May’s FESTIVALS – Nineteen of ’em! – plus ongoing events and news in the Southern Cal music & art world, May 2, 2014

. 
Two quick additons (arrived after this edition went to press)...

Sat, May 3, in Arcadia:
11 am-4:30 pm BLUEGRASS music is live Saturday at Santa Anita Race Track, to commemorate the Kentucky Derby. One or more bands will perform between each Santa Anita race.

++++++

Sun, May 4, on web radio:
7 pm (Pacific) "TRIBUTE TO D. WHITNEY QUINN" on the "NOT LATE NAYT" show with Michael Nayt & Kerri Francis.
+
"We will be having a tribute show in memory of our dear friend and fellow musician, [the late] D. Whitney Quinn," says Michael.
+
Callers welcome. Feel free to call-in and pay tribute by sharing your stories and memories of DWQ, at 602-753-1818.
+
Tune-in at:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kerri-and-larry/2014/05/05/not-late-nayt-with-michael-nayt-kerri-francistribute-to-d-whitney-quinn
+
More at:
blogtalkradio.com


+ = + = + = + = + = + = + = +
Now, on to the full edition,
as originally published.
+ = + = + = + = + = + = + = +

Festival season continues at full stride this weekend, and through the months of May and June. In this edition, we bring you the MAY festival scene.

We also have an important announcement.

With this edition, the Guide goes on a brief hiatus.

Hey, it’s not ALL bad: it’ll give you a chance to catch-up on the Guide’s news features, CD release reports and reviews, and more that you may have missed over the past few months. Many recent “Ticket Alerts” are still worth reading for upcoming shows that will sell-out as they get close. All previous editions are available in the archive, plus the Guide has a search bar on the “full web edition” site.

You have probably noticed that the Guide’s long run of almost daily editions was suddenly reduced in April to once or twice a week. The quality of content – detailed news of exciting new CD releases and reviews; news for artists; “insider” details on festivals; film screenings; gallery events; music in museums; and MANY HUNDREDS of live music events each week – all presented with solid, meaningful info that you just can’t find anywhere else, has continued in the Guide with no compromises in the quality of our coverage, even as frequency of publication had to be reduced.

This is an unintended break that leaves our readers in a temporary lurch for daily events. We are working to correct that. We ARE leaving you with solid info on FESTIVALS – NINETEEN of them happening in May – as always, more coverage of more festivals than any other source. But we are necessarily taking a break from our better-than-anywhere-else coverage of concerts, club gigs, coffeehouse shows, showcases, jams, open mics, and one-night-only performances big and small, and yes, even a break from the performances by the biggest icons of Folk-Americana.

Meanwhile, it offers an opportune moment to thank YOU, our readers, for your quarter-million page views per year. Stick with us.

===

So, WHAT DO YOU DO NOW TO FIND EVENTS?

There really isn’t anything like the Guide. But you knew that. We do have suggestions to track-down part of what we have routinely covered.

ALIVE AND PICKING just got their new, improved site up and running after many months off-line. Their calendar lists traditional Folk-Americana in a good, if much shorter calendar maintained by Mary Katherine Aldin. She’s been at it a long time, deriving from her long-running radio show. It’s available at www.aliveandpicking.org

Plus, FOLKSCENE, the long-running radio show, does a weekly on-air calendar that they read for the coming week. Hear it Sunday nights, between 6 and 8 pm (Pacific), during the show on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, or on the web simulcast at www.kpfk.org

===

Now, on to the Nineteen FESTIVALS that await you this weekend and later in May.


<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


In this edition…


♪  FESTIVALS! TEN THIS WEEKEND IN SOUTHERN CAL
.  √  all the deets on all TEN follow, below.

♪  FESTIVALS! LATER IN MAY IN SOUTHERN CAL
.  √  NINE festivals happening this month, after this weekend, are in their own section.

♪  NEWS FEATURES:
.  1)  MORE GREAT PARODY FROM THE GUYS WHO SPOOFED THE GRAMMYS
.  2)  ANYBODY FOR KERRVILLE?

♪  NEW RELEASES:
.  √  There are plenty of ’em in recent editions, so use the sidebar at left and explore.

♪  THIS DAY IN HISTORY:
.  √  Alas, a daily presence going on hiatus means this feature will be gone for a while, along with our wishing musicians happy birthdays.

♪  TICKET ALERTS:
.  √  “ROADSHOW REVIVAL – JOHNNY CASH TRIBUTE FESTIVAL” happens Sat, June 14; tix available at a discount through May 4, with promo code.
.  √  There are many Ticket Alerts in the April 29 edition (and more in other recent editions) for events that have yet to happen, but will likely sell-out.

