Acoustic Americana Music Guide, SPOTLIGHT EVENTS, April 26, 2012 edition

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NOW, let’s get started with this edition of live performance events!
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. SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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. . . from THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 26, 2012 edition
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Thursday, April 26
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Thu & Fri, Apr 26 & 27; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND play two nights at the L.A. Sports Arena. Get tix right away, it’ll sell-out. The Boss is a musical powerhouse, a phenomenon who toured traditional roots-Americana globally, in addition to his classic catalogue of original rock ballads with some of that genre’s best-ever lyrics. We wouldn’t be surprised if a Stephen Foster song punctuates “Thunder Road” and “Born to Run.” Your cultural literacy requires you see The Boss at least once – and then discover that once is not enough.
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Thu, Apr 26, in San Diego; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm MARSHALL CRENSHAW plays the “AMSD CONCERT” Series. 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego 92116; 619-303-8176.
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Thu, Apr 26; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
9 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., plus RT & THE 44’s, play an all-acoustic evening at HM 157, 3110 N Broadway, Lincoln Heights 90031. Venue is a classic old Victorian mansion.
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Friday, April 27
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Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.
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Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Arizona:
7th Annual “BENSON BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK” with acts from Branson, Missouri and several Western states, including GOLD WING EXPRESS, LONESOME OTIS, TRIPLE L BAND, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, THE BURNETT FAMILY BAND, THE HEY BOYZ, BOST FAMILY TRADITIONS, JAM PAK ‘N’ BLUES NEIGHBORHOOD BAND, FIDDLEMANIA, and workshops, jams and more, on the grass at Lions Park in historic Benson, AZ. Info and tix, www.bluegrassben.com or call the Benson Chamber of Commerce at 520-586-2842.
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Fri, Apr 26; Thu & Fri, Apr 26 & 27; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND play two nights at the L.A. Sports Arena. Get tix right away, it’ll sell-out. The Boss is a musical powerhouse, a phenomenon who toured traditional roots-Americana globally, in addition to his classic catalogue of original rock ballads with some of that genre’s best-ever lyrics. We wouldn’t be surprised if a Stephen Foster song punctuates “Thunder Road” and “Born to Run.” Your cultural literacy requires you see The Boss at least once – and then discover that once is not enough.
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Fri, Apr 27; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER AND THE OLD #7 bring their raucous bluegrass-Americana to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm). Cliff especially likes this venue, as does every musician who’s ever played it. And Cliff oughta know, having played on national TV with the best lighting and sound reinforcement they could provide.
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Fri, Apr 27:
8 pm HOWE GELB at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $17.50.
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Fri, Apr 27, in Temecula; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BAYOU BROTHERS play the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).
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Fri, Apr 27:
GREENSKY BLUEGRASS plays Sainte Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach; 310-372-0035.
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Saturday, April 28
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Sat, Apr 28; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.
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Sat, Apr 28, FESTIVAL, in San Diego Co.; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Noon-8 pm annual “TRAIN SONGS FESTIVAL” presented by “SAN DIEGO FOLK HERITAGE” at Templars Hall in Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway 92064; 858-566-4040. We always say we’ll go, we always get good reports from those who do, and we’re always at one or more other festivals the weekend of this one. One treat here: there’s a real steam railroad operating in this big park, and it chuffs and puffs for the festival. Free.
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Sat, Apr 28; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Arizona:
7th Annual “BENSON BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK” with acts from Branson, Missouri and several Western states, including GOLD WING EXPRESS, LONESOME OTIS, TRIPLE L BAND, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, THE BURNETT FAMILY BAND, THE HEY BOYZ, BOST FAMILY TRADITIONS, JAM PAK ‘N’ BLUES NEIGHBORHOOD BAND, FIDDLEMANIA, and workshops, jams and more, on the grass at Lions Park in historic Benson, AZ. Info and tix, www.bluegrassben.com or call the Benson Chamber of Commerce at 520-586-2842.
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Sat, Apr 28; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “FOUR FRIENDS ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES” dinner-and-a-show brings HENHOUSE - SHERRY AUSTIN, SHARON ALLEN, & RICK SHEA to the Four Friends Gallery, 1408 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks 91362; 805-497-4022; info@fourfriendsgallery.com
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HENHOUSE has found that magical combination in music that's often wished for, but rarely found. Whether singing their own material or the songs of Kate Wolf and others, these four great vocalists come together to form an exquisite blend of harmonies. With Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen on guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and Santa Cruz legend, Patti Maxine on steel guitar, their music truly engages listeners with their warm and engaging spirit.
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"With four of the most popular Americana vocalists in the Monterey Bay area, Sherry Austin with Henhouse delights their fans with their engaging stage presence, upbeat songs, and etherial harmonies. Fronted by Sherry Austin on Rhythm guitar and vocals, with Sharon Allen on vocals and guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and vocals, and Patti Maxine on steel and vocals, their music covers the range from sweet love songs to gritty, rockin' songs about cars, trains, and love gone wrong. They sing with authority and passion, their distinctive blend of folk, country and rock, is filled with warmth and conviction. The bandperforms original songs written by Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen, as well as much loved covers by Americana artists, such as Kate Wolf, Townes Van Zandt, and Nanci Griffith. The blend of harmonies between the four women is exquisite."
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RICK SHEA has worked with everyone from roots rock kingpin Dave Alvin to folk chanteuse Katy Moffatt to indie rock legends R.E.M. Rick Shea has been hailed as "one of L.A. 's most talented songwriters" Music Connection and „staunchly independent...represents the best of California music,‰ LA Weekly. Shea's songs embrace everything from norteño and border rock to traditional folk and country music. He brings his smooth and bittersweet voice and "marvelous" guitar playing to this party, guaranteeing its success.
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Sat, Apr 28, in the desert; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SALTY SUITES and EVAN MARSHALL team-up to play the High Desert Center for the Arts, 15615 8th Av, Victorville 92395; 760-243-7493.
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They play the local performing arts center tonight and a concert tomorrow at 5 pm in a Hesperia church. Either show, you’re sure to be treated to some mandolin duets by world-renowned master player Evan Marshall and wunderkind Scott Gates.
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SALTY SUITES, the band with mandolin wunderkind SCOTT GATES, beautiful singer-songwriter-guitarist CHELSEA WILLIAMS, standup bassist CHUCK HAILES, fiddler PAUL CARPENTER, and accordion player ELAINE GREGSTON, is among the rising stars of top young string groups on the circuit today. CHELSEA WILLIAMS, who still gigs as a solo artist as well as a member of the SALTY SUITES, is the girl singing in that Chevy commercial airing on national TV, and it won the top national award at the NAMM Show in January for use of music.
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It’s worth going to YouTube for Scott, Chelsea, and Chuck doing the traditional sounding “Blood, Whiskey and Wine,” followed by Chelsea's marvelous vocal on “Hear the Thunder.” Be sure to listen to both songs. The link is on their web site, http://scottgates.com/home.html.
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Sat, Apr 28, in Temecula:
7:30 pm ROGER CHASE, violinist, and MICHIKO OTAKI, pianist, at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).
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Sat, Apr 28; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER bring their new-fangled old-timey bluegrassy strings, superb songwriting, and marvelous vocal harmonies to the Noble House Concert Series in Van Nuys. Reservations get directions at 818-780-5979. $15, includes dessert & snacks.
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Sat, Apr 28:
8 pm SUSANNA HOFFS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Apr 28, in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BERKLEY HART, the top award-winning duo from San Diego, travels north to play the Trinity Backstage Coffee House, 1500 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-962-2970.
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Sat, Apr 28, in Ventura:
8 pm JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS play Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001.
