October Calendar, Oct 17 update, Acoustic Americana Music Calendar 2008

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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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October, 2008 events
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October 17 update
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Some quick notes:
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BE SURE to read our “Welcome” post (find it in the list, at left) if you are new to the calendar & news. It’ll help you understand how all this works!
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A quick note about RECURRING EVENTS. These, including residencies, series, showcases, and open mics, are numerous in the Southern California acoustic music universe, and are generally added one week at a time, as dates approach, because there are so many of them. They are included in this update through the entire month of October.
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Watch for additional updates, at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events are posted all the time, and we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, etc.
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana music shows (in our format, please; see any listed show for an example); send to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com .
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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 process to list events in small increments. It’s far too time-consuming. So, in early 2008, we began posting the calendar and news on Blogspot.
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FUTURE EVENTS are posted into mid-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. Current and recent editions are available 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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MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES posted OCTOBER 17, just after this calendar update posted.
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Recent weeks and months editions 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, because the research is too dang time-consuming. 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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Please don’t send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, can’t be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. So, communicate through the above address (remember that we’ve been gone and off-line for two weeks, so we have HUNDREDS of backlogged emails to open; please so bear that in mind…)
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Updated October 17, 2008;
recurring events included through all of October.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17
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There are five “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks tonight, one each in Cerritos, Studio City, Culver City, Altadena, and North Hollywood.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 17-19:
Annual “HARVEST FESTIVAL” in the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach. Performers include the inimitable SOURDOUGH SLIM.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 17-19; in Sacramento:
“CALIFORNIA BANJO GATHERING” is a mega-event of talent, with MIKE SEEGER, SAMMY SHELOR, BILL KEITH, MICK MOLONEY, BUDDY WACHTER, WALT KOKEN, GORDY OHLIGER, TIM WEED, PEGGY SEEGER, AND CLARKE BUEHLING at the Doubletree Hotel Sacramento, 2001 Point West Way, Sacramento, CA. Event info, www.thebanjoman.com and www.thebanjoman.com/cbg2.html. Organizers tell us, “More will be posted soon. PETE SEEGER will greet us by live video conference at Saturday's breakfast from Beacon, New York. There is a great staff of headliner banjoists spanning the full spectrum of the art of banjo playing who will teach, perform and present an overview of the progress of the banjo through its fascinating history. Our accompanists are first rate. They include Ray Frank, guitar, Paul Shelasky, fiddle, Pete Grant, dobro, pedal steel guitar and more, Kevin Hill, bass, Melanie Nolley playing Celtic fiddle, Harry Liedstrand, Old Time fiddle, and Lillian McLeod, vocalist. We've invited luthiers, merchants, collectors and scholars in this effort, dedicated to our American instrument, its rich heritage and its promising future. We'll have lots of jam sessions, discussions and brain storming in this conference. The Grammy San Francisco chapter added our link: www.grammyawards.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/San_Francisco/Events/Default.aspx?chapterID=10.”
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Sunday features a concert, open to the general public from 2 pm to 5 pm, with all the players joining-in, for “an entertaining, informative presentation devoted to the rich legacy of the banjo, played superbly by our artists.” Their theme is “Know It, Hear It, Play It - The California Banjo Gathering.”
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Fri-Sat, Oct 17-18; in Descanso, CA:
Annual “VAQUERO DAYS” with DAVE STAMEY, RODGER MAXWELL, at Merrrigan Ranch in Descanso (that’s the town of Descanso, NOT Descanso Gardens). More info when we get it.
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Fri, Oct 17; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
6 pm 11th annual “SILVER SPUR AWARDS” with music by CODY BRYANT (Riders of the Purple Sage), BOB WYLD, LACY J. DALTON, IRWIN JACKSON, & RENEE OLSTEAD, presented by The Reel Cowboys, at the Sportsmen's Lodge Empire Ballroom, 12833 Ventura Bl, Studio City 91604. For reservations call 1-800-337-SPUR (7787); info, www.reelcowboys.org. The Silver Spur Awards honor members of the entertainment industry who have portrayed the stories of the West in movies and TV. Always looking to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate, this year’s proceeds benefit Lacy J Dalton's “Let 'em Run Foundation.” DAVID CARRADINE, LACY J. DALTON, & HAL NEEDHAM are scheduled to appear. JOHNNY WESTERN (songwriter of the “Rawhide,” “The Rebel,” and many other beloved western themes) is the evening's emcee. Presenters include RUTA LEE, MORGAN WOODWARD, ROBERT LANTHIER, DONNA MARTELL, & TED WHITE. Doors at 6 pm.
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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, Oct 17:
7 pm-1 am Annual “GO GIRLS MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR ORGAN DONOR AWARENESS” with KELLY’S LOT, RENEE HERMAN, and many others, at the Westside Bar & Grill, 512 W 19th St, Costa Mesa 92627. All ages until 10 pm, 21+ after that. RENEE HERMAN performs at 11:30 pm. The festival has three venues in the L.A. area: also see Thu, Oct 16 at The Liquid Lounge in Long Beach, with Kelly's Lot, Che Zuro, Corday, Holly Light; and Sat, Oct 18 at Tangier in L.A., with Kelly's Lot, The Conlons, Crazy Aunt Mary, & others. First 100 people here get free GoGirls Fest CD. For more, see the Acoustic Americana Music News, and get additional info at www.gogirlsmusicfest.com. Menu here served late, free parking, no cover.
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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, Oct 17; every 3rd (& 1st) 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, Oct 17; in Tehachapi:
7 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN & LUKE HALPIN at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” been among the winners at the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest, played the BASC “Bluegrass at the Braemar Series,” and they’re headed for a choice showcase spot at the Far-West Conference in Phoenix. Stephanie says, “Luke and I will be playing at the super cool Mama Hillybeans in Tehachapi. That's about 2 hours outside of LA - toward Bakersfield. It's a nice escape from the city.” Your editor concurs with all that, but allow at least two and half hours to get there from L.A., more like three. Take your time and enjoy the Jules Verne windmills. Artist info, www.stephaniebettman.com. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Really tasty, too. Tix $10 advance, $15 door, kids under age 12 are free. That'll be at 7 pm on OCTOBER 17TH - that's a FRIDAY. Tickets are $10 in advance (cheap!) or $15 at the door. Kids under 12 free.
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Fri, Oct 17; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
GORDON LIGHTFOOT at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com.
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Fri, Oct 17; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SARA GREY & KIERON MEANS at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. SARA GREY is a compelling American singer, banjo player and song collector. Her vast repertoire includes historical American as well as Irish and Scottish ballads. She has performed throughout the UK, Europe, North America, and Australia. Together with son KIERON MEANS on guitar and vocals, the songs range from traditional to contemporary material. To experience the vocal blend and performance chemistry of this mother-son duo is an absolute delight. Venue’s site has a good local dining guide. $15.
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Fri, every 3rd (& 1st) 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, Oct 17; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm DAVID MASSENGILL at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. He has written songs that have been recorded and sung by JOAN BAEZ, DAVE VAN RONK, THE ROCHES, NANCI GRIFFITH, TOM RUSSELL, DAVID BROMBERG, CHAD MITCHELL, LUCY KAPLANSKY, SHAWN COLVIN, DIANA JONES, and just recently by the young ANTHONY da COSTA. Though he has lived in New York City for over 30 years, he still has his accent from east Tennessee where he once chased a bobcat - and vice versa. Noted for his mountain ballad style story songs accompanied on an Edsel Martin dulcimer, he also plays guitar, makes picture books, and is a storyteller of charm and wit. Dave Van Ronk once said of David, that "he took the dull out of dulcimer." His latest CD, "Dave On Dave" is a tribute to the songs of Dave Van Ronk and had a September 2007 release on Gadfly Records. $15.
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Fri, Oct 17:
8 pm BOB SCHNEIDER plus AMIE MIRIELLO at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027; www.safari-sams.com. $20 adv, $22.50 day of show.
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Fri, Oct 17; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm monthly “AMERICANA MUSIC CIRCLE” brings “A very special edition” dedicated to the “GINA for Missing Persons Foundation” as part of “THE SQUEAKY WHEEL TOUR 2008,” with JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS, “The Circle,” (performing songwriters in-the-round) LILY WILSON, BOB WOODRUFF, CYDNEY ROBINSON, and performing host LAUREN ADAMS with specials guests, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com.
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GINA for Missing Persons FOUNDation presents the 3rd International “SQUEAKY WHEEL TOUR®” (or SWT). This acclaimed concert series raises awareness for those who go missing every year. Clementine (www.clementineband.com) is headlining the national “2008 Squeaky Wheel Tour®,” Oct 17-Nov 4. This 19-day event will draw attention to several hundred missing people, each profiled by artists participating in concerts throughout the US and other countries. This global community effort is supported by the families of the missing and nonprofits including Tommy Foundation (OR), In Hope (IN), The Cue Center (NC), The Maryland Taskforce for the Missing and Unidentified, Tennessee Alliance for the Missing, Project Jason (NE), Team Hope, The Nevada Child Seekers and The Morgan Nick Foundation (OK).
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JANNEL RAP (CLEMENTINE band member and founder of the “Squeaky Wheel Tour®”) has intimate knowledge of the missing. Her sister, musician GINA BOS, disappeared Oct 17, 2000. Jannel’s heartache over the unknown status of her sister became a fight to gain attention for all missing and an avenue to bring hope to their families. 850,000 missing persons reports are made each year in the U.S. 110,000 of those cases go unsolved. The majority of families face the same dilemma that Jannel encountered when Gina went missing: when their loved ones simply vanish with no lurid or dramatic story, they garner no media attention. Rap felt that she had to do something to change that, and she brought the concept of the “Squeaky Wheel Tour®” to life.
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Performers participating in SWT earmark their concerts or events to profile one or more missing persons in their community. They profile that missing person during their show, and ask attendees to take a flyer to post throughout their community. To date, over 300 missing people profiled by GINA have been FOUND. A daily updated list of the events, locations, dates and most importantly, the missing to be profiled may be FOUND at www.411Gina.org/squeakywheeltour.htm
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Tonight’s schedule:
> 8 pm, JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS, www.johnzipperer.com
> 8:30 pm, “The Circle,” performing songwriters in-the-round:
LILY WILSON, www.lilywilson.com
BOB WOODRUFF, www.bobwoodruff.com
CYDNEY ROBINSON, www.myspace.com/cydneyrobinson
> 9:15 pm, LAUREN ADAMS, with specials guests, www.laurenadams.com
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All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, Oct 17:
8 pm “SPOKEN TRUTH” with performing host TROYAL is a free variety show at the Coffee Gallery FRONT-STAGE, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. 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, email Julie at bohemianjoe@gmail.com. “SPOKEN TRUTH” with Troyal is at 8 pm, one Friday each month; remaining 2008 dates: 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, Oct 17:
8 pm “HOW CISSY GREW” featuring the music of LAUREN ADAMS, has its world premiere (the second of two previews) tonight, at the El Portal Theater, 5269 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood. The show runs there Oct 18-Nov 23, following previews Oct 16 & 17. Lauren has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.laurenadams.com.
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Fri, Oct 17:
CANCELLED: 8 pm JACKSH*T at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403.
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Fri, Oct 17:
8 pm THE SUBDUDES at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930. They were great at the Millpond Music Festival.
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Fri, Oct 17:
KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS perform authentic and original Irish music at the Auld Dubliner, 71 Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com. Known for his band, KEN O’MALLEY‘s most recent solo CD, "Ómáille," had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Ken O'Malley is the recipient of the "LA Treasures Award" from the City of Los Angeles and the California Traditional Music Society, a grant that will provide partial support for two solo performances in the next few months. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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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, Oct 17:
9 pm-1 am GARY ALLEGRETTO & BAND bring the blues to Harvelle’s, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. Gary with his all-star band have prominent blues critics raving. Gary is a harmonica wizard, and his music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where he scored a “Listener Favorite.”
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Fri, Oct 17:
9 pm-1 am THE CALIFORNIA COWBOYS at Texas Loosey’s, 22252 Palos Verdes Bl, Torrance 90505. The band (Mel, Craig, and Steve) tells us, “We have great fun, and would love for you to join the party. The Food is great.”
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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, Oct 17:
10 pm RANDY WEEKS (Fri & Sat) at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar.
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Fri, Oct 17:
10 pm KEN OAK BAND at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com.
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
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Saturday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks include a daytime event in Moorpark, and evening events in Claremont, Venice, Santa Ana, Agoura, Santa Monica, North Hollywood, and at Caltech in Pasadena.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
10 am-5:30 pm “UNDERWOOD FAMILY FARMS HARVEST FESTIVAL” continues with a “Bluegrass, Folk and Old Time Weekend” with CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7, FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, & WHISKEY CHIMP, at Underwood Family Farms, 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark 93021; 805-529-3690; www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com. Most of the headliners have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and Fur & Steve scored a “Listener Favorite” on the show. Bring low-back chairs for seating in front of the stage; hay bales also provided for seating. Fur & Steve are hosting, and they tell us, “Bring your instrument, jammers welcome, shaded jamming area provided.” Attractions include corn maze, tractor rides, petting zoo, animal show, food and fun. Artist info:
FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, www.myspace.com/furandsteve and http://furandsteve.com
CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7, www.oldnumber7.net
TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, www.triplechickenfoot.com
Continues tomorrow with a different lineup. Free parking, tix $10, kids under age 2 are free.
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Sat, Oct 18 (runs Fri-Sun):
Annual “HARVEST FESTIVAL” in the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach. Performers include the inimitable SOURDOUGH SLIM.
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Sat, Oct 18; in the OC:
All-day annual “SILVERADO DAYS” in William Peak Park, 7225 El Dorado Dr, Buena Park, features the bluegrassy-Americana THE ANDY RAU BAND, 5-7 pm; artists info, www.andyrauband.com.
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Sat, Oct 18:
11 am-8 pm Annual “BLUESAPALOOZA” blues and hot rod festival in downtown Covina, with six stages and some events at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. The Fret House presents, at 1 pm, The Devon Reeves Blues Band; at 3 pm, Stan West; at 5 pm, Nathan James & Ben Hernandez. Free event.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 18 & 19; in Joshua Tree:
The 3rd Annual “JOSHUA TREE ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL” offers discounted early bird festival tix for $60 (limited number); info, www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com. The lineup, so far, includes the STAIRWELL SISTERS, NATHAN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, DEVIL MAKES THREE, BELLEVILLE OUTFIT, the STARLINGS, HILLSTOMP and the THRIFT STORE ALL STARS. Check their site for additional artists and info.
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Sat, Oct 18 (runs Fri-Sun); in Sacramento:
“CALIFORNIA BANJO GATHERING” is a mega-event of talent, with MIKE SEEGER, SAMMY SHELOR, BILL KEITH, MICK MOLONEY, BUDDY WACHTER, WALT KOKEN, GORDY OHLIGER, TIM WEED, PEGGY SEEGER, AND CLARKE BUEHLING at the Doubletree Hotel Sacramento, 2001 Point West Way, Sacramento, CA. Event info, www.thebanjoman.com and www.thebanjoman.com/cbg2.html. Organizers tell us, “More will be posted soon. PETE SEEGER will greet us by live video conference at Saturday's breakfast from Beacon, New York. There is a great staff of headliner banjoists spanning the full spectrum of the art of banjo playing who will teach, perform and present an overview of the progress of the banjo through its fascinating history. Our accompanists are first rate. They include Ray Frank, guitar, Paul Shelasky, fiddle, Pete Grant, dobro, pedal steel guitar and more, Kevin Hill, bass, Melanie Nolley playing Celtic fiddle, Harry Liedstrand, Old Time fiddle, and Lillian McLeod, vocalist. We've invited luthiers, merchants, collectors and scholars in this effort, dedicated to our American instrument, its rich heritage and its promising future. We'll have lots of jam sessions, discussions and brain storming in this conference. The Grammy San Francisco chapter added our link: www.grammyawards.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/San_Francisco/Events/Default.aspx?chapterID=10.”
