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Thursday, August 14, 2008

August 14 to 18 events UPDATE, Acoustic Americana Music Calendar 2008

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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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August 14 through 18 UPDATE, 2008
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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WHY WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM: after a long presence on MySpace, that site suddenly changed parameters to accept only short posts, now requiring a ponderous and VERY time-consuming process to list events in small increments. It’s far too time-consuming. So we began posting the calendar and news on Blogspot. We’ll see how this works, and we welcome your feedback, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com .
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FUTURE EVENTS are posted into 2009. We update often, and we add a BUNCH of concerts, festivals, club gigs, workshops, and recurring events as dates arrive.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES always post separately.
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The most recent edition of our NEWS FEATURES posted AUGUST 10 (http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-aug-10-edition-acoustic.html).
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The most recent previous edition of our NEWS FEATURES posted AUGUST 4 (http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-august-4-edition-acoustic.html).
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Recent editions of our NEWS FEATURES are available on Blogspot at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com; older archived editions are available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button and scrolling, and if you don’t see what you want, then journey farther back by using the “older entries” button and scrolling, as many times as necessary. You can go all the way back to when acoustic music was made by trees crashing to the floor of the primeval forests when the dinosaurs got too rambunctious.
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ANNIVERSARIES – things that happened in music, entertainment, and elsewhere in history – are on hiatus. Let us know if you miss them, and maybe that’ll prod us to start doing them again.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about that, and anything else related to the Acoustic Music Calendar & News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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LATEST UPDATES TO THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 14
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Thu-Sat, Aug 14-16; in Las Vegas:
4th Annual “NEW MEDIA EXPO” moves for the first time from Southern Cal to Las Vegas, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. It's all about podcasting, online videos, web seminars, and other new media. We attended last year, and found many vendors with state-of-the-art and cutting-edge hardware and software for building your podcasting empire, and good seminars and workshops. Info, www.newmediaexpo.com; 949-348-2590, ext 15.
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Thu, Aug 14:
Noon-2 pm SUMMER OF LOVE brings their “WOODSTOCK TRIBUTE” to the “Pershing Square Lunchtime Concert Series” at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. Ride the Red Line subway to the Pershing Square Station and avoid expensive downtown L.A. parking. Grab a take-out lunch across the street, and enjoy a FREE lunchtime concert downtown.
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Thu, every week:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, Aug 14; every Thu in Aug:
5-8 pm “TWILIGHT THURSDAYS” with THE PASADENA POPS, at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; 818-949-4200; www.DescansoGardens.org. On Aug. 14, bring blankets and picnics for a rehearsal of the Pasadena POPS on the Main Lawn. On Aug 7, 21 and 28, Descanso’s shady Main Lawn provides a casual setting for picnics and to enjoy jazz featuring JENNIFER ROBIN, MICHAEL COMPANIA, RINER SCIVALLY, plus special guests. The Gardens remain open until 8 pm on Thursdays in August. Families are encouraged to “enjoy the day’s shimmering end in the Gardens,” enjoy the music and take a “Twilight Thursday Walk.” The Enchanted Railroad is running, $3 per ride. Descanso Gardens members and children under age 5 are free. Half-price Garden admission begins at 5 pm; adults $3.50; srs & students $2.50; children $1. Free parking.
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Thu, every week; in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, Aug 14; in Solvang:
5:30 - 7:30 pm PETER FELDMANN & RICK CUNHA with special guest, MS. FRANCINE bring bluegrass to the “MUSIC ON THE GREEN” series at 1984 Mission Dr (Hwy 246) & Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang. Free.
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Folk and bluegrass musician PETER FELDMANN teams-up with songwriter and guitarist RICK CUNHA to present a free concert for the New Frontiers "Music On The Green" music series The Santa Ynez Valley's golden songstress MS. FRANCINE will contribute some of her original songs. The show features songs and tunes from rural country performers of the past century, including Jimmie Rodgers, the original Carter Family, Uncle Dave Macon and others. The songs, including some of Rick's original works, are accompanied on guitar, mandolin, slide and slack-key guitar, and five-string banjo.
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RICK CUNHA is “a guitar players' guitar player,” and a fine songwriter. Rick has performed in concert with Mason Williams (for whom he also produces), Emmy Lou Harris, John Stewart, Anne Murray, Jennifer Warnes, Buck Owens, The Smothers Brothers, and others. His songs have been recorded by Ms. Warnes, Ian Matthews, The Smothers Brothers, Michael Johnson and many other artists. Rick’s solo recording career began in 1974 with an album for the GRC label, that included his song, "Yo-Yo-Man," which was immortalized on television and in concert by Tom Smothers. Rick’s solo albums include "Cunha Tunes" and "Moving Pictures". Admission free.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu; Aug 14:
7-8:30 pm MRS. MURPHY’S CHOWDER plays a “high-energy Irish-Americana show” for the “Arcadia Summer Concerts in the Park” series, on City Hall west lawn, 240 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Different show every Thu, Jul 10-Aug 21. Inexpensive popcorn & sodas available. Free.
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Thu, Aug 14:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists MARCY LEVY (ERIC CLAPTON’s band) and DON PRESTON (LEON RUSSELL’s band), at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. Hosted by MARK “POCKET” GOLDBERG & “BROTHER” RANDY SACKS. Musician DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, past guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) tells us, “This bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase every Thursday night, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, tip jar donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Aug 14:
7-10 pm SAMANTHA CRAIN joins CARMEN CONSOLI, JUANA MOLINA and for a night of “Indie-Pop Singers / Global Songstresses” at the 24th Annual “SANTA MONICA PIER TWILIGHT DANCE SERIES” presented by Amoeba Music on the Santa Monica Pier; info, www.twilightdance.org; 310-458-8901. This year brings a new 3-hour show format (past years were 2 hrs). Parking near the pier is limited - walk, bike or take the MTA (www.mta.net) or Big Blue Bus (www.bigbluebus.com) or call 310-451-5444 for info. Bike valet starts at 6:30 pm on concert nights, offering safe and convenient parking for thousands of bikes. Santa Monica Pier is wheelchair accessible.
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SAMANTHA CRAIN & THE MIDNIGHT SHIVERS demonstrate that music is sometimes a collision of opposites. Realities clash and coexist, and the tension, while sometimes strange and unpredictable, results in something undeniably beautiful. For SAMANTHA CRAIN, these colliding realities stem most notably from her unlikely artistic heritage; a Native American from Oklahoma, the state that gave us both The Flaming Lips and Woody Guthrie. Her artistic vision embodies equal parts Radiohead and Bob Dylan, balancing darkness and light, life and death. Her sound is deeply rural and southern, but also itinerant and urban. Like Jack Kerouac before her, Crain is lost on the subway, sleeping in boxcars, leaving lovers behind, and dining in small town obscurity all within a few short days. At the age of 21, that's saying something about this emerging artist who kicks off this special night of Global Songstresses.
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The Sicilian-born CARMEN CONSOLI is the most successful female singer-songwriter Italy has ever produced, and tonight is her debut performance in California. JUANA MOLINA is a respected and popular Argentinian avant-garde singer-songwriter from Argentina who has achieved great popularity in several countries around the globe. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm WEEKLY ZYDECO DANCE in Long Beach, every Thursday at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 562-596-1631. Come early for Bar Happy Hour with free food, 5-7 pm. Evening costs $5 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lesson included, 7-8 pm; raffle 8-8:15; CD dancing 8:15-10 pm or so. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. (Total cost for the evening is $10 if you buy two bottled waters.)
