Acoustic Americana Music Guide, SPOTLIGHT EVENTS – April 5, 2012 edition

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. Some updates / additional info & events added April 7 & 9...
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Wow! FOUR major events for the WOODY GUTHRIE CENTENNIAL, one April 9, one April 12, and two on April 14, including a HUGE mega-star concert – all are featured in this edition!
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Plus, you’ll find extensive inclusions of Spring MUSIC FESTIVALS, waaay into June!
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Here’s the latest presentation of all the acoustic music hap’nin’s, along with a reminder to check back often! You’ll always find the latest edition at www.acousticmusic.net and click your way in,
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OR go directly to the mobile-device-friendly April 5 edition at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2012/04/news-features-acoustic-americana-music.html
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WANT TO RECEIVE EACH EDITION OF THE GUIDE IN YOUR INBOX, instead of through one of the wonderful webgroups or other websites that re-post it? Just email us and say “I Want to Go Direct” and provide your email address. (We won’t share it with anyone else. We promise.)
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Just email us at
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and say “Sign me up”
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We have indeed been publishing regularly on our main sites, BUT, a computer crash – one that also took out our backup – left us without our mailing lists. We reconstructed entry codes to post to our partner sites. But we don’t have our complete direct distribution lists reconstructed. So, if you were getting the GUIDE directly in your inbox (not through another source) OR if you would like to, just let us know!
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Let’s get started!
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. SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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. from THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE
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. April 5, 2012 edition
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. Some updates / additional info & events added April 7
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Thursday, April 5
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Thu, Apr 5:
6 pm weekly “THURSDAY NIGHT SOFA JAM” at Westwood Music, 1627 Westwood Bl, Los Angeles 90024; 310-478-4251.
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Thu, Apr 5, in OC:
6:15 pm weekly “FOUNTAIN VALLEY BLUEGRASS JAM” at Orange County Archery, 18792 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley 92708.
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Thu, Apr 5:
7-11:30 pm monthly “KOFFEEHOUSE PRESENTS” SHOWCASE at Harvelle’s Santa Monica, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica. Co-sponsored by BMI, this is an event with music industry exposure. Jam session 7-8:15 pm, followed by SMITHFIELD BARGAIN, ADRIAN HIBBS, and JOSH SMITH. Doors at 7. $10 cover, or $7 with printout of this notice. Show is 21+. Info, www.koffeehouse.com
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Thu, Apr 5, in San Diego:
7 pm weekly “SAN DIEGO OLD TIME FIDDLERS JAM” at New Expression Music, 4434 30th St, San Diego 92116; 619-280-9035.
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Thu, Apr 5:
8 pm SIERRA MAESTRA, a group derived from the legendary BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB, brings their Cuban music to Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, Los Angeles 90049; 310-440-4578.
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Thu, Apr 5:
8 pm weekly “OLD TIME MUSIC JAM,” focusing on traditional Southern fiddle and banjo, at 1642 Beer and Wine Bar, 1642 W Temple St, Los Angeles 90026; 213-483-5571.
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Thu, Apr 5; this week’s free “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8:30-10:30 pm WILL RYAN & THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS play their “Big Minimalist Show” at Viva Cantina in Burbank; www.vivacantina.com. No cover, and you can bring your horse (really). This is easily L.A.’s best unknown Americana band, with top players, all around. Plus their retro attire is so beyond campy that it’s endearing. Their originals sound like classics from the 1930s. What more do you want from a free show? Venue has full dinner menu, plenty of a la cart options, and full bar.
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Friday, April 6
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Today is “NATIONAL TARTAN DAY” in the U.S. and Canada. They coulda kilt it, but they didn’t!
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Fri, Apr 6:
5 pm weekly “FRETTED FROG OLD TIME JAM” at Fretted Frog Acoustic Guitar Store, 1200 N Alvarado St, Los Angeles 90026; 213-353-0734.
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Fri, Apr 6, in Ventura Co:
7 pm SONGMAKERS’ “PENNY LANE SING CIRCLE” in Port Hueneme 93041; get location and info at www.songmakers.org
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Fri, Apr 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS play the “UCLA LIVE!” series in Royce Hall, on the UCLA Campus in Westwood 90095; 310-825-2101 or 310-825-4401.
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Fri, Apr 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BROOKS ROBERTSON at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm).
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BROOKS ROBERTSON just doesn't need much more than two thumbs, eight fingers and six strings on a wooden box to carry his listeners away. Brooks utilizes his superb technical abilities to play bass, rhythm and melody simultaneously and surpass the borders of conventional genres. He merges hauntingly beautiful compositions, country rhythms and jazzy harmonies with funky licks into his very own art form – sometimes delivered with a punch, sometimes with a smile.
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"All guitar players are like Frankensteins. Their music is made out of bits and pieces of other players. In Brooks' case, he's a son of a Frankenchops, the well known monster picker Buster B. Jones. Buster and Brooks are both so scary ... the legend continues." Mason Williams.
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The solo guitar's future is in good hands with players like Brooks out there!". John Jorgenson.
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"Brooks Robertson has one of the very best techniques in fingerstyle guitar. You can hear the influences of Buster B. Jones, Jerry Reed, and all the great fingerpickers past ... and he's writing some fabulous new material. An amazing guitar player who's showing the rest of us how it's done! Nobody whops Brooks Robertson!" - Richard Smith.
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"He is slicker than a cat on a greased pole." - Nokie Edwards.
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"Brooks Robertson plays like the house is on fire." - Thom Bresh.
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Tix, $15.
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Fri, Apr 6:
8 pm KELLY HOGAN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Fri, Apr 6:
8 pm TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT, RABBIT FOOT STRING BAND, and McDOUGALL play a full bill of new-fangled old-timey string band music at Echo Country Outpost, 1770 Glendale Bl, Los Angeles 90026.
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Fri, Apr 6:
8 pm monthly “FIRST FRIDAY SHOW” with performing host SEVERIN BROWNE welcoming John Zipperer, plus THE FIRST FRIDAY BAND, of SEVERIN BROWNE, JEFF KOSSACK, DAVID STONE, ALEX DEL ZOPPO, GARY POPENOE, MIKE BISCH, AARON WOLFSON and CHRIS LACINAK, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood 91607; 818-766-9913. Technically no cover, but venue expects a $10 donation; all artists contribute their performances. If you can’t go, catch the web simulcast and make a contribution at www.kulakswoodshed.com
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Fri, Apr 6, in the desert:
8 pm HARLEM GOSPEL CHOIR at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster 93534; 661-723-5950.
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Fri, Apr 6:
MARCUS LANE BAND plus special set by DANNY BROOKS at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; 626-447-9349. Buy tix online and save: $% door, $3 advance, at www.arcadiabluesclub.com
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Fri, Apr 6:
8 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their weekly residency at the Tam O’Shanter in Los Feliz; www.lawrysonline.com/tam-oshanter
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Fri, Apr 6:
8 pm weekly KATTYWOMPUS plays and jams with all comers at Dollmakers Kattywompus, 412 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-357-1091. Fun string band, including dulcimers.
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Fri, Apr 6:
“ROCKABILLY FRIDAYS” series at Weber’s Place in Reseda; www.weberslive.com
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Saturday, April 7
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Sat, Apr 7; a “GOOD-TIME-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 am-5:30 pm Annual “SANTA ANITA DERBY DAY” with live BLUES MUSIC – it’s the annual 5K race for charity (human runners) and the biggest full-day of thoroughbred horse racing at the beautiful park-like facility; live music in the morning by fine blues band KELLY’S LOT (playing their 7th consecutive year of the 5K’s 17 year history), plus free T-shirt with each paid admission. $5 admission (registered runners get in free and get their own free race T-shirt), plus $4 parking. You can pack your own picnic or buy food there. (You can’t take glass bottles or your own alcohol; you can buy it there.) Santa Anita Racetrack Park is in Arcadia; exit the 210 Fwy at Baldwin Av and go South a short way to a left into the giant parking lot.
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The Guide recommends that you start your day at Santa Anita Racetrack in the morning to enjoy KELLY’S LOT and take-in some racing, then get to the Coffee Gallery Backstage in nearby Altadena to catch the 3 pm matinee show with the masterful Irish singer-songwriter KEN O’MALLEY (see 3 pm listing).
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Sat, Apr 7, ongoing through Apr 22:
“I CAN: REQUIEM FOR I CAN'T,” the first project generated by “Cultivate / Create,” examines Ending Violence Against Women, presented at A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) at Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC), 685 Venice Bl, Venice (the Old Venice Police Station) and runs March 31 through April 22. Music events combine with exhibitions, film, and theatre in a series that will premiere throughout Los Angeles County through July 2012. It’s made possible by the Arts Commission’s Cultivate/Create Initiative. The first of these is this art installation and performance, created by artists Barbara T. Smith and Nina Juns. All events are free. Full info, www.awbw.org.
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Sat, Apr 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 pm KEN O’MALLEY brings his marvelous baritone vocals, guitar and mandolin to his repertoire of authentic and original Irish songs at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. Make reservations, this may sell-out.
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The Guide recommends that you start your day at Santa Anita Racetrack in the morning to enjoy KELLY’S LOT and take-in some racing (the human 5K for charity and the thoroughbred horses in the Santa Anita Derby) then get to the Coffee Gallery Backstage for this show.
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Sat, Apr 7; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for artists:”
3 pm GUITAR WORKSHOP with BROOKS ROBERTSON at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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This guy is a master. Read the write-up about him for tonight’s 8 pm show and prepare to be very impressed.
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Sat, Apr 7, in OC:
6 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” in Mission Viejo; info and location at www.songmakers.org
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Sat, Apr 7:
6:30 pm monthly “SANTA MONICA TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC CLUB” session at Sha'Arei Am (Santa Monica Synagogue), 1448 18th St, Santa Monica 90404; 310-453-4276.
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Sat, Apr 7:
6:30 pm weekly “BLUEGRASS CONCERT” at Me N Eds Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl, Lakewood 90712; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Apr 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm WOMEN ON THE MOVE bring their award-winning three-part vocal harmonies and strings and percussion, plus openers KEEPING FIRE, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. They won the 2011 Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest vocal competition. They play guitars, dulcimer, mandolin, and djembe. And wow, do they sing. Reservations recommended, as this may sell-out.
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The Guide recommends that you start your day at Santa Anita Racetrack in the morning to enjoy KELLY’S LOT and take-in some racing (the human 5K for charity and the thoroughbred horses in the Santa Anita Derby) then grab dinner at Big Mama’s Rib Shack on Lake Av, and get to the Coffee Gallery Backstage for this show.
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WOMEN ON THE MOVE do original songs of hilarity, hope, and heart. What happens when you take three lead singers and put them together in a trio? Well, you get three times the songwriting and performing, and they go on to win First Place in the Vocal Competition at the Topanga Banjo & Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival. The three artists, JOAN ENGUITA (Lancaster), LINDA GELERIS (Glendora) and TRISH LESTER (Newhall) have joined to created a vocal powerhouse of sound, which they have taken on tour to Oregon and Arizona as well as Southern California. They have been featured on “FolkScene” Radio hosted by Roz Larman and the nationally syndicated “River City Folk,” hosted by Tom May. They have been heard on XM Radio The Village, Trish's song, "Plymouth Belvedere" was featured on “Car Talk” on National Public Radio.
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Their songs are folksy and story telling, varying from topics as diverse as a desire for mutual understanding "Walk a Mile in My Shoes", an ode to a mother's unshared past "My Version of You," and a resolute anthem of perseverance inspired by headlines of suffering during Hurricane Katrina "How Do We Go On?" They are determined to make you laugh "The Cookie Song" and can also bring a tear to your eye "That's What Love Is." Their Joni Mitchell songs are spot on, including Linda on dulcimer. Guitar, mandolin, djembe drum and shakers round out their musical accompaniment. More at www.womenonthemovetrio.com
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"Three distinct voices merged into one angelic blend. Great entertainment!" --Acoustic Live L.A.
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Opening act is KEEPING FIRE, a San Gabriel Valley-based band that plays acoustic music ranging from bluegrass to new folk, much of it original. Of special interest are tunes the band has written about the gold mines of the eastern San Gabriel Mountains. Keeping Fire is five veteran musicians who have been actively involved in the Southern California music scene since the 1960s and 70s, including performances and tours with a wide variety of top-of-the-line performers. The members of the band are DON CUNNINGHAM on guitar, FRED HEILBRUN on banjo, JARRETT LESKO on resonator guitar, STEVE WILKE on mandolin, and RON VANCE on upright bass. Keeping Fire has performed at bluegrass festivals, concerts, theaters, corporate functions, and private parties.
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Tix, $15.
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Sat, Apr 7:
7 pm weekly “RANCH PARTY” roots music series at EB’s Wine Bar in the L.A. Farmer’s Market, 3rd & Fairfax. L.A.; www.reverbnation.com/venue/ranchpartycountrynight. No cover, plenty of food options all around you.
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Sat, Apr 7, in Palmdale:
7 pm weekly LIVE MUSIC at Butler’s Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Check with venue to see who is performing.
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Sat, Apr 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm LARRY HANKS & DEBORAH ROBINS play the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont 91711; 909-624-2928.
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American songster LARRY HANKS is a "folksingers' folksinger," a longtime favorite of heroes like Michael Cooney, Art Thieme, and the late Sam Hinton. Hanks has been delighting audiences for over 50 years with his deep bass voice, sparse acoustic guitar accompaniments, and acclaimed Jew's Harp playing. Hanks is probably best known for his classic folksong, "Apple Picker's Reel".
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Larry can be heard on recordings of DAVID GRISMAN, JODY STECHER & KATE BRISLIN, MIKE SEEGER, and many others. He has performed with UTAH PHILLIPS, GORDON BOK, FRED HOLSTEIN, MARTYN WYNDHAM-READ, ELIZABETH COTTEN, MALVINA REYNOLDS, GEOFF MULDAUR, and on and on.
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DEBORAH ROBINS is now Hanks’ wife and musical partner. The two are becoming even more beloved for an eclectic repertoire of American traditional, work, blues, and political songs, including the music of Utah Phillips, Larry Penn, Leadbelly, Sam Hinton, Stephen Foster; and others in the pantheon of American vernacular / working people's music. They perform often at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, the Old Songs Festival in NY State, and they annually tour the U.S., and alternately, the UK. They delighted the audience when they played recently at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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Hanks & Robins bring a warm and homey stage presence, most comfortable in creating an intimate musical evening, long remembered by all in attendance. MICHAEL COONEY, beloved folksinger in his own right, raved of the duo's recent CD, "NO HIDING PLACE." Cooney says, "...This is why I got into folk music to begin with!”
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The Boston Globe's folk music critic, Scott Alarik, calls the new Hanks / Robins CD, "A drop of the pure!"
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John Cohen's glowing critique includes, "Wonderful and challenging!” among his fond comments.
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You can learn more and listen to audio clips from Larry & Deborah's CDs at www.cdbaby.com/cd/hanksrobins
and
www.cdbaby.com/cd/hanksrobins2
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View their recent festival performances at
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9P-lOUxmvfo
www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aDDY-smq98
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7e6Q39xOHP8
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Sat, Apr 7, in Temecula:
7:30 pm CALIFORNIA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA presents a program of VAUGHN WILLIAMS and RUTTER at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).
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Sat, Apr 7:
7:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES BLUEGRASS plays their weekly residency with a good chance of notable guest musicians, at Vincenzo's Pizza, 24500 Lyons Av, Newhall 91350.
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Sat, Apr 7:
8 pm RICHARD BUCKNER, a latter-day Townes van Zandt, who is indeed from Texas, at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Sat, Apr 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BROOKS ROBERTSON plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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BROOKS ROBERTSON just doesn't need much more than two thumbs, eight fingers and six strings on a wooden box to carry his listeners away. Brooks utilizes his superb technical abilities to play bass, rhythm and melody simultaneously and surpass the borders of conventional genres. He merges hauntingly beautiful compositions, country rhythms and jazzy harmonies with funky licks into his very own art form – sometimes delivered with a punch, sometimes with a smile.
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"All guitar players are like Frankensteins. Their music is made out of bits and pieces of other players. In Brooks' case, he's a son of a Frankenchops, the well known monster picker Buster B. Jones. Buster and Brooks are both so scary ... the legend continues." Mason Williams.
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The solo guitar's future is in good hands with players like Brooks out there!". John Jorgenson.
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"Brooks Robertson has one of the very best techniques in fingerstyle guitar. You can hear the influences of Buster B. Jones, Jerry Reed, and all the great fingerpickers past ... and he's writing some fabulous new material. An amazing guitar player who's showing the rest of us how it's done! Nobody whops Brooks Robertson!" - Richard Smith.
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"He is slicker than a cat on a greased pole." - Nokie Edwards.
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"Brooks Robertson plays like the house is on fire." - Thom Bresh.
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Brooks also does a workshop for artists here at 3 pm today; see that listing.
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Sat, Apr 7:
ROD PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS play the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; 626-447-9349. Buy tix online and save: $20 door, $15 advance, at www.arcadiabluesclub.com
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Sat, Apr 7, in the desert:
8 pm BRASIL GUITAR DUO plays the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster 93534; 661-723-5950.
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Sat, Apr 7:
8 pm THE PRATIES play their every-Saturday rollickin’ Irish music residency at the Tam O’Shanter in Los Feliz. Info: www.lawrysonline.com/tam-oshanter
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Sat, Apr 7:
8 pm monthly “OPEN MIC” at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020.
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Sat, Apr 7:
8 pm “FRETTED FROG OPEN MIC” at Fretted Frog Acoustic Guitar Store, 1200 N Alvarado St, Los Angeles 90026; 213-353-0734.
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Sat, Apr 7, in Ventura:
8 pm SOUL SURFERS play Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001.
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This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.
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Sat, Apr 7, in San Diego:
9 pm THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL plays Bar Pink, 3829 30th St, San Diego; 619-564-7194.
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Sunday, April 8
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Happy Easter!
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Whether you hunt for plastic eggs filled with sweets infested with High Fructose Corn Syrup, or quest for something more profound, may this day be special, a bit reflective, and celebratory for you.
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Sun, Apr 8, in San Diego:
10 am weekly “URBAN SOLACE BLUEGRASS BRUNCH” at Urban Solace, 3823 30th St, San Diego 92104; 619-295-6464.
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Sun, Apr 8:
11 am NO SHOW TODAY in the “Matinee Kids' Show” series at McCabe’s in Santa Monica.
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Sun, Apr 8:
12:30 pm monthly “BLUEGRASS JAM SESSION” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; info, 626-398-7917. Free; bring your instrument or just come and listen.
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Sun, Apr 8:
1 pm monthly “FOLK SONG JAM” at the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756.
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Sun, Apr 8:
POSTPONED UNTIL LATER THIS MONTH – we’ll give you the new date soon… 2 pm monthly “SONGWRITER SANCTUM” with a full lineup of singer-songwriter / recording artists, at the Church in Ocean Park, 235 Hill St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-399-1631. Free; donations for artists welcomed. A nice scene, places to chat and a respectful environment to hear the music. Food and drink provided in a potluck; you are invited to participate in either or both capacities, as consumer and / or contributor. Note that venue is not handicapped accessible.
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Sun, Apr 8:
2:30-6:30 pm “ACOUSTIC SUNDAY” show at the Artisan House in downtown L.A. Info, http://artisanhouse.net/acoustic.html
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Sun, Apr 8:
4-7 pm “TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION” at the Auld Dubliner in Long Beach. Info, www.aulddubliner.com
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Sun, Apr 8:
5-9 PM T-LOU & SUPER HOT ZYDECO BAND play the Cajun-Zydeco Dance at the Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach 90803. Admission, $15 at the door, includes free gumbo ($ donation accepted). Beginners dance lesson at 4:30 pm, band plays 5-9 pm. Info, contact Dempsey, at 562-396-1132 or bontemppappion@aol.com; or contact David at 909-527-0926 or DavidSousa@verizon.net. Kids, families, singles welcome. Tasty food available at reasonable prices at the hotel restaurant that opens at 5 pm.
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Sun, Apr 8:
7 pm NO SHOW tonight at McCabe’s in Santa Monica. ‏
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Sun, Apr 8; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN & LUKE HALPIN bring their multiple-award-winning rootsy fiddle-based-folk music to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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“That Stephanie Bettman has reached a level comparable to others like Emmylou Harris, Joan Baez and Alison Krauss so quickly it’s a bit uncanny.” – Country Jukebox, Germany.
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“Bettman jams it up like few others as she leads an ensemble with great imagination.” – Maverick Magazine, UK.
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STEPHANIE BETTMAN is a singer-songwriter-fiddler extraordinaire who generates buzz in bluegrass-country circles. There have been inevitable comparisons to Alison Krauss and Emmylou Harris. Named by the Guide’s editor in Folkworks Magazine as one of L.A.’s top ten Female Singer Songwriters (before the duo’s move to Colorado), Stephanie’s songs are sometimes sad, sometimes sassy but always stunning.
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LUKE HALPIN, her multi-instrumentalist partner and veteran recording session player, is a wonderful talent in his own right, instrumentally and vocally. Inspired by the likes of Sam Bush, Tony Rice, and Mark O’Conner, Luke’s perfectly blended harmonies and his instrumental expertise together with Stephanie’s artistry and performance make for a dynamic entertaining experience.
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Together, Stephanie and Luke have been winners in many local and national competitions, including:
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* Grand Prize Winners in the 2008 So Cal Live Acoustic Music Competition.
* Winners in the 2007 Topanga Banjo / Fiddle contest.
* Folk Works Top Ten Los Angeles based female singer-songwriters of 2008.
* Music Connection’s Top Twenty-Five New Music Critiques of 2008.
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Tix, $20.
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Sun, Apr 8:
9:30 pm-12:30 am THE GET DOWN BOYS play their weekly residency at Bigfoot West, 10939 Venice Bl, L.A.. No cover.
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Sun, Apr 8:
10 pm MIKE STARR & FRIENDS play their weekly residency at the Piano Bar in Hollywood; www.thepianobar.com. No cover.
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Sun, Apr 8:
11 pm weekly “ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE” at 14 Below, 1348 14th St, Santa Monica 90404; 310-451-5040.
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Monday, April 9
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Mon, Apr 9:
6:30 pm SONGMAKERS’ monthly “WHITEMAN AIRPORT SONG CIRCLE” at Rocky's Restaurant, 12653 Osborne St, Pacoima 91331; info, 818-896-8828.
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Mon, Apr 9; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY, Western Music Hall Of Famer, plays the MUS/IQUE series in the Wells Fargo Theatre at the Museum of the American West (aka Autry Museum), 470 Western Heritage Way, in Griffith Park, L.A. The Western Music Association California Chapter is partnering with MUS/IQUE and its Artistic Director, RACHAEL WORBY (former conductor of the PASADENA POPS) to bring an evening of western folklore and music. The evening includes a pre-concert reception at 7, and the concert at 7:30 pm. A 20% discount off the regular ticket price of $60 (making the price $48) is available for a limited time at http://muse-ique.com/MMMDiscount.php
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Mon, Apr 9:
7:30 pm weekly “BLUEGRASS JAM,” plus, sometimes THE BROMBIES play bluegrass on the other stage, at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-515-4444.
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Mon, Apr 9:
7:30 pm weekly “KULAK'S WOODSHED OPEN MIC” at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood 9160; 818-766-9913. Famous for its web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com
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Mon, Apr 9; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “AN EVENING WITH ARLO GUTHRIE” is a performance-interview with Arlo for the “WOODY GUTHRIE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION” on the GRAMMY Museum’s Clive Davis Sound Stage, 800 W Olympic Bl, Los Angeles 90015; 213-765-6800; www.grammymuseum.org.
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Arlo will chat on stage with Museum Director and Woody Guthrie biographer ROBERT SANTELLI, and do a few songs. This is a hot ticket!
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A number of events will happen locally and nationally, and some internationally, throughout 2012 to mark the centennial of Woody’s birth. This one is probably the most intimate venue Arlo will play anywhere during the year of celebration, and the museum stage’s sound and interactive hosting are superb.
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This is one of four key events this week for “The Woody Guthrie Centennial Los Angeles Celebration,” in conjunction with the ongoing global “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration” throughout 2012. The Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration is one of the largest and most comprehensive Centennial celebrations ever staged for an American music icon. For the most up-to-date information and a complete schedule of events for the entire Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration, visit www.woody100.com.
+
The GRAMMY Museum, in conjunction with Woody Guthrie Publications, Inc. and the Woody Guthrie Archives, are presenting the “Los Angeles’ Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” It’s the West Coast counterpart to Tulsa’s “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” The April 7-14 series of events in L.A. include educational programming, special performances, a conference at The University Of Southern California, films, lectures and a special tribute concert at Nokia Theater / L.A. Live, all designed to celebrate Guthrie's extraordinary body of work and impact on American music.
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At 10 am on Thursday, Apr 12, you can attend the dedication of “Woody Guthrie Square” in downtown L.A. (see listing).
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And jump on getting your tix for the biggest L.A. Guthrie events; both are April 14, starting with the all-day (8 am-5:30 pm) conference at USC, and culminating in the mega-star concert with ELLIOTT, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE AND JOHNNY IRION, JOE HENRY, KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, TOM MORELLO, VAN DYKE PARKS, JOEL RAFAEL, ROB WASSERMAN, and more at Nokia Theatre at L.A. Live that evening (at 7:30 pm) at Nokia L.A. Live; see our listings for info.
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Mon, Apr 9, in Santa Barbara Co:
8 pm PATRICK BALL plays the “SONG TREE CONCERT SERIES” at Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 820 N Fairview Av, Goleta 93117; 805-403-2639 or SongTree@cox.net
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Mon, Apr 9:
8 pm weekly “CELTIC ARTS CENTER IRISH CéILí DANCE and IRISH MUSIC SESSION” is always a good time at the Celtic Arts Center’s shared location at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322. Info, www.celticartscenter.com
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Mon, Apr 9:
8 pm “MONDAY SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND” brings indie recording artists to Room 5 in L.A. Info, www.room5lounge.com. Cover, $8.
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Mon, Apr 9:
CANCELLED: 8 pm “BLUE MONDAY JAM” with BERNIE PEARL BLUES BAND no longer happens at Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center, Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Bl, Los Angeles 90008; info, bmorrblues@aol.com
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Tuesday, April 10
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Tue, Apr 10, in Ventura:
6 pm twice-monthly “VENTURA BLUEGRASS JAM” at Zoey's Café, 451 E Main St, Ventura 93001; 805-652-0091; www.zoeyscafe.com
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Tue, Apr 10, in Agoura (near T.O.):
6 pm SONGMAKERS’ monthly “AGOURA HILLS SONG CIRCLE & POTLUCK” in Agoura Hills 91301. Info and location a www.songmakers.com
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Tue, Apr 10, in San Diego Co:
6:30 pm monthly “SDBS BLUEGRASS NIGHT” at Fuddruckers, 5500 Grossmont Center Dr, La Mesa 91942. Sponsored by the San Diego Bluegrass Society.

