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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♪ 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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