Friday, March 31, 2017

We share it universally, but deal with it individually. -- April 1 edition 2017

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No "April Fools" this time.

We were talking about something we share universally, but deal with individually. And it's all too personal. For each of us. No matter how many times we must face it. How do any of us deal with it?

With death? Obviously, we all do. Humans being mortal, we have no choice.

But the fundamental nature of things seems to be that the universe saves things up and dumps multiples of them all at once.

Last weekend, we lost our music pal CARL GAGE. Many readers knew him as a longtime board member of the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival, an event that will hold its 57th annual run in May. We stared into the cosmos, took deep breaths, and got started compiling an obituary for Carl from several sources. But we didn't get a chance to finish it.

On Wednesday, our close friend and fine musician DUANE THORIN died suddenly of a brain hemorrhage.

This Saturday, the musical memorial / Celebration of Life for the late JULES DERVAES is happening. Jules was the patriarch of the Urban Homestead, a happy place for music, great food, and the warmth of camaraderie. Duane was scheduled to be the principal performer in the memorial's fine lineup. Moreover, each piece of music is one that was special to Jules, and special to, and identifiable with, the artist performing it. Duane's name is still all over the program.

While writing the new edition of the Guide -- specifically, we were looking through misty eyes at the in-work draft of an obituary to share wonderful things about Duane -- the phone rang.

This grim reaper stuff has gotta take a hiatus. The call brought word of another death. This isn't one to share with our music community. It's a personal loss, a family member who was far too young to die of the sudden heart attack that ended his life.

As I stare into the computer? Many music news stories are nearly ready to be published, to share with you, dear reader. Some of what we have is exclusive stuff. Lots of "oh, wow's" in many bits of information and feature stories and inside-track stuff about things you'll want to do. And our giant annual special on all the music festivals from spring thru fall of 2017 needs just a few more hours to complete.

But this brief message is the best we can do for now.

We'll be back with plenty of happier news. We need a few days.

But we can't close without saying this...

Take good care of yourself. Take care of each other. Before you exchange any unkind words, imagine those words might be the last thing you ever say to that person. And please, do the sane and thoughtful stuff you can do so very easily. As in, "lotsa things" that can be thoughtful choices, by default, if we decide to live consciously. Including, don't let anybody who is being stupid on the road get you involved. Your existence is a bigger deal than their pathetic ego needs.

Which brings to mind our story of a cop who pulled us over and made a big impression by letting us off with a warning. It was a far bigger impression than any cop has ever made by writing a ticket. He said, "Slow down. I don't want to work your accident."

He didn't need to say that he'd seen too many.

We don't want to write any more obituaries for our friends. Unless someone was 110 and fell asleep after sharing one last song on the ol' guitar and a great story we'd never heard before.

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Friday, March 24, 2017

No Fresh Edition this Weekend. But guidance within, nonetheless... March 24-26, 2017

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Too, too much happening in our whirrled. Oh, indeed, there's plenty in our half-finished stories files. So things'll be back to normal, 'fore long.
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MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE RANCH

See news feature # 7 in the last edition, "UPCOMING EVENTS that WILL SELL-OUT EARLY." It has plenty of things of interest, and that warning (in it's title) about acting while tix can still be had? Take it seriously. And, yes, listings for some things for everyone desiring to go out-'n-about this weekend? There are some of those in there.

It's at:

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2017/03/st-patricks-day-weekend-irish-music.html
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See you soon. Same Bat-Channel.
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Thursday, March 16, 2017

St. Patrick's Day & Weekend Irish Music UPDATE, plus important bits o' News - March 16-18 edition 2017

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(Additional UPDATES ADDED 03-17-17 at 1:24 pm; no earlier content was removed, no events were cancelled.)

THIS edition is about RIGHT NOW through this weekend, with a major UPDATE to our ST. PATRICK'S / IRISH WEEKEND events, plus late-breaking MUSIC NEWS.

Our last edition looks ahead at festivals and more, so scroll-down or use the url to get in touch with things not covered here:

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2017/03/st-paddys-n-irish-music-weekend-fests.html
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STUCK AT HOME OR WORK ON ST. PATRICK'S DAY? LONGING FOR IRISH MUSIC?

Enjoy the "Folk Alley Irish Music Stream." The FREE 24/7 multichannel, non-profit listener-supported online folk music radio station tells us, "For your St. Patrick's Day soundtrack, we've assembled over 12 hours of uninterrupted music by many of our favorite Irish musicians. You'll hear a great mix of familiar and new artists, including WE BANJO 3, EILEEN IVERS, THE ALT, KARAN CASEY, CILLIAN VALLELY, GLEN HANSARD, LISA HANNIGAN, ALTAN, I DRAW SLOW, BEOGA, SHARON SHANNON, DERVISH, SOLAS, THE HENRY GIRLS, DANU, JOHN DOYLE, HEIDI TALBOT, ANDY IRVINE, COLIN FARRELL, THE CHIEFTAINS (of course!) and much, much more!"

* Irish music stream: http://www.folkalley.com/music/irish/?=2017eb
* free mobile app: http://www.folkalley.com/mobile/
* Info and other channels: http://www.folkalley.com

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Poetry corner...

Goodness gracious
We gotta be bodacious
Some days I don't feel it
But I'll cut the cards and deal it
If I have this face of pain
They'll figure it's a tell
But they can deal it fairly
Or they can go to hell.

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This trip around the shamrock brings you:
✔ ST. PATRICK'S DAY – last-minute yuge UPDATE, and IRISH MUSIC through the weekend
✔ St. Patrick's Greetings from the PRESIDENT OF IRELAND
✔ The RECORDING ACADEMY (the GRAMMY organization) on a political threat to the ARTS
✔ WEEKEND CD DEALS at local record stores & a boutique label
✔ "IN PRAISE of RECORD STORES," from more prominent musicians in our continuing series
✔ LINKS for paying attention to the world we inhabit
✔ CicLAvia
✔ San Pedro's own International Film Fest is THIS WEEKEND
✔ The LONG BEACH FOLK REVIVAL offers Early Bird Tix
✔ A look at UPCOMING EVENTS that WILL SELL-OUT EARLY

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And, uhh, oh yeah... Once again, we say... GEARHEADS, BE PATIENT! In addition to all the attention we gave to the annual NAMM show back in January, we still have our annual Spring survey of NEW GEAR, NEW INSTRUMENTS, & NEW MUSIC PRODUCTS coming to you soon in a dedicated special edition. There's soooo much to cover that we haven't been able to organize it all, to the standards you expect of us. Be patient. You'll get news that makes sense about the tons o' stuff we saw and explored at NAMM, and even more that we've learned about since then. So don't spend your tax refund check yet.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS / WHAT'S IN THIS EDITION...

1) The Recording Academy, (the GRAMMY Organization) Releases Statement on Current Political Threat to the Arts

2) St. Patrick's Greetings from the PRESIDENT OF IRELAND

3) ST. PATRICK'S DAY last-minute yuge UPDATE, and IRISH MUSIC through the weekend

4) 14th annual "L.A. Harbor International Film Festival" THIS WEEKEND in San Pedro

5) WEEKEND CD DEALS and "In Praise Of Record Stores," more in our continuing series

6) Special Notice: "CicLAvia" is a week away, March 26th...

7) UPCOMING EVENTS that WILL SELL-OUT EARLY...

8) LONG BEACH FOLK REVIVAL: Early Bird Tickets go ON SALE at noon, Thursday

9) LINKS for Paying Attention to the World We Inhabit
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Let's get started!

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# 1 news feature...


THE RECORDING ACADEMY, (THE GRAMMY ORGANIZATION) RELEASES STATEMENT ON CURRENT POLITICAL THREAT TO THE ARTS


First, our editor has a note: The new proposed Federal Budget, sent by President Trump to the Congress for action, proposes a 10% increase for the Pentagon (that's more than a $54 BILLION dollar increase) and, as the means of paying for it, it calls for cuts in just about everything else. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would be cut below its ability to monitor and safeguard and investigate and enforce regulations that prevent polluters from poisoning our planet's air and water and leaving toxic trails wherever they go in a quest for private profit for the few. The number-one achievement in Wall Street reform, The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB), would be eliminated. The US State Department's budget would be cut by one-third, hamstringing efforts for diplomacy instead of war. Deep cuts, about 30%, overall, in support of affordable housing – for the working poor; the disabled, including disabled veterans; single moms with kids too young for school; and others – would be so serious that many of our fellow Americans in need of support would be rendered homeless. We could list more. And then we get to the latest gutting, in the never-ending series of the austerity crowd's efforts to eliminate all PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR THE ARTS. Now, let's go to the statement from the Recording Academy.
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NEWS RELEASE, March 16, 2017

THE RECORDING ACADEMY STATEMENT REGARDING THE WHITE HOUSE PROPOSAL TO ELIMINATE THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS

“Love of music and the arts brings us together, and celebrates the richness of American culture and our spirit of curiosity and creativity. Music and art serve as one of America’s greatest exports, and support jobs for creators in cities, towns and rural areas across the country. The White House proposal to eliminate funding for the National Endowment for the Arts is shortsighted and alarming. The modest support that we provide to music and the arts is returned many times over, whether measured in jobs and economic impact, or sheer cultural enrichment and introspection. The Recording Academy will ask Congress to maintain funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and renew our commitment to America’s creators.”

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy

The Recording Academy, 3030 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404
http://www.grammy.com
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The Guide has a few words to add.

Here in L.A., NEA funding has made many things possible. The Grand Vision Foundation saved and refurbished San Pedro's great movie palace, The Warner Grand, and now it's a major live-performance venue. Grand Vision went on to establish the more intimate "sister" venue, The Grand Annex. Executive Director LIZ SCHINDLER JOHNSON and star student CARMEN BRAND spoke in a radio interview with KPCC's PRISKA NEELY about "Team Taiko." That's Grand Vision's transformative "music engagement program" for low income adults.

Liz spoke in detail about the importance of NEA grants to small arts organizations. The story aired this past Tuesday, March 14th.

Watch or read the KPCC / NPR story,

"WHAT FEDERAL SUPPORT FOR ARTS EDUCATION LOOKS LIKE IN CALIFORNIA," at:

http://www.scpr.org/news/2017/03/14/69827/what-federal-support-for-arts-education-looks-like

Grand Vision also suggests you follow developments at: #savethenea.
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THE GUIDE SUGGESTS (INDEED, ENCOURAGES) that you tell your lawmakers what YOU think about all this before they vote on the new Federal Budget.

✔ You can contact your MEMBER OF CONGRESS by using your postal zip code, at:

http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/

✔ And contact the two US SENATORS representing your state, at:

https://www.senate.gov/senators/contact/


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# 2 news feature...


ST. PATRICK'S DAY GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT OF IRELAND


Whether or not you're of Irish descent, on March 17th every year, EVERYONE is Irish. Plus, we're certain you'll enjoy President Higgins' words for caring for the Earth and each other. Especially since, of late, there's a certain shortage of presidents who feel that way.
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March 17, 2017

"On this St. Patrick's Day 2017 may I, on this special day for the Irish at home and abroad, send my warmest greetings as Uachtarán na hÉireann, President of Ireland, to Irish people, wherever they may be, and in whatever circumstance, and greetings too to all those who are joining us in celebrating our National Day and our rich cultural heritage.

"It is a source of pride to all of us Irish that our National Day is celebrated not just here in Ireland, but in countless places around the world where members of the Irish global family have been able to make their homes. We are, as a people with a wide diaspora, happy to have the opportunity to share our national day with those who will join us in our celebration of our culture, our songs and our language.

"As a migrant people, the Irish have brought their culture and traditions to many new homelands, and in doing so they have been peerless ambassadors for our nation. It is thanks to the millions of Irish emigrants that Irishness, and our Irish national day, is celebrated with such affection and enthusiasm all over the globe.

"It is appropriate that we celebrate as our National Day the Day of St. Patrick, whose own life story was one of hardship and migration. St. Patrick, we are told, was trafficked into Ireland as a slave, managed to escape, but chose to leave his native land again and return to Ireland. In the centuries that followed, migration has remained a constant feature of the Irish experience, defining us as a people, and shaping our outlook on the world.

"Since taking office I have set out to visit many of our Irish communities abroad, to be given the opportunity to hear their experiences and to connect with their hopes and concerns. Then too, over 80,000 people have visited Sabina and I at Áras an Uachtaráin - people who are active in community groups and civil society organisations who are building an inclusive, sustainable and fair society. Their passion, energy and commitment are building blocks of our nation, and their practical actions of solidarity provide the threads that make up the multi-coloured tapestry that is our Irish nation today.

"Today, on St. Patrick's Day, we celebrate Irishness at is best, and we reflect on the impact our culture and heritage have had around the world.

"This Spring, as nature signals the beginning of the season of hope and renewal, let us all work to build the future we hope for and that is rich in shared possibilities."

"Let us renew our commitment to build on the rich seam of Irish achievements and creativity, in fields as diverse as the arts, science, humanitarianism, politics and business, and work, together, towards achieving the best version of ourselves, for all of us Irish, for our children, our children's children and for all those with whom we share this vulnerable planet.

"To my fellow Irish citizens, and to our friends celebrating the day with us: May I wish you a happy and enjoyable St. Patrick's Day 2017.

"Beir beannacht."

– Michael D. Higgins
Uachtarán na hÉireann
President of Ireland
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(The Guide thanks The Irish News and PubGuide.com for forwarding us the above.)


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# 3 news feature...


ST. PATRICK'S DAY last-minute yuge UPDATE, and IRISH MUSIC through the weekend


Thursday through Monday... wear your green and extend your celebratory mood...