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Tue, Apr 10:
7-10 pm DAVE MORRISON & ANNIE BOXELL begin their new monthly residency at Viva Cantina in Burbank. It' on the stage in the listening-friendly back room. No cover. Venue has good to Mexican food and full bar.
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Tue, Apr 10:
POSTPONED, this week only, this show will be WEDNESDAY night:
7-9:30 pm weekly “JC HYKE’S SONGWRITER SERENADE” brings performances by several singer-songwriter recording artists who differ each week, plus performing host JC HYKE, at Matt Denny’s Ale House, 145 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006. No cover, but it’s fun to make dinner plans there, stay the whole evening, and enjoy the show.
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Tue, Apr 10:
7 pm weekly “BLUEGRASS SOUP JAM” at Convert-A-Tape, 2420 Gundry Av, Signal Hill 90755.
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Tue, Apr 10, in Ventura; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm CALVIN VOLLRATH, Grand North American Fiddle Champion, with mandolin master EVAN MARSHALL and JONATHAN TRAWICK on guitar, play a house concert in Ventura. Reservations get directions at adharveys@yahoo.com or 805-642-3950.
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CALVIN VOLLRATH is one of Canada’s national treasures, a consummate folk artist and master of a variety of Canadian fiddle styles. He is an entertaining performer and a prolific composer. Joined by Evan Marshall and Jonathan Trawick, this will surely be a memorable night. $12 per person.
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Tue, Apr 10:
8 pm weekly “TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at Timmy Nolan's Tavern and Grill, 10111 Riverside Dr, Toluca Lake 91602; 818-985-3359.
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FARTHER AHEAD… assorted events worth planning to attend…

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Wed, Apr 11, in Ventura:
7:30 pm new weekly “OPEN MIC” at Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001. This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.
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Wed-Sun, Apr 11-15, in E San Diego Co:
Annual “JULIAN FAMILY FIDDLE CAMP” with CALVIN VOLLRATH, EVAN MARSHALL, SCOTT GATES, TYLER GRANT, KATIE HARVEY, JANE FREY, MARTHA WILD, and others, at Camp Cedar Glen, 743 Farmer Rd, Julian 92036; 760-522-8458.
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Wed, Apr 11, in San Diego Co.; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6 pm JOEL RAFAEL performs his excellent show, “WOODY GUTHRIE'S AMERICAN ROAD” at San Diego County Library, Encinitas Branch, 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas 92024.
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Wed, Apr 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm weekly “WINE AND SONG SERIES” brings I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., REBECCA SULLIVAN, and performing host BRAD COLERICK, to The Firefly, 1009 El Centro St, South Pasadena; 626-441-2443.

