Acoustic Americana Music Guide, Dec 18 through 21 edition

.
Check our MASSIVE update to the EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW section, following the current listings…
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
Tied to the Tracks
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE & NEWS
.
DECEMBER 18 through 21, 2009
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
No, we don’t know where Tiger Woods is hiding, and we don’t care about the media’s obsession with finding him. News from the political front is disheartening. And the Holidays are supposed to be when we find peace and brotherhood and good will and share treats. Yeah, right. You can Bah Humbug, or you can treat yourself and a deserving companion to a bit of joy. So why not? Go ahead, treat yourself. Take a break from the traffic and those pushy bargain hunters competing to buy junk the recipients don’t want and will re-gift next year, anyway. A blissful respite from the Holidaze awaits at a live music venue near you. Go. Find Sanity Claus. Hear live acoustic music. You can learn all about what and who and where at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
First, some fresh EVENT NEWS…
.
.
(1) 14th ANNUAL USA SONGWRITING COMPETITION 2009 WINNERS ANNOUNCED
+
Just announced, December 17, the USA SONGWRITING COMPETITION (USASC) has a plethora of categories, and we cover the ones that will interest our readers.
+
1st Prize in the FOLK CATEGORY went to MELISSA GREENER of Austin, TX, for her song, “Bullets To Bite.”
1st Prize for COUNTRY MUSIC was captured by KYLER ENGLAND of Los Angeles, for “You and I.”
ANNE SIMONI of Brazil won 1st Prize for WORLD MUSIC for “Papagaio.”
1st Prize for IINSTRUMENTAL MUSIC was won by EDUARDO DE LA IGLESIA NIETO of Madrid, Spain, for “The Pursuit.”
VANESSA MOODLEY of Durban, South Africa won 1st Prize in JAZZ for “Your Eyes.”
1st Prize in GOSPEL / INSPIRATIONAL went to TOM POULTER of New South Wales, Australia, for “Every Time.”
NOVELTY / COMEDY has a category, and 1st Prize was won by THE STARBUCKS OF COUNTY DOWN - Greg Trafidlo, Neal Phillips & John Seay, of Salem, Virginia.
1st Prize in the CHILDREN’S MUSIC category was went to JEREMY AND REBECCA of Visalia, CA, for their song, “Tallest Tree.”
+
Two of the 20 HONORABLE MENTION AWARDS went to Southern Cal-based entrants, to CARSTEN LINDBERG, JOACHIM SVARE, J. BELLE & JAYDEN of Los Angeles, for their song, “Guitar,” and to JEN WATERS & BOB FARRELL of Toluca Lake, for “Where There Are Dreams.”
+
Of course, many additional categories cover everything from pop and hip hop and r&b to electronica and other non-acoustic genres.
+
17-year-old SARAH LONSERT won the Overall Grand Prize of the USA Songwriting Competition along with co-writer Jonathan George. It was based on her First Prize win in the Dance/Electronica category, making her the first from that category to ever win the overall grand prize. And she is the contest’s youngest winner ever, in both cases. Sarah suffers from autism, but is described as “a budding singer-songwriter… [who] won the L.A. Music Awards last month.”
+
Winning one of these well-publicized competitions with its big-name sponsors can matter. The 2007 USASC Grand Prize-winning song, "Where The Music Takes You," written and performed by ARI GOLD, aired on ABC TV's "Scrubs" just this week (Dec 16); it had previously reached Billboard’s Top 10, six months after winning USASC. A trio of USASC winners were all just signed to Universal Republic Records - 2009 1st Prize Winner KYLER ENGLAND, 2003 USA Songwriting Competition Overall Grand Prize Winner GABRIEL MANN, and 1999 Overall Grand Prize Winner ADRIANNE GONZALEZ. And KATE VOEGELE appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Conan O'Brien, performing her Billboard Adult Top 40 Hit, "99 Times" (it peaked at #24), and that was en-route to reaching Billboard’s Top 10 Albums Chart with "A Fine Mess" (Interscope/MySpace Records) in June, 2009. Voegele was the 2005 USASC 1st Prize Winner, Pop category.
+
Already. the 15th Annual USA Songwriting Competition is accepting entries. Winning songs will receive radio airplay in the US and Canada, along with various prizes that include a Top Prize of over $50,000. There are early entry bonuses. Full info at www.songwriting.net/entryform.html
.
.
===
.
.
(2) GIFT IDEA…
If you JUST can’t figure what to give an arts-loving friend, why not check with their favorite venue regarding a gift certificate for tickets, or even buy them a season pass if one is available? Theatres often offer them. One example is the Boston Court Performing Arts Center in Pasadena. Through Dec 31, they offer a season membership for $88, the lowest price in their history; it gets someone into each of their performances for the entire 2010 season. Details at 626-683-6883 or www.bostoncourt.org
+
AT EVERY PERFORMANCE VENUE:
There’s that always-wonderful holiday gift idea: give your music-loving friends a CD of the act you just heard!
.
.
===
.
.
(3) GOOD AMERICANA MUSIC WEBSITE, nice simple format, says Joel Okida…
www.musicfog.com
.
.
===
.
.
(4) Jan 10-17, in Northern Cal:
Annual “CALIFORNIA LISTENING ROOM INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITERS RETREAT” produced by Brett Perkins Presents as the US offering in his global series. Space is still available to join songwriters from Denmark, Faroes, Ireland, Singapore and the US already signed up for the 6th annual retreat, held amidst the giant Sequoia redwood trees in Northern California. This week of co-writing and inspirational workshops includes two concerts, one in Los Angeles following the retreat. Priced at $1175 USD including housing, dinner service, daily workshops and all events. Further info at www.listeningroomretreats.com or by writing to brettperkins@hotmail.com.
.
.
===
.
.
(5) IRELAND TOURS (3 of ‘em!), A MUSICAL CRUISE OFF EASTERN CANADA, AND TWO MUSICAL RIVER TRIPS, ALL COMING IN 2010…
+
Yep, you can sign-up for a very personal tour with a small group to the Emeriald Isle. In fact, you have your choice of THREE tours led by fine musicians we know.
+
IRELAND with KEN O’MALLEY ~
Is leading a tour group March 20-28, 2010. Some highlights of the tour: Dublin, Donegal, Westport, Achill Island, Connemara, Galway, Aran Islands, the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher. Space is limited. Full itinerary available at www.kenomalley.com
+
IRELAND with RONNY COX ~
Is “leading a tour or Ireland in June 2010... small tour, no name tags, stay in small hotels or B&Bs... limiting the number to 15 to 20 people, tops. We're going to the little out of the way pubs to hear authentic Irish musicians and poets. We only have a few spots left. Check out my website (www.ronnycox.com) or go to Enchanted Way Tours if you are interested. It's gonna be a great time!” - Ronny
+
IRELAND with ANNE FEENEY ~
Anne says, “Why not treat yourself and a friend to a trip to Ireland with me and a few other exciting activist types! or come alone and meet wonderful new friends!” Anne’s 2010 tours are Aug 10-19 to the west of Ireland, and Aug 22-31 to Dublin, Belfast and Derry. She says, “You'll have a ball.” $250 to Anne Feeney, 2240 Milligan Av, Pittsburgh, PA 15218 holds your seat. Email her for details, at anne@annefeeney.com
.
.
===
.
.
(6) OR, HOW ABOUT A MUSICAL CRUISE IN CANADA’S MARITIMES?
It’s big news when Vermont-based folkies STEVE GILLETTE and CINDY MANGSEN join famed performing songwriter JACK WILLIAMS for a musical summer cruise. Cindy says, “Our last big venture was a journey to Alaska back in 2004, and we've been looking forward joining forces again. Our fearless tour organizer is once again Lynette Miller of Traveling Troubadour. We'll be sailing on the Holland America ship “Maasdam,” leaving Boston on July 3rd and arriving in Montreal on July 10th. Stops along the way are St. John (New Brunswick), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), and Quebec City. As on our Alaska trip, the three of us will give two concerts on board ship, solely for our own tour group. We'll also have a couple of receptions, and plenty of time for some relaxed song sessions, maybe even a workshop if there's interest. In order to attend the concerts and other events, you must register for the cruise through Traveling Troubadour, rather than directly with Holland America. For the details, please look at the web page Lynette has created, www.travelingtroubadour.com/Gillette,_Mangsen,_Williams_2010.htm. You can also reach her by phone at 800-584-6724 or 540-887-8491. This is going to be a wonderful and beautiful journey up and around the Gaspe Peninsula. Please consider joining us.” More on Cindy Mangsen’s music, concert tour, and workshop schedules, at www.compassrosemusic.com
.
.
===
.
.
(7) OR A PAIR OF RIVER TRIPS IN 2010 with LAURIE LEWIS & TOM ROZUM?
It’s an annual tradition with these two bluegrass stars, and Laurie says, “Tom Rozum and I are planning two river trips for the summer of 2010.” Here’s the info, so far:
+
>> Jul 14, 2010, is “A four-day trip on the Rogue River in Oregon. This river corridor has more wildlife sightings than most western rivers, beautiful rapids and still water, lots of places for swimming, and some of the nicest campsites anywhere. We'll be rafting with Echo River Trips.
+
>> Aug 1, 2010 is “The Tuolumne! That's right, we can't help ourselves! This will be approaching our 20th trip down this quintessentially California river. We are figuring on this being a very special four-day trip down the ‘T,’ which gives us a whole extra lay-over day on the North Fork of the Tuolumne. Every year, we say, ‘Can't we stay just one more day? Please? Please?’ and this year, it is going to happen! We'll be rafting with ARTA.”
+
More at www.laurielewis.com
.
.
===
.
.
And, this still-relevant holdover bit of EVENT NEWS
.
(8) Part 5 of “ENJOY LIVE MUSIC WHILE YOU BUY YOUR HOLIDAY JUNK
(ER, GIFTS)” (what’s still happening, with some added events):
+
Back to solving The Age-Old Dilemma. They’re a couple. She’s addicted to recreational shopping, and he’d rather have a root canal than be dragged along. The Guide offers a solution. There are events where merchants offer live music, often with other pleasant amenities, to lure shoppers. We reported in recent editions about the music-filled Thanksgiving weekend in Old Pasadena, and the special one-night annual events in Santa Monica, Claremont, and Venice. But it isn’t over: there are still the recurring events that take-on a Holiday character.
+
See the times and dates in the Guide for complete listings, and here’s what to look for.
+
Every Wednesday:
5-8 pm The “CLAREMONT WEDNESDAY GREEN MARKET” features live acoustic music inside and outside the Packing House in Claremont.
+
Every Wednesday:
7-9 pm The weekly “WINE & SONG” series hosted by award-winning songwriter BRAD COLERICK always brings talented musical guests, at WineStyles in South Pasadena, and you can buy bottles of wine there while you hear the music.
+
Every Friday:
11 am-5 pm “FREE FRIDAYS” at the LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART in Long Beach, gives you a chance to shop at the museum store and enjoy the exhibits.
+
Every Friday:
5:30-10 pm The “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” offers a four-block street fair in old downtown Monrovia, always with live acoustic music in several places ~ free parking, free event.
+
No doubt there are similar events elsewhere, combining live acoustic music performances with shopping opportunities for the next few weeks. As we learn of more shopping-melee-with-escape-hatch-to-live-acoustic-music events, we’ll let you know.
.
.
===
.
.
"Art is about PASSION. And passion is beyond reason." -- Donna Barnes-Roberts
.
.
===
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
Now, on to the ACOUSTIC MUSIC LISTINGS in the Guide…
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
.
(1) Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
+
8 pm SQUEAKIN' WHEELS plus BOHEMIAN “SOLE” RUSTLER DUANE THORIN & BILL BURNETT, in a double-bill at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
.
See the complete listing below for all the details.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(2) Friday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
.
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
.
.
Fri, Mon-Fri, on web radio:
9-11 am “THE THOMAS MILLER SHOW” is internet radio from L.A. that features unsigned indie musicians, some acoustic, some electric. In Jan 2010, Mothern Hen joins ass co-host and the show will expand its hours and move to a different studio. Info and listen on-line at www.thomasmillershow.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“FOLK ALLEY” is a non-profit venture produced by public radio station WKSU-FM in Kent, Ohio. It often features interviews and performances as well as hosted programs with CD tracks from across the spectrum of folk / new folk / acoustic Americana. They say, “Our goal is to bring you the best in folk music, 24 hours a day, wherever you have access to the Internet.” It requires a free membership. All you need to know and to listen is at www.folkalley.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“RADIO DISMUKE” is a broad and deep presentation of vintage original recordings from 1925-1935, one of the most vibrant decades in popular culture and entertainment. It’s the music of boom times of the "Roaring '20s" to the hard times of the Great Depression; from frantic Charlestons danced to by a generation of flappers to sentimental ballads performed by the early crooners; from the hot jazz bands of the top Harlem nightclubs to the popular dance bands of the formative years of the swing and big band eras. One listener commented, “How in the world do you have all of this music!? I am amazed when I tune in the magnitude of your collection! Thanks so much for sharing it!” And if you’re wondering, JANET KLEIN (Janet Klein & Her Parlor Boys) brought it to the Guide’s attention. It’s accessible through several free options and offers a blog, all available at www.radiodismuke.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Friday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
Fri, Dec 18, in Paso Robles:
8 pm THE PRESTON SMITH SHOW at Vinoteca, 835 12th St, Paso Robles, in The Heritage Square area. Preston says, “Paso's finest wine bar, great service, great food, large local wine and beer menu.” "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz… His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger, July 28 2006, The Pasadena Weekly.
+
Preston appeared on "The Tonight Show" along with the late Jimmy Stewart and released an album on Curb Records entitled "Preston Smith." He was featured on the hit movie soundtrack "Cocktail" starring Tom Cruise with the title song "Oh I Love You So," which he composed, produced and performed. The soundtrack went on to sell over six million units foreign and domestically. Roseanne Cash then recorded his song "Black and White," which released as a single, was a hit on the country radio charts, and was included in her Greatest Hits CD that went Gold. He sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed at countless functions for celebrities, including Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono; Bonnie Raitt, Eddie Van Halen and Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others have joined him on-stage for impromptu jam sessions. "You're somethin' else on that guitar, boy." Jerry Lee Lewis.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, in Oklahoma City, OK:
7 pm 15th annual “MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY’S COWBOY CHRISTMAS BALL” at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The yuletide dance begins at 7 pm, with Murphey headlining an evening of entertainment for the entire family in the Museum’s Sam Noble Special Events Center. With its buffet dinner, visit from Santa Claus, dancing and Murphey’s live performances, the event harkens back to frontier traditions when neighbors gathered to dance, eat and celebrate. Reservations can be made online at www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(4) Friday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
.
.
