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Saturday, August 15, 2015

Hugely Musical Weekend. It’s simply ’uge. And it’s all here. -- Aug 15 & 16 2015 (& into the future...)

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Note: If you are coming to the concert in Pershing Square, the security here is identical to a major airport. That includes their confiscation of your bottle of water. Which is quite illegal at an outdoor event. They are also in clear violation of federal ADA requirements, forcing people in wheelchairs to use a distant rear area. And they are confiscating cameras from members of the press, who are on assignment, and who brought and displayed their credentials (two different media outlets that we saw, and one of those is a sponsor of this concert series, with its logo on the banners alongside the stage). The live music has not yet started, an hour past the advertised time. Our advice? Go somewhere else.
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Here is the full edition as originally published...


♪ FOUR FESTIVALS this weekend, one FREE, all tunefully tasty, one decidedly delicious, AND, so many great CONCERTS – indoors and out – that we gave up trying to count ’em. PLUS some solidly musical stage plays, and a truly legitimate use of that phrase, “...AND MORE.” And whole huge bunches of upcoming things to gratify your planning genes.

Let’s get started.

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Guide to this edition…

1) NEWS FEATURES...
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♪ AMERICA IS BACK, AND IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH BLOVIATING POLITICIANS
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2) FESTIVALS this Weekend...
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♪ “SUMMERGRASS 2015” is the annual bluegrass and rootsy string music fete at the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum in Vista, in San Diego Co. It runs Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16.
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♪ “LONG BEACH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL,” the 22nd annual, brings a huge lineup of top Cajun-Creole-Zydeco performers and very danceable bands, plus vast quantities of perfectly seasoned crawfish, accompanying cuisine, and plenty of N’awlins and Southern Lou’siana culture to Rainbow Lagoon Park, 400-403 Shoreline Village Dr, Long Beach 90802; 562-495-5959. It runs Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16.
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♪ “JAZZ IN THE PINES FESTIVAL,” the 22nd annual, features over two dozen bands, including some traditional and some NEW ORLEANS and CAJUN acts, at Idyllwild Arts, 52500 Temecula Rd, Idyllwild 92549; www.idyllwildjazz.com. It runs Sunday only, Aug 16.
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♪ “ECHO PARK RISING” the annual FREE festival with plenty of music of multiple stages, along with food, kids activities, outdoor stages, 21+ stages in bars, music in restaurants, and more. It includes the “GRAND OLE ECHO STAGE” with AMERICANA / HONKY-TONK / TRAD & ALT COUNTRY, amidst a lot of “alternative” music that dominates everywhere else at this big, rambling, and still fun event. This festival runs all weekend, Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16, FREE, in Echo Park (L.A.)
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♪ OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVAL ROUNDUP...
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FULL details on each Southern Cal festival follow in today’s “Festivals” section...
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3) SATURDAY’s CONCERTS / Music & Arts Scene
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4) SUNDAY’s CONCERTS / Music & Arts Scene
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5) TICKET ALERTS…
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Separate categories for
a) ONGOING EVENTS, like plays in production
b) FESTIVALS AHEAD, are listed in their own section
and then, our ever-growing catalog of...
c) UPCOMING CONCERTS and arts events, single-event screenings, etc.


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1) NEWS FEATURES...
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Just one today. A full News Edition is coming soon.

♪ AMERICA IS BACK, AND IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH BLOVIATING POLITICIANS

This Saturday night, August 15, there’s a very special FREE show in downtown L.A. At 7 pm, AMERICA (after an opening set by THE FREDDY JONES BAND), will play the season closer of this summer’s “Pershing Square Concert Series” in Pershing Square (park), 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles 90013; 310-401-0258.

It’s a Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, but that’s neither here nor there, because this represents more than you may know.

Once upon a time, you could turn on a pop radio station and you’d hear incredible folk-rock music, song after song. There was Linda Ronstadt. The Eagles. Arlo Guthrie. John Denver. Simon & Garfunkle. Jim Croce. Emmylou Harris. Carole King. Cat Stevens. Crosby, Stills & Nash. Joni Mitchell. Seals & Crofts. James Taylor. Carly Simon. Jackson Browne. Late in the game there was Kansas. And through the best days of it all, there was a band called America.

And for those of us who still maintain hope that popular music will be allowed by the commercial music mafia to get good again someday, the ups and downs, stellar successes, struggles, and clinging to straws that led to success that America has experienced? It makes the name of the band a metaphor for the nation’s wild and crazy roller-coaster and sometimes nauseating ride through what’s been happening to American entertainment since the band’s inception.

AMERICA is still widely remembered for its hits "Horse with No Name," “Ventura Highway,” “Sister Goldenhair,” “Muskrat Love,” "Tin Man," "I Need You", and "Lonely People." Formed in 1970 by multi-instrumentalists Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek, and Gerry Beckley. The trio first met in London while their fathers were stationed at the US Air Force base at RAF South Ruislip near London in the mid-1960s. The three attended London Central High School at Bushey Hall where they met while playing in two different bands. Eventually the trio dubbed themselves America, chosen because they did not want anyone to think they were British musicians trying to sound American. Starting out with borrowed acoustic guitars, they developed a style which incorporated three-part vocal harmony with the style of contemporary folk-rock acts, much like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Their first major gig was as the opening act for THE WHO and ELTON JOHN.

AMERICA’s debut album, recorded at Trident Studios in London and produced by Ian Samwell, was released in 1971. Then something happened. A single, "A Horse with No Name," (originally titled “Desert Song") became a major worldwide hit in early 1972. The single sold over one million copies, and was awarded a gold disc by the R.I.A.A. in March 1972. But it wasn’t on that first album. So the debut album was re-released with the hit song added and the album quickly went platinum. In thgose days, the culture was oriented to 33 1/3 vinyl LPs much more than 45 rpm singles. The re-released album resulted in a second major chart success with Beckley's "I Need You", which peaked at No. 9 on the U.S. charts.

After their initial success, the trio decided to relocate to Los Angeles and produce their own second album. AMERICA's second album, “Homecoming,” was released and awarded a gold disc. The group reached the Top 10 again with Bunnell's "Ventura Highway". Other singles, including Peek's "Don't Cross the River" and Beckley's "Only in Your Heart", were only modestly successful, but the group still won a GRAMMY Award for “Best New Artist” of 1972.

AMERICA's output grew increasingly ambitious with their third offering, “Hat Trick,” in 1973. Again self-produced, the album featured strings, harmonicas, an eight-minute title track, and tap dancing. The album was not as successful as “Homecoming,” featuring only one modestly successful single, "Muskrat Love"

After the disappointing commercial performance of the 3rd album, AMERICA enlisted producer GEORGE MARTIN and recording engineer GEOFF EMERICK, who had played a major role in shaping the sound of the Beatles. The result was the album “Holiday,” and with Martin's guidance, it was very different from America's first three efforts, as he enhanced AMERICA's acoustic sound with strings and brass.

The trio soon found themselves in the Top Ten once again with the first single from “Holiday,” the Bunnell-penned "Tin Man." A song written by the newlywed Dan and Catherine Peek, "Lonely People," into the Top Ten.

Martin worked with the trio again for their next LP, “Hearts.” AMERICA scored its second chart-topping success with Beckley's "Sister Golden Hair", a song which featured a memorable opening guitar riff admittedly inspired by GEORGE HARRISON's "My Sweet Lord" and frank relationship lyrics inspired, also admittedly, by JACKSON BROWNE. The follow-up single, "Daisy Jane", also scored among the Top Twenty. Shortly after, Peek's reggae-influenced "Woman Tonight" was a third success.

Warner Bros. released a compilation of AMERICA's best-known tracks in December 1975, titled, “History: America's Greatest Hits,” which scored platinum. Martin, who produced the album, remixed those tracks which were culled from the group's first three albums

The group recorded its sixth studio album at Caribou Ranch near Nederland, Colorado, inspiring the album's title, “Hideaway,” which Martin directed again. Released in April 1976, it saw the band's popularity severely faltering, as the two singles, "Today's the Day" and "Amber Cascades", only managed to reach number 23 and 75 (respectively) in the Billboard charts. Still, songs like "Jet Boy Blue" and "Don't Let it Get You Down" received a lot of airplay on FM Stations.

Martin and the trio went to Hawaii to work on the group's seventh studio album, recording in a beach house on the island of Kauai. The resulting LP, “Harbor,” was released in February 1977, but continued the trend of decreasing sales for the group. It was their first album that failed to score either platinum or gold, and all three of its singles failed to chart.

In May 1977, Dan Peek left the band. Peek recently had renewed his orientation to the Christian religion and began to seek a different artistic direction from Beckley or Bunnell. The two decided to continue as AMERICA, ending their contract with Warner Bros. with the release of their first concert LP, “[America] Live,” in October 1977. Recorded at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles shortly after Peek left the group, the performance featured a backing orchestra conducted by renowned film composer ELMER BERNSTEIN. The album was only mildly successful on the popular charts; whereas all of their previous albums, even “Harbor,” had at least made the Top 30, “Live” just barely inched into the top 130.

After more than two years without new studio material, Beckley and Bunnell presented the group's new style with a cover of The Mamas & the Papas' "California Dreamin'" in March 1979. It was featured on the soundtrack for the movie “California Dreaming,” an unsuccessful film. The soundtrack was issued by the obscure distributor American International, but the single reached No. 56 on the charts.

AMERICA continued to evolve as the 1980s arrived, eschewing the strings and brass of a typical George Martin project in favor of a more pop-rock style. Thes next album, “View from the Ground,” was released in July 1982. It saw the group finally score another commercial success with the song “You Can Do Magic,” which rose quickly through the pop charts, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard pop singles chart for multiple weeks. Their next album, “Your Move,” released in June 1983, was reasonably successful at No. 81.

Despite the appearance of decline, AMERICA's work was featured on several film soundtracks during this period, establishing Beckley and Bunnell’s popularity in Germany. AMERICA recorded "Love Comes Without Warning" for the 1984 STEVE MARTIN comedy, “The Lonely Guy.”

1984 brought a twelfth studio album, ‘Perspective,’ with adecidedly different style, it peaked at No. 185 during a three-week stint in October 1984. Their mainstream commercial success apparently over, Beckley and Bunnell ended their Capitol contract with “In Concert,” recorded live at the Arlington Theater in Santa Barbara, California, and released in July 1985.

Beckley and Bunnell spent the latter half of the 1980s performing their live show well over 100 times a year around the world, and remained a hot ticket on the touring circuit. Still, they were unable to land a recording contract in the years after they left the Capitol label.

By the early 1990s, the development of compact discs led to the reissuing of many older popular albums, providing acts like AMERICA with revived sales. In 1991, America added four new tracks as part of a collection issued by Rhino Records called “Encore: More Greatest Hits,” designed to complement the group's original 1975 retrospective. That enabled some ascendancy. In 1994, they released their first new studio album in a decade, “Hourglass,” produced primarily by Beckley and Bunnell, with help from HANK LINDERMAN and STEVE LEVINE. The album featured an eclectic group of songs, received generally positive reviews, but failed to become a commercial success.

Then in 1995, the “King Biscuit Flower Hour” record label released an AMERICA concert album taken from a 1982 installment of the radio show. Titled “In Concert,” which creates confusion with the 1985 Capitol release of the same name, King Biscuit experienced modest success with the album. It was enough to bring a new record deal with King Biscuit's subsidiary label, Oxygen Records. The result was the album “Human Nature,” named for Beckley's home recording studio. The release got a modest commercial blitz. And that was enough to get the group’s catalog back on the radar. The next few years saw reissues of older albums on CD, and several major retrospective releases. In July 2000, Rhino released “Highway: 30 Years Of America,” a three-CD box set that included 64 remastered tracks spanning the group's career. Included were a handful of alternative mixes and demos such as an early take of a stripped-down "Ventura Highway".

As part of a then-contemporary craze for recycling oldies recordings to create new hits, JANET JACKSON's 2001 single "Someone to Call My Lover" sampled the "Ventura Highway" guitar riff and rose to No. 3 on the Billboard pop charts.

October 2002 brought the AMERICA’s first Christmas album, “Holiday Harmony,” produced by ANDREW GOLD. The album received positive reviews for its imaginative blending of elements of classic AMERICA tunes into familiar holiday standards. Still, it was touring where they remained successful through the decade of the 2000s.

Midway through, a fateful connection brought a sudden and unexpected change in fortune. Around 2005, Beckley began correspondence with ADAM SCHLESINGER of the independent rock music group FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE. Beckley had been a fan of the 2003 Fountains of Wayne album “Welcome Interstate Managers,” and Schlesinger turned out to be a fan of America's work. The exchange of songs between the two resulted in them recording a few tracks together. The recordings came to the attention of SonyBMG's new Burgundy Records label, which was impressed both by the quality of the material and by the possibility of pairing AMERICA with other independent artists. The company contracted America to record a new album with Schlesinger and his musical partner, James Iha, formerly of THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, at the production helm. The recording sessions at Stratosphere Sound in New York City, which ran through July, attracted a number of notable guest musicians, including Ryan Adams, Ben Kweller, Stephen Bishop, Rusty Young, and members of the groups Nada Surf and My Morning Jacket.

Entitled “Here & Now” and released in 2007, it was America's first major-label studio album since “Perspective,” 23 years earlier in 1984. In an effort to aim the album toward both younger and older audiences, the label decided to bundle the new album with a second disc comprising live performances of every track from “History: America's Greatest Hits,” previously recorded at XM Radio as part of XM's “Then Again...Live” series, recorded with longtime America drummer WIL LEACOX, guitarist MICHAEL WOODS and bassist RICHARD CAMPBELL. In the run-up to the album's January 2007 release, AMERICA attracted publicity Beckley and Bunnell hadn’t known since the early ’80s. The release itself was well received by critics, and “Here & Now” went all the way to number 52 in the Billboard charts.

AMERICA was back.

Thanks to receiving growing support from a new generation of musicians, AMERICA finally began to enjoy acclaim from the entertainment industry after a very long absence. In 2006, AMERICA was inducted into the “Vocal Group Hall of Fame.” On February 6, 2012, the group was given a star on the “Hollywood Walk of Fame.” As late as 2009, America performed over 100 shows per year.

America's follow-up to 2007’s “Here & Now” was released on July 26, 2011, and appropriately titled, “Back Pages.” The album is a collection of twelve tracks covering songs from artists ranging from BOB DYLAN and JONI MITCHELL to ADAM SCHLESINGER and the GIN BLOSSOMS. Released on the E1 Music label, the album was produced by FRED MOLLIN, who had originally worked with AMERICA a very long 31 years before on “Alibi.” The album was recorded in Nashville with the help of a number of studio musicians. The album’s release was briefly overshadowed by publicity surrounding the sudden death of founding member DAN PEEK on July 24, 2011.

In February 2014, the band presented a new stage lineup for its energetic and neverending touring. AMERICA continues to perform to sold-out crows around the world. The Pershing Square Downtown Stage is a fine opportunity to catch a FREE performance by one of the most enduring world-class Grammy award winning bands in America, the band AMERICA.

PLUS, on stage tonight...

THE FREDDY JONES BAND is a roots-rock band from Chicago. Despite the name, no member of the band is actually named Freddy Jones. They began when Wayne Healy and Marty Lloyd were attending college in South Bend, Indiana. Healy & Lloyd moved to Chicago and began playing as an acoustic trio with childhood friend Jim Bonaccorsi. They self-released their first album, which was later repackaged and released on Capricorn Records after scoring a local radio hit with "In a Daydream." They continued to build a fanbase both in the Midwest US and nationwide through tours of colleges. Several albums on Capricorn followed, and “North Ave. Wake-Up Call” and “Lucid” both attracted radio airplay (with the songs "Waitress" and "Mystic Buzz") and they cracked the upper echelons of the Billboard charts. Personnel changes saw the two Bonaccorsis leave and bassist Mark Murphy come in. Three-time Grammy winner producer/engineer and mixer Justin Niebank (Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock and on and on) and label partner Timm Martin have helped FJB create what Niebank says is "the best record he has worked on in over three years!" And with the myriad of number-one records Niebank has worked on, that’s impressive, even given the charting success the band has enjoyed. Freddy Jones Band released a new album on June 30, 2015 and tonight’s performance is part of their summer tour promoting the record.

Details at: www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/SummerConcertSeries.html

FREE.



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2) FESTIVALS this Weekend...
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Covered in this section...
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♪ “SUMMERGRASS 2015”
♪ “LONG BEACH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL”
♪ “JAZZ IN THE PINES FESTIVAL”
♪ “ECHO PARK RISING”
♪ OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVAL ROUNDUP...

Details on each festival follow right here...

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Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16,
FESTIVAL,
in San Diego Co:
Annual “SUMMERGRASS 2015” is at the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Av, Vista 92083; 858-679-4854.
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For festival goers, it’s “down on the Farm," where you step back in time, relax, and enjoy a great festival.
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The unique venue where Summergrass happens harks back to the 19th and early 20th century farm days, and it’s brimming with rural farm nostalgia from that era. There are steam and gas engines chugging away, powering historic tractors and farm equipment along other relics, in the Weaver's Barn, the Farmhouse, the Schoolhouse, the 1930s gas station replica (posted price "32 cents a gallon"),and there’s a model railroad, a Blacksmith shop, and plenty to delight young and old. Don’t delay getting your tickets and camping arrangements. Things do fill-up.
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This year Summergrass has a fine lineup, with:
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♪ THE BOXCARS
♪ BECKY BULLER
♪ SIDELINE
♪ BLUEGRASS ETC.
♪ THE BROMBIES
♪ ROCKY NECK BLUEGRASS
♪ LONESOME OTIS
♪ NEXT GENERATION
♪ BOX CANYON
♪ FRONT PORCH MUSIC PRESERVATION SOCIETY
♪ BLUEGRASS BRETHREN
♪ HIGH MOUNTAIN ROAD
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In the past, many of the Summergrass headline performers have either won or have been nominated for International Bluegrass Music Association awards. The combination of national and regional bands on the turn-of-the-19th / 20th century stage built by the museum folks just for the festival. It's constructed without nails, using just dowels and pins to hold it together.
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In all, it’s three days of great live music from twelve national and local bands, and wonderful activities, such as Kids Camp, Meet the Bands, other music workshops and family-friendly things to do, spontaneous jam sessions, and the ever-popular instrument raffles, tasty food, and a variety of vendors. Summergrass is enjoyable for the whole family, a great, affordable family event, and not too far to drive.
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Details, advance tix, camping, etc., are all online at:
www.summergrass.net.