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Wed, Apr 11, in Rancho Cucamonga:
JUNI FISHER, a major star of Western music, plays the “Caraway Parlor Concert Series” in Rancho Cucamonga. Reservations get directions at cmrobinc@aol.com. Donation, $20.
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JUNI FISHER is the real deal – a Western singer who actually IS a cowgirl. Tehachapi feels like home to this singing cowgirl. She filled the house when she performed last June at Fiddlers Crossing.
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Fisher grew up “horse crazy” on a San Joaquin Valley citrus farm, achieving 4-H and FFA honors, listening to the music of Marty Robbins, Joan Baez and Burl Ives and learning Western songs from her father. While in elementary school, Fisher began singing in a trio with her two sisters. She started playing guitar at age seven and wrote her first song at age eight.
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After graduating from Strathmore High School, Fisher rode her way through the Equine Science program at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, helping neighboring ranchers train horses and winning top honors at Intercollegiate and Quarter Horse shows. Singing big band standards with a dance orchestra was a way of earning entry money for horse shows. Meanwhile, she continued to write her own songs.
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Fisher moved to Santa Ynez, CA, in 1984 to train cutting horses, and she was soon asked to join a local band. It wasn't long before she was singing in Los Angeles clubs with a popular country band, playing the Western and cowboy music she loved.
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In 1991, Fisher traded her quarter horses for hunters and jumpers when she accepted a one-year position with a Tennessee hunt club. Living near Nashville gave her the opportunity she needed to hone her songwriting skills. She and her husband, Rusty, still live in Tennessee with their horses.
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In 1999, Fisher recorded her first Western album, "Tumbleweed Letters." The album led to an invitation to perform at the “Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival” in 2004. That appearance launched her full-time professional career as a Western singer-songwriter. Five albums and many awards later - including the 2007 Western Music Association “Song of the Year,” 2006 WMA “Female Vocalist of the Year,” 2005 Academy of Western Artists “Western Female Vocalist of the Year,” and 2005 WMA “Crescendo Award” – Juni Fisher is one of the most popular singing cowgirls on the cowboy poetry and folk festival circuits. Oh, and in her spare time, she loves to go fly fishing.
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Juni adds that tonight’s host, Robin, “is a fellow member of ‘Sisters on the Fly,’ a fun organization of traveling cowgirls / fly fisherwomen / adventurers, and she is hosting this in her spacious party room at her home. Just a few seats left, so get in touch now!”

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Thu, Apr 12; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 am DEDICATION OF “WOODY GUTHRIE SQUARE” at the Intersection of 4th and Main in downtown Los Angeles, as L.A. City Councilwoman Jan Perry leads City officials, representatives from the Grammy Museum, and the family of Woody Guthrie to honor the life and legacy of the late folk singer with a permanent memorial presence in L.A.
+
This is one of four key events this week for “The Woody Guthrie Centennial Los Angeles Celebration,” in conjunction with the ongoing global “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration” throughout 2012. The Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration is one of the largest and most comprehensive Centennial celebrations ever staged for an American music icon. For the most up-to-date information and a complete schedule of events for the entire Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration, visit www.woody100.com.
+
The GRAMMY Museum, in conjunction with Woody Guthrie Publications, Inc. and the Woody Guthrie Archives, are presenting the “Los Angeles’ Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” It’s the West Coast counterpart to Tulsa’s “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” The April 7-14 series of events in L.A. include educational programming, special performances, a conference at The University Of Southern California, films, lectures and a special tribute concert at Nokia Theater / L.A. Live, all designed to celebrate Guthrie's extraordinary body of work and impact on American music.
+
And jump on getting your tix for the biggest L.A. Guthrie events; both are April 14, starting with the all-day (8 am-5:30 pm) conference at USC, and culminating in the mega-star concert with JACKSON BROWNE, DAVID CROSBY & GRAHAM NASH, JOHN DOE, RAMBLIN’ JACK ELLIOTT, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE AND JOHNNY IRION, JOE HENRY, KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, TOM MORELLO, VAN DYKE PARKS, JOEL RAFAEL, ROB WASSERMAN, and more at Nokia Theatre at L.A. Live that evening (at 7:30 pm) at Nokia L.A. Live; see our listings for info.

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Thu, Apr 12; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS play the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020.
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They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com

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Thu, Apr 12:
8-10 pm WILL RYAN & THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS ride back into Viva Cantina, on Riverside Dr, next to the L.A. Equestrian Center in Burbank, for a rare, free, no cover show. Special musical guests are DUANE THORIN, of "Wastin' Away in my Coupe de Ville," and JOHNNY CRAWFORD, co-star of TV's "The Rifleman."

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Thu, Apr 12:
9 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. at Cheetah's, 600 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90027; 323-660-6733.

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Thu, Apr 12:
11 pm GWENDOLYN & HER NEW FANGLED COUNTRY BAND plus RT n THE 44’s and MATT TAYLOR & HIS LAURELS play the Old Towne Pub, 22 Holly St, Old Town Pasadena 91103. (It’s down the alley.) $5 cover, 21+ show.

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Thu-Sun, Apr 13-15, FESTIVAL, in Washington State:
9th annual “COLUMBIA RIVER COWBOY GATHERING & MUSIC FESTIVAL” at the Benton County Fairgrounds, 1500 S Oak St, Kennewick, WA. Starts Friday at noon. General Admission for daytime includes evening concert, $15; VIP $20. Or daytime-only admission is just $5. Info, www.columbiarivercowboygathering.com. Questions, 509-851-4287, or 509-851-4288 or email cowboys2gather@yahoo.com. This festival supports charities; this year, the beneficiaries are Spot-O-Faith Farm, My Friends’ Place, and local Homeless Vets.

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Fri, Apr 13; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
SOLD OUT: 8 pm TOM RUSSELL, RAMBLIN' JACK ELLIOTT, JON LANGFORD, and JIMMIE DALE GILMORE play a festival-like evening at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.

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Fri, Apr 13:
8 pm SLUGGER O' TOOLE plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm). This is a fun Irish band, every bit as much as their name suggests.

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Fri, Apr 13, in Tehachapi; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm JUNI FISHER, a major star of Western music, plays Fiddler's Crossing, 206 East F St (at Robinson, next to Mountain Music), Tehachapi 93561; 661-823-9994.
+
JUNI FISHER is the real deal – a Western singer who actually IS a cowgirl. Tehachapi feels like home to this singing cowgirl. She filled the house when she performed last June at Fiddlers Crossing.
+
Fisher grew up “horse crazy” on a San Joaquin Valley citrus farm, achieving 4-H and FFA honors, listening to the music of Marty Robbins, Joan Baez and Burl Ives and learning Western songs from her father. While in elementary school, Fisher began singing in a trio with her two sisters. She started playing guitar at age seven and wrote her first song at age eight.
+
After graduating from Strathmore High School, Fisher rode her way through the Equine Science program at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, helping neighboring ranchers train horses and winning top honors at Intercollegiate and Quarter Horse shows. Singing big band standards with a dance orchestra was a way of earning entry money for horse shows. Meanwhile, she continued to write her own songs.
+
Fisher moved to Santa Ynez, CA, in 1984 to train cutting horses, and she was soon asked to join a local band. It wasn't long before she was singing in Los Angeles clubs with a popular country band, playing the Western and cowboy music she loved.
+
In 1991, Fisher traded her quarter horses for hunters and jumpers when she accepted a one-year position with a Tennessee hunt club. Living near Nashville gave her the opportunity she needed to hone her songwriting skills. She and her husband, Rusty, still live in Tennessee with their horses.
+
In 1999, Fisher recorded her first Western album, "Tumbleweed Letters." The album led to an invitation to perform at the “Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival” in 2004. That appearance launched her full-time professional career as a Western singer-songwriter. Five albums and many awards later - including the 2007 Western Music Association “Song of the Year,” 2006 WMA “Female Vocalist of the Year,” 2005 Academy of Western Artists “Western Female Vocalist of the Year,” and 2005 WMA “Crescendo Award” – Juni Fisher is one of the most popular singing cowgirls on the cowboy poetry and folk festival circuits. Oh, and in her spare time, she loves to go fly fishing.
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As always, coffee, tea and refreshments are included in the ticket price. Doors open at 6:30 pm, tix, $16.

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Fri, Apr 13, in Ventura Co; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & HILONESOME plus BORDER RADIO bring a double-bill of award-winning bluegrass-Americana to the “FIRESIDE CONCERT SERIES” at Borchard Community Center, 190 Reino, Newbury Park 91320; info, contact Bob Kroll, 805-499-2930 or folksgr1@aol.com

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Sat, Apr 14, CONFERENCE; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 am-5:30 pm WOODY GUTHRIE CONFERENCE: “THIS GREAT AND CROWDED CITY: WOODY GUTHRIE’S LOS ANGELES” at USC’s University Park Campus, in Bovard Auditorium (ADM), University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90089.
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This conference at the University of Southern California features distinguished scholars, musicians, and writers, discussing topics ranging from Guthrie’s itinerant wanderings through California and the far West, the Dust Bowl culture from which he emerged and that so prominently influenced his songs of commentary and protest, and the backdrop of Los Angeles as it emerged from the Depression at the dawn of the Second World War.
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This is one of four key events this week for “The Woody Guthrie Centennial Los Angeles Celebration,” in conjunction with the ongoing global “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration” throughout 2012. The Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration is one of the largest and most comprehensive Centennial celebrations ever staged for an American music icon. For the most up-to-date information and a complete schedule of events for the entire Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration, visit www.woody100.com.
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The GRAMMY Museum, in conjunction with Woody Guthrie Publications, Inc. and the Woody Guthrie Archives, are presenting the “Los Angeles’ Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” It’s the West Coast counterpart to Tulsa’s “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” The April 7-14 series of events in L.A. include educational programming, special performances, a conference at The University Of Southern California, films, lectures and a special tribute concert at Nokia Theater / L.A. Live, all designed to celebrate Guthrie's extraordinary body of work and impact on American music.
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And jump on getting your tix for TONIGHT’s mega-concert with JACKSON BROWNE, DAVID CROSBY & GRAHAM NASH, JOHN DOE, RAMBLIN’ JACK ELLIOTT, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE AND JOHNNY IRION, JOE HENRY, KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, TOM MORELLO, VAN DYKE PARKS, JOEL RAFAEL, ROB WASSERMAN, and more at Nokia Theatre at L.A. Live; see 7:30 pm listing.

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Sat, Apr 14, FESTIVAL, in T.O.:
10 am-5 pm annual “SCANDINAVIAN FESTIVAL” sponsored by the Swedish Folkdance Club of Los Angeles, with VÄSTKUSTENS SPELMANSLAG, KATIRILLI DANCERS with GAMMALDANS BAND, SCANDIA DANCERS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA with GAMMALDANS BAND, BUGGE & JENSEN DANISH MUSICIANS, at California Lutheran University, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks 91360; 805-492-2411 or scanfestival@callutheran.edu.

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Sat, Apr 14, FESTIVAL:
11 am 5 pm “PASADENA EARTH & ARTS FESTIVAL” in Memorial Park and across the street in Armory Center for the Arts, 145 N Raymond Av, Pasadena 91103; 626-792-5101.

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Sat, Apr 14, PSEUDO-FESTIVAL, in Carlsbad:
11 am-4 pm “BLUEGRASS DAY AT THE CARLSBAD FLOWER FIELDS” brings “a variety of bluegrass, old-time and other traditional music bands for some “pickin’ in the posies” and “fiddlin’ in the flowers” on 50 acres of Ranunculus flowers overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
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There are still some openings for bands. Email Corky Shelton at corkys@cox.net for info.
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Sponsored by Summergrass San Diego. The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum provides fun and informative wagon rides (wheelchair accessible) around the site. Info on this event, www.theflowerfields.com or 760-431-0352.