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Thu, every week:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
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Thu, Aug 14:
7:30 –10:30 pm monthly “NSAI SONGWRITER NIGHT” hosted by ED TREE, with BRAD COLERICK, DAVID SERBY, LORIE DOSWELL, BROOKS TAYLOR, BEN CARR, BOB LOCKE, & ALAN FRANK, at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.net. Brad Colerick wrote songs recorded by the late Johnny Cash, and he has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” David Serby tells us, “Since it’s a solo acoustic thing, I’ll be doing a song or two that I never do with the band. The featured writer is my pal, Brad Colerick. If you ever watch the alternative country video show on GAC, ‘The Edge of Country,’ you’ve probably seen Brad’s videos. The other writers are all fantastic, too, and Hallenbeck’s has great sound and really good food and beverages.” (NSAI is the Nashville Songwriters Association, Int’l.) Artist info, www.myspace.com/davidserby and www.davidserby.com. $5 cover.
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Thu, Aug 14:
7:30 pm STONE HONEY plays “American Music Thursdays” for the “Concerts in the Park” series at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, Memorial Park, Walnut & Raymond, Pasadena; 626-683-3230; www.levittpavilionpasadena.org. They’re one of today’s fastest-rising Americana / alt-country / Southern rock bands. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Ride the Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station, and save expensive parking and gas. Nice outdoor venue. Free.
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, 2nd and 4th Thu, every month; in Ventura:
6-9:30 pm “ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin, who says, “Check-out Ventura's Bluegrass Jam website, at http://home.earthlink.net/~generubinaudio/index.html. All skills welcome, friendly folks, great food and drink, and even better jammin'. Generally we number 25 to 35 musicians. We now have additional space for even more jam circles. Spectators are appreciated and welcome.” Contact Gene with your email address to receive regular reminders and details: 805-658-8311 or generubinaudio@earthlink.net.
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Thu, every week:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Aug 14:
8 pm JIM STUBBLEFIELD'S GUITARRA EXOTICA at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Guitarist and composer JIM STUBBLEFIELD (a founding member of the Billboard charting band INCENDIO) performs original music from his first solo album in ten years, “Guitarra Exotica.” Stubblefield's music is a journey into an exciting world of exotic melodies, infectious rhythms and evocative soundscapes featuring original compositions inspired by his love of flamenco, jazz, classical, celtic and many other Western and Eastern forms. From flamenco inspired rumbas to Eastern European folk melodies, to Middle-Eastern bellydance rhythms, Stubblefield's fleet-fingered guitar work takes center stage.
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He is joined by violinist ANNA STAFFORD whose credits include work with artists Mary J. Blige, Leann Rimes, Josh Groben, Kanye West, Kelly Clarkson and Andrea Bocelli. Percussionist BRYAN BROCK (Frankie Valli, Jackson Brown, Leonard Cohen, Incendio) and bassist/guitarist RUBEN RAMOS (The Ten Tenors) round out the live band. Stubblefield's music has appeared on compilations with artists such as Ottmar Liebert, Govi, and Ruben Romero. His other band, Incendio, has released 6 CDs, a DVD and toured the country several times.Stubblefield's music has been used on HGTV, ESPN, the Showtime series “Re:Evolution of Sports,” the History Channel show “Modern Marvels,” the WB shows “Elimidate,” and “The Girls Next Door,” and on many other network television shows. $15.
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Thu, Aug 14:
8 pm MAIRE CLERKIN'S “THE BAD ARM - CONFESSIONS OF A DODGY IRISH DANCER” is an “Uproarious & tender dance-comedy” at the Bang Improv Theatre, 457 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-653 6886; www.bangstudio.com. Moira Smiley (VOCO) tells us, “This hilarious woman is only doing this incredible show a few times. Unlike music, it's ‘one run,’ then you're done (at least for a long while), so please consider treating yourself to the best laughing & crying I can recommend. I LOVED it so very much.”
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Written and performed by Máire Clerkin, directed by Dan O’Connor, the show asks, “> "Have you ever felt overlooked? As if the world had failed to notice your brilliance? Growing up in a large family can have that effect - especially when your mother, a dance teacher, is otherwise occupied. At a safe distance from her native London, Maire Clerkin uses the format of a one-woman show to air her grievances, complain about parental neglect, overbearing siblings, ignorant boyfriends, and accidental alcohol abuse; and to prove once and for all that she should have been a famous irish dancer! (this is an ugly duckling story in which the beautiful swan refuses to emerge). The London-Irish dancer / comedienne Maire Clerkin cut her teeth in the 80’s punk-vaudeville scene with an act called The Hairy Marys. Recently immigrated to the U.S., she debuts on this side of the pond with hilarious tales about the disappointing daughter of an Irish dancing-school mistress. Ear-bashingly good jigs punctuate stories of dysfunctional family strife, embarrassing adolescence and a totally hopeless adulthood." Runs here Aug 10, 14, 31 and Sep 7, 11, 18. $12 adv, $14 door.
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Thu, recurring:
8-11:30 pm RICK SHEA AND THE LOSIN' END at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rick and his honky-tonk blues band’s Thursday series, with guests. Rick & co play 8-9, then from 10-12. At 9 is the guest band, different each week. Artists’ info: www.rickshea.com. Venue serves dinner, has drink specials most nights. $5 cover.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz. The boys say, “Come down for great music, dancing and a green beer!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Thu; 2nd Wed & 2nd Thu, every month, Mar-Oct; in Fullerton:
8 pm “SECOND STAGE CONCERT SERIES” at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. Each month, artists are chosen from the “Second Thoughts” series here on 2nd Tuesdays, and included in these nights for full sets. The Tue shows allow aspiring poets, writers, musicians, dancers and playwrights to show off their work to the audience in the main gallery, and the best artists are chosen to perform one of these “Second Stage Concert” shows later in the year (info at 714-738-3134). $15 adv, $20 door.
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Thu; repeats every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu, most Thursdays:
8:30 pm THE WATKINS FAMILY HOUR at one of the two Largo locations, either the original “little stage” venue at 432 N Fairfax Av, LA; 323-852-1073, or the new “big stage” Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, L.A. 90048; http://largo-la.com; 310-855-0350. They are alumni of NICKEL CREEK. Cover is $15 in the small venue, $25 in the big venue.
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Thu, every week:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, every week:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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Thu, Aug 14:
9:45 pm CHE ZURO at the Liquid Lounge, 3522 East Anaheim St, Long Beach 90801. Che is beautiful, and she delivers a fine and fun show. Artist info, www.checheche.com and www.myspace.com.chezuro. Venue is 21+. No cover.
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Thu, Aug 14:
10 pm CITY FRITTER plus CHRISTOPHER HAWLEY at Air Conditioned Lounge, 625 Lincoln Bl (3 blks S of Rose Av), Venice; http://airconditionedbar.com. CITY FRITTER have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Tonight is a full band show featuring CHRISTOPHER HAWLEY on guitar. Christopher then plays with his own band at 11. Artist info, http://cityfritter.com and http://myspace.com/cityfritter. $5 cover.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 15
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Fri, Aug 15; in Colorado & New Mexico:
“LAVETA PASS RIO GRANDE SCENIC RAILROAD HIGH ALTITUDE CONCERT SERIES” with MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY; info, www.riograndescenicrailroad.com. This mixes a steam-powered narrow-gauge train ride up a 10,000 ft pass in the Rocky Mountains with great music.
