♪ Acoustic Americana Music Guide ♪: May 2012

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Drum roll, maestro… it’s MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, and…
♪ THREE splendid and always anticipated Southern Cal FESTIVALS are upon us – SCOTSFEST, SIMI CAJUN & BLUES FEST, and TOPANGA DAYS – plus,
♪ the latest FOLKTACULAR happens Sunday, and,
♪ there are a bunch more local festivals that aren’t really folk-Americana, but may interest you anyway, PLUS,
♪ we list some great out-of-town festivals, and, as always,
♪ TONS O’ CONCERTS an’ club gigs an’ showcases an’ open mics an’ workshops!
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ALL that (and more) is covered in this edition.
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Last weekend’s DOZEN FESTIVALS are committed to memories and photographs and the CDs you bought there, and now you have even MORE musicians to be crazy about, more songs you want to learn, and more annual events to look forward to, again next year. But it’s really just beginning!
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The Guide lists all the weekday shows on the way to the next round of festivals and a HUGE amount of upcoming festivals and more, waaay into the future, after this coming weekend.
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But now, it’s time to plan your MUSICAL MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND (and beyond, if’n you’re ready!)
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Whatever the calendar says, we all know THIS is the traditional start of summer in Southern Cal, and the exciting SUMMER MUSIC SEASON. We’re jumping-in with both feet, in this edition of the Guide!
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Oh, by the way, a GENTLE REMINDER: put us in your “Favorites” or bookmark us - Go DIRECTLY to the mobile-device-friendly latest edition at
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www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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OR, you can find everything that’s on the main site (and click your way into the current edition) at
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www.acousticmusic.net
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WANT TO RECEIVE NOTICE OF EACH EDITION OF THE GUIDE IN YOUR INBOX, instead of waiting for webmasters at our partner sites to approve our posts? Just title an email to us,
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Write us to do that, or send your comments, or send us text-only notices of your upcoming Southern California gigs and events (NO JPGs, we cannot work with those), or send news of upcoming festivals anywhere in the acoustic world. Or share news of interest to the vast acoustic / Americana music community, at –
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tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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Support live music!
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Here’s all the latest on live acoustic and Americana performance events!
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
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from THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE
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May 18, 2012 edition
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In addition to this weekend’s top-notch MUSIC FESTIVALS and all the concerts and other acoustic and Americana music events, we call your attention to two additional activities:
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May 24-30 is the “THE HOLA MEXICO FILM FESTIVAL 2012” at Ricardo Montalban Theatre, 1615 Vine St (between Hollywood Bl & Sunset Bl), Hollywood 90028; www.holamexicoff.com; 323-871-2420. Times vary. Admission is $10 for “general screening” events. Additional info, 818-290-3877, info@holamexicoff.com.
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May is “ASIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH,” and celebrations occur throughout Southern California. Events acknowledge Southern California’s Asian American contributions in the areas of the arts, culture, education, religion, and the humanities. Events include music concerts, performances, and several gallery exhibitions, throughout May, at various sites throughout Los Angeles. Admission costs vary. The Guide does not contain specific info on those activities, but you can get it at www.apahm.org.
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Thursday, May 24
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Let’s begin with today’s FESTIVALS…
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Thu-Sun, May 24-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
5 pm Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, JERRY DOUGLAS, JOAN OSBORNE, ROBERT EARL KEEN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, ANGEL SNOW, IMELDA MAY, YARN, SARAH & THE TALL BOYS, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., SNAP JACKSON & THE KNOCK ON WOOD PLAYERS, ABSYNTH QUINTET, BROWN BIRD, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, GOOD LOVELIES, WHEELER BROTHERS, CORY LEDET & HIS ZYDECO BAND, JOHNNY NICHOLAS & HELL BENT, and many more, at Camp Mather, 35250 Mather Rd, Groveland 95321; 209-379-2284, 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, and it begins Thursday at 5 pm; they do a Fall edition, too (and you need to get tix right away for that one, before it sells-out). Info & schedules, www.strawberrymusic.com
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MANY more FESTIVALS happen this weekend, so check Friday, Saturday & Sunday listings!
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Thursday’s CONCERTS, CLUB GIGS, SHOWCASES, OPEN MICS, WORKSHOPS, & more…
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Thu, May 24:
6 pm twice monthly “WEST VALLEY OLD-TIME JAM” at Jerry's Pizzeria, 22035 Sherman Way, Canoga Park 91303; 818-346-3033.
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Thu, May 24:
6 pm weekly “THURSDAY NIGHT SOFA JAM” at Westwood Music, 1627 Westwood Bl, Los Angeles 90024; 310-478-4251.
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Thu, May 24, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7-10 pm annual “BOB DYLAN’S MILLION DOLLAR BIRTHDAY BASH” and celebration of the 50th anniversary of his first album, at the Talking Stick Coffee House, 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; 310-450-6052. Performing host is ROSS ALTMAN, walking encyclopedia of labor organizing and protest songs (historical & original). Ross is joined by ANDY & RENEE, performing hosts of last weekend’s annual “DYLANFEST,” and performing with the duo are MARTY RIVKIN (from BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN’s BAND) and KIRK MAKIN. Plus, there are many other notable musicians on the bill, including JILL FENNIMORE, JEFF GOLD, DADDY BONE, JOHN KELLER, SMOKEY MILES, ALEX SOSCHIN, CAROL McARTHUR, MICHAEL SIMMONS, and musician / bestselling author PAUL ZOLLO. It’s an evening of Bob Dylan’s songs in tribute to his 71st birthday, today. Sing-alongs are encouraged, though everyone hopes the local obnoxious dancing stoner doesn’t try to block the view of the stage again with his incessant weird posing…
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Venue offers tasty snacks and coffeehouse fare. $10 admission.
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Thu, May 24, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:40 pm HOT CLUB OF DETROIT plays their signature Gypsy Jazz at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malven Av, Fullerton 92833; 714-738-6706.
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Thu, May 24, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm DANNY O'KEEFE and BOB LIND share the bill at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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Two of the most highly respected, passionate and widely covered American singer-songwriters bring their gifts to the CGB for what venue impresario Bob Stane calls, “an unforgettable evening of emotional power.” These veteran performers cut their teeth on traditional American Folk-Jazz. Bob adds, “It's in their DNA. But each has gone on to develop a style uniquely his own.”
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About BOB 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, & DOLLY PARTON. But nothing equals the power of watching him deliver his own songs.
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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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About DANNY 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 been recorded by ELVIS PRESLEY, WILLIE NELSON, JACKSON BROWNE, CAB CALLOWAY and many others.
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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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Thu, May 24, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm HUGH LAURIE plays the El Rey, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L. A. 90036; 323-936-6400. If you aren’t already aware, TV’s “Dr. House” is a first-rate piano-playing blues man, and he often performs and records with the genre’s top stars.
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Friday, May 25
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Let’s begin with today’s FESTIVALS…
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Fri, May 25; Thu-Sun, May 24-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
11 am Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, JERRY DOUGLAS, JOAN OSBORNE, ROBERT EARL KEEN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, ANGEL SNOW, IMELDA MAY, YARN, SARAH & THE TALL BOYS, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., SNAP JACKSON & THE KNOCK ON WOOD PLAYERS, ABSYNTH QUINTET, BROWN BIRD, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, GOOD LOVELIES, WHEELER BROTHERS, CORY LEDET & HIS ZYDECO BAND, JOHNNY NICHOLAS & HELL BENT, and many more, at Camp Mather, 35250 Mather Rd, Groveland 95321; 209-379-2284, 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 (and you need to get tix right away for that one, before it sells-out). Info & schedules, www.strawberrymusic.com
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Fri-Mon, May 25-28, in Seattle,
w/ global SIMULCAST;
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
41st Annual “NORTHWEST FOLK LIFE FESTIVAL” with over 6,000 performers on two dozen stages, dozens of workshops, tastefully spaced jam sessions / music circles, and more shades and colors of folk music than you can imagine, takes over Seattle Center, the Emerald City’s former World’s Fair facility. It’s simply astonishing for its size, musicality, inclusiveness and diversity, and it’s free. We’ve enjoyed it every time we’ve gone, and just thinking of it, we still say, Wow. Lots of info and downloadable schedules at www.nwfolklifefestival.org
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Catch the web simulcasts, all weekend, at www.kbcs.fm
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Today’s CONCERTS, CLUB GIGS, SHOWCASES, OPEN MICS, WORKSHOPS, and more…
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Fri-Sun, May 25-28:
3-7 pm “LA EN VIVO BLOCK PARTY” at L.A. LIVE, Olympic & Figueroa, L.A. It’s a Latin Memorial Day Weekend. Block Party is free to the public and includes live music and entertainment, Golden Boy Boxing, L.A. Galaxy & L.A. Kings Fan Fest, food & vendors villa. A VIP package is available that offers more. The basic event is free. Uhh, si.
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Fri, May 25, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm DANNY O'KEEFE & BOB LIND play a double-bill at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Two of the most highly respected, passionate and widely covered American singer-songwriters bring their gifts for what Bob Stane, impresario of the Coffee Gallery Backstage (across town) calls, “an unforgettable evening of emotional power.” These veteran performers cut their teeth on traditional American Folk-Jazz. Bob adds, “It's in their DNA. But each has gone on to develop a style uniquely his own.”
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About BOB 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, & DOLLY PARTON. But nothing equals the power of watching him deliver his own songs.
