Spotlight Events: Acoustic Americana Music Guide, March 18, 2011

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Spotlight Events: Acoustic Americana Music Guide, March 18, 2011

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COMING SOON: Photographs to accompany News Features, Spotlight Events, and MORE!

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THIS WEEKEND brings the annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL,” with some TOP bands and players. Closer to home, GERRY O’BEIRNE & ROSIE SHIPLEY bring traditional Irish music to the “Caltech Folk Music Society” series in Pasadena… of course, there’s LOTS more… details within…

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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS

from THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE

March 18, 2011 edition

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Are you looking for the latest NEWS and REVIEWS?:

The Guide’s current NEWS FEATURES section will be published March 19…


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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS, MONTH-BY-MONTH, all the way to December!


MARCH: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS

Continuing:

“PHIL OCHS: THERE BUT FOR FORTUNE” feature-length musical documentary film, playing daily NOW at Laemlle Monica 4, 1332 2nd St, Santa Monica 90401; 310-394-9741.
Soon at additional Laemmle theatres, citywide.

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Continuing through Apr 3; stage play:

“THE WEIR” is an Irish-themed play by CONNOR McPHERSON, now playing at South Coast Repertory (SCR) in Costa Mesa. The Irish Center of Southern California Inc., tells us, “‘The Weir’ was proclaimed as ‘exceptional—the most exciting evening in theatrical London’ by the Guardian. It was also a New York ‘hit’ running for eight months on Broadway.”
Synopsis? “When a group of hard-drinking Irishmen get together in a local pub on a stormy night, their amazing yarns prove to be both funny and spine-tingling. Of course there is a mysterious young woman involved.”
The cast includes Irish native JAMES LANCASTER (“Titanic,” “Spanglish,” more), RICHARD DOYLE (“Cheers”), KRISTEN POTTER, & TONY WARD. It’s directed by WARNER SHOOK. The play runs through April 3. Tickets start at $20. More at www.scr.org or 714-708-5555.


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♣♣♣♣ ST. PATRICK’S DAY was March 17, but traditional Irish music is prominently and joyously present all month! Look for our shamrocks… ♣♣♣♣

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Friday night, March 18 events…

Fri, Sat & Sun, Mar 18, 19 & 20, in Temecula; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
Annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” includes Irish music from SLIGO RAGS, both days. Festival features workshops for artists (see below) and many concerts.
Performing are…
FRIDAY EVENING:
THE GRASCALS at Old Town Temecula Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org) and HIGHWAY 138 plays at Sweet Lumpy’s BBQ at 6 and 7 pm.
Saturday & Sunday, on two stages (one indoors, one outdoors):
BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., HUNT FAMILY BLUEGRASS, SLIGO RAGS,
SILVERADO BLUEGRASS, NEXT GENERATION, THE GIRLZ, FINE LINE, BLUEGRASS
BRETHREN, WINDY RIDGE, HIGHWAY 138, OLD HAYWIRE, & OLDER THAN DIRT.
SATURDAY EVENING CONCERT:
7 pm BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., SILVERADO at Old Town Temecula
Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org)
WORKSHOPS FOR ARTISTS are both days (check schedule); they feature:
Fiddle with BYRON BERLINE
Banjo with DENNIS CAPLINGER
Guitar with DAVID BURNS
Mandolin with JOHN MOORE
Family Band with THE HUNT FAMILY BAND
Bodhrain with ANDY REILLY
More info at www.temeculacalifornia.com/Bluegrass_Festival and www.temeculaevents.org.

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Fri, Mar 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SABRINA & CRAIG plus CINDY KALMENSON play this month’s “CAMARILLO CAFÉ” series at Camarillo Community Center, 1605 East Burnley St, Camarillo 93010; 805-523-2682. SABRINA & CRAIG won the vocal competition at the 2010 Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest.

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Fri, Mar 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BYRON BERLINE BLUEGRASS BAND at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. There’s no better way to get your musical sensibilities oriented and your expectations raised high for the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest / Folk Festival than to see bluegrass-and-beyond maestro Byron Berline. Tix, $20.

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Fri, Mar 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
THE YOUNG DUBLINERS play the Key Club, 9039 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-786-1712.

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Fri, Mar 18:
8 pm TAYLOR MADE, “The James Taylor Tribute Band,” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917. Specific and detailed info on this show at www.coffeegallery.com.

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Fri, Mar 18:
8 pm THE PAUL THORN BAND plays Brixton South Bay, 100J W Torrance Bl, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-406-1931.

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Fri, Mar 18 – and now for something completely different; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8:15 pm “BLUEGRASS JEWISH WORSHIP SERVICE” with the all-star lineup of Hazzan MIKE STEIN; PAT CLOUD (banjo); FRED SOKOLOW (dobro, mandolin); JUSTIN STEIN (bass); JARED STEIN (fiddle); and JIM SILVERS (3 Tenors of Bluegrass, CMH recording artists); at Temple Aliyah, 6025 Valley Circle Bl, Woodland Hills 91367.

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WEEKEND, Saturday & Sunday, March 19 & 20, 2011:


Fri, Sat & Sun, Mar 18, 19 & 20, in Temecula; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
Annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” includes Irish music from SLIGO RAGS, both days. Festival features workshops for artists (see below) and many concerts.
Performing are…
FRIDAY EVENING:
THE GRASCALS at Old Town Temecula Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org) and HIGHWAY 138 plays at Sweet Lumpy’s BBQ at 6 and 7 pm.
Saturday & Sunday, on two stages (one indoors, one outdoors):
BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., HUNT FAMILY BLUEGRASS, SLIGO RAGS,
SILVERADO BLUEGRASS, NEXT GENERATION, THE GIRLZ, FINE LINE, BLUEGRASS
BRETHREN, WINDY RIDGE, HIGHWAY 138, OLD HAYWIRE, & OLDER THAN DIRT.
SATURDAY EVENING CONCERT:
7 pm BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., SILVERADO at Old Town Temecula
Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org)
WORKSHOPS FOR ARTISTS are both days (check schedule); they feature:
Fiddle with BYRON BERLINE
Banjo with DENNIS CAPLINGER
Guitar with DAVID BURNS
Mandolin with JOHN MOORE
Family Band with THE HUNT FAMILY BAND
Bodhrain with ANDY REILLY
More info at www.temeculacalifornia.com/Bluegrass_Festival and www.temeculaevents.org.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
11 am THE WICKED TINKERS bring their raucous Celtic fusion to the Walt Disney Concert Hall’s OUTDOOR stage, the W.M. Keck Foundation Children's Amphitheatre, 111 S Grand Av, downtown L.A.; 323-850-2000.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
11 am & 2 pm DAN ZANES & FRIENDS make their annual return for two shows at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
Don’t dismiss this as a kids’ show. He has a CD that won a Grammy for “Best Children’s Music Album” and got airplay on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
UCLA Live series favorite Dan Zanes and his band perform exuberant, handmade music for enthusiastic crowds of kids and kids at heart. Filled with irresistible grooves drawn from a wealth of musical traditions, Zanes, his Brooklyn-based band and his surprising and eccentric special guests, create a rollicking Woodstock for kids, including American traditional songs, dance classics, and smart, inventive originals. The audience is invited to sing along with gusto before things heat up and ultimately evolve into an all-ages dance party. Tix, $18-28 ($15 for UCLA students).

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
1 pm-11 pm “PADDY FEST” at the Tam O'Shanter, “A Festival of Celtic Music -- Contemporary and Traditional -- and Celtic Rock,” with 7 great bands:
- THE BRILLIANT GYPSIES
- ANITA AND THE YANKS
- HOIST THE COLORS
- CRAIC HAUS
- SLUGGER O'TOOLE
- BRICK TOP BLAGGERS
- THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL
At the Tam O’Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl (5 blocks E of the 5 Fwy). More at www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=182326211812347&index=1.
Hot pub food served fresh, 3 bars; $15 advance tickets, $20 at the event.

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Sat, Mar 19:
2 pm matinee: SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917. Specific and detailed info on this show at www.coffeegallery.com. (“The venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”). Tix $15.