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Fri, Aug 15; in Temecula:
6-9 pm PACIFIC OCEAN BLUEGRASS, plus DUCHICLAS, NEXT GENERATION, & UP STREAM, at “TEMECULA HOT SUMMER NIGHTS” at Temecula Valley Cheese Company, 42072 5th St, Temecula 92590; www.temeculacalifornia.com. PACIFIC OCEAN BLUEGRASS performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they’re a phenomenal group of teenage musicians. SCOTT GATES, age 16, from the High Desert of California, leads the band, sings lead and harmony vocals, and plays mandolin. Also playing are DUCHICLAS - an Andean Pan Flute band, NEXT GENERATION, a young band playing classic rock, and the highly energized calypso-reggae band UP STREAM. Info, contact Melody at 951-678-1456 or melsads@aol.com. Venue offers cheese, beer and wine for sale. Concert is outdoors, with available patio seating; bring folding chairs to be sure. There are kid's games and activities. All concerts are free.
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Fri, every week:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every week:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, Aug 15; on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) THE TUMBLIN’ TUMBLWEEDS do a live performance-interview on “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” with hosts Ralph and Tamara. You can listen and participate in the on-line chatroom at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch. The band is a tribute to the SONS OF THE PIONEERS, and they also do originals. You’ve heard their music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they’ve performed in Frontierland in Disneyland. More on the band at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com and www.myspace.com/tumbleweeds4
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Fri, Aug 15; in the OC:
6:30-10 pm Annual “BREA FEST” with headliners THE CODY BRYANT SHOW and lots of additional music, at Brea Civic & Cultural Center, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea; 714-990-7771; patt@cityofbrea.net. This annual, third-Friday-in-August, festival is a family event that is Brea’s “most tastiest” celebration and party of the year. Guests are invited to sample delicious food and beverages from over 35 area restaurants. Features top entertainment, an exhibition in the Gallery (including artists’ demonstrations), and the Curtis Theater provides a sneak preview of their upcoming season. All proceeds from Brea Fest benefit Brea’s art programs, including the Curtis Theatre, City of Brea Gallery, Concerts in the Park, and Family Films in the Park. Admission is free and nominal charge for taste tickets.
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Fri, Aug 15:
7-10 pm “BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN TRIBUTE NIGHT” at Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230 1/2 Laurel Cyn Bl, North Hollywood 91607; web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. With performing host PAUL ZOLLO, plus BIG MAMA THORNTON, ROBERT MORGAN FISHER, DAVE MORRISON, MANDA, NOAH STONE, LAUREN ADAMS, EARL GREY, MARC PLATT, MARK ISLAM, LISA JOHNSON, LISA TURNER, ROD SMEAR, LORIN HART, AARON WOLFSON, RICHARD MARCHETTA, many more. No cover, artists are unpaid, and venue expects a min $10 donation.
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Fri, 3rd (&1st) Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Fri, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Fri, Aug 15:
7:30 pm CHRIS VALENTI at The Comedy Store, 8433 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. He’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” in his satiric persona as the patron saint of the broken hearted. Chris tells us, “We meet-up at The Saddle Ranch (8371 Sunset Blvd) at 6. Eat, giggle, drink a little. Hang out at a fun happy hour, with great food and drink specials - not to mention the cheapest parking on Sunset. Then head over to see the big show in the Main Room of the Comedy Store, where we laugh, giggle, and drink a little more. Vargus Mason, veteran of ‘Last Comic Standing’ and ‘Live at Gotham,’ heads-up this great Friday night show at the world famous club. I have a limited number of Comedy Store advance tickets for $15 each. Let me know if you want one.”
Contact Chris at Chris@ChrisValentiMusic.net - more at www.ChrisValentiMusic.com. (No, we don’t know why one is dot net and one is dot com.)
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Fri, Aug 15:
7:30 pm “I HEAR AMERICA SINGING” is the program with DANIEL MONTENEGRO, ERIC OWENS, and the PASADENA POPS ORCHESTRA at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; www.DescansoGardens.org; 818-949-4200. “Our journey as a nation” will be told in music as the POPS and singers DANIEL MONTENEGRO and ERIC OWENS celebrate “all-things American.” Anthems from "America the Beautiful" to "The Stars And Stripes Forever," poignant poetry from Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes, and a special 90th birthday salute to Leonard Bernstein with his "West Side Story," and of course, the "Star-Spangled Banner." Bring your own picnic and wine, or you can order dinner, no later than 2 pm Wed before the weekend, from Patina Catering, at www.patinagroup.com/descanso; dinner questions, 818-790-3663. Pre-concert dining / picnicking begins at 5:30 p.m. Adv tix recommended at 626-793-7172 or www.pasadenapops.org. Free Parking. Tix $20 to $90.
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Fri, Aug 15:
8 pm THE ALLEY CATS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Now opening for JAY LENO in Las Vegas, the Alley Cats, says venue impresario Bob Stane, “are a perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences combined with their spontaneous humor makes each show refreshing and exciting. Royce, Juan, Mando, and Sean never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the ‘50s and ‘60s. They have recorded four albums, which showcase their rich harmonies, as well as the energy and humor from their live shows. Every Alley Cat performance is accompanied by the sounds of laughter and voices joining-in to sing the melodies we all know and love. Tight harmonies, universal humor, and unbelievable a cappella energy have made THE ALLEY CATS ‘America's Premier Doo-Wop Group.’ Most booked Doo-Wop group. We have them for one night. Snap them up.” $22.
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Fri, Aug 15:
8 pm “SPOKEN TRUTH” with performing host TROYAL is a free variety show at the Coffee Gallery, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com. We know you know all about the world-famous Coffee Gallery Backstage, with it’s world-class performers, but what about The Coffee Gallery Front-stage? They have a free stage in the front of the coffeehouse. Coffee Gallery Coffee Bar proprietor and professional comic JULIE SANDOVAL tells us, “The Front-stage is available for poetry, spoken word and acoustic music.” If you'd like to arrange your own Front-Stage Show please email Julie at justjuliehaha@gmail.com
“SPOKEN TRUTH” with Troyal is at 8 pm, one Friday each month; remaining 2008 dates: Sep 19, Oct 17, Nov 14, Dec 19. Admission is free, and you can contact them to sign-up to share your spoken truth or a song. Info, www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com.
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Fri, Aug 15:
8 pm (10 pm show is cancelled) THE LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. They’re one of the finest bluegrass bands around, back on McCabe’s stage for the first time in more than three years. McCabe’s tells us, “HERB PEDERSEN, BILL BRYSON, and company have managed to squeeze-in a show in the midst of the summer-long DESERT ROSE BAND reunion tour that's underway. PLEASE NOTE that the two shows originally scheduled for this engagement have been boiled-down to one performance at 8 pm. Those that purchased tickets for the 10 o’clock show will be promptly refunded.” Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price of shown. $22.50.
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Fri, Aug 15:
8 pm “MONSTERS OF ACCORDION” tour makes its only L.A. stop, at Safari Sam's, 5214 W Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-666-7267; www.safari-sams.com.
