Acoustic Americana Music Guide, Sep 10 through 14

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For many of us, Thanksgiving arrived early this year. Firefighters saved over a thousand homes (many built where they should never have been). And for at least one grateful editor, dedicated surgeons saved an eye that otherwise would have been lost.
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So, what do you do when friends drop by to visit after your eye surgery, and you can’t use the computer? Well, you put the willing to work updating the Guide! (And revealing THAT will probably put an end to visitors…) This edition extensively covers the part of second week of September, PLUS there’s a full feature on the upcoming MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL, held September 18-20.
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Check out your editor’s latest column in FolkWorks, available free online at www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89 - it’s a time for personal remembrances of late musicians Mike Seeger, David Carradine, and of

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Tied to the Tracks
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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SEPTEMBER 10 through 14, 2009 EDITION
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The Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona opened early this year, on Labor Day weekend. There’s plenty of music there, lots of it acoustic, and we bring it to you in a special section at the beginning of each days’ listings. Plus (as always) there’s an almost incomprehensible number and variety of live acoustic performances all across the L.A. region. So raise a toast to the firefighters and go enjoy a show.
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Whether you got to go anywhere this summer or not, the wonderful “MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL” (the 18th annual), is a fine last hurrah to celebrate summer’s end, just north of Bishop, September 18-20. It’s an “EVENT-OF-THE-MONTH” pick; last year, Millpond made FolkWorks “Best of 2008 / Top Ten;” www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. All you need to know about it is in a special feature at the end of this week’s listings. That, and all else that’s happening, hither and yon, as September continues, awaits you within.
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And remember to tell your music loving friends to explore the possibilities right here at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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WELCOME!
Without question, the Los Angeles region now has the greatest number of live acoustic performances of anyplace in America, and possibly in the world. Much of it is simply WONDERFUL, including club and coffeehouse gigs, performing arts center and theater concerts, indoor and outdoor shows, and a steady parade of festivals that include a healthy acoustic music presence. In addition, for those planning travel and our readers elsewhere, the Guide always includes a vast variety of acoustic music festivals all over the planet. And unique to the Guide, descriptions are included in our extensive listings, rather than simple calendar listings where you need to recognize a performer’s name to know the genre of acoustic music. (Lots of places tell you who, where, and when. We tell you that, plus the all-important “what.”) Yep, we “Guide” you through the live acoustic music scene.
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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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RADIO SHOWS that regularly feature live acoustic performances are included, provided there is a way to hear them in Los Angeles. With precious few exceptions, hearing these in L.A. requires internet listening, and we give you the necessary URLs.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana and acoustic renaissance 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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WHERE TO FIND WHAT WE DO…
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WE’RE ON NO DEPRESSION as a new presence, and enjoying that site. Find us there at http://community.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
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WE’RE IN FOLKWORKS with the latest edition of the “Somewhere Out There” column, available online at www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89. We contribute occasional reviews or feature stories to FolkWorks. You can read the work of many good writers there, and you can sign-up for a free FolkWorks e-newsletter, too, all at www.FolkWorks.org
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News of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show is happening faster than we can report it. But we will, soon!
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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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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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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!) We don’t update the Myspace site very often anymore. It’s really just an archive of old news at www.myspace.com/laacoustic
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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SEPTEMBER 10 through 14, 2009 EVENTS
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks, PLUS acoustic music offerings at the Los Angeles County Fair, AND our special feature on the upcoming Millpond Music Festival!
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
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Thursday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are are this week’s edition of “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with guest artists AMILIA K. SPICER plus DAVID SERBY with ED TREE, at Arnie's Café in Tujunga, 7-10 pm; a truly outstanding show with SLAID CLEAVES plus DAFNI, playing the California Traditional Music Society concert series in Encino at 8 pm; and, COW BOP at The Foundry in Hollywood, at 9 pm.
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Music Today at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona:
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Thu, Sep 10:
SUSIE HANSEN LATIN BAND brings Latin jazz violinist Susie Hansen to the Plaza de las Americas Stage for four shows tonight, at 7, 8, 9, & 10 pm. Susie and her ensemble of talented musicians are a long time favorite in Los Angeles and have created a distinctive and original Latin jazz and salsa sound that brings audiences to their feet and dancing in the aisles. The Chicago native has developed her style by drawing on both jazz and Latin music as she utilizes traditional Cuban charanga along with driving Afro-Cuban rhythms and the compelling harmonies of straight-ahead jazz .She brings her electric violin and some of Los Angeles’ finest musicians. More at www.susiehansen.com
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Thu, Sep 10 (Wednesdays-Sundays, through Oct 4):
THE VAGABOND PIRATES do multiple shows of “A Pirate’s Life” on the Buccaneer Stage. Performances are Wednesdays-Fridays 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, 8, & 9:30 pm; Saturdays; 11:30 am, 2:30, 4;30, 7, & 8:30 pm; Sundays; 1, 2:30, 4:30, 7, & 8:30 pm. Step back in time with The Vagabond Pirates, the most fearsome and funny troupe of pirates to sail six of the seven seas. Enjoy Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of pirates as they wreck havoc upon those fortunate enough to experience their lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Then, watch as two of their most bloodthirsty pirates battle it out, sword to sword, to determine who should be first mate. More, www.vagabondtroupe.com
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Thu, Sep 10 (Wednesdays-Fridays, through Oct 2):
SIDE EFFECT brings their a cappella doo-wop to the fair, performing throughout the grounds, Wednesdays through Fridays, Sep 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, and Sep 30-Oct 2, at noon, 1, 2, 4, & 5 pm. These award-winning singers bring classic Motown, R&B, and doo-wap hits in a comical and engaging performance with classic vocal harmony.
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Thu, Sep 10:
Rockers will appreciate JOSHUA TREE, bringing the music of U2 to the Garden Plaza Stage today at 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. The magic of U2 has captured the hearts and minds of millions, and has created one of the largest followings in history. The Joshua Tree, Southern California’s premiere U2 tribute band, has developed a national reputation as having captured a piece of that magic. More at www.u2jt.com
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13, in Oklahoma:
AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM gala grand opening celebration at 9 E. Sheridan St, downtown Oklahoma City; 405-260-1323; www.banjomuseum.org. In the Bricktown arts and entertainment district. With completion of the nearly three year, $3.3 million dollar project, the music and heritage of the banjo will be on display for the general public. The Museum promises to be impressive, in a three floor, 21,000 sq. ft. facility. It features state of the art exhibitions presenting every chapter of the banjo's story, from its humble roots in American slavery, through the minstrel and classic periods, continuing through the jazz age four-string banjo era up to its most recent identities in Bluegrass and international folk music. The Museum features a gift shop, a coffee/snack bar, a Shakey's pizza room able to be converted into a 160 seat concert hall complete with stage area and a state of the art sound and recording system, a large research and archival room, a Four-String Banjo Hall of Fame room, and more.
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All events during the grand opening weekend are open and free to the public. In addition to the Museum itself, the four days of the grand opening weekend will be highlighted by many musical performances from visiting musicians and celebrities. A limited number of performance opportunities are available during the grand opening weekend. Banjo players or groups wishing to participate must request to be scheduled as soon as possible. For out of town guests, there are several fine hotels all within walking distance of the Museum. Info from Doug Back, Assistant Director, American Banjo Museum.
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Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13; in Colorado:
9 am-4 pm Annual “OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD DAYS” at the Ridgway Railroad Museum, corner of US 50 US 62 (PO Box 588), Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-4239; www.ridgwayrailroadmuseum.org. Organized by Jim Pettengill (http://truewest.ning.com/profile/jimpettengill), it’s a four-day celebration of Colorado narrow gauge railroad history. Guided hikes of historic railbeds (with lots of picturesque abandoned mining structures), museum open house with rides on Rio Grande Southern Motor 1, plus the Narrow Gauge Symposium, evening of history talk about the Silverton Railroad (not the one you think), and guided auto tours along the Rio Grande Southern and D&RG Ouray Branch routes.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Thu, 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, every Thu:
11:30 am-3 pm weekly “7+FIG FARMERS MARKET” at 7th & Figuroa, downtown L.A.; 213-955-7157; www.7fig.com. Held on the beautifully landscaped upper plaza, above California Pizza Kitchen. Certified Gourmet Farmers Market, open-air, with vendors, lunches, produce, kettle korn, fresh flowers, honey, fresh breads, tamales, olives, dried fruits, nuts, crepes, crafts, and live music (varies each week). Entertainment is free.
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Thu (& Wed), 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, 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, 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, 2nd and 4th Thu, every month; in Ventura:
6-9:30 pm “ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin, who says, “Check-out Ventura's Bluegrass Jam website, at http://home.earthlink.net/~generubinaudio/index.html. All skills welcome, friendly folks, great food and drink, and even better jammin'. Generally we number 25 to 35 musicians. We now have additional space for even more jam circles. Spectators are appreciated and welcome.” Contact Gene with your email address to receive regular reminders and details: 805-658-8311 or generubinaudio@earthlink.net.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, every Thu through the summer:
6:30-8:30 pm BUDDY ZAPATA at Buster's Coffee & Ice Cream Shop, 1006 Mission, South Pasadena; 626-441-0744. He’s performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” with PETER CASE (Plimsouls), solo, and in an all-pro “Blues Song Circle.” Buddy tells us he’s trying-out new material for an upcoming CD, and the little venue with the great ice cream (and good sandwiches) is the beneficiary. No cover, tips to the artist are welcome.
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Thu, every Thu; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists AMILIA K. SPICER plus DAVID SERBY with ED TREE, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes) tells us, it’s “becoming quite a scene. This bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” Venue serves Italian food, good coffeehouse treats and beverages. You can bring your own wine with no corking charge. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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, Sep 10; in the OC:
LA HABRA UKELELE ENSEMBLE & TEHANI at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2.5 mi N of 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; info & tix, 866-411-1212; www.TheMuck.org - info@TheMuck.org. It’s an encore performance of their hit show from last year, when they were featured at the Muck’s poetry reading with guest artist, dancer Tehani. Proceeds benefit the LHHS Music programs. Call venue for show time.