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Sunday features a concert, open to the general public from 2 pm to 5 pm, with all the players joining-in, for “an entertaining, informative presentation devoted to the rich legacy of the banjo, played superbly by our artists.” Their theme is “Know It, Hear It, Play It - The California Banjo Gathering.”
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Sat, Oct 18 (runs Fri & Sat); in Descanso, CA:
Annual “VAQUERO DAYS” with DAVE STAMEY, RODGER MAXWELL, continue at Merrrigan Ranch in Descanso (that’s the town of Descanso, NOT Descanso Gardens). More info when we get it.
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Sat, Oct 18; on web radio:
11 am-1 pm CHE ZURO performs live on “THE SECOND HOUR” with host MIKE STARK on wpmd.org, the Cerritos College Radio Station, in Norwalk. Che says, “Listen live as I sit in with Mike during his first hour of ROCK 50, as well as my co-host stint during The Second Hour. Catch it live, or download the podcast later at http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheSecondHour or http://secondhour.blogspot.com/ or www.wpmd.org
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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, Oct 18:
11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm KAREN GOLDEN plays the “Summer Family Performances” series at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Celebrate the Jewish New Year with storyteller Karen Golden as she tells humorous tales about human nature and the natural world around us. Included with Museum admission.
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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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Sat & Sun, Oct 18 & 19; in Arizona:
2 pm JIM JONES & SHERIFF JIM WILSON perform both days at the “ARIZONA FOLKLORE PRESERVE” just outside Sierra Vista, AZ; reservations, directions, at www.arizonafolklore.com. Tix $15 adults, $6 for children under age 17. From the Folklore Preserve, the two Jims ride westward to perform a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pic on Mon, Oct 20, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage at 2029 Lake Av, in Altadena, CA. (See Mon, 8 pm listing).
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Sat, Oct 18:
3-5 pm 2008 “CAL POLY POMONA PUMPKIN FESTIVAL” brings pirate and seafaring music from PIRATES OF THE BLACK SWAN plus THE DOXIE CHICKS, at Temple Av & South Campus Dr, on the Cal Poly campus in Pomona; info, 909-869-2215; www.csupomona.edu/~agri/news/pumpkin.shtml .Free admission and free parking.
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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, Oct 18:
4 pm MICHAEL HERALDA’S “AZTEC STORIES” at Tia Chucha's Café Cultural, 10258 Foothill Bl, Lake View Terrace 91342; 818-896-1479; info@tiachucha.com.
Michael has performed excerpts from his show on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He tells us, “I will be sharing a very unique and intimate presentation themed on the origins of what is now known throughout the world as ‘Dia de Los Muertos / Day of the Dead.’ This presentation ultimately became our third CD project titled ‘Miccailhuitl - The Journey to Mictlan.’ Over 18 months of research went into this project and contributors from Mexico as well as within the United States shared their knowledge on the topic of indigenous beliefs and practices. Artists from New Mexico and Arizona also contributed their talents in creating one-of-a-kind pieces to compliment the finished work. This was a collaborative effort. With so many groups and organizations celebrating Dia de Los Muertos this month and specifically on November 1st/2nd, it is also very important to know the roots of its origins - why we celebrate it from a personal and indigenous perspective. The ceremony itself has changed and evolved over the last five hundred years. On a much deeper level, the indigenous philosophical concepts that are at the foundation of this ceremony reflect lessons in life that are important to us as individuals and for our personal growth. I invite you to come and share an experience that at least will expose you to some intriguing ‘food for thought.’ Numerous hand-made indigenous instruments will be heard and shared throughout the presentation. Audience participation is offered. See link below to view a promotional trailer (short movie) of this very unique presentation! This specific Muertos program of ours will be our only California public program this month.” Link to a short promotional trailer for the program: www.vimeo.com/638876. More info at www.aztecstories.com.
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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, Oct 18; world music:
5 pm “JAPANESE FUSION SERIES #2” is a workshop & concert with Kotoyuki Band with Yukiko Matsuyama at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html.
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The Workshop, at 5 pm, is $10. Yukiko Matsuyama conducts a hands-on workshop and demonstration on the koto, the 13 string zither, which is Japan's national instrument.
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The concert, at 8 pm, is $15. Matsuyama's compositions for koto and western instrumentation delve in to a joyous and celebrative blend of world and pop music.
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Tix at www.panioloproductions.com/store.html.
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Sat, Oct 18:
6-11 pm “CONCERTS IN HARMONY” house concert series presents a full evening of music on the covered patio at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; 818-225-0026. Info, Dana Charnofsky, at purpleDCconcerts@yahoo.com. Artists now being booked to play 2 song sets (10 minutes each) for this acoustic mini-festival evening. Contact Dana. No cover, but venue is a restaurant, so consider a dinner order to be mandatory.
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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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Fri, Oct 18:
7 pm THIS JUST IN at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. “This Just In are exactly as their name implies, new and exciting with their own distinctive sound,” says venue impresario BOB STANE. He continues, “This will be their first time at Coffee Gallery Backstage. They are one of Southern California’s premier bluegrass bands, known for their strong and solid instrumentation and smooth three and four part harmony vocals. All of the members have been veteran performers in various bands, but consider This Just In! one of the most fun groups. Musicians include BOB FITCH, guitar, DAVE RICHARDSON, banjo, PAULA LANE, resonator guitar and PETE LORENTZ, upright bass. Everyone in the band sings lead and harmonies. They might even on occasion add some clogging to their act. This is a group that you won’t want to miss!” Artist info, www.thisjustin.us.com. $18.
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Sat, Oct 18; see preceding listing for tonight’s show at this venue:
CANCELLED: 7 pm HIGH HILLS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. "Strong solid and energetic bluegrass are the trademarks of HIGH HILLS, featuring superb instrumental leads on fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar and standup bass joined by magical blend of vocal harmonies. First formed in 1996, High Hills has headlined with the DIXIE CHICKS, RICKY SKAGGS and DEL McCOURY BAND to name a few. Humor and multi-instrumental diversity make for a most enjoyable and memorable evening with HIgh Hills.” Venue impresario BOB STANE. Come meet VIRGINIA STARLING, who delivers award-winning vocals and plays fiddle, LESLIE REAGAN on hot mandolin and flatpick guitar, LAURA SILVERSTEIN fingerstyle player on banjo and guitar, and CHERYL RICHARDS on standup bass. Artist info, www.highhills.com. $18.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm “TERRY HOLDER & FRIENDS - PHOENIX FOLK ALLIANCE PARTY” with DAVE MORRISON and LORIN HART, at the Talking Stick, 1411 Lincoln Bl, in Venice. TERRY & JERRY HOLDER, from Alaska, have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” All these artists have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and the raduio show had the world premiere of Dave Morrison’s CD, “Times Like These,” now receiving international airplay. On the subject of CDs, Terry tells us, “We have a new CD coming out with good friends FREEBO, GAREY SHELTON, & BEN SMITH. You can hear samples at www.terryholder.com/PressKit.htm.” Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches. No cover.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Lancaster:
7-9 pm monthly “FEATURED ARTIST / OPEN MIC” at Crosstown Records & Collectibles, 1032 E Ave K, Lancaster (Note: no longer at the Treehouse). Featured artist is NEW LEAF, an acoustic duo. Each open mic participant pays $5, and a panel of judges awards the pot to the best open mic performance. Event info and lineup at http://desertsongfest.org .
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Sat, 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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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND at the Claremont Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont 91711; reserv & info, www.folkmusiccenter.com; 909-624-2928. They’ve performed live, several times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Susie & The Hilonesome Band come to the venerable venue for a show featuring the best of “Appalachia to Bluegrass - Americana fusion” with songs from the new album "Green Kentucky Blues" and their award-winning "Blue Eyed Darlin'" album, along with mountain standards from the Jean Ritchie collection, old favorites from Iris Dement, and their new version of the Dylan classic, "Lay Down Your Weary Tune" (featured on Sirius Radio June 29). Artist info, www.susieglaze.com and www.myspace.com/susieglaze. Doors at 7. $12.
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Sat, Oct 18:
7:30 CHRISTIANE SZABO at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. $15.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm DEBRA COWAN plus DAVID MASSENGILL play 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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DEBRA COWAN grabs her audience and doesn't let go. Her ability to communicate the story within the song is rare. Her rich voice conjures images of stony grey Celtic castles, green and rolling English landscapes, and humorous American urban scenes. Just as the audience is left spellbound after Debra presents a woeful traditional ballad of love gone wrong, she immediately brings laughter with an outrageous comic song. Her love of songs from the British Isles has led her to search out the connections with their North American ancestors and her desire to be true to the song brought her to move to Edinburgh, Scotland. She plays many North American festivals, as well. She has been a featured performer at the Greater New Bedford Summerfest, Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival, Champlain Valley Folk Festival, Lancaster Maritime Festival (UK), Edinburgh Festival (UK) and the Chico World Music Festival. She was one of 18 artists selected as a Formal Showcase Artist at the 2002 Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Annual Conference and is a past Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Showcase Artist. A musical scholar as well as a renowned performer, she was a panelist discussing Woody Guthrie's life and legacy along with Fred Hellerman, Oscar Brand, and journalist Dave Marsh. Artist info, www.fallingmountain.com/cowan.html.
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DAVID MASSENGILL accompanies himself mainly on the Appalachian dulcimer, which he slings over his shoulder like an electric guitar. The sound of the dulcimer has an intimate, detailed quality that complements the easy graciousness of Massengill's stage presence. He has achieved a virtuosity on the traditional instrument that enables him to wring from its few strings music of a complexity and richness far beyond anything it was ever meant to produce, drawing the listener in to his lyrical imagery and the close-up focus on human foibles and experience that is the substance of his best songs. In them, Jesus escapes from a mental hospital, history's greatest villains gather for a dinner party, a New York restaurant kitchen crew saves an illegal alien cook from the immigration man, a young woman and a bandit fall in love as he robs her … and these are just some of the vividly imagined scenes and characters with which he captivates audiences wherever he performs. Massengill's songs are rich with insight and poetic imagery, they're upbeat and engaging but full of subtle complexities; this Appalachian dulcimer player with the soft-edged vocal style and offhand stage presence is acknowledged to be one of America's finest songwriters. Artist info, www.davidmassengill.com.
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$14, $11 for Living Trad mbrs; children under age 18 free w/ paid adult.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm “JOHN LENNON’S ORIGINAL QUARRYMEN” plus opener LAURENCE JUBER (Paul McCartney’s WINGS guitarist) in a benefit for music education at Writer’s Boot Camp, Bergamont Station Arts Complex, 2525 Michigan Av, Bldg “i,” Santa Monica; tix & info, 858-755-2239 or www.guitarsintheclassroom.org.
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Sat, every week:
7:30-10 pm “YOUNG TALENT NIGHT”, sponsored by Los Angeles WoMen In Music (LAWIM), and part of the “Squeaky Wheel Tour” for G.I.N.A. For Missing Persons, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com.
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LAWIM presents this monthly series, showcasing performers up to the age of 17. It is part of LAWIM’s commitment to nurture younger artists and reach out to the community through music. Tickets sold by the participants, donations made during the webcast, sponsorships, and contributions received through www.lawim.com fund the LAWIM “Musical Gifts & Scholarship Program” for kids in need. Slated to perform this month are: BRITTANY GUTHZEIT, ASHLEY NORD, ANNIE REZNIK, and special guest, TAYLOR BORLAND. The evening is part of the “Squeaky Wheel Tour” for G.I.N.A. For Missing Persons (www.411gina.org). Accomplished guitarist, songwriter and performer, LESLIE STODDARD (Gia’s Fix), hosts the evening. For more information on tonight’s performers, LAWIM and this program, see the “Young Talent Night” page on the LAWIM website.
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All artists donate their performances at this venue; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, Oct 18; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” brings CORNBALL WILLIAMS plus PORCUPINE PICKINS to the weekly evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. New in April, 2008. 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, 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, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
GORDON LIGHTFOOT at The Canyon Club, 28912 Roadside Dr, Agoura Hills; 818-879-5016.
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Sat, Oct 18 (runs Oct 11, through Nov 9); stage play:
World premiere run of “THE SEQUENCE” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.com. “The Sequence,” by Paul Mullin, directed by John Langs, follows the real life race between scientists Craig Venter and Francis Collins to sequence the human genome. And in the midst of the frenzy to determine what makes a human being, three people - each in hot pursuit of scientific discovery and enduring fame - discover their own humanity. This unpredictably hilarious story, based on true events, depicts the double-talk and double-cross in the pursuit of double-stranded DNA. Partial funding generously provided by The Ensemble Studio Theatre / Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Project in Science & Technology Project.
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The theater advises us that shows are selling out, so purchase tix promptly online or by phone.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. THE FOLK COLLECTION has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and delighted listeners. They are a Southern California-based three-part-vocal harmony string quartet, performing musical tributes to the songs made famous by The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters, Peter Paul & Mary, John Denver and the other great artists of the folk era. TONY UNGER, ED LABOWITZ and MIKE SIROTA, along with bass man BOB PACKHAM, grew up in the 1960's, when they fell in love with the story songs and 3-part harmonies of that acoustic era. Ed and Tony have been a duo on and off since their days at Hollywood High School. www.thefolkcollection.com/topframe.htm. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm RANI ARBO & DAISY MAYHEM plus the PINE LEAF BOYS in a fabulous double-bill at the Caltech music series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832).
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Singer RANI ARBO and her group serve up a foot-stomping musical celebration of American roots fused with splashes of pop and jazz. Rich four-part harmonies, drum, fiddle, guitar, and bass create a jubilant mix of traditional, original, and contemporary sounds. "A sparkling, high energy show marked by breathtaking musicianship." More at www.raniarbo.com.
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The PINE LEAF BOYS bring youthful exuberance to their inimitable brand of traditional Cajun and Creole music. They bring a variety and energy to standards, as well as songs by past masters, all delivered with gusto. Skillful multi-instrumentalists, they often switch instruments during their effervescent show. More at www.pineleafboys.com.
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Presented by Caltech Public Events, with the Caltech Folk Music Society as marketing partner; discounted tix available if you mention the Folk Music Society. Info & tix, Caltech Ticket Office, 626-395-4652 or 1-888-2CALTECH. Gen’l, $28, $23, $18; $10 youth.
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Sat, Oct 18; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “JAMES HURLEY & FRIENDS” with SABRINA & CRAIG, BRETT MIKELS, and LISA TURNER, in a preview show of James’ new album, “Tempest in a Teacup,” at Hallenbeck’s & Cahuenga General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; 818-985-5916. Talented singer-songwriter JAMES HURLEY has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where his previous CD had its world premiere and earned him a “Listener Favorite” track. He is a fine performing songwriter and wonderful guitarist. Sabrina & Craig tell us, “We're featured on the [new] album, so look for us to join James on a couple of his songs as well as playing a short but sweet set of our own originals.”