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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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About DANNY 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 been recorded by ELVIS PRESLEY, WILLIE NELSON, JACKSON BROWNE, CAB CALLOWAY and many others.
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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, $17.50.
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Fri, May 25:
7 pm “POLAH 2012 TALENT SHOW” at the historic Warner Grand Theater, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; 310-833-4813; www.grandvision.org. Presented by Port of Los Angeles High School. Students from this outstanding charter school are not only educationally gifted - they can sing, dance, juggle and tell jokes, too. Tickets are $5 cash, at the door.
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Fri, May 25, in Ventura:
7 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “BELL ARTS SONG CIRCLE” at Bell Arts Factory, 432 N Ventura Av, Ventura 93001.
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Fri, May 25, in OC; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm PEPPINO D'AGOSTINO plays the first of two “Lord Of The Strings” Concert Series shows, this one at Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan St, Dana Point 92629; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656. Tomorrow he plays the same series in Mission Viejo.
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Fri, May 25:
8 pm monthly “BONES AND BLUES” concert series featuring live blues and jazz music, domino tournaments, and a hearty barbecue dinner, at The Center, 10950 S Central Av, Los Angeles. Sponsored by Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC); 323-563-5639, www.wlcac.org. Tix, $25 door, $15 advance.
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Fri, May 25:
8 pm, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “JOHN YORK: BYRDS AND BEYOND” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations (10 am-10 pm, daily) 626-798-6236. John is joined by fellow ex-Byrd BILLY DARNELL and by CHAD WATSON. Tix, $20.
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Fri, May 25:
8 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their every-Friday residency at Tam O’Shanter in Los Feliz; www.lawrysonline.com/tam-oshanter. More on this fine and fun band at www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=934044&content=music
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Fri, May 25:
8 pm weekly “MONROVIA STREET FAIR” includes several venues with acoustic music, some impromptu, some more formal, including the KATTYWOMPUS CONCERT and JAM with all comers – including dulcimer players – at Dollmakers Kattywompus, 412 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-357-1091. Free.
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Fri, May 25:
9 pm KARA GRAINGER plays her every-Friday-this-month residency at WitZend in Venice; www.witzendlive.com. Learn about Kara at www.karagrainger.com.
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Saturday, May 26
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TWO of the BEST Memorial Day Weekend festivals – SIMI CAJUN & BLUES FESTIVAL and SCOTSFEST – run just Saturday & Sunday. Locally, only the TOPANGA DAYS Festival and FIESTA HERMOSA continue on Memorial Day Monday. Along with all that, there is the usual overabundance of shows in venues, all weekend. All that, and more, are here for you…
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First, here are today’s FESTIVALS…
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Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in Simi Valley:
23rd Annual “SIMI VALLEY CAJUN AND BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL” featuring ROSIE LEDET, JAMES COTTON, BILLY LEE & THE SWAMP CRITTERS, NATHAN WILLIAMS & THE ZYDECO CHA-CHAS, STEADY ROLLIN' BOB MARGOLIN, THE ZYDECO PLAYBOYS, JAMES HARMAN, BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO, CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE, GATOR BEAT, and many more, at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 Los Angeles Av, Simi Valley 93063; info and tix, 805-517-9000.
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You may know this well-organized festival as the “Simi Cajun Creole Festival.” Its name has evolved, and the blues stage has grown to one with a full festival package of sound, lights, and dance area. The 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 good food choices than you can sample in two days, and activities to keep kids of all ages entertained.
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The Cajun-Zydeco Stage hosts 9 hours of continuous Cajun-zydeco music each day, featuring international and award-winning Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music acts, including GRAMMY noms and winners.
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On Saturday, the Blues Stage features the DELTA GROOVE ALL-STAR BLUES REVUE, PAUL OSCHER, R.J. MISCHO featuring RICK HOLMSTROM, THE MANNISH BOYS, MUDDY WATERS TRIBUTE, NATHAN JAMES & THE RHYTHM SCRATCHERS with JAMES HARMAN, and more world-class blues and roots acts on Sunday.
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Both stages provide plenty of viewing space plus large dance floors beneath spacious tent canopies.
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In addition, this family-friendly event has a kids’ area of sizeable proportions, featuring specialty acts, bounce-houses, 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), recommends 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 festival delivers good music and a good time, consistently, every year. Voulez les bon temps rouler! Full info and advance tix at www.simicajun.org
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Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in OC:
9 am 5 pm annual “SCOTSFEST” at Orange County Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa 92626; info, scotsfest@yahoo.com.
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This one presents wonderful Celtic music performances and more, both musically and in terms of its range of activites. Performing are SLIGO RAGS, BAD HAGGIS, TEMPEST, HIGHLAND WAY, BROTHER, THE PLOUGHBOYS, NEIL O’NEIL, THOSE MANNING BOYS, THE FIRST MARINE DIVISION BAND, THE GRANADA HILLS HIGHLANDER BAND, CHRISTOPHER YATES, THE RAGGLE-TAGGLE HARPERS, SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS, SCOTTISH FIDDLERS, and more. The “Massed Bands,” the marching pipe and drum bands, will perform at the opening ceremony on Saturday starting at noon, and at the Closing Ceremonies, held both days starting at 5 pm. Schedules for all the music are at www.scotsfest.com/schedules.htm
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This is always a first-rate event, with tasty food, and Heavy Scottish Athletics. And this year, the latter will include a simultaneous toss of 21 cabers at 4 pm on Saturday. A caber looks like a telephone pole, and each is tossed by just one guy, who throws it from a vertical position, while running, with the object to bounce it end-over-end for distance. Compare THAT to the dumb angst of reality TV!
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Advance tix are $15 adult, one day, $22 for two days; seniors (age 65+) are $13 one day, $19 two days; each of the foregoing is $3 more if bought at the gate; kids, age 5-12, are $3 one day, $4 both days, and kids under age 5 are free. Active military, with military i.d., is admitted free.
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Sat-Mon, May 26-28,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10 am-7 pm 39th Annual “TOPANGA DAYS COUNTRY FAIR” with music by the YOUNG DUBLINERS, IVAN NEVILLE'S DUMPSTAPHUNK, FISHBONE, CHEVY METAL, OTE FOR PRESIDENT, THE LEAPIN' LIZARDS, ARTWORK JAMAL & THE ACID BLUES, PATO BANTON, CAITLIN NOTEY, CHARLIE VAUGHN & THE DAILY ROUTINE, THE CHIEFS, THE PAUL CHESNE BAND, L.A.C.E.S. JAZZ BAND, AMILIA K. SPICER & FRIENDS, STEEL TOED SLIPPER, and more, on two stages at Topanga Community House & Fair Grounds, 1440 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; 310 455 1980. There are also the ever-popular MELANIE KAREEM BELLY DANCERS, plus lots of healthy food choices, games and other activities for the kids, and more. It’s always a whole lot of fun. Festival schedules & info, www.topangadays.com.
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This is the only local Memorial Day Weekend festival that features roots-Americana music and runs through Monday; the others all fold their tents Sunday evening. If you go on Monday, be aware of the parade: it starts at 9 am Monday, and the only road in closes at 8:30 am and reopens about 11 am.
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No advance tix; come early for festival seating. Tickets at the gate, $20 adults, $15 military, $10 children ages 6-12 and seniors age 65+; children age 5 & und\er are free.
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Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27, FESTIVAL, in L.A.:
Noon-11 pm 3rd Annual “ SILVERLAKE JUBILEE” with 35+ bands, bills itself as “L.A.’s premiere music, arts and food festival,” and has three entry gates, at 4000 Santa Monica Bl (Sunset entrance); at 4420 Santa Monica Bl (Commonwealth entrance); 4212 Sunset Bl (El Cid Stage entrance). This event goes back several yeats, as the “Sunset Junction Festival.” The bands include national-touring acts, local and emerging musicians. It’s not folk-Americana; it’s alternative from all over the musical map. Whether or not it’s your cup of tea, only you can determine. Tix are $20-$35, and a Metro ticket gets a discount at the gate. Check out the list of bands at http://jubilee.is/musicians.
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Sat-Mon, May 26-28, FESTIVAL, in Hermosa Beach:
Bi-annual “FIESTA HERMOSA” in Downtown Hermosa Beach; www.hbchamber.net. Free. For the past 40 years, the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce has produced this as the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California. Over 270 artists and crafters are featured, including painters, photographers, ceramicists, jewelers, sculptors, and handcrafters. With the ocean as a backdrop, the festival takes place every Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend in downtown Hermosa Beach. Check their website for schedules and specifics.