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Thu, Sep 10:
7:30 pm BROKEDOWN CADILLAC at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, MacArthur Park, 2230 W 6th St, downtown L.A.; 213-368-0520; www.levittla.org; concert series, 213-384-5701. They’re billed as a “Modern country rock band with a female vocalist,” and they’re playing the series’ “world music night.” Go figure. They bring “a tight collection of seasoned players” and aresaid to do “an electrifying show.” Their promo says their “upbeat, melodic songs crafted to conjoin the overall experience of living in America will set your toes a-tapping.” Their musicwhas recently used in the Walt Disney Pictures film, "Race to Witch Mountain." More at www.brokedowncadillac.net & www.myspace.com/brokedowncadillacband . You can avoid parking hassles by riding the Red Line light rail to MacArthur Park Station and walking the length of the park to the band shell. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Free.
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Thu, Sep 10, 2nd Thu, every month::
7-10 pm MARK ISLAM performs for the monthly “NSAI SONGWRITER’S NIGHT” at Cahuenga General Store (Hallenbeck's), 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; 818-985-5916; www.MySpace.com/CahuengaGeneralStore. NSAI Is the Nashville Songwriters Association International. STEVEN BEOUGHER or RANDALL KIRBY is the host. The first round of songwriters, at 7:30, is usually three artists. At 8:30 is a featured songwriter for an hour-long set. About 9:45, the 2nd round of songwriters is three more artists. Severin Browne says, “This is a great opportunity to hear some great songwriting in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.” Venue has coffeehouse fare and good salads and sandwiches.
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Thu, 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, 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, Sep 10; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLAID CLEAVES plus DAFNI play the California Traditional Music Society concert series at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino; 818-817-7756; www.ctmsfolkmusic.org.
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DAFNI has performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and earned a “Listener Favorite” on the radio show.
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SLAID CLEAVES has become a major folk-Americana star, and there is a good feature on him in FolkWorks, available free at www.folkworks.org/content/view/36124/166. Tix, $17 advance, $20 at door.
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Thu, Sep 10:
8 pm BROOKE RAMEL 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. After graduating from Stanford University and studying in Paris, Brooke moved to LA to pursue her passion for music. She has released five original albums and has sold over 50,000 copies as an independent artist. She has licensed over 50 songs to film and tv on shows such as Dawson’s Creek, Charmed, Ed, Six Feet Under, Gilmour Girls, White Oleander and many more. She is a tireless performer averaging over 200 shows/year over the past 15 years and has opened for many wonderful artists such as Melissa Manchester, Richard Marx, David Gates, Shawn Colvin, Rocco de Luca, Marc Cohn, Deana Carter, David Wilcox and many others. She will be performing with her wonderfully tasteful and talented guitarist Ian Espinoza and her fabulously gifted drummer Ron Manaog.
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Several major motion pictures have featured Brooke's music, including “White Oleander”, “Stealing Harvard”, and "Tart". Her music has also been featured in the independent films “Far on Foot” and “Wednesday's Child”, and her song "Now" was used in a trailer for the DVD of MGM's film, "Kiss the Bride". And Brooke recorded two songs for Disney's “Air Bud Spikes Back.”
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Brooke's song "Let It Out" will be heard in the upcoming motion picture "Bonneville", starring Jessica Lang, Kathy Bates, Joan Allen, and Christine Baranski. In May 2006, Brooke taped an appearance for the ninth episode of "Branson Jubilee", airing on PBS in the summer and fall. Her performance included "When I Saw You See Me", "Let It Out", and "Landslide". The episode also featured The Dillards and guest star Bill Medley. Tix, $15.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Thu, recurring:
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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Thu, every Thu:
8-11 pm “BLUES JAM” hosted by the DENNIS HERRERA BAND, and guest musicians often include BERNIE PEARL, at El Dorado Restaurant, Spring & Studebaker, Long Beach. 562-421-2122. Bernie tells us, “It stays pretty close to the blues, doesn't get too loud, offers a small dance floor, a nice bar, good food, and a friendly atmosphere.” No cover.
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Thu, 2nd Thu, every month, in the OC
8 pm “MUCK AFTER DARK” cabaret & “new vaudeville” for kids over 17, at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2.5 mi N of 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; info & tix, 866-411-1212; www.TheMuck.org - info@TheMuck.org. Tix, $5 & $10.
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Thu, 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, 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, 2nd Thu, every month; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 pm COW BOP, that marvelous bebop western swing band, plays their monthly residency at The Foundry, 7465 Melrose Av, Hollywood 90046. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and played all over the US. Band leader and USC artist-in-residence BRUCE FORMAN asks, “Why not come on down and swing the night away? For those of you who don't know, The Foundry is a great jazz bar, with some other-worldly food, a great hang!” This residency commenced Jun 11. Cow Bop is Bruce Forman, guitar; Pinto Pammy, vocals; Phil Salazar, fiddle; Alex King, bass; Jake Reed, drums.
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Thu, second Thu, every month:
9-11 pm “ACOUSTIC MUSIC NIGHT” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE; www.cafemusela.com. Select rotating guest artists perform original works on piano and guitars in the “urban zen” setting of Café Muse. Often, talented cast members from plays and musicals in-rehearsal or currently-running in the surrounding Hollywood theater district take part, mixing top-drawer deliveries of show tunes with originals by the scheduled performer. Venue has “tasty vegetarian & non-vegetarian menu, organic coffee, tea, & free wi fi.” No cover.
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Thu, every Thu:
9 pm-2 am “ALL ACOUSTIC WITH ANGEL” hosted by ANGEL, with different artists each week (except 3rd Thursdays, when it’s the Old Time Jam, hosted by Triple Chicken Foot) always fun, at the Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion Av (look for barber pole just S of Lyric), L.A. 90027. The Thursday series has its own web page, complete with weekly lineups, at www.myspace.com/hyperiontavernallacoustic.
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Angel tells us, “This night is acoustic, old timey, ukuleles, barbershop quartets, dedicated to creating a community of artists and musicians who don't need the use of flashy lights, amps or mics. Our grandpappies didn't need it so why do we? Inquiry about playing can be sent to HyperionTavernAllAcoustic@gmail.com or even better, stop by and have a beer! Entry is always free and 21+! We'll get the barberpole up and running soon.”
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Thu, 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, 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, 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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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
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Take a moment today to remember those we lost on September 11, 2001, in New York City and at the Pentagon. Remember the bravery of the passengers aboard an airliner lost in a Pennsylvania woodland, and how those passengers prevented it from reaching its target. Remember, too, the incredible bravery of the first responders, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice while seeking to protect others, together with all those whose dedication to searching for survivors and recovering remains kept them there, in smoldering, tangled, toxic wreckage, endangering their own health and safety. And call your local firehouse to say “Thank you for all you do.” Even if that’s the only thing you say, they’ll understand, and they’ll appreciate it, and appreciate you for saying it.
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Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are PETER FRAMPTON & KANSAS at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona at 7:30 pm; BONNIE RAITT & TAJ MAHAL, “BONTAJ ROULET,” at the Greek Theatre at 7:30 pm; BEARFOOT, the bluegrass / newgrass band from Alaska, at Boulevard Music in Culver City at 8 pm; SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm; and, CHERYL WHEELER plus KENNY WHITE at McCabe’s in Santa Monica, SOLD OUT at 8 pm.
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Music Today at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona:
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Fri, Sep 11:
THE RENO JONES BAND brings the blues for five shows today on the Garden Plaza Stage, at 11 am, 5:30, 6:30, 8, 9, & 10 pm. They’re a busy Southern California blues band that brings a fresh twist and humorous social commentary to exciting, original music, drawing on traditional influences. Award winners at the Monterey Blues Festival and headliners at B. B. King’s and Bluesapalooza, Reno Jones is a regular at The Blue Café, at city concerts, fairs, blues festivals, and charitable events. They have an impressive repertoire of cover tunes that they reinterpret, while keeping faith with the writer’s intent. More at www.renojones.com
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Fri, Sep 11 (Wednesdays-Sundays, through Oct 4):
THE VAGABOND PIRATES do multiple shows of “A Pirate’s Life” on the Buccaneer Stage. Performances are Wednesdays-Fridays 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, 8, & 9:30 pm; Saturdays; 11:30 am, 2:30, 4;30, 7, & 8:30 pm; Sundays; 1, 2:30, 4:30, 7, & 8:30 pm. Step back in time with The Vagabond Pirates, the most fearsome and funny troupe of pirates to sail six of the seven seas. Enjoy Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of pirates as they wreck havoc upon those fortunate enough to experience their lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Then, watch as two of their most bloodthirsty pirates battle it out, sword to sword, to determine who should be first mate. More, www.vagabondtroupe.com
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Fri, Sep 11:
SONORA CUMBIAMBERO performs multiple shows on the plaza de las Americas Stage, Fri, Sep 11, at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, & 8:30 pm, and Sun, Sep 13, at 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. Emerging from Latin America’s fiery Cumbia music scene, La Sonora Cumbiambera mixes traditional sounds with a new contemporary style, bringing progressive blends of vocals and percussion backed by a sizzling horn section. The band attributes their intensity to the group’s various musical roots spanning several countries, including Columbia, Mexico, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. Their repertoire ranges from the latest Latin hits to classics of the genre. More at www.myspace.com/sonoracumbiambera
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Fri, Sep 11 (Wednesdays-Fridays, through Oct 2):
SIDE EFFECT brings their a cappella doo-wop to the fair, performing throughout the grounds, Wednesdays through Fridays, Sep 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, and Sep 30-Oct 2, at noon, 1, 2, 4, & 5 pm. These award-winning singers bring classic Motown, R&B, and doo-wap hits in a comical and engaging performance with classic vocal harmony.
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Fri, Sep 11:
PERSON TO PERSON spans the music of the Summer of Love through the groovy ‘70s, “transforming their personas into whatever era they represent to bring a show that is high energy and full of fun” says their promo. Travel back in time Sep 9-Oct 4 on the Hit the Road traveling stage, Wednesdays-Thursdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm; Fridays-Saturdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, 9:30, & 11 pm; Sundays at 4, 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. More at www.persontopersonband.com
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Fri, Sep 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm PETER FRAMPTON & KANSAS play the L.A. County Fair’s “End of Summer Concert Series” in the Grandstand (series runs 19 nights of the Fair). Okay, so it’s not all that acoustic…
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Peter Frampton brings his exuberant vocals, trademark talk box and guitar work extraordinaire, going strong after more than 30 years in the business. His “Frampton Comes Alive” album is the second best selling live album in the U.S., and he still rocks audiences worldwide, bringing his classic brand of rock and roll to a new generation. Audiences will thrill to the sounds of favorites “Show Me the Way” and “Baby, I Love Your Way.”