♪  ONGOING MUSIC & ART EVENTS
.  √  They’re heeeeere. Go check it out. Some current stage plays, exhibitions, and other shows are running all the way into June. Plenty are described within, ready to enjoy.


<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  FESTIVALS! TEN THIS WEEKEND
IN SOUTHERN CAL
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


All the details follow. First, a simple list:

1)  Annual " RAMONA BLUEGRASS & OLD WEST FESTIVAL," Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4, in Riverside County (Ramona). Ticket info: folkmuseHC@mattfolkmuse.com

2)  24th Annual “DYLANFEST,” Sun, May 4, noon-8 pm, in Torrance. Tix at www.andyandrenee.com or 310-346-9383.

3)  15th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL,” Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4, in VC (Ojai). Tix at 805-646-2094.

4)  6th Annual “ECLECTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL” is nu-folk-friendly, Sat, May 3, 2-10 pm at several venues running simultaneously in South Pasadena. FREE.

5)  52nd Annual “SIERRA MADRE ART FAIR,” with two music stages, Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4, in Sierra Madre. FREE.

6)  Annual “PASADENA EARTH & ARTS FESTIVAL,” with two music stages, Sat, May 3, in Pasadena. FREE.

7)  Annual "CATCH ME IF YOU CAN – ST. FRANCIS DE SALES FESTIVAL," Fri-Sun, May 2-4, in SFV (Sherman Oaks). FREE.

8)  3rd Annual "LOS LOBOS CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL" with LOS LOBOS, plus OZOMATLI, MARIACHI EL BRONX, and more, Sat, May 3, at 6:30 pm. Tix available at:
http://www.greektheatrela.com/events/event_details.asp?id=2754

9)  “AMERICANA MUSIC JAM: FESTIVAL TICKET” is Sat, May 3, 5 pm, with Run Boy Run , The Haden Triplets, and Jackie Greene, at SOHo Restaurant & Music Club in Santa Barbara. Tix at 805-962-7776 or  HYPERLINK http://www.sohosb.com www.sohosb.com.

10)  Launch of “COUNTRY POP UP” is Sun, May 4, 4-11 pm, in Hollywood.



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  ALL THE DETAILS:
FESTIVALS! THIS WEEKEND
IN SOUTHERN CAL
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


Number 1:

Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4, FESTIVAL,
in Riverside County (Ramona)
Annual " RAMONA BLUEGRASS & OLD WEST FESTIVAL," at 421 Aqua Ln, Ramona 92065.
+
Performances by:
♪  HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN
♪  JAMES REAMS & THE BARNSTORMERS
♪  BLUEGRASS, ETC.
♪  CHRIS STUART & JANET BEAZLEY (both of BACK COUNTRY)
♪  LONESOME OTIS
♪  BLUEGRASS BRETHREN
♪  THE SHIRTHOUSE BAND
♪  HAY DUDES
♪  WINDY RIDGE
♪  CHRIS CLARKE & PLOW
♪  NEXT GENERATION
♪  VIRTUAL STRANGERS
♪  HIGH MOUNTAIN ROAD
♪  TAILDRAGGERS
♪  PRAIRIE SKY
♪  MOHAVISOUL
♪  LACEMAKERS
♪  JUDY TAYLOR
♪  THE MOVES
♪  COWBOY JACK
♪  COWBOY ANGELS
♪  SUNNYSIDE STRINGS
♪  PONY TALES
♪  GABRIEL HANSON & ETERNAL RECURRENCE
+
Ticket info: folkmuseHC@mattfolkmuse.com


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 2:

Sun, May 4,
FESTIVAL,
in Torrance.
Noon-8 pm  24th Annual “DYLANFEST,” the wonderful showcase festival with many musicians covering Bob Dylan’s massive catalog, and no repeats all day, at Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Torino Plaza, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance 90503.
+
Musical hosts are ANDY HILL & RENEE SAFER & their band HARD RAIN (named the Best Band in the South Bay in 2013), plus many, many special guests – at least 50 musicians in all, backed by an all-star house band. Good food available, and always an exceptionally good time.
+
Tickets $30 advance, $35 day of show; children $10; VIP tix are $100.
Advance tix at www.andyandrenee.com
or 310-346-9383.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 3:

Thu-Sun, May 1-4,
FESTIVAL,
in VC (Ojai).
15th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL,” presented by “Performances to Grow On,” in Libbey Bowl, 201 S Signal St, Ojai 93023. 805-646-2094
+
The Ojai Storytelling Festival brings fabulous storytellers from around the world. The Topa Topa peaks tower in the distance. Fragrant orange blossoms fill the air. A canopy of majestic oaks reaches overhead. Downtown Ojai welcomes visitors to its charming shops, galleries and cafes. The setting for the 15th Annual Ojai Storytelling Festival offers captivating performances for all ages and is truly magical. This year's tellers include Patrick Ball, Niall de Burca, Lyn Ford, Barbara McBride-Smith, Laura Simms, Gene Tagaban, Izzi Tooinsky, Cindy Kalmenson, Alan Thornhill, and The Story Pirates.
+
Major activities and performers are Saturday & Sunday.
+
Tix at 805-646-2094.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 4:

