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Welcome! Here's Friday's Fresh News — FIVE new feature stories, one addressing something fairly immediate: music on TV tonight. And another with Folk-Americana music on RADIO this weekend.
Before you jump -in: two quickies about previous editions...
NOTE that our two most recent NEWS EDITIONS are loaded with feature stories that are NOT at all "stale" — from part one of our survey of new products debuting at the NAMM Show, to the January 26 edition with
ALSO, please note that the format problem in the "NAMM" edition is fixed — it's easy to read now that we substituted the words "less than" in place of the mathematical symbol, which the Cyberian world reads as computer code...
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CONTENTS / IN THIS EDITION...
1) FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC ON TV...
2) L.A. RADIO THIS WEEKEND: BROADCAST / WEB SIMULCAST, & WHAT'S (BRIEFLY) ARCHIVED
• There are multiple sections in this story:
√ Special WEB VIDEO Simulcast
√ Roots Music on KPCC
√ Roots Music on KCSN
√ Roots Music on KPFK
√ ARCHIVED, On-Demand Web Radio
√ ARCHIVED, But Going, Going...
√ FOLK-AMERICANA Radio from Elsewhere, via the WEB
3) 56th ANNUAL TOPANGA BANJO•FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL: 1st CALL FOR CONTESTANTS, VOLUNTEERS and GRAPHIC ARTISTS
4) NEW JULIE CHRISTENSEN CD GETS GOOD PR
5) SCOTTISH FIDDLERS OF LOS ANGELES SET CONCERTS TO CELEBRATE 35th ANNIVERSARY
Let's get started!
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# 1 news feature...
FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC ON TV...
As always, KLCS, the little PBS "also-ran" that's owned by the Los Angeles Unified School District, is a Friday night haven for roots music.
Fri, Jan 29, on KLCS-tv:
8-8:30 pm "SUN STUDIO SESSIONS" has a 2015 show with GREYHOUNDS, a blues-funk duo from Austin, TX. The Memphis studio is where Elvis first recorded.
Repeats 3-3:30 am.
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Fri, Jan 29, on KLCS-tv:
8:30-9 pm "BLUEGRASS UNDERGROUND" is a 2015 episode with banjo virtuosi BELA FLECK & ABIGAIL WASHBURN. The show comes from inside a limestone cavern, 330+ feet underground near McMinnville, TN.
Repeats 3:30-4 am.
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Fri, Jan 29, on KLCS-tv:
9-10 pm "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" continues its trend of pop over folk, with a 2016 edition with ANGELIQUE KIDJO.
Repeats 4-5 am.
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Fri, Jan 29, on KLCS-tv:
10-11 pm "FRONT & CENTER" from 2015 brings guitarist WARREN HAYNES, backed by roots band RAILROAD EARTH, from the McKittrick Hotel in NYC.
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Early Sat, Jan 30, on KLCS-tv:
5-6 am THE RIDES, a blues-rock group, perform for a 2015 edition of "FRONT & CENTER," with music from guests STEPHEN STILLS, KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD, & BARRY GOLDBERG, at the Iridium in NYC.
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# 2 news feature...
L.A. RADIO THIS WEEKEND: BROADCAST / WEB SIMULCAST, & WHAT'S (BRIEFLY) ARCHIVED
There are multiple sections in this story:
√ Special WEB VIDEO Simulcast
√ Roots Music on KPCC
√ Roots Music on KCSN
√ Roots Music on KPFK
√ ARCHIVED, On-Demand Web Radio
√ ARCHIVED, But Going, Going...
√ FOLK-AMERICANA Radio from Elsewhere, via the WEB
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Yep, just like Friday is the night for good music on tv — on PBS affiliate KLCS — Saturday morning through Sunday evening are when you find musical relief on radio in this town.
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√ SPECIAL WEB VIDEO SIMULCAST...
Sat, Jan 30:
"A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION" simulcasts a video feed THIS SATURDAY, Jan. 30, and ALL NEXT MONTH, live every Saturday, Feb. 6, 13, 20, & 27, from 3 to 5 pm Pacific, at:
http://prairiehome.org
Each show has an audio-only repeat on the site, 9 to 11 am, Pacific.
You can also listen to last week's show, through today (Friday), at the show's site.
ON THE JANUARY 30 SHOW:
Chris Thile (Punch Brothers) is braving the cold wind and snow of Saint Paul for his first of two turns as guest host from the show's home base, the Fitzgerald Theater. It’s a show chock full of writing talent, from pop songsmith and pianist Ben Folds, folk-rock troubadour Brandi Carlile, to comedian and actor Ed Helms. Sarah Jarosz sings a little bluegrass and plays her impressive array of stringed instruments, and the host and his fellow Punch Brothers provide string quintet fireworks equally at home in Rosine (Kentucky) and Paris (France); and, holding things all together in the absence of Garrison Keillor, the Royal Academy of Radio Actors brings cast members Tim Russell, Sue Scott, and Fred Newman, along with music director at the big Steinway, Rich Dworsky.
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√ Roots Music on KPCC...
Sat & Sun, Jan 30 & 31:
"A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION" is the only music program of any kind on the station that once had a roots-Americana format. And the globally-distributed show now airs only twice a week in L.A., ever since KPCC dropped the national premiere airtime for each week's broadcast (3 pm Pacific / 6 pm Eastern, everywhere else); you'll find simulcasts at that hour from stations coast-to-coast, or just go to http://prairiehome.org and you'll even get a video simulcast, every Sat. at 3 pm, through February. Otherwise, the sole L.A. broadcast radio times are on KPCC are both reruns everywhere else: 6-8 pm Saturdays and Noon-2 pm Sundays, at 89.3 FM / simulcast at www.scpr.org
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√ Roots music on KCSN...
• Sat, Jan 30:
"ACOUSTIC CAFE," hosted by Rob Reinhart, airs Saturdays 5-7 am Pacific. An independent media production of RDR Radio, LLC, the program's far-flung audience drives its eclectic playlist of mostly Americana music. Otherwise, Saturdays on KCSN are given over to a sucession of locally-hosted "music mix" programs.
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• Sundays:
"Bluegrass Etcetera" is lovingly crafted each week by Frank Hoppe. There's a reason why this is L.A.'s longest-running and sole-surviving bluegrass / old-time music radio show. Airs 6-8 am.
• Sundays:
"Americana Matinee" with Kat Griffin is the ONLY radio show in L.A. that concentrates on the Americana Music radio charts. Wanna know what the rest of the country is listening to? Airs 8-10 am.
Sundays:
"Le Show" with Harry Shearer is really not a music show. If you know his work around Hollywood, you know what to expect. Airs 10-11 am.
Sundays:
"The Dylan Hour" has grown a devoted audience with knowledgeable musician/host/programmer Lisa Finnie. It airs Dylan classics recorded by the Bob, reinterpretations by various artists and bands, plenty of stories from the road and recording studio, and Dylan obscura. Lisa stays at the mic for the show that follows, too. Airs 11 am-noon.
• Sundays:
"Masters Of Song" with Lisa Finnie expands the horizon beyond Dylan to his contemporaries, through to modern crafters of song. It airs Noon-1 pm.
• Sundays:
"Tangled Roots" is Pat Baker's long-running show that mixes Folk-Americana tracks old and new with Grateful Dead and other non-metal rockers that make for a musical landscape with no ruts. Airs 1-3 pm.
• Sundays:
"Rock 'n Roll Times" with retired L.A. Times and music writer and author of numerous bio books on iconic musicians Robert Hilburn. It's usually rock, but it's a standout show, 6-7 pm, and easy to remember before you switch to tv for "60 Minutes."
• Sundays:
"Ann the Raven's Blues" hosted & programmed by walking encyclopedia of the electric blues, Ann the Raven. Don't expect or request acoustic blues; that's not her thing. Airs weekly, 7-9 pm.
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√ Roots Music on KPFK...
(Presented "backwards," Sunday first, then Saturday)...
• Sundays:
"FOLKSCENE" is the longest-running Folk-Americana radio show from just about anywhere, with its pantheon of legendary performance-interview guests. It's all the more remarkable that the show has always been based in L.A., where systematic efforts have oft been made to drive such music from the airwaves. It airs 6-8 pm Sundays, then it's available on-demand for two weeks at:
http://archive.kpfk.org
In this Sunday's upcoming edition of "FOLKSCENE" on the radio, the Pasadena Folk Music Society adds, "Gibson and Camp are magnificent as well."
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• Saturdays (THIS Saturday, anyway):
Our friends at the Pasadena Folk Music Society reminded us, "There will be some very fine music on KPFK, 90.7 FM / www.kpfk.org this Saturday morning (January 30) from 6 to 8 am, where John and Deanne Davis will do their fifth-Saturday-of-the-month 'HEARTFELT MUSIC' show. They play a wealth of great folk music and we always look forward to it. Get up early and tune it in."
That crazy once-every-fifth-Saturday (or so) schedule also includes "ALIVE AND PICKING," the much-loved show hosted and produced by Mary Katherine Aldin.
In fact, "HEARTFELT MUSIC" and "ALIVE AND PICKING" were weekly fixtures for years, just like the award-winning long-gone "TIED TO THE TRACKS." At least the first two got a chance to come back at KPFK in the station's inscrutable, impossible-to-remember weird rotation, once every five weeks (or so) in a wild mix of shows.
The message from Pasadena comes with more about THIS Saturday's radio music:
"If you miss (the broadcast of) 'HEARTFELT MUSIC,' you can hear it on the KPFK Online Archives" at:
http://archive.kpfk.org — only for two weeks!
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√ ARCHIVED, ON-DEMAND WEB RADIO...
The Caltech-based Pasadena Folkies sent additional radio music news you can use:
Currently on the KPFK Archives, for ONE more week, you can hear a "FOLKSCENE" show with:
• a wonderful 1985 interview / concert from KATE WOLF and friends in the first hour, followed by
• a 1976 show featuring BOB GIBSON and "Hamid" aka HAMILTON CAMP, in the second hour
For another week, it's at:
http://archive.kpfk.org
Of this particular show, they write, "Kate sings some really fine songs that had just been released on her recording, 'Poet's Heart.' If you don't know about the music of the late KATE WOLF, this is a great introduction."
For our readers who may not know, the delightful "KATE WOLF MUSIC FESTIVAL" is an annual affair in Northern Cal, celebrating her music and plenty of good Folk-Americana from today's top touring performing songwriters and acoustic bands.
And there's more.
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√ ARCHIVED, BUT GOING, GOING...
For another couple of days, you can still hear ANDY STEWART & SILLY WIZARD, followed by the CHIEFTAINS, from the Sunday, January 17 "FOLKSCENE" show.
CREDIT WHERE IT'S DUE...
We must also mention that the Pasadena Folk Music Society's next concert presents the return of Italian guitarist BEPPE GAMBETTA, in 3 weeks, on Saturday, February 20. It's at 8 pm in Beckman Institute Auditorium ("Little Beckman") on the Caltech campus in Pasadena (free parking). Beppe last performed at Caltech back in 2002. Tix are now available ($15) by calling 626-395-4652 or order online at:
http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?pid=8130866
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√ FOLK-AMERICANA RADIO FROM ELSEWHERE, VIA THE WEB...
It would be overwhelming to list — or try to list — everything from everywhere. But we will offer a couple of shows, with our endorsements:
• "ACOUSTIC HARMONY" from the Green Mountains of Vermont has been programmed and hosted by Mark Michaelis has been hosting Acoustic Harmony on WGDR since 1990. He frequently has performance-interview guests, music-makers touring nationally (before they get to the left coast) or regionally — talented folks you might not discover for a much longer time, otherwise. The weekly show is broadcast on both WGDR and WGDH.
Mark first discovered the joy of free format programming in the late '70s while hosting an on-campus college radio show. Now he appreciates that same free format freedom in the studios at WGDR, where he plays the music of contemporary folk artists and singer songwriters, often featuring live guests and recorded interviews. "Acoustic Harmony" is a newly-added reporting show to the "Roots Music Report" radio airplay chart, and is heard on alternating Saturdays from 4:30-7:30 pm Eastern time (broadcast), and on the web Pacific time, 1:30-4:30 pm, at:
www.wgdr.org
The show and its home station offer nice options:
(1) you can stream the latest show on-demand for a two-week period after the show, AND "select" other editions, at:
www.wgdr.org/on-demand
an active link is on the "Links" page.
(2) You can record "Acoustic Harmony" and listen at your convenience, via the new web service DAR.FM, which allows users to record their favorite radio programs for listening at another time. It works just like a DVR or TiVo for radio.
Info on on that and upcoming guests are at the show's site:
www.acoustic-harmony.com
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• "MOJO BOOGIE BLUES," hosted by Brion Foster, is a five time winner of the Inland Empire Blues Society's “Empire Award” for "BEST BLUES RADIO PROGRAM" in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2014. (This is where you discover that Southern California isn't the only place with an "inland empire," eh?) The show is broadcast on KYRS 88.1 FM and 92.3 FM, "the home for contemporary blues, featuring local, regional, national & international blues artists." Mojo Boogie Blues asserts it "is focused on the most current popular and underground blues releases," and is a newly-added reporting show to the "Roots Music Report" radio airplay chart. Hear it live, and find several archived shows, at:
www.kyrs.org
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More radio music news coming your way soon.
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# 3 news feature...
56th ANNUAL TOPANGA BANJO•FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL: 1st CALL FOR CONTESTANTS, VOLUNTEERS and GRAPHIC ARTISTS
The best annual one-day folk festival anywhere is returns Sunday, May 15, 2016, from 9 am–6 pm, at its longtime home, Paramount Ranch, 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. The site is an old movie ranch with "western town" style buildings recognizable from films since the 1930s. Today, it's operated by the National Park Service, who welcomes TBFC's multiple-stage hootenanny and dazzling array of talented contestants vying for prestigious and coveted awards.
EARLY OPPORTUNITIES...
a) Save the Date: Sunday, May, 15, 2016.
b) Contestant Registration: February 1 through April 15, 2016. NEW ON-LINE Registration Form available on 2/1/16.
c) Advance Ticket Purchase begins Feb 1 – Save money and avoid long lines.
d) ENTER THE LOGO CONTEST: TBFC has a sweet "Graphic Design Award" — design this year's logo (used on t-shirts, etc) and win a nice $650 Design Award prize. Submissions, now open, are due by March 15, 2016. See TBFC website for details.
e) Nominations for the 2016 "MUSIC LEGEND AWARD" are now open. (The Guide's founding editor was the 2015 honoree, joining those from previous years who have won GRAMMYS and other top awards!) Submissions are due by March 15; see website Home Page for link.
f) VOLUNTEER and enjoy FREE Admission – sign up on the website. The festival's recruiting pitch: "A Contest and Festival of this high quality does not just happen. Could you be our next decision maker? What would you love to do the most? What are your talents? Go to the Volunteer sign-up page and tell us what interests you while working with an experienced mentor."
g) FLATFOOT DANCING has just been added as a competitive category this year.
h) NEW RULES are in place for Intermediate Instrument Contestants (on their site, under "Contestant FAQ’s").
i) Want to distribute “Save the Date” Postcards to venues, music haunts, and trafficked places and events? Contact Joy Felt at the email address below.
J) Sign up for the TBFC email list at the link on their Home Page.
k) "Like" TBFC on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/topangabanjofiddle
l) Follow TBFC on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/TopangaContest
All information can be found on the TBFC website at:
www.topangabanjofiddle.org
Call the hotline, 818-382-4819 or email Board of Directors member JOY FELT at:
info@topangabanjofiddle.org
The TBFC website is:
www.topangabanjofiddle.org
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# 4 news feature...
NEW JULIE CHRISTENSEN CD GETS GOOD PR
Julie Christensen has been making good music for a long time as an enduring star of nu-folk.
"The Cardinal," released January 22, has brought Julie "a valid swanky wikipedia page," and a rush of coverage in the music press. This week, both "Alternate Root" and "No Depression" featured Julie and her band ("Julie, Chris, Bones, Steve, and Sergio"). "The Bluegrass Situation" premiered "The Cardinal" back in December.
The album is available on her site as a CD or download, and through iTunes and Amazon links. Get it from her site and she gets to keep more of your purchase price:
www.stonecupid.com
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# 5 news feature...
SCOTTISH FIDDLERS OF LOS ANGELES SET CONCERTS TO CELEBRATE 35th ANNIVERSARY
This year's Scottish Fiddlers' Spring Concert Series brings celebratory hoopla along with the usual acclaimed Celtic fiddle-based music.
The Scottish Fiddlers of Los Angeles will celebrate their 35th Anniversary with two concerts, seven weeks apart. The first is in Hermosa Beach on Saturday, March 5, at 7:30 pm. The second is set for Pasadena on Saturday, April 30, at 3:30 pm.
Cape Breton fiddler Troy MacGillivray is the featured special performing guest artist in Hermosa Beach on March 5, plus the Fiddlers welcome back to the Hermosa Beach Theatre the Tappan Sisters, Highland dancer Devon Watson, and piper Robert Hackney.
Guest artists for the Pasadena show will be announced in the coming weeks.
Tix for either show are available now, at:
www.scottishfiddlers.org
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NEWS coming soon:
√ more new products that debuted at NAMM.
√ MARDI GRAS in L.A. starts waaay early and goes past Fat Tuesday. We'll bring you the info on where the bonne temps will roulez...
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS and ticket alerts, published separately, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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More soon, as always.
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CONTACT US at / send Questions / Comments to: . Tiedtothetracks (at) Hotmail (dot) com
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California, in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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♪ ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC is blues, bluegrass, borderlands, Cajun, cowboy, Celtic, Cape Breton, newfangled old-time, accessible classical, folk-Americana from riverboats, mountainsides, front porches, barn dances & honkytonks. NOT a musical museum, it is alive with vibrant traditional music & innovators of the Acoustic Renaissance. NEWS, complete listings & descriptions of festivals EVERYWHERE & performances in Southern California, are here, frequently updated!
Friday, January 29, 2016
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
NEWS: TV Tonight, Two Film Screenings this Week, TEN news features in all! -- Jan 26 edition...
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QUICK note: the Jan. 23rd edition, part one of our ongoing look at new gear that debuted at NAMM, had a format problem (it collapsed into a big pile of words, partway through). That's been FIXED, and it's very easy to read now -- or whenever you want to go read it.
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In THIS edition...