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Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16,
FESTIVAL, in Long Beach:
22nd Annual “LONG BEACH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” brings a huge lineup of top Cajun-Creole-Zydeco performers and very danceable bands, plus vast quantities of perfectly seasoned crawfish and accompanying cuisine, and plenty of N’awlins and Southern Lou’siana culture to Rainbow Lagoon Park, 400-403 Shoreline Village Dr, Long Beach 90802; 562-495-5959.
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The Guide really likes this event, which is a fine value if you purchase your crawfish feast online in advance.
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The music is first-rate at all four of Southern Cal’s annual “Cajun,” “Bayou,” “Crawfish” and Swamp “Gator” events, and the other three all happen in spring and the first days of summer. So it’s a long spell ’til 2016 without sumpin’ to slather with your Trappey’s Hot Sauce if you miss this one.
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Here are the music lineups...
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√ FRIDAY, 5-11 pm...
...concentration on DANCE INSTRUCTIONS to get you ready for the full weekend
♪ BENNIE & THE SWAMP GATORS
♪ A.J. Gibbs — Zydeco to Mydeco, regularly throughout the day and night
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√ SATURDAY, Noon-11 pm...
MAIN STAGE...
♪ Step Rideau & The Zydeco Outlaws
♪ Theo & The Zydeco Patrol
♪ Bonne Musique Zydeco
♪ Acadiana with Teresa Russell
♪ California Feetwarmers
♪ A.J. Gibbs — Mr. 1 Man Show
♪ The High Steppers New Orleans Boogie Band
Plus,
♪ “LALA 2nd Line Dancers” lead the procession marching with the “...Boogie Band”
♪ Appearances by “The Louisiana to LA Society Second Line Dancers” led by Lewis Holt & the New Orleans High Steppers
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√ SUNDAY, Noon-10 pm...
MAIN STAGE...
♪ Ruben Moreno & Zydeco Re-Evolution
♪ Andre Thierry & Zydeco Magic
♪ Felix Y Los Gatos
♪ California Feetwarmers
♪ A.J. Gibbs — Mr. 1 Man Show
♪ The High Steppers New Orleans Boogie Band
Plus,
♪ “LALA 2nd Line Dancers” lead the procession marching with the “...Boogie Band”
♪ Appearances by “The Louisiana to LA Society Second Line Dancers” led by Lewis Holt & the New Orleans High Steppers
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All three days, you can join-in the CONGO LINE DANCE INSTRUCTIONS led by A.J. Gibbs — “Zydeco to Mydeco,” scheduled throughout the day and night.
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Some details...
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On Friday...
♪ BENNIE & THE SWAMP GATORS are in the lineup that rotates 7 pm-closing. Southern California-based, they are one of hottest Cajun-Zydeco bands in the nation. They are a festival secret weapon: Once you hear the Swamp Gator's infectious music “you find it hard to stay in your seat, grooving to the Zydeco beat.”
♪ Also taking the stage Friday night is A.J. GIBBS “MR. 1 MAN SHOW.” AJ tells us, “You are guaranteed to have fun with my style of Zydeco dancing of which I call ‘Mydeco.’ You will learn the basics and how to add freestyle moves to your dancing style. Adding hip hop, break dance, salsa, or whatever to the feel of music.”
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On Saturday...
♪ CALIFORNIA FEETWARMERS (Noon-1:30 pm) are equal parts New Orleans jazz and ragtime, delighting a spectrum of Folk-Americana musical sensibilities. The California Feetwarmers deliver horn-heavy rags, banjo stomps, and happy trad jazz – for your ears... and feet.
♪ ACADIANA WITH TERESA RUSSELL (2-3:30 pm) play the music of the Louisiana greats, including Buckwheat Zydeco, Clifton Chenier, Boozoo Chavis, Beausoleil, John Delafose, Bruce Daigrepont, and many more. With these influences, Acadiana blends its original songs and style with traditional and contemporary Cajun-Zydeco music.
♪ BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO (4-5:30 pm) whose name in Cajun French means, literally, “good zydeco music,” is a six-member band specializing in the Creole music of Louisiana and east Texas, creating a blend of music designed for dancing.
♪ THEO & THE ZYDECO PATROL (6-7:30 pm) is not just another blues band. Their secret spice to the Blues is the Louisiana hot sauce of traditional Cajun and zydeco music.
♪ STEP RIDEAU & THE ZYDECO OUTLAWS (8 pm-closing) offer traditional sounds from Louisiana fused with the urban vibe of contemporary Houston (a huge Cajun center, especially post-Katrina, if you didn’t know), making them one of the top zydeco bands of the Gulf Coast region where the genre originated.
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On Sunday...
Festival runs noon-10 pm, with performances by:
♪ RUBEN MORENO & ZYDECO RE-EVOLUTION
♪ ANDRE THIERRY & ZYDECO MAGIC
♪ FELIX Y LOS GATOS
♪ CALIFORNIA FEETWARMERS
♪ A.J. GIBBS — MR. 1 MAN SHOW
♪ THE HIGH STEPPERS NEW ORLEANS BOOGIE BAND plus LALA 2ND LINE DANCERS
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IMPORTANT: Advance tix are the only way to assure you’ll get one of those huge “Crawfish Platter Feasts” or “Crawfish Buckets,” because they DO sell-out in advance. Plus, advance purchase saves a LOT of money.
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MILITARY PERSONNEL: All United States active military personnel (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) receive FREE General Admission to the Long Beach Crawfish Festival; you must present valid military I.D. at the Ticket Box Office to receive Free General Admission; no purchase is necessary. This offer does not include Crawfish Feast (sold separately). Additional tickets may be purchased online or at the Ticket Box Office onsite.
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Full info and advance tix at:
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www.longbeachcrawfishfestival.com/index.php


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Sun, Aug 16,
FESTIVAL,
in Idyllwild:
22nd Annual “JAZZ IN THE PINES FESTIVAL” features over two dozen bands, including some TRADITIONAL and some NEW ORLEANS and CAJUN acts, at Idyllwild Arts, 52500 Temecula Rd, Idyllwild 92549; www.idyllwildjazz.com
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Performers and fans of jazz, blues, and R&B have a breathtaking mountain campus to themselves after the departure of the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program's thousands of arts-lovers and before the first semester of the Foundation's residential high school, Idyllwild Arts Academy.
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The lineup features:
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♪ Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS play Sunday at 10:30 am, so get there beaucoup early.
♪ The legendary bebop of CHARLES McPHERSON, featuring titans of the contemporary San Diego Jazz scene backing McPherson's masterful saxophone style.
♪ THE GRAHAM DECHTER QUARTET, featuring the Idyllwild Arts Academy graduate's precocious guitar virtuosity, brilliantly supported by JOHN CLAYTON on bass, JEFF HAMILTON on drums, and TAMIR HENDELMAN on piano.
♪ The instrumental versatility and soulful vocal stylings of rising star and 2009 Idyllwild Arts Academy graduate CASEY ABRAMS.
♪ The EUPHORIA BRASS BAND's incendiary mix of old school New Orleans jazz, street funk, and unmistakable West Coast vibe.
♪ MARSHALL HAWKINS, founder of the Idyllwild Arts Academy Jazz Program, whose magisterial upright-bass improvisations recap the evolution of the art form of which he is a distinguished historian.
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Complete Schedule:
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SATURDAY...
MAIN STAGE:
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√ 11 am-12:15 pm -- David Garfield & The Afro Cuban Jazz Project, with David Garfield, leader & keys; Brandon Fields, saxophone; Walt Fowler, trumpet; John Peña, bass; Raul Piñeda, drums; Richie Garcia & Roland Garcia, percussion; special guest Jaymes Felix, vocals.
√ 12:45-2 pm --- Evan Christopher's Clarinet Road with Jason Jackson
√ 2:30-4 pm --- GRAHAM DECHTER QUARTET, with John Clayton, bass; Jeff Hamilton, drums; Tamir Hendelman, piano; Graham Dechter, guitar.
√ 4:15-5:30 pm --- EUPORIA BRASS BAND, with Steven Ebner, trumpet; April West, trombone; JP Balmat, baritone & alto saxophones, clarinet; David Jackson, tenor saxophone; Wayne Rice, sousaphone; Ron Bocian, snare drum & cymbals; Drew Miller, bass drum.
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FRENCH QUARTER STAGE:
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√ 10:30-11:45 am --- EUPHORIA BRASS BAND, with Steven Ebner, trumpet; April West, trombone; JP Balmat, baritone & alto saxophones, clarinet; David Jackson, tenor saxophone; Wayne Rice, sousaphone; Ron Bocian, snare drum & cymbals; Drew Miller, bass drum.
√ 12:15-1:30 pm --- GREG JONES BAND, with Greg Jones, vocals & piano; Dave Pruitt, guitar; Toby Williams, drums; Gene Thorpes, bass; Brittan Egnozzie, vocals; Walter Foley, guitar; Wynell Montgomery, saxophone; Steve Smith, trumpet.
√ 2-3:30 pm --- RUBY & THE RED HOTS, with Etoile "Ruby" Presnell, Bob Boss, Kevin Koch, Cecil McBee Jr., Larry Logan, Mitch Manker, Les Jennings.
√ 4-5:30 pm --- DEANNA BOGART.
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STEPHENS RECITAL HALL STAGE:
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√ 10:45-11:45 am --- THE JOSHUA WHITE TRIO, with Joshua White, piano; Brandon Owens, bass; Jonathan Pinson, drums.
√ Noon-1:15 pm --- FORBITS, with Paul Carman, saxophone; Joey Sellers, trombone; Chris Symer, bass; Kendall Kay, drums; Brad Dutz, percussion.
√ 1:45-2:45 pm --- HARRY PICKENS, with Marshall Hawkins and Roy McCurdy; plus special guest Rose Colella.
√ 3:15-4:15 pm --- DEFINIENS, with Sakura Tsai, violin; David Mergen, cello; Stephen Pfeifer, bass; Jennifer Stevenson, clarinet; Jeanette Louise Yaryan, piano.
√ 4:45-5:45 pm --- HENRY FRANKLIN QUARTET, with Theo Saunders, piano; Azar Lawrence, saxophone; Henry Franklin, bass; Ramon Banda, drums.
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IAF THEATRE STAGE:
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√ 6:30-8:30 pm --- SEAHAWK MODERN JAZZ ORCHESTRA (MOJO).
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SUNDAY...
MAIN STAGE:
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√ 11 am-12:15 pm --- YVE EVANS & V.I.P., with Voices in Praise Gospel Choir.
12:45-1:45 pm --- WEST VALLEY HIGH BAND
√ 2:30-4 pm --- CHARLES McPHERSON QUINTET, featuring Gilbert Castellanos, Joshua White, Rob Thorsen, and Chuck McPherson.
√ 4:15-5:30 pm --- CASEY ABRAMS with HALEY REINHART.
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FRENCH QUARTER STAGE:
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√ 10:30-11:45 am --- LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS (Grammy noms).
√ 12:45-1:30 pm --- CHUCK ALVAREZ BAND, with Chuck Alvarez, guitar & vocals; Bill Saita, bass; Jeff Olsen, drums; Vince Denham, saxophone.
√ 2-3:30 pm --- VYE EVANS TRIO, with Yve Evans, piano & vocals; Bradley Austin Bobo, bass, & vocals; Larry Washington, drums & vocals.
√ 4-5:30 pm --- PETER SPRAGUE QUINTET.
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STEPHENS RECITAL HALL STAGE:
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√ 10:30-11:30 am --- JAZZGRASS, with Barnaby Finch, piano, musical director; Don Reed, dobro, mandolin, guitar; Lily McCabe, fiddle; Keith McCabe, guitar, mandolin; Bill Saitta, bass; Jeff Olson, drums.
√ Noon-1 pm --- MUTTS OF THE PLANET, playing a Joni Mitchell "Mingus" Tribute, with with Robin Adler, Joshua White, Rob Thorsen, Duncan Moore, Tripp Sprague, and Dave Blackburn.
√ 1:45-2:45 pm --- PETER SPRAGUE STRING CONSORT, with Peter Sprague, guitar; Mack Leighton, bass; Duncan Moore, drums; Bridget Dolkas, violin; Jeanne Skrocki, violin; Pam Jacobson, viola; Maksim Velichkin, cello.
√ 3:15-4:15 pm --- HOL;LY HOFFMAN & MIKE WOFFORD QUARTET, featuring John Clayton & Jeff Hamilton.
√ 4:45-5:45 pm --- SEAHAWK JAZZ JAM SESSION, featuring a line-up of special guest stars.
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The Festival site...
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Sponsors tell us, “Idyllwild's stunning natural beauty is complemented by plenty of friendly accommodations that can fit every budget, and by campgrounds that will bring you close to our wildlife.”
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Friday’s VIP package at 6 pm will interest Folk-Americana fans...
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It’s “THE FRENCH QUARTER’S BISTRO LOUNGE,” with a dress code of “Cocktail Attire,” which includes dancing “to the sultry, crowd-stirring sounds of RUBY & THE RED HOTS, with surprise guest appearances,” and “a culinary tour through the red hot cities where jazz cooks,” with dinner featuring cuisine from Chicago, New Orleans, Memphis and Kansas City, and an open bar with fine wines, spirits, and bourbon flights.
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Tix: two-day pass, $110. One-day (Sat OR Sun), $60. Tix at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2015-jazz-in-the-pines-festival-tickets-16109970355


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Fri-Sun, Aug 14-15-16,
FREE FESTIVAL,
in Echo Park (L.A.):
Annual “ECHO PARK RISING” has plenty of music of multiple stages, along with food, kids activities, outdoor stages, 21+ stages in bars, music in restaurants, and more, all weekend long in and around all of Echo Park.
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The “GRAND OLE ECHO STAGE” our readers will appreciate most. It’s an AMERICANA / HONKY-TONK / TRAD & ALT COUNTRY STAGE amidst a lot of “alternative” music that dominates everywhere else at this big, rambling, and still fun event. Now, we do strongly advise that you capture a free printed program of all the music at all the venues as soon as you arrive, because there is A WHOLE LOT happening, and you will find very worthwhile folk and folk-friendly performances scattered through the schedules. As our friends who produce the Grand Ole Echo series told us, not limiting their enthusiasm to their own stage, “So much great music to be heard all weekend and IT'S ALL FREE!”
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Here’s the G.O.E. full schedule. The Grand Ole Echo hosts bands on the patio at The Echo all day on Saturday and Sunday from Noon–10 pm. (The Echo is on Sunset Bl, just a few doors E of where Glendale Bl crosses-under Sunset.)
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Saturday on the GOE Stage...
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♪ Noon --- Caitlin Anne Webster
♪ 1 pm --- Trevor Menear
♪ 2 pm --- Bugaboo
♪ 3 pm --- Johnny Travis Jr.
♪ 4 pm --- Drug Cabin
♪ 5 pm --- Elijah Ocean
♪ 6 pm --- Solar Sons
♪ 7 pm --- BANTA
♪ 8 pm --- Goldstar
♪ 9 pm --- Wild Roses
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Sunday on the GOE Stage...
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♪ Noon -- Greg Felden
♪ 1 pm --- Bones Muroni
♪ 2 pm --- Love and the Zealous
♪ 3 pm --- Ben Reddell
♪ 4 pm --- Jamie Wyatt
♪ 5 pm --- Austin McCutchen & The Western Stars
♪ 6 pm --- Leslie Stevens & The Lemon Trees
♪ 7 pm --- Valley Queen
♪ 8 pm --- Ivory Deville
♪ 9 pm --- Jackson Tanner
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Our Grand Ole Echo friends get the last word on the whole shebang, beyond their own stage: “The festival is free, and one of the best damn times you’re gonna have in L.A. So come party with us!”


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OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVAL ROUNDUP...

Annual “MUDDY FROGWATER COUNTRY CLASSIC FESTIVAL” runs Fri-Sun, Aug 14-16, in Milton-Freewater, Oregon.

Annual “SALMON ARM ROOTS AND BLUES FESTIVAL” runs Fri-Sun, Aug 14-16, in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, Canada.

Annual “HIGH AND DRY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL,” Sat, Aug 15, at the Runway Ranch in Bend, Oregon; with performances by Dan Crary, Martin Stevens & Bill Evans.



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3) SATURDAY’s Concerts / Music & Arts Scene
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(Also be sure to check the FESTIVAL SECTION – Section 2: there’s: ♪ “SUMMERGRASS 2015” – ♪ The “LONG BEACH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” – ♪ “JAZZ IN THE PINES FESTIVAL” – ♪ “ECHO PARK RISING” – ♪ OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVAL ROUNDUP... )

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Sat, Aug 15,
ON THE RADIO,
broadcast & web...
EARLY MORNING: 6-8 am ART PODELL, that veteran of THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS, returns for his wonderful folk-and-beyond music / interview / commentary show that airs on an inscrutably occasional schedule.
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Art tells us, “Saturday morning rolls around and what better way to greet the sun than with some well-chosen musical snapshots of love, lovers, gentle losers, and such? My co-host for this show will be the engaging BOB FLICK, founding member of THE BROTHERS FOUR. We'll be chatting and playing music from back in our day, so we'll be digging into the past, and we’ll be peeking at today's Lotharios and lovers as well. From THE MILLS BROTHERS to THE CLANCY BROTHERS, to (you guessed it) THE BROTHERS FOUR. To dress the salad, we'll be adding some female spice to the mix along with some testosterone from the likes of SPRINGSTEEN. All in all, a perfect accompaniment to a lazy early Saturday morning. If you miss it, the show will be archived on the KPFK.ORG web site and in two weeks, at www.artpodell.com as usual.”

Listen live, 6 to 8 am (Pacific time) at KPFK, 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, OR catch it streaming live at www.kpfk.org

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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in the San Bernardino Mtns:
11:30 am-1:30 pm Monthly “Green Valley Lake Community Jam” is an acoustic / traditional instruments affair led by DIANE GRADY & SANDI HUCKABY on Hammered Dulcimers, at the Saturday Farmer’s Market in Downtown Running Springs. Info, contact Sandi Huckaby, 909-867-7105.

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Sat & Sun, Aug 15 & 16, atop SFV:
Noon & 2 pm “A MUSICAL ROAD TRIP THROUGH AMERICA” summer series continues this weekend with performances Saturday by FAITHFUL CENTRAL BIBLE CHURCH and Sunday by BUYEPONGO at Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, Los Angeles 90049; www.skirball.org; 310-440-4500.
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This summer’s Skirball “Family Amphitheater Performances” take family visitors on “a ramblin’ musical road trip, inspired by Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution.” Series runs Saturdays and Sundays, Jun 27–Sep 6, with performances at noon and 2 pm.
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All performances are included with Museum admission. Free on-site parking; street parking strictly prohibited.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Burbank:
2-11 pm LIVE AMERICANA / TRAD OR ALT COUNTRY in a full lineup on two stages in separate rooms at Cody's Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506.
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√ REX McNEAL & FRIENDS keep it country, at 2 pm
√ THE GREG & CHRIS SHOW time-travels through the hits of the ’50-’80s, at 5 pm
√ THE CODY BRYANT EXPERIENCE, an exhilarating country-surf-rock-Italian session with Viva’s Fearless Leader and his outstanding band, at 8 pm
√ JIMMY ANGEL, electrifying ’50s Bop Cat, at 9:30 pm
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A one-menu-item cover applies. Venue has a full menu & full bar.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in Topanga:
2:30 pm “AS YOU LIKE IT,” plus a special Prologue (pre-show discussion) ONE-TIME ONLY, today, included in ticket price, at 2:30 pm with the show at 3:30 pm. Production is ongoing, on a variable sched., through Sep 26.
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“AS YOU LIKE IT” re-sets Shakespeare to the American Civil War, at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga, midway between Malibu and the San Fernando Valley.
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Note, “the rebel camp is alive with music — banjo, guitar, ukulele, mandolin and more.”
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In this production of “As You Like It, ” director ELLEN GEER moves the tale of two sets of brothers — one alienated by ambition, the other estranged by envy — to the divided South of the post-Civil War era, adding traditional American folk music and dance from the period. Rosalind is forced to flee camp when her uncle Frederick, usurper of his brother’s position as a general in the Union army, threatens to have her killed. Accompanied by her cousin Celia, Rosalind disguises herself as a man for safety's sake. The disguise comes in handy when she tests the devotion of her noble admirer, Orlando, on the run from his hostile older brother. Meanwhile, the rebel camp is alive with music — banjo, guitar, ukulele, mandolin and more. With Rosalind's wit leading the way, the forces of true love, justice and song eventually triumph.
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This production runs June 7 through Sep 26, ALTERNATING WITH OTHER PRODUCTIONS. Production dates / times: Sunday, June 7 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, June 14 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, June 20 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, June 28 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, July 12 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, July 18 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 1 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Aug 9 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 15 at 3:30 pm * • Saturday, Aug 22 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 29 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 6 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 13 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Sep 19 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 20 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Sep 26 at 3:30 p.m .
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A special Prologue (pre-show discussion) happens Saturday, Aug 15 at 2:30 pm. (included in ticket price).
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Tickets range from $10-$39.50; children 6 and under are free. Info, complete schedule of all performances this summer, and advance tix, at 310-455-3723 or www.theatricum.com

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Sat, Aug 15, in San Pedro:
2:30 pm "MUSIC UNDER THE GUNS" series aboard the BATTLESHIP IOWA presents DAVE BRADSHAW JR., on the main deck of the USS Iowa, beneath the huge turrets that fired shells 16 inches in diameter(!), at the ship’s musieum display dock, 250 S Harbor Bl, San Pedro 90731; 877-446-9261; www.pacificbattleship.com
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Enjoying a concert while sitting outdoors “under the guns” aboard a real WW II battleship is a splendid way to enjoy the warm weather and the stunning views of the L.A. Waterfront.
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You can enjoy the Battleship tour before the concert at a discounted combo rate (see their website). No outside food or beverage on board. Concessions will be sold. Proceeds from the concert go towards the restoration and preservation of Battleship IOWA and to support the band.
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Tix are $10 adults, $5 youth/students (with valid ID), and kids age 5 & under are free.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in Altadena:
3 pm NOEL HILL, master of Irish music on the concertina, plays a matinee at the plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-798-6236 (10 am-10 pm); venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com
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THE leading virtuoso of the instrument, Noel Hill has taken the humble concertina from the house dances of County Clare in western Ireland to major stages throughout the world. He is an amazing, inspiring performer and teacher, and well respected authority on Irish traditional music. Noel was born in Caherea in West County Clare and now lives in the district of Connemara in Ireland's County Galway. Hill comes to the US for teaching and concerts only once a year, and this year he is making this rare Southern California appearance, performing a solo concert.
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Tix, $25.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15 (through Aug 16), in L.A.:
3 & 8 pm “HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN” plays the CLOSING WEEKEND at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Av, Los Angeles 90024; 310-208-2028, www.geffenplayhouse.com
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Use the discount code from our friends at “Parlor Performances” when you order your tickets: Code: HersheyParlor
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That gets you the discounted price of $40 ($32 + $8 fee) for any available performance / seat location. The production CLOSES THIS SUNDAY, running Tuesdays-Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 3 pm & 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm & 7 pm.