IRISH THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017

(Thu through Sunday) Mar 16- 19, 2-11 pm, each day - 20th annual "SOUTH GATE AZALEA FESTIVAL" is a FREE event sponsored by South Gate Parks & Recreation, 4900 Southern Av, South Gate, CA 90280.
Features live music, 45 vendors, large carnival rides, games, classic car show, food, and more. Produced by Fiesta de Carnival promotes and organizes more then 20 festivals around Southern California. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-gate-azalea-festival-tickets-31590396727?aff=ebriterallyla
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Thu, Mar 16, 5 pm – KEN O'MALLEY plays his weekly residency of multi-instrumental authentic & original Irish music at the Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach, CA 90802; 562-437-8300. Artist info, http://www.kenomalley.com
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Thu, Mar 16, 7-10 pm – "LUCK O’ THE IRISH, SENSES BLOCK PARTY" is a FREE event, with KEN O'MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS bringing the music, plus "shamrocks, pots of gold, and lucky charms" that fill Main Street in Old Town Newhall at this free evening of entertainment. "Dance a jig to Celtic rock music, grub on gourmet food trucks, and enjoy the libations of green beer and whiskey." Main Street, Newhall (Santa Clarita).
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Thu, Mar 16, 7 pm – "ST. PATRICK'S DAY CONCERT" at Fiddler's Crossing in Tehachapi.
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Thu, Mar 16, 7 pm – YVES LAMBERT TRIO plays the "Ojai Concert Series" at the Ojai Valley Woman's Club in downtown Ojai.
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Thu, Mar 16, 7:30 pm – BELA FLECK & ABIGAIL WASHBURN play the Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University, One University Dr, Orange, CA 92866; 844-626-8726. Given the proximity of St. Paddy's, we expect they'll do their Irish/Celtic material.
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Thu, Mar 16, 7:30 pm – THE BROWNE SISTERS & GEORGE CAVANAUGH, longtime Celtic/Irish festival faves, play the concert series at the First Congregational Church of Anaheim.
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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – THE PLOUGHBOYS present their CELTIC music at Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood, CA 91606; 818-766-9913; http://www.kulakswoodshed.com/calendar.html
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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – SLIGO RAGS take a break from their Disneyland residency to bring their Irish music to the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malven Av, Fullerton, CA 92833; 714-738-6706; http://www.themuck.org.
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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – ALTAN in Concert at the Carpenter Center (on the campus at CSULB), 6200 Atherton St, Long Beach 90815; 562-985-7000; www.carpenterarts.org/2016-2017/altan.html
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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – CILLIAN'S BRIDGE plays the Harp Inn Irish Pub, 130 E 17th St, Costa Mesa 92627; www.harpinn.com.
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IRISH FRIDAY, MARCH 17, 2017 – ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Fri, Mar 17, 6 am-1 am - Annual "CASEY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY STREET FESTIVAL" is L.A.'s biggest event for the occasion. Entrance is at Wilshire & Hope, and it stretches for a block of streets closed-off for the event, plus live Irish music inside Casey's Irish Pub. (Music outddors is a mix of DJs playing whatever, and some live Irish music.)
This signature DTLA street festival features 400 kegs of beer, 1200 bottles of Jameson, traditional Irish Irish fare (& pizza from Pellicola Pizzeria), and live music. Casey's Irish Pub opens at 6 am, Festival starts at 11 am. Entire event is 21+. FREE General Admission BEFORE 3:30 pm, admission charge thereafter.
No bags allowed. Purses are subject to search. More at: www.CaseysIrishPub.com
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Fri, Mar 17, 9 am – The HARP INN IRISH PUB brings Irish music starting early Friday and through the weekend, at 130 E. 17th St, Costa Mesa 92627; http://www.harpinn.com. Music on Friday is Cillians Bridge at noon, Swagger from 5 pm until close.
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Fri, Mar 17, 9 am-midnight – "MULDOON'S 43rd ANNUAL ST. PATRICK'S DAY BASH" brings "lots of live music" (bands not specified), at Muldoon's, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; 949-640-4110; http://www.muldoonspub.com.
Doors open at 9 am. "Two fun live party bands will get ya dancing a jig or two. Irish specialties served at breakfast, lunch & dinner in our dining room ~ plus our Bulldog Cafe in the Celtic Bar for corned beef sandwiches with handcut pub chips, etc., no reservations, no cover charge. Slainte!"
Weekend music:
- Sat, Mar 18, 9 pm-1 am – THAT'S MY JAM! "Excellent cover band, current pop and fun retro tunes."
- Sun, Mar 19, 2-4 pm – CILLIAN'S BRIDGE, "Beautiful Irish Trad music to make your Sunday special. Arrive early for a seat & bite of breakfast or lunch."
- Mon, Mar 19, 6-8 pm – ANESHA ROSE – "Finish out your weekend in style... by chilling in the pub with free live music by this multi-talented singer/musician! Her voice is a blend of Janis Joplin and Adele."
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Fri, Mar 17, 10 am-late – "ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT THE SHAMROCK," at the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd. Ste. 145, Murrieta; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com.
They tell us, "We double the capacity of the pub to ensure we get as many of the Shamily in the pub as possible."
No cover from 10 am to 2 pm. Starting at 2 pm, there is a $15 Cover for everyone coming in or those who wish to remain.. From 2 pm, everyone entering or in the pub requires a wristband.
- Live music starts at 3 pm with KEY OF WHISKEY.
- at 8 pm, it's the band QUEL BORDEL.
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Fri, Mar 17, 11 am-'til it's gone – "CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE" 4-course special at all Norm's Restaurants throughout Southern Cal. No, no live music. But it IS one of L.A.'s favorite coffee shops, the food is always great, and this one-day special is only $10.99.
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Mar 17, Noon – SLIGO RAGS plays Macallan's Public House, 330 W Birch St, Brea, CA 92821; 714-529-1224; www.macallanspubbrea.com.
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Fri, Mar 17, 1-4 pm – Annual "SAINT PATRICK'S DAY IN CANOGA PARK" a FREE event, celebrates "the Great Saint's Great Day... in style" with events that begin with a "Sidewalk March" Parade that steps-off in front of the Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park. Features Irish storytelling, bagpipes, community luminaries, elected officials, and merrymakers.
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Fri, Mar 17, 1 pm – THE WHOOLIGANS kick-off the Irish weekend at the Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach, CA 90802; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com
The Whooligans are a Long Beach-based band, "the favorite of any discerning party hounds and imbibers everywhere!" The weekend here brings "Trad Irish & Pub songs with a dash of humor and original tunes."
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(through Sunday) Mar 16- 19, 2-11 pm, each day - 20th annual "SOUTH GATE AZALEA FESTIVAL" is a FREE event sponsored by South Gate Parks & Recreation, 4900 Southern Av, South Gate, CA 90280.
Features live music, 45 vendors, large carnival rides, games, classic car show, food, and more. Produced by Fiesta de Carnival promotes and organizes more then 20 festivals around Southern California. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-gate-azalea-festival-tickets-31590396727?aff=ebriterallyla
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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 2:30-3:30 pm – "LEGACY – ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATION" with Patty McCollom on Banjo, Whistle, Bodhran, Vocals; Barbara Gershman on Hammered Dulcimer, Accordion; Marianne Scanlon on Guitar, Vocals; Anna Johnson, Irish Dancer; at the Emerald Court of Anaheim, 1731 Medical Center Dr, Anaheim, CA 92801; info, mccollomp@sbcglobal.net
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Sat, Mar 18, 3 pm – "ST. PATRICK'S DAY AFTER PARTY" with live music by Quel Bordel and Irish Dancing, at the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd. Ste. 145, Murrieta; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com.
Celebrate St Patrick's Day on Saturday afternoon with an amazing band with an all ages show that everyone can enjoy without the mayhem of St Patrick's Day itself. NO COVER.
Then at 8 pm – Dueling Pianos, virtuoso artists. Dueling Pianos is already fully reserved, as per Shamrock website. They add, "if you want to party at bar come down anytime." So check to see what that means.
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Fri, Mar 17, 5-9 pm - "ST. PATRICK’S DAY PATIO PARTY" with live music from The Molly Maguire's Band, at Whiskey Red's, 13813 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292. FREE, but register to be sure you'll get in: https://www.eventbrite.com/register?orderid=56a615980a8011e788620ad707e71e22&client_token=5bc7b09459734e6e89f5b73a61b85689&eid=32341200401
The largest waterfront patio on the Marina (180-degree views of the harbor) hosts this outdoor St. Paddy's Day party featuring green beer, Jameson shots, and Irish-inspired bites, plus extensive whiskey collection and seafood dishes,
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Fri, Mar 17, 5 pm-2 am - "KISS ME, I’M IRISH: SANTA MONICA PUB CRAWL" in SaMo's West End; homebase for registration is the newly refurbished West End Nightclub, 1301 5th St, Santa Monica. 21+ event. Proof that the luck of the Irish is real: tickets to this St. Patrick's Day pub crawl include live bands, no addt'l cover at any participating venue, and access to drink specials. Produced by L’Affaire Musicale and Orlove Entertainment. Info, 310-384-3789. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Mar 17, 6-9 pm – ANDY & RENEE and their award-winning band HARD RAIN play the Hyatt Huntington Beach at Pete's Sunset Grill, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach; 714-845-4775. It's a "St. Patrick's Day Party outside on the patio."
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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 7-9 pm – "ON A LARK - IRISH TUNES ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY," with Jill Cassidy on Irish whistle; Barbara Gershman on Hammered Dulcimer, Accordion; Terry Gucwa on Cello; at Alta Coffee Warehouse & Restaurant, 506 31st St, Newport Beach, CA; http://www.alta-coffee-co.com; info, Barbara Gershman, ]bgershman@socal.rr.com. No charge. Beverages and food available.
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Fri, Mar 17, 7:30 pm – ST. PATRICK'S DAY CONCERT with the YVES LAMBERT TRIO, Celtic Folk Music from Quebec, plus free beer tasting, at the lovely Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A., CA 90064. This brings "the energy, multicultural ambiance, and colorful sounds of Quebecois music, a wonderful mix of Irish and French styles." The band says, “We play as a trio, but sound like a big orchestra."
* Descendants of the early French immigrants passed down French songs and stories, slowly incorporating influences from their Irish and Scots neighbors to create a uniquely Quebecois musical culture. With three nationally acclaimed albums behind them, the Yves Lambert Trio offers a personal and creative interpretation of traditional Quebecois repertoire, with bubbling prowess and ingenuity, that on stage is a personal, touching and memorable musical experience.
* MUSIC VIDEOS: Check out the Yves Lambert Trio doing an Irish medley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCMb-MSOEC4 and doing "Time to get Up Charlie:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9yyAVdPuvU
* This event is made possible with the help of the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles and the Quebec Government Office in Los Angeles.
* Get 40% off the advertised ticket price with code TRK40, at https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?m=241d6077b39728479d58e072170e1c6f&t=tix&vqitq=527ff9d9-acaa-4482-9752-1c54a4e26143&vqitp=0e39ceb9-969e-4425-8999-f39c3d92e807&vqitts=1488995780&vqitc=vendini&vqite=itl&vqitrt=Safetynet&vqith=9e3184684a363c3b1c0211fcbd696869
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Fri, Mar 17, 7:30 pm – "MOVIE UNDER THE GUNS" on board the BATTLESHIP IOWA, , docked as a museum at 250 S Harbor Bl, San Pedro 90731. This is a FREE thing to do with kids on St. Paddy's Day, a trip to an exciting, dramatic, and impressively memorable place. It's an outdoor event on the ship's fantail. Limited seating is available. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, bring blankets and outdoor chairs. Concessions available, and no coolers or outside food or beverages are allowed on board. Donations greatly appreciated. Bring the entire family to this monthly event. The March offering is the 2016 computer-animated adventure comedy film "FINDING DORY." A friendly but forgetful blue tang fish begins a search for her long-lost parents, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way. The 99-minute film is rated PG and features the voices of Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O’Neill, Diane Keaton, and more.

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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 8 pm-midnight – LOONEY’S FORTUNE plays "TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC & SONGS" with PATTI AMELOTTE on Hammered Dulcimer & Accordion; GEORGIANA HENNESSY on Fiddle & Accordion; & MATT TONGE on Guitar & Mandolin, at Griffin’s Grill, 11272 Los Alamitos Bl, Los Alamitos, CA 90720; http://www.griffinsgrill.com/
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Fri, Mar 17, 8 pm – Want a classical music evening for your St. Paddy's? Here ya go: SCHUBERT's "Der Hirt auf dem Felsen" and ROREM's "Ariel" performed by ELISSA JOHNSTON, JAMES SULLIVAN, & PAUL FLOYD, on The Branson Stage at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.org
Tix, $30; $20 students & seniors, at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe.c/10123259
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Fri, Mar 17, 8 pm -- THE LION SONS play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. This trio, says venue impresario Bob Stane, "the closest thing to the original Kingston Trio that exists today." Tix, $18.
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Mar 17, 8 pm – DAVID GRIER plays Boulevard Music in Culver City. Some Irish music promised.
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Fri, Mar 17, 8 pm – CK ALL-STARS and "touring pros" with Bobby Bluehouse & "Special Guests" play the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs - seriously. Advance tix $10; $15 at door. Adv. tix always get a good discount here, at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Mar 17, 9 pm – THE CALIFORNIA HONEYDROPS with EUPHORIA BRASS BAND will include some Irish tunes at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, San Diego, CA.

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IRISH SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

Sat, Mar 18, Noon - "ST. PADDY’S TRACKSIDE CELEBRATION" at Santa Anita Park (beautiful and world-famous horse race track), 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91007; 626-574-7223.
Of course, they hope you'll bet on the ponies, so they say, "Let the luck of the Irish lead you to a big win at Santa Anita Park's St. Paddy's Trackside Celebration." $16.50 (discounted from orig. $23) gets you House admission, wagering tip sheet and access to trackside seating areas, all included in your St. Paddy's package. Bring something green and your luckiest underwear for a day in the true spirit of the holiday at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia.
Discounted package at: https://www.goldstar.com/events/arcadia-ca/st-paddys-trackside-celebration-tickets
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(through Sunday) Mar 16- 19, 2-11 pm, each day - 20th annual "SOUTH GATE AZALEA FESTIVAL" is a FREE event sponsored by South Gate Parks & Recreation, 4900 Southern Av, South Gate, CA 90280.
Features live music, 45 vendors, large carnival rides, games, classic car show, food, and more. Produced by Fiesta de Carnival promotes and organizes more then 20 festivals around Southern California. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-gate-azalea-festival-tickets-31590396727?aff=ebriterallyla
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Sat, Mar 18, 3 matinee -- BRUCE FORMAN performs "The Red Guitar" and plays with his band, The JUNKYARD DUO, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. The Guide saw Bruce do this amazing thematic show years ago, and it's still very vividly with us. A story in and about jazz, "The Red Guitar" showcases Bruce Forman’s genre—breaking inventiveness and his ability to improvise and create within a classical form. Enlisting the full power of the jazz idiom and integrating it with seasoned and provocativestory-telling, he confronts the dilemma of artistic obsession face-to-face—by creating a work of art that simultaneously explores and demonstrates the hold that music has over its most ardent followers, the hold that poses itself as a life-or-death, must-be-solved-question to Forman and his ilk: “The Red Guitar. Do you play it…or does it play you?
Tix, $18, and that's really a cheap deal to see this show.
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Sat, Mar 18, 6–9 pm - 21-year-old Jazz pianist CONNIE HAN plays for Happy Hour at Seven Grand, 515 W 7th St # 200, Los Angeles 90014; www.sevengrandbars.com; 213-614-0736.
Enjoy $5 cocktails while listening to this virtuoso. Seven Grand is a stylish watering hole with hunting lodge decor, trad cocktails & a massive whiskey selection.
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Sat, Mar 18, 6:30—9 pm - "VENICE ARTS ANNUAL SPEAKEASY" at Townhouse Venice, 52 Windward Av, Los Angeles 90291. You can support Venice Arts at this Townhouse speakeasy event featuring complimentary whiskey tasting, bites, a silent auction, raffle, and more. (Warning: the venue's site indicates electronica & hip-hop music scheduled for the night, NOT old-time or 1920s-era music; so, definitely check before you buy.)
Tix $30 advance, $40 at door; http://www.venicearts.org/index.php?view=galleries&id=34515
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Sat, Mar 18, 7 pm – RISING STAR FIFE AND DRUM BAND featuring SHARDÉ THOMAS plays a FREE show (adv tix req'd, free w/ reservation) at The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles 90049; 310-440-7300; www.getty.edu.
TWO shows, both free:
- Sat, Mar 18, 7 pm;
- Sun, Mar 19, 4 pm.
Fife and drum music arrived in America's deep south in the 17th century with military marching bands and was quickly woven into musical traditions of African slaves. Today, Shardé Thomas—who leads the RISING STAR FIFE & DRUM BAND—keeps that tradition alive through fife and drum blues, one of America's last and most tangible links to this era. Presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Free; advance ticket required.
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Sat, Mar 18, 7 pm -- SUZY WILLIAMS plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations, 626-798-6236. "Declared 'L.A.'s Diva Deluxe' by the LA weekly, [she] will expand on the autobiographical set she debuted at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in December, peppered with a little pissed-off political song-commentary." Tix $20.
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Sat, Mar 18, 7:30-11 pm – ANDY & RENEE celebrate Andy's Birthday with a show at Texas Loosey's, 22252 Palos Verdes Bl, Torrance 90505; 310-540-9799. Yes, they know some Irish music. And a lot of Bob Dylan. And originals.
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Sat, Mar 18, 8 pm – ERNEST TROOST plus JEFF GOLD play this month’s West Valley Music Center "Acoustic Concert Series," at West Valley Music Center, 24424 Vanowen St, West Hills 91307; 818-992-4142; www.westvalleymusic@sbcglobal.net
* Ernest Troost – "If the Carter family, Robbie Robertson, and Alfred Hitchcock wrote songs together, they might sound like this Kerrville New Folk winner."
* Jeff Gold – "This Folkways recording artist's gentle voice, fluid guitar playing, and captivating melodies draw you into the rich lyrics of his urban-folk style."
Reservations required (online or by phone, because it sells-out). Tix, $15, includes refreshments.
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Sat, Mar 18, 8 pm – TOMMY KEENE plus IVAN JULIAN at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com.
Tix, $20.
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Sat, Mar 18, 8 pm – MIKE ZITO plays the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs- seriously. Advance tix get a good discount, at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mike-zito-3-18-2017-arcadia-blues-club-tickets-31740839706
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Sat, Mar 18, 9 pm-1 am – THAT'S MY JAM! at Muldoon's, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; 949-640-4110; http://www.muldoonspub.com. Venue says, "Excellent cover band, current pop and fun retro tunes."
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Sat, Mar 18, 10 pm-2 am – Annual "PIER PRESSURE SHAMROCK CRUISE" for St. Patrick's Day weekend, aboard the Catalina King, deprating from 1046 Queens Hwy, Long Beach 90802; 323-604-6030. The excursion sponsors say "Grab your greenest outfit and get ready to celebrate St. Patty's Day aboard a three-hour cruise featuring live DJs, cash bars, and views of the Long Beach skyline." But this an odd one: It claims to be "three-hour Irish-themed excursion," but, it's advertising "two decks' worth of DJ-spun entertainment, including Top 40, hip hop and house music. You can also wet your whistle with drinks from the cash bar and soak up the sights, including the Long Beach skyline and more. So, uh, is that the usual Saturday night cruise info, accidentally pasted-in (or not removed from) their "special" St. Paddy's event? You should check before you buy.
Tix $14.50 (discounted from $29) at: https://www.goldstar.com/events/long-beach-ca/pier-pressure-shamrock-cruise-tickets