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Sat, Mar 19, in Thousand Oaks; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm VICKI PETERSON (from THE BANGLES) plays solo acoustic, plus DAVID ZINK (from the EDITED trio) opening and DAVE MORRISON hosting, at the “FOUR FRIENDS ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES” at Four Friends Gallery, 1408 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks 91362; 805-497-4022; www.fourfriendsgallery.com. This is the second show for this new series, and their launch on January 29 was well-produced, well attended, and very well-received. It’s a fine new venue for music. Admission includes hors d’oeuvres, desserts, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and there’s a no-host bar. Info, marilynbabcock@mac.com. Tix, $20.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm INCENDIO at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917. Specific and detailed info on this show at www.coffeegallery.com. (“The venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”). Tix $20.

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Sat, Mar 19, in Palmdale:
7 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND play Butler’s Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Award-winning and well-travelled, they mix bluegrass standards with their own modern compositions that often sound old-timey.
It’s tonight’s edition of the ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE series at Butler's Coffee. 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, Mar 19, in San Diego:
7 pm KEN WILCOX with DAVE MORGAN, & GRANT KESTER, plus BRUCE HUNTINGTON, at the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas (San Diego); 858-566-4040.

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Sat, Mar 19, in OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm CLAUDIA RUSSELL & THE FOLK UNLIMITED ORCHESTRA plus BEV BARNETT & GREG NEWLON, for “The Living Tradition” concert series at the Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; 949-646-1964.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
8 pm GERRY O’BEIRNE & ROSIE SHIPLEY play the “Caltech Folk Music Society” series in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). More on the Caltech Folk Music Series at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu - and check-out other music on campus at Caltech Presents / Caltech Public Events series at www.events.caltech.edu.
GERRY O’BEIRNE, from County Clare, Ireland, is a fine instrumentalist. As part of the legendary Irish band PATRICK STREET, he’s played the White House, opened for the GRATEFUL DEAD, played on radio’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” and toured globally, all the while writing and performing songs and tunes in the rich tradition of the Emerald Isle.
She is outstanding fiddler ROSIE SHIPLEY, joining Patrick for this tour and celebrating the release of their new album together.
Series bookers REX MAYREIS and NICK SMITH tell us, “If you like modern Irish music, you will want to be here for this show, as close to St. Patrick’s Day as we could make it.” Gen’l admission, $15; Caltech students and children, $5.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ROSANNE CASH plays the brand-new Valley Performing Arts Center on the campus at Cal-State Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge 91330; 818-677-3000. This is the new facility paid for with a huge grant from record company executive, recording artist, and former California Lt. Gov MIKE CURB.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583. The “charming and alarming” Miss Klein is so immersed in the flapper era and music of the 1920s that you’ll look to see where you parked your Packard when you leave. This band is a bunch of all-star players too.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm YASMIN LEVY at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State Univ. L.A., 5151 State University Dr, L.A. 90032; 323-343-6600 or 323-343-6611. The voice that has re-popularized and reinvigorated the ancient art of Ladino song – the Judeo-Spanish music dating from the 15th century. Yasmin includes fiery flamenco in the mix. Olé and shalom. Tix, $25-45.

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Sat, Mar 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm EVE SELIS BAND brings “THE MUSIC OF CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG” to the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. Americana blues rocker Eve Selis and her blazing band of ruffians deliver their own originals and a fabulous selection of CSNY classics. Eve Selis, says the promo, “isn’t just a singer — she’s an emotional powerhouse of R&B, blues, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll.” Karla Peterson of the San Diego Union Tribune says, “Selis delivers … with equal parts sanctification and sweat. Her bottomless lung power is matched by an emotional gusto that could blast your happy-hour oysters out of their shells.”
The Grand Annex is an intimate 100-seat music listening room in the heart of historic downtown San Pedro, offering a wide range of artists and genres, from world sounds to American roots music. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to bringing high quality arts entertainment to the Harbor Area and to the continued use of the historic Warner Grand Theatre, two doors away. Proceeds from Annex shows support ongoing upgrades at the Warner Grand. Sponsors for the 2011 series include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, CRA/LA, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and The Norris Foundation.
Doors at 7:30, show at 8 pm. “Wine Tasting & Ticket” package available with pre-show tasting at Off the Vine Wines a few doors away. Reservations, 310-833-4813. Concert tix, $20 advance, $25 door.

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Sat, Mar 19:
8 pm JAY LEACH plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020. He’s always remembered for “Elusive Butterfly of Love.”

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Sat, Mar 19:
8 pm GREAT BIG SEA at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center, on the campus at Cal State Long Beach, 6200 Atherton St, Long Beach 90815; 562-985-7000.

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Sat, Mar 19:
8 pm GO HOME featuring BEN GOLDBERG, CHARLIE HUNTER, ELLERY ESKELIN, & SCOTT AMENDOLA at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.

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Sat, Mar 19, in Ventura County:
8 pm BETH WOOD plays the Boney Mountain House Concert series in Newbury Park. Reservations get directions at music@brandick.com.

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Sun, Mar 20; Fri/Sat/Sun, Mar 18-20, in Temecula; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick ♣♣♣♣:
Annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” includes Irish music from SLIGO RAGS, both days. Festival features workshops for artists (see below) and many concerts.
Performing are…
FRIDAY EVENING:
THE GRASCALS at Old Town Temecula Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org) and HIGHWAY 138 plays at Sweet Lumpy’s BBQ at 6 and 7 pm.
Saturday & Sunday, on two stages (one indoors, one outdoors):
BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., HUNT FAMILY BLUEGRASS, SLIGO RAGS,
SILVERADO BLUEGRASS, NEXT GENERATION, THE GIRLZ, FINE LINE, BLUEGRASS
BRETHREN, WINDY RIDGE, HIGHWAY 138, OLD HAYWIRE, & OLDER THAN DIRT.
SATURDAY EVENING CONCERT:
7 pm BYRON BERLINE, BLUEGRASS ETC., SILVERADO at Old Town Temecula
Community Theater (www.temeculatheater.org)
WORKSHOPS FOR ARTISTS are both days (check schedule); they feature:
Fiddle with BYRON BERLINE
Banjo with DENNIS CAPLINGER
Guitar with DAVID BURNS
Mandolin with JOHN MOORE
Family Band with THE HUNT FAMILY BAND
Bodhrain with ANDY REILLY
More info at www.temeculacalifornia.com/Bluegrass_Festival and www.temeculaevents.org.

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Sun, Mar 20:
11 am MASANGA plays a Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $8 (kids under age 2 are free).

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Sun, Mar 20; a late-addition “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm matinee with CLAUDIA RUSSELL & THE FOLK UNLIMITED ORCHESTRA, plus JILL FREEMAN, plus, the LIFE IS GRAND BAND, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).

JILL FREEMAN and her band, featuring Joel Wachbrit, Steve Nelson and Tommy Reeves, and a special guest appearance by The LIFE IS GRAND BAND, with Claudia Russell, Jill Freeman, & Laura Zambo.

CLAUDIA RUSSELL returns to the Coffee Gallery Backstage for the umpteenth time with her mighty combo, The Folk Unlimited Orchestra, beside her (Bruce Kaplan, mandolin/guitar, Carl Byron, keyboards and Mark Petrella, bass), Claudia shows us around the vast musical landscape of Americana with heartfelt folk/pop, updates of traditional songs, and even the occasional western swing jewel. The thread that holds this eclectic music journey all together is, of course, Claudia’s charm and her sweet and sassy voice – as at home on a whispery ballad as a Buddy Holly romp.

JILL FREEMAN'S writing is both dark and friendly. Her lyrics point deep to the soul, speaking unabashedly, yet never losing a warmth that seems native to her spirit. In concert, her charming, earthy stage presence combines with her songs to create a feeling that she has secretly climbed into your heart and is singing to you there. Jill's music is soft and sensual, with a vulnerability and honesty that will immediately endear it to any listener... With dark and bohemian arrangements, Jill Freeman reveals to you her deepest fears and joys, her rawest feelings and desires. She returns to her very favorite venue to share the afternoon with one of her closest friends, Claudia Russell. Jill will be joined onstage by Joel Wachbrit on guitar, Steve Nelson on bass and Tommy Reeves on keyboards. http://jillfreeman.com/

The LIFE IS GRAND BAND is enshrined in the Smithsonian/Folkways collection as one of the only Los Angeles bands included in the “Fast Folk” series, which was acquired by the Smithsonian. Bob Stane gushes, “That makes them a National Treasure! We are told that the three former Life Is Grand Banders will reach into their songbook for a nostalgic encore.” Tix, $15.