Ongoing, Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
+
Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
+
Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(5) Friday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri:
Morning show (after 8:30 am) HEATHER LOCKIE & FRIENDS with violin, cello, clarinet, and voices, at 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri:
11 am-5 pm “FREE FRIDAYS” at the LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART, 2300 E Ocean Bl, Long Beach 90803; 562-439-2119; www.lbma.org. The museum is atop a hill overlooking Long Beach harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The grounds include the Miller Education Center in the Elizabeth Milbank Anderson house and carriage house built in 1912, a new pavilion with two floors of expansive gallery space for changing exhibitions, museum store, Masterson Atrium, and oceanfront gardens. There are extensive educational programs for children and adults plus changing exhibitions that include festivals, music programs, and special events. Current programs at www.lbma.org/exhibits.html. Museum admission is free every Friday, with support form the L.A. County Arts Commission (www.lacountyarts.org); all other days, admission is $7 adults, $6 students & srs over age 62 (current I.D. required); always free for mbrs and children under age 12.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri:
5-8 pm “CLAREMONT GREEN MARKET” features acoustic music inside and outside the Packing House in the new West Claremont Center, 532 W First St (just W of Indian Hill), Claremont 91711; www.claremontpackinghouse.com/home.htm. This was formerly on Wednesdays, and has switched to Fridays. A resident musician here is RON ELY, who plays authentic and original songs of the sea, and more, at Bonita & Yale Av. More at www.myspace.com/ronely. Ron tells us, “It's all about ‘going GREEN,’ and should be promoted and supported. They’ve expanded with a Farmer's Market each Friday evening, outside this same venue, the Packing House, a fully rehabilitated old building, a real packing house, and Historical Landmark. It's put-on by the non-profit ‘Claremont Forum,’ (www.claremontforum.org) that sponsors the "Prison Library Project," sending books to those incarcerated.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18:
“TOPANGA PEACE ALLIANCE HOLIDAY PARTY” includes a sing-along and very folky song circle, at The Topanga Community House, 1440 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290. More at www.topangapeacealliance.org or 310-455-9389.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 3rd (&1st) Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri
7-9:30 pm ROB KLOPFENSTEIN “& guests joining him at the piano,” at the Whale and Ale, 327 W 7th St, San Pedro; 310-832-0363; www.whaleandale.com. No cover charge for bar or dinner patrons.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, in Palmdale:
7 pm ‘DESERT SONG’S SHARE THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS” benefit show at Butler’s Coffee: 40125 10th St West (opposite Walmart), Palmdale. Following the monthly OPEN MIC at 7 pm (limit of 12 acts; sign up early), join friends and loved ones to help families in special need. The special holiday program is at 8 pm, and a group of five DesertSong artists will present “A Peaceful Christmas: a mix of old holiday favorites, original Christmas songs, and a few right out of left field.” Instead of seeking tips for the performers, this family show benefits the Valley Oasis domestic violence shelter. Butler’s will brew-up their usual treats plus a few winter specialties. DSP’s Wayne Slater Lunsford tells us, “We promise to bring extra chairs, and if you’re nice instead of naughty, we’ll even invite you to a special follow-on event Sunday afternoon.” More at http://desertsong.net/main/?page_id=75
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every 3rd (& 1st) Fri, in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every 3rd (& 1st) Fri, in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SQUEAKIN' WHEELS plus BOHEMIAN “SOLE” RUSTLER DUANE THORIN & BILL BURNETT, in a double-bill 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
+
SQUEAKIN' WHEELS tell us, “We're a seven-piece band that plays an eclectic assortment of material ranging from original songs to lively Cajun to soulful traditional ballads. Our members are accomplished musicians who weave together intricate harmonies and impressive instrumentals. Combined, we've played with such musical dignitaries as Rose Maddox, David Lindley, Chris Darrow, Mary Kay Place, Walter Egan, New Christy Minstrels and Iggy Pop!”
+
SQUEAKIN' WHEELS lead vocalists are brother/sister team David and Marguerite Millard, who write the band’s originals. Marguerite says, “Because of our related vocal chords, our harmonies have the nuanced blend that siblings often have.”
+
David is a versatile lead guitarist who has fronted a number of local bands in the Claremont area including Crab Grass, Wheels, and Hot Pecans, and performed with David Lindley and Chris Darrow. Marguerite plays rhythm guitar and has performed in bands in the Bay Area. On fiddle, piano, and Dobro is Jim Shirey, who has performed in numerous swing, blues and country bands whose members include Clabe Hangan and Rose Maddox, and currently, he performs with Bernie Pearl. David Brock on fiddle won the Santa Barbara Banjo & Fiddle Contest when he was 17; he's played in many bluegrass and swing bands, including Alive and Pickin', Occurrence at Owl Creek, and The Hot Pecans. Steve Cahill has been in numerous bands including Mad Mountain Ramblers with Chris Darrow and David Lindley, and Alive and Pickin'. The rhythm section is Mark Takeuchi on bass and Roy Durnal on drums. Most recently, the band has played The Folk Music Center, the Claremont Forum, The Press in Claremont and the Fret House in Covina.
+
Marguerite adds, “We sell-out our concerts and always have an enthusiastic faithful audience. We have two CDs, ‘Devil's Racetrack’ and ‘Things Have Changed.’”
+
More, including music samples, are available at www.myspace.com/squeakinwheels.
+
Plus...From SOUL RUSTLERS TO SOLE RUSTLER, DUANE THORIN with BILL BURNETT. Acclaimed songwriter and Coffee Gallery headliner Bill Burnett rejoins forces with Bohemian Soul Rustler Duane Thorin to co-headline a fine show of folk music favorites and original heartfelt balladry. While Soul Rustling partner Michael Puccini is called away for the holidays, Sole Rustler Duane Thorin has prepared some special holiday treats for this show, and has invited the talented and renowned Bill Burnett to share the stage with his dazzling songs and wit. Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane says, “Be entertained, enlightened, enchanted, and expect to be called to sing along a bit. The last two collaborations of Burnett and Thorin were on our well received Greenwich Village retro show in September, and the Pete Seeger 90th birthday commemoration back in August, covered in Pasadena's Star News [and in which your editor got some stage time, singing]. Don't miss this fine dual billing.” Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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).
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18:
8 pm RENAISSANCE plays their holiday show at Club Fais Do-Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, LA; 323-954-8080 or 323-931-4636. One of Los Angeles' most engaging a capella vocal groups, Renaissance has wowed audiences across the United States and in four countries, bringing doo wop to new audiences. View a performance at www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ2sStDRZrI. More at www.doowopaintdead.com and www.myspace.com/doowopaintdead. Venue serves Cajun food. Cover, $10.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18:
8 pm “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” at the Covina Center for the Performing Arts, 104 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-331-8133; www.covinacenter.com. CCPA’s annual offering of the Dicken’s classic closes the venue’s 2009 season with Thu-thru-Sun performances through Dec 20. Bart McHenry of Azusa Pacific College offers a fresh adaptation directly from the novel, featuring a youthful cast, many from Azusa Pacific. The beautiful Covina Center festoons itself in readiness for the whole family to experience Scrooge’s deadly winter-of-the-heart as he transforms into the reborn child befitting the Season. Christmases Past, Present, Future, Marley, Tiny Tim, Cratchit—the whole cast of characters lives anew in family friendly fair. Runs Thu, Fri, Sat at 8 pm, Sun at 2 pm. Closes with a Sun, Dec 20 matinee at 2 pm. Tix, $34 & $14.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri, in Temecula:
8 pm “LIVE AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Series info and schedules at www.LiveattheMerc.com or 951-491-9053. Tix at www.temeculatheater.org. Every Friday, it’s “exclusive, intimate performances from the best bands - in Temecula's best club space,” known as "The Merc," in a series presented by Full Value Entertainment. One of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings, it now serves as a performance venue that hosts music four days each week. Doors at 7:30 pm for the best seats. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, repeats 3rd Fri, every month:
8:30-11:30 pm “3RD FRIDAY CONTRA DANCE” with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS (TOM, PATRICK & MIKE SAUBER, & STEVE LEWIS) playing at the War Memorial Hall, 435 Fair Oaks Av, South Pasadena, 91030 (just north of the 110 Fwy) in South Pasadena. Dance instruction at 8 pm.
+
TOM SAUBER tells us, “Preceding both of the contra dances this month [Dec 19, 8:30-11:30 in Pasadena, and Dec 26, 8-11 in West L.A., both with the Screaming Earwigs], Ruth Alpert will be giving a free workshop in Appalachian free-style dancing (lots of names here - buck dance, flatfooting, clogging). Whatever you call it, it's a great accompaniment to old- time music. Ruth is a great dancer and this is a great opportunity to pick up some steps which go ‘hand in glove’ with the fiddle”
+
Info, steve@urbanoldtime.com. $10 admission, and there’s a potluck before the dance.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18, every Fri:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) for listening & dancing 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Dec 18:
10 pm-2 am “NEXT AID WORLD AIDS DAY” has events in 11 cities, including several music events in L.A., Dec 15-20. None appear to be all that acoustic, but the cause warrants your support. Tonight is “Uniting Sould Music - Free Thinking Toy Drive” with Michael Tello & Jordan Strong of Uniting Souls, Nice and Smooth, and Aaron Byrd from KCRW, at Mal's Bar, 2331 S Hill St, L.A. Venue is 21 + w/ID. Admission is one unwrapped toy with a minimum purchase price of $5.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
HANUKKAH ends today.
+
Happy Birthday, SEVERIN BROWNE!
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
(1) Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
7 pm "IF CAN CAN. IF NO CAN. NO CAN. HAWAIIAN PIDGIN ENGLISH STORIES WITH KAMAKA BROWN," at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
+
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & the OLD #7 play the “BLUEGRASS HOLIDAY” show and Grand Vision Foundation Christmas Party at The Grand Annex in San Pedro.
+
8 pm “HOLIDAY SWING” with the GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA and jazz and blues artist BARBARA MORRISON at the Warner Grand Theater in San Pedro.
+
10:30-11:30 pm AMY CLARKE plays her “Winter Solstice Concert” with musical guests in a benefit for the L.A. regional Food Bank, at Café Muse in Hollywood.
.
See the complete listings below for all the details.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(2) Saturday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
.
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
.
Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
6-8 am “ALIVE & PICKING” hosted by MARY KATHERINE ALDIN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, worldwide at www.kpfk.com. As you may know, we do not usually list radio shows UNLESS they feature live acoustic performances. This show does not. But L.A. remains the least diverse radio market in the US (even though it’s the largest US radio market), so any show that spins folk-Americana CDs in this town is cause for celebration. And, KPFK has vacillated on whether or not Mary Katherine’s show will be aired regularly, or at all. Please take note, and let KPFK hear your preferences.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, on broadcast & web radio:
2-5 pm SONG SIRENS do a live performance-interview sometime during the show “AMERICANA MATINEE” with KAT GRIFFIN, on KCSN 88.5 FM in part of Los Angeles, and worldwide at www.kcsn.org. Siren BLISS BOWEN’s next gig, with past “Tied to the Tracks” guest PATTY BLEE, is in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, before the Sirens get back to their monthly residency at Café 322 in Sierra Madre.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show 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. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “MY KIND OF BLUES” web radio show crafted and hosted by renowned blues man BERNIE PEARL, every Sat on www.wpmd.org. The show often has Bernie reminiscing about the blues greats with whom he has performed, and features thematic sets with “behind the music” -style tales of the songs and the artists. More at www.berniepearl.com - www.myspace.com/berniepearl
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
3-4 pm “THIS AMERICAN LIFE” hosted by veteran NPR producer Ira Glass is a weekly public radio program broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show “pushes the envelope of radio performance with a show that's part journalism, part arts, and entirely compelling and unique.” The show has a chosen theme each week, for which Glass does a story or two, and he invites a variety of writers and performers to take a whack at the theme. The result is stories, monologues, short radio plays, miniature documentaries, "found recordings" and original works for radio.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
4-6 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The long-running NPR variety show always features live performances and skits and stories, including the signature monologue “News from Lake Wobegon” by host GARRISON KEILLOR, along with a regular cast of recording artists and guests; it’s broadcast from its home base in Minnesota or various live venues across America. The initial “live” broadcast time every Saturday (3 pm Pacific) is standard most places, though repeat times Sat & Sun vary by station. KCLU (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
6-8 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show 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. The initial “live” broadcast time each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM from 3-5 pm, 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 else; 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. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
7-9 pm “WEST COAST LIVE” hosted by Sedge Thompson is a weekly two-hour public radio program produced in San Francisco, broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show is a nationally-distributed radio variety show performed live in front of a live audience, with author interviews, music, and comedy.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
10 pm-midnight “AMERICAN ROUTES” hosted by Nick Spitzer is a weekly two-hour public radio program produced in New Orleans, broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show presents a broad range of American and Americana music, from blues and jazz, gospel and soul, old-time country and rockabilly, Cajun and zydeco, Tejano and Latin, roots rock and pop, avant-garde and classical. Now in its 9th year on the air, “American Routes explores the shared musical and cultural threads in these American styles and genres of music, and how they are distinguished.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every Sat; 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“FOLK ALLEY” is a non-profit venture produced by public radio station WKSU-FM in Kent, Ohio. It often features interviews and performances as well as hosted programs with CD tracks from across the spectrum of folk / new folk / acoustic Americana. They say, “Our goal is to bring you the best in folk music, 24 hours a day, wherever you have access to the Internet.” It requires a free membership. All you need to know and to listen is at www.folkalley.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“RADIO DISMUKE” is a broad and deep presentation of vintage original recordings from 1925-1935, one of the most vibrant decades in popular culture and entertainment. It’s the music of boom times of the "Roaring '20s" to the hard times of the Great Depression; from frantic Charlestons danced to by a generation of flappers to sentimental ballads performed by the early crooners; from the hot jazz bands of the top Harlem nightclubs to the popular dance bands of the formative years of the swing and big band eras. One listener commented, “How in the world do you have all of this music!? I am amazed when I tune in the magnitude of your collection! Thanks so much for sharing it!” And if you’re wondering, JANET KLEIN (Janet Klein & Her Parlor Boys) brought it to the Guide’s attention. It’s accessible through several free options and offers a blog, all available at www.radiodismuke.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Saturday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
Sat, Dec 19, in Sutter Creek (Northern Cal):
8 pm “A WINTER'S NIGHT YODEL!” with SOURDOUGH SLIM, THE SADDLE PALS, FAUX RENWAH, & ROBERT ARMSTRONG, at the Sutter Creek Theater in Sutter Creek; www.suttercreektheater.com. Sourdough says it’s “our annual seasonal get-together. A rare opportunity to catch the whole gang in action.” Plus, it’s the CD release show for "Live From The Strawberry Music Festival," Sourdough Slim & Robert Armstrong’s new album.
+
You can see a couple of performances from previous years at the Sutter Creek show, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M7LxEt5Jy0 and www.youtube.com/watch?v=woMq7aBRjOg
+
More at www.sourdoughslim.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat every month; in Port Townsend, WA:
5:30-8 pm monthy “PORT TOWNSEND CHANTEY SING” at the Courtyard Café (formerly Bread n Roses), 230 Quincy St, Port Townsend; 360-379-3355. Info, Tugboat Bromberg, 360-990-4873 or 360-598-1497. The “call and response” form of these work songs of the sea makes them easy to learn and fun to sing.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(4) Saturday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
.
.
Ongoing, Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
+
Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
+
Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(5) Saturday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
8-10:30 am FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT at Strings Music Store, 146 N Glendora Av, Ste 101, Glendora 91741; 626-914 4100. Sometimes featuring VIN FIZ FLYER. Another in a series of MORNING concerts. Free entertainment, tips only, in a great place, with nice people and good music. Vin Fiz Flyer tells us, “Old town Glendora is a kinda sleepy small Midwest town plopped into Southern California. These early morning concerts sound like a wacky idea, but they’re well-attended by musicians as well as music lovers! A car club meets at the Cafe next door every Saturday for breakfast, and they park their assorted ‘babies’ out front for you to peruse too. Come on by and start your weekend out right.” Check with venue to see if there is a concert scheduled for today.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, recurring:
8:30 am DARK & STORMY BAND (with the Hinkley Soaring duo of PETE KALMUS & SHARON KUNDE) bring their catchy songs and voices to the Pasadena Farmer's Market. More at http://myspace.com/petekalmus.
