Acoustic Americana Music Guide, Dec 21 through 25 edition

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Check our MASSIVE update to the EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW section, following the current listings…
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Tied to the Tracks
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE & NEWS
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DECEMBER 21 through 25, 2009
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Today is the first day of winter. And you thought it arrived some time ago. Not according to the gurus of solstices and equinoxes.
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Either way, it’s time to say Happy Hollandaise, and express our hope that Sanity Claus is good to you. He will be, you know, if you support and indulge in live performances of acoustic music. And there’s still time to ask him to bring you CDs of your favorite artists. Just leave a note atop your chimney for Rudolph. He’s tight with the old guy. Meantime, to learn all about who is performing what live, and where, it’s here for you in the Guide, and you can tell your friends by sending them the url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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First, some fresh EVENT NEWS…
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MAY THE FORK BE WITH YOU…
More Fork In The Road Stuff: the fork was the impetus for the biggest food drive in the history of Pasadena, bringing-in 16 pounds more than TWO TONS of food for the needy. Check out Donna Barnes-Robert’s new blog about all things Forkian. We’ve reported all about the 18-foot-high fork that appeared at, well, a fork in the road in Pasadena. It’s a birthday present for Coffee Gallery Backstage impresario Bob Stane. The Los Angeles Times has written about (with color photos) as has the Chicago Tribune, the Pasadena Star News, and various papers around the world. And four L.A. TV news broadcasts have covered it. Your editor contributed the official Forkian Salute (Bob will show you), and Guide writer Sally Seymour contributed the official slogan, “May the Fork Be with You.” It just keeps spiraling out of control. Take the “tine” to check out Donna’s blog, at www.theforkintheroadgang.com . And Donna has another blog, all about "What You Missed at The Coffee Gallery Backstage," showing music videos of past shows, and a link to what's next. That one is at www.coffeegallerybackstage.blogspot.com. Oh, and check our “EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW” for info on the 8 pm-3 am “MUSICAL NEW YEAR’S EVE” celebration at the Coffee Gallery, including info on how you can perform that night!
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Our LAST edition (late last week) had these NEWS FEATURES…
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Here are the topics – all the stories are a click away, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/12/acoustic-americana-music-guide-dec-18_18.html
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(1) 14th ANNUAL USA SONGWRITING COMPETITION 2009 WINNERS ANNOUNCED
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(2) GIFT IDEA… (season passes)
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(3) A GOOD AMERICANA MUSIC WEBSITE with a nice simple format, found by Joel Okida.
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(4) Annual “CALIFORNIA LISTENING ROOM INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITERS RETREAT” produced by Brett Perkins Presents as the US offering in his global series, Jan 10-17, in Northern Cal.
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(5) IRELAND TOURS (3 of ‘em!), A MUSICAL CRUISE OFF EASTERN CANADA, AND TWO MUSICAL RIVER TRIPS, ALL COMING IN 2010…
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(6) OR, HOW ABOUT A MUSICAL CRUISE IN CANADA’S MARITIMES?
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(7) OR A PAIR OF RIVER TRIPS IN 2010 with LAURIE LEWIS & TOM ROZUM?
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(8) Part 5 of “ENJOY LIVE MUSIC WHILE YOU BUY YOUR HOLIDAY JUNK
(ER, GIFTS)” (what’s still happening, with some added events):
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Plus, of course, there’s what you’ve come to expect: the almost unbelievable number of club gigs and coffeehouse shows and big venue concerts and musical holiday events, all with generous descriptions, right here in the CURRENT edition!
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"Art is about PASSION. And passion is beyond reason." -- Donna Barnes-Roberts
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Now, on to the ACOUSTIC MUSIC LISTINGS in the Guide…
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21
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(1) Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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8 pm top political song-satirist ROY ZIMMERMAN does his new show, “PEACENICK” at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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See the complete listing below for all the details.
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(2) Monday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
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~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
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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
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Mon, every Mon, on web radio:
Noon-12:30 pm “GUNSLINGER RADIO SHOW” with host Cowboy Hud and performing guests on web radio KSGV, Glendora, at http://ksgvradio.com.
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Mon, every Mon; on radio & web simulcast:
1-4 pm “BUFFALO BAYOU” radio show hosted by Jake Bacon on KUCI, simulcast at http://www.kuci.org. Sometimes with live performances. It’s “a swamp pop, Cajun, Zydeco, and all things bayou sonic gumbo laced with international flavorings and a wild attitude, cooked up, and served live to the world on the web and on itunes, and at 88.9 FM in Irvine since 2003. In addition to the KUCI webstream, the show is live on myspace at www.myspace.com/jakebacon889.
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Mon, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon, every 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
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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
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(3) Monday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
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None to report today. Everything wonderful seems to be happening in and around L.A.!
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(4) Monday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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(5) Monday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Mon, Dec 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.”
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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.”
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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.”
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And yes, the show ends on a humanistic note of hope.
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Tix are $15, unless you bring “a good, serviceable pumpkin” to Bob Stane, at the door. He will give you a $3 discount if you surrender your pumpkin to feed the wild critters in the desert (yes, really. Bob wants the wild things to have a Christmas feast, too. Even if they must eat without a fork.)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, 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.
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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.
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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.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, 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.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22
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(1) Tuesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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8 pm SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Tuesday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
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~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
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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
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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
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Tue, 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, Mother Hen joins as co-host and the show will expand hours and move to a different studio. Info and listen on-line at www.thomasmillershow.com
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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
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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.’”