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IRISH SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017

Sun, Mar 19, 2-4 pm – CILLIAN'S BRIDGE at Muldoon's, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; 949-640-4110; http://www.muldoonspub.com. Venue says, "Beautiful Irish Trad music to make your Sunday special. Arrive early for a seat & bite of breakfast or lunch."
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(through Sunday) Mar 16- 19, 2-11 pm, each day - 20th annual "SOUTH GATE AZALEA FESTIVAL" is a FREE event sponsored by South Gate Parks & Recreation, 4900 Southern Av, South Gate, CA 90280. Features live music, 45 vendors, large carnival rides, games, classic car show, food, and more. Produced by Fiesta de Carnival promotes and organizes more then 20 festivals around Southern California. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-gate-azalea-festival-tickets-31590396727?aff=ebriterallyla
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Sun, Mar 19, 4 pm – RISING STAR FIFE AND DRUM BAND featuring SHARDÉ THOMAS plays a FREE show (adv tix req'd, free w/ reservation) at The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles 90049; 310-440-7300; www.getty.edu.
TWO shows, both free:
- Sat, Mar 18, 7 pm;
- Sun, Mar 19, 4 pm.
Fife and drum music arrived in America's deep south in the 17th century with military marching bands and was quickly woven into musical traditions of African slaves. Today, Shardé Thomas—who leads the Rising Star Fife and Drum Band—keeps that tradition alive through fife and drum blues, one of America's last and most tangible links to this era. Presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Free; advance ticket required.
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Sun, Mar 19, 4 pm – "IRISH SESSION" at the Auld Dubliner in Long Beach. "Goes 'til after 7 pm." More at: www.aulddubliner.com
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Sun, Mar 19, 4-8 pm – "MARINE MAMMAL CARE CENTER FUNDRAISER" with ANDY & RENEE performing, at the Think Cafe, 302 W 5th St, San Pedro.
Details and tix: www.marinemammalcare.org
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Sun, Mar 19, 5 pm – DROPKICK MICKEYS with Irish Dancers, at the Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd. Ste. 145, Murrieta; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com.
No Cover, family show. It's "a Sunday of real traditional Irish music with fiddler MICHAEL KELLY from SLIGO RAGS plus PADRAIG on acoustic guitar joined by guest musicians."
Make a reservation as this free show will pack the pub.
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Sun, Mar 19, 7 pm – JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS play the charming (and sometimes rather naughty) music of the 1920s, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2021 N Lake Av, Altadena. Reservations a must, at 626-798-6236.
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Sun, Mar 19, 7:30 pm – "Authentic OPEN IRISH SESSION" at O'Brien's Irish Pub, 23rd & Wilshire, Santa Monica; starts at 7:30pm or so (After NFL); www.obriensla.com
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Sun, Mar 19, 10 pm–1 am - LOS 440's play (no, not Irish, but pretty daggone special) Latin Gypsy music at Seven Grand, 515 W 7th St # 200, Los Angeles 90014; www.sevengrandbars.com; 213-614-0736. Seven Grand is a stylish watering hole with hunting lodge decor, trad cocktails & a massive whiskey selection.
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IRISH MONDAY, MARCH 20, 2017

Mon, Mar 19, 6-8 pm – ANESHA ROSE plays Muldoon's, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach 92660; 949-640-4110; http://www.muldoonspub.com. Venue says, "Finish out your weekend in style... by chilling in the pub with free live music by this multi-talented singer/musician! Her voice is a blend of Janis Joplin and Adele."

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# 4 news feature...


14th annual "L.A. HARBOR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL" THIS WEEKEND in San Pedro


Running March 16-19, this year marks the 14th run of the annual "L.A. Harbor International Film Festival" at the Warner Grand in San Pedro. This film festival includes something for every age group, plus 76 Trombones Gala" dinner and screening of Meredith Wilson's "THE MUSIC MAN."

Full details are available at: http://www.laharborfilmfest.com/new/laharborfilmfest

Schedule:

* Thu, March 16

* Program A - 10:30 am “Read the Book, See the Movie (Doors open 10 am)
Education Outreach Program - Admission is FREE (public seating as available).
Featuring "The Jungle Books" by Rudyard Kipling & film "The Jungle Book" (U.S.A. Walt Disney Productions, 1967, 78 min.; Dir., Wolfgang Reitherman).
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* Fri, March 17

* Program B - 7:30 pm - Opening Night (Doors open 7 pm)
Presented by CineFesta Italia ~ Sponsored by Councilman Joe Buscaino, District 15
"Se Dio Vuole" ("God Willing") (Italy, 2015, 87 min Italian with subtitles in English.; Dir. Edoardo Maria Falcone)
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* Sat, March 18

* Program C - 12 noon (Doors open 11:30 am)
NewFilmmakers LA (NFMLA) On Location: "The Los Angeles Video Project" (U.S.A. 2016, 26 short films, 80 min.) Finalists of community engagement program - Q&A after screening.

* Program D - 2 pm Admission FREE (Doors open 1:45 pm)
Sponsored by DCA & The Big Read L.A (TBRLA) Poetry & Conversation
"The Belle of Amherst" (U.S.A., 1976, 90 min.; Dir. Charles S. Dubin)

* Program E - 7 pm Hollywood Nostalgia Tribute; no discounts. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
Meredith Willson’s "THE MUSIC MAN" (U.S.A,, Warner Bros., 1962, 151 min.; Dir. Morton DaCosta)

* 5-6:45 pm “76 Trombones Red Carpet Gala” ~ WGT Mezzanine.
$65 pre-paid by Feb. 28th ($75 at door if space) includes buffet supper, screening, souvenir program, party bag. Send check or M.O. made out to LAHIFF to: P.O. Box 5202, San Pedro, CA 90733 – names listed at door.
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* Sun, March 19 - “DocSunday” - POLA Premieres - Presented by Tesoro Foundation. Doors open 12:30 pm.

* Program F screens from 1-3 pm
"Humpback Whales" (U.S.A., 2015, 40 min.; Dir. Greg MacGillivray).

* Program G starts at 4 pm
"Crows of the Desert - A Hero’s Journey Through The Armenian Genocide" (U.S.A., 2016, 61 min.; Dir. Marta Houske) Q&A after the screening with filmmakers and participants.
Caution: Film is not rated, however some archival visual imagery might be concern for youth and some adults.

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# 5 news feature...


WEEKEND CD DEALS and IN PRAISE of RECORD STORES, more in our continuing series


Before you start guzzling green beer, you may want to see to your ongoing tunefulness.

TICKET DISCOUNT on live show with Irish band DERVISH playing March 24th at the Broad in Santa Monica -- see the listing by date in news feature # 7, and act by March 19th before midnight to get the deal!

Now, to the real topic here...

AMOEBA RECORDS in Hollywood has a "St Patrick's Day Green Tag Sale." They tell us, "Visit any Amoeba on 3/17 (that's Hollywood or the SF Bay Area) and save some green when you purchase any 3 green tag books, DVDs or blu-rays for just $9. Feel free to mix and match formats. Sale is in-store only, and one day only."
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Meanwhile, at RHINO RECORDS (www.rhino.com), there are new releases, just out:

"FISHIN' IN THE DARK: THE BEST OF THE NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND" for $14.98, at:
http://www.rhino.com/product/fishin-in-the-dark-the-best-of-the-nitty-gritty-dirt-band?cmpid=rn/2017March14/NewReleases-FishinInDarkBes-product-detail-title-2&eml=2017March14/3915463/6134371&etsubid=39474476

and,

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON's "The Austin Sessions (Expanded)," with 14 tracks, $14.98 CD, $21.98 vinyl. Originally released by Atlantic Records in 1999, The Austin Sessions pairs the acclaimed outlaw country songwriter with a band of studio aces and guest harmony vocalists for intimate versions of classics like "Me and Bobby McGee," "Why Me?" and "Sunday Morning Coming Down." This redux is available at: http://click.e.wbr.com/?qs=9d62065d76dea49e1501d730a58eaec7a4c139132b7fd6921bbb05c243d0cedda8f514e248e53eadf4afd9b444dd8034

and,

"THE GRATEFUL DEAD (50TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION)" 2-CD set, 26 tracks, available for $19.98. Read the partic'lars and/or order it, at: http://www.rhino.com/product/the-grateful-dead-50th-anniversary-deluxe-edition?cmpid=rn/2017March14/NewReleases-GratefulDeadGra-product-detail-title-6&eml=2017March14/3915463/6134371&etsubid=39474476

and,

Take a video tour of "FIRST LOOK: FLEETWOOD MAC - TANGO IN THE NIGHT (30TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION)" coming out March 31st. It's a 3CD/DVD/LP edition features newly remastered sound, unreleased recordings, rare tracks, music videos and more. That's at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BugqANdwIQU

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IF WE COME ACROSS AS PASSIONATELY SUPPORTIVE of local, independently-owned record stores (like we do for local, independently-owned music stores that sell instruments and offer lessons, and like we do for artsy-craftsy folksy lil' releases and re-release labels – and of course, for indie Folk-Americana artists & bands), there's a good reason why you're getting that impression. It's because we ARE passionate supporters of all of 'em!

From time to time, we offer quotes from others in music who define, explain, or simply gush about why local music and record stores have influenced their paths as professional musicians. Or as music fans who got past the pablum of the corporate pop top-40. Here are a few more in our series.
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✔ NORAH JONES, singer-songwriter, says...

“It’s important to keep indie record stores alive because their unique environments introduce music lovers to things in a very personal way.”
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✔ JEFF TWEEDY, singer-guitarist of WILCO, says...

“My introduction to all this great music and to ‘the music business’ came from hanging around, and eventually, working at independent record stores. Nothing beats browsing in your favorite store, listening to music, finding something new or old that you’ve been searching for, all that. And without these stores, there’s just no way Wilco would still be around."
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✔ NEKO CASE, singer-songwriter, says...

"I love the smell of them. I love that people actually care for and know about the music they are selling."
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✔ JOSH DUN, drummer-percussionist for the musical duo TWENTY ONE PILOTS, says...

"Ever since I was 12 years old, when my fascination and obsession with music started, I would get on my skateboard and ride down to the local record store. I'd find the most tattooed guy there and have him recommend me a new album once a week. Then I'd learn it and play it on my drums. With internet and technology, there are some great platforms of discovering music, but I would HATE for kids to be deprived of the incredible experience of discovering music through their local record stores. Let's keep record stores alive and well, please."
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AMBER ROSE MARIE, NY-based dance-pop singer-songwriter, says...

✔ "As a new artist, the independent music scene is a way of life for me. What I hear from my fan peeps is that they are interested in purchasing music in many formats. Long Island is unique in that the indie record store is part of our community fabric. It's cool that I purchased my music in my hometown store in Lake Ronkonkoma, Long Island; and now as a recording artist, I have an opportunity to share that excitement with music fans in an intimate way. I look forward to joining my hometown store, Record Stop, in what will be part of a day long record celebration on Long Island!”
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✔ DONALD, the Irish frontman for MONKEY ABORTION, says...

"Growing up, I never had the privilege of living anywhere remotely near an indie record store. Due to my horrid situation, I was forced to shop at Wal-Mart's, Best Buy's, and Barnes & Noble's. With my introduction to punk, through bands like Sonic Youth and Nirvana, plus discovering college radio stations, I found a whole new world just waiting for me to explore. Since then indie record stores have been the only way in which I purchase anything (outside of food and soap). Long live the indie record stores, because where else can you find uncensored records that say f-ck*, sh-t*, and p-ss*, as well as cool fab mod indie bands that no one else has heard of? DEATH TO WAL-MART AND I-PODS!"

* - (The Guide must censor such words to allow us to be available online in public school libraries. We always try to keep them recognizable to preserve the artist's original meaning.)
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✔ PATTERSON HOOD, singer-songwriter, DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS co-founder, says...

"Some of my fondest childhood memories are of going to a small record store in Florence AL called The Turning Point every Friday or Saturday afternoon. I would skip lunch at school and save my lunch money for the week and it would put me within a dollar or two of having enough for a record a week (1974 prices). It doubled as a head shop and the smell of incense burning always made me think (even in 5th grade or so) that it was covering up the smell of some illicit drug being burned in the back. (It probably was, actually). I was very attracted to that thought and just loved the whole experience.

"After they shut that store down I began going to a smaller, but really well stocked store across the river. The manager there was named Jay and he turned me onto The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen and upteen other acts. We became lifelong friends, in fact he road-tripped into Athens GA this weekend to see my band play here. He runs Plan 9 in Richmond which is about as good a store as any in America and he still is turning me onto great bands. When I was 14 they built a mall on my side of the river with a Record Bar in it. They were a chain, but in those days it was a pretty cool one and when I turned 16 it became my first job. I was a terrible employee, but I'm convinced they never fired me because I spent all my paycheck on records and I knew our inventory inside out.

"Actually they eventually did fire me, but by then I had grown into a pretty decent employee and the company had gone all corporate so I had to go. We have a turntable on our tour bus and we go scouring for little indie record stores in every town and I still blow my whole per-diem on records. Here I am 43 with a wife and child and I'm still misappropriating my lunch money like in 5th grade. The record labels throwing the indie stores to the wolves and casting their lot with the faceless megastores is indicative the mindset that has put them in such sorry shape of late. The indie record store was the closest link between music and the consumer and there was no replacing that interaction.

"It is good to see that some of the surviving indie stores are in some cases showing growth largely due to sales of vinyl records. It IS an interesting time to watch how all of this is going to pan out. Long Live Record Stores!"
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✔ SARAH DASH, of LABELLE, says...

"An Independent Record Store means 'passion' to us. The passionate individual owner's heart and love of music provides customers with an outlet for the emotion, love, and desire of music. The Indie Record Store is the heartbeat of the music business."