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Kansas is one of the most popular bands of the late ‘70s, combining a mix of boogie and progressive rock. Their 1976 album “Leftoverture,” with its smash hit “Carry On Wayward Son,” reached the Top Five and sold more than three million copies. Following were hits “Dust in the Wind,” “Play the Game Tonight,” and “All I Wanted.”
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General admission to the nighttime entertainment is free with Fair admission. Reserved seating is $18.50-$35; box seating $22.50-$50; stageside seating $75-$150. Tix at Ticketmaster (ticketmaster.com) or in person at the Fairplex box office (or at fairplex.com). Concerts require Fair admission. Acts and schedules subject to change. Most shows begin at 7:30 pm. A limited number of free assigned seats are available for grandstand entertainment. (Including wheelchair access). The line forms on Floral (across from the grandstand). Tickets are dispersed at 3 pm., first come, first served on concert days only. Each person must be present to receive a ticket.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Fri-Sun, Sep 11-13, in Oregon:
Annual “SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL” in Sisters, OR 97701; 541-549-4979. Plenty of music, from blues to bluegrass. Six stages all within walking distance in downtown Sisters, Oregon. Workshops explore the creative process of performing artists. This festival is known for world-class performers in a small town setting. Performers include past “Tied to the Tracks” performing guest TRINA HAMLIN performing with SUSAN WERNER on Fri, Sep 11, at 6 pm; Trina does a workshop for the festival on Sat, Sep 12, at noon on the Sister's Coffee Co. stage.
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Fri, Sep 11; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13, in Oklahoma:
AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM gala grand opening celebration at 9 E. Sheridan St, downtown Oklahoma City; 405-260-1323; www.banjomuseum.org. In the Bricktown arts and entertainment district. With completion of the nearly three year, $3.3 million dollar project, the music and heritage of the banjo will be on display for the general public. The Museum promises to be impressive, in a three floor, 21,000 sq. ft. facility. It features state of the art exhibitions presenting every chapter of the banjo's story, from its humble roots in American slavery, through the minstrel and classic periods, continuing through the jazz age four-string banjo era up to its most recent identities in Bluegrass and international folk music. The Museum features a gift shop, a coffee/snack bar, a Shakey's pizza room able to be converted into a 160 seat concert hall complete with stage area and a state of the art sound and recording system, a large research and archival room, a Four-String Banjo Hall of Fame room, and more.
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All events during the grand opening weekend are open and free to the public. In addition to the Museum itself, the four days of the grand opening weekend will be highlighted by many musical performances from visiting musicians and celebrities. A limited number of performance opportunities are available during the grand opening weekend. Banjo players or groups wishing to participate must request to be scheduled as soon as possible. For out of town guests, there are several fine hotels all within walking distance of the Museum. Info from Doug Back, Assistant Director, American Banjo Museum.
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Fri, Sep 11; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13; in Colorado:
9 am-4 pm Annual “OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD DAYS” at the Ridgway Railroad Museum, corner of US 50 US 62 (PO Box 588), Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-4239; www.ridgwayrailroadmuseum.org. Organized by Jim Pettengill (http://truewest.ning.com/profile/jimpettengill), it’s a four-day celebration of Colorado narrow gauge railroad history. Guided hikes of historic railbeds (with lots of picturesque abandoned mining structures), museum open house with rides on Rio Grande Southern Motor 1, plus the Narrow Gauge Symposium, evening of history talk about the Silverton Railroad (not the one you think), and guided auto tours along the Rio Grande Southern and D&RG Ouray Branch routes.
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Fri & Sat, Sep 11 & 12, in Utah:
Annual “OLD CAPITAL ARTS FESTIVAL” in the Old Capital State Park, Fillmore, UT 435-743-5316. Lineup features the marvelous SOURDOUGH SLIM.
Sat, Sep 12; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13; in Colorado:
9 am-4 pm Annual “OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD DAYS” at the Ridgway Railroad Museum, corner of US 50 US 62 (PO Box 588), Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-4239; www.ridgwayrailroadmuseum.org. Organized by Jim Pettengill (http://truewest.ning.com/profile/jimpettengill), it’s a four-day celebration of Colorado narrow gauge railroad history. Guided hikes of historic railbeds (with lots of picturesque abandoned mining structures), museum open house with rides on Rio Grande Southern Motor 1, plus the Narrow Gauge Symposium, evening of history talk about the Silverton Railroad (not the one you think), and guided auto tours along the Rio Grande Southern and D&RG Ouray Branch routes.
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Fri, Sep 11; in Seattle:
8-10:30 pm “NORTHWEST SEAPORT CHANTEY SING” aboard the historic steamship “Virginia V” at Lake Union Park, 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109. Monthly installment of the 2009 Northwest Seaport Chantey Sing series, a sing-a-long with authentic chanteys and songs of the sea, hosted by Wayne Palsson. A recording artist is always on board as song leader to keep the music rolling, with opportunity for anyone to lead a song or just join in the chorus. Chanteys are work songs and foc’s’le ditties with great choruses that join present-day maritime traditions and lore with those of the past. Come and lead a song of the sea or just join in on the chorus. Chanteys and sea songs are easy to learn and fun to sing. The historic passenger ferry “Virginia V,” last of the Puget Sound mosquito fleet, will be docked at the Historic Ships Wharf during the sing. Refreshments & maritime CDs available. More at 206-447-9800 or www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Free, donations welcome.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Fri, every Fri:
Morning show (after 8:30 am) HEATHER LOCKIE & FRIENDS bring violin, cello, clarinet, and voices to Stories, 1716 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-3733. Venue is in the Jul ’09 ish of Sunset magazine (p.22). Summer afternoon or summer evening you can enjoy the back patio with an iced Americano, peppermint green iced tea, freshly-baked root beer flavored cookie, or an assortment of popsicles, ice cream bars and other frozen treats.
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Fri, 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, 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, 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, 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, Sep 11, in Idyllwild:
7 pm DENNIS ROGER REED BAND at Idyllwild Tea Company, Oakwood Village, 54425 North Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-9809; www.idyllwildteacompany.com. They’ve performed their fine and fun country roots acoustic music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Dennis says, “The air is clear, the pines majestic, the music sublime. Dennis Roger Reed and Donald Edward Reed! Join us for tea and we’ll provide the crumpets. 7-ish pm – 10-ish pm.”
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Fri, 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, 2nd Fri, every month in 2008; in Seaside:
7-9 pm “KIKI WOW & FRIENDS” at Borders Books & Music, 2080 California St, Seaside 93955. For all of you have clamored to know “Whatever happened to Kiki Wow?” – just take a drive up the coast, and you can see and hear for yourself.
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Fri, Sep 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm BONNIE RAITT & TAJ MAHAL, “BONTAJ ROULET,” at the Greek Theatre, 2700 N Vermont Ave in Griffith Park, L.A.; Greek Theatre hotline, 323-665-1927; http://greektheatrela.com. Two leading lights of modern blues join forces for their first-ever tour together. The "BonTaj Roulet" tour features Bonnie and Taj on stage alone and together. Bonnie, backed by her dazzling group, and Taj, with the six-piece, Grammy-winning PHANTOM BLUES BAND, play full sets separately, before closing each night with a collaborative, blow-out performance. In addition to the glorious sounds, these two socially-conscious artists intend the tour to “make a difference,” through “The BonTaj Collective Action Fund.” It utilizes several initiatives to raise money for a variety of causes including environmental protection, social justice and blues/music education. Info at www.bontaj.com.
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Nine-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer BONNIE RAITT is a legend, a best-selling artist, respected guitarist, expressive singer and accomplished songwriter. Her most recent studio album was 2005's “Souls Alike,” followed by VH1’s “Classic Decades Rock Live! Presents Bonnie Raitt and Friends,” a 2006 DVD/CD.
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Two-time Grammy winner, composer, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist TAJ MAHAL was inducted into the “Blues Hall of Fame” in May. His work, including last year's studio album “Maestro” featuring guest appearances from Ben Harper, Jack Johnson and Ziggy Marley. It incorporates music from around the globe, from West Africa to Latin America and the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands and beyond.
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"This tour is just what the doctor ordered," says Bonnie. "Taj and I have so much in common, but there's so much unexplored territory between us. It's been a long time coming, and now is the right time." Taj adds, "We've been like ships passing in the night. Some of my musicians used to play with Bonnie, we have so many of the same friends -- this is really an opportunity to combine some forces and play some great music." Tix, $75.25 / $55.25 / $45.25 / $35.25.
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Fri, 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, 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, Sep 11; in Tehachapi:
TONY VICE plays La Bella Amore. That’s as much as we know about the show by this very entertaining cowboy singer.
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Fri, Sep 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BEARFOOT, the bluegrass / newgrass band from Alaska, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. There’s a good feature on the band in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/36126/166. Your editor likes ‘em a lot, too. In addition, the venue’s web site has a helpful local dining guide.
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Fri, Sep 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS 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 shared this fan mail: “Thanks again for a great show. When Sligo Rags came out on stage the applause was huge. They consistently bring the house down. Sligo Rags has great endurance in keeping the energy for their two and a half hour show. I and my family agree that they are the best. Of course there are about thirty other acts we have seen at the Coffee Gallery that are a close second. Sound and lighting were superb last night. Thanks again.” ~ Kerry and Patty.
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Named among the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, they are wonderfully entertaining. When they performed live on radio’s “Tied to thje Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day, 2006, EIGHT of the TOP TEN songs on one Celtic Music Chart with theirs, with no other artist or band repeating with even a second tune anywhere in the Top 100.
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Bob Stane Says, “this is a money back, no questions asked if you are not thrilled act.” Bring friends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles.”
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Two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this dynamic ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, SLIGO RAGS is taking the local and not-so-local Celtic music scene by storm. Their first two studio CDs receive international airplay, and their first was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine. Says the San Diego Troubadour, "This band can light up an atmosphere as dim as the Guiness stout you just ordered at the bar...SLIGO RAGS really know their Celtic music." Don't be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz, and swing manage to sneak their way into the act as well. Tix, $18.
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Fri, Sep 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
SOLD OUT: 8 pm CHERYL WHEELER plus KENNY WHITE at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497.
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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 BLUEHOUSE 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. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm).