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Sat, Apr 14, live web simulcast; the “RADIO SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 pm LITTLE BLACK TRAIN does a performance-interview on KCBX Public Radio 90.1 FM (on the Central Coast), in cooperation with the Live Oak Music Festival, playing tracks from their upcoming CD, "Barn Dance." The show is “Song Town” with Sonnie Brown.
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Listeners everywhere in the world can hear the simulcast live at www.kcbx.org.
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Acoustic Americana-roots music “oldternative Americana” trio LITTLE BLACK TRAIN is born of veterans of MOLLY’S REVENGE. In this incarnation, they capture the tradition of the golden age of radio, and that’s especially relevant to today’s radio show.
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It’s all a promotion for the group’s 5 pm “Pre CD Release Concert” in Los Osos (see listing) and for their part in this year’s “Live Oak Music Festival” in June. The all-acoustic trio of veteran pickers mixes up an unlikely blend of old-timey songs, bluesy mandolin, and Celtic fiddle to create their unique breed of “oldternative Americana.” In the tradition of early bluegrass, they record live into a pair of stereo microphones, cutting complete takes with no overdubs, for a vintage sound that complements the rich woody tones of fiddle, mandolin, mandola, banjo, and guitar.
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While continuing to mine the rich vein of mountain ore that fertilized their first record, LITTLE BLACK TRAIN expands their range on this release, and Stuart Mason says it’s “like kudzu covering a woodpile.” Most obvious is the trio's inclusion of more blues and gospel songs from the Deep South, with tracks like “Death Don't Have No Mercy,” “Blues in the Bottle,” and “Satan Your Kingdon Must Come Down.”
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As with their first release, the earliest days of country music are recalled, with material from THE CARTER FAMILY, JIMMY RODGERS, and CHARLIE POOLE. West Virginia remains a recurring theme, as they open the record with “Old Black Dog” from the Mountain State's DICK JUSTICE.
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On the album and playing live, JOHN WEED's fiddle leads the way on a set of barn dances from Northern Ireland, transporting the listener to an all-night dance in the 1800s, somewhere back up in the hills. Like a medicine show barker, Blackwell's mandolin adds an element of minstrel-show entertainment as he compels the listener to follow him on a merry chase up and down the neck of his old Gibson. The authentic voice of STUART MASON weaves in and out of the tunes, challenging the mandolin and fiddle to just one more time around. Mason's clawhammer banjo is a key player in the sound, making an appearance on three tracks and adding its punchy drive to the party.
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More at www.littleblacktrain.com and in the concert write-up below (5 pm listing).

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Sat, Apr 14, an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for artists:
3 pm FINGERSTYLE WORKSHOP: RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com

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Sat, Apr 14, in Santa Barbara Co.; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5 pm LITTLE BLACK TRAIN plays their “CD Pre-Release Party” at “THE RED BARN COMMUNITY MUSIC SERIES” in cooperation with KCBX Public Radio and the Live Oak Music Festival, at the Red Barn, 2180 Palisades Av, Los Osos 93402; 805-534-9021.
+
Acoustic Americana-roots music “oldternative Americana” trio LITTLE BLACK TRAIN is born of veterans of MOLLY’S REVENGE. In this incarnation, they capture the tradition of the golden age of radio, and that’s especially important today. They perform live on KCBX 90.1 FM (on the Central Coast) at about 3 pm, during “Song Town” with Sonnie Brown. Listeners everywhere else in the world can hear the simulcast live at www.kcbx.org. (See 3 pm write-up, above.)
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The 5 pm concert at the Red Barn is a sneak preview of their brand new record "Barn Dance" before the CD is available to the general public. There will be advance copies for sale at the show. The all-acoustic trio of veteran pickers mixes up an unlikely blend of old-timey songs, bluesy mandolin, and Celtic fiddle to create their unique breed of “oldternative Americana.” In the tradition of early bluegrass, they record live into a pair of stereo microphones, cutting complete takes with no overdubs, for a vintage sound that complements the rich woody tones of fiddle, mandolin, mandola, banjo, and guitar.
+
While continuing to mine the rich vein of mountain ore that fertilized their first record, LITTLE BLACK TRAIN expands their range on this release, and Stuart Mason says it’s “like kudzu covering a woodpile.” Most obvious is the trio's inclusion of more blues and gospel songs from the Deep South, with tracks like “Death Don't Have No Mercy,” “Blues in the Bottle,” and “Satan Your Kingdon Must Come Down.”
+
As with their first release, the earliest days of country music are recalled, with material from THE CARTER FAMILY, JIMMY RODGERS, and CHARLIE POOLE. West Virginia remains a recurring theme, as they open the record with “Old Black Dog” from the Mountain State's DICK JUSTICE.
+
On the album and playing live, JOHN WEED's fiddle leads the way on a set of barn dances from Northern Ireland, transporting the listener to an all-night dance in the 1800s, somewhere back up in the hills. Like a medicine show barker, Blackwell's mandolin adds an element of minstrel-show entertainment as he compels the listener to follow him on a merry chase up and down the neck of his old Gibson. The authentic voice of STUART MASON weaves in and out of the tunes, challenging the mandolin and fiddle to just one more time around. Mason's clawhammer banjo is a key player in the sound, making an appearance on three tracks and adding its punchy drive to the party.
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More at www.littleblacktrain.com. Tix, $10 donation.

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Sat, Apr 14, in Victorville:
6 pm NEXT GENERATION plays a concert sponsored by the Southwest Bluegrass Association (SWBA) at the West Palms Conservatory, 14375 Del Gado, Victorville (half a block E of cross streets Seneca & El Evado). Benefit for the SWBA “Music in Schools” Program and the SWBA BLUEGRASS KIDS from Victor Elementary Schol District are the opening act. Tix, $8 adults, students free.

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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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They could just as well be named the “Singing the Classic Songs of the 60s Folk Era” group. TONY UNGER, ED LABOWITZ, & MIKE SIROTA, along with bass man BOB PACKHAM, grew up in the 1960's and fell in love with the story songs and three-part harmonies of that acoustic era. Ed and Tony have been a duo on and off since their days at Hollywood High School. Mike joined the group in 2003 and Bob in early 2005. They made the phones ring and were big hits with listeners to radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” both times they played live on the show.
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Much of their repertoire is familiar to audiences of all ages. You’ll especially get a kick out of their arranged medley of the great TV Western theme songs of the 50s (like “Rawhide” and “Bonanza”). They are reminiscent of the great groups of the era, but they have their own unique blend, sound – and humor. More at www.thefolkcollection.com
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Tix, $20.

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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm LES CHARBONNIERS DE L'ENFER Quebec A Cappella ensemble at The Getty Center’s Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles 90049; 310-440-7300. They perform tonight and Sunday at 3 pm.

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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-YEAR” pick:
7:30 pm “THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND ~ THE WOODY GUTHRIE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION CONCERT” with performances of classic Woody Guthrie songs by JACKSON BROWNE, DAVID CROSBY & GRAHAM NASH, JOHN DOE, RAMBLIN’ JACK ELLIOTT, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE AND JOHNNY IRION, JOE HENRY, KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, TOM MORELLO, VAN DYKE PARKS, JOEL RAFAEL, ROB WASSERMAN, and more at Club Nokia at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles.
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This is “The pinnacle” of the Los Angeles celebration and only the second performance of “This Land Is Your Land…”
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Ticket prices range from $40-95. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlet, online at www.ticketmaster.com, and Mon-Fri, 10 am-5 pm, at the STAPLES Center Box Office located at 1111 S Figueroa St. No fees are charged at the STAPLES Center box office or at the Club Nokia box office on show days (open after 5 pm).
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This is one of four key events this week for “The Woody Guthrie Centennial Los Angeles Celebration,” in conjunction with the ongoing global “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration” throughout 2012. The Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration is one of the largest and most comprehensive Centennial celebrations ever staged for an American music icon. For the most up-to-date information and a complete schedule of events for the entire Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration, visit www.woody100.com.
+
The GRAMMY Museum, in conjunction with Woody Guthrie Publications, Inc. and the Woody Guthrie Archives, are presenting the “Los Angeles’ Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” It’s the West Coast counterpart to Tulsa’s “Woody Guthrie Centennial Celebration.” The April 7-14 series of events in L.A. include educational programming, special performances, a conference at The University Of Southern California, films, lectures and a special tribute concert at Nokia Theater / L.A. Live, all designed to celebrate Guthrie's extraordinary body of work and impact on American music.

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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JUNI FISHER, a major Western music star, plays OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087.
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JUNI FISHER is the real deal – a Western singer who actually IS a cowgirl. Fisher grew up “horse crazy” on a San Joaquin Valley citrus farm, achieving 4-H and FFA honors, listening to the music of Marty Robbins, Joan Baez and Burl Ives and learning Western songs from her father. While in elementary school, Fisher began singing in a trio with her two sisters. She started playing guitar at age seven and wrote her first song at age eight.
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After graduating from Strathmore High School, Fisher rode her way through the Equine Science program at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, helping neighboring ranchers train horses and winning top honors at Intercollegiate and Quarter Horse shows. Singing big band standards with a dance orchestra was a way of earning entry money for horse shows. Meanwhile, she continued to write her own songs.
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Fisher moved to Santa Ynez, CA, in 1984 to train cutting horses, and she was soon asked to join a local band. It wasn't long before she was singing in Los Angeles clubs with a popular country band, playing the Western and cowboy music she loved.
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In 1991, Fisher traded her quarter horses for hunters and jumpers when she accepted a one-year position with a Tennessee hunt club. Living near Nashville gave her the opportunity she needed to hone her songwriting skills. She and her husband, Rusty, still live in Tennessee with their horses.
+
In 1999, Fisher recorded her first Western album, "Tumbleweed Letters." The album led to an invitation to perform at the “Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival” in 2004. That appearance launched her full-time professional career as a Western singer-songwriter. Five albums and many awards later - including the 2007 Western Music Association “Song of the Year,” 2006 WMA “Female Vocalist of the Year,” 2005 Academy of Western Artists “Western Female Vocalist of the Year,” and 2005 WMA “Crescendo Award” – Juni Fisher is one of the most popular singing cowgirls on the cowboy poetry and folk festival circuits. Oh, and in her spare time, she loves to go fly fishing.
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Tix, $25.

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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
+
They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com
.
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Sat, Apr 14; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JEFFREY FOUCAULT plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. A big hit among fans of New Folk, he does his part to enrich the genre.

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Sat, Apr 14, in South OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm The TAJ MAHAL TRIO plays The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano 92675; 949-496-8927. Few musicians touring today are as storied as Taj, and his musicianship is still tops.

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Sat, Apr 14:
10 pm GWENDOLYN & HER NEW FANGLED COUNTRY BAND plus WALTER SPENSER and OLENTANGY JOHN play Hillbilly Hip, 127 S Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga. It’s a “cool vintage store and venue,” and this is a hot lineup. $10 cover, all ages.

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Sun, Apr 15:
11 am CATHY FINK & MARCY MARXER play the Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $10; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, Apr 15; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
1 pm JUNI FISHER brings her award-winning Western music to Altadena Stables, 3064 Ridgeview Dr, Altadena 91001; 626-797-2012; www.bighatonline.com. For details, email big.hat@sbcglobal.net. Reservations required. Refreshments at noon, music at 1 pm.
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JUNI FISHER is the real deal – a Western singer who actually IS a cowgirl. Fisher grew up “horse crazy” on a San Joaquin Valley citrus farm, achieving 4-H and FFA honors, listening to the music of Marty Robbins, Joan Baez and Burl Ives and learning Western songs from her father. While in elementary school, Fisher began singing in a trio with her two sisters. She started playing guitar at age seven and wrote her first song at age eight.
+
After graduating from Strathmore High School, Fisher rode her way through the Equine Science program at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, helping neighboring ranchers train horses and winning top honors at Intercollegiate and Quarter Horse shows. Singing big band standards with a dance orchestra was a way of earning entry money for horse shows. Meanwhile, she continued to write her own songs.
+
Fisher moved to Santa Ynez, CA, in 1984 to train cutting horses, and she was soon asked to join a local band. It wasn't long before she was singing in Los Angeles clubs with a popular country band, playing the Western and cowboy music she loved.
+
In 1991, Fisher traded her quarter horses for hunters and jumpers when she accepted a one-year position with a Tennessee hunt club. Living near Nashville gave her the opportunity she needed to hone her songwriting skills. She and her husband, Rusty, still live in Tennessee with their horses.
+
In 1999, Fisher recorded her first Western album, "Tumbleweed Letters." The album led to an invitation to perform at the “Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival” in 2004. That appearance launched her full-time professional career as a Western singer-songwriter. Five albums and many awards later - including the 2007 Western Music Association “Song of the Year,” 2006 WMA “Female Vocalist of the Year,” 2005 Academy of Western Artists “Western Female Vocalist of the Year,” and 2005 WMA “Crescendo Award” – Juni Fisher is one of the most popular singing cowgirls on the cowboy poetry and folk festival circuits. Oh, and in her spare time, she loves to go fly fishing.

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Sun, Apr 15; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 pm LES CHARBONNIERS DE L'ENFER Quebec A Cappella ensemble at The Getty Center’s Harold M. Williams Auditorium, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles 90049; 310-440-7300. They perform here today, and last night.

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Sun, Apr 15; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5-9 pm The 6th “GRAND OLE ECHO” season of roots-Americana and alt country returns today for its spring-through-fall run, at the Echo in Echo Park, this evening with OLD CALIFORNIO, MATT LAX & NEARLY BELOVED, and JEREMY LITTLE. This one would be a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick almost without regard to who is playing today, simply because the series is BACK for its 2012 season, it always delivers a fine time, and it’s consistently the best no-cover multi-artist show anywhere in L.A. Woo-hoo!

