January events, Jan 8 update, Acoustic Americana Music Guide 2009

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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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January, 2009 events
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Updated January 8, 2009; recurring events included through January 14.
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THE FIRST MONTH OF THE YEAR takes its name from the Latin, “Januarius,” derived from “Janua,” meaning “door.” That, in turn, derived from the name of the Roman god Janus. Ancient Romans believed Janus opened the gates of heaven to release daylight and closed them when dusk arrived. Janus had the dual properties of looking to both the past and the future. All that anticipated our singing of “Auld Lang Syne” on New Year’s Eve.
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POEM-OF-THE-MONTH FOR JANUARY:
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Another fresh new year is here . . .
Another year to live!
To banish worry, doubt, and fear,
To love and laugh and give!
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This bright new year is given me
To live each day with zest . . .
To daily grow and try to be
My highest and my best!
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I have the opportunity
Once more to right some wrongs,
To pray for peace, to plant a tree,
And sing more joyful songs!"
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- William Arthur Ward
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(with thanks to Café Muse, Hollywood, for making us aware of this poem.)
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EDITOR’S NOTE…
You may notice that we are including a number of concerts that are usually found only under the headings of “Classical Music.” We’re happy to bring you the info about these because people who love real music tend to love all real music, whether, for example, a fiddle is called a violin, or a viola, or just a fiddle.
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It is all quite consistent with letting you know about music and musicians doing live performances that we know you’ll enjoy. We are, of course, true to the nature of live acoustic music, “keeping it real.” So, if you’re looking for that Britney Lohan sh-thump-thud, revolving-door-rehab, pop-tart-du-jour junk that infests the radio and is recorded one note at a time, you’ll need to look elsewhere. THIS is the place for acoustic music that’s REAL MUSIC, from blues-to-bluegrass-to-borderlands, Cajun-to-cowboy-to-Celtic-to-Cape-Breton-to-Quebecois, new-old-trad-alt-post folk, and the exciting artists of today’s acoustic renaissance!
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WELCOME! And after reading this little section of relevant stray facts, if you feel lost or mystified about any of this, you can read our “Welcome” post (find it in the list, at left) – it’s a good idea to do that if you are new to the Guide & News. It’ll help you understand how all this works!
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The GUIDE and the NEWS FEATURES post separately.
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IF YOU USED A SPECIFIC URL to reach this edition of the Guide, and more than a few days have passed since the date it posted, THERE MAY BE A NEWER EDITION. Use the basic url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com - and check the side bar on the left, to look for more recent editions with additional and updated events.
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THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events, is identifiable by the date it was posted at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. We DO post future months separate from the current month, so the next time you come to the site to find “long looks ahead,” remember that they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list on the left side for guidance. And we occasionally post a Guide / calendar of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.)” events, for those great festivals and special happenings in other parts of the country, and to help everyone include music with travel plans.
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THE MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES, as well as other recent news posts that are often still relevant, are always available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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WHAT’S IN THE NEWS THAT WE COVER? Our latest news features always include things of interest to acoustic music fans AND artists (musicians and songwriters). Topics include trends in the industry, radio, internet radio, music conferences, artists who have recently won awards and recognitions, charity benefits, festival lineups and booking information, our picks for on-line music videos, music-related books, things that are fun to know, and more – but NEVER any “who’s-sleeping-with-who” gossip crap. (That’s YOUR business, and it’s not the public’s business just because you work in show biz.) Current and recent news editions are found at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. Old archived editions are on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), accessible by using the “View All” and the “older entries” button and scrolling all the way back to when acoustic music happened because dinosaurs got rambunctious.
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UPDATES TO THE CURRENT MONTH’S GUIDE / CALENDAR are made at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events get booked into a vast number of venues, with more added all the time. And, we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, workshop presenters, etc.
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FUTURE EVENTS are currently posted IN THIS POST past mid-2009, and will soon go farther than that.
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RECURRING EVENTS include residencies, series, showcases, and open mics, and all these are numerous in the Southern California acoustic music universe. We generally add them to the Guide’s calendar one week at a time, as dates approach, because there are so many of them, AND because it gives us a chance to learn who is playing.
Recurring events included in this edition through Wed, Jan 14.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana music shows (send us gig notices in our format, please; see any listed show for an example) please DON’T expect us to re-type info that you have locked into a jpg – send us plain text, so we can work with it! Send to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM after a long presence on MySpace, because that site now accepts only short posts. The Guide is waaaay too comprehensive to fit anywhere that imposes limitations. We began posting to Blogspot in early 2008.
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Our MYSPACE PAGE (www.myspace.com/laacoustic) has current news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and what’s happening with its TV counterpart. And it’s where you can find archived Acoustic Americana Music News editions published prior to Spring, 2008.
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PLEASE DO COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Americana Music Guide and / or the Acoustic Americana Music News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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PLEASE DON’T send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, it cannot be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. (Myspace “friends” are great, and we DO welcome you there!) But, communicate through email only at the above address. And, yes, we get HUNDREDS of emails every week, so please give us as much advance notice as possible for your event!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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JANUARY 2009 events
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Recurring events included in this edition through Wed, Jan 14.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 8
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Thu, Jan 8; on TV:
7:30 am (Pacific) “ELVIS DAY CEREMONY” hosted by PRISCILLA PRESLEY on the front lawn of Graceland, live via streaming video at www.elvis.com/graceland/calendar/elvis_birthday.asp
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Elvis fans should note the 23rd annual “ELVIS BIRTHDAY BASH” tonight in Hollywood; see 5:30 pm listing.
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET” 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, Jan 8:
Noon-2 pm SOUL DOGS bring their innovative rock to the “Pershing Square Ice Rink Music Series” on the outdoor stage at Pershing Square, on W 5th St between S Olive St & S Hill St, L.A.; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/concerts.htm. This is the band that often performs with actor-musician DAVID CARRADINE. SOUL DOGS is Sharon Benson on vocals, violin & guitar, Leslie Daniel on drums & vocals, CJ III on bass & vocals, Benjamin Lein on guitar & vocals. The series has a fine, professional sound system. Ride the Red Line subway to Pershing Square and avoid expensive parking. The series has a fine, professional sound system. If you work downtown, you can grab lunch at any of several nearby take-out places, and enjoy all or part of the concert. Ice skating $6 if you want to do that; concert free.
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Thu, Jan 8:
4:30 pm KELLY FITZGERALD at Jaqu's, 16334 Beach Bl, Huntington Beach, 92683; www.jaqus.com. Kelly says, “If you can, stop by and check it out. It's a really nice venue. One I hope to frequent in the near future. Come by and have some dinner.” Kelly has won top awards from LA Women in Music, and her music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.kellyfitzgerald.net
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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, Jan 8:
5:30 pm 23rd Annual “ELVIS BIRTHDAY BASH” presented by ART FEIN, with CLIVE KENNEDY, JIMMY ANGEL, RAY CAMPI, DANNY DEAN, LISA FINNIE, BLASTERS, MANNY GONZALES, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., GROOVY REDNECKS, KEITH ALLISON, CARLOS GUITARLOS, MICHELLE SHOCKED, DUSK DEVILS, RIP MASTERS, LISA HALEY, STRAWBERRY ALARM CLOCK, MOJO MONKEYS, LIGHTNIN' WILLIE, KARMA, RONEE BLAKLEY, ROD & THE TONEMASTERS, DAVE SERBY & THE SIDEWINDERS, CHARLOTTE ORLOVE, , JOEY BUTTLER, RIDGE ROUTE ROMEOS, GLEN GLENN (?), JUSTIN CURTIS, MIKE STINSON, HARRY ORLOVE, BARRY HOLDSHIP, SIMON STOKES, LORI DEWITT & TODD ECKHART, and from France, ERVIN TRAVIS, at The Avalon, 1735 Vine St, Hollywood, just N of Hollywood Bl, across from the Capitol Records Tower. Benefit: proceeds go to L.A. Fallen Firemen's Memorial; Benefactor: L.A. City Councilman Tom Labonge.
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The Elvis Bash continues to be the nation's leading Elvis Birthday celebration drawing people from L.A. and all over the world. More performers are being added, and the lineup already features more women performers this year than ever before, including Dusk Devils, gal-led, from Bakersfield. Info from Art Fein, promoter, sofein@aol.com. $25.
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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, 2nd and 4th Thu, every month; in Ventura:
6-9:30 pm “ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin, who says, “Check-out Ventura's Bluegrass Jam website, at http://home.earthlink.net/~generubinaudio/index.html. All skills welcome, friendly folks, great food and drink, and even better jammin'. Generally we number 25 to 35 musicians. We now have additional space for even more jam circles. Spectators are appreciated and welcome.” Contact Gene with your email address to receive regular reminders and details: 805-658-8311 or generubinaudio@earthlink.net.
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Thu, 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, Jan 8, 2009:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists ERNEST TROOST (Nicole Gordon, Lauren Adams, Lisa O'Kane), and BUDDY ZAPATA, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. This will be a fine night of acoustic blues. Both Ernest Troost and Buddy Zapata have performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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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:
DISCONTINUED; ENDED IN NOVEMBER: 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. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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Thu; every week; in Lancaster:
7-10 pm “CEDAR OPEN MIC” at Cedar Center, 44345 Cedar Av (at Lancaster Bl), Lancaster 93534; www.myspace.com/cedarcenteropenmic. Hosted by Ms. Shell Marie and Cleen. It’s open to all ages, however there is no censorship rule. It welcomes poets, spoken word, “freestylers,” and acoustic musicians. Free.
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, 2nd Thu, every month:
7:30 pm monthly “NSAI SONGWRITER’S NIGHT” at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.net. NSAI Is the Nashville Songwriters Association International. STEVEN BEOUGHER is the host. The first round of songwriters, at 7:30, is usually three artists. At 8:30 is a featured songwriter for an hour-long set. About 9:45, the 2nd round of songwriters is three more artists. Severin Browne says, “This is a great opportunity to hear some great songwriting in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.” Venue has coffeehouse fare and good salads and sandwiches.
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Thu, Jan 8:
7:30 pm “MAKE ’EM LAUGH: THE FUNNY BUSINESS OF AMERICA” presented by “Writers Bloc” at Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills, 300 N Clark Dr (1 blk W of Robertson, 3 blks N of Wilshire Bl), Beverly Hills. Park in public structure at 123 Robertson, just N of Third St.
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Writers Bloc presents a tribute to the upcoming PBS series on the history and state of American Comedy. With Michael Kantor and Larry Maslon (director & writer of the three-part series and authors of the companion book), and comedians Larry Wilmore (Daily Show) & Richard Belzer. Winner of a Peabody Award and Humanitas Award from the Writers Guild of America, Larry is the author of the upcoming book, I'd Rather We Got Casinos: And Other Black Thoughts. Belzer, stand-up comic, cast member of Law and Order, and an original voice on National Lampoon Radio, is also the author of several books. Kantor also created the award-winning documentary, Broadway: The American Musical. Maslon also wrote the American Masters program Richard Rogers: The Sweetest Sounds and is the editor of many books on American theater. Make 'Em Laugh airs nationally on PBS on January 14, 21 & 28 for two hours each night.
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Cash or personal checks accepted at the door. No credit cards. Make reservations at www.writersblocpresents.com and in the body of the message, if you enter "Parlor Performances," they wil discount you at the door with half-price tix! (Thanks to Jenine Frank and her “Parlor Performances” series, always listed in the Guide). You will NOT receive a confirmation for your reservation. Unless you hear from them to the contrary, please safely assume that your reservation has been taken. Tix $20 ($10 with Parlor Performances discount).
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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, Jan 8, 2009:
8 pm SONGS OF SHILOH plus TOMMY HOLMES opening, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. NICOLE GORDON & MARTY AXELROD have performed from their thematic “Songs of Shiloh” album twice on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and at a variety of venues, including this one. They’re simplifying things, and calling their act SONGS OF SHILOH. Tonight’s show marks a new stage in the evolution of Songs of Shiloh, as they welcome drummer ADAM ROACH to the fold, joining their original bassist NORM SANCHO. They add, “We welcome back, from her first semester in Baltimore, our original harmony vocalist ZOE AXELROD [who performed with them on “TttT”].”
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They tell us, “This will be the first ever, full-on presentation of Songs of Shiloh as we enter a 2009 filled with Shiloh webisodes and national appearances, plus two songs not on the CD.” In early 2005, Los Angeles based songwriters Axelrod and Gordon met as members of a songwriters' group and wrote their first song together, "Got The Car Running." They liked the idea of the girl in their song so much, that they decided to continue writing songs about her. A few months into the writing process and through exploring different aspects of this girl's small-town life, they decided to name her Shiloh, and created a 10-song portrait of a girl who faces the challenges of her life with humor and courage. Now, they perform the Shiloh series as a 5 piece act.
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Review by Kerry: "They performed… last night at the Coffee Gallery Backstage. Marty is a wonderful musician and his daughter Zoe sang backup with Nicole. This show is wonderful and these songs will haunt you. Credit should also be given to their bass player who was world class. This show and these songs are terrific. I have seen them twice at the Coffee Gallery and this is music at its finest. Marty is a genius on keyboards and songwriting. How can you find fault with an act that has you from start to finish. Modern folk songs that transcend generations and great instrumental skills. Thanks again Coffee Gallery." $15.
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Thu, Jan 8:
8 pm CHRIS BENNETT plays his CD release show, with KRISTIN KORB on upright bass, at Catalina's Jazz Club, 6725 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. $15.
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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; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Thu, recurring:
ON HIATUS TONIGHT: 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, 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, Jan 8; 2nd Thu, every month:
ON HIATUS TONIGHT: 9-11 pm AMY CLARKE & Friends play their monthly benefit show at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE; www.cafemusela.com. Amy Clarke and select rotating guest artists perform original works by candlelight in the “urban zen” setting of Café Muse.
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3-time ASCAP award-winning indie singer-songwriter, synth keyboardist & “dramatic piano enchantress” Amy Clarke hails from Washington, DC and has performed around the country from the White House to the Viper Room. Relocating to LA last year after a 4 year residency in NYC (where she produced and released her first EP & played regularly at The Bitter End, Rockwood Music Hall, M Shanghai Den & Caffe Vivaldi), Clarke now plays at The Derby, Tangier, Talking Stick, Genghis Cohen, & The Verity Room, and on the festival circuit (SXSW, SPMT, Burning Man). A soul-singer, lifelong pianist and graduate of Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service, Clarke’s talent, political savvy and global awareness infuse her artistic vision with unique depth and powerful resonance. Her music (featured on TV, radio, & internet) is an eclectic, alternative blend of classical, celtic, pop, rock, blues, new age & electronic rhythms, and her piano work is intricate. More at www.amyclarke.com and www.myspace.com/amyclarke
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Venue has “tasty vegetarian & non-vegetarian menu, organic coffee, tea, & free wi fi.” Suggested donation for artists and a designated non-profit at each show; otherwise, 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, JANUARY 9
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Fri & Sat, Jan 9 & 10; in Bakersfield:
Two-day, all-day (& night) “48 HOUR INDOOR BLUEGRASS JAM” hosted by the California Bluegrass Association, at the Doubletree Hotel, Bakersfield; 661-323-7111. All bluegrass pickers and grinners are invited to enjoy two days of indoor jamming. No band performances (except as noted below *), no shows - just 48 hours of jamming (there may be some outdoor jamming, too, weather permitting).
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Sponsors say, “The Doubletree is a beautiful venue just off Hwy 99 and close to restaurants, including Buck Owens' Crystal Palace. The Doubletree has set aside a block of rooms, at a special rate of $89 a night, and three rooms just for jamming. Those who attended this event last year can attest to the casual atmosphere and spontaneity of the unstructured schedule. The absence of professional performers also means no admission charges for the event.”
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* - Saturday evening is a band scramble and open mic in the hotel lounge, 9 pm-midnight.
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Info, email Duane Campbell, dcfiddles@gmail.com or check the CBA website, www.cbaontheweb.org.
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Fri, every week, on web radio:
5-7 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, with Southern Cal-based cowboy balladeer JOHN BERGSTROM live about 6:15 pm. This show 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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Fri, every week:
5:30-10 pm “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” along Myrtle Av, in old downtown Monrovia. It’s year-round and weekly, a street festival and farmers market, that’s been running 17 years. KATTYWOMPUS STRING BAND plays at 412 S Myrtle Av; contact Jennifer Ranger, 877-365-5744. RON ELY does authentic and original maritime songs most weeks, usually at Myrtle Av & Colorado or Myrtle Av and Lemon Av, on the North end of the festival. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely. There’s lots of other music throughout old town Monrovia, several acoustic performers each week – singer-songwriters, duos or bands – plus specialty vendors, lots of food, and local merchants. Event is large during the summer when it includes a carnival (rock climbing wall, balloon man, bubble man, petting zoo, pony rides, etc.) It scales-down from 4 blocks to 2 blocks during winter months, following the Christmas holidays. Myrtle Av exit, N of 210 Fwy, free parking, free event.
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Fri, Jan 9:
6-9 pm KRISTIN KORB & PAMELA YORK at the Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown Hotel, 711 S Hope St, downtown L.A. 90017; 213-488-3500. Kristin on upright bass and vocals, Pamela on piano and vocals. Pamela York is back, one night only. Kristin tells us, “Pam and I had such a blast touring Canada in October. We're seriously considering a duo project in the near future. Until that happens, she is hanging with us this weekend. She won't be back here for awhile as she is VERY PREGNANT (with baby due in March).” No cover.
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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, Jan 9; in Rosamond:
7 pm CROSS TOWN COWBOYS play a benefit at the Rosamond Performing Arts Center, 2925 Rosamond Bl, Rosamond, CA. Proceeds benefit The Rosamond Woman's Club Fine Arts Scholarships. The admission is so cheap, you can afford the gas to go see ‘em. $2.
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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, 2nd Fri, every month in 2008; in Seaside:
7-9 pm “KIKI WOW & FRIENDS” at Borders Books & Music, 2080 California St, Seaside 93955. For all of you have clamored to know “Whatever happened to Kiki Wow?” – just take drive up the coast, and you can see and hear for yourself.
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Fri, Jan 9, 2009:
8 pm PETER OSTROUSHKO (“A Prairie Home Companion”) performs the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) concert series in the Encino Community Center, 4935 Balboa Bl (at Ventura Bl), Encino 91316; tix & info, www.ctmsfolkmusic.org or 818-817-7756 (11 am-4 pm). Doors at 7:30 pm.
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“Five stars! Jackpot! Ostroushko is one of a group of virtuoso musicians capable of defying boundaries…as both a composer and a player, Peter Ostroushko deserves a prominent place in the front rank of today’s acoustic music scene.” – Sing Out! magazine.
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Peter is touring his latest CD, “Peter Joins the Circus.” He’s played lead ukelele with the MINNESOTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA under the direction of SIR NEVILLE MARINER. PETER OSTROUSHKO is regarded as one of the finest mandolin and fiddle players in acoustic music. His tours have taken him to the stages of clubs, performing arts centers, music festivals and theatres across North America and Europe, and he has earned an international reputation as a versatile and dazzling master of instrumentation and composition. His recording contributions stand favorably alongside great Nashville session men of his generation. He’s played with JETHRO BURNS, EMMYLOU HARRIS, WILLIE NELSON, CHET ATKINS, JOHNNY GIMBLE, but his hometown Minneapolis’ music scene has provided a fabulous variety of musical styles in which Peter remains unequaled: folk (Greg Brown, John Hartford, Taj Mahal, fellow Prairie Home cast members Robin & Linda Williams), bluegrass (Norman and Nancy Blake, Tim O’Brien and Hot Rize), jazz, classical, and even rock.
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Peter’s first recording session was an uncredited mandolin set on BOB DYLAN’s “Blood on the Tracks,” and his work is featured on ROBIN HOLCOMB’s 1992 CD “Rockabye” (Elektra). Peter is at his most passionate when Ostroushko plays Ostroushko - a rich ethnic mix with its heart in his Ukrainian heritage. His own term for his gumbo of musical styles is "slüz düz,” a phrase borrowed from his mother, meaning, roughly, "over the edge" or "off his rocker.” Indeed, Peter is something of a first-generation hero in the Ukrainian community of North America. To his surprise, one town even held a parade in his honor! Not surprisingly, Peter’s resume is dizzying in size and scope. More at www.peterostroushko.com
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Advance tix, purchased by Dec 31, entitle you to ask for a free CD at the door. (CD from the CTMS music library’s duplicates.)
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You can purchase multi-concert packages and save from prices shown here. Advance tix, $15 gen’l, $25 front section, $30 front row. Tix at door are unreserved seats only, $25.
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Fri, Jan 9:
8 pm WILL RYAN and THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS with IAN WHITCOMB at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; reservations, 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. And now for something completely different: GRAMMY winner IAN WHITCOMB will bring his English sensibilities to a Western show, together with two other celebrated musicians - JOHN REYNOLDS & BENNY BRYDERN – known, with Ian, for their roles in the old time and early 20th century music world. This should be better than good. Waahoo!
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WILL RYAN is billed as "Modern cowboy classics sung by authentic Western characters!" Will Ryan is also called, "The King of the Radio Cowboys," and the Cactus County Cowboys as, "the Band that Won the West." Seems they have been entertaining horses, cattle and people since those dimly remembered, far-off days before the almost-arrived Barack Obama administration. Will and the boys have perplexed audiences near and far with their unique repertoire, their tricky pickin' and what they proudly call their "inadvertent humour." (Note the British spelling, for Ian’s benefit.) In fact, their first appearance (Will Ryan, backed by Westy and Presto) was at the Golden Boot Awards with Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and a whole slew of cowboy legends as their captive audience. Wait. Let's make that "captivated audience."
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WILL RYAN handles guitar, ukulele and song-writing chores. He’s a Westerner who has written hundreds of songs for people like the Pointer Sisters, Patti LaBelle and the O-K Corral Chorale (and for characters like Elmo Aardvark, Tigger, the Grinch and the Muppets). Over the years he's written many a cowboy tune and he continues doing so, thereby keeping the band in fresh supply of material. Known in certain circles as a cineloquist ("voice-actor", to the layman), Will Ryan has provided dozens of voices in many an Oscar-nominated animated film (e.g. Petrie in "The Land Before Time", Seahorse in "The Little Mermaid", a dozen characters in "Thumbelina", featured roles in "Looney Tunes: Back in Action!," Mickey's Christmas Carol," and more.). He is heard in hundreds of episodes of award-winning TV shows, including as Tigger and Rabbit in Disney's long-running "Welcome to Pooh Corner", Willie the Giant in the current series "Mickey Mouse Club House."
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The music organization BMI has given Will a “Pioneer/Silver Circle Award,” the animation industry has given him an Annie Award and the TV industry has awarded him Emmy and Writers Guild Award nominations.