FISHTANK ENSEMBLE's accordionist, DUCKMANDU, has performed live with that band on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” This time out, he’s joining three remarkable performers: JASON WEBLEY, MARK GROWDEN, & AMY DENIO for a ten-city tour. www.monstersofaccordion.com and www.myspace.com/monstersofaccordion. "I never thought an accordion could mesmerize me, but it did." - Tom Anderson. Yes, the most feared instrument in the world is being demonstrated by four of its most notorious practitioners throughout the Western United States this August. Accordionists Mark Growden, Amy Denio, and Duckmandu will be joining Seattleite Jason Webley and variety of special guests for ten nights of squeezebox mayhem from Los Angeles to Seattle.
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"I meet so many amazing accordion players in my travels, and I thought it would be really fun to bring some of the best together," explains Webley, who organized the tour. The result is a tour-de-force featuring some of the most entertaining solo accordion performers currently working in North America. But don't expect a night of polkas, because these aren't your grandmother's accordion monsters. Instead Webley and company will be delivering five evenings of squeezebox-fueled drinking songs, punk rock covers, experimental pop, dark tangos and sultry dirges. Artists info, www.jasonwebley.com and www.duckmandu.com.
All ages. $10.
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Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Fri, repeats 3rd Fri, every month:
8:30-11 pm CONTRA DANCE at the War Memorial Hall, 435 S Fair Oaks Av, South Pasadena. Music by live band. Recent musicians have included TOM & PATRICK SAUBER, STEVE LEWIS and MIKE SAUBER. Dance instruction at 7:30 pm.
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Fri, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Fri, Aug 15:
CANCELLED: 10 pm THE LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. 8 pm show IS going forward. $22.50, either show.
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SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
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Mon, Aug 16:
10 am RAZZLE BAM BOOM performs for the “Monday Morning Concerts for Children” free series at the Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park 91303; 818-347-9419. Requires reserv at 818-347-9938. RAZZLE BAM BOOM is the music and comedy duo of MARK BECKWITIH & OBEDIAH THOMAS. A unique combination of music, audience participation, and comedy, Razzle Bam Boom is for audiences of all ages. The Valley Cultural Center's children’s series places professional musicians in an intimate, educational setting with five hundred K-5th grade children each week throughout the summer. Exposure to music at an early age has been proven to increase academic achievement in math and language and increased comprehension and communication skills. The joy of music and song in our daily lives strikes a personal chord and is invaluable in bridging the gap between peoples of varying cultures and ethnic backgrounds. This interactive program includes a brief history lesson of each musical style, a dynamic performance with selected children invited to the stage, and an opportunity for children to ask questions of the performers. Monday Morning Concerts for Children serves 6,500 young students each season.
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Sat, repeats every week:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Sat, Aug 16; in South OC:
Noon-4:30 pm KAHUNA COWBOYS JUG BAND at the 42nd Annual “LAGUNA BEACH SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL,” 935 Laguna Canyon , Laguna Beach 92651. Info, 949-494-3030.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-2 pm “CONTINENTAL DRIFT” Celtic and British Isle folk show, on KUSP in Santa Cruz, includes live performance-interviews with host CINDY ODOM on her long-running show. From the highlands of Scotland to the midlands of England and beyond, it’s traditional and contemporary music from Ireland and the other British Isles, with Celtic lore and Celtic-influenced folk and ethnic music from Europe and North America. Info, playlists, and web simulcast at www.kusp.org.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-1 pm “UNSIGNED MUSIC SHOW” on WPMD with TEE-M and MIKE STARK is “a genre-busting show, where the UNsigned Revolution is on.” On the web at http://wpmd.org. Mike and TEE-M spin CDs 11 am-noon “from cutting-edge indie artists and bands,” (acoustic and electric) then welcome guests at noon, usually for all-acoustic live performances. The show also rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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Saturdays, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
2 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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Sat, Aug 16:
4-7 pm MASON MOUNTAINEERS at Suzy's Bar and Grill, 1141 Aviation Bl, Hermosa Beach 90254; 310 379-6171. Traditional bluegrass with Glen Mason on guitar and mandolin, Dave Sharp on banjo, Tom Hall on bass, and Bryan Dresler on fiddle. They play for the venue’s dinnertime, every other Saturday. charge. Selection of food and drinks available. No cover.
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Sat, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
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Sat, Aug 16; in Malibu:
6-8 pm LAUREN ADAMS, MARK "POCKET" GOLDBERG, & OTIS, play a wine tasting event at Malibu Wines, 31800 Mullholland Hwy, Malibu 90265; 818-865-0605. Lauren says, “We are doing sort of a Medicine Show.” Lauren Adams plays two sets, and showcasing Mark "Pocket" Goldberg and Otis. Lauren adds, “Kids are welcome too, and they have a Bocci Ball area. It's a really intimate, relaxing spot!” Admission: purchase of 1 bottle of Malibu Wine.
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Sat, Aug 16; in Beaumont:
6 pm RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE play the free “Concert on the Green - Solera Homes” series at 1615 Fairway Dr, Beaumont.
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Sat, every week:
6:30-10:30 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS CONCERT at Me n’ Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl (at Carson), Lakewood; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario Bob Stane Says, “this is a money back, no questions asked if you are not thrilled act. Bring friends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles.”
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When they performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day, 2006, they had EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart (no one else in the Top 100 was there even twice). Two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this exciting ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, Sligo Rags is taking the local and not-so-local Celtic music scene by storm. Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After" continues to receive international airplay, and was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine. Says the San Diego Troubadour, "This band can light up an atmosphere as dim as the Guiness Stout you just ordered at the bar...Sligo Rags really know their Celtic music." Don't be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz, and swing manage to sneak their way into the act as well. $18.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7 pm KEN O'MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS play the "Concert in the Park" series in Central Park (on Bouquet Canyon) in Santa Clarita; loc & series info, www.onespirit.org. The renowned Irish folk singer and his band bring authentic and original Irish music and Ken's fine singer-songwriter sensibilities. His new CD, "Omaille," is getting global radio play after its world premiere spins on radio's "Tied to the Tracks" last fall. Ken says, “Bring your lawn chair and picnic and enjoy a cool evening under the stars with us!” Artist info, www.kenomalley.com. Free.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7 pm LOST ‘N FOUND BAND at the Learning Garden at Venice HS, 13000 Venice Bl, L.A. 90066; 310-722-3656; learninggardenmaster@yahoo.com. Gardenmaster David King tells us, “We’re celebrating August birthdays. We’ll have a little soiree on our patio, and some munchies.”
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Sat, Aug 16:
7-10 pm “TONI K’s ARTIST SHOWCASE” presents TOM HORNIG, TOM RENAUD, CRAZY AUNT MARY, MIRI HUNTER HARAUCH, LESLIE KNAUER, and CIAN (from Ireland) at the “old” Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405. Toni says, “[It’s] in honor of Elvis leaving the building day, a wonderful lineup - hopefully my last show there before we move to the bigger [new Talking Stick] venue in Venice. We were to be in the bigger venue, but construction is behind, so c'est la vie.”