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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in Rowland Heights:
6 pm TUI LETULI & THE PACIFIC TALENT ACADEMY hold court for a jam session and Pacific Island dance demonstration, presented by the Ford Theatres “off campus” at the Rowland Heights Community Center, 18150 E Pathfinder Rd, Rowland Heights 91748.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in Pasadena:
6-10 pm "BENEFIT CONCERT FOR CLEAN WATER IN THE DEVELOPING WORLD," with short set performances by ED TREE, BRAD COLERICK, KARA GRAINGER, WILL RISBOURG, JONIE BLINMAN & KP, RIC TAYLOR, LORIN HART, WILD MOUNTAIN MYSTICS, CORRINA CARTER, JUSTINE WILLIS, NICK GOODMAN, BRAD LEE SWANSON, DAVE MORRISON, "and probably a few more," in the large hall behind Throop Unitarian, 300 S Los Robles, Pasadena.
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This is a benefit show for CharityWater.org. Dave Morrison explains, "I've become more and more aware of the problem of potable water throughout much of the developing world. Close to a billion people have no direct access to clean drinking water. Can you imagine that?"
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He continues, "What happens is that kids - usually girls - spend much of the day carrying water from distant sources. This interferes with schooling and locks everybody into the cycle of poverty that is so hard to break.
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"Thousands of children die every single day due to diseases related to bad drinking water. That's just not something we can ignore. So, I've been looking around.
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"Several great charities are focusing on this problem: digging wells, running pipe, installing purification systems, building baths and latrines. I like an outfit called CharityWater.org.
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"Their model is based on a 100% promise. They've put a firewall between publicly-raised donations and their own organizational costs. What they do is raise, from large donors, the money for staff, offices, travel and other expenses . And all of the money raised through their public outreach goes directly toward funding the water projects.
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"I like this idea. When we give to the Red Cross after a disaster, we know that the money will find its way somewhere, but when we read stories about big salaries and questionable pay-outs to local authorities, it worries us that our donations are absorbed by the charity organization itself, and never get where we intend for them to go.
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"With CharityWater ... the money goes into the field. Period.
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"It's a great time to get involved in this. Water-filtration systems are cheaper than ever, as are hand-drilling rigs and solar-powered pumps. Water is such a basic first-step on the road out of poverty, that I'm ready to make a commitment to an ongoing effort.
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"This is our first water-specific benefit.
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"We have a great line-up of musicians all donating their time. We'll have some food on hand, but also are actively seeking pot-luck contributions.
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"Additionally, we're trying a new model for the donations themselves. I'll have a lap-top set up and opened to my fund-drive page at the CharityWater website. You all can give whatever you want, using your own credit or debit card, and the receipt will go directly to your email inbox. Cash will also be accepted, and at the end of the show, we'll count it up, and I will donate that amount from my own account, and reimburse myself from the kitty. All neat and completely transparent.
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"I hope to see a bunch of you at this event, and for us to fund a water-project for some deserving folks."
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Bring a potluck dish to share. BYOBFF.
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More at: www.davemorrisonmusic.com

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√ A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in rural VC (near Ojai):
6 pm BILLY LEE & THE SWAMP CRITTERS bring their “Gulf Coast” sound and original Cajun, Zydeco, Blues, and Texas Swing to the summer home of the “Ojai Concert Series,” at Dancing Oaks Ranch, above Lake Casitas, halfway between Ojai and Carpinteria.
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OPENING THE SHOW at 6 pm is local treasure PATRICIA AVIS, singer-songwriter, guitar-, bass-, and ukulele- player, along with CHARLEETA ERB on fiddle and GREG WEISER on drums. The trio performs a selection of original songs and favorite cover tunes.
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Billy Lee and the Swamp Critters, say the hosts, are “sure to get everyone up and dancing. Billy Lee brings his native Southeast Texas / Louisiana roots to create a spicy gumbo of ‘zyde-grooveable’ Cajun & New Orleans Jazz dance music. Playing both original and traditional tunes, this San Diego band keeps the energy flowing and house rockin’! The band just finished up a headlining performance at the famous “GLASONTBURY FESTIVAL” in England, voted ‘Best Festival on the Planet 2015” by POLLSTAR, and the’re headlining the “AMERICA FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL” — a tribute to American Music and the biggest festival of its kind in Europe.
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Dancing Oak Ranch is located just above Lake Casitas, halfway between Ojai and Carpinteria in a picturesque wooded canyon far from the noise and clutter of the big city, with temperatures cooler than Ojai and warmer than on the coast. The event includes a delicious potluck, so bring a dish to share and have a picnic with friends, family and the band members on the grass and under the oaks. Hosts supply the cups, plates, juice, coffee & water, and it’s B-Y-O-B if you want anything stronger. Bring a low-back deck chair, a blanket, a jacket for cooler weather, and a small flashlight to help find your vehicle after the show.
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Directions to Dancing Oak Ranch or advance tix through PayPal, are at: ojaiconcertseries.com
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Tickets are $20, in advance (or at the gate, if any are left), and kids under 15 years are free. More info? Call Shane Butler, 805-665-8852.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Lakewood:
6:30 pm Weekly “BLUEGRASS CONCERT” with a different band every Saturday, at Me N Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl, Lakewood 90712; 562-421-8908.

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Sat, Aug 15, in OC (Mission Viejo):
7 pm LEDWARD KAAPANA, master Hawai’ian slack-key guitarist, plays the first of two dates for the “LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT SERIES,” this time at Mission Viejo Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo 92691; tix & info, 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656.
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Recognition by his peers earned Ledward Kaapana four Grammy nominations in his own right and three Grammy wins on slack key compilations. He has won multiple Hanohano (Hawai‘i’s “Grammy”) awards, including 2009 Favorite Entertainer of the Year. He is unrivaled in his exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and his extraordinary baritone to falsetto vocal range. A delightful performer with kolohe (rascal) charm, Led boasts multiple Na Hoku (Hawaiian Music Awards), including Favorite Entertainer. LED KAAPANA is a musical legend and a National Heritage Fellow.
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“Ledward Kaapana is a master slack key guitarist.”—The New York Times. "…friendly, generous, self-effacing, a little kolohe (rascally) and a flat out genius at just about any stringed instrument that can be finger-picked." --The Honolulu Advertiser.
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“His fleet fingers, leaping phrases and seemingly boundless imagination for improvisation suggest a jazz influence…” -- The Seattle Times
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A master of the slack key guitar, Led Kaapana has been one of Hawai‘i's most influential musicians for four decades. His mastery of stringed instruments, exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and extraordinary baritone to leo ki`eki`e (falsetto) vocal range, have made him a musical legend. With easy-going style and kolohe (rascal) charm, he has built a loyal corps of “Led Heads” from Europe to Australia to his birthplace on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. In 2011, he was honored with an NEA National Heritage Fellowship.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Long Beach:
7 pm BERNIE PEARL, Southern Cal’s own blues master, plays acoustic blues for his residency at Willmore Wine Bar, 3848 Atlantic Av, Long Beach 90807; 562-492-5951.

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√ A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in downtown L.A.:
7 pm AMERICA, plus THE FREDDY JONES BAND, play the season closer of the free summer “PERSHING SQUARE CONCERT SERIES” in Pershing Square (park) 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles 90013; 310-401-0258.
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AMERICA is still widely remembered for its hits "Horse with No Name," “Ventura Highway,” “Sister Goldenhair,” “Muskrat Love,” "Tin Man," "I Need You", and "Lonely People." Formed in 1970 by multi-instrumentalists Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek, and Gerry Beckley. The trio first met in London while their fathers were stationed at the US Air Force base at RAF South Ruislip near London in the mid-1960s. The three attended London Central High School at Bushey Hall where they met while playing in two different bands. Eventually the trio dubbed themselves America, chosen because they did not want anyone to think they were British musicians trying to sound American. Starting out with borrowed acoustic guitars, they developed a style which incorporated three-part vocal harmony with the style of contemporary folk-rock acts, much like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Their first major gig was as the opening act for THE WHO and ELTON JOHN.
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AMERICA’s debut album, recorded at Trident Studios in London and produced by Ian Samwell, was released in 1971. Then something happened. A single, "A Horse with No Name," (originally titled “Desert Song") became a major worldwide hit in early 1972. The single sold over one million copies, and was awarded a gold disc by the R.I.A.A. in March 1972. But it wasn’t on that first album. So the debut album was re-released with the hit song added and the album quickly went platinum. In thgose days, the culture was oriented to 33 1/3 vinyl LPs much more than 45 rpm singles. The re-released album resulted in a second major chart success with Beckley's "I Need You", which peaked at No. 9 on the U.S. charts.
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After their initial success, the trio decided to relocate to Los Angeles and produce their own second album. AMERICA's second album, “Homecoming,” was released and awarded a gold disc. The group reached the Top 10 again with Bunnell's "Ventura Highway". Other singles, including Peek's "Don't Cross the River" and Beckley's "Only in Your Heart", were only modestly successful, but the group still won a GRAMMY Award for “Best New Artist” of 1972.
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AMERICA's output grew increasingly ambitious with their third offering, “Hat Trick,” in 1973. Again self-produced, the album featured strings, harmonicas, an eight-minute title track, and tap dancing. The album was not as successful as “Homecoming,” featuring only one modestly successful single, "Muskrat Love"
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After the disappointing commercial performance of the 3rd album, AMERICA enlisted producer GEORGE MARTIN and recording engineer GEOFF EMERICK, who had played a major role in shaping the sound of the Beatles. The result was the album “Holiday,” and with Martin's guidance, it was very different from America's first three efforts, as he enhanced AMERICA's acoustic sound with strings and brass.
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The trio soon found themselves in the Top Ten once again with the first single from “Holiday,” the Bunnell-penned "Tin Man." A song written by the newlywed Dan and Catherine Peek, "Lonely People," into the Top Ten.
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Martin worked with the trio again for their next LP, “Hearts.” AMERICA scored its second chart-topping success with Beckley's "Sister Golden Hair", a song which featured a memorable opening guitar riff admittedly inspired by GEORGE HARRISON's "My Sweet Lord" and frank relationship lyrics inspired, also admittedly, by JACKSON BROWNE. The follow-up single, "Daisy Jane", also scored among the Top Twenty. Shortly after, Peek's reggae-influenced "Woman Tonight" was a third success.
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Warner Bros. released a compilation of AMERICA's best-known tracks in December 1975, titled, “History: America's Greatest Hits,” which scored platinum. Martin, who produced the album, remixed those tracks which were culled from the group's first three albums
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The group recorded its sixth studio album at Caribou Ranch near Nederland, Colorado, inspiring the album's title, “Hideaway,” which Martin directed again. Released in April 1976, it saw the band's popularity severely faltering, as the two singles, "Today's the Day" and "Amber Cascades", only managed to reach number 23 and 75 (respectively) in the Billboard charts. Still, songs like "Jet Boy Blue" and "Don't Let it Get You Down" received a lot of airplay on FM Stations.
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Martin and the trio went to Hawaii to work on the group's seventh studio album, recording in a beach house on the island of Kauai. The resulting LP, “Harbor,” was released in February 1977, but continued the trend of decreasing sales for the group. It was their first album that failed to score either platinum or gold, and all three of its singles failed to chart.
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In May 1977, Dan Peek left the band. Peek recently had renewed his orientation to the Christian religion and began to seek a different artistic direction from Beckley or Bunnell. The two decided to continue as AMERICA, ending their contract with Warner Bros. with the release of their first concert LP, “[America] Live,” in October 1977. Recorded at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles shortly after Peek left the group, the performance featured a backing orchestra conducted by renowned film composer ELMER BERNSTEIN. The album was only mildly successful on the popular charts; whereas all of their previous albums, even “Harbor,” had at least made the Top 30, “Live” just barely inched into the top 130.
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After more than two years without new studio material, Beckley and Bunnell presented the group's new style with a cover of The Mamas & the Papas' "California Dreamin'" in March 1979. It was featured on the soundtrack for the movie “California Dreaming,” an unsuccessful film. The soundtrack was issued by the obscure distributor American International, but the single reached No. 56 on the charts.
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AMERICA continued to evolve as the 1980s arrived, eschewing the strings and brass of a typical George Martin project in favor of a more pop-rock style. Thes next album, “View from the Ground,” was released in July 1982. It saw the group finally score another commercial success with the song “You Can Do Magic,” which rose quickly through the pop charts, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard pop singles chart for multiple weeks. Their next album, “Your Move,” released in June 1983, was reasonably successful at No. 81.
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Despite the appearance of decline, AMERICA's work was featured on several film soundtracks during this period, establishing Beckley and Bunnell’s popularity in Germany. AMERICA recorded "Love Comes Without Warning" for the 1984 STEVE MARTIN comedy, “The Lonely Guy.”
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1984 brought a twelfth studio album, ‘Perspective,’ with adecidedly different style, it peaked at No. 185 during a three-week stint in October 1984. Their mainstream commercial success apparently over, Beckley and Bunnell ended their Capitol contract with “In Concert,” recorded live at the Arlington Theater in Santa Barbara, California, and released in July 1985.
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Beckley and Bunnell spent the latter half of the 1980s performing their live show well over 100 times a year around the world, and remained a hot ticket on the touring circuit. Still, they were unable to land a recording contract in the years after they left the Capitol label.
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By the early 1990s, the development of compact discs led to the reissuing of many older popular albums, providing acts like AMERICA with revived sales. In 1991, America added four new tracks as part of a collection issued by Rhino Records called “Encore: More Greatest Hits,” designed to complement the group's original 1975 retrospective. That enabled some ascendancy. In 1994, they released their first new studio album in a decade, “Hourglass,” produced primarily by Beckley and Bunnell, with help from HANK LINDERMAN and STEVE LEVINE. The album featured an eclectic group of songs, received generally positive reviews, but failed to become a commercial success.
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Then in 1995, the “King Biscuit Flower Hour” record label released an AMERICA concert album taken from a 1982 installment of the radio show. Titled “In Concert,” which creates confusion with the 1985 Capitol release of the same name, King Biscuit experienced modest success with the album. It was enough to bring a new record deal with King Biscuit's subsidiary label, Oxygen Records. The result was the album “Human Nature,” named for Beckley's home recording studio. The release got a modest commercial blitz. And that was enough to get the group’s catalog back on the radar. The next few years saw reissues of older albums on CD, and several major retrospective releases. In July 2000, Rhino released “Highway: 30 Years Of America,” a three-CD box set that included 64 remastered tracks spanning the group's career. Included were a handful of alternative mixes and demos such as an early take of a stripped-down "Ventura Highway".
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As part of a then-contemporary craze for recycling oldies recordings to create new hits, JANET JACKSON's 2001 single "Someone to Call My Lover" sampled the "Ventura Highway" guitar riff and rose to No. 3 on the Billboard pop charts.
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October 2002 brought the AMERICA’s first Christmas album, “Holiday Harmony,” produced by ANDREW GOLD. The album received positive reviews for its imaginative blending of elements of classic AMERICA tunes into familiar holiday standards. Still, it was touring where they remained successful through the decade of the 2000s.
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Midway through, a fateful connection brought a sudden and unexpected change in fortune. Around 2005, Beckley began correspondence with ADAM SCHLESINGER of the independent rock music group FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE. Beckley had been a fan of the 2003 Fountains of Wayne album “Welcome Interstate Managers,” and Schlesinger turned out to be a fan of America's work. The exchange of songs between the two resulted in them recording a few tracks together. The recordings came to the attention of SonyBMG's new Burgundy Records label, which was impressed both by the quality of the material and by the possibility of pairing AMERICA with other independent artists. The company contracted America to record a new album with Schlesinger and his musical partner, James Iha, formerly of THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, at the production helm. The recording sessions at Stratosphere Sound in New York City, which ran through July, attracted a number of notable guest musicians, including Ryan Adams, Ben Kweller, Stephen Bishop, Rusty Young, and members of the groups Nada Surf and My Morning Jacket.
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Entitled “Here & Now” and released in 2007, it was America's first major-label studio album since “Perspective,” 23 years earlier in 1984. In an effort to aim the album toward both younger and older audiences, the label decided to bundle the new album with a second disc comprising live performances of every track from “History: America's Greatest Hits,” previously recorded at XM Radio as part of XM's “Then Again...Live” series, recorded with longtime America drummer WIL LEACOX, guitarist MICHAEL WOODS and bassist RICHARD CAMPBELL. In the run-up to the album's January 2007 release, AMERICA attracted publicity Beckley and Bunnell hadn’t known since the early ’80s. The release itself was well received by critics, and “Here & Now” went all the way to number 52 in the Billboard charts.
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AMERICA was back.
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Thanks to receiving growing support from a new generation of musicians, AMERICA finally began to enjoy acclaim from the entertainment industry after a very long absence. In 2006, AMERICA was inducted into the “Vocal Group Hall of Fame.” On February 6, 2012, the group was given a star on the “Hollywood Walk of Fame.” As late as 2009, America performed over 100 shows per year.
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America's follow-up to 2007’s “Here & Now” was released on July 26, 2011, and appropriately titled, “Back Pages.” The album is a collection of twelve tracks covering songs from artists ranging from BOB DYLAN and JONI MITCHELL to ADAM SCHLESINGER and the GIN BLOSSOMS. Released on the E1 Music label, the album was produced by FRED MOLLIN, who had originally worked with AMERICA a very long 31 years before on “Alibi.” The album was recorded in Nashville with the help of a number of studio musicians. The album’s release was briefly overshadowed by publicity surrounding the sudden death of founding member DAN PEEK on July 24, 2011.
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In February 2014, the band presented a new stage lineup for its energetic and neverending touring. AMERICA continues to perform to sold-out crows around the world. The Pershing Square Downtown Stage is a fine opportunity to catch a FREE performance by one of the most enduring world-class Grammy award winning bands in America, the band AMERICA.
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PLUS, on stage tonight...
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THE FREDDY JONES BAND is a roots-rock band from Chicago. Despite the name, no member of the band is actually named Freddy Jones. They began when Wayne Healy and Marty Lloyd were attending college in South Bend, Indiana. Healy & Lloyd moved to Chicago and began playing as an acoustic trio with childhood friend Jim Bonaccorsi. They self-released their first album, which was later repackaged and released on Capricorn Records after scoring a local radio hit with "In a Daydream." They continued to build a fanbase both in the Midwest US and nationwide through tours of colleges. Several albums on Capricorn followed, and “North Ave. Wake-Up Call” and “Lucid” both attracted radio airplay (with the songs "Waitress" and "Mystic Buzz") and they cracked the upper echelons of the Billboard charts. Personnel changes saw the two Bonaccorsis leave and bassist Mark Murphy come in. Three-time Grammy winner producer/engineer and mixer Justin Niebank (Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock and on and on) and label partner Timm Martin have helped FJB create what Niebank says is "the best record he has worked on in over three years!" And with the myriad of number-one records Niebank has worked on, that’s impressive, even given the charting success the band has enjoyed. Freddy Jones Band released a new album on June 30, 2015 and tonight’s performance is part of their summer tour promoting the record.
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Details at: www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/SummerConcertSeries.html
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FREE.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in Altadena:
7 pm INCENDIO plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-798-6236 (10 am-10 pm); venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com
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“INCENDIO,” venue impresario Bob Stane says to his beloved patrons of the arts, “now fills every show and every seat. I do not like to send you away with ‘sorry, sold out’ ringing in your ears. Call now. You know I like you and want you so let us not pretend. Use the electric telephone now.”
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INCENDIO, in both Italian and Spanish means “fire” and this moniker is fitting for a musical group whose sound is all about energy, exploration, and passion. At the heart of INCENDIO’s sound is the Latin or Spanish guitar which can conjure up romantic as well as powerful and bold images – they refer to their style as “Latin Guitar World Fusion.” Averaging over 130 concerts a year for the last four years, INCENDIO’s live show has become an explosive improvisatory journey, garnering tremendous audience response in such diverse venues as the Strawberry Music Fest in Yosemite, the Sundance Film Festival, National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, Huntington Arts Festival on Long Island, Ford Amphitheater, California World Festival, the Levitt Pavilions in Pasadena CA, Memphis TN, Westport CT, Bethlehem PA, Arlington TX, and many more. Their latest summer 2013 release, "The Shape of Dreams" has been hitting #1 on the Amazon.com mp3 charts since its release and is playing on radio stations across the US, as well as Pandora and Spotify. INCENDIO is JIM STUBBLEFIELD (guitar), LIZA CARBE (bass and guitar), and JEAN-PIERRE DURAND (guitar). This evening the group will be joined by drummer TIM CURLE.
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Plenty more at: www.incendioband.com
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Tix, $20.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Palmdale:
7 pm AVENUE P, plus MAJOR MINUS, play a double-bill at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530.
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Kevin Burton Smith, Butler’s Music Guy, says, “All you cats and chicks can get your kicks this Saturday, when hometown heroes AVENUE P & Pasadena's MAJOR MINUS take the Butler's stage, for a certified teen scene scream dream! First up are Highland High's very own Battle-of-the-Bands-winning AVENUE P, the jazz / rock / soul combo that offers up a soothingly cosmic blend plus outright groovitude, guaranteed to make your inner hepcat smile. Suffice it to say that Paul Ajodha (bass), Jordan Chevis (drums), Faizan Khan (guitar), Victor Landry (saxophone) and Sakib Quyoumx (trumpet) make beautiful music together, dishing out a solid array of choice originals, tasty jazz classics, and where-did-that-come-from? covers of modern pop that will have you movin’ and a-groovin’ and a-boppin' to the beat. How talented are these guys? ‘They scare me,’ says REVOLT WITH REASON's own Kevin Church.”
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Kevin continues, “And then, having played the stages of such renowned venues as THE HOUSE OF BLUES & CLUB NOKIA, the band MAJOR MINUS makes their Butler's debut! This hot new teen indie-rock musical collective fuses rock, indie pop, and ‘operatic raw vocals’ into one rockin' sound, and has been garnering some serious buzz among industry big shots like Grammy-nominated producer Ghian Wright (Paul McCartney, Oasis, John Legend) who worked with the band on their rockin’ debut EP. Bass player Noah Herndon, drummer Lukas Hutzler, lead guitarist Erwin Mendez and singer-songwriter Charlie Smith, he of the powerhouse vocals & kick-ass songwriting mojo. Two hot bands, a slew of hot musicians. It’ll be a hoppin' bopp'n' rockin' kinda night, and while you might not know, the little girls understand.”
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Cover is one purchase, food or drink (coffeehouse fare, includes tasty items suitable to call dinner).