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Sun, Mar 20:
2 pm JOHN ZIPPERER with JIM VAN BOOVEN, TARA SITSER, & ED “THE SPOON MAN” TERRY at the Slater-Lunsford Pavilion (House Concert Series) in Lancaster 93536; reservations get directions, through www.desertsong.org .

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Sun, Mar 20:
2 pm YALE STROM & TALLULAH STROM play the Bonita Public library, 4375 Bonita Rd, Bonita 91902; 619-475-4642.

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Sun, Mar 20:
3:30 pm SCHUMANN TRIO plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.

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Sun, Mar 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm The “LARRY BROWN / JOHN SCHLOCKER MEMORIAL CONCERT” with a line-up yet to be announced, at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Wonder how we can make this one a “pick” when we don’t know who’s playing? We know the legacies of who they’re playing FOR. Tix, $10.

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Sun, Mar 20, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm THE BYRON BERLINE BLUEGRASS BAND plays the AMSD Concert Series at 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176.

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Sun, Mar 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm NOEL PAUL STOOKEY (of Peter, Paul & Mary) plays Pilgrim Place, 625 Mayflower Rd. Claremont 91711; 909-399-5500. We just caught the wonderful show he did with the Peter Yarrow, the other surviving third of the landmark trio, when they played Palm Desert a couple Sundays ago. He can still bring it, and the storytelling is worth going, even before you find yourself singing-along.

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Sun, Mar 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm RAUL MALO, touring his Tex-o-centric new album “Sinners & Saints” (on Fantasy / Concord Records) plays his L.A. stop at Hotel Café, 1623 Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; info & tix, www.hotelcafe.com/tickets/?s=events_view&id=860.
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You can catch Raul Malo’s story on NPR’s “Weekend Edition” archive at www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=130595257.
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The critics have always loved this guy:
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“. . . a record that impresses right from its clarion mariachi trumpet opening, through to the album’s finale, a reworking of Los Lobos’ ‘Saint Behind the Glass.’” —MOJO
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“Sinners & Saints is the most confident, self-assured, and consistent recording Malo’s done, and it showcases his own playing and songwriting at an entirely new level of skill.” —ALLMUSIC.COM
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“For all its stylistic variety . . . Sinners hangs together thanks to Malo’s consistently remarkable vocals. Listening to this guy sing — listening to him sing anything — is an act of pure pleasure.” —LOS ANGELES TIMES
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“. . . the album presents a coherent world view that says more about present day life than a thousand Sunday sermons, newspaper editorials, and radio talk show broadcasts combined, and it does so with beautiful melodies and compelling musicality.” —POPMATTERS.COM
Tickets, $18.

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FIVE WEEKDAYS, Monday-Friday, March 21-25, 2011:


Tue, Mar 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. with special guest RICHIE LAWRENCE, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; more at www.coffeegallery.com. Early reservations recommended at 626-794-2424.

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Thu, Mar 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE SADDLE CATS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917. Specific and detailed info on this show at www.coffeegallery.com. (“The venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
This is a must-see show for fans of the best fiery fiddle maestros, or Djangostyle swing jazz, or western swing. Their performance produces plenty of “oh, wows.” Bandleader RICHARD CHON is the astoundingly memorable fiddle player from SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN and over a decade on the road with DAN HICKS & THE HOT LICKS. The Cats’ pedal steel player BOBBY BLACK spent years with COMMANDER CODY & THE LOST PLANET AIRMEN.
Quick facts:
* their ONLY Southern Cal gig.
* based in the SF Bay Area
* a major audience favorite at last year’s “Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival” and NOT there in ’11
* released an exceptionally fine CD
* playing the nationwide festival circuit this year

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Thu, Mar 24 ♣♣♣♣:
THE SAW DOCTORS bring their Irish music to the House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood. Tix available at Ticketmaster.

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Fri, Mar 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ABIGAIL WASHBURN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $15.

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Fri, Mar 25; in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm EMMA'S REVOLUTION, the fine female new-folk duo from Washington, D.C., plays a concert at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of San Dieguito, 1036 Solana Dr., Solana Beach 92075. Info and reservations, emmasrevolutionUUFSD@gmail.com or760-518-0533.

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WEEKEND, Saturday & Sunday, March 26 & 27, 2011:

Sat, Mar 26:
“HARRY MOORE MEMORIAL SOLO PIPING AND DRUMMING COMPETITION” brings Celtic and Scottish musicians to Canyon Crest Country Club, 975 Country Club Dr, Riverside. More info when we have it. Hosted by the University of California Riverside Pipe Band.

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Sat, Mar 26:
1 pm THE KOLES perform at Malibu Family Wines, Saddle Rock Ranch, 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu; 818-889-0120. They’ve made quite an impression at Folk Alliance Conferences with their originals and fine harmonies.

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Sat, Mar 26:
2:30-4 pm “TOLKIEN DAY” celebrates with live music, readings and more, in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Info on this program, 626-821-5566.
The L.A.-based “Tolkein Society” presents this afternoon of dramatic readings, musical interludes and costumed characters from “The Hobbit,” “Lord of the Rings,” and other works by J.R.R. Tolkien. All ages, free.

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Sat, Mar 26 ♣♣♣♣:
“HARRY MOORE MEMORIAL SOLO PIPING AND DRUMMING COMPETITION” brings Celtic and Scottish musicians to Canyon Crest Country Club, 975 Country Club Dr, Riverside. More info when we have it. Hosted by the University of California Riverside Pipe Band.

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Sat, Mar 26 ♣♣♣♣:
6:30 & 8:30 pm GERRY O'BEIRNE & ROSIE SHIPLEY play two shows at the San Juan Capistrano Multicultural Center, 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano; 949-248-7469.
He, from County Clare, Ireland, is a fine instrumentalist. As part of the legendary Irish band PATRICK STREET, he’s played the White House, opened for the GRATEFUL DEAD, played on radio’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” and toured globally, all the while writing and performing songs and tunes in the rich tradition of the Emerald Isle.
She is outstanding fiddler ROSIE SHIPLEY, joining Patrick for this tour and celebrating the release of their new album together.

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Sat, Mar 26:
7 pm ROBBY LONGLEY plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; 626-794-2424.

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Sat, Mar 26, in Temecula:
7 pm DOUG MacLEOD brings his fine acoustic blues, on wood body and National steel guitars, with deep-down delta blues vocals, to the Miramonte Winery, 33410 Rancho California Rd, Temecula; 951-506-5500.

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Sat, Mar 26 ♣♣♣♣:
7:30 pm SLIGO RAGS plays the concert series at Grace First Presbyterian Church, 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach; 562-420-2292.

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Sat, Mar 26:
7:30 pm ALFRED JOHNSON plays The Rumor Mill Coffee House, 11739 W Washington Bl, L.A. 90066.

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Sat, Mar 26:
8 pm DIRK HAMILTON at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $15.

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Mon, Mar 28; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “AN EVENING WITH KENNY ROGERS” at the Grammy Museum’s Clive Davis Sound Stage, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6803; www.grammymuseum.org. Presented by American Express. Kenny Rogers is one of the very few artists who has enjoyed successful careers in such a variety of genres — jazz, folk, rock, country and pop. For over five decades, the Grammy Award-winner has consistently found songs with universal appeal, drawing fans from many backgrounds with countless hits like “Lady,” “The Gambler,” “Islands in the Stream,” and more, all which remain classics today.
A gifted singer, songwriter, musician, producer, actor, photographer and entertainer, Rogers has sold more than 120 million records worldwide during his storied career.
GRAMMY Foundation VP Scott Goldman will moderate the interview for a unique look into the life and times of music legend Kenny Rogers. During the event, you'll hear Rogers discuss his humble roots as a young musician in Texas, his experiences at the height of superstardom, and his new album, “The Love of God,” released March 7, 2011. The new album is a collection of classic inspirational tunes that have touched the iconic entertainer through the years, along with several contemporary songs. After the discussion, Rogers will take questions from the audience.
Doors at 7:30 pm. American Express presale tickets are $20 and can only be purchased online by Amex cardholders starting Friday, March 11, at noon. Public sale begins Wednesday, March 23, at noon. Ticket purchase includes a special gift. American Express is the exclusive payment method for presale tickets. All proceeds benefit the GRAMMY Museum. For more information, call 213.765.6800.