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The CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS, "the Band that Won the West," has members who have been recording with Will for years on TV and movie projects. Together they are the founders and principal perpetrators of the nascent musical / dance style known as "Cowboy Skiffle." WESTY WESTONHOFER, "the Continental Cowpoke," plays upright bass, euphonium and tuba, though rarely simultaneously. He was a long-time member of the BEVERLY HILLS UNLISTED JAZZ BAND and he portrayed a gentleman in the internationally popular music act, the PALM SPRINGS YACHT CLUB. Add JOHN “PRESTO” REYNOLDS, "the Fastest Drawer in the West," who takes care of lead guitar, banjo, jazbo, whistling and the Windsor number two brush. One of the most in-demand acoustic guitarists in Hollywood history, he is also a talented artist. Usually playing with the band is RALF REYNOLDS, “the cowboy who invented the automatic washboard.” He handles washboard percussion like Thurston handled disappearing elephants: with stunningly magical finesse, Another regular on the Cactus County buckboard is BENNIE BRYDERN who, when he's not busy flabbergasting crowds with hot his fiddle-playing, spends time scoring movies and television shows for American and European producers.
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Guest star band-member is GRAMMY winner IAN "OXBRIDGE" WHITCOMB, “the cowboy who put the ‘West’ in Westminster Abbey.” His hi-falutin' accent contributes an authentic immigrant flavour to the vocals, while his accordion and ukulele extend extra-added Western punch to the instrumental blend. $15.
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Fri, Jan 9, 2009:
8 pm APRIL VERCH at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Award-winning and step-dancing fiddler, and sultry vocalist, April Verch brings new musical meaning to the term multi-tasking. Lincoln, the McCabe’s concert booker, says, “She's been diligently working at all three since she was a toddler, and though not yet 30, she is a consummate musician (check out ‘Take Me Back,’ on Rounder). Her traditional step dancing takes the whole experience to another level, and her live performances are an astounding display of energy-infused virtuosity. Take it from those of us who were here the first time she came through - she will blow your mind.” We’ve seen her perform, and we heartily concur. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $15.
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Fri, Jan 9, 2009:
8-11 pm PADDY'S PIG at Casey's Irish Bar, 613 S. Grand Av, downtown L.A. 90017; 213-629-2353; www.bigcaseys.com. They were splendid recently at the Coffee Gallery Backstage.
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See an excellent story on PADDY’S PIG by Michelle Mills in the “Whittier Daily News,” at www.whittierdailynews.com/ci_11129751, and Bliss wrote about them in The “Pasadena Weekly,” at www.pasadenaweekly.com/cms/story/detail/trax/6695, and check them at www.celticmp3s.com/free/2008/11/ring-on-chain-by-paddys-pig.shtml
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Their instrumentation includes mandolin, guitar, drums, percussion, lots of vocals from the charming Miss Missy and other band members, and some penny whistle. Bridging any musical gap between generations, PADDY'S PIG entertains without fail, playing everything from reels, jigs and rebel songs to drinking songs and tender Celtic ballads. Formed, they tell us, “at the curly-tailed end of the twentieth century,” the Southern Cal-based band performs lively renditions of traditional and pseudo-traditional Irish and Celtic music. They are equally at home playing barn-burners like “The Blacksmith,” and the Pogues’ “Sally MacLennane,” to heart-wrenching ballads like “He Fades Away,” and “She Moved Through the Fair,” to classic tunes like “Loch Lomand,” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” They get the audience involved, sometimes leaving the stage to do so, blurring the line between audience and performer.
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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:
ON HIATUS TONIGHT: 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, every Fri:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Fri, Jan 9:
9 pm DALE PETERSON plus DAVID SERBY 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. Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar. David Serby says, “my buddy Dale Peterson, [is] a real deal, true blue, Southern California Honky Tonker/Bluesman.”
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Dale Peterson at 9 pm (www.myspace.com/dalepetersonrhythmlords);
David Serby at 10:30 pm (www.myspace.com/davidserby and www.davidserby.com).
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David tells us, “Since it’s a new year we’ll be breaking out a new tune or two or three, as well as playing songs off my upcoming record (May ’09), ‘Honkytonk and Vine!’ ‘Honkytonk and Vine’ is already getting some good press. In fact, LA CityBeat predicts it’ll be one of the best releases of the year:
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“DAVID SERBY, ‘HONKY TONK AND VINE’ (Harbor Grove, late April/early May) South Pasadena-based singer-songwriter Serby's albums ‘I Just Don't Go Home’ and ‘Another Sleepless Night’ established him as a formidable tunesmith who knows the honky-tonk template by heart. ‘Honky Tonk and Vine’ finds Serby and his terrific band THE SIDEWINDERS (led by his producer and guitarist ED TREE) in superb form. Beyond primo country like ‘Get It in Gear,’ ‘Permanent Position,’ and ‘I Only Smoke When I'm Drinkin',’ he stretches comfortably into Southern soul (‘Honky Tonk Affair’) and Tex-Mex (‘For Cryin' Out Loud’). Qualitatively, Serby continues to nip at the heels of his principal role model DAVE ALVIN, crafting songs that are by turns good-humored and touching, played with fire and sung with conviction.” - Chris Morris.
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You can read LA CityBeat’s entire list of anticipated best albums of 2009 at www.lacitybeat.com/cms/story/detail/the_best_albums_of_2009/7907. In addition to Serby’s upcoming CD, it includes the new MIKE STINSON record, “The Jukebox in Your Heart.” Tonight’s show is no cover.
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Fri, Jan 9:
9 pm CLEMENTINE band at Cranes Hollywood Tavern, 1611 N El Centro, Hollywood 90028; 323-467-6600. Tell them at the door that you are there to see Clementine and the cover charge is reduced to $10.
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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, Jan 9:
9:30 pm-1:30 am 21st CENTURY BLUES band at The Big Fish, 5230 San Fernando Rd, Glendale 91203; 818-244-6442; info, www.myspace.com/bluesharp1com. The band is BRIAN BRAZIL on vocals & harmonica, HOWARD "PREACHER" WARD on vocals, lead and slide guitar, BILL STROUM on bass, PATRICK GILLHAM on drums. Singer-songwriter Trudee Lunden tells us, “ While it’s true we’ve all been a bit blue during 2008, the high energy harmonica and rip roaring guitar in 21st Century Blues is music that’ll make you feel good!”
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 10
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Out-of-town event today has an L.A. connection…:
Sat, Jan 10; in Washington, DC:
“A SINGLE WOMAN” film screening, 3 pm (EST) at the Smithsonian Institution, in the Nan Tucker McEvoy Auditorium, downtown Washington, D.C. (Screening moved up to Jan 10 to avoid conflicts with inauguration celebrations.) Venue is a new 346-seat facility located on the lower level of The Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture. "A Single Woman" is screening as part of the National Portrait Gallery's major exhibit, "Women of Our Time," which features women who have challenged and changed America.
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"A Single Woman" is the independent film about JEANNETTE RANKIN, the first U.S. Congresswoman and co-founder of the ACLU. KAMALA LOPEZ is president of Heroica Films and the film’s producer / director. The film’s original soundtrack by JOHNNY WILSON includes the haunting flute theme, "Circle The Wagons." It’s the musical backdrop to the Native American story that is woven throughout the film, narrated by actress PATRICIA ARQUETTE.
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We’ve previously reported, in both the NEWS and the GUIDE, on the film’s focus, the premiere, and its Southern Cal screenings. The most recent was Dec 6 in L.A. The office of L.A. mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and his “Partnership for L.A. Schools,” a program the Mayor designed to improve the ten most troubled schools in the L.A. Unified School District, worked with the filmmakers bring a full school bus of students from Santee High School in South Central L.A. to see the screening at the Pacific Design Center. Students, teachers, social workers and volunteers from CAMS (the Coalition Against Militarism in the Schools) joined several of the film's team in discussing "A Single Woman" after the screening. The filmmakers tell us, “We are now working to bring ‘A Single Woman’ to the entire student body of the Mayor's two high schools, Santee and Roosevelt High Schools in East L.A.” More at www.asinglewomanmovie.com
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Sat & Sun, Jan 10 & 11; in the OC:
11 am-9:30 pm (Sat) ASSOCIATION OF FINGERSTYLE GUITARISTS “2009 AFG GUITAR FESTIVAL” brings a world-class lineup to Santa Ana College, Bldg "A," Room 210, 1530 W 17th St, Santa Ana 92706. AFG President Greg M. Atkin says, “The two day festival is our primary get together and fund raiser each year. Help us fulfill our mission to teach and preserve the great art of fingerstyle guitar by attending one or both festival days. The player line up is impressive as you can see by the list, featuring artists from around the country. We are proud to be hosting Tim Thompson (2008 Winfield National Fingerstyle champion), Bob Saxton (Patsy Cline), Michael O'Dorn, Radical Classical and the great guitar duo "Guitar Romantica" on Saturday.”
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He continues, “In addition, you will hear 2008 Founders Festival fingerstyle champion Pete Steinberg, singer-songwriter Terry Bailey, actor, guitarist & composer Dimitri Diatchenko, 10 string classical player Perf De Castro, Del Casher and very special guests USC Professor Steve Trovato in a duo with Supertramp guitarist Carl Verheyen and classical master Edgar Cruz on Sunday. Other players during the festival include Eugene Howell, EB Jensen, Danny Hartwell, Tom Boyer, Freddie House & Reynald Chaput, Donovan Raitt and Jeff Findl.”
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Detailed performance schedule available from gatkin@strum-n-comfort.com
Free parking in the North Lot next to Building A (17th St side). Festival runs 11 am-9:30 pm on Sat, and 1-9:30 pm on Sun. Full pass for both days is $35; or either day, one full-day admission is $25. AFG member spouse is free. Evening-only (either day) is $15, after 6 pm.
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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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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 rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009:
1-3 pm The “Youth Program” series brings GILLI MOON & J. WALKER SKILLZ FOR LIFE plus ALLEN OSHIRO to the “Pershing Square Ice Rink Music Series” on the outdoor stage at Pershing Square, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90014; 213-847-4970; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare. The series has a fine, professional sound system. Ride the Red Line subway to Pershing Square and avoid expensive parking. The series has a fine, professional sound system. Grab lunch at any of several nearby take-out places, and enjoy all or part of the concert. Free.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
1-3 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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Sat, 2nd Sat, every month; in Tehachapi:
2-5 pm Monthly “FIDDLE JAM” at Veterans Hall, 125 East F Street, Tehachapi. Second Sat, every month. Info: Leslie Schoenberg, California State Old Time Fiddlers Association, District 3, 661-821-0800. Every second Saturday, fiddlers and pickers are all welcome to join in the fun and learn some new fiddle tunes. All ages welcome as well as those who want to listen and tap their toes; www.tehachapi.com.
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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, Jan 10:
3-5:30 pm “HARRIET SCHOCK SONGWRITING WORKSHOP” at Jazz Wisdom, in the Valley Improvement Center, 10667 White Oak Av, Granada Hills 91344; info, valleylifeimprovement@verizon.net.
The promo for this reads, “Is your audience as involved with your songs as the audience at your local movie theatre? Would you like them to be? Experience the songwriting craft with the master the professionals use. Come to a very special Song-Writing Workshop with the incomparable Harriet Schock.”
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Harriet Schock is known to millions as songwriter, performer, teacher, and author. Among the scores of songs she has composed for film, TV, stage, Pop 40 and other media, she wrote the Grammy-nominated "That Ain’t No Way To Treat A Lady," and she is author of the book, "Becoming Remarkable."
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$40 in advance (call for reservations & info) or $50 at the door. Limited seating. Resrvations & info, 818-366-9899. More at www.harrietschock.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, 2nd Sat, every month; in Lake Elizabeth & web simulcast:
5-10 pm “EAST OF NOWHERE JAM & POTLUCK” at a private residence in Lake Elizabeth 93532; call for info & directions, 661-724-1064. Sponsors say, “Bring your axe, your voice, your ears and something to eat and/or drink. We’ll have a ball!” For the first time, the monthly event will be simulcast on the web, at http://lakesandvalleys.camstreams.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, Jan 10; in the OC:
6:30-10 pm BERNIE PEARL with piano master DWAYNE SMITH at Iva Lee's, 555 S El Camino Real, San Clemente; 949-361-2855. This is Bernie & Dwayne’s every-second Saturday show, and Bernie usually plays this one electric. Bernie says, “Treat yourself to a night out at a great restaurant, with great blues music.” Bernie has performed multiple times on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Sat, Jan 10:
7 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 at that time, EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. Their debut studio CD, "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 and lots more that’s highly innovative and delightfully musical. 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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Sat, Jan 10:
7 pm LEE DOMANN, New Mexico-based singer-songwriter, plays a concert at the First United Church of Temple City, 5957 Golden West Av, Temple City; 626-286-3129. LEE DOMANN is a singer-songwriter-storyteller originally from eastern Kansas. He spent 27 years as a staff writer for music publishing companies along Nashville’s Music Row. Among those who have recorded his songs are KATHY MATTEA and RIDERS IN THE SKY. Lee has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and host Larry Wines, says, “When I first heard about Lee Domann and his music, the report was so glowing, it bothered me that I wasn't there. It was a year before I could see him perform. It was worth the wait. His songs have depth and imagination, a contemporary feel, and a relevance that transcends the moment. Lee Domann delivered a show that made his audience laugh and cry. His songs stay with you. They make you think about things that matter. And that's all too rare with today's music.” More at www.leedomann.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, Jan 10, 2009:
7:30 pm COLES WHALEN with SARAH SLANTON at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Artists info, www.myspace.com/coleswhalen and www.myspace.com/sarahslantonmusic. $10.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009; 2nd Sat every month:
7:30 pm monthly “GRASSROOTS ACOUSTICA” this month with the “2nd Annual Auld Lang Syne Edition: One Degree To Edward Tree” featuring WENDY CONRAD, LISA O'KANE, SPENCER DAVIS, EDWARD TREE, JOHN STOWERS, JANE BOLDUC, and more, at the charity benefit series new home, The Talking Stick’s NEW location, 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Tonight is the series’ 19th installment with 100% of donations benefitting “House Of Hope,” a safe, sober environment for women wanting to recover from alcoholism and drug addiction. More on Grassroots Acoustica at www.grassrootsacoustica.org. No cover, but it’s a fund-raiser for charity.
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Sat, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” 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. Performers have included DAVID SERBY, GRANT LANGSTON, 29 MULES, BOB WOODRUFF, OLD BULL, PSYCHEDELIC COWBOYS, PAUL CHESNE, NICOLE GORDON, and BUCKSWORTH. 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, Jan 10, 2009; in Ojai:
7:30 pm JOHN McCUTCHEON plays the “Fresh Roasted Concert” Series at Matilija Aud., 703 El Paseo Rd., Ojai; advance tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ptgo.org (click on Fresh Roasted). They tell us, “Buy early, we expect to sell-out!”
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Multiple Grammy Nominee JOHN McCUTCHEON is considered to be one of America's finest folksingers, and he is a first-rateinstrumentalist and storyteller, as well. With 31+ albums and six Grammy nominations, his concerts have become legendary for their exploration of community, continuity and hope. The Washington Post called his concerts, "little feats of magic." A John McCutcheon concert features an array of instruments that includes the hammered dulcimer, guitar, banjo and autoharp; strong lyrics tackling the issues of the day, and stories told with the richness of literature. After 30 years of international touring, McCutcheon is at the top of his game in observances of history, work, love, aging and small town life.
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"A virtuoso instrumentalist who never lets his technical wizardry interfere with the heartfelt message of his songs. My only regret is that I'll never again experience the thrill of hearing him for the first time." - Ahser Raboy, conductor, Napa Valley Symphony.
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You can enjoy a free glass of wine before and after the show, or stay the night; either option is part of a special concert package, “Wine and Folk Music Go Together.” With purchased tickets to the McCutcheon performance you can enjoy a free glass of wine before the concert and another at the post- concert reception, at Casa Barranca, 208 E Ojai Av, at approximately 9:45 pm. Show your concert tix and start sipping. In addition, Casa Barranca offers you a 20% discount on any merchandise you wish to purchase. If you're from out of town you can spend the night and enjoy Ojai at either the Best Western Casa Ojai, 1302 E Ojai Av, 805- 646-8175; $110 a night (a 25% discount), or at Su Nido Inn, 301 Montgomery, 805-646-7080; $179 a night (25% discount). Phone either for reservations.
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Concert tix, advance: gen’l, $22, srs & students $17. At door: $25 gen’l, $20 srs & students.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm APRIL VERCH plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. When you see twenty-seven year old April Verch perform, the first thing that strikes you is the pure energy that infuses her fiddle playing and stepdancing. When you listen to “Take Me Back,” her third disc for Rounder Records, heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” what draws you in are more subtle things - her confident, winsome singing, the finely detailed elegance of her fiddle phrasing and the depth of a repertoire that ranges through material from Americana mainstays Buddy and Julie Miller, to simple country songs and rollicking tunes from her native Ottawa Valley to sparkling original instrumentals. Artist info, www.aprilverch.com/bio.php. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $22 gen’l, $19 mbrs.
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Sat, every Sat:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm PETER OSTROUSHKO (“A Prairie Home Companion”) on mandolin, fiddle, & vocals, and DIRK FREYMUTH on guitar, in Beckman Institute Auditorium at the CalTech Folk Music Society series 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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Rex & Nick, who book the Caltech Folk series, observe “Peter can take a simple traditional song like ‘Sweet Betsy from Pike,’ and turn it into a sweet and sad remembrance of the wild American West. ‘Sacred Heart,’ an original piece about a small town nestled in the foothills of the Minnesota River Valley, evokes the wide open spaces of the Midwest. His brand new album, ‘Peter Joins the Circus,’ takes us on a trip around the world with a bold mix of Cajun, Celtic, Gypsy and other styles in a whimsical, sometimes sinister, mode. There are many sides to Peter's music, all done with great integrity. Dirk provides a very solid support on guitar.”
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“Five stars! Jackpot! Ostroushko is one of a group of virtuoso musicians capable of defying boundaries…as both a composer and a player, Peter Ostroushko deserves a prominent place in the front rank of today’s acoustic music scene.” – Sing Out! magazine.
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Peter is touring his latest CD, “Peter Joins the Circus.” He’s played lead ukelele with the MINNESOTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA under the direction of SIR NEVILLE MARINER. PETER OSTROUSHKO is regarded as one of the finest mandolin and fiddle players in acoustic music. His tours have taken him to the stages of clubs, performing arts centers, music festivals and theatres across North America and Europe, and he has earned an international reputation as a versatile and dazzling master of instrumentation and composition. His recording contributions stand favorably alongside great Nashville session men of his generation. He’s played with JETHRO BURNS, EMMYLOU HARRIS, WILLIE NELSON, CHET ATKINS, JOHNNY GIMBLE, but his hometown Minneapolis’ music scene has provided a fabulous variety of musical styles in which Peter remains unequaled: folk (Greg Brown, John Hartford, Taj Mahal, fellow Prairie Home cast members Robin & Linda Williams), bluegrass (Norman and Nancy Blake, Tim O’Brien and Hot Rize), jazz, classical, and even rock.
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About one of Peter's albums, the Boston Globe wrote, “The tunes on Ostroushko’s tour de force are soundscapes in the truest sense… meditative, turbulent, funny, alternately harsh and serene… they unfold like the most leisurely symphony imaginable, indicating Ostroushko has forged a winning synthesis of folk and classical strains. His aim is to paint portraits of a land with a heart at its center, and he is uncannily on mystical target.”
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Peter’s first recording session was an uncredited mandolin set on BOB DYLAN’s “Blood on the Tracks,” and his work is featured on ROBIN HOLCOMB’s 1992 CD “Rockabye” (Elektra). Peter is at his most passionate when Ostroushko plays Ostroushko - a rich ethnic mix with its heart in his Ukrainian heritage. His own term for his gumbo of musical styles is "slüz düz,” a phrase borrowed from his mother, meaning, roughly, "over the edge" or "off his rocker.” Indeed, Peter is something of a first-generation hero in the Ukrainian community of North America. To his surprise, one town even held a parade in his honor! Not surprisingly, Peter’s resume is dizzying in size and scope.
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More at www.peterostroushko.com and www.ixtlanartists.com/ostroushko/index.html to learn more about Peter. There’s a well-written reaction to Peter & Dirk's 2003 show at Caltech by grad student Shankar Kalyanaraman at www.cs.caltech.edu/~shankar/writings/ostroushko.html.
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Info & tix, Caltech Ticket Office, 626-395-4652 or 1-888-2CALTECH. Adult tix, $15, with $5 tix for Caltech students and children.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009:
8 pm JACKSH*T at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Lincoln, the McCabe’s concert booker, says, “Yep, the bestest thang that ever come out of Cochtotan' California is a-comin' back to McCabe's, and it's only been five weeks since the last time. Why so soon? 'Cause they're great, that's why! They sold the place out this last time! Their fans can't get enough of 'em, and neither can we! If you haven't seen 'em, you prob'ly won't believe just how rockin' one country-fried trio can be, but we guarantee you that Shorty, Pete and Beau will make a believer out of you before the night is over. So, get on over here, now, and no excuses! You will thank us later." Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $15.
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(Note that ADRIAN LEGG & PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO, previously announced, are rescheduled to Jan 18.)
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009:
8 pm ED GERHARD at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Ed Gerhard has created a “guitar voice” of his own that is recognized and praised worldwide. Known for his gorgeous tone and compositional depth, Gerhard can move a listener with a single note. Scott Alarik of the Boston Globe said it best when he wrote “Gerhard does not write instrumentals. He writes songs only a guitar can sing.” Artist info, www.virtuerecords.com. $20.
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Sat, Jan 10:
8 pm monthly “SABRINA & CRAIG'S ACOUSTIC LA - LIVE” this month brings FREEBO, GENEVIEVE, and performing hosts SABRINA & CRAIG to Hallenbeck's General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601.