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Sun, Apr 15:
7 pm CATALANOCALVO ACOUSTIC DUO at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm). Roberto Catalano: guitars and mandolin, and Carlos Calvo: guitars and requinto, present a surprisingly eclectic selection of instrumentals from Nuevo Flamenco, Gypsy Jazz, Rock hits, Jazz standards, Cuban and Mexican love ballads, as well as original compositions, performed with a snug yet ardent sense of passion and intimacy. Be transported around the world with melodies and improvisations by these two acoustic masters of style, elegance, and flair. Tix, $20.

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Sun, Apr 15:
7 pm CARAVAN OF THIEVES plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.

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Sun, Apr 15, in Ventura:
9:30 pm NEARLY BELOVED plays Zoeys Café, 185 E Santa Clara St, Ventura 93001; 805-652-1137.

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Sun, Apr 15; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
1 pm monthly “WESTERN MUSIC JAM” at the Museum of the American West / Autry Nat’l Center (aka Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, Los Angeles 90027; 323-667-2000. A jam, as a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick? This time, yep, pardner, absolutely. It’s purt near extra-special this month, because many western music stars are in town for next weekend’s SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL, and some will surely take part in today’s round-robin performances. The monthly event is co-sponsored by the Western Music Association’s California Chapter. It’s free with museum admission, and there’s free museum admission for card-carrying WMA members, plus a guest, AND for all musicians and cowboy poets who are performing.

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Tue, Apr 17; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm).
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They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com
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Tix, $15.

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Tue, Apr 17, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10 pm THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS play a late set at Winston’s, 1921 Bacon St, San Diego 92107; 619-222-6822. So far away, and so late at night. Still, mighty tempting to make the trip to see these guys play. Or catch ’em tomorrow at 9 pm in Hermosa Beach (see listing).

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Wed, Apr 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm DAR WILLIAMS plays The Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, West Hollywood 90048; 310-855-0350. She’s attained respect and popularity among folkies for the best of all reasons: she’s really, really good.

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Wed, Apr 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 pm THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS play Saint Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach 90254; 310-372-0035.

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Thu-Sun, Apr 19-22; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with DON EDWARDS, WADDIE MITCHELL, THE QUEBE SISTERS BAND, DAVE STAMEY, COW BOP, R.W. HAMPTON, CARIN MARIE & PONY EXPRESS, BRENN HILL, JON CHANDLER & THE WICHITONES, DORIS DALEY, ADRIAN THE BUCKAROO GIRL, GARY ROBERTSON, THE BATTALION BAND OF CALIFORNIA, and many more.
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This has become the top western music festival in America, with all-day Saturday & Sunday events at Gene Autry’s old western town movie set, Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio in Newhall (Santa Clarita), where there are multiple stages of music, cowboy poetry, top-quality western attire, art and more you can buy, plus good food you can carry to your seat at any of the stages.
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The movie set town becomes a true Brigadoon, as vendors move into the storefronts and bring them to life for the weekend. It’s the only film set where the buildings have complete interiors, so it’s the only place where this is even possible.
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The festival takes maximum advantage of all the possibilities at this unique site and nearby historic places, including silent movie star William S. Hart’s ranch. Events begin Thursday at historic sites and concert halls, and local western history tours are available Thursday and Friday. There’s even a musical western BBQ in a museum village of restored historic buildings. All the “extras” sell-out, so hop on it.
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One free and unofficial event is the annual gathering of western musicians playing the festival at the Saugus Café for evening jams.
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Tix and info for all events are available at www.cowboyfestival.org or 661-250-3735. Yee-Hah!

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Thu, Apr 19:
6 pm L.A. BLUEGRASSHOPPERS play the Fowler Museum at UCLA North Campus, 405 Hilgard Av, Westwood 90095; 310-825-4361.

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Thu, Apr 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm JIMMIE DALE GILMORE plays the “AMSD Concert” Series, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego 92116; 619-303-8176.

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Thu, Apr 19, in Ventura; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MICHELLE SHOCKED plays Zoeys Café, 185 E Santa Clara St, Ventura 93001; 805-652-1137. One of the best female singer-songwriters and performing songwriters on the planet. Seriously.

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Thu, Apr 19:
7 pm John York: BYRDS AND BEYOND with Billy Darnell & Chad Watson at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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A former member of the legendary folk-rock band, The Byrds, John York has played with The Mamas and the Papas, Dr. John, Johnny Rivers, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, The Sir Douglas Quintet, Rolling Stones keyboardist Nicky Hopkins, and Blues legend Lightin' Hopkins. Joining him on stage will be Billy Darnell, who played guitar for the Gene Clark Byrds, The Everly Brothers, Dr. John and Doug Kershaw, and Roger McGuinn, and Chad Watson, legendary bass player for Janis Ian, Delaney Bramlett, Charlie Rich, Freddy Fender and countless other artists.
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The show is filled with familiar Byrds tunes for sing-along, fine original songs and great interpretations of songs from the era.. and the best music this side of Bob Dylan and the Band. Come join us for an evening of great artistry and entertainment.
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Tix, $20.

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Fri, Apr 20; Thu-Sun, Apr 19-22; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with DON EDWARDS, WADDIE MITCHELL, THE QUEBE SISTERS BAND, DAVE STAMEY, COW BOP, R.W. HAMPTON, CARIN MARIE & PONY EXPRESS, BRENN HILL, JON CHANDLER & THE WICHITONES, DORIS DALEY, ADRIAN THE BUCKAROO GIRL, GARY ROBERTSON, THE BATTALION BAND OF CALIFORNIA, and many more.
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See full write-up in Thursday, Apr 19 listing.

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Fri-Sun, Apr 20-22, in Chula Vista:
Annual “SPRING CAMPOUT” sponsored by SAN DIEGO NORTH COUNTY BLUEGRASS & FOLK CLUB at San Diego KOA Campground, 111 N 2nd St, Chula Vista 91910. Info, 619-743-1442. It’s a giant collection of jams in a 270 acre park.

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Fri, Apr 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS play the “LORD OF THE STRINGS” Concert Series at Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan St, Dana Point 92629; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656. This series has two venues; they play the other venue tomorrow night at 7.
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They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com

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Fri, Apr 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MICHELLE SHOCKED plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. One of the best female singer-songwriters and performing songwriters on the planet. Seriously.

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Fri, Apr 20, in Ventura:
8 pm BEV BARNETT and GREG NEWLON play Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001.
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This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.

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Fri, Apr 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “An Evening with TOM HIATT & THE SUNDOWN RIDERS” at OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Apr 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10:45 pm THE QUEBE SISTERS BAND, National Fiddle Champions all (including the guy who accompanies them on guitar), play a late set at the Chit Chat Club at The Park Plaza, 607 S Park View St, Los Angeles 90057. Beautiful songbirds, astonishing fiddlers, they deliver multi-fiddle arrangements of Western Swing that you can’t hear from anyone else.

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Sat, Apr 21; Thu-Sun, Apr 19-22; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with DON EDWARDS, WADDIE MITCHELL, THE QUEBE SISTERS BAND, DAVE STAMEY, COW BOP, R.W. HAMPTON, CARIN MARIE & PONY EXPRESS, BRENN HILL, JON CHANDLER & THE WICHITONES, DORIS DALEY, ADRIAN THE BUCKAROO GIRL, GARY ROBERTSON, THE BATTALION BAND OF CALIFORNIA, and many more.
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See full write-up in Thursday, Apr 18 listing.

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Sat, Apr 21:
9 am annual “RELAY FOR LIFE OF SUNLAND/TUJUNGA” benefit for the American Cancer Society, with plenty of music all day, including a featured 9 am set by PAUL MARSHALL (I See Hawks in L.A.) and one at noon by KAREN TOBIN, on stage at the Relay event at Verdugo Hills High School, Sunland / Tujunga.

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Sat & Sun, Apr 21 & 22, FESTIVAL, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Noon-9:30 pm “ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED” with LARRY & DEBORAH HANKS, TOMCAT COURTNEY, THE SAN DIEGO CAJUN PLAYBOYS, CURT BOUTERSE, THE BUDAPEST BROTHERS, ROSS ALTMAN, CHRIS CLARKE & PLOW, SIAMSA GAEL CEILI BAND, LOS CALIFORNIOS, JEFF BERKLEY, YALE STROM & HOT PASTROMI, and more, along a closed-to-traffic stretch of Adams Avenue, in Normal Heights, San Diego; 619-282-7833. This acoustic stage at the ADAMS AVENUE STREET FESTIVAL is presented by Lou Curtiss and Folk Arts Rare Records.
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Sat, Apr 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm ROSS ALTMAN performs his original musical socio-political historical odyssey, “THE BALLAD OF TOM JOAD: WOODY GUTHRIE & THE GRAPES OF WRATH,” at the Ray G. Clark Theater, Institute of Musical Arts, 3210 West 54th St, Los Angeles 90043. We’re glad to report that we’ve seen this show. It’s informative, moving, and you leave with new understanding and fresh questions about the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl era, and profound appreciation of those who came through it all and left their marks on our art and our history.
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Sat, Apr 21, in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm MICHELLE SHOCKED plays the “OJAI CONCERT SERIES” at Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai 92023; 805-649-5189. One of the best female singer-songwriters and performing songwriters on the planet. Seriously.
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We learned from the series bookers, on April 5, that tix are going fast, so don’t dawdle.
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And note: this show appears elsewhere, listed at 8 pm. The Ojai series confirms it is at 7 pm.
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Sat, Apr 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm PHIL CHRISTIE plus SHELBY, TIEG & TARA play Phil’s annual ‘EARTH DAY SHOW” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm).
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Canadian singer-songwriter PHIL CHRISTIE returns with special guests MICHAEL VALENTINE and the dynamic and youthful SHELBY, TIEG & TARA.
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Christie, ever the warm, engaging performer, has been touring in support of his CD Rearview Mirror with premiere showcase performances at Folk Alliance, FARWest, and the legendary Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. The disc has been blazing a trail at Folk / Americana / NPR radio stations worldwide, with over 100+ stations playlisted to date including XM Satellite Radio’s folk channel The Village. Christie has also generated superlative reviews in the media…“Some of the most well crafted songs this writer has heard since the hey day of the Brill building - B. Noel Barr, RANDOM LENGTHS” … “This artist is one to watch RATING: (5 out of 5 Stars) - INTERNATIONAL ACOUSTIC MUSIC AWARDS”…“It's not often you hear a voice as strong as Phil Christie's. Though he keeps it well leashed, the potency and muscularity reverberate in every verse he sings” - Mark S. Tucker, FOLK & ACOUSTIC MUSIC EXCHANGE”…. “Christie’s tales of every day life are sure to ring a bell when you are looking for some meaty songwriting you can get into” - Chris Spector MIDWEST RECORD.” Only a few select live dates are planned for this year before Christie heads into the studio to record his first Christmas album in 2013. www.philchristie.com
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Sunland, California’s SHELBY, TIEG & TARA are a singing-songwriting folk trio. They’ve been described as being like the sisters that Simon and Garfunkel never had. The trio formed in December of ’09 when Tieg Johnson somehow managed to convince his two favorite singers, Shelby Lindley and Tara Louise, to be in a band with him. Equipped with only their voices and an acoustic guitar, they found they were able to put a unique sound on each other’s original songs. Shelby, Tieg & Tara are avidly performing in the local area with over 60 performances already under their belt. They released their debut EP “Beauty Wood” May 30, 2010 and their follow-up “Off to Neverland” on January 29, 2011 to a sold out audience at the NoHo Arts Center. They are always posting new recordings at www.ShelbyTiegAndTara.BandCamp.com. Their latest release “Mother, Father, Daughter” is a 3 song EP about family and is available online now.
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Tix, $18.
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Sat, Apr 21, in OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm RICHARD SMITH & JULIE ADAMS play the “LORD OF THE STRINGS” Concert Series at Mission Viejo Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo 92691; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656. This series has two venues; they played the other one last night at 7:30 pm.
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They are a virtuoso guitar and cello duo playing an eclectic mix of music from the Beatles to Bach to Bluegrass. Richard and Julie’s ever changing repertoire includes a wide variety of music from Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, standards, Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed tunes, Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, Bach, Beatles tunes, pop tunes, Chopin, originals, lightning fast barn-burners to beautiful ballads. This promises to be an outstanding blend of virtuoso musicianship and vocals. Richard’s flawless technique and Julie’s lyrical style and luscious tone, will have your toes tapping , melt your heartstrings and have your jaws hanging open. www.richardsmithmusic.com
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Sat, Apr 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS bring their award-winning Western harmonies to Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, Apr 21:
8 pm GRANT LEE PHILLIPS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Sat, Apr 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER AND THE OLD #7 bring their raucous bluegrass-Americana to the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont 91711; 909-624-2928. This is a good venue for them, surrounded by plenty of instruments that decorate the walls. You’ll think all those strings are making music.
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Sat, Apr 21, in Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ROBERT EARL “ROBBIE” LONGLEY plus BEV BARNETT & GREG NEWLON at Russ and Julie’s House Concerts in Oak Park. Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179 or rsvp@houseconcerts.us
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Robbie Longley is one of the best guitarists you’ll ever see, because his showmanship is such a part of his performance that merely hearing him isn’t enough. From time to time, he’ll be playing an intricate riff, and your eyes and ears cannot reconcile things, because his right hand is straight up in the air over his head, and his left is flying all over the fret board. The intimate setting of a house concert really brings that home, far better than watching (and hearing) him on a big stage. You must see Robert Earl “Robbie” Longley to believe it.
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Sat, Apr 21:
8 pm-midnight BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO band plays “An Evening of Cajun and Zydeco Music” at Monrovia Knights Of Columbus Hall, 130 West Pomona Av (at Myrtle, 1 block S of 210 Fwy), Monrovia 91016; 626-484-1823 or 626-358-1718. "Great Gumbo" available. Laisses Les Bon Temp Rouler. CDs available. Tix, $13.
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Sat, Apr 21, in OC; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm KEOLA BEAMER & RAIATEA bring award-winning Hawai’ian music to the Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr, Irvine 92697; 949-854-4646. Presented by Kerry Records.