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LISA TURNER and CRAIG LINCOLN (Sabrina & Craig) have also performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” This should be a fine show. Produced by David Harvey. Venue has good sandwiches and coffeehouse fare. $5 cover.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm SCOTT DETWEILER plays the Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park; www.madridtheatre.org; 818-347-9938. Info, www.detweilermusic.com.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm “HILLYBILLY FEST” at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027; www.safari-sams.com. Performers tba. $20.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm-midnight Annual “GO GIRLS MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR ORGAN DONOR AWARENESS” with KELLY'S LOT, KARMINA (CBS Records/Daisy Rock), ANNELISE LECHEMINANT, CRAZY AUNT MARY, and THE CONLONS, at Tangier Restaurant & Lounge, 2138 Hillhurst (at Los Feliz Bl) Los Feliz (near Silverlake) 90027. The festival has three venues in the L.A. area: also see Thu, Oct 16 at The Liquid Lounge in Long Beach, with Kelly's Lot, Che Zuro, Corday, Holly Light; and Fri, Oct 17 at Westside Bar and Grill in Costa Mesa. First 100 people here get free GoGirls Fest CD. Kelly's Lot plays at 11 pm. For more, see the Acoustic Americana Music News Oct 7 News Features, and get additional info at www.gogirlsmusicfest.com.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm SLUGGER O'TOOLE, MARC PLATT & THE PLATTITUDES, AMANDA KATE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm JESSICA FICHOT at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. She was a hit at the first annual L.A. Accordion Festival this past Spring. Jessica tells us, “after performing a dozen of shows along the West Coast in August (from Vancouver to San Diego), I just came back from another trip to Washington state, where I performed at a really fun festival on Whidbey Island: Djangofest (which, as the name indicates, celebrates the music of gypsy jazz guitarist Django Rheinhart...) Despite all these West Coast shows, however, I realized I hadn't played in L.A. for a couple of months - I decided to fix this mistake - likely to be my last show in L.A. this year, as I will be performing in China in November and then focusing on writing / recording the songs for my new album, scheduled to be released in 2009.” $8 cover.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm “HOW CISSY GREW” featuring the music of LAUREN ADAMS, has its world premiere opening tonight, at the El Portal Theater, 5269 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood. The show runs there Oct 18-Nov 23, following previews Oct 16 & 17. Lauren has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.laurenadams.com.
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Sat, third Sat, every month:
8 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” at the Unurban Café, 3301 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. This event is a pre-booked artist showcase, not an open mic. Javelyn holds a companion event every 1st Fri with an opne mic, at another venue, at 6:30 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com.
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Sat, Oct 18; world music:
8 pm “JAPANESE FUSION SERIES #2” is a workshop & concert with Kotoyuki Band with Yukiko Matsuyama at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html.
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The concert, at 8 pm, is $15. Matsuyama's compositions for koto and western instrumentation delve in to a joyous and celebrative blend of world and pop music.
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The Workshop, at 5 pm, is $10. Yukiko Matsuyama conducts a hands-on workshop and demonstration on the koto, the 13 string zither, which is Japan's national instrument.
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Tix at www.panioloproductions.com/store.html.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm “DANCE DIALOGUES” is an offering in the “Music at the Court” Fall Series at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.com. It’s “a groundbreaking world premiere event,” featuring John Pennington and others. Live music joins choreography in three never-before-seen Dance Dialogues in this single evening of performances designed specifically for the intimacy of the Marjorie Branson Performance Space.
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Sat, Oct 18:
8 pm “YOUNG POETS LIVE” poetry night at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Fallbrook:
DAVE STAMEY plays the “AMERICANA MUSIC SERIES” at Hilltop Center, 331 E Elder, Fallbrook (San Diego); 760-723-2563; JMW94@aol.com. Event info, 760-415-9026. Dave Stamey is one of the very best performing songwriters in the western music genre today, and he’s won every major award to prove it. His shows are always a delight. If you’re in the San Diego area, or feel like a drive, this is a great show in a wonderful venue.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Seattle:
8 pm monthly “NORTHWEST SEAPORT MARITIME CONCERT” with GEOFF HOLDSTOCK & MacLEOD at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, in Seattle’s new Lake Union Park; info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. 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. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Oct 18; in Tacoma, WA:
8 pm CELINE DION in the Tacoma Dome, 2727 East D St, Tacoma, WA 98421. Tix $125 & $49.
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Sat, Oct 18:
9 pm CHE ZURO opens for THE CONDORS at The Buccaneer Lounge, 70 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre 91204. Artists info, www.checheche.com and www.myspace.com/thecondorsband . Free show.
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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, Oct 18:
10 pm RANDY WEEKS (Fri & Sat) at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar.
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Sat, Oct 18:
10 pm “CANS FOR COMEDY” charity benefit standup comic showcase at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv, 626-398-7917. Coffee Gallery Coffee Bar proprietor and professional comic JULIE SANDOVAL says, “In a world saturated with reality TV there's only one place a comedian can go to be him or her self. To the stage to feel the embrace of an audience.”
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CANS FOR COMEDY has a simple premise to help others. Bring in one-or-more canned food donations for admission to enjoy a comedy show. All food is donated to Friends-n-Deed Food Bank. All shows are held in The Coffee Gallery Backstage. All shows include pizza and soft drinks. Reserv strongly recommended. Comedians interested in performing, go to www.comedytrain.net.
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Shows are once-a-month, on Saturdays at 10 pm (after the music performance in the Backstage). Remaining show(s) in 2008: Nov 8. Info, www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com.
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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, OCTOBER 19
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Sunday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are a daytime event in Moorpark, matinees in Glendora, West Hills and Pasadena, and evening shows in Altadena and San Pedro.
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Sun, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
Annual all-day “UNDERWOOD FARMS HARVEST FESTIVAL” includes SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND, FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, THE BROMBIES, MURPHY’S FLAW, at Underwood Family Farms, 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark 93021; 805-529-3690; www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com. All of the headliners have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and Fur & Steve and Susie Glaze have scored “Listener Favorites” on the show. Bring low-back chairs for seating in front of the stage; hay bales also provided for seating. Fur & Steve are hosting, and they tell us, “Bring your instrument, jammers welcome, shaded jamming area provided.” Attractions include corn maze, tractor rides, petting zoo, animal show, food and fun. Artist info,
FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, www.myspace.com/furandsteve and http://furandsteve.com
SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND, www.susieglaze.com and www.myspace.com/susieglaze.
Also runs Sat, with a different lineup. Free parking, tix $10, kids under age 2 are free.
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Sun, Oct 19 (runs Fri-Sun):
Annual “HARVEST FESTIVAL” in the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach. Performers include the inimitable SOURDOUGH SLIM.
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Sun, Oct 19 (runs Sat & Sun); in Joshua Tree:
The 3rd Annual “JOSHUA TREE ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL” offers discounted early bird festival tix for $60 (limited number); info, www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com. The lineup, so far, includes the STAIRWELL SISTERS, NATHAN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, DEVIL MAKES THREE, BELLEVILLE OUTFIT, the STARLINGS, HILLSTOMP and the THRIFT STORE ALL STARS. Check their site for additional artists and info.
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Sun, Oct 19 (runs Fri-Sun); in Sacramento:
“CALIFORNIA BANJO GATHERING” is a mega-event of talent, with MIKE SEEGER, SAMMY SHELOR, BILL KEITH, MICK MOLONEY, BUDDY WACHTER, WALT KOKEN, GORDY OHLIGER, TIM WEED, PEGGY SEEGER, AND CLARKE BUEHLING at the Doubletree Hotel Sacramento, 2001 Point West Way, Sacramento, CA. Event info, www.thebanjoman.com and www.thebanjoman.com/cbg2.html. Organizers tell us, “More will be posted soon. PETE SEEGER will greet us by live video conference at Saturday's breakfast from Beacon, New York. There is a great staff of headliner banjoists spanning the full spectrum of the art of banjo playing who will teach, perform and present an overview of the progress of the banjo through its fascinating history. Our accompanists are first rate. They include Ray Frank, guitar, Paul Shelasky, fiddle, Pete Grant, dobro, pedal steel guitar and more, Kevin Hill, bass, Melanie Nolley playing Celtic fiddle, Harry Liedstrand, Old Time fiddle, and Lillian McLeod, vocalist. We've invited luthiers, merchants, collectors and scholars in this effort, dedicated to our American instrument, its rich heritage and its promising future. We'll have lots of jam sessions, discussions and brain storming in this conference. The Grammy San Francisco chapter added our link: www.grammyawards.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/San_Francisco/Events/Default.aspx?chapterID=10.”
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Sunday features a concert, open to the general public from 2 pm to 5 pm, with all the players joining-in, for “an entertaining, informative presentation devoted to the rich legacy of the banjo, played superbly by our artists.” Their theme is “Know It, Hear It, Play It - The California Banjo Gathering.”
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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, 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, Oct 19:
Noon-3 pm monthly “SONGSALIVE! LOS ANGELES SONG CRITIQUE WORKSHOP” with song critique session in first half, followed by guest speaker CLAIR MARLO, on the topic, “GUERRILLA SONGWRITING - WHEN WRITER'S BLOCK ISN'T AN OPTION,” at the Finnish Center, 10701 Magnolia Bl (just E of Vineland), North Hollywood 91601. Event info, www.songsalive.org/losangeles.
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CLAIR MARLO has recorded and written with some of the most recognized names in the music world in her 20 year career and is coming close to having published 1000 pieces of music currently being played around the world. You can hear her music on TV, Film, CD, or on commercials. She’s written themes and score for TV shows in the US, England, Italy, Japan, and Australia. In addition to composing for Film and Television, Clair is a recording artist with 10 albums out and her solo CD “Let it Go” was named one of the All Time Top 50 CDs to own by POP Magazine in Europe.
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Songsalive! holds workshops where songwriters gather to share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within songwriting communities throughout the world. The session’s first half is an in-the-round workshop where writers present one song each - either on tape, CD or performed live. That’s followed by a guest speaker/industry discussion in the second half, with talk and networking. Moderated by Paul Lawrence Moyer. Starts promptly. $5 for non-members, free to Songsalive! members.
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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, Oct 19:
Noon AMY KUNEY plays the Hard Rock Café at Universal Citywalk, 1000 Universal Studios Bl, Universal City 91608. Amy has been a performing guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” She tells us, “It being October and Brest Cancer Awareness Month, I’ll be playing for the cause this weekend. Please come by and get your pink on.” Doors at 11 am. All ages. Suggested donation of $5 to Expedition Inspiration, for breast cancer awareness.
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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, Oct 19; 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 will be admitted free to the museum all day (show your WMA membership ID at the front desk 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 first, then stop by for some music.” Info 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, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
2 pm KRIS KRISTOFFERSON at the Haugh Performing Art Center, at Citrus College 1000 W. Foothill Bl, Glendora 91741; www.haughpac.com. Kris Kristofferson has reached living legend status – and this concert, featuring just Kris alone onstage with his guitar, is a very personal acoustic afternoon with the legendary music maker. A Golden Gloves boxer – a Phi Beta Kappa scholar – a successful songwriter – a member of the Highwaymen – and an accomplished actor – Kristofferson is a Golden Globe and three-time Grammy® Award-winner. His songs, “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” and “For the Good Times,” all chart-topping hits, helped redefine country songwriting in the rich era before Nashville went soundalike pop. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and a recent winner of the Johnny Cash Visionary Award. After more than 30 years of writing and performing music, his current focus is on solo performance. In his words: “There’s an honesty in the sparseness... being alone is freer somehow. It’s like being an old blues guy, just completely stripped away.” His songs explore themes of love, gratitude, aging, war, and his ever-present theme of freedom. Artist info, www.kriskristofferson.com.
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The venue’s Lois Tedrow tells us, “Our theater is such that you can see from anywhere in the house. Free parking and no traffic.” Tix, $45 & $40, students & srs $40 & $38.
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Sun, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
DAVE STAMEY plays an afternoon house concert in West Hills; info, big.hat@sbcglobal.net. Hosts Bob and Marie Mann tell us, “At this time we are sold out but are taking names for a waiting list in case we have some cancellations. This event will also feature singer MICHAEL TCHERKASSKEY and poet GARY ROBERTSON. Folks can still email us. Check out our new website at www.bighatonline.com.”
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Sun, Oct 19 (and Sat, Oct 18); in Arizona:
2 pm JIM JONES & SHERIFF JIM WILSON perform both days at the “ARIZONA FOLKLORE PRESERVE” just outside Sierra Vista, AZ; reservations, directions, at www.arizonafolklore.com. Tix $15 adults, $6 for children under age 17. From the Folklore Preserve, the two Jims ride westward to perform a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick on Mon, Oct 20, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage at 2029 Lake Av, in Altadena, CA. (See Mon, 8 pm listing).
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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, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
3:30 pm GUARNERI STRING QUARTET play the final performance of their long career at the Caltech music series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5701.html; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). How better could Coleman audiences and the Guarneri String Quartet say "farewell" than with a celebration of Beethoven's late quartets? This will be the Quartet's 18th and final appearance at Caltech’s Coleman Series, the most of any artists except the Juilliard and London String Quartets and Alice Coleman herself. Retiring after a 45-year run, the group began with the 1964 Marlboro Music Festival, when violinists ARNOLD STEINHART and JOHN DALLEY, violist MICHAEL TREE, and cellist DAVID SOYER joined forces fresh out of the Curtis Institute of Music (Soyer's protégé PETER WILEY replaced him in 2001). "Quite possibly the most distinguished string quartet in the solar system," wrote the Salt Lake Tribune. The Quartet has indeed become an interstellar musical ambassador with a recording aboard NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft. Today’s program includes:
Beethoven Quartet No. 12 in E-flat Major, Op. 127
Beethoven Quartet No. 15 in A minor, Op. 132
Artists info and a downloadable pdf brochure are on Caltech website (above url); a series of six concerts in the Coleman series are available there by subscription. Tix for today’s matinee are $36, $30, $25, $20, and youth tix are $10.
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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, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, every week:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” country & roots series runs weekly through the spring and summer at The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. 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, 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, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Ukulele Chanteuse JANET KLEIN always brings a rollicking feast for the ears, eyes and heart, in a time machine that takes you back to the music of the nineteen-teens and twenties. Janet and her distinctive musician pals bring to life "Obscure, Naughty and Lovely tunes of 1910-1930, delivering a bundle of spirited and inspired renditions of cleverly fun but forgotten Tin Pan Alley, early hot jazz, saucy bits and late ragtime gems. Adding to the band's already extensive repertoire, these merrymakers zestfully branch into obscure vaudeville and Vitaphone numbers, Hawaiian, Yiddish novelty tunes, and charming French and Italian ballads. The Parlor Boys feature Grammy winner IAN WHITCOMB on accordion and ukulele (he’s a Backstage favorite), TOM MARION on guitar, banjo & mandolin (he’s an alumni of R. CRUMB'S CHEAP SUIT SERENADERS), along with a bevy of hot musicians on Hawaiian lapsteel guitar, washboard, violin, and more. Venue impresario BOB STANE adds, “Watch out for the charming and alarming Ms. Klein! Ho Do Dee Do! Hotsy Totsy!” $20.
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Sun, Oct 19; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm CLIFF WAGNER AND THE OLD #7 plus opening act TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT at the Grand Vision Event Center, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org. Event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html.
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CLIFF WAGNER & his band were final-round finalists on a network TV show to select America’s next great band, and he’s sat-in with other guests on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT has performed multiple times, live, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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About Cliff and his band, "Toes instantly go tapping, and heads nod to the infectious rhythms that conjure Southern scenes filled with moonshine, mosquitoes and misty mountains." - Daily Breeze. And it’s also been written that they deliver "An original sound that utilizes bluegrass, blues, and honky tonk combined with modern lyrics that preserve the "High Lonesome Sound" of traditional music brought into the 21st century." Artists info, www.oldnumber7.net and www.triplechickenfoot.com. Advance tix at www.panioloproductions.com/store.html. Tix $15 adv, $20 door.