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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, Sep 11 & Sat, Sep 12:
8:30 pm “FIREWORKS FINALE: BLAME IT ON RIO” with the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA, THOMAS WILKINS, conductor; SEU JORGE, special guest; BEBEL GILBERTO, special guest; at the Hollywood Bowl. Program is “From Carnival to Carmen (Miranda),” as this amazing evening tours the beaches and clubs of Brazil. Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Wilkins, the stellar guests, plus dancers and the Bowl’s famous fireworks. The season’s closing program runs Fri & Sat at 8:30 pm and Sun at 7:30 pm.
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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, SEPTEMBER 12
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Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are “BLUES AT THE FAIR” returning for its 8th year Sat & Sun, all day, at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, with THE RENO JONES BAND, THE PHIL GATES BAND, and DENNIS JONES; the annual “TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL” at the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, Sat & Sun, 10 am-5 pm; today’s “Late Afternoon-to-10 pm” Monthly “GRASSROOTS ACOUSTICA” with a special “WESTERN BEAT REUNION EDITION” at the Talking Stick in Venice;
BONNIE RAITT & TAJ MAHAL, “BONTAJ ROULET,” at the Santa Barbara Bowl at 7 pm; JIM CURRY with his “JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE” show at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont at 8 pm; CHERYL WHEELER plus KENNY WHITE at the Caltech Folk Music Society series in Pasadena at 8 pm; WILLIE NILE at McCabe’s in Santa Monica at 8 pm; and, THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Music Today at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona:
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Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“BLUES AT THE FAIR” returns for its 8th year for two days hosted by THE RENO JONES BAND with THE PHIL GATES BAND, and DENNIS JONES, returns this year by popular demand to the Garden Plaza Stage, Sat, Sep 12 at noon, 1, 2, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, 7, 8, 9, & 10 pm, and Sun, Sep 13 at 11 am, noon, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 pm. More at www.renojones.com
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Sat, Sep 12 (Wednesdays-Sundays, through Oct 4):
THE VAGABOND PIRATES do multiple shows of “A Pirate’s Life” on the Buccaneer Stage. Performances are Wednesdays-Fridays 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, 8, & 9:30 pm; Saturdays; 11:30 am, 2:30, 4;30, 7, & 8:30 pm; Sundays; 1, 2:30, 4:30, 7, & 8:30 pm. Step back in time with The Vagabond Pirates, the most fearsome and funny troupe of pirates to sail six of the seven seas. Enjoy Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of pirates as they wreck havoc upon those fortunate enough to experience their lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Then, watch as two of their most bloodthirsty pirates battle it out, sword to sword, to determine who should be first mate. More, www.vagabondtroupe.com
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Sat, Sep 12:
PERSON TO PERSON spans the music of the Summer of Love through the groovy ‘70s, “transforming their personas into whatever era they represent to bring a show that is high energy and full of fun” says their promo. Travel back in time Sep 9-Oct 4 on the Hit the Road traveling stage, Wednesdays-Thursdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm; Fridays-Saturdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, 9:30, & 11 pm; Sundays at 4, 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. More at www.persontopersonband.com
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Sat, Sep 12:
7:30 pm GOOD CHARLOTTE plus ALANA GRACE play the L.A. County Fair’s “End of Summer Concert Series” in the Grandstand (series runs 19 nights of the Fair).
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Good Charlotte, an American band from Waldorf, Maryland, formed in 1996. In 2000, they released their self-titled debut album, Good Charlotte, with singles “Little Things,” “The Motivation Proclamation,” “The Click” and “Festival Song.” “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous” topped both pop and rock charts around the globe. Have a rockin’ time.
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Alana Grace is a singer-songwriter, performer, musician and working actress who launched into the national spotlight when her song “Black Roses Red” emerged as the standout track on the soundtrack for the movie “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.” It’s Alana’s debut performance at the L.A. County Fair.
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General admission to the nighttime entertainment is free with Fair admission. Reserved seating is $18.50-$35; box seating $22.50-$50; stageside seating $75-$150. Tix at Ticketmaster (ticketmaster.com) or in person at the Fairplex box office (or at fairplex.com). Concerts require Fair admission. Acts and schedules subject to change. Most shows begin at 7:30 pm. A limited number of free assigned seats are available for grandstand entertainment. (Including wheelchair access). The line forms on Floral (across from the grandstand). Tickets are dispersed at 3 pm., first come, first served on concert days only. Each person must be present to receive a ticket.
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Local Festivals:
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Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13, in the OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 am-5 pm Annual “TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL” at the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point; www.tallshipsfestival.com and www.ocean-institute.org. Includes tours of sailing vessels and the Ocean Institute, and maritime music and sea chanteys.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Sat, Sep 12; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13, in Oklahoma:
AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM gala grand opening celebration at 9 E. Sheridan St, downtown Oklahoma City; 405-260-1323; www.banjomuseum.org. In the Bricktown arts and entertainment district. With completion of the nearly three year, $3.3 million dollar project, the music and heritage of the banjo will be on display for the general public. The Museum promises to be impressive, in a three floor, 21,000 sq. ft. facility. It features state of the art exhibitions presenting every chapter of the banjo's story, from its humble roots in American slavery, through the minstrel and classic periods, continuing through the jazz age four-string banjo era up to its most recent identities in Bluegrass and international folk music. The Museum features a gift shop, a coffee/snack bar, a Shakey's pizza room able to be converted into a 160 seat concert hall complete with stage area and a state of the art sound and recording system, a large research and archival room, a Four-String Banjo Hall of Fame room, and more.
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All events during the grand opening weekend are open and free to the public. In addition to the Museum itself, the four days of the grand opening weekend will be highlighted by many musical performances from visiting musicians and celebrities. A limited number of performance opportunities are available during the grand opening weekend. Banjo players or groups wishing to participate must request to be scheduled as soon as possible. For out of town guests, there are several fine hotels all within walking distance of the Museum. Info from Doug Back, Assistant Director, American Banjo Museum.
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Sat, Sep 12; Fri-Sun, Sep 11-13, in Oregon:
Fri-Sun, Sep 11-13, in Oregon:
Annual “SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL” in Sisters, OR 97701; 541-549-4979. Plenty of music, from blues to bluegrass. Six stages all within walking distance in downtown Sisters, Oregon. Workshops explore the creative process of performing artists. This festival is known for world-class performers in a small town setting. Performers include past “Tied to the Tracks” performing guest TRINA HAMLIN performing with SUSAN WERNER on Fri, Sep 11, at 6 pm; Trina does a workshop for the festival on Sat, Sep 12, at noon on the Sister's Coffee Co. stage.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13; in West Virginia:
Annual “PICKIN’ IN THE PANHANDLE” festival in Hedgesville, WV, in the countryside of Back Creek Valley. Bluegrass bands featured on Country Music Television, together with local bluegrass favorites, showcase their talents. Pickin’ and playin’ competitions allow others to show off their skills, with prizes for the best flat pickin’, banjo, fiddle and band. Professional and backyard BBQ chefs participate in contests featuring cash awards. Festival includes a Kids Korner with a moon bounce, face painting, and hot dog fixing contest.
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Sat, Sep 12, in Utah:
Annual “OLD CAPITAL ARTS FESTIVAL” in the Old Capital State Park, Fillmore, UT 435-743-5316. Lineup features the marvelous SOURDOUGH SLIM.
Sat, Sep 12; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13; in Colorado:
9 am-4 pm Annual “OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD DAYS” at the Ridgway Railroad Museum, corner of US 50 US 62 (PO Box 588), Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-4239; www.ridgwayrailroadmuseum.org. Organized by Jim Pettengill (http://truewest.ning.com/profile/jimpettengill), it’s a four-day celebration of Colorado narrow gauge railroad history. Guided hikes of historic railbeds (with lots of picturesque abandoned mining structures), museum open house with rides on Rio Grande Southern Motor 1, plus the Narrow Gauge Symposium, evening of history talk about the Silverton Railroad (not the one you think), and guided auto tours along the Rio Grande Southern and D&RG Ouray Branch routes.
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Sat, Sep 12, in Washington State:
7 pm “THE DOLLAR WATCH COWBOY JAMBOREE” with ELI BARSI plus HORSE CRAZY, DAVE McCLURE, and THE ELBOW COULEE CAST OF CHARACTERS in the Winthrop Auditorium (Red Barn), Sponsored by Winthrop Red Apple Market, Winthrop, Washington 98862; 509-996-2404; Email: Lauralee@HorseCrazyCowgirlBand.com.
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ELI BARSI is a singer-songwriter, musician and yodeler with 10 CD’s, 11 Canadian Charted Radio Singles, 3 CMT videos, and winner of the Academy of Western Artists Female Vocalist of the year for 2006 along with the Crescendo Award for Best New Artist by the Western Music Association that same year. Eli is driven by her passion for music, committed to giving her best, and strives for excellence on and off stage. For the past 22 years Eli has been working as a professional musician. Eli is a proud Canadian who was hired to perform with the legendary Sons of the Pioneers in the year 2002, and since this show, she has been based out of Branson, Missouri. Eli is a diverse artist that shares a large variety of genres in her shows such as: Western Roots, Gospel, New Country, Bluegrass, Classic Country & Folk. With a 3, 4, or 5 piece band, or on stage alone with her guitar, Eli is a crowd pleaser.
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HORSE CRAZY, that totally fun cowgirl band will be on hand along with DAVE McCLURE, cowboy poet and humorist. Don’t forget THE ELBOW COULEE CAST OF CHARACTERS: Forest Stump, Girl of the Golden West, Jingle Queens of the San Joaquin and perhaps a surprise guest.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sat, every Sat:
8-10 am LINDA GELERIS plays the FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT series 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, 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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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:
1:30 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Sat, 2nd Sat, every month; in Tehachapi:
2-5 pm Monthly “FIDDLE JAM” at Veterans Hall, 125 East F Street, Tehachapi. Second Sat, every month. Info: Leslie Schoenberg, California State Old Time Fiddlers Association, District 3, 661-821-0800. Every second Saturday, fiddlers and pickers are all welcome to join in the fun and learn some new fiddle tunes. All ages welcome as well as those who want to listen and tap their toes; www.tehachapi.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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Sat, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
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Sat, 2nd Sat, every month; in Lake Elizabeth & web simulcast:
5-10 pm “EAST OF NOWHERE JAM & POTLUCK” at a private residence in Lake Elizabeth 93532; call for info & directions, 661-724-1064. Sponsors say, “Bring your axe, your voice, your ears and something to eat and/or drink. We’ll have a ball!” For the first time, the monthly event will be simulcast on the web, at http://lakesandvalleys.camstreams.com.