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Sat, Apr 21:
7 pm RICK SHEA & CLAIRE HOLLEY play “Bliss' Cabin Concert,” an acoustic series in Sierra Madre. Browse for info.
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Sat, Apr 21, in Ventura:
8 pm THE BYRTLES bring their “Acoustic Musical Journey” to Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001.
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This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.
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Sun, Apr 22; Thu-Sun, Apr 19-22; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL” with DON EDWARDS, WADDIE MITCHELL, THE QUEBE SISTERS BAND, DAVE STAMEY, COW BOP, R.W. HAMPTON, CARIN MARIE & PONY EXPRESS, BRENN HILL, JON CHANDLER & THE WICHITONES, DORIS DALEY, ADRIAN THE BUCKAROO GIRL, GARY ROBERTSON, THE BATTALION BAND OF CALIFORNIA, and many more.
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See full write-up in Thursday, Apr 18 listing.

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Sun, Apr 22; Sat & Sun, Apr 21-22, FESTIVAL, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Noon-9:30 pm “ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED” with LARRY & DEBORAH HANKS, TOMCAT COURTNEY, THE SAN DIEGO CAJUN PLAYBOYS, CURT BOUTERSE, THE BUDAPEST BROTHERS, ROSS ALTMAN, CHRIS CLARKE & PLOW, SIAMSA GAEL CEILI BAND, LOS CALIFORNIOS, JEFF BERKLEY, YALE STROM & HOT PASTROMI, and more, along a closed-to-traffic stretch of Adams Avenue, in Normal Heights, San Diego; 619-282-7833. This acoustic stage at the ADAMS AVENUE STREET FESTIVAL is presented by Lou Curtiss and Folk Arts Rare Records.
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Sun, Apr 22:
3 pm ZHENA FOLK CHORUS play the Grand Annex, 434 West 6th St, San Pedro 90731; 310-833-6362.
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Sun, Apr 22, in the desert:
3 pm BRETT MIKELS plays the Slater-Lunsford Pavilion house concert series in Lancaster, 93536, produced by Desert Song Productions.
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Sun, Apr 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm ERIC ANDERSEN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50.
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Sun, Apr 22, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MICHELLE SHOCKED plays the Oasis House Concerts in Sorrento Valley, San Diego 92121. Check her website for info. One of the best female singer-songwriters and performing songwriters on the planet. Seriously.

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Tue, Apr 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE MILK CARTON KIDS play The Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, West Hollywood 90048; 310-855-0350. They create quite a buzz playing Ventura County venues, and their popularity is rapidly spreading south. Tonight will make you a fan.

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Thu & Fri, Apr 26 & 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND play two nights at the L.A. Sports Arena. Get tix right away, it’ll sell-out. The Boss is a musical powerhouse, a phenomenon who toured traditional roots-Americana globally, in addition to his classic catalogue of original rock ballads with some of that genre’s best-ever lyrics. We wouldn’t be surprised if a Stephen Foster song punctuates “Thunder Road” and “Born to Run.” Your cultural literacy requires you see The Boss at least once – and then discover that once is not enough.

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Thu, Apr 26, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm MARSHALL CRENSHAW plays the “AMSD CONCERT” Series. 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego 92116; 619-303-8176.

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Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.

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Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Arizona:
7th Annual “BENSON BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK” with acts from Branson, Missouri and several Western states, including GOLD WING EXPRESS, LONESOME OTIS, TRIPLE L BAND, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, THE BURNETT FAMILY BAND, THE HEY BOYZ, BOST FAMILY TRADITIONS, JAM PAK ‘N’ BLUES NEIGHBORHOOD BAND, FIDDLEMANIA, and workshops, jams and more, on the grass at Lions Park in historic Benson, AZ. Info and tix, www.bluegrassben.com or call the Benson Chamber of Commerce at 520-586-2842.

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Fri, Apr 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER AND THE OLD #7 bring their raucous bluegrass-Americana to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm). Cliff especially likes this venue, as does every musician who’s ever played it. And Cliff oughta know, having played on national TV with the best lighting and sound reinforcement they could provide.

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Fri, Apr 27:
8 pm HOWE GELB at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $17.50.

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Fri, Apr 27, in Temecula; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BAYOU BROTHERS play the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).

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Sat, Apr 28; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.

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Sat, Apr 28, FESTIVAL, in San Diego Co.; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Noon-8 pm annual “TRAIN SONGS FESTIVAL” presented by “SAN DIEGO FOLK HERITAGE” at Templars Hall in Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway 92064; 858-566-4040. We always say we’ll go, we always get good reports from those who do, and we’re always at one or more other festivals the weekend of this one. One treat here: there’s a real steam railroad operating in this big park, and it chuffs and puffs for the festival.

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Sat, Apr 28; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “FOUR FRIENDS ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES” dinner-and-a-show brings HENHOUSE - SHERRY AUSTIN, SHARON ALLEN, & RICK SHEA to the Four Friends Gallery, 1408 E Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks 91362; 805-497-4022; info@fourfriendsgallery.com
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HENHOUSE has found that magical combination in music that's often wished for, but rarely found. Whether singing their own material or the songs of Kate Wolf and others, these four great vocalists come together to form an exquisite blend of harmonies. With Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen on guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and Santa Cruz legend, Patti Maxine on steel guitar, their music truly engages listeners with their warm and engaging spirit.
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"With four of the most popular Americana vocalists in the Monterey Bay area, Sherry Austin with Henhouse delights their fans with their engaging stage presence, upbeat songs, and etherial harmonies. Fronted by Sherry Austin on Rhythm guitar and vocals, with Sharon Allen on vocals and guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and vocals, and Patti Maxine on steel and vocals, their music covers the range from sweet love songs to gritty, rockin' songs about cars, trains, and love gone wrong. They sing with authority and passion, their distinctive blend of folk, country and rock, is filled with warmth and conviction. The bandperforms original songs written by Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen, as well as much loved covers by Americana artists, such as Kate Wolf, Townes Van Zandt, and Nanci Griffith. The blend of harmonies between the four women is exquisite."
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RICK SHEA has worked with everyone from roots rock kingpin Dave Alvin to folk chanteuse Katy Moffatt to indie rock legends R.E.M. Rick Shea has been hailed as "one of L.A. 's most talented songwriters" Music Connection and „staunchly independent...represents the best of California music,‰ LA Weekly. Shea's songs embrace everything from norteño and border rock to traditional folk and country music. He brings his smooth and bittersweet voice and "marvelous" guitar playing to this party, guaranteeing its success.

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Sat, Apr 28, in the desert; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SALTY SUITES and EVAN MARSHALL team-up to play the High Desert Center for the Arts, 15615 8th Av, Victorville 92395; 760-243-7493.
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They play the local performing arts center tonight and a concert tomorrow at 5 pm in a Hesperia church. Either show, you’re sure to be treated to some mandolin duets by world-renowned master player Evan Marshall and wunderkind Scott Gates.
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SALTY SUITES, the band with Gates, CHELSEA WILLIAMS, and CHUCK HAILES, is among the rising stars of string trios on the circuit today. CHELSEA WILLIAMS, who still gigs as a solo artist as well as a member of the SALTY SUITES, is the girl singing in that Chevy commercial airing on national TV, and it won the top national award at the NAMM Show in January for use of music.

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Sat, Apr 28, in Temecula:
7:30 pm ROGER CHASE, violinist, and MICHIKO OTAKI, pianist, at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).

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Sat, Apr 28:
8 pm SUSANNA HOFFS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.

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Sat, Apr 28, in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BERKLEY HART, the top award-winning duo from San Diego, travels north to play the Trinity Backstage Coffee House, 1500 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-962-2970.

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Sat, Apr 28, in Ventura:
8 pm JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS play Sandbox Coffeehouse, 204 E Thompson Bl, Ventura 93001.
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This is a new venue, opened in 2012. Its founders are the same folks who operated the lost and lamented Kava Dume in Agoura Hills from 2002-2008. Steve Brandik from the “Boney Mountain House Concert” series is working with the venue to book music events, so put it on your radar and check their website from time to time: www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com.
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Sun, Apr 29; Fri-Sun, Apr 27-29, FESTIVAL, in Indio; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STAGECOACH FESTIVAL” has two stages of roots-Americana along with a “Mane Stage” of Nashville stars; the huge lineup includes STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS, THE GRASCALS, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, J.D. CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, and a whoooole lot more, at Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio 92201.

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Sun, Apr 29:
11 am TED JACOBS plays a Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $8; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2:30 pm matinee brings the JEAN SUDBURY & RUBEN RAMOS QUARTET at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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“Jean and Ruben expertly weaves these distinct sounds to create music that is entirely their own, and they know it as well. Sudbury and Ramos’ new album is called Connexion Eclectique, a play on the group’s unmistakable personality.” - Paolo Balboa, Socal.com
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These imaginative musicians combine varied experience in life and music, creating a distinct style that blends Latin, French, Argentine, Brazilian and Americana. The music is refreshingly original, yet traditional.
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JEAN SUDBURY is a consummate fiddler / violinist. Her solo and section work includes concerts with small ensembles and big orchestras, recordings for TV and movies, and many compact disc collaborations with independent artists and composers. She has been a featured soloist on violin and mandolin with the Utah Symphony, the Pacific Symphony, the American Ballet Theater Orchestra, and other noted ensembles. Jean has performed at such places as the Universal Amphitheater, the Greek Theater, the Disney Hall, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Warner Brother's Studios, Capitol Records, Sony Studios, the Hollywood Bowl, and on the Tonight Show. Her diversity remains tops in multiple genres. The top album award for a western music group, won by the TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, includes Jean on fiddle.
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Jean is ''...infinitely expressive and technically dazzling.'' - L.A. Times.
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RUBEN RAMOS is an accomplished guitarist and bassist who has played worldwide from his home base in the Los Angeles area, working with THE TEN TENORS from Australia, JIM STUBBLEFIELD of the group INCENDIO (Flamenco), EDDIE MONEY, MIKE GURLEY of the band DADA, PATTY ANDREWS, BURLIEGH DRUMMOND (AMBROSIA and TIN DRUM). Ruben has performed at The Hollywood Bowl, The Wiltern, The San Diego Civic Center, Historic Dayton Ohio’s Victoria Theater, Catalina Jazz Club, and the Alex Theater in Glendale.
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BRYAN BROCK is the quiet percussion master. He has combined his inherent skill and talent with a unique education, having studied in the U.S. (at the renowned music school, North Texas University) and abroad (rigorous international training in Africa and Cuba to learn the intricacies of different indigenous styles). His studio and live work have led him to perform with such diverse artists as DR. DRE, PERLA BATALLA, FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS, and PIECES OF A DREAM. He is a current member of the World Guitar Fusion group INCENDIO and will add his talents to this night of beautiful music.
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CARL ROYCE is an outstanding upright bassist who hails from New York City,where he has performed on stages as diverse as the historic Village Vanguard, the notorious CBGB's, and Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater. He has performed in Mexico, Cuba, Japan, and throughout the U.S. His love of the string bass spans a variety of musical styles, from jazz to Cuban Son to experimental and Americana.
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“This band is a culmination of passion for the styles of music we both love. Our music represents a wide palette of styles including, Latin, French, Italian, Americana, and our own mixtures created in our own original compositions done with passion and romance.” - Jean Sudbury and Ruben Ramos.
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Tix, $15 / $13 students.

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Sun, Apr 29, in the desert; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5 pm SALTY SUITES and EVAN MARSHALL team-up to play the Temple Baptist Church, 9280 Maple Av, Hesperia 92345; 760-244-4109. They play the local performing arts center in Victorville (at 7:30 pm) the night before this concert in a Hesperia church. Either show, you’re sure to be treated to some mandolin duets by world-renowned master player Evan Marshall and wunderkind Scott Gates.
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SALTY SUITES, the band with Gates, CHELSEA WILLIAMS, and CHUCK HAILES, is among the rising stars of string trios on the circuit today. CHELSEA WILLIAMS, who still gigs as a solo artist as well as a member of the SALTY SUITES, is the girl singing in that Chevy commercial airing on national TV, and it won the top national award at the NAMM Show in January for use of music.

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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “BENEFIT FOR FOLKWORKS” with LISA HALEY, KEN O’MALLEY & THE NEER DUWELS, NEVENKA, and KB SOLOMON, at Santa Monica YWCA, 2019 14th St, Santa Monica 90405.
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FolkWorks is presenting a benefit concert in support of itself, an important e-zine. The lineup is representative of the folk community that FolkWorks promotes and supports – world music and folk-Americana music, dance, storytelling, folk life, folk craft, cultures.
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About the performers…
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GRAMMY Nominee LISA HALEY and her trademark blue fiddle were nominated for “Cajun/ Zydeco Album of the Year," and in her live performance, Lisa is "Joyful, exotic... a la the bluesy moans of Janis Joplin..." says the Los Angeles Times. Lisa Haley & the Zydekats are acclaimed as “The most joyful Americana / Cajun / Zydeco act on tour today!” She is fiddler, dancer, vocalist, and songwriter, serving-up heart-moving Louisiana bayou rhythms, traditional stylings and original songs speaking to all ages.
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KEN O’MALLEY & THE NEER DUWELS – KEN, PAT D’ARCY, & BRYAN DOBBS. Ken O’Malley is a musician, singer, writer and producer. The Irish News has called him "the single most enduring, influential and proficient of all Irish musicians in Southern California". Well-known throughout the western United States and Ireland, he's been a member and leader of many musical groups in Los Angeles including Blended Spirits, The Mulligans and The Twilight Lords. He also enjoys a successful career as a solo artist in the bardic tradition of Irish storyteller and musician.
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NEVENKA is the premier Los Angeles-based women's folk chorus that performs songs from Eastern Europe with spellbinding harmonies.
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KB SOLOMON brings “the warm, treacle sounds of Lou Rawls or Barry White stirred into a dark, mouthwatering gateau. Mix in an authentic helping of blues and soul, spiced with a zest of operatic pedigree - and the recipe comes alive.”
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Tickets can be purchased in advance by sending a check for $20 general / $25 for reserved front rows. Send to FolkWorks, PO Box 55051, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413. They tell us, “Online ticketing will be soon.”