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Sun, Oct 19:
7 pm THE 1921a plus OH! GYPSY! at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. The 1921a is an up-and-coming local band, back on the McCabe’s stage by popular demand. Lincoln, at the venue, tells us, “Featuring upright bass, resonator guitars and junkyard drums, their brand of ramshackle, dust bowl-era blues and folk has a lot of people excited, including us. Opening the show will be the moody, bluesy duo known as 'Oh! Gypsy!' Trust us when we tell you that this night will be a LOT of fun.” Artists info, www.myspace.com/the1921 and www.myspace.com/ohgypsymusic. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $10.
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Sun, Oct 19:
7 pm “MUSIC WITHOUT BORDERS: MING TSU” is an offering in the “Music at the Court” Fall Series at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, Marjorie Branson Performance Space, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.com. Acclaimed pianist Ming Tsu collaborates with chamber music friends to present new works by prominent young contemporary composers from Asia, Europe and the US.
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Sun, Oct 19; world music:
7 pm HOVHANNES SHAHBAZYAN at the Kodak Theatre, across from the Hollywood & Highland complex, Hollywood Bl, Hollywood; www.kodaktheatre.com. This young gousan tenor belongs to a new breed of classically trained chanteurs who are reinventing the pearls of Armenian traditional, folk and gousan music. He is a master of complex keyboard arrangements and often compared to the voice of his great teacher Rouben Matevosian. Tix range from $30-$100, at www.ticketmaster.com/venue/74167.
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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, 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, Oct 19:
7:30 pm “TERRY HOLDER & FRIENDS” play Dark Thirty House Concert series in Lakeside. Reservations get directions, contact jimmyduke@cox.net. TERRY & JERRY HOLDER, from Alaska, have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Terry tells us, “We have a new CD coming out with good friends FREEBO, GAREY SHELTON, & BEN SMITH. You can hear samples at www.terryholder.com/PressKit.htm.” $15.
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Sun, Oct 19:
7:30 pm monthly “VARIETY NIGHT” with featured artist JOYCE WOODSON and an open mic, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. Award winning singer-songwriter Woodson brings her great folk-western originals, plus performances by those who have signed-up (beginning Oct 4 at 1 pm, continuing until all 8 spots are filled or until showtime). Culver City's Sunburst Studio's gift of 2 hours of free recording time goes to 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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Sun, Oct 19:
8 pm GAELIC STORM at the El Rey, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-4790; www.theelrey.com.
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Sun, Oct 19:
8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (Fountain at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. Ongoing Flamenco series takes place on the first and third Sunday of every month. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern California, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain. Series continues Sundays, 8 pm, Nov 2 & 16, Dec 7 & 21. Secure, on-site parking is $5; tix $30.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 20
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There are “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks tonight at USC and Caltech, and in Altadena.
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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, Oct 20; 3rd (and 1st) Mon, every month:
7-10 pm DALE LaDUKE & FRIENDS play a twice-a-month singer-songwriter night, this time with HAROLD PAYNE, & FREEBO, 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, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, it’s “a new little coffee house that is becoming quite a scene.” DALE and FREEBO have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” For more info on these artists, check out www.myspace.com/freebo and www.myspace.com/freebomusic and www.HaroldPayne.com. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Mon, Oct 20:
7 pm “CLAZZICAL NOTES” performance / discussion program is a free event at Caltech, in Ramo Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5741.html; info, 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). It’s a free evening of music and discussion among renowned musicians to bridge the gap that currently exists between the jazz and classical music communities. Performing artists for this evening include classical singer JOHN ATKINS and jazz singer JAMES TORME (www.jamestorme.com). Moderator is BUBBA JACKSON (www.jazzandblues.org) award-winning television and radio personality and concert producer. An adult educational outreach program sponsored by THE PASADENA SYMPHONY, (www.pasadenasymphony.org), it’s free.
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Mon, every week:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Oct 20; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm JIM JONES & JIM WILSON bring Western / cowboy music to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. They are award-winning Western songwriter / entertainers who sing songs about the American West, cowboy songs, love songs, silly songs, love gone right, love gone wrong, you name it, they'll pick it on their acoustic guitars. They’ll be digging up legends of Billy the Kid, spinning yarns about tourists invading South Texas... you know, everyday life. Artists info, www.jimjonesmusic.com & www.sheriffjimwilson.net
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These good friends have a lot of fun together and they're obliged if you saddle up and go along for the ride. Jones has won multiple awards for his songwriting and was named a finalist for the Academy of Western Artists “Male Western Singer of the Year.” Wilson's CD, "Border Bravo," was named the Western Music Association's “Best Traditional Western Album” of 2003. This’ll be a fine evening ride. $15.
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Mon, Oct 20; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
MARK O’CONNOR plays the first in a series of events as Artist in Residence for 2008-2009 at UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music. Today, he performs an unaccompanied violin recital of original music, featuring 6 caprices, 3 improvisations, two re-tuned pieces, and tributes to a pair of his violin mentors, BENNY THOMASSON and STEPHANE GRAPPELLI. In the following days, O'Connor will hold classes at UCLA on American Classical Music, before his special guest spot at Carnegie Hall, Oct 29, performing with virtuosos CHRIS THILE on mandolin and EDGAR MEYER on double bass, where the trio will perform one of O'Connor’s rearranged violin caprices. On Nov 21, O'Connor performs with ROSANNE CASH at the Library of Congress for a special collaborative concert with a four-movement piano, violin, and cello trio named POETS AND PROPHETS, inspired by the life and music of one of O'Connor's boyhood heroes, JOHNNY CASH, as well as a joint performance with ROSANNE CASH later in the program. He begins the fall performing with the Baltimore Symphony in Sep. More info on his UCLA performances when we have it, or check www.markoconnor.com.
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Mon, Oct 20:
VERONIQUE CHEVALIER performs her CD release show, location & details tba. Hint: the theme is “Polka-haunt-us” for Halloween. Artist info, http://MySpace.com/PolkaHauntUs.
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Mon, Oct 20
8 pm KATIE COSTELLO at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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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 “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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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, Oct 20:
10 pm DAVE GLEASON & OLD CALIFORNIO at Redwood Bar & Grill, 316 W 2nd St (between Broadway and Hill), downtown L.A. 90012; www.theredwoodbar.com.
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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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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are tonight in Tarzana and Altadena.
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Tue, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm SONGMAKERS “SOUP JAM,” country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, Don Rowan, 562-883-0573; http://songmakers.org. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice, soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is 1st entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, Oct 21; every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” brings DAVID MASSENGILL and JIMMY MUFFIN to Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing host GARRET SWAYNE, followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com.
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DAVID MASSENGILL is a modern-day folk icon who played two of our “Show of the Week” picks when he did his full concert at the Coffee Gallery Backstage Oct 17 and his concert in Anaheim for “The Living Tradition” series, Oct 18. By birth a Tennessean, David Massengill emigrated to the Greenwich Village folk scene in the mid-‘70s, walking the same streets and playing the same storied coffee houses as BOB DYLAN and DAVE VAN RONK. Thirty years later, David is still walking those streets, but now he’s being recognized universally for his pivotal role in keeping the American folk music tradition alive. Called “a master of vivid lyrical imagery” by the Boston Globe, David continues to create beautiful and poignant “story songs” that are intimate and relevant and tug at your emotions. His song, “Rider On An Orphan Train,” was described by the Washington Post as “a narrative ballad ringing with truth and anguish.” The Boston Globe writing about his song “Number One In America,” calls it, “a riveting and ironic civil rights anthem.” And his biting political statement, “The Gambler,” was aptly called “a thing of beauty about all things ugly” by Barry Crimmins.
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JOAN BAEZ, THE ROCHES, LUCY KAPLANSKY, TOM RUSSELL, NANCI GRIFFITH and his mentor, DAVE VAN RONK, have all covered David Massengill’s songs.
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David Massengill is also about the dulcimer. In a memorable compliment, Dave Van Ronk said David “took the dull out of dulcimer!” Music Boulevard has noted, “That David made the lap dulcimer his instrument of choice tells us a lot about the soft-spoken native of eastern Tennessee. He accompanies his performance with an instrument indelibly Appalachian, yet conquers even the most urban of musical communities. He does it without losing that remarkable gift for true storytelling.” David has released six albums, nine bootlegs and nine books to date, including his album, “Partners in Crime,” the debut album ffrom THE FOLK BROTHERS, David’s duo project with JACK HARDY. More on David at www.davidmassengill.com and www.thefolkbrothers.com
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“JIMMY MUFFIN is a passionate live performer who connects instantly with his audiences,” says MSSS host Garret Swayne. Garret continues, “Jimmy has been an artist, manager, producer, song screener and performing songwriter for over 25 years. He produced and edited radio spots for the films ‘Star Wars,’ ‘Jaws,’ ‘The Deer Hunter,’ and many more. He also produced weekly songwriters nights at the world famous Palomino and Jack’s Sugar Shack. He has performed around the country, France and Italy on the same bill, or has worked with artists as diversified, as JEFFREY STEEL, ALLAN RICH, STEVE DORFF, AL ANDERSON, BILLY DEAN, GARY BAKER, TIA SILLERS, MARK SELBY, MARTIN PAGE, JAMIE O'NEIL, CHUCK CANNON, WALT ALDRIDGE and others. In June of 2001, he was appointed VP of Creative Development for Ash Street Music Publishing, in charge of signing and developing writers; and he also signed an exclusive writers agreement with the company.Jimmy co-produced and wrote all the material for his acclaimed CD. ‘On The Brink Of Disaster.’ His song, ‘Stand Tall America,’ dedicated to the 9/11 tragedy and co-written with GARY BAKER (‘I Swear,’ and ‘I’m Already There’) and JERRY WILLIAMS, was featured in the PBS-aired documentary film, ‘One Voice / The Healing Pole’ and is the lead song on ‘The Inspiration New York’ CD. Currently, Jimmy is pitching songs from his personal catalog, in pre-production mode for his upcoming CD project, and he is head chef running a business called Dinner-Music. (www.dinner-music.com). Jimmy Muffin remains a well-loved figure in both the L.A. and Nashville songwriting communities. You can hear some of his music at www.soundclick.com/jimmymuffin. It's been over three years since Jimmy has played the MSSS and we're glad to have him back. And it's his birthday, no less!”
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MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, Oct 21; third Tue, every month; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:15-9 pm FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER plus opening act SEAGRASS are this month’s performing artists at the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR,” BASC (Bluegrass Assoc of Southern Cal) show at Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana 91356. Event info, www.socalbluegrass.org/bascnite.html. Take 101 Fwy to Reseda Bl, exit S, go 2 1/2 miles up the hill to the entrance on the right.
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FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER played to a sold-out crowd at the prestigious Getty Museum in September, and an enthusiastic audience at the recent “Taste of Folk Music / Taste of Encino.” They have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which had the world premiere of their second studio CD. Now working on their third CD, they have lots of new songs to share, along with earlier originals that always have the crowd singing-along on the choruses. They’re both excellent songwriters who share a love for backroads and blue skies. The bluegrass influences are clearly there, but they are pure Americana originals.
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SEAGRASS plays 7:15-7:45 pm; Fur & Steve and their acoustic band follow.
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Show is free; dinner is an optional pasta buffet, complete with soup, dinner salad (you can add chicken breast), rolls, butter, coffee, tea and dessert, $14 (tax and tip included). Buffet served beginning at 6:30 pm. Bar service available. Ample seating, safe, secure free parking. Info: contact Joy Felt, Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at 818-705-8870 or bascinfo@socalbluegrass.org.
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Tue, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Oct 21:
7:30-9:30 pm “SAN GABRIEL VALLEY STORYTELLERS” at Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 S Hill Ave, Pasadena 91106; monthly meetings include discussions of storytelling issues and resources, plus a story swap. Info, www.inlandstorytellers.org; contact Nick Smith, 626-298-6532; nick@inlandstorytellers.org. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Tue, Oct 21; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE STARLINGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. The Starlings are wrapping-up six months of a national tour, making their way up the West Coast to return to their hometown of Seattle. This is their L.A. area stop. Along with AIMEE ZOE TUBBS on a stand-up drumkit and backing vocals, JOY MILLS & TOM PARKER perform songs from their two releases "Songbook" and "Marveling the While," which was in its 16th week, as of this writing, on the Roots Music Report Charts. The UK's Maverick Magazine, a fine journal of Americana roots music, celebrates them as being, "For the lo-fi country enthusiast...” While the Seattle Post Intelligencer newspaper calls them, “a band buoyed by shimmering vocalist, Joy Mills." Their engaging performance proves why they are winning over new fans in every new town. Mills and Parker, known for their sweet blend of vocals, exchange of guitar and banjo tunes, explore the themes of Americana over and under: twilight on the prairie, divining rods, river beds, and the long ride home. $15.
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Tue; third (and first) Tue, every month:
“BACK PORCH AT THE UNURBAN” hosted by swamp grass band KILLING CASSANOVA, on the back porch at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica. The back porch is “a night of acoustic singer-songwriters, folk and freak folkers” sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova. The Unurban is a free thinking, all ages, speakeasy-style coffee house, with food for vegeterians and deli lovers alike, and the usual coffeehouse fare. The hosts also say, “Please contact us if you're interested in sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova,” through www.myspace.com/killingcassanova or www.myspace.com/backporchattheunurban.
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Tue, Oct 21
8 pm “TAKING BACK TUESDAY” show with ADJOA SKINNER, JASON DIAZ, JT SPANGLER, plus 9:30 pm show with SUSAN CALLOWAY, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. Sponsored by ASCAP and Adrenaline Music. No cover.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly summer series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, Oct 21; in Everett, WA:
NEIL YOUNG with DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE, & EVEREST, at the Comcast Arena, 2000 Hewitt Av, Everett, WA 98201; 425-322-2600.
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Tue, every Tue:
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 swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Oct 21:
9 pm CONOR OBERST & THE MYSTIC VALLEY BAND at the Henry Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl between Argyle & Gower, Hollywood; 323-464-0808. First of two nights, this one is sold-out; at presstime, tix still available for tomorrow.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22
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Tonight’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Hollywood, at 7 pm.
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every week:
6-9 pm GARRET SWAYNE does his weekly residency at Giovanni Ristorante, 21926 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; reserv 818-884-0243; www.GiovanniRistorante.com. Ample parking behind restaurant. No cover, $15 minimum per person on food or drink.
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Wed; 2nd & 4th Wed every month; in Lancaster:
6 pm UKULELE CLUB at Nicks Pizza, 43755 15th St West, Lancaster. Uke players begin arriving about 5 pm, meeting starts at 6 pm. Newcomers welcome.
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Wed, Oct 22; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm MARINA V, ARDEN OF EDEN, AMILIA K. SPICER, at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. They’re two of L.A.’s best performing women songwriters, MARINA V (at 7 pm) and AMILIA K. SPICER (at 9 pm) and each has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and scored a “Listener Favorite” there. They bracket an hourlong set and CD release show by ARDEN OF EDEN (at 8 pm). RYAN CALHOUN follows at 10, and AYA LARKIN at 11 pm. Marina V was classically trained in Russia, and she performs on keyboard and guitar, backing her wonderful vocals; we also just learned that it’s her birthday, so expect something special. Amilia Spicer is a folk festival favorite who plays the main stage every year at Kerrville, and everywhere else from there to Newfoundland. A great night to go to Hollywood!