TEN fresh NEWS FEATURES in this edition! (And if you don't find what you're looking for here, we're already working on our NEXT edition)... More NEWS coming soon:
√ more new products that debuted at NAMM.
√ MARDI GRAS in L.A. starts waaay early and goes past Fat Tuesday. We'll bring you the info on where the bonne temps will roulez...
But let's not get ahead of ourselves — there's a 'UGE amount of news right here! "It's 'UGE and you'll love it!" (Gads, did we just quote who we think we did?!)
Let's get started!
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CONTENTS... in this edition...
1) TONIGHT on TV: "THE MINE WARS," the story & struggles of West Va. coal miners, premieres on "THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE" on PBS.
2) TWO FILM SCREENING EVENTS: ONE TONIGHT, ONE THE 29th...
3) OSCAR WINDBAGS SHOULD GET THEIR DUE, WITH APPROPRIATE MUSIC
4) EL TWANGUERO, LATIN GRAMMY-WINNING GUITARIST, HAS FEBRUARY L.A. RESIDENCY
5) THE "AMERICANA" THAT AMERICA IS LISTENING TO ON THE RADIO — EVERYWHERE BUT L.A.
6) "ADOPT THE ARTS" WINTER BENEFIT CONCERT IS FREE WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS, THU., JAN. 28 AT THE RECORD PARLOUR IN HOLLYWOOD
7) RINGO STARR & HIS ALL STARR BAND ANNOUNCE SOUTHERN CAL DATES IN JUNE-JULY 2016 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
8) JACKIE BRISTOW — AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW
9) BLUEGRASS: NEW FROM TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE ON RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS
10) DESERT ROAD TRIP TIME? (I SEE HAWKS IN ... JOSHUA TREE)
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# 1 news feature...
★ TONIGHT ON TV: "THE MINE WARS"
"The Mine Wars" premieres on "THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE" on PBS nationwide, including in Southern California on KOCE, aka PBS SoCal, tonight, Jan. 26, at 9 pm.
All that Appalachian Bluegrass that you love so much?
Its roots are deep in the coal mines, in the people whose lives underground meant they rarely saw the sun... whose poverty meant they rarely finished school... whose struggles for workplace safety and liveable wages gave rise to the union movement in rural America... and who were sometimes gunned-down by the owners' private armies — or the U.S. Army — because they fought against the absolute power of the oligarchs for better lives.
Eight in ten miners in West Virginia lived in a town built and owned by a coal operator. There were no elected officials, no independent police forces, and miners were forced to buy their food, clothing, and fuel from the company-owned store with company currency.
"The Mine Wars" tells the overlooked story of the miners in the mountains of southern West Virginia — native mountaineers, African American migrants, and European immigrants — who came together in a protracted struggle for their rights and dignity.
Decades of violence accompanied their attempts to form a union, culminating in the largest armed insurrection since the Civil War.
Watch "The Mine Wars" bonus video: "The Coal," online at:
http://s2531.t.eloqua.com/e/er? s=2531&lid=2759&elq=e460e73f7ad548a280a692d65f5ee881&elqaid=3133&elqat=1&elqTrackId=280B091A1FDF7ED095659C0FA2445491 m
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"The Mine Wars" re-airs in L.A., as follows:
2:30-4:30 am tonight on PBS SoCal.
4-6 pm Friday on "PBS World."
9-11 pm Friday on "PBS World."
5-7 am Saturday on "PBS World."
11 am-1 pm Saturday on "PBS World."
10 pm-midnight Saturday on "PBS+."
1-3 am Sunday (Sat. night) on "PBS+."
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COMING NEXT WEEK...
Feb 2, on PBS SoCal:
9 pm "MURDER OF A PRESIDENT" on AMERICAN EXPERIENCE isn't about any president you expect. Based on Candice Millard's best-seller "Destiny of a Republic," this film is the story of James A. Garfield, one of the most extraordinary men ever elected president — but nobody knows that, since his brief time in office ended when he was shot by a deluded madman. This film tells the bizarre story of how it happened and an American future that was lost in its tragic aftermath.
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# 2 news feature...
★ TWO FILM SCREENING EVENTS: ONE TONIGHT, ONE THE 29th...
★ Tonight...
"STILL ALICE" SCREENS AT USC's "VISIONS & VOICES" SERIES
"Still Alice" Oscar-winning movie screening is Tuesday, January 26, at 7 pm at the Albert and Dana Broccoli Theatre, School of Cinematic Arts 112, on the USC Campus in University Park, L.A. Admission is free and open to everyone. Reservations are required.*
*- Advance reservations are full, tickets "may be" available at the event check-in on a standby basis. (Past experience says your chances are good; just arrive early.)
“...warm, compassionate, bitingly honest...” — Hollywood Reporter.
In conjunction with the Visions and Voices signature event Something’s Not Right with Alice: Understanding Alzheimer’s: A Conversation with Lisa Genova and Arthur Toga, we will present a special screening of the critically acclaimed film "Still Alice." Alice Howland, happily married with three grown children, is a renowned linguistics professor who starts to forget words. When she receives a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, Alice and her family find their bonds thoroughly tested. Her struggle to stay connected to who she once was is frightening, heartbreaking, and inspiring.
Stars Julianne Moore in an Oscar-winning performance, "Still Alice" is based on Lisa Genova’s novel of the same name.
Event organized by the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
Info at:
www.visionsandvoices.usc.edu
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★ Screening on Jan. 29...
Jan 29, FILM SCREENING, in L.A.:
7:30 pm "A NIGHT OF FRENCH SHORT FILMS" with English subtitles screens at the lovely Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, Los Angeles 90064; tix at lyceela.org
Theater Raymond Kabbaz and l’Alliance Française de Los Angeles team-up to present "l'Après Lutins," a night of French short films. Format for the evening is two one-hour programs with a 15-min. intermission. All films have English subtitles.
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# 3 news feature...
★ OSCAR WINDBAGS SHOULD GET THEIR DUE, WITH APPROPRIATE MUSIC
Here in Southern California, we tend to think of all the big award shows — the Grammys, Emmys, and Oscars — as local affairs. Sometimes we forget that the world is watching, sometimes engaged, sometimes outraged, sometimes motivated to skewer stars or moguls who are too full of themselves. This falls into the latter category.
This ran in the Jan. 25 edition of "Happy," a fun little music e-zine from Australia (www.hhhhappy.com) that covers new music releases across a spectrum of genres and has fun or provocative feature stories. Like this one.
After all the bitterness and rancor in the L.A. arts community over the current Oscar nominations and all the fine work that was ignored, this perspective from Down Under is just what the doctor ordered — provided you came to get your funnybone treated.
The TITLE BELOW is the original...
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★ "JUST ACCEPT YOUR AWARD YOU SMUG BASTARD"
5 songs to shut up long Oscar speeches — Nobody likes a long talker, especially at awards shows
By Nick Hartman
Play-off music is a godsend. Every year it prevents blood clots from forming in the brain due to excessive levels of boredom induced by overly long and bland acceptance speeches. Whoever invented the idea truly deserves a worldwide day off in their honour, or at the very least a special edition Coke bottle label.
But as with everything ever, sh*t can be improved. The Oscars, as everyone knows has to kowtow to the secondmost important behind out-of-touch progressive keyboard warriors on Twitter: the youth. And "the youth" find orchestral music boring! (except for that Typewriter song, that’s good). So here are five suggestions for how the academy behind the Academy Awards could play-off speeches in a new and exciting fashion.
Nobody likes a long talker, especially at the Oscars. These 5 songs are the best to cut people off who are too busy jerking their ego on stage.
1) "Typewriter" — This delightful romp comes to us all the way from the ‘50s, and is from the gilded frontal lobe of Leroy Anderson, who also brought us "Blue Tango," "Syncopated Clock," and "Sleigh Ride." Although it technically is a light orchestral piece, the humourous accompaniment of a typewriter with its occasional pings makes it quite a treat. So much so, if this was actually used at the 2016 Oscars, it’d be the main talking point behind the inevitable protest about black people not getting the chance to be given awards for pretending to be other people.
2) "Mah NaMah Na" — Old people are fu*king lame with only three exceptions. The first one is videos of old people falling over and hurting themselves. The second one is the "Who’s on First" sketch. The third one is the song The Muppets made famous, "Mah Na Mah Na" (which was probably made known to you bubs by the "Banana Boat" songs from a few years ago). People all around will rip out of their seats and sing along and click their fingers. Oscars, boring? Never, if they get the boys on the decks to scratch this song out.
3) A Shannon Noll / Jason Derulo live duet — Pop music is a cruel beast. One moment you’re up, and then other times you’re a fifty-year-old minger dancing in a leotard in order to get attention to another one of your sh*t songs. Unlike Madonna there is something eternal to Shannon “Nolsy” Noll and his song "What About Me," a surprise smash hit about someone stealing Nolsy’s yogurt. Jason Derulo, with his charming ability to always sing his name beforethe start of a song on key, acts a complimentary actor to Noelsy’s overwhelming egocentrism and habit of wearing speed dealers instead of the more trendy Ray-Bans.
4) "Shut Up and Drive" — I don’t care what anyone says about this song, but it’s fu*king chill. It’s got the groove, poignant lyrics (discussing the merits of driving automobiles) and Rihanna’s an absolute babe too. It also works in this case because the lyrics are quite up front about the talking-too-long situation.
5) "Keyboard Cat" — triple J presenter Zan Rowe was very upset when David Bowie died. And so was I when my musical hero – Keyboard Cat – died a few years ago. I did anything and everything I could think of to bring him back: I consulted Hindu and Buddhist gurus about the whole reincarnation thing; I picked up my mate’s cat and said “Biggie Smalls” three times into the mirror; and I sacrificed several neighbourhood cats in the hope of one of them coming back as Keyboard Cat.
None of these methods worked and as such I’m still waiting for the hole formed in my life by KC’s departure. So, in order to both honour Fatso and playoff music as a genre, it would be fitting that Keyboard Cat (or his non-union Mexican equivalent) takeover the reigns of the pit orchestra.
Honourable Mentions:
• "Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye" song.
• "Literally, I Can’t" (chorus: “Shut the Fu*k Up!”) by Play N Skillz & Lil’ Jon & Red Foo.
• "Talk Sh*t Get Shot" by Body Count.
• "Long Slow Goodbye" by Queens of the Stone Age.
• "Waiting…" (first line: “A coma might feel better than this”) by City & Colour.
• "Bodies" by Drowning Pool.
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From "Happy," at www.hhhhappy.com — e-subscriptions are free at their site.
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You may have noticed that political correctness is not in vogue in Australia. And, while we did not edit the content to insulate anyone's fragile sensibilities, we had to replace an individual letter here and there with an asterisk in "certain" words used in the piece as written by Nick Hartman. As always, that is a necessary move to enable the Guide to be available on computers in public schools, which subscribe to services that block sites that use profanity.
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# 4 news feature...
★ EL TWANGUERO, LATIN GRAMMY-WINNING GUITARIST, HAS FEBRUARY L.A. RESIDENCY
We're all about acoustic music around here, but sometimes an electric player really must get our spotlight. El Twanguero, considered of late to be among the world's top guitarists, will play a February residency as the headliner of the popular weekly "Honkytonk Hacienda."
If you don't know this Americana series, you should. It's at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Los Angeles 90029. The series runs every Thursday, featuring different recording artists each week. El Twanguero will perform Feb. 4th, 13th, 18th, and 25th, and details are below.
” El Twanguero is a journey into the heart of the music… ” — Rolling Stone Magazine.
"A guitar master..." — Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
“I play with a real Spanish heart, but I am not a flamenco player. I am an electric player who plays Spanish music, which is very weird. I think I am the only one in the world who plays that kind of Latin-Twang thing” — El Twanguero.
A pioneer of Latin-twang, Diego "El Twanguero" Garcia was dubbed the "fire-breathing guitar hero" by the American press. Launching his solo career two years ago, Twanguero has shared the stage with acclaimed Latin artists El Cigala, Bunbury and Calamaro, among others.
His recent achievements include releasing the memorable recordings "Pachuco" and "Argentina Songbook" (Warner Music); touring Spain and America from South to North; receiving excellent press; and becoming an International Gibson and Bigsby Artist.
His current tour is called “Cumbanchero,” and these are his U.S. dates:
• Jan 21-24: Gibson's Booth at NAMM Show
• Feb 4: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
• Feb 6: Portland, OR, private event
• Sat, Feb 13: SPECIAL VALENTINE'S DAY PERFORMANCE, El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029; go to www.elcidla.com for reservations and info. Price will be "more than $8."
• Feb 18: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
• Feb 23: Bakesfield Jazz Workshop, Bakeesfield
• Feb 25: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
Considered by many as one of the best guitarists in the world, Latin Grammy winner El Twanguero is clear that he is inviting all kinds of folks to his audience — guitar fans, music fans and those just wanting to have fun.
More at:
http://eltwanguero.org
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# 5 news feature...
★ THE "AMERICANA" THAT AMERICA IS LISTENING TO ON THE RADIO — EVERYWHERE BUT L.A.
Here in Los Angeles, we have the inscrutable dichotomy of more live acoustic / Americana performances than anywhere else in the world, but hardly any radio shows that feature any of it. That isn't a "dis" of what we do have — a few shows hosted, programmed and produced by truly dedicated folks. It's just that there are so few of these shows sharing far too little airtime, given the nationwide acclaim for this music.
So, on a regular basis, the Guide will bring you a list of what's being spun — and heard — everywhere else, where Americana / Folk-Americana / and Honky-Tonk-Americana are all full-time radio formats.
We begin with the "Americana Airplay Chart," which we have featured before, but not on a regular basis. This chart represents the reported play of terrestrial radio stations, nationally syndicated radio shows, satellite radio, and internet stations who have agreed to submit weekly spin counts. There's lots more info at: www.americanamusic.org
First, here are the "Most Added" new records last week (the top 5 most added)...
Artist - Title - Label
√ Aubrie Sellers - New City Blues - Thirty Tigers
√ Cactus Blossoms - You're Dreaming - Red House
√ Buddy Miller & Friends - Cayamo Sessions At Sea - New West
√ James Hunter - Six Hold On! - Daptone
√ Larry Keel - Experienced Keel - Fish Music
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Here's the Americana Radio Playlist for the week of Monday, January 25, 2016...
NOTE: the SECOND column of numbers reads consecutively, no. 1 through no. 40; read on, and you'll see why.
Format:
Chart Last Wk.; This Wk. - ARTIST - Title - Label
4; 1 - TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND - Let Me Get By - Fantasy/Concord
1; 2 - JOSH RITTER - Sermon On The Rocks - Pytheas Recordings/Thirty Tigers
2; 3 - JOE ELY - Panhandle Rambler - Rack 'Em
3; 4 - NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHTSWEATS - Nathaniel Rateliff and The Nightsweats - Stax/Concord
5; 5 - JASON ISBELL - Something More than Free - Southeastern Records / Thirty Tigers
8; 6 - BLACK LILLIES - Hard To Please - Attack Monkey/Thirty Tigers
6; 7 - CORB LUND - Things That Can't Be Undone - New West
7; 8 - BOTTLE ROCKETS - South Broadway Athletic Club - Bloodshot
9; 9 - CHRIS ISAAK - First Comes The Night - Vanguard/CMG
11; 10 - JIM LAUDERDALE - Soul Searching - Independent
18; 11 - DYLAN LEBLANC - Cautionary Tale - Single Lock/Thirty Tigers
26; 12 - AOIFE O'DONOVAN - Magic Hour - Yep Roc
12; 13 - LOS LOBOS - Gates Of Gold - 429 Records
14; 14 - TIM O'BRIEN - Pompadour - Howdy Skies
17; 15 - SHOVELS & ROPE - Busted Jukebox Volume 1 - Shrimp Records/Dualtone
29; 16 - RANDY ROGERS BAND - Nothing Shines Like Neon - Tommy Jackson/Thirty Tigers
13; 17 - PATTY GRIFFIN - Servant Of Love - PGM/Thirty Tigers
10; 18 - DAVE ALVIN & PHIL ALVIN - Lost Time - Yep Roc
31; 19 - LUTHER DICKINSON - Blues & Ballads - New West
16; 20 - JEFFREY FOUCAULT - Salt As Wolves - Blueblade
24; 21 - TURNPIKE TROUBADOURS - Turnpike Troubadours - Bossier City Records / Thirty Tigers
19; 22 - BILLY GIBBONS - Perfectamundo - Concord/CMG
23; 23 - CHRIS STAPLETON - Traveller - Mercury Nashville
15; 24 - STEVE MARTIN & EDIE BRICKELL - So Familiar - Rounder
20; 25 - RYAN ADAMS - 1989 - PaxAmericana Recording Company
21; 26 - LINDI ORTEGA - Faded Gloryville - Grand Tour
25; 27 - WOOD BROTHERS - Paradise - Honey Jar/Thirty Tigers
22; 28 - VARIOUS - THE SONGS OF TED HAWKINS - Cold & Bitter Tears - eight30records
35; 29 - BONNIE RAITT - Dig In Deep - Red Wing
28; 30 - DAVE RAWLINGS MACHINE - Nashville Obsolete - Acony
27; 31 - GLEN HANSARD - Didn't He Ramble - Anti
(Debut) 32 - GREEN RIVER ORDINANCE - Fifteen - Residence Music
33; 33 - LUCERO - All A Man Should Do - ATO
34; 34 - MAX STALLING - Banquet Blind - Nello
32; 35 - DON HENLEY - Cass County - Capitol
(Debut) 36 - AUBRIE SELLERS - New City Blues - Thirty Tigers
37; 37 - CODY JINKS - Adobe Sessions - Cody Jinks Music
30; 38 - SHINYRIBS - Okra Candy - Independent
(Debut) 39 - CACTUS BLOSSOMS - You're Dreaming - Red House
36; 40 - STEVE FORBERT - Compromised - Rock Ridge Music
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# 6 news feature...
★ "ADOPT THE ARTS" WINTER BENEFIT CONCERT IS FREE WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS, THU., JAN. 28 AT THE RECORD PARLOUR IN HOLLYWOOD
Event Celebrates the Legacy of Duane Allman
The Record Parlour, Hollywood's one-of-a-kind vintage vinyl shop and lifestyle store, hosts a special concert to benefit the "Adopt the Arts Foundation" (aka ATA) on Thursday, January 28, 8:30-11 pm, in its retail storefront location, 6408 Selma Av (at Cahuenga), Hollywood 90028.
