May 1 & 2, Acoustic Americana Music Guide, 2009

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There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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First week for May …
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MAY 1 & 2, 2009 EVENTS
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Updated April 30, 2009; recurring events are included.
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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, write to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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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! People who love real music tend to love all real music. So, yes, we do include listings for many classical music performances. (When is a fiddle a violin? We’ll leave that to you.)
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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.
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Here you will find news of live performances of acoustic music and musicians, events that we know you’ll enjoy attending. We include festivals everywhere, and provide a comprehensive guide to concerts, club gigs, coffeehouse performances, and more in the Los Angeles region, from Santa Barbara to Orange County. The Guide includes musicians’ workshops, music conferences, seminars, panel discussions, and more.
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This is the “big half” of what we publish. The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE and the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS post separately. The latest edition of the NEWS, published April 15, is available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/04/news-acoustic-americana-music-news.html
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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 THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events.
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FUTURE MONTHS are published separate from the current month. If you’re looking for “long looks ahead,” remember they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list and tabs to the left 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 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.
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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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It’s MAY…
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The name of the month, MAY, and the number of days it contains have a curiously mixed history. The name goes back to “Maia,” the goddess of “growth and increase.” But some contend it was named for the older branch of the Roman Senate, the Majores or Maoires. (Sounds suspiciously sexist to us: a bunch of old guys vs. a goddess of increase?) The number of days in May has varied from 22 to 30 to today’s 31. Regardless of the thing about their Senate, ancient Romans associated the month with flowers, fertility, and the rich bounty of nature.
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MAY 1 & 2, 2009 EVENTS (yes, yes, yes, MUCH more later…)
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks, plus NEW, just for musicians, our “PICK OF THE WEEK FOR ARTISTS,” spotlighting the best workshops, seminars, and more!
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Recurring events are included in this edition.
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FRIDAY, MAY 1
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FLASH! IMPORTANT NEWS:
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Fri, May 1; LAST DAY for discount tix:
Inaugural “L.A. ACOUSTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL” is June 6 & 7 on the Santa Monica Pier for the pier’s 100th Anniversary. It has an AMAZING line-up. “Early Bird” opportunity for discounted tix ends today; buy yours before the prices go up! Info & tix at www.laacousticmusicfestival.com
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Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the Ojai Storytelling Festival (Fri-Sun); Aztec Stories at 9:30 & 11 am, and Will Ryan & the Cactus County Cowboys at 8 pm.
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This WEEKEND’S LOCAL FESTIVALS that start today:
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Fri, May 1 (Thu-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at Libbey Bowl, Ojai; Info & tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ojaistoryfest.org. Tix at the Libbey Bowl Ticket Center, in front of the tennis courts in Libbey Park, at Signal St & Ojai Av, Ojai. “The Ojai festival is to storytelling what Sundance is to film. If it's rare and magical and quirky, you'll find it at this wondrous gem of a festival.” - Carmen Deedy, acclaimed storyteller and author.
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With storytellers JIM COGAN, DONALD DAVIS, GLENIS REDMOND, SCOTT AINSLIE, LELAND FAULKNER, CARMEN DEEDY, NIALL DE BÚRCA, PETER COOK, “and lots of special surprises.” Bios available on event website.
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“The Ojai Storytelling Festival has it all: entertaining, nationally known storytellers, wonderful organization and the ideal location to sit out under the oaks and hear stories that will move you, make you laugh and remind you it is great to be alive.” - David Holt, Storyteller and Grammy Award-winning musician.
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Ojai was the place chosen by film director FRANK CAPRA as Shangri-La for his film, “Lost Horizon,” and few places can lay claim to a storytelling pedigree that compares to that. Imagine sitting beneath ancient oaks at the famed Libbey Bowl and listening to some of the world’s finest storytellers. It’s the Ojai Storytelling Festival, celebrating its 10th year with an international lineup of storytellers “guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat and thoroughly entertained,” reads their promo. It continues, “You’ll hear tales filled with uproarious comedy, high adventure and drama told with music, movement and even magic. With a menu of stories that will appeal to families all the way to spicy tales for adults, the Ojai Storytelling Festival truly offers something for everyone. You won’t believe what you’ll hear. It’s not just a festival, it’s an experience.”
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Here are some interesting “Out-of-Town” events:
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Fri-Mon, May 1-4; in Mexico:
“BAJA OFF THE GRID” MAYDAY RETREAT led by AMY CLARKE, “for anyone in L.A. for the ASCAP ‘I Create Music Expo,’ ‘the MUSExpo,’ etc., Gaia Grove has a creative, spiritual retreat if enough wish to attend.” Info at www.bajaoffthegrid.com and http://mysticalmaydayretreat.eventbrite.com. Contact Amy at gaiagrove@gmail.com to reserve space. She says, “only a 4 hour scenic coastal drive from L.A.”
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Fri-Sun, May 1-3; in Kansas:
“PRAIRIE ROSE CHUCK WAGON FESTIVAL” in Benton, Kansas, has a Friday night show, and runs all day Saturday and Sunday; tix & info, 316-778-2000.
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Fri-Mon, May 1-4; in Ireland:
“BALLYDEHOB INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL” in the heart of West Cork, Ireland.
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Fri-Sun, May 1-3; in Louisiana:
Annual “BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Info, and tantalizing things to make you wish you were there, at www.bbcrawfest.com.
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Fri, May 1; in Denver:
8 pm ANGIE STEVENS & THE BEAUTIFUL WRECK with BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY, as Angie & her band play the CD RELEASE PARTY for their new album, at Tavern HG, 7401 E 1st Av, Denver, CO; www.tavernhg.com/soiled_dove/show/8380. More at www.angiestevens.com. If you’re in Denver, this is absolutely the place to be. BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and played all the big Southern Cal performing arts centers. ANGIE STEVENS’ music has been heard on “TttT” and one of her earlier albums was recorded live at Red Rocks, Denver’s Hollywood Bowl. She is named, every year by the local media, as the top singer-songwriter in Denver.
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L.A. AREA EVENTS: here are the club gigs, coffeehouse shows, concerts, and all kinds o’ things… (the local FESTIVALS are already listed, ahead of this!)
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Fri, May 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9:30 & 11 am AZTEC STORIES presents “A VISIT WITH MOTECUHZOMA,” a very unique once-a-year educational program, with MICHAEL HERALDA and special guest musician XAVIER QUIJAS YXAYOTL, at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, on the Plaza of Mesoamerican Heritage, 6300 Forest Lawn Dr, L.A. 90068; reservations & info, contact Shannon Lawrence, 800-204-3131 or slawrence@forestlawn.com. (2 shows.) Michael, who has presented excerpts from Aztec Stories on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” tells us, “If you work with students, I highly encourage you to consider scheduling your class or group (a bus trip) to attend this program. This is a rare opportunity for students and anyone studying the ancient native/indigenous cultures of this continent to experience a first-person account of a society that produced remarkable achievements in art, philosophy, science, math, and horticulture, and more. I look forward to speaking to you in my persona as the legendary Motecuhzoma Xocoyotzin - the 9th elected Huey Tlatoani of Mexico - Tenochtitlan!”
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More on the web at www.forestlawn.com/Special-Events-And-Facilities/Event-Detail.asp?EventID=75. Free, but make a reservation.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri, on web radio:
5 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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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
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 8-10 pm 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, May 1; every Fri:
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, May 1; every Fri:
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, first Fri, every month:
6:30-10 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” is a featured act / OPEN MIC monthly event at the The Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Includes music and raffles of merchandise from indie artists and sponsors, including massage, life coaching, and acting coaches. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. Javelyn holds a companion event every 3rd Sat at another venue, at 8 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com. $2 cover.