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Sat, May 26; Thu-Sun, May 24-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
11 am Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, JERRY DOUGLAS, JOAN OSBORNE, ROBERT EARL KEEN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, ANGEL SNOW, IMELDA MAY, YARN, SARAH & THE TALL BOYS, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., SNAP JACKSON & THE KNOCK ON WOOD PLAYERS, ABSYNTH QUINTET, BROWN BIRD, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, GOOD LOVELIES, WHEELER BROTHERS, CORY LEDET & HIS ZYDECO BAND, JOHNNY NICHOLAS & HELL BENT, and many more, at Camp Mather, 35250 Mather Rd, Groveland 95321; 209-379-2284, 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 (and you need to get tix right away for that one, before it sells-out). Info & schedules, www.strawberrymusic.com
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Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27, FESTIVAL, in Sacramento,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
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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Sat, May 26; Fri-Mon, May 25-28, in Seattle,
w/ global SIMULCAST;
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
41st Annual “NORTHWEST FOLK LIFE FESTIVAL” with over 6,000 performers on two dozen stages, dozens of workshops, tastefully spaced jam sessions / music circles, and more shades and colors of folk music than you can imagine, takes over Seattle Center, the Emerald City’s former World’s Fair facility. It’s simply astonishing for its size, musicality, inclusiveness and diversity, and it’s free. We’ve enjoyed it every time we’ve gone, and just thinking of it, we still say, Wow. Lots of info and downloadable schedules at www.nwfolklifefestival.org
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Catch the web simulcasts, all weekend, at www.kbcs.fm
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Saturday’s CONCERTS, CLUB GIGS, SHOWCASES, OPEN MICS, WORKSHOPS, & more…
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Sat, May 26, ON THE WEB:
1 pm (Pacific time) MARINA V, splendid singer-songwriter and pianist / sometimes guitarist, does a global concert simulcast at www.ustream.tv/channel/thursday-songs-with-marina-v
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From Russia and schooled in the Moscow Conservatory, she has fine, heartfelt original lyrics (in English) and splendid melody lines with thoughtful arrangements. Get ready to be a fan. More at www.marinav.com.
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Sat, May 26:
1 pm monthly “OLD TIME MUSIC / TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN FIDDLE AND BANJO JAM at Audubon Nature Center in Debs Park, 4700 N Griffin Av, Highland Park; off the 110 Fwy, Los Angeles 90031; 323-221-2255.
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Sat, May 26, WORKSHOP, an “EVENT-of-the-WEEK for ARTISTS:”
2-5 pm WORKSHOP with JIM "KIMO" WEST, Hawai’ian Slack Key guitar master, at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020. He does a concert here at 8 pm tonight. Info, www.jimkimowest.com.
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Sat, May 26, in Pomona:
3 pm-’til late evening “POMONA ART WALK” brings live music, food, wine, and art throughout the Downtown Pomona Arts Colony, centered at W 2nd St & Garey Av, Downtown Pomona. Big crowds stroll the streets, interacting with over a dozen galleries that host receptions and open houses to showcase their latest exhibits and artists. Event is held every second and last Saturday of the month. Info, www.metropomona.com; 909-469-1121. Free.
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Sat, May 26:
5 pm SEVERIN BROWNE plus JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS play Julie's Joint House Concerts in Canoga Park; reservations get directions at juliesjoint@johnzipperer.com.
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JOHN ZIPPERER & FRIENDS open. Severin says, “Julie's Joint always has great food. Doors open at 5 pm, music starts at 5:30. Song circle to follow.”
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Severin's band this night will include ED TREE on electric and acoustic guitar, MIKE BISCH on bass, MERRITT RAFF on drums, GARY POPENOE on harmonica, and JAYNEE THORNE & LESLIE BEAUVAIS on harmony vocals.
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$15 per person includes dinner.
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Sat, May 26, in the desert:
5-9 pm new weekly “WEEVILL MARKET MUSIC NIGHT” at Weevill Market, 18348 West Ave D, NW of Lancaster; www.weevillmarket.com. It’s live rock, country, and blues, along with “great tri-tip BBQ and a full menu, outdoor dining in the beautiful west Antelope Valley.” Info, call Jim Olesh at 661-916-1726. We’re told, “Some amazing music on Saturday nights.”
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Sat, May 26, on the Central CA Coast:
5:30 pm HEARTBREAK HILL (JODY MULGREW’s folky duo), RANCHERS FOR PEACE, and NORTH PACIFIC STRINGBAND, play the “MEMORIAL DAY LAWN PICNIC & HOUSE CONCERT” at a private residence in Garden Farms, near Santa Margarita.
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Suggested donation is $25. Gate opens at 5:30 pm. BYOB, a picnic and chairs. Space is limited; email or call for reservations and directions, einglish@gmail.com, or 805-748-2998. More at www.JodyMulgrew.com.
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Sat, May 26:
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, May 26, in OC; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm PEPPINO D'AGOSTINO plays the second of two “Lord Of The Strings” Concert Series shows, this one at Mission Viejo Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo 92691; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656. Last night, he played the same series in Dana Point.
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Sat, May 26; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm GOIN’ SOUTH BAND plus SUGAR IN THE GOURD play a double-bill at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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Goin South is, as band member RICK SHEA says, “a pretty outstanding group,” featuring him, FRED SOKOLOW, PAUL LACQUES (I SEE HAWKS IN L.A.), RICK CUNHA, JOHN ZERETZKE and VIC KOLER. Rick adds, “Usually, I sing five or six songs. This show we're joined by SUGAR IN THE GOURD, who are worth the trip alone.”
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The masterful musicians of The Goin’ South Band perform their own blend of traditional and original music of the south. Folk musician legend TOM PAXTON said of GOIN’ SOUTH, “What is it about Goin’ South Band that makes me think I have known them all my life? Surely there is a kitchen back there where we sat around and heard them play these songs. This is what it’s like to have friends with talent”.
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SUGAR IN THE GOURD is a new all-girl Americana-roots band, and features musicians MERRILY WEEBER, JEN FITZPATRICK, LISA SALLOUX, & LYNN SOKOLOW. Their vocal harmonies are said bu one listener to be “so pure and authentic that they evoke the true essence of the genre.” With a compelling blend of original and classic tunes including old timey, blues, country, and even a hint of jazz and swing, their songs pay respectful homage to the wide variety that encompasses the roots of American music.
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Tix, $18.
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Sat, May 26:
7 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “WEST VALLEY HOOT” in Woodland Hills 91367; info and location at www.songmakers.org.
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Sat, May 26:
7:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES play their weekly bluegrass residency at Vincenzo's Pizza, 24500 Lyons Av, Newhall 91350. Often, guests sit-in, and sometimes, they’re stars!
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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 right away, they went on sale March 24.
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Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
SOLD OUT Saturday: 8 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III, writer of the classic “Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road,” plays two nights at McCabe’s, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; Tix, $24.50. TIX MAY STILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SUNDAY, May 27, 7 pm show; call 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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Sat, May 26, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLAUDE BOURBON plays Alva’s Showroom, 1417 West 8th St, San Pedro 90732; 310-519 1314.
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He plays “Medieval & Spanish blues, Guitar & Song,” and CLAUDE BOURBON grew up in Switzerland, where he was classically trained. This finger picking guitarist has performed and studied all over the world; he has crafted an unbelievable fusion of classical and jazz, with ethereal Eastern influences, Spanish and Latin elements with strains of Western folk.
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“…This accomplished artist offers tender, compelling performance through highly developed precision. His sound instantly creates ambiance – from haunting Spanish moods to lyrical, romantic jazz, Claude Bourbon provides both a rich evening of music for lovers, and a real treat for music lovers…”... BBC, UK.
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Suggested donation, $20.
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Sat, May 26, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JOHN BATDORF plays the “NOBLE HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Van Nuys; reservations get directions at 818-780-5979.
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Sat, May 26, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JIM "KIMO" WEST, Hawai’ian Slack Key guitar master, plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020,
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Sat, May 26, in Santa Barbara:
8 pm DANNY SCHMIDT & CARRIE ELKIN play the “Sings Like Hell” series at the Lobero Theatre, 33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-963-0761.
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Sat, May 26, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in Santa Barbara Co:
8 pm DANNY O'KEEFE & BOB LIND play The Plaza Playhouse Theatre, 4916 Carpinteria Av, Carpinteria 93013; 805-684-6380. See the write-up of this show in the Thu, May 24, 8 pm listings.
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Sat, May 26:
8:30 pm TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS play Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, Los Angeles 90046; 323-653-0640.
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Sat, May 26:
9 pm BRIAN TRAVIS BAND plays electric tonight at Molly Malone’s, 575 South Fairfax Av, Los Angeles 90036.
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Sunday, May 27
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TWO of the Memorial Day Weekend festivals – SIMI CAJUN & BLUES FESTIVAL and SCOTSFEST – conclude today. Locally, only the TOPANGA DAYS Festival and FIESTA HERMOSA continue on Memorial Day Monday. There is one pseudo-FESTIVAL today, the FOLKTACULAR in Santa Monica. Along with all that, there is the usual overabundance of shows in venues, all weekend. All that, and more, are here for you…
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First, here are Sunday’s FESTIVALS…
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Sun, May 27; Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in Simi Valley:
23rd Annual “SIMI VALLEY CAJUN AND BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL” featuring ROSIE LEDET, JAMES COTTON, BILLY LEE & THE SWAMP CRITTERS, NATHAN WILLIAMS & THE ZYDECO CHA-CHAS, STEADY ROLLIN' BOB MARGOLIN, THE ZYDECO PLAYBOYS, JAMES HARMAN, BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO, CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE, GATOR BEAT, and many more, at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 Los Angeles Av, Simi Valley 93063; info and tix, 805-517-9000.
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You may know this well-organized festival as the “Simi Cajun Creole Festival.” Its name has evolved, and the blues stage has grown to one with a full festival package of sound, lights, and dance area. The 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 good food choices than you can sample in two days, and activities to keep kids of all ages entertained.
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The Cajun-Zydeco stage hosts 9 hours of continuous Cajun-zydeco music each day, featuring international and award-winning Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music acts, including GRAMMY noms and winners. Today, that includes THE BAYOU BROTHERS, NATHAN WILLIAMS & THE ZYDECO CHA CHA'S, GATOR BEAT, CURLEY TAYLOR AND ZYDECO TROUBLE, & BONNE MUSIQUE ZYDECO.