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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm HENHOUSE - SHERRY AUSTIN, SHARON ALLEN, & RICK SHEA - at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236 (call 10 am-10 pm).
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HENHOUSE has found that magical combination in music that's often wished for, but rarely found. Whether singing their own material or the songs of Kate Wolf and others, these four great vocalists come together to form an exquisite blend of harmonies. With Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen on guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and Santa Cruz legend, Patti Maxine on steel guitar, their music truly engages listeners with their warm and engaging spirit.
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"With four of the most popular Americana vocalists in the Monterey Bay area, Sherry Austin with Henhouse delights their fans with their engaging stage presence, upbeat songs, and etherial harmonies. Fronted by Sherry Austin on Rhythm guitar and vocals, with Sharon Allen on vocals and guitar, Tracy Parker on bass and vocals, and Patti Maxine on steel and vocals, their music covers the range from sweet love songs to gritty, rockin' songs about cars, trains, and love gone wrong. They sing with authority and passion, their distinctive blend of folk, country and rock, is filled with warmth and conviction. The bandperforms original songs written by Sherry Austin and Sharon Allen, as well as much loved covers by Americana artists, such as Kate Wolf, Townes Van Zandt, and Nanci Griffith. The blend of harmonies between the four women is exquisite."
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RICK SHEA has worked with everyone from roots rock kingpin Dave Alvin to folk chanteuse Katy Moffatt to indie rock legends R.E.M. Rick Shea has been hailed as "one of L.A. 's most talented songwriters" Music Connection and „staunchly independent...represents the best of California music,‰ LA Weekly. Shea's songs embrace everything from norteño and border rock to traditional folk and country music. He brings his smooth and bittersweet voice and "marvelous" guitar playing to this party, guaranteeing its success. Tix, $15.

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Sun, Apr 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm PETER HIMMELMAN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.

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Sun, Apr 29, in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm The STEEP CANYON RANGERS play the beautiful Granada Theatre, 1214 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-899-2222. Lately, they’re mega-famous as the band that backs banjo master / comedian / actor STEVE MARTIN, but the band is first-rate on their own, as they’ll demonstrate tonight.

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Tue-Sun, May 1-6:
“HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL” has opened an office in Universal City and is currently recruiting sponsors and exhibitors. More when we know it.

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Thu-Sun, May 3-6, in Ojai:
13th Annual “OJAI STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” Tix now on sale, with short-term offer for 2-for-1 tix; call 805-646-8907 before Apr 15. All details, schedules, etc, at www.ojaistoryfest.org

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Fri-Sun, May 4-6, FESTIVAL, in South Carolina:
Annual “ALBINO SKUNKFEST” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. and others. At 4063 Jordan Rd, Greer, South Carolina.

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Fri, May 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS at the Greek Theatre in L.A. Tix, $30, on sale now. They were one-third of the 2011 “Railroad Revival Tour” with OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW and MUMFORD & SONS. They hold their own among the new-fangled old-timey string bands, though they don’t fit that mold themselves, given their energetic rock elements, mix of electric instruments, and Sharpe’s ’90s-style mosh pit diving / crowd surfing.
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Tonight launches their nationwide tour and tomorrow night, the band headlines the Santa Barbara Bowl for the first time. Tix now available at http://edwardsharpe.tickets.musictoday.com.
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EDWARD SHARPE AND THE MAGNETIC ZEROS formed in Los Angeles in 2007. They released their debut album, ‘Up From Below,” in July 2009 on Community Music. The album has sold over 275,000 copies in the U.S., and charted on iTunes for 69 straight weeks. With its unique and universal appeal, their hit single "Home" soared to over 775,000 downloads. After intensive touring throughout 2009-2011, including hit appearances at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and Coachella. In March 2011, the troupe's lead singer ALEX EBERT released his solo debut album, “Alexander,” on Community Music, written and recorded during breaks from being on tour with the band. The album includes ten brand new songs that Alexander wrote and played entirely himself. In April 2011, the band embarked on the "Railroad Revival Tour" with Mumford & Sons and Old Crow Medicine Show where they traveled exclusively in vintage railcars across the American Southwest for a week, playing concerts at unique outdoor locations along the route. Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros actively support several charitable causes, including Water Wells For Africa, Charity Water, APJ Now, Hope Campaign and Voice Project.

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Fri, May 4:
8 pm CURT SMITH of TEARS FOR FEARS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sat, May 5, FESTIVAL:
Annual “ECLECTIC MUSIC FEST” at multiple venues in South Pasadena; RICK SHEA performs a 6 pm set at the South Pasadena Library, 1100 Oxley St, South Pas. 91030. More when we know it.
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Sat & Sun, May 5 & 6, FESTIVAL, in Ramona, CA; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“RAMONA BLUEGRASS & OLD WEST FEST” brings BLUEGRASS ETC, LONESOME OTIS, CHRIS CLARK & PLOW, THE SHIRTHOUSE BAND, TOM HIATT, JUDY TAYLOR, & CAPTAIN COOPER, plus Cowboy Poetry, Chicken Bingo, and more, at 421 Aqua Ln, Ramona 92065.
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Bluegrass fests often feature a western act or two, and the same happens in reverse. Festival goers always respond with plenty of approval. So why not mix ’em and say so? This is a fine lineup. Of course, one act, BLUEGRASS ETC, has been freely mixing music of both genres in its live sets for years, and they’ve built a fiercely loyal fan base doing that. This’ll be a fun weekend.
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Runs Saturday, 10 am-10 pm, and Sunday, 10 am-5 pm. Saturday adult tix, $17 door, $13 advance, kids 6-16 $10; Sunday adult tix, $14 door, $10 advance, kids $5. Under age 6 is free. Camping available. Info, RamonaBluegrassFest@gmail.com

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Sat & Sun, May 5-6, FESTIVAL, in North Carolina:
Annual “FRENCH BROAD RIVER FESTIVAL” is a great music fest in the mountains of North Carolina, with THE GOURDS, THE LEGENDARY SINGING STARS, LuKAS NELSON, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., in Hot Springs, North Carolina.

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Sat, May 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6 pm First Annual “LOS LOBOS’ CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL” brings LOS LOBOS, NEKO CASE & ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO, plus X and MARIACHI EL BRONX, at the Greek Theatre in L.A.
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Los Lobos, the beloved Grammy®-winning band from East L.A., have announced their first annual music festival to be held in their hometown of Los Angeles at the iconic Greek Theatre on May 5, 2012. The 1st Annual Los Lobos Cinco de Mayo Festival will feature performances by preeminent LA bands Los Lobos, X and Mariachi El Bronx, with special guests Neko Case and Alejandro Escovedo joining Los Lobos on stage. The festival was born out of a desire to have a branded event for the community-conscious band to celebrate food, culture and music in their hometown. It promises to be an unforgettable night, taking place during the opening week of the Greek Theatre’s new season.
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“We are happy and proud to announce the 1st Annual Los Lobos Cinco de Mayo Festival,” says Steve Berlin of Los Lobos. “After discussing it for what seems like years it's amazing to actually see it come to fruition, and it's made all the more special by having our great friends X, Neko Case, Alejandro Escovedo and Mariachi El Bronx join us. We think it's going to be a joyous and amazing evening of music.”
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Los Lobos is currently on tour in support of “Tin Can Trust,” an album that speaks to the time and place in which it was conceived. Los Lobos is a band that has consistently evolved artistically while never losing sight of their humble roots.
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Tix, $65, $55, $39.50, $29.50, on sale now.

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Sat, May 5:
8 & 10 pm LAMBCHOP plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50. The 8 pm show is sold out; tix available for 10 pm show at press time.
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Sun, May 6:
11 am HEIDI SWEDBERG & The SUKEY JUMP BAND play the Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $10; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Sun, May 6, in Temecula:
2 pm “ALL STAR BAND: THE GREAT AMERICAN SONG BOOK” with TROY CLARKE at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590; info & tix, www.TemeculaTheater.org or 866-OLD-TOWN (653-8696).

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Sun, May 6:
7 pm KRIS DELMHORST plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $15.
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Thu-Sun, May 10-13; FESTIVAL, on the Central California Coast:
14th Annual ‘PARKFIELD BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” with THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS, THE DARRELL WEBB BAND, LOAFER’S GLORY, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, CALIFORNIA PEARLY BLUE, THE ALKALI FLATS, RED DOG ASH, LITTLE BLACK TRAIN, LeROY McNEES, & THE GOSPEL BLUEGRASS BAND, presented by The Bluegrass Music Society of the Central Coast in Parkfield, CA, “The Earthquake Capital of the World.”
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Advance ticket purchase deadline is April 10. Tix & info, www.parkfieldbluegrass.com or 800-838-3006.

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Fri-Sun, May 11, 12, 13, FESTIVAL, in San Diego:
Annual “GATOR-BY-THE-BAY” FESTIVAL on Mother’s Day weekend in San Diego. Reservations are now available at the Sheraton, next door to the festival site, for the Lanai rooms at $119 + tax per night. Check the web site www.gatorbythebay.com for the schedule of bands. Bands will include CHUBBY CARRIER, STEVE RILEY, COMMANDER CODY (of “Hot Rod Lincoln” fame), & BONSOIR CATIN CAJUN BAND. More later.

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Fri-Sun, May 11, 12, 13, FESTIVAL, in Pahrump, Nevada:
“ACOUSTIC GRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL” is free, bringing three days of acoustic bluegrass and rots music “featuring various bands and performers,” at the Nye County Government Complex, 2100 E Walt Williams Dr, Pahrump. It’s 45 minutes from downtown Las Vegas. Bring your instrument for pickin’ and grinnin’. Info, call Dan at 775-537-2562 or Jack at 702-505-5546.

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Fri, May 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. Named among the top acoustic bands in LA (by Folkworks Magazine) and two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band,
this dynamic ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. SLIGO RAGS is taking the local and not-so-local Folk and Celtic music scenes by storm with a unique blend of eclectic musical influences.
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Dan Miller of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine says “These guys have it all-- great vocals, lots of energy, captivating songs, well executed arrangements, and tasteful solos.”
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Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After", was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine, while their sophomore effort, “The Whiskey Never Lies,” (called “the best from the West Coast Celts in many years” by Shay Clark of the Irish-American News), was named one of the top 10 of 2007 by Folkworks.
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Don’t be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz and swing manage to sneak their way into the act as well. Award-winning flatpicking and fingerstyle guitarist David Burns (recently featured in Flatpicking Guitar Magazine), fiddler extraordinaire Michael Kelly, worldrenowned bassist Gordon Rustvold, and percussion whiz-kid Jonathan Baer are guaranteed to fill the room and your lives with electricity. They may give you a good laugh or two along the way as well.
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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 themusic and their willingness to take risks combine for an outstanding liveshow."--Music Connection
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“…A ‘money back, no questions asked if you are not thrilled’ act. Bringfriends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles." - Bob Stane, The Coffee Gallery Backstage
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Tix, $18.
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Sat, May 12:
8 pm “An Evening with LARRY WILDER” at OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087. Tix, $15.
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Sun, May 13:
5 pm Weekly “GRAND OLD ECHO” brings I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. & STEVE AUSTIN to the Echo in Echo Park.

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Sun, May 13:
7 pm JULIE CHRISTENSEN plus musical guest CINDY LEE BERRYHILL play McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $16.
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Thu-Sat, May 17-19; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“7th Ever LOS ANGELES OLD TIME SOCIAL” is an annual three days of Old Time music concerts and workshops, ending with a cakewalk, family dance and square dance, all in and around Downtown L.A. Produced by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT. This is a wonderfully fun event in its own right, and a fine lead-up to the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival, the day after the Social concludes. Details to come.

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Fri, May 18, in Ventura Co; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm EAGLES songwriter JACK TEMPCHIN plus JENI & BILLY play “THE CAMARILLO CAFÉ CONCERT SERIES,” at the Camarillo Community Center, 1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo (NE corner, at Carmen).
Although not an actual café, the Camarillo Café is a delightful, intimate coffeehouse-style concert series. More info, 805-523-2682, or www.CamarilloCafe.com.
Info on Jack Tempchin at www.PeacefulEasyFeeling.com and info on Jeni & Billy at www.jeniandbilly.com.

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Sat & Sun, May 19 & 20; FESTIVAL, a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK pick:
15th annual “DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL” with TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE, JOHNNY WINTER, THE PALADINS, JOAN OSBORNE & THE HOLMES BROTHERS, ROD PIAZZA PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS, MARCIA BALL, TAB BENOIT, OTIS TAYLOR, JOE LOUIS WALKER, CASH BOX KINGS, TRICIA BAG, & more, at Doheny State Beach. More later. Meantime, tix are available at 949-360-7800 or www.omegaevents.com

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Sat, May 19; FESTIVAL, a SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK pick:
All-day Annual “DYLANFEST” at St. Anthony School in El Segundo. It's an all-day cavalcade of fine musicians, with each act doing Dylan covers, and no repeats. The house band alone is always worth the price of admission. More details when we have them, but mark your calendar now.

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Sat, May 19; Thu-Sat, May 17-19; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“7th Ever LOS ANGELES OLD TIME SOCIAL” is an annual three days of Old Time music concerts and workshops, ending with a cakewalk, family dance and square dance, all in and around Downtown L.A. Produced by TRIPLE CHICKEN FOOT. This is a wonderfully fun event in its own right, and a fine lead-up to the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival, the day after the Social concludes. Details to come.