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Wed, 2nd & 4th Wed, every month; in Lompoc:
7-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM” at Southside Coffee Co, 105 S "H" St, Lompoc. Info, call Bill, 805-736-8241.
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Wed, every week:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session; call for location, 805-579-6416; www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Oct 22:
CANCELLED; will be rescheduled: 8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE TRAVELING BAND featuring SUSIE GLAZE, TOM CORBETT, & BOB APPLEBAUM play their debut concert at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av., Altadena 91001; Information, www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Check out the “Bluegrass / Folk Fusion” sound of "Contemporary Appalachia" as defined by this new band of seasoned all-stars. Artist info, Artist info, www.susieglaze.com and www.myspace.com/susieglaze. $15.
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Wed, Oct 22:
8 pm MARTIN SEXTON at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Wed, Oct 22:
8 pm FELICE BROTHERS at the Troubadour, 9081 Santa Monica Bl, West Hollywood; 310-276-6168.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed,: 4th Wed every month:
8:30 pm “FESTIVAL OF THE EGG” the monthly all-female musicians’ event, at the Universal Bar & Grill, 4093 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-2114. $7.
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Wed, every Wed:
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 Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, Oct 22:
9 pm CONOR OBERST & THE MYSTIC VALLEY BAND at the Henry Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl between Argyle & Gower, Hollywood; 323-464-0808. Second of two nights; also Oct 21, which sold-out early. Tix for tonight are still available at press time. $25.
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Wed, Oct 22:
9 pm THE GHOST HOUNDS, PHILIP SAYCE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. $10.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23
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Tonight’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are in Tujunga, Altadena, L.A., & West Hollywood.
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Thu-Sat, Oct 23-25; in Canada:
Annual “OCFF FOLK FESTIVAL” in Ottawa, Canada, is that nation’s largest folk festival, and the companion OCFF conference is the key event for Ontario's folk, roots, and traditional music community. Details at www.ocff.ca.
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET,” brand new in October ’08, with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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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, 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, 4th (and 2nd) 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, 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, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists ERNEST TROOST and NICOLE GORDON & MARTY AXELROD (Songs of Shiloh), at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; www.myspace.com/arniescafe; 818-951-9089. Piedmont bluesman ERNEST TROOST has won music Emmys. NICOLE GORDON & MARTY AXELROD are both accomplished songwriters and performers who developed the thematic “Songs of Shiloh” album and show. All of tonight’s guests have performed live, several times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” 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. (Also see 11 pm listing for Nicole Gordon’s other show tonight).
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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, 4-7 pm. Evening costs $7 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lessons included: 7-7:30 basic zydeco; 7:30-8 pm intermediate / advanced dance moves. CD dancing 8-9 pm. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. Dance instruction by Karen Redding of LouisianaDanceLA.com; Karen has taught at L.A. Music Center, “Long Beach Bayou Festival,” San Diego's “Gator By The Bay” Festival, “Simi Valley Cajun Festival,” Galaxy Theater, private parties and corporate events. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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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, 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, Oct 23; in Palm Springs:
JIM JONES & SHERIFF JIM WILSON perform a house concert in the home of Marvin and Theresa O'Dell in Palm Springs. Info & reservations, contact Marvin at MEOTEO@aol.com. (There were an Oct 20 “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick when they performed in Altadena at 8 pm):
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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, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Bob Stane calls them “Ethereal, orchestral. Catch this show. This is a 3rd encore. A four piece band with a new take on American roots music. Aaron, Brad, Kailin and Scott are accomplished multi-instrumentalists who captivate audiences with guitar, fiddle, string bass, marimba, ukulele, percussion, banjo and mandolin. Their deep respect for tradition, passion for innovation and intriguing instrumentation creates a remarkable and memorable listening experience. The music is modern and accessible, subtle yet virtuosic and serious yet light hearted. BAS is known all over North America for their genre-blending song writing, amazing improvisation and intimate, personal vocals.” The Colorado-based band has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they amply proved all that. Musician / arranger / composer DAROL ANGER says, "Here, for us, is the future of String band music on a silver platter." Internationally touring Boulder Acoustic Society is circling the US in support of their fourth album, “Caged Bird,” released in March 2008.
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A recent review by Brian Johnson in Marquee Magazine says, “The band, which has become known and critically acclaimed for their avant-garde instrumental arrangements - even going so far as to win the 2007 Independent Music Award for Americana Song of the Year for their track “Does It Really Matter ” - has maintained their multiple genre roots, but has added into the fold a feel of country, Eastern European folk (think DeVotchKa) and back porch storytelling on Caged Bird.”
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The new album showcases the Boulder Acoustic Society’s ability to weave together the old with the new in a different way. Featuring classic acoustic instruments such as the guitar, ukulele, violin and accordion, BAS infuses old-timey tunes with a modern pop sensibility. Expect lots of the incredibly executed arrangements you have come to know, with new vocal layers and harmonies mixed-in. $18.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm DAR WILLIAMS with SHAWN MULLINS at the El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-4790; www.theelrey.com. This is an outstanding Americana double-bill. Doors at 8 pm, showtime not specified. Tix on sale Sep 6 at 10 am. $26.50.
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Thu, Oct 23; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “TAJ MAHAL: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS” brings Taj with the PHANTOM BLUES BAND to House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Thu, Oct 23:
8 pm JACK FRIS RADIO CHOIR, SHOTGUN HONEYMOON, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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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; 2nd & 4th Mon every month:
8-9 pm “MONDAY NIGHT POETRY” at the Santa Catalina Branch Library, 999 E Washington Bl, Pasadena 91104 ; info, www.home.earthlink.net/~mondaynightpoetry/; contact Don Kingfisher Campbell, mondaynightpoetry@earthlink.net or 626-744-7272. Featured poets and open readings; sign-up by 8 pm. They say, “This is your chance to share your poetry with the public and to hear professional poets performing their newest creations.” Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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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, Oct 23:
11 pm NICOLE GORDON at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. She’s performed live, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where she also scored a “Listener Favorite” with her “Songs of Shiloh” collaboration with Marty Axlerod. Come earlier for a full evening of music: ERIC HIMAN at 8 pm, JOSH CANOVA at 9 pm, and ERIC CORNE’s CD release show at 9:45 pm. $8, door.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks tonight are in Cerritos, Altadena, Santa Monica, and Pasadena.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26; in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. Many performances on stages and in hotel suites, officially-sanctioned by the conference and both sanctioned and unsanctioned “guerilla” showcase performances, together with annual awards, panels and workshops on acoustic performance, bookings, career promotion, jam sessions, and more. Many attend to promote their careers or find bookings, others attend simply to enjoy many wonderful performances in one place over three days. Organization’s web site has all info for attending, and registering at the host hotel.
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A highlight is the Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (5:30-7 pm) with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES, as well as a full schedule of panels and workshops on Friday and Saturday, and a full day on Sunday of Master Classes and Songwriting One on One's.
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Here’s the conference schedule, not yet on the FAR West website when posted here:
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> Thursday:
7:30-9:30 pm Pre-conference concert at Arizona State University
10 pm-midnight Tote Bag Stuffing Party & Jam, following concert
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> Friday:
8:30-11:45 am Registration
9-10 am Intro class
8:30-10:30 am Exhibit Hall setup
10:15-11:30 am Panels & Workshops
11:30 am-1:15 pm Exhibit Hall opens
1-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
11:45 am-1 pm Lunch (dine arounds)
1-4:30 pm Registration continues
1:15-2:30 pm Panels & Workshops
2:45-4 pm Panels & Workshops
2:30-4:15 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
4:15-5:15 pm Welcome Reception in Exhibit Hall (no competing activities)
5:15-6 pm Registration open
5:30-7 pm Red House Records concert with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES
7-8 pm Registration open
7 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
7:30-10:30 pm Main Showcases
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Saturday:
9-11:45 am Registration open
9-10:30 am Exhibit Hall opens
10 am-noon Instrument Check open
10:30-11:45 am Panels & Workshops
noon-2 pm Awards Luncheon
2:15-5 pm Registration open
2:15-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
2:15-5 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
2:15-3:30 pm Panels & Workshops
3:30-6:30 pm Exhibit Hall open
3:45-5 pm Conversation with Special Presentation
4:30 pm-6:30 pm Dinner break
6:30 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
6:30-7:30 pm Registration open
6:45-10:15 pm Main Showcases
8-10 pm Contra Dance
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Sunday:
10-11 am Breakfast & Board Meeting
10 am-noon Exhibit Hall open
11 am-12:30 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
1:30-3 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
Noon-2 pm Exhibit Hall breakdown
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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, 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-Sun, Oct 24-26:
7:30 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain. Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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Fri, repeats 4th Fri, every month:
7:30 pm monthly “COFFEE HOUSE AT THE ONION” is an OPEN MIC at The Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, 9550 Haskell Av, North Hills. Songmakers tell us, “A great place to showcase your new stuff.” Coffee & cookies available (in return for your donation). Free event.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
KRIS KRISTOFFERSON plays a “Solo Acoustic Show” at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. This locally-based big time Irish act performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006, and that time EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. . Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After" still gets international airplay, and was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine. Two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this highly-entertaining 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. Says the San Diego Troubadour, "This band can light up an atmosphere as dim as the Guinness 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. Much fun. 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.” $18.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm ELIZA GILKYSON 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. $20.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, Oct 24:
8 pm SONNY LANDRETH, plus others, at The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri, Oct 24; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm RENAISSANCE at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, Marjorie Branson Performance Space, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; addt’l info, 323-556-1046. Renaissance is one of America's premier all a cappella doo wop singing groups (street corner style). Their live stage performance is revealed on their critically acclaimed CD, “Meet Me On The Corner (a virtual street corner experience).” They tell us, “We want to take you back to a time and place. A time when songs had meaning and lyrical taste. We want to take you back to that moment of your first kiss, a time before cell phones when it was your little sister that told you about the calls that you missed.” More at www.sonicbid.com/renaissance and hear excerpts of their entire CD at www.cdbaby.com/renaissancegroup.
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Bob Davis, of Soul Patrol," observes, “people want REAL MUSIC. And these are the TOP artists in 2008 who are giving it to them,” with Renaissance’s "Meet Me On The Corner" CD at #2. The group is welcoming new Renaissance member, Jason Powell who has replaced Charles "Sonny " Banks in the group.
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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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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Saturday include evening shows in Culver City, L.A., Hollywood, and a big one at Caltech in Pasadena.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26:
9th Annual “RAGFEST” Ragtime Weekend Music Festival in Southern California, location tba; info, 714-680-6684 or www.RagFest.com. Featuring, in alphabetical order, ALBANY NIGHTBOAT RAGTIMERS, PATRICK ARANDA, ANDREW BARRETT, THE BRADSHAWS, SHIRLEY CASE, BILL EDWARDS, MARK ALLEN JONES, HELIOTROPE RAGTIME ORCHESTRA, BRAD KAY, ERIC MARCHESE, ERIKA C. MILLER, BILL MITCHELL, BOB PINSKER, GALEN WILKES, IAN & REGINA WHITCOMB, THOSE SYNCOPATING SONGBIRDS, and “many surprise guest artists.” All-weekend pass $60 in adv; select event tix $20-$25.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25 & 26; not music, but fun:
9 am-4 pm Annual “PUMPKIN ROUNDUP FESTIVAL” with 15 vintage farm tractors at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge (near the interchange of the 2 and 210 freeways); 818-949-4200; www.descansogardens.org. The Topa Topa Flywheelers Club will display original and restored tractors dating from 1937-1957, chugging into Descanso Gardens to delight children and adults alike. Coming from across Southern California, the tractor owners talk to the public about their machines, and a few owners will invite folks to climb on board to start-up one of these old-time agricultural wonders. Celebrating fall and Halloween, the festival also features a bevy of activities for all ages, including pumpkin decorating, honeybee demonstrations, a handmade items boutique, kids’ costume parades, nature activities, dance performances, a children’s maze and rides on the Enchanted Railroad. Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums. The festival is included with Garden admission. $8 adults; $6 srs & students; $3 children ages 5-12; free for children age 5 and younger and for Descanso members.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25-26; in Tucson, AZ:
Annual “TUCSON BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Tucson, Arizona, with CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY, ERIC UGLUM, and others.
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Sat, Oct 25 (runs Oct 24-26); in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. Many performances on stages and in hotel suites, officially-sanctioned by the conference and both sanctioned and unsanctioned “guerilla” showcase performances, together with annual awards, panels and workshops on acoustic performance, bookings, career promotion, jam sessions, and more. Many attend to promote their careers or find bookings, others attend simply to enjoy many wonderful performances in one place over three days. Organization’s web site has all info for attending, and registering at the host hotel.
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A highlight is the Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (5:30-7 pm) with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES, as well as a full schedule of panels and workshops on Friday and Saturday, and a full day on Sunday of Master Classes and Songwriting One on One's.
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Conference schedule, remaining events:
> Saturday:
9-11:45 am Registration open
9-10:30 am Exhibit Hall opens
10 am-noon Instrument Check open
10:30-11:45 am Panels & Workshops
noon-2 pm Awards Luncheon
2:15-5 pm Registration open
2:15-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
2:15-5 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
2:15-3:30 pm Panels & Workshops
3:30-6:30 pm Exhibit Hall open
3:45-5 pm Conversation with Special Presentation
4:30 pm-6:30 pm Dinner break
6:30 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
6:30-7:30 pm Registration open
6:45-10:15 pm Main Showcases
8-10 pm Contra Dance
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Sunday:
10-11 am Breakfast & Board Meeting
10 am-noon Exhibit Hall open
11 am-12:30 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
1:30-3 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
Noon-2 pm Exhibit Hall breakdown
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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, Oct 25:
Noon “JERRY COLE MEMORIAL CONCERT” with HAL BLAINE & DON RANDI of the WRECKING CREW, TOMMY SANDS, GLEN GLENN, JEWELL ATKINS, PAUL JOHNSON of the SURFARIS, JOHN & THE NIGHTRIDERS, THE ORIGINAL TORNADOES, GEORGE TOMSCO AND THE FIREBALLS, 3 BALLS OF FIRE, SLACKTONE, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027; www.safari-sams.com. Event info, www.myspace.com/thejerrycole. $10.
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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, 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, Oct 25; 4th Sat every month:
5 pm Monthly JAM, POTLUCK, & CONTRA DANCE at “The Living Tradition” series at the Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; info, 949-646-1964; www.thelivingtradition.org. Dance caller TBD, band TBD. Monthly jam sessions allow musicians (instrumentalists and singers) to learn, practice, and enjoy traditional music in a relaxed atmosphere; held 4th Sat every month, before the contra dance. Jam participants play a wide array of instruments, from accordions to zithers, and a variety of traditional folk tunes, mostly from the Fiddlers’ Fake Book (by David Brody) and the Portland Collection (by Susan Songer). Open to all ages and levels of experience. Vocalists and song circles are also welcome. Slow jam encourages novices. Fast jam challenges old-timers.
Schedule:
Jam, bring your instruments & join in, beginning at 5 pm; free.
Slow jam, 5-5:45 pm
Fast jam, 5:45-7 pm
Potluck, 6:30 pm
Contra dance introduction lesson, 7:30 pm
> CONTRA DANCE at 8-11 pm is $8 per person, $7 for Anaheim residents, $6 for Living Tradition mbrs; children under 18 are free with paid adult.
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Sat, Oct 25; in the OC:
6-8 pm WHEN PIGS FLY! at the Santa Ana Zoo. Band member BEA ROMANO tells us, “It's lots of fun and laughter for a merry, not scary, Halloween celebration.” Confirm the set time at www.whenpigsflymusic.com.