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(3) Tuesday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
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None to report today. Everything wonderful seems to be happening in and around L.A.!
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(4) Tuesday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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(5) Tuesday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Tue, Dec 22, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
6-9 pm “BBQ TUESDAY” with live original acoustic music at Mary's Market & Canyon Café, in Sierra Madre Canyon, 561 Woodland Av, Sierra Madre; 626-355-4534. Not an open mic; acts are booked in advance. Cozy venue, yummy food!
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Tue, Dec 22, 4th Tue, every month:
6-8:45 pm “COMMUNITY FOLK MUSIC JAM” led by Bea Romano & Jim, is a traditional folk music jam at the Barbara J. Riley Center, 7810 Quill St, Downey 90242; 562-904-7226. Event info, www.folkjam.org; 562-861-7049. All acoustic instruments and singers welcome, as are good listeners. Bea says, “It's a lovely facility. We hope you will join in the fun. There are plenty of armless chairs. Best of all, it's free!”
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, Dec 22, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm “SOUP JAM,” Don Rowan’s country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, contact Don, 562-883-0573. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice; soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is first entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week; in the Inland Empire:
7 pm “LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY OPEN JAM” at Loma Linda University College Market Patio Pantry, 24905 Anderson St, (at Mound & Anderson St, near US Post Office, behind other buildings), Loma Linda. Every Tue in 2009.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week, in Palmdale:
7 pm “TUESDAY JAVA JAM” ACOUSTIC NIGHT at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St.West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Butler's owners, Pam & David Logan, are long-time lovers and supporters of acoustic music. Indeed, Pam is an accomplished musician and a member of the BROWNE SISTERS, Celtic festival favorites who earned a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The venue serves food and drink, featuring fresh-roasted coffee, in a rich, comfortable setting. Butler's music guy, Kevin Burton Smith, has had great success in attracting excellent acoustic music to Butler's.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, Dec 22, every Tue:
“ACOUSTIC TUESDAY NIGHTS” at Crane’s Hollywood Tavern, 1611 N El Centro Av (betw Selma & Hollywood Bl), Hollywood; www.myspace.com/cranestavern. More at http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=9856844&blogId=470963380
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Tue, Dec 22, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Cahuenga General Store (aka Hallenbecks), 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; www.MySpace.com/CahuengaGeneralStore; 818-985-5916. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Dec 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm 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
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue; Dec 22, repeats every second and fourth Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL McCARTHY the second and fourth Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. You can sign-up in advance online at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, Dec 22, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, Dec 22, every week; in Laguna Beach:
8 pm weekly “SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” features guest artists and BETH FITCHET WOOD, who plays the opening set each week, at The Marine Room Tavern, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027.
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Tue, Dec 22, every Tue:
8:30 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 swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Dec 22, every Tue:
9 pm-12:30 am “BLUES ROCK JAM” night at Music Club Shadow, 351 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90048; www.mogul.am; reservations, 323-428-8471. Open for dinner at 7 pm; those not there by 9 pm lose priority seating. Venue has a capacity of 250, with ample free parking (wonderful news in this part of town!) and full dinner menu including exotic Russian cuisine and lighter fare, and full bar. Big patio for those still afflicted with smoking. Their goal is to present “great, energizing live music, local artists and bands as well as international acts.” They note, “As can be seen from the 2009 Grammy Awards, half the winners were indie artists. Club Shadow supports this trend.”
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Each night brings different styles and genres:
Monday - Singer-Songwriter "Create" night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Tuesday - “Pro-Jam, Tribute/Cover Bands night,” 9 pm-12:30 am
Wednesday - “Platinum Divas Live!” night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Thursday - “Blues, Blues/Rock, Funk night,” 8 pm-12:30 am
Sunday - “Pop, Rock, Indie Rock, World Music” night, 8 pm-11:30 am
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All shows are $10 cover.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23
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(1) Wednesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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8 pm THE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Wednesday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
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~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
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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
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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
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Wed, 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
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(3) Wednesday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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None to report today. Everything wonderful seems to be happening in and around L.A.!
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(4) Wednesday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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(5) Wednesday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Wed, every Wed, in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, every Wed:
3-7 pm “ROOTS MUSIC JAM SESSION” with TOM SAUBER at the Sierra Madre Farmers' Market, in the parking lot behind the shops on the south side of Sierra Madre Blvd., just west of Baldwin Av, in Sierra Madre. Take Baldwin Av exit N from 210 Fwy. Turn W off Baldwin onto Mariposa and you'll see the tents. Tom tells us, “It won't take the place of Frank & Joe’s [the long-gone Wed night jam] and I know it's not convenient for most, but it's something as long as the weather's nice.” Info, masaw48@earthlink.net
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Wed (& Thu), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Wed, every Wed:
4:30 pm “STORY TIME FUN LAND” at Stories Café, 1716 Sunset Bl, 90026; 213-413-3733; www.storiesla.com. “StoryTimeFunLand” is an interactive music and story telling hour for the toddler set, and Café specials are featured for the hour.

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Wed, every Wed:
MOVED TO FRIDAYS: 5-8 pm “CLAREMONT WEDNESDAY GREEN MARKET” features acoustic music inside and outside the Packing House in the new West Claremont Center, 532 W First St, Claremont 91711; www.claremontpackinghouse.com/home.htm.