The evening will celebrate the music and legacy of DUANE ALLMAN of THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND and features a full night of music and a silent auction with rock & roll memorabilia including Allman Brothers Band-signed items, and an open bar is available.
The Adopt the Arts Foundation is both locally and nationally focused. It brings together well-known artists, public figures, entrepreneurs, policy makers, and the general public to save the arts in America's public schools. Donations are welcome and encouraged.
*** The event is FREE to attend with RSVP at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adopt-the-arts-benefit-presented-by-disreputable-few-celebrating-music-legacy-of-duane-allman-tickets-20006656448
Featured performers...
√ The Disreputable Few, the Adopt The Arts house band, will perform alongside special guests, including:
√ singer Brooklyn Allman (daughter of Duane's brother Gregg Allman)
√ GRAMMY and W.C Handy-award winning sax man Sublett (B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Bette Midler, Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy)
√ trumpeter Mark Pender (David Bowie, Joe Cocker, They Might Be Giants, Diana Ross)
√ from the Conan O'Brien Show, vocalist Robyn Kirmsee (Eric Clapton, Joe Walsh, Macy Gray)
√ Gia Ciambotti (Bruce Springsteen, Natalie Cole, Lucinda Williams, Chicago).
The Disreputable Few band features Mark Tremalgia (guitar and vocals), Randy Ray Mitchell (guitar and vocals), Paul III (bass and vocals), and Dan Potruch (drums) — a stellar lineup of musicians who have worked alongside great names in music, including Donna Summer, Joe Walsh, Daniel Lanois, Keb Mo, Courtney Love, Mick Taylor, Annie Lennox, Joe Perry, Warren Zevon and more.
Located in the heart of Hollywood, THE RECORD PARLOUR has an authentic vibe from a lost era with over 50,000 vinyl records, vintage stereo gear, and music memorabilia, all of it surrounding the artists as they perform, while fans search for vinyl treasures. The shop hosts live performances, listening parties, press conferences, interviews / photo shoots, and can even record live performances to vinyl onsite via a vintage record lathe.
KABC TV's "EYE on L.A." recently featured this new Hollywood landmark. You can watch the episode on-demand, at:
http://abc7.com/eyeonla
Thursday's event starts at 8:30 pm and is FREE with a reservation, which you can get while space is available, at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adopt-the-arts-benefit-presented-by-disreputable-few-celebrating-music-legacy-of-duane-allman-tickets-20006656448
Donations are welcome and encouraged to "Adopt the Arts" to save the arts in America's public schools.
Suggested donation is $10. Please choose RSVP "complimentary" in the above link if you are unable to donate at this time.
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More about THE RECORD PARLOUR...
The Record Parlour is owned and operated by founder Chris Honetschlaeger and manager/partner Chadwick Hemus. With Chris' background in vintage equipment and Chadwick's pedigree as a vinyl curator for Amoeba Hollywood, sound and quality reign overall in performances and selection. They host performances and showcases with proper staging, an incredible sound system, and HD video projection for music video premieres.
Soon, their capabilities will expand with the opening of THE AMERICANA LOUNGE, described below.
By having only one artist perform per night, The Record Parlour creates real connections giving artists time to hang out, visit with their fans, and sell their music.
This past month, The Record Parlour added a third layer and equipped their control room with an Analog Record Lathe to capture and "cut" a band's live performance to vinyl, onsite, to be distributed at a later date. Literally, artists can come down and play, cut a record on the record lathe, perform it that day to their fans, and sell their records.
Thus, the Record Parlour can brag that it "showcases the entire vinyl experience, from purchase, performances and production." The store / venue's vintage gear offerings of jukeboxes, amps, microphones, '70s turn-tables and speakers, are refurbished to pristine condition alongside its vinyl collection, which focuses on original releases verses new releases. By combining records and vintage equipment as well as creating a new home for music collecting and live music experiences, all in the heart of Hollywood, The Record Parlour is more than a vinyl shop. It is a key player ushering-in the Hollywood renaissance.
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About THE AMERICANA LOUNGE...
THE RECORD PARLOUR is about to open a new music and cultural venue in Hollywood — THE AMERICANA LOUNGE, set to open this spring, just around the corner from The Record Parlour. It'll be an 1,800 square-foot, no-cover performance space offering residencies and serving beer & wine, located at 1553 Cahuenga Bl, but accessible through a hidden back passageway from the Record Parlour.
Read the Billboard magazine story about the concept for THE AMERICANA LOUNGE at
www.billboard.com/articles/business/6590847/record-parlour-americana-lounge-hollywood
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About "Adopt the Arts"...
Founded in 2013 by legendary drummer Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, the Cult, and more), and by mother-of-two Abby Berman, the mission of the "Adopt the Arts" organization is to bring together well-known artists, public figures, entrepreneurs, policy makers, and the general public to save the Arts in America's public schools.
Numerous case studies indicate a critical developmental relationship between art and music education and academic achievement. Adopt the Arts believes that we all share a responsibility to invest in our future and ensure that our children are prepared to thrive in the demanding global environment of the 21st century, which is why the organization has been highly focused on bringing arts and music education to children at the elementary school level.
Over the last 10 years, due to budget issues and leadership decisions, the LAUSD has systematically cut funding from its Arts Education Branch. For this past school year, the district estimated that only 50% of elementary school students participated in "some sort" of arts or music instruction at school. The district also estimates that 80% of its student body lives at or below the poverty line. It is therefore a safe assumption that the vast majority of these children will not receive ANY art or music instruction outside of school.
For two years, Adopt the Arts has been fostering a close working relationship with the Arts Education Branch of LAUSD and its Superintendent John Deasy to find solutions to the current situation. ATA is also establishing strategic relationships with other not-for-profit organizations whose missions align closely and strategically in support of Arts education for children.
There's more info on Adopt the Arts, including ways to get involved, at:
www.adoptthearts.org
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# 7 news feature...
★ RINGO STARR & HIS ALL STARR BAND ANNOUNCE SOUTHERN CAL DATES IN JUNE-JULY 2016 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
ALL STARR’S include TODD RUNDGREN, GREGG ROLIE and STEVE LUKATHER, RICHARD PAGE, WARREN HAM, and GREGG BISSONETTE
January 25, 2016 — Ringo Starr and his aptly named All Starr Band announced today another string of North American shows. The tour kicks off on June 3 in Syracuse, New York, and ends with two dates in Southern California, the first on July 1 at Humphreys in San Diego, before the tour concludes on July 2 at The Greek Theatre in Griffith Park, Los Angeles.
This current All Starr line up is the 12th and longest running. Ringo recently told The Boston Globe, “I love this band – we have a lot of fun together on and offstage, so here we come again.”
That love is evident in their performances, exemplified by this review in the Sarasota Tribune-Herald: “This latest incarnation of Starr's travelling show has been together now going on three years and watching them interact as an actual band, rather than a supergroup taking turns out front, is almost as fun, almost, as watching and screaming “I love you” at the front man who will forever be part of the biggest rock 'n' roll band of all time.”
Here’s the complete tour as announced today, with more fill-in dates to be announced soon:
June 3 Lakeview Ampitheater, Syracuse, NY
June 4 Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, Salamanca, NY
June 5 Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
June 7 Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood, NJ
June 8 Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, ME
June 10 Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, Gilford, NH
• June 11 DCU Center, Worcester, MA
• June 12 Santander Arena, Reading, PA
• June 15 St. George Theatre, Staten Island, NY
• June 17 Warner Theatre, Washington DC
• June 18 Koka Booth Ampitheatre, Cary, NC
• June 19 Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
• June 21 Foellinger Theatre, Fort Wayne, IN
• June 22 Riverbend Music Ctr., Cincinnati, OH
• June 23 Fox Theatre, Detroit, MI
• June 25 Pinewood Bowl Theater, Lincoln, NE
• June 26 Hartman Arena, Wichita, KS
• June 28 Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
★ July 1 Humphreys Concerts, San Diego, CA
★ July 2 The Greek Theatre, Los Angeles, CA
Check the venues' sites for ticket sale dates.
More on the tour and the band at:
www.ringostarr.com
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# 8 news feature...
★ JACKIE BRISTOW — AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW
For starters, Jackie Bristow has opened for an oh-wow list of international stars that prominently includes Bonnie Raitt, Tommy Emmanuel, Marc Cohn, John Oates, John Waite, Bettye Lavette, B.J. Thomas, Joe Ely, Marcia Ball, Charlie Robison, Rick Springfield, Bob Schneider, Jimmy Lafave, Euge Groove, Ruthie Foster, Art Garfunkel, Willy Porter, Herbert Gronemeyer, Madeline Peryoux, Phoebe Snow, Daniel Lanois, Jimmy Webb, Paul Williams, and Howard Jones.
So, why haven't you heard of her? Hemispheres, dear friends, hemispheres.
Jackie's songs are featured in New Zealand and Australian film and television shows: "Go Girls," "Nothing Trivial," "The Secret Life of Us," "Blue Rose," "Home and Away," "Outrageous Fortune," "Shortland Street," and "Go Big." All of which would impress the hell out of you if you could get those shows in the U.S.
Want more? Her song "This is Australia" won the "Tourism Australia" song competition and was featured in a worldwide promotional campaign.
An Aussie promo asserts, "At once heartfelt and sophisticated, Jackie Bristow combines subtle and beautiful melodies with hooks that hypnotise her audiences the world over."
Here in California, the Santa Barbara New Press wrote, "Jackie Bristow, [is] one of those 'oughta' be more famous' artists, with an uncommon command of her craft and art.”
By now, you're wondering, "So how do I hear some music by this lass?"
Jackie's wilting new single "WHISTLE BLOWIN'" comes out Jan. 29 — but you can view the music video, directed by Mark Tierney, without waiting 'til then. It's online at:
https://youtu.be/YJHCC_azig0
That single, "Whistle Blowin'," is from Jackie's forthcoming album "SHOT OF GOLD," being released soon as a CD, plus digitally and on vinyl. There's a New Zealand / Australia release date of Feb. 5, 2016, and the web makes that date global. Jackie's CD release tour has only dates in New Zealand, so far.
There's plenty more, including how to get more of her music, at:
http://www.jackiebristow.com
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# 9 news feature...
★ BLUEGRASS: NEW FROM TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE ON RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS
Singles get positive reviews and hit the BG charts
With an album about to hit any minute now, Tammy Jones Robinette & The Drive have released a lyric video for their second single, "I Think I'll Let You Drive." Produced by Sammy3 Productions of the Passamano Brothers, the video is a complementary companion of Robinette's second single (distributed to radio last week), and the follow-up single to “To Be a Kid Again,” which reached #6 on the "Bluegrass Today" Weekly Airplay Chart and their Top-20 monthly chart. Both singles are from the 12-track, self-titled album "TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE" on Rural Rhythm Records.
Written by Steve Gulley, the mid-tempo song features the commanding alto of Robinette, with Gulley and Grammy-nominee Dale Ann Bradley on backing vocals. It also features a heavy fiddle intro and outro by Aubrey Haynie, as well as the mandolin-stylings of Sam Bush and resonator work of Grammy-nominee Rob Ickes.
The single is available for download on ITUNES, AMAZON and in stores where Bluegrass and / or Gospel recordings are sold. Radio programmers are already downloading both singles and playing them for listeners. The lyric video for the song will be available next week (but we already have the link, now, and it's below).
While Tammy Jones Robinette may be a new name to many bluegrass fans, she is not new to the world of music, having already built a strong following and reputation as one of the top artists and songwriters in the Southern Gospel arena. Despite her success, Tammy felt compelled to honor her Kentucky roots and hopes that her fan base will follow and develop a mutual love for the music of her upbringing.
What Reviewers Are Saying...
"Tammy Jones Robinette brings a refreshing new sound to the Bluegrass domain. There is great emotion in her voice. You can tell she isn't just standing in front of a studio mic and singing (so many artists fall into that trap). Instead, she is really projecting the emotion behind 'I Think I'll Let You Drive,' written by Steve Gulley. I think Tammy does a tremendous job and through it isn't what I would call a traditional sound, it isn't supposed to be. Instead, it's a sweet departure with great appeal."— Bob Cherry, "Cybergrass."
"Tammy's new single, 'I Think I'll Just Let You Drive,' is turbocharged in every category: musicianship, arrangement, vocals. Love it! She knows how to get us there with her inspired tune. Let 'The Drive' be an enjoyable one. It definitely is with Tammy at your wheel!! Weeee!!"— Gracie Muldoon, "WorldWide Bluegrass."
"Tammy’s Bluegrass and Southern Gospel roots are evident in a spirited rendition of 'I Think I’ll Let You Drive.' It’ll get your toes tapping."— Bob Mitchell, "Best of Bluegrass."
“I'm not always sure whether a bluegrass gospel song is sung out of actual religious conviction — as listener all I care about is whether the band manages to carry the song — but in Robinette's case, there is no question. She is possessed of an alto voice used to sterling effect. Much of the charm of this album is in its natural, unapologetic honesty, its willingness to evoke raw feelings, and its ability to find beauty and hope even in the hardest of circumstances. You don't hear that much anymore. Let's hope we hear a whole lot more of the bluegrass Tammy Jones Robinette.”— Jerome Clark, "Rambles.net"
Tammy's music vid links and more are below.
ABOUT RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS...
In 1955, Uncle Jim O’Neal started Rural Rhythm with a few dollars and lot of dreams. He knew he couldn't produce all the bluegrass & old-time country records, so as he used to say he just “made the best of it”. Over the years, Rural Rhythm has produced and distributed hundreds of classic performances by many of the legends and pioneers of Bluegrass and old-time Country Music such as Mac Wiseman, Don Reno, Red Smiley, Hylo Brown, Vassar Clements, Jim Eanes, Bill Harrell, Curly Fox, J.E. Mainer, Raymond Fairchild, Dale Potter, Tater Tate and more.
Rural Rhythm has put a lot of dedication into preserving the works of traditional Bluegrass and old-time Country Music throughout the '50s, '60s & early '70s, now cataloged as "SOUND TRADITIONS" and "POWER PICKS."
But it's not all classic retro. Fast forward to now, 60 years later. Rural Rhythm Records has established itself as a leader in the traditional and contemporary Bluegrass market with major album titles being released recently by the following artists: Lonesome River Band, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Marty Raybon (Grammy® Winner), Jim & Jesse (Legends & Grand Ole Opry members), Bobby Osborne (Legend & Grand Ole Opry member), Mountain Heart, Steve Gulley, Michael Martin Murphey (Grammy® Nominee), Larry Sparks (Dove® Nominee), Lou Reid, John McEuen, The Roys, Audie Blaylock, Randy Kohrs (Grammy® Winner), Jim Van Cleve (Grammy® Nominee), The Marksmen Quartet (Dove® Nominee), Cody Shuler & Pine Mountain Railroad (Dove® Nominee), Ronnie Reno (IBMA Winner) and more.
Music vid links for Tammy's new songs:
Lyric Video for “I Think I’ll Let You Drive," at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-TcMfCjdc0
Promo Video for “I Think I’ll Let You Drive," at: https://youtu.be/nJ68171KJ-k
More at:
www.TammyJonesRobinetteandTheDrive.com
More on her label, Rural Rhythm Records, and all its other artists, at:
www.ruralrhythm.com.
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# 10 news feature...
★ DESERT ROAD TRIP TIME? (I SEE HAWKS IN... JOSHUA TREE)
This Fri., Jan. 29, in the east desert, at 8 pm, that wonderful ensemble band I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. take a break from their far-flung travels to return to the High Desert "for a night of roadhouse jams" at Pappy and Harriet’s, 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown 92268.
It's FREE, so support the venue and be kind to the band's tip jar (after all, you'll drop $20 or more to catch 'em elsewhere these days).
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NEWS coming soon:
√ more new products that debuted at NAMM.
√ MARDI GRAS in L.A. starts waaay early and goes past Fat Tuesday. We'll bring you the info on where the bonne temps will roulez...
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS and ticket alerts, published separately, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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More soon, as always.
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Contents copyright © 2015, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California, in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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QUICK note: the Jan. 23rd edition, part one of our ongoing look at new gear that debuted at NAMM, had a format problem (it collapsed into a big pile of words, partway through). That's been FIXED, and it's very easy to read now -- or whenever you want to go read it.
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In THIS edition...
TEN fresh NEWS FEATURES in this edition! (And if you don't find what you're looking for here, we're already working on our NEXT edition)... More NEWS coming soon:
√ more new products that debuted at NAMM.
√ MARDI GRAS in L.A. starts waaay early and goes past Fat Tuesday. We'll bring you the info on where the bonne temps will roulez...
But let's not get ahead of ourselves — there's a 'UGE amount of news right here! "It's 'UGE and you'll love it!" (Gads, did we just quote who we think we did?!)
Let's get started!
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CONTENTS... in this edition...
1) TONIGHT on TV: "THE MINE WARS," the story & struggles of West Va. coal miners, premieres on "THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE" on PBS.
2) TWO FILM SCREENING EVENTS: ONE TONIGHT, ONE THE 29th...
3) OSCAR WINDBAGS SHOULD GET THEIR DUE, WITH APPROPRIATE MUSIC
4) EL TWANGUERO, LATIN GRAMMY-WINNING GUITARIST, HAS FEBRUARY L.A. RESIDENCY
5) THE "AMERICANA" THAT AMERICA IS LISTENING TO ON THE RADIO — EVERYWHERE BUT L.A.
6) "ADOPT THE ARTS" WINTER BENEFIT CONCERT IS FREE WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS, THU., JAN. 28 AT THE RECORD PARLOUR IN HOLLYWOOD
7) RINGO STARR & HIS ALL STARR BAND ANNOUNCE SOUTHERN CAL DATES IN JUNE-JULY 2016 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
8) JACKIE BRISTOW — AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW
9) BLUEGRASS: NEW FROM TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE ON RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS
10) DESERT ROAD TRIP TIME? (I SEE HAWKS IN ... JOSHUA TREE)
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# 1 news feature...
★ TONIGHT ON TV: "THE MINE WARS"
"The Mine Wars" premieres on "THE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE" on PBS nationwide, including in Southern California on KOCE, aka PBS SoCal, tonight, Jan. 26, at 9 pm.