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FREEBO is “a musician’s musician” and man of many talents. He has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Well known as bassist and sideman to BONNIE RAITT for over a decade, and session and touring bassist with JOHN MAYALL, CSN, MARIA MULDAUR and RINGO STARR, he is a tuba virtuoso playing with the likes of DR. JOHN and the legendary SPINAL TAP. Freebo “was not satisfied with simply resting on his laurels… [he] has continued to push his creative envelope and has evolved into an award winning singer-songwriter with three solo CDs to his credit.” His latest, "Before The Separation,” was nominated in 5 categories in the Just Plain Folks Awards, and had two songs in the Top 10 of the “International Songwriting Competition.” It won the prestigious “South Florida Folk Festival Songwriting Competition.” The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote, “Freebo’s stepping into a new role of singer-songwriter suits him well. The songs are built on Freebo's acoustic guitar and fretless bass, giving them a sublimely folkish foundation that occasionally heads off into rock and soul.” More at
www.freebomusic.com
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GENEVIEVE has performed at the Kennedy Center, The White House, NYC’s The Bitter End, AND 150 professional ballparks. A keyboard player from a very young age, she hails from New Jersey and has many voices and can paint a song using folk, pop, alternative, country, rock, and jazz. She’s been called, “one of L.A.’s emerging gems.” More at www.genevieve-music.com
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Check out the new "Acoustic L.A." webpage at www.myspace.com/acousticla and there is more on the performing hosts at www.SabrinaandCraig.com and www.myspace.com/sabrinaandcraig
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Sat, Jan 10:
8 pm TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS at Strings Music, in-store concert series, at 146 N Glendora Av, Ste 101, Glendora 91741. Tracy is an Emmy and Peabody winner and she has performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.tracynewman.com
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009:
8 pm EDDIE CUNNNINGHAM plus ASHLEY MIERS at the Rainbow Bar & Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009:
8 pm EXTREME KLEZMER MAKEOVER, & UNCLE RUTHIE start 2009 with “SHMUESN’n SHPILN: STORIES & MUSIC FOR THE NEW AMERICAN SHTETL” at the Arbeiter Ring Workman’s Circle, 1525 S Robertson, L.A. 90035. Reservations at 310-552-2007. EXTREME KLEZMER MAKEOVER has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” bringing music of the Jewish experience of immigration to America. Advance tix, before Jan 7, mbrs $15, non-members $18. At door, mbrs $17, non-members $20. More at www.extremeklezmer.com
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Sat, Jan 10:
8 pm MUSICA ANGELICA opens its chamber music series with “DELIRIO AMOROSO” featuring French soprano CELINE RICCI and soloists acclaimed worldwide - oboist GONZALO RUIZ, keyboardist IAN PRITCHARD, and cellist DAVID MORRIS at Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E Colorado Bl, Pasadena; tix, www.MusicaAngelica.org or 310-458-4504. One of the nation’s top baroque ensembles opens its chamber concert season, featuring cantatas and sonatas by Handel, Vivaldi, Clérambault and Couperin.
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Young French soprano Celine Ricci appeared last season in Musica Angelica’s multi-media project “Seduction and Despair” with actor John Malkovich. That brought an L.A. Times review calling her “a sensation, vital on stage and a dazzling coloratura.” Ricci will perform George Frideric Handel’s Mi Palpita il Cor and Médée by Louis-Nicolas Clérambault.
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Joining Ricci are oboist Gonzalo Ruiz, one of the North America's most critically acclaimed and sought-after historical woodwind soloists; cellist David Morris, who has performed worldwide with such ensembles as Tafelmusik, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, American Bach Soloists, and the Los Angeles, Portland and Seattle Baroque Orchestras; and keyboardist Ian Pritchard, First Prize winner in the 2001 Broadwood Harpsichord Competition.
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In addition to the two works by Handel and Clérambault, “Delirio Amoroso” will present Antonio Vivaldi’s “Damnation” Sonata in c minor and Premier Concert Royal by Francois Couperin.
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Los Angeles native Ian Pritchard has been playing the harpsichord since he was thirteen years old. In 2000 he moved to London to study with the late John Toll at the Royal Academy of Music, where he graduated with distinction and earned the prestigious DipRAM prize for an exceptional final recital. Since then, Pritchard has performed worldwide with such groups as Florilegium, the Academy of Ancient Music, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and the Irish Baroque Orchestra. He has also appeared frequently on BBC Radio 3 and on the BBC 2 production Vivaldi Unmasked. Currently Pritchard is a PhD candidate in Historical Musicology at USC, where he plans to write his dissertation on Italian keyboard music, notation, and performance practice in the 16th century.
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Cellist David Morris – a member of Musica Angelica, Musica Pacifica, The King¹s Noyse, and the Sex Chordae Consort of Viols – has recorded for Harmonia Mundi, New Albion, Dorian and New World Records, as well as for a special broadcast on NPR's St. Paul Sunday with The King's Noyse. He is also the founder and musical director of the Bay Area baroque opera ensemble Teatro Bacchino and has produced operas for the Berkeley Early Music Festival and the San Francisco Early Music Society. When not performing on baroque cello, viola da gamba, bass violin or lirone, Morris plays modern cello with the ensemble "Parlor Tango."
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Same show Jan 11, 4 pm, in Santa Monica (see listing). More on Musica Angelica’s 5-concert Orchestral Series or its Chamber Series at 310-458-4504 or www.MusicaAngelica.org. Tix, (gen’l) $39.
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm “MANDI MARTIN'S PLAYHOUSE” tonight with JAMES HURLEY, NICK DAUGHERTY, and 3 KEEPIN LANE; it’s a singer-songwriter showcase series 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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Mandi Martin says, “I love hosting these nights because it gives me the chance listen to the music of my favorite artist/writers, who happen to be some of the most talented people I know! In fact, I'm currently in the studio producing two of the three acts performing this evening! This is a very exciting time for all three acts appearing at Mandi's Playhouse tonight...here's why: Just before Christmas, JAMES HURLEY released his third CD, ‘Tempest In A Teacup,’ and, even though he's scheduled to host his own night on Jan 23 at Kulak's, I just had to have him kick-off 2009 at Mandi's Playhouse as well! I'm currently mixing NICK DAUGHERTY'S debut CD (while praying for a February release date) and I'm also currently working on a single with 3 KEEPIN LANE! Life is good and the music is great! Nick Daugherty & 3 Keepin Lane received rave reviews in the now-national ‘Music Connection’ Magazine in the Club Reviews section (Nov 2008 issue) from the last time they shared the bill at Kulak's in August. Nick also made ‘Music Connection's Hot 100 Unsigned Artists’ to watch in the U.S for 2009! I'm so proud! So join us tonight...either in person or on the website and enjoy some awesome music!”
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3 KEEPIN LANE is Voyce McGinley, III (3), Barry Keenan (KEE), Brooke Halpin (PIN), and David Lane (LANE).
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Mandi adds, “We will be asking for a $10 minimum donation tonight (dogs & children are free) to help offset some legal expenses Paul Kulak has incurred, in order to fight to keep his doors open. All of us who have performed and enjoyed Kulak's Woodshed know what a great place this is to experience live music. It's a small price to pay to support Paul the way he has supported all of us through the years...performers and audiences alike!” More at www.myspace.com/mandimartinmusic and www.mandimartinmusic.com
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Sat, 2nd Sat, every month:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “MISSION HILLS SONG CIRCLE” in the north SFV; for location, contact Bobbi Gore, 818-365-6418; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat, Jan 10; in Santa Barbara:
8 pm FRED EAGLESMITH & BLAME SALLY at the Lobero Theatre, 33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara; 805-963-0761; www.lobero.com. More at www.fredeaglesmith.com
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Sat, Jan 10:
8:30-11:30 pm KELLY FITZGERALD & her band at La Palapa, 4020 Olympic Plaza, Belmont Shore; 800-958-7729; www.lapalapadelmar.com. Kelly has won top awards from LA Women in Music, and her music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.kellyfitzgerald.net
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Sat, Jan 10:
9 pm ELLIOT RANDALL at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. He’s an Americana artist from San Francisco by way of South Carolina. Elliot has had airplay in San Francisco on KFOG and his entire album was in rotation on XM's "X Country" station from Nov ‘07 to April ‘08. He did the live in-studio "Hang Time" show on XM, last time he was in Nashville. Been a while since he got to L.A., so it’s a good chance to catch him.
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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, Jan 10; in the OC:
9 pm-1 am THE CALIFORNIA COWBOYS play Texas Loosey’s, 40 Centre Point Dr, La Palma 90620. It’s off the 91 Freeway at Valley View and Orangethorpe.
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Sat, Jan 10:
9:30 pm-1:30 am SEAN WIGGINS & LONE GOAT at Ireland's 32, 13721 Burbank Bl, Van Nuys; 818-785-4031. Sean says, “We love this place - local Irish Pub - never a dull moment!” They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” No cover.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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SUNDAY, JANUARY 11
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009; in NYC:
6th annual “globalFEST,” a “preeminent world music festival in North America,” with CALYPSO ROSE, CHICHA LIBRE, FEMI KUTI & THE POSITIVE FORCE, HOT 8 BRASS BAND, KAILASH KHER'S KAILASA, L&O, LA TROBA KUNG-FÚ, MARCIO LOCAL, OCCIDENTAL BROTHERS DANCE BAND INTERNATIONAL, SHANBEHZADEH ENSEMBLE, TANYA TAGAQ, VALKYRIEN ALLSTARS, WATCHA CLAN, others, at Webster Hall in New York. Early tix sales, through Nov 30, save $5. Info, www.rockpaperscissors.biz. It’s timed to coincide with the annual “Association for Performing Arts Presenters Conference,” when thousands of concert presenters are in town to program their upcoming seasons. Promoters tell us, “Drawing on the bounty of sounds, styles, and approaches exploding around the world, globalFEST has opened minds and doors for outstanding international artists.” They continue, “globalFEST was created in the wake of 9/11, a time of xenophobic backlash and tightening visa restrictions, the festival has always kept a finger on the pulse of cross-border musical exchange and has adapted to the changing needs of the field. The festival directors - Bill Bragin of Acidophilus: Live & Active Cultures - and Isabel Soffer of World Music Institute - are joined by Shanta Thake of Joe's Pub at The Public Theater.”
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Tix $40 gen’l, early-bird (through 11/30) $35, at www.ticketmaster.com, or 212-307-7171.
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Sun, Jan 11; on web radio:
7-8 am (Pacific) SANTA CRUZ RIVER BAND is interviewed live on Denver, Colorado's KUVO radio, with web simulcast at www.kuvo.org. It’ll be spins of the band’s recordings and live telephone interviews with TED RAMIREZ & MICHAEL RONSTADT. Quite a breakthrough, since the public radio station centers on jazz, blues, and Latin jazz, and the band does what they call “Southwestern folk” from both sides of the border. The Tucson-based, globally-traveling band has been a huge hit on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” when they have performed live multiple times. More at www.santacruzriverband.com
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Sun, recurring:
9 am-1 pm “CLAREMONT FARMER'S MARKET” has live acoustic music in downtown Claremont. RON ELY plays songs of the sea and more on 2nd St between Yale Av and Indian Hill, in old downtown Claremont. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely .
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Sun, Jan 11:
10 am LEE DOMANN, New Mexico-based singer-songwriter, plays the church service at First United Church of Temple City, 5957 Golden West Av, Temple City; 626-286-3129. LEE DOMANN is a singer-songwriter-storyteller originally from eastern Kansas. He spent 27 years as a staff writer for music publishing companies along Nashville’s Music Row. Among those who have recorded his songs are KATHY MATTEA and RIDERS IN THE SKY. More at www.leedomann.com
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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. Includes 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, Jan 11, 2009:
11 am-noon PETER ALSOP plays a kid’s show at McCabe’s, 3103 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. He’s delighted audiences young and old for many years, as he did when he performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Peter has several childrens music CDs and is widely acclaimed within the genre, bringing humor and insight for children and adults alike with songs like “You Get A Little Extra When You Watch TV,” and “My Gums Grow Teeth.” You'll find out why Peter has consistently won “Best Children’s” awards from Parents Choice and the Association For Independent Music. Artist info, www.myspace.com/peteralsop2 and www.peteralsop.com. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $8.
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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; second Sun, every month:
Noon-3:30 pm monthly BLUEGRASS JAM at Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake, Altadena 91001; www.coffeegallery.com. These jams are the second Sunday of every month. Info: David Naiditch, 626-797-1827; french10@pacbell.net. Host David Naiditch's wonderful instrumental CD has been heard on radio's "Tied to the Tracks." The jam is always free.
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month; near Goleta:
Noon “TUCKER'S GROVE OLD TIME & BLUEGRASS JAM” at Tucker's Grove County Park, near the intersection of Cathedral Oaks and Turnpike Rd, in "Noleta" (between Santa Barbara and Goleta). After entering the park, go to the right about 1/3 mile to the Kiwannis Meadows section. Hosted by Alan Aleksander (constatty@aol.com.) this jam from the early ’70s was recently reinstated. Goes from noon, "until."
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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, Jan 11 (& Sat, Jan 10); in the OC:
1-9:30 pm (Sun) ASSOCIATION OF FINGERSTYLE GUITARISTS “2009 AFG GUITAR FESTIVAL” brings a world-class lineup to Santa Ana College, Bldg "A," Room 210, 1530 W 17th St, Santa Ana 92706. AFG President Greg M. Atkin says, “The two day festival is our primary get together and fund raiser each year. Help us fulfill our mission to teach and preserve the great art of fingerstyle guitar by attending one or both festival days. The player line up is impressive as you can see by the list, featuring artists from around the country. We are proud to be hosting Tim Thompson (2008 Winfield National Fingerstyle champion), Bob Saxton (Patsy Cline), Michael O'Dorn, Radical Classical and the great guitar duo "Guitar Romantica" on Saturday.”
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He continues, “In addition, you will hear 2008 Founders Festival fingerstyle champion Pete Steinberg, singer-songwriter Terry Bailey, actor, guitarist & composer Dimitri Diatchenko, 10 string classical player Perf De Castro, Del Casher and very special guests USC Professor Steve Trovato in a duo with Supertramp guitarist Carl Verheyen and classical master Edgar Cruz on Sunday. Other players during the festival include Eugene Howell, EB Jensen, Danny Hartwell, Tom Boyer, Freddie House & Reynald Chaput, Donovan Raitt and Jeff Findl.”
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Detailed performance schedule available from gatkin@strum-n-comfort.com
Free parking in the North Lot next to Building A (17th St side). Festival runs 11 am-9:30 pm on Sat, and 1-9:30 pm on Sun. Full pass for both days is $35; or either day, one full-day admission is $25. AFG member spouse is free. Evening-only (either day) is $15, after 6 pm.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, Jan 11:
2-4 pm SEAN WIGGINS with her 7-piece cover band RAMFUNKSHUS plays the Pershing Square Concert Series, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90014; 213-847-4970; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare. The series has a fine, professional sound system. You can sit and listen or ice skate and listen. This’ll probably be an all-electric show. In her acoustic guise, Sean has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Ride the Red Line subway to Pershing Square and avoid expensive parking. Grab lunch at Grand Central Market or any of several nearby take-out places, and enjoy the concert. Free to listen, fee to skate. (Note: BOBBY MATOS Latin jazz, previously scheduled, is apparently cancelled.)
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Sun; 2nd Sun, every month, in Lancaster / Palmdale:
2-5 pm monthly “AV FOLK MUSIC CLUB CIRCLE” is returning to homes for its potluck and jamfest (no longer at the Health Tree Coffee Lounge & Café.) They tell us, “Bring your instruments and voices and join in.” Held every month on the second Sunday. Info and location, 661-339-2655.
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Sun, Jan 11:
2 pm INLAND EMPIRE SHAPE NOTE SINGERS at Unitarian Universalist Church of Riverside, 3657 Lemon St, Riverside.
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Sun, Jan 11; in Escondido:
2 & 7 pm THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS at the California Center For The Arts, 340 N Escondido Bl, Escondido; 800-988-4253; www.artcenter.org. More at www.smothersbrothers.com
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month:
2:30-3:30 pm “TUESDAY MUSICALE CLUB SECOND SUNDAY CONCERT” in the Pasadena Central Library Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Program & performer info, contact Celeste French, 818-790-1739.All ages, free.
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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, Jan 11, 2009:
3:30 pm CHRISTOPHER KOVALCHICK, violin, and JULIA GREER, piano, play the “Kitty MacDonnell Memorial Concert” in Dabney Lounge on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5530.html. Presented by the Caltech Committee on Institute Programs. The program will feature works by Brahms, Beethoven, Stravinsky, and Prokofiev. Artists info, www.christopherkovalchick.com and www.jrgreer.caltech.edu/pianist/index.html. FREE, no tix or reservations required.
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Sun, Jan 11:
3:30 pm “STORYTELLING AND OTHER DELIGHTS” at Cornucopia Actors Workout Studio, 4735 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood; 818-506-3903; www.actorsworkout.com. Event info, www.myspace.com/cornucopiastorytelling
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Sun, Jan 11:
4 pm BRETT PERKINS & AMALIE RIIS play a house concert at the Vreelands in South Pasadena 91030. Reservations get directions, at brett@brettperkinspresents.com. Please arrive no later than 3:45 pm. BRETT PERKINS was the founding host of the “Listening Room Concert Series” in Southern California, which now operates worldwide (but not locally). In fact, he operates an acclaimed series of global songwriter retreats, including one on the California central coast every January. More info at www.brettperkins.com.
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AMALIE RIIS, from Denmark, has a new CD due in January, “Red Light, Green Light, Go.” Her demo album two years ago was charming. Catch a music video from her TV performance in Europe, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKQxyCDwSmE
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Amalie has been playing club dates since recording her first demo at 15. In 2005, she released her first album, "Places Where We Go" to strong airplay on Denmark National Radio P4, propelling her to tour in Ireland, Sweden and the US. Her second album, "Safe and Sound" was released in April 2008 on the new Danish label Songcrafter, in Denmark, Holland and Sweden. It received strong reviews and got hot rotation on national radio of the first single, 'I Think I Love You'.
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Amalie primarily writes in English, in a mix she refers to as “between folk/Americana and pop,” with songs inspired by her journeys big and small, and by love and life and everything in between.
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Suggested donation for the house concert is $10 per person, and it goes to the artists.
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Sun, Jan 11:
4-8 pm “SANTA CLARITA VALLEY BLUES SOCIETY BLUES JAM” and membership drive with 21st CENTURY BLUES band at The Londoner Pub, 18511 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 91351; 661-252-2597; info, www.myspace.com/bluesharp1com. 21st CENTURY BLUES is BRIAN BRAZIL on vocals & harmonica, HOWARD "PREACHER" WARD on vocals, lead and slide guitar, BILL STROUM on bass, PATRICK GILLHAM on drums. Singer-songwriter Trudee Lunden tells us, “ While it’s true we’ve all been a bit blue during 2008, the high energy harmonica and rip roaring guitar in 21st Century Blues is music that’ll make you feel good!”
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Sun, Jan 11:
4 pm MUSICA ANGELICA opens its chamber music series with “DELIRIO AMOROSO” featuring French soprano CELINE RICCI and soloists acclaimed worldwide - oboist GONZALO RUIZ, keyboardist IAN PRITCHARD, and cellist DAVID MORRIS at Santa Monica First Presbyterian Church, 1220 Second St, Santa Monica; tix, www.MusicaAngelica.org or 310-458-4504. One of the nation’s top baroque ensembles opens its chamber concert season, featuring cantatas and sonatas by Handel, Vivaldi, Clérambault and Couperin.
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Young French soprano Celine Ricci appeared last season in Musica Angelica’s multi-media project “Seduction and Despair” with actor John Malkovich. That brought an L.A. Times review calling her “a sensation, vital on stage and a dazzling coloratura.” Ricci will perform George Frideric Handel’s Mi Palpita il Cor and Médée by Louis-Nicolas Clérambault.
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Joining Ricci are oboist Gonzalo Ruiz, one of the North America's most critically acclaimed and sought-after historical woodwind soloists; cellist David Morris, who has performed worldwide with such ensembles as Tafelmusik, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, American Bach Soloists, and the Los Angeles, Portland and Seattle Baroque Orchestras; and keyboardist Ian Pritchard, First Prize winner in the 2001 Broadwood Harpsichord Competition.
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In addition to the two works by Handel and Clérambault, “Delirio Amoroso” will present Antonio Vivaldi’s “Damnation” Sonata in c minor and Premier Concert Royal by Francois Couperin.
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Los Angeles native Ian Pritchard has been playing the harpsichord since he was thirteen years old. In 2000 he moved to London to study with the late John Toll at the Royal Academy of Music, where he graduated with distinction and earned the prestigious DipRAM prize for an exceptional final recital. Since then, Pritchard has performed worldwide with such groups as Florilegium, the Academy of Ancient Music, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and the Irish Baroque Orchestra. He has also appeared frequently on BBC Radio 3 and on the BBC 2 production Vivaldi Unmasked. Currently Pritchard is a PhD candidate in Historical Musicology at USC, where he plans to write his dissertation on Italian keyboard music, notation, and performance practice in the 16th century.
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Cellist David Morris – a member of Musica Angelica, Musica Pacifica, The King¹s Noyse, and the Sex Chordae Consort of Viols – has recorded for Harmonia Mundi, New Albion, Dorian and New World Records, as well as for a special broadcast on NPR's St. Paul Sunday with The King's Noyse. He is also the founder and musical director of the Bay Area baroque opera ensemble Teatro Bacchino and has produced operas for the Berkeley Early Music Festival and the San Francisco Early Music Society. When not performing on baroque cello, viola da gamba, bass violin or lirone, Morris plays modern cello with the ensemble "Parlor Tango."
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Same show Jan 10, 8 pm, in Pasadena (see listing). More on Musica Angelica’s 5-concert Orchestral Series or its Chamber Series at 310-458-4504 or www.MusicaAngelica.org. Tix, (gen’l) $39.
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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, Jan 11:
4:30 pm MUSIC WORKSHOP with BOB BROZMAN at the Folk Music Center & Museum, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; 909-624-2928; www.folkmusiccenter.com. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum. Bob's familiarity with diverse world music cultures produces a novel blending of rhythmic and timbral influences, unparalleled in today's musical environment. His rhythmic dexterity resonates with elements of blues, jazz, Gypsy swing, calypso, sega, and even hip-hop and ska. Read Bob's website bio. It seems impossible for one human to do all the things he does musically. More at www.bobbrozman.com
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Sun, Jan 11; 2nd Sun, every month:
5-9 pm “CAJUN ZYDECO DANCE SERIES” with CURTIS TAYLOR performing, at Gardena Elks Lodge, 1735 West 162nd St, Gardena 90247; event info, call Sidney, 323-401-8859. Presented by J.P.L.. Productions. Admission to all dances, $20 per person.
Schedule:
KEVIN NAQUIN performs Feb 8.
ANDRE THIERRY performs Mar 8.
LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS perform Apr 12.
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009:
5 pm TAMIR HENDELMAN plays the “JAZZ VESPERS” series at All Saints Church, 132 N Euclid Av, Pasadena 91101; 626-583-2725; www.allsaints-pas.org. The series makes its 2009 return. It is “a celebration of life, spirit and music.” Child care is provided. Good will offering is accepted. No reservations. Free.
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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, every week; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Jan 11:
6 pm FRED EAGLESMITH performs at the Thousand Oaks Library as part of the Bodie House Music series, at the Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks 91362. Fred Eaglesmith is an award-winning singer-songwriter who inspires comparisons to icons like Woody Guthrie and Bruce Springsteen, tops the roots music charts, and boasts devoted fans that include a slew of his fellow songwriters. High-profile tastemakers in the know - fellow musicians like Toby Keith and The Cowboy Junkies, as well as film folks like Martin Scorsese and James Caan - consider him one of the stellar musical and lyrical talents of our day. Though a decidedly grassroots artist in the thematic focus of his songs and how he pursues his career, he boasts an impact that far better known musical acts can only envy. Playing some 180 shows a year across North America, Europe, and Australia, his popular multi-day music trains, and releasing his own records under his cheekily-titled ‘A Major Label’ imprint, His latest album and 16th release, “Milly's Café,” has hit the Top 10 on the Americana chart. Want some cocktail party trivia? Fred is the only Canadian to have ever written a #1 song on the bluegrass charts. He is the subject of three tribute albums and enjoys critical comparisons to some of the most respected talents in music as well as the respect of his peers. Though sponsored by the Bodie House Music series, this show is at the Thousand Oaks Library. This may sell-out, so get tix right away. More at www.BodieHouse.com. $25.