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Wed, Mar 30; music documentary screening:
7:30 pm “TROUBADOURS,” presented for the “Reel to Reel” series by Concord Records and The Songwriters Hall of Fame at the Grammy Museum’s Clive Davis Sound Stage, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6803; www.grammymuseum.org.
You may have seen this on PBS in pasty month, where it was constantly interrupted by pledge drive begging (After all, the only time they show music performances is during pledge drive.) But there’s a compelling reason to see it tonight: A post-screening panel with director Morgan Neville and other special guests will follow.
In the wake of the turbulent 1960s, a new style of song and songwriter came to the fore — a style marked by vulnerable introspection and raw, naked emotion. Backed by little more than a lone acoustic guitar or simple piano, these exciting voices descended upon Los Angeles, the emerging epicenter of the American music scene, and the Troubadour, the famed West Hollywood club that nurtured this community of gifted young artists — and blossoming critical, commercial sensations. Interweaving the intriguing story of the club that cemented their musical legacy, Troubadours is a first-hand account of the genesis of the singer-songwriter movement, centering on the historic collaboration between Carole King and James Taylor, as well as on Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Joni Mitchell, Kris Kristofferson, Bonnie Raitt, the Eagles, Elton John, and many others.
Doors open at 7:00pm. Tickets are $8 (Museum Members receive two-for-one special) and can be purchased at the Museum’s box office or at 213-765-6800 beginning Friday, March 11 at noon. All proceeds benefit The GRAMMY Museum.

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Thu, Mar 31:
8 pm “AN EVENING WITH R. CARLOS NAKAI” at the Grammy Museum’s Clive Davis Sound Stage, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6803; www.grammymuseum.org.
Having released over forty albums since his debut in 1983, R. Carlos Nakai is the world's premier performer of the Native American flute. Originally trained in classical trumpet and music theory, Nakai was given a traditional cedar wood flute as a gift and challenged to see what he could do with it.
Tonight, in the intimate Clive Davis Theater, you can learn first-hand what makes this nine-time GRAMMY nominee such a dynamic force. Hear Nakai in discussion about his continuous exploration of new musical settings and about how his career has been shaped by a desire to communicate a sense of Native American culture that transcends the common stereotypes presented in mass media. After the discussion, led by GRAMMY Museum Executive Director Bob Santelli, Nakai will take questions from the audience and perform a selection of songs.
Doors open at 7:30pm. Admission is $15. Tickets can be purchased at the Museum box office or at Ticketmaster. All proceeds benefit The GRAMMY Museum. More info at 213-765-6800.


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APRIL: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS