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CIAN is a young singer, songwriter, and guitarist from Cork, Ireland. Hot Press says, “This is impressive stuff, full of charm and style, and song arrangements serving as fitting vehicles for Cian's handsome voice." Garret Swayne, host of the Main Street Songwriter Showcase, says, “His music is an urgent, melody-driven fusion of acoustic guitar with electronic beats and synths. Despite his tender years, Cian (pronounced kee-n) has shared the stage with a number of renowned Irish artists such as Cathy Davey, The 4 of Us, and Juliet Turner. Cian completed his first West Coast tour of the US in late 2007 and is now back for select shows in August 2008. His music was featured on popular LA acoustic radio show Tied to the Tracks on with host Larry Wines in 2007. Cian’s debut EP has recently been chosen as ‘Pick of the Fortnight’ in Hot Press Magazine’s ‘Garageland’ section. His new EP entitled Closer will be hitting the retail and online stores very soon and supported by a string of live dates at home and overseas. Cian has a voice to be reckoned with, a mellifluous, pitch-perfect instrument unique in range and melodic sweep. His influences vary from the sweet sublime of Jeff Buckley to the electro-pop inflections of The Postal Service, with more than a nod or two to Depeche Mode, Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters, Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, and Van Morrison.” www.myspace.com/ciansongs. More info at www.myspace.com/tonik.
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Lineup:
> 7 pm - Tom Renaud
> 7:30 pm - Crazy Aunt Mary
> 8 pm - Cian (45 min set)
> 9 pm- Leslie Knauer
> 9:30 pm - Thomas Hornig
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Sat, Aug 16; in Tehachapi:
7 pm CROSS TOWN COWBOYS at Mama Hillybeans, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.hillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. It’s the band’s “Cowboy Coffee” House Tour 2008. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Sat; 3rd Sat every month; in Lancaster:
7-9 pm “AN EVENING OF ACOUSTIC MUSIC” monthly artist showcase with a featured artist and an open mic, at the Treehouse Café (formerly Health Tree), 2797 W Ave L, Lancaster 93536; 661-478-9039. Event info and lineup at http://desertsongfest.org .
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Sat, Aug 16; in Poway (San Diego):
7 pm HIGH HILLS play the San Diego Folk Heritage series at Templar's Hall, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. Strong solid and energetic bluegrass are the trademarks of this group, featuring fine instrumental leads on fiddle, mandolin, guitar, banjo and standup bass joined by a compeling blend of vocal harmonies. First formed in 1996, High Hills has headlined at many festivals and has shared the stage with the Dixie Chicks and Ricky Skaggs. Humor and multi-instrumental diversity make for a memorable evening. High Hills will be performing music from their latest bluegrass CD, "Leaves On The River." Band info, www.highhills.com. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Aug 16; in Escondido:
7-10 pm BLUE CREEK BAND brings bluegrass to the Metaphor Café, 258 E Second, Escondido; www.myspace.com/themetaphorcafe. Info, 760-747-1882. We’re told this is “world class picking and singing.” CDs on sale at the show for $10. $5 cover.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7:30-11 pm THE LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS play the “SUMMER BLUEGRASS” concert at Gateway Church, 29646 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills 91301. The all-star band featurs Herb Pedersen on banjo, Bill Bryson on bass, Dennis Caplinger on fiddle, Kenny Blackwell on mandolin, and Roger Reed on guitar. Event info, contact Justin Campbell at thecagemusic@gmail.com or 818-889-4147. Tix $15 adv, $20 door.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7:30-10 pm “BASC PIZZA & BLUEGRASS NIGHT” at Vincenzo's Pizza, 10364 Mason Av, Chatsworth 91311. It's the Bluegrass Association of Southern California’s “Pizza & Music Night.” Listen to great tunes new and old and enjoy pizza. All welcome, info at www.socalbluegrass.org/bascinfo.html.
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Sat, Aug 16; in the OC:
7:30 pm TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS plus ERNEST TROOST & NICOLE GORDON at the “THE LIVING TRADITION” Concert series at the Anaheim Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; www.thelivingtradition.org; reserv, 949-646-1964 or tinkersown@ca.rr.com.
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It’s a fine and fun night of artists who have ALL performed multiple times on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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TRACY NEWMAN is a singer-songwriter, recording artist, television writer and producer. Her first writing job, along with her partner Jonathan Stark, was on staff at Cheers. From there they wrote on a number of other sitcoms, including Bob, The Nanny, Hiller and Diller, and The Drew Carey Show. In 1997, they won the Emmy and the prestigious Peabody Award for co-writing the “coming out” episode of Ellen. In 2001, they created the ABC comedy, According to Jim, starring Jim Belushi, which is now entering its seventh season of production. Tracy has been a songwriter throughout her television career and recently released her first CD, “A Place in the Sun,” which had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” (www.cdbaby.com/cd/tracynewman.) She works with two other singers, GENE LIPPMANN and LORIE DOSWELL, (www.loriedoswell.com) who perform with her as THE REINFORCEMENTS.
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ERNEST TROOST is a versatile musician who has performed as bluesman, specializing in the Piedmont Blues style, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He also has a music Emmy for his other musical adventures in other styles. The title track of his CD, “All the Boats Are Gonna Rise,” was a “Listener Favorite” of 2006 on the radio show. Together with NICOLE GORDON, Ernest will perform songs from his upcoming new album.
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NICOLE GORDON is known both as an award-winning solo acoustic artist and for her “SONGS OF SHILOH” thematic duo project and performances with Marty Axelrod.
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Tix, $14, $11 for Living Trad mbrs; children under age 18 free w/ paid adult.
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Sat, Aug 16:
7:30 pm “I HEAR AMERICA SINGING” is the program with DANIEL MONTENEGRO, ERIC OWENS, and the PASADENA POPS ORCHESTRA at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; www.DescansoGardens.org; 818-949-4200. “Our journey as a nation” will be told in music as the POPS and singers DANIEL MONTENEGRO and ERIC OWENS celebrate “all-things American.” Anthems from "America the Beautiful" to "The Stars And Stripes Forever," poignant poetry from Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes, and a special 90th birthday salute to Leonard Bernstein with his "West Side Story," and of course, the "Star-Spangled Banner." Bring your own picnic and wine, or you can order dinner, no later than 2 pm Wed before the weekend, from Patina Catering, at www.patinagroup.com/descanso; dinner questions, 818-790-3663. Pre-concert dining / picnicking begins at 5:30 p.m. Adv tix recommended at 626-793-7172 or www.pasadenapops.org. Tix $20 to $90.
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Sat, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” brings BOB WOODRUFF plus LONESOME SPURS to its weekly evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Series began in April, 2008, presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. Broadcast live on Cowboy Nick’s radio show on 88.9 FM KXLU. LONESOME SPURS (LYNDA KAY & DANNY B. HARVEY) have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Tonight, BOB WOODRUFF plays at 8, LONESOME SPURS at 9 pm. Parking: 2 hours free with validation from EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. $3 for the third hour; $1 for each additional 20 minutes; $15 max. Addt’l parking at The Grove, next door. Get validation for their structure from Grove merchants. No cover.
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Sat, Aug 16:
8 pm CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. They’ve been “Listener Favorites” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Performing first-class original and traditional bluegrass and Americana, Chris Stuart & Backcountry features CHRIS STUART on guitar, JANET BEAZLEY on banjo, ERIC UGLUM on lead guitar & mandolin, and two of the hottest youngsters on the scene today, CHRISTIAN & AUSTIN WARD on fiddle and acoustic bass. $15.