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Sat, Aug 15, in Topanga:
7-9 pm MURPHY'S FLAW plays their monthly bluegrass residency at Froggy's Topanga Fish Market Restaurant, 1105 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; 310-455-1728 7.

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Sat, Aug 15, in La Mirada:
7 pm Monthly “PORCH THERAPY MUSIC & POETRY CIRCLE” is at “the home of Stella” in La Mirada. Resrvations get directions at 323-353-0156 or by email to stellacruz707@hotmail.com

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / T.O. area):
7:30 pm DAN NAVARRO, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and half of the lost and loved LOWEN & NAVARRO, joined by two of L.A.'s top musicians, guitarist STEVE POSTELL and keyboard / accordion player PHIL PARLAPIANO, at Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park.
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BUT, WAIT! ISN’T THIS SOLD-OUT?
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The hosts tell us, “Due to a number of last minute cancellations, we unexpectedly have a little bit of space for our House Concert this Saturday. The suggested donation for the evening is just $20 per person, payable in cash at the door. All the money goes to the performers. We will also have our usual ‘potluck’ style coffee and dessert buffet. The show is called for 8 pm. Doors open at 7:30 pm.”
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Reservations get directions at: rsvp@houseconcerts.us

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Sat, Aug 15, in SGV (Arcadia):
7:30-11:30 pm CITY BEAT, a blues band comprised of “Law Enforcement and Friends,” plus sets by topnotch house band BOBBY BLUEHOUSE, at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr (just E of Santa Anita Av), Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com
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Doors at 7 pm. Venue has good food (generous portions), full bar, pool tables. Substantial discount for tix bought online. Fun place, but bring earplugs. Seriously.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in OC (Anaheim):
7:30 pm JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS plus HANS YORK are a splendid double-bill at “THE LIVING TRADITION” monthly Folk-Americana concert series at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim 92805; tix, 714-955-3807 or www.thelivingtradition.org
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HANS YORK, that globetrotting amazingly talented guitarist-composer-songwriter, shares the evening with a fine local band, JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS.
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“York's voice feels as smooth as an FM-Jazz announcer and pulls me right in. It's the perfect voice to front such richly textured music. He's a true Renaissance musician, skilled in many genres, knowing exactly how to blend them and sweep me off my feet.” – Jennifer Layton (Indie-music.com)
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"Hans York is a man of vast musical talents and one of the best songwriters around," wrote European Weekly in April, 2005.
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“Hans York reliably delights listeners every time he is a guest in-studio performing on ‘Tied to the Tracks’ here on the radio in Los Angeles.” – Tied to the Tracks, 2007.
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Hans quickly made himself a name as an extraordinary DADGAD player and strong, engaging performer with a distinctive style and an irrepressibly delightful and approachable manner. His intimate and distinctive voice draws comparisons to Paul Simon, Kenny Rankin or Michael Franks and captures the audience with its honesty and clearness.
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He accompanied ROBERT PALMER on German TV, toured as bass player with the New York BROADWAY ENSEMBLE, played throughout Europe with master harp player RÜDIGER OPPERMANN, and performed a concerto as soloist on fretless bass with the ARS QUITTILINGA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA, in the concerto written by contemporary East German composer Thomas König.
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Hans York co- founded the German “world music” cult band MOKA EFTI and recorded three CDs with them. The band’s third album, “Fata Morgana,” features US saxophonist CHARLIE MARIANO and producer-saxophonist HEINRICH VON KALNEIN of the Vienna Art Orchestra.
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Hans spent six months in Rio de Janeiro where he studied Samba, Bossa Nova, and popular Brazilian music, an experience that, upon his return to Germany, inspired his first solo album “Hazzazar” and the follow up album, “Sau Gut.”
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With his first American album, “Inside Out,” York broke-down the walls between world, pop, folk, jazz and acoustic music by improbably but smoothly blending all these styles with elegance and grace, resulting in a refreshingly original and intriguing work that shines with imagery and a joyful celebration of life and love.
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Hans York is a world musician in the true sense of the term, drawing most of his present day inspiration from his vast eclectic background. The guy is good, and you’ll thank the Guide if you go see him.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Ventura:
7:30 pm CONCERT SERIES continues through Aug 16 at the 140th Annual "VENTURA COUNTY FAIR" at the fairgrounds complex, 10 W Harbor Bl, Ventura; 805-648-3376.
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Keep in mind there is music throughout the fairgrounds on multiple small stages. So peruse the daily schedule you can pick-up at the gate.
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The fair's Grandstand Concerts series is FREE with paid fair admission. Other musical entertainment happens throughout the fair, but we do not have that info.
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There are Free Rodeos on Sat & Sun, Aug 15 &16 at 2 & 7 pm.
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Full info at:
www.venturacountyfair.org

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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in Newhall (Santa Clarita):
7:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES play their weekly bluegrass residency, sometimes with impressive guest players, at Vincenzo's Pizza, 24500 Lyons Av, Newhall 91350. No cover.

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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in L.A.:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY,” FREE weekly roots-country-Americana show presented by EB's Beer & Wine Bar in the West Food Court at the Original L.A. Farmer’s Market, 6333 West Third St (3rd & Fairfax), in L.A. 90036.
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Free, except for the parking and whatever you eat & drink.

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Sat, Aug 15, in SFV (Granada Hills):
7:30-11 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “ONION BAGEL OPEN STAGE & JAM” at Temple Beth Torah, 16651 Rinaldi St, Granada Hills 91344.

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Sat, Aug 15, in downtown L.A.:
(Time tba) CLOSING NIGHT for “REDCAT PRESENTS: NEW ORIGINAL WORKS FESTIVAL” (Jul 30-Aug 15) at the Roy and Edna Disney / CalArts Theater, at the L.A. Music Center.
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Each summer, REDCAT celebrates the vitality of Los Angeles' vibrant community of artists making work for the stage by transforming the REDCAT theater into an artist-driven creative laboratory where disciplines are challenged and blurred, traditions are re-imagined, and hybrid visions take hold. This year's three-week festival launched nine new original works by Los Angeles dance, theater, music and multimedia performing artists.

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√ A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, in SaMo:
8 pm Late addition at McCabe’s with JOSEPH ARTHUR, in their music hall at 3101 W Pico, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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The venue’s booker Lincoln Myerson tells us, “We're moving fast and loose at McCabe's this summer as we've just confirmed an AWESOME last minute show this Saturday with the great JOSEPH ARTHUR. For every song Joseph Arthur has released in a critically acclaimed, Grammy-nominated career that has spanned ten full-length albums and 11 EPs, he's probably kept three others in the vault. Indeed, Arthur has been known to start working on a new album - or two - while simultaneously trying to finish another. Last time he was here, he'd just put out ‘The Ballad of Boogie Christ,’ an album that drew raves from fans like Peter Gabriel and Michael Stipe. Last year, he recorded a dozen Lou Reed covers, all without drums or electric instruments, and released it as ‘Lou.’ His new album is called ‘Days Of Surrender,’ and it showcases Arthur's work as an artist as well as his music. The album will only be available on cassette (??!!??) and as files on a USB thumb drive, complete with original paintings and other artwork. Only ONE (1) CD will be sold, as a package with the touring van that Arthur and his band just finished using! The hand-painted van, itself a work of art, serves as the packaging for the disc, and you can have them both for just $14,999 (if they're not already sold). Considerably cheaper in both purchase price and maintenance costs are tickets to this show. Get them while you can. Joe sells out every time. WOW!”
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Tix, $20.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15 (through Aug 16), in L.A.:
8 pm “HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN” plays the CLOSING WEEKEND at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Av, Los Angeles 90024; 310-208-2028, www.geffenplayhouse.com
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Use the discount code from our friends at “Parlor Performances” when you order your tickets: Code: HersheyParlor
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That gets you the discounted price of $40 ($32 + $8 fee) for any available performance / seat location. The production CLOSES THIS SUNDAY, running Tuesdays-Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 3 pm & 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm & 7 pm.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in Pasadena:
8 pm JIMMY LaFAVE, major nu-folk-Americana star, plays the FREE outdoor Summer Concert Series at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Memorial Park, 85 E Holly St, Pasadena 91103; 626-683-3230.
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Activities begin at 6:30...
• KidZone 
• an additional artist does a "Sidestage Performance" at 7 pm.
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Ride the Metro Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station and you’re right there.
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Bring lawn chairs or a blanket, and a picnic (no alcohol allowed in the park, and that’s enforced with expensive citations) or grab a bite to eat from the “Taste of Levitt Pavilion Pasadena” (rotating food trucks). Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show performances on the little “Grassy Hill Side Stage,” and check out the local “Community Partners” while the little ones enjoy the KidZone.
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Free, except what you buy to eat. More at: www.levittpasadena.org

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Sat, Aug 15, in L.A.:
8 pm L.A. SYMPHONY performs in the Walt Disney Concert Hall at the L.A. Music Center.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Culver City:
8 pm JOHN STANDEFER and BROOKS ROBERTSON play the concert series at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.

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Sat, Aug 15, in San Diego:
8 pm TRIO BALKAN STRINGS plays St. George Social Hall, 3025 Denver St, San Diego 92117.
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"Trio Balkan Strings dedication to the music of the Balkans and central Europe is inspiring. The guitar interpretations of this music are wonderful. Really good" – John McLaughlin.
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TRIO BALKAN STRINGS brings Balkan Swing - World Fusion, and they’re on a USA tour. The trio is ZORAN STARCEVIC & sons, and they perform original guitar music, a fusion of Balkan music: Serbian, Gypsy, Macedonian, Romanian, Moldavian, Bulgarian, Hungarian, Mediterranean, Greek, Oriental…Jazz, Gypsy Swing, Classical music, asymmetrical rhythms and original guitar interpretation. The result, combining many cultures, is BALKAN SWING - WORLD FUSION, virtuoso, rich and unconventional, fresh and spontaneous, brimming with energy. Authentic, attractive music with the finest taste, real presentation of guitar music in Balkan Jazz style, unique interpretation from three of them and the universal music language, without frontiers. A real music trip by Balkan carpet, so if you like Jazz, Swing, Ethno, Classical, or you simply like guitar music, it is your perfect choice. They invented 6 hands playing on 1 guitar and that is their trademark. They have performed in many Festivals (Jazz, Classical Guitar, World music) and concerts in: USA, Canada, Italy, Poland, Hungary, Turkey, Russia, Moldova, Slovakia, Chech Republic, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Spain, UK, Lithuania, Estonia, Norway, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Serbia. They just played the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena; they’re currently on a US tour.

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Sat, Aug 15, in SFV (West Hills):
8 pm "JEFF GOLD'S MONTHLY ACOUSTIC CONCERT SERIES" brings recording artists playing all-acoustic to West Valley Music Center, 24424 Vanowen St, West Hills 91307; 818-992-4142; www.westvalleymusiccenter.com
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Tix, $15.

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Sat, Aug 15, in Silverlake (L.A.):
8 pm Monthly “SONGWRITER'S SQUARE” at the Lyric-Hyperion Theatre & Café, 2106 Hyperion Av, Silverlake.