Fri, Apr 1; workshop:
7 pm “COUNTRY & WESTERN MUSIC ON UKULELE & WASHTUB BASS,” workshop with Sid HAUSMAN & WASHTUB JERRY at Island Bazaar, 16582 Gothard St, Ste R, Huntington Beach 92647; 714-843-9350. Workshop is $15. The two play a concert here Sat, Apr 2, 8 pm; tix, $20.
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Fri, Apr 1:
8 pm THE BOBS at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497.
They have a big following and they’re gotten good reviews elsewhere. Frankly, when we saw them perform, we were not impressed. They get a spotlight here because of the former, not the latter. Tix, $24.50.
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Sat, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm BILL FRISELL TRIO: “SELECTED WORKS OF BUSTER KEATON” plays the first of two different shows today at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
The matinee is family-friendly, and the show tonight takes a different focus. Incomparable guitarist BILL FRISELL, along with his bandmates TONY SCHERR and KENNY WOLLESEN, create a live score to the Buster Keaton classics “Go West,” “The High Sign,” and “One Week.” Rediscover the timeless charm of Keaton’s magic, as re-imagined with live music, in an afternoon of film and music the whole family can enjoy. The trio plays another show here tonight at 8 pm, with an adult focus; it, too is a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick. See listing. Tix, $18-28 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings Grammy winners GEORGE, MOSES & KEOKI KAHUMOKU at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
The three Kahumokus bring a triple dose of great guitar. They’ve won Grammys among the three of them, run a renowned music camp for slack key guitar and ukulele, plus recorded for GEORGE WINSTON’s respected Dancing Cat label. George & Keoki have played the series before, but getting Moses here to perform on one of his rare trips to the Mainland is extra special.
The annual series brings seven shows for its 2010-2011 season. Tix, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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Sat, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BILL FRISELL TRIO: “SELECTED WORKS OF BUSTER KEATON, JIM WOODRING AND BILL MORRISON” is the second of Frisell’s two different shows today at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
The show tonight takes a different focus, unlike today’s family-friendly matinee. Geniuses collide as iconic guitarist BILL FRISELL and his bandmates TONY SCHERR and KENNY WOLLESEN play original compositions to a truly fantastic collection of visuals that includes classic slapstick comedy from a trio of Buster Keaton classics, the bold illustrations of Seattle animator JIM WOODRING and selections from avant-garde filmmaker BILL MORRISON’s “The Mesmerist.” Frisell’s trio sets this eclectic footage to music with a thrilling live score. The trio plays a matinee here at 11 am today, with a different focus and cheaper tix, intended for families; it, too is a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick. See listing. Tix, $28-43 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RONNY COX and JACK WILLIAMS play Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.ronnycox.com & www.jackwilliamsmusic.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $20.
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Sat, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings Grammy winners GEORGE, MOSES & KEOKI KAHUMOKU at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; www.shannoncenter.org; 562-907-4203. Shows at 3 & 8 pm. See 3 pm listing for details.
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Sat, Apr 2:
7 pm SID HAUSMAN & WASHTUB JERRY perform “Country & Western Music on ukulele & washtub bass” at Island Bazaar, 16582 Gothard St, Ste R, Huntington Beach 92647; 714-843-9350. The two do a workshop here Fri, Apr 1, 7 pm, see listing. Concert tix, $20.
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Fri-Sun, Apr 8-10; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“ARLO GUTHRIE - A WEEKEND OF GUTHRIE IN REDLANDS” is a festival, venue tba. Info, www.BodieHouse.com.
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Fri, Apr 8; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ARLO GUTHRIE & FRIENDS, featuring ABE GUTHRIE and THE BURNS SISTERS, at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
Son of the illustrious WOODY GUTHRIE and current patriarch of folk music’s most notable family, Arlo Guthrie returns to UCLA Live for an evening of American music tinged with humor, warmth and his endearing and often meandering storytelling style. Guthrie shares timeless tales and unforgettable classic songs as he carries on the Guthrie family legacy.
With his singular voice as both a singer-songwriter and social commentator, he has maintained a dedicated fan base that spans the globe. His artistic ventures leave lasting impressions of hope and inspiration, and his inimitable musical ingenuity leaps to new creative heights as he perseveres through the times. Tix, $33-58 ($15 for UCLA students) (310) 825-2101, www.uclalive.org.
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Fri, Apr 8; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm TISH HINOJOSA at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Once the queen of the Austin music scene, her southwestern folk in two languages as expressed through her marvelous clear soprano voice is globally acclaimed. She lived and worked in Europe for several years, building a fan base there, as well. It’s been a long time since she performed in Southern Cal, so expect this one to sell-out quickly. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Apr 10:
2-5 pm “SONGWRITER SANCTUM” this month brings MARC PLATT, ANDREW KELSEY, TIM TURNER, & BRETT MIKELS at the Church in Ocean Park, 235 Hill St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-399-1631; www.churchop.org. This edition is billed as “from retro to cutting edge, pop-influenced music.” Dana Charnofsky’s series welcomes all ages, includes potluck snacks and beverages, and is free, though donations are appreciated and enable the artists to receive some compensation. More info, purpleDCconcerts@yahoo.com
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Sun, Apr 10:
3:30 pm REBEL plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.
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Sun, Apr 10:
7 pm RUTHANN FRIEDMAN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $15.
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Thu, Apr 14:
CANCELLED: Poet SEAMUS HEANEY’S spoken word engagement at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101. Event cancelled due to Visa issues. Full refunds or exchanges are available at the point of purchase to patrons who purchased tickets to this event during UCLA Live’s subscription-sales window.
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Fri, Apr 15, in Washington State:
7:30-10 pm RED HORSE: ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 512 Washington St, SE, Olympia WA; 360-753-8586; www.washingtoncenter.org. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com.
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Sat & Sun, Apr 16 & 17, in San Bernardino:
Annual “RAILROAD DAYS” with music, food, family activities, historical displays in and around museum, modern and historic RR equipment, at historic Santa Fe San Bernardino train station (Metrolink station). Free.
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Sat, Apr 16; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND bring their traditional and original Appalachian mountain music, Jean Ritchie homages, and West Coast bluegrass, to the CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY series in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). More on the Caltech Folk Music Series at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu - and check-out other music on campus at Caltech Presents / Caltech Public Events series at www.events.caltech.edu.
Susie’s soaring high vocals have propelled her career since she sang solos on Broadway in “Big River.” Her friendship and devotion to the music of legendary Appalachian folk queen JEAN RITCHIE earned her an endorsement from the matriarch, and she performed a tribute concert for Ritchie with members of Jean’s musical family at the University of Pennsylvania.
Much of the HILONESOME repertoire is older mountain and bluegrass, and it mixes well with modern compositions by the band’s guitarist / chief songwriter, ROB CARLSON. Indeed, series bookers NICK SMITH and REX MAYREIS say, “Whether they are performing a classic Jean Ritchie piece or something they cooked up on their own, the music is a treat.”
The group’s newest CD is scheduled for release in time for this show. But the live concert energy is special with this five-piece ensemble. You’ll hear acoustic guitars, mandolin, fiddle, upright bass, and Susie’s wonderful vocals, backed by the band’s instruments and voices – and any of them may take a lead vocal or two. Expect an evening of bluegrass, traditional (not modern Nashville) country, old-time, gospel, and as the promo asserts, “any of the musical styles based on those…” Gen’l admission, $18; Caltech students & children, $5.
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Sat, Apr 16; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JOHN FLYNN & JOHN WORT HANNAM play the “Bodie House Music Series at the Thousand Oaks Library,” at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks 91362; 818-621-8309; info, www.BodieHouse.com. Canadian singer-songwriter JOHN WORT HANNAM took L.A. by storm when he toured a number of local venue in October, 2009. At home in the Great White North, he’s won just about every acoustic music award there is.
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Wed, Apr 20:
7 pm “CLASSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE CONCERT SERIES” concludes its 6th season tonight with special guests RAYNOR CARROLL & AFRICAN AMERICAN DRUMMING and other performing musicians (tba) in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Info on this program and the series, 626-821-5569.
This is a free series, no reservations, but seating is limited to the first 150 people in line to enter. Doors at 6:30 pm.
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Sat, Apr 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm CHRISTOPH BULL performs a stirring BACH ORGAN RECITAL for UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
Bull is a UCLA Live favorite. This is a delightful afternoon of classical music on Royce Hall’s glorious Skinner organ from acclaimed organist Christoph Bull, known for his energizing and often eclectic musical interpretation of organ repertoire. Bull will perform a thrilling and ethereal program of Bach on the UCLA campus treasure, which is known as one of the country’s great musical devices of its kind. Tix, $23/28/33 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BLAME SALLY at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $16.
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Sat, Apr 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BILLY COLLINS and KAY RYAN, two former U.S. Poet Laureates in a spoken word event, at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
The two Poet Laureates share the stage for an evening of readings from their acclaimed work and Q&A with the audience.
BILLY COLLINS, winner of the 2004 inaugural Mark Twain Prize for Humor in Poetry, served as America’s Poet Laureate from 2001-2003. Beloved for his ironic style, Collins is one of the top-selling modern poets and author of nine collections including “Questions about Angels”,” The Art of Drowning,” and “The Trouble With Poetry and Other Poems.”
KAY RYAN, California native and UCLA alumna, was U.S. Poet Laureate from 2008-2010 and is revered for her complex and rueful style. Her work includes “The Jam Jar Lifeboat & Other Novelties Exposed,” a delightful collection inspired by stories from “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!,” as well as “Flamingo Watching”, a finalist for both the Lamont Poetry Selection and the Lenore Marshall Prize. In 2004, Ryan was awarded The Ruth Lilly Prize—the Poetry Foundation’s highest honor.
In conjunction with this event and April’s National Poetry Month, UCLA Live will launch a poetry-writing contest for the Los Angeles community, with winning submissions to be read onstage in Royce Hall. More details will be available closer to the event. Tix, $28-53.