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This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.
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Sunday, April 29
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Sun, Apr 29; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.
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Sun, Apr 29; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Arizona:
7th Annual “BENSON BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK” with acts from Branson, Missouri and several Western states, including GOLD WING EXPRESS, LONESOME OTIS, TRIPLE L BAND, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, THE BURNETT FAMILY BAND, THE HEY BOYZ, BOST FAMILY TRADITIONS, JAM PAK ‘N’ BLUES NEIGHBORHOOD BAND, FIDDLEMANIA, and workshops, jams and more, on the grass at Lions Park in historic Benson, AZ. Info and tix, www.bluegrassben.com or call the Benson Chamber of Commerce at 520-586-2842.
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Sun, Apr 29:
11 am TED JACOBS plays a Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $8; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Noon-‘til dark “CALIFORNIA HOMEMADE FOOD ACT” with performances all afternoon by FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, at the Eagle Rockdale Community Garden & Art Park, 1003 Rockdale Av, L.A. It’s a “massive renegade bake sale,” and details are at www.meetup.com/Los-Angeles-Bread-Bakers/events/57867292/
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Fur & Steve bring their new-fangled old-timey bluegrassy strings, superb songwriting, and marvelous vocal harmonies to this very Earth Day (Earth Week) friendly event.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
2:30 pm matinee brings the JEAN SUDBURY & RUBEN RAMOS QUARTET at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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“Jean and Ruben expertly weaves these distinct sounds to create music that is entirely their own, and they know it as well. Sudbury and Ramos’ new album is called Connexion Eclectique, a play on the group’s unmistakable personality.” - Paolo Balboa, Socal.com
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These imaginative musicians combine varied experience in life and music, creating a distinct style that blends Latin, French, Argentine, Brazilian and Americana. The music is refreshingly original, yet traditional.
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JEAN SUDBURY is a consummate fiddler / violinist. Her solo and section work includes concerts with small ensembles and big orchestras, recordings for TV and movies, and many compact disc collaborations with independent artists and composers. She has been a featured soloist on violin and mandolin with the Utah Symphony, the Pacific Symphony, the American Ballet Theater Orchestra, and other noted ensembles. Jean has performed at such places as the Universal Amphitheater, the Greek Theater, the Disney Hall, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Warner Brother's Studios, Capitol Records, Sony Studios, the Hollywood Bowl, and on the Tonight Show. Her diversity remains tops in multiple genres. The top album award for a western music group, won by the TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, includes Jean on fiddle.
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Jean is ''...infinitely expressive and technically dazzling.'' - L.A. Times.
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RUBEN RAMOS is an accomplished guitarist and bassist who has played worldwide from his home base in the Los Angeles area, working with THE TEN TENORS from Australia, JIM STUBBLEFIELD of the group INCENDIO (Flamenco), EDDIE MONEY, MIKE GURLEY of the band DADA, PATTY ANDREWS, BURLIEGH DRUMMOND (AMBROSIA and TIN DRUM). Ruben has performed at The Hollywood Bowl, The Wiltern, The San Diego Civic Center, Historic Dayton Ohio’s Victoria Theater, Catalina Jazz Club, and the Alex Theater in Glendale.
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BRYAN BROCK is the quiet percussion master. He has combined his inherent skill and talent with a unique education, having studied in the U.S. (at the renowned music school, North Texas University) and abroad (rigorous international training in Africa and Cuba to learn the intricacies of different indigenous styles). His studio and live work have led him to perform with such diverse artists as DR. DRE, PERLA BATALLA, FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS, and PIECES OF A DREAM. He is a current member of the World Guitar Fusion group INCENDIO and will add his talents to this night of beautiful music.
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CARL ROYCE is an outstanding upright bassist who hails from New York City,where he has performed on stages as diverse as the historic Village Vanguard, the notorious CBGB's, and Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater. He has performed in Mexico, Cuba, Japan, and throughout the U.S. His love of the string bass spans a variety of musical styles, from jazz to Cuban Son to experimental and Americana.
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“This band is a culmination of passion for the styles of music we both love. Our music represents a wide palette of styles including, Latin, French, Italian, Americana, and our own mixtures created in our own original compositions done with passion and romance.” - Jean Sudbury and Ruben Ramos.
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Tix, $15 / $13 students.
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Sun, Apr 29, in the desert; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
5 pm SALTY SUITES and EVAN MARSHALL team-up to play the Temple Baptist Church, 9280 Maple Av, Hesperia 92345; 760-244-4109. They play the local performing arts center in Victorville (at 7:30 pm) the night before this concert in a Hesperia church. Either show, you’re sure to be treated to some mandolin duets by world-renowned master player Evan Marshall and wunderkind Scott Gates.
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SALTY SUITES, the band with mandolin wunderkind SCOTT GATES, beautiful singer-songwriter-guitarist CHELSEA WILLIAMS, standup bassist CHUCK HAILES, fiddler PAUL CARPENTER, and accordion player ELAINE GREGSTON, is among the rising stars of top young string groups on the circuit today. CHELSEA WILLIAMS, who still gigs as a solo artist as well as a member of the SALTY SUITES, is the girl singing in that Chevy commercial airing on national TV, and it won the top national award at the NAMM Show in January for use of music.
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It’s worth going to YouTube for Scott, Chelsea, and Chuck doing the traditional sounding “Blood, Whiskey and Wine,” followed by Chelsea's marvelous vocal on “Hear the Thunder.” Be sure to listen to both songs. The link is on their web site, http://scottgates.com/home.html.
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Sun, Apr 29:
6:30-9:30 pm IAN WHITCOMB, FRED SOKOLOW & DAVID JONES bring charming tunes of the 1920s and more to Cantalini's Italian Restaurant, 193 Culver Bl, Playa del Rey; 310-821-0018.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “BENEFIT FOR FOLKWORKS” with LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECAT TRIO, NEVENKA EASTERN EUROPEAN WOMEN'S CHOIR, K.B. SOLOMON, TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, MAIRE CLERKIN, KEN O’MALLEY, plus emcees JERRY MATHERS of "Leave it to Beaver" and GARY MANDELL of Boulevard Music; at Santa Monica YWCA, 2019 14th St, Santa Monica 90405.
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FolkWorks is presenting a benefit concert in support of itself, an important e-zine. The lineup is representative of the folk community that FolkWorks promotes and supports – world music and folk-Americana music, dance, storytelling, folk life, folk craft, cultures.
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About the performers…
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GRAMMY Nominee LISA HALEY and her trademark blue fiddle were nominated for “Cajun/ Zydeco Album of the Year," and in her live performance, Lisa is "Joyful, exotic... a la the bluesy moans of Janis Joplin..." says the Los Angeles Times. Lisa Haley & the Zydekats are acclaimed as “The most joyful Americana / Cajun / Zydeco act on tour today!” She is fiddler, dancer, vocalist, and songwriter, serving-up heart-moving Louisiana bayou rhythms, traditional stylings and original songs speaking to all ages.
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KEN O’MALLEY & THE NEER DUWELS – KEN, PAT D’ARCY, & BRYAN DOBBS. Ken O’Malley is a musician, singer, writer and producer. The Irish News has called him "the single most enduring, influential and proficient of all Irish musicians in Southern California". Well-known throughout the western United States and Ireland, he's been a member and leader of many musical groups in Los Angeles including Blended Spirits, The Mulligans and The Twilight Lords. He also enjoys a successful career as a solo artist in the bardic tradition of Irish storyteller and musician.
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NEVENKA is the premier Los Angeles-based women's folk chorus that performs songs from Eastern Europe with spellbinding harmonies.