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Fri, 1st & 3rd Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri, 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, May 1:
7:30 pm “INTO THE WOODS” a musical version of Grimm’s fairy tales with “the insightful music” of STEPHEN SONDHEIM, at Janet and Ray Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Countrywide Performing Arts Center, 2100 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks. Presented by California Lutheran University Theatre & Music Depts. Ten years after “Into the Woods” won the biggest Tony Awards on Broadway and the equivalent Olivier Awards in London, CLU revives this rich and entertaining collection of tales and characters who must journey into the woods to get their heart’s desire: Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, The Childless Baker and his Wife, Rapunzel and more. In finding “Happily Ever After” initially, all are later challenged by those choices and are forced to confront what really matters in life. “Into the Woods” is full of humor, irony, sophistication and tender humanity. It’s a musical to enjoy, and in which you may well see yourself, and ultimately learn about tolerance in times of challenge. Runs Thu, Apr 30 at 7:30 pm; Fri, May 1 at 7:30 pm; Sat, May 2 at 7:30 pm; Sun, May 3 at 2:30 pm. Tix at the Civic Arts Plaza Box office, or at Ticketmaster. Discount tix for students with school id. Gen’l adm, $25.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
7:30-10 pm “SCOTT AND MELANIE BOMAR'S FIRST FRIDAY” show with different performing guests each month, at The Spot Cafe & Lounge, 4455 Overland Av, Culver City 90230; 310-559-8868. Scott & Melanie tell us, “There is no charge for the show but please support The Spot Cafe & Lounge with food and drink purchases. We like to help businesses that support independent music! Please carefully read the parking restriction signs in the neighborhood as some are hard to read and parking enforcement is aggressive in the area.” More at www.TheBomars.com and www.MelanieBomar.com and www.ScottBBomar.com. No cover.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
7:30 pm “SONGSALIVE! FIRST FRIDAYS LOS ANGELES SHOWCASE” at Hallenbeck's & Cahuenga General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; www.hallenbecks.net. Featuring talented songwriters from around the globe, and held around the globe, Songsalive! Showcases are a cozy, intimate and acoustic environment where media and music industry representatives often drop-by to check-out the latest talent. Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches & salads. Info on sponsoring organization at www.songsalive.org/losangeles. $8 cover at the door.
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Fri, May 1; every Fri:
7:30 pm “OPEN MIC” at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica; 310-315-0056; www.unurban.com
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Fri, May 1; 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, May 1:
8 pm ALICE STUART at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. More at www.alicestuart.com. $15.
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Fri, May 1:
8 pm LIL DAVE THOMPSON plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. Lil Dave Thompson plays at 10:30 pm, with Bobby Bluehouse opening at 8 pm. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=2840026&s=93914888. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm). $15.
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Fri, May 1; “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm .WILL RYAN & THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. It’s a night of "Modern cowboy classics sung by authentic Western characters!” and the band / cast of characters includes Grammy-winner IAN WHITCOMB. BMI has awarded WILL RYAN 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. And there’s more:
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WILL RYAN, "The King of the Radio Cowboys," and the Cactus County Cowboys, "the Band that Won the West," have been entertaining horses, cattle and people since those dimly remembered, far-off days before the 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, to placate Ian Whitcomb). 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’sa 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 (really!). Over the years he's written many a Cowboy tune and continues doing so, thereby keeping the band in fresh supply of material.
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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", etc.). He is also heard in hundreds of episodes of award-winning TV shows (e.g. Tigger and Rabbit in Disney's long-running "Welcome to Pooh Corner", Willie the Giant in the current hit series "Mickey Mouse Club House").
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The CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS are a select group of top musicians hand-picked by Will Ryan. Most of them 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. As a long-time member of the Beverly Hills Unlisted Jazz Band, Westy was notable for his refined behavior. Ditto his impersonation of a gentleman in the internationally popular music act, the Palm Springs Yacht Club. John "Presto" Reynolds, "the Fastest Drawer in the West," 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, and he is a talented visual artist.
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When Will, Westy and Presto join in three-part singing "the harmonies are so smooth they sound like they came out of a Waring Blendor!" says critic "Tex" McClintock, which just might be a compliment. The three – Will, Westy and Presto - are the vocal and instrumental core of Will Ryan and the Cactus County Cowboys. 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. A real bargain at $18.
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Fri, May 1:
ERIC SCHWARTZ at Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA
First Friday show. Time TBA
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Fri, May 1:
8-10 pm monthly “FIRST FRIDAY” show with SEVERIN BROWNE & FRIENDS, this time, with JIMMY MUFFIN opening, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166.
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“Muffin is back stronger than ever, so come out and hear his new songs!” - Severin Browne. And what of Severin Browne himself? Well, he’s been a performing guest, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He’s been playing in the Southern California area for many years. After standing in line to play the Troubadour hoot in the seventies, he was taken to lunch by an ASCAP rep and given lots of names and numbers of publishers to contact. So Severin visited some of these publishers with guitar in hand. The first one offered him a deal, but Severin was advised to turn it down. The second one, Motown's Jobete Music, had a surprise visit by Berry Gordy who casually walked in while Severin was playing. After asking Severin to play a few more songs, he offered him a staff songwriting deal on the spot. Severin waited a few weeks until after his 21st birthday to sign the deal, but stayed there for four years. Six months after he signed the publishing deal, he also signed on with Motown Records as an artist and made 2 LPs over the next few years. On leaving Motown, Severin swore that he was quitting the music business. After a couple years, though, he was back to writing and playing again both solo and in bands. But it was still quite a few years before making his next album. His friend and collaborator Yoshio Maki was slowly wining and dining Severin (with sake and sushi) back into the studio. The album they made was released on the Moo Records label in 1996 and titled "From the Edge of the World." Some of the songs from this CD were used in the indie film "Plan B" starring Jon Cryer. Then Severin found himself recording a few years later with Ed Tree, a producer friend with great guitar chops. Over the next year or so they made the CD "This Twisted Road" and Severin released it under the name of his publishing company, Sub-Dude Music. (The name "Sub-Dude Music" was chosen as the third possibility on the BMI Publishing Company form, and Severin never thought that it would actually be used. He sends his apologies to "The Subdudes", a very cool band...) More at www.severinbrowne.com.
$10 Donation.
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Fri, every Fri:
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. 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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Fri, every Fri:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUES HOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry,” at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am.
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Fri, every Fri:
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 - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. 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:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the Ojai Storytelling Festival (Fri-Sun), Berkley Hart at 7 pm, and the Capitol Steps at 8 pm.
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There are “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-EVENTS-FOR ARTISTS” at 10 am and 1 pm…
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This WEEKEND’S LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3:
10 am-6 pm annual “REDONDO BEACH PIER ART & JAZZ FESTIVAL” on the Redondo Beach Pier. Free admission.
FESTIVAL LINE UP:
Saturday, May 2:
10-11 am The JazzAmerica Tentette conducted by Richard Simon
Noon-2 pm The Swingsations
2-4 pm Mark Shapiro & El Blamo
4-6 pm Thelonious Dub
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Sunday, May 3:
10 am-Noon Abe Lagrimas, Jr. (ukulele) & Yohei Nakamura (guitar)
Noon-2 pm Mark Fitchett
2-4 pm Karl Grossman & Camino Rio
4-6 pm Scott Martin Trio
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Sat, May 2:
Noon-4:30 pm Annual “SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA HERITAGE FAIRE” with THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, and others, at Rancho Los Alamitos, 6400 Bixby Hill Rd, Long Beach 90815; 562-431-3541; www.rancholosalamitos.com. Free.
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Sat, May 2 (Thu-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Ojai:
10th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at Libbey Bowl, Ojai; Info & tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ojaistoryfest.org. Tix at the Libbey Bowl Ticket Center, in front of the tennis courts in Libbey Park, at Signal St & Ojai Av, Ojai. “The Ojai festival is to storytelling what Sundance is to film. If it's rare and magical and quirky, you'll find it at this wondrous gem of a festival.” - Carmen Deedy, acclaimed storyteller and author.
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With storytellers JIM COGAN, DONALD DAVIS, GLENIS REDMOND, SCOTT AINSLIE, LELAND FAULKNER, CARMEN DEEDY, NIALL DE BÚRCA, PETER COOK, “and lots of special surprises.” Bios available on event website.