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Sun, every week:
6-8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD NUMBER 7 play a new “Sunday Happy Hour” residency at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar. Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar. You’ve seen them on TV, as final-round finalists on “America’s Next Great Band,” and they made it to #29 on the Americana charts at the close of 2008. Bluegrass-Americana music and drink specials on the West Side. More at www.oldnumber7.net.
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Sun, Jan 11; in Ventura:
6:30 pm RANDALL WILLIAMS plus THE STRYNGS at the Duncan House Concert series in Ventura, Reservations get directions, at scottd13@roadrunner.com. More at www.myspace.com/duncanhouseconcerts
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009:
7 pm THE COWBOY BALLADEERS: RODGER MAXWELL, BRUCE FARWELL, & GARY LYNCH reprise last year's sell-out show at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
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This year these musical cowpokes bring a new show that features “lots more of their legendary cowboy-folk three-part harmony, [as] Bruce's master fingerstyle guitar playing winds intricately around Rodger's own fingerstyle playing, while Gary's bull fiddle cradles the blend of voices and guitars in a warm river of sound.” The Balladeers perform a song mix of Rodger Maxwell's award winning originals, plus traditional cowboy trail songs, movie-era cowboy songs, the best-known contemporary cowboy songs, “and some happy surprises.” Their promo says, “An evening with the Cowboy Balladeers will leave your feet tired from tapping, your mouths tired from smiling and singing, and your spirit calm and peaceful.” Geez, guys, we know you cowboys work from “see to see” – when you can first see in the morning to when you can’t see at night – but lay-off the stuff about getting’ plumb tuckerd-out, y’hear?
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Rodger's CD "Cowboy Promises" received a 2008 Top Ten nomination from the Western Music Association. In addition, both Rodger's songwriting and his song "Hombres of Summer" were likewise WMA 2008 Top Ten nominees. Remember some extra oats for your horse, so he’ll have as good an evening as you will. $15.
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009:
7 pm ART GARFUNKEL with SANTA CLARITA SYMPHONY at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, at College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 91355; www.canyonspac.com; 661-362-5304.
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It's been 35 years since "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was recorded, and ART GARFUNKEL's image and signature vocals remain among the most instantly recognizable in popular music. Teaming up with lifetime friend Paul Simon in 1962, SIMON & GARFUNKEL won five Grammy awards together, two in 1968 and three in 1970. In 1972, "Simon & Garfunkel - Greatest Hits" was released, remaining on the charts for 131 weeks in the US. The album has since sold 14 million copies, the largest-selling album of all time for a duo. In 1990, Paul and Art were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With 12 solo albums, countless musical achievements and awards, and a lifetime of touching the souls of listeners throughout the world, Art Garfunkel brings his storied voice and one-of-kind persona to the stage once again.
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The SANTA CLARITA SYMPHONY is a group of 75 professional musicians. Many live locally, and perform with nationally-recognized orchestras where they provide world-class orchestral experiences. Tix go on sale Jul 16, 2008; prices tba.
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009:
7 & 9 pm AL KOOPER plays two shows at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Al Kooper played keyboards with Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, The Who and the Rolling Stones. He was a founding member of Blood, Sweat & Tears. He helped sign Richard Thompson, discovered Lynyrd Skynyrd, and was sampled by the Beastie Boys. All after beginning as a teenaged session guitarist. As Lincoln, McCabe’s concert booker, says, “In other words, he's been around a little, and his stories, as much as his music, make his shows unforgettable.” Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $24.50.
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Sun, every Sun:
7-8 pm JES HUDAK plays her weekly residency at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). JES HUDAK is a singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. Her weapons of choice are the piano and her voice, and she has been known to wield a guitar from time to time. Her live performance “takes her audience on a journey through laughter and love and sadness and heartbreak. Her voice is powerful and soulful, and her songs are original, emotional, and real.” Artist info, www.jes-hudak.com and www.myspace.com/jeshudak
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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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, Jan 11; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ELLIOTT MURPHY 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. More at www.elliottmurphy.com
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Sun, Jan 11; in Escondido:
7 pm THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS at the California Center For The Arts, 340 N Escondido Bl, Escondido; 800-988-4253; www.artcenter.org. (Second of two shows, see 2 pm.) More at www.smothersbrothers.com
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Sun, every week, on radio and 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, Jan 11:
7:30 pm BOB BROZMAN at the Folk Music Center & Museum, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; www.folkmusiccenter.com; 909-624-2928. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum. Bob's familiarity with diverse world music cultures produces a novel blending of rhythmic and timbral influences, unparalleled in today's musical environment. His rhythmic dexterity resonates with elements of blues, jazz, Gypsy swing, calypso, sega, and even hip-hop and ska. Read Bob's website bio. It seems impossible for one human to do all the things he does musically. More at www.bobbrozman.com
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Sun, Jan 11:
8 pm “TOM WAITS TRIBUTE” with DAFNI, WIL FORBIS, others tba, 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. Dafni and banjo wiz Wil Forbis have both performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar.
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Sun, Jan 11, 2009:
9 pm AL KOOPER plays two shows at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. See 7 pm listing for info. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $24.50.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 12
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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, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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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, Jan 12, 2009:
7-8:30 pm “CLAZZICAL NOTES: THE WOMEN” in Ramo Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5742.html. “Clazzical Notes” is free, an adult educational outreach series sponsored by The Orchestras of Pasadena (www.theorchestras.org). It is a free evening of music and discussion among renowned musicians, to bridge the gap that currently exists between the jazz and classical music communities. The artists for this evening include jazz singer SHERRY WILLIAMS and L.A. Opera’s ANGEL BLUE. Moderator is RACHEL WORBY (www.worby.com), Music Director of the Pasadena POPS.
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As Music Director of The Pasadena POPS and a guest conductor of orchestras throughout Europe, South America, Australia and Asia – including the London Philharmonic, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, the China Philharmonic and the Herzliya Chamber Orchestra in Israel – conductor RACHEL WORBY has collaborated with such celebrated singers as Jessye Norman, Andrea Marcovicci, Jubilant Sykes, Eric Owens and Joely Fisher.
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“Actually, I predict that two extraordinarily gifted artists like SHERRY WILLIAMS and ANGEL BLUE will instantly connect with the audience all on their own, from the moment they begin to sing,” says Worby, whose recorded collaboration at Pasadena’s Blair High School in 2006 with internationally acclaimed soprano Jessye Norman was rated one of NPR’s Top Ten programs of the year. “But, as enthralling as it will be to hear Sherry and Angel perform, I’m also looking forward to hearing their thoughts on music, jazz, opera and their lives as both musicians and women.”
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As a musician and actress, SHERRY WILLIAMS has received worldwide acclaim. After beginning her career as a member of THE YOUNG AMERICANS, she appeared on television shows ranging from “The Tonight Show” to “Soul Train” and, in addition to touring with such artists as Andy Gibb, Johnnie Ray, Herbie Mann and Eddie Hendricks, has performed at jazz venues, clubs and festivals throughout Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok.
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Williams is equally comfortable in the recording studio. She released her first CD, “The Way You Love Me,” in 1997 to rave reviews, following that with the Grammy nominated “A Taste of Sherry” in 2003 and, later that same year, “You Must Believe In Spring.”
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The L.A. Times described her as having “...the vocal power of Streisand and ...the emotions of Nancy Wilson. She is liquid fire and magic, this lady.”
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Although she is just beginning her career, soprano ANGEL BLUE has already garnered an impressive list of accolades. In addition to being selected to take part in the prestigious “Domingo-Thornton Young Artist Program” at Los Angeles Opera, Blue has received awards from the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, the Palm Springs Opera Guild Competition, the ACT-SO NAACP Classical Voice Competition, and the Redlands Bowl Competition and earned the Emerging Young Entertainers Award from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
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Earlier this season, Blue appeared in productions of “Suor Angelica” and “Carmen” with L.A. Opera and, in June 2009, will perform the role of Clara in “Porgy and Bess” with the San Francisco Opera. She will travel to Valdosta Georgia to appear as the featured soloist with the Valdosta Symphony. Angel Blue has already sung include the Redlands Symphony, the West Los Angeles Symphony, the Los Angeles Festival Orchestra, the California Philharmonic, and the Riverside Philharmonic. “She has killer high notes and killer theatrical instincts,” raved the Los Angeles Times.
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“This is an exciting time for women in almost every medium, and women have always been most naturally and formally represented in the arts,” says Price-Gaines. “At Clazzical Notes’ The Women, we’ll present three powerfully talented women at the top of their game who will come together to create a memorable and most talked about evening of song and conversation.” FREE; no tix or reservations required.
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Mon; repeats every 2nd & 4th 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, 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, Jan 12:
7:45 pm CARRIE WADE at The Derby, 4500 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90027; www.clubderby.com. Carrie is a singer-songwriter who tells us, “The room I'll play is the more intimate (that doesn't mean teeny) of the two rooms at Club Derby and is impressive - it's laid-out beautifully and much more real-live- concert-oriented than many a room I've played. I was there a few months back and am very much looking forward to hitting it again!”
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Mon, Jan 12:
PETE HOPKINS makes his House of Blues debut at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100. The always exciting Pete has a limited number of free tix, if you contact him in time, at petehopkins@sbcglobal.net.
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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; 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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Mon, every week:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.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 Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by Gordon Gilges at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, ”There's a piano & guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you. Bring your music, your own instruments, your friends!” Sign-ups are at 8 pm. Comedy is now from 7:30-8:30 pm, with those sign-ups at 7:30 pm. They add, “We are trying to create a community of artists who support each other, so participants are encouraged to come early and stay as long as you can to show the love to your fellow open-mic-ers. You may even get to go up a second time. The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.”
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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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; most Mondays:
10 pm PRESTON SMITH plays solo acoustic at The Bridge, 3256 Caheunga Bl (at Barham), Universal City / Hollywood area, one mile N of the Hollywood Bowl. Romantic, loungy, acoustic room. Preston sings “blues & beyond,” soul and jazz. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger July 28, ‘06 Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, every week:
10:30 pm “BLUES JAM” with MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Babe's and Ricky's Inn, 4339 Leimert Bl, L.A.; 323-295-9112; www.bluesbar.com.. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Event info, Info, info@bluesbar.com. No cover.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 13
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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 “SOUP JAM,” Don Rowan’s country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, contact Don, 562-883-0573. 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, Jan 13; series runs every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” this week brings nationally-touring troubadour RANDALL WILLIAMS plus MARTIN & STRYNGS 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. The two featured artists are 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, 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, Jan 13:
7 pm OPEN JAM at Loma Linda University, behind the College Market Patio Pantry, 24905 Anderson St (at Mound, near US Post Office), Loma Linda.
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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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Wed, every Wed:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Wednesday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. $3-7 cover. Start time varies; call venue.
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Tue, Jan 13; 2009:
8 pm MURIEL ANDERSON, master guitarist and fingerstyle champ, plus REBECCA SAYRE opening, at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. MURIEL ANDERSON is the host and founder of “All Star Guitar Night” at the annual NAMM convention in Anaheim, and she is performing this special concert while she’s in town, with special guest REBECCA SAYRE. No less than LES PAUL calls Muriel, “One hell of a great player… a great personality, and what I like is the touch that Muriel has on the guitar, the way she plays it like we all wish to play.”
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MURIEL ANDERSON is the first and only woman to win the Fingerstyle Championship title, and she is widely respected as one of the foremost guitarists in the world. Her unique approach to the instrument virtually transforms the guitar into a lyrical choir, then a marching band, then a Japanese koto, then a bluegrass band, amazing audiences with her technique and endearing them with her sense of humor. One minute launching into a Beatles tune and the next, Chopin's Minute Waltz, her facility across the genres of folk, classical, jazz, bluegrass, and international music is revered by guitarists around the globe.
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Muriel has released seven instrumental CD's, three videos/DVD’s, and guitar books published by Hal Leonard, Mel Bay, and Zen-On Japan. Her compositions include commissioned classical works for the Nashville Chamber Orchestra and Vox Caelestis Womens Choir, and she has a composition in Woody Allen’s recent film, “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” Muriel’s “Heartstrings” recording traveled as far as outer space, accompanying the astronauts on a space shuttle mission. Touring in the US and internationally year ‘round, her music brings smiles and promotes understanding worldwide. "Acoustic guitarist Muriel Anderson... has justifiably gained a reputation as one of the world's best, and most versatile, guitar instrumentalists." - Chicago Tribune.
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“Muriel Anderson is a good friend and a great guitarist. She deserves National Recognition.” - Chet Atkins.
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Plus, REBECCA SAYRE - “Sayre’s elegantly expressive voice remains a subtle and sublime treasure, displaying a musicality that trumps the ever-present predictability of most modern singers…. She’s embraced a contemporary sound that fuses jazz phrasing with a relaxed, classic-pop melodicism.” - Nashville Scene.
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As a lead singer with Nashville favorite BADABING BADABOOM, Sayre made a name for herself with her outstanding vocals and earned rave reviews from Nashville media and fans. Described as “The Beatles-meets-the-Andrews Sisters,” BadaBing performed hundreds of shows all over the east, from Lincoln Center in New York to Bliss Fest in Michigan, to Destin, Florida. In March, 2005, Rebecca’s solo debut, "This Is Always," reached #47 on the National JazzWeek Album charts at a time when the deluge of releases by female jazz singers had one programmer screaming, “I don’t care if she’s Billy Holiday back from the dead, I can’t fit any more female jazz vocalists into my programming!” Sayre is a performance veteran and an original in every way. You will leave a Rebecca Sayre show with a CD, a smile, and your name on her mailing list.
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Tix $20 at door, or $18 in advance at www.murielanderson.com/store
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Tue, Jan 13:
8 pm GARY STROUTSOS, American Indian flute player & storyteller, at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org. More at www.garystroutsos.com. $15 gen’l, $10 students & srs.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly 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; 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; you can sign-up in advance at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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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 week; in Laguna Beach:
8 pm weekly “SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” features guest artists and BETH FITCHET WOOD, who plays the opening set each week, at the The Marine Room Tavern, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027.
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Tue, Jan 13:
8:30 pm WRECK AND SOW bring bluegrass to the Pike Bar and Grill, 836 E 4th St, Long Beach; 562-432-8325; www.myspace.com/thepike. More at www.wrecknsow.com
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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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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14
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Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18; in the OC:
Annual “NAMM MUSIC INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW” fills the entire Anaheim Convention Center complex, 800 W Katella Av, Anaheim 92802; www.namm.org/thenammshow. This event is not open to the public, and requires credentials, acquired in advance. It includes performances by countless musicians in booths for instrument makers who have endorsed them, and numerous stage performances. Runs Wed, 9 am-5 pm, Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri & Sat, 9 am-6 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm.
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There ARE performances by various artists in local hotels that ARE open to the public, mostly in the evenings, and many artists take advantage of their time in Southern Cal to play at a number of venues.
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Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18, 2009; in Colorado:
20th Annual “COLORADO COWBOY POETRY GATHERING” at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, Arvada, CO; www.arvadacenter.org. It's the 20th Anniversary Celebration, and AL “DOC” MEHL (theasphaltcowboy@comcast.net) tells us, “You'll find a premiere line-up of poets and musicians.” Al will be on stage Thursday afternoon, Jan 15, and all day Jan 16 & 17. He cpntinues, “Make a full day of your outing, and for the price of one ticket you'll see dozens of the ‘Best of the West.’ Ah, heck, just quit the day job (you never liked it that much anyway...) and come for all five days!’ More at the event website; click on the words "On Stage," and look for "Upcoming Special Events."
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Wed; every Wed; 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 Wed:
ON HIATUS: 3-7 pm “ROOTS MUSIC JAM SESSION” with TOM SAUBER at the Sierra Madre Farmers' Market, in the parking lot behind the shops on the south side of Sierra Madre Blvd., just west of Baldwin Av, in Sierra Madre. Take Baldwin Av exit N from 210 Fwy. Turn W off Baldwin onto Mariposa and you'll see the tents. Tom tells us, “It won't take the place of Frank & Joe’s [the long-gone Wed night jam] and I know it's not convenient for most, but it's something as long as the weather's nice.” Info, masaw48@earthlink.net
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Tom tells us, “It won’t be meeting again until the weather warms up.”
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Wed; 2nd & 4th Wed every month; in Lancaster:
6 pm UKULELE CLUB at Nick’s 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, Jan 14:
7-10:30 pm “BEST OF” edition of the monthly “LAWIM SOIREE” as Los Angeles WoMen in Music presents an evening of music and a buffet supper, at the M Bar, 1253 Vine St (at Fountain), Hollywood 90038; 323-856-0036. Info, info@lawim.com. This is a fine monthly event, and includes an all-you-can-eat buffet.
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Featuring top performers from Fall 2008 “Soirées” -
SHAUN CROMWELL, SEAN DOUGLAS, HOLLY GLEASON, HUGH LeHANE, WENDY PIATT, LISA SADOWSKI, ALINA SMITH, MICHAEL SULLIVAN, plus a special performance by ARLENE KOLE, one of the 2007-2008 “Soirée CD Compilation” artists. Hosted by multi-platinum songwriter-recording artist HARRIET SCHOCK.
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A respectful “listening room” environment is provided for the performances, and there are plenty of industry networking opportunities before and after. "An invigorating evening that proves there is art in Los Angeles after all." - Tom Kidd, Music Connection Magazine. Valet Parking $4.50, or free street parking, if you can find it. Sponsored in part by www.myrecordlabel.net. Full bar available, BUFFET DINNER INCLUDED in admission, available 7-8:30 pm; showcase, in respectful “listening room” atmosphere, is 8-10 pm. Reservations are no longer taken; just get there promptly for a seat. $10 mbrs, $20 gen’l public, includes dinner.
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Jan 14, 2009; in Ojai:
7 pm CROWFOOT at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-665-9952; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. CROWFOOT is from Canada and the East Coast, an Appalachian / Quebecois fusion trio sensation that weaves those musical influences plus others from England and Ireland, into a captivating fusion that delights dancers and listeners alike. Into this meeting ground of traditions, they incorporate their own distinctive original compositions and songs. Known for rich vocal harmonies, haunting ballads, and finely crafted instrumental arrangements that compliment their infectious energy and make you want to dance. Their diversity of instrumentation allows for a wide palette of sound, and audience members are consistently won over by the depth and variety of Crowfoot’s musical experience. Having cut their teeth on the contra dance circuit, Crowfoot has gained a reputation for their trancelike grooves, subtle interplay, and unstoppable energy. For three years they have played contra dances across the US and Canada, drawing a youthful following and foot-stomping praise wherever they go. They are Adam Broome on guitar, cittern, & vocals; Jaige Trudel on fiddle, cello, & vocals; and Nicholas Williams on flutes, accordion, piano, & vocals. 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 $15 advance, $18 at door.
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Wed, every Wed:
7-9 pm ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC, hosted by ALLAN COMEAU, at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. It’s now weekly. SEVERIN BROWNE says, “For those of you who like a good open mic night, my friend Allan Comeau is hosting… not far from McCabe’s. And the food is good.” 6:45 pm sign-ups.
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Open mic is followed on 1st & 3rd Wed of every month, same place, by “WESTSIDE SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND” – see that listing.
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Wed, every Wed:
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, 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 Wed; 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 Wed:
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 Wed:
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 Wed; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session in Simi Valley; for location, contact M. Gregory, info@songmakers.org or 805-579-6416. More at www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Jan 14:
8 pm FRED EAGLESMITH at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Fred Eaglesmith is an award-winning singer-songwriter who inspires comparisons to icons like Woody Guthrie and Bruce Springsteen, tops the roots music charts, and boasts devoted fans that include a slew of his fellow songwriters. High-profile tastemakers in the know - fellow musicians like Toby Keith and The Cowboy Junkies, as well as film folks like Martin Scorsese and James Caan - consider him one of the stellar musical and lyrical talents of our day. Though a decidedly grassroots artist in the thematic focus of his songs and how he pursues his career, he boasts an impact that far better known musical acts can only envy. Playing some 180 shows a year across North America, Europe, and Australia, his popular multi-day music trains, and releasing his own records under his cheekily-titled ‘A Major Label’ imprint, His latest album and 16th release, “Milly's Café,” has hit the Top 10 on the Americana chart. Want some cocktail party trivia? Fred is the only Canadian to have ever written a #1 song on the bluegrass charts. He is the subject of three tribute albums and enjoys critical comparisons to some of the most respected talents in music as well as the respect of his peers. $20.
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Wed; 2nd Wed every month:
8 pm HOLLYWOOD HOT-SHOTS bring charming music of the ‘20s & ‘30s, with plenty of Django-style jazz, from JOHN REYNOLDS and his washboard playing brother, RALF REYNOLDS, for an evening of "upstairs" hot jazz. Guests include performers who have previously worked with THELONIOUS MONK and BENNY GOODMAN. $10.
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Wed, every Wed:
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 Wed:
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 Wed:
DISCONTINUED: 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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Tonight is now a songwriter workshop night, hosted by Marc Platt. (See listing.)
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Wed, every Wed:
7-10 pm (started Jan 7) “KULAK'S WEDNESDAY NIGHT SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Marc Platt wrote, for Music Connection, “Your Wednesday Nights will never be the same after participating in this Group Workshop. The weekly cost is $20, which goes to Kulak’s to help pay the rent. The Workshop… is open to the public for the first four weeks. We will then set our 12-person group writing roster until the end of March. The workshop will be limited to 12 writers. We will break up into groups and work on many styles, genres and topics. You will find it challenging and exhilarating. You can bring instruments and will need to have your own small recording device, as well as a pen and notepad. Marc Platt (from the Sunday Night Performance Workshop) will facilitate with help from Steve Schalchlin. Marc has written music for TV Shows like ‘Queer Eye For The Straight Guy’ and others for many years. Steve Schalchlin ran similar workshops for the NAS (National Academy of Songwriters) in the 1990s and is a very accomplished songwriter. His ‘New World Waking’ show is currently running in San Francisco. If you are interested, please email Marc Platt at rotn60@aol.com.”
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Replaces the DISCONTINUED “ACOUSTIC JAM” night.
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Wed; 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 Wed:
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, every Wed:
DISCONTINUED: (check with venue) 8:30 pm “SPOKEN WORD & POETRY OPEN MIC” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873).
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 15
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Recurring events not yet included from this point forward.