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KB SOLOMON brings “the warm, treacle sounds of Lou Rawls or Barry White stirred into a dark, mouthwatering gateau. Mix in an authentic helping of blues and soul, spiced with a zest of operatic pedigree - and the recipe comes alive.”
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Tickets can be purchased in advance by sending a check for $20 general / $25 for reserved front rows. Advance tix recommended, at 818-785-3839.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm HENHOUSE - SHERRY AUSTIN, SHARON ALLEN, & RICK SHEA - at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm).
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HENHOUSE has found that magical combination in music that's often wished for, but rarely found. Whether singing their own material or the songs of Kate Wolf and others, these four great vocalists come together to form an exquisite blend of harmonies. With Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen on guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and Santa Cruz legend, Patti Maxine on steel guitar, their music truly engages listeners with their warm and engaging spirit.
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"With four of the most popular Americana vocalists in the Monterey Bay area, Sherry Austin with Henhouse delights their fans with their engaging stage presence, upbeat songs, and etherial harmonies. Fronted by Sherry Austin on Rhythm guitar and vocals, with Sharon Allen on vocals and guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and vocals, and Patti Maxine on steel and vocals, their music covers the range from sweet love songs to gritty, rockin' songs about cars, trains, and love gone wrong. They sing with authority and passion, their distinctive blend of folk, country and rock, is filled with warmth and conviction. The bandperforms original songs written by Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen, as well as much loved covers by Americana artists, such as Kate Wolf, Townes Van Zandt, and Nanci Griffith. The blend of harmonies between the four women is exquisite."
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RICK SHEA has worked with everyone from roots rock kingpin Dave Alvin to folk chanteuse Katy Moffatt to indie rock legends R.E.M. Rick Shea has been hailed as "one of L.A. 's most talented songwriters" Music Connection and „staunchly independent...represents the best of California music,‰ LA Weekly. Shea's songs embrace everything from norteño and border rock to traditional folk and country music. He brings his smooth and bittersweet voice and "marvelous" guitar playing to this party, guaranteeing its success. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm PETER HIMMELMAN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Apr 29, in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm The STEEP CANYON RANGERS play the beautiful Granada Theatre, 1214 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-899-2222. Lately, they’re mega-famous as the band that backs banjo master / comedian / actor STEVE MARTIN, but the band is first-rate on their own, as they’ll demonstrate tonight.
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FARTHER AHEAD… some assorted events worth planning to attend…
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Tue-Sun, May 1-6:
“HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL” has opened an office in Universal City and is currently recruiting sponsors and exhibitors. More when we know it.
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Wed, May 2, not music but a great way to observe EARTH DAY:
7 pm “2011-1012 CONTEMPORARY DOCUMENTARIES” is a FREE series, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (OSCARS),
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Tonight, they screen two Academy Award nominated films:
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“GASLAND,” directed by JOSH FOX, documents the evidence of what happens when natural gas exploration, exempted from the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts, is allowed to run rampant in the name of bringing us energy. In region after region across the US, he documents evidence of serious contamination and pollution caused by drilling methods, despite industry assurances to local residents that all will be fine. It runs 107 minutes.
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Preceding it is the short film, “THE WARRIORS OF QIUGANG,” directed by RUBY YANG.
. When a chemical company begins poisoning their air and water, the residents of Quigagng, China, decide to fight for a safe environment for their home. Runs 39 minutes.
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Free, no tix or reservations required. Arrive early to park free in the Academy’s lot, or walk a long way from the pay parking at the Arclight Cinema.
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Thu-Sun, May 3-6, in Ojai:
13th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” Tix now on sale, with short-term offer for 2-for-1 tix; call 805-646-8907 before Apr 15. All details, schedules, etc, at www.ojaistoryfest.org
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Thu, May 3; multi-evening pseudo-FESTIVAL:
8 pm THE WATKINS FAMILY HOUR featuring SEAN & SARA WATKINS (of NICKEL CREEK) play for the multi-night “THIRD ANNUAL L.A. BLUEGRASS SITUATION” at Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, Los Angeles; 310-855-0350. Event runs May 3, 4, 5, 6, with different first-rate acts each night; check each of the Guide’s listings for info.
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Fri, May 4; multi-evening pseudo-FESTIVAL:
8 pm THE WHISKEY SOUR RADIO HOUR featuring ED HELMS & THE LONESOME TRIO plus special guests play for the multi-night “THIRD ANNUAL L.A. BLUEGRASS SITUATION” at Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, Los Angeles; 310-855-0350. Event runs May 3, 4, 5, 6, with different first-rate acts each night; check each of the Guide’s listings for info.
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Fri-Sun, May 4-6, FESTIVAL, in South Carolina:
Annual “ALBINO SKUNKFEST” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and others. At 4063 Jordan Rd, Greer, South Carolina.
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Fri, May 4; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS at the Greek Theatre in L.A. Tix, $30, on sale now. They were one-third of the 2011 “Railroad Revival Tour” with OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW and MUMFORD & SONS. They hold their own among the new-fangled old-timey string bands, though they don’t fit that mold themselves, given their energetic rock elements, mix of electric instruments, and Sharpe’s ’90s-style mosh pit diving / crowd surfing.
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Tonight launches their nationwide tour and tomorrow night, the band headlines the Santa Barbara Bowl for the first time. Tix now available at http://edwardsharpe.tickets.musictoday.com.
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EDWARD SHARPE AND THE MAGNETIC ZEROS formed in Los Angeles in 2007. They released their debut album, ‘Up From Below,” in July 2009 on Community Music. The album has sold over 275,000 copies in the U.S., and charted on iTunes for 69 straight weeks. With its unique and universal appeal, their hit single "Home" soared to over 775,000 downloads. After intensive touring throughout 2009-2011, including hit appearances at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and Coachella. In March 2011, the troupe's lead singer ALEX EBERT released his solo debut album, “Alexander,” on Community Music, written and recorded during breaks from being on tour with the band. The album includes ten brand new songs that Alexander wrote and played entirely himself. In April 2011, the band embarked on the "Railroad Revival Tour" with Mumford & Sons and Old Crow Medicine Show where they traveled exclusively in vintage railcars across the American Southwest for a week, playing concerts at unique outdoor locations along the route. Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros actively support several charitable causes, including Water Wells For Africa, Charity Water, APJ Now, Hope Campaign and Voice Project.
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Fri, May 4:
8 pm CURT SMITH of TEARS FOR FEARS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sat, May 5, FESTIVAL:
Annual “ECLECTIC MUSIC FEST” at multiple venues in South Pasadena; RICK SHEA performs a 6 pm set at the South Pasadena Library, 1100 Oxley St, South Pas. 91030. More when we know it.
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Sat & Sun, May 5 & 6, FESTIVAL, in Ramona, CA; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
“RAMONA BLUEGRASS & OLD WEST FEST” brings BLUEGRASS ETC, LONESOME OTIS, CHRIS CLARK & PLOW, THE SHIRTHOUSE BAND, TOM HIATT, JUDY TAYLOR, & CAPTAIN COOPER, plus Cowboy Poetry, Chicken Bingo, and more, at 421 Aqua Ln, Ramona 92065.
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Bluegrass fests often feature a western act or two, and the same happens in reverse. Festival goers always respond with plenty of approval. So why not mix ’em and say so? This is a fine lineup. Of course, one act, BLUEGRASS ETC, has been freely mixing music of both genres in its live sets for years, and they’ve built a fiercely loyal fan base doing that. This’ll be a fun weekend.