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“The Ojai Storytelling Festival has it all: entertaining, nationally known storytellers, wonderful organization and the ideal location to sit out under the oaks and hear stories that will move you, make you laugh and remind you it is great to be alive.” - David Holt, Storyteller and Grammy Award-winning musician.
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Ojai was the place chosen by film director FRANK CAPRA as Shangri-La for his film, “Lost Horizon,” and few places can lay claim to a storytelling pedigree that compares to that. Imagine sitting beneath ancient oaks at the famed Libbey Bowl and listening to some of the world’s finest storytellers. It’s the Ojai Storytelling Festival, celebrating its 10th year with an international lineup of storytellers “guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat and thoroughly entertained,” reads their promo. It continues, “You’ll hear tales filled with uproarious comedy, high adventure and drama told with music, movement and even magic. With a menu of stories that will appeal to families all the way to spicy tales for adults, the Ojai Storytelling Festival truly offers something for everyone. You won’t believe what you’ll hear. It’s not just a festival, it’s an experience.”
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3:
24th annual “UCLA POW WOW” Native American cultural event, very open to all peoples, on the UCLA Campus in Westwood. Call for info, 310-206-7513.
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Sat, May 2; in the OC:
“SOKA UNIVERSITY’S ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL” on the campus in Aliso Viejo, CA. Held the first Sat of May, celebrating the anniversary of SUA’s dedication on May 3, 2001. The Festival is part of Orange County’s Imagination Celebration (www.ocimaginationcelebration.org) and features international food, dance, music, street painting, art, ceramic sales and demonstrations, student project presentations, ceramic demonstrations, games, inflatable rides and over 100 non-profit and business exhibitors. Over 600 volunteer international musicians and dancers perform on three stages throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to wear international attire and to celebrate their own heritage. Admission is FREE to encourage family participation. Parking is $10 on campus and free at off-campus shuttle stops. 4800 people attended in 2008. All proceeds from the International Festival go to the SUA Education Fund. Info, www.soka.edu/festival
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Sat & Sun, May 3 & 4:
ON HIATUS THIS YEAR: SEE YOU IN 2010! - 10 am-9:30 pm 29th Annual “CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL” at Sycamore School, 225 W 8th St Claremont; info, 909-624-2928; www.myspace.com/claremontfolkfestival. Lineup and info when we have it. For now, here’s some history: In 1970, a small group of dulcimer players began meeting in Memorial Park in Claremont. They established the annual Dulcimer Festival that grew quickly and soon became known as the Claremont Folk Festival. In 1979, the group formalized into the Claremont Spring Folk Festival forming its own non-profit organization under the auspices of the Folk Music Center Museum’s Articles of Incorporation. After 26 years, the Festival has dropped the "Spring" to become once again the Claremont Folk Festival. The Festival is supported by fund raising efforts, donations, and sponsors in order to continue the Folk Music Center and Folk Music Center Museum's nearly 50 years of bringing sensational musical talent to the Claremont community.
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Here are some interesting “Out-of-Town” events:
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Sat & Sun, May 2 & 3; in Arizona:
Annual “TUCSON FOLK FESTIVAL” in Presidio Park, Tucson. BOB MALONE plays at 5 pm. An excellent free event with many fine folk acts.
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May 2 (Fri-Sun, Apr 30-May 3); in Texas:
“MAYFEST” in Fort Worth, TX, is a four-day family festival featuring live music, dancing food and beverage. Free children's area offering 25 things for children to make.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Mon, May 1-4); in Mexico:
“BAJA OFF THE GRID” MAYDAY RETREAT led by AMY CLARKE, “for anyone in L.A. for the ASCAP ‘I Create Music Expo,’ ‘the MUSExpo,’ etc., Gaia Grove has a creative, spiritual retreat if enough wish to attend.” Info at www.bajaoffthegrid.com and http://mysticalmaydayretreat.eventbrite.com. Contact Amy at gaiagrove@gmail.com to reserve space. She says, “only a 4 hour scenic coastal drive from L.A.”
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Sun, May 1-3); in Kansas:
“PRAIRIE ROSE CHUCK WAGON FESTIVAL” in Benton, Kansas, has a Friday night show, and runs all day Saturday and Sunday; tix & info, 316-778-2000.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Mon, May 1-4); in Ireland:
“BALLYDEHOB INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL” in the heart of West Cork, Ireland.
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Sat, May 2 (Fri-Sun, May 1-3); in Louisiana:
Annual “BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL” in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Info, and tantalizing things to make you wish you were there, at www.bbcrawfest.com.
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Sat, May 2; in Delaware:
76th annual “OLD DOVER DAYS FESTIVAL” in Dover, the Capital City of Delaware, the First State. Event features 150 arts and crafts, food festival, maypole dancing, huge parade, museum open houses, re-enactments, live musical performances, pancake breakfast, more.
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SATURDAY’S L.A. AREA EVENTS: here are the club gigs, coffeehouse shows, concerts, and all kinds o’ things… (the local FESTIVALS are already listed, ahead of this!)
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Sat; recurring:
8-10:30 am FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT at Strings Music Store, 146 N Glendora Av, Ste 101, Glendora 91741; 626-914 4100. Sometimes featuring VIN FIZ FLYER. Another in a series of MORNING concerts. Free entertainment, tips only, in a great place, with nice people and good music. Vin Fiz Flyer tells us, “Old town Glendora is a kinda sleepy small Midwest town plopped into Southern California. These early morning concerts sound like a wacky idea, but they’re well-attended by musicians as well as music lovers! A car club meets at the Cafe next door every Saturday for breakfast, and they park their assorted ‘babies’ out front for you to peruse too. Come on by and start your weekend out right.” Check with venue to see if there is a concert scheduled for today.
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Sat, May 2; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-FOR-ARTISTS” event:
10 am-1 pm “ARTS TUNE-UP” in Whittier offers “free arts advice for individual artists and arts organizations,” at the Senior Center in Parnell Park, 15390 Lambert Rd, Whittier 90604. Individual artists and small budget organizations can benefit from free expert advice and information on various aspects of arts management at Even though the event is free, it is recommended that participants register via SurveyMonkey, at www.surveymonkey.com/atuwhittier09. Ample free parking is available.
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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, May 2; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK-FOR-ARTISTS” event:
1-4 pm “CREATIVE SONG WRITING WORKSHOP” with MICHAEL FLEMING (New West), in the Wells Fargo Theater, at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; 323-667-2000.
Admission to the workshop includes museum admission, so come early and enjoy the current “Sparkle & Twang” exhibit on the history of country music.
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About the workshop, the Western Music Association, sponsor of the event, says, “Join us for an in depth look at the philosophy and approach to creative songwriting as seen through the eyes of award winning songwriter, Mike Fleming. Mike grew up in Colorado where he developed his performing and songwriting skills in theater and music. He has been described by reviewers as ‘a creative and perceptive songwriter’ whose work is ‘among the most innovative in Western Music.’ Mike has won the Academy of Western Artists Will Rogers - Best Western Swing Song award for ‘Sometimes This Old Cowboy Gets the Blues,’ and the 1997 WMA ‘Song of the Year’ and 1998 AWA ‘Best Song’ with co-writer, Les Buffham, for ‘Below the Kinney Rim.’ His band, NEW WEST, won the 1999 ‘Will Rogers Award’ for ‘Best Western Group.’ The last hour of the workshop will encourage participants to present a song in progress or a finished piece for an objective look at their work. Feel free to bring your instrument and please bring a lyric sheet along.”
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To register, call Marilyn Tuttle 818-365-8709. All proceeds from the workshop series benefit the California Chapter of the Western Music Association; more at www.westernmusic.org. Workshop fee (includes museum admission) is $25.
