The Guide's GUIDE TO NEW YEAR'S EVE and New Year's Weekend! Year-End Edition, 2017

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Acoustic and Folk-Americana options for celebrating New Year's are all over Southern California. Plus, we have one that's online. And a few that stretch the envelope if you wanna get jiggy with it.

Plus, we have some TICKET ALERTS for impending 2018 stuff that'll soon sell-out, and the final chances to catch some fine and fun options that are CLOSING in the coming week.

ENJOY! See you next year!


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Contents / In this Edition...

1) NEW YEAR'S EVE! Saturday and SUNDAY (and a live performance on the web)

2) Online Concert Alert / Tour Alert -- Trad Folk Favorites

3) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 1: McCabe's 60th Anniversary Concert Season

4) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 2: The Cockamamie Quartet

5) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 3: "Wild & Scenic Film Festival"

6) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 4: Jackson Browne plays a benefit

7) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 5: Paul Anka

8) L.A. Ticket Alert... # 6 & 7: Dublin Irish Dance Troupe, "Stepping Out"

9) Live (Recorded) Performance Online / On Demand: Duo from The Freight Hoppers

10) Recommended Film, Now in Release: "Last Flag Flying"

11) Reminders from Recent Editions -- Events Still Playing


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# 1 feature...


♪ NEW YEAR'S EVE! SATURDAY AND SUNDAY (and a live performance on the web)


Saturday, Sunday, and Monday are each listed separately and chronologically. The featured web show is Sunday at 2:30 pm.

OF COURSE, LIVE MUSIC IN THE VENUES and special N.Y.E. events is what this is about!

*** BE AWARE that some venues commence their Sunday New Year's Eve revelry EARLY, and go LATE, and we list only their START times!

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Saturday, December 30, 2017

Sat, Dec 30, F-R-E-E-:
4-8 pm "MARINA LIGHTS" is a new event this year at Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292.
* Includes live caroling by THE VOICES OF CHRISTMAS, Holiday Movie Screening of "It’s a Wonderful Life," a Giant Snow Globe Photo Booth, and more all-ages fare.
* See Burton Chace Park aglow with holiday decor and lighting all month long, and on Saturdays, ending tonight, 4 pm-8 pm, enjoy the live special events.
* $1 churros by Churro Boss, and a giant Snow Globe Photobooth.
* Be sure to bring blankets, jackets, and dress for warmth, since you'll be sitting for the movie.
* More info, parking & shuttle info, downloadable flyer, all at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marina-lights-saturdays-outdoor-holiday-movies-giant-snow-globe-more-registration-40167664566?aff=eventbriteOther
* Chace Park rules in force: NO ALCOHOL, NO SMOKING, NO unpermitted vending/sales.
* FREE event.
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Sat, Dec 30:
4 pm CILLIAN'S BRIDGE plays a "Special Christmas Week Show" at The Harp Inn Irish Pub, 17th St near Harbor Bl, Costa Mesa, CA; www.harpinn.com
* The Irish News calls the band, "One of the best up and coming Irish Groups of recent years!"
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Sat, Dec 30:
4 pm & 9 pm DONAVON FRANKENREITER plays Saint Rocke, 142 Pacific Coast Hwy, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254; 310-372-0035
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Sat, Dec 30:
7 pm THE MISKEY MOUNTAIN BOYS play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA 92675; reservations by phone only, 626-798-6236.
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Sat, Dec 30:
6:30 pm-10:30 pm WEEKLY BLUEGRASS CONCERT with a different band each week, at Me-n-Ed's Piza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl, Lakewood, CA 90712; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Dec 30:
7:30 pm-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS periodic "TAKE THE FIFTH HOOT" happens any onth with a fifth Saturday; in Studio City 91604; get location and info at the organization's website, www.songmakers.org or email Rich & Jo Lewis at: TakeThe5thHoot@Songmakers.org

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Sunday, December 31, 2017
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NEW YEAR'S EVE, the final day of this wretched year!

The best FREE events are included! See listings for 10 am, and 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9 pm!
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PLUS, it's

HOGMANAY!