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Runs Saturday, 10 am-10 pm, and Sunday, 10 am-5 pm. Saturday adult tix, $17 door, $13 advance, kids 6-16 $10; Sunday adult tix, $14 door, $10 advance, kids $5. Under age 6 is free. Camping available. Info, RamonaBluegrassFest@gmail.com
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Sat & Sun, May 5-6, FESTIVAL, in North Carolina:
Annual “FRENCH BROAD RIVER FESTIVAL” is a great music fest in the mountains of North Carolina, with THE GOURDS, THE LEGENDARY SINGING STARS, LuKAS NELSON, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., in Hot Springs, North Carolina.
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Sat, May 5; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
6 pm First Annual “LOS LOBOS’ CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL” brings LOS LOBOS, NEKO CASE & ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO, plus X and MARIACHI EL BRONX, at the Greek Theatre in L.A.
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Los Lobos, the beloved Grammy®-winning band from East L.A., have announced their first annual music festival to be held in their hometown of Los Angeles at the iconic Greek Theatre on May 5, 2012. The 1st Annual Los Lobos Cinco de Mayo Festival will feature performances by preeminent LA bands Los Lobos, X and Mariachi El Bronx, with special guests Neko Case and Alejandro Escovedo joining Los Lobos on stage. The festival was born out of a desire to have a branded event for the community-conscious band to celebrate food, culture and music in their hometown. It promises to be an unforgettable night, taking place during the opening week of the Greek Theatre’s new season.
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“We are happy and proud to announce the 1st Annual Los Lobos Cinco de Mayo Festival,” says Steve Berlin of Los Lobos. “After discussing it for what seems like years it's amazing to actually see it come to fruition, and it's made all the more special by having our great friends X, Neko Case, Alejandro Escovedo and Mariachi El Bronx join us. We think it's going to be a joyous and amazing evening of music.”
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Los Lobos is currently on tour in support of “Tin Can Trust,” an album that speaks to the time and place in which it was conceived. Los Lobos is a band that has consistently evolved artistically while never losing sight of their humble roots.
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Tix, $65, $55, $39.50, $29.50, on sale now.
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Sat, May 5, FESTIVAL:
5 pm-10 pm “ECLECTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL & ART WALK” featuring RICK SHEA, SEVERIN BROWNE, BILLY CHILDS, and more, at and in various venues throughout South Pasadena. Use your browser, as organizers post more, nearer the event.
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Sat, May 5; multi-evening pseudo-FESTIVAL:
8 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS play for the multi-night “THIRD ANNUAL L.A. BLUEGRASS SITUATION” at Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, Los Angeles; 310-855-0350. Event runs May 3, 4, 5, 6, with different first-rate acts each night; check each of the Guide’s listings for info.
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Sat, May 5, in San Diego:
7:30 pm PETER SPRAGUE & FRED BENEDETTI play the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas.
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Sat, May 5, in San Diego:
7:30 pm IT'S A BEAUTIFUL DAY plays the AMSD Concert Seriess, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176.
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Sat, May 5:
8 & 10 pm LAMBCHOP plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50. The 8 pm show is sold out; tix available for 10 pm show at press time.
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Sun, May 6:
11 am HEIDI SWEDBERG & The SUKEY JUMP BAND play the Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $10; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, May 6, in Temecula:
2 pm “ALL STAR BAND: THE GREAT AMERICAN SONG BOOK” with TROY CLARKE at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).
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Sun, May 6:
7 pm KRIS DELMHORST plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $15.
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Sun, May 6; multi-evening pseudo-FESTIVAL:
7 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, ED HELMS & THE LONESOME TRIO, and many more, play a benefit for Tree People as part of the multi-night “THIRD ANNUAL L.A. BLUEGRASS SITUATION” at Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, Los Angeles; 310-855-0350. Event runs May 3, 4, 5, 6, with different first-rate acts each night; check each of the Guide’s listings for info.
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Sun, May 6; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for Artists”:
5:30 pm “WORKSHOP: HARMONY SINGING” with the EVIE LADIN BAND, presented by California Traditional Music Society, at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call to register. The band does a concert here tonight at 7 pm (see listing).
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Sun, May 6:
7 pm EVIE LADIN BAND does a concert at CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call for tix. The band does a “Harmony Singing Workshop” here today at 5:30 pm (see listing).
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Wed, May 9:
7:30 pm French string trio SAMARABALOUF performs at the splendid Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, West Los Angeles; 310-286-0553. Very nice venue, exceptionally good bookings, just be careful where you park in the area to avoid tickets (restriction signs are poor to non-existent); use the venue’s garage, around back.
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Thu-Sun, May 10-13; FESTIVAL, on the Central California Coast:
14th Annual ‘PARKFIELD BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” with THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS, THE DARRELL WEBB BAND, LOAFER’S GLORY, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, CALIFORNIA PEARLY BLUE, THE ALKALI FLATS, RED DOG ASH, LITTLE BLACK TRAIN, LeROY McNEES, & THE GOSPEL BLUEGRASS BAND, presented by The Bluegrass Music Society of the Central Coast in Parkfield, CA, “The Earthquake Capital of the World.”
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Advance ticket purchase deadline is April 10. Tix & info, www.parkfieldbluegrass.com or 800-838-3006.
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Fri-Sun, May 11, 12, 13, FESTIVAL, in San Diego:
Annual “GATOR-BY-THE-BAY” FESTIVAL on Mother’s Day weekend in San Diego. Reservations are now available at the Sheraton, next door to the festival site, for the Lanai rooms at $119 + tax per night. Check the web site www.gatorbythebay.com for the schedule of bands. Bands will include CHUBBY CARRIER, STEVE RILEY, COMMANDER CODY (of “Hot Rod Lincoln” fame), & BONSOIR CATIN CAJUN BAND. More later.
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Fri-Sun, May 11, 12, 13, FESTIVAL, in Pahrump, Nevada:
“ACOUSTIC GRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL” is free, bringing three days of acoustic bluegrass and rots music “featuring various bands and performers,” at the Nye County Government Complex, 2100 E Walt Williams Dr, Pahrump. It’s 45 minutes from downtown Las Vegas. Bring your instrument for pickin’ and grinnin’. Info, call Dan at 775-537-2562 or Jack at 702-505-5546.
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Fri, May 11; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. Named among the top acoustic bands in LA (by Folkworks Magazine) and two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band,
this dynamic ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. SLIGO RAGS is taking the local and not-so-local Folk and Celtic music scenes by storm with a unique blend of eclectic musical influences.
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Dan Miller of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine says “These guys have it all-- great vocals, lots of energy, captivating songs, well executed arrangements, and tasteful solos.”
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Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After", was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine, while their sophomore effort, “The Whiskey Never Lies,” (called “the best from the West Coast Celts in many years” by Shay Clark of the Irish-American News), was named one of the top 10 of 2007 by Folkworks.
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Don’t be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz and swing manage to sneak their way into the act as well. Award-winning flatpicking and fingerstyle guitarist David Burns (recently featured in Flatpicking Guitar Magazine), fiddler extraordinaire Michael Kelly, worldrenowned bassist Gordon Rustvold, and percussion whiz-kid Jonathan Baer are guaranteed to fill the room and your lives with electricity. They may give you a good laugh or two along the way as well.
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"Sligo Rags have mastered the ability to take songs from a time gone by and make them fresh and relevant for a modern audience. Their passion for themusic and their willingness to take risks combine for an outstanding liveshow."--Music Connection
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“…A ‘money back, no questions asked if you are not thrilled’ act. Bringfriends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles." - Bob Stane, The Coffee Gallery Backstage
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Tix, $18.
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Sat, May 12:
8 pm “An Evening with LARRY WILDER” at OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087. Tix, $15.
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Sat, May 12:
RUFUS WAINWRIGHT plays The Orpheum, downtown L.A.