All that Appalachian Bluegrass that you love so much?
Its roots are deep in the coal mines, in the people whose lives underground meant they rarely saw the sun... whose poverty meant they rarely finished school... whose struggles for workplace safety and liveable wages gave rise to the union movement in rural America... and who were sometimes gunned-down by the owners' private armies — or the U.S. Army — because they fought against the absolute power of the oligarchs for better lives.
Eight in ten miners in West Virginia lived in a town built and owned by a coal operator. There were no elected officials, no independent police forces, and miners were forced to buy their food, clothing, and fuel from the company-owned store with company currency.
"The Mine Wars" tells the overlooked story of the miners in the mountains of southern West Virginia — native mountaineers, African American migrants, and European immigrants — who came together in a protracted struggle for their rights and dignity.
Decades of violence accompanied their attempts to form a union, culminating in the largest armed insurrection since the Civil War.
Watch "The Mine Wars" bonus video: "The Coal," online at:
http://s2531.t.eloqua.com/e/er? s=2531&lid=2759&elq=e460e73f7ad548a280a692d65f5ee881&elqaid=3133&elqat=1&elqTrackId=280B091A1FDF7ED095659C0FA2445491 m
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"The Mine Wars" re-airs in L.A., as follows:
2:30-4:30 am tonight on PBS SoCal.
4-6 pm Friday on "PBS World."
9-11 pm Friday on "PBS World."
5-7 am Saturday on "PBS World."
11 am-1 pm Saturday on "PBS World."
10 pm-midnight Saturday on "PBS+."
1-3 am Sunday (Sat. night) on "PBS+."
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COMING NEXT WEEK...
Feb 2, on PBS SoCal:
9 pm "MURDER OF A PRESIDENT" on AMERICAN EXPERIENCE isn't about any president you expect. Based on Candice Millard's best-seller "Destiny of a Republic," this film is the story of James A. Garfield, one of the most extraordinary men ever elected president — but nobody knows that, since his brief time in office ended when he was shot by a deluded madman. This film tells the bizarre story of how it happened and an American future that was lost in its tragic aftermath.
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# 2 news feature...
★ TWO FILM SCREENING EVENTS: ONE TONIGHT, ONE THE 29th...
★ Tonight...
"STILL ALICE" SCREENS AT USC's "VISIONS & VOICES" SERIES
"Still Alice" Oscar-winning movie screening is Tuesday, January 26, at 7 pm at the Albert and Dana Broccoli Theatre, School of Cinematic Arts 112, on the USC Campus in University Park, L.A. Admission is free and open to everyone. Reservations are required.*
*- Advance reservations are full, tickets "may be" available at the event check-in on a standby basis. (Past experience says your chances are good; just arrive early.)
“...warm, compassionate, bitingly honest...” — Hollywood Reporter.
In conjunction with the Visions and Voices signature event Something’s Not Right with Alice: Understanding Alzheimer’s: A Conversation with Lisa Genova and Arthur Toga, we will present a special screening of the critically acclaimed film "Still Alice." Alice Howland, happily married with three grown children, is a renowned linguistics professor who starts to forget words. When she receives a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, Alice and her family find their bonds thoroughly tested. Her struggle to stay connected to who she once was is frightening, heartbreaking, and inspiring.
Stars Julianne Moore in an Oscar-winning performance, "Still Alice" is based on Lisa Genova’s novel of the same name.
Event organized by the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
Info at:
www.visionsandvoices.usc.edu
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★ Screening on Jan. 29...
Jan 29, FILM SCREENING, in L.A.:
7:30 pm "A NIGHT OF FRENCH SHORT FILMS" with English subtitles screens at the lovely Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, Los Angeles 90064; tix at lyceela.org
Theater Raymond Kabbaz and l’Alliance Française de Los Angeles team-up to present "l'Après Lutins," a night of French short films. Format for the evening is two one-hour programs with a 15-min. intermission. All films have English subtitles.
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# 3 news feature...
★ OSCAR WINDBAGS SHOULD GET THEIR DUE, WITH APPROPRIATE MUSIC
Here in Southern California, we tend to think of all the big award shows — the Grammys, Emmys, and Oscars — as local affairs. Sometimes we forget that the world is watching, sometimes engaged, sometimes outraged, sometimes motivated to skewer stars or moguls who are too full of themselves. This falls into the latter category.
This ran in the Jan. 25 edition of "Happy," a fun little music e-zine from Australia (www.hhhhappy.com) that covers new music releases across a spectrum of genres and has fun or provocative feature stories. Like this one.
After all the bitterness and rancor in the L.A. arts community over the current Oscar nominations and all the fine work that was ignored, this perspective from Down Under is just what the doctor ordered — provided you came to get your funnybone treated.
The TITLE BELOW is the original...
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★ "JUST ACCEPT YOUR AWARD YOU SMUG BASTARD"
5 songs to shut up long Oscar speeches — Nobody likes a long talker, especially at awards shows
By Nick Hartman
Play-off music is a godsend. Every year it prevents blood clots from forming in the brain due to excessive levels of boredom induced by overly long and bland acceptance speeches. Whoever invented the idea truly deserves a worldwide day off in their honour, or at the very least a special edition Coke bottle label.
But as with everything ever, sh*t can be improved. The Oscars, as everyone knows has to kowtow to the secondmost important behind out-of-touch progressive keyboard warriors on Twitter: the youth. And "the youth" find orchestral music boring! (except for that Typewriter song, that’s good). So here are five suggestions for how the academy behind the Academy Awards could play-off speeches in a new and exciting fashion.
Nobody likes a long talker, especially at the Oscars. These 5 songs are the best to cut people off who are too busy jerking their ego on stage.
1) "Typewriter" — This delightful romp comes to us all the way from the ‘50s, and is from the gilded frontal lobe of Leroy Anderson, who also brought us "Blue Tango," "Syncopated Clock," and "Sleigh Ride." Although it technically is a light orchestral piece, the humourous accompaniment of a typewriter with its occasional pings makes it quite a treat. So much so, if this was actually used at the 2016 Oscars, it’d be the main talking point behind the inevitable protest about black people not getting the chance to be given awards for pretending to be other people.
2) "Mah NaMah Na" — Old people are fu*king lame with only three exceptions. The first one is videos of old people falling over and hurting themselves. The second one is the "Who’s on First" sketch. The third one is the song The Muppets made famous, "Mah Na Mah Na" (which was probably made known to you bubs by the "Banana Boat" songs from a few years ago). People all around will rip out of their seats and sing along and click their fingers. Oscars, boring? Never, if they get the boys on the decks to scratch this song out.
3) A Shannon Noll / Jason Derulo live duet — Pop music is a cruel beast. One moment you’re up, and then other times you’re a fifty-year-old minger dancing in a leotard in order to get attention to another one of your sh*t songs. Unlike Madonna there is something eternal to Shannon “Nolsy” Noll and his song "What About Me," a surprise smash hit about someone stealing Nolsy’s yogurt. Jason Derulo, with his charming ability to always sing his name beforethe start of a song on key, acts a complimentary actor to Noelsy’s overwhelming egocentrism and habit of wearing speed dealers instead of the more trendy Ray-Bans.
4) "Shut Up and Drive" — I don’t care what anyone says about this song, but it’s fu*king chill. It’s got the groove, poignant lyrics (discussing the merits of driving automobiles) and Rihanna’s an absolute babe too. It also works in this case because the lyrics are quite up front about the talking-too-long situation.
5) "Keyboard Cat" — triple J presenter Zan Rowe was very upset when David Bowie died. And so was I when my musical hero – Keyboard Cat – died a few years ago. I did anything and everything I could think of to bring him back: I consulted Hindu and Buddhist gurus about the whole reincarnation thing; I picked up my mate’s cat and said “Biggie Smalls” three times into the mirror; and I sacrificed several neighbourhood cats in the hope of one of them coming back as Keyboard Cat.
None of these methods worked and as such I’m still waiting for the hole formed in my life by KC’s departure. So, in order to both honour Fatso and playoff music as a genre, it would be fitting that Keyboard Cat (or his non-union Mexican equivalent) takeover the reigns of the pit orchestra.
Honourable Mentions:
• "Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye" song.
• "Literally, I Can’t" (chorus: “Shut the Fu*k Up!”) by Play N Skillz & Lil’ Jon & Red Foo.
• "Talk Sh*t Get Shot" by Body Count.
• "Long Slow Goodbye" by Queens of the Stone Age.
• "Waiting…" (first line: “A coma might feel better than this”) by City & Colour.
• "Bodies" by Drowning Pool.
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From "Happy," at www.hhhhappy.com — e-subscriptions are free at their site.
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You may have noticed that political correctness is not in vogue in Australia. And, while we did not edit the content to insulate anyone's fragile sensibilities, we had to replace an individual letter here and there with an asterisk in "certain" words used in the piece as written by Nick Hartman. As always, that is a necessary move to enable the Guide to be available on computers in public schools, which subscribe to services that block sites that use profanity.
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# 4 news feature...
★ EL TWANGUERO, LATIN GRAMMY-WINNING GUITARIST, HAS FEBRUARY L.A. RESIDENCY
We're all about acoustic music around here, but sometimes an electric player really must get our spotlight. El Twanguero, considered of late to be among the world's top guitarists, will play a February residency as the headliner of the popular weekly "Honkytonk Hacienda."
If you don't know this Americana series, you should. It's at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Los Angeles 90029. The series runs every Thursday, featuring different recording artists each week. El Twanguero will perform Feb. 4th, 13th, 18th, and 25th, and details are below.
” El Twanguero is a journey into the heart of the music… ” — Rolling Stone Magazine.
"A guitar master..." — Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
“I play with a real Spanish heart, but I am not a flamenco player. I am an electric player who plays Spanish music, which is very weird. I think I am the only one in the world who plays that kind of Latin-Twang thing” — El Twanguero.
A pioneer of Latin-twang, Diego "El Twanguero" Garcia was dubbed the "fire-breathing guitar hero" by the American press. Launching his solo career two years ago, Twanguero has shared the stage with acclaimed Latin artists El Cigala, Bunbury and Calamaro, among others.
His recent achievements include releasing the memorable recordings "Pachuco" and "Argentina Songbook" (Warner Music); touring Spain and America from South to North; receiving excellent press; and becoming an International Gibson and Bigsby Artist.
His current tour is called “Cumbanchero,” and these are his U.S. dates:
• Jan 21-24: Gibson's Booth at NAMM Show
• Feb 4: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
• Feb 6: Portland, OR, private event
• Sat, Feb 13: SPECIAL VALENTINE'S DAY PERFORMANCE, El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029; go to www.elcidla.com for reservations and info. Price will be "more than $8."
• Feb 18: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
• Feb 23: Bakesfield Jazz Workshop, Bakeesfield
• Feb 25: El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029
Considered by many as one of the best guitarists in the world, Latin Grammy winner El Twanguero is clear that he is inviting all kinds of folks to his audience — guitar fans, music fans and those just wanting to have fun.
More at:
http://eltwanguero.org
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# 5 news feature...
★ THE "AMERICANA" THAT AMERICA IS LISTENING TO ON THE RADIO — EVERYWHERE BUT L.A.
Here in Los Angeles, we have the inscrutable dichotomy of more live acoustic / Americana performances than anywhere else in the world, but hardly any radio shows that feature any of it. That isn't a "dis" of what we do have — a few shows hosted, programmed and produced by truly dedicated folks. It's just that there are so few of these shows sharing far too little airtime, given the nationwide acclaim for this music.
So, on a regular basis, the Guide will bring you a list of what's being spun — and heard — everywhere else, where Americana / Folk-Americana / and Honky-Tonk-Americana are all full-time radio formats.
We begin with the "Americana Airplay Chart," which we have featured before, but not on a regular basis. This chart represents the reported play of terrestrial radio stations, nationally syndicated radio shows, satellite radio, and internet stations who have agreed to submit weekly spin counts. There's lots more info at: www.americanamusic.org
First, here are the "Most Added" new records last week (the top 5 most added)...
Artist - Title - Label
√ Aubrie Sellers - New City Blues - Thirty Tigers
√ Cactus Blossoms - You're Dreaming - Red House
√ Buddy Miller & Friends - Cayamo Sessions At Sea - New West
√ James Hunter - Six Hold On! - Daptone
√ Larry Keel - Experienced Keel - Fish Music
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Here's the Americana Radio Playlist for the week of Monday, January 25, 2016...
NOTE: the SECOND column of numbers reads consecutively, no. 1 through no. 40; read on, and you'll see why.
Format:
Chart Last Wk.; This Wk. - ARTIST - Title - Label
4; 1 - TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND - Let Me Get By - Fantasy/Concord
1; 2 - JOSH RITTER - Sermon On The Rocks - Pytheas Recordings/Thirty Tigers
2; 3 - JOE ELY - Panhandle Rambler - Rack 'Em
3; 4 - NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHTSWEATS - Nathaniel Rateliff and The Nightsweats - Stax/Concord
5; 5 - JASON ISBELL - Something More than Free - Southeastern Records / Thirty Tigers
8; 6 - BLACK LILLIES - Hard To Please - Attack Monkey/Thirty Tigers
6; 7 - CORB LUND - Things That Can't Be Undone - New West
7; 8 - BOTTLE ROCKETS - South Broadway Athletic Club - Bloodshot
9; 9 - CHRIS ISAAK - First Comes The Night - Vanguard/CMG
11; 10 - JIM LAUDERDALE - Soul Searching - Independent
18; 11 - DYLAN LEBLANC - Cautionary Tale - Single Lock/Thirty Tigers
26; 12 - AOIFE O'DONOVAN - Magic Hour - Yep Roc
12; 13 - LOS LOBOS - Gates Of Gold - 429 Records
14; 14 - TIM O'BRIEN - Pompadour - Howdy Skies
17; 15 - SHOVELS & ROPE - Busted Jukebox Volume 1 - Shrimp Records/Dualtone
29; 16 - RANDY ROGERS BAND - Nothing Shines Like Neon - Tommy Jackson/Thirty Tigers
13; 17 - PATTY GRIFFIN - Servant Of Love - PGM/Thirty Tigers
10; 18 - DAVE ALVIN & PHIL ALVIN - Lost Time - Yep Roc
31; 19 - LUTHER DICKINSON - Blues & Ballads - New West
16; 20 - JEFFREY FOUCAULT - Salt As Wolves - Blueblade
24; 21 - TURNPIKE TROUBADOURS - Turnpike Troubadours - Bossier City Records / Thirty Tigers
19; 22 - BILLY GIBBONS - Perfectamundo - Concord/CMG
23; 23 - CHRIS STAPLETON - Traveller - Mercury Nashville
15; 24 - STEVE MARTIN & EDIE BRICKELL - So Familiar - Rounder
20; 25 - RYAN ADAMS - 1989 - PaxAmericana Recording Company
21; 26 - LINDI ORTEGA - Faded Gloryville - Grand Tour
25; 27 - WOOD BROTHERS - Paradise - Honey Jar/Thirty Tigers
22; 28 - VARIOUS - THE SONGS OF TED HAWKINS - Cold & Bitter Tears - eight30records
35; 29 - BONNIE RAITT - Dig In Deep - Red Wing
28; 30 - DAVE RAWLINGS MACHINE - Nashville Obsolete - Acony
27; 31 - GLEN HANSARD - Didn't He Ramble - Anti
(Debut) 32 - GREEN RIVER ORDINANCE - Fifteen - Residence Music
33; 33 - LUCERO - All A Man Should Do - ATO
34; 34 - MAX STALLING - Banquet Blind - Nello
32; 35 - DON HENLEY - Cass County - Capitol
(Debut) 36 - AUBRIE SELLERS - New City Blues - Thirty Tigers
37; 37 - CODY JINKS - Adobe Sessions - Cody Jinks Music
30; 38 - SHINYRIBS - Okra Candy - Independent
(Debut) 39 - CACTUS BLOSSOMS - You're Dreaming - Red House
36; 40 - STEVE FORBERT - Compromised - Rock Ridge Music
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# 6 news feature...
★ "ADOPT THE ARTS" WINTER BENEFIT CONCERT IS FREE WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS, THU., JAN. 28 AT THE RECORD PARLOUR IN HOLLYWOOD
Event Celebrates the Legacy of Duane Allman
The Record Parlour, Hollywood's one-of-a-kind vintage vinyl shop and lifestyle store, hosts a special concert to benefit the "Adopt the Arts Foundation" (aka ATA) on Thursday, January 28, 8:30-11 pm, in its retail storefront location, 6408 Selma Av (at Cahuenga), Hollywood 90028.
The evening will celebrate the music and legacy of DUANE ALLMAN of THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND and features a full night of music and a silent auction with rock & roll memorabilia including Allman Brothers Band-signed items, and an open bar is available.
The Adopt the Arts Foundation is both locally and nationally focused. It brings together well-known artists, public figures, entrepreneurs, policy makers, and the general public to save the arts in America's public schools. Donations are welcome and encouraged.
*** The event is FREE to attend with RSVP at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adopt-the-arts-benefit-presented-by-disreputable-few-celebrating-music-legacy-of-duane-allman-tickets-20006656448
Featured performers...
√ The Disreputable Few, the Adopt The Arts house band, will perform alongside special guests, including:
√ singer Brooklyn Allman (daughter of Duane's brother Gregg Allman)
√ GRAMMY and W.C Handy-award winning sax man Sublett (B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Bette Midler, Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy)
√ trumpeter Mark Pender (David Bowie, Joe Cocker, They Might Be Giants, Diana Ross)
√ from the Conan O'Brien Show, vocalist Robyn Kirmsee (Eric Clapton, Joe Walsh, Macy Gray)
√ Gia Ciambotti (Bruce Springsteen, Natalie Cole, Lucinda Williams, Chicago).
The Disreputable Few band features Mark Tremalgia (guitar and vocals), Randy Ray Mitchell (guitar and vocals), Paul III (bass and vocals), and Dan Potruch (drums) — a stellar lineup of musicians who have worked alongside great names in music, including Donna Summer, Joe Walsh, Daniel Lanois, Keb Mo, Courtney Love, Mick Taylor, Annie Lennox, Joe Perry, Warren Zevon and more.
Located in the heart of Hollywood, THE RECORD PARLOUR has an authentic vibe from a lost era with over 50,000 vinyl records, vintage stereo gear, and music memorabilia, all of it surrounding the artists as they perform, while fans search for vinyl treasures. The shop hosts live performances, listening parties, press conferences, interviews / photo shoots, and can even record live performances to vinyl onsite via a vintage record lathe.