Sat, May 3,
FESTIVAL,
in South Pasadena:
2-10 pm  6th Annual “ECLECTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL & ART WALK” is nu-folk-friendly, with multiple stages, open galleries, and a multi-street art walk, with performances at several venues running simultaneously, centered at 1121 Mission St, and at the South Pasadena Public Library, at 1100 Oxley St, South Pasadena 91030.
+
Restaurants and pubs are open throughout the area are open, as well.
+
Headliners include:
♪  LOAFER’S GLORY, with HERB PEDERSEN, at 3 pm.
♪  BILLY CHILDS with MOIRA SMILEY, at 5 pm.
♪  RICK SHEA at 7 pm.
♪  ELIZA GILKYSON and TONY GILKYSON, at 8 pm.
and there are plenty more performances so check out the lineups for each stage, below.
+
Carnegie Library Stage, at 1100 Oxley St:
♪  3–3:50 pm  Loafer’s Glory, featuring Herb Pedersen
♪  4–4:50 pm  Elliott Caine
♪  5–5:50 pm  Billy Childs with Moira Smiley (Songs of Laura Nyro)
♪  6–6:50 pm  Powdercoat
♪  7–7:50 pm  Rick Shea
♪  8–9:30 pm  Tony Gilkyson & Eliza Gilkyson
+
Gold Line Stage, at 913 Meridian Av, by the Gold Line Station:
♪  2–2:05 pm  Introduction
♪  2:05–2:50 pm  South Pasadena Transit Authority
♪  3–3:20 pm  Chauncey Bowers (everybody’s favorite scientist-songwriter)
♪  3:30–4:15 pm  Grondle
♪  4:25–4:45 pm  Aireene Espiritu
♪  4:55–5:40 pm  Mark Hatch & Group 5
♪  5:50–6:10 pm  Aaron & Jane
♪  6:20–7:05 pm  Wilberta
♪  7:15–7:35 pm  The Lovers – Mitch Grainger & Rosa Pullman
♪  7:45–8:30 pm  Mexico68
♪  8:40–9 pm  Rick Solem
♪  9:10–10 pm  California Feetwarmers
+
Emerging Artists Stage, at 538 Mission St, in Burke Triolo Studios:
♪  2-2:30 pm  Charlie Hickey
♪  2:30-3:15 pm  Phoebe Bridgers
♪  3:30-4:15 pm  Breakfast
♪  4:30-5:15 pm  White Dove
♪  5:30-6:30 pm  The Felt Blanks – formerly Jacaranda Red – an all South Pas band
♪  6:45-7:45 pm  The Buttertones
♪  8-9 pm  Tapioca and the Flea
+
SOPA Studios Stage, at 1025 Hope Street:
♪  5-5:45 pm  Lisa Finnie
♪  6-6:45 pm  Shadowlands
♪  7-7:45 pm  Anny Celsi (just back from her European tour)
♪  8-8:45 pm  Jonah Smith
+
South Pasadena Music Center Stage, at 1509 Mission Street:
♪  5–5:30 pm  South Pasadena Music Center & Conservatory Chamber Music Consortium Directed by Dr. Yvette Devereaux.
♪  5:30–6:30 pm  Extreme Klezmer Makeover – traditional music with progressive Klezmer Music infused with Cajun, R & B, American Folk, Middle Eastern and Jazz.
♪  6:45–7:30 pm  Ally Hasche, solo folk, blues, indie, and rock.
♪  7:30–8:30 pm  Walter Zooi, composer and multi-instrumentalist.
+
Schedules for all stages at:
http://eclecticmusicfestival.com/
+
Ride the Metro Gold Line light rail to South Pasadena / Mission & Meridian Station and you’re right there.
+
FREE, with free parking on area streets.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 5:

Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4,
FREE FESTIVAL,
in Sierra Madre:
52nd Annual "SIERRA MADRE ART FAIR" includes two stages of music and many painters, sculptors, photographers, woodcrafters, and ornamental horticulturists displaying and selling their artwork, in Memorial Park, 222 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre 91024
+
The Friends of the Library and Jean Sudbury present the festival's "Wonderful Music" both days.
+
Saturday, 11 am-1 pm:
♪  STEVE TROVATO and TIM KOBZA bring their "World class guitars" to perform country, rock, jazz and blues.
+
Saturday, 2-4 pm:
♪  NICK ARIONDO, composer & virtuoso accordionist, plays "Continental music at its finest."
+
Sunday, 11 am-1 pm:
♪  STRING PLANET plays "Clever classical-rock fusion."
+
Sunday, 2-4 pm:
♪  COW BOP plays "hot Western-bebop fusion," fresh from their main stage sets at last weekend's Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival.
+
♪  Plus, more live music on the South Lawn each day, hosted by award-winning fiddler / violinist JEAN SUDBURY. Expect "music and artistry of eclectic styles in an informal setting," plus "Impromptu music each day between shows."
+
Jean tells musicians, "You can participate if you choose, or just enjoy."
+
FREE Admission to the event, free parking on area streets. Purchases of food and other items benefit the Sierra Madre Library.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 6:

Sat, May 3, FESTIVAL,
in Pasadena
Annual “PASADENA EARTH & ARTS FESTIVAL,” with two music stages, is the delayed celebration of Earth Day in the Rose City. We received this news at press time, so we don’t have time to get and report the details.
+
Full info IS available, at:
http://cityofpasadena.net/waterandpower/earthday
+
FREE.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 7:

Fri-Sun, May 2-4,
FREE FESTIVAL,
in SFV (Sherman Oaks):
Noon-11 pm  Annual "CATCH ME IF YOU CAN -- ST. FRANCIS DE SALES FESTIVAL" at St Francis De Sales School, 13368 Valleyheart Dr, Sherman Oaks, California 91423.
+
There’s some good music at this one, and our must-see pick here is KELLY’S LOT, a fine roadhouse blues band, playing 8-9 pm on Saturday.
+
Complete music schedule, all three days, at:
www.stfrancisds.org/body_1314_Fair%20Entertainment.html
+
The venue – a school celebrates their “Festival Homecoming Weekend” the first weekend in May and is known as the "The Biggest Little Fair in the Valley." It is a time when the St. Francis de Sales Community along with the neighboring communities come together for a fun-filled weekend. There is live entertainment, a pyrotechnics show on Friday and Saturday nights, a variety of foods, games and rides. Also available is a Silent/Live Auction with hundreds of items available to the highest bidders.
+
Runs Friday 6-11 pm, Saturday 12-11 pm, and Sunday 12-7 pm.
+
The Festival proceeds go directly to Saint Francis de Sales School to enhance the educational programs and cover costs that are not covered by tuition. We welcome all visitors, any volunteers and donations.
+
Free admission, free parking.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 8:

Sat, May 3,
FESTIVAL,
at the Greek in L.A.:
6:30 pm  3rd Annual "LOS LOBOS CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL" with LOS LOBOS, plus OZOMATLI, MARIACHI EL BRONX, and more, at the Greek Theatre, 2700 N Vermont Ave in Griffith Park, L.A.; Greek Theatre hotline, 323-665-1927; tix, 213-480-3232; www.greektheatrela.com.
+
The Guide brought you a “ticket alert” months ago. If any tix remain, look for them at:
http://www.greektheatrela.com/events/event_details.asp?id=2754


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 9:

Sat, May 3,
PSEUDO-FESTIVAL,
in Santa Barbara:
5 pm  “AMERICANA MUSIC JAM: FESTIVAL TICKET” at SOHo Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
+
It’s an evening at this famous supper club, but it will feel like a festival. Performances by:
♪  Run Boy Run
♪  The Haden Triplets
♪  Jackie Greene
+
Tix at 805-962-7776 or  HYPERLINK http://www.sohosb.com www.sohosb.com.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 10:

Sun, May 4,
PSEUDO-FESTIVAL,
in Hollywood:
4-11 pm  Launch of “COUNTRY POP UP” at Lure Hollywood, 1439 N Ivar Av, Hollywood 90028.
+
Presented by Go Country 105 FM & the Country General Store. Special Live Performances by ♪  Caleche Ryder (www.CalecheRyder.com)
♪  Blackburn Country (www.reverbnation.com/blackburncountry)
"Bikini 'n Boots" Fashion Show by American Honey Swimwear
Special country dance performance by
♪  The Belles
DJ Greg Place of Gone Country Promotions
Free Line Dancing & Country Western Dance Lessons
Gourmet BBQ & drink specials
Give-aways
+
“In a town made famous by John Wayne, Clint Eastwood & Roy Rogers, it’s about time Hollywood went Country,” say the promoters.
+
More at:
www.CountryPopUp.com
+
Tix at:
www.eventbrite.com/e/country-music-comes-to-hollywoodthe-launch-of-country-pop-up-tickets-11243592889
+
Use code 'Platinum' for 50% off Tickets
+
VIP Admission $27.37