That's the Scottish word for the last day of the year, pronounced "HOG-muh-NAY," and it's synonymous with the celebration of the New Year in the old Gregorian calendar, in "the Scottish manner." It is normally followed by further celebration on the morning of New Year's Day (still January 1st) or, in some cases, on January 2nd, which is a Scottish bank holiday (damn banksters manage to take over everything, if we let 'em). The origins of Hogmanay are unclear, but it may be derived from ancient Norse and Gaelic observances. Customs vary throughout Scotland, and usually include gift-giving and visiting the homes of friends and neighbours, with special attention given to the "first-foot," the first guest of the new year who steps over your threshold.

Given that so MANY of our Southern California N.Y.E. celebrations are Irish and Celtic related, you might care to learn more at the official site of Edinburgh's Hogmanay, truly "one of the world's greatest New Year celebrations." You may even want to plan to join the revelry there next year, "for three days of spectacular events, as we show the world how to party!" -- it's at: https://www.edinburghshogmanay.com
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The Guide's listings include a fun ONLINE MUSIC EVENT at 2:30 pm Sunday (live concert simulcast).
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AND, surprisingly, there are a few exceptional NYE events up in the high desert, so we include those, too.
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Sun, Dec 31:
9 am "NEW YEAR'S EVE AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD" where the park will host its first New Year’s Eve celebration, with festivities continuing until 1 am.
* Besides all of the usual attractions, enjoy a park-wide countdown party with multiple, uniquely themed entertainment hubs and live music starting at 9 pm.
* Gates open at 9 am on Dec 31st, and this thing will run most of the night.
* Tix prices: The event is included in normal park admission of $105-$116 for general admission; $179-$269 for front-of-line passes.
* Tix at: https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/things-to-do/events-and-seasonal-activities/eve-at-universal-studios-hollywood/
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Sun, Dec 31:
9:30 am-2:30 pm "BLUEGRASS BRUNCH," New Year's Edition, at Urban Solace, 3823 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104; 619-295-6464
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Sun, Dec 31:
10 am ELLEN & STEVE STAPENHORST play the Neighborhood Church, 301 N Orange Grove Bl, Pasadena, CA 91103; 626-449-3470
* This one is probably in conjunction with a church service at this new age / new thought church.
* The duo just did their annual concert at the Coffee Gallery Backstage on Thursday night (see the write-up in the Thursday edition of the Guide). This is a great brother-sister ensemble act, since each performs individually.
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Sun, Dec 31:
10 am "SUNDAY FOOTBALL NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY" at Lucky Luke Brewing Co., 610 W Ave O, Ste 104 Palmdale, CA; www.luckylukebrewing.com
* This is crazy-innovative: "Bring in your own food and come root for your favorite team. Also serving craft Micheladas from 10 am-3 pm."
* Their shtick? "You won't have to miss any part of your game. It's Week 17 of the 2017 NFL Season. We will be open at 10 am for all of our football fans!
* They have big screens going with EVERY NFL game, all day.
* Venue is 21+. More at their website (above).
* Bring-in your own food, and they can still make money? Somebody oughta tell the pirates who run those hundred-dollar-plus-just-to-get-in /$20-to-park / $18 hamburgers, over-commercialized corporate amusement parks...
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Sun, Dec 31:
Noon-2 pm "BLUEGRASS BRUNCH" with MURPHY'S FLAW performing at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA.
* You've gotta hand it to these guys for innovative gig promotion. They are inviting everyone to join them to "Celebrate New Year's in Dubai with The Flaw," since midnight will arrive in those distant sand dunes during their set.
* And they really sell the idea, by asking, "Hate to be out on the freeways after midnight in L.A.? Can't stand reveling with a bunch of strangers? Or, are you a party animal who enjoys getting a running start on the evening's festivities?"
* They continue, "The Experience Innovations Engineers at the Flaw have come up with a solution to the New Year's dilemma: When it's 12 pm in Burbank it's Midnight in Dubai. Party (long distance) with the folks in the United Arab Emirates! Come usher in 2018 with The Flaw's Sunday Bluegrass Brunch at Viva Cantina. Join us at Noon, Dec. 31, 2017. And, we might even play a bluegrass version of 'Auld Lang Syne!'"