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# 6 news feature...


SPECIAL NOTICE: "CICLAVIA" IS A WEEK AWAY, March 26th...


This isn't here because we want to tell you about street closures around some of of your favorite venues and watering holes. Though there will be street closures. There will also be bands playing in places you don't usually find any live music. Mostly, it's all about getting outdoors and getting moving in an energetic warm-up for the coming summer.

Sun, Mar 26, 9 am-4 pm – Annual "CicLAvia" returns on a fan-favorite, 6-mile route, for the first big bicycle / runner / jogger / skateboard / urban hiking event of 2017. For one day, Culver City, Mar Vista, and Venice host the country’s largest "open streets" event. Streets will be closed to cars and open for cyclists, pedestrians, runners and skaters to use as a recreational space.

CicLAvia essentials:

- CicLAvia is FREE
- CicLAvia closes streets to car traffic and opens them for people to walk, skate, bike, play, and explore parts of Los Angeles
- CicLAvia is not a race! There's no starting point or finish line - begin where you like and enjoy the day your way
- CicLAvia traffic flows in two directions, just like regular traffic

As much as we despise Facebook for its predatory behavior (selling of every scrap of what you thought was your private information)... even non-FB member/victims can see the basic page for this event, at: https://www.facebook.com/events/302887413443635/


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# 7 news feature...


UPCOMING EVENTS that WILL SELL-OUT EARLY...


From festivals to unique music events to a very special night aboard a battleship, these are our latest picks for your edification and enjoyment.

And we need to say, up front: we do NOT have picks in here from the listings for McCabe's or the Coffee Gallery Backstage or Hotel Cafe or The Folk Music Center in Claremont. We couldn't get to them and still publish this SPECIAL EDITION for ST. PATRICK'S DAY. Check those venues yourself, or risk missing something you really want to see and hear.
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First, a SPECIAL NOTE, before the chronologic listings...
Apr 1, time tba, is the date for the MUSICAL MEMORIAL for the late JULES DERVAIS, the energetic force behind the URBAN HOMESTEAD and its many musical events. Details coming soon, but set aside the date if you ever enjoyed the food, hospitality, and friendly ambiance of the unique Pasadena farm-fresh venue.
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Tue, Mar 21, 8 pm – THE WAILIN' JENNYS play the Smothers Theatre at Pepperdine Univ., Malibu.
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Fri, Mar 24, 7:30 pm – DERVISH, an Irish sextet, plays The Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401.
"Simply a brilliant and uncluttered testimonial to music imagination and talent." - The Irish Times.
* To celebrate St. Patrick's Day, use promo code FIDDLE and save 50% on tickets to Dervish, at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe/10098075
* Click BUY TICKETS, then click "Have a Promotion Code?" and enter code FIDDLE before selecting your tickets. Offer expires 3/19/17 at 11:59 pm. Four tickets maximum per person with promo code. Not valid on prior purchases.
band info: "Propelled by all-Ireland champion instrumentalists and Cathy Jordan's haunting vocals, Dervish brings Ireland's magical west to the concert stage. Ranging from high energy jigs and reels to reflective songs, this powerful music always lifts audiences from their seats."
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Fri, Mar 24, 8 pm – AL HOLBROOK BAND plays the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs- seriously. Advance tix get a good discount at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Sat & Sun, Mar 25 & 26, 7 pm – ERIC CLAPTON plays The Forum in Inglewood.
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Sat, Mar 25, 8 pm – DAVY KNOWLES plays his CD RELEASE SHOW at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs- seriously. Advance tix get a good discount at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Sat, Mar 25, 8 pm – RICK SHEA and CLAIRE HOLLEY play a double-bill at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com.
Tix $20.
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Sat, Mar 25, 8 pm – JERRY & DEBBIE BURGAN with THOLOW CHAN (all of WE 5), "Classic acoustic folk and Americana," play the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, http://jerryburgan.com. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Mar 26, 4:30-7:30 pm – THE HIGH LIFE CAJUN BAND, plus BEN GUZMAN & PAUL RATHJE, at the Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long
Beach 90803. Info: Dempsey, 562-396-1132 or bontemppappion@aol.com; Or David, 909-527-0926 or davidsousa@verizon.net. Kids, families, singles, all welcome. Tasty food available at reasonable prices at the hotel restaurant which opens at 5 pm.
Paul Rathje spent 15 years mastering the accordion and Ben Guzman has been playing traditional American fiddle music for over a decade. As well as dueling fiddle and accordion, the band regularly includes guitar and triangle, and at times can include bass and rub board.
Listen to the High Life Cajun Band at the Golden Sails in 2015, at: http://meetup.us13.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=f7450fa006c1004b9228314b6&id=2bccb1e71e&e=1753a1e406
Take a trip back to the dance halls and honky tonks of Southwest Louisiana. Enjoy authentic Cajun music accompanied by songs in Creole French as well as English.
Admission: $10 at the door.
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Sun, Mar 26, 7 pm – ERIC CLAPTON plays The Forum in Inglewood.
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SOLD OUT: Sun, Mar 26, 8 pm – GREG BROWN with BO RAMSEY at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. Tix $40.
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Fri, Mar 31, 8 pm – ART GARFUNKEL plays the lovely McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert.
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Fri, Mar 31, 8 pm – HONEY WHISKEY TRIO plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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Fri, Mar 31, 8 pm – DAVID BAERWALD plays McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Mar 31, 8 pm – PHILIP SAYCE plays the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs- seriously. Advance tix get a good discount at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Fri, Mar 31, 9 pm – TOM PAXTON & THE DON JUANS play the Henry Fonda Theater in Hollywood.
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Sat, Apr 1, 11 am – Annual "LUNAFEST SHORT FILM FEST" at the Laemmle Theater, NoHo7, 5240 Lankershim Bl, North Hollywood 91601.
This short film festival showcases projects by, for, and about women—and will donate proceeds to breast cancer research and female empowerment programs. To inquire about the film lineup, email: lunafest@zontaburbank.org
Sponsored by the The Zonta Club of Burbank Area. Proceeds benefit breast cancer research and Zonta service projects to empower women.
Tix $27.24, at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lunafest-north-hollywood-tickets-30545720071?aff=ebriterallyla
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A GUIDE featured special event / full write-up...

Sat, Apr 1, 4 pm-Sun, Apr 2, 10 am – "A NIGHT ON THE BATTLESHIP" sponsored by Obscura Society L.A. on-board the BATTLESHIP IOWA, docked as a museum at 250 S Harbor Bl, San Pedro 90731. This is a RARE opportunity to spend the night aboard a battleship. Spend the night on the USS Iowa, the last of the battleships. Tix include dinner, tour, overnight accommodations, and breakfast all included in ticket price. (Overnight parking available for an additional fee.) No children under age 16, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

The USS Iowa was the first of the Iowa-class battleships to be commissioned, and she was the last battleship in the world to retire permanently. Once called the "Battleship of Presidents" (having hosted FDR, Reagan, and George H.W. Bush), the USS Iowa had the biggest guns on any U.S. Navy ship, used primarily for anti-aircraft missions: nine 16-inch guns mounted on three stacked turrets, including three guns in one turret on the flight deck. These giant guns were capable of carrying 2,000 tons of firepower.

Iowa was the lead ship of the last class of battleships in the Navy, having served in three significant commissions interspersed by "mothball" reserve fleet storage: World War II, for which she was built; the Korean War; and the Cold War. And now, having emerged from the Navy's mothball fleet just four years ago, she has made the Port of L.A. in San Pedro her permanent home, where she floats as an L.A. museum and landmark.

Join Field Agent Benjamin Harmon for a rare and immersive experience aboard the USS Iowa, now known as the Battleship Iowa Museum. In a "sleepover" excursion arranged exclusively for the Atlas Obscura Society—and the ONLY civilian adult group EVER to receive permission to do so—we will gather on the permanently moored ship in the late afternoon to receive our safety briefing, get settled into our bunks, and chow down on an early dinner in the mess hall.

The special group's participants will take an extensive tour of the massive warship—which measures 887 feet (about 0.15 nautical miles) in length—through staterooms, command centers, the main galley, and other areas that show what "life at sea" was like for sailors in the Pacific Fleet from the 1940s through the 1980s. And as a special bonus, the special group will even gain exclusive access to some areas of this great, gray lady that are not currently open to the public during regular tours.

After a good night's sleep, participants will rise to reveille, grab a hot breakfast, and be treated to a special Q&A session with actual veterans—some of whom served in the U.S. Navy and on this very same battleship.

This actually may be, as sponsors say, a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to experience the routines and customs aboard the notorious "Big Stick" of the U.S. Navy, which has retired at the former home of the United States battle fleet from (1919-1940) and, more recently, the Long Beach Naval Shipyard.

Tix, are ADVANCE ONLY, $125 + $7.15 fee (and selling-out fast), at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-night-on-the-battleship-tickets-31763872598?aff=ebriterallylaemail&ref=ebriterally20170316_la
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Sat, Apr 1, 1 pm – "RE-PETE CELEBRATION" of the music of the late PETE SEEGER at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290 (midway between Pacific Coast Highway and the Ventura Freeway). This year's full title is, "RE-PETE Celebration 2017: The Songs and Spirit of Pete Seeger – The Rising Of The Women."
Audiences are invited to sing along at a tribute to late singer-songwriter and activist Pete Seeger in what has become an annual tradition at Theatricum Botanicum. Starring Geer family singers PETER ALSOP, ELLEN GEER, MELORA MARSHALL and MARSHALL McDANIEL, with special guests Ross ALTMAN, LILY ANDREW, MEREDITH AXELROD, ANTONIA BATH, DAVE CROSSLAND, RICK ELLIS, FRANK FAIRFIELD, BRIANNA FALCONE, THE FREAKNIKS, VICTORIA HILYARD, CLAUDIA LENNEAR, CAROL McARTHUR, JAMES McVAY, EARNESTINE PHILLIPS, THE LITTLE MISS, SKY WAHL, SUNNY WAR, and other surprise guests. This'll sell-out; it always does.
Tix, 310-455-3723 or www.theatricum.com
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Sat, Apr 1, 7 pm – ACOUSTIC EIDOLON, a wonderful Colorado-based multi-instrumentalist folk duo, plays the "Lord of the Strings" series at Mission Viejo Civic Center, Mission Viejo.
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Sat, Apr 1, 7 pm – NATHAN & JESSIE play the Black Cat Bar in San Diego.
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – GRAHAM NASH plays the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – ART GARFUNKEL plays the Cerritos Performing Arts Center's Lyric Theatre, in Cerritos.
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – ALASDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS play the Pasadena Folk Music Society concert series at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Beckman Institute Auditorium, Pasadena.
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – HONEY WHISKEY TRIO plays McCabe’s in Santa Monica.
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – JAMES INTVELD plays the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Fine venue, good food (generous portions, two can share), full bar, but bring earplugs- seriously. Advance tix get a good discount at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Sat, Apr 1, 8 pm – DAWES plays the Theatre at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles.
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Sat, Apr 1, 9 pm – LEFTOVER SALMON plays Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach.
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Sun, Apr 2, 2-5 pm – Annual "SPRING BEER & WINE BLOCK PARTY" benefitting TREE PEOPLE, at The Front Yard, 4222 Vineland Av, Los Angeles 91602.
Enjoy live music, bites, and beers—all while supporting TreePeople, a local nonprofit keeping our urban environment safe, healthy, and sustainable.
Tix, early bird through Mar 20, $27.37 (thereafter, $30); discount tix at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-front-yard-spring-block-party-tickets-31294647132?aff=ebriterallyla.
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Sun, Apr 2, 6:30 pm – ALASDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS play the concert series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church in Encinitas.
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Sun, Apr 2, 7:30 pm – "POEMS FROM THE POND" CELEBRITY POETRY READING at the Broad Stage, in The Edye theatre at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401.
Celebrated actresses read poems from Peggy Freydberg's book of poetry, "Poems from the Pond." Featuring DEBBIE ALLEN, FRANCES FISHER, DAPHNE ZUNIGA , plus additional names to be announced.
"Poems from the Pond," edited by Academy Award-winning producer Laurie David, features the words and wisdom of Peggy Freydberg, who began writing poetry at age 90. In the sixteen years that followed she wrote honest, searing, gorgeous poems that share with the reader her powerful insights into the many issues facing us all. Produced by Betsy Borns, the evening features an all-star cast presented by Laurie David, reading poems rich with Freydberg's wisdom about love, loss, desire and fear, and that prove creativity has no age limit.
Reserved Table Seating and General Admission available. Tix at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe/10155984
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Sat, Apr 8, 7 pm –- THEO & ZYDECO PATROL plus GINO & THE LONE GUNMEN play War Memorial Hall, 3325 Zoo Dr, San Diego 92101. Zydeco dance lesson at 6:20 pm. Dance to live Louisiana music from 7 to 10:15 pm. Admission, $10. Pay at the registration table to get your wrist band. First timers at a BTSC receive a $5 discount. Info: BTSC@dances.com
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Sat, Apr 8, 7:30 pm – SCOTTISH FIDDLERS OF LOS ANGELES "36th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT" with KEVIN HENDERSON of FIDDLERS BID, plus SHETL, at the Hermosa Beach Community Theatre, 710 Pier Av, Hermosa Beach 90254.
A lively evening with the Scottish Fiddlers of Los Angeles, includes a fiery program of marches, strathspeys, reels and jigs in the rousing Scottish tradition performed by the 40-member orchestra featuring fiddles, cellos, drums, piano, bagpipe, dancers, and Gaelic song.
The Scottish Fiddlers are joined this year by one of the most exciting young fiddlers on the world stage today, KEVIN HENDERSON of FIDDLERS BID and formerly of the legendary BOYS OF THE LOUGH. A Shetland native, Kevin performs extensively worldwide and has appeared on television and radio programs worldwide, including many appearances on “A Prairie Home Companion.”
Tickets available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2721430
Ticket prices: general admission $12; preferred seating $25; children under age 13 are free.
See Kevin in action at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I26Z0tL1wo8
More on the Scottish Fiddlers at http://www.scottishfiddlers.org/
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Sat, Apr 22, 8 pm – CALISTOGA FALLS, "traditional & modern bluegrass, heartfelt Americana, country and classic rock favorites" at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, http://www.calistogafalls.com. Tix, $15.
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Sat, May 6, 8 pm – BRIAN BOWERS, "Autoharp Master," plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, http://www.somagency.com/bryan-bowers. Tix $20.
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Sat, May 20, 8 pm – LAURENCE JUBER, "Grammy winning fingerstyle master," plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, http://www.laurencejuber.com. Tix, $20.
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Fri & Sat, May 26 & 27, 8 pm – "LA LA LAND IN CONCERT: A LIVE-TO-FILM CELEBRATION" at Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Av, Hollywood 90068; 323-850-2000.
Spend a night under the stars in the City of Stars as the movie comes alive in the Hollywood Bowl on Memorial Day weekend. The film's composer Justin Hurwitz will conduct his own Oscar-winning score and songs (lyrics by Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul). Performed live with a 100-piece symphony orchestra, choir and jazz ensemble accompanying La La Land's original vocal recordings, this world premiere event will celebrate Oscar-winning director Damien Chazelle's visionary movie with pre-show photo opportunities and an array of onsite delights including a grand fireworks spectacular. So don your finest La La Land or Hollywood-inspired attire for this one-of-kind concert experience, a magical hybrid of cinema, pre-recordings and incredible live musicianship. La La Land is rated PG-13 for some language. More info: http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/tickets/lease-event-la-la-land/2017-05-26.
Tix $35-$124.50 (discounted from $52.50-154.50), at: https://www.goldstar.com/events/hollywood-ca/la-la-land-in-concert-tickets
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Fri, Jun 3 – ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL plus HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN play the Haugh Performing Arts Center, Glendora, CA.
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Sat, Jun 10, 8 pm – ROY BOOK BINDER, "Blues Master," plays the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Artist info, http://www.roybookbinder.com. Showtime 8 pm, doors at 7:30. Tix, $20.
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# 8 news feature...