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Sat, Aug 16:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD # 7 at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. They have an original sound that utilizes traditional bluegrass, blues and honky-tonk to create an Americana roots music that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy. One critic wrote, "If Bill Monroe had started a band with Muddy Waters and Levon Helm, this is what it would sound like." They went all the way to the finals as a featured band last December on the network TV show, "The Next Great American Band." Cliff explains, “We were chosen from 8000 applicants to be in the top 12, and performed on the show for six weeks to 10 million viewers or more each week.” Doors at 7:30 pm. $15.
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Sat, Aug 16:
8 pm SACCHARINE TRUST at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $10.
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Sat, Aug 16:
8 pm THE DUO-TONES at Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks area); www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts; www.houseconcerts.us. The Duo-tones are GIL ORR of the CHANTAYS ("Pipeline") and PAUL JOHNSON of The SURFARIS ("Wipeout"). This is top-notch guitar playing at its finest. Reserv & directions at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. Features coffee & dessert buffet, to which contributions are welcome. Doors at 7:30 pm. Check for price of each concert. All the money goes to the performers.
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(Upcoming at Russ & Julie’s: Sep 13 - Rosalie Sorrels; Oct 11 - Eliza Jane; Nov 7 - Ellis Paul.)
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from each participant & audience member.
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Sat, Aug 16; in Encinitas:
8-9:15 pm PACIFIC OCEAN BLUEGRASS BAND plays the E Street Café, 128 West E. St, Encinitas; www.estreetcafe.com. This band of teenage wunderkinds has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Bandleader and amazing mandolinist SCOTT GATES just turned 16 and already has two solo CDs as well as numerous appearances on radio, TV and in Nashville as a member of the Bluegrass Youth All Star show. JESSICA JOHNSON, 16, of San Diego is the lead vocalist, ALEX FINAZZO plays lead guitar, 16-year-old fiddler JOHN MAILANDER and veteran bluegrass bass player BECKY GREEN, all from the San Diego area, round-out the lineup. This is the band’s every-third-Saturday residency. No cover.
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Sat, Aug 16; in Seattle:
8 pm HANZ ARAKI plays the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at the Center for Wooden Boats, in Lake Union Park, Seattle. Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Sat, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recently moved from Friday night to this new time.
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SUNDAY, AUGUST 17
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Sun-Fri, Aug 17-22; in Cambria:
Annual “SUMMERSONGS WEST SONGWRITING CAMP” in Cambria; info, www.SummerSongs.com. SEVERIN BROWNE says, “If any of you are interested in a very musical summer vacation where you can learn to write songs, or improve your songwriting, this camp is the greatest! Five days of singer-songwriter heaven! There are wonderful teachers to teach whatever their specialty is (see below), lots of time to hang with new friends (and time alone to write), plenty of great food, and the natural beauty of Cambria, California!”
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Here is a listing of the teachers and some of the classes they will be teaching:
PENNY NICHOLS teaches “Harmony Singing” and “Vocal Technique”. She sang with Jimmy Buffett, Arlo Guthrie, Jackson Browne, and lots of others. She’s the founder and leader of SummerSongs.
TERESA TUDURI teaches “Songwriting from a Mystic Space.”
HAROLD PAYNE teaches “The Art of Collaboration” and leads an “Improv Songwriting Playshop.”
TOM PRASADA-RAO teaches “Songwriting” and “Guitar.”
CARY COOPER teaches “Songwriting” and has written lots songs. She sings with Tom Prasada-Rao in the Dreamsicles.
MAE ROBERTSON teaches “Marketing Your CD” and “Performance Class.”
FLORENCE RIGGS leads a “Creative Soundings Workshop” and also does private “Singing Sessions.”
BILL GESSNER teaches “Writing Funny Songs.”
JOYCE WOODSON, author of the hit song, “She’s Courtin’ Annie,” teaches three classes: “Finding your own Treasure Trove – Writing using Sense and Memory;” “Three Jazz Chords that will change your Songwriting Life;” and “Who Knows where the Time Goes – Organizing your Creative Time.”
PAT MILLIKEN teaches a guitar class called “Adventures in DADGAD”.
REBECCA TROON teaches “Get Your Groove on!”
DALE LaDUKE teaches “Basic Piano and even more Music Theory.”
SEVERIN BROWNE teaches “Song Starting” to beginners and “all those who just need a kick in the butt to get started.”
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In addition to the classes, there are song circles, campfires, and performances at night. $829 for 6 days room, board, & classes.
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Sun, Aug 17; in Nevada City, CA:
“NEVADA CITY POETRY NIGHT” with champion cowboy poet LARRY MAURICE, who says, “Great venue, great town. I have done this show before and the theatre is great for cowboy Poetry because the performance area is practically in the audience. Call Bill Gainer for details 530-432-8196.”
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Sun, every week:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Also, free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun, Aug 17:
11 am THE JELLYDOTS play a matinee kids show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $10.
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Sun, Aug 17:
11 am-noon MASANGA MARIMBA ENSEMBLE plays the “KIDS KONCERT” SERIES at The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicam, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; tix & info, www.theatricum.com; 310-455-3723. This year’s series brings a great lineup of shows:
Aug 17 - MASANGA MARIMBA ENSEMBLE - Zimbabwe musicAug 24 - RHYTHM CHILD - drums and kidsAug 31 - KATHERINE DINES - lively and uniqueSep 7 - BUCK HOWDY & BB - wild west rompSep 14 - JUMBO SHRIMP CIRCUS - circus folksSep 21 - PARACHUTE EXPRESS - super stars in the world of children’s musicSep 28 - THE SQUEEGEES - good clean fun
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Sun, Aug 17, (and Oct 19):
11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm ZAK MORGAN GUITAR DUO play the “Summer Family Performances” series at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Guitarists ZAK MORGAN and DON RAYMOND play together and encourage children to read and exercise their imaginations. Included with Museum admission.
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Sun, every week:
Noon-3 pm “AMERICANA BRUNCH” with different live performers each week, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027. Hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff W, who David Serby says, “Not only puts these Sunday shows together, but he spins some serious old school country, honky tonk and rockabilly music, too.”
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Sun; 3rd Sun, every month:
Noon-3 pm SONGSALIVE! monthly “LOS ANGELES WORKSHOP,” with this month’s music industry guest speaker, BOBBY BORG, at The Finnish Center, 10701 Magnolia Bl (E of Vineland), North Hollywood 91601. Each monthly workshop features a music industry guest speaker, in a setting for songwriters to gather, share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the songwriting community. The first half of each session is an in-the-round workshop, where each writer presents one song, on tape or CD or live. The second half includes the guest speaker and an industry discussion, with time to talk, enjoy coffee and network. Hosted by Paul Lawrence Moyer. Info on guest speaker, or pre-registration, at 310-238-0359 or www.songsalive.org/losangeles for rules, speakers & what to bring. (Event now held on 3rd Sundays, changed from 1st Sundays.) $5, or free for Songsalive! members.
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Sun, every week:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun; 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun; 3rd Sun, every month:
1-3 pm Monthly “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION SOUTHERN CAL JAM SESSION” on the Heritage Court Stage in the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park; www.museumoftheamericanwest.org; 818-971-5002. WMA California Chapter meeting follows. All performing musicians (whether or not they are Autry members or WMA members) get in free, and each may bring one guest. On WMA jam days at the Autry, all WMA members are admitted free (w/ WMA membership ID) and get access to the jam and to all the museum galleries for the whole day. Award-winning performing songwriter JOYCE WOODSON says, “You can have lunch there at the Golden Spur [café] first, then stop by for some music.” Info on event and participating at www.westernmusic.org. Museum gen’l adm $9 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, recurring:
3-5:30 pm JAZZ COMPOSERS WORKSHOP at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sunday.