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Wed, 2nd & 4th Wed every month; in Lancaster:
6 pm UKULELE CLUB at Nicks Pizza, 43755 15th St West, Lancaster. Uke players begin arriving about 5 pm, meeting starts at 6 pm. Newcomers welcome.
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Wed, fourth (& second) Wed every month:
6:30 pm “TWICE-A-MONTH BLUEGRASS JAM” new for ’09, at Robano's Italian Pizza Kitchen, 10057 Riverside Dr, Toluca Lake 91602. (It’s S of Magnolia, W of Buena Vista, E of Cahuenga.) Jam is in the room behind the bar area. Hosted by Paddy Hill, who wants us to tell you, “All players welcome. Please plan to buy a beer or appetizer (from $5) to get the owner enthusiastic, or better still, a full meal from $9.” Info, contact Paddy Hill at paddyh036@gmail.com. Series began Feb 11. No cover.
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Wed, 4th Wed, every month:
6:45 pm “GILLI MOON & J.WALKER'S SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. Gilli is co-founder of the global Songsalive! songwriters organization. She books different guests, and herself performs each month. More at www.songsalive.org
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Wed, every Wed (extended indefinitely):
7-9 pm "WINE & SONG" series hosted by award-winning songwriter BRAD COLERICK, with two or more different recording artist guests each week, at WineStyles, 1007 Mission St, South Pasadena 91030. Brad describes the venue is “a wonderful little wine bar in my sleepy town of South Pasadena.” He describes the event: “Every Wednesday, I'll be hosting an evening of original songs by talented singer-songwriters who present their songs and the stories/inspiration behind them. Each week’s guest artists are revealed on the venue’s website. DAVE MORRISON, STEPHANIE BETTMANN & LUKE HALPIN, and numerous other talented artists have played the series since its first installment on Oct 7, 2009. Brad says, “Songwriters, If your schedule finds you open on a Wednesday evening in the L.A. area, please get in touch.” Brad Colerick has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Venue offers wine by the glass or bottle, and a menu of tasty light fare that’s much more affordable than the wine. More at http://wineandsong.com. No cover.
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Upcoming in the series:
Dec 23: Featured artists are Kara Grainger and Cindy Kalmenson
Dec 30: The “2009 Reunion Show“ featuring guests who appeared in the series during the year.
Jan 6: Featured artists Grant Langston and Chauncey Bowers
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Wed, Dec 23:
7 pm “LUMINOUS MOVEMENT” - a Holiday celebration benefitting homeless youth, at Dakota Lounge, 1026 Wilshire Bl, Santa Monica 90401; www.dakotalounge.com. Presented by Elevate Films, in collaboration with Luminous Family Productions. The LUMINARIES are performing. More info at www.myfriendsplace.org - www.elevatefilms.com - www.luminariesmusic.com - www.souleyesounds.com - www.myspace.com/ginarene - www.myspace.com/djjedi1 - www.mykalaubry.com Tix, $15.
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Wed, every Wed:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
7-9 pm “JILL SHARPE PRO-BLUES JAM” local blues favorite Jill Sharpe jams with her band at Sacred Grounds, 468 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731. More at www.myspace.com/jillsharpe. No cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
7-10 pm (started Jan 7) “KULAK'S WEDNESDAY NIGHT SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Marc Platt wrote, for Music Connection, “Your Wednesday Nights will never be the same after participating in this Group Workshop. The weekly cost is $20, which goes to Kulak’s to help pay the rent. The Workshop… is open to the public for the first four weeks. We will then set our 12-person group writing roster until the end of March. The workshop will be limited to 12 writers. We will break up into groups and work on many styles, genres and topics. You will find it challenging and exhilarating. You can bring instruments and will need to have your own small recording device, as well as a pen and notepad. Marc Platt (from the Sunday Night Performance Workshop) will facilitate with help from Steve Schalchlin. Marc has written music for TV Shows like ‘Queer Eye For The Straight Guy’ and others for many years. Steve Schalchlin ran similar workshops for the NAS (National Academy of Songwriters) in the 1990s and is a very accomplished songwriter. His ‘New World Waking’ show is currently running in San Francisco. If you are interested, please email Marc Platt at rotn60@aol.com.”
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Wed, every Wed, in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, 2nd & 4th Wed, every month; in Lompoc:
7-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM” at Southside Coffee Co, 105 S "H" St, Lompoc. Info, call Bill, 805-736-8241.
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Wed, every Wed:
7:30-10 pm “SOUTH BAY BEAT SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” series at Club 705 / Ardmore Restaurant, 705 Pier Av, Hermosa Beach 90254; 310-372-9705. Based on their opening bookings, this is a wonderful series with musicians who have played all over the world, sharing stages with big names in the music biz. Call them for tonight’s lineup. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every Wed, in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session in Simi Valley; for location, contact M. Gregory, info@songmakers.org or 805-579-6416. More at www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, every Wed:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Wednesday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. $3-7 cover. Start time varies; call venue.