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Sat, May 2:
1 pm CITY FRITTER, KILLING CASSANOVA, & THE WEST OF WAYLAND BAND play Happy Trail, in the heart of Topanga Canyon. CITY FRITTER has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.cityfritter.com. It’s “MAYDAY!” A fundraiser party for, as they tell us, their “good friend and faithful flunky, Claire A. Dactyl. She finds herself in a tough financial predicament so we're passing the hat to help her out - an all day BBQ and concert in our neighbor's yard featuring KILLING CASSANOVA and THE WEST OF WAYLAND BAND, plus lots more special guests” Check their web page for directions. $5 suggested donation.
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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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Saturdays, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
2 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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Sat, May 2:
4 pm PACIFIC SERENADES do a classical music house concert at the home of Susan Key & Michael Pratt in Brentwood; reservations get directions, at jeninebaines@yahoo.com or 818-952-5544. Pacific Serenades presents World Premiere of new work by GRAMMY winning jazz pianist/composer Billy Childs - plus works by Ravel and Mozart. Program is:
Circle of blue
Ravel: String Quartet in F major
Mozart: Duo in G major, K. 423, for violin & viola
Billy Childs: New Work for string quartet (their 93rd premiere) World Premiere, commissioned by Pacific Serenades composer and jazz pianist Billy Childs, who for years, has been blurring the lines between jazz and Western classical music.
Performing are:
Roberto Cani, violin
Connie Kupka, violin
David Walther, viola
David Speltz, cello
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Additional performances are Sun, May 3, at 4 pm, in The Neighborhood Church in Pasadena; and, Tue, May 5, at 8 pm, at the UCLA Faculty Center, on the campus in Westwood.
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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, first Sat every month:
4 pm “CHARITY AUCTION” at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Host Brently Heilbron presides over the event, bringing a good time and money for a variety of charitable causes.
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Sat, May 2:
5 pm KELLY'S LOT at St. Francis DeSales Annual School Fair, 13368 Valleyheart Dr, Sherman Oaks. The fair is all weekend Friday through Sunday. Kelly's Lot have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” They have been playing music together for over 13 years, and Kelly says, “We plan on hitting 25. We have 2 CDs in the works and 6 gigs already booked for our European tour in September.” More at www.KellysLot.com
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Sat, first Sat every month:
6-10:30 pm monthly “PICKIN’ NIGHT” at the Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Beginner’s Jam 6-7:30 pm (main store); Intermediate Jam 6-7:30 pm in their additional space at 17824 Chatsworth St, 2 doors E of the main store; Open Jam 7:30-10:30 pm in main store.
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Sat, 1st Sat, every month; in the OC:
6 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” in Mission Viejo; for location, contact David Borger & Ann Carroll, OrangeCountyHoot@songmakers.org; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat; 1st Sat every month; in Oak Glen:
6 pm monthly “HOMETOWN JAMBOREE” show & jam at Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho, in the beautiful hills of Oak Glen above Yucaipa and Beaumont; info & tix, 909-797-1005 or www.losriosrancho.com. They tell us, “Folks can tuck into a tasty meal and enjoy a hand-clappin', knee-slappin', toe-tappin' good time as RILEY'S MOUNTAINEERS and special guest performers pick, fiddle and sing their favorite old-time bluegrass, western, and gospel tunes, as well as a few surprises along the way. Guest musicians are always welcome to tote along an instrument or two and join in the free-wheeling jam after the show. You never know who'll turn up, or what you'll hear next!” No shows in Dec and July. Jamborees start at 6 pm. Upcoming: Apr 4, May 2, Jun 6, Aug 1, Sep 5, Oct 3, Nov 7. Advance tix $15 adults, $10 kids age 12 & under.
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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, May 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm BERKLEY HART play their CD RELEASE show at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Bob Stane guarantees (money back) that you will, absolutely, strongly like this show. He sent us this testimonial “We have seen close to one hundred shows at The Coffee Gallery Backstage over the last few years. Berkley Hart is in our top five shows. I have never seen a group charm an audience like Jeff Berkley and Calman Hart. Excellent musicians, original songs, mellow harmonies make them an amazing act. The sound of the Backstage gives this great act the venue they deserve. Thanks so much for booking them.” - Kerry and Pat Bower.
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BERKLEY HART have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and were just as impressive for the radio audience. Hailed as masters of both two-part harmony and dazzling song craft, Berkley Hart have established themselves as one of the premier acoustic duos touring the country. In concert the duo shines, the obvious camaraderie between these two top singer-songwriters driving each performance. Add in virtuoso guitar playing from Jeff Berkley and Calman Hart as well as their good natured humor and it’s easy to see why the two have become live favorites. That said, it’s their acclaimed albums which have racked up the accolades, each filled with tunes as catchy as you’re likely to come across. Over their four albums to date, the duo has honed their approach, experimenting with format and instrumentation, even using a band. Now the pair has stripped their sound down to the basics, using only what they can carry, their guitars and their voices. Tixs: $20.
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Sat, every week:
7-9 pm “JUST PLAIN FOLKS ORANGE COUNTY” Group Singing, sponsored by the local chapter of the international Just Plain Folks; for info & loc, go to www.JPFolks.org.
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Sat, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Sat, 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, first Sat every month:
7:30-11 pm “FIRST SATURDAY CONTRA DANCE” with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS the merry acoustic band of TOM SAUBER, PATRICK SAUBER, STEVE LEWIS, & MIKE SAUBER, playing the 1st-Sat-of-every-month contra dance at the Brentwood Youth House, 731 S Bundy Dr (just S of San Vincente). Instruction at 7:30, dance from 8-11 pm.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
7:30-11:30 pm “SANTA MONICA TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC CLUB” at Santa Monica Synagogue, 1448 18th St (corner of 18th & Broadway), Santa Monica. Info, coordinator April Halprin Wayland, 310-376-8760, Aprilstory@aol.com; www.santamonicafolkmusicclub.org.
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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, May 2:
8-10 pm JAY KING AND FRIENDS, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. “Music industry legend and icon Jay King has blessed the airwaves and ear drums of the masses by recording his first solo epic, ‘Open Book’ a ten song adventure through adult contemporary textures of love, life and feeling,” says the promo for this one. Working with Larry Dunn of Earth, Wind and Fire, and guitar virtuoso Tony Dewayne, veteran industry staple John Barnes brought his expert production assistance and engineering to his state of the art complex, Innersound Studio-Los Angles. Music composition and production was added by Kevin Techmeier, Ched Tolliver and James L. Richard II, The Sekret Service. Jay is said to have “created a masterpiece in the realm of audio experience that is a destined to become a standard for all time.” We haven’t heard it.
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“Friends” tonight include the multi-talented David Stone on drums, and backup vocals; plus he does his own songs on guitar, ukulele or piano. David spent his late teens working in the Catskills, so he got to hang around many of America’s jazz greats. Fortunately, David had the innate talent to absorb all that genius. He’ll do original songs and old standards and charm the socks off you.
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Michael Doman migrated to L.A. about 10 years ago from the East Coast, determined that his music remain a true instrument for his self-expression, not some product formulated for consumption by the music industry. He has an offbeat style that, as tyhey say, “can't be compared with anybody else.” More at www.myspace.com/michaeldoman
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Philadelphia-born, self-taught musician Nick Mundy started his musical odyssey at the young age of 17 as lead singer and guitarist for the London Records family group, "The Beck Family." Nick continued his journey with another Philadelphia family group, "Sister Sledge," as their musical director and guitarist. He performed on their album titled “My Guy.” Columbia Records industry veterans Cecil Holmes and Ron Mosley saw green in Mundy. Nick left the East Coast for Los Angeles to pursue his artistry, armed with only one hundred dollars and 14 songs. He promptly landed himself a publishing deal with MCA Publishing and Warner Chapell Music. Nick found time to co-write and produce songs including “Talk to Me” for Chico DeBarge; “Trade Him In” with Janice Ian; “What Comes Naturally” for Sheena Easton; “This Song” for Jeffrey Osborne, and many more. More at www.cdbaby.com/cd/nickmundy. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, May 2:
8 pm IAN McLAGAN (ex Faces and Rod Stewart Band member) plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE, at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm). Show info, http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=2840027&s=93914888. Ian McLaglan plays at 10:30 pm; Bobby Bluehouse at 8 pm.