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Wed-Sun, Apr 27-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with most events Saturday & Sunday at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studios in Newhall (Santa Clarita). It’s a favorite every each year that books the best artists in contemporary western, traditional cowboy, and western swing music, plus top cowboy poets.
TONIGHT:
“Cowboy Couture” launches the 2011 Cowboy Festival with western designer fashions, vintage cowboy apparel, models and a wine reception, at the Repertory East Playhouse, 24266 Main St, Old Town Newhall (Santa Clarita), at 7 pm. You can shop for the latest Western wear before and after the show for a great opportunity to outfit yourself for the Cowboy Festival. Tix, www.repeastplayhouse.org or 661-288-0000; $25 and $35.
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Thu, Apr 28; Wed-Sun, Apr 27-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with most events Saturday & Sunday at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studios in Newhall (Santa Clarita). It’s a favorite every each year that books the best artists in contemporary western, traditional cowboy, and western swing music, plus top cowboy poets.
TWO EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT:
“SANTA CLARITA VALLEY FILM TOUR” (new, this year), begins at Heritage Junction at William S. Hart Park, Newhall. Runs Noon-3 pm; Tickets: $35. Join Local historian E. J. STEPHENS for a bus tour of the Santa Clarita Valley to visit locations where dozens of famous movies were filmed. Tour is complete with photos of the productions and revealing stories of the area's movie history.
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“CHUCKWAGON DINNER SHOW” at Heritage Junction at William S. Hart Park at 6 pm; tickets, $40 includes dinner, and there’s a no-host saloon. It’s “A feast for the Western senses, featuring chuckwagon cooking demonstrations and dinner prepared by award-winning Manflo Ranch, Montie Montana's show wagon and in honor of the 50th anniversary of the National Stuntman's Association, a presentation by world famous stuntmen DIAMOND FARNSWORTH and LOREN JANES. Proceeds benefit the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society.
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Fri, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Apr 29; Wed-Sun, Apr 27-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with most events Saturday & Sunday at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studios in Newhall (Santa Clarita). It’s a favorite every each year that books the best artists in contemporary western, traditional cowboy, and western swing music, plus top cowboy poets.
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FIVE EVENTS are today and tonight:
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“CALIFORNIO FIESTA DE RANCHO CAMULOS” with DON EDWARDS at 11 am. Multiple award-winner and Grammy nominee Don Edwards does an intimate concert at Don Ygnacio del Valle's estancia. It highlights an afternoon at Rancho Camulos (Est. 1853), the site that inspired the novel "Ramona," where the history, myth, and romance of old California still linger. Enjoy a Southwest “Vaquero buffet,” music, and costumed docent-led tours as you step back in time in Heritage Valley. All proceeds benefit the nonprofit museum's historical preservation. More at www.ranchocamulos.org. Tickets, $50 (includes lunch, tours and concert).
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“WALK OF WESTERN STARS UNVEILING” at 2 pm – Free. For the first time, a director will be honored on the Walk of Western Stars when legendary western film director JOHN FORD is inducted into the Walk on the streets of Old Town Newhall. Ford was director of numerous Western classics including “The Searchers,” “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valence,” “Stagecoach,” and “Rio Grande.” Mr. Ford's 1939 version of “Stagecoach” will be shown Friday evening at the Melody Ranch Movie Night.
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“WYATT EARP – HERO OR VILLAIN?” (new event, this year) at Repertory East Playhouse, 24266 Main St, Old Town Newhall, at 3 pm. Join Editor and Publisher of “True West” Magazine, BOB BOZE BELL, as he walks you through history with fascinating stories and anecdotes about Wyatt Earp. Some thought of him as a hero, others thought he was a jerk. Bob knows the story from all sides and will surprise you with his insights. Tickets, $15.
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“MELODY RANCH MOVIE NIGHT” at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio, 7 pm. It’s “an intimate western-style dinner under the stars on Melody Ranch's Main Street,” and an what can only be deemed an ultimate atmospheric screening of the classic film “Stagecoach” on Melody Ranch street, in the middle of the old west movie set town. The film’s legendary director JOHN FORD will be inducted into the “Walk of Western Stars” earlier in the day. Seating for the screening is limited and only ticket holders will be admitted to Melody Ranch for this event. Tickets, $60.
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“AN EVENING OF MUSIC WITH THE SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN” at the William S. Hart Mansion at 8 pm. The Sons are back to perform their international award-winning western harmonies on classics and originals in a unique, up close and personal concert. You can tour silent film cowboy star BILL HART's historic residence and then relax in his living room, among his Remington and Russell paintings and sculptures as The Sons take you on a special, memory filled, musical journey. Hear the west, the way it should be sung. Limited to 70 seats. Tickets, $80.
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Sat & Sun, Apr 30-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, with LORETTA LYNN, RICKY SCAGGS, JERRY DOUGLAS TRIO, GATLIN BROTHERS, LEON RUSSELL, RODNEY CROWELL, RHONDA VINCENT, THE PUNCH BROTHERS, ROSIE FLORES, WANDA JACKSON, COAL PORTERS, THE GOURDS, JACK INGRAM, JUNIOR BROWN, LUKAS NELSON & THE PROMISE OF THE REAL, THE CLOVERLYS, TRUTH & SALVAGE CO., and PHOSPHORESCENT, in the lineups on two stages, and a crop of big Nashville pop-country people on the third, “Mane Stage,” including KENNY CHESNEY, RASCAL FLATTS, CARRIE UNDERWOOD, DARIUS RUCKER, JOSH TURNER, EASTON CORBIN, & CHRIS YOUNG. Schedules and info, http://stagecoachfestival.com.
It’s billed as “California’s Country Music Festival,” and the producers are maintaining their shockingly wonderful commitment to diversity and inclusion of roots-Americana artists and music on the “other” two stages. Seriously, you can go, never get near the Nashville pop-country “Mane Stage,” and you’ll see and hear many of the best acts who are playing the big folk-Americana festival circuit this summer.
Only thing is, the “Mane Stage” here is notorious for blasting apocalyptic sound into the other stages, half a mile away. So you may need to crowd the sound reinforcement at “your” stage to avoid things that, in past years, have included Brooks & Dunn doing a hiphop version of “Neon Moon,” and Kid Rock doing whatever he was doing at a supposedly “country” festival. Still, for so much music that you will like, it’s a fine bargain, and a lot closer than Telluride.
$149 full weekend pass is now available; + $6 Venue charge + $2 Charity (+ applicable charges) each. A weekend pass is 1 ticket for the entire weekend; your ticket will be exchanged for 1 wristband at the venue. It is GA (General Admission), no reserved seats. The $149 price is being advertised by the festival for limited time while supplies last.
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Sat, Apr 30; Wed-Sun, Apr 27-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with most events Saturday & Sunday at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studios in Newhall (Santa Clarita). It’s a favorite every each year that books the best artists in contemporary western, traditional cowboy, and western swing music, plus top cowboy poets.
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Saturday & Sunday events at Melody Ranch ™ Motion Picture Studio:
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“Behind the Scenes Tour of Melody Ranch” at 8:30 am. Take a walking tour of Melody Ranch with local historian E. J. STEPHENS. Hear tales of building the Ranch, learn about the Ranch's film history, and visit Melody Ranch Motion Picture Museum. This is a walking tour that covers a wide area of Melody Ranch. Tickets, $40.
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Festival events, included with festival general admission:
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“California Music Stage” at Melody Ranch, 10 am- 5:30 pm, is included in General Admission. Ongoing shows feature Western Music, Cowboy Poetry and Storytelling by the best performers in the business.
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“Heritage Stage” at Melody Ranch, 10 am- 5:30 pm, is included in General Admission. Take in the history and culture of the American West with Native American, Hispanic, and Old West music and dance.
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“Melody Ranch Stage” ” at Melody Ranch, 10 am-6 pm, is included in General Admission. This is the festival’s main stage, with shows featuring nationally-known Western musicians and poets. Seating is first-come, first-serve, except for reserved up-front seating for "Friends of the Festival" patrons.
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Street shows, living history, art, gear, & dry goods & the Gold Rush Food Court, 10 am-6 pm, both days. Enjoy performances up and down Main Street and on several music stages, and visit The Buffalo Soldiers at their encampment or the festival blacksmiths.
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Children's Activities are at no extra cost, all day. Visit the Pioneer Living exhibit and pan for gold, spin wool, and re-live the old days like children of the early West. Stop by Biskit Saddle Arts and learn about leatherworking or let your children hear authors as they read from their award winning children's books during “Buckaroo Story Time.” Step into the Buckaroo Book Shop and browse book titles for the whole family. Whether your passion is Western film, the real West, Western fiction or shopping for great Western toys like trick ropes, plush ponies or puzzles and games, they’ll have it.
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Melody Ranch ™ Motion Picture Museum is open 10 am- 3 pm during the festival (and not accessible to the public at any other time during the year). Admission this year is free. This one-of-a-kind museum on the grounds of Melody Ranch is a walk through the history of filmmaking there.
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More Saturday Events, April 30:
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“COWBOY CABARET” (new event this year) at Repertory East Playhouse, 24266 Main St, Old Town Newhall, at 8 pm. Spend an evening of unbridled musical fun with HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN, SOURDOUGH SLIM, and THE LUCKY STARS as they jam the night away. This small, intimate theater will put you up close and personal with some of the best western swing musicians in the country. There’s a no-host bar available. Tickets, $30.
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WYLIE GUSTAFSON – Rare Solo performance at the William S. Hart Mansion at 8 pm. Wylie of WYLIE & THE WILD WEST as you have never experienced him before (unless you caught his solo acoustic performance a few years back on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) in a rare, intimate, acoustic concert in cowboy star Bill Hart's living room. From Lincoln Center to the Grand Ole Opry to Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Wylie has charmed them all with his special brand of energy and good time Cowboy music. Expect the unexpected. Limited to 70 seats. Tickets, $80 for this additional event only.
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Sat, Apr 30; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JAMES McMURTRY at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.