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  FESTIVALS! COMING
LATER IN MAY IN SOUTHERN CAL
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


Number 11:

Thu-Sun, May 8-11,
FESTIVAL,
in Central Cal:
9:30 am-5:30 pm  Annual “PARKFIELD BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” on Vineyard Canyon Rd & Cholame Rd, Parkfield, CA 93451.
+
Main stage sets by:
♪  PETER ROWAN
♪  CACHE VALLEY DRIFTERS
♪  HONEYSUCKLE POSSUMS
♪  VIRTUAL STRANGERS
♪  AMBER CROSS GOSPEL
♪  STEEP RAVINE
♪  NAKED BOOTLEGGERS
♪  FRONT COUNTRY
♪  SNAP JACKSON & THE KNOCK ON WOOD PLAYERS
♪  CANYON JOHNSON
♪  THE CREAK
♪  LITTLE BLACK TRAIN
♪  JEFF SCROGGINS & COLORADO
+
Info, bmscc12@gmail.com


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 12:

Thu-Sat, May 8-10,
FESTIVAL,
in OC (Costa Mesa):
14th Annual “AMERICAN COMPOSERS FESTIVAL” presented by PACIFIC SYMPHONY at Segerstrom Hall, in the Orange County Performing Arts Center, 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa; 714-556-2787.
+
Check the festival’s website to see who won the competitions (students, amateurs, professionals) the Guide posted in our News Features. The festival is all about new works by living composers, and issued a call to composers to send in their original works for consideration to help increase the visibility of new music. Selected works are posted on the Pacific Symphony’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube accounts.
+
The American Composers Festival features some of Hollywood’s biggest and best in exciting new works they’ve written for the concert hall.
+
Full info and tix at:
www.PacificSymphony.org/ACF


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 13:

Thu-Sun, May 8-11,
FESTIVAL,
in San Diego:
13th Annual “GATOR BY THE BAY Zydeco, Blues and Crawfish Festival” has become one of the best Cajun-zydeco festivals anywhere in America; all events are at Spanish Landing Park, N Harbor Dr, San Diego 92101.
+
2014 will be the biggest year ever for this already huge event, with 85+ performances over four days. This Mother's Day Weekend event on beautiful San Diego Bay brings a gigantic lineup:
+
Blues Legend Tab Benoit in Concert, Female Artist of the Year Janiva Magness, Grammy Award Winner Chubby Carrier, Horace Trahan, Balfa Toujours, Andre Thierry, Deanna Bogart, Mark Hummel, Nick Gravenites, Steve Lucky, Linnzi Zaorski, Johnny "V" Vernazza, Bill Magee, Sue Palmer, Fuzzy Rankins and many more.
+
Thursday, May 8 (new this year) the festival starts with a 6:30-10:30 pm concert by Tab Benoit.
+
Friday, May 9, things happen 3:30 pm-10:30 pm, with “Gator By Night” – a "Bourbon Street Supper Club" with Zydeco, Blues & Swing on 3 stages.
+
The full festival runs Sat, May 10, 10:30 am-8 pm, and Sun, May 11, 10:30 am-7 pm. It features “a zesty gumbo of music, food and joie de vivre with 85+ entertaining performances, dance lessons, activities for kids, Cajun cooking demos and southern culinary delights including 10,000 pounds of fresh live crawfish straight from Louisiana.”


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 14:

Thu- Sat, May 15-17,
FESTIVAL,
in L.A.:
“9th Ever LOS ANGELES OLD TIME SOCIAL” brings three days of pure old time fun, with musicians and dance callers from Colorado, Kansas, New York, Santa Cruz, Texas, West Virginia, and the City of Angels, at various venues in L.A., and culminating with “The Best of the Old Time Social” on the Pavillion Stage at the Topanga Banjo Fiddler Contest & Folk Festival on Sun, May 18 (see separate listing).
+
Prepare for the OLD TIME SOCIAL by deciding which of the many workshops you want to sign-up for; you can attend a concert, bake a cake, or dust-off those dancing shoes at this unique festival, where “Old Time is a Good Time!”
+
Thursday brings the Old Time Social Kick Off Party, at 8 pm, at 1642 Bar, 1642 Temple Av, downtown L.A. 90026; $5 –$10 donation. Performers are the L.A. Bluegrass Hoppers, White Chocolate Drops, and the Smoggy Mountain String Band.
+
Friday is the Old Time Social Friday Night Concert at 8pm, at the Velaslavasay Panorama, 1122 W 24th St, near USC, L.A. 90007 Tix, $20. Performers are Triple Chicken Foot, Spencer & Rains, Brian Vollmer & Ben Townsend.
+
Saturday is a very day of workshops and events at the American Legion Hall Post 206, 227 N Ave 55, Los Angeles 90042. It’s $20 for the day. Email davidbragger@yahoo.com for registration and questions.
+
Full info, schedules, and tix, at:
www.oldtimeisagoodtime.com