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Sat, Sep 12:
JUDY TAYLOR does her “Wild West Show” sometime today in Menifee, CA, and that’s all we know about that.
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Sat, Sep 12; 2nd Sat every month; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“Late Afternoon-to-10 pm” Monthly “GRASSROOTS ACOUSTICA” brings a “WESTERN BEAT REUNION EDITION” at an earlier time than usual, to the venue named in FolkWorks as co-winner of L.A.’s “Best No-Cover-Charge (Free) Acoustic Music Venue” - The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Series host MARK ISLAM today brings guests EDDIE CUNNINGHAM, EDWARD TREE, JIMMY MUFFIN, JOHN STOWERS, KAREN TOBIN, LISA O'KANE, LOIS BLAISCH, MERRILY WEEBER, NAKED TO THE WORLD, REEVA HUNTER, WENDY CONRAD and “maybe” BILLY & JILLY BLOCK & THE BLOCK FAMILY BAND, WENDY WALDMAN, & KENNY EDWARDS. Series is named in FolkWorks as co-winner of L.A.’s “Best Monthly Listening Room Series” - at More on the monthly charity-benefit series, hosted and booked by MARK ISLAM, at www.grassrootsacoustica.org. Info on this month’s recipient charity, Lilia's team of walkers for Memory Walk 2009 for the Alzheimer's Association California Southland Chapter; info, www.alz.org/californiasouthland. No cover, but please remember it’s a fund-raiser for charity.
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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, 2nd Sat, every month; in the OC:
6:30 pm Blues legend BERNIE PEARL plays a monthly duet show with pianist DWAYNE SMITH at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. This is Bernie & Dwayne’s every-second Saturday show, and Bernie usually plays this one electric. He was great performing live acoustic on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” in March 2007. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Sat, Sep 12; world music:
7 pm “CENTRAL AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION” with MACONDO Y SUS LATIN BROTHERS at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, MacArthur Park, 2230 W 6th St, downtown L.A.; 213-368-0520; www.levittla.org; concert series, 213-384-5701.
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Led by Brigido "Macondo" Chaverra, who sang with the legendary cumbia pioneers La Sonora Dinamita, this Columbian ensemble brings “classic salsa in the grand style.” Sponsors say, “Get ready to dance the night away as the Levitt Pavilion – MacArthur Park celebrates Central American Independence.” More at www.myspace.com/macondoysuslatinbrothers
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The theme of “independence days” of our southern neighbors closes the venue’s year, with a “Mexican Independence Day Celebration” tomorrow evening at 6:30 pm. You can avoid parking hassles by riding the Red Line light rail to MacArthur Park Station and walking the length of the park to the band shell. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Free.
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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, Sep 12; in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm BONNIE RAITT & TAJ MAHAL, “BONTAJ ROULET,” at the Santa Barbara Bowl, 1122 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara; 805-962-7411; www.sbbowl.com.
Two leading lights of modern blues join forces for their first-ever tour together. The "BonTaj Roulet" tour features Bonnie and Taj on stage alone and together. Bonnie, backed by her dazzling group, and Taj, with the six-piece, Grammy-winning PHANTOM BLUES BAND, play full sets separately, before closing each night with a collaborative, blow-out performance. In addition to the glorious sounds, these two socially-conscious artists intend the tour to “make a difference,” through “The BonTaj Collective Action Fund.” It utilizes several initiatives to raise money for a variety of causes including environmental protection, social justice and blues/music education. Info at www.bontaj.com.
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Nine-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer BONNIE RAITT is a legend, a best-selling artist, respected guitarist, expressive singer and accomplished songwriter. Her most recent studio album was 2005's “Souls Alike,” followed by VH1’s “Classic Decades Rock Live! Presents Bonnie Raitt and Friends,” a 2006 DVD/CD.
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Two-time Grammy winner, composer, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist TAJ MAHAL was inducted into the “Blues Hall of Fame” in May. His work, including last year's studio album “Maestro” featuring guest appearances from Ben Harper, Jack Johnson and Ziggy Marley. It incorporates music from around the globe, from West Africa to Latin America and the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands and beyond.
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"This tour is just what the doctor ordered," says Bonnie. "Taj and I have so much in common, but there's so much unexplored territory between us. It's been a long time coming, and now is the right time." Taj adds, "We've been like ships passing in the night. Some of my musicians used to play with Bonnie, we have so many of the same friends -- this is really an opportunity to combine some forces and play some great music." Tix: Floor Sections T, U, V, $78.75; Preferred Sections J, K, L, M, N, O, $78.75; Sections G,H,I, $68.75; Sections D,E,F, $58.75; Sections A,B,C, $48.75.
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Sat, Sep 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JIM CURRY brings his “JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE” show to the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, 1500 N College Av, Claremont 91711; www.rsabg.org. He performs aboard cruise ships and was the singing voice of John Denver in the TV movie about the late author of “Rocky Mountain High” and dozens of other wonderful songs. Last weekend, he sold-out two shows at the Coffee gallery Backstage. More at www.jimcurrymusic.com. Garden gates open at 6 pm; performance at 7 pm; music concludes at 9 pm. Tickets: $18 adults; $15 for Garden mbrs; $10 students and children.
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Sat, every week, in Palmdale:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St.West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Butler's owners, Pam & David Logan, are long-time lovers and supporters of acoustic music. Indeed, Pam is an accomplished musician and a member of the BROWNE SISTERS, Celtic festival favorites who earned a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The venue serves food and drink, featuring fresh-roasted coffee, in a rich, comfortable setting. Butler's music guy, Kevin Burton Smith, has had great success in attracting excellent acoustic music to Butler's.
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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. 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, 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, Sep 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CHERYL WHEELER plus KENNY WHITE play the Caltech Folk Music Society series in Beckman Institute Auditorium on the Caltech campus, parking at 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832).
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Cheryl Wheeler and Kenny White return to Caltech by popular demand. Cheryl is side-splittingly funny and delivers insightful and disarmingly poignant songs as well. She accompanies herself on guitar and is a great observer of the world. The word is that she has a new recording in the works, so there's a good chance there will be some new songs as well. Her songs include "Potato," a hilarious ditty about spuds, and “Estate Sale,” which combines humor and insight in a look at weekend phenomena of looking through the lives of the departed. On the more serious side is the beautiful, "Howling at the Moon." She's got a treasure chest of music, and there's no way of knowing which songs she'll share.
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Kenny White is a savvy singer-songwriter / piano player / guitarist, who does a great job of backing Cheryl and presenting his own set of songs. He's amazing on the keyboards and his songs have a lot to say. He could easily headline a show of his own. When Cheryl and Kenny played the Caltech series a couple of years ago, the show sold out a week or two before the night of the concert. More in a current FolkWorks feature at www.folkworks.org/content/view/36127/166 and at www.cherylwheeler.com and www.kennywhite.net. Tix, $20 gen’l, $5 youth & Caltech students.
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Sat, Sep 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm WILLIE NILE at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. McCabe’s booker Lincoln Myerson tells us, “Last year, the legendary Mr. Nile made his first L.A. appearance in more than two decades, and totally knocked us out. His street-tough troubadour style has earned him a well-deserved and fervent following, with fans like Lucinda Williams and Bruce Springsteen singing his praises. As his latest album ‘Streets Of New York’ proves, the man just keeps getting better with age. He's the real deal, and we're thrilled to bring him back to McCabe's.” More at www.willienile.com. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Sep 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN 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 says, “THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN provide the perfect blend of harmony and humor harkening back to the days of Vaudeville. Preserving America’s great vocal sounds from a time when music was music, this vocal quartet, named the National A Cappella Champions, recreates the close harmonies of such legendary groups as The Ink Spots and the Pied Pipers, while including the era’s great comic songs made famous by the likes of Louis Jordan and The Hoosier Hotshots. A typical performance by THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN includes marvelous melodious music mingled with masterful mirth, mischief, and merry-making. The group’s versatility allows for effortless shifts between vocal styles with an air of ease, whether singing a cappella or accompanied by guitar or ukulele. Their signature piece, ‘Salute to the 20th Century,’ is a humorous take on the de-evolution of music over the last century, illustrated by singing the same song in the style of Barbershop, Dixieland, Blues, Big Band, Doo-Wop, Bluegrass, Disco, Techno Punk, and Rap, complete with visuals that delights audiences of all ages time and time again. Once you’ve heard THE PERFECT GENTLEMEN, you won’t settle for anything.” Tix, $20.
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Sat, Sep 12:
8 pm EVAN HIRSCHELMAN at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Heralded by the Los Angeles Times for "technical wizardry" and by the Malibu Times for "soulful musicality", Evan Hirschelman is a guitarist, composer and teacher. Whether performing original music or exploring cultures and musical forms outside of the Western tradition, Hirschelman strives to find connections that stimulate the imagination. Good places to eat in the neighborhood. Doors at 7:30 pm. Tix, $15, kids under 12 half price (under age 3, free).
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Sat, Sep 12:
8 pm STONEHONEY at Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks area); www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts; www.houseconcerts.us. Reserv & directions at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. Features coffee & dessert buffet, to which contributions are welcome. Doors at 7:30 pm. All proceeds go to the artist. Check for price of each concert. They’ve played McCabe’s so many times, they practically have a residency there, and that just doesn’t happen at the legendary West side venue. Artists info, www.stonehoney.com
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Sat, Sep 12:
8 pm “EMILY DICKINSON: THIS AND MY HEART” with VICTORIA KIRSCH at Grand Performances, California Plaza, 350 S Grand Av, LA; 213-687-2159; www.grandperformances.org. Actress Linda Kelsey (“Lou Grant”), soprano Anne Marie Ketchum and pianist Victoria Kirsch combine their talents to explore the worlds of American literary icon Emily Dickinson through her poetry and letters. This moving theatrical presentation also features songs by Aaron Copland, Lori Laitman, Tom Cipullo and Steve Heitzeg.