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Sat, Apr 30; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BORDER RADIO at the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. A lineup of Souther Cal all-star musicians bring a refreshing spin on traditional bluegrass. Border Radio’s original “gypsygrass” style is a fusion of bluegrass, classic country and old country sounds. – like that once heard in the days of 100,000 Watt radio from just over the Mexican radio. Deeply rooted in tradition, this is what “country” music is supposed to sound like. "Call it rural Tin Pan Alley, prairie jazz, hand-me-down country, city folk -- Border Radio is an original stew of American music that blasts across all these borders” - Kerrville New Folk Competition.
The Grand Annex is an intimate 100-seat music listening room in the heart of hisoric downtown San Pedro, offering a wide range of artists and genres, from world sounds to American roots music. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to bringing high quality arts entertainment to the Harbor Area and to the continued use of the historic Warner Grand Theatre, two doors away. Proceeds from Annex shows support ongoing upgrades at the Warner Grand. Sponsors for the 2011 series include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, CRA/LA, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and The Norris Foundation.
Doors at 7:30, show at 8 pm. “Wine Tasting & Ticket” package available with pre-show tasting at Off the Vine Wines a few doors away. Reservations, 310-833-4813. Concert tix, $20 advance, $25 door.
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MAY: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sun, May 1; Sat & Sun, Apr 30-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” at the Empire Polo Field in Indio; http://stagecoachfestival.com. See complete write-up in April 30 listing.
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Sun, May 1; Wed-Sun, Apr 27-May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with most events Saturday & Sunday at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studios in Newhall (Santa Clarita). It’s a favorite every each year that books the best artists in contemporary western, traditional cowboy, and western swing music, plus top cowboy poets.
+
Saturday & Sunday events at Melody Ranch ™ Motion Picture Studio:
+
“Behind the Scenes Tour of Melody Ranch” at 8:30 am. Take a walking tour of Melody Ranch with local historian E. J. STEPHENS. Hear tales of building the Ranch, learn about the Ranch's film history, and visit Melody Ranch Motion Picture Museum. This is a walking tour that covers a wide area of Melody Ranch. Tickets, $40.
+
Festival events, included with festival general admission:
+
“California Music Stage” at Melody Ranch, 10 am- 5:30 pm, is included in General Admission. Ongoing shows feature Western Music, Cowboy Poetry and Storytelling by the best performers in the business.
+
“Heritage Stage” at Melody Ranch, 10 am- 5:30 pm, is included in General Admission. Take in the history and culture of the American West with Native American, Hispanic, and Old West music and dance.
+
“Melody Ranch Stage” ” at Melody Ranch, 10 am-6 pm, is included in General Admission. This is the festival’s main stage, with shows featuring nationally-known Western musicians and poets. Seating is first-come, first-serve, except for reserved up-front seating for "Friends of the Festival" patrons.
+
Street shows, living history, art, gear, & dry goods & the Gold Rush Food Court, 10 am-6 pm, both days. Enjoy performances up and down Main Street and on several music stages, and visit The Buffalo Soldiers at their encampment or the festival blacksmiths.
+
Children's Activities are at no extra cost, all day. Visit the Pioneer Living exhibit and pan for gold, spin wool, and re-live the old days like children of the early West. Stop by Biskit Saddle Arts and learn about leatherworking or let your children hear authors as they read from their award winning children's books during “Buckaroo Story Time.” Step into the Buckaroo Book Shop and browse book titles for the whole family. Whether your passion is Western film, the real West, Western fiction or shopping for great Western toys like trick ropes, plush ponies or puzzles and games, they’ll have it.
+
Melody Ranch ™ Motion Picture Museum is open 10 am- 3 pm during the festival (and not accessible to the public at any other time during the year). Admission this year is free. This one-of-a-kind museum on the grounds of Melody Ranch is a walk through the history of filmmaking there.
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Additional Sunday Event, May 1:
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Off-site event, “Cowboy Church” at the Masters College, 8 am. Admission is free. Info, 661-268-8863.
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Sun, May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm LEON REDBONE at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. He has plenty of imitators these days, but he’s the guy who kept his brand of gentle New Orleans swing blues in the public consciousness and on the radio when he had no peers there. He’s still the best. Tix, $26.50.
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Sat, May 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLAUDIA RUSSELL & THE FOLK UNLIMITED ORCHESTRA play Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.claudiarussell.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $15.
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Sat, May 7; world music (and now for something completely different…):
8 pm EAST L.A. TAIKO with LYSA FLORES combines innovative reinvention of traditional Japanese percussion with the venue’s ongoing “Ritmos Latinos” series, at the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. EAST L.A. TAIKO, aka ELAT, led by master drummer MACEO HERNANDEZ, marries Afro-Cuban and Caribbean rhythms with driving Taiko beats – a fiery eclectic blend of world rhythm that travels the globe and takes you right into the heart of Los Angeles. ELAT performs at the Annex with LYSA FLORES, named in Newsweek magazine as one of “20 young Latinos to watch in the new millennium.” A first generation Mexican-American, Flores has been a pioneer in the “EastLos” alternative music scene since her teens, making music that now defines an urban L.A. style.
The Grand Annex is an intimate 100-seat music listening room in the heart of historic downtown San Pedro, offering a wide range of artists and genres, from world sounds to American roots music. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to bringing high quality arts entertainment to the Harbor Area and to the continued use of the historic Warner Grand Theatre, two doors away. Proceeds from Annex shows support ongoing upgrades at the Warner Grand. Sponsors for the 2011 series include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, CRA/LA, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and The Norris Foundation.
Doors at 7:30, show at 8 pm. “Wine Tasting & Ticket” package available with pre-show tasting at Off the Vine Wines a few doors away. Reservations, 310-833-4813. Concert tix, $20 advance, $25 door.
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Thu, May 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND and THE DEL McCOURY BAND in a stellar double-bill at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
Two pillars of American music from two distinct lineages come together for a wonderfully unlikely evening “to celebrate the glory of tradition and the power of newfound collaboration.” Starting as a sideman the legendary “father of bluegrass” BILL MONROE nearly 50 years ago, DEL McCOURY has broadened the audience for the genre. During that same period, the legendary PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND has defined the tradition of New Orleans jazz. Now, they have converged to perform – and record(!) – an unforgettable mix of bluegrass and traditional jazz. Each band will play individual sets, followed by a soul-stirring joint finale. Tix, $38-63 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Fri, May 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MOLLY’S REVENGE brings splendid Irish music to the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. Known for its unique and infectious on-stage enthusiasm, dynamic acoustic Celtic band Molly's Revenge is a classic combination of bagpipes, whistle, fiddle, and song. Their arrangements of traditional jigs and reels bring these dance tunes up to date with a driving, hard-edged accent that always leaves audiences shouting for more. They’re festival favorites.
The Grand Annex is an intimate 100-seat music listening room in the heart of historic downtown San Pedro, offering a wide range of artists and genres, from world sounds to American roots music. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to bringing high quality arts entertainment to the Harbor Area and to the continued use of the historic Warner Grand Theatre, two doors away. Proceeds from Annex shows support ongoing upgrades at the Warner Grand. Sponsors for the 2011 series include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, CRA/LA, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and The Norris Foundation.
Doors at 7:30, show at 8 pm. “Wine Tasting & Ticket” package available with pre-show tasting at Off the Vine Wines a few doors away. Reservations, 310-833-4813. Concert tix, $20 advance, $25 door.
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Sun, May 15; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 am-6 pm: 51st annual “TOPANGA BANJO FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL” at Paramount Ranch near Agoura Hills, in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation area.
“Southern California’s favorite Bluegrass, Old-Time & Folk Music Event” and the best one-day festival anywhere returns with contests for all kinds of acoustic instrument players – drawing contestants from several western states – plus professional musicians performing scheduled sets on three stages, and a whole lotta jamming goin’ on beneath the oak trees and on the porches of the old west movie set town.
Since 1961, this event has been an always-anticipated old-time, bluegrass, folk song, folk dancing and crafts festival.
Entertainment on three stages, plus The Dance Barn and Children's area, all set within the western movie sets and mountain locations. Bring your instruments and "sit in" with jamming musicians, or pre-register for any of the prestigious contests.
Some highlights, including acts already booked (with latest changes included):
The Main Stage: Over 100 instrumental and singing contestants, plus performances by
DUSTBOWL CAVALIERS, HABERDASHERY ENSEMBLE, FRANK FAIRFIELD, SCOTT GATES & THE SALTY SUITES.
Dance Barn: Band Playoffs, Clogging, Square Dancing, Contra Dancing - with all live music by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT and OLD SLEDGE.
Pavilion Stage: Beginner Instrument Playoffs, plus scheduled shows by OLD SLEDGE – roots & history of string band music; MIKE MAHANEY & FRIENDS – cowboy music & poetry show; FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER – songs of the open road.
Railroad Stage: Traditional Singing Playoffs, Intermediate Fiddle Playoffs, plus scheduled shows by EVIE LADEN – old-time banjo and songs; EVAN MARSHALL – “Mr. Solo Mandolin;” SUSIE GLAZE & HILONESOME – mountain music; ROSS ALTMAN – bringing a theme tba.
Eucalyptus Grove: “Family Fun” with “new, expanded programs in the grove,” including organized jams and sing-alongs, beginning at 11 am, with “Folk Songs with FUR & STEVE (aka FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER),” “Kids Crafts with ALAINA SMITH,” DAN, THE FIDDLE MAN, SOUTHWEST FIDDLERS, SCOTTISH FIDDLERS, OLD-TIME FIDDLE WORKSHOP, OLD-TIME BANJO WORKSHOP, CELTIC SLOW SESSION, HAWAIIAN SONGS – UKES & GUITARS. This stage includes the long-running Kids Program, ever-popular Arts & Crafts for young children, and youth-oriented traditional music.
ADVANCE TICKETS available online at a discount, and more info, at www.topangabanjofiddle.org.
Tix at the gate cost more on the day of the event. Online ticket prices are lower this year than last, with tix this year at $10 for ages 18-64 ($15 at gate), and $8 for ages 10-17 or over age 65 ($10 at gate). No charge for children under age 10. Free parking and free shuttle bus to gate.
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Sat, May 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings THE BROTHERS CAZIMERO at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