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Sat, May 12:
8 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, May 12:
8 pm JENI & BILLY play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Cal Tech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Parking is at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, May 12:
8 pm JORGE CALDERON plays “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series, in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area); reservations get directions, at 818-707-2179.
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Sun, May 13:
5 pm Weekly “GRAND OLD ECHO” brings I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. & STEVE AUSTIN to the Echo in Echo Park.
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Sun, May 13; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for Artists”:
5:30 pm “WORKSHOP: HARMONY SINGING” with JENI & BILLY, presented by California Traditional Music Society, at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call to register. The duo does a concert here tonight at 7 pm (see listing).
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Sun, May 13:
7 pm JENI & BILLY bring their wonderful harmonies to a concert at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call for tix. The band does a “Harmony Singing Workshop” here today at 5:30 pm (see listing).
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Sun, May 13:
7 pm JULIE CHRISTENSEN plus musical guest CINDY LEE BERRYHILL play McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $16.
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Sun, May 13, in San Diego:
7:30 pm RUFUS WAINWRIGHT plays Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Tue, May 15; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for Artists”:
5:30 pm “WORKSHOP: (TBA)” with CLAUDE BOURBON, presented by California Traditional Music Society, at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call to register. Claude does a concert here tonight at 7 pm (see listing).
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Tue, May 15:
7 pm CLAUDE BOURBON plays a concert at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call for tix. Claude does a workshop here today at 5:30 pm (see listing).
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Tue, May 15:
8 pm Monthly “BASC BLUEGRASS NIGHT” brings THE WINDY RIDGE BLUEGRASS BAND to the Bluegrass Assoc. of Southern California’s concert at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425.
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Thu-Sat, May 17-19; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
“7th Ever LOS ANGELES OLD TIME SOCIAL” is an annual three days of Old Time music concerts and workshops, ending with a cakewalk, family dance and square dance, all in and around Downtown L.A. Produced by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT. This is a wonderfully fun event in its own right, and a fine lead-up to the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival, the day after the Social concludes. Details to come.
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Fri-Sun, May 18-20; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
“BMPAC SPRING BLUES FESTIVAL” is Southern California’s newest festival, with plenty of events and a strong lineup, at the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center, 4305 Degnan Bl, Los Angeles 90008; www.barbaramorrisonpac.com ; 310-462-1439. More info coming soon…
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Fri, May 18, in Ventura Co; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm EAGLES songwriter JACK TEMPCHIN plus JENI & BILLY play “THE CAMARILLO CAFÉ CONCERT SERIES,” at the Camarillo Community Center, 1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo (NE corner, at Carmen).
Although not an actual café, the Camarillo Café is a delightful, intimate coffeehouse-style concert series. More info, 805-523-2682, or www.CamarilloCafe.com.
. Info on Jack Tempchin at www.PeacefulEasyFeeling.com and info on Jeni & Billy at www.jeniandbilly.com.
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Sat & Sun, May 19 & 20; FESTIVAL, a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK pick:
15th annual “DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL” with TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE, JOHNNY WINTER, THE PALADINS, JOAN OSBORNE & THE HOLMES BROTHERS, ROD PIAZZA PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS, MARCIA BALL, TAB BENOIT, OTIS TAYLOR, JOE LOUIS WALKER, CASH BOX KINGS, TRICIA BAG, & more, at Doheny State Beach. More later. Meantime, tix are available at 949-360-7800 or www.omegaevents.com
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Sat, May 19; FESTIVAL, a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK pick:
All-day Annual “DYLANFEST” at St. Anthony School in El Segundo. It's an all-day cavalcade of fine musicians, with each act doing Dylan covers, and no repeats. The house band alone is always worth the price of admission. More details when we have them, but mark your calendar now.

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Sat, May 19; Thu-Sat, May 17-19; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
“7th Ever LOS ANGELES OLD TIME SOCIAL” is an annual three days of Old Time music concerts and workshops, lots of rollickin’ old-time good-time music performances by top musicians in the genre, plus contra and squaredances with top callers, a a family dance, music and dance workshops, at various venues all in and around Downtown L.A. for two evenings and a full day and night on Saturday. It ends, appropriately enough, with a cakewalk. The whole shebang is produced by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT. This is a wonderfully fun event in its own right, and it combines with Sunday’s “Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival” (produced by a separate organization, the day after the Social concludes). Together or separately, it makes a delightful and very full weekend of first-rate string band music and traditional folk singing and dance. Details to come.
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Sat & Sun, May 19 & 20, FESTIVAL, in Temecula:
10 am-5 pm Annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA WESTERN DAYS” in downtown Temecula. Saturday’s headliner is OLDER THAN DIRT playing 12:30-3:30 pm. Sunday’s headliner is JUDY TAYLOR & WILD OATS playing 12:30-3 pm. Both days feature a “High Noon Shoot Out,” Chili Cook Off, and Street Painting Festival. Info, including applications to participate in the Chili Cook Off or Street Painting, at www.temeculacalifornia.com

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Sat, May 19; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for Artists”:
2-6 pm “WORKSHOPS: FIDDLE and BANJO” with ALAN JABBOUR & KEN PERLMAN, presented by California Traditional Music Society, at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call to register.
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Fiddle Workshop is 2-4 pm; Banjo Workshop is 4-6 pm.
The string duo does a concert here tonight at 8 pm (see listing).
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Sat, May 19, in Ojai:
6 pm LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECATS play the “OJAI CONCERT SERIES” at Dancing Oak Ranch, 4585 Casitas Pass Rd, way up above Ventura; info and tix, 805-665-8852.
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Sat, May 19, in San Diego:
7 pm PATTY HALL plays the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at Templar's Hall, Old Poway Park, Midland Rd, Poway.
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Sat, May 19:
8 pm ALAN JABBOUR & KEN PERLMAN play a fiddle & banjo concert, presented by California Traditional Music Society, at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756; call for tix.
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The pair does workshops here earlier today: Fiddle Workshop is 2-4 pm; Banjo Workshop is 4-6 pm. (see listing).
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Sat, May 19:
8 pm RICK RUSKIN plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, May 19:
8 pm JAMES INTVELD, RICK SHEA, & RED MEAT (from San Francisco) play at the Taste of Texas, 545 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; www.tasteoftexas.com
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Sun, May 20, FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” and “EVENT-of-the-WEEK for Artists”:
All-day annual “TOPANGA BANJO-FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL” at Paramount Ranch in Agoura.
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The Guide always bills this as “The best one-day festival anywhere,” and we are always glad we do. It is. Multiple stages, exceptionally good festival food, the best multiplicity of jamming circles (on the old west movie town porches and under the oak trees) and a real (and reel) fine time.
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Info, register to compete, and advance tix, at www.topangabanjofiddle.org or 818-382-4819.
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Sun, May 20:
11 am DAVID TOBOCMAN plays the Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $10; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Thu, May 24; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BOB LIND and DANNY O'KEEFE at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236 (Call 10 am-10 pm).
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Two of the most highly respected, passionate and widely covered American singer/songwriters bring their gifts to the CGB for an unforgettable evening of emotional power. These veteran performers cut their teeth on traditional American Folk-Jazz. It's in their DNA. But each has gone on to develop a style uniquely his own.
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LIND: His 1966 mega hit, "Elusive Butterfly" helped shape and define Folk-Rock. His songs have been recorded by more than 200 top artists, including Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Cher and Dolly Parton. But nothing equals the power of watching him deliver his own songs. Critic Walter Savinski summed it up this way: “Come and see why this engaging poet / guitarist / philosopher / singer / wise-ass has endured in the sometimes-cruel and always-fickle music business for more than 40 years. But be prepared to feel emotions you may not have let yourself feel in a while – feelings that may scare you a little. His songs hit the heart like a wrecking ball!”