+
Pete was among the winners in mandolin at this year’s Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest. He says, “There's no way I'm getting out and playing music 8:30 am every Saturday.” So check Pete’s myspace page to see if they’ll be there. Sharon plays flute. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, every month:
10 am RON ELY performs sea chanteys and original and classic folk music at Boutique Mystique, 532 W 1st St, Claremont 91711. Ron tells us, “This is a new event, 10 am-6 pm. The venue features vintage 40’s, 50’s, 60’s guitars and amps, glass and china, jewelry, comic books, records (LPs, 45s, 78s), fresh flowers and exotic plants, fresh fruit and veggies, RON ELY’s music and more. Call 213-361-9322 for vendor info or booth space rental info. Ron says you can “get in on the ground floor” here. No cover.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, repeats every Sat:
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat, in Temecula:
2:30 pm “GOSPEL AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday afternoon, it’s “a variety show and features traditional, contemporary and jazz influenced Gospel music. Each week will showcase different soloists and Gospel mime dancers,” in a series presented by Lillian Crawford. Series info, www.americantowns.com/ca/temecula/events/gospel-at-the-merc-2009-07-18
One of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings, The Merc now serves as a performance venue that hosts music four days each week. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
6:30-10:30 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS CONCERT at Me n’ Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl (at Carson), Lakewood; 562-421-8908.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “IF CAN CAN. IF NO CAN. NO CAN. HAWAIIAN PIDGIN ENGLISH STORIES WITH KAMAKA BROWN,” 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
+
Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane calls this “A wonderful show.” Hawaiian island native Kamaka Brown returns to the Coffee Gallery Backstage with his show of original short stories, accompanied by guitarist T. Dan Hofstedt. Bob Stane adds, “His Jan 2009 show was sold out. This is a whole band show with all the trimmings. Outstanding.”
+
Brown, a comic, writer, and producer born and raised in Hawai’i now lives in Southern California. He has a catalog of original stories written in Hawai’ian Pidgin English of pre-statehood Hawai’I, told through the eyes of a child living in rural O’ahu. You will enjoy a nostalgic romp through the back roads of country living and the wide eyed wonder of being part of the blue collar neighborhoods of urban Honolulu. Brown’s shows are a “back porch” hang loose journey filled with stories, humor, memories and music.
+
“This is a one of a kind unique show that must be experienced to understand. Previously sold-out shows in Southern California attest to the power of the spoken word and the joy of a simple solo guitar playing softly like a gentle breeze blowing along a north shore beach at sunset,” says Bob Stane. He adds, “Kamaka Brown and his show of music and stories is one of my all time favorite shows at The Coffee Gallery Backstage. This is an offering from a sharp, professional comedian and talented musician replete with a full cadre of supporting wits and players, a genuine musical presentation with a generous serving of funny stagecraft. What a delight they are. He and his musician friends weave a tuneful spell between stories of childhood thrills, vivid memories and unique adventures. All from the perspective of soothing country life in sleepy Hawaii. Music is played. Philosophy is exchanged and native wisdom shared. And the music! If anyone in the audience does not like the multi-instrumental extravaganza they are ‘soul deprived’ and seriously humor impaired. The lyrics are clever and funny.”
+
The show feature the talents of slack key guitarist T. Dan Hofstedt. Bob adds, “T. Dan has beautiful CDs out with his original compositions.” Kamaka Brown says, “T.Dan has been influenced by the masters of slack key. His music flows sweet and melodic, a perfect background to my stories.” Slack key is a signature manner of tuning and playing the guitar unique to Hawai’i that dates back to the 1800s. This style of playing was most recently brought to the attention of the world by pianist George Winston who produced a series of CDs featuring “Slack Key Masters” on his own “Dancing Cat” label.
+
Plus, contemporary Hawaiian music duo ISLAND JAM with Miles Kaawa and Noel Calucag provide musical selections to enhance the experience. It’s a full-fledged Hawaiian holiday special. Melekalimaka. More at www.kamakabrown.com and www.myspace.com/openmicventura
+
Bring a can of Spam or a can of Pineapple (or any other canned foods) and get a $3 discount; food for the hungry at Christmas time. Kamaka says, “It's all part of the ‘share with the ohana’ we bring from Hawai'i. Aloha:” Otherwise, tix are $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat every month; in Lancaster:
7-9 pm monthly “DESERT SONG PRODUCTIONS FEATURED ARTIST / OPEN MIC” series at the Cedar Centre Theater, 44845 Cedar Av, Lancaster 93534. The series launched Jan 17, ’09 with a group that scored a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Featured artist(s) perform 7-8 pm, followed by the OPEN MIC, 8-9 pm, where you can show off your own talents. Each open mic participant pays $5, and a panel of judges awards the pot to the best open mic performance. This event at this venue looks permanent, after a series of things at several venues. If you’re in the High Desert, go support it. Event info and lineup at http://desertsongfest.org .
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat; 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat, in Temecula:
7 & 9 pm “COUNTRY AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday night, “country band THE RANCH ROCKERS plays current country music to back-up multiple performers in an Opry-style.” Series info & tix, www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. The 9 pm performances feature mature subject matter, so parental discretion is advised at the late show. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, every month:
7:30-9:45 pm “UP THE TRAIL FROM TEXAS” Music/Art Showcase created & hosted by singer-songwriter MARK MORAN, at Tex Mex Grill, 2256 Route 66 (at Amelia Av), Glendora 91740. It’s a monthly music/art showcase featuring up-and-coming singer-songwriters in country, folk, pop, jazz, blues, and film music genres, and Mark adds, “And artists that have a vision of love, nature, healing or inspiration.” More at www.mythicalbird.net and www.myspace.com/mythicalbird
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, every month:
7:30 pm LOS ANGELES WOMEN IN MUSIC (LAWIM) presents “YOUNG TALENT NIGHT” 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.
+
LAWIM presents this monthly series showcasing performers up to the age of 17. Sponsored by Daisy Rock and DayJams, it is part of LAWIM’s commitment to nurture younger artists and reach out to the community through music. This is NOT an “admission-by-donation” Kulak’s show. Tickets are sold by the participants, donations are made during the webcast, and sponsorships and contributions are received through the LAWIM website (www.lawim.com), all to fund the organization’s “Musical Gifts & Scholarship Program” for kids in need. Five talented young performers are invited to take the stage each month, and each leaves with a professional, 5-camera video of their performance.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, third Sat, every month:
7:30 pm “COFFEE HOUSE AT THE ONION” OPEN MIC at the Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society, 9550 Haskell Av, North Hills. A great place to showcase your new stuff. Coffee and cookies available by donation. (No longer on Fridays.) No cover.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, every month:
7:45 pm monthly “ARC JAM MUSIC NIGHT” at Activites for Retarded Children (ARC), 6456 Whitsett, North Hollywood; 818-762-4365; www.arcandadults.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & the OLD #7 play the “BLUEGRASS HOLIDAY” show and Grand Vision Foundation Christmas Party and benefit at The Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org; 310-833-4813. Come sing Christmas Carols with The Old Number 7, national network TV stars and San Pedro's own bluegrass band. The band comes home to celebrate “A Bluegrass Holiday!” with carols, cider, and dessert. National exposure came when Cliff & the Old #7 were one of 12 bands out of 6000 applicants on the 2007 Fox network show, “The Next Great American Band.” These guys were already musicians known on local and national Americana music scenes, and all have contributed to many others’ CD tracks. They have numerous commercial and TV soundtrack credits, plus a list of awards from the annual Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest. Cliff Wagner & the Old #7 blend traditional bluegrass, blues and honky-tonk to create “rhythms that conjure Southern scenes filled with moonshine, mosquitoes and misty mountains." It’s American roots music that delights bluegrass fans as well as new folk and rock audiences. Their music, including the world premiere of one of their albums, has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More on this show at www.grandvision.org/gallery.shtml and more on the band at www.oldnumber7.net
+
The event doubles as a toy drive for Rainbow Services, which seeks to end the cycle of family violence. Please bring an unwrapped toy for the children of Rainbow Services.
+
It’s the Grand Annex’s Fall 2009 Season finale. The Grand Annex is a project of the Grand Vision Foundation. Grand Vision is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the historic art deco Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro (a few doors away) and to the development of the cultural arts in and around the theatre. A portion of the proceeds from Grand Annex events help underwrite ongoing repairs and restoration projects at the Warner Grand. The venue tells us, “After New Year’s, see www.grandvision.org for a whole new season of ‘LIVE! at the Grand Annex.’ The new season features ‘Ritmo y Sonido’ - a Latin American Music Series, and more folk, jazz, blues and sounds from around the world.”
+
Pre-concert Wine-Tasting at Off the Vine, 491 S Pacific, San Pedro, is available before any Annex show at 6:45 pm, at a cost of $25.
+
Doors at 7:30 pm for the best concert seats. Tix, $15 advance, $20 door.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “HOLIDAY SWING” is the season’s offering by the GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA with legendary jazz and blues artist BARBARA MORRISON, at the Warner Grand Performance Space, historic Warner Grand Theater, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; 310-833-4813; www.grandvision.org. Barbara Morrison Join GSPO for a little holiday cheer – GSPO Big Band style! Jazz and Blues legend Barbara Morrison will be rocking the house and ringing in the holidays! Who knows – it might snow?
Returning to the Warner Grand stage after a three year absence - the gifted Ms. Morrison is fresh off a 33 US City tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for The Wizard of Oz). Barbara now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual "who's who" of the Jazz and the Blues worlds. More at www.gspo.com and www.barbaramorrison.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19:
8 pm “NAVIDAD EN WHITTIER,” with DANZA FLORICANTO/USA, and director Gema Sandoval, in a benefit performance for the Floricanto Institute presented by Danza Floricanto / USA & the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts at Whittier College present as part of their “Holiday Traditions” series, at The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier 90601; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
+
The evening’s proceeds benefit the Floricanto Institute. Now on its 9th year, the Institute is a partnership between Floricanto and Sunrise Elementary School in Los Angeles Unified School District. Through this partnership Floricanto provides an instructor for a Folklorico class for two hours a day, five days a week, after school throughout the regular school year, produce a holiday program at the end of the first semester and one full performance at the end of the year, both open to the public. All of this is totally free of charge to the 170+ participating students. Come help support the Institute and be part of a great Holiday tradition. Tix $15 gen’l, $10 srs & children.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19:
8 & 10 pm DREAM STREET performs two shows at Vitello's (Upstairs at Vitello's), 4349 Tujunga Av, Studio City 91604; www.vitellosrestaurant.com; reservations, 818-769-0905. The jazz band says, “We have a fun show prepared. Vitello’s has a cool vibe (we’ll provide the yule vibe) and good food.” Cover is $15 ($10 with a student id) plus either a 2-drink minimum or $13 minimum food purchase.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19:
8 pm “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” at the Covina Center for the Performing Arts, 104 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-331-8133; www.covinacenter.com. CCPA’s annual offering of the Dicken’s classic closes the venue’s 2009 season with Thu-thru-Sun performances through Dec 20. Bart McHenry of Azusa Pacific College offers a fresh adaptation directly from the novel, featuring a youthful cast, many from Azusa Pacific. The beautiful Covina Center festoons itself in readiness for the whole family to experience Scrooge’s deadly winter-of-the-heart as he transforms into the reborn child befitting the Season. Christmases Past, Present, Future, Marley, Tiny Tim, Cratchit—the whole cast of characters lives anew in family friendly fair. Runs Thu, Fri, Sat at 8 pm, Sun at 2 pm. Closes with a Sun, Dec 20 matinee at 2 pm. Tix, $34 & $14.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, third Sat, every month:
8 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” at the Unurban Café, 3301 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. This event is a pre-booked artist showcase, not an open mic. Javelyn holds a companion event every 1st Fri with an opne mic, at another venue, at 6:30 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, every month, in Camarillo:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “CARS AND GUITARS SONG CIRCLE” in Camarillo; for location, contact Pat Cronin, CarsAndGuitarsSongCircle@songmakers.org or 805-236-7954; www.songmakers.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, 3rd Sat, ODD-numbered months only:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “SOUTH BAY HOOT” in Redondo Beach; for location, contact info@Songmakers.org or 310-376-0222. www.songmakers.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19:
8:30 pm to 12:30 am CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA at The Blue Whale, 123 Astronaut E S Onizuka St Suite 301, Kapan Town district of Los Angeles 90012; 213-620-0908. Vocalist Cathy Segal-Garcia performs her unique styling of standards and originals, with guitarist Jamie Findlay and bassist Kevin Oneal, plus special guest artists sitting in spontaneously, including The Blue Whales' originator, vocalist Joon Lee.
+
Owner Joon says of her new venue, "I got a great chance to open this place! I have been fortunate enough to create and play with great jazz musicians in this town, like Bevan Manson, Cathy Segal-Garcia, Cho Yoonseung, Tamir Hendelman...and what I learned was an important gift, and that gift I want to give to people.
+
“There's energy between musicians. When we improvise, it's not about the charts. That's what's so cool about this music. And I want the audience to feel that...this club will integrate audience and musicians physically and therefore creatively. The ‘stage’ area is moveable. The musicians are able to choose their location in the room...sit in the middle of it if they want to, and the audience can move their chairs and tables, right into the heart of the experience. In a warm, cozy art space environment, I want people to transcend the invisible rules that we are many times forced to work with...and go beyond that, to the life force of the creations!”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC & DANCING for listening & dancing at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Check their website for tonight’s performers. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded every Saturday by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19, every Sat, in Temecula:
9 pm “COUNTRY AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday night, “country band THE RANCH ROCKERS plays current country music to back-up multiple performers in an Opry-style.” Series info & tix, www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. There’s an early show at 7 pm, and the 9 pm performances feature mature subject matter, so parental discretion is advised at the late show. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 19:
10 pm DREAM STREET performs two shows (8 & 10 pm) at Vitello's (Upstairs at Vitello's), 4349 Tujunga Av, Studio City 91604; www.vitellosrestaurant.com; reservations, 818-769-0905. The jazz band says, “We have a fun show prepared. Vitello’s has a cool vibe (we’ll provide the yule vibe) and good food.” Cover is $15 ($10 with a student id) plus either a 2-drink minimum or $13 minimum food purchase.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10:30-11:30 pm AMY CLARKE plays her “Winter Solstice Concert” w/ special guests, in a benefit for the L.A. regional Food Bank, at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE. Writing in the Washington Post, entertainment reporter Mary Ishimoto Morris calls Amy "beautiful, magical, original." Alt World Fanzine calls her a "Magnificent singer / songwriter / keyboardist." Tonight, Amy is playing Café Muse by candlelight, mixing, as she says, “chill electronic soundscapes with acoustic piano stylings, signature vocals and compelling lyrics, in an intimate, cozy space on the verge of winter solstice.” More at www.gaiagrove.org and www.amyclarke.com. No cover, sliding scale, suggested $10 donation; 20% of all proceeds tonight go to the L.A. Regional Food Bank, where every dollar delivers 5 pounds of food (www.lafoodbank.org/PD.htm).
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
.
(1) Sunday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
+
.
See the complete listings below for all the details.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(2) Sunday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
.
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
.