ROBERT & ROLAND, being brothers, naturally perform as THE BROTHERS CAZIMERO. The venue tells us, “No group has made more of a contribution to Hawaiian music then they have, and the season wouldn’t be complete without them. Every season they put on a different show and they never cease to amaze.”
This closes the annual series of seven shows for the 2010-2011 season; contact them regarding discounts for buying tix to next season’s entire series. Tix, for today, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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May 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“L.A. ACOUSTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL” returns after a year of hiatus, with ELLIS PAUL, ELIZA GILKYSON, JIMMY LaFAVE, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE & JOHNNY IRION. This year, it’s a one-day event at the Broad Stage Theatre at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica; 310-434-3200; www.thebroadstage.com; www.events.smc.edu. Even before we knew the lineup, we were comfortable recommending it as a “Show-of-the-Week” pick, given the talent that Renee Bodie booked the first year, and the fact that this is a MUCH more manageable venue where costs can be contained and ticket prices should be kept to reasonable limits. The festival is a benefit for the nonprofit California Acoustic Music Project.
More info on the L.A. Acoustic Music Festival at www.laacousticmusicfestival.com
Info on the California Acoustic Music Project is at www.californiaacousticmusicproject.org
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Tue, May 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
JOHNNY REID at the Wilshire Ebell Theater, 743 S Lucerne (at Wilshire), L.A. 90005; 323-931-1277; www.ebellla.com/operating/index.html. His PBS concert, “Johnny Reid Live: Heart & Soul,” taped at his concert in Nova Scotia and aired in L.A. in late February, was amazingly, wonderfully good. Of course, the only time you see music performances on PBS is during pledge drive. But this concert was so good it was worth muting the pledge begging and staying with it. His song, “Today I’m Gonna Try and Change the World” was accompanied by bagpipes, fiddles, and marvelous harmonies from a choir. Whether or not you make this concert, he’s an artist to watch.
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Tue, May 31; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BRUCE COCKBURN and his band, plus JENNY SCHEINMAN opening, in a McCabe’s / Goldenvoice co-presentation at The El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-4790; www.theelrey.com. Tix are $35, but buy direct from McCabe’s and save a bundle: TicketMaster is levying a $12.90 PER TICKET fee (compared to McCabe’s $4 PER ORDER surcharge) meaning that you'll save over $20 on a pair from McCabe’s online (not in the shop). This is a seated, general admission show, and McCabe’s has a limited number of tickets available through this arrangement, so don't delay.
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JUNE: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Fri, Jun 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Fri & Sat, Jun 3 & 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“STAR WARS IN CONCERT” performed with a full orchestra at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; www.hollywoodbowl.com; 323-850-2000 or 213-480-3232.
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Sat, Jun 4:
8 pm BILL KIRCHEN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Jun 5-10, in New Orleans:
Annual “NEW ORLEANS TRAD JAZZ CAMP” for all enthusiasts of traditional and New Orleans-style jazz.
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Sun, Jun 5:
7 pm NEIL INNES at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50.
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Sat, Jun 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm DAN NAVARRO at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $17.50.
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Jun 12-16:
22nd annual “NORTH AMERICAN JAMES JOYCE CONFERENCE” at the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, and at Caltech in Pasadena. This event takes place in a different locale each year, and this year, Southern Cal fans of James Joyce have it right here at home. Info, www.joyceconference2011.com.
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Fri, Jun 17; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BLACK CROWN STRING BAND plus CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7 at the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. The latest super-group to emerge from the SF Bay-Area bluegrass and old-timey scene, BLACK CROWN STRING BAND combines the best elements of old-time string band music and Bill Monroe's "high lonesome" sound to create a fusion that is at once old-school and brand new. When they played last year in Sierra Madre with Tom & Patrick Sauber, they brought delight to a full house. Tonight is musically hosted by CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7, San Pedro’s own nationally-recognized bluegrass-Americana band. Unless you’re in Telluride for the Bluegrass Festival, be here tonight.
The Grand Annex is an intimate 100-seat music listening room in the heart of historic downtown San Pedro, offering a wide range of artists and genres, from world sounds to American roots music. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to bringing high quality arts entertainment to the Harbor Area and to the continued use of the historic Warner Grand Theatre, two doors away. Proceeds from Annex shows support ongoing upgrades at the Warner Grand. Sponsors for the 2011 series include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, CRA/LA, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and The Norris Foundation.
Doors at 7:30, show at 8 pm. “Wine Tasting & Ticket” package available with pre-show tasting at Off the Vine Wines a few doors away. Reservations, 310-833-4813. Concert tix, $20 advance, $25 door.
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Sat, Jun 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CAROLINE AIKEN plays Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.carolineaiken.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $15.
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JULY: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Jul 2 & 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“LOS ANGELES GUITAR FESTIVAL” brings an acoustic lineup July 2 and an electric lineup July 3, to the 1,457-seat Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Acoustic on July 2 are TOMMY EMMANUEL, LAURENCE JUBER, CYRIL PAHINUI, & GONZALO BERGARA. Electric on July 3 are JIMMIE VAUGHN, DICK DALE, BRICE FORMAN, & BEN LACY. Info & tix, www.LAGuitarFestival.com.
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Sat, Jul 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm LAURENCE JUBER plays Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.laurencejuber.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $20.
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AUGUST: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sat, Aug 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “TRIPPIN' THE ’60S” with BARRY McGUIRE and JOHN YORK at Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.trippinthesixties.com & www.barrymcguire.com & www.johnyorkmusic.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $20.
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SEPTEMBER: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sat & Sun, Sep 17 & 18, festival:
2011 “FALL EQUINOX FOLK MUSIC DANCE & STORYTELLING FESTIVAL,” presented by the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) for this second year, is again scheduled at the Rancho Cordillera del Norte in Northridge.
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Sat, Sep 17; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BLAME SALLY plays Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.blamesally.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $20.
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OCTOBER: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sat, Oct 29:
ORLA FALLON brings her delightful Irish music to the Irvine Barclay Theatre, on the campus at UC Irvine, 4242 Campus Dr, Irvine; 949-854-4646..
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Sat, Oct 29:
8 pm JENI & BILLY and NATHAN McEUEN play Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.jeniandbilly.com & www.nathanmceuen.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $15.
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NOVEMBER: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sat, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JAIME MICHAELS and SEVERIN BROWNE play Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.jaimemichaels.com & www.severinbrowne.com. All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $15.
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DECEMBER: SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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Sat, Dec 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE KOLES and JOHN BATDORF play Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park (Agoura Hills area); info, www.houseconcerts.us. Reservations get directions at rsvp@houseconcerts.us or 818-707-2179. More at www.arlenekolemusic.com & www.johnbatdorfmusic.com) All house concert “prices” are “suggested donation” amounts. $15.
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MORE STUFF >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc…
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THE GUIDE now has FOUR SECTIONS, each with individual addresses for access:
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1) “SPOTLIGHT EVENTS” is THIS Section, and this is the latest edition.
2) “THE SCENE” contains everything that ISN’T “spotlighted” each day, in separate
editions FOR EACH DAY.
3) “NEWS FEATURES” is a fresh edition each week, with news and reviews from the
acoustic music universe, with features on folk-Americana, the “acoustic renaissance,”
latest releases, reviews of CDs and live shows, industry news, news for artists, and more.
4) “VENUE DIRECTORY” - The Guide’s extensive locator – has location and contact
info for OVER 500 acoustic-music-friendly venues in Southern California, from
Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, plus a few for San Diego, the deserts,
and the Central Coast.
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HELP KEEP THE GUIDE GOING! Send us $25, and you’ll get an ad in the Guide – for your event or CD release or gig – and you’ll become a Guide Annual Subscriber (you’ll be eligible for ticket giveaways and more!) Write us at tied to the tracks (at) Hotmail dot com
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UPDATED EDITIONS bring more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it).
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We do all we can to bring you news and notices of all the many, many, acoustic music events in and around Los Angeles.
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Plus, we tell you about RADIO SHOWS with acoustic music, focusing on those with live acoustic performances. (They’re available mostly on the web, of course, since we are in acoustic-music-radio-deprived Los Angeles.)
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And, we bring news and reviews of the many acoustic music FESTIVALS near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere! With your help, we’ll keep doing it!
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tied to the tracks (at) Hotmail dot com (remove all the spaces when you type it.)
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THE LATEST EDITION of the Guide, the NEWS FEATURES, THE SCENE, and SPOTLIGHTED EVENTS, covering the world of current acoustic music happenings, including “heads up” notices to buy advance tix for shows likely to sell-out – and lots more – is available 24/7 (& frequently updated!) at
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www.acousticmusic.net or at
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com or through links from the News-only edition at
www.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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- or by following any of many links on the web to get to one of those sites.
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Entire contents copyright © 2011, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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