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The Blues Stage today features THE MIGHTY MOJO PROPHETS, MITCH KASHMAR with JOHN MARX & ADRIANNA MARIE, TERRY HANCK, BIG PETE with PAUL SIZE, AL BLAKE & ALEX SCHULTZ, ROD PIAZZA & THE WEST COAST SHEIKS featuring JUNIOR WATSON, THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS, and CANDYE KANE featuring LAURA CHAVEZ.
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Both stages provide plenty of viewing space plus large dance floors beneath spacious tent canopies.
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In addition, this family-friendly event has a kids’ area of sizeable proportions, featuring specialty acts, bounce-houses, 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), recommends 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 festival delivers good music and a good time, consistently, every year. Voulez les bon temps rouler! Full info and advance tix at www.simicajun.org
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Sun, May 27; Sat & Sun, May 26-27; FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick, in OC:
9 am 5 pm annual “SCOTSFEST” at Orange County Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa 92626; info, scotsfest@yahoo.com.
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This one presents wonderful Celtic music performances and more, both musically and in terms of its range of activites. Performing are SLIGO RAGS, BAD HAGGIS, TEMPEST, HIGHLAND WAY, BROTHER, THE PLOUGHBOYS, NEIL O’NEIL, THOSE MANNING BOYS, THE FIRST MARINE DIVISION BAND, THE GRANADA HILLS HIGHLANDER BAND, CHRISTOPHER YATES, THE RAGGLE-TAGGLE HARPERS, SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS, SCOTTISH FIDDLERS, and more. The “Massed Bands,” the marching pipe and drum bands, will perform at the opening ceremony on Saturday starting at noon, and at the Closing Ceremonies, held both days starting at 5 pm. Schedules for all the music are at www.scotsfest.com/schedules.htm
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This is always a first-rate event, with tasty food, and Heavy Scottish Athletics. And this year, the latter will include a simultaneous toss of 21 cabers at 4 pm on Saturday. A caber looks like a telephone pole, and each is tossed by just one guy, who throws it from a vertical position, while running, with the object to bounce it end-over-end for distance. Compare THAT to the dumb angst of reality TV!
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Advance tix are $15 adult, one day, $22 for two days; seniors (age 65+) are $13 one day, $19 two days; each of the foregoing is $3 more if bought at the gate; kids, age 5-12, are $3 one day, $4 both days, and kids under age 5 are free. Active military, with military i.d., is admitted free.
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Sun, May 27; Sat-Mon, May 26-28, FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10 am-7 pm 39th Annual “TOPANGA DAYS COUNTRY FAIR” with music by the YOUNG DUBLINERS, IVAN NEVILLE'S DUMPSTAPHUNK, FISHBONE, CHEVY METAL, OTE FOR PRESIDENT, THE LEAPIN' LIZARDS, ARTWORK JAMAL & THE ACID BLUES, PATO BANTON, CAITLIN NOTEY, CHARLIE VAUGHN & THE DAILY ROUTINE, THE CHIEFS, THE PAUL CHESNE BAND, L.A.C.E.S. JAZZ BAND, AMILIA K. SPICER & FRIENDS, STEEL TOED SLIPPER, and more, on two stages at Topanga Community House & Fair Grounds, 1440 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; 310 455 1980. There are also the ever-popular MELANIE KAREEM BELLY DANCERS, plus lots of healthy food choices, games and other activities for the kids, and more. It’s always a whole lot of fun. Festival schedules & info, www.topangadays.com.
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This is the only local Memorial Day Weekend festival that features roots-Americana music and runs through Monday; the others all fold their tents Sunday evening. If you go on Monday, be aware of the parade: it starts at 9 am Monday, and the only road in closes at 8:30 am and reopens about 11 am.
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No advance tix; come early for festival seating. Tickets at the gate, $20 adults, $15 military, $10 children ages 6-12 and seniors age 65+; children age 5 & und\er are free.
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Sun, May 27, pseudo-FESTIVAL, in Santa Monica:
2 pm-midnight “FOLKTACULAR” singer-songwriter showcase with JOHN YORK, JULIE CHRISTENSEN, STEVE NOONAN, ROSS ALTMAN & JILL FENNIMORE, JAMES HURLEY, DAVE MORRISON, CHAD WATSON & PAM LOE, LISAMANIA, ALFRED JOHNSON, PAUL ZOLLO, ROD MELANCON, TEDROW-VREELAND (as the TVVT Quartet), D. WHITNEY QUINN, SMOKEY MILES, MARK SILVERMAN, and performing host ROBERT MORGAN FISHER, at Writer’s Boot Camp, Bergamont Station Arts Complex, 2525 Michigan Av, Bldg “i,” Santa Monica. ROBERT MORGAN FISHER has cooked-up an extra edition of usually biannual Folktacular, this one to celebrate the release of his new album, “Notes for a Novel.” As always, he has quite a lineup, and admission includes Tio’s Tacos and Burritos and beverages, including beer and wine, while they last. Potluck food and beverage contributions are encouraged and welcome. Tix and info at www.robertmorganfisher.com. Advance tix, $20, $25 at door.
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Sun, May 27; Sat-Mon, May 26-28, FESTIVAL, in Hermosa Beach:
Bi-annual “FIESTA HERMOSA” in Downtown Hermosa Beach; www.hbchamber.net. Free. For the past 40 years, the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce has produced this as the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California. Over 270 artists and crafters are featured, including painters, photographers, ceramicists, jewelers, sculptors, and handcrafters. With the ocean as a backdrop, the festival takes place every Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend in downtown Hermosa Beach. Check their website for schedules and specifics.
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Sun, May 27; Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27, FESTIVAL, in L.A.:
Noon-11 pm 3rd Annual “ SILVERLAKE JUBILEE” with 35+ bands, bills itself as “L.A.’s premiere music, arts and food festival,” and has three entry gates, at 4000 Santa Monica Bl (Sunset entrance); at 4420 Santa Monica Bl (Commonwealth entrance); 4212 Sunset Bl (El Cid Stage entrance). This event goes back several yeats, as the “Sunset Junction Festival.” The bands include national-touring acts, local and emerging musicians. It’s not folk-Americana; it’s alternative from all over the musical map. Whether or not it’s your cup of tea, only you can determine. Tix are $20-$35, and a Metro ticket gets a discount at the gate. Check out the list of bands at http://jubilee.is/musicians.
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Sun, May 27; Thu-Sun, May 24-27, FESTIVAL, near Yosemite,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
11 am Annual “STRAWBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL - WONDERING SPRING” with ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, JERRY DOUGLAS, JOAN OSBORNE, ROBERT EARL KEEN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, ANGEL SNOW, IMELDA MAY, YARN, SARAH & THE TALL BOYS, I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., SNAP JACKSON & THE KNOCK ON WOOD PLAYERS, ABSYNTH QUINTET, BROWN BIRD, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, GOOD LOVELIES, WHEELER BROTHERS, CORY LEDET & HIS ZYDECO BAND, JOHNNY NICHOLAS & HELL BENT, and many more, at Camp Mather, 35250 Mather Rd, Groveland 95321; 209-379-2284, 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 (and you need to get tix right away for that one, before it sells-out). Info & schedules, www.strawberrymusic.com
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Sun, May 27; Sat & Sun, May 26 & 27, FESTIVAL, in Sacramento,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
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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Sun, May 27; Fri-Mon, May 25-28, in Seattle,
w/ global SIMULCAST;
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
41st Annual “NORTHWEST FOLK LIFE FESTIVAL” with over 6,000 performers on two dozen stages, dozens of workshops, tastefully spaced jam sessions / music circles, and more shades and colors of folk music than you can imagine, takes over Seattle Center, the Emerald City’s former World’s Fair facility. It’s simply astonishing for its size, musicality, inclusiveness and diversity, and it’s free. We’ve enjoyed it every time we’ve gone, and just thinking of it, we still say, Wow. Lots of info and downloadable schedules at www.nwfolklifefestival.org
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Catch the web simulcasts, all weekend, at www.kbcs.fm
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Sunday’s CONCERTS, CLUB GIGS, SHOWCASES, OPEN MICS, WORKSHOPS, & more…
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Sun, May 27, in San Diego:
10 am weekly “BLUEGRASS BRUNCH” at Urban Solace, 3823 30th St, San Diego 92104; 619-295-6464.
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Sun, May 27:
1 pm monthly “BASC BLUEGRASS JAM” at the CTMS Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino 91316; 818-817-7756.
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Sun, May 27, pseudo-FESTIVAL, in Santa Monica:
2 pm-midnight “FOLKTACULAR” singer-songwriter showcase with JOHN YORK, JULIE CHRISTENSEN, STEVE NOONAN, ROSS ALTMAN & JILL FENNIMORE, JAMES HURLEY, DAVE MORRISON, CHAD WATSON & PAM LOE, LISAMANIA, ALFRED JOHNSON, PAUL ZOLLO, ROD MELANCON, TEDROW-VREELAND (as the TVVT Quartet), D. WHITNEY QUINN, SMOKEY MILES, MARK SILVERMAN, and performing host ROBERT MORGAN FISHER, at Writer’s Boot Camp, Bergamont Station Arts Complex, 2525 Michigan Av, Bldg “i,” Santa Monica. See Festival section, at beginning of today’s listings, for details.