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THE BOBBY BLUES HOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry.” The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am. Tonight’s show is $20.
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Sat, May 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE CAPITOL STEPS, the political satire musical group comprised of former DC insiders, play the Caltech Public Events series in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech Campus, 332 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; reservations & tix, 888-2CALTECH; www.events.caltech.edu
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Sat, May 2:
8 pm HIGH HILLS, the popular all-women bluegrass band, plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. More at www.highhills.com. $17.50.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
8-10 pm monthly “JUKE JOINT GANG” show at the venue named in FolkWorks as co-winner for “Best Free (no cover) Acoustic Music Venue, The Talking Stick (new location), 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. This monthly event is specifically cited as a reason for the venue’s 2008 co-win in FolkWorks. It’s an evening of fine acoustic roots music, with four acts, each playing a 30-min set. Hosted by ERNEST TROOST, sometimes with LAUREN ADAMS, who have each performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches, salads, soup. No cover.
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Sat, first Sat every month; in the OC:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” meets in a private home in Mission Viejo. Info, www.songmakers.org/hoots/orange_county_hoot.htm.
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Sat, May 2:
8:30 pm FAY WOLF at The Pig 'n’ Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com; 323-463-0000. We liked her a lot when we heard her perform at a recent LAWIM Soiree showcase. Check-out Fay’s piano and vocals at www.myspace.com/faywolfmusic and at www.youtube.com/user/faywolfmusic.
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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, May 2; in the OC:
9:30 pm-1:30 am DENNIS ROGER REED BAND at Marlin’s Bar and Grill, 16651 Gothard Av, Huntington Beach; 714-842-5587. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they’re very musical and a lot of fun. Dennis says, “Country Roots returns! Join the boys and welcome the new drummer and guitar player. This gig is a benefit for Laguna Hills High’s Grad Nite. www.dennisrogerreed.com. For $10 tickets, contact dennisrogerreed@pacbell.net or mark_loos@dell.com.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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[Updated editions with more (as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events in MAY - in and around Los Angeles, plus the many, many, many upcoming acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, will post soon.]
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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 (more-or-less).
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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 and acoustic renaissance 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 we publish here from time to time. THIS Guide edition contains the most current listings, as of the date it was published.
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If you used a url for a specific edition to reach 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 published.
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If you want to 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 GUIDE’s event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the Acoustic Americana Music News Features – are available 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 and on No Depression, at http://community.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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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. With a new spirit of HOPE in America, why not celebrate by going out for a tunefully good time?
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copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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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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CAJUN PROVERB OF THE MONTH (yikes! We don’t have it yet for May!)
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Yes, it’s true -
There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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If you have trouble believing that, recent editions, covbering 10 days each, have required 95 and 107 pages of paper!
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April 27 to 30 edition, Acoustic Americana Music Guide last-of-April 2009

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There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
♪ ♪
Last of April...
APRIL 27-through APRIL 30, 2009 EVENTS
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Updated April 27, 2009; recurring events are included through April 30.
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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, write to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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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! People who love real music tend to love all real music. So, yes, we do include listings for many classical music performances. (When is a fiddle a violin? We’ll leave that to you.)
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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.
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Here you will find news of live performances of acoustic music and musicians, events that we know you’ll enjoy attending. We include festivals everywhere, and provide a comprehensive guide to concerts, club gigs, coffeehouse performances, and more in the Los Angeles region, from Santa Barbara to Orange County. The Guide includes musicians’ workshops, music conferences, seminars, panel discussions, and more.
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This is the “big half” of what we publish. The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE and the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS post separately. The latest edition of the NEWS, published April 15, is available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/04/news-acoustic-americana-music-news.html
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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 THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events.
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FUTURE MONTHS are published separate from the current month. If you’re looking for “long looks ahead,” remember they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list and tabs to the left 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 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.
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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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APRIL 27 through 30, 2009 EVENTS
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks, plus NEW, just for musicians, our “PICK OF THE WEEK FOR ARTISTS,” spotlighting the best workshops, seminars, and more!
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Recurring events are included in this edition through April 30.
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MONDAY, APRIL 27
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Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick is in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Mon, Apr 27; every week; on radio & web simulcast:
1-4 pm “BUFFALO BAYOU” radio show hosted by Jake Bacon on KUCI, simulcast at http://www.kuci.org. Sometimes with live performances. It’s “a swamp pop, Cajun, Zydeco, and all things bayou sonic gumbo laced with international flavorings and a wild attitude, cooked up, and served live to the world on the web and on itunes, and at 88.9 FM in Irvine since 2003. In addition to the KUCI webstream, the show is live on myspace at www.myspace.com/jakebacon889.
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Mon, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; repeats every 4th (& 2nd) Mon; in Corona:
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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27:
7:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with KATHRYN GRIMM, LILLY CARRICO, DEREK MOK, MARISSA HOLLENBACK, SCOTT McCAMPBELL, and CHRISTOPHER & NATASHA BARRAN, at The Talking Stick, 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 90291.
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Tonight, KATHRYN GRIMM is filling-in for usual host TONI KOCH (TK Promotions). Kathryn says, “I'll be presenting some excellent talent and debuting more of my newest material too.” Artists’ info: Lilly Carrico, www.myspace.com/lillycarrico ; Derek Mok, www.myspace.com/blooddivine & www.youtube.com/derekmok ; Marissa Hollenback, www.Marissarox.com ; Kathryn Grimm, www.myspace.com/kathryngrimmband. It’s Christopher and Natasha Barran’s last show before their West Coast Tour. As for Kathryn, how’s this quote: “Sings like an angel, plays like the devil." - Billy Hulting (Dweezil Zappa, Lou Rawls). No cover.
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Mon, Apr 27; 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. This is named as the “Best Acoustic Open Mic” in L.A. AND the “Best Web Simulcast,” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Hosted by LISA TURNER. 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, Apr 27:
8 pm HORSE CRAZY COWGIRL BAND from Washington State, at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. With sizzling harmonies that hook you in mid-stride, Horse Crazy delivers a heart-huggin’ good time. Nominated by the Western Music Association for best Western/Cowboy Group of the Year for 2008, they deliver fine musicianship coupled with rollicking humor, and an obvious love of western music. An evening with Horse Crazy is delightful and meaningful, and venue impresario Bob Stane says, “You will leave smiling.” EMELE CLOTHIER, LAURALEE NORTHCOTT, & JENNIFER EPPS are Horse Crazy. Career musicians and authentic western cowgirls, all three make their homes in rural Washington State. Emele is a fine western swing guitar player who stokes the fire with harmonica, banjo and inspired vocals (how many of those instruments at once? Come and see.) Emele manages a ranch and still finds time to howl with her pals. Lauralee creates resonate depth with her voice and bass guitar. She rides in the mountains as a wilderness guide and cook for pack outfits during the summer. Jennifer brings distinctive harmonies “coupled with rhythmic nuance.” She can be found yodeling up the canyon while chasing cows on her famous cowpony, Whiskey. Except tonight, when the horses will be tied-up out back. $15.
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Mon, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; every 4th (and 2nd) 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; every week:
9:30 pm “JJ SONG SALON” weekly singer-songwriter night at Life on Wilshire, 6311 Wilshire Bl, L.A. 90048; 323-651-5433; www.lifeonwilshire.com. Grammy award winning producer JOHN JONES (Fleetwood Mac, Duran Duran, Celine Dion) is the “JJ” who assembles an eclectic mix of performers for an evening of live acoustic entertainment. Complete list, with links, for this week’s performers at www.jjsongsalon.com. Each plays a short set, beginning at 9:30 pm. Dinner seating available starting at 6:30 pm.