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Sat & Sun, May 19 & 20, FESTIVAL, in Temecula:
10 am-5 pm Annual “OLD TOWN TEMECULA WESTERN DAYS” in downtown Temecula. Saturday’s headliner is OLDER THAN DIRT playing 12:30-3:30 pm. Sunday’s headliner is JUDY TAYLOR & WILD OATS playing 12:30-3 pm. Both days feature a “High Noon Shoot Out,” Chili Cook Off, and Street Painting Festival. Info, including applications to participate in the Chili Cook Off or Street Painting, at www.temeculacalifornia.com

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Sat, May 19:
8 pm JAMES INTVELD, RICK SHEA, & RED MEAT (from San Francisco) play at the Taste of Texas, 545 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; www.tasteoftexas.com
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Sun, May 20; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “TOPANGA BANJO FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL” at Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills. Details to follow. We proclaim it each year as “The best one-day festival anywhere.”

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Sun, May 20:
11 am DAVID TOBOCMAN plays the Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $10; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Thu, May 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BOB LIND and DANNY O'KEEFE at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236 (Call 10 am-10 pm).
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Two of the most highly respected, passionate and widely covered American singer/songwriters bring their gifts to the CGB for an unforgettable evening of emotional power. These veteran performers cut their teeth on traditional American Folk-Jazz. It's in their DNA. But each has gone on to develop a style uniquely his own.
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LIND: His 1966 mega hit, "Elusive Butterfly" helped shape and define Folk-Rock. His songs have been recorded by more than 200 top artists, including Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Cher and Dolly Parton. But nothing equals the power of watching him deliver his own songs. Critic Walter Savinski summed it up this way: “Come and see why this engaging poet / guitarist / philosopher / singer / wise-ass has endured in the sometimes-cruel and always-fickle music business for more than 40 years. But be prepared to feel emotions you may not have let yourself feel in a while – feelings that may scare you a little. His songs hit the heart like a wrecking ball!”
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O'KEEFE: He rocked the music world in 1972 when his "Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues" exploded onto the charts. His songs have garnered covers by Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Jackson Browne, Cab Calloway and countless others. Danny's music continues to evolve, inspiring famed novelist Tom Robbins to say, “As darkly seasoned with raw experience as it is brilliantly inlaid with poetic insight, O'Keefe's work this past decade constitutes the most moving musical meditations since Bob Dylan's Time Out Of Mind. Unblinking, hammer-hard, love-wise and haunting, these songs stay alive in the mind and the heart long after the laser has moved on."
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Tix, $18.

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Fri-Sun, May 25-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, Jerry Douglas, Robert Earl Keen, Trampled by Turtles, Angel Snow, Imelda May, Yarn, Sarah & the Tall Boys, I See Hawks in L.A., more, near Jamestown and Yosemite. Address for tix and info, P.O. Box 664, Jamestown, CA; phone, 209-984-8630. This is the annual Spring edition of Strawberry; they do a Fall edition, too.

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Sat & Sun, May 25 & 26, FESTIVAL, in Sacramento:
39th Annual “SACRAMENTO JAZZ JUBILEE” is the city’s signature musical event, and this year brings LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS and many, many others. Lisa tells us, “Zydecosis strikes the Jubilee! Northern Cal fans come out and dance!” Find venues, bands and schedules on the festival website, www.sacjazz.com

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Fri, May 25:
7 pm DANNY O'KEEFE & BOB LIND play a double-bill at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $17.50.
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Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
23rd Annual “SIMI VALLEY CAJUN & BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL” in the park in Simi Valley.
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This well-organized festival runs two days of Memorial Day Weekend on an immaculate site, and continues a Southern Cal tradition. It brings music fans a full weekend of nonstop award-winning entertainment, more food choices than you can sample in two days, and activities to keep kids of all ages entertained.
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One stage features 9 hours of continuous music each day, featuring international and award winning Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music acts.
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The other stage features the DELTA GROOVE ALL-STAR BLUES REVUE on Saturday and world-class blues and roots acts on Sunday.
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Both stages provide plenty of viewing space plus large dance floors beneath large tent canopies.
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In addition, this family-friendly event has a kids’ area of sizeable proportions, featuring specialty acts, bouncers, rock climbing walls, crafts and talent shows.
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The site includes many food booths – some as authentically N’Awlins as you’ll find anywhere on the Left Coast, plus many crafts and merchandise booths.
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Want to see what it looks like? Brad Sjoblom, who publishes a newsletter for Cajun-Zydeco Dancers (www.Zydecobrad.com), recommended these videos from the 2011 Simi Valley Cajun Blues Festival. Check ’em out:
ANDRE THIERRY performing, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4K-5ftIr7U, and at www.youtube.com/watch?v=98NlOnG5pyQ
GREG BENUSA teaching at Simi Valley, www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKPrj4EM0do
PETER OLIVER, KATHY, & BRAD SJOBLOM dancing at Simi Valley 2011, www.youtube.com/watch?v=kk7by1oHbWY
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This one always delivers a fine time, consistently, every year. Voulez les bon temps rouler! Full info and tix at www.simicajun.org

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Sat, May 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
GLENN FREY, Eagles member / songwriter, plays the Wiltern Theater in L.A. Get tix early, they went on sale March 24.

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Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27:
8 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III, writer of the classic “Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road,” plays two nights at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $24.50. 8 pm Sat, 7 pm Sun.
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Fri, Jun 1:
8 pm JOE PERNICE plus THE DOUGLAS FIR play McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Jun 2:
8 pm PETER CASE of the PLIMSOULS and a renowned solo career, plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Jun 3:
11 am Grammy noms LISA HALEY & The ZYDEKATS play a rare Matinee Kids' Show at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $15; kids under age 2 get in free.
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Fri, Jun 8:
8 pm PIERRE BENSUSAN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sat, Jun 9, FESTIVAL, in Red Bluff (Nor Cal):
Annual “R WILD HORSE RANCH CRAWDAD FESTIVAL” with LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS at Tehama District Fair Grounds, 650 Antelope Bl, Red Bluff 96080; www.crawdadfestival.net

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Fri-Sun, Jun 15-17 FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
36th Annual “HUCK FINN JUBILEE” with LARRY GATLIN & THE GATLIN BROTHERS, MARK TWAIN LIVE, THE SELDOM SCENE, STEEP CANYON RANGERS, DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD, RONNIE RENO & THE RENO TRADITION, CHRIS JONES & THE NIGHT DRIVERS, LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS, SILVERADO BLUEGRASS BAND, STETSON & CIA, JULIE WINGFIELD, SCOTT GATES & EVN MARSHALL, PEARCE FAMILY, HWY 65, SWBA BLUEGRASS KIDS, SANDII CASTLEBERRY, RILEY’S MOUNTAINEERS, BON FAMILY CLOGGERS, LINE DANCING WITH KC DOUGLAS, SUNDAY GOSPEL SING, the DEERING BANJO CHAMPIONSHIPS, and more, at Mojave Narrows Regional Park, Victorville.
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Yes, it’s on a river, and yes, it’s in the desert. It’s also won top honors among American music festivals and is a top-rated family event. You can even take a hot air balloon ride, and enjoy the Route 66 Car Show, California State Arm Wrestling Championships, and a variety of fun competitions, like raft building.
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Discounts are available for kids, juniors, and early ticket orders, AND this event does sell-out, so don’t dawdle. Info and tix, www.huckfinn.com or 951-780-8810.

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Fri-Sun, Jun 15-17 FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Annual “LIVE OAK MUSIC FESTIVAL” north of Santa Barbara. Details coming soon.

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Sat, Jun 16, FESTIVAL, in Ventura a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
4th annual “ROADSHOW REVIVAL” tribute to the music of JOHNNY CASH, with headliner rockabilly queen WANDA JACKSON and many others, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
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Bands, sponsors, vendors sought; contact Ross Emery at ross@roadshowrevival.com
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Full info, www.roadshowrevival.com

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Sat, Jun 16:
8 pm “An Evening with THE CROSS TOWN COWBOYS” at OutWest Western Boutique & Cultural Center, 24265 Main St, Newhall 91321; 661-255-7087. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Jun 17:
7 pm JIM KWESKIN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Jun 23:
8:15 pm CONJUNTO PRIMAVERA y LOS RIELEROS DEL NORTE play the Gibson Ampheatre in Universal City.

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Fri, Jun 29:
8 & 10 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays two shows tonight at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Jul 4-8, FESTIVAL, in Portland, OR:
Annual “WATERFRONT BLUES FEST” includes Cajun & Zydeco music with plenty of da blues. The final schedule is due soon. We’re told that “A contribution of $120 gets you with a 5-day multiple entry pass into the festival, even if the fire marshal closes the gates due to overcrowding. Your pass contribution will be tax deductible, and supports zydeco music & bands, the dance floor & Cascade Zydeco booth. Because of the wonderful response last year, zydeco will be spread over three days this year, with Cajun music spread over two days.” Make your check out to "Oregon Food Bank," and send it Dick Brainard, 813 SW Alder St. #700, Portland, OR 97205.

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Jul 28:
8th Annual “NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY” in the U.S. and Canada, with special recognitions is several states and events in both countries, including plenty of western music. We’ll keep you posted, or check the vast array of info at www.nationaldayofthecowboy.org

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Tue, Aug 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm BUDDY GUY & JONNY LANG bring as-good-as-it-gets blues to the Greek Theater in L.A. Get tix early, it’ll sell-out.

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Sat, Aug 11, through Sat, Aug 25 (see dates); a “SHOW-OF-THE-YEAR” pick:
NEIL DIAMOND reprises his “HOT AUGUST NIGHT” with a 40th Anniversary tour, including these shows at the Greek Theatre in L.A., where he played the original.
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Can you say, “Chance to relive a legendary concert with the music legend who performed it, who etched a very special night into music history?” That’s literally what this is. Any superlative you want to apply, after 40 years and millions of album sales of the show taped on the very same stage way back in 1972, well, the accolades and gushing enthusiasm and stage-lit memories are all warranted.
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Here’s the schedule and status at press time:
Sat, Aug 11 at 8 pm - sold out
Thu, Aug 16 at 8 pm - sold out
Sat, Aug 18 at 8 pm - ON SALE NOW
Thu, Aug 23 at 8 pm - ON SALE NOW
Sat, Aug 25 at 8 pm - just announced & ON SALE NOW
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Every seat will sell-out quickly, so act accordingly.

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Fri-Sun, Aug 17-19, FESTIVAL, in Vista; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
10th Annual “SUMMERGRASS SAN DIEGO BLUEGRAS MUSIC FESTIVAL” with BLUE HIGHWAY, LONESOME RIVER BAND, FLATT LONESOME, SWEET TIDINGS, TAIL DRAGGERS, VIRTUAL STRANGERS, LIGHTHOUSE, and more tba, at the 40-acre outdoor Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N santa Fe Av, Vista 92083. There’s a kids’ camp, adult boot camp, raffles, music & craft vendors, jamming, dry camping, food, and more.
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Advance tix are discounted, so hop on it as soon as you know you are going. Tix & info, www.summergrass.net or 858-679-4854; camping questions, camping@summergrass.net or 619-940-4593.

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Sat, Sep 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. Get tix early, they’re on sale now, and it’ll sell-out.

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Fri, Sep 7; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm CROSBY, STILLS & NASH at the Greek Theater in L.A. Get tix early, it’ll sell-out.

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Fri-Sun, Sep 14-16, FESTIVAL, in Northern Cal:
10th Annual ‘PLYMOUTH BLUEGRASSIN’ IN THE FOOTHILLS” at the Amador County Fairgrounds, 18621 Sherwood St, Plymouth 95669, in the California Gold Rush / Mother Lode country. Booked so far are JAMES KING BAND, TRAVERS CHANDLER & AVERY COUNTY, BLUEGRASS BROTHERS, MARK PHILLIPS & IIIrd GENERATION, GET DOWN BOYS, THOMAS PORTER & COPPER RIVER, NU-BLU, and 2011 Emerging Artists RED DOG ASH. Info & tix, www.landspromotions.com or contact roaddog@caltel.com or 209-785-4693.

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Sat, Sep 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-YEAR” pick:
7:30 pm BONNIE RAITT & MAVIS STAPLES play the Greek Theatre in L.A. This is an “oh, wow” show that will sell-out early, so jump on it.

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MORE COMING, as we get to it and organize it for you…

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MORE STUFF THE GUIDE OFFERS >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc

"NEWS FEATURES” is a fresh edition most each week, with news and reviews from the acoustic music universe, features on folk-Americana and “acoustic renaissance” music and artists, a litlle from the electric side of honky-tonk Americana, the latest tours, recordings and projects, reviews of CDs and live shows, industry news, news for artists, and more.

It’s always available by clicking-through at www.acousticmusic.net
or at
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com

"VENUE DIRECTORY" - The Guide's extensive locator – has address and contact info for OVER 500 acoustic-music-friendly venues in Southern California, from Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, plus a few key spots in San Diego, the deserts, and on the Central Coast.

UPDATES to the Venue Directory are made every few months and a new edition is due soon – the 2011 edition of our VENUE DIRECTORY is available at

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2011/02/venue-directory-from-guide-updated.html


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The Guide’s weekly News Features and Spotlight Events, in ever-UPDATED EDITIONS will continue to bring you more news of concerts, club gigs, workshops, benefit shows, festivals and more (always more -- as we dig out from beneath the incoming mountains of email telling us about it, so we can organize it and tell YOU about all of it).

We’ll keep covering the world of current acoustic music happenings and bringing you "heads up" notices to buy advance tix for shows likely to sell-out – and lots more.

We’ll continue to tell you what acoustic musicians are doing, in the studio, on the stage, and as activist / artists seeking to improve things for all of us. We’ll tell you about the growing number of radio & TV shows with live acoustic performances (when it’s radio, it’s available mostly on the web, of course, since the Guide is published from acoustic-music-radio-deprived Los Angeles.)

And, as Spring blooms and the 2012 FESTIVAL SEASON progresses, we’ll bring you news and reviews of the many acoustic music festivals happening near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere.

As always, thanks for making the journey with us. With your help, the road goes on forever (even if we can’t afford the gas anymore to find out where it goes)!

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contents copyright © 2012, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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