KABC TV's "EYE on L.A." recently featured this new Hollywood landmark. You can watch the episode on-demand, at:
http://abc7.com/eyeonla
Thursday's event starts at 8:30 pm and is FREE with a reservation, which you can get while space is available, at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adopt-the-arts-benefit-presented-by-disreputable-few-celebrating-music-legacy-of-duane-allman-tickets-20006656448
Donations are welcome and encouraged to "Adopt the Arts" to save the arts in America's public schools.
Suggested donation is $10. Please choose RSVP "complimentary" in the above link if you are unable to donate at this time.
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More about THE RECORD PARLOUR...
The Record Parlour is owned and operated by founder Chris Honetschlaeger and manager/partner Chadwick Hemus. With Chris' background in vintage equipment and Chadwick's pedigree as a vinyl curator for Amoeba Hollywood, sound and quality reign overall in performances and selection. They host performances and showcases with proper staging, an incredible sound system, and HD video projection for music video premieres.
Soon, their capabilities will expand with the opening of THE AMERICANA LOUNGE, described below.
By having only one artist perform per night, The Record Parlour creates real connections giving artists time to hang out, visit with their fans, and sell their music.
This past month, The Record Parlour added a third layer and equipped their control room with an Analog Record Lathe to capture and "cut" a band's live performance to vinyl, onsite, to be distributed at a later date. Literally, artists can come down and play, cut a record on the record lathe, perform it that day to their fans, and sell their records.
Thus, the Record Parlour can brag that it "showcases the entire vinyl experience, from purchase, performances and production." The store / venue's vintage gear offerings of jukeboxes, amps, microphones, '70s turn-tables and speakers, are refurbished to pristine condition alongside its vinyl collection, which focuses on original releases verses new releases. By combining records and vintage equipment as well as creating a new home for music collecting and live music experiences, all in the heart of Hollywood, The Record Parlour is more than a vinyl shop. It is a key player ushering-in the Hollywood renaissance.
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About THE AMERICANA LOUNGE...
THE RECORD PARLOUR is about to open a new music and cultural venue in Hollywood — THE AMERICANA LOUNGE, set to open this spring, just around the corner from The Record Parlour. It'll be an 1,800 square-foot, no-cover performance space offering residencies and serving beer & wine, located at 1553 Cahuenga Bl, but accessible through a hidden back passageway from the Record Parlour.
Read the Billboard magazine story about the concept for THE AMERICANA LOUNGE at
www.billboard.com/articles/business/6590847/record-parlour-americana-lounge-hollywood
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About "Adopt the Arts"...
Founded in 2013 by legendary drummer Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, the Cult, and more), and by mother-of-two Abby Berman, the mission of the "Adopt the Arts" organization is to bring together well-known artists, public figures, entrepreneurs, policy makers, and the general public to save the Arts in America's public schools.
Numerous case studies indicate a critical developmental relationship between art and music education and academic achievement. Adopt the Arts believes that we all share a responsibility to invest in our future and ensure that our children are prepared to thrive in the demanding global environment of the 21st century, which is why the organization has been highly focused on bringing arts and music education to children at the elementary school level.
Over the last 10 years, due to budget issues and leadership decisions, the LAUSD has systematically cut funding from its Arts Education Branch. For this past school year, the district estimated that only 50% of elementary school students participated in "some sort" of arts or music instruction at school. The district also estimates that 80% of its student body lives at or below the poverty line. It is therefore a safe assumption that the vast majority of these children will not receive ANY art or music instruction outside of school.
For two years, Adopt the Arts has been fostering a close working relationship with the Arts Education Branch of LAUSD and its Superintendent John Deasy to find solutions to the current situation. ATA is also establishing strategic relationships with other not-for-profit organizations whose missions align closely and strategically in support of Arts education for children.
There's more info on Adopt the Arts, including ways to get involved, at:
www.adoptthearts.org
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# 7 news feature...
★ RINGO STARR & HIS ALL STARR BAND ANNOUNCE SOUTHERN CAL DATES IN JUNE-JULY 2016 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
ALL STARR’S include TODD RUNDGREN, GREGG ROLIE and STEVE LUKATHER, RICHARD PAGE, WARREN HAM, and GREGG BISSONETTE
January 25, 2016 — Ringo Starr and his aptly named All Starr Band announced today another string of North American shows. The tour kicks off on June 3 in Syracuse, New York, and ends with two dates in Southern California, the first on July 1 at Humphreys in San Diego, before the tour concludes on July 2 at The Greek Theatre in Griffith Park, Los Angeles.
This current All Starr line up is the 12th and longest running. Ringo recently told The Boston Globe, “I love this band – we have a lot of fun together on and offstage, so here we come again.”
That love is evident in their performances, exemplified by this review in the Sarasota Tribune-Herald: “This latest incarnation of Starr's travelling show has been together now going on three years and watching them interact as an actual band, rather than a supergroup taking turns out front, is almost as fun, almost, as watching and screaming “I love you” at the front man who will forever be part of the biggest rock 'n' roll band of all time.”
Here’s the complete tour as announced today, with more fill-in dates to be announced soon:
June 3 Lakeview Ampitheater, Syracuse, NY
June 4 Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, Salamanca, NY
June 5 Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
June 7 Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood, NJ
June 8 Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, ME
June 10 Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, Gilford, NH
• June 11 DCU Center, Worcester, MA
• June 12 Santander Arena, Reading, PA
• June 15 St. George Theatre, Staten Island, NY
• June 17 Warner Theatre, Washington DC
• June 18 Koka Booth Ampitheatre, Cary, NC
• June 19 Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
• June 21 Foellinger Theatre, Fort Wayne, IN
• June 22 Riverbend Music Ctr., Cincinnati, OH
• June 23 Fox Theatre, Detroit, MI
• June 25 Pinewood Bowl Theater, Lincoln, NE
• June 26 Hartman Arena, Wichita, KS
• June 28 Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
★ July 1 Humphreys Concerts, San Diego, CA
★ July 2 The Greek Theatre, Los Angeles, CA
Check the venues' sites for ticket sale dates.
More on the tour and the band at:
www.ringostarr.com
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# 8 news feature...
★ JACKIE BRISTOW — AN ARTIST YOU SHOULD KNOW
For starters, Jackie Bristow has opened for an oh-wow list of international stars that prominently includes Bonnie Raitt, Tommy Emmanuel, Marc Cohn, John Oates, John Waite, Bettye Lavette, B.J. Thomas, Joe Ely, Marcia Ball, Charlie Robison, Rick Springfield, Bob Schneider, Jimmy Lafave, Euge Groove, Ruthie Foster, Art Garfunkel, Willy Porter, Herbert Gronemeyer, Madeline Peryoux, Phoebe Snow, Daniel Lanois, Jimmy Webb, Paul Williams, and Howard Jones.
So, why haven't you heard of her? Hemispheres, dear friends, hemispheres.
Jackie's songs are featured in New Zealand and Australian film and television shows: "Go Girls," "Nothing Trivial," "The Secret Life of Us," "Blue Rose," "Home and Away," "Outrageous Fortune," "Shortland Street," and "Go Big." All of which would impress the hell out of you if you could get those shows in the U.S.
Want more? Her song "This is Australia" won the "Tourism Australia" song competition and was featured in a worldwide promotional campaign.
An Aussie promo asserts, "At once heartfelt and sophisticated, Jackie Bristow combines subtle and beautiful melodies with hooks that hypnotise her audiences the world over."
Here in California, the Santa Barbara New Press wrote, "Jackie Bristow, [is] one of those 'oughta' be more famous' artists, with an uncommon command of her craft and art.”
By now, you're wondering, "So how do I hear some music by this lass?"
Jackie's wilting new single "WHISTLE BLOWIN'" comes out Jan. 29 — but you can view the music video, directed by Mark Tierney, without waiting 'til then. It's online at:
https://youtu.be/YJHCC_azig0
That single, "Whistle Blowin'," is from Jackie's forthcoming album "SHOT OF GOLD," being released soon as a CD, plus digitally and on vinyl. There's a New Zealand / Australia release date of Feb. 5, 2016, and the web makes that date global. Jackie's CD release tour has only dates in New Zealand, so far.
There's plenty more, including how to get more of her music, at:
http://www.jackiebristow.com
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# 9 news feature...
★ BLUEGRASS: NEW FROM TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE ON RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS
Singles get positive reviews and hit the BG charts
With an album about to hit any minute now, Tammy Jones Robinette & The Drive have released a lyric video for their second single, "I Think I'll Let You Drive." Produced by Sammy3 Productions of the Passamano Brothers, the video is a complementary companion of Robinette's second single (distributed to radio last week), and the follow-up single to “To Be a Kid Again,” which reached #6 on the "Bluegrass Today" Weekly Airplay Chart and their Top-20 monthly chart. Both singles are from the 12-track, self-titled album "TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE & THE DRIVE" on Rural Rhythm Records.
Written by Steve Gulley, the mid-tempo song features the commanding alto of Robinette, with Gulley and Grammy-nominee Dale Ann Bradley on backing vocals. It also features a heavy fiddle intro and outro by Aubrey Haynie, as well as the mandolin-stylings of Sam Bush and resonator work of Grammy-nominee Rob Ickes.
The single is available for download on ITUNES, AMAZON and in stores where Bluegrass and / or Gospel recordings are sold. Radio programmers are already downloading both singles and playing them for listeners. The lyric video for the song will be available next week (but we already have the link, now, and it's below).
While Tammy Jones Robinette may be a new name to many bluegrass fans, she is not new to the world of music, having already built a strong following and reputation as one of the top artists and songwriters in the Southern Gospel arena. Despite her success, Tammy felt compelled to honor her Kentucky roots and hopes that her fan base will follow and develop a mutual love for the music of her upbringing.
What Reviewers Are Saying...
"Tammy Jones Robinette brings a refreshing new sound to the Bluegrass domain. There is great emotion in her voice. You can tell she isn't just standing in front of a studio mic and singing (so many artists fall into that trap). Instead, she is really projecting the emotion behind 'I Think I'll Let You Drive,' written by Steve Gulley. I think Tammy does a tremendous job and through it isn't what I would call a traditional sound, it isn't supposed to be. Instead, it's a sweet departure with great appeal."— Bob Cherry, "Cybergrass."
"Tammy's new single, 'I Think I'll Just Let You Drive,' is turbocharged in every category: musicianship, arrangement, vocals. Love it! She knows how to get us there with her inspired tune. Let 'The Drive' be an enjoyable one. It definitely is with Tammy at your wheel!! Weeee!!"— Gracie Muldoon, "WorldWide Bluegrass."
"Tammy’s Bluegrass and Southern Gospel roots are evident in a spirited rendition of 'I Think I’ll Let You Drive.' It’ll get your toes tapping."— Bob Mitchell, "Best of Bluegrass."
“I'm not always sure whether a bluegrass gospel song is sung out of actual religious conviction — as listener all I care about is whether the band manages to carry the song — but in Robinette's case, there is no question. She is possessed of an alto voice used to sterling effect. Much of the charm of this album is in its natural, unapologetic honesty, its willingness to evoke raw feelings, and its ability to find beauty and hope even in the hardest of circumstances. You don't hear that much anymore. Let's hope we hear a whole lot more of the bluegrass Tammy Jones Robinette.”— Jerome Clark, "Rambles.net"
Tammy's music vid links and more are below.
ABOUT RURAL RHYTHM RECORDS...
In 1955, Uncle Jim O’Neal started Rural Rhythm with a few dollars and lot of dreams. He knew he couldn't produce all the bluegrass & old-time country records, so as he used to say he just “made the best of it”. Over the years, Rural Rhythm has produced and distributed hundreds of classic performances by many of the legends and pioneers of Bluegrass and old-time Country Music such as Mac Wiseman, Don Reno, Red Smiley, Hylo Brown, Vassar Clements, Jim Eanes, Bill Harrell, Curly Fox, J.E. Mainer, Raymond Fairchild, Dale Potter, Tater Tate and more.
Rural Rhythm has put a lot of dedication into preserving the works of traditional Bluegrass and old-time Country Music throughout the '50s, '60s & early '70s, now cataloged as "SOUND TRADITIONS" and "POWER PICKS."
But it's not all classic retro. Fast forward to now, 60 years later. Rural Rhythm Records has established itself as a leader in the traditional and contemporary Bluegrass market with major album titles being released recently by the following artists: Lonesome River Band, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Marty Raybon (Grammy® Winner), Jim & Jesse (Legends & Grand Ole Opry members), Bobby Osborne (Legend & Grand Ole Opry member), Mountain Heart, Steve Gulley, Michael Martin Murphey (Grammy® Nominee), Larry Sparks (Dove® Nominee), Lou Reid, John McEuen, The Roys, Audie Blaylock, Randy Kohrs (Grammy® Winner), Jim Van Cleve (Grammy® Nominee), The Marksmen Quartet (Dove® Nominee), Cody Shuler & Pine Mountain Railroad (Dove® Nominee), Ronnie Reno (IBMA Winner) and more.
Music vid links for Tammy's new songs:
Lyric Video for “I Think I’ll Let You Drive," at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-TcMfCjdc0
Promo Video for “I Think I’ll Let You Drive," at: https://youtu.be/nJ68171KJ-k
More at:
www.TammyJonesRobinetteandTheDrive.com
More on her label, Rural Rhythm Records, and all its other artists, at:
www.ruralrhythm.com.
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# 10 news feature...
★ DESERT ROAD TRIP TIME? (I SEE HAWKS IN... JOSHUA TREE)
This Fri., Jan. 29, in the east desert, at 8 pm, that wonderful ensemble band I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. take a break from their far-flung travels to return to the High Desert "for a night of roadhouse jams" at Pappy and Harriet’s, 53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown 92268.
It's FREE, so support the venue and be kind to the band's tip jar (after all, you'll drop $20 or more to catch 'em elsewhere these days).
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NEWS coming soon:
√ more new products that debuted at NAMM.
√ MARDI GRAS in L.A. starts waaay early and goes past Fat Tuesday. We'll bring you the info on where the bonne temps will roulez...
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS and ticket alerts, published separately, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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More soon, as always.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California, in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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Saturday, January 23, 2016
The Guide's NAMM 2016 new products News — part one
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(Editor's note: IT'S FIXED NOW, but, Yikes! Thanks to our readers who let us know that using the math "less-than" symbol in a product write-up gets read by the Gremlins of Cyberia as computer code. And it causes ALL formatting to collapse into an enormous word heap...)
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This edition is all about NAMM news.
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The emphasis is on tech as the Guide profiles a range of new products debuting at NAMM 2016, including some that are competing offerings. We cover two competing next gen battery-powered portable sound systems in our # 4 & 5 news features; one is from ALESIS, the other from M-AUDIO. Plus we profile another new, unrelated product from M-AUDIO in feature # 6. Enjoy!
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NAMM NEWS FEATURES in this edition...
(with Booth # 's, if you're there)
1) SONiVOX ACHIEVES MUSICAL MILESTONE WITH CREATION OF "PITCH2MIDI" REAL-TIME AUDIO-TO-MIDI SOFTWARE
2) NUMARK DEBUTS WS-100 DIGITAL WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM
3) GUITARISTS: ANTELOPE AUDIO COLLABORATES WITH OVERLOUD AUDIO TOOLS FOR NEW SOUND CAPTURE
4) ALESIS OFFERS NEW TRANSACTIVE VU PORTABLE WIRELESS 50-WATT SOUND SYSTEM WITH LED LIGHT SHOW
5) M-AUDIO DEMOS WIRELESS "POWER STATION" — BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEM WITH ONLINE CAPABILITIES
6) M-AUDIO DEBUTS MUSICIAN / COMPOSER -FRIENDLY MIDI INTERFACE
7) IK MULTIMEDIA DEBUTS NEW "MAX RANGE" — COMPLETE & AFFORDABLE BUNDLES
8) VIP INTRODUCES V2.0 OF REVOLUTIONARY SOFTWARE THAT GIVES MUSICIANS COMPLETE CONTROL OF THEIR ENTIRE VST LIBRARY
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# 1 news feature...
SONiVOX ACHIEVES MUSICAL MILESTONE WITH CREATION OF "PITCH2MIDI" REAL-TIME AUDIO-TO-MIDI SOFTWARE
Leading developer’s newest offering empowers artists to play virtual instruments using their voice or instruments in real time, without the need to wait for processing before listening
Somerville, MA-based SONiVOX (sonivoxmi.com), a leading developer of premium virtual instruments and synthesis technologies, announced Jan. 21 the immediate availability of its revolutionary new "Pitch2MIDI" real-time audio-to-MIDI synthesizer and converter software.
Now, we really weren't sure what we thought of this. As advocates of "keeping it real," we like to see and hear live musicians on stage, playing real instruments. We especially hate soul-less drum machines. That said, this is something that opens entire new realms of possibilities. You'd like to know how it would sound to accompany your new song with horns or a Dobro or layer-on a mandolin riff? Now you can, without hiring anyone else and without the wait that kills the idea or makes you forget exactly what you had in mind. As for "faking it" and releasing that as finished tracks on a record, we'll still take the real thing, if you please. But as a creative tool? Keep reading.
SONiVOX recognizes that singers, singer-songwriters, and instrumentalists want the ability to play and record music with software virtual instruments. But until today, you haven’t been able to do so in the same way as a keyboard or drum controller musician could. Now you can.
This is because SONiVOX’s Pitch2MIDI software plugin doesn’t require you to record your audio first, then stop and wait to hear the results as the audio is pre-processed. SONiVOX’s Pitch2MIDI software works in real time, immediately converting the audio signal into MIDI events so you can hear the results while you’re singing or playing.
The old way of first having to record your audio severely hampered the artist’s ability to create spontaneously. With Pitch2MIDI, artists can sing or play while hearing their virtual instruments at the same time.
Pitch2MIDI is an audio effect plug-in that takes real-time vocal or instrumental monophonic audio input and instantly transforms it intoaccurate MIDI output. Using the built-in synthesizer, artists can use their voice or instrument to play any one of over 100 synth sounds directly, or bypass the internal synth and send MIDI out to any of hundreds of popular virtual instruments on the market.