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Wed, Dec 23 (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Wed, every Wed:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
8-10 pm “DALE LaDUKE'S SHOWCASE & OPEN MIC NIGHT” with this week’s guest artist, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl, Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089. This replaces Dale LaDuke’s previous series here, that ran the 1st & 3rd Monday of every month; it’s now every Wednesday night, starting in August. New format is an Open Mic from 8-9 pm, with signups at 7:30 pm, first come, first serve. Each Open Mic performer gets a sheet of paper to write-down and rate every performer except him/her self. At the end of the Open Mic, the top-rated Open Mic’er participates in a song circle with Dale LaDuke and a guest artist. Venue offers tasty Italian food, and you can bring your own wine, with no corkage fee. No cover, artists perform for tips.
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Wed, every Wed:
8 pm “SING ALONG-A-THON” on the Coffee Gallery FRONT stage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info, 626-398-7917; www.coffeegallery.com. Everybody knows the world-famous Coffee Gallery Backstage, with its parade of professional acts. Now, Duane Thorin hosts this new weekly series, wherein invited artists lead sing-alongs, assisted by other musicians who drop by and want to play. Duane says, “Public invited to sing and play along to songs we all know and love. Musicians and singers welcome! We’ll start with all the Beatles songs and go forward and back from there. No sign up, just show up, sing from the audience or move up front to play along as well. The Coffee Gallery now features soup and sandwiches in the evening, plus coffee drinks, white and dark hot chocolate, pies, smoothies, smiles and good company.” This does NOT take the place of events in the Backstage, but is in addition to scheduled shows there. No cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
8 pm “WHISKEY DICK WEDNESDAYS” at Fubar, 7994 Santa Monica Bl (1 blk E of Crescent Hgts), West Hollywood. This is a roots / honky-tonk night, and talented artists like MICHAEL ANN play this series, which offers 5 cent beer and 10 cent shots of whiskey and other booze, “where the west is still very wild. Say howdy to the craziest party there could ever be,” their promo says. Other nights there are anything but Americana music, and do not offer such incredibly cheap liquor. Fubar is a well known gay bar. Info from whiskeydckfubar@aol.com. No cover.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, every Wed:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) 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 Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, 4th Wed every month:
8:30 pm “FESTIVAL OF THE EGG” the monthly all-female musicians’ event, at the Universal Bar & Grill, 4093 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-2114. $7.
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Wed, every Wed:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
9 pm-midnight “PRO BLUES JAM SESSION” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES band, at the Azteca Restaurant and Bar, 717 S San Gabriel Bl, San Gabriel 91776; 626-287-4645. (New Mar 11, 2009.)
.
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Wed, every Wed:
9 pm-1 am “EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAM SESSION” at Giovanni Ristorante, 21801 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills 91364; 818-884-0243; www.giovanniristorante.com. With CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA and the “Same great trio accompaniment.” It’s a jazz-oriented open jam, singers and players welcome, and they list the “ingredients” as “amazing musicians, sintilating singers, vivacious vibes,” in a place to “greet old friends and meet new ones.” Cathy says, “Ask the bartender for the special ‘Giovanni Jazz Jam Juice’ - it was created by us!” More at www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover charge, but come prepared to eat and drink.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24
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.
.
(1) Thursday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
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 in Los Angeles. It’s broadcast simultaneously on KCET TV..
+
5-8:30 pm The VOICES OF CHRISTMAS play a “CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER” at Cafe Cordiale in Sherman Oaks.
.
See the complete listings below for all the details.
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(2) Thursday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
.
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere).
.
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
.
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.
==============
.
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
.
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==============
.
Thu, 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
.
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==============
.
Thu, Dec 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick live; broadcast live on TV:
3-9 pm 50th annual “L.A. COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT THE MUSIC CENTER” from the beautiful Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at the Downtown L.A. Music Center in Los Angeles. Broadcast live on KCET, broadcast Ch 28; check local cable systems for channel. For two years, acoustic musicians from the lineup were featured in live performances on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” to promote the event. During those two years, the wait in line to get int o the Music Center was more than two hours; since TttT is no longer heard on L.A. radio, the waiting line has been much shorter. This free event features numerous artists in a variety of music, song and dance performances.
.
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.
==============
.
Thu, every Thu; web video simulcast:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, live from Kulak's Woodshed in 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. Web page has a provision to accept a donation to help the venue pay for the uplink and band width use by those watching.
.
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.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Thursday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
None to report today. Everything wonderful seems to be happening in and around L.A.!
.
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.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(4) Thursday’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.
.
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.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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.
.
(5) Thursday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Thu, every Thu:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET” with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
.
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.
Thu, every Thu:
11:30 am-3 pm weekly “7+FIG FARMERS MARKET” at 7th & Figuroa, downtown L.A.; 213-955-7157; www.7fig.com. Held on the beautifully landscaped upper plaza, above California Pizza Kitchen. Certified Gourmet Farmers Market, open-air, with vendors, lunches, produce, kettle korn, fresh flowers, honey, fresh breads, tamales, olives, dried fruits, nuts, crepes, crafts, and live music (varies each week). Entertainment is free.
.
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==============
.
Thu, Dec 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
.
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==============
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Thu (& Wed), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
+
Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
.
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Thu, every Thu:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
.
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==============
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Thu, Dec 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Thu, every Thu: in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
.
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==============
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Thu, every Thu:
6-9 pm “BURGERS, BEER, & BLUES” series brings good acoustic blues performers to the tent adjacent to the weekly South Pasadena Farmer’s Market, sponsored by and directly outside the Firefly Bistro, 1009 El Centro St, South Pasadena; 626-441-2443; www.eatatfirefly.com.