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
5-6 am “CITY ARTS & LECTURES” hosted by Linda Hunt is a weekly public radio program broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show BRINGS some of the most celebrated writers, artists, and thinkers of our day as they address contemporary ideas and values, often discussing the creative process. These unique programs offer diverse perspective on literature, criticism, the performing arts, and the way we think about the world we live in today.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
6-10 am “BLUEGRASS ETC.” with producer & host FRANK HOPPE, on KCSN 88.5 FM in L.A., worldwide at www.kcsn.org. Frank’s show has been broadcast for 17+ years, and lately, he’s had live performance-interviews with musical guests. A musician himself, Frank Hoppe knows traditional bluegrass and old time string music forward and backward and everywhere in between.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
10 am-noon (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Show always features live performances and skits and stories, including the signature monologue “News from Lake Wobegon” by host GARRISON KEILLOR, along with a regular cast of recording artists and guests; it’s broadcast from its home base in Minnesota or various live venues across America. The initial “live” broadcast time every Saturday (3 pm Pacific) is standard most places, though repeat times Sat & Sun vary by station. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
Noon-2 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show 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. The initial “live” broadcast time each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM from 3-5 pm, 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 else; 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. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
2-5 pm (Pacific) “BLUES SHACK” Hosted by Jim Rondeau on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Show is KCLU's weekly showcase for “the best of the blues, a celebration of the musical innovators who created the genre.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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 music or music-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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on radio and web radio:
6-8 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. The schedule recently changed, and the show airs an hour earlier. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live with a guest recording artist. The show celebrates its 39th year on the air in February 2010. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on web radio:
6:05 pm (Pacific) “AROUND THE CAMPFIRE WITH ED AND TERRY” on WKUL Country 92.1 FM in North Alabama, simulcast at www.wkul.com is a western music show. Co-host Ed (Eddy) tells us, “a person can learn a lot from a good cow or an old horse.” Uh, okay, Eddy. You can contact him at kudzucowboy@hotmail.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
10-11 pm “ETOWN” hosted by Nick Forster on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Heard from coast to coast on NPR, commercial, and community stations, etown's mission is “to educate, entertain and inspire a diverse audience, through music and conversation, to create a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable world. Like old-time radio variety shows, every etown show is taped in front of a live audience and features performances from many of today's top musical artists as well as conversation and information about our communities and our environment.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“FOLK ALLEY” is a non-profit venture produced by public radio station WKSU-FM in Kent, Ohio. It often features interviews and performances as well as hosted programs with CD tracks from across the spectrum of folk / new folk / acoustic Americana. They say, “Our goal is to bring you the best in folk music, 24 hours a day, wherever you have access to the Internet.” It requires a free membership. All you need to know and to listen is at www.folkalley.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“RADIO DISMUKE” is a broad and deep presentation of vintage original recordings from 1925-1935, one of the most vibrant decades in popular culture and entertainment. It’s the music of boom times of the "Roaring '20s" to the hard times of the Great Depression; from frantic Charlestons danced to by a generation of flappers to sentimental ballads performed by the early crooners; from the hot jazz bands of the top Harlem nightclubs to the popular dance bands of the formative years of the swing and big band eras. One listener commented, “How in the world do you have all of this music!? I am amazed when I tune in the magnitude of your collection! Thanks so much for sharing it!” And if you’re wondering, JANET KLEIN (Janet Klein & Her Parlor Boys) brought it to the Guide’s attention. It’s accessible through several free options and offers a blog, all available at www.radiodismuke.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Sunday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
Sun, Dec 20, in Berkeley, CA:
8 pm annual “FREIGHT & SALVAGE HOLIDAY PARTY” with LAURIE LEWIS & TOM ROZUM, KITKA, LEFTOVER DREAMS, THE BERKELEY CITY COLLEGE CHOIR, and Santa, at the new Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley; 510-644-2020. More at www.laurielewis.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(4) Sunday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
.
.
Ongoing, Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
+
Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
+
Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(5) Sunday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Sun, Dec 20, recurring:
8 am-1 pm THE FAIR MARKET BAND performs bluegrass at the Hollywood Farmer's Market, on Ivar St between Hollywood Bl & Sunset Bl (1 block W of Vine), Hollywood. They’re a 5-piece, with guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and bass, playing the standards with conviction, and Cajun, country, and “the spectrum” of Americana roots. The core of the group are brothers Bill & Mike McClellan on fiddle & mandolin, and banjoist Gary Dostalek. They perform within sight of Amoeba Music. Expect to find them playing the entire 5 hours. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sun, every month:
9 am-1 pm “CLAREMONT FARMER'S MARKET” has live acoustic music in downtown Claremont. RON ELY plays original and traditional songs of the sea, folk, Americana, and more on 2nd St between Yale Av and Indian Hill, in old downtown Claremont. Ron says the market offers “the best of fresh fruits and veggies, jewelry, crafts in a picturesque setting by the San Gabriel Mountain foothills. Great restaurants and unique shops are adjacent to the market.” Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun; not music, but cool:
11 am-3 pm “FREE TRAIN RIDES” behind miniature steam locomotives at Los Angeles Live Steamers (LALS) Railroad Museum, 5202 Zoo Dr. Griffith Park, L.A. 90027. Closed on rainy days. If you’re too broke for the train under the Christmas tree, or even for the tree, then this will lift your spirits and rekindle all those childhood memories of the miniature train rounding curves past brightly-wrapped packages beneath the tree. Except this one is big enough to ride, and the trains are pulled by real (if lilliputian) steam locomotives. This is not the park’s carnival-style train; this is just east of Travel Town with its real but immobile steam trains. Revisit all those songwriting dreams of riding the rails and hearing lonesome whistles, even if each of the engines’ “big” drive wheels are something like four inches in diameter instead of 70 or 80 inches, and the whistles are more akin to piccolos than the haunting reverberations of the denizens of the high iron. LALS is a non-profit that’s been around since 1956, founded by train enthusiasts to educate people in railroad history and lore and to further the avocation of live steam, gas-mechanical and electronic railroad technology. They operate 7 1/2 inch-gauge (distance between the rails) model trains for the general public to ride every Sunday (weather permitting). The gate is open from 10:45 am to 3 pm. In addition, they have extensive layouts for 4 3/4” and 3 1/2” gauge model trains. Passengers must be at least 34″ in height, and weigh under 350 lbs. LALS survives solely from donations by fans who visit and ride the trains. Admission is free but be kind and give the suggested donation of $3. More at www.lals.org
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sun, every month:
Noon-3 pm Monthly “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION SOUTHERN CAL JAM SESSION” is really a song circle, and named in FolkWorks as co-winner of L.A.’s “Best Monthly Listening Room Series” - on the Heritage Court Stage in the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park; 818-971-5002; www.museumoftheamericanwest.org. WMA California Chapter meeting follows. All performing musicians (whether or not they are Autry members or WMA members) get in free, and each may bring one guest. In addition, on WMA jam days at the Autry, all WMA members (whether or not they are perfoming) are admitted free (w/ WMA membership ID) and get access to the jam and to all the museum galleries for the whole day. Award-winning performing songwriter JOYCE WOODSON says, “You can have lunch there at the Golden Spur [café] first, then stop by for some music.” Info on event and participating at www.westernmusic.org. This is a very well-attended, very popular song circle, wherein each performer or group does a song in turn, possibly backed instrumentally by others in the circle. Its expansion from two hours (1-3 pm) to three hours (noon-3 pm) came at the invitation of the Autry, beginning in May, 2009. Museum gen’l adm $9 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sun, every month:
Noon-3 pm SONGSALIVE! monthly “LOS ANGELES WORKSHOP,” with music industry guest speaker, at The Finnish Center, 10701 Magnolia Bl (E of Vineland), North Hollywood 91601; 818-506-3850 for directions only. Each monthly workshop features a music industry guest speaker, in a setting for songwriters to gather, share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the songwriting community. The first half of each session is an in-the-round workshop, where each writer presents one song, on tape or CD or live. The second half includes the guest speaker and an industry discussion, with time to talk, enjoy coffee and network. Hosted by Paul Lawrence Moyer. Info on guest speaker, or pre-registration, at 310-238-0359 or www.songsalive.org/losangeles for rules, speakers & what to bring. (Event now held on 3rd Sundays, changed from 1st Sundays.) These events start promptly. $5, or free for Songsalive! members.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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!”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sunday, every month:
1-5 pm SONGMAKERS “EAST VALLEY HOOT” in Van Nuys; for location, contact Barbara Greenspan, EastValleyHoot@songmakers.org or 818-780-5979; www.songmakers.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
2 pm “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” at the Covina Center for the Performing Arts, 104 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-331-8133; www.covinacenter.com. CCPA’s annual offering of the Dicken’s classic closes the venue’s 2009 season with Thu-thru-Sun performances through Dec 20. Bart McHenry of Azusa Pacific College offers a fresh adaptation directly from the novel, featuring a youthful cast, many from Azusa Pacific. The beautiful Covina Center festoons itself in readiness for the whole family to experience Scrooge’s deadly winter-of-the-heart as he transforms into the reborn child befitting the Season. Christmases Past, Present, Future, Marley, Tiny Tim, Cratchit—the whole cast of characters lives anew in family friendly fair. Runs Thu, Fri, Sat at 8 pm, Sun at 2 pm. Closes with a Sun, Dec 20 matinee at 2 pm. Tix, $34 & $14.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
3 pm “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS” the special Holiday show by 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
+
”Break out your festive Holiday Potatoes. The musical ones in red and green. And, perhaps, a drop of warming grog. A health to you,” says venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane. In fact, Bob did well to get this matinee show in his cozy little bistro. Ken O’Malley has toured it in large venues.
+
In this captivating show, the Dublin born singer-songwriter will transport his audience to his beloved Ireland with his rich, resonant voice and engaging stage presence accompanied by his remarkable talent on guitar and mandolin. The event promises to be a magical afternoon of music with songs in both English and Irish Gaelic, suitable for all ages. Not just a singer, about whom Dave Soyars of the Irish Herald writes "his powerful and emotive voice shines through on everything he does", O'Malley is also a cultural ambassador and educator who infuses every performance with a genuine passion and love for his native land and its people. As longtime fan Mark Dresser says "the songs Ken sings touch all of us, Irish or not, to the very core of the human heart."
+
The University of St. Thomas at Houston proclaims that Ken O'Malley is "widely regarded as the finest Irish folk singer/songwriter in the United States today," and the Irish News calls this consummate entertainer "without question, . . .the single most enduring, influential and proficient of all Irish musicians in Southern California…" And, last year, Folkworks Magazine named him among the Top Ten live acoustic male singer-songwriters in Los Angeles.
+
"O'Malley, from Dublin, is a rare talent." - Sean Canniffe, The Irish Herald, San Francisco. "The star is O'Malley's voice... which effortlessly spans the range from sentimental ballads to aggressive Irish folk, rock and everywhere in between." - Dave Soyars, The Irish Herald. "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. More at www.kenomalley.com. Tix, $18.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
3 pm “FRET HOUSE ANNUAL HOLIDAY / 40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Performances by Fret House employees and music teaching staff. Doors at 2 pm. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, in Ventura:
3 pm THE PRESTON SMITH SHOW at Bernadette’s on Main, Ventura. Preston says, “Outdoor patio fun.” "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz… His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger, July 28 2006, The Pasadena Weekly.
+
Preston appeared on "The Tonight Show" along with the late Jimmy Stewart and released an album on Curb Records entitled "Preston Smith." He was featured on the hit movie soundtrack "Cocktail" starring Tom Cruise with the title song "Oh I Love You So," which he composed, produced and performed. The soundtrack went on to sell over six million units foreign and domestically. Roseanne Cash then recorded his song "Black and White," which released as a single, was a hit on the country radio charts, and was included in her Greatest Hits CD that went Gold. He sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed at countless functions for celebrities, including Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono; Bonnie Raitt, Eddie Van Halen and Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others have joined him on-stage for impromptu jam sessions. "You're somethin' else on that guitar, boy." Jerry Lee Lewis.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, recurring:
3-5:30 pm SHAPE NOTE SINGING in West L.A. Call for location, 310-557-1927.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun, in Temecula:
3 pm “CLASSICS AT THE MERC” music series featuring violin & piano, at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Series info, info on artists, and tix, at www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ for listening & dancing 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sunday, every month; in the OC:
5-7 pm ONE FOOT IN at Java Joe's, 4973 Yorba Ranch Rd (in strip mall at Yorba Linda Bl & Yorba Ranch Rd), Yorba Linda 92887; 714-970-7988. They are RUSS LEWARK, MICHAEL R. GARDNER & JEFF NEWELL, joined by KEVIN GORE to form the quartet, then by drummer T.J. TARRANCE DeFRIEZ for the big band. They’re a fun rootsy string band, they’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and they tell us, “We're excited about now doing regular monthly performances at Java Joe's in Yorba Linda… playing in the early evening for those that have to work the next day. Come out and gather with us against the cold, cruel world. We want to sing away your troubles. Bring 'em on down.” As for the venue, the guys say, “Mmmmm, wine & beer & coffee & tea & atmosphere & company at Java Joe's alone is worth the trip. Chuck, the owner, only serves what he likes to drink and his good taste really shows. Come, sit on a comfy couch, have a slosh and groove to the sounds of One Foot In!” More at www.onefootin.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
5-7 pm “THE MUSIC OF COSMIC STARFISH” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com. JEFFREY SNYDER (aka Cosmic Starfish) brings his electro-folk music to Cafe MUSE every Sunday. (Yep, this is electric.) The venue tells us, “Come to the MUSE to hear his truly unique and totally chill astral-pop music... the perfect complement to Sunday dinner, don't you think?” We haven’t been, but their menu of light cuisine is quite good.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
5-8 pm “JAZZ NIGHT” at the Whale and Ale, 327 W 7th St, San Pedro; 310-832-0363; www.whaleandale.com. Different bands every week. No cover.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sun, every month; in Arroyo Grande:
5:30-8:30 pm "BLUEGRASS JAM SESSION" at the SLO Down Pub, 1200 E Grand Av (at Brisco), Arroyo Grande; 805-481-4015. Hosted by Roger Siminoff; info, siminoff@siminoff.net. All welcome.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
6-8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD NUMBER 7 play their “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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 3rd Sun, every month:
6-10 pm “GRIMM / BIG FISH / PRO BLUES JAM” at The Big Fish, 5230 San Fernando Rd, Glendale; 818-244-6442. With KATHRYN GRIMM on guitar & vocals, BILL ORR on bass & vocals, FRANKIE SALEMMO on drums. Other musicians take part by invitation from Kathryn, in advance, at grimmmusic@yahoo.com. "Grimm hosts the Pro Blues Jam the third Sunday of each month, to give professionals and amateurs a chance to shine. Her guitar licks are explosive and her singing divine." - Joyce Rudolph, Los Angeles Times. Billy Hulting (Lou Rawls, Patti Labelle, Dwezill Zappa) says Kathryn Grimm "...sings like an angel, plays guitar like the devil." Kathryn tells us, “Bill [Orr] has just started a myspace page for the Big Fish Jam. Pleeeaaasseee go visit, add it to you friends list and keep visiting to view the up-and-comers photos, [and learn about the] music and info about the Best Jam in Town.” It’s at www.myspace.com/bigfishjam.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
7 pm Hawaiian "slack key" guitar master JIM “KIMO” WEST plus T. DAN HOFSTEDT 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. He is an award-winning Hawaiian "slack key" guitarist and composer for Hollywood. He’s a veteran of Hawaii's famed slack key festivals where he performs alongside the world’s most noted players, including Ledward Kaapana, Cyril Pahinui, Ozzie Kotani, Makana, George Kahumoku and many others. JIM “KIMO” WEST is known for his exciting live performances and his many original instrumental slack key compositions as represented in his catalog of five solo CD's. Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane calles him “Excellent.”
+
"Ki ho'alu" - as it is known in Hawaii - is based on re-tuning or "slacking" the strings to create new tunings, of which there are many . Kimo has developed a number of his own tunings that give his instrumentals his own unique sound. He is a recent winner of the Hawaii Music Awards, a Na Hoku Hanohano (the Hawaiian Grammy) nominee, and a two-time winner of the LA Treasures Award. His compositions have been featured in films, documentaries and national TV commercials. He splits his time between Hawaii and Los Angeles where he works as a composer for film and TV and as a producer for other artists. Catch him on YouTube, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgT8e1uj95g.
+
Opening is Oahu native T. DAN HOFSTEDT, performing his own original slack key and Christmas songs, “and,” adds Bob Stane, “no doubt telling some good stories, too!”