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O'KEEFE: He rocked the music world in 1972 when his "Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues" exploded onto the charts. His songs have garnered covers by Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Jackson Browne, Cab Calloway and countless others. Danny's music continues to evolve, inspiring famed novelist Tom Robbins to say, “As darkly seasoned with raw experience as it is brilliantly inlaid with poetic insight, O'Keefe's work this past decade constitutes the most moving musical meditations since Bob Dylan's Time Out Of Mind. Unblinking, hammer-hard, love-wise and haunting, these songs stay alive in the mind and the heart long after the laser has moved on."
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Tix, $18.
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Thu, May 24:
HUGH LAURIE plays the El Rey Theater on Wilshire Bl, Miracle Mile, L.A. If you aren’t already aware, TV’s “Dr. House” is a first-rate piano-playing blues man, and he often performs and records with the genre’s top stars.
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Fri-Sun, May 25-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, Jerry Douglas, Robert Earl Keen, Trampled by Turtles, Angel Snow, Imelda May, Yarn, Sarah & the Tall Boys, I See Hawks in L.A., more, near Jamestown and Yosemite. Address for tix and info, P.O. Box 664, Jamestown, CA; phone, 209-984-8630. This is the annual Spring edition of Strawberry; they do a Fall edition, too.
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Sat & Sun, May 25 & 26, FESTIVAL, in Sacramento:
39th Annual “SACRAMENTO JAZZ JUBILEE” is the city’s signature musical event, and this year brings LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS and many, many others. Lisa tells us, “Zydecosis strikes the Jubilee! Northern Cal fans come out and dance!” Find venues, bands and schedules on the festival website, www.sacjazz.com
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Fri, May 25:
7 pm DANNY O'KEEFE & BOB LIND play a double-bill at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $17.50.
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Fri, May 25:
7 pm DANNY O'KEEFE and BOB LIND play McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. See the write-up of this show in the Sat, May 24, 7 pm listings.
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Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in Simi Valley:
23rd Annual “SIMI VALLEY CAJUN AND BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL: featuring JAMES COTTON, NATHAN & THE ZYDECO CHA-CHAS, STEADY ROLLIN' BOB MARGOLIN, JAMES HARMAN, ROSIE LEDET, BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO, and many more, at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 Los Angeles Av, Simi Valley; info and tix, 805-517-9000.
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This well-organized festival runs two days of Memorial Day Weekend on an immaculate site, and continues a Southern Cal tradition. It brings music fans a full weekend of nonstop award-winning entertainment, more food choices than you can sample in two days, and activities to keep kids of all ages entertained.
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One stage features 9 hours of continuous music each day, featuring international and award winning Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music acts.
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The other stage features the DELTA GROOVE ALL-STAR BLUES REVUE on Saturday and world-class blues and roots acts on Sunday.
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Both stages provide plenty of viewing space plus large dance floors beneath large tent canopies.
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In addition, this family-friendly event has a kids’ area of sizeable proportions, featuring specialty acts, bouncers, rock climbing walls, crafts and talent shows.
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The site includes many food booths – some as authentically N’Awlins as you’ll find anywhere on the Left Coast, plus many crafts and merchandise booths.
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Want to see what it looks like? Brad Sjoblom, who publishes a newsletter for Cajun-Zydeco Dancers (www.Zydecobrad.com), recommended these videos from the 2011 Simi Valley Cajun Blues Festival. Check ’em out:
ANDRE THIERRY performing, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4K-5ftIr7U, and at www.youtube.com/watch?v=98NlOnG5pyQ
GREG BENUSA teaching at Simi Valley, www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKPrj4EM0do
PETER OLIVER, KATHY, & BRAD SJOBLOM dancing at Simi Valley 2011, www.youtube.com/watch?v=kk7by1oHbWY
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This one always delivers a fine time, consistently, every year. Voulez les bon temps rouler! Full info and tix at www.simicajun.org
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Sat, May 26; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
GLENN FREY, Eagles member / songwriter, plays the Wiltern Theater in L.A. Get tix early, they went on sale March 24.
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Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27:
SOLD OUT: 8 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III, writer of the classic “Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road,” plays two nights at McCabe’s, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; Tix, $24.50, STILL AVAILABLE at press time for Sunday, May 27, 7 pm show; call 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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Sat, May 26:
8 pm JOHN BATDORF plays the “Noble House Concert” Series in Van Nuys; reservations get directions at 818-780-5979.
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Sun, May 27:
7 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III plays McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Show on Sat, May 26 is sold-out; at press time, tix available for Sunday.
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Sun, May 27, in San Diego:
7:30 pm ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, featuring the great JERRY DOUGLAS, play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Sun, May 27:
7:30 pm DANNY O'KEEFE and BOB LIND play the AMSD Concert Series, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176.
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Thu, May 31:
BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION plays Sainte Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach; 310-372-0035.
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Fri, Jun 1:
8 pm JOE PERNICE plus THE DOUGLAS FIR play McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Jun 2, FESTIVAL, in OC:
Annual “HERITAGE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL” presents CHRIS HILLMAN & HERB PEDERSEN, TOULOUSE ENGLEHARDT, and DENNIS ROGER REED with CHRIS DARROW & MIKE DOWLING, at the Heritage Museum, 3101 W Harvard St, Santa Ana; 714-540-0404.
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Sat, Jun 2:
8 pm BORDER RADIO, plus JOHN BATDORF, play a double-bill at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, Jun 2:
8 pm PETER CASE of the PLIMSOULS and a renowned solo career, plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Jun 3:
11 am Grammy noms LISA HALEY & The ZYDEKATS play a rare Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $15; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, Jun 3:
5 pm ANDRE THIERRY & DEXTER ARDOIN play the CAJUN-ZYDECO DANCE SERIES at the Petroleum Club, 3636 Linden Av, Long Beach. (NOTE the early start time).
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Sun, Jun 3, in OC:
7 pm BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION plays The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri, Jun 8:
8 pm PIERRE BENSUSAN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sat, Jun 9, FESTIVAL, in Red Bluff (Nor Cal):
Annual “R WILD HORSE RANCH CRAWDAD FESTIVAL” with LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS at Tehama District Fair Grounds, 650 Antelope Bl, Red Bluff 96080; www.crawdadfestival.net
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Sat, Jun 9, in San Diego:
7:30 pm CHRISTOPHER DEAN plays the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas.
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Sat, Jun 9:
8 pm JACK BROWN and JAMES HURLEY share the bill at “Russ and Julie's House Concert” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area); 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Jun 10:
5-9 pm JOE HALL & HIS LOUISIANA CANE CUTTERS play the CAJUN-ZYDECO DANCE SERIES at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. You can come early for the beginners dance lesson at 4:30 pm; info & tix, 562-396-1132.
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Fri-Sun, Jun 15-17 FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
36th Annual “HUCK FINN JUBILEE” with LARRY GATLIN & THE GATLIN BROTHERS, MARK TWAIN LIVE, THE SELDOM SCENE, STEEP CANYON RANGERS, DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD, RONNIE RENO & THE RENO TRADITION, CHRIS JONES & THE NIGHT DRIVERS, LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS, SILVERADO BLUEGRASS BAND, STETSON & CIA, JULIE WINGFIELD, SCOTT GATES & EVN MARSHALL, PEARCE FAMILY, HWY 65, SWBA BLUEGRASS KIDS, SANDII CASTLEBERRY, RILEY’S MOUNTAINEERS, BON FAMILY CLOGGERS, LINE DANCING WITH KC DOUGLAS, SUNDAY GOSPEL SING, the DEERING BANJO CHAMPIONSHIPS, and more, at Mojave Narrows Regional Park, on the Mojave River in Victorville.