.
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Thu, 4th (and 2nd) Thu, every month; in Ventura:
6-9:30 pm “ZOEY'S JAM” at Zoey’s, 451 E Main St, Ventura. 805-658-8311. Hosted by Gene Rubin, who says, “Check-out Ventura's Bluegrass Jam website, at http://home.earthlink.net/~generubinaudio/index.html. All skills welcome, friendly folks, great food and drink, and even better jammin'. Generally we number 25 to 35 musicians. We now have additional space for even more jam circles. Spectators are appreciated and welcome.” Contact Gene with your email address to receive regular reminders and details: 805-658-8311 or generubinaudio@earthlink.net.
.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
.
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==============
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Thu, every Thu:
CLOSED TONIGHT – NO SHOW; 7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with guest artists each week, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes) tells us, it’s “becoming quite a scene. This bass player-songwriter MARK GOLDBERG hosts a fantastic Americana Songwriter Showcase, many times with name songwriters. I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” Venue serves Italian food, good coffeehouse treats and beverages. You can bring your own wine with no corking charge. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
7-10 pm “FLAMENCO GUITAR NIGHT” with award-winning flamenco guitarist STEPHEN DICK at Manchego Food From Spain Restaurant, 2510 Main St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-450-3900; www.manchegoonmain.com. Venue serves great tapas and Spanish dinner plates in an elegant and intimate space. STEPHEN DICK - "Esteban de Los Angeles" - has won numerous prizes for his compositions and performances, including an award from the Sur Jerez Flamenco Competition in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, for his original 1st album, "Naranjas Amargas." A versatile artist, he is the winner of the Peter Frampton award for excellence in contemporary music, and his compositions for the guitar have been published in Italy, and in the US by Columbia Music Company. He won the Paulo Barsacchi award for guitar composition for his "Sonatina for Solo Guitar," and a Meet the Composer's grant for his realization of Federico Garcia Lorca's romantic ballad, "Romance Sonambulo." He a 2008/2009 winner of a grant from the Spanish Ministry of Culture and US Universities for a new flamenco concert featuring GarciaLorca's mystical lullaby, "Nana del Caballo Grande."
.
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Thu, every Thu:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
.
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Thu, every Thu; in Lancaster:
7-10 pm “CEDAR OPEN MIC” at Cedar Center, 44345 Cedar Av (at Lancaster Bl), Lancaster 93534; www.myspace.com/cedarcenteropenmic. Hosted by Ms. Shell Marie and Cleen. It’s open to all ages, however there is no censorship rule. It welcomes poets, spoken word, “freestylers,” and acoustic musicians. Free.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
7:30 “MUSIC NIGHT” at Lulu’s Beehive, 13203 Ventura Bl (1 blk E of Fulton), Studio City; 818-986-2233. After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Three featured acts, “plus special guests and surprises each week.” After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Or as they say, “the buzz has returned to the Beehive.” Light fare, sandwiches, coffeehouse beverages available. No cover.
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Thu, every Thu:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
.
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Thu, every Thu, in Temecula:
7:30 “JAZZ AT THE MERC” series hosted by SHERRY WILLIAMS at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Thursday, the audience is treated to a different jazz group in the intimate space known as "The Merc." One of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings, it now serves as a performance venue that hosts music four days each week. Info, schedules, www.cityoftemecula.org/temecula/presents/merc.aspx
Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
8-11 pm “BLUES JAM” hosted by the DENNIS HERRERA BAND, and guest musicians often include BERNIE PEARL, at El Dorado Restaurant, Spring & Studebaker, Long Beach. 562-421-2122. Bernie tells us, “It stays pretty close to the blues, doesn't get too loud, offers a small dance floor, a nice bar, good food, and a friendly atmosphere.” No cover.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) 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, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
9 pm-2 am “ALL ACOUSTIC WITH ANGEL” hosted by ANGEL, with different artists each week (except 3rd Thursdays, when it’s the Old Time Jam, hosted by Triple Chicken Foot) always fun, at the Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion Av (look for barber pole just S of Lyric), L.A. 90027. The Thursday series has its own web page, complete with weekly lineups, at www.myspace.com/hyperiontavernallacoustic.
+
Angel tells us, “This night is acoustic, old timey, ukuleles, barbershop quartets, dedicated to creating a community of artists and musicians who don't need the use of flashy lights, amps or mics. Our grandpappies didn't need it so why do we? Inquiry about playing can be sent to HyperionTavernAllAcoustic@gmail.com or even better, stop by and have a beer! Entry is always free and 21+! We'll get the barberpole up and running soon.”
.
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Thu, every Thu:
9 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES play their residency at The Office, 3516 W Victory Bl (at Hollywood Wy), Burbank. Preston says, “Great sound, great food, wine and beer!” New residency, began Apr 9, 2009.
.
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Thu, every Thu:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25
+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
.
.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
.
.
(1) Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
…little kids under a Christmas Tree… that’s the best show in town.
+
CHRISTMAS DINNER is FREE at the Laugh Factory, for those with no where else to spend Christmas. Includes a top-notch show by professional comics, and first-rate food, with all the trimmings, at The Laugh Factory, in Hollywood 90046; 323-656-1336; www.laughfactory.com. Check with venue for serving / show times, and be prepared to wait a few hours in line.
.
See the complete listings 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).
.
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
.