+
More at www.jimkimowest.com and www.myspace.com/jimkimowest. Tix, $20, or, if you come in Hawaiian garb, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
7 pm-midnight “SIN CITY’S HOLIDAY HO HO HO DOWN” with THE SIN CITY ALL STARS, plus SHURMAN, and surprise special guests, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A.; www.mollymalonesla.com; 323-935-1577. Austin, TX-based SHURMAN plays at 8 pm. They hit the sweet spot where rock and country intersect. Armed with a powerful punch of rock crunch, soulful grooves and deeply-rooted country twang, the band’s songs breathe the truth of real life experiences and emotions, and reside within the common themes that are a part of everyone’s lives. The quartet’s new album “Still Waiting for the Sunset” (Sustain/Universal Republic Records) is set for a January 26th release but it is currently available digitally on iTunes and Amazon. You can hear full new tracks on the band’s MySpace page - www.myspace.com/shurman. More at www.shurmanville.com. Cover, $8.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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
+
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, every Sun:
7:30-10 pm “SUNDAY NIGHT SONG & VARIETY SHOWCASE” is the new OPEN MIC on The Coffee Gallery FRONT stage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, 626-398-7917. Everybody knows the world-famous Backstage, with its parade of world-class and renowned professional acts – this is the weekly FREE stage in the front of the coffeehouse, “out front,” where you can buy coffeehouse treats and beverages. This series, hosted by Duane Thorin, an experienced performer and soundman who runs the mic levels, the series welcomes “singers, songwriters, and other talents.” Signup starts at 7 pm, and does not close through the night. Duane says, “Plan on two songs at a time, however on busy nights, it may go into a one-song rotation. Stay and repeat if there is time and room on the bill. There is no entry or cover fee, and we hope you will join us for coffee or a snack while you’re there, peruse the artwork for sale on the walls, and invite friends to this comfortable and well known music venue.”Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, third Sun, every month:
8 pm “VARIETY NIGHT,” with a guest recording artist, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. Performance by the guest artist, plus the pre-registered open mic-ers. Signups each month begin two Sundays ahead, at 1 pm, and continue until showtime unless all 8 slots are filled in advance. The night always includes a drawing for 2 hrs free studio time at Sunburst Recording for a lucky open mic-er. Performers may purchase a live recording of their stage performance for $8. Website has directions to venue and nearby recommended eateries. $4.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20:
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. Tix $30; secure, on-site parking is $5.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 20, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Dec 20:
10 pm-4 am “NEXT AID WORLD AIDS DAY” has events in 11 cities, including several music events in L.A., Dec 15-20. None appear to be all that acoustic, but the cause warrants your support. Tonight is BODDHI SATVA from the Central Republic of Africa (www.boddhi-satva.com), Marques Wyatt (DEEP, Om Records), Wisacre, Jeremy Sole and Joplin Vanguard, at Deep, 6021 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood. “Starry Eyes,” an acrylic painting by artist Freddi C, will be raffled off at the end of the night. View Photo at www.deep-la.com. Cover is $20, proceeds benefit NextAid.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
.
(1) Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
+
.
See the complete listings below for all the details.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(2) Monday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
.
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
.
.
Mon, Mon-Fri, on web radio:
9-11 am “THE THOMAS MILLER SHOW” is internet radio from L.A. that features unsigned indie musicians, some acoustic, some electric. In Jan 2010, Mothern Hen joins ass co-host and the show will expand its hours and move to a different studio. Info and listen on-line at www.thomasmillershow.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.”
+
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.
+
Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“FOLK ALLEY” is a non-profit venture produced by public radio station WKSU-FM in Kent, Ohio. It often features interviews and performances as well as hosted programs with CD tracks from across the spectrum of folk / new folk / acoustic Americana. They say, “Our goal is to bring you the best in folk music, 24 hours a day, wherever you have access to the Internet.” It requires a free membership. All you need to know and to listen is at www.folkalley.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, every day, 24/7, on web radio:
“RADIO DISMUKE” is a broad and deep presentation of vintage original recordings from 1925-1935, one of the most vibrant decades in popular culture and entertainment. It’s the music of boom times of the "Roaring '20s" to the hard times of the Great Depression; from frantic Charlestons danced to by a generation of flappers to sentimental ballads performed by the early crooners; from the hot jazz bands of the top Harlem nightclubs to the popular dance bands of the formative years of the swing and big band eras. One listener commented, “How in the world do you have all of this music!? I am amazed when I tune in the magnitude of your collection! Thanks so much for sharing it!” And if you’re wondering, JANET KLEIN (Janet Klein & Her Parlor Boys) brought it to the Guide’s attention. It’s accessible through several free options and offers a blog, all available at www.radiodismuke.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Monday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(4) Monday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
.
.
Ongoing, Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
+
Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
+
Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(5) Monday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21:
8 pm ”ROY ZIMMERMAN - PEACENICK” 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. In this time of war, natural disaster, social upheaval and political strife, Christmas just got funnier. “PeaceNick” is satirical songwriter ROY ZIMMERMAN’s send-up of the joys, pains and absurdities of the Holiday season.
+
He’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and had over three million views of his performances on YouTube, where they’ve brought tens of thousands of comments, of which Roy says, “many of them coherent.” And in eleven albums over twenty years, Roy has brought the sting of satire to the struggle for peace and social justice. His songs are heard on NPR and Air America Radio, and he’s a featured blogger for the Huffington Post. The Los Angeles Times says, “Zimmerman displays a lacerating wit and keen awareness of society’s foibles that bring to mind a latter-day Tom Lehrer.”
+
The show includes “Christmas is Pain,” a Dylan-esque protest song about the agonies of overeating, clear cutting pine trees, drunken Santas and sharp candy canes. “Christma-Hanu-Rama-Ka-Dona-Kwaanza” is a vaudeville-style patter song (one can almost hear Danny Kaye) about the Season as celebrated in all world cultures. And “Eenie Kveenie Klibadavac” teaches us how they say Merry Christmas on Mars. And there’s a bitingly satirical look at the ongoing war in Iraq called “I Won’t Be Home for Christmas.”
+
It’s all original material, much of it co-written by Zimmerman and his wife, Melanie Harby. “Satire is a family value for us,” he reports. Meanwhile, venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane says, “’PeaceNick’ is an evening of family-friendly Seasonal satire from a decidedly Lefty-Pacifist-Humanist point of view.”
+
And yes, the show ends on a humanistic note of hope. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, every Mon:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 7717 S Western Av (78th & Western), L.A. 90047; 323-759-2020; www.mdears.com. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND for listening & dancing 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.”
+
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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
+
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
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 21, 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.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(6) EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW
(updated Dec 18)
.
.
.
HEADS-UP – GET TIX WHILE YOU CAN!
.
.
Tue, Dec 22 (Get tix now):
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; 213-972-7211; www.musiccenter.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
(Newly-listed webcast…)
Tue, Dec 22, every Tue, on web video:
7-9 pm “FURIOUS WORLD” with PETER HIMMELMAN is a live weekly performance webcast with musical guests and an archive, available at www.peterhimmelman.com
+
Tonight’s guests are RAINING JANE (www.rainingjane.com). Peter says, “Raining Jane is an eclectic rock-folk band based in Los Angeles. Their sound is defined by the merging of four songwriters, three vocalists, and a variety of instruments: acoustic and electric guitars, drum kit, bass guitar, cello, cajon and sitar. Stunning vocal harmonies provide the thread in songs that are rooted in rock-folk, but pushed and pulled in a variety of directions. Raining Jane has co-written several songs with Jason Mraz and you can find backup vocals by Sara Bareilles on their new album ‘Paper Nest.’”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Dec 23 (Get tix now):
THE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; 213-972-7211; www.musiccenter.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu, Dec 24:
3-9 pm 50th annual “L.A. COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT THE MUSIC CENTER” at the beautiful Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at the Downtown L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, Los Angeles 90012. Entrance and parking are free and no reservations are required, though if you don’t arrive early, you will stand in line and wait for someone to leave before you can get in the door. The two years that acoustic musicians were featured on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” to promote the event, the wait on line was more than two hours; since TttT is no longer heard on L.A. radio, the line has been much shorter. This free event features numerous artists in a variety of music, song and dance performances, performing music and dance of the season from the many neighborhoods and cultures of Los Angeles. TAIKOPROJECT’s Japanese drumming, English and Korean holiday songs from Opera California Youth Choir, street dance with a holiday spin from Antics Performance, African-American music from the Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers, and a range of seasonal stylings from traditional to contemporary by the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, Harmonic Bronze Handbell Ensemble, Palmdale High School Choral Union and Salvation Army Tabernacle Children’s Chorus are just a few of the selections from the more than 40 groups chosen to perform in this milestone celebration. The L.A. Holiday Celebration is funded with tax dollars by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Doors open at 2:30 pm. Free.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu, Dec 24:
5-8:30 pm The VOICES OF CHRISTMAS play a “CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER” at Cafe Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl (3 blks W of Woodman, N side of st), Sherman Oaks 91423; www.cafecordiale.com; reservations necessary, at 818-789-1985. A Traditional English Christmas dinner will be served from 5-8:30 pm. The VOICES OF CHRISTMAS perform contemporary carols a cappela in raditional Dickens costumes from 6:30-8:30 pm. More at www.voicesofchristmas.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 26:
4-8 pm CHARLIE JENE & DEXTER ARDOIN play the Cajun-Zydeco concert/dance series at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Av, Lakewood 90712. Catered food available for purchase. Info, call Sidney, 323-401-8859. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 26:
8 pm ADRIAN LEGG plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.adrianlegg.com. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Dec 26:
8-11 pm “4TH SATURDAY CONTRA DANCE” with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS (TOM, PATRICK & MIKE SAUBER, & STEVE LEWIS) playing the Brentwood Youth Hut, 731 S Bundy Dr (just S of San Vincente), W L.A.. Dance instruction at 7:30 pm.
+
TOM SAUBER tells us, “Preceding both of the contra dances this month [Dec 19, 8:30-11:30 in Pasadena, and Dec 26, 8-11 in West L.A., both with the Screaming Earwigs], Ruth Alpert will be giving a free workshop in Appalachian free-style dancing (lots of names here - buck dance, flatfooting, clogging). Whatever you call it, it's a great accompaniment to old- time music. Ruth is a great dancer and this is a great opportunity to pick up some steps which go ‘hand in glove’ with the fiddle”
+
Info, steve@urbanoldtime.com. Admission, $10.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Dec 27:
8 pm-midnight “ZYDECO DANCE SERIES’ Christmas & New Year's Eve Dance” with live music by ANDRE' THIERRY at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Av, Lakewood 90712. Catered food available for purchase. Info, call Sidney, 323-401-8859. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Dec 28:
7 pm GOOD OLD WAR at The Glass House Concert Hall, 200 W 2nd St, Pomona 91766; www.theglasshouse.us. GOOD OLD WAR is from Philadelphia, where they’ve sang at a Phillies-Orioles baseball game. Some of what they do is reminiscent of CSN and the Beatles, with plenty of vocal harmonies and some accordion. There’s not a lot of contrast between some of their songs, but the harmonies are clearly enough to keep plenty of fans happy. They are KEITH GOODWIN on vocals, guitar & keys; DAN SCHWARTZ on guitars & vocals; TIM ARNOLD on drums, keys, accordian & vocals. Check out www.myspace.com/goodoldwar and listen to, “Coney Ixland,” the live acoustic recording of their songs “We’ve Come a Long Way,” and more.
On Dec 28 at 7 pm, Good Old War will be playing their own set, and playing as Anthony Green’s band. Bill includes Melt Banana from Tokyo, which looks, well, melted. Tix on sale Oct 15 at noon, $13.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Dec 29:
7 pm GOOD OLD WAR at the Roxy Theatre, 9009 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood 90069. Good Old War will be playing their own set and will also be playing as Anthony Green’s band. GOOD OLD WAR is from Philadelphia, where they’ve sand at a Phillies-Orioles baseball game. Some of what they do is reminiscent of CSH and the Beatles, with plenty of vocal harmonies and some accordion. There’s not a lot of contrast between some of their songs, but the harmonies are clearly enough to keep plenty of fans happy. They are ‘KEITH GOODWIN on vocals, guitar, keys; DAN SCHWARTZ on guitars & vocals; TIM ARNOLD on drums, keys, accordian, vocals. More at www.myspace.com/goodoldwar and listen to, “Coney Ixland,” the live acoustic recording of their songs “We’ve Come a Long Way,” and more.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu-Sun, Dec 31-Jan 3:
“CALIFORNIA TRADITIONAL MUSIC SOCIETY'S ANNUAL NEW YEAR'S CAMP” at Camp Hess Kramer, a conference center located up the coast from Malibu. TOM & PATRICK SAUBER, who are on the teaching faculty, tell us it’s “in one of the Sycamore filled canyons about 100 yards from the beach on the migratory path of the Monarch butterfly. It's a wonderful place for a holiday getaway filled with music, dance, good food, etc., etc.” Info & registration at www.ctmsfolkmusic.org
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu, Dec 31 (Get tix now):
8 pm SLIGO RAGS play the NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY for the Ojai Concert Series at the Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; info & tix at 805-665-8852 or www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Ring in the New Year with a wild Celtic concert, then waltzing till 12:30 am. Bring the family, bring all your friends and help ring in the New Year with a wild, fun Celtic concert featuring the return of Sligo Rags, 8-11 pm, then enjoy elegant and romantic waltzes to a live band until 12:30 in the morning.
+
When Sligo Rags performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” for St. Patrick’s Day in 2007, EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were theirs, and no other artist or band repeated anywhere in that chart’s Top 100. They are an energetic Celtic / bluegrass fusion band and two-time winner of the Orange County Music Awards for Best Folk Band. This ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, Sligo Rags is taking the national Celtic music scene by storm.
+
"Sligo Rags have mastered the ability to take songs from a time gone by and make them fresh and relevant for a modern audience. Their passion for the music and their willingness to take risks combine for an outstanding live show." - Music Connection. The hosts tell us, “This is going to be a potluck party, so bring a tray of finger food and we'll supply the party favors and the bubbly.” Tix, $20 before Dec 1, thereafter $25 advance, $30 at door if any remain.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Dec 31:
“MUSICAL NEW YEAR’S EVE’ 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Things are shaping-up for an evening with music on two stages and plenty of food. In addition, the Foirkians are scheming. Bob Stane says, “If you really want to know the strokes I am going to pull for New Year's Day, you will have to talk with me during the breaks of the shows. I will whisper it in your ear. You will laugh, you will cry, you will wet your pants. Or not.” Call the venue to get info about the potluck. Free event.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
==============
.
2010 events…
.
==============
.
.
Fri, Jan 1, 2010:
ORQUESTA CHARANGOA at The Granada, 17 S First St, Alhambra 91801; 626-227-2572. Yamaha artist Fay Roberts has been keeping the Cuban tradition alive for more than a decade in L.A. After traveling to Cuba where she studied traditional Charanga music with Richard Egues, of Orquesta Aragon fame, Fay returned to Los Angeles and founded Orquesta Charangoa. They've been bringing joyous sounds ever since. Lead Vocals by Timba recording artist Gonzalo "Chalo"Chomat. More at www.charangoa.com - music downloads at www.CDBaby.com/cd/charangoa
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 3:
7 pm CATHY BARTON AND DAVE PARA 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. A versatile duo from way out in Missouri performing a variety of traditional and original folk music with harmonious vocals and powerful mastery of five-string banjo, hammered dulcimer, guitar, autoharp and some found instruments just to keep your attention. Cathy and Dave tell us they are “delighted to return to The Coffee Gallery after having way too good of a time a year ago.” Their “acoustic arsenal of democracy” includes five-string banjo, guitar, hammered dulcimer, Autoharp and some found instruments just to keep the audience's attention. Their repertoire is comprised of traditional and contemporary American folk music, featuring tunes and songs they have collected from fiddlers and singers in their home region of Missouri and the Ozarks. While they may never get the childhood echoes of Peter, Paul and Mary out of their harmony vocals, Cathy and Dave can lay down a solid old-time sound.