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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, 4th Sat, every month; in Lancaster:
6:30-10 pm CONTRA DANCE with Live music by DANANCE BAND at Lancaster United Methodist Church, 918 W Ave J (across from Doublz Hamburgers and Popeye's Chicken), Lancaster; info: 661-272-5648 or rm.trochim@verizon.net. Held the last Saturday of every month. Please bring a snack or dessert to share in the potluck. $6 adults, $2 for age 14 and younger.
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Sat, Oct 25:
7 pm THE MIGHTY ECHOES plus VICTORIA VOX opening, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Grab this show.”
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VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. Tonight, she graciously opens the show with, as Bob Stane says, “a full sack of magic charms.” She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “in between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs.
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THE MIGHTY ECHOES are an award-winning a cappella quartet specializing in the “Doo-Wop” sound of the 1950’s and 1960’s. Their repertoire includes the classics of that era plus an eclectic mix of contemporary material. This is a “pure fun” act; not only are they thrilling to hear singing but are as funny as a comedy troupe. The Echoes are solid faves at the venue. The Mighty Echoes began singing at a storefront theatre in L.A.’s Silverlake District in 1986. They are CHARLIE DAVIS, a native New Yorker whose low bass is deep as an ocean trench; he was the voice of God on TV’s Power Rangers; Second tenor JOHN LATHAN, the newest Echo, has performed on Broadway and at the Apollo in Harlem. First tenor JON RUBIN, also the lead singer of the teen idol band, The Rubinoos, has thrilled audiences worldwide with his soaring tenor; Mellifluous baritone HARVEY SHIELD, who started as a drummer in Swinging ‘60s London, is also an accomplished songwriter as exemplified by his composition, “The Way I Feel Tonight,” an international hit for The Bay City Rollers. $18.
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Sat, Oct 25:
7 pm CINTHIA MEJIA at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com.
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Sat, 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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Sat, Oct 25:
7:30 pm RICHARD GILEWITZ at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Known as one of the strangest men in acoustic music today, Richard Gilewitz fascinates his audiences with fingerstyle gymnastics on his 6 and 12-string guitars while spinning yarns too unbelievable not to be true. His ability to make one guitar sound like an entire orchestra stems from 33 years of well-honed technique and 25 years of on the road worldwide touring. Live shows bring out the best in this author, composer, guitarist, humorist, AND storyteller who follows a distinct cadence and creates a glow that grows a little brighter with each tune. Artist info, www.richardgilewitz.com. $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm KENNY BLACKWELL & DORIAN MICHAEL at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. KENNY BLACKWELL is one of California's foremost mandolinists (band member of LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS and RHYTHM BROTHERS); tonight, he plays outside the bluegrass genre and delves into many styles. He plays together with fingerstyle guitarist DORIAN MICHAEL, with the latter’s vast knowledge of musical styles from the blues masters to Hawaiian Slack Key and classical influences. Together, they create a performance of exciting and tasteful music. A winning & fun combo. Venue’s site has a good local dining guide. Tix on sale Oct 11; $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” brings NICOLE GORDON plus TERRY HANSON to the weekly evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. New in April, 2008. 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, Oct 25 (runs Oct 11, through Nov 9); stage play:
World premiere run of “THE SEQUENCE” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; tix / reservations, 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.com. “The Sequence,” by Paul Mullin, directed by John Langs, follows the real life race between scientists Craig Venter and Francis Collins to sequence the human genome. And in the midst of the frenzy to determine what makes a human being, three people - each in hot pursuit of scientific discovery and enduring fame - discover their own humanity. This unpredictably hilarious story, based on true events, depicts the double-talk and double-cross in the pursuit of double-stranded DNA. Partial funding generously provided by The Ensemble Studio Theatre / Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Project in Science & Technology Project.
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The theater advises us that shows are selling out, so purchase tix promptly online or by phone.
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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, Oct 25 (runs Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26):
7:30 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain.
Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm NATALIE MacMASTER at the Caltech music series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5481.html; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832).
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Canada’s MacMaster is the master of Cape Breton’s fiddle style of fiery jigs and reels, quieter waltzes, and new contemporary pieces. NATALIE MacMASTER brings fiery jigs and reels, quieter waltzes, and new contemporary pieces, backed by a first-rate band. She continues to delight audiences around the globe with her boundless energy, amazing fiddling, and mesmerizing step dancing. The Cape Breton artist last played in L.A. at the Hollywood Bowl, where she received standing ovations from the members of the L.A. Philharmonic who backed-up her trademark fiddling-while-dancing performance. Artist info, www.nataliemacmaster.com.
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Presented by Caltech Public Events, Folk Music Society as marketing partner; discounted tix available if you mention the Folk Music Society. Info & tix, Caltech Ticket Office, 626-395-4652 or 1-888-2CALTECH. Gen’l, $32, $27, $22; $10 youth.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “L.A. PHIL PRESENTS - AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH VINCE GILL” at Walt Disney Concert Hall, 135 N Grand Av, L.A.; 213-972-7211. Tix & info, www.LAPhil.com. The most decorated country artist in history comes to Walt Disney Hall for an acoustic performance. Gill has won 19 Grammys, including his latest, a 2008 Grammy for “These Days.” the Country Music Hall of Fame member will perform an intimate evening featuring new songs, classic hits, and more. Link to program page, at www.laphil.com/tickets/performance_detail.cfm?id=3595.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm JANIVA MAGNESS 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. $15.
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Sat, Oct 25; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm KATHLEEN GRACE BAND plays their CD release show at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. She is a lovely singer and piano artist, and if all jazz sounded like Kathleen Grace, everyone would love jazz.
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Sat, Oct 25:
8 pm “HOW CISSY GREW” featuring the music of LAUREN ADAMS, continues its world premiere at the El Portal Theater, 5269 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood. The show runs there Oct 18-Nov 23, following previews Oct 16 & 17. Lauren has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.laurenadams.com.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, 4th Sat every month:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “WEST VALLEY HOOT” Group Singing in Woodland Hills; call for loc, 818-887-0446.
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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, Oct 25:
9:30 pm-1:30 am WUMBLOOZO brings the blues to Joe's Great American Bar and Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505.
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We’re suckers for good, creative, self-promotion. They tell us, “We hear that things ain't so great out where you are. Banks are goin' belly-up, the stock market keeps doin' nose-dives, and folks are plenty worried. Well, we know that worryin' ain't good for much, and we don't do much of that. We just play our music, givin' folks the rockin', down-home good times they've come to expect from us, and let them worries float away in the breeze!
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“Things are great here. The music's always playin', the river runs gently by, and folks are always dancing out there by the edge of the woods. And some are sneakin' off into them woods, too, usually in couples! But that's nobody's never mind.
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“Nowadays, that's just what everybody needs, now more than ever. So we're lettin' you know where we'll next be bringin' the Wumbloozo Corner magic, so you can come by!”
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The band is Ben Beckley on drums, percussion and vocals; Mark Peters on bass guitar and vocal; Herbie Katz (aka “Doctor Fun” on harmonica and vocals; Bruce Boyers on keyboard and vocals; Michael Richard on guitar and vocals. Artists info, www.myspace.com/wumbloozo. Venue is 21+. No cover.
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Sat, Oct 25:
10 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. return to the Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St (between Broadway and Hill), downtown L.A. 90012; www.theredwoodbar.com. $5 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, OCTOBER 26
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Sunday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks are both in the local High Desert, in Palmdale and Lancaster.
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Sun, Oct 26 (began Oct 25):
9th Annual “RAGFEST” Ragtime Weekend Music Festival in Southern California, loc tba; info, 714-680-6684 or www.RagFest.com. Featuring, in alphabetical order, ALBANY NIGHTBOAT RAGTIMERS, PATRICK ARANDA, ANDREW BARRETT, THE BRADSHAWS, SHIRLEY CASE, BILL EDWARDS, MARK ALLEN JONES, HELIOTROPE RAGTIME ORCHESTRA, BRAD KAY, ERIC MARCHESE, ERIKA C. MILLER, BILL MITCHELL, BOB PINSKER, GALEN WILKES, IAN & REGINA WHITCOMB, THOSE SYNCOPATING SONGBIRDS, and “many surprise guest artists.” All-weekend pass $60 in adv; select event tix $20-$25.
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Sun, Oct 26 (runs Oct 24-26); in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” concludes today at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. See Fri and Sat listings.
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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, Oct 26:
11 am PARKER BENT plays a kid’s 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. $8; kids under age 2 are free.
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Sun; repeats every fourth Sun:
11 am-4 pm OLD TIME MUSIC JAM, TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN FIDDLE AND BANJO, hosted by BRETT WALLER, at Audubon Nature Center, Debs Park “in the Arroyo,” 4700 N Griffin Av, Highland Park; off the 110 Fwy. Link to the Audubon center has a map: http://www.audubon-ca.org/debs_park.htm. Enter through the main portal of the Audubon center, out to the grounds, pass the pond and wind up the path to under the shade of the old pepper tree. Info, call Brett, 323-441-2113.
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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, 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; repeats every fourth Sun; in Temecula:
OPEN JAM SESSION IN TEMECULA at The Nettworks Ranch, Menifee Valley, in the Temecula / Murrieta Valley, a few miles N of the I-215 / I-15 split, in that triangle. Take Scott Rd W 2 miles off I-215, or Bundy Canyon Rd E 4 miles off I-15. Turn S on Daily Rd; first ranch on right; info, Diana Nett, The Nettworks Ranch, 951-679-7951 or 909-239-5154.
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Sun; repeats every fourth Sun:
1-5 pm BLUEGRASS JAM at Torrance Elks Lodge, 1820 Abalone Av, Torrance. Info, Bill Elliott, 909-678-1180 or Bob & Lynn Cater, 310-678-1180.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, Oct 26:
2 pm TWYLA THARP / ELVIS COSTELLO collaboration, performed by MIAMI CITY BALLET - the West Coast premiere of “NIGHTSPOT” - at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, L.A. Music Center, 135 North Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; www.musiccenter.org; 213-972-7211. Known for her innovation and creativity, TWYLA THARP has created some of the most memorable dances in modern repertory, while ELVIS COSTELLO's adventurous musical talents are renowned. Together they create a seductive, flirtatious, and dramatic work that showcases the skill and confidence of Miami City Ballet's dancers. Also on the program are “LITURGY,” a work by CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON, today's most in-demand ballet choreographer, plus “Tarantella,” and “Symphony in Three Movements,” both masterpieces by the great GEORGE BALANCHINE.
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Come early, for a pre-performance conversation with EDWARD VILLELLA & ELIZABETH KAYE, who are giving a talk beginning one hour prior to curtain.
Runs Fri, Oct 24, & Sat, Oct 25 at 7:30 pm; Sun, Oct 26 at 2 pm. Get 20% off Premiere Orchestra, Orchestra, Orchestra Ring, Founders, Loge seating (only); subject to availability & restrictions, through Ticketmaster (or box office), through Oct 21: go to www.ticketmaster.com/promo/2sj3rr and enter promotional code: CARLOS.
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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, Oct 26:
CAMERON CARPENTER, dubbed “The Maverick Organist” by The New York Times, showcases the historic Skinner pipe organ at “UCLA Live” in Royce Hall, UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. Carpenter is known for his intensely personal, often flamboyant performances and repertoire spanning the organ and piano literature, featuring original compositions, film scores (especially from Japanese animé), and improvisations influenced by folk songs, jazz, disco and pop.
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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, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, every week:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Seattle:
4-6:30 pm “RUNNING DOG SHANTY SING,” held the last Sunday of every month, at Running Dog Guitars / Sound Guitar Repair, 118 N 35th St, Suite 105, Fremont, WA. Hosted by Rick Davis & Cat Fox. Sea chanties (shanties) are fun to sing and the choruses are always easy-to-learn sing-alongs. The hosts tell us, “The building is tall, grey cinderblock and green metal. Suite 105 is in the back, facing the alley between 36th and 35th. Parking available on the street. Over 21 years of age please. Potluck beverages and snacks.” Free.
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Sun, Oct 26; every week:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” brings OLD CALIFORNIO, DAVID SERBY, GENTLEMAN FARMERS, MADAME PAMITA to the weekly country & roots series runs weekly through the summer and fall at The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. Music on indoor stage & outdoors on the “back porch” stage; BBQ on outdoor patio. 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; repeats last Sun, every month:
5:45 pm OPEN MIC at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabesguitar.com.
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Sat, Oct 26:
6 pm “BREEDLOVE & FRIENDS” concert, with RICHARD GILEWITZ and others, sponsored by Breedlove Guitars, at Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Doors at 5:30 pm. Adv tix $12, $15 door; kids age 12 & under, $10.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Palmdale; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
6 pm ELIZA GILKYSON plays a benefit show at the Larry Chimbole Cultural Center, 38350 Sierra Hwy (at Palmdale Bl, E of 14 Fwy), Palmdale. She’s one of the reigning folk goddesses, and she was delightful performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Eliza has just released a new CD, "Beautiful World." It’s a full concert by Eliza, sponsored by WORD AV, a local coalition of nonprofit agencies whose mission is to promote and expand literacy awareness in the Antelope Valley. It could be the start of a singer-songwriter series sponsored by WORD AV, if this one is successful. You can purchase tix, or buy and donate tix for low-income and at-risk clients of various WORD AV agencies. Adv tix $15, by mail, to Rod Williams, Palmdale Library Literacy Program, 700 E Palmdale Bl, Palmdale, CA 93550. Write check to "WORD AV." Info, 661-267-5682 or 661-947-4172.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm MUSICàNTICA at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Superb musicianship and musical fun, with international music as a bonus. Attend this show, and you’ll learn to play two ersatz musical instruments and take one home. ROBERTO CATALANO & ENZO FINA are a Southern Italian duo playing traditional and experimental folk music of Mediterranean Italy. Venue impresario BIOB STANE says, “MUSICàNTICA offers the finest collection of world music to come out in recent years. Unless you are an Italian native, it's unlike anything you've heard before, with music performed on mostly traditional Italian folk instruments like the launeddas and benas with cow horn (Sardinian cane clarinets), putipù (friction drum), tamburieddhru (frame drum), chitarra battente (ten string Renaissance guitar), mandolin, bouzouki (Greek lute), mule bell collar, sheep bells, and marranzanu (jaw harp). You can dance your heart out, too.” $15.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm “ILLUSIONS OF GRANDEUR” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. MICHAEL OCHS presents an anecdotal, illustrated history of rock and roll, Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $12.50.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm “MUSIC Q&A with IAN MacKAYE” at Hollywood High School, Main Auditorium, 1521 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028. Presented by Goldenvoice Concerts; more info, www.myspace.com/goldenvoice and www.goldenvoice.com. IAN MacKAYE is best known as the front man of the influential bands MINOR THREAT, EMBRACE, FUGAZI, & THE EVENS. He also co-founded and co-owns the Washington, D.C.-based independent record label, Dischord Records, now in its 28th year of operation. Always challenging convention, MacKaye has continued to develop an ethic that holds to a staunchly independent, do it yourself (DIY) mindset, refusing to cater to or advertise in mainstream corporate media, and performing only in venues that welcome all-ages and keeping concert ticket prices under $10. Using only an open, impromptu Q&A setting, MacKaye hopes to join the audience in a “public interview.” Doors at 6 pm. Street parking available. $5 at the door; Hollywood High students are free with student I.D.
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Sun, Oct 26:
7 pm MICHAEL DRANGE at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com.