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Thu, continuing; runs Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18; in the OC:
Annual “NAMM MUSIC INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW” fills the entire Anaheim Convention Center complex, 800 W Katella Av, Anaheim 92802; www.namm.org/thenammshow. This event is not open to the public, and requires credentials, acquired in advance. It includes performances by countless musicians in booths for instrument makers who have endorsed them, and numerous stage performances. Runs Wed, 9 am-5 pm, Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri & Sat, 9 am-6 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm.
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There ARE performances by various artists in local hotels that ARE open to the public, mostly in the evenings, and many artists take advantage of their time in Southern Cal to play at a number of venues.
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Thu-Sat, Jan 15-17; in Northern Cal:
9 am-5 pm “CALIFORNIA INDIAN STORYTELLING ASSOCIATION (CISA) SYMPOSIUM AND FESTIVAL” at San Leandro Public Library Theater, 300 Estudillo Av, San Leandro 94577. Info, 510-386-7557 days, 510-793-8208 evenings; cistory@cistory.org and www.cistory.org. The CISA World Symposium and Storytelling Festival’s theme is “Indigenous Voices, Ancient Trade Routes.”
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The current of creativity and survival of Native Peoples of the Western Hemisphere has been the movement of stories and resources across vast oceans, rivers, and land routes. The symposium seeks to follow these ancient routes from the Pacific to the western shores of the North American continent, exploring ancient routes in stories, songs, chants, and artifacts that link each of the Indigenous Peoples together. Many of the routes are thousands of years old, but remain alive and vital to all Native People. This is an international gathering of Indigenous storytellers, scholars and culture bearers.
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Thu & Fri events include keynote addresses, panel discussions, and other presentations. The storytelling festival on Sat includes performances and an opportunity to have dinner with the storytellers and other presenters. Presented in cooperation with the San Leandro Public Library, in its state-of-the-art theater center. Made possible by funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, the California Indian Storytelling Association, and audience donations.
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Symposium recommended for adults and teens, ages 15 and up; storytelling & music performances recommended for adults and children ages 8 and up. Suggested donations for symposium, $10 / day, and for festival, adults $15, elders / students / children ages 8-17, $10. “Dinner with the Storytellers” is $15.
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Thu, Jan 15; in Portland, Oregon:
“OLD-TIME MUSIC GATHERING” in Portland; info http://bubbaguitar.com/festival/index.html
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Thu-Mon, Jan 15-19; in Monterey, CA:
16th annual “MONTEREY SWINGFEST” at the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, Monterey. Last year’s festival brought nearly 1,000 dancers from Germany, France, England, Scotland, Japan, New Zealand, Australia and all over the US and Canada. The event admission includes four days of dance workshops, dance contests and lots of social dancing. Monterey Swingfest features Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollmann, Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Arjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz, Mary Ann Nunez, Skippy Blair, Kelly Casanova, Michelle Kinkaid, Sonny Watson & Deanna Mollmann. Many past and present World & National Champions and stars from “Star Search”, “30 Seconds Of Fame”, “So You Think You Can Dance” and the upcoming major film release “Love N Dancing” (www.lovendancing.com). Learn, dance, watch and enjoy dance with classes, contests, shows and surroundings. The venue is less than 2 miles from Fisherman's Wharf and less than 4 miles from Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. More at www.CentralCoastSwingDance.com
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Thu, Jan 15, 2009:
9 am annual “BROOMBALL BOOST GAME,” L.A POLICE DEPARTMENT VS. L.A. FIRE DEPARTMENT, in a charity game at the Pershing Square Ice Rink in the park at Pershing Square, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90014; 213-847-4970; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare. Come early for the broom-ball game, and stay for the VERTIGO ROAD concert at noon. Both are free. Grab a fresh lunch at Grand Central Market or find something at any of several nearby take-out places. Event is free.
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Thu, Jan 15, 2009:
Noon-2 pm VERTIGO ROAD plays the lunchtime “Pershing Square Ice Rink Music Series” on the outdoor stage at Pershing Square, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90014; 213-847-4970; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare. Ride the Red Line subway to Pershing Square and avoid expensive parking. This is a fine band, playing a series with a fine, professional sound system. If you work downtown, you can grab lunch at any of several nearby take-out places, and enjoy all or part of the concert. Vertigo Road’s music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.vertigoroad.com. Free.
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Thu, Jan 15:
5 pm Specially-themed, one-night-only “OPEN MIC” for JR HIGH AND H.S. AGE PERFORMERS, at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. This special open-mic night is designed for teens and young adults to share what being an American means to them through song, poetry, and spoken word. Inspired by the exhibition, “Becoming American: Teenagers and Immigration,” currently on view at the Skirball, this program is open to all middle and high school students, along with their friends and families. Sign-up for the open-mic is first-come, first-served, so arrive early to secure a performance slot. For more about this event, contact education@skirball.org or 310-440-4737. Free admission and refreshments.
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Thu, Jan 15:
6:30 pm LOLLY ALLEN, vibes player and KRISTIN KORB on standup bass & vocals, at Vibrato Grill, 2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air 90077.
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Thu, Jan 15:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists DAVID MORGAN (Ray Charles, Jim Messina, Delaney Bramlett), and AMILIA K. SPICER at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” AMILIA K. SPICER has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and is a main stage darling of the Kerrville Folk Festival. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Jan 15:
8 pm TIM THOMPSON & MYLES THOMPSON, the reigning Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and his son, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Tim won 1st Place in the hallowed “International Fingerstyle Guitar Competition” championships in Winfield, Kansas in Sep 2008. Tim is known for his exciting and intense playing and his charming and down to earth personality. His repertoire covers folk, jazz and bluegrass and includes arrangements of “The Flintstones” and “Eleanor Rigby.”
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In addition to television and movie soundtrack credits, Tim Thompson has produced and played on countless records during his 15 years in Nashville. His rendition of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” appears on the movie soundtrack of “Casper’s Haunted Christmas” along with cuts from Ricky Van Shelton and Deanna Carter. Thompson wrote a song called “Six String Ramble” that plays on the new Flip Video Camcorder software for sale at Target and Walmart. He has traveled around the country playing concerts and teaching guitar clinics and songwriting workshops. Tim travels with his 14 year old son, Myles Thompson, a talented fiddle player who has adopted the ethics of “practice, practice, from his father.
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Tim Thompson has released seven CDs; one a singer-songwriter disc, and six instrumental CDs. His latest is a collaborative project with fellow fingerstyle guitarist John McClelland. Tim is currently working on a new CD that will feature his son, Myles. Audio and video clips can be found at www.TimThompsonGuitar.com or on YouTube. Thompson will be in California for a few weeks and appearing in the Aphex Booth at The NAMM Show. Reservations advised.
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Thu, Jan 15:
8-10 pm “BRETT PERKINS LISTENING ROOM CONCERT SERIES SPECIAL EVENT” featuring several artists from Denmark, Ireland, the UK, and around the US, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. It’s a showcase of these international performing songwriters who are in California to attend the 5th Annual “California Listening Room International Songwriters Retreat.”
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BRETT PERKINS was the founding host of the “Listening Room Concert Series” in Southern California, which now operates worldwide (but not locally) – except once a year, when Brett returns to California to operate a songwriters retreat in the Golden State. In fact, he operates an acclaimed series of global songwriter retreats, including one on the California central coast every January. More info at www.brettperkins.com.
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All artists at Kulak’s donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Thu, Jan 15:
9 pm “THE OLD-TIME RUCKUS REVIEW” returns for a one-time-only musical reminiscing with TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, BARREN FOOTHILL BREAKDOWN, GP3 (GLASSEL PARK 3), AVERY JAMES & THE HILLANDALES, UKELEAR WINTER (their final show), and others, at Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion Av (look for barber pole just S of Lyric), L.A. 90027. Ben from TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT tells us, “This show started nearly four years ago with the BARREN FOOTHILL BREAKDOWN at the Scene in Glendale. That's where we became good friends with them, FUR AND STEVE, and many more! There has not been one of these shows since Scotty McD left for Portland - and now we get to relive all that splendor (no GIANT pizza though)!”
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 16
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Fri, continuing; runs Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18; in the OC:
Annual “NAMM MUSIC INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW” fills the entire Anaheim Convention Center complex, 800 W Katella Av, Anaheim 92802; www.namm.org/thenammshow. This event is not open to the public, and requires credentials, acquired in advance. It includes performances by countless musicians in booths for instrument makers who have endorsed them, and numerous stage performances. Runs Wed, 9 am-5 pm, Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri & Sat, 9 am-6 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm.
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There ARE performances by various artists in local hotels that ARE open to the public, mostly in the evenings, and many artists take advantage of their time in Southern Cal to play at a number of venues.
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Fri, Jan 16:
7:30 pm MIKE DOWLING at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. Mike Dowling, heard on Vassar Clements 1979 GRAMMY-nominated "Nashville Jam," is brilliant doing traditional blues, vintage swing, ragtime, and originals played with grace, wit, and dazzling proficiency. "One of the finest guitar players there is, anywhere," said the late Vassar Clements. Mike’s solo album "Swamp Dog Blues" is a “near perfect album” says Blues Revue. “A first-class performer and player.” Jethro Burns said, after working with Mike, "I don't play guitar when Mike's in the band. You don't take the game warden fishing." Venue booker Gary Mandell adds, “One of the most tasteful players you'll ever hear.” Venue website has a local dining guide. Tix on sale Jan 2. $15.
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Fri, Jan 16, 2009:
8 pm PETER ROWAN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Musical chameleon and pioneer Peter Rowan is known for many projects, including his landmark album, “Awake Me in the New World.” He started as singer/guitarist for BILL MONROE before collaborating with DAVID GRISMAN in OLD AND IN THE WAY, with RICHARD GREENE in SEATRAIN, and with accordion master FLACO JIMENEZ in FREE MEXICAN AIRFORCE. And there have been others, as well. McCabe’s concert booker, Lincoln Myerson, says of Peter, “His beautiful performance was one of the highlights of our 50th Anniversary Concert at Royce Hall, and we are thrilled to welcome him back to McCabe's after far too long an absence.” Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $20.
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Fri, Jan 16:
8 pm HANS YORK & HIS BAND, YOUNG AMELIA at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
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2008 “KERRVILLE NEW FOLK WINNER” HANS YORK is known for his infectious shows and his captivating performances. His grassroots approach and close interaction with the audience have earned him friends and fans throughout the country. Hans brings superb musical and composing skills as well as a soaring three-octave voice to the American community of performing songwriters. His US debut album, “Inside Out,” received several awards and a nomination for “Best Acoustic Album” of 2005 by Indie Acoustic Project. His current album, “Young Amelia,” is a subtle journey exploring the hidden recesses of the human heart, with outstanding musicianship and deep compassion. Besides beinga German expatriate, Hans lived in Rio de Janeiro where he studied Samba, Bossa Nova and popular Brazilian music. Upon his return from there to Europe, it inspired his first solo album, the innovative “Hazzazar.” Hans is a world musician in the true sense of the term, drawing most of his present day inspiration from his vast eclectic acoustic background.
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His band YOUNG AMELIA features some of the best young and upcoming musicians in the country, with EVA SCOW on mandolin & violin, MYRA JOY on cello (she’s delighted audiences here before), and DUSTY BROUGH on nylon string guitar. $15.
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Fri, Jan 16, 2009:
8 pm LUIS OLIART at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; www.genghiscohen.com; 323-653-0640. Singer-songwriter LUIS OLIART excites people. "If Luis doesn't advance to the next round, I'm gonna take him myself and start our own project on the side!" - Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) on NBC's “Star Tomorrow” TV show. "...simply magical...totally captivating...compelling." - Bernard Baur, Music Connection. "It’s beautiful to hear such great stirring spirit…there is a fire in it… I love what you are doing." - Joey Reynolds, 710 WOR Radio. More at www.oliartmusic.com and www.myspace.com/oliartmusic. $7 cover.
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Fri, Jan 16; in Lancaster:
8 pm OZARK JUBILEE at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Ozark Jubilee serves up an all-new variety show of country and western, bluegrass and gospel music with a huge helping of classic hillbilly humor. Starring the outrageous Doofus Doolittle (aka world-class fiddler RANDY NEWMAN), this performance is straight out of “The Grand Ole Opry.” It’s feel-good family fare that leaves audiences hungry for more. Tix $25 & $20.
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Fri, Jan 16:
9:30 pm SLIGO RAGS at Ireland's 32, 13721 Burbank Bl, Van Nuys; 818-785-4031. This locally-based big time Irish act performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006, and at that time, EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. Their debut studio CD, "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 and lots more that’s highly innovative and delightfully musical. 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.
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 17
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Sat, continuing; runs Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18; in the OC:
Annual “NAMM MUSIC INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW” fills the entire Anaheim Convention Center complex, 800 W Katella Av, Anaheim 92802; www.namm.org/thenammshow. This event is not open to the public, and requires credentials, acquired in advance. It includes performances by countless musicians in booths for instrument makers who have endorsed them, and numerous stage performances. Runs Wed, 9 am-5 pm, Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri & Sat, 9 am-6 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm.
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There ARE performances by various artists in local hotels that ARE open to the public, mostly in the evenings, and many artists take advantage of their time in Southern Cal to play at a number of venues.
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Sat, Jan 17; in Florence, Oregon:
“WINTER FOLK FESTIVAL” with MACK BAILEY & RACHEL LEVY and others, in Florence, OR, info at www.myspace.com/mackbaileyandrachellevy
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Sat, Jan 17; in Seattle, WA:
10:30 am, through the day BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH teach banjo and fiddle workshops, respectively, at Dusty Strings, 3406 Fremont Av, N, Seattle. Bill teaches “Earl Scruggs Essentials” from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and “Unlocking Melodic and Single-String Styles” from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Megan teaches “Classic Bluegrass Instrumentals For Fiddle” from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and “Double Stops and Drones - Take Your Fiddle Playing to the Next Level” from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Workshops are $35 each or $60 for both sessions. Info and reservations at 206-634-1662.
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BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH recently performed and did workshops in Southern Cal, and recorded a performance-interview for radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Megan is a SIX-TIME US National Fiddle Champ, and Bill literally wrote the book on banjo instruction, the international bestseller, “Banjo for Dummies.”
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Sat, Jan 17:
1-3 pm The “Youth Program” series brings SOOZIE’S BALLOON SHOW plus WEUSI STORIES & DANCE to the “Pershing Square Ice Rink Music Series” on the outdoor stage at Pershing Square, 532 S Olive St, downtown L.A. 90014; 213-847-4970; www.laparks.org/pershingsquare. The series has a fine, professional sound system. Ride the Red Line subway to Pershing Square and avoid expensive parking. The series has a fine, professional sound system. Grab lunch at any of several nearby take-out places, and enjoy all or part of the concert. Free.
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Sat, Jan 17, 2009:
1:30 & 3:30 pm “OZARK JUBILEE FOR KIDS” starring DOOFUS DOOLITTLE at the Haugh Performing Arts Center, at Citrus College 1000 W. Foothill Bl, Glendora 91741; www.haughpac.com. Hillbilly high jinks, sidesplitting comedy, and down-home cornpone humor abound in this musical variety show that’s just plain, good old-fashioned fun. The eight members of OZARK JUBILEE - under the leadership of zany DOOFUS DOOLITTLE - are coming all the way from Branson, Missouri, to share their very own mixture of country standards, bluegrass, and gospel music chosen especially for young audiences. All ages show. Tix are a fine bargain at $6.
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Sat, Jan 17:
3 pm “MARTIN LUTHER KING CELEBRATION” with GRAMMY nominated Cajun/zydeco band LISA HALEY HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS, in Covina. More at www.bluefiddle.com
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Sat, Jan 17:
3-6 pm CROSS TOWN COWBOYS play the “Rattle Cowboy Poetry and Music Concert” at Ocean Park Church, 235 Hill St, Santa Monica 90405. Admission by donation; no one turned away.
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Sat, Jan 17:
6 pm 12th Annual “Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival” with the CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND sponsored by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen’s Association at The Empty Saddle Club, 39 Empty Saddle Rd, Palos Verdes. Arrive at 6 pm for chili and cornbread; show starts at 7 pm. Info, call: 310-539-1639. No cover.
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Sat, Jan 17:
6 pm In town from Denmark, BRETT PERKINS & AMALIE RIIS play the “CIRCLE OF FRIENDS SALON” in the San Fernando Valley; reservations get directions at 818-774-9718. It’s "A new salon in town where... to converse is human, to salon is divine..." BRETT PERKINS was the founding host of the “Listening Room Concert Series” in Southern California, which now operates worldwide (but not locally) – except once a year, when Brett returns to California to operate a songwriters retreat in the Golden State. In fact, he operates an acclaimed series of global songwriter retreats, including one on the California central coast every January. More info at www.brettperkins.com.
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AMALIE RIIS, from Denmark, has a new CD due in January, “Red Light, Green Light, Go.” Her demo album two years ago was charming. Catch a music video from her TV performance in Europe, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKQxyCDwSmE
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Amalie has been playing club dates since recording her first demo at 15. In 2005, she released her first album, "Places Where We Go" to strong airplay on Denmark National Radio P4, propelling her to tour in Ireland, Sweden and the US. Her second album, "Safe and Sound" was released in April 2008 on the new Danish label Songcrafter, in Denmark, Holland and Sweden. It received strong reviews and got hot rotation on national radio of the first single, 'I Think I Love You'.
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Amalie primarily writes in English, in a mix she refers to as “between folk/Americana and pop,” with songs inspired by her journeys big and small, and by love and life and everything in between.
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Donations welcome.
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Sat, Jan 17:
7 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and the phones rang off the wall. The Folk Collection could just as well be named “Your Favorite Songs of the ‘60s Folk Era” group. TONY UNGER, ED LABOWITZ, & MIKE SIROTA, along with bass man BOB PACKHAM, grew up in the 1960s where 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. Mike joined the group in 2003 and Bob in early 2005.
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Much of their repertoire is familiar to audiences of all ages. With songs like “This Land is Your Land,” “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Where Have all the Flowers Gone?” and John Denver tunes, original compositions, and a medley of the great TV Western theme songs of the ‘50s, like “Rawhide” and “Bonanza,” The Folk Collection is reminiscent of groups like The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters, The New Christy Minstrels, and The Brothers Four. But they have their own unique blend, sound - and humor. These guys grew up loving folk music, and the turnouts at their shows confirms that there are many baby boomers, as well as older and younger folks, who really like listening to words and harmonies - and joining-in when the mood and song fit. Their show is centered on folk music and good clean jokes. They are family-friendly and their audiences are multi-generational - from children to parents to grandparents, and even great-grandparents. Their show is a fun evening. You will leave singing, toe-tapping, and smiling. More at www.thefolkcollection.com. $18.
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Sat, Jan 17:
7:30 pm ANDY STATMAN crosses roots-Americana with klezmer, playing the free “SOUNDS OF L.A.” concert series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $10. Reservations for show are available beginning Tue, Dec 23, at 9 am at 310-440-7300 or at link below after that time. “…inimitable musical fusion combines Jewish rhythms with American roots music and avant-garde jazz.”
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For more than 30 years, clarinet and mandolin master ANDY STATMAN has broken new ground by skillfully integrating klezmer, bluegrass, and jazz. Statman continues to delight and inspire with work that “The New York Times” calls "the music of Jewish mystics, but interpreted not as a tradition to be preserved but as a spiritual path to be followed in as personal a manner as possible."
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Hear a music sample from "Rawhide" from Andy Statman's CD, “East Flatbush Blues” (on Shefa) at www.getty.edu/visit/events/sounds_la_2009.html?cid=egetty086
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Also Sun, Jan 18, 3 pm. Free, with required reservations.
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Sat, Jan 17:
7:30 pm BOB BROZMAN at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. A master of slide, fingerstyle, and percussive guitar, Bob's exhilarating show spans the global and musical spectrum. Bob's familiarity with diverse world music cultures produces a novel blending of rhythmic and timbral influences, unparalleled in today's musical environment. His rhythmic dexterity resonates with elements of blues, jazz, Gypsy swing, calypso, sega, and even hip-hop and ska. Read Bob's website bio. It seems impossible for one human to do all the things he does musically. Venue website has a local dining guide. More at www.bobbrozman.com. Tix on sale now. $17.50.
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Sat, Jan 17:
8 pm JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET plays the Smothers Theatre, Pepperdine University Center for the Arts, 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu; tix 310-506-4522; info, http://arts.pepperdine.edu. Guitar great JOHN JORGENSON is one of the world’s reigning masters of DJANGO REINHARDT-style gypsy jazz. Plus, John is a founding member of the DESERT ROSE BAND and the HELLECASTERS as well as a six-year member of ELTON JOHN's band. He amazes his live performance audiences, not only his virtuosic guitar work, but also his mastery as a clarinet player and vocalist. The quintet includes Jorgenson, rhythm guitarist KEVIN NOLAN, violinist JASON ANICK, bassist CHARLIE CHADWICK, and drummer RICK REED.
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Gypsy jazz has been described as “a sensuous French-American hybrid of jazz, swing, rock, bluegrass, and romantic music with a nod to the great Django Reinhardt.” Thus, it’s always been a comfortable fit with the best of Americana music.
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Immediately preceding the concert, from 6 to 8 pm, audience members are invited to the free opening reception for the exhibition, “Robert Dowd: Pop Art Money,” at the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art, adjacent to the theatre.
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More at www.johnjorgenson.com. Tix $40.
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Sat, Jan 17, 2009:
8 & 10:30 pm THE DITTY BOPS play two shows at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. A favorite at the venue, they were featured on the 3-hour radio history of concerts at McCabe’s, which debuted on Thanksgiving Day. Tix for this show are will-call only. $20.
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Sat, Jan 17, 2009:
8 pm OZARK JUBILEE starring DOOFUS DOOLITTLE at the Haugh Performing Arts Center, at Citrus College 1000 W. Foothill Bl, Glendora 91741; www.haughpac.com. Hillbilly high jinks, sidesplitting comedy, and down-home cornpone humor abound in this musical variety show that’s just plain, good old-fashioned fun. The eight members of OZARK JUBILEE - under the leadership of zany DOOFUS DOOLITTLE - are coming all the way from Branson, Missouri, to share their very own mixture of country standards, bluegrass, and gospel music chosen especially for young audiences. Tix $24, $22 students & srs, $12 ages 16 & under.
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Sat, Jan 17, 2009:
10:30 pm THE DITTY BOPS play the second of two shows at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. (See 8 pm listing.)
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Sat, Jan 17; in Seattle, WA:
11 pm-12:30 am BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH play Egan's Ballard Jam House, in Ballard (NW Seattle). Reservations get directions at 206-789-1621. $7.
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BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH recently performed and did workshops in Southern Cal, and recorded a performance-interview for radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Megan is a SIX-TIME US National Fiddle Champ, and Bill literally wrote the book on banjo instruction, the international bestseller, “Banjo for Dummies.”