+
The late Roy Acuff once called Cathy his favorite banjo player. Here's a video from the 1980s that suggests why: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TC0ALk_w8g0. 2009 was the year of "Gumbo Bottoms: A Big Muddy Musical" for which Cathy wrote the songs and both Dave and Cathy played in the pit band for the show's premier and tour dates. Check it out at http://gumbobottomsmusical.com. They say they “Wish the show had a year-long run because it was a real treat to do. But a cruise along the coast of Maine helped make up for it.” Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Jan 4:
8 pm-1 am “RONNIE MACK'S 22ND ANNIVERSARY BARNDANCE,” with the Barndance Band and musical guest headliners, at Joe's Great American Bar And Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505; 818-729-0805. Yep, Ronnie Mack's monthly extravaganza hits the 22 year mark. Paul Marshall (Barndance Band, I See Hawks in L.A.) tells us, “This month we celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Ronnie Mack's Barndance! We start a half-hour earlier and Ronnie features at least 13 different artists. What a show! The Barndance Band opens, and plays again before the jam. In between are the featured guests.” Free admission.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Jan 4:
8 pm TIM ERIKSEN 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Tim Eriksen's concept of music as a link between the past and present, between individuals and communities, between the world's spirit and his own, has led him to the ten traditional American folk ballads he reanimates and the four haunting original compositions that complete the microcosmic view of pre-20th Century life and its 21st Century resonance on "Every Sound Below," his long awaited second solo CD.
+
Already recognized as one of America's finest young traditional balladeers through his live appearances, 2001 solo album and numerous CDs with internationally popular "folk noise" group Cordelia's Dad, Tim's abilities and expertise in authentic folk music earned him three featured songs as a vocalist and two as an arranger on the hit "Cold Mountain" movie soundtrack in 2004. That Tim is probably the only performer to have shared a stage with both Kurt Cobain and Doc Watson is an indication of his contemporary appeal and audience.
+
Tim's new solo CD "Northern Roots Live in Namest" was released in July on the Czech label Indies Scope. Another album, "Across the Divide," Tim's collaboration with world-jazz pianist Omar Sosa, came out earlier this year on Half Note Records. This past summer he made his third appearance at the Newport Folk Festival and played solo at New York's Blue Note Jazz Club.
+
Tim's other appearances have included:
- Academy Awards 2003
- the "Great High Mountain Tour" (2004)
- NPR's "Prairie Home Companion"
- Carnegie Hall with a symphony orchestra, as a soloist in Evan Chambers' new symphonic work "The Old Burying Ground" (2008)
- two weeks with Omar Sosa at The Blue Note Jazz Club, NYC (2008, 2009).
Tix, $18.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Jan 5:
8 pm CROWFOOT 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. From the Eastern Townships of Québéc, near the Vermont border, CROWFOOT brings you their own brand of 'trad' music, played on flute, fiddle, cello, accordion, and guitar, with songs in English and French.
+
“Drawing from English, Irish, Québecois and Appalachian roots, this trio has cultivated a new tradition of folk music...between rich harmonies and haunting ballads,they soar into trance-like grooves and infectious instrumentals” -Seven Days Magazine, Burlington, VT.
+
CROWFOOT weaves musical influences from England, Ireland, Québec, and the Appalachian Mountains into a captivating fusion that delights dancers and listeners alike. In this meeting ground of traditions, they incorporate their own distinctive original compositions and songs. Having cut their teeth on the contra dance circuit, Crowfoot has gained a reputation for their trancelike grooves, subtle interplay, and their unstoppable energy. For 5 years they have been playing for dances across the US, Canada, and the UK, drawing a youthful following and foot- stomping praise wherever they go. Crowfoot is now turning more and more to the concert stage, where rich vocal harmonies, haunting ballads, and finely crafted instrumental arrangements compliment their infectious dance energy. More at www.crowfootmusic.com. Tix, $18.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu, Jan 7:
8 pm SURFIN’ SAFARI 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Come see what all the fuss is about. Word is the stage show is better than the original Beach Boys. Solid entertainment. Upbeat, vibrant, nostalgia.”
+
Bob continues, “SURFIN’ SAFARI is a faithful recreation of what it would have been like to see The Beach Boys live, in concert, in their prime. This five-member lineup is unrivaled in their sound, presentation, and professionalism. There are NO BACKING TRACKS or extra musicians playing off-stage! SURFIN' SAFARI is as close as you will ever get to seeing the original Beach Boys. The incomparable beauty of their vocal harmonies, the crashing back beat of Dennis Wilson's drums, the soaring surf guitar of Carl Wilson, and the genius of Brian Wilson's music is all here. The uniband choreography, the Fender guitar line up, the famous custom striped shirts, right down to the black suede Beach Boy boots, it's all here. SURFIN' SAFARI... a great show, a great time, and fun, fun, fun till our Daddy takes the T-Bird away!” Tix, $18.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 8:
JOHN McCUTCHEON presented by Paniolo Productions with the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) at Encino Community Center, 4935 Balboa Bl, Encino. Info & tix, www.ctmsfolkmusic.org. He’s a genuine folk legend. Tix at www.panioloproductions.com/events.html
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 8:
8 pm-‘til-? Annual “ELVIS BIRTHDAY BASH” moves to the Echoplex, Glendale Blvd near (underneath the bridge!) Sunset. This is the 24th year of this Charity event honoring Elvis Presley on his birthday. Paul Marshall (I See Hawks in L.A.) tells us, “Elvis is another year older and it’ll be an all-night celebration at the Echoplex. Elvis's birthday party features about 35 acts, all doing songs that Elvis recorded sometime in his career. Could be hits, could be obscurities. Could be great, could be......oh, it will be great!
I'll play bass, open the show with a song, and back up some of the artists. All proceeds go to a worthy charity.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 8:
8 pm The HOT FRITTATAS ITALIAN TRIO 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. The Hot Frittatas serve up tasty arrangements of traditional Italian and Sicilian music. Based in the Bay Area, this lively trio of accordion, mandolin / fiddle and guitar has been together for eight years. They have produced two CDs and perform regularly at wineries, festivals and Italian events throughout Northern California, Oregon and Nevada. Their music has been used by several independent filmmakers, and their original music has been used on the ABC-TV series, “The Bachelor.” Recent performances include Portland’s Festa Italiana, Reno’s Festa Italiana, the San Francisco Mandolin Festival, the Cotati Accordion Festival, Napa’s COPIA Center, and the nationally-syndicated radio show, “West Coast Live.” Venue impresariop Bob Stane says, “Tarantellas, tangos, polkas and espresso. Buon appetito!” Ticket price tba.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 9:
1-3 pm “THE ADVENTURE OF SELF DISCOVERY WRITING WORKSHOP” begins at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Session dates are Saturdays, Jan 9, 1-3 pm; Jan 16, 10 am-noon; Jan 23, 11 am-1 pm; Jan 30, 11 am-1 pm; Feb 6, 11 am-1 pm; Feb 13, 11 am-1 pm; Feb 27, 11 am-1 pm; Mar 6, 11 am-1 pm; Mar 13, 11 am-1 pm. Performances of completed work are Sun, Mar 28, 1-3 pm, and Sat, Apr 3, 1 pm-3 pm. The workshop is taught by Norma Fain Pratt, Ph. D., the founder and Artistic Director of Telling Tales Theatre. She is the publisher of the experimental press, Quesadilla Press. For registration and more info, contact Pratt at nfpratt@earthlink.net or 626-712-7231. Tuition is $125 for new and returning participants---Scholarships available.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 9:
GRASSROOTS ACOUSTICA presents its “3rd ANNUAL AULD LANG SYNE EDITION – ONE DEGREE TO EDWARD TREE,” The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net; 310-450-6052. All shows in thew series benefit charity; this time, it’s for The Serra Project (www.serraproject.org) Lineup TBA.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 9:
8 pm ALEX DePUE & MIGUEL DeHOYOS play Russ & Julie’s House Concert series in Oak Park (in the Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area); reservations get directions at 818-707-2179. Info, www.houseconcerts.us
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 9:
8 pm ED GERHARD plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.virtuerecords.com. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat & Sun, Jan 9 &10:
8 pm Sat, 7 pm Sun – AL KOOPER plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $26.50.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 10:
7 pm COCO MONTOYA with BLUES BETTIE opening, at Brixton South Bay, 100 W Torrance Bl Suite J, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-406-1931; www.brixtonsouthbay.com and www.myspace.com/brixtonsouthbay. Venue is 21+, holds 450. Over the course of his 30-year career, guitarist and vocalist Coco Montoya's explosive guitar playing and soul-driven voice have propelled him to the upper reaches of the blues-rock world. From his early days as a drummer to his current status as one of the top-drawing guitarists and vocalists on the blues-rock scene, Montoya has forged his reputation through years of hard work and constant touring. More at www.cocomontoya.com. Doors at 6, show at 7. Tix, $12 advance, $15 door.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 10, in Santa Brabara:
8 pm KAT PARSONS with ANDREW JACKSON at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-962-7776; www.sohosb.com. Kat has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and on stages all over the world.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun-Sun, Jan 10-17, in Northern Cal:
Annual “CALIFORNIA LISTENING ROOM INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITERS RETREAT” produced by Brett Perkins Presents, as the US offering in his global series. Space is still available to join songwriters from Denmark, Faroes, Ireland, Singapore and the US already signed up for the 6th annual retreat, held amidst the giant Sequoia redwood trees in Northern California. This week of co-writing and inspirational workshops includes two concerts, one in Los Angeles following the retreat. Priced at $1175 USD including housing, dinner service, daily workshops and all events. Further info at www.listeningroomretreats.com or by writing to brettperkins@hotmail.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Jan 13:
7:30 pm THE JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. JOHN JORGENSON is celebrated as one of the world’s finest Django-style gypsy jazz guitarists and the group’s recordings have been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at http://johnjorgenson.com. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Jan 13:
8-11 pm SONG SIRENS with THE BELIEVERS (Craig Aspen & Cyd Frazzini) driving-in from Tennessee to join them, at Café 322, 322 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre; 626-836-5414; www.cafe322.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Jan 13, in the OC:
9 pm THOMAS LEEB, in town for the NAMM Show, performs on the main stage in the Marriott Hotel Lobby in Anaheim. Find him at the show performing in the Lowden Guitars Booth, #1620, Hall E. More at www.thomasleeb.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu-Sun, Jan 14-17, in the OC:
Annual “NAMM SHOW” (National Association of Music Manufacturers) at the Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim. The ENORMOUS industry-only event takes-over the entire convention center and features hundreds of musicians performing in some of the thousands of exhibitor booths, in addition to publicly-accessible performances in nearby hotels and other venues.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu-Sun, Jan 14-17, on California’s Central Coast:
1st annual “CENTRAL COAST AMERICANA FESTIVAL” with many folk / Americana bands, including THE JODY MULGREW TRIO, WHISKEY CHIMP, LITTLE BLACK TRAIN, KENNY BLACKWELL & DORIAN MICHAEL, BOB & WENDY, TIM JACKSON, RED HOLLOWAY, THE DENTURES, THE BLUESOULS, THE JILL KNIGHT TRIO, THE RED SKUNK JIPSEES, BETTER LATE THAN NEVER, WALLY BARNICK & THE DEMOS, GOOD MEDICINE, REBECCA TROON DUO, INNER FACES, CHRISTINE ROGERS TRIO, and LITTLE BLACK TRAIN, presented by the Boutique Hotel Collection, and venues include The Cliffs Resort, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, SeaVenture Resort, Inn at Morro Bay, and Apple Farm Inn. Each of the 5 properties offers special packages for the festival.
+
Honoring the American heritage of music, food and art, the festival celebrates California’s music tradition with four days of Americana-themed events featuring live music, “heritage-inspired food and drink created by premier local chefs,” and original artwork and artists.
+
Stuart Mason of MOLLY’S REVENGE (they’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks”) tells us, “Come get a taste of American music and Central Coast cuisine with a variety of culinary, cultural and musical events at five different venues around the beautiful Central Coast. A portion of the proceeds from The Americana Festival 2010 (including all CD sales) go to The Hospice of San Luis Obispo County Supportive Music Program.” For a full schedule of events, go to http://sloamericanafestival.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 15:
7:30 pm PONCHO SANCHEZ at Brixton South Bay, 100 W Torrance Bl Suite J, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-406-1931; www.brixtonsouthbay.com and www.myspace.com/brixtonsouthbay. Venue is 21+, holds 450. The Grammy Award winner and 2006 Percussionist of the Year (Downbeat readers' poll) will be appearing with his internationally renowned 8-piece Latin jazz band. More at www.ponchosanchez.com. Doors at 7, show at 7:30 pm. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 15; not music, but cool:
7:30 pm ”KEVIN JOHNSON TONGUE-IN-CHEEK, SO TO SPEAK” at Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz, at Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A. 90064; 310-286-0553; www.theatreraymondkabbaz.com. Kevin Johnson's skill as a ventriloquist is unmatched. After you give up trying to catch his lips moving the magic really begins. Yes, even Kevin thinks the birds are real! Kevin was on the Late Night Show with David Letterman.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 15:
8 pm RICHARD SHINDELL plus special guest ANTJE DUVEKOT play McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 15, 2010, in Temecula:
8 pm WIGGINS & HARRIS play the “TEMECULA PRESENTS FRIDAY NIGHT GROOVE SERIES” at The Merc, aka The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590.
This show is part of the 2009-2010 Friday night series which offers a package price for six performances for $100. Included in the series:
Wiggins and Harris: Fri, Jan 15, 2010 at 8 pm
Eden Brent / Blues Piano Trio: Fri, Feb 5, 2010 at 8 pm
Moonalice: Fri, Mar 19, 2010 at 8 pm
Dennis Jones: Fri, Apr 16, 2010 at 8 pm
Season Tickets and single performances are on sale now.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 16, 2010 (advance word; plan now):
6 pm 13th annual “COWBOY POETRY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” at The Empty Saddle Club, 39 Empty Saddle Rd, Rolling Hills Estates 90275. Includes the CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND, THE CROSS TOWN COWBOYS, THE NEW WESTERNAIRES, and others. Free chili and cornbread at 6 pm, music starts at 7 pm. Sponsored by the The Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemens Association; more at www.pvpha.org and www.californiacowboycowboyband.com. Contact pvdispatchmailbox@yahoo.com or Pam Turner, Festival Director, at 310-715-9376. Free event.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 16:
7:30 pm KEB’ MO’ plays the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr., Cerritos; www.cerritoscenter.com; 562-916-8501.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 16, in the OC:
7:30 pm WILLIAM PINT & FELICIA DALE play the Living Tradition Concert Series at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; 949-646-1964; www.thelivingtradition.org. The Seattle-based duo specializes in authentic and original maritime music, though their repertoire includes much more. If you’ve never seen or heard a hurdy-gurdy, you will, and you’ll get a chance to see how this ancient mechanical violin works. Their music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where they earned a “Listener Favorite” track.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 16:
7:30 pm SCOTT TENNANT plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. SCOTT TENNANT is a Grammy Award-winning American classical guitarist - member of the LOS ANGELES GUITAR QUARTET - author of the “Pumping Nylon” series of instructional books and DVDs. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat & Sun, Jan 16 & 17, in Denver, Colorado:
“GREAT AMERICAN WILD WEST SHOW” returns For 30th year to the National Western Events Center Arena, Denver, CO. This event continues to be a crowd favorite from its very first year at the National Western and the shows keep getting bigger and more exciting year after year. Sponsors say, “The award winning Great American Wild West Show is Action! Music! History! & Thrills!… Featured World wide on StarzEncore network’s Westerns Channel and three-time winner of True West magazine’s ‘Best of the West’ award, the Great American Wild West Show is a star-spangled celebration of the American West…Cowboys and Indians, daredevil riders and heroes and legends from the American West come alive as the wild west stagecoach thunders into the arena. From Buffalo Bill’s’ grand arrival to the grand finale the show is action-packed family fun for everyone. Return to those thrilling days of six-guns, Texas Longhorns and Silver Screen Cowboys, trick riders and fancy ropers, sharpshooters, singing cowboys and the splendid color and pageantry of World Champion Native American hoop-dancers. You have to see it to believe it. Featured at this year’s shows are special guests, in character and period costumes, from Denver’s Buffalo Bill Museum.”