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Sun, May 27:
5 pm SONGMAKERS monthly “WEST L.A. HOOT & POTLUCK” in West L.A. 90025; info at www.songmakers.org, or contact WestLAHoot@Songmakers.org.
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Sun, May 27:
5-9:30 pm Weekly “GRAND OLD ECHO” brings a full lineup of folk-Americana, western swing, honky-tonk, and/or alt-country recording artists, at the Echo, 1822 W Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-8200. No cover, all ages, full bar, BBQ available out back. Info, www.thegrandoleecho.bandzoogle.com/fr_home.cfm.
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Sun, May 27:
6:30 pm monthly “FOLK MUSIC CENTER OPEN MIC” at the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont 91711; 909-624- 2928. Signups at 6 pm.
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Sun, May 27, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick
7 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III plays McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Show on Sat, May 26 is sold-out; tix may still be available for Sunday.
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Sun, May 27, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm CLAUDE BOURBON plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations (10 am-10 pm, daily) 626-798-6236.
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He plays “Medieval & Spanish blues, Guitar & Song,” and CLAUDE BOURBON grew up in Switzerland, where he was classically trained. This finger picking guitarist has performed and studied all over the world; he has crafted an unbelievable fusion of classical and jazz, with ethereal Eastern influences, Spanish and Latin elements with strains of Western folk.
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“…This accomplished artist offers tender, compelling performance through highly developed precision. His sound instantly creates ambiance – from haunting Spanish moods to lyrical, romantic jazz, Claude Bourbon provides both a rich evening of music for lovers, and a real treat for music lovers…”... BBC, UK.
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Sun, May 27, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION, featuring the great JERRY DOUGLAS, play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Sun, May 27, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm DANNY O'KEEFE and BOB LIND play the AMSD Concert Series, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176. See the write-up of this show in the Thu, May 24, 8 pm listings.
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Sun, May 27:
8 pm XANDER SMITH plays the Un-Cabaret Bar Fedora, 710 W First St (at Hope), Los Angeles 90012. His recently released solo debut, “Hey San Pedro” is out now, and doing well with the critics. Also performing are SARAH SILVERMAN, KYLE DUNNIGAN, TAYLOR NEGRON, BEN GLEIB, & TERRI WHITE. Hosts are BETH LAPIDES & MITCH KAPLAN.
Tix available at www.laughstub.com/buyTicket.cfm?showTimingID=154683. Xander’s recent record release party at Stories Bookstore and Café in Echo Park was a huge success, with standing room only on the patio. Check it out at www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c8030tvp00. Xander’s CD is available at his gigs, on iTunes, and all leading digital retailers. More at http://xandersmithmusic.com/fr_home.cfm.
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Sun, May 27:
9 pm THE GET DOWN BOYS play Bigfoot West, 10939 Venice Bl, Los Angeles 90034; 310-287-2200.
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Sun, May 27:
11 pm weekly “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” brings a different lineup each week, at 14 Below, 1348 14th St, Santa Monica 90404; 310-451-5040.
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Monday, May 28
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Locally, only the TOPANGA DAYS Festival and FIESTA HERMOSA continue on Memorial Day Monday, plus a pseudo-festival in Canoga Park. The weekend’s other festivals folded their tents last night. But never fear, there is the usual overabundance of shows in venues, as always. All that, and more, are here for you…
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First, here are Monday’s FESTIVALS…
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Mon, May 28; Sat-Mon, May 26-28, FESTIVAL,
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10 am-7 pm 39th Annual “TOPANGA DAYS COUNTRY FAIR” with music by the YOUNG DUBLINERS, IVAN NEVILLE'S DUMPSTAPHUNK, FISHBONE, CHEVY METAL, OTE FOR PRESIDENT, THE LEAPIN' LIZARDS, ARTWORK JAMAL & THE ACID BLUES, PATO BANTON, CAITLIN NOTEY, CHARLIE VAUGHN & THE DAILY ROUTINE, THE CHIEFS, THE PAUL CHESNE BAND, L.A.C.E.S. JAZZ BAND, AMILIA K. SPICER & FRIENDS, STEEL TOED SLIPPER, and more, on two stages at Topanga Community House & Fair Grounds, 1440 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; 310 455 1980. There are also the ever-popular MELANIE KAREEM BELLY DANCERS, plus lots of healthy food choices, games and other activities for the kids, and more. It’s always a whole lot of fun. Festival schedules & info, www.topangadays.com.
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This is the only local Memorial Day Weekend festival that features roots-Americana music and runs through Monday; the others all fold their tents Sunday evening. If you go on Monday, be aware of the parade: it starts at 9 am Monday, and the only road in closes at 8:30 am and reopens about 11 am.
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No advance tix; come early for festival seating. Tickets at the gate, $20 adults, $15 military, $10 children ages 6-12 and seniors age 65+; children age 5 & und\er are free.
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Mon, May 28; Sat-Mon, May 26-28, FESTIVAL, in Hermosa Beach:
Bi-annual “FIESTA HERMOSA” in Downtown Hermosa Beach; www.hbchamber.net. Free. For the past 40 years, the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce has produced this as the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California. Over 270 artists and crafters are featured, including painters, photographers, ceramicists, jewelers, sculptors, and handcrafters. With the ocean as a backdrop, the festival takes place every Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend in downtown Hermosa Beach. Check their website for schedules and specifics.
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Mon, May 28, pseudo-FESTIVAL, in SFV:
11 am-4 pm annual “CANOGA PARK MEMORIAL DAY PARADE & CELEBRATION” at Sherman Way & Owensmouth Av, Canoga Park; www.canogaparkmemorialdayparade.com; 818-884-4222. There’s a 5K run before the parade and a celebration at Quimby Park after it, with music, other entertainment, and vendor booths. This annual event honors military personnel at home and overseas. Free.
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Mon, May 28; Fri-Mon, May 25-28, in Seattle,
w/ global SIMULCAST;
a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
41st Annual “NORTHWEST FOLK LIFE FESTIVAL” with over 6,000 performers on two dozen stages, dozens of workshops, tastefully spaced jam sessions / music circles, and more shades and colors of folk music than you can imagine, takes over Seattle Center, the Emerald City’s former World’s Fair facility. It’s simply astonishing for its size, musicality, inclusiveness and diversity, and it’s free. We’ve enjoyed it every time we’ve gone, and just thinking of it, we still say, Wow. Lots of info and downloadable schedules at www.nwfolklifefestival.org
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Catch the web simulcasts, all weekend, at www.kbcs.fm
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Today’s CONCERTS, CLUB GIGS, SHOWCASES, OPEN MICS, WORKSHOPS, and more…
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Mon, May 28:
7:30 pm THE BROMBIES play their weekly bluegrass residency on the main stage at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-515-4444. The weekly “Bluegrass Jam” is history. The stage in the back room now hosts a weekly Big Band concert. Venue has full bar, Mexican dinners and a la cart items. No cover.
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Mon, May 28:
7:30 pm weekly OPEN MIC, with global web simulcast, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Blvd, North Hollywood 91607; 818-766-9913. Signups at 7 pm. Watch at www.kulakswoodshed.com
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Mon, May 28, in Ventura:
7:30 pm “ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC” at Zoey's Café, 451 E Main St, Ventura 93001; www.zoeyscafe.com; 805-652-0091.
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Mon, May 28:
8 pm weekly “IRISH CéILí DANCE” and “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center’s shared location at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Dance at 8, music session at 9 pm.
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Mon, May 28:
CANCELLED: 8 pm weekly “BLUE MONDAY JAM WITH BERNIE PEARL BLUES BAND” no longer happens at the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center in Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Bl, Los Angeles 90008; info, bmorrblues@aol.com
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FARTHER AHEAD… some upcoming first-rate events; grab tix early…
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Tue, May 29:
7 pm weekly “JC HYKE'S SONGWRITERS SERENADE” brings a different lineup each week, recording artists playing acoustic sets at Matt Denny's Ale House Restaurant & Bar, 145 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006.
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Tue, May 29:
7 pm weekly “BLUEGRASS SOUP JAM” at Convert-A-Tape, 2420 Gundry Av, Signal Hill 90755.
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Tue, May 29; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ERIC BRACE & PETER COOPER, an acoustic Nashville duo, are joined by KAREN TOBIN, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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Eric Brace and Peter Cooper sing and write songs and play guitars and tell stories with the best of them. Their concerts are lively, engaging affairs involving true stories, made-up madness, harmonies, wry asides, and songs that move you in all the right ways. They both come from journalism backgrounds. Eric was a music columnist for The Washington Post for many years, while Peter is currently an award-winning music writer for Nashville's Tennessean newspaper.
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Their sharp lyrics and pointed payoffs show how that training blends into their songs. Their most recent project, the Grammy-nominated "I Love: Tom T. Hall's Songs of Fox Hollow," was featured on NPR’s "All Things Considered" and "Weekend Edition," in USA Today and the Chicago Sun-Times, and was named a Top 5 2011 Americana album by Rich Kienzle in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Produced by Brace and Cooper, it features performances by Patty Griffin, Buddy Miller, Bobby Bare, Duane Eddy, Jim Lauderdale, Elizabeth Cook, as well as Brace, Cooper, and others.
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The pair’s 2010 album, "Master Sessions," is a tour de force that made its way onto numerous critics’ “Best-of” lists. It features the instrumental work of pedal steel guitar legend Lloyd Green and dobro master Mike Auldridge. Their first release, "You Don’t Have To Like Them Both," was released in 2009 and was a #1 album on the Freeform American Roots Chart, Top Five on the Folk DJ Chart, and Top Ten on the Americana chart.