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SUNDAY, JANUARY 18
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Sun, ends today; runs Wed-Sun, Jan 14-18; in the OC:
Annual “NAMM MUSIC INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW” fills the entire Anaheim Convention Center complex, 800 W Katella Av, Anaheim 92802; www.namm.org/thenammshow. This event is not open to the public, and requires credentials, acquired in advance. It includes performances by countless musicians in booths for instrument makers who have endorsed them, and numerous stage performances. Runs Wed, 9 am-5 pm, Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri & Sat, 9 am-6 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm.
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There ARE performances by various artists in local hotels that ARE open to the public, mostly in the evenings, and many artists take advantage of their time in Southern Cal to play at a number of venues.
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Sun-Sat, Jan 18-31, 2009; in Elko, NV:
25th Annual “COWBOY GATHERING” in Elko, Nevada. Expect an extra-special shebang for their big anniversary year.
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Sun, Jan 18, 2009; in the SF Bay area:
LINDA RONSTADT, RY COODER, TAJ MAHAL, LAURIE LEWIS, TOM ROZUM, and LOS CENZONTLES play an “Arhoolie Foundation Fundraiser.” Laurie Lewis tells us, “This is a very rare, special event to benefit the Arhoolie Foundation, and we hope a few of you will be able to join us. For more information, please contact me directly by email, laurie@laurielewis.com. The Foundation… [does] excellent work. Needless to say, we are honored to be included in this incredible line-up. Tickets to this occasion are very limited.”
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Sun, Jan 18:
12:30-2:30 pm WORKSHOP with JOHN JORGENSON (of THE JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET) one of the pioneers of American Gypsy Jazz in a rare San Fernando Valley workshop and then a performance at The Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills 91344; 818-282-9001; www.pickinparlor.com. (THE JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET plays a concert here at 4 pm today; see listing.)
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Guitarist JOHN JORGENSON was a founding member of the DESERT ROSE BAND, the HELLECASTERS, and a six-year member of ELTON JOHN's band. Artists ranging from Barbra Streisand to Bonnie Raitt to Earl Scruggs have sought out Jorgenson's guitar work. Recently, John Jorgenson was chosen to portray DJANGO REINHARDT in the feature film, “Head in the Clouds”. He has given master classes around the country, and has performed with some of the most respected European proponents of this style: Bireli Lagrene and Romane. Workshop includes rhythm and lead techniques in gypsy jazz and swing. Call the Blue Ridge for additional details on workshop structure. $50.
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Sun, Jan 18:
2 pm 2nd annual “SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SLACK KEY FESTIVAL” with plenty of masters of Hawaiian slack key guitar - MAUNALUA, BARRY FLANAGAN, JOHN KEAWE, IM "KIMO" WEST, JEFF PETERSON, MAKANA, CYRIL PAHINUI plus hula dancers, Hawaiian food, and crafts, at Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Bl., Redondo Beach; 310-937-6607 or 562-556-4824; www.socalslackkeyfest.com
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Sun, Jan 18; in Bellingham, WA:
2 pm BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH play Nancy's Farm, 2030 E Smith Rd, Bellingham, WA. Suggested donation $8 to $12. Info, 360-966-4640.
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BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH recently performed and did workshops in Southern Cal, and recorded a performance-interview for radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Megan is a SIX-TIME US National Fiddle Champ, and Bill literally wrote the book on banjo instruction, the international bestseller, “Banjo for Dummies.”
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Sun, Jan 18:
3 pm ANDY STATMAN crosses roots-Americana with klezmer, playing the free “SOUNDS OF L.A.” concert series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $10. Reservations for show are available beginning Tue, Dec 23, at 9 am at 310-440-7300 or at link below after that time. “…inimitable musical fusion combines Jewish rhythms with American roots music and avant-garde jazz.”
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For more than 30 years, clarinet and mandolin master ANDY STATMAN has broken new ground by skillfully integrating klezmer, bluegrass, and jazz. Statman continues to delight and inspire with work that “The New York Times” calls "the music of Jewish mystics, but interpreted not as a tradition to be preserved but as a spiritual path to be followed in as personal a manner as possible."
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Hear a music sample from "Rawhide" from Andy Statman's CD, “East Flatbush Blues” (on Shefa) at www.getty.edu/visit/events/sounds_la_2009.html?cid=egetty086
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Also Sat, Jan 17, 7:30 pm. Free, with required reservations.
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Sun, Jan 18:
4 pm THE JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET, with one of the pioneers of American Gypsy Jazz, play a rare San Fernando Valley concert, at The Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills 91344; 818-282-9001; www.pickinparlor.com. (JOHN JORGENSON conducts a workshop here at 12:30 pm today; see listing.)
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Guitarist JOHN JORGENSON was a founding member of the DESERT ROSE BAND, the HELLECASTERS, and a six-year member of ELTON JOHN's band. Artists ranging from Barbra Streisand to Bonnie Raitt to Earl Scruggs have sought out Jorgenson's guitar work. Recently, John Jorgenson was chosen to portray DJANGO REINHARDT in the feature film, “Head in the Clouds”. Known as one of the pioneers of the American gypsy jazz movement, he has performed as a solo artist as well as collaborated with other musicians all over the world.
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JOHN JORGENSON’s articles and lessons on gypsy jazz have appeared in prominent guitar magazines. He has given master classes around the country, and has performed with some of the most respected European proponents of this style: Bireli Lagrene and Romane. His playing has been included on a CD with Babik Reinhardt and Jimmy Rosenberg, and on another featuring Angelo Debarre and Moreno. In 1988 Curb Records released Jorgenson's “After You've Gone” CD, a collection of Reinhardt-and Goodman-styled 30's swing, featuring guest artists Darol Anger and David Grisman.
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The John Jorgenson Quintet includes JOHN JORGENSON on lead guitar, KEVIN NOLAN on rhythm guitar, JASON ANICK on Violin, CHARLIE CHADWICK on standup bass, and RICK REED on drums. All are world-class musicians. More at ww.johnjorgenson.com. Doors at 3:30; open seating. $20.
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Sun, Jan 18; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) LEO KOTTKE, THE DUHKS, and THE REFUGEES are all on today’s episode of “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Jan 18:
7 pm HOUSTON JONES at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. With four alumni of THE WAYBACKS, and the title of “Best Discovery” of the Fall 2005 Strawberry Music Festival, California-based high octane Americana quintet HOUSTON JONES is definitely hot. Performing a mostly original repertoire that ranges from bluegrass and folk to blues and gospel. Tonight adds special guest CHOJO JACQUES on fiddle and mandolin, to the lineup of PETER TUCKER on drums and percussion, TRAVIS JONES on lead vocals and acoustic rhythm guitar, GLENN “HOUSTON” POMIANEK on acoustic and electric lead guitar, and CHRIS KEE on standup bass. (Chojo, Chris, Peter and Glenn are WAYBACKS alums.)
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A quote from Peggy, a sophisticated music fan and habitué of the venue: “They run the range from blues to jazz to rock to bluegrass to folk to heart-jamming rhythm - I was bouncing throughout their entire set! I love 'em - first saw 'em at your place as backup to Chojo Jacques, and then saw them at FAR-West Folk Alliance - their harmonies are creative and tight, their musicianship is stellar, they're funny, and I loved 'em.” $18.
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Sun, Jan 18, 2009:
7 pm PETER HIMMELMAN, plus DAN JANISCH, at the Grand Vision Event Center, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html. PETER HIMMELMAN is a hilarious, openhearted, spontaneous, unpredictable and truly multi-faceted musician. He is a critically-lauded rock troubadour, a Grammy nominated creator of children’s music, and an Emmy nominated film and television composer. One of the finest, if not underappreciated, American songwriters of the last two decades. Artist info, http://peterhimmelman.com. Plus DAN JANISCH, a superbly talented songwriter who has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Tix $15 adv, $17 door.
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Sun, Jan 18, 2009:
8 pm ADRIAN LEGG & PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Lincoln, the McCabe’s concert booker, says, “For any serious student of guitar, or anyone who loves music, for that matter, this show is a must-see.” Guitar magazine wrote, "Impossible to categorize as a player, ADRIAN LEGG incorporates virtually every genre on his guitar in a virtuosic instrumental style with effects. He brought electric approaches to acoustic playing, creating a modern cross-over amalgamation in the tradition of eclectic folk playing that goes back to the 1960s." And then there’s the virtuosity of D’Agostino.
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PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO is also not your conventional steel-string acoustic guitarist, and that's exactly the way the internationally acclaimed virtuoso wants it. The Italian native and long-time California resident has mastered an amazing variety of musical styles, and his command of the instrument he plays is breathtaking. In addition to his remarkable solo playing (he was just named “Best Acoustic Guitarist” in the 2007 Guitar Player Magazine Reader's Choice Awards), he has collaborated with an astounding assortment of musicians. He's taught at guitar clinics the world over, and has released several instructional books and DVDs.
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(This show was rescheduled from Jan 10.) Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $20.
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Sun, Jan 18; in Bellingham, WA:
BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH teach evening banjo and fiddle workshops. Details and location TBA. Info, contact Len at 360-647-0203.
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BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH recently performed and did workshops in Southern Cal, and recorded a performance-interview for radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Megan is a SIX-TIME US National Fiddle Champ, and Bill literally wrote the book on banjo instruction, the international bestseller, “Banjo for Dummies.”
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MONDAY, JANUARY 19
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Mon, Jan 19:
7:30 pm VICKI GENFAN, STEVE LAWSON, LOBELIA, and JIM BYBEE at Grace First Presbyterian Church, 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach; 562-420-3393. Free-will donation.
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Mon, Jan 19:
8 pm ROY ZIMMERMAN at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. He is easily one of the best satirical and political songwriters working today, celebrated even by Tom Lehrer. He’s perfomed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and in a zillion other places, including some of America’s most prestigious venues, and he is a star on YouTube. Roy Zimmerman in the intimate setting of this listening room environment, with its superb sound and dramatic lights, is a treat. In this time of war, natural disaster, social upheaval and political strife,and the Presidential Inauguration tomorrow, this one will be special, and it will be video recorded for an upcoming DVD. There'll be an ample portion of Roy's usual knife-edged political satire, with looks back and laughingly ahead to the arrival of the brand-new Obama-era hilarity. $15.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 20
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Tue, Jan 20, 2009:
PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION in Washington, D.C., when the nation finally gets a new Chief Executive; followed that evening by numerous celebratory balls.
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Tue, Jan 20, 2009; third Tue, every month:
7:30 pm THE BLADERUNNERS 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. (Take 101 Fwy to Reseda Bl, exit S, go 2 1/2 miles up the hill to the entrance on the right.) 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, Jan 20; series runs every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” this week brings LAUREN ADAMS plus HANS YORK 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. The two featured artists are 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, Jan 20:
8-10 pm “OPEN MIC COMEDY NIGHT” at the Coffee Gallery “Front Stage” bistro, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info & sign-ups, 626-398-7917; www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com (though their website may not be updated to include this). This periodic free series is IN ADDITION TO the music performances in the Coffee Gallery Backstage showroom.
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21
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Wed, Jan 21; panel discussion:
7:30 pm “WRITING LIKE A GIRL” in the Zocolo Readings and Lectures series at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Program info, www.zocalola.org or 213-403-0416. Sometimes ghettoized by the phrase "chick lit," books by women have found an audience, but at what price? We seem to be in the midst of a troublingly sexist cultural moment - from novels that are automatically deemed "beach reads" because they feature female characters, to the dearth of female bylines in serious general interest magazines. Is there more we could be doing - as readers and as writers - to fight the growing gender divide in contemporary letters? Moderated by MEGHAN DAUM, author and essayist whose weekly column appears on the op-ed page of The Los Angeles Times, this lively panel discussion features ELISABETH ROBINSON and LAURA ZIGMAN, both authors of New York Times bestsellers. Robinson has worked as a studio executive and producer on films including “The Lover and Braveheart,” and continues to write screenplays and adventure-travel essays. Zigman, a former publicist, has completed four novels, one of which – “Animal Husbandry” - later became the basis for the romantic comedy “Someone Like You,” starring Ashley Judd and Hugh Jackman. Program is free; advance (free) tix recommended.
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Wed, Jan 21, 2009; not music, but cool:
8 pm H. JEFF KIMBLE: “THE QUANTUM INTERNET” in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5523.html. Presented by the Caltech Committee on Institute Programs. Quantum networks offer a unifying set of opportunities and challenges across exciting intellectual and technical frontiers, including quantum computation, communication, and metrology. The realization of quantum networks composed of many nodes and channels requires new scientific capabilities for the generation and characterization of quantum coherence and entanglement. Fundamental to this endeavor are quantum interconnects that convert quantum states from one physical system to those of another in a reversible fashion. Such quantum connectivity for networks can be achieved by optical interactions of single photons and atoms, thereby enabling quantum teleportation between nodes. Extending entanglement across quantum networks in this fashion will create wonderful scientific opportunities for the exploration of physical systems that have not heretofore existed in the natural world. H. Jeff Kimble is the William L. Valentine Professor and Professor of Physics at Caltech. FREE; no tix or reservations required.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 22
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Thu-Sun, Jan 22-Feb 1, 2009; in New Zealand:
“WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL” in Christchurch, New Zealand, is The largest street performance festival in Australasia. It’s a non-ticketed event staged each year for 10 days in beautiful Christchurch. The festival presents more than 45 international and national acts and provides the 300,000 attendees with nonstop fun and laughter. Features 12 indoor and outdoor venues. Donations sought from patrons, but no admission charges.
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Thu, Jan 22:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists RICK HOLMSTROM (Mavis Staples, Johnny Dyer), JOB STRILES, JOHN WILLIAMSON, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Jan 22, 2009:
8 pm “BLUE NOTE 70th ANNIVERSARY TOUR” brings an all-star lineup to 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. Led by Blue Note Records artist and pianist, BILL CHARLAP with PETER BERNSTEIN, RAVI COLTRANE, LEWIS NASH, NICHOLAS PAYTON, PETER WASHINGTON & STEVE WILSON. The all-star ensemble will explore classic tunes by Bud Powell, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter and many others.
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Since it was launched in 1939 by childhood friends ALFRED LION and FRANCIS WOLFF, Blue Note Records has been the premier label in jazz, recording the greatest artists of the genre. Blue Note Record’s catalog of music features an impressive array of legendary performances and a core list of “must-have” releases that indelibly marked the history of jazz. To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Blue Note Record legacy, an all-star band featuring some of today’s finest musicians is traveling the world, celebrating this rich treasure trove of music. Led by Blue Note Records artist and pianist, Bill Charlap, the group explores classic tunes by Bud Powell, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter, and many others. Tix, $50, $38, $26; $15 for UCLA students.
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Thu, Jan 22:
8 pm THE SIXTH WAVE at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Nationally-acclaimed and award-winning, they’re Los Angeles' own a cappella six-voice jazz / pop / rock group vocal collective. What is a vocal collective? It’s what happens when you bring a group of singers together who all have extensive resumes, ranging everywhere from opera to rock and roll, from jazz clubs in NYC to recording studios in L.A. All of these elements come together to form the creative soup that is Sixth Wave. $15.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 23
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Fri, Jan 23:
7 pm CHRIS AYER at the Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. Chris is a New York-based singer-songwriter-guitarist and nationally touring artist. He is known for clever lyrics and song structure. Chris won the Grand Prize in the 2006 “John Lennon Songwriting Competition,” Folk category, for his original song, "Evaporate." In Nov 2006, the song was recognized by VH-1, winning “Song of The Month” in their “Save the Music” competition, Adult Contemporary category. Chris was also “Performing Songwriter” magazine's "Do It Yourself" pick for March 2007. His latest album was recorded in Nashville and produced by JASON GANTT (The Chieftains, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw) and is set for an April 2009 release.
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Here are some media quotes: "..tight arrangements, excellent musicality and imaginative lyrics. If you're looking for great music, this is the place indeed." -Performing Songwriter Magazine. "Part street poet, part armchair philosopher, indie singer/songwriter, Chris Ayer, will leave you smiling whether you feel like smiling or not. You gotta love this guy.. a delightful discovery." -BuddyHollywood.com. "He's talented.. this guy is beyond (John) Mayer. He's Bright Eyes mixed with James Taylor in the form of James Dean." - URB Magazine. More at www.myspace.com/chrisayer.
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Venue has good light dinners and full bar. $10 cover, for all the acts, all evening.
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Fri, Jan 23 (& 24, 30 & 31) 2009; film screening:
7:30 pm (Fri) “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Films in the series and times and dates are:
“THE IRON HORSE” (1924) directed by John Ford; Fri, Jan 23, 7:30 pm.
“THE BIG TRAIL” (1930, 20th Century-Fox) directed by Raoul Walsh; Jan 24, 4 pm.
“RED RIVER” (1948, United Artists) directed by Howard Hawks; Jan 24, 7:30 pm.
“ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST” (1968, Paramount) dir. Sergio Leone; Jan 30, 7:30 pm.
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges; Jan 31, 4 pm.
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah; Jan 31, 7:30 pm.
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It’s a theme of “Romance, rough riding, and railroads,” as the series celebrates six classic westerns with compelling stories and stunning cinematography in a series of films that sample great westerns from the 1920s to the 1970s, complementing the exhibition “Dialogue among Giants: Carleton Watkins and the Rise of Photography in California,” in the Getty gallery.
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The Getty’s promo observes, “The western landscape has long provided a raw and encouraging palette seemingly created for the artist. Just as photographer Carlton Watkins evidenced its majesty in the late 1800s, filmmakers a few years later would insert characters and epic stories into its environs. John Ford's ‘The Iron Horse’ (1924) and Raoul Walsh's ‘The Big Trail’ (1930) laid the groundwork for the concerns of filmed westerns for years to come: the treacherous building of the transcontinental railroad and the pioneering move west. In time, most great filmmakers would try their hand at a western; for some, it would prove a distinct and mythic genre.”
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TONIGHT’S FILM:
“THE IRON HORSE” (1924) directed by John Ford. Landscape becomes character in John Ford's first epic western, as Ford tells the story of the creation of the first transcontinental railroad, which was completed in 1869, just 55 years before the film about the event. The film lays the groundwork for the tropes that would always be considered "Fordian": landscape as character, sensitivity to the worker over the businessman, and, above all, a deep sensitivity to how history is turned into myth. The film has been preserved by The Museum of Modern Art with funding provided by The Film Foundation.
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ONE SCREENING of each film. Series runs Fridays & Saturdays, January 23 & 24 and 30 & 31. Admission is FREE; a separate reservation is required for EACH film (hence, a “double feature” requires two sets of reservations). Use the "Make Reservation" buttons at www.getty.edu/visit/events/western_film_series.html?cid=egetty085 or call 310-440-7300. (Note that you will need to go on, off, and back on to the reservations page to obtain more than a total of four free tix. You CAN make reservations for free tix for the full series, but not all at once.)
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Fri, Jan 23:
SOLD-OUT: 8 pm DAVE STAMEY at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Voted “Male Performer of the Year” by the Western Music Association, winner of the “Will Rogers Award” for “Male Vocalist of the Year” from the Academy of Western Artists, and a five-time nominee for “Songwriter Of The Year,” Dave Stamey is one of the most popular Western Entertainers working today. His vast repertoire of classic and original Western folk music represents a link between today's Americana singer-songwriters and the old-time cowboy balladeers. He has delighted audiences in seven states, performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and has found that he prefers this type of work to being stomped by angry horses. $25.
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Fri, Jan 23:
8 pm DOUG MacLEOD plus LAWRENCE LEBO at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. The legendary Doug MacLeod is one of the last remaining bluesmen who learned from the old masters, lived the music, survived the life, and now carries forward that valuable tradition. Within the blues world, he's known for his superb songwriting, guitar wizardry, soulful voice, sharp wit, and unforgettable live performances. As if that weren't enough for one night, Ms. Lebo, a remarkable vocalist who straddles the boundaries of traditional American music, opens the show. The L.A. Times calls her music "Swing with a touch of torch." A great double bill. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $15.
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Fri, Jan 23:
8 pm ROY ZIMMERMAN plays his first “post inaugural review” for the “PARLOR PERFORMANCES” series at Steinway Hall, 12121 W Pico Bl (one door W of Bundy under Fields Pianos, level P2); free parking; reserv, 310-471-3979. Roy is easily one of the best satirical and political songwriters working today, celebrated even by Tom Lehrer. He’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and in a zillion other places, including some of America’s most prestigious venues, and he is a bonafide star on YouTube. Roy Zimmerman is a treat. In this time of war, natural disaster, social upheaval and political strife, and the Presidential Inauguration just past, this one will be special. There'll be an ample portion of Roy's usual knife-edged political satire. Time to look ahead to the arrival of the brand-new Obama-era hilarity. $25 ($20 if reserved by Jan 15).
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Fri, Jan 23; in the OC:
8-10:30 pm FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE acoustic tour, with the DENNIS ROGER REED BAND opening, plus TIM HORRIGAN & special guests, at The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930 for dinner reservations & tix; 949-496-8927 for concert hotline. The DRR BAND (DENNIS ROGER REED, TIM HORRIGAN, ELLIS SCHWIED, & JAMEY HOLBROOK) have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Tonight they play the role of opener. Dennis tell us that FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE are “doing a short run of full band acoustic shows, [including] this is one, featuring songs from their upcoming new recording as well as songs from all their previous releases. They’re quirky, and so are we.” $20 discount tix are available from band members or dennisrogerreed@pacbell.net. More at www.fountainsofwayne.com.
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Fri, Jan 23:
FEMI KUTI makes a local stop on their national tour, playing the House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100. More at www.myspace.com/femikuti
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Fri, Jan 23:
9 pm-1:30 am 21st CENTURY BLUES band at The Buccaneer, 70 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre 91024; 626-355-9045; info, www.myspace.com/bluesharp1com. Note: cash only, no credit cards accepted at venue. The band is BRIAN BRAZIL on vocals & harmonica, HOWARD "PREACHER" WARD on vocals, lead and slide guitar, BILL STROUM on bass, PATRICK GILLHAM on drums. Singer-songwriter Trudee Lunden tells us, “ While it’s true we’ve all been a bit blue during 2008, the high energy harmonica and rip roaring guitar in 21st Century Blues is music that’ll make you feel good!”
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 24
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Sat, Jan 24; in Yuma, AZ:
“BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK” at the classy Wet Wetland Park in Yuma, AZ, is “an outstanding one-day festival featuring Danny Paisley & Southerngras, The James King Band, The Bluegrass Patriots, Karl Shiflett & Big County & UU Generation.