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.
==============
.
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
.
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==============
.
Fri, every Fri, on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
.
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.
==============
.
Fri, every Fri; web video simulcast:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, live from Kulak's Woodshed in 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. Web page has a provision to accept a donation to help the venue pay for the uplink and band width use by those watching.
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(3) Friday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
None to report today. Everything wonderful seems to be happening in and around L.A.!
.
///\\\///\\\
.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(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.
.
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.
.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
(5) Friday’s “LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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It’s UNLIKELY that ANY regularly recurring events will happen today or tonight. We are including listings for what would normally happen on the fourth Friday of the month, and what usually happens every Friday. CALL the venue, or check their website, to see if anything is actually happening. If you DO find a show to go see, remember to wish those operating the venue a very special MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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Fri, 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.
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Fri, 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.
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Fri, Dec 25; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
CHRISTMAS DINNER is FREE at the Laugh Factory, for those with no where else to spend Christmas. Includes a top-notch show by professional comics, and first-rate food, with all the trimmings, at The Laugh Factory, 8001 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90046; 323-656-1336; www.laughfactory.com. Check with venue for serving / show times, and be prepared to wait a few hours in line.
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Fri, 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.”
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Fri, every Fri:
5:30-10 pm “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” along Myrtle Av, in old downtown Monrovia. It’s year-round and weekly, a street festival and farmers market, that’s been running 17 years. KATTYWOMPUS STRING BAND plays 8-10 pm at 412 S Myrtle Av; contact Jennifer Ranger, 877-365-5744. RON ELY does authentic and original maritime songs most weeks, usually at Myrtle Av & Colorado or Myrtle Av and Lemon Av, on the North end of the festival. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely. There’s lots of other music throughout old town Monrovia, several acoustic performers each week – singer-songwriters, duos or bands – plus specialty vendors, lots of food, and local merchants. Event is large during the summer when it includes a carnival (rock climbing wall, balloon man, bubble man, petting zoo, pony rides, etc.) It scales-down from 4 blocks to 2 blocks during winter months, following the Christmas holidays. Myrtle Av exit, N of 210 Fwy, free parking, free event.
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Fri, every Fri:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam-out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every Fri:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, 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.
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Fri, every Fri, in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Fri, every Fri:
7:30 pm “OPEN MIC” at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica; 310-315-0056; www.unurban.com
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Fri, every Fri:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Fri, every Fri:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every Fri:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry,” at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm).
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Fri, every Fri:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, fourth Fri, every month:
8-10 pm “OUT-OF-THE-BLUE” songwriter showcase at the venue named as co-winner for “Best Free (no cover) Acoustic Music Venue,” The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. This monthly event is specifically cited as a reason for the venue’s 2008 co-win. It’s a lineup of invited songwriters (often some prominent ones) whose individual sets each include a song written to the unique pre-assigned theme of tonight’s event. Though former performing host DANIEL McFEELEY has moved to Australia, the popularity of this event enables it to continue. Venue has good sandwiches, soups, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Fri, 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.
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Fri, 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.
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(6) EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW
(updated Dec 21)
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HEADS-UP – GET TIX WHILE YOU CAN!
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Sat, Dec 26; film screening:
2-5 pm Award-winning documentary “BILLBOARD FROM BETHLEHEM” with guest speaker Sulaiman Khatib from the Israeli / Palestinian peace group “Combatants for Peace,” presented by The Topanga Peace Alliance at a private residence in Calabasas 91302; reservations get directions, at 818-642-0734 or 818-225-9112 or susanbeeftink@aol.com. Free event - seating limited.
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The film tells the story of an American billboard company owner, Bruce Barrett, who convinces Israeli and Palestinian fighters - The Combatants for Peace - to recruit Israeli and Palestinian children to paint a giant peace mural billboard inside the West Bank of Palestine. The completed sign then travels to a mosque, a synagogue, and a church, before being posted on a busy American highway. The film offers insight into the history of the conflict, the dynamics of the fighting, and a vision for a just and lasting peace. What a perfect film for the true meaning of Christmas. More at www.TopangaPeaceAlliance.org. Free; rsvp required.
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Sat, Dec 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Sat, Dec 26:
7:30-10:30 pm “BASC PIZZA NIGHT” sponsored by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 10364 Mason Av (at Devonshire), Chatsworth 91311. Sponsors tell us it’s “A relaxing and informal way to enjoy bluegrass with family or friends. The house band starts the first set at 7:30 pm. During the second set, musicians are invited to come up and play with the band, so if you’re a picker, bring your instrument! During the third set, anything is liable to happen, so be sure to stick around. Vincenzo’s has some of the best Pizza in Southern California. They serve a full menu of Italian dishes, and beer is served.” No cover.
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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.
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Sat, Dec 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8-11 pm “4TH SATURDAY CONTRA DANCE” plus a DANCE WORKSHOP with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS (TOM, PATRICK & MIKE SAUBER, & STEVE LEWIS) playing, and workshop by RUTH ALPERT, at the Brentwood Youth Hut, 731 S Bundy Dr (just S of San Vincente), W L.A.. Dance instruction at 7:30 pm.
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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”
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Info, steve@urbanoldtime.com. Admission, $10.
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Sun, Dec 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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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.