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 15:

Sun, May 18,
FESTIVAL,
in Agoura Hills:
9 am-6 pm  52nd Annual “TOPANGA BANJO FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL” is, and has remained, for many years, the best one-day festival anywhere. It’s at Paramount Ranch, in the Santa Monica Mtns. Nat’l Recreation Area, run by the National Park Serrvice, in Agoura Hills, off the 101 Fwy west of Thousand Oaks.
+
Presented by the nonprofit Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest organization.
+
In addition to discovering dazzling talents on the contest stages, professional musicians play on four stages throughout the day.
+
On the MAIN STAGE:
♪  SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND
♪  THE AMERICANS
♪  RUN BOY RUN
♪  ROCKY NECK BLUEGRASS
+
In the DANCE BARN:
♪  FLATFOOT & CLOGGING WORKSHOP
♪  CONTRADANCE with MODAL TEASE
♪  SQUARE DANCE with BEE’S KNEES
+
On the PAVILION STAGE:
♪  MURPHY’S FLAW
♪  BEST OF THE OLD TIME SOCIAL (the L.A. festival just before this one)
♪  MIKE MAHANEY & FRIENDS (western / cowboy music)
+
On the RAILROAD STAGE:
♪  BRIAN VOLLMER & BEN TOWNSEND
♪  STEVE WERNER, REBECCA STOUT, & BRANTLEY KEARNS
♪  STU MASON & GARY ARCEMONT
♪  ROSS ALTMAN
+
In the EUCALYPTUS GROVE:
♪  CHILDREN’S CLOGGING with REBECCA STOUT
♪  BILL DEMPSEY with maritime music
♪  HOLLOW TREES
♪  SCOTTISH FIDDLERS
♪  CELTIC JAM SESSION
+
Tix & info, 818-382-4819.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 16:

Sat & Sun, May 24 & 25,
FESTIVAL,
in OC (Costa Mesa):
Annual “SCOTTISH FEST,” billed as “America's Festival of Celtic Music, Entertainment, Food & Libations,” on MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND at the Orange County Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa.
+
Celtic Entertainment with Pipe and Drum Bands, and main stage sets by:
♪  Eric Rigler & Bad Haggis
♪  The Irish Volunteers
♪  Sligo Rags
♪  Highland Way
♪  The Ploughboys
♪  1916 Band
♪  Neil O'Neill
and more.
+
There’s also a Whiskey Pavilion and Whiskey Tastings.
+
Tix and more info at:
www.scottishfest.com


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +

Number 17:

Sat & Sun, May 24 & 25,
FESTIVAL,
in VC (Simi Valley):
Noon-7:30 pm  25th annual “SIMI VALLEY CAJUN & BLUES FESTIVAL” brings two full festival stages and runs for two of the three days of  Memorial Day weekend, at Rancho Santa Susanna Community Park, 5005 Los Angeles Av, Simi Valley.
+
Headliners include ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND, SWAMP DOGG, JOHN MAYALL, CANNED HEAT, C.J. CHENIER, and GUITAR SHORTY.
+
This first-class event features two full stages, one for each of its musical genres. Both stages proceed non-stop each day from noon until 7:30 pm. The Los Angeles area’s largest Cajun, Zydeco, Blues and Roots Music festival features a daily Mardi Gras parade, kids’ activities, crafts, and dozens of food booths.
+
The blues stage brings the festival’s debut of new blues stage booker Martin Fleischmann. The stage presents its strongest bill ever, featuring Robert Randolph & the Family Band, the American Funk and Soul Ensemble led by pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph; Los Angeles-based Southern soul and blues legend Swamp Dogg; British blues patriarch John Mayall; blues revival pioneers Canned Heat; Texas-born bluesman Guitar Shorty; and Blues Music Award-winning singer and guitarist Tommy Castro. The blues stage will also feature Flattop Tom & His Jump Cats, Nancy & the Nightcrawlers, Dennis Jones and Andy Walo.
+
On the Cajun-Zydeco stage, C.J. Cheneir brings the Red Hot Louisiana Band, assembled by his father, Zydeco king and Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner Clifton Chenier. Veteran Zydeco accordionist Nathan Williams Sr. will appear, as will Nathan Williams Jr. & His Zydeco Big Timers. Dwayne Dopsie, hailing from one of the top Zydeco families in the world, will front the Zydeco Hellraisers. Feufollet is a brilliant young band that presents authentic old-style Cajun classics, and their own indie-rock-influenced Cajun music. Southern California’s own Lisa Haley & the Zydecats, Grammy nominees and a popular attraction at the festival for many years, will return, as will Andre Thierry & Zydeco Magic, and the Bayou Brothers.
+
The annual Mardi Gras Parade will take place both days at 4 pm.
+
Tix, $22 adults, age 13+; $15 for children ages 7-12; tix available online at www.simicajun.org/2014 or at the gate, unless it sells-out. Parking is ample and free, with a free shuttle to/from the remote lot.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +