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Plus, KAREN TOBIN…
A powerful, sensitive singer and prolific songwriter, Karen Tobin is a veteran of the Los Angeles Country Music scene and former recording artist with Arista Records - New York, and Atlantic Records - Nashville. Ms. Tobin has been compared with such elite vocal luminaries as Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt.
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Her press comments include, from Cash Box, "She displays control and versatility with her mezzo-soprano vocal style. She's got just right amount of emotion in her performances to make you want to hear more." "Karen sings the heart right out of her chest," and, "Ms. Tobin wails out a shivering mountain edged soprano that's laced with a powerhouse of control and emotion." Robert Oremann, of Music Row Magazine, says, "Everything she does is wonderful; this woman has so much ability." Her new release is on her own label, Sunnyland Productions. Karen will be accompanied by STEPHAN FRANCK for her performance tonight.
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Tix, $15.
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Tue, May 29:
8 pm ERIC BRACE & PETER COOPER play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations (10 am-10 pm, daily) 626-798-6236.
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Tue, May 29:
9 pm THE GET DOWN BOYS play Villains Tavern, 1356 Palmetto St, Los Angeles 90013; 323-613-0766.
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Tue, May 29:
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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Wed, May 30:
8 pm weekly “GUITAROLOGY” at Bar Melody and Grill, 9132 S Sepulveda Bl, Los Angeles 90045; 310-670-1994.
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Thu, May 31; a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm WILL RYAN & THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS with truly special guest, legendary voice actress JUNE FORAY (Rocky of Rocky & Bullwinkle, and MANY other characters), at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations, 626-798-6236.
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“The Band that Won the West” meets “The Queen of Cartoons,” special and amazing guest star and American icon JUNE FORAY. June is a Grammy-nominee, and Annie-Award-winner who is currently working on the new “Looney Tunes” TV series. As WILL RYAN observes, “She’s done more voices in more cartoons than ANYBODY!” Among them are Rocky the Flying Squirrel, Natasha the Spy, Dudley Do-Right’s Little Nell, Bugs Bunny’s Witch Hazel, Donald Duck’s Witch Hazel too, Mrs. Daffy Duck, Mrs. Goofy, Grammy Gummi, Jokey Smurf, Pogo Possum, Alice of “The Honey-Mousers”, all the Brooklyn Princesses in “Fractured Fairytales”, Tweety & Sylvester’s Grannie, and more and more and more. The list goes on and on.
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June will join Will in a special script or two featuring many of her characters. PLUS, June and the band will perform their new recording “Hokey Smoke!” It’s an audience sing-along song and a rare chance for YOU to “Sing Along with June Foray”!
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THE CACTUS COUNTY COWBOYS star WILL RYAN, winner of 2 Gold Records and BMI’s Pioneer Award. Will was recently proclaimed “The Official Singing Cowboy of Hollywood” by the Southern California Motion Picture Council. The rest of the band is formidable, too. WESTY WESTENHOFER, “The Paderewski of the Tuba,” and “The Ace of Bass,” is always entertaining beyond his musical prowess. And happily, back in town is “CACTUS CHLOE” FEORANZO, the “Little Miss Sure-Shot” of the clarinet, sax, mandolin, and – now - Cactus County crooning. Plus, there’s AUBREY RICHMOND, the newest resident of Cactus County and “The Veruschka of the Violin,” and LYNN “CYCLONE” COULTER, “The Madcap Maestro of Miscellanea.” (Do you get the idea they’re a lot of fun? Well, YEAH!) Plus, they are joined by sometime band member and The original “Turn On Song” cowpoke himself; composer, historian, Grammy-winning CD producer and multi-media personality, “OXNARD” IAN WHITCOMB on “The digitized plicated atomizer.”
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Tix, $20. This’ll sell-out, so hop on it.
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Thu, May 31:
BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION plays Sainte Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach; 310-372-0035.
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Throughout JUNE:
“DANCE CAMERA - WEST LOS ANGELES DANCE FILM FESTIVAL” is a month-long festival of screenings and events featuring experimental shorts, documentaries, and features at locations around Los Angeles, plus “a special outdoor event.” Sponsored by Dance Camera West. Some events are free, other events vary in price. The Guide does not list these events, but dates and times are available at 213-480-8633, or www.dancecamerawest.org.
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JUNE EVENTS…
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Throughout JUNE:
“CITY OF L.A. LGBT HERITAGE MONTH” and “NATIONAL GAY PRIDE MONTH” brings music performances, educational programs, gallery exhibitions, theater, and dance performances. Citywide events in Los Angeles “acknowledge Southern California’s gay and lesbian contributions in the areas of the arts, culture, education, politics, and the humanities.” Events happen at various sites throughout Los Angeles, and costs vary. Sponsored by Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, City of West Hollywood, City of Los Angeles Mayor’s Office, and others. The Guide lists no specific events, but info is available at www.culturela.org.
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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, FESTIVAL, in OC, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
Annual “HERITAGE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL” presents CHRIS HILLMAN & HERB PEDERSEN, TOULOUSE ENGLEHARDT, and DENNIS ROGER REED with CHRIS DARROW & MIKE DOWLING, at the Heritage Museum, 3101 W Harvard St, Santa Ana; 714-540-0404.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 2 & 3, FESTIVAL, in Long Beach:
9 am-5 pm 9th Annual “PACIFIC ISLANDER FESTIVAL” at the Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. Watch hula performances, listen to Tahitian drumming, try ancient Hawaiian games, enjoy island cuisine, admire artisans creating traditional weavings, and enjoy storytelling and educational programs. The festival features various cultures, including Hawaiian, Fijian, Marshallese, Chamoru, Tahitian, Samoan, Tokelau, and Maori. Tix, $24.95 adults, $21.95 seniors, $13.95 children (ages 3 -11), free for children under age 3 and for Aquarium members. Info, 562-590-3100, www.aquariumofpacific.org.
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Sat, Jun 2, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BORDER RADIO, plus JOHN BATDORF, play a double-bill at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, Jun 2, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
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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Sat, Jun 2, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “FIESTA JAROCHA – CONJUNTO JARDIN 15th ANNIVERSARY” presented by Conjunto Jardín at the Ford Amphitheatre (aka John Anson Ford Amphitheatre), 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood 90068; 323-GO1-FORD (323-461-3673); www.FordTheatres.org.
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It’s a son jarocho summit, as CONJUNTO JARDÍN, the L.A.-based ensemble dedicated to the music of Veracruz, brings two masters representing different styles of the genre from Mexico to help mark the group’s 15th anniversary. ALBERTO DE LA ROSA, master of the classic upbeat sound that took the world by storm in the ’50s, and DON FALLO FIGUEROA & SON CANDELA, who add contemporary flash to the rural tradition, played together for the first time at a chance meeting in L.A. last year, and the concept of CONJUNTO JARDÍN’s Ford musical extravaganza was born. Also joining Jardín are TIERRA BLANCA DANCE COMPANY, guitarist CIRO HURTADO of Huayucaltia. Veracruzano poet RAFAEL FIGUEROA is the emcee.
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General admission, $30, students $20, children $12. VIP packages start at $50 and include premium seating and T-shirt. Purchase by May 26 for a discount. Tix at http://fordtheatres.org/en/events/details/id/353.
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Box dinner orders available for some shows at 310-652-3797. Come early and bring your picnic at tables & chair in the “leafy entryway” by the waterfalls (you can bring your own wine or other beverage, and grounds open 2 hours before show time for picnicking). Food & drink are available on-site, though they always run out of hot cocoa when it’s chilly.
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Sun, Jun 3, FESTIVAL:
10:30 am-7 pm 7th Annual “LUMMIS DAY FESTIVAL” with blues, rock, banda, salsa, jazz, and country music performances at Lummis Home, 200 E Ave 43, Los Angeles and Heritage Square Museum, 3800 Homer St, Los Angeles. This festival celebrates the patchwork of cultures that enrich the city. Artists represent Latino, Tagalog, Native American, Anglo, and African American traditions. Dance troupes represent Philippine, Mexican, Pacific Island, Irish, and jazz dance traditions. Poets, painters, and culinary artists, all with local connections, add to the festival's collection of cultures. Info, www.lummisday.org. Free.
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Sun, Jun 3:
11 am Grammy noms LISA HALEY & The ZYDEKATS play a rare (for them) 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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Sun, Jun 3, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
5 pm ANDRE THIERRY & DEXTER ARDOIN play the CAJUN-ZYDECO DANCE SERIES at the Petroleum Club, 3636 Linden Av, Long Beach. (NOTE the early start time).
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Sun, Jun 3, in OC:
7 pm BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION plays The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Thu, Jun 7:
5-9 pm “FIRST THURSDAY SAN PEDRO ART WALK” brings a monthly evening of open galleries, studios, street vendors, and live music and other entertainment in downtown San Pedro, between 4th & 8th Streets; www.1stthursday.com. Downtown San Pedro becomes a village of creativity surrounded by historical architecture, including the magnificent Warner Grand Theatre, quaint restaurants and cafes, ongoing and impromptu music venues, and plenty of places to shop for unusual items and gifts. It’s a family-friendly evening in this seaside village, sponsored by the San Pedro Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Free.