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Mon, Apr 27; 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, Apr 27; 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, APRIL 28
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First, a wonderful “Out-of-Town” show, if you’re headed for Oklahoma:
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Tue, Apr 28; in Oklahoma:
7 pm “THE LONE COWBOY CAMPFIRE SHOW” starring MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY with FRED HARGROVE, at the Arbuckle Ballroom, Davis, Oklahoma. Tix and info, 580-277-7966. More at www.michealmartinmurphey.com and www.myspace.com/fredhargrove
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Now, for Tuesday’s L.A. area offerings of acoustic music performances:
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Tue, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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 first entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tues, Apr 28; every fourth Tue:
7-8:30 pm “COMMUNITY FOLK MUSIC JAM” led by Bea Romano & Jim, it’s a traditional folk music jam at the Barbara J. Riley Center, 7810 Quill St, Downey 90242; 562-904-7226. Bring your acoustic instrument(s) and join in. Bea says, “It's a lovely facility. We hope you will enjoy playing / listening to music. Bring your acoustic instruments and join in the fun. There are plenty of armless chairs. Best of all, it's free!”
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Tue, Apr 28; last Tue, every month:
7-8:45 pm GILLI MOON plays her monthly residency and “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; 323-653-0640. It’s a mostly-acoustic event with guest artists. Gill says, “It features 'moi,' plus a couple of cool cats from Songsalive! - and we all perform in the round on stage. It's really a wonderful night, and starts early, 7 pm stage time.” Venue is known for its Chinese food; call for dinner reserv. Plenty of parking, $7 cover.
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Tue, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; every week; in the Inland Empire:
7 pm “LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY OPEN JAM” at Loma Linda University College Market Patio Pantry, 24905 Anderson St, (at Mound & Anderson St, near US Post Office, behind other buildings), Loma Linda. Every Tue in 2009.
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Tue, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; every week: ON HIATUS, PENDING VENUE’S BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing host GARRET SWAYNE. 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, Apr 28; recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Apr 28:
8 pm SURFIN’ SAFARI returns again to the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario loves thes guys. He calls them, “A faithful recreation of what it would have been like to see The Beach Boys live, in concert, in their prime. This 5 member line up is unrivaled in their sound, presentation, and professionalism. There are no backing tracks or extra musicians playing off-stage! SURFIN' SAFARI is as close as you will ever get to seeing the original 5-member line up of the Beach Boys. The incomparable beauty of their vocal harmonies, the crashing back beat of Dennis Wilson's drums, the soaring surf guitar of Carl Wilson, and the genius of Brian Wilson's music is all here. The uniband choreography, the Fender guitar line up, the famous custom striped shirts, right down to the black suede Beach Boy boots, it's all here. SURFIN' SAFARI provides you with a great show, a great time, and fun, fun, fun till our Daddy takes the T-Bird away!” $18.
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Tue, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; repeats every second and fourth Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL McCARTHY the second and fourth Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. You can sign-up in advance online at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, Apr 28; every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; 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, Apr 28; every Tue:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Apr 28; every Tue:
9 pm-12:30 am “BLUES ROCK JAM” night at Music Club Mogul, 351 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90048; www.mogul.am; reservations, 323-428-8471. Open for dinner at 7 pm; those not there by 9 pm lose priority seating. Venue has a capacity of 250, with ample free parking (wonderful news in this part of town!) and full dinner menu including exotic Russian cuisine and lighter fare, and full bar. Big patio for those still afflicted with smoking. Their goal is to present “great, energizing live music, local artists and bands as well as international acts.” They note, “As can be seen from the 2009 Grammy Awards, half the winners were indie artists. Club Mogul supports this trend.” Music Club Mogul is the brainchild of Surge Mogul, music industry veteran and entrepreneur, with his partners Vova Mogul as musical director and Shadow Sky doing the booking.
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Each night brings different styles and genres:
Monday - Singer-Songwriter "Create" night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Tuesday - “Pro-Jam, Tribute/Cover Bands night,” 9 pm-12:30 am
Wednesday - “Platinum Divas Live!” night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Thursday - “Blues, Blues/Rock, Funk night,” 8 pm-12:30 am
Sunday - “Pop, Rock, Indie Rock, World Music” night, 8 pm-11:30 am
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All shows are $10 cover.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
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Wednesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are the legendary Miss Mickey Champion’s weekly residency in Santa Monica, at Harvelle’s; start time tbd; and Ken O’Malley in Santa Monica at 10 pm.
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First, a delightful “Out-of-Town” event:
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Wed, Apr 29; in Oklahoma:
7:30 pm “THE LONE COWBOY CAMPFIRE SHOW” starring MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY with FRED HARGROVE, at the Poncan Theater, Ponca City, Oklahoma. Tix and info, 580-765-0943. More at www.michealmartinmurphey.com and www.myspace.com/fredhargrove
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Now, for Wednesday’s L.A.-area offerings of acoustic music performances:
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; (Wed & Thu), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Wed, Apr 29; every Wed:
5-8 pm New “CLAREMONT WEDNESDAY GREEN MARKET” features acoustic music with RON ELY doing seafaring songs and more, inside the Packing House in the new West Claremont Center, 532 W First St, Claremont 91711; www.claremontpackinghouse.com/home.htm . Ron tells us, “It's all about ‘going GREEN,’ and should be promoted and supported. They are going to expand with a Farmer's Market each Wednesday evening. That will be outside this same venue, The Packing House, a fully rehabilitated old building, a real packing house, Historical Landmark. It's put-on by the non-profit ‘Claremont Forum,’ (www.claremontforum.org) that sponsors the "Prison Library Project," sending books to those incarcerated.”
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Wed, Apr 29; in Palmdale:
6:30-8:30 pm 2nd annual “PAINTING WITH WORDS” features scheduled folk music performers, local poets, and an open mic, at Palmdale Playhouse, 38334 10th St East, Palmdale 93550; 661-267-5685, www.cityofpalmdale.org/calendar. It’s an annual celebration of National Poetry Month in cooperation with the Palmdale City Library, with original poetry expressed through spoken word and music. Sponsors say, “Take advantage of our open mic, enjoy refreshments and mingle with some of the area's best poets.” Free.
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; every Wed:
CANCELLED - VENUE HAS CLOSED: 7-9 pm ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC, hosted by ALLAN COMEAU, at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica.
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Wed, Apr 29; every Wed in Apr:
7:30-10 pm “SOUTH BAY BEAT SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” series at Club 705 / Ardmore Restaurant, 705 Pier Av, Hermosa Beach 90254; 310-372-9705. Based on their opening bookings, this is a wonderful series with musicians who have played all over the world, sharing stages with big names in the music biz. Call them for tonight’s lineup. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; every Wed; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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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Wed, Apr 29:
8 pm THE ALLEY CATS at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario Bob Stane is always excited when he can get them back, and that’s not easy. They are the “most-booked Doo-Wop group.” Bob enjoys telling anyone who will listen, “THE ALLEY CATS are a perfect blend of musical talent and comic timing. Their interaction with audiences, combined with their spontaneous humor, makes each show refreshing and exciting. Royce, Juan, Mando, and Sean never miss a beat as they bring their own contemporary style to the great songs of the ‘50s and ‘60s. They have recorded four albums, which showcase their rich harmonies, as well as the energy and humor from their live shows. Every Alley Cat performance is accompanied by the sounds of laughter and voices joining in to sing the melodies we all know and love. Tight harmonies, universal humor, and unbelievable a cappella energy have made THE ALLEY CATS ‘America's Premier Doo-Wop Group.’” $20.
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Wed, Apr 29; 5th Wed, when there’s a fifth Wed:
8 pm THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; every Wed:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; last Wed, every month: ON HIATUS:
8-10 pm “HOBO SOUP” monthly folk music evening with performing host “BANJO FRED” STARNER, usually joined by PHIL VAN TEE and KAREN KRANTZ, at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St, in the Old Bank District, downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. The venue is the big lobby of a 1905-era bank building. Fred says it has “a fine sound system, and a no-alcohol good vibe.” FRED STARNER is the officially-named “GRAND DUKE OF HOBO MINSTRELS” by the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Musical funnyman PHIL VAN TEE has taken his homemade cookie-tin banjo to stages everywhere, opening for nearly all the big-name country music acts. Previous guests have included JILL FENIMORE, ORGANIC DEMO, and DADDY BONE. Artist info, www.hobobanjofred.com. Venue is just down the gated alley between Main and Broadway; it’s a coffeehouse that serves coffee drinks and tasty light fare.