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Sun, recurring:
3-5:30 pm SHAPE NOTE/SACRED HARP meets in West L.A.; call Pat Keating for info & loc, 310-557-1927.
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Sun, Aug 17:
4-6 pm OPA OPA closes the “Pershing Square Salsa Sundays” 3rd Sundays summer series at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. Ride the Red Line subway to the Pershing Square Station and avoid expensive downtown L.A. parking. Grab a take-out lunch across the street, and enjoy a FREE lunchtime concert downtown.
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Sun, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
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Sun, Aug 17:
5 pm DAVE MORRISON, accompanied by GREG KRUEGER, with openers D. WHITNEY QUINN & LISA TURNER, plays a House-Concert in Pasadena, 91104. Reserv gets directions, at davymeboy@earthlink.net . Dave has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He’s a fine performing artist and a true “songwriter’s songwriter,” whose songs have been recorded and are performed by many others. Dave tells us the set-up for this evening: “Here's what we'll do. We'll all gather at the Quinn house at 5 pm, and schmooze for a bit. Then WHITNEY and the lovely LISA TURNER will do short sets of their wonderful songs. After that... refreshments, and more general hangin' out. At about 7, I will assume the stage (read corner of living room), along with Whitney on keys, GREG KRUEGER on mandolin and Dobro, and Lisa on goosebump harmonies. Perhaps DANIEL McFEELEY will consent to joining us on harmonica here and there. We're gonna give you a good hour of music. And then, showing the good sense to quit while we're ahead, run backstage (read kitchen) while incredible waves of applause echo through the house. Then, in about a minute, when that dies down, we'll circle the chairs and let some wonderful songwriters show off a little. By this time, some wine and beer will have been consumed and a mood of giddy good-will descended on us all. Really. So join us. We will probably have seating for about 30. Please RSVP so that we'll have plenty of snacks and beverages. If you want anything special (favorite beverage or whatever), feel free to bring it.” Artist info, www.myspace.com/davemorrisonmusic and www.davemorrisonmusic.com . Catch Dave on YouTube, performing "Times Like These" at www.youtube.com/watch?v=vD-G11Eeg7s. Concert is a $10 donation.
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Sun, every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” this week brings BUBBA HERNANDEZ & LOS SUPER VATOS, JEREMIAH AND THE RED EYES, KAZ MURPHY on the4 main stage, with BIRD & MOON on the backporch stage at The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho.The country and roots series runs weekly through the spring and summer.
About BUBBA HERNANDEZ: after 20 1/2 years of national and international touring, one appearance on "The Simpsons," and two Grammy awards, all while in the rocking polka band BRAVE COMBO, Bubba “set out to see what else there is in the world of music performance.” In January of 2005, with the integral help of friend and keyboardist / vocalist DAVID DE LA GARZA of LA MAFIA, he founded LOS SUPER VATOS, which gained traction rather quickly and is currently performing its cumbia rockin' Tex-Mex R&B in Texas and neighboring states. The band began with music from a collection of recordings Bubba had started in January of 2003, mixing old funk and various forms of cumbia. This album is tentatively titled “Super Vato-Love and Drama.” It is bilingual Spanish and English, and at times, “Spanglish.” Bubba also has a polka project with the working title “Polka Freak Out” with ALEX MEIXNER. In this project, Bubba fuses Alex, an accordionist from Pennsylvania who plays a variety of Eastern European styles, with Conjunto, Tejano and Tex-Mex Rock. $3 Dewars and $3 PBR's, BBQ available. All ages, no cover.
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Sun, every week:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. (BBQ changed to 5-8 pm, effective July 4.) Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 5, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun, 3rd Sun, every month; in Arroyo Grande:
5:30-8:30 pm "BLUEGRASS JAM SESSION" at the SLO Down Pub, 1200 E Grand Av (at Brisco), Arroyo Grande; 805-481-4015. Hosted by Roger Siminoff; info, siminoff@siminoff.net. All welcome.
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Sun; Aug 17:
6-8 pm THE LATE BLOOMERS bring acoustic folk to the “Sierra Madre Summer Concerts in the Park” series, in the Memorial Park Bandshell, 222 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Free.
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Sun, Aug 17:
6 pm COLD DUCK plays “classic party favorites” for the “Glendora Summer Concerts in the Park” series, in the Bandshell in Finkbiner Park (Oak Grove area), Glendora. Presented by Rain Bird. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Note, no dogs allowed in the park. Free.
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Sun, 3rd Sun, every month:
6-10 pm “GRIMM / BIG FISH / PRO BLUES JAM” at The Big Fish, 5230 San Fernando Rd, Glendale; 818-244-6442. With KATHRYN GRIMM on guitar & vocals, BILL ORR on bass & vocals, FRANKIE SALEMMO on drums. Other musicians take part by invitation from Kathryn, in advance, at grimmmusic@yahoo.com. "Grimm hosts the Pro Blues Jam the third Sunday of each month, to give professionals and amateurs a chance to shine. Her guitar licks are explosive and her singing divine." - Joyce Rudolph, Los Angeles Times. Billy Hulting (Lou Rawls, Patti Labelle, Dwezill Zappa) says Kathryn Grimm "...sings like an angel, plays guitar like the devil." Kathryn tells us, “Bill [Orr] has just started a myspace page for the Big Fish Jam. Pleeeaaasseee go visit, add it to you friends list and keep visiting to view the up-and-comers photos, [and learn about the] music and info about the Best Jam in Town.” It’s at www.myspace.com/bigfishjam.
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Sun, Aug 17:
6 pm THE KNACK brings an electric, but notable, show to the “Concerts in the Park” outdoor series at Lou Bredlow Pavilion in Warner Center Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Bl, Woodland Hills. The Knack is back, with the tightly-woven musical craftsmanship of the sounds that defined the late '70s, including their smash hit, “My Sharona,” and more. The sponsoring Valley Cultural Committee has an upgraded food court with sixteen vendors serving a variety of food and beverages. The Children’s Play Zone is also upgraded this year with bounce rides, clowns, face painting and balloon artists. Parking is available for a $8 in three nearby parking structures; Califa St between Topanga & Owensmouth and Owensmouth Av between Oxnard & Califa. Proceeds help offset the cost of the concerts. Info on shows and free parking with incentives at VCC, 818-704-1358 or www.valleycultural.org.
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Sun; Aug 17:
6:30-8 pm DOO-WAH RIDERS play the “Monrovia Summer Concerts in the Park” series, in the South-West portion of Recreation Park, Monrovia. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. (Note that usual venue in Library Park is not being used this year, due to construction.) Free.
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Sun, every week, Jun 29-Aug 31:
6:30 pm “LEVITT LOVES KIDS” series for a half-hour before the evening’s professional musicians, at the “Concerts in the Park” series at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, Memorial Park, Walnut & Raymond, Pasadena; www.levittpavilionpasadena.org; 626-683-3230. Talented local musicians under age 18 take the stage; this year’s offerings include a Spotlight Awards winner and performers from the Young Musicians Foundation and Theatre 360. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Ride the Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station, and save expensive parking and gas. Nice outdoor venue. (See 7 pm listing for tonight’s featured professional musicians.) Free.