Number 18:

Sat-Mon, May 24-26,
FESTIVAL,
in Topanga:
41st Annual “TOPANGA DAYS” is the only local festival that runs on Memorial Day Monday; at the Topanga Community House & Fair Grounds, 1440 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290.
+
There are multiple music stages all three days, much of it acoustic, and venues include the picturesque main stage with the on the audience on the ball field and the stage terraced on the hillside above, and the indoor stage in the Community House. The ambiance here is a bit of hippie heaven, and a lot of fun. Plenty of good food is offered, too.
+
There’s even a parade through the canyon on Sunday morning. (It closes the road, so plan your trip accordingly.)


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


Number 19:

Sat, May 31,
FESTIVAL,
in Claremont:
Annual “CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL” features a wide range of music, art and learning experiences, housed within the natural beauty of Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, at 1500 N College Av, Claremont.
+
Performers include:
♪  Ben and Ellen Harper
♪  Dave Alvin & the Guilty Ones
♪  The Gonzalo Bergara Quartet
♪  The Coals
♪  The Chapin Sisters
♪  Rick Shea
♪  Phoebe Bridgers
♪  The Ooks of Hazzard
♪  Blue Highway
♪  Steve James
♪  Ross Altman
♪  Peter Harper
♪  Old Brown Shoe
And more, tba.
+
There’s also Storytellers, Workshops, and Kid’s Activities. General Admission and VIP Seating tickets are available. Children age 12 and under are admitted free, except in the VIP section.
+
Last year sold-out in advance, so get your tix now, at:
+
http://m.bpt.me/event/573893



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  NEWS FEATURES
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


#1 News Feature:

√  MORE GREAT PARODY FROM THE GUYS WHO SPOOFED THE GRAMMYS

Our friends at "JOY CAMP," makers of wildly funny satirical and parody videos, have struck again. Check out their brand-new "Dial P for Paranoia," at:

http://youtube.com/watch?feature=em-subs_digest&v=xlzOSzO0p1U

Links are there on their YouTube page to watch their other shorts, including some we've recommended in the past. Those include Joy Camp's great send-ups of entertainment's top awards:

"Grammy Awards 2014 - Illuminati Puppet of the Year," and

"Oscars 2014: Best Most American Film (86th Annual Academy Awards)."

Joy Camp won the top award at the 2013 "No Budget Film Festival." Since most of what they're doing is much more creative than "Saturday Night Live's" sketches, we expect stardom awaits these guys.


+ = + = + = + = + = + = +


#2 News Feature:

√  ANYBODY FOR KERRVILLE?

The Kerrville Folk Festival is like nothing else, anywhere. Just ask any of the “Kerrverts,” the honor earned by attendees. It runs for 18 straight days, Thursday, May 22, through Sunday, June 8. We’re not talking weekends. That’s EVERY day.

Celebrating songwriters for 43 years, the Kerrville Folk Festival is the longest continuously running festival of its kind in North America. It was created by Rod Kennedy, affectionately known as “The RodFather,” who died last month. In addition to concerts each evening, Kerrville features “Ballad Tree” song-sharing sessions, campfire jam sessions, concerts and activities for children, organized canoe trips on the Guadelupe River and Hill Country bike rides, a professional development program for teachers, as well as a three-day songwriters school and instrumental workshops.

For all the info, go to: www.kerrville-music.com.



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  NEW RELEASES:
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


√  We’ve brought you plenty of ’em in recent editions, so use the sidebar at left, and explore.



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  THIS DAY IN HISTORY:
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


√  Alas, not being here for a while with daily editions makes it impossible to continue this long tradition, along with wishing musicians happy birthdays.



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  TICKET ALERTS
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


√  May 4th is the last day to save up to 35% on tickets to this year's “ROADSHOW REVIVAL – JOHNNY CASH TRIBUTE FESTIVAL” happening Sat, June 14, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Organizers tell us, “When we announce our headliner on Cinco de Mayo this event will sell out!” Tix at:
+
www.roadshowrevival.com
+
To get your discount, use Promo Code RSR2014E

=+=+=+=+=+=

√  There are PLENTY more TICKET ALERTS in the April 29 edition – and other recent editions – for events that have yet to happen, but will likely sell-out. Check recent editions so you won’t miss a great show.