+
This western spectacular is “a real piece of Americana for young and old.” 2010 marks the show’s thirteenth year at Denver’s National Western. It runs two performances, Sat, Jan 16 at 5 pm & Sun, Jan 17 at 4 pm. More at www.wildwestshow.net. Tix on sale now at the National Western Stock Show web site, www.nationalwestern.com/nwss/specialevents/wws.php
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 17, in Ventura:
4 pm JILL KNIGHT plays the Duncan House Concert Series in Ventura; reservations get directions, at www.myspace.com/duncanhouseconcerts. She was a Premier Showcase Artist at the 2009 FAR West Folk Alliance Conference. Her soulful sound is unmistakable. India Arie once quoted, "I love great voices and when I heard Jill sing it stopped me in my tracks." She later asked Knight to be her opening act. Nominated for the L.A. music awards “Best Female Vocalist,” Jill was a finalist in the Telluride Troubadour competition, a finalist at the National Academy of Songwriters "Songwriter of the Year" competition, a finalist in Billboard magazine’s, "Best Unsigned Band" contest, a regional best seller in Album Network magazine for her CD “Future Perfect.” Jill won Best DIY Album in Performing Songwriter Magazine, and an honorable mention in the NSAI songwriting competition. She was a finalist in the Acoustic Live songwriter competition.
+
Jill has toured and shared stages with India Arie, Shawn Colvin, David Wilcox, Michael Hedges, Phoebe Snow, Richard Thompson, Richard Thompson, Little Feat, and many others. "It’s hard to say which is better - the song or the way Jill Knight sings it." - Performing Songwriter. "Few songwriters seem to have the self-assurance that this singer possesses...Knight approaches her music with an unadorned intensity, her songs pack an emotional punch rich in the details of everyday experiences... this is first rate, high quality music." - Dirty Linen.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Jan 19:
7 pm SIMON PURE plays the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at the Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Jan 19:
8 pm “CALIFORNIA LISTENING ROOM INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITERS RETREAT” artists perform at Kulaks Woodshed in North Hollywood; simulcast on the web at www.kulakswoodshed.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 22:
8 & 10 pm JOHN HAMMOND plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Jan 22:
8 pm BRETT PERKINS makes a rare return to L.A. from Europe to play the Prather Home Concert series in Burbank; info at www.myspace.com/brettperkins
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Jan 22:
I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. play the Puka Bar in Long Beach. (We kid you not.) Details forthcoming.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Jan 22, in the OC:
MINDY SMITH plays The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930. Tix, $13.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Jan 23; French film event:
7:30 pm LES LUTINS DU COURT MÉTRAGE at Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz, at Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A. 90064; 310-286-0553; www.theatreraymondkabbaz.com. A selection of the best French short movies of the year, with English subtitles. Presented in collaboration with the Alliance Française de Los Angeles. Wine and cheese served during intermission. No children under age 5. "Les Lutins" strive to make young talents known in France through a cinematic tour de France, so to speak, during which the best short films of the year are shown in cinemas. The same is accomplished abroad through French presentations of some of these films.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 23:
8 pm DOUG MacLEOD plus LAWRENCE LEBO play a fabulous double-bill at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. This will be a GREAT show. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 23:
8 pm JIM MALCOLM plays the Caltech Folk Music Society series in Beckman Institute Auditorium on the Caltech campus in Pasadena, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Scotsman Jim Malcolm, former lead singer for the acclaimed Old Blind Dogs, will travel to Caltech from his home in Perth, Scotland. Jim sings traditional songs and is also an extraordinary songwriter, who writes with passion and humor. He plays guitar and harmonica and is a delightful oberver of life on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. He's a fine singer, and as those who heard his previous solo shows or his two visits with the Dogs already know, he is a very engaging performer. His most recent CD, released earlier this year, is entitled The First Cold Day. It begins with Andy Stewart's song, "Valley of Strathmore," and includes six new original compositions, as well as Robert Frost's "The Road Not Taken," which he put to music.Dirty Linen wrote called it, "Lively humor, a touch of magic, a nod to Robert Burns and connection with home and loved ones, set in memorable words to fine melodies - it's a thoughtful and generous collection, well worth repeated listening." Tix, $15 for adults and $5 for Caltech students and children.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 23:
8 pm STEFAN GROSSMAN plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.guitarvideos.com. Stefan does a guitar workshop here tomorrow, 1-4 pm. Tix for tonight’s show, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 23, in the desert:
8 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. play the first of two CD Release Shows for their new Greatest Hits CD, “Should Have Been Gold,” this one at Pappy and Harriet's Pioneertown Palace, 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown 92268; 760-365-5956.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 23:
8 pm BRETT PERKINS makes a rare return to L.A. from Europe to play the Hudson-Lazzarini Home Concert series in Glendale; ; info at www.myspace.com/brettperkins
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 24:
1-4 pm “COUNTRY BLUES GUITAR WORKSHOP” presented by STEFAN GROSSMAN for the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.guitarvideos.com. Stefan played a concert here last night, 8 pm. Contact venue to reserve a space in the workshop; $75.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Jan 24-27, in France:
MIDEM Music Tradeshow in Cannes, France.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 24:
8 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. play the second of two CD Release Shows for their new Greatest Hits CD, “Should Have Been Gold,” this one at McCabe's 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Jan 24:
8:30 pm KAT PARSONS at the Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. Kat has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and on stages all over the world.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Jan 27:
8 pm TIM REYNOLDS with MARCUS EATON & CLIFTON WILLIAMS and the BLUE JAMES BAND at Brixton South Bay, 100 W Torrance Bl Suite J, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-406-1931; www.brixtonsouthbay.com and www.myspace.com/brixtonsouthbay. Venue is 21+, holds 450. Profoundly talented guitarist Tim Reynolds is acclaimed as an impeccable, highly skilled acoustic musician and multi-instrumentalist in jazz guitar, bass, piano, sitar, mandolin, violin, and various instruments of ethnic percussion. The venue observes, “He is an underrated master.” Reynolds' biggest claim to fame came with his collaborations with Dave Matthews Band. More at www.timreynolds.com. Doors at 7, show at 8. Tix, $15 advance, $18 door.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Wed, Jan 27:
MARINA V performs in the “SESAC SHOWCASE” at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. More at www.MarinaV.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Thu, Jan 28:
8 pm THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC) at the CTMS Center for Folk Music in Encino Park, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino. “Special Consensus is a superb bluegrass outfit in a classic vein but with more than enough modern sensibilities to attract every ear in this now pleasantly fractionating genre. The vocals are spotless, the playing as shiny as a newly minted penny, and music like this is the reason people come to love bluegrass.” - Mark S. Turner, Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange.
+
“Yes, Special Consensus may be Chicago's very own veteran bluegrass band, but talent like this is the property of the world.” - David Royko, Chicago Tribune.
+
They’re a favorite of the festival circuit back East. They have 26 CDs to their credit. “Signs,” the title cut of their latest CD, was the #1 played bluegrass recording on Sirius Satellite Radio early in 2009, and remains #10 on the Bluegrass Unlimited top album chart after six months. There are only 75 seats available in the venue, so reserve your tickets now by calling 310-390-4391. Tix on sale at all BASC events and at the Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor in Granada Hills. Advance tix, $15. At the door (if any remain) $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 30:
7 pm PAUL MARSHALL (I SEE HAWKS IN L.A.) does a rare solo performance in Dana Point at the Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Av, Dana Point. Paul says, “I'm very excited about this: Here's an opportunity for my friends down in the deep south of Orange County to hear me play my own songs, tell some tall tales, and create an acoustic ruckus! You don't have to drive to North Hollywood. Tim Johnson puts on great shows, usually featuring amazing instrumentalists, but he's started a Singer-Songwriter Showcase, and I'm second in the series. Come on out, say hi, have fun, and support this new musical venture.” Reservations & info, www.LordOfTheStringsConcerts.com or 949-842-2227.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Jan 30:
8 pm JOHN YORK (The Byrds) plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.myspace.com/johnyorkwestcoastrevelation. . Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Feb 4, in Santa Barbara:
I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and SUSAN JAMES play the Muddy Waters Café in Santa Barbara, kicking-off the Hawks’ and James’ “California Mini-Tourette.”
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Feb 5, in Ojai:
7:30 pm “ERIC BIBB, BLUES AND FOLK MUSIC” presented by “Performances to Grow On” at Matilija Auditorium, in Ojai. A performance by Eric Bibb is an enriching experience, both musically and spiritually. His music, like his personality, is intimate, assured and passionate, drawing listeners into the moment more as participants than as spectators. His rich and sensitive vocals and lyrics provide a perfect balance to his fine fingerpicking technique. Purveying a beautifully realized and deftly accomplished soulful and gospel-infused folk-blues, Bibb has no problem blending various genres effortlessly, melding a traditional rootsy American style. As one critic wrote, “Eric’s singing and versatile guitar playing fuses a variety of genes to become a New World Blues.” His unique talent continues to draw critical acclaim around the world. Twice nominated for the W.C. Handy Awards and winner of the “Best Newcomer” title in the British Blues Awards, Bibb has been appropriately described as “discreetly awesome” and “a total original.” As his popularity escalates, earlier comparisons to legendary greats Ry Cooder and Taj Mahal are being replaced by quotes that speak to Bibb’s ability to “use standard blues ingredients to cook up something all his own.” More at www.ericbibb.com. Tix, $23 adults, $18 srs.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Feb 9 & Wed, Feb 10:
8 pm Guitarist TOMMY EMMANUEL at the Smothers Theatre, Pepperdine University Center for the Arts, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. He’s a legendary Australian guitarist. "...He is unquestionably one of the most gifted artists of our time." - Acoustic Guitar.
+
Two-time Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel brings his extraordinary guitar wizardry and exuberant stage presence. Emmanuel is one of Australia's most respected musicians. The legendary guitarist's career spans almost five decades and continues to intersect with some of the finest musicians throughout the world. A household name in his native country, Emmanuel has garnered hundreds of thousands of loyal fans worldwide. His unique style--he calls it simply "finger style"--is akin to playing guitar the way a pianist plays piano, employing all 10 fingers. Rather than using a whole band for melody, rhythm, bass, and drum parts, he plays all that--and more--on one guitar.
+
His unusual talent and life are common lore in Australia. Born into a musical family, he and his older brother, Phil, were considered child prodigies. Tommy got his first guitar at age 4 and was taught by his mother. He learned by ear, with no formal instruction, and has never read music. By the age of 6, he was already working as a professional musician in the family band, variously named the Emmanuel Quartet, the Midget Surfaries, and the Trailblazers. Tommy played rhythm guitar and Phil played lead, along with siblings Chris on drums and Virginia on slide guitar.
+
The Emmanuel children earned the family's sole income for several years. By age 10, Tommy had played his way across Australia. However, he doesn't remember such responsibility as a hardship. "I've spent all my life from the age of 4 playing music and entertaining people," he said. "I never wanted to do anything else. Music brings people together."
+
In 1962, Emmanuel heard guitar legend Chet Atkins' music for the first time and was riveted by its complex sound. He spent hours trying to figure out Atkins' "fingerpicking" style and gobbled up each of the American star's albums as they came out. Shortly after his father's death of a heart attack in 1966, Emmanuel wrote Atkins a letter and, to his surprise, the famous artist and producer wrote him back. Atkins would grow to become Emmanuel's mentor and primary influence, but it would be another 15 years before the two would finally meet in person. Eventually Atkins himself became one of Emmanuel's biggest fans.
+
Most recently, in 2009, he was honored with Guitar Player's prestigious Guitar Legend award, as well as being named Thumbpicker of the Year for the second time. In all, Emmanuel's catalog includes 16 musical recordings running the gamut of solos, duets, ensembles, cover tunes, and originals, on both electric and acoustic guitar. He has made several instructional DVDs and regularly teaches master classes on the road. At 54, performing live is more important to him than ever and he tours constantly, having played over 300 concerts a year for the last four years.
+
Guitar players of all levels come to his shows to watch the magic hands of the "guitar Wizard of Oz," but his appeal goes far beyond musicians. His live shows are known for their humor, passion, and infectious joy. The power of his charismatic showmanship will be Emmanuel's legacy. His message is pure love for the music and his delight in sharing it with the world, one audience at a time. More info at http://arts.pepperdine.edu or www.tommyemmanuel.com
+
The Feb 10 concert is sold out, but a limited number of tickets for the Feb 9 performance (which was added to satisfy popular demand) are available at $40 for the public and $10 for full-time Pepperdine students, by calling 310-506-4522.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Feb 12:
SEAN COLVIN plays The Canyon Club, 28912 Roadside Dr, Agoura Hills; www.canyonclub.net; 818-879-5016. Tix, $13.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
Feb 12-14, in Arizona:
Annual “COCHISE GATHERING” in Sierra Vista, AZ is “an excellent festival,” says cowboy (ah, cowgirl) poet DORIS DALEY, who returns to perform again this year. More at www.dorisdaley.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Sat, Feb 13:
8 pm STEVE GILLETTE & CINDY MANGSEN play the Caltech Folk Music Society series in Beckman Institute Auditorium on the Caltech campus in Pasadena, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Before 1989, Steve Gillette was a fixture in the local California folk music scene, widely known as an exceptional guitarist and a hugely talented songwriter, co-writer of the classic ballad, Darcy Farrow, among many other fine songs, some recorded by major performers like Ian and Sylvia, John Denver, and Garth Brooks. Then, he dropped out of sight, later returning to California from his new home in Vermont, with his new wife, Cindy, when he first brought this eastern singer and songwriter to California on tour. Even at this early stage of their career together, it was obvious that there was a towering amount of talent and chemistry here, and the Caltech Folk Music Society was lucky to be able to present them the next year. It has been a great relationship ever since, and their audience can always depend on new songs, some old favorites, and a lot of fun and stories of what they've been up to in the intervening two years.