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Sat & Sun, Jan 24 & 25:
10 am start, both days GILLI MOON'S “ARTIST IMAGE AND MARKETING WORKSHOP 2 DAY RETREAT” in Sherman Oaks; address provided upon registration. Sat, 10 am-6 pm, followed by a dinner nearby, and Sun, 10 am-4 pm. Gilli tells us this is, ”For musicians, singers, painters, actors or those wanting to define one's path and find clarity in how to present oneself to the world… 48 hours, intense, one-on-one time with your artist within.” She adds, ”Whether you want to be a rock star, or a consummate artist, or both, you need to be clear and focused with what path you take and how you are going to promote yourself. But it all begins with who you are. This workshop helps artists become clear with their innate qualities, and how best to go about promoting that and capitalizing on that to create a successful career in the arts. Who am I as an artist? Getting real with my talents, my dreams, and what I have to offer the world - Finding my competitive advantage - Goal making exercises - bringing the dream alive - Image defining - from concepts to concrete plans through creating the music, the art, the projects and how to present them - executing the marketing and promoting of all of it with press kits, marketing plans, a business plan and a definitive plan of attack for the year to get you OUT there.”
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The Workshop combines “one on one interaction with all artists in the workshop, inspiring and revealing dream/goal/vision exercises, solid marketing advice on your entire artist campaign, and feedback on songs and artist materials. The first day is focused on getting ‘real’ with who you are and what you want (dream building), including goal making exercises and image development. The second day gets nitty gritty into the business side of your artistry: how to market and promote you, and the tools to make an impact in the world. We get to know you one-on-one and take your image, your star quality, and your dreams to the next level: building strategies, a marketing plan, business plan, press kit and branding.”
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Bring: a song or two, with lyrics; your artist's promo kit and other items pertaining to the artist's image; pen and paper; an open mind.
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Gilli is founder of Warrior Girl Music and co-founder of the international Songsalive! nonprofit songwriters’ organization. She offers artist coaching, workshops, and creative and entertainment services.
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Price does not include meals. Cost, info, and registration at www.acteva.com/booking.cfm?bevaid=173141
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Sat, Jan 24:
1-5 pm “PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS” at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada; 818-949-7980; www.descanosgardens.org. Learn technical and creative techniques to improve your nature photography. $60 gen’l, $55 Descanso mbrs.
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Sat, Jan 24, (and 30 & 31) 2009; film screening:
4 & 7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Films remaining in the series, and times and dates are:
“THE BIG TRAIL” (1930, 20th Century-Fox) directed by Raoul Walsh; Jan 24, 4 pm.
“RED RIVER” (1948, United Artists) directed by Howard Hawks; Jan 24, 7:30 pm.
“ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST” (1968, Paramount) dir. Sergio Leone; Jan 30, 7:30 pm.
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges; Jan 31, 4 pm.
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah; Jan 31, 7:30 pm.
+
It’s a theme of “Romance, rough riding, and railroads,” as the series celebrates six classic westerns with compelling stories and stunning cinematography in a series of films that sample great westerns from the 1920s to the 1970s, complementing the exhibition “Dialogue among Giants: Carleton Watkins and the Rise of Photography in California,” in the Getty gallery.
+
The Getty’s promo observes, “The western landscape has long provided a raw and encouraging palette seemingly created for the artist. Just as photographer Carlton Watkins evidenced its majesty in the late 1800s, filmmakers a few years later would insert characters and epic stories into its environs. John Ford's ‘The Iron Horse’ (1924) and Raoul Walsh's ‘The Big Trail’ (1930) laid the groundwork for the concerns of filmed westerns for years to come: the treacherous building of the transcontinental railroad and the pioneering move west. In time, most great filmmakers would try their hand at a western; for some, it would prove a distinct and mythic genre.”
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TODAY’S FILM (4 pm):
“THE BIG TRAIL” (1930, 20th Century-Fox) directed by Raoul Walsh. This was John Wayne in his breakout starring role. Walsh and cinematographer Arthur Edeson create a riveting tale of pioneers crossing the Oregon Trail with the help of trapper John Wayne, whose incredible visage, physique, and presence announce him in his debut as a major star. This film has been preserved by The Museum of Modern Art with funding provided by The Film Foundation.
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TONIGHT’S FILM (7:30 pm):
“RED RIVER” (1948, United Artists) directed by Howard Hawks. Features stunning scenery and compelling acting from John Wayne and Montgomery Clift. Historically based on the opening of the Chisholm Trail in 1867, Hawks's film invokes a typical Western theme - the tough journey through tough land - but with his penchant for drawing character, the interior story of conflict between the gritty, headstrong father John Wayne and the softer, compassionate son Montgomery Clift rivals the stunningly shot external story.
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ONE SCREENING of each film. Series runs Fridays & Saturdays, January 23 & 24 and 30 & 31. Admission is FREE; a separate reservation is required for EACH film (hence, a “double feature” requires two sets of reservations). Use the "Make Reservation" buttons at www.getty.edu/visit/events/western_film_series.html?cid=egetty085 or call 310-440-7300. (Note that you will need to go on, off, and back on to the reservations page to obtain more than a total of four free tix. You CAN make reservations for free tix for the full series, but not all at once.)
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Sat, Jan 24:
7-9 pm CROSS TOWN COWBOYS continue their “Cowboy Coffee” House Tour” at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl, Tujunga 91042; 661-951-9089. Expect tunes from their new CD.
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Jan 24; in Sand City (central CA coast):
“BRETT PERKINS LISTENING ROOM CONCERT SERIES SPECIAL EVENT” featuring several artists from Denmark, Ireland, the UK, and around the US, at the Ol' Factory Café, 1725 Contra Costa St, Sand City, CA 93955. It’s a showcase of these international performing songwriters who are in California to attend the 5th Annual “California Listening Room International Songwriters Retreat.”
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BRETT PERKINS was the founding host of the “Listening Room Concert Series” in Southern California, which now operates worldwide (but not locally) – except once a year, when Brett returns to California to operate a songwriters retreat in the Golden State. In fact, he operates an acclaimed series of global songwriter retreats, including one on the California central coast every January. More info at brett@brettperkinspresents.com.
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Sat, Jan 24, (and 30 & 31) 2009; film screening:
7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Films remaining in the series, and times and dates are:
“RED RIVER” (1948, United Artists) directed by Howard Hawks; Jan 24, 7:30 pm.
“ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST” (1968, Paramount) dir. Sergio Leone; Jan 30, 7:30 pm.
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges; Jan 31, 4 pm.
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah; Jan 31, 7:30 pm.
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See 4 pm listing for complete info.
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Sat, Jan 24; in Fallbrook:
7:30 pm TIM FLANNERY & FRIENDS play the “Fallbrook Americana Music Series” at the Mission Theater, 231 N Main, Fallbrook; advance tix, 760-731-2278; info, 760-723-7255 or phee21@mac.com. For the second year, Tim Flannery is launching Fallbrook’s Americana Music Series, to begin its 9th season. Tim says of himself, “…for 30 years I’ve had wood in my hands, either a baseball bat or a guitar.” That wood, both kinds, has taken him from the hills of Kentucky to the swells of the Pacific Islands with stops at nearly every major league ballpark in between. Many remember his 25 years with the San Diego Padres. In recent years he’s been third base coach with the San Francisco Giants and holds the same hope, to win the world series. Today his visibility as a ball player is being matched by visibility as a performing musician. He does what one reviewer calls “porch music,” humble songs of humble people and increasingly he’s writing his own. His 9th album is due in late 2009. His philosophy of open mind, open heart, open doors buoys him forward to new experiences.
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As he travels his road, he takes some of San Diego’s finest musicians with him, DENNIS CAPLINGER on banjo, JEFF BERKLEY on bass, and SHARON WHYTE on accordion. The line-up of musical “friends,” who he calls “Enablers,” varies. More at www.timflannery.com. Tix $20 gen’l, $10 ages 7-17, in advance and at the door.
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Sat, Jan 24; in Palmdale:
RICHIE HAVENS at the Palmdale Playhouse, 10th St E, south of Palmdale Bl, Palmdale.
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Sat, Jan 24, 2009:
8 pm FRED EAGLESMITH & MARTIN ETZIONI 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; tix for this show are will-call only. $15.
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Sat, Jan 24, 2009:
8 pm IAN WHITCOMB & FRED SOKOLOW at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Artist info: Ian, www.picklehead.com/ian.html and Fred, http://members.aol.com/sokolowmus. $15.
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Sat, Jan 24, 2009:
8 pm “JAPANESE FUSION SERIES #5” workshop & concert with SHUICHI HIDANO TAIKO SHOW at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html.
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Solo Taiko Workshop at 5 pm is $10; Concert at 8 pm is $15 adv. Tix, www.panioloproductions.com/store.html.
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SUNDAY, JANUARY 25
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Sun, Jan 25:
10 am LEE DOMANN, New Mexico-based singer-songwriter, plays the church service at First Congregational Church of Glendale (UCC), 2001 Canada Bl, Glendale; 818-243-2109. LEE DOMANN is a singer-songwriter-storyteller originally from eastern Kansas. He spent 27 years as a staff writer for music publishing companies along Nashville’s Music Row. Among those who have recorded his songs are KATHY MATTEA and RIDERS IN THE SKY. More at www.leedomann.com
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Jan 25-Feb 15:
10 am-1 pm “WONDER OF ACRYLICS” ART CLASS at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada; 818-949-7980; www.descanosgardens.org. Learn how to paint in acrylics in this four-week class. $65 gen’l, $55 Descanso mbrs, and $25 for walk-ins (space permitting).
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Sun, Jan 25, 2009:
11 am THE SUNSHINE SISTERS play a matinee kids show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Local duo LONNIE MARTINEZ & JANINE COOPER return to McCabe’s with their beautiful voices and harmonious music. McCabe’s booker Lincoln Myerson says, “Come see why we love to have these two accomplished artists and musicians join us again and again!” Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $8.
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Sun, Jan 25, 2009:
3:30 pm The TOKYO STRING QUARTET in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5703.html. Presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association. This will be the Tokyo String Quartet's 12th Coleman concert, including the Centennial concert in 2004, since winning the Vera Barstow Award at the 1970 Competition. In 1995 the ensemble began performing with the "Paganini Quartet," a group of renowned Stradivarius instruments named for legendary virtuoso Niccolò Paganini, who acquired and played them during the 19th century. The Toronto Star said of the Quartet's playing that "The musicians displayed such finesse, such careful shaping of each melodic line as it was passed from one instrument to the next, that it left one almost breathless." Their numerous television appearances include “Sesame Street,” PBS's “Great Performances,” and “CNN This Morning.” The program includes:
Haydn, Quartet in D Major, Op. 76, No. 5
Janáček, Quartet No. 2 "Intimate Letters"
Brahms, Quartet No. 3 in B-flat Major, Op. 67
Artists info, www.tokyoquartet.com. Series info, include a downloadable PDF series brochure, at www.colemanchambermusic.org. Series of Six Coleman Chamber Concerts, by subscription, $192, $156, $120, $90; $60 youth. Tix for this concert, $36, $30, $25, $20; $10 youth.
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Sun, Jan 25; in San Diego:
5 pm “MISS COLLEEN PAGEANT” at the Holiday Inn on the Bay, San Diego, with SLIGO RAGS providing the music. This locally-based big time Irish act performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006, and at that time, EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. Their debut studio CD, "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 and lots more that’s highly innovative and delightfully musical. 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.
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Sun, every week; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Jan 25:
7 pm “TWICE GUITARS” with CARL VERYHEYEN and STEVE TROVATO at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. CARL VERYHEYEN and STEVE TROVATO are two of L.A.'s most amazing guitarists. Both have won numerous popularity polls and awards for their playing. Together their styles combine to form a musical genre all its own - part blues, jazz, rock 'n roll, country, rhythm & blues, soul, rockabilly, bluegrass and even gypsy. Their camaraderie, vocals and antics on stage make them a joy to behold, and their collective improvising is an "edge-of-your-seat" experience. High level performing at its finest. $15.
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Sun, Jan 25:
7 pm “DOWN TO MONTEREY” concert premier by LEE DOMANN, New Mexico-based singer-songwriter, with FRED STARNER, DEBBIE BERRY, and other musicians, at Culver Palms United Methodist Church, 4464 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-390-7717.
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“DOWN TO MONTEREY” is a “song cycle” social history of the 1966-67 Haight-Ashbury experience. It’s the story of a boy and girl in their late teens who drop out of a Midwestern college and hitchhike to San Francisco in the fall of 1966. They arrive in time for the January ’67 “Be-In” in Golden Gate Park, and they experience the legendary “Monterey Pop Festival” later that summer. This partly autobiographical, partly mythical tale seeks to re-awaken the memories, feelings and commitment of those who, like the author, were part of the “Woodstock Generation.” Author Lee Domann adds, “It is a story of the great wonderment, peace, joy, agony and tragedy of those years. Most of all, it is an appeal and an invitation to those of us who remain, to reclaim our identity and to respond accordingly in the present day. Historical references to people, events and places are intentional and strategic.”
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LEE DOMANN is a singer-songwriter-storyteller originally from eastern Kansas. He spent 27 years as a staff writer for music publishing companies along Nashville’s Music Row. Among those who have recorded his songs are KATHY MATTEA and RIDERS IN THE SKY. Lee has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and host Larry Wines, says, “When I first heard about Lee Domann and his music, the report was so glowing, it bothered me that I wasn't there. It was a year before I could see him perform. It was worth the wait. His songs have depth and imagination, a contemporary feel, and a relevance that transcends the moment. Lee Domann delivered a show that made his audience laugh and cry. His songs stay with you. They make you think about things that matter. And that's all too rare with today's music.” More at www.leedomann.com
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Admission, in harmony with the message of the show, is “a free-will donation.” Lee says, “otherwise, ‘It’s free because it’s yours!’ the motto of ‘The Diggers’ in Haight-Ashbury, 1966.”
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Sun, Jan 25, 2009:
7 pm THE HUNT FAMILY FIDDLERS at Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, at College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 91355; www.canyonspac.com; 661-362-5304. The Hunt Family Fiddlers are an award-winning family of Irish step-dancers, fiddlers and singers who have been entertaining crowds across the country with their high-powered performances and other instrumental talents. In addition to fiddles, this extraordinary family of nine plays drums, accordion, keyboard and guitar, performing Celtic, bluegrass, inspirational and popular tunes, and offering a unique blend of diversity to every show. Tix go on sale Jul 16, 2008; prices tba.
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Sun, Jan 25, 2009:
7 pm KRIS DELMHORST & JEFFREY FOUCALT 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; tix for this show are will-call only. $16.
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Sun, Jan 25; film screening:
7 pm “THE SOULS OF BLACK GIRLS,” a documentary Film Noire Production, is a REEL LADIES film screening followed by a panel discussion; in Hollywood; info and location at http://reelladies.ning.com/events/reel-screening-series
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“The Souls of Black Girls” is a provocative news documentary that takes a critical look at media images-- how they are instituted, established and controlled. The documentary also examines the relationship between the historical and existing media images of women of color and raises the question of whether they may be suffering from a self-image disorder as a result of trying to attain the standards of beauty that are celebrated in media images.
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The documentary features candid interviews with young women discussing their self-image and social commentary from Actresses Regina King and Jada Pinkett Smith, PBS Washington Week Moderator Gwen Ifill, among others. The Souls of Black Girls is a piece that attempts to provoke honest dialogue and critical thinking among women of color about media images and our present condition—internally and externally.
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Round table discussion immediately follows with a prestigious panel of speakers:
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Filmmaker Daphne Valerius, Writer, Director and Producer of the film; www.thesoulsofblackgirls.com ; Tanya Kersey, Founder and Executive Director of the Hollywood Black Film Festival; www.tanyakersey.com ; Keesha Sharp, NAACP Image Award Nominated Actress (Girlfriends and Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married); www.keeshasharp.com ;
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Night includes screening, filmmaker Q&A, round table discussion, appetizers, networking. Tix $20 mbrs, $25 non-mbrs. (Mbrs email for discount, at REELLadies@yahoo.com )
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MONDAY, JANUARY 26
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Mon, Jan 26-Mar 9:
1-4 pm “WINTER WATERCOLOR ART CLASS” at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada; 818-949-7980; www.descanosgardens.org. Capture seasonal beauty in watercolor art in this six-week class. $105 gen’l, $95 Descanso mbrs; plus $12 materials fee.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 27
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Tue, Jan 27; in the OC:
8-11 pm BETH FITCHET WOOD’s weekly “SONGWRITER'S SHOWCASE” tonight with the DENNIS ROGER REED BAND, at the Marine Room, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027. Every Tue, with different featured artists. More at www.dennisrogerreed.com
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28
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Wed, Jan 28:
7 pm “THE STRINGS OF COMEDY” dinner-concert show is a monthly evening of musical comics at the M Bar, 1253 Vine St (at Fountain), Hollywood 90038; 323-856-0036. Performing host CHRIS VALENTI has been a guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and he he cites for us, “the growing popularity of this show and the fusion of music, humor, and new media.”
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Tonight’s performers constantly tour the nation, have made numerous television appearances, and have been seen in some popular feature films. Each has a video posted on www.StringsOfComedy.com
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NICK THUNE has been on the “Tonight Show” with JAY LENO two times. Comedy Central presented a half hour of Nick’s ‘world class’ stand up comedy, and paid Nick to make a series of short films for iThunes. Nick played a memorable role in the film, 'Knocked Up.' More at www.NickThune.com
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MATT BAETZ has headlined clubs all over the country and has been on late night comedy talk shows many times. CRAIG FERGUSON likes him so much he books Matt regularly, and hired him as the booker for all the comics for the CBS “Late, Late Show”. More at www.MattBaetz.com
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ERIC SCHWARTZ tours the country as a favorite at folk music festivals everywhere. He is a talented musician with a killer wit and a stunning sense of humor. Chris Valenti adds, “You will be pleasantly shocked and dazzled. His song and video ‘Clinton Got a Blowjob,’ which compares the 'crimes' of the last two American presidents, was an internet sensation that received millions of views and placed him on panels with the likes of Janet Reno, among others.” More at www.EricSchwartz.com
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ODED GROSS, “generally speaking,” says Chris, “is a pretty open guy. Except when it comes to people who are different than him, then his tolerance wanes. Truthfully, Gross has little tolerance for those with little tolerance. Oded became an internet titan twice. His hilarious, but very poignant videos, ‘It's All Because The Gays Are Getting Married’ and ‘Just Found a Rod Sock in the Laundry’ could not have been released in a more controversially fitting year than 2008, with its themes of homophobia and racism.” More at www.myspace.com/odedgross
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PHIL JOHNSON communicates to the audience that no matter what problems they're having, there's always someone even more screwed-up than them. Phil Johnson is, in fact, a raging optimist. And better yet, it's all set to music. More at www.RoadsideAttraction.com
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CHRIS VALENTI has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He takes his romantic failures and frustrations personally and pours them out to you straight from his guitar and wry, twisted heart. More at www.ChrisValentiMusic.com
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ALISON BLOCK is a stand-up comic with a guitar, or a musician with a sense of humor. Her songs mix the wild and witty with the feminine tenderness found in themes about gay ex-boyfriends and male gynecologists. www.AlisonBlock.com
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Doors open for dinner at 7 pm, the show starts at 7:30 pm. $10 cover, plus $10 food minimum.
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Wed, Jan 28:
8 pm COW BOP at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. This is musical virtuosity, excitement, and splendid technique. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” crossed America performing the “Route 66 Challenge,” played prestigious venues and festivals. They mix swingin’ grooves, thrilling riffs, sweet and hot vocals, bebop jazz, acoustic western sensibilities, and tons of fun. Led by internationally acclaimed guitarist and USC Artist-in-Residence BRUCE FORMAN, they thrill audiences with their unique brand of uniquely American music. Their debut CD, “Swingin’ Out West,” rocketed to the top of the charts in four different genres. Their new CD, “Route 66,” (released April 2008) features Monty Alexander and Dan Hicks and is a celebration of their having won the Route 66 Challenge three times. Check out Bruce's playing, featured in Clint Eastwood's award-winning “Million Dollar Baby.” $15.
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Wed, Jan 28, 2009:
MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO, plus U.S. MAIL BAND, at Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, L.A. 90048; http://largo-la.com; 310-855-0350; (their beautiful new theater on La Cienega). VOCO has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and at venues coast-to-coast and overseas.
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Wed, Jan 28:
8 pm L.A. PHILHARMONIC presents “A TRIBUTE TO RAY BROWN” in the Walt Disney Concert Hall, 135 N Grand Av, L.A.; 213-972-7211. Featured Artists are Christian McBride, musical director; John Clayton, bass; Benny Green, piano; Russell Malone, guitar; Greg Hutchinson, drums’ Ernie Andrews, vocalist; Barbara Morrison, vocalist; Karriem Riggins, drums; Geoff Keezer, piano. The late, great Ray Brown, who performed with such recording legends as Frank Sinatra, Billy Eckstine, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson and Peggy Lee, was also a great influence on young musicians and mentor to our own Christian McBride. Join Christian with Ray's former band mates and friends to pay homage to this beloved jazz giant. Info & tix at www.LAPhil.com. Program page at www.laphil.com/tickets/performance_detail.cfm?id=3657
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 29
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Thu, Jan 29:
7 & 9:30 pm “NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS” brings MASTERPIECE, plus THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN, OLD SCHOOL, and international champion guest artists, three headline acts in all, from the Mid-Winter convention of “CHAMPION A Cappella Barbershop” to play two shows at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN headline both shows. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “This is absolutely an extremely special event. The musical talent is stunning. The humor outstanding. This is an extrordinary night of champions. Well worth $22.50 for each show.”
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First show (7 pm): MASTERPIECE and THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN plus surprise guests. MASTERPIECE is four International quartet champions from three different foursomes: tenor ROB MENAKER and bass BRETT LITTLEFIELD sang with the 1996 International Champion quartet NIGHTLIFE; lead MARK HALE sang with the 2001 International Quartet Champion MICHIGAN JAKE. Baritone ALAN GORDON sang with the 2004 International Quartet Champion quartet GOTCHA! Plus, THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN, with “stunning music and outstanding humor. A perfect night's entertainment.” Together they have woven a wonderfully precise sound and stage personae into a truly exciting and winning combination, having captured the title of “Far Western District Champions” for 2008-2009 in their first attempt.
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Second show (9:30 pm): OLD SCHOOL and THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN (with different songs and costumes than the 7 pm show) plus surprise guests!
OLD SCHOOL has taken on the look and feel of quartets from the Barbershop Harmony Society's past and put it back into play on the contest and show stage. “They have incorporated big and bold chords, swipes, key-changes and hellacious tags that can peel paint at 20 yards.” Tenor RICK TAYLOR formerly of RIPTIDE holds down the full-voice tenor notes. Lead JOE "AWESOME" CONNELLY holds the title as the only man to own three International Gold medals, having won with THE INTERSTATE RIVALS in 1987, KEEPSAKE in 1992, and PLATINUM in 2000. Baritone JACK PINTO has sung in various quartets on the international contest stage, and brings “plenty of vigor.” Bass JOE KRONES has a “voice the size of Texas.”