Since it’s real-time, it’s not necessary to record the audio first or process it before hearing the results. Instead, it’s instantaneous — MIDI output is created as the artist sings or plays.
Vocalists and instrumentalists just might love using this, and it may be perfect for producers, too. It brings an immediate capability to add new sonic layers and textures to audio tracks, without needing to do any post-recording processing.
Their promo gushes, "Pitch2MIDI sets creativity free by removing the 'record-then-process' obstacle. If you can hear it in your imagination, Pitch2MIDI will deliver it in reality!"
Pitch2MIDI Features:
• Play virtual instruments using your vocals, instrument, or any monophonic audio in real time
• Built-in synthesizer with over 100 sounds
• Sends MIDI out of the plugin so you can play any VSTi of your choice
• Instantly add new layers of harmony or sonic textures
• Real-time graphic display of audio and MIDI conversion
• No MIDI interface needed to communicate between applications
System Requirements:
• Mac or Windows with Intel processor and 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
• Mac OS 10.9 or later or Win OS 8/64 bit or later
• VST, AU, AAX 64-bit compatible
“Pitch2MIDI completely changes the game for vocalists, acoustic instrumentalists, electric guitarists and bassists—really anybody who plays a non-MIDI producing instrument. Using Pitch2MIDI, all these musicians now have access to the thousands of popular virtual instruments and synthesizers on the market,” said Jennifer Hruska, Director of Content Development for inMusic Brands. “Even better, they can experiment and perfect their performance since the plugin doesn’t need to pre-process the audio first.”
Pitch2MIDI by SONiVOX is available for download now for $149.99 USD at SONiVOX.
About SONiVOX...
SONiVOX designs, develops and markets software technologies, products and applications for the creation and enjoyment of music. Founded in 1993 by industry veteran Jennifer Hruska, SONiVOX instruments are found in recording studios all over the world and can be heard in hit music, blockbuster film scores, and cutting-edge video games.
More info at: www.sonivoxmi.com
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# 2 news feature...
NUMARK DEBUTS WS-100 DIGITAL WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM AT NAMM
Performers can benefit from new tech by a leading DJ manufacturer; with introduction of digital UHF wireless diversity microphone with unsurpassed audio quality and 200-ft range, enjoy total freedom from cumbersome cables
Numark is about to be known beyond their previous identity as a world-leading innovator of DJ solutions. On Jan. 21, they announced the introduction of their WS-100 digital wireless diversity microphone system, debuting at the NAMM Show in Anaheim.
Recognizing that performers want the freedom of movement that only wireless devices can provide, Numark’s WS-100 microphone delivers top-quality audio performance combined with the convenience of total independence from cumbersome, restrictive cables.
Numark asserts that merely being “wireless” is not enough. That drove Numark’s engineers to make sure the WS-100 performed to the level of demanding customers: its dual-antenna diversity system ensures interference-free, consistent, reliable operation, without worry of unexpected dropouts.
Independent digital ID eliminates signal crosstalk, while its superb signal-to-noise ratio of 96dB and wide-range frequency response of 50-18kHz attest to the system’s excellent sound quality. This is a wireless microphone system designed for critical, heavy-duty use under difficult conditions.
WS-100 features:
• Wireless handheld microphone transmitter
• Receiver unit with dual antennas for superb performance
• 24-bit digital wireless technology delivers ultra clean pro-quality signal 200-foot working range for convenient operation
• Frequency response of 50-18kHz ensures natural vocals and strong bass
• Transmitter and receiver operate in 500-980MHz frequency range
• Handheld mic uses (2) AA batteries
• Superb signal-to-noise ratio of 96 dB (A) ensures quiet background
• Independent digital ID eliminates signal crosstalk and interference
• System harmonic distortion (less than .1%) for clean, accurate sound
• Includes protective padded carrying case and cable
“The WS-100 digital wireless microphone gives our performers the freedom of movement they want, without the usual complications, interference or unexpected dropouts common to ordinary wireless mic systems, and with no sacrifice of audio quality,” said Chris Roman, Senior Product Manager for Numark. “This is exactly the kind of product our customers expect from Numark — something they can depend on, night after night.”
The WS-100 will be available in Q1 2016 for $99 U.S. retail.
About Numark...
Numark is a global leader in professional DJ and audio equipment, creating products that are unmatched in capability and design. Since 1971, Numark has delivered numerous music industry firsts and continues to develop and harness new technologies that enhance the DJ experience. Numark is a member of the premier family of brands known as "inMusic."
More at: www.numark.com
Visit them in Hall B, Booth #6010, at NAMM.
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# 3 news feature...
(They had us at "Acoustically Focused Clocking"...)
GUITARISTS: ANTELOPE AUDIO COLLABORATES WITH OVERLOUD AUDIO TOOLS FOR NEW SOUND CAPTURE AT NAMM 2016
Clocking/Conversion Leader and DSP Guitar Processing Software Maker Combine Forces for Advances in Digital Guitar Processing and Capture for the Modern Age
Anaheim, Calif., January 22, 2016 — Clocking and conversion expert Antelope Audio [Booth A 6596] and Italian amplifier simulation software maker Overloud Audio Tools, creator of the TH3 amplifier simulation software, have announced a new partnership at NAMM 2016. The collaboration between the two companies will enable guitarists to maintain their unique tones all the way through the record and capture process through Antelope's renowned interface technology, while enjoying the unparalleled flexibility of digital guitar processing and amp simulation.
The implications for guitarists performing in live and recording situations are significant: “More and more, guitarists are appreciating the flexibility of digital signal processing to achieve 'the perfect tone' in a variety of performance settings,” says Igor Levin, CEO and Founder of Antelope Audio. “But oftentimes that tone is degraded by the use of inferior recording interfaces and DSP algorithms. Our collaboration with Overloud will introduce new solutions for guitarists that ensure preservation of their authentic tones —and their investment —that carry through the entire recording and playback processes."
Antelope Audio recently expanded the sonic possibilities for customers craving high quality, customized DSP effects with the launch of its new AuraVerb and other plug-ins —which now ship with Orion32+ and Orion Studio Thunderbolt™ interfaces. These effects leverage Antelope's proprietary DSP engine and effects algorithms, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple effects with almost no latency. These innovations, which derive from Antelope's deep product engineering expertise, complement Overloud's own leadership and innovations in amplifier simulation technology, such as its TH3 amplifier simulation software.
“One of our long-term product goals has been to combine our models into a dedicated hardware interface, so musicians can achieve a superior live and studio experience," commented Thomas Serafini, Chief Technology Officer of Overloud. "We are excited to partner with Antelope Audio, which is clearly at the fore of audio interface technology. We are confident this partnership will unleash the potential of both companies and allow us to create innovative products for musicians.”
Details on specific product initiatives resulting from the new collaboration will be announced in the coming months.
About Antelope Audio...
Antelope Audio is a leading manufacturer of high-end professional audio equipment and the pioneer in the adoption of Atomic clock generators. The company utilizes Igor Levin's more than 20 years’ experience in digital audio to develop professional and consumer high-end products with the signature Antelope Audio sound. The company employs proprietary clocking and jitter management technologies – Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) and oven-controlled crystal oscillator, as well a custom-designed digital and analog circuits to provide both professional audio engineers and music aficionados with unprecedented musicality, sound stage and clarity. Antelope is the first to design a 1U 32-channel audio interface and a multi-channel portable interface with 12 mic pres. Antelope's breakthrough technologies are offering both studio and live audio engineers great productivity and flexibility. The company's customers include many Grammy award-winning sound engineers and some of the most renowned recording, mastering and post-production facilities around the globe.
About Overloud...
Overloud is an R&D and software company which develops high-end professional audio plug-ins. Their products are based on its state of the art analog modelling technology, which has been developed and continuously improved in the last 15 years. Overloud’s flagship, TH3, contains the world largest collection of guitar amp and effects models and employs a proprietary technology which set a reference in the simulation accuracy and realism.
Overloud is the first to create a software reverberation plug-in reproducing the reverb engine of most of famous hardware reverberation units of the ‘80s and ‘90s. It is the creator of the multilayer convolution concept, currently used by many Grammy award-winning sound engineers to create uinque reverbs and ambiances on their mix.
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# 4 & 5 news features...
NEXT GEN PORTABLE, BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEMS DEBUT AT NAMM
We cover two competing systems below. One from ALESIS, the other from M-AUDIO (plus another new product from M-AUDIO)...
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# 4 news feature...
ALESIS OFFERS NEW TRANSACTIVE VU PORTABLE WIRELESS 50-WATT SOUND SYSTEM WITH LED LIGHT SHOW
Versatile, portable all-in-one PA system has Bluetooth® connectivity, powerful sound, integrated LED lighting and a 50-hour rechargeable battery
Alesis, a world-leading manufacturer of electronic instruments and components for today's musician, announced Jan. 21 the introduction of its powerful, compact TransActive VU, debuting at NAMM.
This is an all-in-one portable sound system that operates off its own rechargeable battery, providing what the company bills as "room-filling, lifelike sound" to any venue even when AC power is not available.
Recognizing that there are many circumstances where great sound is needed but AC power is inaccessible, the new "TransActive VU" features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 50 hours, along with Bluetooth connectivity and integrated LED lighting. Plus, in this highly competitive market, it has everything that’s needed for impressive sound and lights. With its built-in wheels and retracting handle, Transavtive VU goes anywhere.
The manufacturer asserts, "It’s perfect for singer-songwriters or DJs who need a portable sound system, but it’s also ideal for parties, trips to the beach, business presentations and public address in houses of worship. For anyone who requires great sound on the go, TransActive VU is indispensable."
The dual built-in LED light strips deliver exciting lighting effects without needing to bring along external lighting, which can be complicated to set up, and expensive. With TransActive VU, everything is included. The lights have five customizable lighting modes: Mood, Meter, Mix, Pulse, Party. The brightness control lets the user adjust or disable the LEDs, and the Custom Color Control adjusts the mix of Red, Green and Blue lighting. The top panel of the cabinet features an integrated storage tray for smartphones, keys, guitar picks and more. Plus, the system includes a high-quality microphone with an on/off switch.
TransActive VU features:
• Powered speaker—50 watts peak, 25 watts continuous
• High output 8-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter
• Built-in rechargeable battery delivers up to 50 hours of sound—no AC needed
• Includes high-quality microphone with on/off switch
• Five customizable lighting modes: Mood, Meter, Mix, Pulse and Party
• Brightness control adjusts or disables LEDs
• Custom Color Control easily adjusts mix of Red, Green and Blue lighting
• Streams music wirelessly from any Bluetooth device
• Top panel storage tray for smartphones, keys, guitar picks, and more
• Rugged design withstands heavy use and portable applications
• Recessed wheels and telescoping handle for easy transport
• Standard 35mm socket allows mounting on a speaker stand
“TransActive VU is the ideal sound system for anyone on the go who needs great audio, convenient built-in lighting and the ability to wirelessly stream music. For entertainers, businesspeople, public speakers—anyone who needs to cover a venue with clear sound and dramatic lighting effects—this is their ideal solution,” said Walter Skorupski, Product Manager for Alesis.
He continued, “TransActive VU accomplishes all that without needing to be plugged into an AC outlet. This is exactly the kind of versatility and performance people are looking for.”
U.S. pricing will be $249.
TransActive VU will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
About Alesis...
Since the 1985 unveiling of the affordable XT Reverb, Alesis (alesis.com) has led the charge to create inventive electronic products that benefit every stage or studio musician. Alesis innovation continues with electronic percussion, keyboards, monitors, recording gear, amplifiers, as well as professional products based on Bluetooth technology and Apple’s iOS platform. Alesis is a member of a premier family of brands known as inMusic (inmusicbrands.com).
More info at:
www.alesis.com
Visit Alesis in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 5 & 6 news features...
In addition to its competing battery-powered sound system, M-AUDIO impressed with a second, unrelated product. Each is covered in its own feature story, below.
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# 5 news feature...
M-AUDIO DEMOS WIRELESS "POWER STATION" — BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEM WITH ONLINE CAPABILITIES
A powerful sound system with rechargeable battery, Bluetooth® streaming and multiple inputs delivers clear, vibrant sound at venues without access to AC power
M-Audio announced, Jan. 21, the introduction of their Power Station portable AC/battery-powered sound system, debuting at NAMM. This compact, easily-transportable unit is a perfect solution for the problem of delivering clear, vibrant, high-output sound when there is no ready access to AC power.
Power Station has a massive, high-capacity rechargeable battery that provides hours of cord-free power for its internal digital Class D amplifier. The amplifier drives a high-output 8-inch 2-way speaker system in a compact, lightweight enclosure. Power Station can also be plugged into an AC outlet.
This means wherever there’s a need for clear, detailed high-fidelity sound — singers/small musical ensembles can deliver a quality performance in an otherwise awkward "barefoot" environment.
And with the 2016 political season upon us, artists are often asked to perform a song or two at a small political rally.
Of course, this system is what the doctor ordered for a full range of challenging opportunities to perform, like awards presentations, graduation ceremonies, outdoor weddings, business presentations, and more. Small wonder that the manufacturer brags, "Power Station delivers, whether AC power is available or not, Power Station is always ready."
Power Station also has two AC power outlets and two USB ports for powering/recharging external devices, such as instruments, microphones and peripheral devices.
Because of the truly impressive capacity of its internal rechargeable battery, Power Station does not need to be plugged into an AC outlet in order for its auxiliary AC extension outlets to be functional and active, in stark contrast to many lesser units. This is a huge point of differentiation and superiority for Power Station when compared to ordinary competitive products.
Features:
◦ High output amplifier: 50 watts peak, 25 watts continuous
◦ Robust 8” woofer and 1” compression tweeter deliver clear, dynamic sound
◦ Wirelessly streams music from any Bluetooth-enabled device
◦ Extreme-capacity rechargeable battery for hours of uninterrupted play
◦ Professional Instrument, and XLR/TRS combo inputs for connecting instruments, microphone or other equipment
◦ Charge and power guitar pedals, iOS devices and other external gear with (2) AC outlets and (2) USB connectors
◦ Telescoping handle and wheels for easy transport
◦ Stereo 1/4" (2 x TRS) line in, stereo 1/8” aux input
“Power Station is aptly named: it’s a great unit—compact, transportable and affordable— that delivers the ultimate power and audio quality to venues that don’t have ready access to AC power,” said JC Sutherland, Product Manager for M-Audio.
He added, “However, the feature that’s bound to be the biggest hit is the fact that it can power equipment connected to its AC extension outlets even when Power Station is operating off its own high-capacity internal battery. That is the very definition of convenience, power and performance. People will love that.”
The M-Audio Power Station has a U.S. retail price of $299.99.
It will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
Visit M-AUDIO in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 6 news feature...
M-AUDIO DEBUTS MUSICIAN / COMPOSER -FRIENDLY MIDI INTERFACE AT NAMM
New MIDISport Hub 2x2 and 4x4 offer professional-quality MIDI computer interface with added versatility and convenience of a 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub
M-Audio (m-audio.com), synonymous with innovative music production technology, announced Jan. 21 the introduction of the MIDISport Hub 2x2 and 4x4 MIDI interfaces with 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub. These devices offer musicians and composers an easy 2x2 or 4x4 MIDI I/O, with the added versatility and convenience of their class-exclusive USB hub, which greatly expands the user’s connectivity options.
Designed for ease of use, their bright LEDs (five in the 2x2 and nine in the 4x4) clearly show the status of MIDI information being sent and received. Both units are bus-powered when not using the hub and the 2x2 features merge and standalone operation.
Features:
MIDISport Hub 2x2 2x2 MIDI Interface with USB Hub:
• 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub
• 2x2 MIDI I/O • Merge/Standalone operation
• Bus-powered when not using the hub
• 4 dedicated signal LEDs show when MIDI information is sent and received
MIDISport Hub 4x4 4x4 MIDI Interface with USB Hub:
• 3-port USB 3.0 Powered Hub
• 4x4 MIDI I/O
• Bus-powered when not using the hub
• 8 dedicated signal LEDs show when MIDI information is sent and received
• Rugged metal chassis stands up to abuse in studio or on the road
“Musicians who have MIDI gear also need a USB hub for the complete range of hook-up options. That’s pretty much true for the entire universe of computer-connected artists and composers,” said J.C. Sutherland, M-Audio Product Manager.
He adds, “A quality MIDI interface is a standard tool for musicians, like a screwdriver—you need one to get the basics done. But MIDISport 2x2 and 4x4 also have a 3-port powered USB hub conveniently built in, so these are like really cool Swiss Army screwdrivers. People will love these.”
U.S. retail pricing is:
MIDISport Hub 2x2 $69.
MIDISport Hub 4x4 $99.
Both will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
About M-Audio...
M-Audio (m-audio.com) began as Midiman, a driving force in the desktop recording revolution that followed the introduction of MIDI in the 1980s. Today, M-Audio has evolved into one of the most revered names in computer interface and studio integration solutions, keyboard and controller products, and all manner of essential musical hardware from microphones to studio monitors. M-Audio is a proud member of the "inMusic" family (inmusicbrands.com).
Visit M-Audio in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 7 news feature...
IK MULTIMEDIA DEBUTS NEW "MAX RANGE" — COMPLETE & AFFORDABLE BUNDLES
• Bundles for AmpliTube, T-RackS and SampleTank offer musicians and producers a new way to enhance musical creativity, saving 70%-90% with any of four new all-inclusive "Max" bundles
• Bundles provide comprehensive collections of IK's powerful music creation and processing software
Quality bargains always excite. IK Multimedia, based in Modena, Italy, announced Jan. 20 through its U.S. office in Florida, the introduction of its new "Max" series of bundles. With them, musicians and producers are offered a way to quickly get your hands on complete collections of some of IK's most powerful music creation tools for up to 90% off the price it would cost to purchase each piece of gear offered individually.
These bundles include AmpliTube® Max, T-RackS® Max and SampleTank® Max plus a Total Studio Max bundle that combines all three plus Miroslav Philharmonik™ 2. The company asserts, "Now, thanks to these new bundles, anyone and everyone can take their musical creativity to the max."
AmpliTube Max - Maximum tone
Guitar and bass players will be impressed by the sonic flexibility offered in this bundle. It effectively gives musicians the keys to their very own fully-stocked tone studio. It comes with AmpliTube 4, AmpliTube 3, AmpliTube MESA/Boogie®, Ampeg® SVX™, AmpliTube Fender, AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix™ Anniversary Edition, AmpliTube Orange®, AmpliTube Slash and more. In total, it gives users a virtual collection of over 300 pieces of gear that includes meticulously rendered models of some of the most sought after amplifiers, cabinets, stomp boxes, rack effects and mics on the planet.