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Sun, Aug 17:
7 pm EVANS & ROGERS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Presenting the best in good old fashioned fun, Evans & Rogers are billed as “The hottest new act in Vaudeville.” Award-winning jazz vocalist SHARON EVANS and veteran vocal impressionist RICK ROGERS take you on a musical romp back in time, with early 20th Century song and dance in the vaudeville style. Backed by a four-piece band that includes some of L.A.'s best professional musicians, Evans & Rogers deliver musical comedy and sentimental favorites in fabulous two-part harmony. Tunes by greats such as Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and Kalmar & Ruby. Songs made popular by Nick Lucas, Al Jolson, Annette Hanshaw, and others you’ve probably never heard. It’s a night to remember and songs you’ll be singing all the way home. All ages. $17.
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Sun, Aug 17:
7 pm CHARLES McPHERSON plays “Jazz Night Sundays” for the “Concerts in the Park” series at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, Memorial Park, Walnut & Raymond, Pasadena; www.levittpavilionpasadena.org; 626-683-3230. He is an alto sax master. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Ride the Gold Line light rail to Memorial Park Station, and save expensive parking and gas. Nice outdoor venue. Free.
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Sun, Aug 17:
7 pm “I HEAR AMERICA SINGING” is the program with DANIEL MONTENEGRO, ERIC OWENS, and the PASADENA POPS ORCHESTRA at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge 91011; www.DescansoGardens.org; 818-949-4200. “Our journey as a nation” will be told in music as the POPS and singers DANIEL MONTENEGRO and ERIC OWENS celebrate “all-things American.” Anthems from "America the Beautiful" to "The Stars And Stripes Forever," poignant poetry from Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes, and a special 90th birthday salute to Leonard Bernstein with his "West Side Story," and of course, the "Star-Spangled Banner." Bring your own picnic and wine, or you can order dinner, no later than 2 pm Wed before the weekend, from Patina Catering, at www.patinagroup.com/descanso; dinner questions, 818-790-3663. Pre-concert dining / picnicking begins at 5:30 p.m. Adv tix recommended at 626-793-7172 or www.pasadenapops.org. Free parking. Tix $20 to $90.
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Sun, every week:
7 pm PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP WITH MARC PLATT at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member in advance to gain entry. Limit 10 performers per week. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/workshop.shtml. Each week's workshop is $20, with all proceeds to the venue.
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Sun, Aug 17; in Ventura:
7 pm EMILY ZUZIK at Zoey's Café, 451 E Main St, downtown Ventura; reserv 805-652-0091. Emily tells us she us part of a lineup with “a host of other talented songwriters like CELIA CHAVEZ, and (unconfirmed) JAMES MADDOCK and LESLIE MENDELSON.” Artist info, www.emilyzuzik.com and www.myspace.com/emilyzuzik.
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Sun, recurring:
7-9 pm BLUEGRASS JAM at The Ugly Mug Café, 261 N Glassell, Orange; 714-997-5610 or 714-524-0597.
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Sun, every week, on web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” is a long-running folk music show from Los Angeles, hosted by ROZ LARMAN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 FM in Santa Barbara, and simulcast at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live, with a guest recording artist. The show celebrated its 37th year on the air in February 2008. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, every week, on web radio:
7 pm “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by DAVE STRAUSS, features live on-air performance-interviews at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live web-only show focused on Los Angeles-based songwriters of all genres, but the live segment is generally an acoustic performance.
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Sun, Aug 17:
LARRY BULAICH performing at Noble House Concerts in Van Nuys. Reserv gets directions; contact Barbara Greenspan at 818-780-5979.
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Sun; third Sun, every month:
8 pm “VARIETY NIGHT,” with a guest recording artist, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. Performance by the guest artist, plus the pre-registered open mic-ers. Signups each month begin two Sundays ahead, at 1 pm, and continue until showtime unless all 8 slots are filled in advance. The night always includes a drawing for 2 hrs free studio time at Sunburst Recording for a lucky open mic-er. Performers may purchase a live recording of their stage performance for $8. Website has directions to venue and nearby recommended eateries. $4.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 18
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Mon, every week:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon; every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon, every week:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com.
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Mon, every week:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676.
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Mon, Aug 18:
7-10 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM AT THE FORD” sponsored by the Ford Amphitheater & the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC). The Ford asked BASC to organize a large-scale Bluegrass jam session, and this is it. It’s open to the public. All musicians, young and old, beginners to advanced, are invited to participate. Here is your chance to show off your talents and jam with old friends, and make new ones. You can also play at the open mic on the amphitheater’s uniquely beautiful main stage, with the hillside garden behind you. More at www.socalbluegrass.org.
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Mon; 3rd Mon (and 1st Mon), every month:
7-10 pm KAEDMON plays their twice-a-month jam and public rehearsal at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; http://arniescafe.com; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes) tells us, it’s “a new little coffee house that is becoming quite a scene. KAEDMON hosts a night there every 1st & 3rd Monday of the month. JEANNIE WILLETS is hosting a night there once a month (I think) and this bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase every Thursday night, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” KAEDMON and JEANNIE WILLETS have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Mon, Aug 18:
8 pm COWBOP at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Cow Bop mixes swingin’ grooves, thrilling riffs, sweet and hot vocals, acoustic western/western swing sensibilities, and tons of fun, and you have only begun to describe Cow Bop. Led by internationally acclaimed guitarist BRUCE FORMAN, the western bebop band has performed across the country, thrilling audiences with their unique brand of American music. They were a huge hit performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Their debut CD, “Swingin Out West,” rocketed to the top of the charts in four different genres. Their new CD, “Route 66,” (released April 2008) features MONTY ALEXANDER and DAN HICKS, and it’s a celebration of their having won the “Route 66 Challenge” ...three times! Come check-out Bruce's playing, featured in Clint Eastwood's award-winning movie, “Million Dollar Baby.” $15.
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Mon, every week:
8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL hosts the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. Bernie says, “If you haven't been in, you owe it to yourself to join us either to play or just to listen, and be sure to bring an appetite for home-made soul food and home-baked cobbler, cake and pie. We have a ball, every Monday, 8-11.” Bernie was great performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Signups at 7:30 pm. Hosted by LISA TURNER. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Sign-ups 7-7:15 pm, show at 7:30 pm. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. No cover, artists are unpaid, and a $10 donation to the venue is expected from participants and audience members.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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Mon, every week:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, every week:
9-11:30 pm "IRISH MUSIC SESSION" weekly at Celtic Arts Center’s new shared location, Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Schedule every week is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon, every week:
10:30 pm MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Social, 6525 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. No cover.
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, as chronological date listings, and longer “looks ahead” to May, 2009. The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar updates often, and News Features post weekly. Current chronological date listings, to May, 2009, are available for (1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana music events, and (2) festivals and other events of great note throughout the US and Canada (and sometimes beyond) in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which also updates often. If you don’t see the dates you need in the first window, browse-around on the site. If you are exploring our Myspace page, use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore the archives. The calendar’s most recent info, both events and news, lives at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and news of the “Tied to the Tracks” radio & TV shows is at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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