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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; repeats last Sun, every month; in the OC:
7-9 pm monthly “ORANGE COUNTY SONGSALIVE! SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” at Spires Restaurant (in the Meeting Room), 13030 Goldenwest Av (crnr of Garden Grove Bl), Westminster 92683; 714-636-0442; event info, 714-333-8222 (Rodney). Songwriting workshop, critique session and songwriting exercises. Event gathers songwriters to share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the global Songsalive! songwriting communities. First half is an in-the-round workshop where writers present one song each (on tape, CD or live) followed by a guest speaker or industry discussion in the second half, with time to talk and network. Moderated by Rod O'Riley. Directions, info, www.songsalive.org/losangeles.
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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, Oct 26; in Lancaster; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm KRIS KRISTOFFERSON at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Guitar, harmonica and distinctive vocals prominently figure in this solo acoustic performance by influential Americana & country music songwriter, singer and movie star Kris Kristofferson. Best-known musically for hits including "Me and Bobby McGee," "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," Kristofferson is an icon. www.kriskristofferson.com Order tix promptly, this will sell-out. $60 & $55.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Phoenix, Arizona:
7 pm KEN O'MALLEY plays a solo acoustic show, bringing traditional and original Irish music to the Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N Central Av, Phoenix, AZ; 602 258 0109; www.azirish.com. KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS recently played for 2,000 people at a “Concert in the Park” in Santa Clarita, CA. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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Sun; repeats last Sun, every month:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; 909-624-2928. Sign-ups at 7 pm. $1 cover.
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Sun, Oct 26:
8 pm-midnight “FOD FEST” with SONIA of DISAPPEAR FEAR, DANNY GILL, JAKE WALDEN, JUDITH DE LOS SANTOS, MICHELE JUSKO, NECTARPHONIC, NOUSH SKAUGEN, TODD MACK at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. SONIA of DISAPPEAR FEAR has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and she is a truly exciting performer with powerful and interesting songs. This lineup will undoubtedly be mostly electric, so be prepared with earplugs.
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Sun, Oct 26:
8 pm SONIC IMPULSE, the “groundbreaking techno-bagpipe band” does a concert and video shoot, complete with laser light show and the Sonic Impulse go-go dancers, at Paladino’s, 6101 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; www.paladinosclub.com. (We know, not “acoustic Americana,” but it’ll likely be fun, it features the talented “Desert Piper” ERIC BOYD on bagpipes, and you can consider it our offering of, “Now, for something completely different.”)
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 27
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Monday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Hollywood at 9 pm.
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Mon-Fri, Oct 27-31; across Canada:
“2008 COWBOY TRAIN” with IAN TYSON, TOM RUSSELL and ELIZA GILKYSON. A journey across Canada from Vancouver to Winnipeg on board a private section of Via Rail's Canadian. Includes all Cowboy Train activities, all meals on board, sleeper accommodations (upper or lower semi-private berth accommodations: bench seat by day, roomy single bed by night), shower in each car, private dome car/lounge, concerts and workshops in Performance Car, kickoff and farewell concerts in Vancouver and Winnipeg, hotel room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and hotel TBA in Winnipeg. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net, or call 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Info, www.rootsontherails.com. $2569.00 CN per person.
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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; repeats every 4th (& 2nd) Mon:
7-10 pm CORONA BLUEGRASS JAM at Crossroads Christian Church, 2331 Kellogg Av (at Ontario Av), Corona. Info, contact Todd Holtkamp, 951-347-2597 or onetoad@adelphia.net. Todd says, “Open Jam, all levels welcome. Having a good time is mandatory. If the weather is good we will be outside in front of the main building. If the weather is bad we will be inside.”
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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, Oct 27:
7:30-9:30 pm “COME CELEBRATE ARTS WITH US!” at the Pasadena Central Library Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events.
This is a visual arts/photography event. Info, contact Mira Mataric, 626-578-0470, mira016@hotmail.com. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Mon, every week:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. 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. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Oct 27:
8 pm HOT FRITTATAS ITALIAN TRIO plus VICTORIA VOX at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. The HOT FRITTATAS serve-up tasty arrangements of traditional Italian and Sicilian music. Based in the Bay Area, this lively trio of accordion, mandolin/fiddle and guitar has been together for eight years, releasing two CDs and performing regularly at wineries, festivals and Italian events throughout Northern California, Oregon and Nevada. Their original music has been used by several independent filmmakers, and on the ABC-TV series, “The Bachelor.” Recent performances include Portland’s “Festa Italiana,” Reno’s “Festa Italiana,” the “San Francisco Mandolin Festival,” “Cotati Accordion Festival,” Napa’s COPIA Center, and the nationally-syndicated radio show, “West Coast Live.” Expect tarantellas, tangos, polkas and espresso. Buon appetito!
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VICTORIA VOX is here, right in the middle of her once-a-year California tour, during which she is recording and playing three appearances at The Coffee Gallery Backstage. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Singing, musical charm, trombone imitations, fun, wit and ever-so-cute. She does it all. Victoria, along with THE HOT FRITTTATS, this is an enviable evening. Bring friends. This is as good as it gets.” VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. Tonight, she graciously opens the show with, as venue impresario Bob Stane says, “a full sack of magic charms.” She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “in between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs. $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 “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Mon, Oct 27; not music, but cool:
8 pm AMORY LOVINS: “PROFITABLE SOLUTIONS TO CLIMATE CHANGE” at Caltech’s FREE seminar series, in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; info on this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5861.html; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Presented by Caltech's divisions of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Geological & Planetary Sciences. The premise is, “Climate protection, like the Hubble Space Telescope's mirror, got spoiled by a sign error: in fact, climate solutions are not costly but profitable, because saving fuel costs less than buying fuel. Many leading companies are making billions of dollars' profit by cutting their carbon intensity or emissions at rates. When politicians who lament climate protection's supposed costs, burdens, and sacrifices join the parallel universe of practitioners who routinely achieve profits, jobs, and competitive advantage by wasting less fuel, the political obstacles will dissolve faster than any glacier.” Amory Lovins, an internationally recognized expert on energy independence, is Chairman and Chief Scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute. Newsweek called Lovins "one of the Western world's most influential energy thinkers," and he has been described by The Economist as an "energy visionary" who "sounded the first alarm about the potential damage that climate change might bring." His nearly four decades of advocacy for resource efficiency, energy innovation, and holistic design have finally captured the world's attention because of today's interrelated energy and climate issues. The seminar series is directed by Nathan S. Lewis, Caltech's George L. Argyros Professor and professor of chemistry. Free, no reservations required.
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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, Oct 27; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
9 pm the excellent KAT PARSONS returns to L.A. after a long time playing many other parts of the world, for just one show at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. After playing extensively in Australia and Europe, Kat tells us, “I have a few gigs in Singapore and Brunei in January 2009,” and she’s booking gigs again in Singapore, Vietnam, and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. She adds, “’Hold A Moment,’ a song I wrote with LIBBIE SCHRADER, is available on iTunes as part of the ‘Abrazos Compilation’ benefitting Breast Cancer Awareness. The compilation also features Glen Philips, Veruca Salt, Jen Trynin, Alice Peacock, Charlotte Martin, and more. I didn't realize it had been released...but it has been for a while now. I've posted a ton of pictures chronicling my travels and shows in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. Check them out at www.myspace.com/KatParsons. Still working on getting my Vietnam photos going!”
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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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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28
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Tuesday’s “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Tue, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm SONGMAKERS “SOUP JAM,” country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, Don Rowan, 562-883-0573; http://songmakers.org. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice, soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is 1st entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, Oct 28:
7-8:45 pm GILLI MOON plays her monthly residency and “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; 323-653-0640. It’s a mostly-acoustic event with guest artists. Gill says, “It features 'moi,' plus a couple of cool cats from Songsalive! - and we all perform in the round on stage. It's really a wonderful night, and starts early, 7 pm stage time.” Venue is known for its Chinese food; call for dinner reserv. Plenty of parking, $7 cover.
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Tues; every 4th Tue:
7-8:30 pm “COMMUNITY FOLK MUSIC JAM” led by Bea Romano & Jim, it’s a traditional folk music jam at the Barbara J. Riley Center, 7810 Quill St, Downey 90242; 562-904-7226. Bring your acoustic instrument(s) and join in. Bea says, “It's a lovely facility. We hope you will enjoy playing / listening to music. Bring your acoustic instruments and join in the fun. There are plenty of armless chairs. Best of all, it's free!”
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Tue, every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing host GARRET SWAYNE, followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com. MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, Oct 28; in Ojai:
7 pm SMITTY WEST plays his CD release show at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. It’s his first solo CD, “Your World,” and songwriter-pianist-singer Smitty West performs a concert of originals and his favorite covers, “backed up by local favorites and some of Southern California’s finest musicians.” Smitty West (stage name for SCOTT SMITH) has assembled an eclectic solo collection of 12 original songs, spanning genres of folk, rock, metal, and country. Backing Smitty are some of Southern California’s finest musicians: Legendary bass guitarist Jim Monahan, drummer/percussionist Bob Nichols, Scott Luedke on guitar, and vocalist Julija Zonic. Smitty is the founder of Ojai Songwriters Anonymous, a collaborative support group of local songwriters. He has recently completed the scoring of Christopher Devine’s “Fighting With Sticks,” a high-definition movie shot in Ojai. In September, Smitty produced and recorded Jim Monahan’s political satire “Wasilla Girl,” which has received national radio play and is a YouTube favorite. Smitty is the manager and keyboard player for the Ojai-based original rock band MYRIDIAN, and produced the band’s full-length CD, “Prime Myridian,” in 2007. He owns and operates Euterpe Farms, a California native plant farm that supports the efforts to support the local ecosystem with the cultivation of local plants and food crops. All profits from Smitty’s music are donated to supporting "Landmine Action” which helps bring hope to people in war-torn countries. Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $10 adv, $12 door.
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Tue, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Oct 28; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm STONEHONEY and VICTORIA VOX doing a rare double-headliner billing at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. This is a double headline bill with each act doing about an hour. As venue impresario Bob Stane says, “STONEHONEY & VICTORIA VOX. What a night!”
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STONEHONEY is, says Bob Stane, “something new and wonderful descends from Nirvana. The Buzz on this act is hot and electric.” Stonehoney began as a bunch of “songwriters in the round.” It’s that simple. Nothing contrived or planned, just a group of songwriters that enjoy playing and singing together. “We would meet up at Nick’s house in Beachwood Canyon and play songs around the circle,” says band member Shawn. “With four singers we just naturally started singing harmonies and this sound began to develop, reminiscent of the country rock sound of the ‘70s, that we all really loved.” In August of 2005, the band took their “Songs From A Hillside Living Room” live with a monthly show at the Knitting Factory in Hollywood. Since then, they’ve repeatedly headlined at McCabe’s and elsewhere.
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STONEHONEY is SHAWN DAVIS, PHIL HURLEY, DAVID PHENICIE, NICK RANDOLPH, & SCOTTY LUND. They’ve generated several albums’ worth of new material and along the way, caught the attention of hit maker and record producer Ric Wake. Ric took the band into the studio to capture the magic of their live “living room” sound and they cut over 40 tracks. The first record is planned for release early next year.
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VICTORIA VOX is tonight’s co-headliner. A once-a-year treat for patrons of the arts at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, Baltimore-based Victoria returns to her favorite Southern California haunt to delight audiences with her musical skills and pixie-like stage persona. What a show she puts on with delightful ditties on the uke, while her vocal cords and lips imitate a trombone. She sings unique songs and standards. This is her only CGB show this year where she performs a full hour. Bob Stane adds, “She is so cute and cuddly you will want to adopt her.” VICTORIA is in the middle of her once-a-year California tour, during which she is recording and playing three appearances at the CGB. Bob Stane says, “Singing, musical charm, trombone imitations, fun, wit and ever-so-cute. She does it all.” VICTORIA VOX is a headliner in her own right who often headlines venues and ukulele festivals. She plays the uke, does witty trombone sounds, and sings, all of which she did to the delight of the radio audience on “Tied to the Tracks.” A full-time touring performer, the foxy Vox performs in French and English, playing 120 shows a year coast to coast and in the UK. The Pittsburgh Tribune names Victoria Vox as "one of the purest musicians touring the county today" celebrating that she provides inspiration to "the most skeptical, cynical, jaded ears, to view the world in a positive, romantic light." Vox's latest recording, “In Between,” is a collection of “lightly produced” acoustic love songs. $15.
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Tues; every 4th Tue:
8 pm SUZY WILLIAMS and HER SOLID SENDERS play live jazz and jump blues at Temple Bar, 1026 Wilshire Bl, Santa Monica 90401; www.templebarlive.com; 310-393-6607. It’s their new 4th Tue residency, every month, for 2008. They play two sets, 8;30 & 9:30 pm. Jitterbug Janet gives free swing dance lessons at 8:15 & 9:15 pm. Suzy Williams has played Carnegie Hall with Stormin' Norman Zamcheck, performed with Moses Pendleton's Pilobolus dance troupe, and has worked with Van Dyke Parks, Buster Poindexter, Marc Shaiman, Nicholas Ray among many others. Bette Midler, Horace Silver, Roosevelt Sykes, Ann Magnuson, Eubie Blake and Hadda Brooks have praised her passionate singing and vibrant energy. The SENDERS are KAHLIL SABBAGH (band leader and vibes), BRAD KAY (piano), DAVE JONES (bass), NICK SCARMACK (drums), DANNY MOYNAHAN (sax), DAN HEFFERNAN (sax), DAVE WEINSTEIN (trombone) and COREY GEMME (trumpet). Celebrate being alive with Suzy and her swinging 8-piece band, evoking the rockin' dance music of Louis Jordan, and the recent release of “Suzy & The Jtones,” her new ten inch record / CD (www.jtonerecords.com). The NY Times John Rockwell wrote, "Williams is an enormously amusing, endearing presence...with tough, belting authority." “All About Jazz” critic Rex Butters wrote in Venice Beachhead, "Suzy and Her Solid Senders teach old standards (Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Anita O'Day, Fats Waller) new tricks, but it's their originals that will bring you back for more." Read the Santa Monica Mirror article at www.smmirror.com/MainPages/DisplayArticleDetails.asp?eid=6706. Catch ‘em at www.youtube.com/watch?v=rADpTDcq98Y. Artists info, www.puddingbench.com/suzy.htm. $10 cover.
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Tue; repeats every 2nd and 4th Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL MCCARTHY the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. You can also pre-signup online at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, Oct 28:
8 pm “TAKING BACK TUESDAY” show with ADJOA SKINNER, JON PETER LEWIS, VICTORIA CLEMMONS, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. Sponsored by ASCAP and Adrenaline Music. No cover.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly summer series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, every Tue:
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 swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Oct 28:
8:30 pm JONATHAN BLAKE, TERESA WALKER, PAUL STARLING, NEW DAY MILE, at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. This is a full and long evening, with TERESA WALKER playing her CD release show at 9:30 pm, and New day Mile taking the stage at 11:15 pm. Adv tix $20; $8 & $20 at door.
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Tue, Oct 28 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29
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There are three “SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Wednesday, one each in L.A. and Altadena, both at 8 pm, and one in Hollywood at 9 pm.
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Wed, Oct 29:
10:30 am, noon, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm KEN WALDMAN, “Alaska’s Fiddling Poet,” political satirist, and prolific book author, performs for the Pasadena Library concert series, with one show each at four different library branches in Pasadena; 626-744-7076; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/libraryevents.asp.
> 10:30 am at the San Rafael Branch, 1240 Nithsdale Rd, 91105; 626-744-7270;
> Noon at the Allendale Branch, 1130 S Marengo Av, 91106; 626-744-7260;
> 1:30 pm at the Hill Avenue Branch, 55 S Hill Av, 91106; 626-744-7264;
> 3:30 pm at the Lamanda Park Branch, 140 S Altadena Dr, 91107; 626-744-7266.