LONG BEACH FOLK REVIVAL: Early Bird Tickets go ON SALE at noon, Thursday


This year's festival is September 16th, 2017. But don't expect to dawdle around all summer and show up at the gate. It'll be sold out long before then.

Early bird tickets for the 2017 Folk Revival Festival are now on sale for $20, and they won't last long.

Organizers have a VERY limited number of tickets and their announcement asks, "We haven't even announced the headliner yet, but y'all trust us don't you?"

Well, the Guide can vouch that this is, indeed, a high-quality and very fun "smallish" festival with a track record of plenty of first-rate "trad folk" and old-time music on multiple stages.

Enter the code: FOLKME2017
when you get your tickets at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/folk-revival-festival-2017-tickets-32927100845

Getting tickets early is the reason we're telling you now. This DOES SELL-OUT EARLY.

In addition, sign-up at their site (below) for their "Folk Family mailing list," and you'll get served first at the dinner table. These tickets won't be on sale to the general public until Friday at noon.

Tickets are just $20 while they last, but don't sleep on it because ticket prices increase to $25 when the festival headliners are announced the beginning of April.

Details to come. Keep an eye on things at: Info: http://www.folkrevivalfestival.com


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# 9 news feature...


LINKS FOR PAYING ATTENTION TO THE WORLD WE INHABIT


Last week, the Guide included a special appearance for the weekly political news column, "THE DETANGLER." We asked readers to let us know if they wanted it here as a regular feature. Enough of you said "yes" that we are including the url to read the most recent edition on the website of the L.A. Progressive.

Plus, the whole idea of offering that link got us thinking about the fact that our readers are quite an astute bunch. Hence, starting now, we will provide a weekly offering of links to features on other sites – some print, some video – of things we hope you'll want to read, view, and share with others, and we'll "vet" them to be sure we are NOT sending out any "fake news." That doesn't mean you'll see ANY of the content anywhere else, because corporate mainstream media must answer to its rich masters, and that drives their agenda. Meaning the stuff of creative and critical thought and analysis is far too absent from Big Media, as we often realize when we discover something important being expressed and addressed in song lyrics. Some of what we bring you here each week will be advocacy for innovation. Other things will be "hold yer horses" contrarianism. If we get this right, all will be things to make a person think.

As an example of content and importance we'll feature here? Before you even click anything below, take a look at this week's number-one news feature: the press release from the Recording Academy (the Grammy organization) regarding the threat to the arts in the proposed Federal Budget.

Here's this week's edition of "Links for Paying Attention to the World We Inhabit."
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"THE DETANGLER: BANKSTERS, BEES, LAND, AND SAVING HEALTHCARE AND RETIREMENT." The latest weekly edition of "The Detangler," for March 15, 2017:
https://www.laprogressive.com/saving-healthcare
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"THE SANE PROGRESSIVE" on YouTube. A fairness-minded musician friend and deep thinker says, "...it will affect your thinking, especially when she gets to war and consequences towards the end. A very brave and forthright woman, and so informed and informative." Her latest:
http://youtu.be/xJjGMYaSLuk
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"WHAT TO DO WITH LATINOS?: GET USED TO THEM" by Fred Reed.
March 2, 2017. It's at:
http://fredoneverything.org/what-to-do-with-latinos-get-used-to-them/
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Each of the above has provisions for you to comment to those who are sharing their thoughts and presenting information. Let THEM know what you think of THEIR content. Which is a polite way of saying, please limit the comments you make to the Guide about this section to things like whether or not you think it's a worthwhile idea for us to include this feature. We do not expect you will agree with everything these writers and video essayists say – and that's the point of breaking out of the Facebook-style "me, too" and the cable-news-infotainment echo chamber, isn't it?


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Stay tuneful! See you next time!

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LEGALESE, CONTACTING US, 'N SUCH...

Boilerplate? Where's the main pressure gauge? And the firebox?

What "boilerplate"? Who came up with that goofy term for the basic essential informational stuff...
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Pssst – Hey, kid. Yeah, YOU: It won't be so "basic" when we add all the links for the global network of music news / music education sites that we're joining; THAT'LL be here very soon, as an ESSENTIAL COMPONENT of the Guide returning to being a MUSIC NEWS journal!
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Direct to the Guide's current editions /

MOBILE-DEVICE-FRIENDLY

editions load quickly at
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www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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CONTACT US at / send Questions / Comments to:

Tiedtothetracks (at) Hotmail (dot) com
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Entire contents copyright © 2017,
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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. That includes both traditional and innovative forms. 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 (now undergoing a major update), and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues from the monumentally large to the intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops, conferences, 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 swamp water roots of the blues and the bright lights of where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell. The porch'll be here anytime you come back from the road.

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Saturday, March 11, 2017

St. Paddy's n' Irish Music, Weekend Fests & Concerts, & GOOD NEWS stories - Mar 11 edtn 2017

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In this edition, we look at:
✔ ST. PADDY'S DAY and plenty of IRISH MUSIC leading up to it!
✔ This WEEKEND'S festivals and concerts, and some 'uns are FREE
✔ The Science & Music of VENUS
✔ An L.A. story of Art stolen by the Nazis
✔ A first look at the coming MUSIC FESTIVAL SEASON
✔ Shows to catch at SXSW
✔ Topanga Blues Fest tix, before it sells-out
✔ A Secret lil' music video archive (does Wikileaks know?)

(Gearheads,be patient! In addition to all the attention we gave to the annual NAMM show back in January, we still have our annual Spring survey of NEW GEAR, NEW INSTRUMENTS, & NEW MUSIC PRODUCTS coming to you soon in a dedicated special edition! You'll get tons o' stuff we saw and explored at NAMM, and even more that we've learned about since then. So don't spend your tax refund check yet!)

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CONTENTS / IN THIS EDITION...

1) FESTIVALS THIS WEEKEND...

2) ST. PATRICK'S DAY Celebrations / IRISH MUSIC now through March 17th

3) "Venus Songs," and if "Women Are from Venus" – Good News for Women's Month

4) Topanga Blues Festival – Tickets go on Sale this Saturday – Get 25% Off

5) Shows to Catch at SXSW

6) Lisa Haley & the Zydekats Secret Video Archive (Does Wikileaks Know?)

7) THIS WEEKEND'S CONCERTS, Etc. (and two after, on the 14th & 17th)

8) The Tale of An L.A. Connection to Art Looted by the Nazis

9) Upcoming Music Festivals.... First Look at the 2017 Season

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Let's get started!


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# 1 news feature...


FESTIVALS THIS WEEKEND...


FESTIVAL, Sat & Sun, 11 am-11 pm Sat, 11 am-9 pm Sun:
Annual "CALIFORNIA IRISH FESTIVAL" with CRAIC HAUS, BRICK TOP BLAGGERS, THE MCKINTTREE BOYS, THE PLOUGHBOYS, WHISKEY SUNDAY, more. In downtown Upland, CA 91786; 323-834-2437; http://www.californiairishfest.com.

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FESTIVAL, Sat only:
5th Annual "ALL-DAY BLUEGRASS GOSPEL FESTIVAL" in 29 Palms, with DANNY AGAJANIAN, BLUEGRASS BRETHEREN, WIMBERLEY BLUEGRASS BAND, THE BRAGGS, and NEHEMIAH. FREE admission, all indoors, food concession, free RV camping (dry camping) Saturday night. Info, 760-447-8623; http://desertcongregationalchurch.org

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FESTIVAL, Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 11 am-9 pm:
Annual "CALIFORNIA IRISH FESTIVAL" concludes in downtown Upland, CA; see listing for Saturday.


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# 2 news feature...


ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATIONS / IRISH MUSIC, NOW THROUGH MARCH 17th


SUNDAY, MARCH 12, 2017...

Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 7 pm – WHISKEY SUNDAY gets St. Paddy's started early at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA 92675; reservations 626-798-6236; artist info, https://www.facebook.com/whiskeysundayband.

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IRISH MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Mon, Mar 13, 4:30 pm – Annual "ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION" Presented by the Celtic Arts Center at the Mayflower Club, 11110 Victory Bl, North Hollywood, CA 91606; http://www.celticartscenter.com/

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IRISH TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 2017...

Tue, Mar 14, 8-11 pm – Weekly "TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC SESSION" at Timmy Nolan's Tavern & Grill, 10111 Riverside Dr, Toluca Lake, CA 91602; 818-985-3359.

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IRISH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017...

Wed, Mar 15, 8-11 pm – Weekly "IRISH SESSION" at Griffins of Kinsale, 1007 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA; 626-799-0926. Led by MICHAEL KELLY of SLIGO RAGS.

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IRISH THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017

Thu, Mar 16, 5 pm – KEN O'MALLEY plays his weekly residency of multi-instrumental authentic & original Irish music at the Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach, CA 90802; 562-437-8300. Artist info, http://www.kenomalley.com
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Thu, Mar 16, 7-10 pm – "LUCK O’ THE IRISH, SENSES BLOCK PARTY" is a FREE event, with KEN O'MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS bringing the music, plus "shamrocks, pots of gold, and lucky charms" that fill Main Street in Old Town Newhall at this free evening of entertainment. "Dance a jig to Celtic rock music, grub on gourmet food trucks, and enjoy the libations of green beer and whiskey." Main Street, Newhall (Santa Clarita).
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Thu, Mar 16, 7 pm – "ST. PATRICK'S DAY CONCERT" at Fiddler's Crossing in Tehachapi.

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Thu, Mar 16, 7:30 pm – BELA FLECK & ABIGAIL WASHBURN play the Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University, One University Dr, Orange, CA 92866; 844-626-8726. Given the proximity of St. Paddy's, we expect they'll do their Irish/Celtic material.
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Thu, Mar 16, 7:30 pm – THE BROWNE SISTERS & GEORGE CAVANAUGH, longtime Celtic/Irish festival faves, play the concert series at the First Congregational Church of Anaheim.

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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – THE PLOUGHBOYS present their CELTIC music at Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood, CA 91606; 818-766-9913; http://www.kulakswoodshed.com/calendar.html

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Thu, Mar 16, 8 pm – SLIGO RAGS take a break from their Disneyland residency to bring their Irish music to the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W Malven Av, Fullerton, CA 92833; 714-738-6706; http://www.themuck.org.

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IRISH FRIDAY, MARCH 17, 2017 – ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Mar 17, Noon – SLIGO RAGS plays Macallan's Public House, 330 W Birch St, Brea, CA 92821; 714-529-1224; www.macallanspubbrea.com.

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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 2:30-3:30 pm – "LEGACY – ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATION" with Patty McCollom on Banjo, Whistle, Bodhran, Vocals; Barbara Gershman on Hammered Dulcimer, Accordion; Marianne Scanlon on Guitar, Vocals; Anna Johnson, Irish Dancer; at the Emerald Court of Anaheim, 1731 Medical Center Dr, Anaheim, CA 92801; info, mccollomp@sbcglobal.net
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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 7-9 pm – "ON A LARK - IRISH TUNES ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY," with Jill Cassidy on Irish whistle; Barbara Gershman on Hammered Dulcimer, Accordion; Terry Gucwa on Cello; at Alta Coffee Warehouse & Restaurant, 506 31st St, Newport Beach, CA; http://www.alta-coffee-co.com; info, Barbara Gershman, ]bgershman@socal.rr.com. No charge. Beverages and food available.
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Fri, Mar 17, 7:30 pm – ST. PATRICK'S DAY CONCERT with the YVES LAMBERT TRIO, Celtic Folk Music from Quebec, plus free beer tasting, at the lovely Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A., CA 90064. This brings "the energy, multicultural ambiance, and colorful sounds of Quebecois music, a wonderful mix of Irish and French styles." The band says, “We play as a trio, but sound like a big orchestra."
* Descendants of the early French immigrants passed down French songs and stories, slowly incorporating influences from their Irish and Scots neighbors to create a uniquely Quebecois musical culture. With three nationally acclaimed albums behind them, the Yves Lambert Trio offers a personal and creative interpretation of traditional Quebecois repertoire, with bubbling prowess and ingenuity, that on stage is a personal, touching and memorable musical experience.
* MUSIC VIDEOS: Check out the Yves Lambert Trio doing an Irish medley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCMb-MSOEC4 and doing "Time to get Up Charlie:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9yyAVdPuvU
* This event is made possible with the help of the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles and the Quebec Government Office in Los Angeles.
* Get 40% off the advertised ticket price with code TRK40, at https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?m=241d6077b39728479d58e072170e1c6f&t=tix&vqitq=527ff9d9-acaa-4482-9752-1c54a4e26143&vqitp=0e39ceb9-969e-4425-8999-f39c3d92e807&vqitts=1488995780&vqitc=vendini&vqite=itl&vqitrt=Safetynet&vqith=9e3184684a363c3b1c0211fcbd696869
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Mar 17, 8 pm – DAVID GRIER plays Boulevard Music in Culver City. Some Irish music promised.
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Mar 17, 9 pm – THE CALIFORNIA HONEYDROPS with EUPHORIA BRASS BAND will include some Irish tunes at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, San Diego, CA.

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# 3 news feature...


"VENUS SONGS," AND IF "WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS" – GOOD NEWS FOR WOMEN'S MONTH


This is about going to Venus. For real. Not Mars this time, but the planet that is the feminine icon, Venus.

If, like us, you are sick of hearing the endlessly repeated "The Russians did it!" as the fake reason (and the scapegoater's escape) for Hillary's loss, maybe you'll welcome this news as much as we do.

NASA is studying a mission of "shared Venus Science Objectives" with the Russian Space Research Institute. In fact, a team of NASA-sponsored scientists will meet with the Russian Academy of Sciences' Space Research Institute (IKI) next week to continue work on a "Joint Science Definition Team" study focused on identifying shared science objectives for Venus exploration.

The visit comes after a report was recently delivered to both NASA Headquarters in Washington and IKI in Moscow, assessing and refining the science objectives of the IKI Venera-D (Venera-Dolgozhivuschaya) Mission to Venus, Earth's closest planetary neighbor.

VENUS IN PLANETARY SCIENCE

"While Venus is known as our 'sister planet,' we have much to learn, including whether it may have once had oceans and harbored life," said Jim Green, director of the Planetary Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "By understanding the processes at work at Venus and Mars, we will have a more complete picture about how terrestrial planets evolve over time and obtain insight into the Earth's past, present and future."

Venus has intrigued scientists for decades. Similar to Earth in composition and size, it spins slowly in the opposite direction. The rocky world's thick atmosphere traps heat in a runaway greenhouse effect, making it the warmest planet in our solar system with surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead. Glimpses below the clouds reveal volcanoes and an intricate landscape.

VENUS IN MUSIC, CULTURE & THE ARTS

Venus is named for the Roman goddess of love and beauty, the counterpart to the Greek goddess Aphrodite.

It's always been associated with feminine beauty, while Mars, due to its blood-red appearance, has been associated with masculinity and war.

That cultural role for Venus extended from ancient times until we began to understand planetary science and how hellishly hot it is. So the last few times it was bestowed with feminine beauty on a societal scale has been in song, from the 1959 hit, "Venus," by FRANKIE AVALON, to the 1969 "Venus" song written by ROBBIE VAN LEEUWEN that became a 1970 number-one hit in nine countries for Dutch rock band SHOCKING BLUE. In 1981, the latter was sampled as part of the "Stars on 45" medley, and in 1986, the British female pop group BANANARAMA returned the Dutch band's song to number-one in seven countries. The 1969 composition has been featured in numerous films, television shows and commercials, and covered dozens of times by artists around the world. Though in the US, thanks to all those "oldies" radio stations, the Frankie Avalon song is still the one most people recall.