<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
♪  ONGOING MUSIC & ART EVENTS
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


ONGOING, through Jun 1, in downtown L.A:
8 pm  “THE GERSHWINS' PORGY AND BESS” is presented by Center Theatre Group at the Ahmanson Theatre at the L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, Los Angeles 90012; www.musiccenter.org
+
Winner of the 2012 Tony Award® for “Best Musical Revival,” The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess arrives at the Ahmanson Theatre with award-winning members of the Broadway cast in this stunning and stirring new staging. This re-envisioned Broadway production includes such legendary songs as “Summertime” and “I Got Plenty of Nothing.”

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING, through May 10, in San Pedro:
“WOULDN'T IT BE LOVELY?” performed by the San Pedro Rep, runs Wed-Sat at 7:30 at the San Pedro Rep, 311 W 7th St, San Pedro. The port city’s newest repertory theater group offers a twist on a twist, with their new version of “MY FAIR LADY,” based on George Bernard Shaw's “Pygmalion.”

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING, through May 25, in L.A.:
“THE TALLEST TREE IN THE FOREST,” presented by Center Theatre Group, runs Apr 12-May 25 at the Mark Taper Forum at the L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, Los Angeles 90012; www.musiccenter.org
+
Obie Award-winner DANIEL BEATY chronicles PAUL ROBESON’s remarkable life in an extraordinary theatrical biography. Beaty fills the theatre with the dreams, words and songs – American classics like “Ol’ Man River” – of a man who sacrificed everything in the name of liberty. This play, with live music, is directed by Moisés Kaufman.

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING, through May 4, in L.A.:
8 pm  “ALMOST WHITE” a new solo series by Rick Najera, alternating with “SCARRED FOR LIFE” by David Valdez, are comedic stage play productions at Casa 0101 Theatre, 2102 E 1st St, Los Angeles 90033.
+
There is a full feature write-up in the Apr 11 edition’s “events” listing.
+
On opening night, both plays are presented; after that, the two shows alternate. Limited engagement runs Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 5 pm, through May 4.
+
Najera, one of Hollywood’s most prolific playwright-performers, sets the stage for his new play based on his latest memoir, “Almost White: Forced Confessions of a Latino in Hollywood.” Runs April 11, 12, 13, 25, 26 and 27.
+
Alternating with it is:
+
“Scarred for Life: Tale of A Mexican-American Trying to Get Out of East L.A.,” by David Valdez, runs April 11, 18, 19, 20 and May 2, 3 and 4.
+
Tix, $15-$30, at www.casa0101.org. More info at www.ricknajera.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AlmostWhite.

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING at the Getty Villa, through Aug 25, in Malibu:
“Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections” at the Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu; 310-440-7300; parking, $15.
+
Marked by glittering mosaics, luminous icons, and opulent churches, the Byzantine Empire (A.D. 330–1453) flourished for more than one thousand years. Over 170 national treasures from Greece illustrate the development of a mighty empire, from its pagan origins to a deeply spiritual Christian society. This exhibition is presented in conjunction with “Heaven and Earth: Byzantine Illumination at the Cultural Crossroads” at the Getty Center.
+
The exhibition was organized by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports, Athens, with the collaboration of the Benaki Museum, Athens, in association with the J. Paul Getty Museum and the National Gallery of Art, Washington. The exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING at the Getty, through Jun 1, in L.A.:
“JACKSON POLLOCK’S MURAL,” and “HATCHED! CREATING FORM WITH LINE,” are two concurrent temporary exhibitions at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $15.

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING at the Getty, through Jun 8, in L.A.:
“A ROYAL PASSION: QUEEN VICTORIA & PHOTOGRAPHY” and “HIROSHI SUGIMOTO: PAST TENSE” are two concurrent temporary exhibitions at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $15.

= + = + = + = + =

ONGOING at the Getty, through Jun 22, in L.A.:
“HEAVEN AND EARTH: BYZANTINE ILLUMINATION AT THE CULTURAL CROSSROADS” is a new temporary exhibition at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $15.



<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
More, soon, as always.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>


♪  The Guide has made some CH-CH-CHANGES – turn, embrace the change – with more to come as spring becomes summer of 2014. A new editor will soon take over the reins. There are already, and will be more, points of departure to make room (and time) for the new. As always, the Guide will cover all that we can, because we operate with the editor’s motto, “One does what one can.”

<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>

Direct to the current and recent and archived editions /

MOBILE-DEVICE-FRIENDLY editions, and all load quickly at

www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com

<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>

CONTACT US / Questions / Comments / etc., all at

tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com

<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
Contents copyright © 2014,
Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks.
All rights reserved.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules of performances in Southern California venues large and small. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kids o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to proto blues.
.
The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. We’re on it.
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.