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Wed, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; 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, Apr 29; every Wed:
9 pm-midnight “PRO BLUES JAM SESSION” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES band, at the Azteca Restaurant and Bar, 717 S San Gabriel Bl, San Gabriel 91776; 626-287-4645. (New Mar 11, 2009.)
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Wed, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 pm KEN O’MALLEY, “the Twilight Lord,” brings authentic and original Irish music to O'Brien's on Main, 2941 Main St, Santa Monica; www.obriensonmain.com; 310-396-4725. KEN O’MALLEY‘s music and marvelous voice have been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which had the world premiere of his award-winning album, “Omaille.” The Dublin-born artist's rich, resonant voice and engaging stage presence have delighted audiences for over thirty years. As leader of KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS, he and his band have played across the nation. In his solo acoustic performance, Ken transports his audience to his beloved Ireland through heartfelt singing and vivid storytelling. Find out why the Irish News calls this consummate entertainer “without question… the single most enduring, influential and proficient of all Irish musicians in Southern California.” Ken delivers a magical evening of songs in both English and Irish Gaelic, accompanied by his fine talent on guitar and mandolin. “Dust-free and polished to perfection, each song is performed with authenticity, and the care one might use when handling a valuable family heirloom” - Lisa Elaine Scott, Music Connection Magazine. Ken was the guest for the radio performance-interview on “FolkScene” on Apr 19. More at www.kenomalley.com.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 30
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Thursday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are in Altadena at 8 and in Hollywood at 9 pm.
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An “OUT-OF-TOWN” event worthy of note is in Texas:
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Fri-Sun, Apr 30-May 3; in Texas:
“MAYFEST” in Fort Worth, TX, is a four-day family festival featuring live music, dancing food and beverage. Free children's area offering 25 things for children to make.
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NOW, for the always astonishing acoustic music offerings in and around Los Angeles:
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Thu-Sun, Apr 30-May 3; in Ojai:
10th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at Libbey Bowl, Ojai; Info & tix, 805-646-8907 or www.ojaistoryfest.org. Tix at the Libbey Bowl Ticket Center, in front of the tennis courts in Libbey Park, at Signal St & Ojai Av, Ojai. “The Ojai festival is to storytelling what Sundance is to film. If it's rare and magical and quirky, you'll find it at this wondrous gem of a festival.” - Carmen Deedy, acclaimed storyteller and author.
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With storytellers JIM COGAN, DONALD DAVIS, GLENIS REDMOND, SCOTT AINSLIE, LELAND FAULKNER, CARMEN DEEDY, NIALL DE BÚRCA, PETER COOK, “and lots of special surprises.” Bios available on event website.
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“The Ojai Storytelling Festival has it all: entertaining, nationally known storytellers, wonderful organization and the ideal location to sit out under the oaks and hear stories that will move you, make you laugh and remind you it is great to be alive.” - David Holt, Storyteller and Grammy Award-winning musician.
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Ojai was the place chosen by film director FRANK CAPRA as Shangri-La for his film, “Lost Horizon,” and few places can lay claim to a storytelling pedigree that compares to that. Imagine sitting beneath ancient oaks at the famed Libbey Bowl and listening to some of the world’s finest storytellers. It’s the Ojai Storytelling Festival, celebrating its 10th year with an international lineup of storytellers “guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat and thoroughly entertained,” reads their promo. It continues, “You’ll hear tales filled with uproarious comedy, high adventure and drama told with music, movement and even magic. With a menu of stories that will appeal to families all the way to spicy tales for adults, the Ojai Storytelling Festival truly offers something for everyone. You won’t believe what you’ll hear. It’s not just a festival, it’s an experience.”
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; (Wed & Thu), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; every Thu: 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, Apr 30; 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, Apr 30; series runs every week:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” this week brings CARY PARK (Boy Howdy) plus JOHN M (subject of a documentary on playing house concerts across America) to Arnie's Café & Ristorante Italiano, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.ArniesCafe.com. Hosted by Mark "Pocket" Goldberg & "Brother" Randy Sacks; this is not an open mic. Venue has good Italian food, coffeehouse beverages. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
7-10 pm “FLAMENCO GUITAR NIGHT” with award-winning flamenco guitarist STEPHEN DICK at Manchego Food From Spain Restaurant, 2510 Main St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-450-3900; www.manchegoonmain.com. Venue serves great tapas and Spanish dinner plates in an elegant and intimate space. STEPHEN DICK - "Esteban de Los Angeles" - has won numerous prizes for his compositions and performances, including an award from the Sur Jerez Flamenco Competition in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, for his original 1st album, "Naranjas Amargas." A versatile artist, he is the winner of the Peter Frampton award for excellence in contemporary music, and his compositions for the guitar have been published in Italy, and in the US by Columbia Music Company. He won the Paulo Barsacchi award for guitar composition for his "Sonatina for Solo Guitar," and a Meet the Composer's grant for his realization of Federico GarcÃa Lorca's romantic ballad, "Romance Sonambulo." He a 2008/2009 winner of a grant from the Spanish Ministry of Culture and US Universities for a new flamenco concert featuring GarciaLorca's mystical lullaby, "Nana del Caballo Grande."
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Thu, Apr 30:
7 pm “ZYDECO DANCE” at the Golden Sails Hotel PCH Club, 6285 Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach 90803; event info, 562-708-8946. Dance lessons with KAREN REDDING, 7-8 pm (included in admission) Basic Zydeco 7-7:30 pm, Int/Adv 7:30-8 pm, CD Dance, 8-9 pm. Karen says, “I'm considering doing a review of Greg Benusa's moves from his last workshop during the second half hour of the lesson. He did some moves that were new, including Floating Slide with Reverse Turn. That was a hard one, but looks really cool!” Even though this is a CD dance, it’s a fine opportunity to get your moves down, for the next time a live band plays, AND you’ll have a chance to show those dance moves with lost sof live bands at the Simi Cajun Creole Festival, and the Long Beach Bayou Festival.More at 562-708-8946; www.louisianadancela.com. $7.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; every Thu; 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, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30:
7:30 pm “INTO THE WOODS” a musical version of Grimm’s fairy tales with “the insightful music” of STEPHEN SONDHEIM, at Janet and Ray Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Countrywide Performing Arts Center, 2100 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks. Presented by California Lutheran University Theatre & Music Depts. Ten years after “Into the Woods” won the biggest Tony Awards on Broadway and the equivalent Olivier Awards in London, CLU revives this rich and entertaining collection of tales and characters who must journey into the woods to get their heart’s desire: Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, The Childless Baker and his Wife, Rapunzel and more. In finding “Happily Ever After” initially, all are later challenged by those choices and are forced to confront what really matters in life. “Into the Woods” is full of humor, irony, sophistication and tender humanity. It’s a musical to enjoy, and in which you may well see yourself, and ultimately learn about tolerance in times of challenge. Runs Thu, Apr 30 at 7:30 pm; Fri, May 1 at 7:30 pm; Sat, May 2 at 7:30 pm; Sun, May 3 at 2:30 pm. Tix at the Civic Arts Plaza Box office, or at Ticketmaster. Discount tix for students with school id. Gen’l adm, $25.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
7:30 “MUSIC NIGHT” at Lulu’s Beehive, 13203 Ventura Bl (1 blk E of Fulton), Studio City; 818-986-2233. After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Three featured acts, “plus special guests and surprises each week.” After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Or as they say, “the buzz has returned to the Beehive.” Light fare, sandwiches, coffeehouse beverages available. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm COW BOP, named in FolkWorks among the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” bands, led by one of the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” instrumentalists, at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. This is musical virtuosity, excitement, and splendid technique. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” crossed America multiple times performing the “Route 66 Challenge,” and played prestigious venues and some of the nation’s premiere 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 already uniquely American music. Their debut CD, “Swingin’ Out West,” after its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” rocketed to the top of the charts in four different genres. Their second CD, “Route 66,” (released April 2008) features MONTY ALEXANDER and DAN HICKS (Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks) and is a celebration of their having prevailed three times in the “Route 66 Challenge.” Bruce's guitar playing is featured in CLINT EASTWOOD's award-winning movie, “Million Dollar Baby.” COW BOP is BRUCE FORMAN on guitar, PINTO PAMMY on vocals, roots music favorite PHIL SALAZAR on fiddle, ALEX KING on bass, and JAKE REED on drums. More at www.cowbop.com. A bargain at $15.
