in Nashville, TN, and tonight’s show is intended to generate interest locally and, with other similar events, worldwide, among songwriters and artists. All songwriters, whether members of Indiegrrl or other creative organizations, are especially invited to come enjoy an evening of music and conversation tonight. TK Promo hosts tonight’s event. Gaia Grove hosts in Hollywood at the Cafe Muse on Fri, Jul 31, 9-11 pm. Info at www.indiegrrl.com and http://lawomansummertour.com. Tips for artists are encouraged. No cover.
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Mon, Jul 27, every week:
7 pm It’s “FEEL THE FOLK” as the free “J.A.M. SESSIONS” series continues at the Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood 90068; 323-GO1-FORD; www.FordTheatres.org; box dinner orders 310-652-3797. Grounds open two hours early for picnics, so pack your basket and a bottle of vino and head for the Ford. A variety of events and activities happen through the summer in this series. It is NOT what musicians would recognize as a “jam session.” It’s a structured program. Check the Ford’s site to see what happens tonight. This series is free, but you should reserve a spot by calling the Ford at 323-461-3673.
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Mon, Jul 27, repeats every 4th (& 2nd) Mon; in Corona:
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, Jul 27, every week:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, Jul 27; world music; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm STEPHANIE VALADEZ ENSEMBLE at El Cid, 4212 W Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029. Singer-guitarist-songwriter Stephanie Valadez offers a rich repertoire of soulful romantic, enchanting melodies, including songs from many nations. A third generation musician, Stefani has an international following of fans who have thrilled to her deep, haunting voice and the wide range of musical and ethnic lore she incorporates in her performances. Expect Mediterranean, Brazilian, Celtic, Spanish, and Delta Blues, Turkish, Ladino, Klezmer. More at www.stefanivaladezmusic.com. $10 cover.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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. This is named as the “Best Acoustic Open Mic” in L.A. AND the “Best Web Simulcast,” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Hosted by LISA TURNER. 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, Jul 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JIM STUBBLEFIELD and RUBEN RAMOS 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. Guitarist and composer JIM STUBBLEFIELD (a founding member of the Billboard charting band INCENDIO) is teaming up with guitarist RUBEN RAMOS (THE TEN TENORS).
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JIM STUBBLEFIELD will perform his original compositions in a guitar duo format. An evening of dueling Spanish guitars will feature music from his previous solo CDs as well as music from his “Guitarra Exotica” recording. New pieces from his upcoming CD will also be debuted, which feature forays into music of the Americas (joropo rhythms, rumbas, and South American influenced waltzes). STUBBLEFIELD'S music is a journey into an exciting world of exotic melodies, infectious rhythms and evocative soundscapes featuring original compositions inspired by his love of flamenco, jazz, classical, celtic and many other Western and Eastern forms. From flamenco inspired rumbas to Eastern European folk melodies, to Middle-Eastern bellydance rhythms, his fleet-fingered guitar work takes center stage. "This is very nice stuff. Jim Stubblefield plays sizzling flamenco-infused guitar, with extra helpings of steam. Who knew that this level of intense, sexy energy could come from a nylon string acoustic guitar? But Stubblefield can play him some fine tunes, hey." – FolkWorks.
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"He understands and respects different cultures and he takes you along on an experience that is mind blowing and that you won't forget soon. This is your ticket to world travel on a sonic level. Enjoy the trip." – Rocknet Webzine.
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"You’ll literally feel the wind blow through your hair as ‘Guitarra Exotica’ sweeps you off your feet and takes you on a magical carpet ride that journeys through the heart of South America’s rainforests, relaxes in a quaint Spanish village, glides across a vibrant desert sunset, and lands amidst a colorful gypsy gathering." - Southwest Blend Magazine.
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Plus: RUBEN RAMOS (THE TEN TENORS). Ruben has been performing for more than 20 years with professional training from some of the best teachers in the business. Extensive background in music ranging from performing on tours with rock bands, musical theatre, chamber groups on classical guitar and on double bass (upright bass) and a metal bandback in the day. Toured overseas to counrties like Germany, Switzerland, Hungary, Great Britain, Japan, Korea and even Iraq and Afghanistan to entertain the troops in 2004.