None of which has anything at all to do with the reality of Venus, the planet.

"On a solar-system scale, Earth and Venus are very close together and of similar size and makeup," said David Senske, co-chair of the U.S. Venera-D science definition team, and a scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California.

Addressing what he anticipates for next week's conference with his Russian counterparts, Senske continued, "Among the goals that we would like to see if we can accomplish with such a potential partnership is to understand how Venus' climate operates so as to understand the mechanism that has given rise to the rampant greenhouse effect we see today."

The IKI Venera-D mission concept, as it stands today, would include a Venus orbiter that would operate for up to three years, and a lander designed to survive the incredibly harsh conditions a spacecraft would encounter on Venus' surface for a few hours.

The only previous lander to survive long enough to send back a few pictures was a Russian spacecraft.

WHEN A DRONE CAN BE A GOOD THING

The science definition team is also assessing the potential of flying a solar-powered airship in Venus' upper atmosphere. The independent flying vehicle could be released from the Venera-D lander, enter the atmosphere, and independently explore Venus' atmosphere for up to three months.

Dramatic clouds that produce breathtaking and colorful sunrises and sunsets when viewed through their tops? Particles from the hellish surface, carried aloft by circulation? The possibility that something stays alive by floating around in the atmosphere, getting its nutrients from whatever blows by? Or "just" gas composition and atmospheric sampling? There could be some "wow" moments.

Best of all, this drone wouldn't be launching missiles to kill anybody.

TOUCHING VENUS

The Soviet Union conducted its Vanera program of Venus exploration from 1961 through 1984. A lander in that series returned the first-ever color images of the surface of Venus in March, 1982.

NASA first visited Venus when the JPL-managed Mariner 2 collected data during a flyby in December 1962, during the earliest age of Mercury spacecraft that each carried only one astronaut, first for parabolic up-and-down penetrations of space above the Earth's atmosphere, then into Earth orbit.

NASA's last dedicated mission to explore Venus was Magellan, launched in 1990 and managed by JPL in Pasadena. Magellan used radar to map 98 percent of the planet at a resolution of 330 feet (100 meters) or better during its four-year mission.

Venus has always been considered the province of the Russians, while Mars has received the concentrated attention of the Americans – even though the first pair of US landings on Mars, both in 1976 and the first on July 4th, were not followed by another landing until the Mars Pathfinder rover, Sojourner, landed on July 4th, 1997.

The spacecraft of the Russian Venera program are still the only ones to successfully land on Venus (1975-1984). The program culminated in sending photos (1982) and data and surviving in the harsh environment, if only briefly, before critical parts melted or burned-up.

VENUS AS THE SHING STAR TO PEACE AND COOPERATION?

The irony is unparalleled. The real Venus is hellish and melts lead on its surface. The mythical Venus, gleaming as the third-brightest object in Earth's sky, is what drives so much of our romantic idealism about exploring the vast reaches of space.

Said Adriana Ocampo, who leads the Joint Science Definition Team at NASA Headquarters in Washington, "This potential collaboration makes for an enriching partnership to maximize the science results from Venera-D, and continue the exploration of this key planet in our solar system."

The current efforts by some in government and the majority of the US corporate mainstream media to create a new Cold War with Russia flies in the face of the necessary cooperation the two nations enjoy in space. While the million-pound International Space Station (ISS) was assembled with US Space Shuttle missions, it has been orbiting with a series of astronauts and cosmonauts – from 15 countries, in all – staffing it full-time since November, 2000. And, since the Space Shuttle program ended with congress refusing to fund the US manned space program with more than a shoestring budget, US astronauts – and everybody else coming or going to or from the ISS – must hitch a ride with the Russians, in their Soyuz.

In "2010," the continuation of Arthur C. Clarke's epic, "2001," tensions between the US and the Soviet Union were brought back from the brink of war because the two nations were successfully cooperating in space. Let's all hope reality can produce the same result without things having to get out of hand to get us there.

VENUS AND WOMEN'S MONTH

After all, the meeting next week between US and Russian scientists will seek cooperation on exploring Venus. And this whole month is Women's Month. And Venus, both the Morning Star and the Evening Star, is supposed to be the beautiful feminine presence. And the feminine is supposed to be the peacemaker. And you just smiled, didn't you?

"Evening Star, shining bright
Fill my world with hope tonight
Soft and warm as candlelight
Make my dreams come true..."
– Steve Engle, composer & songwriter.

More information about Venus can be found at:

https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/venus


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# 4 news feature...


TOPANGA BLUES FESTIVAL – TICKETS GO ON SALE THIS SATURDAY – GET 25% OFF


This event sells out quickly every year. It's the 34th annual "TOPANGA BLUES FESTIVAL" and it happens Saturday, May 6, 2017. Get as much as 25% off by getting your tix early, at:

www.SocalBlues.Org

Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 11, 2017. This show will sell out in advance so you must get them online via PayPal at the event's website. Details and the lineup are on that site, too.

Tickets will not be sold at the gate on show day. When you buy them online, tickets will not be mailed. They will be held for you at will call on show day. Check out the beautiful TOPANGA BLUES FESTIVAL GROUNDS at the website while you're perusing.

Organizers tell us, "We are so excited to party with you on what is always a gorgeous day, listening to four smokin' hot blues bands, dining on some of the most mouth-watering BBQ around, and participating in fun raffles with great prizes! There are only 299 seats at this beautiful, intimate festival, in this quaint, idyllic, Shakespearean outdoor theater, nestled deep in the shady forests of the historic Topanga Canyon. We highly recommend getting your tickets as soon as possible via PayPal because this concert will sell out!"


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# 5 news feature...


SHOWS TO CATCH AT SXSW


Each year, the massive festivals that follow in quick succession in Austin, Texas under the collective banner of SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST – or SXSW for short – bring a book/literary fest, a film fest, and the one everybody talks about, the music festival.

Some of the latter is Folk-Americana. And there is some of all kinds of other things. Everyone there is bombarded with paper flyers, tweets, and all sorts of influences to see particular acts or patronize particular venues. You'll see many headliner names and you either will or won't want to drop all other desires to go see them perform. We want to encourage some off-the-beaten path patronage. So, here are the Guide's recommendations for acts to catch, if you go.

First, this is the last SXSW hurrah for MARIA'S TACO XPRESS as they shutter on April 1st. They've been stalwarts who have hosted SXSW showcase lineups and the "GRAND OLE AUSTIN" concert produced by L.A.-based KG Music Press. Kim Grant tells us, "We'd like to thank Maria and her staff for letting us hold our SXSW day party here for the past 5 years (2017 marks our 6th). It's been a delight to work with such an Austin institution! If you're out at SXSW please stop by." (2529 S Lamar, Austin, TX 78704.)
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Tue, Mar 14, 11:30 am-9 pm – "DOG DAY AFTERNOON" at the Dogwood. Be sure to catch ALICE WALLACE at 12:50 pm, in a very full day of live music at the Dogwood, 715 W 6th Street ("the Good End" of 6th Street – West). This entire day is FREE, no wristband required, and it's on two stages.
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Thu, Mar 16, 11:30 am-9 pm – Annual "GRAND OLE AUSTIN" mega-concert at Maria's Taco Express, 2529 S Lamar, Austin, TX 78704. JULIE (CAROLINA CHICKADEE) kicks-off a yuuuge lineup that includes "known" artists and more you need to discover. Entire day is FREE, no wristband required. Free unofficial SXSW Day Party, all Americana Music. (Times and artists subject to change):
11:30 – 12:00 The Mighty Orq
12:20 – 12:50 AJ Hobbs
1:10 – 1:40 Mark McKinney
2:00 – 2:30 Calico The Band
2:50 – 3:20 Ted Russell Kamp
3:40 – 4:10 Jeff Crosby
4:30 – 5:00 Jon Dee Graham & William Harries Graham
5:20 – 5:50 Angela Perley
6:10 – 6:40 Brent Cowles
7:00 – 7:30 Susanna Van Tassel and Dave Gonzalez
7:50 – 8:20 The South Austin Moonlighters
8:40 – 9:10 Hard Luck Revival
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Fri, Mar 16, Noon-9 pm – "SOUTHBOUND" showcase at Maria's Taco Xpress, 2529 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704. Entire day is FREE, no wristband required. Another free unofficial SXSW Day Party of all Americana Music. (Times and artists subject to change):
12:00 – 12:30 Jericho Woods
12:50 – 1:20 Lilly Hiatt
1:40 – 2:10 Bonnie Whitmore
2:30 – 3:10 Brandy Zdan
3:30 – 4:10 The Mastersons
4:30 – 5:10 Jaime Wyatt
5:30 – 6:10 Travis Linville
6:30 – 7:00 Mike Stinson
7:20 – 7:50 Jesse Jay Harris
8:10 – 8:40 The National Reserve
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Mar 31, 7 pm – ANDRE THIERRY plays Sam’s Townpoint, 2115 Allred, Austin, Texas. $10, all ages. Artist info, http://andrethierry.com/schedule


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# 6 news feature...


LISA HALEY & THE ZYDEKATS SECRET VIDEO ARCHIVE (DOES WIKILEAKS KNOW?)


For those who didn't get enough sweet Cajun fiddle, accordion and quota of fun on Mardi Gras, and can't wait for the annual round of Cajun/Blues/Zydeco festivals to arrive, we have a fun treat to tide you over. Grammy nominee LISA HALEY sent us a link for a lost lil' treasure trove of short videos, a "Retro Treat" from the "Lisa Haley Secret Archives."

In 2006 & 2007, Lisa yodeled her way thru four now-famous "Slim Jim Snapalope Commercials."

"Snapalopes," says Lisa, "were very silly marionettes, made from… Slim Jims! And hunted in the aisles of the MiniMart."

Here are the links:

1. Snapalope “Trap” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8OJpIC8DS4

2. Snapalope “Camouflage”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL0r1X2Mxao

3. Snapalope “Headlights”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yENA87ptHHo

4. Snapalope “Decoy”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iAKpoMfjso

Yes, that’s Lisa also playing violin.

- And -

There's the EMMY-WINNING "Late Mr. Pete Show," featuring Lisa with her previous musical group, ZYDECO PARTY BAND. See all 13 Episodes here:

http://wn.com/the_late_mr_pete_show_1991_channel_5_ktla_los_angeles

Episodes include the EMMY Ceremony with DICK CLARK, STEVE ALLEN, and Lisa & the boys.
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Plus, it seems a good place to share that Lisa Haley's e-newsletters always offer this...

CAJUN PROVERB OF THE MONTH:

“Treasure your long-time friends: Those who look at you and see the person you think you still are!”


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# 7 news feature...


THIS WEEKEND'S CONCERTS, ETC. (and two after, on the 14th & 17th)


Listed chronologically by time and day...
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SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017

Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 5 pm – "ST. PATRICKS DAY CELEBRATION" with Ken O’Malley and the Twilight Lords and Irish Dancers at the Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale, 100 W Glenoaks Bl, Glendale, CA 91202. Presented by Irish Center of Southern California.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7 pm – "AFRICAN GUITAR SUMMIT" with Alpha YaYa Diallo & Naby Camara (Guinea), Kofi Ackah (Ghana), Donne Roberts & Madagascar Slim (Madagascar), at the Japanese American Community & Cultural Center's Aratani Theatre, 244 S San Pedro St, downtown Los Angeles, CA 90012; 213-628-2725; http://www.festivalofsacredmusic.org/african-guitar-summit-event. Presented by World Festival of Sacred Music (full schedule of all events at: http://www.festivalofsacredmusic.org).
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7 pm – G BURNS JUG BAND plays the concert series at the Encinitas Library (http://www.leucadia101.com/library-concerts), 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024; http://gburnsjugband.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7 pm – "SANTA BARBARA BLUES SOCIETY 40TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION" with JAMES HARMAN, DEBBIE DAVIES, COCO MONTOYA, THE DELGADO BROTHERS with KID RAMOS, at the Carrillo Recreation Center, 100 E Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101; http://www.sbblues.org; 805-897-2519.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7 pm – JC & LANEY plus Hawai'ian slack key guitar champ JIM “KIMO” WEST, play a show called "Acoustic Americana Rockers & Balladeers" at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA 92675; reservtaions, 626-798-6236; artist info, https://www.jcandlaney.com and http://www.jimkimowest.com/lndex.html
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7 pm – BRUCE DAIGREPONT CAJUN BAND plays War Memorial Hall in Balboa Park, 3325 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. Zydeco dance lesson at 6:20 pm. Dance to live Louisiana music from 7 to 10:15 pm. Admission $10. Pay at the registration table, get your wrist band. First timers at a BTSC event receive a $5 discount. Info: BTSC@dances.com
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7:30 pm – Canadian folk great DAVID FRANCEY plays the Minard Concerts series in Long Beach, CA; reservations get directions at: 949-887-1628 or via email at JulienMinard@icloud.com. Artiost info: http://www.davidfrancey.com/
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 7:30 pm – DARRYL PURPOSE plays Brick 15, 915 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014; 858-225-1315 ; artist info, http://www.darrylpurpose.com. Expect material from last year's album written by Paul Zollo.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 & 10 pm – KASEY CHAMBERS plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica, CA 90405; 310-828-4497; artist info, http://kaseychambers.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 8 pm – BIG JAY McNEELY BAND, Blues Hall of Fame Member, plays the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA. Tix at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 pm – WILLY PORTER & CARMEN NICKERSON play the concert series at Grace First Presbyterian Church, 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach, CA 90808; 562-420-2292. Artist info, http://willyporter.com and http://carmennickerson.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 pm – JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS play Boulevard Music,
4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City, CA 90230; 310-398-2583; http://www.boulevardmusic.com. Artist info, http://www.janetklein.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 pm – ROBERT CRAY plays the Downey Civic Theatre, 8435 Firestone Bl, Downey, CA 90241; 562-861-8211. Artist info, http://www.robertcray.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 pm – MICHAEL SMITH (famous for his song, "The Dutchman") plays the Pasadena Folk Music Society concert series at California Institute of Technology in "Little Beckman," the Beckman Institute Auditorium, 400 S Wilson Av, Pasadena, CA 91106; 626-395-4652; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu. Artist info, http://michaelpetersmith.com.
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Sat, Mar 11, 2017, 8 pm – WILLIE K plays the Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr, Irvine, CA 92697; 949-854-4646. Artist info, http://williek.com.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 12, 2017...
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Sun, Mar 12, 11 am-1 pm – DENNIS ROGER REED, the REED BROTHERS, and DEBORAH LIV JOHNSON play an acoustic show for the FREE "March Music Series," which allows attendees to enjoy the beautiful gardens at Sunnylands Center & Gardens, 37977 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA; 760-202-2266; http://sunnylands.org. Dennis says, "This historic spot has hosted presidents and high level world leaders."
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Sun, Mar 12, Noon-12:45 pm – "KCSN PRESENTS: MARINA V AT THE VILLAGE AT WESTFIELD TOPANGA," 6220 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Free concert series at the Village at Westfield Topanga. Noon. All ages. The stage is located near 24 Hour Fitness and REI. Marina and her partner, Nick, are wonderful musicians. Details at www.MarinaV.com

(Catch this one, grab a bite to eat, then catch the other free concert nearby at 4 pm – see listing.)
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 2 pm – KEVIN CARR, a one-man musical theater with fiddle and pipes, plays the Odyssey Theater, 2055 S Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90025; 310-477-2055; http://www.odysseytheatre.com. Artist info, http://www.kevincarr.org.
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THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT PICK...