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Thu, Apr 30; last Thu, every month:
8-10 pm SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE at The Talking Stick, (new location), 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. A full evening of entertainment from local songwriters, hosted by MAUREEN DOHERTY. Songsalive is now booking for various dates in 2007, and seeking singer-songwriters to perform; info: hotline at 310-238-0359 or email usa@songsalive.org; www.songsalive.org. No cover, $5 donation requested.
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Thu, Apr 30; 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, Apr 30:
8-10 pm “DEAN DOBBINS & FRIENDS” featuring DUANE NEILLSON, DEAN DOBBINS, & GARRETT SWAYNE, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166.
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DUANE NEILLSON writes solemn and introspective music that he prefers to call truth, giving that word to the name of his first CD. That was followed by the self-produced album, “Blend,” with Duane as a member of a Los Angeles based multinational 3-piece; they toured Europe in a rented mini van in the spring of 2001. Going the indie route, touring and selling their music primarily in Germany and the Netherlands, Blend caught the attention of media and their current label Noteworks. After 5 tours, the first single, “You Make Horses Fly,” reached 10,000 downloads and reached #3 on the Top Rated Chart on www.musicload.de in Oct 2005. Blend is currently in the studio recording songs for their new album, while their new single “Not In Love Today” is hitting the radio in Germany. More at www.myspace.com/blend1 or www.blend.de
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DEAN DOBBINS writes in a variety of styles, from ballads to Texas swing, and performs on piano and guitar. In 1990 The Dean Dobbins Band was awarded California Country Music Association Band of the Year and Dean won CCMA awards for Song of the Year and Male Vocalist of The Year. Dean has recorded 8 CDs of original songs, including "The Dean Dobbins Band Volumes I and II" and 3 solo CDs, "Rickety Boat," "Fly Again," and "Airplane Food." His music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Dean’s newest CD, "She's Hot," contains 24 fully produced songs, most recorded in Nashville, and features many Nashville singers in addition to Dean. Recently, Dean signed as a writer with a publishing company in Dallas, Texas. Dean’s myspace page has two Kulak's Woodshed videos of Dean performing his original songs "Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee" on guitar and "You Mean Everything To Me" on piano. You can hear 4 of Dean's songs, including "The Way True Love Really Feels," which Dean performed recently at his daughter Nadia's wedding. More at www.myspace.com/deandobbins1
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GARRET SWAYNE has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He has long been a mainstay on the L.A. acoustic music scene, including his role as creator and host of the “MainStreet Songwriters Showcase.” Garret’s own songwriting and performances are noteworthy. His 1999 song, “Email Female,” a hilarious satire of the then-nascent phenomenon of online dating, became an instant underground hit on the Internet, ending up as a featured song on RealJukebox and MP3.com, and downloaded constantly on Napster. More at www.garretswayne.com and www.myspace.com/garretswayne
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All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Thu, Apr 30; 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, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 pm AMBER RUBARTH at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. You’ve heard her music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” You don’t see much about here here in the Guide because Amber doesn’t get to L.A. often these days. She explains why: “I got to open for COLIN HAY (of MEN AT WORK) last Thursday at my favorite venue, Tupelo Music Hall, in New Hampshire. It was glorious and magical and sold-out and I sold out of every last CD I had (!). Colin was magnificent. And last weekend, we got to open for VIENNA TENG's first 3 CD Release shows with my band, THE PAPER RAINCOAT, and sold-out at Somerville Theater (where U2 just played last month!) and Le Poisson Rouge, plus we played the beautiful Keswick Theatre! Check out Vienna's new record, it's beautiful (and produced by my Paper Raincoat partner in crime, Alex Wong). We get to do more openings for her along the West Coast too, yay! I love life. I feel so lucky. I am trying now to start doing things a little differently, more time for writing, living, and making a positive impact on the world at large. Being more pro-active in life. If you have ideas on how, send 'em my way!”
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Amber told us about her other fun venture, which launches May 2: ”[It’s] THE VESPA EXPERIMENT which is going to be crazy and fun and help the environment and did I mention crazy and fun? It’s with two of my favoritest favorites, Jason Reeves and Brendan James. Oh boy oh boy. Up the California coast on (you guessed it).... Vespas! Camping at night, a whole bunch of traditional and non-traditional venues including campgrounds and beaches. If you have ideas for where else we can play, email info@amberrubarth.com and we’ll do our best to include them. We’ll be filming the whole thing too, and broadcasting daily webisodes so you can watch the whole thing from home! I am getting my motorcycle license next week. No, seriously. Brought to you by Greenpeace and Vespa - we're going to do our part to stop Global Warming. More info to be announced soon, at www.MySpace.com/TheVespaExperiment It's our first time doing this type of tour and we could really use your support to make it great. If you'd like to help us please write to www.vespaexperiment@gmail.com. They'll hook you up with promo stuff and tickets to shows and CD's and more!” Local dates are May 2 at Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach; May 3 at the Roxy in L.A.; May 5 at the Lodge in Ventura, then it’s north for the little troupe of Vespa-riding musicians, before their big tour of Europe this summer. More at www.myspace.com/ambeRRubarth. This’ll be a fun show.
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Thu, Apr 30:
9 pm LINDSAY ERIN at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com. Lindsay Erin is a singer-songwriter and actress. Despite her accomplishments in film and theater, Lindsay's first love has always been singing. Her formal training at the Boston Conservatory and Ali Akbar College of Music has prepared her for an enduring career as a singer-songwriter. The venue tells us, “Her unique voice is both strong and textured with a touch of blues and a measure of jazz. Lindsay's lyrics are both personal and universal and her music is at once complex and approachable. Using her recent, as well as past music, theatre and dance training to inspire new compositions, Lindsay Erin has been writing and recording music with her husband/ engineer/drummer, Paul Ezekiel, at his recording studio, KBT Studios. In addition to studying piano with Bill Bell, she is also singing first soprano with his choir, The Oakland Bay Area Community Choir (OBACC), which performs African Spirituals around the San Francisco Bay Area. Lindsay Erin is truly a performer to watch, but, more importantly, she is someone to listen to.”
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More at www.myspace.com/lindsayerinmusic. Venue has “tasty vegetarian & non-vegetarian menu, organic coffee, tea, & free wi fi.” No cover.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
9 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES play their residency at The Office, 3516 W Victory Bl (at Hollywood Wy), Burbank. Preston says, “Great sound, great food, wine and beer!” New residency, began Apr 9, 2009.
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Thu, Apr 30; every Thu:
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, Apr 30; 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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[Updated editions with more (as we learn about it), and all the acoustic music events in MAY - in and around Los Angeles, plus the many, many, many upcoming acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, will post soon.]
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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 (more-or-less).
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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 and acoustic renaissance 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 we publish here from time to time. THIS Guide edition contains the most current listings, as of the date it was published.
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If you used a url for a specific edition to reach 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 published.
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If you want to 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 GUIDE’s event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the Acoustic Americana Music News Features – are available 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 and on No Depression, at http://community.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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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. With a new spirit of HOPE in America, why not celebrate by going out for a tunefully good time?
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copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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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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CAJUN PROVERB OF THE MONTH for April:
"Be yourself - everyone else is taken!"
(from the Gator Gazette)
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Yes, it’s true -
There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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If you have trouble believing that, print this out: it’s 95 pages long! The last edition covered eleven days, and required 107 pages of paper!
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