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Tue, Dec 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm EVAN J. MARSHALL and BILLY & THE HILLBILLIES, featuring JOHN "SLAP-BASS BILLY" MARSHALL at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane says, “This is an absolutely world class act of comedy and music. Amazing! Easily in the Top Five acts we present here.”
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EVAN J. MARSHALL is widely regarded as one of the greatest mandolin virtuosos ever. He possesses an uncanny technique that the Raleigh-Durham Independent called "superhuman," the Los Angeles Times called "remarkable," the Washington Post labeled "truly dazzling," and the Fresno Bee called "mind-boggling." Besides his "obvious virtuosity" (Pasadena Star News), he also has "in color and texture... a stunning mastery of interpretation" (St. Paul Pioneer Press). Evan's accomplishments are legendary among other artists of the plucked string. The late Chet Atkins called him "one of the few great musicians of our time;" and Don Stiernberg calls him "The Michael Jordan of the mandolin."
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Plus, BILLY & THE HILLBILLIES, featuring JOHN "SLAP-BASS BILLY" MARSHALL. Yep, that’s Evan’s brother. Evan performed over 10,000 shows with the group at Disneyland. But his brother, JOHN MARSHALL, founder of "Billy and the Hillbillies," has performed over 18,000 shows there for about four million visitors to the Golden Horseshoe Theater at the world's most famous theme park during the course of 17 years there. In addition, John has brought his "Hillbillies at the Symphony" program to over a dozen of the country's premier orchestras, including the Baltimore Symphony & the Houston Symphony. A consummate entertainer, he is widely regarded as the greatest slap-bass virtuoso in the world of Bluegrass.
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Your editor saw them all perform together here last time. It was hilarious and oh-so-musical. This will sell-out. Tix, $20.
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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
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Thu, Dec 31 (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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"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.” Advance tix recommended – contact info above. Tix, $20 gen’l, $10 for kids under age 14, and free for kids under age 6 – if you can keep ‘em quiet during the show.
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Thu, Dec 31; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm-3 am “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; info www.coffeegallery.com or 626-398-7917 (no reservations taken for the event). Things are shaping-up for an evening with music on two stages, plenty of food, and lots of happy people. In addition, the Forkians are scheming (check out their blog at www.theforkintheroadgang.com). 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. Want to perform? Set times are being booked now. Contact Duane, at duane@duanethorin.com
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Late add’tl info from Bob Stane: “Come and go when you wish and as you wish. Bring a good attitude, a funny soul and eat and drink with us. It is Pot Luck so bring enough food for your guests and you plus about 1/4 more to share. Beverages, too. Be prepared to sing and dance and listen to music. Both the front and back rooms will be ‘in play.’ This is our ‘Thank you’ to our loyal supporters.... who are also our friends. You are appreciated. Yes, you can come in costume but stay warm. Think about the costume. There could be trouble.”
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Unlike in Pasadena, where you cannot leave your car parked on the street at night without getting an expensive ticket, street parking in Altadena is quite free from the gendarmes.
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Free event.
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2010 events…
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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
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Sat, Jan 2:
7 pm PAUL T. YODER & FRIENDS 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 says, “You wanted some cool jazz, cats and kittens, here it is. Don't make me regret this.” SmoothJazz.com says of Paul T. Yoder, “Although his work has been called the ‘essence of smooth jazz,’ his individualistic musical style and interpretation contains elements of pop, rock, hip-hop and fusion.” Paul's 6-piece band is impressive and hails from such international acts as James Ingram, Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion, Vanessa Williams and Andrea Bocelli. Together, they perform an eclectic set of jazz originals & covers, new-age compositions and soft-rock vocals that will have you groovin' all night long.
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Paul's first CD, "Dreamin’," scored rave reviews from ABC Radio International, Cafe Jazz Radio, Opus Broadcasting, Jazz Improv Magazine and Smooth Jazz News (to name a few). International radio airplay was achieved as well.
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Paul's second CD, "Catalina Cool," features some of the biggest artists in the smooth jazz world including, Michael Lington, Mindi Abair, Paul Jackson Jr., Chris Standring, Jay Soto, Freddie Fox, and Dan Kuramoto of Hiroshima. Universal is handling national distribution and even Paul's own PBS special is in the works. Some of Paul's most memorable performances include the San Gabriel Civic Auditorium, Dodger Stadium, Royal Concert Hall (Glasgow, Scotland), Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam, Hollywood Palladium with Spyro Gyra - Marc Antoine and Philippe Saisse, and a PBS show taping at the Orange County Pavilion. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Jan 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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Mon, Jan 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Mon, Jan 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Tue, Jan 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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“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.
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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.
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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.”
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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.
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Fri, Jan 8; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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
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Fri, Jan 8; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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Sat, Jan 9; workshop for artists:
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.
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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.
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Sat, Jan 9; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ALEX DePUE and MIGUEL DE HOYOS play Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Thousand Oaks area). Reservations get directions, at houseconcertlist@jrp-graphics.com.
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Russ & Julie say, it’s “a house concert for the truly AMAZING duo of Alex DePue & Miguel De Hoyos. When Bob Stane of the Coffee Gallery Backstage called us and said ‘You have to book these guys, it'll be the best show you have all year!’ We responded, ‘Who?’ and ‘When can we see them?’ Bob has been booking venues (including the Ice House in Pasadena) for over 50 years and has booked some of the best musicians of all time... so we ran out to see ALEX DePUE and MIGUEL DE HOYOS. He was right, they are INCREDIBLY TALENTED AND EXCITING. Alex is a 2-time national fiddle champion and Miguel is one of the leading guitarists in Mexico. We saw them twice during 2009 and were completely BLOWN AWAY both times! We can't wait to share their magic with you.”