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Yes, it’s on a river, and yes, it’s in the desert. It’s also won top honors among American music festivals and is a top-rated family event. You can even take a hot air balloon ride, and enjoy the Route 66 Car Show, California State Arm Wrestling Championships, and a variety of fun competitions, like raft building.
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Discounts are available for kids, juniors, and early ticket orders, AND this event does sell-out, so don’t dawdle. Info and tix, www.huckfinn.com or 951-780-8810.
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Fri-Sun, Jun 15-17 FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “LIVE OAK MUSIC FESTIVAL” north of Santa Barbara. Details coming soon.
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Fri, Jun 15, in San Diego:
7:30 pm THE INDIGO GIRLS play Humphrey's By the Bay, on Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Fri, Jun 15:
8 & 10 pm RODNEY CROWELL & MARY KARR, plus STEUART SMITH, play two shows tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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Fri, Jun 15:
10 pm RODNEY CROWELL & MARY KARR, plus STEUART SMITH, play two shows tonight (* & 10 pm) at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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Sat, Jun 16, FESTIVAL, in Ventura a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
4th annual “ROADSHOW REVIVAL” tribute to the music of JOHNNY CASH, with headliner rockabilly queen WANDA JACKSON and many others, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
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Bands, sponsors, vendors sought; contact Ross Emery at ross@roadshowrevival.com
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Full info, www.roadshowrevival.com
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Sat, Jun 16:
8 pm THE INDIGO GIRLS play the Wiltern Theater, corner of Wilshire Bl and Western Av, L.A.; 800-745-3000.
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The Purple Line subway station is just across the street, and that’s a great way to miss traffic and expensive parking.
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Sat, Jun 16:
8 pm LAURENCE JUBER, the dazzling GRAMMY-winning guitarist from Paul McCartney’s WINGS, plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, Jun 16:
8 pm DOUG HAYWOOD & ROSEMARY BUTLER play the “BODIE HOUSE CONCERTS AT THE THOUSAND OAKS LIBRARY” series, at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Road, Thousand Oaks; 818-621-8309.
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Sat, Jun 16:
8 pm “An Evening with THE CROSS TOWN COWBOYS” at OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Jun 17:
7 pm JIM KWESKIN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Tue, Jun 19:
8 pm THE MURPHY FAMILY BAND plays the monthly “BASC BLUEGRASS NIGHT” presented by the Bluegrass Assoc. of Southern California at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 23 & 24, FESTIVAL:
Annual “LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL” featuring THE PINE LEAF BOYS and many, many more, on two stages, one Cajun-Zydeco, the other blues & jazz, at Rainbow Lagoon Park in Long Beach; 562-424-0013.
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Sat, Jun 23, near Ojai:
6 pm BLAME SALLY plays the “OJAI CONCERT SERIES” at Dancing Oak Ranch, 4585 Casitas Pass Rd, high above Ventura; 805-665-8852.
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Sat, Jun 23:
New Orleans legends WALTER "WOLFMAN" WASHINGTON and RUSSELL BATISTE play Cafe Boogaloo, 1238 Hermosa Av, Hermosa Beach; 310-318-2324.
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Sat, Jun 23:
8 pm PHIL BOROFF & EVAN MARSHALL play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583. Evan Marshall is one of the world’s greatest mandolin players, and his degree is in violin. That’s enough to offer some idea of what you’ll get here tonight.
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Sat, Jun 23:
8:15 pm CONJUNTO PRIMAVERA y LOS RIELEROS DEL NORTE play the Gibson Ampheatre in Universal City.
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Sun, Jun 24, a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
8 pm JACKSON BROWNE, GLEN CAMPBELL, and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON team up to play the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000. Wow! Three legends, including GLEN CAMPBELL, back after completing his recent “Farewell Tour”? Get tix early or get left out.
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Thu, Jun 28, in San Diego:
7:30 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays the “AMSD Concert Series,” 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176.
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Fri, Jun 29:
8 & 10 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays a pair of shows tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Fri, Jun 29:
10 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays a pair of shows (8 & 10 pm) tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sun, Jul 1:
7 pm BEN HARPER, and VIEUX FARKA TOURE, team-up to play the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Mon, Jul 2, in San Diego:
7:30 pm LYLE LOVETT & HIS LARGE BAND play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Tue, Jul 3, in San Diego; an “EVENT-of-the-WEEK for ARTISTS”:
5-7 pm “MANDOLIN WORKSHOP” with MIKE COMPTON at New Expression Music, 4434 30th St, San Diego; 619-280-9035. In addition, Mike plays a concert here tonight at 8 pm (see listing).
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Tue, Jul 3, in San Diego:
8 pm MIKE COMPTON, mandolin master, plays a concert at New Expression Music, 4434 30th St, San Diego; 619-280-9035. In addition, Mike does a Mandolin Workshop here today, 5-7 pm (see listing).
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Jul 4-8, FESTIVAL, in Portland, OR:
Annual “WATERFRONT BLUES FEST” includes Cajun & Zydeco music with plenty of da blues. The final schedule is due soon. We’re told that “A contribution of $120 gets you with a 5-day multiple entry pass into the festival, even if the fire marshal closes the gates due to overcrowding. Your pass contribution will be tax deductible, and supports zydeco music & bands, the dance floor & Cascade Zydeco booth. Because of the wonderful response last year, zydeco will be spread over three days this year, with Cajun music spread over two days.” Make your check out to "Oregon Food Bank," and send it Dick Brainard, 813 SW Alder St. #700, Portland, OR 97205.
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Sat, Jul 7:
8 pm “LEGENDS OF THE CELTIC HARP: PATRICK BALL, LISA LYNNE, & ARYEH FRANFURTER” play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. This is a wonderful show, absolutely a world-class combination of true masters of the instrument, and an auditory delight. Plus, the intimate venue with its sloped seating gives all good views of the talented fingers as these artists create beautiful and moving music. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, Jul 7, in Thousand Oaks:
8 pm CAROLINE AIKEN plays the “BODIE HOUSE CONCERTS AT THE THOUSAND OAKS LIBRARY” series, at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Road, Thousand Oaks; 818-621-8309.
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Fri, Jul 13, in OC:
8 pm BILLY VERA & THE BEATERS play The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri, Jul 13:
8 pm “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” with GARRISON KEILLOR and musical guests, does its annual show for radio taping and next-day broadcast, this year at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Sat, Jul 14:
8 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY plays “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Jul 15:
7 pm TOULOUSE ENGLEHARDT plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reservations recommended, call 626-798-6236 (seven days, 10 am-10 pm).
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Jul 28:
8th Annual “NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY” in the U.S. and Canada, with special recognitions is several states and events in both countries, including plenty of western music. We’ll keep you posted, or check the vast array of info at www.nationaldayofthecowboy.org
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Wed, Aug 1:
7 pm “THE NEVILLE BROTHERS' FAREWELL TOUR,” with the famous brothers plus TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE, brings some of New Orleans’ best to the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Tue, Aug 7; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm BUDDY GUY & JONNY LANG bring as-good-as-it-gets blues to the Greek Theater in L.A. Get tix early, it’ll sell-out.
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Sat, Aug 11, through Sat, Aug 25 (see dates); a “SHOW-OF-THE-YEAR” pick:
NEIL DIAMOND reprises his “HOT AUGUST NIGHT” with a 40th Anniversary tour, including these shows at the Greek Theatre in L.A., where he played the original.