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Ken Waldman draws upon his 23 years in Alaska to produce poems, stories and fiddle tunes uniquely his own. His Alaskan travels have included visits to the Yukon and outer regions of Alaska, bringing music and poetry to small towns and Inuit villages. Check his web site for info on these shows and his “very cool new book,” published in August. As for his new double CD, Ken says, “It’s so new (and I'm so busy), it will take a few weeks to get it out on my site.” That site is www.kenwaldman.com.
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every week:
6-9 pm GARRET SWAYNE does his weekly residency at Giovanni Ristorante, 21926 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; reserv 818-884-0243; www.GiovanniRistorante.com. Ample parking behind restaurant. No cover, $15 minimum per person on food or drink.
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Wed, Oct 29:
7 pm monthly “GILLI MOON'S SONGSALIVE SHOWCASE” with GILLI MOON, JASON CORCORAN, CHRIS MOUCH, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640.
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Wed, every week:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session; call for location, 805-579-6416; www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Oct 29 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Wed, Oct 29; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm RONNY COX and JACK WILLIAMS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. RONNY COX, musician and noted actor, is joined tonight by South Carolina-born singer-songwriter-guitarist JACK WILLIAMS. Ronny and Jack have collaborated musically many times in recent years, touring together on the US folk circuit and recording & producing Ronny’s most recent CD. Each will present his own music and stories in two separate sets, with Jack accompanying Ronny on guitar.
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While RONNY COX started out as a musician and has emphasized that side of his career for the past few years, he is still one of the most respected and sought-after character actors in Hollywood. Since his debut as “Drew” in John Boorman's film "Deliverance" - including playing guitar in the famous "Dueling Banjos" scene - Ronny has appeared in over 50 films, including "Beverly Hills Cop (I & II)," "Bound for Glory" where he played Woody Guthrie’s sidekick, "Robo Cop," and "Total Recall," and Ronny has played the president of the U.S. at least four times, including in “1600 Pennsylvania Avenue,” and usually with a more convincing competence than the actual occupant of that address.
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In his most recent CD, “HOW I LOVE THEM OLD SONGS: RONNY COX SINGS MICKEY NEWBURY,” which was produced by Jack Williams and had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” Ronny pays tribute to the music of the legendary Texas songwriter. His previous recordings, "Ronny Cox Live," "Cowboy Savant," and "Acoustic Eclectricity," all showcase Ronny’s homegrown style of folk music and his lively story-telling that is an integral part of it. Steadily increasing his following on the U.S. folk music circuit, he has headlined at such venues as the prestigious Old Town School of Folk in Chicago, the New Bedford SummerFest, and the Kerrville Folk Festival, a favorite of Ronny’s held annually in Kerrville, Texas. Whether it is in his acting or his music, Ronny is a storyteller who says, “I’ve never felt the truth should get in the way of a good story!”
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JACK WILLIAMS is well known in the contemporary US folk community as a Southern singer-songwriter-storyteller and unique guitarist. He continues to tour the country, as he has for the past 50 years, motivated by his love of music and performing. Jack books an annual circuit of approximately 100 US festivals, house concerts and major folk venues each year, and has been a featured performer on the stages of the Philadelphia, SummerFest, Kerrville, Boston, and Newport Folk Festivals. In addition to his US audience, Jack has also become a favorite in England, Canada and Europe. Jack Williams’ music is born at the meeting ground of the traditional and the contemporary, and it’s original Southern-American songwriting and performance at its best, drawing deeply from the eclectic well of musical heritage. Loaded with delightful influences from his career in jazz, classical, rock, blues, country and folk, Jack’s music is an easy, natural fusion of guitar, voice, songs, and stories. This is a must-see show, and a bargain in an intimate venue at $18.
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Wed, Oct 29; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm CORB LUND, GRANT LANGSTON, THE RUNNING KIND, MICHAEL O’NEILL at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. This is a full and long evening of alt-country/Americana, with THE running Kind at 8, Grant at 9, Corb at 10, and Michael O’Neill at 11:15 pm.
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Wed, last Wed, every month:
8-10 pm “HOBO SOUP” monthly folk music evening with performing host “BANJO FRED” STARNER, usually joined by PHIL VAN TEE and KAREN KRANTZ, at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St, in the Old Bank District, downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. The venue is the big lobby of a 1905-era bank building. Fred says it has “a fine sound system, and a no-alcohol good vibe.” FRED STARNER is the officially-named “GRAND DUKE OF HOBO MINSTRELS” by the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Musical funnyman PHIL VAN TEE has taken his homemade cookie-tin banjo to stages everywhere, opening for nearly all the big-name country music acts. Previous guests have included JILL FENIMORE, ORGANIC DEMO, and DADDY BONE. Artist info, www.hobobanjofred.com. Venue is just down the gated alley between Main and Broadway; it’s a coffeehouse that serves coffee drinks and tasty light fare.
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Wed, 5th Wed, when there’s a fifth Wed:
8 pm THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, every Wed:
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 Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, Oct 29:
9 pm THE BITTERSWEETS play the Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. The Bittersweets live up to their name - they fuse yellows and blues, sunny-ness and melancholy, with evocative lyrics and lush arrangements, transcendent melodies and Prater's alluring voice. On every track of their new album, “Goodnight, San Francisco,” The Bittersweets weave a captivating tension between hope and poignancy that rings true. They are CHRIS MEYERS on guitar, keyboards, vocals, and HANNAH PRATER on vocals & guitar. Tonight, they excitedly return to California to wrap-up their West Coast dates. The Nashville Tennessean newspaper said of their new album, "Goodnight, San Francisco is a melancholy beauty, built from melody and poetry." Though they are apt to go electric, they are a fine Americana duo. More at their label’s website, www.compassrecords.com.
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Wed, Oct 29:
9 pm THE GHOST HOUNDS, PHILIP SAYCE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. $10.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30
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“SHOW OF THE WEEK” picks for Thursday are in Los Feliz, Altadena, and Culver City.
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET,” brand new in October ’08, with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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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, 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, 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, Oct 30:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists ED TREE (John Schneider, Lacy J. Dalton, Spencer Davis), and JOHN STOWERS, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; www.myspace.com/arniescafe; 818-951-9089. 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, 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, 4-7 pm. Evening costs $7 plus two drink minimum (bottled water, juices, more available). Zydeco dance lessons included: 7-7:30 basic zydeco; 7:30-8 pm intermediate / advanced dance moves. CD dancing 8-9 pm. Beginners, singles, all ages welcome. Dance instruction by Karen Redding of LouisianaDanceLA.com; Karen has taught at L.A. Music Center, “Long Beach Bayou Festival,” San Diego's “Gator By The Bay” Festival, “Simi Valley Cajun Festival,” Galaxy Theater, private parties and corporate events. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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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, 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, Oct 30:
7:30 pm “SONGWRITER CIRCLE” with GARRET SWAYNE, LAUREN ADAMS, JOHN M, & CARRIE WADE, solo sets from DEBLOIS, and KELLY MCGRATH, presented by Shout it Out Promotions and NIXA country radio; followed by other acts at 8:45 pm: DEBLOIS, MOLLY MARLETTE, KELLY McGRATH, at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. JOHN M (www.myspace.com/johnmmusic), owner of M-Pire Records and M-Pire Recording Studio, is a “classic rocker;” CARRIE WADE (www.myspace.com/carriewade) identifies herself as an “alternative musician,” though we’ve heard her play acoustic; LAUREN ADAMS (www.myspace.com/laurenadams101) is a solid Americana songwriter, and Main Street Songwriters Showcase host GARRET SWAYNE (www.myspace.com/garretswayne) have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” All four are taking part in a Songwriter Circle, beginning at 7:30 pm. Following them at 8:45 pm is DEBLOIS a “Florida-native-surfer-turned-musician” (www.myspace.com/debloismusic) performing “Americana / reggae / cajon,” music. At 9:30 pm is up-n-coming folk artist MOLLY MARLETTE (www.myspace.com/mollymarlette). The closer at 10:15 pm is L.A.-based KELLY MCGRATH (www.myspace.com/kellymcgrath) with her “countrified sounds.” Venue is known for its Chinese food and reasonably-priced drinks. $7 cover for the songwriter circle, $10 cover for the rest.
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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, Oct 30:
“STAY AWAKE: THE OFFICIAL 20TH CENTURY ANNIVERSARY CONCERT” (West Coast premiere) at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. From record producer HAL WILLNER comes this celebration of Willner’s historic compilation of music from the vintage Disney Songbook by an eclectic range of artists from SUZANNE VEGA and LOS LOBOS to RINGO STARR and BONNIE RAITT. The soon-to-be-announced lineup will include many of the album’s original performers in this one-time-only event.
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Thu, Oct 30 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Thu, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE HACKENSAW BOYS at Tangier, 2138 Hillhurst Av, Los Feliz; 323-666-8666; www.tangierrestaurant.net. We caught them last year at the Knitting Factory on their ’07 national tour. They’re just as exciting as their record label mates, OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW, and this is a show to see. At last year’s venue, they got frustrated with the half-deaf old rocker doing sound, so they just climbed down from the stage and did a fully acoustic show in the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by gyrating fans. Make a dinner reservation here, so you’ll have a table.
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Thu, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm RILLIAN & THE DOXIE CHX bring acoustic seafaring and “pyrate” music to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “Watch what ye do when you go out with those women, Aye, never give an inch when that Rillian’s with them. Keep them warm and they will all agree. Yer a hard one lad. Best keep yer eye on me. Ye’ve seen and heard Ruby Cruzado and McAleenan O’Malley play with their mates, 'Pirates of the Black Swan', now come hear the Premiere Pyrate Band of Southern California, Rillian and The Doxie Chx!” They’re a raucous crew of six that will delight you with traditional sea shanties, jigs and reels, contemporary “pyrate” rock as well as their own original piratical songs, all played on traditional acoustic instruments - fiddle, mandolin, guitar, flute, tin whistles, Irish pipes, button accordion, and bodhran. For the past five years, they’ve played for Disney’s Red Carpet and El Capitan theater premieres for the blockbuster movies “Pirates of the Caribbean ‘Dead Man’s Chest’” and “At Worlds End,” and they’ve played venues as diverse as Las Vegas, The Olivia Adobe, Ventura Harbor, the “Pyrates4CHOC” event, and the “Revenge of the Sea Pyrate Cruise” aboard the schooner “American Pride.” They’ll have you swinging your glass and singing along, and maybe steppin’ lively on your table. $15.
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Thu, Oct 30:
8 pm RAY LaMONTAGNE at the Wiltern Theatre, 3790 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 213-380-5005.
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Thu, last Thu, every month:
8-10 pm SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE at The Talking Stick, (apparently still at the “old” location, at 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica 90405; call ahead to see if the venue has made the move to its new location in Venice; this series is the last Thu of every month. A full evening of entertainment from local songwriters, hosted by MAUREEN DOHERTY. Songsalive is now booking for various dates in 2007, and seeking singer-songwriters to perform; info: hotline at 310-238-0359 or email usa@songsalive.org; www.songsalive.org. No cover, $5 donation requested.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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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, Oct 30; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8:30 pm DAFNI at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar.
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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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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31
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Friday’s Halloween “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick is in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Fri, Oct 31-Sun, Nov 2; in Arizona:
Annual “TOMBSTONE WESTERN MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Tombstone, AZ, with THE DUE WEST TRIO, GEORGE DICKEY, RODGER MAXWELL, MARVIN O’DELL, JOE BETHANCOURT, PATTY CLAYTON, BILL BARWICK; info, www.tombstonewesternmusicfestival.com.
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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, 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, Oct 31; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm Halloween show, “THE ALL SAINTS' MELODY MASQUERADE,” with HOBO JAZZ, MADAME PAMITA & HER PARLOUR OF WONDERS, and TIPPY CANOE, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “Join us on Edgar Allan Poe's favorite holiday weekend for an evening of swirling old-time melodies, costumed revelers, mysterious ladies, fiery vagabonds and a peek behind the curtain of your fascinating future.”
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HOBO JAZZ might be called a skiffle band, or blues, hillbilly, folk, or even jazz. Just say Hobo Jazz & dispense with all the fancy words. They play the music of the contemporary 1930s hobo country bluesman. This is part rail ridin' music, part field holler sonnet, part rock-a-billy Cadillac, part 1932 Ford wagon. One part dirty hobo, one part hot jazz, all parts kick up your heels and live a little! www.hobojazz.com

MADAME PAMITA & HER PARLOUR OF WONDERS always brings a unique show. Enter into a curious and sublime world, an old-time medicine show filled with mysticism, music and melodrama, an entrancing array of spectacles and song. Madame Pamita uses the powers of euphonious prognostication to tell audience member fortunes and plays songs written both by herself and by those who have moved on to the great beyond, including rural blues, old time, jug band and proto-jazz numbers about romance and revenge, mirth and mayhem, performed on an assortment of odd and bizarre vintage instruments (Imperial Banjeaurine, Banjolele, Ukelin, Marxophone, Polka-Lay-Lee, and Tiple; as well as a 115 year-old banjo and early 20th century ukuleles). http://madamepamita.com
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TIPPY CANOE is Oakland, California's songbird and uke-slinger. Tippy Canoe is on a mission to bring sincere uplift in a severely down-slanted era. Her voice is a mixture of ‘60s “girl group sound” and classic country with its own quirky nature. Her songwriting bears the stamp of a person who has absorbed a variety of influences, from ‘20s and ‘30s acts like THE BOSWELL SISTERS & JACK TEAGARDEN to ‘50s and ‘60s performers like BRENDA LEE & THE CHIFFONS and catchy post-punk bands such as SQUEEZE & BLONDIE. You can call it old-timey, you can call it retro, you can even make up a word and call it 20s-jazz-country-doo-wop-pop, but whatever the moniker, just let yourself go and enjoy it. www.tippycanoe.net. $20.
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Fri, Oct 31 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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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. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, Oct 31
9 pm “HALLOWEEN PARTY AND COSTUME CONTEST” with prizes, and music by MIKE OFFICER AND THE M.O.B., CHARLIE SUPERFLY, SUPERBROKE BRASS, TIN AND WHISTLE ENSEMBLE, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com.
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Fri, Oct 31:
9 pm VON COTTON at Joe’s Great American Bar and Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505; 818-729-0805; www.rootsatjoes.com , www.myspace.com/rootsatjoes .
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Fri, Oct 31:
9 pm DAVE GLEASON, DANIELLE TUCKER, & LARRY DEAN at Borderline Bar & Grill, 99 Rolling Oaks Dr, Thousand Oaks; 805-446-4435.
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Fri, last Fri, every month:
9 pm “LAST FRIDAYS AT THE SCENE” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and MIKE STINSON and guests, at The Scene, 806 E Colorado Bl, Glendale; 818-241-7029; www.thescenebar.com. I See Hawks and Mike Stinson do this monthly gig with a different guest each month, where “The worst stage monitors in California contribute to the fun.” Artists info: www.paulmarshall.net. No cover.
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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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As always, more to come, and a FULL UPDATE of the NOVEMBER calendar will post soon!
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, where all is presented as chronological date listings, for today/tonight, this week, this month, and longer “looks ahead.” The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar updates often, and News Features post weekly.
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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 & 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 the ancient archives on our Myspace page, use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore into the paleozoic.
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NEWS FEATURES as well as the calendar’s MOST RECENT EDITIONS – that’s both event calendars with descriptive write-ups, and news for and about acoustic musicians and music – can be found conveniently at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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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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