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Your editor has seen them too, and concurs with the enthusiastic superlatives. This duo's music is a jaw-dropping tour de force of Latin, classic rock and show tunes designed to bring audience members to their feet. Standing ovations are the norm not the exception. A chance meeting south of the border, in the Baja coastal town of La Mision, melded the talents of these two stellar musicians known for their fiery performances. Alex Depue and Miguel De Hoyos have recorded two CDs together that are sure to turn some heads. There’s rock ‘n roll on the fiddle and guitar featuring "Dust In The Wind" by Kansas, Led Zeppelin’s "Stairway To Heaven," "All I Ask" from “The Phantom Of The Opera,” and much more.
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ALEX DePUE – a National Fiddle Champion - began taking classical violin lessons at age five. He won his first major competition at age 10, and later - at age 16 - won a competition that entitled him to perform at Carnegie Hall. He has been ranked among the top 10 fiddlers in the nation at the Grand Masters Fiddling Championship.
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MIGUEL De HOYOS is one of the foremost guitarists in all of Mexico. Russ and Julie add, “To say that they are amazing together is quite an understatement. We guarantee one of the best shows you'll see all year! Certainly a GREAT way to start our 2010 series.”
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Check out these short video clips of Alex DePue & Miguel De Hoyos -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br8bpAmQQ4M
www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqH-noIhGgM
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More at www.houseconcerts.us and www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts. And there are MANY performance videos from Russ & Julie’s series on YouTube, at www.youtube.com/russjuliehousecncrts
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All proceeds go to the performers. Suggested donation, payable in cash at the door, is $15 per person.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Sun, Jan 10, in Santa Barbara:
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.
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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.
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Wed, Jan 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Wed, Jan 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Wed, Jan 13, in the OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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
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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.
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Thu-Sun, Jan 14-17, on California’s Central Coast; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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Fri, Jan 22:
I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. play the Puka Bar in Long Beach. (We kid you not.) Details forthcoming.
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Jan 22, in the OC:
MINDY SMITH plays The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930. Tix, $13.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Sun, Jan 24:
3 pm “SONGWRITER SANCTUM” features WOMEN ON THE MOVE in acoustic trio mode, playing a full set at The Church in Ocean Park (Santa Monica). More at www.sonicbids.com/womenonthemove
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Jan 24-27, in France:
MIDEM Music Tradeshow in Cannes, France.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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“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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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Fri, Feb 5, in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
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.
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Sat, Feb 6:
7 pm WOMEN ON THE MOVE plus BRETT PERKINS play a house concert in Glendora.Reservations get directions, by contacting band leader JOAN ENGUITA at joanenguita@hotmail.com. Joan tells us, “Our trio is polishing up some Joni Mitchell tunes, so you'll hear some new renditions. Also on the bill is our good friend, BRETT PERKINS, in town from his home in Copenhagen, Denmark. His sweet tenor and lovely songs will bring a smile to your ears!” More at www.sonicbids.com/womenonthemove
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Feb 12:
SEAN COLVIN plays The Canyon Club, 28912 Roadside Dr, Agoura Hills; www.canyonclub.net; 818-879-5016. Tix, $13.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Feb 17-21, in Tennessee:
22nd INTERNATIONAL FOLK ALLIANCE CONFERENCE in Memphis, TN.
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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.
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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.
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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…
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Sat, Feb 27:
8 pm SOURDOUGH SLIM with ROBERT ARMSTRONG at Blvd. Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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Mar 10-24, in Canada:
“CANADIAN MUSIC WEEK,” centered in Toronto, Canada.
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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
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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.
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Mar 17-21, in Texas:
Annual SXSW (SOUTH BY SOUTH WEST) MUSIC FESTIVAL in Austin, TX.
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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).
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Mar 23-27, in Florida:
Annual “WINTER MUSIC CONFERENCE” in Miami Beach, FL.
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Mar 24-27, in Germany:
Annual “MUSIKMESSE FRANKFURT,” in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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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.
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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.
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Fri, Apr 16; Sat, Apr 17; Tue, Apr 20:
THE EAGLES at the Hollywood Bowl – tix on sale now.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Sat, Apr 24:
8 pm PRISCILLA HERDMAN plays the Caltech Folk Music Society series on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; http://folkmusic.caltech.edu
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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.
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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.
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Weekend passes $99 (limited time, early-bird advance purchase), $499, $799; single day, $79.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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
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Aug 1-5:
2010 “AMERICAN RIVER ACOUSTIC MUSIC CAMP” in Northern California – info at www.americanriveracoustic.org and info@americanriverfolk.org
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Oct 28-Nov 1, in Denmark:
Annual “WOMEX - the World Music Expo,” in Copenhagen, Denmark.
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(7) MORE STUFF >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc…
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Updated editions with more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events still 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.
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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
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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.
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Our REVIEWS:
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(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
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(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)
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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.
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NEED TO KNOW MORE about the GUIDE and its companion, THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS,
or
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR GIG FOR INCLUSION?
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Our “stuff ya wanna know “ (FAQs) page is available at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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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…
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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!
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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!
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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 ~
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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