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Fri, Jun 8, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
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:
10 am-6 pm “GETTY CENTER FAMILY FESTIVAL” at The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles; 310-440-7300. This family-oriented festival offers “a day of celebration and discovery inspired by exhibitions at the Getty Villa.” Each unique festival features performances by local dance and/or music groups, storytelling, art-making workshops, and gallery activities. Free.
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Sat, Jun 9, not music, but cool:
10 am-5 pm Annual “WORLD OCEAN DAY” at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Dr, San Pedro; www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org; 310-548-7562. Celebrate the ocean and share how important it is in our lives. Family-oriented activities include arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, animal stories and a close-up look at baby animals raised at the Aquarium. Themes presented include conservation of our urban coastline and precious marine inhabitants. Sponsored by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. Free.
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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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Sat, Jun 9, in Pomona:
3 pm-’til late evening “POMONA ART WALK” brings live music, food, wine, and art throughout the Downtown Pomona Arts Colony, centered at W 2nd St & Garey Av, Downtown Pomona. Big crowds stroll the streets, interacting with over a dozen galleries that host receptions and open houses to showcase their latest exhibits and artists. Event is held every second and last Saturday of the month. Info, www.metropomona.com; 909-469-1121. Free.
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Sat, Jun 9, in San Diego:
7:30 pm CHRISTOPHER DEAN plays the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas.
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Sat, Jun 9, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JACK BROWN and JAMES HURLEY share the bill at “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area); 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Jun 10, pseudo-FESTIVAL:
2-6 pm Annual “GINGER FAIRE: SWEET, SPICE & EVERYTHING NICE” brings live music, food, and more to Downtown Los Angeles. A celebration of ginger and other spices is the theme of a world food, music, artisan crafts, healthy living, and eco-friendly family fun event, sponsored by CausaConnect; 213-446-3467; www.gingerfaire.com. Free.
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Sun, Jun 10:
5-9 pm JOE HALL & HIS LOUISIANA CANE CUTTERS play the CAJUN-ZYDECO DANCE SERIES at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. You can come early for the beginners dance lesson at 4:30 pm; info & tix, 562-396-1132.
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Thu-Sun, Jun 14-17, FESTIVAL:
“LOS ANGELES FILM FESTIVAL” at Regal Cinemas L.A. Live Stadium 14, and John Anson Ford Amphitheatre, is Southern California’s largest film event. The festival showcases the best in new American and international cinema and gives access to some of the most critically acclaimed film talent from around the world. Schedule includes red-carpet premieres, conversations with artists, and outdoor screenings, and there are always peripheral music performances. Sponsored by Film Independent. Info, 866-FILMFEST, www.lafilmfest.com. $12 gets you in.
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Thu-Sun, Jun 14-17 FESTIVAL, in Colorado; a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
Annual “TELLURIDE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” is one of the best outdoor music festivals in America, in the San Juan Range of the high Rocky Mountains in Southwestern Colorado. It’s bluegrass and beyond, always the best, most innovative acoustic music from the biggest names across the acoustic genres. You must go once before you die. It’s that good, that enduring an experience.
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Thu, Jun 14:
6-10 pm monthly “L.A. DOWNTOWN ART WALK” in the Gallery District of downtown Los Angeles, is a self-guided tour of the art exhibition venues in Downtown Los Angeles, including live music and more in commercial art galleries, public museums, nonprofit spaces, and grassroots arts venues. The event seems to be past its tumultuous political history, bringing together art lovers and community friends in ever-evolving downtown Los Angeles. Sponsored by the Gallery Row Organization; info, www.downtownartwalk.org. Free.
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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, on the Mojave River in 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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Fri, Jun 15, in San Diego; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm THE INDIGO GIRLS play Humphrey's By the Bay, on Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Fri, Jun 15, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 & 10 pm RODNEY CROWELL & MARY KARR, plus STEUART SMITH, play two shows tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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Fri, Jun 15, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10 pm RODNEY CROWELL & MARY KARR, plus STEUART SMITH, play two shows tonight (8 & 10 pm) at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497.
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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 & Sun, Jun 16 & 17, FESTIVAL:
9 am-9 pm annual “MIXED ROOTS FILM & LITERARY FESTIVAL” brings storytelling, film screenings, live performances, comedy, workshops, readings, and more to the Japanese American National Museum, 369 E First St, Los Angeles. The Festival celebrates storytelling of the mixed racial and cultural experience including that of transracial / cultural adoption and interracial / cultural relationships. It brings together film and book lovers, innovative artists, and families interested in the mixed racial and cultural experience. Sponsored by Mixed Chicks Chat. Info, 310-712-1632, www.mxroots.org. Free.
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Sat, Jun 16; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE INDIGO GIRLS play the Wiltern Theater, corner of Wilshire Bl and Western Av, L.A.; 800-745-3000.
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The Purple Line subway station is just across the street, and that’s a great way to miss traffic and expensive parking.
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Sat, Jun 16, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm LAURENCE JUBER, the dazzling GRAMMY-winning guitarist from Paul McCartney’s WINGS, plays Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583.
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Sat, Jun 16, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm DOUG HAYWOOD & ROSEMARY BUTLER play the “BODIE HOUSE CONCERTS AT THE THOUSAND OAKS LIBRARY” series, at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Road, Thousand Oaks; 818-621-8309.
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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, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm JIM KWESKIN plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Tue, Jun 19, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE MURPHY FAMILY BAND plays the monthly “BASC BLUEGRASS NIGHT” presented by the Bluegrass Assoc. of Southern California at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425.
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Thu-Sun, Jun 21-24, FESTIVAL, in Temecula:
“ELYSIUM MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL” at Vail Lake Resort, on 11,000 acres of lakefront in Temecula includes RIVER ROUGE at 11 am on June 23. The festival offers swimming, camping, and nice site amenities, but other’n the band we cite? Musically, it’s heavy on alternative-whatever bands. Festival info, www.elysiumfestival.org. Check out RIVER ROUGE at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wf7TffXZBRw; www.reverbnation.com/riverrouge; www.twitter.com/#!/riverrougeband; www.myspace.com/riverrougeband; www.facebook.com/pages/River-Rouge/31726569203.
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Thu, Jun 21:
6-10 pm 2nd Annual “ART-RAGEOUS ART WALK” along Sherman Way, between Canoga and Topanga, in downtown Canoga Park; www.canogaparkcal.com; 818-884-4222. This family-oriented event features musicians, artists, vendors, and food trucks through the streets of Historic Downtown Canoga Park. Sponsored by the Canoga Park Improvement Association, the Canoga Park Centennial Celebration, and the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. Free.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 23 & 24, FESTIVAL, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
26th Annual “LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL” featuring THE PINE LEAF BOYS and many, many more, on two stages, one Cajun-Zydeco, the other blues & jazz, at Rainbow Lagoon Park in Long Beach; www.longbeachbayoufestival.com; 562-424-0013. Runs Saturday 11 am-9 pm, Sunday 11 am-8 pm. Lots of great food vendors. Large dance tent pavilion at Cajun-Zydeco stage with plenty of room for listeners to watch the musicians from shade or sunny locations. Open-air dance floor at blues stage, with sunny audience area. Tix range from $10 to $65, so check their site early to get the option that’s best for you.
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Sat, Jun 23, near Ojai, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
6 pm BLAME SALLY plays the “OJAI CONCERT SERIES” at Dancing Oak Ranch, 4585 Casitas Pass Rd, high above Ventura; 805-665-8852.
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Sat, Jun 23, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick
New Orleans legends WALTER "WOLFMAN" WASHINGTON and RUSSELL BATISTE play Cafe Boogaloo, 1238 Hermosa Av, Hermosa Beach; 310-318-2324.
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Sat, Jun 23, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm PHIL BOROFF & EVAN MARSHALL play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583. Evan Marshall is one of the world’s greatest mandolin players, and his degree is in violin. That’s enough to offer some idea of what you’ll get here tonight.
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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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Sun, Jun 24, a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
8 pm JACKSON BROWNE, GLEN CAMPBELL, and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON team up to play the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000. Wow! Three legends, including GLEN CAMPBELL, back after completing his recent “Farewell Tour”? Get tix early or get left out.
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Thu, Jun 28-Thu, Sep 2, not music, but cool:
7 pm Opening night of the annual “GRIFFITH PARK FREE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL,” L.A.’s largest summer theater festival, presented outdoors in a natural amphitheater in Griffith Park. There are ten weeks of free performances, including “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Winter’s Tale,” and “The Comedy of Errors.” Family-friendly setting. Bring a picnic dinner. Runs Thursdays through September 2, at the Old Zoo in Griffith Park. Sponsored by the Independent Shakespeare Co. Info, www.iscla.org; 818-710-6303. Free.
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Thu, Jun 28, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays the “AMSD Concert Series,” 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176.
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Fri, Jun 29:
5-10 pm “CARS AND STRIPES FOREVER” at Swinford & Harbor Bl, San Pedro. This event includes live music and “new songs at the Fountain” at the city’s landmark fountain / water sculpture, and a rally and display of more than 100 classic cars and motorcycles. Food and beverage sales benefit local non-profits. Sponsored by the Port of Los Angeles. Info, www.portla.org; 310-732-3508. Free.
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Fri, Jun 29, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 & 10 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays a pair of shows tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Fri, Jun 29:
8 pm monthly “BONES AND BLUES” concert series featuring live blues and jazz music, domino tournaments, and a hearty barbecue dinner, at The Center, 10950 S Central Av, Los Angeles. Sponsored by Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC); 323-563-5639, www.wlcac.org. Tix, $25 door, $15 advance.