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Sat, Aug 15, in OC (Costa Mesa):
8 pm LIVE MUSIC at the ORANGE COUNTY FAIR, at OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa 92626.
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The act on the Pac Amp stage is STEEL PULSE - THE WAILERS at 8 pm, “The Hangar” Stage has ZEPPELIN LIVE - LIVE ROCK TRIBUTE TO LED ZEPPELIN at 8 pm, and “The Promenade” Stage has something you may like.
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And there’s the ONE YOU’LL WANT TO SEE...
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DANNY MAIKA, a vocal chameleon and ukulele player, plays “The Promenade” stage (he has a residency Aug 12 through Aug 16), and that’s the action on the three principal stages tonight at the 125th Annual “ORANGE COUNTY FAIR,” which has live concerts day and night, with 8 pm headliners each night at the Pac Amp, and on “The Hangar” stage, and on “The Promenade” stage, and elsewhere in other nooks and crannies on the grounds and whatever other stages.
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Oh, and there’s the “WILD WEST TURKEY STAMPEDE”
...daily from Aug 12 through Aug 16, at 2 pm, 4 pm, 6 pm, & 8 pm, somewhere in the fair where you can get your feathers ruffled.
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The OC Fair runs Jul 17 to Aug 16, 2015. It has two principal music venues – Pac Amp and The Hangar – plus other stages like “The Promenade,” all active with musical entertainment, and all of it free with admission. We’ll endeavor to keep you posted about all the listenable music on all the stages. The headline acts all play the “2015 Toyota Summer Concert Series at Pacific Amphitheatre.”
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“The Hangar” is an aviation hangar-style building with a 50-foot arched ceiling, Fairgoers can enjoy live entertainment, including music and other types of performances. All tickets include free OC Fair admission. Free-with-admission community entertainment is also scheduled daily, see the Daily Schedules on the fair’s website for a list of free entertainment.
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** Full sched. for Pac Amp during the fair:
http://www.pacamp.com/pa/
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** Full sched. for the Fair’s OTHER principal stage, The Hangar, is at:
http://www.ocfair.com/2015/thingstodo/the_hangar.asp
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And check out:
http://www.ocfair.com/2015/thingstodo/free_entertainment.asp
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ALL stages are free with admission to the OC fair.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Sat, Aug 15 (through Sep 12), in SGV (Sierra Madre):
8 pm “ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE” is a big time music-filled show at the charming little Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre; 626-355-4318; www.sierramadreplayhouse.com
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This is the fastest ticket-seller in the Playhouse’s history. To accommodate the extraordinary demand, additional matinee performances have been added. Don’t dawdle getting tickets to this one. (The Guide” News Feature that announced the production’s opening night is re-run here.)
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It’s a real, live stage MUSICAL, a theatrical production focusing on the vocal magic of PATSY CLINE, you’ll experience how she evoked the heartbreak and longing that have made her songs country and pop classics. Written by Ted Swindley, directed by Robert Marra, with musical director Sean Paxton, it’s a Sierra Madre Playhouse production starring CORI CABLE KIDDER and NIKKI D’AMICO.
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“Always….Patsy Cline” depicts the legendary singer backed by a live band performing twenty-seven of her greatest hits in this jukebox musical. Patsy Cline (1932-1963) was one of the most popular and influential vocalists of the 20th Century.
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Although most associated with country music, she was the first female crossover artist, also singing traditional pop, torch songs, rockabilly, honky-tonk, country swing, and gospel. The first female solo artist admitted to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Patsy was also included among “The 100 Greatest Women in Rock and Roll” by VH1, “The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time” by Rolling Stone, and “The 40 Greatest Women of Country Music” by CMT.
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She first appeared on radio in Winchester, VA in 1947. In 1954, country star Jimmy Dean brought her aboard as a regular on the radio show “Town and Country Jamboree” in Arlington, VA. In 1955, she began appearing on television, on the TV version of “Grand Ole Opry” and on “Ozark Jubilee.”
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But it was her sensational success on “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts” in 1957 that truly launched her as a national figure. Godfrey’s show, a precursor of competitions like “Star Search” and “American Idol,” also launched Ann-Margret and Pat Boone, among others.
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“Always…Patsy Cline” is based on a real incident that occurred in 1961. Super-fan Louise Seger befriends Cline before a concert in Houston. After the show, Louise takes her home, cooks her breakfast and appears with her on a local radio broadcast. The two maintain a correspondence, writing each other letters until Cline’s untimely death in a Tennessee plane crash in 1963. The star closed each of her letters to Seger, “Always…Patsy Cline.”
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CORI CABLE KIDDER portrays PATSY CLINE. A graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, she toured with IN THE MOOD and sang at Tokyo Disney for a year. Coming to L.A., she appeared in+ “The Producers” and with SWING DAMES, performing the music of the Andrews Sisters.
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NIKKI D’AMICO plays Louise. Her extensive musical theater credits include National Tours of “Evita,” “Cats,” “A Chorus Line,” “The Fantasticks,” “Chaplin,” “West Side Story,” and more. Most recently, she appeared with Pacific Resident Theatre in its Ovation-nominated production of “A View from the Bridge.”
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ROBERT MARRA directs. In addition to numerous New York credits, his local shows include “The World Goes Round,” “Once on this Island,” “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” “Into the Woods,” “Chess in Concert,” “The Devil and Daisy Jane,” “A Chorus Line,” and many more. He is also a choreographer.
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TED SWINDLEY is the playwright. He was the Founding Artistic Director of Stages Repertory Theatre in Houston. He also wrote “Stories My Grandmother Told Me.” Fans of Patsy Cline’s music will be in musical heaven as they’ll hear, performed live, twenty-seven of her greatest hits, including “Walkin’ After Midnight” (the Godfrey show hit), “Sweet Dreams” (a signature tune for Cline, although originally a hit ten years earlier by Faron Young), “Crazy” (written for her by WILLIE NELSON), “I Fall to Pieces,” “She’s Got You,” “Your Cheating Heart,” and many more.
+
“Always…Patsy Cline” debuted in 1988. It is one of only two stage productions about the singer licensed and authorized by The Estate of Patsy Cline. In addition to affording a revue of great songs, “Always…Patsy Cline” is a heartwarming story of an enduring friendship.
+
“Always… Patsy Cline” runs July 31-Sep 12, 2015, on this schedule: Fri’s & Sat’s at 8 pm, Sun’s at 2:30 pm. Additional matinees have been added at 2:30 pm on Thu, Aug 27; Sat, Aug 29; Sat, Sep 5; Sat, Sep 12, and Sun, Sep 13.
+
Tix: $30 gen’l. Seniors (age 65+) $27. Students (ages 13-21) $20. Children age 12 and under, $17. Call for tix. Ample free parking behind theatre.

++++++

Sat, Aug 15, in SFV (Chatsworth):
8 pm DEBRA LEE & TRIGGER HAPPY play the first of two nights at the Cowboy Palace, 21635 Devonshire St, Chatsworth; 818-341-0166.
+
Go early for the free dance lessons at 7:30 pm.
+
Every night, they present LIVE AMERICANA / ALT OR TRAD COUNTRY / HONKY TONK music for listening and dancing – unless they’re closed when Hollywood rents the place to shoot a movie or tv show, and the place has been in hundreds of film and tv shoots over the years.
+
This is L.A.’s last real honky-tonk, no cover, full bar, and friendly people who, howdy pardner, all like to dance. Go early for the free dance lessons. There’s live music EVERY night, seven nights a week; sometimes acoustic, sometimes heavy on the pedal steel or the twang, but never that annoying fahke ackscent pop-“country” Nashvulle scene.

++++++

Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in Riverside Co (Murrieta):
9 pm BRICK TOP BLAGGERS play the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.getshamrocked.com; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com
+
The band is back on the scene following a creative break after doing some recording.
+
No cover, and the venue’s chef has some good specials tonight, so you can go early and eat.

++++++

Sat, Aug 15, FREE, in Culver City:
9 pm AMERICANA / ALT or TRAD COUNTRY / HONKY TONK MUSIC is a distinct possibility tonight at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bld, Culver City 90230.
+
No cover. Venue is 21+, the size of a postage stamp, and barstool seating is competitive. Still it’s always a fun place.

++++++



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4) SUNDAY’s Concerts / Music & Arts Scene
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(Also be sure to check the FESTIVAL SECTION – Section 2: there’s: ♪ “SUMMERGRASS 2015” – ♪ The “LONG BEACH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” – ♪ “JAZZ IN THE PINES FESTIVAL” – ♪ “ECHO PARK RISING” – ♪ OUT-OF-TOWN FESTIVAL ROUNDUP... )

÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷

Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Hollywood:
8 am-1 pm FAIR MARKET BAND plays their weekly free gig at the Hollywood Farmers Market, at Ivar Av & Selma Av, Hollywood 90028.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in San Diego:
10 am-2 pm Weekly “BLUEGRASS BRUNCH” on the patio at Urban Solace restaurant, 3823 30th St, San Diego; 619-295-6464; check online for menus and more at: www.urbansolace.net

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, atop SFV:
Noon & 2 pm “A MUSICAL ROAD TRIP THROUGH AMERICA” summer series continues this weekend with performances Saturday by FAITHFUL CENTRAL BIBLE CHURCH and Sunday by BUYEPONGO at Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, Los Angeles 90049; www.skirball.org; 310-440-4500.
+
This summer’s Skirball “Family Amphitheater Performances” take family visitors on “a ramblin’ musical road trip, inspired by Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution.” Series runs Saturdays and Sundays, Jun 27–Sep 6, with performances at noon and 2 pm.
+
All performances are included with Museum admission. Free on-site parking; street parking strictly prohibited.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in the San Gabriel Mtns:
Noon-5 pm "ACOUSTIC MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS" summer concert series brings THE STILL MOVING PROJECT; TIM TEDROW; LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS; and maybe more, to play the weekly summer acoustic concert series at Adams Pack Station, on Chantry Flat Rd, above Sierra Madre (with an Arcadia address, which is crazy, ’cause it’s waaay up in the National Forest); 626-447-7356.
+
This summer’s concert series often attracts notable local artists. The place is historic, the last remaining horse-and-mule pack station in the San Gabriels, and the ambiance can’t be beat. Terry Okey, who has played there, adds, “[The series] features L.A.’s most heartfelt folk, country, and bluegrass bands. With tasty food and craft beer, great hiking, wonderful music and fun folks, Adam’s Pack Station is the place to relax this summer. This beautiful forested location is the perfect setting to hear the new country-rock and folk bands.”
+
Go N from the 210 Fwy on Santa Anita Av, up into the mountains, to the end of the road. Tell them at the gate that you’re there for the music and they will find you a place to park ($10). There is food and drink available at the pack station, usually BBQ and beer. Also the possibility of special performing guests - maybe Wild Mountain Mystics, maybe Joey Vreeland.
+
No cover, but parking up there does cost.
+
More at: www.adamspackstation.com

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Riverside Co (Murrieta):
Noon “RIFF'S MUSIC SCHOOL SHOW” takes the stage at the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.getshamrocked.com; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com
+
The big show here is at 4 pm: traditional Irish Music with CIARRAI – their names means “Kerry” in Irish, and that’s they come from County Kerry, Ireland.
+
No cover, and the venue’s chef has some good specials tonight, so you can go early and eat.

++++++

Sun, Aug 15, in Griffith Park (L.A.):
1-3 pm Monthly “WESTERN MUSIC JAM” cosponsored by the Western Music Association’s California Chapter at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, Los Angeles 90027; 323-667-2000.
+
Performing participants and Western Music Assoc. members for this event get free admission to the museum; others pay regular admission price. Go early, see then museum’s exhibits (especially the temporary ones that won’t be there long) and have lunch in the café.

++++++

Sun, Aug 15, in SFV (Van Nuys):
1-5 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “EAST VALLEY HOOT” in Van Nuys 91411. Location and info at www.songmakers.org

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in downtown L.A.:
(Time tba) “AFTERNOON DELIGHT L.A. 2015” happens on the Rooftop at the Standard, 550 S Flower St, Los Angeles 90071. Cost is “$0 - $17.”

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in OC (Newport Beach):
2 pm THE WHOOLIGANS play the "Courtyard Concert Brunch & Tunes" series at Muldooon's Irish Pub, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; 949-640-4110; www.muldoonspub.com
+
The Whooligans, the band of Ed Bell "and the Boys," are wonderful musicians and a fun "pub band," one of the top traditional Irish groups around.
+
More at: www.thewhooligans.com

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in San Diego Co (La Jolla):
2 pm INCENDIO, that exceptionally noteworthy trio of fiery acoustic string wizards, plays the “La Jolla Summer Concerts” series in La Jolla.
+
Details at: www.incendioband.com

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16 (through tonight), in L.A.:
2 pm “HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN” plays the CLOSING WEEKEND at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Av, Los Angeles 90024; 310-208-2028, www.geffenplayhouse.com
+
Use the discount code from our friends at “Parlor Performances” when you order your tickets: Code: HersheyParlor
+
That gets you the discounted price of $40 ($32 + $8 fee) for any available performance / seat location. The production CLOSES TONIGHT with the 7 pm show.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Burbank:
2-10 pm LIVE AMERICANA / TRAD OR ALT COUNTRY in a full lineup on two stages in separate rooms at Cody's Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506.
+
√ BLUE MONDAY is first up today at 2 pm, on one stage
√ PETE ANDERSON, Grammy-winning producer and world class blues guitar champion, at 3 pm on the other stage
√ “THE MESSAROUND,” the monthly music extravaganza, brings the return of ’60s Sunset Strip rockers THE MAYWINES, Dan West's superb glam-garage outfit SIDEWALK SOCIETY, the raging guitars of THE LIVINGSTONS, fabulous high-impact rock & rollers THE KATELLAS, all starting at 6 pm
+
A one-menu-item cover applies. Venue has a full menu & full bar.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, atop SFV:
2 pm “A MUSICAL ROAD TRIP THROUGH AMERICA” summer series continues this weekend with performances Saturday by FAITHFUL CENTRAL BIBLE CHURCH and Sunday by BUYEPONGO at Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, Los Angeles 90049; www.skirball.org; 310-440-4500.
+
This summer’s Skirball “Family Amphitheater Performances” take family visitors on “a ramblin’ musical road trip, inspired by Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution.” Series runs Saturdays and Sundays, Jun 27–Sep 6, with performances at noon and 2 pm.
+
All performances are included with Museum admission. Free on-site parking; street parking strictly prohibited.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in OC (Newport Beach):
2 pm "SUNDAY BRUNCH & TUNES" series brings IRISH or AMERICANA music to Muldoon's Irish Pub, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; www.muldoonspub.com
+
There may be more music at 6 pm.

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16 (through Sep 12), in SGV (Sierra Madre):
2:30 pm “ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE” is a big time music-filled show at the charming little Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre; 626-355-4318; www.sierramadreplayhouse.com
+
This is the fastest ticket-seller in the Playhouse’s history. To accommodate the extraordinary demand, additional matinee performances have been added. Don’t dawdle getting tickets to this one. (The Guide” News Feature that announced the production’s opening night is re-run here.)
+
It’s a real, live stage MUSICAL, a theatrical production focusing on the vocal magic of PATSY CLINE, you’ll experience how she evoked the heartbreak and longing that have made her songs country and pop classics. Written by Ted Swindley, directed by Robert Marra, with musical director Sean Paxton, it’s a Sierra Madre Playhouse production starring CORI CABLE KIDDER and NIKKI D’AMICO.
+
“Always….Patsy Cline” depicts the legendary singer backed by a live band performing twenty-seven of her greatest hits in this jukebox musical. Patsy Cline (1932-1963) was one of the most popular and influential vocalists of the 20th Century.
+
Although most associated with country music, she was the first female crossover artist, also singing traditional pop, torch songs, rockabilly, honky-tonk, country swing, and gospel. The first female solo artist admitted to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Patsy was also included among “The 100 Greatest Women in Rock and Roll” by VH1, “The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time” by Rolling Stone, and “The 40 Greatest Women of Country Music” by CMT.
+
She first appeared on radio in Winchester, VA in 1947. In 1954, country star Jimmy Dean brought her aboard as a regular on the radio show “Town and Country Jamboree” in Arlington, VA. In 1955, she began appearing on television, on the TV version of “Grand Ole Opry” and on “Ozark Jubilee.”
+
But it was her sensational success on “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts” in 1957 that truly launched her as a national figure. Godfrey’s show, a precursor of competitions like “Star Search” and “American Idol,” also launched Ann-Margret and Pat Boone, among others.
+
“Always…Patsy Cline” is based on a real incident that occurred in 1961. Super-fan Louise Seger befriends Cline before a concert in Houston. After the show, Louise takes her home, cooks her breakfast and appears with her on a local radio broadcast. The two maintain a correspondence, writing each other letters until Cline’s untimely death in a Tennessee plane crash in 1963. The star closed each of her letters to Seger, “Always…Patsy Cline.”
+
CORI CABLE KIDDER portrays PATSY CLINE. A graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, she toured with IN THE MOOD and sang at Tokyo Disney for a year. Coming to L.A., she appeared in+ “The Producers” and with SWING DAMES, performing the music of the Andrews Sisters.
+
NIKKI D’AMICO plays Louise. Her extensive musical theater credits include National Tours of “Evita,” “Cats,” “A Chorus Line,” “The Fantasticks,” “Chaplin,” “West Side Story,” and more. Most recently, she appeared with Pacific Resident Theatre in its Ovation-nominated production of “A View from the Bridge.”
+
ROBERT MARRA directs. In addition to numerous New York credits, his local shows include “The World Goes Round,” “Once on this Island,” “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” “Into the Woods,” “Chess in Concert,” “The Devil and Daisy Jane,” “A Chorus Line,” and many more. He is also a choreographer.
+
TED SWINDLEY is the playwright. He was the Founding Artistic Director of Stages Repertory Theatre in Houston. He also wrote “Stories My Grandmother Told Me.” Fans of Patsy Cline’s music will be in musical heaven as they’ll hear, performed live, twenty-seven of her greatest hits, including “Walkin’ After Midnight” (the Godfrey show hit), “Sweet Dreams” (a signature tune for Cline, although originally a hit ten years earlier by Faron Young), “Crazy” (written for her by WILLIE NELSON), “I Fall to Pieces,” “She’s Got You,” “Your Cheating Heart,” and many more.
+
“Always…Patsy Cline” debuted in 1988. It is one of only two stage productions about the singer licensed and authorized by The Estate of Patsy Cline. In addition to affording a revue of great songs, “Always…Patsy Cline” is a heartwarming story of an enduring friendship.
+
“Always… Patsy Cline” runs July 31-Sep 12, 2015, on this schedule: Fri’s & Sat’s at 8 pm, Sun’s at 2:30 pm. Additional matinees have been added at 2:30 pm on Thu, Aug 27; Sat, Aug 29; Sat, Sep 5; Sat, Sep 12, and Sun, Sep 13.
+
Tix: $30 gen’l. Seniors (age 65+) $27. Students (ages 13-21) $20. Children age 12 and under, $17. Call for tix. Ample free parking behind theatre.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in OC (Costa Mesa):
3 pm LEDWARD KAAPANA, Hawaiian slack-key guitarist, plays the second of two dates for the “LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT SERIES,” this time at LCA Wine at SOCO Center, 3303-3323 Hyland Av, Costa Mesa 92626.
+
Recognition by his peers earned Ledward Kaapana four Grammy nominations in his own right and three Grammy wins on slack key compilations. He has won multiple Hanohano (Hawai‘i’s “Grammy”) awards, including 2009 Favorite Entertainer of the Year. He is unrivaled in his exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and his extraordinary baritone to falsetto vocal range. A delightful performer with kolohe (rascal) charm, Led boasts multiple Na Hoku (Hawaiian Music Awards), including Favorite Entertainer. LED KAAPANA is a musical legend and a National Heritage Fellow.
+
“Ledward Kaapana is a master slack key guitarist.”—The New York Times. "…friendly, generous, self-effacing, a little kolohe (rascally) and a flat out genius at just about any stringed instrument that can be finger-picked." --The Honolulu Advertiser.
+
“His fleet fingers, leaping phrases and seemingly boundless imagination for improvisation suggest a jazz influence…” -- The Seattle Times
+
A master of the slack key guitar, Led Kaapana has been one of Hawai‘i's most influential musicians for four decades. His mastery of stringed instruments, exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and extraordinary baritone to leo ki`eki`e (falsetto) vocal range, have made him a musical legend. With easy-going style and kolohe (rascal) charm, he has built a loyal corps of “Led Heads” from Europe to Australia to his birthplace on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. In 2011, he was honored with an NEA National Heritage Fellowship.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in San Pedro:
3 pm “BUKOWSKI: THE LAUGHING HEART” plays the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813.
+
SPIFF (The San Pedro International Film Festival) presents a tribute to CHARLES BUKOWSKI with a film, a poetry and art contest, Bukowski ephemera, and more.

Tickets and Info at the venue’s website.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Echo Park (L.A.):
3-8 pm Weekly "GRAND OLE ECHO," L.A.’s premiere weekly Americana / alt & trad country / honky tonk showcase of recording artists, THIS WEEK ONLY, is incorporated into the “ECHO PARK RISING” festival that runs all weekend; the “GOE” folks have booked two full days of music , Saturady & Sunday, for the festival; at the Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl (near the Glendale Bl underpass), Echo Park 90026; 213-413-8200.
+
See “FESTIVALS,” in Section 2 of this edition, for all the info. FREE FESTIVAL.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in L.A.:
3-5:30 pm Weekly “IRISH SESSION” is a structured jam at the Wilde Thistle, 3456 Motor Av, Los Angeles; 310-730-6208; www.thewildethistle.com
+
Venue is also an art gallery, so allow time to gawk, gander, and peruse. Now through Mid September, the Celtic Art Show features the works of acclaimed Irish-American artist Steve O'Loughlin. He says, "My artwork combines Celtic designs and other decorative motifs with contemporary imagery. I often draw upon my local community for inspiration. Therefore, freeways, Latin culture, jet airliners and social themes interlace together in a swirling celebration of color and rhythm."