Sun, Mar 12, 2 pm -- "SONGS, SONGS, SONGS" at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA; reservations 626-798-6236. With a great cast and dynamic house band, and a chance to learn the stories behind the songs and songwriters you love. It's a tribute to the great songs of our lives, and the stories behind them, hosted by author PAUL ZOLLO.

A special afternoon concert of songs featured in Paul Zollo's classic book, "SONGWRITERS ON SONGWRITING," and its new sequel, "MORE SONGWRITERS ON SONGWRITING," this never-before presented show will feature a host of many of L.A.'s most beloved musicians, all performing famous songs featured in the books. Zollo will share little stories from his books about these songs.

Songs to be performed represent a vast range of songwriting over some six decades, all written by legends featured in Zollo's books, including JOHN PRINE, LEIBER & STOLLER, WOODY GUTHRIE, PAUL SIMON, JOHN STEWART, BOB DYLAN, JAMES TAYLOR, CHRISSIE HYNDE, PATTI SMITH, SAMMY CAHN, P.F. SLOAN, RINGO STARR, LORETTA LYNN, JEFF BARRY, BRIAN WILSON, DONOVAN, ELVIS COSTELLO, MICHAEL SMITH, and more.

Performers include the legendary poet STEPHEN KALINICH (who has written songs with P.F. Sloan and Dennis Wilson), DARRYL PURPOSE, THE BURGANS, (of WE FIVE renown)), DUANE THORIN, LORIN HART, BLISS BOWEN, NEIL ROSENGARDEN, RASPIN STUWART, KEITH CHAGALL, EMILY ZUZIK, CHAD WATSON, PAM LOE, FERNANDO PERDOMO, NATE HERTWECK & JEFFREY CLEVELAND, PAULA McMATH, ROBERT MORGAN FISHER, STEPHEN ELOWE, and more.

The House band is anchored by beloved gallery performer CHAD WATSON, who will be joined by the amazing and versatile guitarist and record producer FERNANDO PERDOMO, plus multi instrumentalist NEIL ROSENGARDEN.

Zollo's "Songwriters on Songwriting" has been called "the songwriter's bible," and is used as text at every college that teaches songwriting. The New York Times and The New Yorker both declared Zollo's interview with BOB DYLAN, contained in the first book, the best one ever done. The late LEONARD COHEN called the interview he did with Zollo "one of the best ones ever done with me."

"More Songwriters On Songwriting," the sequel, was released just months ago and has received great critical acclaim, containing in-depth interviews with songwriters including JOHN PRINE, LORETTA LYNN, JAMES TAYLOR, PATTI SMITH, ELVIS COSTELLO, JOE HENRY, SIA, MATISYAHU, CHRISSIE HYNDE, ROB ZOMBIE, PAUL SIMON, BRIAN WILSON, RANDY NEWMAN, and many more.

This is the first time, and hopefully not the last, that this show, produced by Zollo with local legend Duane Thorin, is being produced.

Duane adds, "We ought to give full college credit for this wildly informative presentation, but just settle for being fully entertained this time."
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 4 pm – JAMES HURLEY plus DAVE TUCKER play the FREE monthly " Red Rock Concerts" series presented by Ron Sarfety at Crown Books, 6100 Topanga Canyon Bl #1340, Woodland Hills, CA 91367; http://www.sundayatthebookstore.com. Artist info: http://www.jameshurleymusic.com and http://davetucker.squarespace.com.

(Go out that way early, to catch the other free concert at noon, then grab a bite to eat and catch the one at 4 pm – see the noon listing.)

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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 4 pm – Weekly "TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION" at Brendan’s Irish Pub, 1755 E Daily Dr, Camarillo, CA; 805-383-4100.
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 4:30 pm – NE’ER DUWELS plus the YOUNG DUBLINERS play an earlySt. Paddy’s show, with the Ne’er Duwels, Staggering Jack, Celtic Pink Floyd, and The Whooligans opening for Young Dubliners, at the GASLAMP Music+Bar+Kitchen, 6251 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90803; 562-596-4718. Artist info: https://www.neerduwels.com.
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 4:30-7:30 pm – DENNIS G & THE ZYDECO TRAILRIDERS play the Cajun-Zydeco dance series at the Golden Sails Hotel - PCH Club – 6285 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90803; Info: Dempsey, 562-396-1132 or bontemppappion@aol.com, or David, 909-527-0926 or davidsousa@verizon.net. Some members of the band have worked with Louisiana Zydeco artists that include Willis Prudhomme and JoJo Reed, as well as music legends including Barry White, Ray Charles, The Ink Spots, Johnny Otis, Etta James, and Papa John Creach. Admission $10 at the door. Kids welcome, families, singles welcome. Tasty food available at reasonable prices in the hotel restaurant, opening at 5 pm.

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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 5 pm – "BRAVE NEW WORLD OR 1984" featuring Storyteller LARRY HANKIN, Singing Satirist GARY GORDON, Poet MARK LIPMAN, Satirist JAMES TRIPP, Song-fighter ROSS ALTMAN, and JANN KARAM, at Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center, 681 Venice Bl, Venice, CA 90291; 310-822-3006. Tired of all the pointless protests? In the best tradition of folk uprising, this will provide plenty of thoughtfully and rebelliously "pointed" takes on society and what we're doing to our chances for a meaningful future.
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Sun, Mar 12, 5 pm – "JAZZ VESPERS," presents "BACHanalia," with BILL CUNLIFFE, piano/conductor; DAWN BISHOP & DENISE DONATELLI, vocals; LARRY KOONSE, guitar; ANNA BUTTERSS, bass; JOE La BARBERA, drums; JAMIE HOVORKA, JON PAPENBROOK, BOB SUMMERS, & JAMES FORD, trumpets; FRED SIMMONS, FRANCISCO TORRES, RAMSEY HAMPTON, CODY KLEINHANS, trombones; BRIAN SCANLON, NATHAN KING, ROB LOCKART, JEFF ELLWOOD, KEITH BISHOP, saxophones; and CHRISTINA HONCHELL offers a meditation. At All Saints Church, 132 N Euclid Av, Pasadena, CA (across from City Hall, two blocks N of Colorado Bl). Jazz pianist, Grammy Award-winning arranger and our composer-in-residence Bill Cunliffe is widely known for his swinging and lyrical pianism and his creativity and invention as a composer and arranger of jazz. He graduated from Duke University and the Eastman School of Music, where he won several Down Beat Awards. Bill was the 1989 winner of the $10,000 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Award, and has received stipends from the National Endowment for the Arts. A number of his jazz instructional books are published by Alfred Publications, his big band compositions are published by Kendor Music and Otter Music, and his choral music is self-published on his website, www.billcunliffe.com. Free, no reservations required. A goodwill offering is accepted. Child care provided for children age 4 and under. Parking is available in the lot North of the Church and on the street; and validated parking is available in the Plaza las Fuentes (entrance under California Pizza Kitchen on Union St.)
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 7 pm – WHISKEY SUNDAY gets St. Paddy's started early at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA 92675; reservations 626-798-6236; artist info, https://www.facebook.com/whiskeysundayband.
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 7:30 pm – WILLY PORTER & CARMEN NICKERSON play Brick 15, 915 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014; 858-225-1315. Artist info, http://willyporter.com and http://carmennickerson.com.
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 7:30 pm – MICHAEL PETER SMITH (famed songwriter, wrote "The Dutchman") plays the Dark Thirty House Concerts series, 1132 Pinehurst Dr, Lakeside, CA 92040; 619-443-9622. Artist info, http://www.michaelsmithmusic.com.
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Sun, Mar 12, 2017, 8 pm – DARRYL PURPOSE plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica, CA 90405 ; 310-828-4497. Expect selections from last year's fine album of material written by Paul Zollo. Artist info, http://darrylpurpose.com.

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AND THESE TWO, after the weekend...

Mar 14, 8:40-9:30 pm – "TRIBUTE TO JONI MITCHELL" with KAREN HART, BENNETT, and SUSAN TONEY, at the Mint, on Pico, near Fairfax, L.A.
Tix, $15 at the door; advance tix discounted to $10, at: http://themintla.com/event.cfm?id=256146&cart.
ALSO note: venue offers dinner, which gets you a good seat for the show: email TheMintDinnerReservations@gmail.com
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Wed, Mar 15, 6 pm – JACKSON BROWNE performs to support "Rolling Stone" journalist GREG PALAST's film investigating theft of voting rights, at Jerry and Jan Manpearl's, 939 San Vicente Bl, Santa Monica, CA 90402. With discussion of the attack on voting rights by Joy Reid of MSNBC. Wine and buffet and performance by Jackson Browne.
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Palast says, " We are facing a democratic emergency: Our purpose is to expose and prevent the theft of the election of 2018. Our film on the suppression of the vote in 2016, 'The Best Democracy Money Can Buy,' has been viewed by more than one million Americans and has become the source of fighting facts from People For the American Way to Rainbow-PUSH Coalition to the Potomac Coalition."
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Voting rights attorney Barbara Arnwine says, "What Greg Palast has done is heroic, invaluable, and must be seen by every voting rights advocate in America."
+
$100 per person or $175 per couple. Tix via an RSVP to ilenepr@sbcglobal.net
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Fri, Mar 17, 2017, 8 pm-midnight – LOONEY’S FORTUNE plays "TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC & SONGS" with PATTI AMELOTTE on Hammered Dulcimer & Accordion; GEORGIANA HENNESSY on Fiddle & Accordion; & MATT TONGE on Guitar & Mandolin, at Griffin’s Grill, 11272 Los Alamitos Bl, Los Alamitos, CA 90720; http://www.griffinsgrill.com/


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# 8 news feature...


THE TALE OF AN L.A. CONNECTION TO ART LOOTED BY THE NAZIS


How a 17th Century Painting by a Dutch Master, Looted by the Nazis, Found its Way Home from an L.A. Living Room

You don't find many stories of history's worst systematic looting that end happily. This one has a charming conclusion.
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Ellen's Silkscreening in South Pasadena – www.ellenssilkscreening.com – is a sponsor each year of the annual day that is the "South Pasadena Eclectic Music & Arts Festival," a free, multistage event with many open houses at visual arts galleries in addition to all the music. Before this, that was the Guide's only connection with that "arts patron" small business.

Ellen's sent us the story because their shop printed, on shirts, the beautiful image of 17th century Dutch master Melchior Geldorp's "Portrait of a Lady." The shirts commemorate the return of that original painting to Poland's National Museum in Warsaw. There is quite a tale in how and why Ellen's customers David Crocker and Craig Gilmore came to send those shirts – and the original painting – to Poland, as a symbol of the pride they take in the restitution of the painting they had owned, without ever knowing it was looted Nazi art.

Their return of the art treasure set a standard for collectors the world over, and was made "in remembrance of the terrible acts committed during WW II."

Below is the full story, as told by By CRAIG GILMORE, published in the Los Angeles Times last December.

Plus, if you are among those who have given Facebook permission to install its spyware in your devices, here is the video link to watch Ellen's design and production of those T-shirts, depicting the 17th century art masterpiece: https://www.facebook.com/ellenssilkscreening/videos/vb.150059812131/10154027579312132/?type=2&theater¬if_t=notify_me_page¬if_id=1486363560061264


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"This painting was looted by the Nazis, then seized from my living room,"

By Craig Gilmore

"Two agents from U.S. Homeland Security’s ICE unit arrived at my door in September looking for a Polish lady — not a person, but a painting: Melchior Geldorp’s 'Portrait of a Lady.' She had, they informed me, been looted by the Nazis from the National Museum in Warsaw.

"Unsure if these gentlemen were indeed who they claimed to be, I didn’t invite them in. But I knew exactly what they were seeking: My partner, David, and I had purchased this very portrait — ostensibly the work of a different artist — a decade earlier from a major auction house in New York.

"Upon their leaving, I stood dumbfounded, holding a packet of information about the alleged provenance of our painting. After calling David at work to drop this bombshell, I began a Googling frenzy, eventually bringing me to Poland’s Division for Looted Art website. Seconds later I was gawking at an old black-and-white photo of our beloved lady, a beautiful portrait painted on oak panel in 1628. Tears welled in my eyes with the realization that, without question, if this were true we needed to do our duty and get her safely home.

"Being an opera singer, I was among a group of vocalists on a government-sponsored tour of Israel some years ago. During a visit to a community center for Holocaust survivors I was asked to sing. The emotion of being surrounded by people who had prevailed through such unimaginable horrors was overwhelming, and I found myself unable. Excusing myself, I attempted to make up for it by spinning several of the ladies around the dance floor — all the while trying not to look down at the numbers tattooed on their wrists.

"Now this memory flooded back to me, and I found myself once again in tears, hyper-aware of how Nazi atrocities affect us still to this day.

"The toll of World War II in Poland — including the deaths of 6 million Poles, Jews, and other outcasts, including homosexuals — is unimaginable. Being gay men, David and I feel a personal connection with these losses and are conscious of how political shiftings can lead to vulnerability. This, added to the knowledge that Poland’s LGBTQ community is still in a struggle for its basic rights, has weighed heavily on our minds.

"As well as human loss, during and after the war, an estimated half-million Polish cultural objects were destroyed or pillaged — first by the Nazis and then the Soviets. Decades behind the Iron Curtain meant Poland didn’t start aggressively seeking its lost patrimony until the late 1990s. The Foreign Ministry’s Division for Looted Art, where I found our painting’s image, lists more than 60,000 missing works. They have retrieved about 600. We are proud to say that ours is one of them.

"Eventually, through a family member who works with Homeland Security, we confirmed the identity of the agents who had so mysteriously showed up, and the wheels of international art repatriation began turning in earnest.

"During the hectic month that followed, I clutched to the words 'global citizenry' as my mantra. The notion of behaving as a global citizen can sometimes seem abstract, but it was glaringly obvious that this situation was bigger than our immediate surroundings. More than that, we realized our beloved lady was, herself, a global citizen, called upon to serve a greater purpose than the beauty she lent to our Silver Lake home.

"At last we had just one last hurdle. We had installed the painting into a beautiful 19th century frame, and felt strongly that it represented the American leg of her journey. We wanted to donate it along with the painting but weren't sure how to go about it. Serendipitously, we received an introduction to Randy Schoenberg, who famously litigated the return of five Gustav Klimt paintings (depicted in the film 'Woman in Gold'). He encouraged me to contact Poland’s Division for Looted Art directly, which I did, sending a copy of my correspondence to Homeland Security. The offer of the frame was gratefully accepted.

"It’s difficult to express how a painting can become such an integral part of your life, even a part of your identity. For 10 years this portrait overlooked our dining table; watching like a matriarch. Presiding over thousands of meals, she silently took in our day-to-day dialogue. She sadly looked over David’s shoulder while he dealt with the unexpected death of his mother; she lent support during the years I worked tete-a-tete alongside an earnest young man, helping him close his educational gaps before moving on to earn his degree at Berkeley. The ups and downs of 10 years, she was there for it all.

"As the day of departure drew near, we did what anyone would do for a loved one who was leaving: We threw a farewell party. Emulating our 17th century lady, David and I sported neck-ruffs crafted from car air filters, and prepared a buffet of Polish sausages, pierogis and vodka punch. Our friends came, marveled at the story, and expressed their personal goodbyes. It was a cathartic evening.

"The evening before she was to leave, we carefully moved her to an easel at the end of our long entry hall. We desired to send her off in a style that honored the time she had graced our household. The next morning we dressed to the nines, chilled champagne for a final toast with the Homeland Security agents, and nervously awaited their arrival.

"Throughout this ordeal, the lead agent had graciously allowed us to feel like we had control over the process. Receiving no formal request for the painting’s return, we felt we were repatriating of our own volition. Reading the necessary paperwork, however, there was no avoiding the terminology being used: seizure. It stung. We signed the paperwork, and then our beloved 400-year-old friend was unceremoniously wrapped in what looked like blankets and pillows from someone’s couch and put into the back of a nondescript vehicle.