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Sat, Sep 12; in the OC:
8 pm AIR SUPPLY at The Grove of Anaheim, 2200 East Katella Av, Anaheim; 714-712-2700. The Australian soft rock group perform their countless hits, many of them acoustic. Air Supply first gained national recognition when they released their debut album “Lost in Love” in 1980, featuring Russell Hitchcock’s soaring tenor voice and Graham Russell’s simple yet majestic songs. That first album brought three hit singles, "Lost in Love," "All Out of Love," and "Every Woman in the World.” Those songs and subsequent singles, “The One that You Love,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” have each received endless play on the radio. A string of hit albums followed, including “The One That You Love,” “Now & Forever” and “The Greatest Hits” have, altogether, sold in excess of 20 million copies. Air Supply’s live show always captivates audiences around the globe. They have played in countries that had not previously allowed pop music inside their borders. They were the first Western group to tour China and Taiwan in the same tour. In Jul 2005, Air Supply played to 175,000 people in Cuba. That same year, their live DVD, “It Was 30 Years Ago Today,” celebrated 3 decades of global success. Tix, $35, $38, $43.
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - 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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Sat, every Sat:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE 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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Sat, 2nd Sat, every month:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “MISSION HILLS SONG CIRCLE” in the north SFV; for location, contact Bobbi Gore, 818-365-6418; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat, Sep 12, in Santa Barbara:
8 pm TAMRA ENGLE and SAVANNAH JO LACK play Cold Spring Tavern, 5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara 93105; 805-967-0066; www.coldspringtavern.com. More at www.guitartam.com and www.savannahjolack.com. See the write-up for Monday, 8 pm, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage.
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Sat, Sep 12:
8:30 pm “FIREWORKS FINALE: BLAME IT ON RIO” with the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA, THOMAS WILKINS, conductor; SEU JORGE, special guest; BEBEL GILBERTO, special guest; at the Hollywood Bowl. Program is “From Carnival to Carmen (Miranda),” as this amazing evening tours the beaches and clubs of Brazil. Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Wilkins, the stellar guests, plus dancers and the Bowl’s famous fireworks. The season’s closing program runs Fri & Sat at 8:30 pm and Sun at 7:30 pm.
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Sat, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
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Sunday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are abundant. They are: “BLUES AT THE FAIR” returning for its 8th year Sat & Sun, all day, at the L.A. County Fair in Pomona, with THE RENO JONES BAND, THE PHIL GATES BAND, and DENNIS JONES; the annual “TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL” at the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, Sat & Sun, 10 am-5 pm; MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO plus ROCKY NECK BLUEGRASS playing the season closer of the Free Summer Concert Series at Peter Strauss Ranch, co-sponsored by the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest and the National Park Service, in Agoura Hills, 3-5 pm; GOING SOUTH BAND at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton, at 3 & 7 pm; MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO playing a “dinner & a show” house concert in Santa Monica at 6 pm; the sold-out show by TOM PAXTON at McCabe’s in Santa Monica at 7 pm; and, KEN O’MALLEY at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 7 pm.
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Music Today at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona:
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Sun, Sep 13; Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“BLUES AT THE FAIR” returns for its 8th year for two days hosted by THE RENO JONES BAND with THE PHIL GATES BAND, and DENNIS JONES, returns this year by popular demand to the Garden Plaza Stage, Sat, Sep 12 at noon, 1, 2, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, 7, 8, 9, & 10 pm, and Sun, Sep 13 at 11 am, noon, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 pm. More at www.renojones.com
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Sun, Sep 13 (Wednesdays-Sundays, through Oct 4):
THE VAGABOND PIRATES do multiple shows of “A Pirate’s Life” on the Buccaneer Stage. Performances are Wednesdays-Fridays 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, 8, & 9:30 pm; Saturdays; 11:30 am, 2:30, 4;30, 7, & 8:30 pm; Sundays; 1, 2:30, 4:30, 7, & 8:30 pm. Step back in time with The Vagabond Pirates, the most fearsome and funny troupe of pirates to sail six of the seven seas. Enjoy Cap’n Red Eye Pete and his band of pirates as they wreck havoc upon those fortunate enough to experience their lively sea chanties and comedic antics. Then, watch as two of their most bloodthirsty pirates battle it out, sword to sword, to determine who should be first mate. More, www.vagabondtroupe.com
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Sun, Sep 13:
SONORA CUMBIAMBERO performs multiple shows on the plaza de las Americas Stage, Sun, Sep 13, at 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. Emerging from Latin America’s fiery Cumbia music scene, La Sonora Cumbiambera mixes traditional sounds with a new contemporary style, bringing progressive blends of vocals and percussion backed by a sizzling horn section. The band attributes their intensity to the group’s various musical roots spanning several countries, including Columbia, Mexico, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. Their repertoire ranges from the latest Latin hits to classics of the genre. More at www.myspace.com/sonoracumbiambera
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Sun, Sep 13:
PERSON TO PERSON spans the music of the Summer of Love through the groovy ‘70s, “transforming their personas into whatever era they represent to bring a show that is high energy and full of fun” says their promo. Travel back in time Sep 9-Oct 4 on the Hit the Road traveling stage, Wednesdays-Thursdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm; Fridays-Saturdays at 4, 5, 6:30, 8, 9:30, & 11 pm; Sundays at 4, 5:30, 6:30, 8, & 9 pm. More at www.persontopersonband.com
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Sun, Sep 13:
7:30 pm LYNYRD SKYNYRD plays the L.A. County Fair’s “End of Summer Concert Series” in the Grandstand (series runs 19 nights of the Fair).
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Skynyrd’s incendiary live show is full of power and grace, and everything great a Southern rock band can be. Lynyrd Skynyrd was one of the South's most popular rock groups in the 1970s, known for such hits as "Free Bird," "What's Your Name" and "Sweet Home Alabama," a Top 10 hit in 1974. The band has endured - despite all odds, through death and disaster - as the signature rock group of America’s working people.
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General admission to the nighttime entertainment is free with Fair admission. Reserved seating is $18.50-$35; box seating $22.50-$50; stageside seating $75-$150. Tix at Ticketmaster (ticketmaster.com) or in person at the Fairplex box office (or at fairplex.com). Concerts require Fair admission. Acts and schedules subject to change. Most shows begin at 7:30 pm. A limited number of free assigned seats are available for grandstand entertainment. (Including wheelchair access). The line forms on Floral (across from the grandstand). Tickets are dispersed at 3 pm., first come, first served on concert days only. Each person must be present to receive a ticket.
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Local Festivals:
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Sun, Sep 13 (Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13), in the OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 am-5 pm Annual “TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL” at the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point; www.tallshipsfestival.com and www.ocean-institute.org. Includes tours of sailing vessels and the Ocean Institute, and maritime music and sea chanteys.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Sun, Sep 13; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13, in Oklahoma:
AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM gala grand opening celebration at 9 E. Sheridan St, downtown Oklahoma City; 405-260-1323; www.banjomuseum.org. In the Bricktown arts and entertainment district. With completion of the nearly three year, $3.3 million dollar project, the music and heritage of the banjo will be on display for the general public. The Museum promises to be impressive, in a three floor, 21,000 sq. ft. facility. It features state of the art exhibitions presenting every chapter of the banjo's story, from its humble roots in American slavery, through the minstrel and classic periods, continuing through the jazz age four-string banjo era up to its most recent identities in Bluegrass and international folk music. The Museum features a gift shop, a coffee/snack bar, a Shakey's pizza room able to be converted into a 160 seat concert hall complete with stage area and a state of the art sound and recording system, a large research and archival room, a Four-String Banjo Hall of Fame room, and more.
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All events during the grand opening weekend are open and free to the public. In addition to the Museum itself, the four days of the grand opening weekend will be highlighted by many musical performances from visiting musicians and celebrities. A limited number of performance opportunities are available during the grand opening weekend. Banjo players or groups wishing to participate must request to be scheduled as soon as possible. For out of town guests, there are several fine hotels all within walking distance of the Museum. Info from Doug Back, Assistant Director, American Banjo Museum.
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Sun, Sep 13; Fri-Sun, Sep 11-13, in Oregon:
Annual “SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL” in Sisters, OR 97701; 541-549-4979. Plenty of music, from blues to bluegrass. Six stages all within walking distance in downtown Sisters, Oregon. Workshops explore the creative process of performing artists. This festival is known for world-class performers in a small town setting. Performers include past “Tied to the Tracks” performing guest TRINA HAMLIN performing with SUSAN WERNER on Fri, Sep 11, at 6 pm; Trina does a workshop for the festival on Sat, Sep 12, at noon on the Sister's Coffee Co. stage.
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Sun, Sep 13; Sat & Sun, Sep 12 & 13; in West Virginia:
Annual “PICKIN’ IN THE PANHANDLE” festival in Hedgesville, WV, in the countryside of Back Creek Valley. Bluegrass bands featured on Country Music Television, together with local bluegrass favorites, showcase their talents. Pickin’ and playin’ competitions allow others to show off their skills, with prizes for the best flat pickin’, banjo, fiddle and band. Professional and backyard BBQ chefs participate in contests featuring cash awards. Festival includes a Kids Korner with a moon bounce, face painting, and hot dog fixing contest.
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Sun, Sep 13; Thu-Sun, Sep 10-13; in Colorado:
9 am-4 pm Annual “OURAY COUNTY RAILROAD DAYS” at the Ridgway Railroad Museum, corner of US 50 US 62 (PO Box 588), Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-4239; www.ridgwayrailroadmuseum.org. Organized by Jim Pettengill (http://truewest.ning.com/profile/jimpettengill), it’s a four-day celebration of Colorado narrow gauge railroad history. Guided hikes of historic railbeds (with lots of picturesque abandoned mining structures), museum open house with rides on Rio Grande Southern Motor 1, plus the Narrow Gauge Symposium, evening of history talk about the Silverton Railroad (not the one you think), and guided auto tours along the Rio Grande Southern and D&RG Ouray Branch routes.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sun, every Sun, on broadcast radio & web simulcast:
8 am-noon “PEACE, LOVE & SUNDAY MORNINGS” with veteran deejay Mimi Chen, on 100.3 FM The Sound in L.A., and simulcast everywhere at http://www.thesoundla.com/?nid=41&sid=304. Mimi mixes together the best acoustic, live, reggae, bluegrass, "jam band", and folk performances by Sound artists both new and old. It's music that fits the mellow mood of Sunday mornings in Southern California. The station tells us, “This is a unique opportunity for our listeners to associate with the idealism that grew out of the peace movement in the 1970s. No longer controversial, the core ideals of friendship and togetherness live on-and relate powerfully to new generations of music fans. Tune in and turn on.”
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Sun, recurring:
9 am-1 pm “CLAREMONT FARMER'S MARKET” has live acoustic music in downtown Claremont. RON ELY plays songs of the sea and more on 2nd St between Yale Av and Indian Hill, in old downtown Claremont. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely .