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Fri, Jun 29, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
10 pm CHRIS SMITHER plays a pair of shows (8 & 10 pm) tonight at McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497. Tix, $22.50.
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Sat, Jun 30:
7:30 pm “CAL PHIL FESTIVAL ON THE GREEN – WORLD TOUR” at Santa Anita Park, 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia. The California Philharmonic kicks-off its annual “Festival on the Green” concert series where music, food, and a great location combine into a magical blend unparalleled in Southern California.
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Cal Phil has relocated from the County Arboretum, across the street, to the lovely parklike atmosphere of Santa Anita Racetrack. Engaging maestro VICTOR VENER leads a world-class orchestra, and top guest soloists ensure enjoyment for all. Before the symphony begins, there is always live jazz to provide background for your catered dining or a bring-your-own picnic dinner (as elaborate as you want). “Family activities” for the kids begin when the gates open for dining at 5:30 pm.
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Tix are $20 to $98, the latter being up-front tables with linen tablecloths. Info, California Philharmonic, 626-300-8200, or www.calphil.org.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 30 & Jul 1; world music & culture FESTIVAL:
4-9 pm Annual “OBON FESTIVAL” at San Fernando Valley Buddhist Temple, 12953 Brandford St, Pacoima. This is one of the largest Obon festivals in Southern California. The event includes taiko drum performances, Japanese Folk Dancing, ethnic foods, Japanese cultural displays, and games. Sponsored by San Fernando Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple; info, www.sfvhbt.org; 818-899-4030. Free.
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Sat & Sun, Jun 30 & Jul 1; world music & culture FESTIVAL:
8 pm-2 am 15th Annual “BELIZE CAYE FEST” at Hollywood Park Casino, 3833 W Century Bl, Inglewood. This musical event celebrates the customs and culture of the Belizean people, including Punta Rock, Brukdown, and Kungo music. Traditional Belizean arts and craft are on display. There’s Caribbean food and drinks and workshops for children. Sponsored by Belize Caye Fest Inc.; info 661-210-9132, www.belizecayefest.com. Runs Saturday, 8 pm-2 am; Sunday, 2 pm-10 pm. Tix are $30 Saturday, $15 Sunday; children under age 10 are free, both days.
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JULY EVENTS…
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Sun, Jul 1:
7 pm BEN HARPER, and VIEUX FARKA TOURE, team-up to play the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Mon, Jul 2, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm LYLE LOVETT & HIS LARGE BAND play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Tue, Jul 3, in San Diego; an “EVENT-of-the-WEEK for ARTISTS”:
5-7 pm “MANDOLIN WORKSHOP” with MIKE COMPTON at New Expression Music, 4434 30th St, San Diego; 619-280-9035. In addition, Mike plays a concert here tonight at 8 pm (see listing).
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Tue, Jul 3, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MIKE COMPTON, mandolin master, plays a concert at New Expression Music, 4434 30th St, San Diego; 619-280-9035. In addition, Mike does a Mandolin Workshop here today, 5-7 pm (see listing).
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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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Sat, Jul 7, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “LEGENDS OF THE CELTIC HARP: PATRICK BALL, LISA LYNNE, & ARYEH FRANFURTER” play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. This is a wonderful show, absolutely a world-class combination of true masters of the instrument, and an auditory delight. Plus, the intimate venue with its sloped seating gives all good views of the talented fingers as these artists create beautiful and moving music. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, Jul 7, in Thousand Oaks, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CAROLINE AIKEN plays the “BODIE HOUSE CONCERTS AT THE THOUSAND OAKS LIBRARY” series, at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Road, Thousand Oaks; 818-621-8309.
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Fri, Jul 13, in OC:
8 pm BILLY VERA & THE BEATERS play The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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Fri, Jul 13, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” with GARRISON KEILLOR and musical guests, does its annual show for radio taping and next-day broadcast, this year at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000.
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Sat, Jul 14, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY plays “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Jul 15, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm TOULOUSE ENGLEHARDT plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reservations recommended, call 626-798-6236 (seven days, 10 am-10 pm).
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Sat, Jul 28:
8th Annual “NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY” in the U.S. and Canada, with special recognitions in several states provinces and many events in both countries, including plenty of western and western swing music. We’ll keep you posted, or check the ever-growing and vast array of info at www.nationaldayofthecowboy.org
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AUGUST EVENTS…
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Wed, Aug 1; a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
7 pm “THE NEVILLE BROTHERS' FAREWELL TOUR,” as the famous brothers add the talents and formidable presence of TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE to bring a memory-book night of New Orleans’ best to the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000. Don’t dawdle getting tix, as this’ll sell-out.
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Tue, Aug 7; a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” 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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Sat, Aug 11, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm TOM RUSSELL, one of new-folk’s best performing songwriters, returns to his Southern Cal roots to play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar. Get tix early, as this will sell-out.
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Sat, Aug 11:
8 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION brings all the classic songs of the ’50s-’60s Folk Revival era for an evening at “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sun, Aug 12; a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
8 pm Annual “BLUEGRASS AT THE FORD” concert, featuring THE LONESOME RIVER BAND and LONESOME OTIS, presented by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC), at one of the Guide’s most-favorite outdoor venues, the John Anson Ford Theater, 2580 Cahuenga Bl East, Hollywood. Pack a picnic dinner with the beverages of your choice (alcohol is allowed in) and enjoy a fine and fun night of bluegrass under the stars. Everybody who knows looks forward to this one.
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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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Thu, Aug 23, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm STEVE MARTIN & THE STEEP CANYON RANGERS play Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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Thu, Aug 30, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
ERIC BIBB plays the Skirball Cultural Center, just off the 405 atop Sepulveda Pass. More info wen we have it.
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SEPTEMBER EVENTS…
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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, Hollywood Bl at Argyle St, Hollywood. Get tix early, they’re on sale now, and it’ll sell-out.
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Tue, Sep 4, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
JOHN HIATT plays Sainte Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach; 310-372-0035.
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Wed, Sep 5, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7 pm B. B. KING plus THE TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND for an end-of-the-summer all-star night at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Av, Hollywood; 232-850-2000. It’ll likely all be electric, and really, really good.
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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, Sep 7, in OC, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JOHN HIATT plays The Coach House, Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 949-496-8930.
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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 plus MAVIS STAPLES in a dazzling “oh wow” of a show at the Greek Theater in Hollywood. Get your tix right away for this one (unless you’re seeing MERLE HAGGARD and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON tonight).
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Sat, Sep 22; a “SHOW-of-the-YEAR” pick:
MERLE HAGGARD and KRIS KRISTOFFERSON share a wonderful bill, two legendary performing songwriters, at the Valley Performing Arts Center, on the campus at Cal State Northridge. The Guide has often encouraged you to see each of these artists. A chance to see them performing together? Get your tix right away for this one (unless you’re seeing BONNIE RAITT and MAVIS STAPLES tonight).
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Sat, Sep 22, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JANET ROBIN and ALI HANDAL, two fine artists, share the night at “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” Series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Tue, Sep 25, in San Diego, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm BONNIE RAITT plays Humphrey's By the Bay, Shelter Island Dr, San Diego; 619-224-5377.
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OCTOBER EVENTS…
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Sat, Oct 6, in Thousand Oaks, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
THE KINGSTON TRIO plays the Fred Kavli Theater for the Performing Arts, Thousand Oaks.
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Sat, Oct 13:
8 pm JEZ LOWE plays the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series in Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Free parking at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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Sat, Oct 13:
8 pm ANGELO M. and THE SALTY SUITES play “RUSS AND JULIE'S HOUSE CONCERT” series in Oak Park (Agoura Hills / Westlake Village area). THE SALTY SUITES spent the summer playing festivals. They are a rapidly-rising quartet of stellar your players, from CHELSEA WILLIAMS, the beautiful and charming singer-songwriter-guitarist who sings on the nationwide TV commercial for Chevrolet, to mandolin wunderkind SCOTT GATES, to bassist CHUCK HAILES. Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sat, Oct 27, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CATHY BARTON & DAVE PARA play the “CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY” series in Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. The Missouri-based, autoharp-playing traditional music duo has a huge following in Southern Cal, so get your tix early. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar.
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NOVEMBER EVENTS…
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Sun, Nov 4, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
RAVI SHANKAR, master of the sitar and more, plays the Center Theater, Long Beach.
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Sat, Nov 17, a “SHOW-of-the-WEEK” pick:
8 pm LUNASA plays the Caltech Public Events Concert Series in Beckman Auditorium (“Big Beckman”), on the Caltech campus in Pasadena; 626-395-4652. Park free at the end of Michigan Av, south off Del Mar, if you arrive early enough to get a space.
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2013 ~ Way, way ahead, in the far-off future…
(assuming the Mayans didn’t get it right…)
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Fri, Feb 8:
8 pm THE CAMPBELL BROTHERS play the Smothers Theatre, on the campus at Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu; 310-506-4522.
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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
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"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.
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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).
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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.) .
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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.
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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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Questions? Comments?

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♪ Acoustic Americana Music Guide ♪

Thursday, May 31, 2012

FOLK MUSIC ON TV TONIGHT

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

The World Loses Doc Watson

Sunday, May 27, 2012

DOC WATSON IN CRITICAL CONDITION

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Acoustic Americana Music Guide, SPOTLIGHT EVENTS, Memorial Day Weekend edition 2012