T-RackS Max - Maximum processing
Producers and engineers may fall in love with T-RackS Max. It's a comprehensive, high-quality mixing and mastering suite that features all the processors in T-RackS Grand plus all the new individual processors. It's a collection of over 33 units that includes compressors, limiters, equalizers, channel strips, reverbs, delays and more. These processors have all been modeled after some of the most desirable classic hardware units of all time. Like all T-RackS models, each one can be used individually or as a part of a T-RackS mastering chain.
SampleTank Max - Maximum music
SampleTank Max is the definitive version of the ultimate sound and groove workstation. It comes with SampleTank 3 plus 22 additional Instrument Collections. These additional collections include Art Deco Piano, Cinematic Percussion, Hugh Padgham Drums, American Acoustic, the Elektronika series,the Beats series, and more. All told, it has a massive 50 GB+ library of instruments, loops, midi patterns and more. These sounds can all be manipulated using the full power of SampleTank 3. This includes its 55 high-quality effects, intuitive 16-channel DAW-style mixer and powerful synth section.
Total Studio Max - Maximum value
Each of the bundles described above offers an extreme degree of affordability and power. The Total Studio Max bundle takes this concept to the next level by collecting all of the previous bundles into one all-inclusive package. It also comes with Miroslav Philharmonik 2, the most emotionally expressive orchestral collection ever released. It's a quick, easy and affordable way for musicians to have a complete and fully outfitted digital music studio.
Pricing and availability
All four of IK's MAX bundles will be available in February from music and electronics retailers worldwide, as well as from the IK online store. All bundles are available as either a direct download or as a boxed copy with USB.
AmpliTube Max, T-RackS Max and SampleTank Maxwill cost $/€499.99* for a direct download and $/€529.99 for a boxed copy with USB.
The Total Studio MAX bundle - which includes all of the aforementioned bundles as well as a full version of Miroslav Philharmonik 2 - will be available as a direct download for $/€999.99 or as a boxed copy with USB for $/€1,029.99.
*All prices excluding taxes.
About IK Multimedia:
IK Multimedia is a computer music technology company that offers a diverse range of affordable and easy-to-use music production tools with great sound quality and a realistic look and feel. With millions of installations worldwide, the IK range has been adopted by musicians of every level, from beginners to professionals, to gain access to high-end, studio-quality gear from their computers or mobile devices. AmpliTube®, AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix™, SampleTank® and T-RackS® are trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
More info is available at:
www.ikmultimedia.com/max
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# 8 news feature...
VIP INTRODUCES V2.0 OF REVOLUTIONARY SOFTWARE THAT GIVES MUSICIANS COMPLETE CONTROL OF THEIR ENTIRE VST LIBRARY
"VIP 2.0" adds complete VST Effects Control to its revolutionary software, expanding musicians' hands-on control over all their VST’s
VIP Music Software, creator of its Virtual Instrument Player (VIP) software—the only software that enables musicians to play, control and catalog their entire VST library directly from their keyboard — announced Jan. 21 that they’ve introduced a major update to their revolutionary software, "VIP 2.0."
The initial releases of VIP software enabled users to intuitively access any patch from any VST virtual instrument in their computer directly from their keyboard. With VIP 2.0, musicians can now apply the same approach for VST Effects as well.
Using the built-in “tagging” function, users can quickly filter and search through every single instrument or effect patch in their plugin library, saving hours of time when needing to find a specific sound or effect quickly, or simply mining their libraries for sounds they haven’t used before. After a patch is selected, VIP auto-maps the keyboard’s controls to the selected plugin, and displays the plugin parameters directly on a VIP-equipped keyboard’s full-color display for a full 1:1 workstation style experience.
In addition to playing and controlling plugins, VIP gives musicians and producers enormous creative potential using “Multis”. A “Multi” allows users to combine up to 8 patches from 1 or more plugins, with the ability to layer, mix and pan these patches all at once.
Now, with VIP 2.0, users can add up to 4 effects "sends" and "inserts" to each slot of their Multis. These effects can also be saved as "Effects Stacks," and quickly recalled for fast auditioning or used in different setups. The sonic possibilities of layering up to 8 different VST instruments, each with their own effects, are staggering.
The ability to recall Effects Stacks or Multis with a single patch change from the keyboard makes the solution incredibly powerful for live performances or studio use. Artists can concentrate on their creativity, without being distracted by complex DAW setups.
Live and studio performers will also love the new Custom Control Mode, which enables users to map any plugin parameter from any VST (instrument or effect) to any VIP-enabled keyboard’s knobs or buttons. This gives musicians total creative freedom when playing and controlling sounds from small individual instruments to large Multis with integrated effects—further expanding the musician’s improvisational capabilities.
Summary of VIP 2.0 New Features:
• Effects Browser: Customers have raved about VIP’s instrument browser. Now they can browse for effects in the same manner, searching for a specific type of reverb, compressor, delay, etc. or better yet, auditioning all your reverb, compressor, chorus, etc. patches from multiple plugins with a single click.
• Expanded Multi Mixer: VIP 2.0 Multi Mixer now includes Insert Effects, Sends Effects, Bus Tracks, and a Master Output channel strip. Collapsible sections allow custom viewing for larger or smaller monitors.
• Effects Stacks: VIP 2.0 introduces Effect Stacks, which combine multiple effects into re-usable patches, accessible in the patch list for easy selecting and auditioning.
• Custom Control Mode: VIP 2.0 offers a new Custom Control Mode which enables mapping of any VST instrument or effect parameter, any CC number and any Mixer parameter to any VIP-enabled hardware controls for live or studio playing.
• New pre-done plugin maps for today’s most popular virtual instruments and effects plugins
VIP is included as standard software on a growing list of important keyboards from the industries top selling brands, including Akai, M-Audio and Alesis, and it also works as a stand-alone application or as a VST, AU or AAX plugin for any digital audio workstation.
“VIP 1.0 was a huge leap forward in the creative process for musicians but there was more we wanted to do, of course. The addition of complete effects control in VIP 2.0 is a huge enhancement—one that VIP users will be excited to get their hands on,” said Jennifer Hruska, Director of Content Development for inMusic Brands.
She added, “A keyboard equipped with VIP 2.0 doesn’t slow the artist down—it works with them to maximize their playing experience and enhance their creativity. I can’t wait to see what artists do with this.”
About VIP...
VIP is an award-winning music software platform that gives musicians and composers total control over their virtual instruments and effects plugins. VIP features an intelligent patch browser that integrates patches from the user’s collection of VST instruments and effects, so they can select, play and layer those patches directly from a VIP-enabled keyboard. VIP works as a stand-alone application or as a VST, AU or AAX plugin for any digital audio workstation.
More info at:
www.vipmusicsoftware.com
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Enjoy NAMM or the weekend concert scene — go out and celebrate that you're not snowed-in!
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS and ticket alerts, published separately, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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More soon, as always.
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Contents copyright © 2015, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California, in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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(Editor's note: IT'S FIXED NOW, but, Yikes! Thanks to our readers who let us know that using the math "less-than" symbol in a product write-up gets read by the Gremlins of Cyberia as computer code. And it causes ALL formatting to collapse into an enormous word heap...)
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This edition is all about NAMM news.
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The emphasis is on tech as the Guide profiles a range of new products debuting at NAMM 2016, including some that are competing offerings. We cover two competing next gen battery-powered portable sound systems in our # 4 & 5 news features; one is from ALESIS, the other from M-AUDIO. Plus we profile another new, unrelated product from M-AUDIO in feature # 6. Enjoy!
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NAMM NEWS FEATURES in this edition...
(with Booth # 's, if you're there)
1) SONiVOX ACHIEVES MUSICAL MILESTONE WITH CREATION OF "PITCH2MIDI" REAL-TIME AUDIO-TO-MIDI SOFTWARE
2) NUMARK DEBUTS WS-100 DIGITAL WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM
3) GUITARISTS: ANTELOPE AUDIO COLLABORATES WITH OVERLOUD AUDIO TOOLS FOR NEW SOUND CAPTURE
4) ALESIS OFFERS NEW TRANSACTIVE VU PORTABLE WIRELESS 50-WATT SOUND SYSTEM WITH LED LIGHT SHOW
5) M-AUDIO DEMOS WIRELESS "POWER STATION" — BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEM WITH ONLINE CAPABILITIES
6) M-AUDIO DEBUTS MUSICIAN / COMPOSER -FRIENDLY MIDI INTERFACE
7) IK MULTIMEDIA DEBUTS NEW "MAX RANGE" — COMPLETE & AFFORDABLE BUNDLES
8) VIP INTRODUCES V2.0 OF REVOLUTIONARY SOFTWARE THAT GIVES MUSICIANS COMPLETE CONTROL OF THEIR ENTIRE VST LIBRARY
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# 1 news feature...
SONiVOX ACHIEVES MUSICAL MILESTONE WITH CREATION OF "PITCH2MIDI" REAL-TIME AUDIO-TO-MIDI SOFTWARE
Leading developer’s newest offering empowers artists to play virtual instruments using their voice or instruments in real time, without the need to wait for processing before listening
Somerville, MA-based SONiVOX (sonivoxmi.com), a leading developer of premium virtual instruments and synthesis technologies, announced Jan. 21 the immediate availability of its revolutionary new "Pitch2MIDI" real-time audio-to-MIDI synthesizer and converter software.
Now, we really weren't sure what we thought of this. As advocates of "keeping it real," we like to see and hear live musicians on stage, playing real instruments. We especially hate soul-less drum machines. That said, this is something that opens entire new realms of possibilities. You'd like to know how it would sound to accompany your new song with horns or a Dobro or layer-on a mandolin riff? Now you can, without hiring anyone else and without the wait that kills the idea or makes you forget exactly what you had in mind. As for "faking it" and releasing that as finished tracks on a record, we'll still take the real thing, if you please. But as a creative tool? Keep reading.
SONiVOX recognizes that singers, singer-songwriters, and instrumentalists want the ability to play and record music with software virtual instruments. But until today, you haven’t been able to do so in the same way as a keyboard or drum controller musician could. Now you can.
This is because SONiVOX’s Pitch2MIDI software plugin doesn’t require you to record your audio first, then stop and wait to hear the results as the audio is pre-processed. SONiVOX’s Pitch2MIDI software works in real time, immediately converting the audio signal into MIDI events so you can hear the results while you’re singing or playing.
The old way of first having to record your audio severely hampered the artist’s ability to create spontaneously. With Pitch2MIDI, artists can sing or play while hearing their virtual instruments at the same time.
Pitch2MIDI is an audio effect plug-in that takes real-time vocal or instrumental monophonic audio input and instantly transforms it intoaccurate MIDI output. Using the built-in synthesizer, artists can use their voice or instrument to play any one of over 100 synth sounds directly, or bypass the internal synth and send MIDI out to any of hundreds of popular virtual instruments on the market.
Since it’s real-time, it’s not necessary to record the audio first or process it before hearing the results. Instead, it’s instantaneous — MIDI output is created as the artist sings or plays.
Vocalists and instrumentalists just might love using this, and it may be perfect for producers, too. It brings an immediate capability to add new sonic layers and textures to audio tracks, without needing to do any post-recording processing.
Their promo gushes, "Pitch2MIDI sets creativity free by removing the 'record-then-process' obstacle. If you can hear it in your imagination, Pitch2MIDI will deliver it in reality!"
Pitch2MIDI Features:
• Play virtual instruments using your vocals, instrument, or any monophonic audio in real time
• Built-in synthesizer with over 100 sounds
• Sends MIDI out of the plugin so you can play any VSTi of your choice
• Instantly add new layers of harmony or sonic textures
• Real-time graphic display of audio and MIDI conversion
• No MIDI interface needed to communicate between applications
System Requirements:
• Mac or Windows with Intel processor and 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
• Mac OS 10.9 or later or Win OS 8/64 bit or later
• VST, AU, AAX 64-bit compatible
“Pitch2MIDI completely changes the game for vocalists, acoustic instrumentalists, electric guitarists and bassists—really anybody who plays a non-MIDI producing instrument. Using Pitch2MIDI, all these musicians now have access to the thousands of popular virtual instruments and synthesizers on the market,” said Jennifer Hruska, Director of Content Development for inMusic Brands. “Even better, they can experiment and perfect their performance since the plugin doesn’t need to pre-process the audio first.”
Pitch2MIDI by SONiVOX is available for download now for $149.99 USD at SONiVOX.
About SONiVOX...
SONiVOX designs, develops and markets software technologies, products and applications for the creation and enjoyment of music. Founded in 1993 by industry veteran Jennifer Hruska, SONiVOX instruments are found in recording studios all over the world and can be heard in hit music, blockbuster film scores, and cutting-edge video games.
More info at: www.sonivoxmi.com
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# 2 news feature...
NUMARK DEBUTS WS-100 DIGITAL WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM AT NAMM
Performers can benefit from new tech by a leading DJ manufacturer; with introduction of digital UHF wireless diversity microphone with unsurpassed audio quality and 200-ft range, enjoy total freedom from cumbersome cables
Numark is about to be known beyond their previous identity as a world-leading innovator of DJ solutions. On Jan. 21, they announced the introduction of their WS-100 digital wireless diversity microphone system, debuting at the NAMM Show in Anaheim.
Recognizing that performers want the freedom of movement that only wireless devices can provide, Numark’s WS-100 microphone delivers top-quality audio performance combined with the convenience of total independence from cumbersome, restrictive cables.
Numark asserts that merely being “wireless” is not enough. That drove Numark’s engineers to make sure the WS-100 performed to the level of demanding customers: its dual-antenna diversity system ensures interference-free, consistent, reliable operation, without worry of unexpected dropouts.
Independent digital ID eliminates signal crosstalk, while its superb signal-to-noise ratio of 96dB and wide-range frequency response of 50-18kHz attest to the system’s excellent sound quality. This is a wireless microphone system designed for critical, heavy-duty use under difficult conditions.
WS-100 features:
• Wireless handheld microphone transmitter
• Receiver unit with dual antennas for superb performance
• 24-bit digital wireless technology delivers ultra clean pro-quality signal 200-foot working range for convenient operation
• Frequency response of 50-18kHz ensures natural vocals and strong bass
• Transmitter and receiver operate in 500-980MHz frequency range
• Handheld mic uses (2) AA batteries
• Superb signal-to-noise ratio of 96 dB (A) ensures quiet background
• Independent digital ID eliminates signal crosstalk and interference
• System harmonic distortion (less than .1%) for clean, accurate sound
• Includes protective padded carrying case and cable
“The WS-100 digital wireless microphone gives our performers the freedom of movement they want, without the usual complications, interference or unexpected dropouts common to ordinary wireless mic systems, and with no sacrifice of audio quality,” said Chris Roman, Senior Product Manager for Numark. “This is exactly the kind of product our customers expect from Numark — something they can depend on, night after night.”
The WS-100 will be available in Q1 2016 for $99 U.S. retail.
About Numark...
Numark is a global leader in professional DJ and audio equipment, creating products that are unmatched in capability and design. Since 1971, Numark has delivered numerous music industry firsts and continues to develop and harness new technologies that enhance the DJ experience. Numark is a member of the premier family of brands known as "inMusic."
More at: www.numark.com
Visit them in Hall B, Booth #6010, at NAMM.
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# 3 news feature...
(They had us at "Acoustically Focused Clocking"...)
GUITARISTS: ANTELOPE AUDIO COLLABORATES WITH OVERLOUD AUDIO TOOLS FOR NEW SOUND CAPTURE AT NAMM 2016
Clocking/Conversion Leader and DSP Guitar Processing Software Maker Combine Forces for Advances in Digital Guitar Processing and Capture for the Modern Age
Anaheim, Calif., January 22, 2016 — Clocking and conversion expert Antelope Audio [Booth A 6596] and Italian amplifier simulation software maker Overloud Audio Tools, creator of the TH3 amplifier simulation software, have announced a new partnership at NAMM 2016. The collaboration between the two companies will enable guitarists to maintain their unique tones all the way through the record and capture process through Antelope's renowned interface technology, while enjoying the unparalleled flexibility of digital guitar processing and amp simulation.
The implications for guitarists performing in live and recording situations are significant: “More and more, guitarists are appreciating the flexibility of digital signal processing to achieve 'the perfect tone' in a variety of performance settings,” says Igor Levin, CEO and Founder of Antelope Audio. “But oftentimes that tone is degraded by the use of inferior recording interfaces and DSP algorithms. Our collaboration with Overloud will introduce new solutions for guitarists that ensure preservation of their authentic tones —and their investment —that carry through the entire recording and playback processes."
Antelope Audio recently expanded the sonic possibilities for customers craving high quality, customized DSP effects with the launch of its new AuraVerb and other plug-ins —which now ship with Orion32+ and Orion Studio Thunderbolt™ interfaces. These effects leverage Antelope's proprietary DSP engine and effects algorithms, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple effects with almost no latency. These innovations, which derive from Antelope's deep product engineering expertise, complement Overloud's own leadership and innovations in amplifier simulation technology, such as its TH3 amplifier simulation software.
“One of our long-term product goals has been to combine our models into a dedicated hardware interface, so musicians can achieve a superior live and studio experience," commented Thomas Serafini, Chief Technology Officer of Overloud. "We are excited to partner with Antelope Audio, which is clearly at the fore of audio interface technology. We are confident this partnership will unleash the potential of both companies and allow us to create innovative products for musicians.”
Details on specific product initiatives resulting from the new collaboration will be announced in the coming months.
About Antelope Audio...
Antelope Audio is a leading manufacturer of high-end professional audio equipment and the pioneer in the adoption of Atomic clock generators. The company utilizes Igor Levin's more than 20 years’ experience in digital audio to develop professional and consumer high-end products with the signature Antelope Audio sound. The company employs proprietary clocking and jitter management technologies – Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) and oven-controlled crystal oscillator, as well a custom-designed digital and analog circuits to provide both professional audio engineers and music aficionados with unprecedented musicality, sound stage and clarity. Antelope is the first to design a 1U 32-channel audio interface and a multi-channel portable interface with 12 mic pres. Antelope's breakthrough technologies are offering both studio and live audio engineers great productivity and flexibility. The company's customers include many Grammy award-winning sound engineers and some of the most renowned recording, mastering and post-production facilities around the globe.