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Sun, every Sun:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Includes free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun, Sep 13:
11 am JAMBO plays a “Matinee Kids' Show” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Parents' Choice Award Winners. Steve Pierson brings a wonderful surprise of top-notch players and top-notch songs every time he comes to McCabe's. Booker Lincoln Myerson says, “We are once again proud to have him open up our fall series with his roots style music — originally started by writing songs for his sweet daughter Lucy. Don't miss this great show!” More at www.jambojam.com. Tix, $10, and kids under age 2 are free.
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Sun, every Sun, on web radio:
11 am-1 pm (Pacific time) “COW TRAILS SHOW” from Mancos, Colorado, features live on-air performances by Western music artists hosted by “Western Belle Barb” (Barbara Richhart) on KSJD, simulcast at www.ksjd.org. Studio phone-in numbers for host and on-air guests, 970-564-9727 & 970-564-0808. More, www.myspace.com/mancosbelle
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Sun, second Sun, every month:
Noon-3:30 pm monthly BLUEGRASS JAM at Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake, Altadena 91001; www.coffeegallery.com. These jams are the second Sunday of every month. Info: David Naiditch, 626-797-1827; french10@pacbell.net. Host David Naiditch's wonderful instrumental CD has been heard on radio's "Tied to the Tracks." David says, “Pickers, grinners, and fans of bluegrass are invited.” The jam is always free.
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month; near Goleta:
Noon “TUCKER'S GROVE OLD TIME & BLUEGRASS JAM” at Tucker's Grove County Park, near the intersection of Cathedral Oaks and Turnpike Rd, in "Noleta" (between Santa Barbara and Goleta). After entering the park, go to the right about 1/3 mile to the Kiwannis Meadows section. Hosted by Alan Aleksander (constatty@aol.com.) this jam from the early ’70s was recently reinstated. Goes from noon, "until."
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Sun, every Sun:
12:30-5 pm “BRUNCH AMERICANA” show, hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff at The Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St, downtown L.A. 90012. It’s a four-act musical afternoon. David Serby has played it, and he tells us, “Get there early for great food and drinks. [It’s] live, independent Western Country Music in Los Angeles!”
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Sun, every Sun:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun, 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month, in Lancaster / Palmdale:
2-5 pm monthly “AV FOLK MUSIC CLUB CIRCLE” is returning to homes for its potluck and jamfest (no longer at the Health Tree Coffee Lounge & Café.) They tell us, “Bring your instruments and voices and join in.” Held every month on the second Sunday. Info and location, 661-339-2655.
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month:
2:30-3:30 pm “TUESDAY MUSICALE CLUB SECOND SUNDAY CONCERT” in the Pasadena Central Library Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Program & performer info, contact Celeste French, 818-790-1739.All ages, free.
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Sun, Sep 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3-5 pm MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO plus ROCKY NECK BLUEGRASS play the season closer of the Free Summer Concert Series at Peter Strauss Ranch, co-sponsored by the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest and the National Park Service, at 30000 Mullholland Hwy, 2 blks from Troutdale Rd, in Santa Monica Mtns Nat’l Park, near Agoura Hills; 818-382-4819; www.topangabanjofiddle.org/summer_concerts_2009.html.
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MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO bring “stompin’ rebel-harmony” with cello & banjo and original and traditional songs steeped in Appalachia & Eastern Europe. Moira Smiley & VOCO sing powerful, emotional music with lush harmony and a delicious vaudevillian combo. Sprinkled throughout their songs are rompin', stompin' body percussion sets - always a show-stopping pleasure, as they proved when they performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Since then, they were voted #1 a cappella band in the U.S. The four members of VOCO create what they call “post-folk,” improvisation-built songs that digs into old Americana and Eastern European sounds, original music and new fruits from the old songs, from Americana to Bartók, ethereal and gritty. More at www.moirasmiley.com/VOCO_main.html
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ROCKY NECK BLUEGRASS were the winners of the 2009 Topanga Banjo Fiddle "Band Contest." They are a Southern California-based band featuring Devitt Feeley, Lydia Veilleux, Craig Ferguson, and Andrew Paddock. Though recently formed (early 2009) the band’s members have a long list of experience and credits including: Fox TV's "Next Great American Band," Stagecoach Music Festival, Strawberry Bluegrass Festival, Huck Finn Bluegrass Festival, as well as the Colorado River, Blythe, Parker, Logandale, and Yuma bluegrass festivals. More at www.rockyneckbluegrass.com. Free.
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Sun, Sep 13, in the OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 7 pm GOING SOUTH BAND plays the “SECOND SUNDAY FESTIVAL” at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. Presented by Fullerton Community Bank, with an arts & crafts fair, kids games, art workshops, gallery openings and picnicking. Everything is FREE except for the show. The band is quite good, playing country, bluegrass, western and Cajun music. Tix, $10 / $15 / $20. Shows at 3 & 7 pm.
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Sun, recurring:
3-5:30 pm JAZZ COMPOSERS WORKSHOP at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sunday.
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Sun, 2nd Sun, every month:
4-8 pm JEFFREY BROUSSARD plays the “CAJUN ZYDECO DANCE SERIES” at The Lakewood HOP, 5201 Clark Av, Lakewood 90721. (Note new time, beginning in March, 2009; and series is no longer at Gardena Elks Lodge); event info, call Sidney, 323-401-8859. Presented by J.P.L.. Productions. Admission to all dances, $20 per person.
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Sun, every Sun:
4-8 pm “SANTA CLARITA VALLEY BLUES SOCIETY MONTHLY JAM” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES BAND at The Londoner Pub, 18511 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country (near Santa Clarita) 91351. They tell us, “You never know who will show up. There’s always lots of great music and fun. The Londoner serves up some free food for these Sunday Jams, so come hungry. Don’t forget to bring your instrument - we’d love to hear your music!” More,www.myspace.com/santaclaritavalleybluessociety and www.scvblues.org. All ages, free.
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Sun, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
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Sun, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, every Sun:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, every Sun, through the spring & summer:
5-9 pm “THE GRAND OLE ECHO” country & roots series brings a full lineup each week to The Echo, 1822 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; www.myspace.com/thegrandoleecho. Several acts on the main stage indoors, plus more live music on the Back Porch Stage, where there’s a BBQ available. Venue has a full bar. All ages, no cover.
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Sun, every Sun:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. (BBQ changed to 5-8 pm, effective July 4.) Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 5, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun, every Sun; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Sep 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6 pm MOIRA SMILEY & VOCO play a “dinner & a show” house concert in Santa Monica; reservations get directions at 818-785-3839. They bring “stompin’ rebel-harmony” with cello & banjo and original and traditional songs steeped in Appalachia & Eastern Europe. Moira Smiley & VOCO sing powerful, emotional music with lush harmony and a delicious vaudevillian combo. Sprinkled throughout their songs are rompin', stompin' body percussion sets - always a show-stopping pleasure, as they proved when they performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Since then, they were voted #1 a cappella band in the U.S. The four members of VOCO create what they call “post-folk,” improvisation-built songs that digs into old Americana and Eastern European sounds, original music and new fruits from the old songs, from Americana to Bartók, ethereal and gritty. More at www.moirasmiley.com/VOCO_main.html
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Sun, every Sun:
6-8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD NUMBER 7 play a new “Sunday Happy Hour” residency at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar. Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar. You’ve seen them on TV, as final-round finalists on “America’s Next Great Band,” and they made it to #29 on the Americana charts at the close of 2008. Bluegrass-Americana music and drink specials on the West Side. More at www.oldnumber7.net.
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Sun, Sep 13:
6:30 pm “MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION” brings FIESTA JAROCHA with CONJUNTO HUEYAPAN at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, MacArthur Park, 2230 W 6th St, downtown L.A.; 213-368-0520; www.levittla.org; concert series, 213-384-5701. The theme of “independence days” of our southern neighbors closes the venue’s year, with a “Central American Independence Day Celebration” last night (7 pm) and the “Mexican Independence Day Celebration” to close the season this evening. (Thank you, Levitt Pavilion L.A., for a season with lots of fine offerings. See you next year!)
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Featuring the shimmering, sonorous sound of the guitar-like jarana, the plucked requinto, and the folk harp, the Herrera family ensemble of CONJUNTO HUEYAPAN, comprised of two generations, is dedicated to the son jarocho, a lively, vibrant traditional music of Veracruz, Mexico. Everyone is invited to join the celebration of Mexican Independence Day and the close of the venue’s 2009 concert season in the festive style of the fandango jarocho. More, www.myspace.com/conjuntohueyapandelafamiliaherrera
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You can avoid parking hassles by riding the Red Line light rail to MacArthur Park Station and walking the length of the park to the band shell. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Free.
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Sun, Sep 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
SOLD OUT: 7 pm TOM PAXTON at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50.
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Sun, Sep 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm KEN O’MALLEY 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. Dublin born Ken O’Malley's rich, resonant voice and engaging stage presence have delighted audiences for over thirty years. In this unique solo 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.” It’s a magical evening of songs in both English and Irish Gaelic, accompanied by Ken’s remarkable 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. Tix, $18.
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Sun, every Sun:
7-8 pm JES HUDAK plays her weekly residency at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). JES HUDAK is a singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. Her weapons of choice are the piano and her voice, and she has been known to wield a guitar from time to time. Her live performance “takes her audience on a journey through laughter and love and sadness and heartbreak. Her voice is powerful and soulful, and her songs are original, emotional, and real.” Artist info, www.jes-hudak.com and www.myspace.com/jeshudak
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Sun, Sep 13, in the OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm GOING SOUTH BAND plays the “SECOND SUNDAY FESTIVAL” at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. Presented by Fullerton Community Bank, with an arts & crafts fair, kids games, art workshops, gallery openings and picnicking. Everything is FREE except for the show. The band is quite good, playing country, bluegrass, western and Cajun music. Tix, $10 / $15 / $20. Shows at 3 & 7 pm.
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Sun, every Sun:
7 pm PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP WITH MARC PLATT at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member in advance to gain entry. Limit 10 performers per week. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/workshop.shtml. Each week's workshop is $20, with all proceeds to the venue.
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Sun, every Sun, on radio and web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” is a long-running folk music show from Los Angeles, hosted by ROZ LARMAN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 FM in Santa Barbara, and simulcast at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live, with a guest recording artist. The show celebrated its 37th year on the air in February 2008. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, every Sun, on web radio:
7 pm “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by DAVE STRAUSS, features live on-air performance-interviews at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live web-only show focused on Los Angeles-based songwriters of all genres, but the live segment is generally an acoustic performance.