"Then she was gone.

"With her we sent off not just the frame, but photos of her American home. We also included a letter to the National Museum and people of Poland. The letter said, in part:

" 'This painting has been a revered part of our household, and we are grateful to have been a safe haven over the past decade of her almost 400-year story. We very much look forward to visiting Poland, and seeing our dear friend hanging at the National Museum, Warsaw.' "
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CRAIG GILMORE, who authored the above piece, is an opera singer and actor. He and his partner, artist David Crocker, live in Silver Lake.
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"Portrait of a Lady" by Melchior Geldorp, being removed from Craig Gilmore's home by police. appears in an L.A. Times photo by Christopher Lapp, and it can be seen at the link.
___

That, and more photos are in the L.A. Times archive at: http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-gilmore-polish-looted-art-20161204-story.html?utm_source=2017+Looted&utm_campaign=Going+Shopping+for+You&utm_medium=email


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# 9 news feature...


UPCOMING MUSIC FESTIVALS.... FIRST LOOK AT THE 2017 SEASON


Over 10 million people attend arts fairs and festivals each year in California ALONE!

As always, the Guide presents festivals of interest beyond the borders of the Golden State.
___

This feature is a work in progress, and it's a topic we'll revisit frequently, making additions as the info arrives. In this edition, we are emphasizing festivals that present CAJUN, ZYDECO, AND LOUISIANA / DELTA BLUES / NEW ORLEANS music. Of course, other great events are already in here, too – like the annual TOPANGA BANJO-FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL, and the South Pasadena ECLECTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL – and many more will be covered in upcoming editions.
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March 16-19, Yorkshire Cajun (UK); Cajun bands, dance lessons and Mardi Gras mask making workshop; http://www.yorkshirecajun.com/

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March 24-26, 2017 — Kemah Crawfish Festival (Texas); Wayne Toups; http://www.gulfcoastfestivals.com.

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April 1 & 2, 2017 — Crawdebauchery Festival (Pompano Beach, FL); Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, Roddie Romero and the Hub; http://crawdebauchery.com .

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April 6-9, 2017 — Annual French Quarter Festival (New Orleans). The four-day weekend festival is FREE and there is no cost to attend any of the performances. The only costs are for food, beverage, and merchandise purchases on festival grounds, and certain off-site special events. In order to keep this festival free and open to the public, outside food and beverages are prohibited. French Quarter Festival is held throughout the historic French Quarter (Vieux Carre) neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana. Music stages are located at Jackson Square, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, Bourbon Street, Royal Street, Bienville Triangle, Preservation Hall, the French Market, St. Mary’s at the Ursuline Convent, and Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint. ‘World’s Largest Jazz Brunch’ booths can be found in Jackson Square, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, the Jax Brewery parking lot, and Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint. Special events take place at various locations throughout the French Quarter. Website: http://fqfi.org/frenchquarter

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SATURDAY May 6; 2017 SOUTH PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – 7:30PM
8TH ANNUAL "ECLECTIC MUSIC FEST" with several stages, some indoors, some outdoors, ALL FREE; one stage is at 1121 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030
One featured band is Lisa Haley & the Zydekats, GRAMMY Nominees, Americana/Cajun/Zydeco.

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April 7-9, 2017 — Tampa Bay Blues Festival (St. Petersburg)
Tab Benoit, Buddy Guy, The Rides featuring Stephen Stills, Kenny Wayne
Shepherd and Barry Goldberg, Coco Montoyo, Samantha Fish, Ana Popovic, Albert
Cummings and others. http://tampabaybluesfest.com
April 7-9, 2017 — Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival (Ponchatoula, LA)
Past festivals have featured bands like Chubby Carrier. Website:
http://www.lastrawberryfestival.com

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April 8-13, 2016 – Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week
(Lafayette, LA)
There’s nothing like Louisiana Folk Roots’ Balfa Week! Our annual Dewey
Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week is not a school, or a festival, or a
family reunion – it’s all those things and more! It’s “The Greatest Week of
Cajun and Creole Culture on the Planet!” At Balfa Week, you can learn
knee-to-knee with master musicians and culture bearers surrounded by great
folks from across the globe. Our motto is “Jouer. Danser. Manger. Répéter.
(Jam. Dance. Eat. Repeat.)” – and during Balfa Week, you’ll experience all
that and so much more. Balfa Week features: Five days of 10 or more Morning
Intensive Classes on fiddle, guitar and accordion; Twice-daily participatory
teaching sessions on Cajun & Creole Vocals; Five days of instructor-coached
Band Labs; Nightly Dances with fantastic Cajun and Creole bands; Five or
more artist-led Jam des Amis sessions; Intimate afternoon words-and-music
sessions with accomplished and legendary Featured Artists; Afternoon
Lagniappe Sessions on a variety of topics. Website:
http://www.lafolkroots.org/balfaweek/

___

April 20-23 – 24th Annual SANTA CLARITA COWBOY FESTIVAL in Newhall (Santa Clarita), CA, just N of L.A. brings top western, trad cowboy, and western swing acts on multiple stages for the daytime weekend "main event" and the biggest stars in multiple venues all four evenings. The main activities of the festival are Saturday and Sunday. But the multitude of extra events ALWAYS sells-out, well in advance. All times, details, and online ticket purchase info are at: www.cowboyfestival.org

___

April 21-23, 2017 – Annual Etoufee Festival (Arnaudville, LA)
St. John Francis Regis Church Grounds, 370 Main Street, Arnaudville LA.
(337) 754-5912 or http://www.johnfrancisregis.net/index.php/festival
April 28-May 7, 2016 – New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (New
Orleans, LA)

___

April 26-30, 2017 – Festival International d'Louisiane (Lafayette, LA)
Festival International d'Louisiane in downtown Lafayette, LA (Evangeline
Parish, LA).The annual 5-day festival is held during the last full week of
April. Historic downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, is transformed into an
entertainment complex featuring six music stages, food court areas, street
musicians and animators, arts and crafts boutiques, art galleries, beverage
stands, cultural workshops, international cooking demonstrations and a world
music store. http://www.festivalinternational.com

___

April 28-May 7, 2016 – New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (New
Orleans, LA)
12 stages at New Orleans Fairgrounds. http://www.nojazzfest.com/

___

April 28-30, 2017 – Pensacola Crawfish Festival (Pensacola, FL)
Some Louisiana bands have performed in the past. Check website for lineup
closer to the event dates.
http://www.fiestaoffiveflags.org/pensacola-crawfish-festival

___


April 29, 2017 – Adams Avenue Unplugged (San Diego)
Adams Avenue Unplugged in San Diego, CA. 25 stages, 135 acts, 150
performances. Unplugged, formerly the Roots Festival, is a musical walk-about.
Acoustic performances are held inside businesses and on large outdoor stages.
Music is scheduled from noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. on
Sunday, April 27. Adams Avenue Unplugged is free and open to the public.
Confirm times and dates at Website.
http://www.adamsavenuebusiness.com/event-info/adams-avenue-unplugged/

___

May 5-7, 2017 – Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival (Breaux Bridge, LA)
Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, Parc Hardy, Breaux Bridge, LA. The
Crawfish Festival has also become one of the largest gatherings of world famous
Cajun musicians. All weekend long you can hear the sound of authentic Cajun,
zydeco and swamp pop music rising from the festival. Whether your musical
taste is Cajun or Creole, you can witness over 30 bands perform over the
three day event if you think you have the stamina. It's a perfect opportunity
to see our musical tradition passed from generation to generation. Watch
the Cajun dance contests, and if you're brave, join in. There's no better
way to learn. There are even Cajun music workshops held in the heritage tent.
Website: http://bbcrawfest.com/

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Sat, May 6, 2017 – 34th annual "TOPANGA BLUES FESTIVAL" in Topanga canyon, CA; advance tix required, because it sells-out early; www.SocalBlues.Org

___

May 11-14, 2017 — Gator By The Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival (San
Diego) will celebrate its 16th
anniversary May 11-14 at Spanish Landing Park
Headliners include Marcia Ball, Geno Delafose & French Rockin Boogie,
Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys,
Igor Prado Band and Dennis Jones Band. The event draws 20,000 each year, and
offers the dancer five music stages from which to choose, with two main
stages offering 3,000 sq. ft. tented dance floors at each. The event is
situated on mile-long Spanish Landing Park on San Diego Bay directly across the
street from San Diego Lindbergh International Airport. The weather in San
Diego is particularly nice in May with temps at the bay around 75 degrees,
but bring a jacket because when the sun goes down it gets a bit chilly.
Website: www.gatorbythebay.com.

San Diego Gator by the Bay Line up and Excellent Article in the San Diego Union Tribune by George Varga, at:
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/entertainment/music/sd-me-gator-by-bay-20161116-story.html

___

May 12-14, 2017 – Festival Cajun Zydeco (France)
Confirm dates on website: http://www.topela.eu/pages/fr/accueil.php

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May 19-21, 2017 – International Cajun Zydeco Festival (Netherlands)
Festival location: Corner Kloosterweg and Wilhelminalaan, next to the
soccer fields, Raamsdonksveer. Website: http://www.zydecozity.nl/en

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Sun, May 21, 2017 – 57th annual "TOPANGA BANJO-FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL" 9 am-6 pm, at Paramount Ranch, Santa Monica Mtns. Nat'l Recreation Area, Agoura Hills, CA. This is consistently, year-after-year, the Guide's TOP PICK as "Best One-Day Folk Festival," with many great acts performing trad-acoustic music on multiple stages and a dazzling array of contestants from many states. Register to compete (promptly), enter the graphic design contest (promptly), or buy advance tix (a HUGE time-saver at the gate), at: http://www.topangabanjofiddle.org
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May 27-28, 2017 – Simi Valley Cajun, Blues Music Festival (CA)
Website http://www.simicajun.org

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June 1-4, 2017 – Blast From The Bayou Cajun-Zydeco Festival (Preston,
CT)
Band list and dates are not published yet. Check with website for details
and contact information.
http://www.strawberrypark.net/2014-cajun-zydeco-festival/#.VmDm8YTtK-I

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June 2-4, 2017 – Michael Arnone's Crawfish Festival (Augusta, NJ)
Website: http://www.crawfishfest.com

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June 17-18, 2017 – Long Beach Bayou Zydeco, Blues, Creole & Cajun
Festival (Long Beach)
Website: http://www.longbeachbayou.com

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June 23-25, 2017 —- Muddy Roots Europe Festival (Waardamme, Belgium)
Website: http://muddyrootsrecords.com/mr_events/mr_europe/

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June 24-25, 2017 — Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival (New Orleans)
11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days. Louis Armstrong Park. 901 N. Rampart
Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70116. Admission: Free Website:
https://www.jazzandheritage.org/cajun-zydeco/

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June 30-July 4, 2017 – Waterfront Blues Festival (Portland)
Information not yet available. Website:
http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com

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July 9-14, 2017 – Cajun-Creole Week at Augusta Heritage Center (West
Virginia)
"It's a great way to get out of the heat and head for some of the most
scenic mountains in the East. Over the years a lot of Floridians have
attended." Music and cooking workshops and dancing. See American Heritage Center
YouTube Channel.
https://augustaheritagecenter.org/augusta-schedule/cajuncreole/

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August 3-6, 2017 – Sailieu Cajun Nights Festival (France)
Email: bayouprod@aol.com. Website: http://www.bayouprod.com/fr/

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August 12-13, 2017 – Long Beach Crawfish Festival
Long Beach Crawfish Festival at Rainbow Lagoon in Long Beach. 2016
information is not posted yet. Please confirm the dates at the website.
http://www.longbeachcrawfishfestival.com

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August 19-20, 2017 – Cotati Accordion Festival (Cotati, CA)
Cotati Accordion Festival in Cotati, California. Festival location is
north of San Francisco. http://www.cotatifest.com

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Sept. 1-3, 2017 – Ninigret Rhythm & Roots Festival (Rhode Island)
Rhythm & Roots Festival at Ninigret Park, Charlestown, Rhode Island.
http://www.rhythmandroots.com/ws/pages/home.php

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Sept. 2-3, 2017 – Sebastopol Cajun Zydeco Festival in Sebastopol, CA
Website is www.WineCountryCajun.com

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October 12-15, 2017 – Festivals Acadiens et Creoles (Lafayette)
Festivals Acadiens et Creoles in Lafayette, LA. Celebrate the rhythm of
Cajun and Creole life at Festivals Acadiens et Créoles Dance to a traditional
waltz. Two-step to the upbeat rhythms of accordions, fiddles and ti fers
(triangles). Step back in time as traditional crafters demonstrate their
artistry. Festivals Acadiens et Créoles pays tribute to the Cajun and Creole
cultures with a combination of FREE festivals. Held the second weekend in
October! http://www.festivalsacadiens.com

___

October 28-29, 2017 (Projected) – South Louisiana Blackpot Festival and
Cookoff (Lafayette, LA)
South Louisiana Blackpot Festival and Cookoff in Acadian Village,
Lafayette, LA. The South Louisiana Black Pot Festival & Cookoff is one of the most
unique festivals in Louisiana. Held annually at Lafayette’s Acadian
Village, the festival celebrates its 5th year this October with two days of great
music, dancing, food, camping & jamming. The festival is a cooperative of
south Louisiana musicians, artists and southern culture enthusiasts,
creating an unprecedented gathering of south Louisiana’s hottest roots bands, as
well as a number of groups from all over the country. Live performances
range from Cajun & Zydeco, to Creole, Swing, Hot Jazz, Blues, Bluegrass,
Americana, Irish & Old-Time. Plus, an old-fashioned black pot cook-off, accordion
contest, called square dancing, and ample camping space for tents & RV’s.
Confirm the dates at http://blackpotfestival.com

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Sat. Nov. 25, 2017 (Projected) – Al Berard Music Fest (Henderson,
Louisiana)
Confirm date and location on website. Information at
http://www.alberard.com

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Nov; date not yet set:
Houston/Texas Cajun-Zydeco Events
http://www.zydecoevents.com/texaszydecoevents.html

___

Nov. 30 to Dec. 4, 2017 – Louisiana Proud Dance Cruise (New Orleans)
Website: https://www.travelmachine.net/Featured-Cruises/65

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Florida Cajun and Zydeco Events, plus MORE FESTIVALS everywhere, at: http://www.floridacajunzydeco.com

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Our thanks to BRAD SJOBLOM and his long-running SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CAJUN ZYDECO WEB PAGE, at: http://Zydecobrad.com. You can subscribe to his FREE e-newsletter at: Zydecobrad@aol.com (tell him the Acoustic Americana Music Guide sent you.)
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CAJUN-ZYDECO FESTIVAL listings were compiled by JIM HANCE directly from prominent band and festival websites. Changes in lineups and times are common. He cautions, "Refer to both the event websites and websites of your favorite artists appearing at the festivals prior to making your travel plans."


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Stay tuneful! See you next time!

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LEGALESE, CONTACTING US, 'N SUCH...

Boilerplate? Where's the main pressure gauge? And the firebox?

What "boilerplate"? Who came up with that goofy term for the basic essential informational stuff...
________________________________

Pssst – Hey, kid. Yeah, YOU: It won't be so "basic" when we add all the links for the global network of music news / music education sites that we're joining; THAT'LL be here very soon, as an ESSENTIAL COMPONENT of the Guide returning to being a MUSIC NEWS journal!
________________________________

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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. That includes both traditional and innovative forms. 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 (now undergoing a major update), and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues from the monumentally large to the intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops, conferences, 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 swamp water roots of the blues and the bright lights of where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell. The porch'll be here anytime you come back from the road.

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