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Can you say, “Chance to relive a legendary concert with the music legend who performed it, who etched a very special night into music history?” That’s literally what this is. Any superlative you want to apply, after 40 years and millions of album sales of the show taped on the very same stage way back in 1972, well, the accolades and gushing enthusiasm and stage-lit memories are all warranted.
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Here’s the schedule and status at press time:
Sat, Aug 11 at 8 pm - sold out
Thu, Aug 16 at 8 pm - sold out
Sat, Aug 18 at 8 pm - ON SALE NOW
Thu, Aug 23 at 8 pm - ON SALE NOW
Sat, Aug 25 at 8 pm - just announced & ON SALE NOW
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Every seat will sell-out quickly, so act accordingly.
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Sat, Aug 11:
8 pm TOM RUSSELL, one of new-folk’s best performing songwriters, returns to his Southern Cal roots to play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, Aug 11:
8 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION brings all the classic songs of the 50s-60s Folk Revival era to an evening at “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Aug 12:
8 pm Annual “BLUEGRASS AT THE FORD” concert, featuring THE LONESOME RIVER BAND and LONESOME OTIS, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC), at one of the Guide’s most-favorite outdoor venues, the John Anson Ford Theater, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood.
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Fri-Sun, Aug 17-19, FESTIVAL, in Vista; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10th Annual “SUMMERGRASS SAN DIEGO BLUEGRAS MUSIC FESTIVAL” with BLUE HIGHWAY, LONESOME RIVER BAND, FLATT LONESOME, SWEET TIDINGS, TAIL DRAGGERS, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, LIGHTHOUSE, and more tba, at the 40-acre outdoor Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N santa Fe Av, Vista 92083. There’s a kids’ camp, adult boot camp, raffles, music & craft vendors, jamming, dry camping, food, and more.
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Advance tix are discounted, so hop on it as soon as you know you are going. Tix & info, www.summergrass.net or 858-679-4854; camping questions, camping@summergrass.net or 619-940-4593.
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Thu, Aug 23, in San Diego:
7:30 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Thu, Aug 30:
ERIC BIBB plays the Skirball Cultural Center, just off the 405 atop Sepulveda Pass. More info wen we have it.
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Sat, Sep 1; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS at the Pantages Theatre, Hollywood Bl at Argyle St, Hollywood. Get tix early, they’re on sale now, and it’ll sell-out.
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Tue, Sep 4:
JOHN HIATT plays Sainte Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach; 310-372-0035.
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Wed, Sep 5:
7 pm B. B. KING plus THE TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND for an end-of-the-summer all-star night at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Fri, Sep 7; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm CROSBY, STILLS & NASH at the Greek Theater in L.A. Get tix early, it’ll sell-out.
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Fri, Sep 7, in OC:
8 pm JOHN HIATT plays The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri-Sun, Sep 14-16, FESTIVAL, in Northern Cal:
10th Annual ‘PLYMOUTH BLUEGRASSIN’ IN THE FOOTHILLS” at the Amador County Fairgrounds, 18621 Sherwood St, Plymouth 95669, in the California Gold Rush / Mother Lode country. Booked so far are JAMES KING BAND, TRAVERS CHANDLER & AVERY COUNTY, BLUEGRASS BROTHERS, MARK PHILLIPS & IIIrd GENERATION, GET DOWN BOYS, THOMAS PORTER & COPPER RIVER, NU-BLU, and 2011 Emerging Artists RED DOG ASH. Info & tix, www.landspromotions.com or contact roaddog@caltel.com or 209-785-4693.

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Sat, Sep 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-YEAR” pick:
7:30 pm BONNIE RAITT plus MAVIS STAPLES in a dazzling “oh wow” of a show at the Greek Theater in Hollywood. Get your tix right away for this one (unless you’re seeing MERLE HAGGARD and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON tonight).
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Sat, Sep 22:
MERLE HAGGARD and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON share a wonderful bill, two legendary performing songwriters, at the Valley Performing Arts Center, on the campus at Cal State Northridge. The Guide has often encouraged you to see each of these artists. A chance to see them performing together? Get your tix right away for this one (unless you’re seeing BONNIE RAITT and MAVIS STAPLES tonight).
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Sat, Sep 22:
8 pm JANET ROBIN and ALI HANDAL, two fine artists, share the night at “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Tue, Sep 25, in San Diego:
7:30 pm BONNIE RAITT plays Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Sat, Oct 6, in Thousand Oaks:
THE KINGSTON TRIO plays the Fred Kavli Theater for the Performing Arts, Thousand Oaks.
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Sat, Oct 13:
8 pm JEZ LOWE plays the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series in Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Free parking at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, Oct 13:
8 pm ANGELO M. and THE SALTY SUITES play “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). THE SALTY SUITES spent the summer playing festivals. They are a rapidly-rising quartet of stellar your players, from CHELSEA WILLIAMS, the beautiful and charming singer-songwriter-guitarist who sings on the nationwide TV commercial for Chevrolet, to mandolin wunderkind SCOTT GATES, to bassist CHUCK HAILES. Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sat, Oct 27:
8 pm CATHY BARTON & DAVE PARA play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series in Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. The Missouri-based, autoharp-playing traditional music duo has a huge following in Southern Cal, so get your tix early. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sun, Nov 4:
RAVI SHANKAR, master of the sitar and more, plays the Center Theater, Long Beach.
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Sat, Nov 17:
8 pm LUNASA plays the Caltech Public Events Concert Series in Beckman Auditorium (“Big Beckman”), on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar, if you arrive early enough to get a space.
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2013 ~ Way, way ahead, in the far-off future…
(assuming the Mayans didn’t get it right…)
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Fri, Feb 8:
8 pm THE CAMPBELL BROTHERS play the Smothers Theatre, on the campus at Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu; 310-506-4522.
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MORE COMING, as we get to it and organize it for you…

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MORE STUFF THE GUIDE OFFERS >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc

"NEWS FEATURES” is a fresh edition most each week, with news and reviews from the acoustic music universe, features on folk-Americana and “acoustic renaissance” music and artists, a litlle from the electric side of honky-tonk Americana, the latest tours, recordings and projects, reviews of CDs and live shows, industry news, news for artists, and more.

It’s always available by clicking-through at www.acousticmusic.net
or at
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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"VENUE DIRECTORY" - The Guide's extensive locator – has address and contact . info for OVER 500 acoustic-music-friendly venues in Southern California, from Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, plus a few key spots in San Diego, the deserts, and on the Central Coast.
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UPDATES to the Venue Directory are made every few months and a new edition is due soon – the 2011 edition of our VENUE DIRECTORY is available at

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2011/02/venue-directory-from-guide-updated.html .
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The Guide’s weekly News Features and Spotlight Events, in ever-UPDATED EDITIONS will continue to bring you more news of concerts, club gigs, workshops, benefit shows, festivals and more (always more -- as we dig out from beneath the incoming mountains of email telling us about it, so we can organize it and tell YOU about all of it).
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We’ll keep covering the world of current acoustic music happenings and bringing you "heads up" notices to buy advance tix for shows likely to sell-out – and lots more.

We’ll continue to tell you what acoustic musicians are doing, in the studio, on the stage, and as activist / artists seeking to improve things for all of us. We’ll tell you about the growing number of radio & TV shows with live acoustic performances (when it’s radio, it’s available mostly on the web, of course, since the Guide is published from acoustic-music-radio-deprived Los Angeles.) .
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And, as Spring blooms and the 2012 FESTIVAL SEASON progresses, we’ll bring you news and reviews of the many acoustic music festivals happening near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere.
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As always, thanks for making the journey with us. With your help, the road goes on forever (even if we can’t afford the gas anymore to find out where it goes)! .
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contents copyright © 2012, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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