++++++

Sun, Aug 15, in OC (Costa Mesa):
3-8 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “COSTA MESA TRADITIONAL SONG CIRCLE & JAM” at Debby & Terry Koken's house in Costa Mesa 92627; get location and info at dkoken@hmausa.com or on the web at www.songmakers.org

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Riverside Co (Murrieta):
4 pm CIARRAI, a fine Irish band, plays the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.getshamrocked.com; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com
+
This band performs traditional Irish music, and this is the final stop on their US tour. Their name, CIARRAI, means “Kerry” in Irish – they come from County Kerry, Ireland.
+
No cover.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in San Diego:
4 pm NOEL HILL master of Irish music on the concertina, plays a House Concert in San Diego.
+
THE leading virtuoso of the instrument, Noel Hill has taken the humble concertina from the house dances of County Clare in western Ireland to major stages throughout the world. He is an amazing, inspiring performer and teacher, and well respected authority on Irish traditional music. Noel was born in Caherea in West County Clare and now lives in the district of Connemara in Ireland's County Galway. Hill comes to the US for teaching and concerts only once a year, and this year he is making a few rare Southern California appearances, performing solo concerts.
+
But we have no additional info. Google it if you want to go.

++++++

Sun, Aug 15, in Long Beach:
4-7 pm Weekly “TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC SESSION” is a structured jam at the Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach 90802; 562-437-8300.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Long Beach:
4:30-7:30 pm Weekly “CAJUN-ZYDECO DANCE SERIES” takes a hiatus this week from the Golden Sails Hotel 6285 East Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach 90803.
+
Why? Because the “CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” is in town, all weekend (see “FESTIVALS,” in Section 2).

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in SFV (San Fernando):
5 pm OTOÑO LUJÁN & GEE RABE plus MARIACHI TESORO perform for the Ford Theatres’ FREE “JAM SESSION” series, and emphasize mariachi accordion, at Recreation Park, 208 Park Av, San Fernando 91340.
+
These two are the elite of Southern Cal accordion virtuosos, GEE “Gigi” RABE is well-versed in Cajun-Zydeco and many other styles, while OTOÑO LUJÁN is leader of CONJUNTO LOS POCHOS. This’ll be fun.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in BevHills:
5-9 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “BEVERLY HILLS-BILLY SONG CIRCLE & POTLUCK” in Beverly Hills. Location and info at www.songmakers.org

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Agoura Hills:
6 pm MARC COHN plus PHIL CODY play an early evening at the Canyon Club, 28192 Roadside Dr, Agoura Hills 91301; 818-879-5016.
+
Well worth the rubber lasgna to see this one!

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in the IE (Redlands):
6-8 pm Pianoman MARC BOSSERMAN plays the Citrus Plaza in Redlands.
+
Details at: www.marcbosserman.com/gigs

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in SFV (Chatsworth):
6 pm DEBRA LEE & TRIGGER HAPPY play the second of two nights at the Cowboy Palace, 21635 Devonshire St, Chatsworth; 818-341-0166.
+
Every night, they present LIVE AMERICANA / ALT OR TRAD COUNTRY / HONKY TONK music for listening and dancing – unless they’re closed when Hollywood rents the place to shoot a movie or tv show, and the place has been in hundreds of film and tv shoots over the years.
+
This is L.A.’s last real honky-tonk, no cover, full bar, and friendly people who, howdy pardner, all like to dance. Go early for the free dance lessons. There’s live music EVERY night, seven nights a week; sometimes acoustic, sometimes heavy on the pedal steel or the twang, but never that annoying fahke ackscent pop-“country” Nashvulle scene.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Burbank:
6-10 pm “THE MESSAROUND,” the monthly music extravaganza, at Cody's Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506.
+
√ “THE MESSAROUND” this month brings the return of ’60s Sunset Strip rockers THE MAYWINES, Dan West's superb glam-garage outfit SIDEWALK SOCIETY, the raging guitars of THE LIVINGSTONS, fabulous high-impact rock & rollers THE KATELLAS, all starting at 6 pm.
+
√ LIVE AMERICANA / TRAD OR ALT COUNTRY in a full lineup on two stages in separate rooms gets underway here mid-afternoon; see 2 pm listing.
+
A one-menu-item cover applies. Venue has a full menu & full bar.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in L.A.:
6:30 pm SILK ROAD DANCE COMPANY plays the “CHILDRENS SERIES” in the free summer concert lineup at the Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park, 2230 W 6th St, Los Angeles 90057; 213-384-5701.
+
We have absolutely no idea what you’d be getting yourself into if you attended this. But it’s the Levitt, and it’s free.
+
Ride the Metro Purple Line subway to MacArthur Park Station and walk around the lake to the stage.
+
Bring lawn chairs or a blanket, and a picnic (no alcohol allowed in the park, and that’s enforced with expensive citations) or grab a bite to eat from the “Taste of Levitt Pavilion L.A.” (rotating food trucks). Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show performances on the little “Side Stage,” and check out the local “Community Partners” while the little ones enjoy the KidZone.
+
Free, except what you buy to eat.

++++++

Sun, Aug 15, in San Diego:
6:30-8:30 pm AMERICANA, BLUEGRASS, CAJUN, OR CELTIC LIVE MUSIC series at Bistro Sixty, 5987 El Cajon Bl (60th & El Cajon Bl), San Diego 92115; bistrosixtysd.com
+
Call 619-287-8186 to learn who’s playing and to make a reservation.

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16, CLOSING NIGHT, in L.A.:
7 pm “HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN” plays the CLOSING SHOW at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Av, Los Angeles 90024; 310-208-2028, www.geffenplayhouse.com
+
Use the discount code from our friends at “Parlor Performances” when you order your tickets: Code: HersheyParlor
+
That gets you the discounted price of $40 ($32 + $8 fee) for any available performance / seat location. The production CLOSES THIS SUNDAY, running Tuesdays-Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 3 pm & 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm & 7 pm.

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16, in Altadena:
7 pm THE KENNEDYS play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-798-6236 (10 am-10 pm); venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com
+
"My friends tell me that a Kennedys’ show is the cure for whatever ails you; there’s something infectious in the couple’s way of engaging an audience that repairs decades of jaded living, reminds you of the joy that music brings, and convinces you that people ain’t so bad after all. If this is true, I’m going to chain myself to a chair at the Coffee Gallery Backstage and let it be done to me.” – comment received by Bob Stane.
+
“Music Matters,” an online grab bag of music reviews, spent some time saying this, “Their live performances are not only displays of musical harmony, but personal harmony as well. You can hear it in the humorous, good-natured patter between songs. You can see it in their body language as they somehow find a way to touch as they play (without bonking guitars).”
+
And here’s this from the band’s website, “In a career that now spans two decades, New York duo Pete and Maura Kennedy have traversed a broad musical landscape, surveying power pop, acoustic songwriting, organic rock rooted in their early days in Austin, and a Byrds-inspired jangle that drew the attention of Roger McGuinn, Steve Earle, and most notably Nanci Griffith. The duo co-produced Nanci’s latest CD.
+
On their own recent release, “Closer Than You Know,” the songs have a quality, inherent in Maura’s voice, that is both soothing and urgent.
+
Lots more at: www.kennedysmusic.com
+
Tix, $20.

++++++

√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 16, in San Diego:
7 pm ROY ZIMMERMAN, the best satirical-comedic sociopolitical singer-songwriter with intelligent lyrics working today, plays the Joyce Beers Uptown Community Center, 3900 Vermont St, San Diego 92103. Sponsored by the Humanist Association of San Diego.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in San Diego:
7-9 pm Twice-monthly “SAN DIEGO OLD TIME FIDDLERS JAM” at the Boll Weevil Restaurant, 9330 Clairemont Mesa Bl, San Diego; 858-571-6225.

++++++

Sun, Aug 16, in Ventura:
7:30 pm CONCERT SERIES continues through Aug 16 at the 140th Annual "VENTURA COUNTY FAIR" at the fairgrounds complex, 10 W Harbor Bl, Ventura; 805-648-3376.
+
Keep in mind there is music throughout the fairgrounds on multiple small stages. So peruse the daily schedule you can pick-up at the gate.
+
The fair's Grandstand Concerts series is FREE with paid fair admission. Other musical entertainment happens throughout the fair, but we do not have that info.
+
There are Free Rodeos on Sat & Sun, Aug 15 &16 at 2 & 7 pm.
+
Full info at:
www.venturacountyfair.org

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Sun, Aug 16, in SaMo:
7:30-11 pm Weekly “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” is a structured jam at O'Brien's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 2226 Wilshire Bl, Santa Monica 90403; 310-829-5303. (Note: there are TWO O’Brien’s locations, and both have music tonight; see both listings.)

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Sun, Aug 16, in SaMo:
8 pm WE FIVE – “You were On My Mind 50th Anniversary Show,” plus a set from STRAIGHT UP: The music of BADFINGER featuring JEFF ALAN ROSS of BADFINGER, at McCabe’s, in their music hall at 3101 W Pico, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Tix, $20.

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Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Pasadena:
8 pm LIN ROUNTREE QUARTET plays the FREE outdoor Summer Concert Series at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Memorial Park, 85 E Holly St, Pasadena 91103; 626-683-3230.
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Activities begin at 6:30...
• KidZone 
• an additional artist does a "Sidestage Performance" at 7 pm.
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Ride the Metro Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station and you’re right there.
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Bring lawn chairs or a blanket, and a picnic (no alcohol allowed in the park, and that’s enforced with expensive citations) or grab a bite to eat from the “Taste of Levitt Pavilion Pasadena” (rotating food trucks). Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show performances on the little “Grassy Hill Side Stage,” and check out the local “Community Partners” while the little ones enjoy the KidZone.
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Free, except what you buy to eat. More at: www.levittpasadena.org

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Sun, Aug 16, in San Diego Co (Solana Beach):
8 pm LEDWARD KAAPANA plus TROY FERNANDEZ play the Belly Up Tavern, 143 S Cedros Av, Solana Beach 92075; 858-481-9022.
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Recognition by his peers earned Ledward Kaapana four Grammy nominations in his own right and three Grammy wins on slack key compilations. He has won multiple Hanohano (Hawai‘i’s “Grammy”) awards, including 2009 Favorite Entertainer of the Year. He is unrivaled in his exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and his extraordinary baritone to falsetto vocal range. A delightful performer with kolohe (rascal) charm, Led boasts multiple Na Hoku (Hawaiian Music Awards), including Favorite Entertainer. LED KAAPANA is a musical legend and a National Heritage Fellow.
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“Ledward Kaapana is a master slack key guitarist.”—The New York Times. "…friendly, generous, self-effacing, a little kolohe (rascally) and a flat out genius at just about any stringed instrument that can be finger-picked." --The Honolulu Advertiser.
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“His fleet fingers, leaping phrases and seemingly boundless imagination for improvisation suggest a jazz influence…” -- The Seattle Times
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A master of the slack key guitar, Led Kaapana has been one of Hawai‘i's most influential musicians for four decades. His mastery of stringed instruments, exceptional picking style on slack key guitar and ‘ukulele, and extraordinary baritone to leo ki`eki`e (falsetto) vocal range, have made him a musical legend. With easy-going style and kolohe (rascal) charm, he has built a loyal corps of “Led Heads” from Europe to Australia to his birthplace on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. In 2011, he was honored with an NEA National Heritage Fellowship.

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Sun, Aug 16, in OC (Costa Mesa):
8 pm LIVE MUSIC at the ORANGE COUNTY FAIR, at OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa 92626.
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On the Pac Amp stage is Austin Mahone and Kalin & Myles at 8 pm; Phil Shane “lounge god” is on “The Hangar” Stage; and there are acts on “The Promenade” Stage, including...
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The ONE YOU’LL WANT TO SEE...
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DANNY MAIKA, a vocal chameleon and ukulele player, plays “The Promenade” stage (he has a residency Aug 12 through TONIGHT, Aug 16), and that’s the action on the three principal stages tonight at the 125th Annual “ORANGE COUNTY FAIR,” which has live concerts day and night, with 8 pm headliners each night at the Pac Amp, and on “The Hangar” stage, and on “The Promenade” stage, and elsewhere in other nooks and crannies on the grounds and whatever other stages.
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Oh, and there’s the “WILD WEST TURKEY STAMPEDE”
...daily from Aug 12 through Aug 16, at 2 pm, 4 pm, 6 pm, & 8 pm, somewhere in the fair where you can get your feathers ruffled.
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The OC Fair runs Jul 17 to Aug 16, 2015. It has two principal music venues – Pac Amp and The Hangar – plus other stages like “The Promenade,” all active with musical entertainment, and all of it free with admission. We’ll endeavor to keep you posted about all the listenable music on all the stages. The headline acts all play the “2015 Toyota Summer Concert Series at Pacific Amphitheatre.”
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“The Hangar” is an aviation hangar-style building with a 50-foot arched ceiling, Fairgoers can enjoy live entertainment, including music and other types of performances. All tickets include free OC Fair admission. Free-with-admission community entertainment is also scheduled daily, see the Daily Schedules on the fair’s website for a list of free entertainment.
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** Full sched. for Pac Amp during the fair:
http://www.pacamp.com/pa/
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** Full sched. for the Fair’s OTHER principal stage, The Hangar, is at:
http://www.ocfair.com/2015/thingstodo/the_hangar.asp
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ALL stages are free with admission to the OC fair.

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Sun, Aug 16, in Culver City:
8 pm Monthly “BOULEVARD MUSIC ‘VARIETY NIGHT’ & OPEN MIC” at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.

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Sun, Aug 16, in SaMo:
9 pm KEN O'MALLEY plays his weekly Irish music residency at O'Brien's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 2941 Main St, Santa Monica 90405.

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Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Riverside Co (Murrieta):
9 pm LIVE IRISH / CELTIC MUSIC or CELTIC ROCK at the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145 Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.getshamrocked.com; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com
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No cover.

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Sun, Aug 16, in L.A.:
9 pm LIVE IRISH / CELTIC MUSIC or CELTIC ROCK is likely at Molly Malone’s, 575 S Fairfax Av, Los Angeles 90036; 323-935-1577.

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Sun, Aug 16, FREE, in Culver City:
9 pm-1:30 am AMERICANA / ALT or TRAD COUNTRY / HONKY TONK MUSIC is a distinct possibility tonight at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bld, Culver City 90230.
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No cover. Venue is 21+, the size of a postage stamp, and barstool seating is competitive. Still it’s always a fun place.

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Sun, Aug 16, in Long Beach:
10 pm LIVE IRISH / CELTIC MUSIC or CELTIC ROCK at the Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, 71 S Pine St, Long Beach; 562 437-8300.

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5) TICKET ALERTS…
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There are separate sections within.
a) ONGOING EVENTS, like plays in production, are listed in the first section, followed by...
b) FESTIVALS AHEAD, listed in their own section; and then, our ever-growing catalog of...
c) UPCOMING CONCERTS and arts events, single-event screenings, etc.

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a) ONGOING, through the dates shown…
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FINAL PERFORMANCES,
Sat, Aug 15 at 3 & 8 pm, and
Sun, Aug 16, at 2 & 7 pm, in L.A.:
“HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN” plays the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Av, Los Angeles 90024; 310-208-2028, www.geffenplayhouse.com
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Use the discount code from our friends at “Parlor Performances” when you order your tickets: Code: HersheyParlor
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That gets you the discounted price of $40 ($32 + $8 fee) for any available performance / seat location. The production runs Tuesdays-Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 3 pm & 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm & 7 pm through August 16.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Thursdays-Sundays, through Sep 13, in SGV (Sierra Madre):
(Time varies; usually 8 pm, some 2:30 pm matinees)
“ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE” is a big time music-filled show at the charming little Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre; 626-355-4318; www.sierramadreplayhouse.com
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This is the fastest ticket-seller in the Playhouse’s history. To accommodate the extraordinary demand, additional matinee performances have been added. Don’t dawdle getting tickets to this one. (The Guide” News Feature that announced the production’s opening night is re-run here.)
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It’s a real, live stage MUSICAL, a theatrical production focusing on the vocal magic of PATSY CLINE, you’ll experience how she evoked the heartbreak and longing that have made her songs country and pop classics. Written by Ted Swindley, directed by Robert Marra, with musical director Sean Paxton, it’s a Sierra Madre Playhouse production starring CORI CABLE KIDDER and NIKKI D’AMICO.
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“Always….Patsy Cline” depicts the legendary singer backed by a live band performing twenty-seven of her greatest hits in this jukebox musical. Patsy Cline (1932-1963) was one of the most popular and influential vocalists of the 20th Century.
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Although most associated with country music, she was the first female crossover artist, also singing traditional pop, torch songs, rockabilly, honky-tonk, country swing, and gospel. The first female solo artist admitted to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Patsy was also included among “The 100 Greatest Women in Rock and Roll” by VH1, “The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time” by Rolling Stone, and “The 40 Greatest Women of Country Music” by CMT.
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She first appeared on radio in Winchester, VA in 1947. In 1954, country star Jimmy Dean brought her aboard as a regular on the radio show “Town and Country Jamboree” in Arlington, VA. In 1955, she began appearing on television, on the TV version of “Grand Ole Opry” and on “Ozark Jubilee.”
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But it was her sensational success on “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts” in 1957 that truly launched her as a national figure. Godfrey’s show, a precursor of competitions like “Star Search” and “American Idol,” also launched Ann-Margret and Pat Boone, among others.
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“Always…Patsy Cline” is based on a real incident that occurred in 1961. Super-fan Louise Seger befriends Cline before a concert in Houston. After the show, Louise takes her home, cooks her breakfast and appears with her on a local radio broadcast. The two maintain a correspondence, writing each other letters until Cline’s untimely death in a Tennessee plane crash in 1963. The star closed each of her letters to Seger, “Always…Patsy Cline.”
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CORI CABLE KIDDER portrays PATSY CLINE. A graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, she toured with IN THE MOOD and sang at Tokyo Disney for a year. Coming to L.A., she appeared in+ “The Producers” and with SWING DAMES, performing the music of the Andrews Sisters.
+
NIKKI D’AMICO plays Louise. Her extensive musical theater credits include National Tours of “Evita,” “Cats,” “A Chorus Line,” “The Fantasticks,” “Chaplin,” “West Side Story,” and more. Most recently, she appeared with Pacific Resident Theatre in its Ovation-nominated production of “A View from the Bridge.”
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ROBERT MARRA directs. In addition to numerous New York credits, his local shows include “The World Goes Round,” “Once on this Island,” “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” “Into the Woods,” “Chess in Concert,” “The Devil and Daisy Jane,” “A Chorus Line,” and many more. He is also a choreographer.
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TED SWINDLEY is the playwright. He was the Founding Artistic Director of Stages Repertory Theatre in Houston. He also wrote “Stories My Grandmother Told Me.” Fans of Patsy Cline’s music will be in musical heaven as they’ll hear, performed live, twenty-seven of her greatest hits, including “Walkin’ After Midnight” (the Godfrey show hit), “Sweet Dreams” (a signature tune for Cline, although originally a hit ten years earlier by Faron Young), “Crazy” (written for her by WILLIE NELSON), “I Fall to Pieces,” “She’s Got You,” “Your Cheating Heart,” and many more.
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“Always…Patsy Cline” debuted in 1988. It is one of only two stage productions about the singer licensed and authorized by The Estate of Patsy Cline. In addition to affording a revue of great songs, “Always…Patsy Cline” is a heartwarming story of an enduring friendship.
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“Always… Patsy Cline” runs July 31-Sep 13, 2015, on this schedule: Fri’s & Sat’s at 8 pm, Sun’s at 2:30 pm. Additional matinees have been added at 2:30 pm on Thu, Aug 27; Sat, Aug 29; Sat, Sep 5; Sat, Sep 12, and Sun, Sep 13.
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Tix: $30 gen’l. Seniors (age 65+) $27. Students (ages 13-21) $20. Children age 12 and under, $17. Call for tix. Ample free parking behind theatre.