+
Steve is a fine songwriter who has written many great songs over the years. From "Back on the Street Again" to "That Song About the River," he's written a truckload of memorable songs. He's a strong, confident, and innovative guitarist, and a he has a very fine voice. And speaking of fine voices, you won't find a more beautiful voice than Cindy Mangsen's warm, full bodied vocals. She more than holds her own in the elite company of Priscilla Herdman and Anne Hills on the trio albums they have done together. Cindy plays guitar, a bit of banjo, and her concertina adds greatly to their sound. She too is a talented songwriter, though not as prolific. Steve and Cindy are also great song finders, and they bring some exceptional songs written by others, as well as a few older traditional songs and ballads. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for Caltech students and children.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Sat, Feb 13:
8 pm AL STEWART plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. He’s famous for “Time Passages” and “Year of the Cat.” Tix, $24.50.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Feb 13:
8 pm DOUG MacLEOD plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. He’s a fabulous acoustic bluesman, endorsed by National steel guiatars. His original, “Talkin’ Politician Blues,” became a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.doug-macleod.com. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mon, Feb 14:
BRETT PERKINS plays the Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre; 626-355-4318; www.sierramadreplayhouse.org/_wsn/page3.html.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Feb 16:
7 pm FUR DIXON AND STEVE WERNER play the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at the Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Feb 17-21, in Tennessee:
22nd INTERNATIONAL FOLK ALLIANCE CONFERENCE in Memphis, TN.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Fri, Feb 19, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm AN EVENING WITH RANDY NEWMAN at UCLA Live in Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. The promo calls him, “America’s premiere musical fabulist,” and Randy Newman has maintained a remarkable balance of trenchant vignettes, exaggerated outrage and, especially in his film work, earnest sentiment. His latest album, “Harps and Angels,” employs sardonic wit and self-deprecation on a level worthy of Mark Twain. And Newman’s wry classics, including “Political Science,” “I Love L.A.,” and his much-played during the aftermath of Katrina, “Louisiana 1927,” have only grown in relevance with time. But Newman shines most brightly in his rare concert appearances, where his mischievous presence complements his musical and storytelling talents. Tix, $65, $50, $40; UCLA students $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri & Sat, Feb 19 & 20:
8 & 10 pm JORMA KAUKONEN plays two shows on each of two nights at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $26.50.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Feb 20, in the OC:
7:30 pm STEVE GILLETTE & CINDY MANGSEN play the Living Tradition Concert Series at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; 949-646-1964; www.thelivingtradition.org. Renowned folk faves…
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat Feb 20:
8 pm MICHAEL O'DORN plays the “40th anniversary Guitar Summit series” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. More at www.michaelodorn.com. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Feb 20:
8 pm THE CACHE VALLEY DRIFTERS play Russ & Julie’s House Concert series in Oak Park (in the Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area); reservations get directions at 818-707-2179. Info, www.houseconcerts.us
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Feb 21:
7 pm RAY WYLIE HUBBARD plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Feb 26:
SOURDOUGH SLIM with ROBERT ARMSTRONG 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; reservations 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Feb 27:
8 pm THE WAILIN’ JENNYS play the Caltech Concert Series, presented by Caltech Campus Programs, in Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; http://events.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Caltech Folk Music Series or Caltech Presents series, in Beckman Institute Auditorium, or other venues Pasadena. The Wailin' Jennys started in Winnipeg, Canada and have made their brand of vocal music a huge worldwide attraction. Soprano Ruth Moody (guitar, banjo, accordion, bodhran), mezzo Nicky Mehta (guitar, harmonica, ukulele, percussion), and alto Heather Masse (upright bass) comprise this trio of amazing singers. They draw from folk, bluegrass, old time and jazz, and their harmonies are exquisite. They could easily be an a cappella group, but they are talented instrumental musicians, as well. If you enjoy Moira Smiley and VOCO, or the Chapin Sisters, you'll love the Jennys. "Like Gilian Welch or Alison Krauss, they make new songs feel traditional and old songs sound brand new" — All Music Guide. Advance tix available on the website or by phone. Tix are $26, $21, $16, ($10 for youth) and there is a $5 discount if you mention the Caltech Folk Music Society when ordering or buying tickets at the door.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Feb 27:
8 pm SOURDOUGH SLIM with ROBERT ARMSTRONG at Blvd. Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, Feb 28, in Ventura:
4 pm CORRINE WEST plays the Duncan House Concert Series in Ventura; reservations get directions, at www.myspace.com/duncanhouseconcerts. She’s performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and if you like Alison Krauss, you'll love Corrine.
+
There's magic in Corinne West's voice. It aches and breaks. It soars. It's clear, penetrating and washed in emotion. When she wraps that voice around songs as sublime as those on her latest CD, “Second Sight,” she's spellbinding. That's because she's unlocked the secret that so many singers spend entire careers looking for and never find.
+
"She writes great songs, plays with top flight musicians, sports a killer voice and oh yes, has sultry good looks- she could easily be cast as a princess in a ‘Lord of the Rings’-type movie (hopefully a singing part)" - Americana Roots.com.
+
"West, who took to the road at the tender age of fifteen, is a masterful songwriter, winning awards at Kerrville Folk Festival. She has a distinct voice with echoes of another Californian, the late Kate Wolf. Educated on the streets West has a raw sincerity in her lyrics and her singing." - Montrose Daily Press, Colorado.
+
"Coupling a voice to die for with beautifully crafted songs that are memorable both lyrically and melodically, West has fashioned a unique identity within American music's acoustic/roots scene." - Colin Hall, R2, RocknReel: The UK's best selling eclectic music magazine. Tix, $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mar 10-24, in Canada:
“CANADIAN MUSIC WEEK,” centered in Toronto, Canada.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Mar 13:
8 pm JUDE JOHNSTONE and LORI LIEBERMAN play Russ & Julie’s House Concert series in Oak Park (in the Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area); reservations get directions at 818-707-2179. Info, www.houseconcerts.us
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Mar 16:
7 pm BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH play the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at the Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Mar 17-21, in Texas:
Annual SXSW (SOUTH BY SOUTH WEST) MUSIC FESTIVAL in Austin, TX.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Mar 20-28, 2010 (reserve now):
IRELAND TOUR – tour the Emerald Isle, led by Irish musician KEN O'MALLEY - highlights include Dublin, Donegal, Westport, Achill Island, Connemara, Galway, Aran Islands, the Burren, and the Cliffs of Moher. SPACE IS LIMITED - the full itinerary is available at www.kenomalley.com (click on Travel to Ireland with Ken O'Malley in the upper right corner of the home page).
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mar 23-27, in Florida:
Annual “WINTER MUSIC CONFERENCE” in Miami Beach, FL.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mar 24-27, in Germany:
Annual “MUSIKMESSE FRANKFURT,” in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Mar 26, 2010:
JAY UNGAR & MOLLY MASON presented by Paniolo Productions with the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) at Encino Community Center, 4935 Balboa Bl, Encino.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Mar 27:
8 pm The BATTLEFIELD BAND plays the Carpenter Center for the Performing Arts at Cal State Long Beach, 6200 Atherton St., Long Beach; www.CarpenterArts.org; 562-985-7000.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Apr 16; Sat, Apr 17; Tue, Apr 20:
THE EAGLES at the Hollywood Bowl – tix on sale now.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Apr 16, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm ARLO GUTHRIE & THE GUTHRIE FAMILY RIDES AGAIN at UCLA Live in Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. Four generations of what Vanity Fair rightly called “the first family of American folk” gather to revive the musical spirit of late patriarch Woody Guthrie. Led by Woody’s son Arlo, a star in his own right, “The Guthrie Family Rides Again” continues the clan’s tradition of sharing its music far and wide. Joining-in are Arlo’s son Abe, who has accompanied his father on keyboards and vocals since the 1980s, daughters Cathy and Annie, and Sarah Lee Guthrie with her husband Johnny Irion - one of the most acclaimed folk-rock duos of the last decade - and various grandkids. The elder generation is represented by Woody’s songs, both the classics and “new” compositions using lyrics uncovered in the Guthrie archives. Tix, $58, $42, $28; UCLA students $15.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Fri, Apr 16, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm MARK KNOPFLER at the Pantages Theatre; 6233 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028. Nederlander is offering a free copy of his CD, “Get Lucky,” with every pair of tix bought online at www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004329CBC65F34?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Apr 17, in the OC:
11 am-3 pm “IMAGINATION CELEBRATION” begins at the Sawdust Art Festival, 935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach 92651; 949-494-3030.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat, Apr 17 (Get tix now):
8 pm MARK KNOPFLER has added a second show (he’s here Apr 16 & 17) at the Pantages Theater, 6233 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028. Nederlander is offering a free copy of his CD, “Get Lucky,” with every pair of tix bought online at www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004329CBC65F34?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned. Tix for everyone else, www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B00432E988955AC?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, Apr 20:
7 pm THE BRAINSTORMERS play the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at the Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Apr 22-24:
ASCAP “I CREATE MUSIC EXPO” in Los Angeles promises “Access to three days of the biggest names in music, the best networking opportunities and in-depth study of today's music industry.” Once you register, you can submit your songs. Info, www.ascap.com/expo
.
///\\\///\\\
.
=========================
.
Sat, Apr 24:
8 pm PRISCILLA HERDMAN plays the Caltech Folk Music Society series on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; http://folkmusic.caltech.edu
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sat & Sun, Apr 24 & 25, 2010 (Get tix now, at a BIG discount):
“STAGECOACH: CALIFORNIA’S COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL“ with Nashville big names and LOTS of wonderful roots-Americana artists, returns to Empire Polo Club in Indio.
+
Announced so far: MERLE HAGGARD, THE AVETT BROTHERS, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, BAXTER BLACK, STEEL DRIVERS, BJ THOMAS, BOBBY BARE, CHUCK MEAD, MARY GAUTHIER, LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS, BILL ANDERSON, WADDIE MITCHELL & TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, PHIL VASSAR, CARLENE CARTER;
Plus “Mane Stage” Nashville acts:
Keith Urban, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Sugarland, Billy Currington, Gary Allan, The Oak Ridge Boys;
And:
Jamey Johnson, Ray Price, Joey + Rory, Nick 13, Easton Corbin, Heidi Newfield, and Mallary Hope.
+
Weekend passes $99 (limited time, early-bird advance purchase), $499, $799; single day, $79.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Apr 24 & 25, 2010:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” this year with a theme of, “It’s Not Country- It’s Cowboy!” brings great authentic and original Western music from Grammy nominated singer-guitarist DON EDWARDS, Western Music Awards king DAVE STAMEY, SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN, RUSTY RICHARDS (a previous 20-year member of the Sons of the Pioneers), COW BOP, COWBOY CELTIC, THE QUEBE SISTERS, THE SONS AND BROTHERS, JON CHANDLER & THE WICHITONES, top western artist JUNI FISHER, and BRENN HILL, plus cowboy poetry (the event use to be the Santa Clarita Cowboy Poetry Festival), with cowboy poet and humorist ANDY NELSON as performer and emcee, and multi-award winning poet YVONNE HOLLENBECK, and meany others, plus a Youth Poetry Round-Up, and individual poetry and trick roping workshops. Ancillary events are taking shape for the 2010 Cowboy Festival, through the week preceding the weekend. More is added as things develop, at www.cowboyfestival.org.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
May 12-16, 2010; on the US West Coast (Get tix now):
“SCOTTISH FIDDLE TRAIN” with ALISDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS is a beautiful coastal train trip from California to Oregon and back. Join Alasdair & Natalie Haas and special guests involving fiddles, pipes and whisky tasting, on an unforgettable musical journey on board vintage private railroad cars from Los Angeles and the Bay Area to Portland and return, May 12-16, 2010. Be one of just 57 travelers on this journey along the coast, tracing the historic El Camino Real, then through the Central Valley to Sacramento, past Mount Shasta and over the Cascade Mountains on one of the most scenically spectacular rail routes in North America. Sign up today with Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net, or 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Full details at www.rootsontherails.com.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
May 13-16:
5th Ever L.A. OLD TIME SOCIAL with plenty of old time music performances and workshops and a dance or two. Info at www.triplechickenfoot.com
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tix went on sale Mon, Nov 23:
Fri, May 14, 2010:
7:30 pm CAROLE KING & JAMES TAYLOR together again at the Hollywood Bowl. They performed together at the Troubadour in the ‘70s and bring that rich history and music to this historic L.A. reunion. Tix at www.ticketmaster.com/Carole-King-James-Taylor-Troubadour-Reunion-tickets/artist/1384600?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Sun, May 16, 2010 (advance notice, so you can plan):
50th annual “TOPANGA BANJO-FIDDLE CONTEST” at Paramount Ranch, Agoura Hills; www.topangabanjofiddle.org; Hotline: 818-382-4819. We’ll bring you info on registration for all the competitions when we have it, along with the list of featured acts playing the several stages. This is a must-attend event, that’s always the best one-day acoustic music festival in Southern Cal. And, since it’s celebrating the major milestone of haqlf-a-century, we expect an event that will be VERY impressive, indeed.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Tue, May 18:
7 pm THE MILL CREEK play the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at the Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Jul 30-Aug 1, 2010; an EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for ARTISTS:
“2010 NATIONAL STORYTELLING NETWORK CONFERENCE” in Los Angeles is the 5th annual conference. If the website information doesn't answer any questions you might have, contact Steven Henegar, Monologist & Storyteller, Truth & Lies Productions (www.stevenhenegar.net), at shenegar@sbcglobal.net - 714-662-5503 or 800-598-1852.
+
Includes the annual “FRINGE FESTIVAL” with numerous 55 minute sets of “compelling, risky, experimental, and work-in-progress storytelling, with folktales, autobiography, performance art, stand-up, puppetry, dance and favorite long form stories.”
+
Steven Henegar tells us, “Growing networks of performance venues all over the world have adopted this model and many storytellers are taking advantage of these venues to reach new audiences. The Conference Fringe encourages more storytellers to participate in American and Canadian Fringe Festivals by providing the opportunity for you to experience many aspects of a typical Fringe Festival including the selection process and performance framework.” More at www.storynet.org/conference/fringe.html
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Aug 1-5:
2010 “AMERICAN RIVER ACOUSTIC MUSIC CAMP” in Northern California – info at www.americanriveracoustic.org and info@americanriverfolk.org
.
///\\\///\\\
.
==============
.
Oct 28-Nov 1, in Denmark:
Annual “WOMEX - the World Music Expo,” in Copenhagen, Denmark.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(7) MORE STUFF >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc…
.
.
===
.
Updated editions with more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events still in the coming weeks and beyond - in and around Los Angeles, plus RADIO SHOWS with live performances of acoustic music (available mostly on the web, of course, since we are in acoustic-music-radio-deprived Los Angeles) plus the many acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere! It’ll all be here, soon.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
Our FEATURE STORY: ‘Grammy Awards Add American Roots Category,’ our recent news feature, is at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/grammy-awards-add-american-roots.html
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
In FOLKWORKS: you can check out Larry Wines’ most recent column, available free online at www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89. It’s a time of remembrances for the late musicians MIKE SEEGER and DAVID CARRADINE, and for WOODY GUTHRIE’S guitar.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
Our REVIEWS:
+
(1) WPA (Works Progress Administration) superstar band – you can read JOEL OKIDA’s review for the Guide of their Oct 6 show at Largo in L.A.; it’s at www.nodepression.com/profiles/blogs/review-of-wpa-works-progress or at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/review-of-wpa-works-progress.html
+
(2) BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY that virtuosic ensemble from the Centennial State, is reviewed by JOEL OKIDA at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/11/review-boulder-acoustic-society-getting.html)
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
RADIO NEWS: the return from hiatus of the syndicated TIED TO THE TRACKS radio show is delayed, due to the producer / host’s ongoing recovery from eye surgery. (At least he has time to listen to all those submitted CDs that arrive daily!) We’ll keep you posted.
.
.
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
NEED TO KNOW MORE about the GUIDE and its companion, THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS,
or
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR GIG FOR INCLUSION?
+
Our “stuff ya wanna know “ (FAQs) page is available at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
The editor is gradually readapting to the computer following his eye surgery, and seems once again to be able to read - even if he sees everything like it’s in a funhouse mirror…
+
PLEASE HELP!
Submit your gigs in our format! It takes many, many, MANY hours just to convert what you send into listings we can use. Look at ANY write-up in the Guide, and follow the format you see there!
+
WANT TO HELP EVEN MORE to keep the Guide going? Go to http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
to find out HOW!
.
================================================================
.
THE LATEST EDITION OF THE GUIDE, the News, current events, “heads up” notices to buy tix for upcoming events, and more – it’s available 24/7 (& frequently updated!) at ~
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.