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Sun, Sep 13:
7:30 pm “FIREWORKS FINALE: BLAME IT ON RIO” with the HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA, THOMAS WILKINS, conductor; SEU JORGE, special guest; BEBEL GILBERTO, special guest; at the Hollywood Bowl. Program is “From Carnival to Carmen (Miranda),” as this amazing evening tours the beaches and clubs of Brazil. Principal Guest Conductor Thomas Wilkins, the stellar guests, plus dancers and the Bowl’s famous fireworks. The season’s closing program runs Fri & Sat at 8:30 pm and Sun at 7:30 pm.
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Sun, Sep 13:
8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” series continues every first, third and occasional fifth Sunday of the month in 2009, at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern Cal, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain.
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Upcoming dates are all Sundays, at 8 pm: Sep 27; Oct 4 & 18; Nov 1, 15, 29; Dec 6 & 20.
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Tix $30; secure, on-site parking is $5.
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Sun, every Sun:
9 pm “RUSTY SUNDAYS” weekly showcase of “L.A.’s best up-and-coming rock, country, blues and folk music acts, on the Wild-West side” at Rusty’s Surf Ranch, 256 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 90401. Musical hosts are MATT OWENS & THE GOLDEN WEST, plus another act or two. $3 cover.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
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Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick is Aussies TAMRA ENGLE & SAVANNAH JO LACK at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm. (Careful: it’ll be electric & acoustic.)
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Music Today at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona:
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None: the fair is closed on Mondays.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Mon, Sep 14, in Wyoming:
Annual “JACKSON HOLE COWBOY JUBILEE” at the Center For The Arts Theater, Jackson Hole, WY; www.jacksonholecowboyjubilee.org.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Mon, every Mon, on web radio:
Noon-12:30 pm “GUNSLINGER RADIO SHOW” with host Cowboy Hud and performing guests on web radio KSGV, Glendora, at http://ksgvradio.com.
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Mon, every Mon; 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, every Mon:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon; every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals, and he composed a film score for a movie due out soon. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon, every Mon:
7 pm free “J.A.M. SESSIONS” series continues at the Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood 90068; 323-GO1-FORD; www.FordTheatres.org; box dinner orders 310-652-3797. Grounds open two hours early for picnics, so pack your basket and a bottle of vino and head for the Ford. A variety of events and activities happen through the summer in this series. It is NOT what musicians would recognize as a “jam session.” It’s a structured program. Check the Ford’s site to see what happens tonight. This series is free, but you should reserve a spot by calling the Ford at 323-461-3673.
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Mon, repeats every 2nd & 4th Mon:
7-10 pm CORONA BLUEGRASS JAM at Crossroads Christian Church, 2331 Kellogg Av (at Ontario Av), Corona. Info, contact Todd Holtkamp, 951-347-2597 or onetoad@adelphia.net. Todd says, “Open Jam, all levels welcome. Having a good time is mandatory. If the weather is good we will be outside in front of the main building. If the weather is bad we will be inside.”
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Mon, every Mon:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, every Mon:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, every Mon:
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, Sep 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm TAMRA ENGLE & SAVANNAH JO LACK bring their “Aussie-AmeROCKana Wall of Sound Tour" 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. Take a cup full of Acoustic Rock flavored like Fleetwood Mac and early Neil Young, Mix in a equal parts Classical and Americana music; Now, Imagine driving down a long road in the desert nite with the stars sparkling above when you round the bend you see bright lights and hear music and laughter coming from a crowded cafe by the side of the road. Pull over and come inside, we've saved you a seat- you'll want to sing along, drink a cup and be filled with the"Aussie-AmeROCKana Wall of Sound" this amazing duo weave's together with looping pedals Guitars, Violin, Harmonica, and a Banjolin named Maude.
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Tamra Engle is an award winning singer songwriter who's latest release The Blonde Flame Session was on the Nominating ballot for the 50th annual Grammy Awards for Best contemporary folk album. Her sound has the rock sensibilities of Fleetwood Mac and the folk edge of early Neil Young; This engaging acoustic performer has worked as a studio musician in Los Angeles and toured the country tirelessly. She has had songs placed in television movies, and nationally aired commercials.
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Savannah Jo Lack’s music spans the wide ravine between Classical and Americana, always with an edge and the willigness to transcend the four strings on her violin. Described as “Dark Americana with sparkly bits” her sound invokes the starkness and scope of a desert night whilst somehow remaining intimate and truthful. Playing as a violinist with the Queensland Symphony to winning National Golden Fiddle Award She as played with Rod Stewart, Cliff Richard, Alanis Morissette contributed music to a 2009 Emmy nominated documentary. Her string studio work has appeared on over 100 albums for artists in Australia and the US. Her debut solo album “Knitting Songs” is set for release this month. Tix, $15.
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Mon, every Mon:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, every Mon:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, every Mon:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, every Mon:
8 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Mon; 2nd & 4th Mon every month:
8-9 pm “MONDAY NIGHT POETRY” at the Santa Catalina Branch Library, 999 E Washington Bl, Pasadena 91104 ; info, www.home.earthlink.net/~mondaynightpoetry/; contact Don Kingfisher Campbell, mondaynightpoetry@earthlink.net or 626-744-7272. Featured poets and open readings; sign-up by 8 pm. They say, “This is your chance to share your poetry with the public and to hear professional poets performing their newest creations.” Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Mon, Sep 14; in the OC:
8 pm 2ND THOUGHTS presented by Moon Tide Press at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malvern Av (1 blk W of Euclid, 2 1/2 mi N of the 91 Fwy), Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6595; www.themuck.org. It’s “Open Mic Readings and the best featured local poets and musicians.” Repeats here Oct 12.
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Mon, every Mon:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by Gordon Gilges at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, ”There's a piano & guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you. Bring your music, your own instruments, your friends!” Sign-ups are at 8 pm. Comedy is now from 7:30-8:30 pm, with those sign-ups at 7:30 pm. They add, “We are trying to create a community of artists who support each other, so participants are encouraged to come early and stay as long as you can to show the love to your fellow open-mic-ers. You may even get to go up a second time. The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.”
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, every Mon:
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 Mon is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon, every Mon:
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, every Mon:
9:30 pm Weekly “SINGER SONGWRITER EVENING” hosted by PRESTON SMITH (Preston Smith & the Crocodiles) at Lucy's 51, 10149 Riverside Dr (just E of Cahuenga, at Forman), Toulca Lake. "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, The Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, every Mon:
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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Okay, that does it for the second full week of September. Let’s look ahead to something BIG you’ll surely want to attend…
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“EVENT-OF-THE-MONTH” pick:
Sep 18-20, in Bishop, CA:
18th annual “MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL” at Millpond County Park, north of Bishop; www.inyo.org; info, 760-873-8014; InyoArts@Inyo.org. With a main stage day and night and a workshop stage that’s active all day, the wonderful lineup including The Marc Atkinson Trio, Laura Love Band, Fiddlin’ Pete Watercott & Friends, Larry Long, Sweetwater String Band, Eliza Gilkyson with Nina Gerber, Chic Gamine, Incendio, Vishten, Kraig Kenning, Palm Wine Boys, Joe Craven, Sarah Lee Guthrie & Johnny Irion, Houston Jones Band, and more.
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Last year’s festival made the “Top Ten / Best of 2008” in FolkWorks (www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166).
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Main Stage Schedule
Friday Night
6:30 pm Fiddlin Pete & Friends (www.fiddlinpete.com)
7:35 pm The Marc Atkinson Trio (www.marcatkinson.com)
9:15 pm Laura Love Band (www.;auralove.net)
Saturday
1 pm Palm Wine Boys (www.palmwineboys.com)
2:20 pm Kraig Kenning (www.kraigkenning.com)
3:40 pm Joe Craven (www.joecraven.com)
6 pm Houston Jones with special guest Joe Craven (www.houstonjones.com)
7:30 pm Amanda Shaw & The Cute Boys (www.amandashaw.com)
9:15 pm Mike Farris and the Roseland Rhythm Revue (www.mikefarrismusic.net)
Sunday
9 am Mike Farris (www.mikefarrismusic.net)
10 am Sweetwater String Band (www.myspace.com/sweetwaterstringband)
11:05 am Larry Long (www.larrylong.org)
12:10 pm Sarah Lee Guthrie & Johnny Irion (www.sarahleeandjohnny.com)
1:25 pm Eliza Gilkyson with Nina Gerber (www.elizagilkyson.com and (www.ninagerber.com)
2:45 pm Chic Gamine (www.chicgamine.com/wp)
4:20 pm Vishten (www.vishten.net)
6 pm Incendio (www.incendioband.com)
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Camping available in permanent campground, with showers, adjacent to the festival. More on Bishop area lodging, restaurants, etc, at www.bishopVisitor.com.
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Tix: full festival (camping not included), adult, $70 advance, $85 gate; ages 5-18, $25; srs, $60. Camping (one family per site) ranges from $35-$55. RVs and dogs allowed in some campsites. Single-day passes are $25 per adult on Fri, $35 on Sat or Sun, and $10 any single day for ages 5-18.
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[Updated editions with more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events still to come in SEPTEMBER and beyond - in and around Los Angeles, plus the many, many, many upcoming acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere! It’ll all be here, soon.
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The MOST RECENT EDITIONS - 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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Use the tabs on the left side of the main page, and be aware that you often need to open an individual month to access everything published during that month.
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News of the “Tied to the Tracks” radio show 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 “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” ~ from www.bluefiddle.com, which supplies us and 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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(And that doesn’t even take into account the dozens of electric Americana shows!)
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If you have trouble believing that assertion, then print this out and see how many pages you’ll need just for the events for the days covered in this edition!
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Check it yourself: take any edition of the L.A. Times Calendar Section and any edition of the LA Weekly, count-up all the live music shows (you won’t even need to subtract-out the acoustic shows in those two publications, since they hardly list any, anyway) and add them up. THEN, count the number of live acoustic music performances for the same days in the Acoustic Americana Music Guide. We have yet to find a week when the TOTAL of all those other genres of music performances equals the number of live performances of acoustic music in the L.A. area! (Even though you can’t hear the music on the radio here, or read about it in the biggest newspapers, it seems people DO want acoustic music and they will find and support it anyway!
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