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Ruben says, “I have worked with The Ten Tenors from Australia, Jim Stubblefield of the group Incendio (Flamenco), Luis Bonilla (New York jazz trombonist with the Mingus Band, The Lincoln Center Orchestra and Marc Anthony). David Hasslehoff, Patty Andrews, Bea Arthur, Burliegh Drummond (Ambrosia and Tin Drum).I also work at Mt San Antonio College (Walnut, Ca) as a part time faculty member in the Vocal Jazz dept. Performed and composed music in Los Angeles for TV and film. I'm currently the main composer for Artwistic Productions headed by Voislav Andronescu who has worked for Lucasfilm. Had the great honor of studying with late great Maurice Allard, who was the director of the Orange County Master Chorale and was a previous instructor at the French Conservatory and Julliard before that. [I] studied with Maurice, one was invited only once he has heard you sing.professionalism, creativity, honesty, passion and unflinched integrity. Let me play for you. You won't regret it.” Tix, $15.
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Mon, Jul 27:
8 pm MICHELE VREELAND plays a show for the “INTERNATIONAL POP OVERTHROW FESTIVAL” at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Open to everyone, not just festival attendees. Michele just played an all-acoustic show, so expect this to be partly acoustic. Partly electric.
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Michele will perform original music from her current 7-song EP “Never Not Myself.” Jersey Beat just gave the EP a very positive review: “Offering up 7 songs worth of exquisitely bright, catchy and tuneful sparkling pop/rock, this EP CD immediately grabs the listener with its beautifully crisp, ringing and melodic sound. Better still, Michele Vreeland’s lovely soaring voice and sharp sense of thoughtful songwriting make for a formidable double whammy. Whether it’s the uplifting self-assertion of the wondrous ‘I’m a Person’ or the heart-wrenching angst of the punchy, yet deeply affecting ‘Who I Am,’ each and every last song scores a bull’s eye with spot-on touching and harmonic results. A radiant little winner.” - Joe Wawrzyniak, Jersey Beat (http://fburls.com/79-7902xxze/t/s/txt/cid/536717/sid/99125805)
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, every 4th (and 2nd) 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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Mon, Jul 27, every week:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by Gordon Gilges at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, ”There's a piano & guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you. Bring your music, your own instruments, your friends!” Sign-ups are at 8 pm. Comedy is now from 7:30-8:30 pm, with those sign-ups at 7:30 pm. They add, “We are trying to create a community of artists who support each other, so participants are encouraged to come early and stay as long as you can to show the love to your fellow open-mic-ers. You may even get to go up a second time. The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.”
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, Jul 27, 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, Jul 27, every week:
9:30 pm “JJ SONG SALON” weekly singer-songwriter night at Life on Wilshire, 6311 Wilshire Bl, L.A. 90048; 323-651-5433; www.lifeonwilshire.com. Grammy award winning producer JOHN JONES (Fleetwood Mac, Duran Duran, Celine Dion) is the “JJ” who assembles an eclectic mix of performers for an evening of live acoustic entertainment. Complete list, with links, for this week’s performers at www.jjsongsalon.com. Each plays a short set, beginning at 9:30 pm. Dinner seating available starting at 6:30 pm.
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Mon, Jul 27, every Mon:
9:30 pm Weekly “SINGER SONGWRITER EVENING” hosted by PRESTON SMITH (Preston Smith & the Crocodiles) at Lucy's 51, 10149 Riverside Dr (just E of Cahuenga, at Forman), Toulca Lake. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger, The Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, Jul 27, every week:
10:30 pm “BLUES JAM” with MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Babe's and Ricky's Inn, 4339 Leimert Bl, L.A.; 323-295-9112; www.bluesbar.com.. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Event info, Info, info@bluesbar.com. No cover.
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[Updated editions with more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events to come in JULY and beyond - in and around Los Angeles, plus the many, many, many upcoming acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, here, there and everywhere! It’ll all be here, soon.]
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The MOST RECENT EDITIONS - 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 show 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 “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.” -- from www.bluefiddle.com, which supplies us and the Gator Gazette.
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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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(And that doesn’t even take the dozens of electric Americana shows into account!)
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If you have trouble believing that assertion, then print this out and see how many pages you’ll need just for the events for the days covered in this edition!
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Check it yourself: take any edition of the L.A. Times Calendar Section and any edition of the LA Weekly, count-up all the live music shows (you won’t even need to subtract-out the acoustic shows in those two publications, since they hardly list any, anyway) and add them up. THEN, count the number of live acoustic music performances for the same days in the Acoustic Americana Music Guide. We have yet to find a week when the TOTAL of all those other genres of music performances equals the number of live performances of acoustic music in the L.A. area! (Even though you can’t hear the music on the radio here, or read about it in the biggest newspapers, it seems people DO want acoustic music and they will find and support it anyway!
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