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...through Nov 13, in L.A.:
"CORAZÓN DE LA COMUNIDAD: A STORY OF MARIACHI IN LOS ANGELES," runs May 15-Nov 13, 2015, at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, 501 N Main St, Los Angeles 90012; 888 488-8083; http://lapca.org
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Mariachi music — and musicians — have become symbols of Mexican and Mexican American identity. From rancheras sung at weekend parties to the recent "Dolls of the World Barbie" dressed in a mariachi traje, this musical form is one of the most recognized icons of Mexican and Mexican American culture. "Corazón de la Comunidad: A Story of Mariachi in Los Angeles" explores the changing identity and history of the genre in L.A.
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Regular visitor hours are M, W & Th, noon–5 pm, and Fri through Sun, noon-6 pm; info@lapca.org
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Go on the right days and you'll a get live music performance along with the exhibition; keep reading.
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Go when there’s LIVE MUSIC &/or RELATED PROGRAMMING...
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• LOUIS CRUZ BELTRAN performs a FREE "special concert tribute" to activist DOLORES HUERTA, Thu, Aug 13, at 6 pm.
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• "Metalachi: Mariachi Fusion" is a special music program on Sat, Sep 26, at 7 pm.
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• "Platicas at LA Plaza: Is Mariachi Music all the Same?" happens Thu, Oct 8 , at 6:30 pm.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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NOTE: Sat, Aug 15, in Topanga:
A special Prologue (pre-show discussion) happens Sat, Aug 15 at 2:30 pm. (included in ticket price), with the show at 3:30 pm.
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Ongoing, on a variable sched., through Sep 26, in Topanga:
2:30 pm “AS YOU LIKE IT” re-sets Shakespeare to the American Civil War, at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga, midway between Malibu and the San Fernando Valley.
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Note, “the rebel camp is alive with music — banjo, guitar, ukulele, mandolin and more.”
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In this production of “As You Like It, ” director ELLEN GEER moves the tale of two sets of brothers — one alienated by ambition, the other estranged by envy — to the divided South of the post-Civil War era, adding traditional American folk music and dance from the period. Rosalind is forced to flee camp when her uncle Frederick, usurper of his brother’s position as a general in the Union army, threatens to have her killed. Accompanied by her cousin Celia, Rosalind disguises herself as a man for safety's sake. The disguise comes in handy when she tests the devotion of her noble admirer, Orlando, on the run from his hostile older brother. Meanwhile, the rebel camp is alive with music — banjo, guitar, ukulele, mandolin and more. With Rosalind's wit leading the way, the forces of true love, justice and song eventually triumph.
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This production runs June 7 through Sep 26, ALTERNATING WITH OTHER PRODUCTIONS. Production dates / times: Sunday, June 7 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, June 14 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, June 20 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, June 28 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, July 12 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, July 18 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 1 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Aug 9 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 15 at 3:30 pm * • Saturday, Aug 22 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Aug 29 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 6 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 13 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Sep 19 at 3:30 pm • Sunday, Sep 20 at 3:30 pm • Saturday, Sep 26 at 3:30 p.m .
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A special Prologue (pre-show discussion) happens Saturday, Aug 15 at 2:30 pm. (included in ticket price).
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Tickets range from $10-$39.50; children 6 and under are free. Info, complete schedule of all performances this summer, and advance tix, at 310-455-3723 or www.theatricum.com

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...through Sep 26, in Topanga:
7:30 pm “GREEN GROW THE LILACS, ” the Pulitzer Prize-nominated play that inspired “Oklahoma!”, at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, in the heart of Topanga Canyon, midway between Malibu and the San Fernando Valley. The production opens Sat, Jul 11 and runs through Sep 26. See the feature story in the “News” section of the Guide’s Jun 22 edition.
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Tix range from $10-$39.50, with discounts available for students, seniors, the military and AEA members.
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The season’s offerings here alternate. For a complete schedule of the summer season’s performances and to purchase tickets, call 310-455-3723 or go to www.theatricum.com

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b) UPCOMING FESTIVALS –
after this coming weekend...
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Sat, Aug 29,
FESTIVAL,
in Long Beach:
Annual “LONG BEACH BBQ FESTIVAL” includes plenty of live music performances, in Rainbow Lagoon Park,Long Beach,CA
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The excellent BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO plays Creole-centered Cajun-Creole-Zydeco – featuring the squeezebox and rub-board – for listening and dancing, 2-2:30 pm. More on the band at www.BonneMusiqueZydeco.com ; Google the event for details and the full lineup.


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Fri-Sun, Sep 4-5-6,
FESTIVAL,
in Rhode Island:
Annual “RHYTHM & ROOTS FEST” in Ninigret State Park, RI. If you go, make it a day early to catch STEVE RILEY & THE MAMOU PLAYBOYS on Sep 3 at the Towers.
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Full info at www.rhythmandroots.com


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Sep 11-12-13,
FESTIVAL,
in OC (Dana Point):
31st Annual "TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL" at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point 92629; 949-496-2274; www.ocean-institute.org
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This is a festival with lots of action. You can take ship tours and set sail for cannon battles at sea, catch musicians performing sea chanteys, nautical storytellers, Polynesian dancers, live sea creatures in the Ocean Institute, re-eanctors portraying pirates, saefarers from the age of sail, Civil War sailors and soldiers, cannoneers, and more.
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Friday is the “Sunset Parade Sail” The full Festival happens Sat & Sun, 10 am-5 pm, with ship tours ending at 3:30 pm, to prepare to go to sea for the “battles.”
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This is a wonderful time and place to explore the majesty and wonder of life at sea through the sights and sounds of working tall ships. Ashore, the interactive living-history encampments include blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, knot tiers, and the infamous “Port Royal Privateers” entertain and amaze guests of all ages.
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Cannon Battle and Sunset Sail ticket sales are now open. REGISTER EARLY, because the ships fill quickly. Tix and complete info, at:
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www.tallshipsfestival.com


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Sat, Sep 12,
FESTIVAL,
in Long Beach:
Annual “LONG BEACH LOBSTER FESTIVAL” in Rainbow Lagoon Park, Long Beach.
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There’s music all day and evening, and the cuisine is very much centered on the lobsters flown-in from New England. The excellent BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO plays Creole-centered Cajun-Creole-Zydeco – featuring the squeezebox and rub-board – for listening and dancing, 4-5:30 pm. More on the band at www.BonneMusiqueZydeco.com ; Google the event for details and the full lineup.


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Sat, Sep 12,
FESTIVAL,
in Downey:
Annual “INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL” in Downey includes live music performances.
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Recommendation: Playing at 4 pm is INCENDIO, that exceptionally noteworthy trio of fiery acoustic string wizards.
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Details at: www.incendioband.com


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Fri-Sun, Sep 18-21,
FESTIVAL,
near Bishop (East of the High Sierra, in Cal):
Annual “MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL” always brings fine music performances, this year with headliners TONY FURTADO, DAVID MYLES, RICHARD SMITH, NEW ORLEANS SUSPECTS, INCENDIO, MARCH FOURTH!, DAN CONNOR, THE MILLPOND ALL-STAR JAM, plus the BANANA SLUGS doing a kids performance and multiple NEA-sponsored workshops, and plenty of other acts, all at Millpond Park (Inyo Co. Park) and Campground, NE of Bishop.
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Presented by the Inyo Council for the Arts, whose staff attends bunches of other festivals and concerts to choose the best acts, this is a very fun festival that somehow feels intimate in the vast expanse of the great outdoors, in a fine place with the right ambiance and exceptionally good sound, all operating with the spectacular backdrop of the High Sierra. Though not specifically billed as a “folk fest” or an “all-acoustic” affair, essentially it is both, with first-rate acts each day. In addition to the main stage outdoors and with large trees for shade at the top of the slope (which is a bit of a natural grass lawn amphitheater), there is a smaller workshop stage in a large tent. They have a permanent snack bar that cooks good food, including breakfast each morning. Tent camping is available along the lake (the old sawmill’s mill pond, hence the name) and RV camping is available is the developed campground where the showers are located. This one is the autumn counterpart to the annual spring “Live Oak Music Festival” (held a few hundred miles away).
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Playing a Saturday set at 6:30 pm is INCENDIO, that exceptionally noteworthy trio of fiery acoustic string wizards. They are perennially so popular they are booked back among a lot of “first-time here” acts. If you don’t know INCENDIO, you should check them out at: www.incendioband.com
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Here’s the schedule for the MAIN STAGE and the festival’s two other venues (one venue is newly added this year)...
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MAIN STAGE Schedule
Friday Night...
6:30 pm: Bodie 601
7:40 pm: Cafe Musique
9 pm: AJ Ghent Band
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Saturday Main Stage...
Noon: Mohavisoul
1:15 pm: Dave Gunning
2:35 pm: Paul Barrere and Fred Tackett
4 pm: March Fourth!
Dinner Break
6:30 pm: Incendio
8:30 pm: New Orleans Suspects
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Sunday Main Stage...
9:30 am: Banana Slugs (Kids Performance)
10:25 am: Dan Connor
11:40 am: UNLV Marimba/Steel Drum Ensembles
1 pm: Richard Smith
2:15 pm: Tony Furtado
3:50 pm: David Myles
5:40 pm: Millpond All-Star Jam
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WORKSHOP TENT Schedule
Saturday...
9-10 am: Open Mic
10:15-11:15 am: Cafe Musique
11:30 am-12:15 pm: tba
12:30-1:15 pm: tba
1:30-2:15 pm: tba
2:30-3:15 pm: MohaviSoul – Songwriting workshop
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Sunday Workshop Tent...
9-9:45 am: Open Mic
10-10:50 am: tba
11:05 am-Noon: Joe Craven
12:15-1 pm: tba
1:15-2:15 pm: tba
2:15-3 pm: tba
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NEW for 2015: NEA EDUCATION TENT Schedule
Saturday...
9-9:45 am: AJ Ghent – Slide Guitar
10-10:45 am: Banana Slugs – Kids workshop, ages 5-7
11-11:45 am: Banana Slugs – Kids workshop, ages 8-10
Noon-12:45 pm: Banana Slugs – Kids workshop, ages 11-13
1:30-2:30 pm: tba
3-4 pm: tba
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Sunday NEA Tent...
9:15-10:15 am: Jim Stubblefield (Incendio) – Exotic Guitar
10:45-11:45 am: Richard Smith – Fingerstyle Guitar
Noon-1 pm: Tony Furtado – Banjo
1:15-2:15 pm: tba
2:30-3:30 pm: Sage Romero – Native American dance
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All the info, including advance tix (discounted in advance) and campground reservations (absolutely necessary in advance for RVs) is available by phone at 760-873-8014, or online, at: www.inyo.org/music/millpond-festival

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Fri-Sun, Sep 18-21,
FESTIVAL,
in Coloma (Northern Cal):
9th annual "AMERICAN RIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL" announced its lineup and began offering discounted early bird tickets on May 1, and that offer closes SOON.
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The festival recently announced its line-up:
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Main Stage:
NICKI BLUHM & THE GRAMBLERS, THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS, DANGERMUFFIN, NORA JANE STRUTHERS & THE PARTY LINE, SHOOK TWINS, DAVID LUNING BAND, SONGS OF THE FALL, DAVID MYLES TRIO, SPARK AND WHISPER, DENNIS JOHNSON & THE MISSISSIPPI RAMBLERS.
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Other Stages ~ Campgrounds and Hot Spots:
DANGERMUFFIN, SHOOK TWINS, DAVID LUNING BAND, SONGS OF THE FALL, DAVID MYLES TRIO, SPARK AND WHISPER, DENNIS JOHNSON AND THE MISSISSIPPI RAMBLERS, A THOUSAND YEARS AT SEA, PROXIMA PARADA, ACHILLES WHEEL DUO, MCNEVIN & THE SPOKES, ISLAND OF BLACK AND WHITE, THE KELLER SISTERS, STRINGTOWN AMBASSADORS, THE LOVE CHOIR, MOON SHINER, THE PAINTED HORSES, LUMADAE, TAMRA GODEY.
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Friday Night Showcase hosted by Michael Gaither:
Ten more performances tba.
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Sponsors say, "The South Fork wants you to hear music on its banks! Limited Time left to get ‘Early Bird’ discounts at the festival website.”
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The festival was named "Best of" choice for fun things to do in the Sacramento Bee newspaper, and called, "Friendly, Unforgettable" in the Mountain Democrat. "...what a great vibe at the festival" wrote the Auburn Journal. "Music and Moving Water in Perfect Harmony" says Submerge Magazine.
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Full info and tix, www.americanrivermusic.org/festival.php


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Sun, Sep 20,
FESTIVAL,
in San Pedro:
Annual “TRI ART FESTIVAL” at Ports O’ Call Village in San Pedro; http://triartsp.com
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We do not yet know what the other two of the three arts are that this festival celebrates, but one is certainly live music performance, so we’re on-board.
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Playing at 4:30 pm and celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that


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Sat, Sep 26,
FESTIVAL,
in Riverside Co (Murrieta):
4-5:30 pm Annual “MURRIETA LOBSTER FESTIVAL” in Town Square Park, Jefferson Av & Kalmia St, downtown Murrieta.
+
This one is new to us. We know that the excellent BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO plays Creole-centered Cajun-Creole-Zydeco – featuring the squeezebox and rub-board – for listening and dancing, 4-5:30 pm. More on the band at www.BonneMusiqueZydeco.com ; Google the event for details and the full lineup.


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Sat, Sep 26,
FESTIVAL,
in OC (Irvine):
Annual “IRVINE GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL” at Col. Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park, 4 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine 92606; www.cityofirvine.org/globalvillage
+
We know that it isn’t totally all “world-mus-icky.” Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are perforning.
+
Celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that


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Sun, Sep 27,
FESTIVAL,
at the OC Fairgrounds:
Annual “BIG SQUEEZE FESTIVAL,” Southern Cal’s accordion-lovers fest across all folk genres that center tunes on the squeezebox, from concertina to button- to piano- accordion, happens all day at the Orange County Fairgrounds (OC Fair & Events Center), 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa 92626.
+
We know that this festival is VERY dancer-friendly, and we know the excellent BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO plays Creole-centered Cajun-Creole-Zydeco – featuring the squeezebox and rub-board – for listening and dancing, Noon-12:45 pm. More on the band at www.BonneMusiqueZydeco.com ; Google the event for details and the full lineup.


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Fri-Sun, Oct 9-11,
FESTIVAL,
in Louisiana:
Annual “FESTIVALS ACADIENS” in Lafayette, LA. Info at www.festivalsacadiens.com includes discount room rates at Ramada Inn, Lafayette, if you book early.


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c) UPCOMING CONCERTS
& Arts Events
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What’s ahead. Some are coming SOON. Some are even FREE, but you could still miss ’em. Some offer advance discounts. Others’ll just sell-out quickly if you’re not on top of things.

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Chronological listings...
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Mon, Aug 17, in L.A.:
7:30 pm LINDSEY STIRLING, with special guests LIGHTS, and OLIVIA SOMERLYN, plays 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
+
There is no one quite like LINDSEY STIRLING. We are talking about a classically trained violinist from Gilbert, Arizona, entering a futuristic world of big beats and animation – imagine Vanessa Mae leaping through the pages of a Manga comic with Skrillex in hot pursuit. Her song ‘Crystallize’ was the eighth most-viewed video on YouTube last year, racking up an incredible 78 million views and gaining more than 3.6 million subscribers for her YouTube channel. With her first ticketed show just twelve months ago, she’s now selling out dates across Europe, America, Russia and Asia. Her debut album has sold more than 200,000 copies in the US without the backing of a major label, and has gone Gold in Germany (over 170k sold) and Switzerland.
+
It is hard to believe that Piers Morgan told Lindsey Stirling the world had no place for a dancing dubstep violinist. But being voted off 2010’s “America’s Got Talent” at the quarterfinals turned out to be the best thing that’s ever happened to her. Rejection simply strengthened Stirling’s resolve to be herself. “The same reasons I was told I wouldn’t succeed are the reasons people travel hundreds of miles to see me now,” she laughs. “Because it’s different. Because it’s something you haven’t seen before...”
+
Stirling’s debut album features twelve original tracks including viral smashes “Crystallize,” “Shadows,” and “Electric Daisy Violin.” She has created a new musical world where the romance of Celtic folk music and modern classical meet the infectious energy of dance and electronica. In “Elements,” you’ll hear rhythm programming and “wub-wub” bass recalling dubstep giants Skream or Benga, while “Zi-Zi’s Journey” and “Spontaneous Me” feature all the thrilling, arpeggio build-ups of trance. On stage, Stirling moves with the grace of a ballerina but works the crowd into a frenzy, “dropping the beat” like some strange, electro-pastoral rave fairy.
+
Like Imogen Heap or Amanda Palmer, Stirling is the model of modern independent recording artist, with a formidable online presence and a powerful, symbiotic relationship with her fans. She is famed for taking “requests” and has recorded unique versions of the themes from “Phantom Of The Opera” and “Game Of Thrones”, the computer games “Zelda,” “Pokemon,” and “Skyrim,” and pop songs by Michael Jackson and Rihanna; She uploads them all to Lindseystomp, a YouTube channel packed with music videos and short comedy films, many featuring her alter-ego - a ‘superfan’ named Phelba.
+
It was no conventional childhood. Stirling was raised within a Mormon community in Arizona. As a teenager, the rigours of classical music training stifled her, and she nearly chose to pursue a career in therapy. But the violin would not let go, and it became a comfort throughout her struggle with an eating disorder in early adulthood.
+
It was her experience with “America’s Got Talent” that inspired her to start composing. As a motivational speaker in her spare time, Stirling uses her own story to show teenagers that you’ve got to have confidence in the very thing that makes you unique – then wait for the world to catch up. “We give more liberties to other people than we do to ourselves,” she says. “We put labels on ourselves, but we love seeing people who just don’t care.”
+
Tix, $29.50 - $45.

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Sun, Aug 16, in SaMo:
8 pm WE FIVE play a "Special Appearance — You Were On My Mind for 50 Years," plus, on the same bill, JEFF ALAN ROSS with "Straight Up: The Songs of Badfinger," at McCabe's, 3101 Pico, Santa Monica.
+
JERRY BURGAN says, "It’s been 50 years since WE FIVE came to L.A. from our houseboat in Sausalito to play at IT’S BOSS (now the Comedy Store) and do some TV shows like 'Where The Action Is,' 'Shindig,' and 'American Bandstand.' For those who have been waiting almost that long for us to play a show on the West Side, the time has come. WE FIVE will be at McCabe’s, the iconic guitar store and concert club in Santa Monica, for one show. The doors open at 7:30 pm and the show starts at 8 pm.
+
"Also on the bill that night will be Jeff Alan Ross with ‘Straight Up: The Songs of Badfinger.’ Should be a great night of music! Hope you can come, but pass the word if you can't."
+
Info and tic at: www.mcabes.com

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Tue, Aug 18,
BENEFIT SHOW,
in downtown L.A.:
7:30 pm “COMEDY ROCKS,” featuring BILL BURR, JIM JEFFERIES and GENE SIMMONS, is a BENEFIT performance-interview program tonight in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, Olympic & Figueroa, across from Staple Center in downtown L.A.
+
Actor-comedian SKYLER STONE brings his wildly popular Los Angeles staple show “Comedy Rocks” to the GRAMMY Museum. It's a celebration of comedy and music that's sold-out for seven years in a row. The show sparked from the idea that "every comedian wants to be a rock star," and most of what rock stars listen to on their tour buses are comedy albums. Thus, “It's the perfect marriage.”
+
“Comedy Rocks” always features music videos, crazy surprise guests, music-themed standup and a live comic interview with a music icon. This particular installment will feature standup performances from comedians BILL BURR, JIM JEFFERIES and STONE, and closes with a raw and unfiltered live interview with KISS legend GENE SIMMONS, conducted by Stone and music journalist STEVE BALTIN.
+
Proceeds from this event support Simmons' charity “Sophie's Place,” a multi-disciplinary, child-centered service for children who are victims of abuse.
+
Tix at www.grammymuseum.org, or call 213-763-2133. Doors at 7 pm for the best seats.
+
Be sure to peruse the Guide’s “TICKET ALERTS” in this edition for a wide variety of upcoming Grammy Museum programs.