About Overloud...
Overloud is an R&D and software company which develops high-end professional audio plug-ins. Their products are based on its state of the art analog modelling technology, which has been developed and continuously improved in the last 15 years. Overloud’s flagship, TH3, contains the world largest collection of guitar amp and effects models and employs a proprietary technology which set a reference in the simulation accuracy and realism.
Overloud is the first to create a software reverberation plug-in reproducing the reverb engine of most of famous hardware reverberation units of the ‘80s and ‘90s. It is the creator of the multilayer convolution concept, currently used by many Grammy award-winning sound engineers to create uinque reverbs and ambiances on their mix.
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# 4 & 5 news features...
NEXT GEN PORTABLE, BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEMS DEBUT AT NAMM
We cover two competing systems below. One from ALESIS, the other from M-AUDIO (plus another new product from M-AUDIO)...
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# 4 news feature...
ALESIS OFFERS NEW TRANSACTIVE VU PORTABLE WIRELESS 50-WATT SOUND SYSTEM WITH LED LIGHT SHOW
Versatile, portable all-in-one PA system has Bluetooth® connectivity, powerful sound, integrated LED lighting and a 50-hour rechargeable battery
Alesis, a world-leading manufacturer of electronic instruments and components for today's musician, announced Jan. 21 the introduction of its powerful, compact TransActive VU, debuting at NAMM.
This is an all-in-one portable sound system that operates off its own rechargeable battery, providing what the company bills as "room-filling, lifelike sound" to any venue even when AC power is not available.
Recognizing that there are many circumstances where great sound is needed but AC power is inaccessible, the new "TransActive VU" features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 50 hours, along with Bluetooth connectivity and integrated LED lighting. Plus, in this highly competitive market, it has everything that’s needed for impressive sound and lights. With its built-in wheels and retracting handle, Transavtive VU goes anywhere.
The manufacturer asserts, "It’s perfect for singer-songwriters or DJs who need a portable sound system, but it’s also ideal for parties, trips to the beach, business presentations and public address in houses of worship. For anyone who requires great sound on the go, TransActive VU is indispensable."
The dual built-in LED light strips deliver exciting lighting effects without needing to bring along external lighting, which can be complicated to set up, and expensive. With TransActive VU, everything is included. The lights have five customizable lighting modes: Mood, Meter, Mix, Pulse, Party. The brightness control lets the user adjust or disable the LEDs, and the Custom Color Control adjusts the mix of Red, Green and Blue lighting. The top panel of the cabinet features an integrated storage tray for smartphones, keys, guitar picks and more. Plus, the system includes a high-quality microphone with an on/off switch.
TransActive VU features:
• Powered speaker—50 watts peak, 25 watts continuous
• High output 8-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter
• Built-in rechargeable battery delivers up to 50 hours of sound—no AC needed
• Includes high-quality microphone with on/off switch
• Five customizable lighting modes: Mood, Meter, Mix, Pulse and Party
• Brightness control adjusts or disables LEDs
• Custom Color Control easily adjusts mix of Red, Green and Blue lighting
• Streams music wirelessly from any Bluetooth device
• Top panel storage tray for smartphones, keys, guitar picks, and more
• Rugged design withstands heavy use and portable applications
• Recessed wheels and telescoping handle for easy transport
• Standard 35mm socket allows mounting on a speaker stand
“TransActive VU is the ideal sound system for anyone on the go who needs great audio, convenient built-in lighting and the ability to wirelessly stream music. For entertainers, businesspeople, public speakers—anyone who needs to cover a venue with clear sound and dramatic lighting effects—this is their ideal solution,” said Walter Skorupski, Product Manager for Alesis.
He continued, “TransActive VU accomplishes all that without needing to be plugged into an AC outlet. This is exactly the kind of versatility and performance people are looking for.”
U.S. pricing will be $249.
TransActive VU will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
About Alesis...
Since the 1985 unveiling of the affordable XT Reverb, Alesis (alesis.com) has led the charge to create inventive electronic products that benefit every stage or studio musician. Alesis innovation continues with electronic percussion, keyboards, monitors, recording gear, amplifiers, as well as professional products based on Bluetooth technology and Apple’s iOS platform. Alesis is a member of a premier family of brands known as inMusic (inmusicbrands.com).
More info at:
www.alesis.com
Visit Alesis in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 5 & 6 news features...
In addition to its competing battery-powered sound system, M-AUDIO impressed with a second, unrelated product. Each is covered in its own feature story, below.
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# 5 news feature...
M-AUDIO DEMOS WIRELESS "POWER STATION" — BATTERY-POWERED SOUND SYSTEM WITH ONLINE CAPABILITIES
A powerful sound system with rechargeable battery, Bluetooth® streaming and multiple inputs delivers clear, vibrant sound at venues without access to AC power
M-Audio announced, Jan. 21, the introduction of their Power Station portable AC/battery-powered sound system, debuting at NAMM. This compact, easily-transportable unit is a perfect solution for the problem of delivering clear, vibrant, high-output sound when there is no ready access to AC power.
Power Station has a massive, high-capacity rechargeable battery that provides hours of cord-free power for its internal digital Class D amplifier. The amplifier drives a high-output 8-inch 2-way speaker system in a compact, lightweight enclosure. Power Station can also be plugged into an AC outlet.
This means wherever there’s a need for clear, detailed high-fidelity sound — singers/small musical ensembles can deliver a quality performance in an otherwise awkward "barefoot" environment.
And with the 2016 political season upon us, artists are often asked to perform a song or two at a small political rally.
Of course, this system is what the doctor ordered for a full range of challenging opportunities to perform, like awards presentations, graduation ceremonies, outdoor weddings, business presentations, and more. Small wonder that the manufacturer brags, "Power Station delivers, whether AC power is available or not, Power Station is always ready."
Power Station also has two AC power outlets and two USB ports for powering/recharging external devices, such as instruments, microphones and peripheral devices.
Because of the truly impressive capacity of its internal rechargeable battery, Power Station does not need to be plugged into an AC outlet in order for its auxiliary AC extension outlets to be functional and active, in stark contrast to many lesser units. This is a huge point of differentiation and superiority for Power Station when compared to ordinary competitive products.
Features:
◦ High output amplifier: 50 watts peak, 25 watts continuous
◦ Robust 8” woofer and 1” compression tweeter deliver clear, dynamic sound
◦ Wirelessly streams music from any Bluetooth-enabled device
◦ Extreme-capacity rechargeable battery for hours of uninterrupted play
◦ Professional Instrument, and XLR/TRS combo inputs for connecting instruments, microphone or other equipment
◦ Charge and power guitar pedals, iOS devices and other external gear with (2) AC outlets and (2) USB connectors
◦ Telescoping handle and wheels for easy transport
◦ Stereo 1/4" (2 x TRS) line in, stereo 1/8” aux input
“Power Station is aptly named: it’s a great unit—compact, transportable and affordable— that delivers the ultimate power and audio quality to venues that don’t have ready access to AC power,” said JC Sutherland, Product Manager for M-Audio.
He added, “However, the feature that’s bound to be the biggest hit is the fact that it can power equipment connected to its AC extension outlets even when Power Station is operating off its own high-capacity internal battery. That is the very definition of convenience, power and performance. People will love that.”
The M-Audio Power Station has a U.S. retail price of $299.99.
It will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
Visit M-AUDIO in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 6 news feature...
M-AUDIO DEBUTS MUSICIAN / COMPOSER -FRIENDLY MIDI INTERFACE AT NAMM
New MIDISport Hub 2x2 and 4x4 offer professional-quality MIDI computer interface with added versatility and convenience of a 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub
M-Audio (m-audio.com), synonymous with innovative music production technology, announced Jan. 21 the introduction of the MIDISport Hub 2x2 and 4x4 MIDI interfaces with 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub. These devices offer musicians and composers an easy 2x2 or 4x4 MIDI I/O, with the added versatility and convenience of their class-exclusive USB hub, which greatly expands the user’s connectivity options.
Designed for ease of use, their bright LEDs (five in the 2x2 and nine in the 4x4) clearly show the status of MIDI information being sent and received. Both units are bus-powered when not using the hub and the 2x2 features merge and standalone operation.
Features:
MIDISport Hub 2x2 2x2 MIDI Interface with USB Hub:
• 3-port USB 3.0 powered hub
• 2x2 MIDI I/O • Merge/Standalone operation
• Bus-powered when not using the hub
• 4 dedicated signal LEDs show when MIDI information is sent and received
MIDISport Hub 4x4 4x4 MIDI Interface with USB Hub:
• 3-port USB 3.0 Powered Hub
• 4x4 MIDI I/O
• Bus-powered when not using the hub
• 8 dedicated signal LEDs show when MIDI information is sent and received
• Rugged metal chassis stands up to abuse in studio or on the road
“Musicians who have MIDI gear also need a USB hub for the complete range of hook-up options. That’s pretty much true for the entire universe of computer-connected artists and composers,” said J.C. Sutherland, M-Audio Product Manager.
He adds, “A quality MIDI interface is a standard tool for musicians, like a screwdriver—you need one to get the basics done. But MIDISport 2x2 and 4x4 also have a 3-port powered USB hub conveniently built in, so these are like really cool Swiss Army screwdrivers. People will love these.”
U.S. retail pricing is:
MIDISport Hub 2x2 $69.
MIDISport Hub 4x4 $99.
Both will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
About M-Audio...
M-Audio (m-audio.com) began as Midiman, a driving force in the desktop recording revolution that followed the introduction of MIDI in the 1980s. Today, M-Audio has evolved into one of the most revered names in computer interface and studio integration solutions, keyboard and controller products, and all manner of essential musical hardware from microphones to studio monitors. M-Audio is a proud member of the "inMusic" family (inmusicbrands.com).
Visit M-Audio in Hall A, Booth #6700 at NAMM.
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# 7 news feature...
IK MULTIMEDIA DEBUTS NEW "MAX RANGE" — COMPLETE & AFFORDABLE BUNDLES
• Bundles for AmpliTube, T-RackS and SampleTank offer musicians and producers a new way to enhance musical creativity, saving 70%-90% with any of four new all-inclusive "Max" bundles
• Bundles provide comprehensive collections of IK's powerful music creation and processing software
Quality bargains always excite. IK Multimedia, based in Modena, Italy, announced Jan. 20 through its U.S. office in Florida, the introduction of its new "Max" series of bundles. With them, musicians and producers are offered a way to quickly get your hands on complete collections of some of IK's most powerful music creation tools for up to 90% off the price it would cost to purchase each piece of gear offered individually.
These bundles include AmpliTube® Max, T-RackS® Max and SampleTank® Max plus a Total Studio Max bundle that combines all three plus Miroslav Philharmonik™ 2. The company asserts, "Now, thanks to these new bundles, anyone and everyone can take their musical creativity to the max."
AmpliTube Max - Maximum tone
Guitar and bass players will be impressed by the sonic flexibility offered in this bundle. It effectively gives musicians the keys to their very own fully-stocked tone studio. It comes with AmpliTube 4, AmpliTube 3, AmpliTube MESA/Boogie®, Ampeg® SVX™, AmpliTube Fender, AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix™ Anniversary Edition, AmpliTube Orange®, AmpliTube Slash and more. In total, it gives users a virtual collection of over 300 pieces of gear that includes meticulously rendered models of some of the most sought after amplifiers, cabinets, stomp boxes, rack effects and mics on the planet.
T-RackS Max - Maximum processing
Producers and engineers may fall in love with T-RackS Max. It's a comprehensive, high-quality mixing and mastering suite that features all the processors in T-RackS Grand plus all the new individual processors. It's a collection of over 33 units that includes compressors, limiters, equalizers, channel strips, reverbs, delays and more. These processors have all been modeled after some of the most desirable classic hardware units of all time. Like all T-RackS models, each one can be used individually or as a part of a T-RackS mastering chain.
SampleTank Max - Maximum music
SampleTank Max is the definitive version of the ultimate sound and groove workstation. It comes with SampleTank 3 plus 22 additional Instrument Collections. These additional collections include Art Deco Piano, Cinematic Percussion, Hugh Padgham Drums, American Acoustic, the Elektronika series,the Beats series, and more. All told, it has a massive 50 GB+ library of instruments, loops, midi patterns and more. These sounds can all be manipulated using the full power of SampleTank 3. This includes its 55 high-quality effects, intuitive 16-channel DAW-style mixer and powerful synth section.
Total Studio Max - Maximum value
Each of the bundles described above offers an extreme degree of affordability and power. The Total Studio Max bundle takes this concept to the next level by collecting all of the previous bundles into one all-inclusive package. It also comes with Miroslav Philharmonik 2, the most emotionally expressive orchestral collection ever released. It's a quick, easy and affordable way for musicians to have a complete and fully outfitted digital music studio.
Pricing and availability
All four of IK's MAX bundles will be available in February from music and electronics retailers worldwide, as well as from the IK online store. All bundles are available as either a direct download or as a boxed copy with USB.
AmpliTube Max, T-RackS Max and SampleTank Maxwill cost $/€499.99* for a direct download and $/€529.99 for a boxed copy with USB.
The Total Studio MAX bundle - which includes all of the aforementioned bundles as well as a full version of Miroslav Philharmonik 2 - will be available as a direct download for $/€999.99 or as a boxed copy with USB for $/€1,029.99.
*All prices excluding taxes.
About IK Multimedia:
IK Multimedia is a computer music technology company that offers a diverse range of affordable and easy-to-use music production tools with great sound quality and a realistic look and feel. With millions of installations worldwide, the IK range has been adopted by musicians of every level, from beginners to professionals, to gain access to high-end, studio-quality gear from their computers or mobile devices. AmpliTube®, AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix™, SampleTank® and T-RackS® are trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
More info is available at:
www.ikmultimedia.com/max
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# 8 news feature...
VIP INTRODUCES V2.0 OF REVOLUTIONARY SOFTWARE THAT GIVES MUSICIANS COMPLETE CONTROL OF THEIR ENTIRE VST LIBRARY
"VIP 2.0" adds complete VST Effects Control to its revolutionary software, expanding musicians' hands-on control over all their VST’s
VIP Music Software, creator of its Virtual Instrument Player (VIP) software—the only software that enables musicians to play, control and catalog their entire VST library directly from their keyboard — announced Jan. 21 that they’ve introduced a major update to their revolutionary software, "VIP 2.0."
The initial releases of VIP software enabled users to intuitively access any patch from any VST virtual instrument in their computer directly from their keyboard. With VIP 2.0, musicians can now apply the same approach for VST Effects as well.
Using the built-in “tagging” function, users can quickly filter and search through every single instrument or effect patch in their plugin library, saving hours of time when needing to find a specific sound or effect quickly, or simply mining their libraries for sounds they haven’t used before. After a patch is selected, VIP auto-maps the keyboard’s controls to the selected plugin, and displays the plugin parameters directly on a VIP-equipped keyboard’s full-color display for a full 1:1 workstation style experience.
In addition to playing and controlling plugins, VIP gives musicians and producers enormous creative potential using “Multis”. A “Multi” allows users to combine up to 8 patches from 1 or more plugins, with the ability to layer, mix and pan these patches all at once.
Now, with VIP 2.0, users can add up to 4 effects "sends" and "inserts" to each slot of their Multis. These effects can also be saved as "Effects Stacks," and quickly recalled for fast auditioning or used in different setups. The sonic possibilities of layering up to 8 different VST instruments, each with their own effects, are staggering.
The ability to recall Effects Stacks or Multis with a single patch change from the keyboard makes the solution incredibly powerful for live performances or studio use. Artists can concentrate on their creativity, without being distracted by complex DAW setups.
Live and studio performers will also love the new Custom Control Mode, which enables users to map any plugin parameter from any VST (instrument or effect) to any VIP-enabled keyboard’s knobs or buttons. This gives musicians total creative freedom when playing and controlling sounds from small individual instruments to large Multis with integrated effects—further expanding the musician’s improvisational capabilities.
Summary of VIP 2.0 New Features:
• Effects Browser: Customers have raved about VIP’s instrument browser. Now they can browse for effects in the same manner, searching for a specific type of reverb, compressor, delay, etc. or better yet, auditioning all your reverb, compressor, chorus, etc. patches from multiple plugins with a single click.
• Expanded Multi Mixer: VIP 2.0 Multi Mixer now includes Insert Effects, Sends Effects, Bus Tracks, and a Master Output channel strip. Collapsible sections allow custom viewing for larger or smaller monitors.
• Effects Stacks: VIP 2.0 introduces Effect Stacks, which combine multiple effects into re-usable patches, accessible in the patch list for easy selecting and auditioning.
• Custom Control Mode: VIP 2.0 offers a new Custom Control Mode which enables mapping of any VST instrument or effect parameter, any CC number and any Mixer parameter to any VIP-enabled hardware controls for live or studio playing.
• New pre-done plugin maps for today’s most popular virtual instruments and effects plugins
VIP is included as standard software on a growing list of important keyboards from the industries top selling brands, including Akai, M-Audio and Alesis, and it also works as a stand-alone application or as a VST, AU or AAX plugin for any digital audio workstation.
“VIP 1.0 was a huge leap forward in the creative process for musicians but there was more we wanted to do, of course. The addition of complete effects control in VIP 2.0 is a huge enhancement—one that VIP users will be excited to get their hands on,” said Jennifer Hruska, Director of Content Development for inMusic Brands.
She added, “A keyboard equipped with VIP 2.0 doesn’t slow the artist down—it works with them to maximize their playing experience and enhance their creativity. I can’t wait to see what artists do with this.”
About VIP...
VIP is an award-winning music software platform that gives musicians and composers total control over their virtual instruments and effects plugins. VIP features an intelligent patch browser that integrates patches from the user’s collection of VST instruments and effects, so they can select, play and layer those patches directly from a VIP-enabled keyboard. VIP works as a stand-alone application or as a VST, AU or AAX plugin for any digital audio workstation.
More info at:
www.vipmusicsoftware.com
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Enjoy NAMM or the weekend concert scene — go out and celebrate that you're not snowed-in!
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS and ticket alerts, published separately, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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More soon, as always.
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Contents copyright © 2015, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community, and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California, in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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