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THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN anchor both shows, with “the best of music and the funniest of comedy.” Bob Stane calls them, “A stunning exhibit,” continuing, “I can give you a hint about THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN in a paragraph I wrote to some other venues. Here it is:
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“THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN are perfect. They sing, they are funny, they are smooth, they make it look easy, they are in costume and they just ‘wow’ the audience. They sold out every seat during their first engagement and I expect nothing less during the next two shows at my bistro. Fabulous musical talent and enviable stagecraft. My suggestion to any venue is: ‘GRAB THEM.’ Don't delay, just offer them your next available spot. You will be as delighted as I was, especially when your audience tells you that you are a booking genius. Yes, THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN will make you look brilliant. And you will be.”
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Bob Stane suggests, strongly, that you grab one of these shows, adding, “Stay up late on a school night.” $22.50, either show.
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Thu, Jan 29:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists MARCY LEVY (Eric Clapton), and JEFF PARIS (Bill Withers, Keb' Mo, Billy Preston), and at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” Tonight offers a very notable show, with two big-league musicians, that’s FREE. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Jan 29; in Santa Barbara:
LEDWARD KA'APANA & MIKE KAAWA at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-962 7776; www.sohosb.com.
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Thu, Jan 29; not music, but cool:
8 pm MATTHEW BOGDANOS: “THIEVES OF BAGHDAD: THE JOURNEY TO RECOVER THE WORLD'S GREATEST STOLEN TREASURES” in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5841.html. Presented by the Caltech Committee on Institute Programs, in the “Voices of Vision” series. (Originally scheduled for Oct 9, 2008.) When Baghdad fell, Colonel Matthew Bogdanos was in southern Iraq, tracking down terrorist networks through their financing and weapons smuggling—until he heard about the looting of the museum. Immediately setting out across the desert with an elite group chosen from his multiagency task force, he risked his career and his life in pursuit of Iraq's most priceless treasures.
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“Thieves of Baghdad” takes you from his family's flight to safety at Ground Zero on 9/11, to his mission to hunt down al-Qaeda terrorists in Afghanistan, and into the war-torn streets of Baghdad on the trail of antiquities. Colorful characters and double-dealing are the norm as Bogdanos tries to sort out what really happened during the chaos of war. We see his team going on raids and negotiating recoveries, blowing open safes and mingling in the marketplaces, and tracking down leads from Zurich and Amman to Lyons, London, and New York. In an investigation that led to the recovery of more than 5,000 priceless objects, complex threads intertwine, and the suspense mounts as the team works to locate the most sensational treasure of all, the treasure of Nimrud, a collection of gold jewelry and precious stones often called "Iraq's Crown Jewels."
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A mixture of police procedural, treasure hunt, wartime thriller, and cold-eyed assessment of the connection between the antiquities trade and weapons smuggling, Thieves of Baghdad exposes sordid truths about the international art and antiquities market. It explores the soul of a man who is equal parts hardened Marine, dedicated father, and passionate scholar. Most of all, it demonstrates that, in a culture as old as that of the Middle East, nothing is ever quite what it seems.
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Matthew Bogdanos has been an assistant district attorney in Manhattan since 1988. A colonel in the Marine Reserves, middleweight boxer, and native New Yorker, he holds a degree in classics from Bucknell University, a law degree and a master's degree in Classical Studies from Columbia University, and a master's degree in Strategic Studies from the Army War College. Recalled to active duty after September 11, 2001, he received a Bronze Star for counterterrorist operations in Afghanistan, and then served two tours in Iraq. Released back into the Reserves in October 2005, he plans to return to the DA's Office to head up New York's first antiquities task force. FREE; no tickets or reservations required
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Thu, Jan 29:
9:30 pm “NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS” brings MASTERPIECE, plus THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN, OLD SCHOOL, and international champion guest artists, three headline acts in all, from the Mid-Winter convention of “CHAMPION A Cappella Barbershop” to play two shows at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Second of two shows; see 7 pm write-up.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30
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Fri, Jan 30; in the OC:
6:30 “BENEFIT FOR THE OCEAN INSTITUTE CHILDREN’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS” with a wine reception and a jazz concert by JEFF GOLUB with JEFF LORBER & RICK BRAUN, at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point 92629; 949-496-2274, events, x412; www.ocean-institute.org. Wine reception is 6:30-7:30 pm, concert is 7:30-9:30 pm. Tix $95 & $125. (There is another benefit tomorrow night, and it includes dinner; see Sat 5:30 pm listing.)
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Fri, Jan 30 (& 31) 2009; film screening:
7:30 pm (Fri) “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Films remaining in the series, and times and dates are:
“ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST” (1968, Paramount) dir. Sergio Leone; Jan 30, 7:30 pm.
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges; Jan 31, 4 pm.
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah; Jan 31, 7:30 pm.
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It’s a theme of “Romance, rough riding, and railroads,” as the series celebrates six classic westerns with compelling stories and stunning cinematography in a series of films that sample great westerns from the 1920s to the 1970s, complementing the exhibition “Dialogue among Giants: Carleton Watkins and the Rise of Photography in California,” in the Getty gallery.
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The Getty’s promo observes, “The western landscape has long provided a raw and encouraging palette seemingly created for the artist. Just as photographer Carlton Watkins evidenced its majesty in the late 1800s, filmmakers a few years later would insert characters and epic stories into its environs. John Ford's ‘The Iron Horse’ (1924) and Raoul Walsh's ‘The Big Trail’ (1930) laid the groundwork for the concerns of filmed westerns for years to come: the treacherous building of the transcontinental railroad and the pioneering move west. In time, most great filmmakers would try their hand at a western; for some, it would prove a distinct and mythic genre.”
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TONIGHT’S FILM:
“ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST” (1968, Paramount) dir. Sergio Leone. Man battles man, and landscape, in Leone's classic. Like its fairy tale title, Leone's operatic ode to the west captures a period of time both current, the "civilization" of the wilderness through the railroad and commerce, and mournful, and simultaneously serves as a parable of the death of the western. Gathering up influences of westerns past, Leone etches his own vision of the myth, as the grizzled human face stands equal with the fading scrubrush of the land, both destined to fade into the sunset.
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ONE SCREENING of each film. Series runs Fridays & Saturdays, January 23 & 24 and 30 & 31. Admission is FREE; a separate reservation is required for EACH film (hence, a “double feature” requires two sets of reservations). Use the "Make Reservation" buttons at www.getty.edu/visit/events/western_film_series.html?cid=egetty085 or call 310-440-7300. (Note that you will need to go on, off, and back on to the reservations page to obtain more than a total of four free tix. You CAN make reservations for free tix for the full series, but not all at once.)
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Fri, Jan 30:
LOWEN & NAVARRO plus STONEHONEY at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl (at Crescent Heights), L.A.; 323-954-9400. Lowen & Navarro are two of the greatest songwriters of our time. Their best-known songs include the global hit, “We Belong,” as recorded and performed by PAT BENATAR. Known to their fans as “L&N,” they have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where Eric Lowen first went public about his battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Though Eric no longer plays his myriad of string instruments, the pair delivers a fine show. Go. More at www.lownav.com.
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Fri, Jan 30:
8 pm LAURENCE JUBER at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. PAUL McCARTNEY hand-picked him to become lead guitarist for WINGS. Close your eyes and you'll hear 3 guitarists. Open them and you'll see one inspired solo player. Laurence Juber is acclaimed as one of the leading acoustic guitarists of our generation. His masterful fingerstyle playing combines elements of jazz, blues, rock, and folk, with a distinctive voice that transcends musical boundaries. This is a show for all musical tastes. “Guitar Player” magazine wrote, "The moods he can pull out of a single Martin acoustic are pretty astounding." “Acoustic Guitar” magazine calls him, "One of the most gifted and versatile fingerstyle guitarists on the scene," and Fingerstyle Guitar cites his "Stunning fretwork." Even the L.A. Times, notorious for ignoring acoustic music, says he brings "A provocative guitar perspective" Buy tix early. $25.
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Fri, Jan 30, 2009:
8 pm TERRI HENDRIX and LLOYD MAINES at Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks area); www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts; www.houseconcerts.us. Reserv & directions at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. These two headliners have shared many a stage at big venues and on the Austin music scene, but this is a rare treat to see them together in an intimate house concert setting. Features coffee & dessert buffet, to which contributions are welcome. Doors at 7:30 pm. All proceeds go to the artist. Check for price of each concert. More at www.terrihendrix.com
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Fri, Jan 30; in Lancaster:
8 pm THE NEVILLE BROTHERS at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Groove to the hybrid mix of blues-soaked jazz, funk, soul, gospel and Southern street music created by “The First Family of Funk.” Brothers ART, CHARLES, AARON. & CYRIL NEVILLE proudly carry the torch of their native New Orleans' rich R&B legacy around the world and into downtown Lancaster. www.nevilles.com. Tix $56 & $49.
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Fri, Jan 30; in Denver, Colorado:
8 pm CHRIS HILLMAN, JOHN McEUEN, HERB PEDERSON, at Colfax Events Center, Denver, CO. John McEuen is the multi-instrumentalist who is a founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; he taught Steve Martin to play banjo, and he’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” CHRIS HILLMAN & HERB PEDERSON are arguably the pioneers of the genre known as "Country Rock." Hillman has carved a permanent niche in the history of contemporary American music through his work with such notable bands as The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers and the Desert Rose Band. All ages. Tix $32 advance, $35 at door.
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 31
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
2 pm “ROYCE HALL ORGAN & FILM” brings organist TOM TRENNEY accompanying one of the great comedies of the silent film era, Harold Lloyd’s “Speedy” (1928), 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. Shot on location in Manhattan and featuring shots of the old Yankee Stadium and Coney Island's Luna Park, Lloyd’s last silent film is packed with brilliant sight gags and includes a cameo by baseball legend Babe Ruth. Co-presented with the UCLA Film & Television Archive. It’s a popular family event, so get tix early.
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“One of the enduring valentines to New York City from Hollywood.” - Andrew Sarris, New York Observer. Master organist Tom Trenney plays along to Harold Lloyd’s last silent film, “Speedy,” a film that packs as many great gags per minute as any Lloyd film, and also has one of his sweetest love stories.
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Lloyd's character Harold "Speedy" Swift, is an upbeat young man whose fatal attraction for baseball always causes him to lose his jobs. After his latest firing, he impulsively spends a day at Coney Island with his sweetheart, Jane Dillon (Ann Christy). Ann's grandfather, Pop Dillon (Bert Woodruff), meanwhile, has a dilemma -- he runs the last horse-drawn trolley in New York City, and the railway magnates desperately want his route. Since Pop won't sell it to them, they hire thugs to stop him from making his rounds at least once every 24 hours. Speedy hears about this plan and takes over the route to protect the old man. When the magnates then steal the trolley, Speedy's dash to get it back to its route in time leads to a frenzied finale, as Harold races Gotham’s last horse-drawn trolley right through Washington Square Arch!
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Filmed on location in New York City, “Speedy” features the most extensive Manhattan location shots of its time. Many of the historically interesting sites include Coney Island's Luna Park, with some wonderfully hair-raising (and understandably obsolete) rides, Columbus Circle and Wall Street as they were in 1928. In the film's climax, the trolley has a spectacular crash at the Brooklyn Bridge -- this accident was not planned, but was left in the film anyhow. Baseball legend Babe Ruth has a cameo role, playing himself as a very harassed fare when Speedy is working as a cabbie. Their wild ride ends at the old Yankee Stadium, and the film captures one of the Bambino's record-setting 60 home runs from the 1927 campaign.
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At the time of the film’s release, Lloyd was a top box-office draw, a bigger moneymaker than Charlie Chaplin (whose releases during the '20s was infrequent) and Buster Keaton (whose quirky comedy wouldn't be fully appreciated for several decades). While Lloyd made some fairly amusing sound films, he never again matched the quality of his silent work.
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“No filmmaker had ever made such flamboyant use of New York.” – Kevin Brownlow. "Speedy is a very significant film for Lloyd's career. It is not only his last silent film and the climax to his "golden age," but it also evidenced a mellowing of character...He is a devil-may-care likeable chap, somewhat altruistic, still sharp and witty, but most important, he is confident -- confident in himself, in his time, in his values and ideals." – Adam Riley
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“SPEEDY,” 1928, 35mm, silent, 86 min. (24 f.p.s.)
Directed by Ted Wilde
Cinematography: Walter Lundin
Screenplay: John Grey, Lex Neal, Howard Emmett Rogers, Jay Howe
Cast: Harold Lloyd, Ann Christy, Bert Woodruff, Brooks Benedict
Producer: John L. Murphy.
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Gen’l $25; $15 for children under age 12 and for UCLA students.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009; film screening:
4 & 7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Films remaining in the series, and times and dates are:
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges; Jan 31, 4 pm.
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah; Jan 31, 7:30 pm.
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It’s a theme of “Romance, rough riding, and railroads,” as the series celebrates six classic westerns with compelling stories and stunning cinematography in a series of films that sample great westerns from the 1920s to the 1970s, complementing the exhibition “Dialogue among Giants: Carleton Watkins and the Rise of Photography in California,” in the Getty gallery.
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The Getty’s promo observes, “The western landscape has long provided a raw and encouraging palette seemingly created for the artist. Just as photographer Carlton Watkins evidenced its majesty in the late 1800s, filmmakers a few years later would insert characters and epic stories into its environs. John Ford's ‘The Iron Horse’ (1924) and Raoul Walsh's ‘The Big Trail’ (1930) laid the groundwork for the concerns of filmed westerns for years to come: the treacherous building of the transcontinental railroad and the pioneering move west. In time, most great filmmakers would try their hand at a western; for some, it would prove a distinct and mythic genre.”
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TODAY’S FILM:
“BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK” (1955, MGM) dir. John Sturges. It’s the western as allegory for blacklisting in '50s Hollywood. The western can be a beautiful thing: it can be the setting for the hero, the bad guy, and the horse; or it can be a film that uses western signifiers and settings as allegory for the social circumstances of the day. Here, Sturges brilliantly utilized western tropes, the one-armed stranger versus the town of hostile ruffians, as an allegory for the blacklisting blazing through '50s Hollywood.
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TONIGHT’S FILM:
“PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah. One of the last great westerns, made fifty years after John Ford initially celebrated the birth of the west. Sam Peckinpah, a true lover of the west and the western, here elegizes it half a century into the development of the film genre. “Progress” as depicted in the film equals the dehumanizing takeover of the wilderness and the end of the way of life inherent to the western. James Coburn, in his character of Pat Garrett claims, "This country's getting old and I'm getting old with it." Not, however, without a fight.
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ONE SCREENING of each film. Series runs Fridays & Saturdays, January 23 & 24 and 30 & 31. Admission is FREE; a separate reservation is required for EACH film (hence, a “double feature” requires two sets of reservations). Use the "Make Reservation" buttons at www.getty.edu/visit/events/western_film_series.html?cid=egetty085 or call 310-440-7300. (Note that you will need to go on, off, and back on to the reservations page to obtain more than a total of four free tix. You CAN make reservations for free tix for the full series, but not all at once.)
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Sat, Jan 31; in the OC:
5:30 “BENEFIT FOR THE OCEAN INSTITUTE CHILDREN’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS” with a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner and a jazz concert by JEFF GOLUB with JEFF LORBER & RICK BRAUN, at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point 92629; 949-496-2274, events, x412; www.ocean-institute.org. Cocktail reception & auction is 5:30-7:30 pm, dinner & concert is 7:30-10:30 pm. Tix $500. (There was a less-expensive benefit here last night, wine reception & concert; see Fri 6:30 pm listing.)
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Sat, Jan 31:
7 pm JIM KWESKIN & FRIENDS at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. JIM KWESKIN was the originator, in the 1960s of THE JIM KWESKIN JUG BAND that launched the careers of GEOFF MULDAUR, MARIA MULDAUR, MEL LYMAN, BILL KEITH and RICHARD GREENE, among others. He has recorded and released dozens of tracks. He specializes in finger picking the guitar and singing songs from the great American songbook of pop, folk and swing. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “We are betting on some good stories and a lot of familiar music. Join Jim and all of us for some fun and serious going down that nostalgic road. A fine band with JIM KWESKIN leading.” JIM KWESKIN brings “friends” JEAN SUDBURY (Tumbling Tumbleweeds) on fiddle and TIM EMMONS on bass. Jim promises, “Everyone will have a good time.” Advance tix $22; $25 at door.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
7:30 pm MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO at Blvd Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. VOCO has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and at venues coast-to-coast and overseas.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009; film screening:
7:30 pm “HOW THE WEST WAS SHOT: SIX WESTERNS, SIX DECADES” film series concludes at the Getty Center, Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; tix are free, parking is $10. Advance reservations strongly advised.
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Tonight’s finale is the film, “PAT GARRETT AND BILLY THE KID” (1973, MGM) dir. Sam Peckinpah. See 4 pm listing for details.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm TERRI HENDRIX with LLOYD MAINES play the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. When Terri Hendrix walked away from her opera scholarship in college, it was only because she found the classical music path too narrow for her free spirit.
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But there was just no shaking her love of music. Armed with the Mississippi-John-Hurt-style guitar chops she learned from mentor and philanthropist Marion Williamson - in exchange for milking goats on Williamson’s Wilory Farm - Hendrix began hauling her own P.A. in the back of her beat-up pick-up to gigs throughout the Texas Hill Country.
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From her native San Antonio to the live music hotbed of Austin and every small town honky-tonk and coffee shop in Texas, it wasn’t long before the fans started adding-up, and Hendrix had to recruit some of them to help keep up with her mailing list. All this in the pre-email / web site dark ages of the early ’90s. By the time she got around to recording her debut album, 1996’s “Two Dollar Shoes,” Terri Hendrix did what most artists still did at the time, and shopped around for a record label. She was turned down by three, none of which are still in business. She released the record independently, and never looked back.
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Now, nine self-released albums later, Terri Hendrix is still thriving — and grateful she made the fateful decision more than a dozen years ago to not only follow her own path through her music career, but to ultimately “own her own universe.” Artist info, www.terrihendrix.com. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
8 pm THE NEVILLE BROTHERS at the Haugh Performing Arts Center, at Citrus College 1000 W. Foothill Bl, Glendora 91741; www.haughpac.com. There is no question that the Neville Brothers are the first family of music in New Orleans, the United States, and possibly the world. Individually, their recording history spans over 40 years. As a group, the Neville Brothers have been together and recording since 1978. Their music defies classification: bayou funk, rhythm and blues, bebop, soul are inadequate labels for their unique, never-duplicated sound. Each of the four brothers has discovered his own musical identity; as a family, these “blood brothers” have created some of the funkiest sounds the world has ever heard, combining half a century of New Orleans music into one family unit. Artists info, www.nevilles.com. Tix $45 & $40, students & srs $43 & $38.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
8 pm STAN RIDGWAY at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. McCabe’s concert booker, Lincoln Myerson, tells us, “When it comes to writing songs about ghostly marines, strippers with broken arms, and other dark, strange subjects, Ridgway is the best there is. Through the musical pictures that he's been painting for 30 years now, the singer-songwriter and guitarist has emerged as a singular voice in contemporary song. He's written songs for film with STEWART COPELAND, written and orchestrated music for the surrealist paintings of Mark Ryden, recorded and performed for uber-producer Hal Willner, and produced FRANK BLACK, among other projects. His songs carry listeners to the edge of their seats, while perfectly balancing his sometimes-untrustworthy narrator's voice from the twilight zone. This show will feature Ridgway and his acoustic quartet playing favorites as well as new songs from his soon to be released 10th solo album. Pull up a chair.” Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $17.50.
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Sat, Jan 31:
8 pm JONATHAN McEUEN performs at the Thousand Oaks Library as part of the Bodie House Music series, at the Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks 91362. Jonathan McEuen was born to play music and bring joy to those listening. Good genes and a star-studded "extended musical family" are great (his father is famous rock star banjo picker John McEuen, founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, with whom Jonathan has played), but when people respond to Jonathan's extraordinary voice and guitar playing, it's obvious he's more than "just another son of a star." He’s spent his youth - and now his young adult life - on the road, doing what he loves most, playing guitar and singing with the family, playing electric and acoustic guitar and singing background for a number of world class artists, and fronting his own bands.
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Most recently, he put in serious time as half the duo with HANNA McEUEN on a major label. That experience confirmed he was ready to move forward and create music outside the confines of his influences or a specific genre. With more shows behind him than he can count (Jay Leno, Grand Ol' Opry, and Red Rocks among them), Jonathan is taking audiences to new places. Playing music without limitations, he creates new genres, breaking some molds and fusing musical traditions in his own, inspired way. Though sponsored by the Bodie House Music series, this show is at the Thousand Oaks Library. More at www.jonathanmceuen.com and www.BodieHouse.com. $15.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
8 pm PETER SPRAGUE at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, www.petersprague.com. $15.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009:
10 pm “CANS FOR COMEDY NIGHT” at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info & reservations, 626-398-7917; www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com (though their website may not be updated to include this). Admission is a small bag / small armload of canned goods for the local food bank. This more-or-less-monthly charity benefit series has both professional and up-and-coming comics. It is a separate event, and IN ADDITION TO the 7 pm music performance in the Coffee Gallery Backstage.
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[As always, more to come…]
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, as chronological date listings, 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 August, 2009, are available for
(1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana / acoustic renaissance music events, and,
(2) festivals and other events of great note throughout the US and Canada (and sometimes beyond) that are included here and in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” when we update it. THIS Guide edition contains all the most current listings for the months indicated, as of the date it weas posted.
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If you used a specific url to reach this edition of the Guide, THERE MAY BE A MORE RECENT EDITION. Use the basic url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com - and check the side bar on the left, to see if more recent editions have been posted.
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If you explore our Myspace page and you’re interested in what’s available there, you’ll probably need to use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore the archives.
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The MOST RECENT EDITIONS - both the event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the Acoustic Americana Music News Features - lives 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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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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As always, more to come, as we (believe it or not) continue to make updates to all the months of 2009 in the “long look ahead” posts.
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…So many truly fine shows, so few evenings and weekends to see them. And hey, Western Capitalism is going to collapse around you anyway, and gas is suddenly the ONLY thing that’s affordable, so why not go have a tunefully good time?
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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 Guide updates often, and News Features post weekly.
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Current chronological date listings are available for
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(1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana / folk-Americana / acoustic renaissance music events, and,
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(2) festivals and other events of great note featuring acoustic Americana music, THROUGHOUT THE US & CANADA (and sometimes beyond), are included in the Guide, and listed separately in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which posts from time to time.
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If you don’t see the dates you need in the content bar at left, just scroll it, OR CLICK THE MOST RECENT PAST MONTH for posts that published during that month. 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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If you’re trying to explain this thing to someone who likes real music, just tell ‘em that the Guide’s MOST RECENT EDITIONS as well as our NEWS FEATURES - that’s both the Guide with its event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the separately-posted 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) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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LINKS:
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If you are considering a vacation to Mexico, here's an informative and fun site for you: www.mexicovacationtravels.com
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“There’s nothing as quiet as night without music, as dark as a night without stars...” - from “THE FIDDLER,” learned from Guy Carawan
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