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Tue, Aug 18, in OC (Westminster):
(Time tba) SOMEDAY GIRL, the ensemble featuring AMANDA ABIZAID and MICHAEL VANAGS, plays the "SAM ASH SHOWCASE" at the Sam Ash Music Store, 14200 Beach Bl, Westminster; 714-899-2122.
+
Amanda Abizaid is a marvelous performer. In addition to performingin her music, there are her multiple roles in "Facing the Lion," a film by Joe Plonsky, produced by Scott Spiegel, starring Hugh Casey and Amanda Abizaid. Not only is Amanda on the screen, her music is in the soundtrack. Here's a sample:
+
https://youtu.be/a7k5bHiUfzs
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More on other Sam Ash performance events at: http://samashmusic.com/events/

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A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Tue, Aug 18, FREE, in Pasadena:
6 pm Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS play the “MEMORIAL PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES” presented by the Pasadena Senior Center (all ages welcome) at the Levitt Pavilion Bandshell in Memorial Park, 85 E Holly St, Pasadena 91103.
+
Celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that
+
Free. Some very reasonably-priced food is available if you arrive early enough, but it always sells-out at this series.

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A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Wed, Aug 19, in downtown L.A.:
8 pm “THE DROP: JOY WILLIAMS,” is a big time FOLK-AMERICANA MUSIC EVENT and performance-interview program tonight in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, Olympic & Figueroa, across from Staple Center in downtown L.A.
+
As one half of folk-rock duo THE CIVIL WARS, singer-songwriter JOY WILLIAMS has won four GRAMMY Awards, including the award for “Best Country Duo/Group Performance” in 2014 for "From This Valley." The song is featured on the duo's 2013 self-titled album, which marked their last set of original material before announcing their breakup in 2014.
+
Before THE CIVIL WARS, WILLIAMS had a career as a solo artist, releasing her debut self-titled album in 2001 at age 19. She subsequently released “By Surprise” (2002) and “Genesis” (2005) and two EPs, “One of Those Days” and “Songs from this and Songs from That” (2009). "Sunny Day," a track from the latter EP, was featured in an episode of "Grey's Anatomy" and on the soundtrack to the 2010 film “An Invisible Sign.”
+
On June 26, this year, Williams returned with her new solo set, “Venus,” featuring 11 songs that are "unstintingly honest," according to acclaimed music journalist Jaan Uhelszki. Produced by Matt Moris, the new album “Venus” features Williams collaborating with artists MICHAEL EINZIGER and CHARLIE PEACOCK, among others. "You might call it a coming-of-age album, but it is so much more than that," said Uhelszki. "It shows how one woman has come to live her truth — the good, the bad, the petulant, the honorable."
+
The GRAMMY Museum hosts Williams for an intimate discussion and performance surrounding her new career and life after THE CIVIL WARS, moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation.
+
Tix at www.grammymuseum.org, or call 213-763-2133. Doors at 7:30 pm for the best seats.
+
Be sure to peruse the Guide’s “TICKET ALERTS” in this edition for a wide variety of upcoming Grammy Museum programs.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Thu, Aug 20, in OC (Fullerton):
7:30 pm Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS play the summer concert series at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av, Fullerton 92833; www.themuck.org
+
Celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that

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Fri, Aug 21, in L.A.:
7-9 pm “SUMMER NIGHTS IN THE GARDEN” concludes its 2015 run tonight at the L.A. Natural History Museum. The promo says, “Come awaken your senses at the Natural History Museum’s summer outdoor happy hour complete with great music, garden-inspired cocktails, hands-on garden and science projects, botanical tours, food trucks, and more.”
+
The evening’s happenings feature things like - Pickling with food writer Emily Han* - Nature Screen Printing with Self Help Graphics* - Build Bee Hotels* - Patio chats and smoke fly sampling with NHM Citizen Science experts - Enchanting Toy Theater Performances - Live animal presentations
+
Complete program runs 5-9 pm, with live music from 7-9.
+
FREE, but REQUIRES A TIMED-TICKET; available on a first-come basis. Make your required free reservation at:
+
https://tickets.nhm.org/WebStore/shop/ViewItems.aspx?CG=nhmonline&C=SummerNights1

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sat, Aug 22, in Griffith Park:
1-3 pm “THE MUSIC OF THE CIVIL WAR AND HOW IT MOVED WEST” is an afternoon of music from WALT RICHARDS and PAULA STRONG of TRAILS AND RAILS, in a special event at the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), in the Mary Pickford Education Center, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park 90027; 323-667-2000; www.theautry.org
+
Presented by the Western Music Association’s California Chapter. The musicians will perform songs from the Civil War era, noting that many of them changed to become music identified with those who moved West.
+
This program is just in time to support and enrich the Autry’s new exhibit, “Empire and Liberty – the Civil War & the West.”
+
Tix, $20; ages 14 and under are admitted free, but reservations for all are advised as SPACE IS LIMITED. Reserve tix at 661-492-8930 or www.westernmusiccalifornia.org
+
Note: concert admission does not include admission to the adjacent museum.

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Sat, Aug 22, in Bev Hills:
LEON RUSSELL plays the Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Bl, Beverly Hills.
+
Tix at www.canyonclub.net or 888-645-5006.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sat, Aug 22, in Culver City:
8 pm INCENDIO, that exceptionally noteworthy trio of fiery acoustic string wizards, plays Boulevard Music in Culver City.
+
Details at: www.incendioband.com

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sat, Aug 22, in OC (Irvine):
8 pm “STAR TREK” AT THE SYMPHONY, wherein PACIFIC SYMPHONY plays the score as the film screens “STAR TREK,” the 2009 feature film, at Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre, Irvine.
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It’s a symphonic night at the movies perfect for the whole family. On the big screen: J.J. Abrams’ 2009 blockbuster featuring Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto boldly going where no one has gone before. On stage: PACIFIC SYMPHONY performing Academy Award-winner MICHAEL GIACCHINO’s score, live. Giacchino's other films include Pixar’s “Up,” "Ratatouille," “The Incredibles,” and this summer's trifecta of "Tomorrowland," "Inside Out," and "Jurassic World."
+
Gates open at 6 pm for picnicking. Prefer not to cook? Enjoy the new Wine Bar or add on a gourmet Bristol Farms picnic box, ready for convenient pickup just inside the gates to the amphitheatre. Use the web link below to order.
+
Tix at: www.pacificsymphony.org/tickets/concert_calendar

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Sat, Aug 22, in L.A.:
7:30 pm "POSTCARDS FROM ABROAD" performed by CAL PHIL, the California Philharmonic, under the evening sky at lovely Santa Anita Park (the infield of the famous horseracing track) in Arcadia.
+
The Following afternoon, the same program is performed indoors in the Walt Disney Concert Hall at the L.A. Music Center.
+
Tix & more info by phone, 626-304-0333 (10 am-6 pm, M-F), or info online at: www.calphil.com/home

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Sun, Aug 23, in L.A.:
(Time tba) "POSTCARDS FROM ABROAD" performed by CAL PHIL, the California Philharmonic, in the Walt Disney Concert Hall at the L.A. Music Center.
+
The previous evening, the same program is performed under the evening sky at Santa Anita Park (the infield of the famous horseracing track) in Arcadia.
+
Tix & more info by phone, 626-304-0333 (10 am-6 pm, M-F), or info online at: www.calphil.com/home

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A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Tue, Aug 25, in downtown L.A.:
8 pm “THE DROP: DEE DEE BRIDGEWATER with Special Guests IRVIN MAYFIELD and THE THELONIOUS MONK INSTITUTE OF JAZZ PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLE,” is a performance-interview program tonight in the Clive Davis Theatre at the Grammy Museum, Olympic & Figueroa, across from Staple Center in downtown L.A.
+
Set for release on August 7, Bridgewater's latest album, “Dee Dee’s Feathers,” is a journey through the history of New Orleans as told through song collaborations with GRAMMY winner IRVIN MAYFIELD & THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ ORCHESTRA, and the album is an homage to the people and culture of New Orleans in honor of the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
+
Over the course of a four-decade career, multiple GRAMMY-winning jazz artist DEE DEE BRIDGEWATER has ascended to the upper echelon of vocalists, putting her unique spin on standards while re-envisioning jazz classics. She's performed with such jazz notables as Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, and Dizzy Gillespie, and has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including “Dear Ella,” her tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, and “Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie with Love,” both of which received GRAMMY Awards. Bridgewater also won a Tony Award for her role as “Glinda” in 1975's “The Wiz,” and received a British “Laurence Olivier” nomination for “Best Actress in a Musical” for her role in “Lady Day.”
+
As a “Goodwill Ambassador” to the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, Bridgewater continues to appeal for international solidarity to finance global grassroots projects in the fight against world hunger.
+
The GRAMMY Museum hosts Bridgewater and Mayfield for an intimate discussion surrounding their career and new album, followed by a special performance featuring Bridgewater, Mayfield and the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance Ensemble, hosted by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation.
+
Tix at www.grammymuseum.org, or call 213-763-2133. Doors at 7:30 pm for the best seats.
+
Be sure to peruse the Guide’s “TICKET ALERTS” in this edition for a wide variety of upcoming Grammy Museum programs.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Thu Aug 27, in OC (Laguna):
5 pm Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS play the ongoing daily “SAWDUST FESTIVAL” at the Festival of the Arts Grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach 92651.
+
Full lineup of music acts and events for the day and the summer season are at:
+
http://sawdustartfestival.org/festivals/
+
Celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that

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Sat, Aug 29, in Whittier:
3-7 pm PADDY'S PIG, a fine trad Irish band, plays Mulcahey's, 15334 Whittier Bl, #8, Whittier 90603.
+
Missy, Mike, Damon, Marty, & Jon — Paddy's Pig — always look and sound wonderful on stage. They tell us, "We've got new venues we're playing for the first time, new songs we've been writing, and new recordings on the way! Thanks so much for supporting and enjoying local Irish music!"
+
More at: www.paddyspig.com

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sat, Aug 29, in San Pedro:
8 pm STREET CORNER RENAISSANCE brings doo-wop classics with soaring harmonies to the Grand Annex in San Pedro.
+
This exciting act has shared the stage with Stevie Wonder, Diana Reeves, and many other “name” stars.

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Sun, Aug 30, in Long Beach:
Noon-5 pm 1st Annual “LONG BEACH TIKI SOCIAL + TIKI SWAPMEET” includes appropriately-themed live music, hosted by Roxanne's Cocktail Lounge and the New Latin Grill, at Roxanne's Cocktail Lounge, 1115 E Wardlow Rd, Long Beach 90807
+
First band starts at 2 pm. The promo says, “August 30th will bring together the best that Southern California has to offer in the Tiki world, Including Kelly Merrel from Trader Sam's, Local Tiki bands from all around Southern California, the best tiki vendors So-Cal has to offer, as well as local vendors.” An “After-Party” at Roxanne’s starts immediately at 5 pm. Mahalo.
+
21+ event, Food will be served. Tix: “Lei Package” $16.82; regular tix, $6.27 are sold-out.

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sun, Aug 30, in Santa Barbara:
7 pm DIANA KRALL with special guest GREGORY PORTER play the Santa Barbara Bowl, 1122 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara 93103; 805-962-7411.
+
Five-time GRAMMY Award-winning jazz pianist and world renowned singer DIANA KRALL plays the Santa Barbara Bowl as part of her "Wallflower World Tour." Krall has made several national TV appearances to promote the tour, including performances on “LIVE! with Kelly and Michael” on Feb 2 and “The Late Show with David Letterman” on Feb 3.
+
Produced by 16-time GRAMMY Award-winning producer David Foster, “Wallflower” finds Krall breaking new ground with her interpretations of some of the all-time best-selling pop songs. The album features popular classics from the late ’60s to present day that have inspired Krall since her early years, as well as an unreleased composition from Paul McCartney, titled "If I Take You Home Tonight".
+
The "Wallflower World Tour" features Krall performing the Mamas and the Papas' "California Dreaming," the Eagles' "Desperado," and Bob Dylan's "Wallflower," which inspired the album's title track. Krall is accompanied onstage by folk luminary STUART DUNCAN on fiddle, ANTHONY WILSON on guitar, DENNIS CROUCH on bass, KARRIEM RIGGINS on drums, and PATRICK WARREN on keyboards.
+
Diana Krall recently headlined “The Montreal International Jazz Festival” performing to over 100,000 loyal fans. Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. To date, she has won five Grammy Awards, eight Juno Awards and has also earned nine gold, three platinum and seven multi-platinum albums. Her unique artistry transcends any single musical style and has made her one of the most recognizable artists of our time.
+
There’s plenty more on Diana Krall at:
www.dianakrall.com/
+
GREGORY PORTER, fellow GRAMMY winner and renowned jazz musiacian, joins Diana Krall on this tour. Porter has been called “The next great male jazz singer” by NPR Music. His last album brought this from the Wall Street Journal: “‘Liquid Spirit’ is shot through with gospel, blues and R&B influences… the title track pairs soulful horns with a deep, enveloping bassline that frames the California native’s supple tenor.” The New York Times wrote, “Gregory Porter [is] a powerful baritone who writes his own songs… from a more ’70s or early ’80s-oriented place in the African-American jazz tradition, strong and sometimes experimental yet serenely unacademic, and mightily good.”
+
Tix ,$84.50 - $49.50, at https://sbbowl.com

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sat Sep 5, in Ventura:
7:30 pm Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS play the prestigious “OLIVAS ADOBE CONCERT SERIES” at the historic Olivas Adobe, 4200 Olivas Park Dr, Ventura 92002.
+
GET TIX EARLY or you’ll find it sold-out: www.cityofventura.net/mus
+
Celebrating the 20th anniversary as a globetrotting band, Grammy-noms LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS are the only Americans ever to play the Folk Festival in Palau, among their many accomplishments. Check ’em out, in action, at:
+
www.youtube.com/watch?v=llHKUzjggg4 plus, Lisa’s “Chicken Fiddler” video has reached the new Nickelodeon TV show, “React To That!” at: www.nick.com/react-to-that

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
+
Sep 10, in Bev Hills:
JOHN HIATT & THE COMBO plus TAJ MAHAL TRIO play the Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Bl, Beverly Hills.
+
Tix at www.canyonclub.net or 888-645-5006.

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Sat, Sep 12, in OC (Seal Beach):
8 pm INCENDIO, that exceptionally noteworthy trio of fiery acoustic string wizards, plays Spaghettini in Seal Beach.
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Details at: www.incendioband.com

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Thu, Sep 17, in the Marina:
(Time tba) PADDY'S PIG, a fine trad Irish band, plays the first of three gigs for "HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK'S DAY," this one at Brennan's in Marina Del Rey.
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Missy, Mike, Damon, Marty, & Jon — Paddy's Pig — always look and sound wonderful on stage. They tell us, "We've got new venues we're playing for the first time, new songs we've been writing, and new recordings on the way! Thanks so much for supporting and enjoying local Irish music!"
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More at: www.paddyspig.com

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Fri, Sep 18, in the near IE (Rialto):
4 pm PADDY'S PIG, a fine trad Irish band, plays one of three gigs for "HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK'S DAY," this one at O'Leary's in Rialto.
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Missy, Mike, Damon, Marty, & Jon — Paddy's Pig — always look and sound wonderful on stage. They tell us
"We've got new venues we're playing for the first time, new songs we've been writing, and new recordings on the way! Thanks so much for supporting and enjoying local Irish music!"
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More at: www.paddyspig.com

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Sat, Sep 19, in Hollywood:
LILA DOWNS plays the Hollywood Pantages.

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Sat, Sep 19, in Redondo Beach:
(Time tba) PADDY'S PIG, a fine trad Irish band, plays the last of three gigs for "HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK'S DAY," this one at Hennessey's Tavern in Redondo Beach.
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Missy, Mike, Damon, Marty, & Jon — Paddy's Pig — always look and sound wonderful on stage. They tell us, "We've got new venues we're playing for the first time, new songs we've been writing, and new recordings on the way! Thanks so much for supporting and enjoying local Irish music!"
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More at: www.paddyspig.com

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Sat, Sep 26, in Pasadena:
5 pm "MAGICAL MOONLIGHT SONATA GALA," a full program by the PASADENA SYMPHONY & POPS, at Ambassador Gardens, 380 W Green St, Pasadena 91123.
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Pasadena Symphony and POPS annual gala, “Moonlight Sonata,” features music under the stars, a deluxe dining experience with Claud & Co., an awards presentation, and exciting live and silent auction opportunities. All hosted by DAVID LOCKINGTON, Music Director, Pasadena Symphony and POPS.
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Maestro Lockington adds, “This year, the Pasadena Symphony and POPS is honoring Anne Akiko Meyers (violinist extraordinaire), Peter Hoffman (Sierra Auto Group) and Kin Hui (Singpoli Group) - three amazing and thrillingly supportive members of the PSA family. There is space in the event program book to offer your congratulations to these luminaries -email eventinfo@pasadenasymphony-pops.org to learn more.”
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Tix and more info: www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org

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√ A Guide "SHOW of the WEEK" Pick...
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Sep 26, in L.A.:
8 pm BRIGITTE, the Platinum-selling French indie sister-duo, known for their retro folk Parisian style, at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State L.A., 5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles 90032; 323-343-6600; www.luckmanarts.org
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The Alliance Française de Pasadena presents this as a fundraiser for the Alliance and its educational programs, in collaboration with The Luckman fine arts complex.
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Pre-show reception at 7 pm, concert at 8 pm.
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All tix include the reception where you can enjoy a selection of wine and cheeses.
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$50 limited tix are preferred seating with the best front-center seats in the house.
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$25 to $35 general admission tix, despite being billed as "concert-only," also include the pre-show reception hosted by "French Morning" with refreshments and snacks at 7 pm.
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Tix at: www.luckmanarts.org

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Oct 2, in BevHills:
GORDON LIGHTFOOT plays the Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Bl, Beverly Hills.
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Tix at www.canyonclub.net or 888-645-5006.

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A Guide “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Oct 7, in Santa Barbara:
7 pm DON HENLEY (EAGLES), plus special guest SHAWN COLVIN, play the Santa Barbara Bowl. A real "wow" of a double-bill; like you'd see at a festival, but here with a better seat.
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Tix: On sale SAT, AUG 8, 11 am, at:
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http://m.ticketmaster.com/event/09004EFEDC516588?brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned_Aug5

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√ A “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick...
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Dec 12, in BevHills:
""FRANK SINATRA'S 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION" featuring FRANK SINATRA JR. "Sinatra Sings Sinatra" at the Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Bl, Beverly Hills.
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Tix at www.canyonclub.net or 888-645-5006.

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Tue, Jan 19, 2016, in OC (Anaheim):
6-9 pm "MUSIC PRODUCTS MEDIA PREVIEW" on the Disney Garden Walk, Anaheim.
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Presented by RobertsonComm (Robertson Communications Corp.) It's a pre-NAMM event.

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Word to the wise: we add to “Ticket Alerts” all the time, so act accordingly.


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♪ 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.
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