* No cover, beyond buying brunch or something from the menu.
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Sun, Dec 31:
1:15 pm-4 pm TOM BALL & KENNY SULTAN play a New Year's edition of their Sunday residency at Cold Spring Tavern, 5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara, CA; 805-967-0066
* NOTE: With the devastating Thomas Fire still burning and producing a lot of choking smoke over the entire region, CHECK with the venue before you go to make sure this is happening and to get a report on the conditions.
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Sun, Dec 31:
2 pm "IRISH NEW YEAR CELEBRATION" at The Shamrock Irish Pub and Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd #145, Murrieta, CA; 951-696-5252; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com
* Things get underway "in the company of Dublin duo" PETE THE PIANO MAN & YOUNG PETER on guitar, from 2 pm-6 pm, and go from there. Reservations can only be made by phone or at the bar directly and there is a cover charge of $10 per adult and $5 for kids 12 and under. Details for this event at: http://conta.cc/2pI5BB3
* The musical duo from Ireland returns from 8 pm-11:55 pm for the evening adults-only show. "The regular full menu will be available to choose from and your table will be reserved from 8 pm. There is a $10 per person cover charge and this will include a champagne toast at midnight & party favors. To reserve a table you can call the pub on 951-696-5252 and book and pay in advance or just call in the pub directly and pay the cover at the bar to secure your table."
* EITHER SHOW here is only a $10 cover. More at: http://theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com/
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Sun, Dec 31, ON THE WEB:
2:30 pm (PST) "MATT HEATON'S EARLY NEW YEAR'S EVE SPECTACULAR" with award-winning artists MATT AND SHANNON HEATON.
* If you don't know Boston-based Matt & Shannon Heaton, you need to.
- SHANNON was named "Live Ireland's 'Female Musician of the Year'" for both 2010 & 2011. She has been compared to Alison Krauss and Altan's Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh for her combination of vocal grace and instrumental prowess on the Irish flute and button accordion.
- MATT provides a firm foundation on the guitar & bouzouki which is equal parts Richard Thompson, Donal Lunny and Bill Frisell, always searching for the perfect chord. Their music is Irish-American in its roots and universal in its appeal.
* They play "Updated and traditional ballads with Irish roots and multi-instrumental virtuosity With engaging stage-presence, masterfully-crafted songs, and sweet harmony singing."
* This is well-travelled music from the heart. Steeped in sessions in County Clare, brewed in the acoustic music scenes of Chicago & Boston, and spiced with imaginative original compositions, the Heatons' sound is an accessible amalgam of trad roots and imaginative modern acoustic sounds, brimming with harmonies and highly textured guitar.
* They were favorites performing live, several times, on the old "Tied to the Tracks" broadcast radio show in L.A.
* The Heatons move audiences from uplifting to heartbreaking songs, with heart-soaring instrumental work and charm.
* WEBCAST: Remember to sign-up early; first-timers must get registered, pay method validated, etc.; it's listed in the site's extensive pay-per-view web watch offerings at: https://www.concertwindow.com
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Sun, Dec 31:
3-6 pm "IRISH NEW YEAR" live at the Auld Dubliner, 71 S. Pine Av, Long Beach, CA 90802; www.aulddubliner.com
* Join multi-instrumentalist and best-there-is vocalist KEN O'MALLEY as he performs for the arrival of the New Year -- as the clock strikes midnight in Ireland.
* Ireland is 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles so our 4 pm is their midnight.
* No cover!
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Sun, Dec 31:
3 pm "IRISH NEW YEAR WITH HUGH LELANE" at 3 pm, then, at night, THE SARCASTICS perform 'til 1 am, at Muldoon's Irish Pub, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA; 949-640-4110; www.muldoonspub.com
* "When the clock strikes 12 Midnight in Dublin, we will be ready at Muldoon's!"
* New Year's Eve Party with live music "for dancing and having a blast," and full regular menu available.
* FREE admission, no cover charge, no prefix menu ~ they boast, "just come enjoy yourself!"
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Sun, Dec 31:
4 pm "'RING IN THE IRISH NEW YEAR' then 'CELEBRATE AGAIN IN THE EVENING'" at O'Brien's Irish Pub, 2226 Wilshire Bl at 23rd, Santa Monica, CA; 310-829-5303; www.obriensla.com
* Go early; party favors, champagne toast at midnight.
* NO COVER
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Sun, Dec 31:
4 pm "CELEBRATE THE BRITISH-IRISH NEW YEAR" at King's Head British Pub & Restaurant, 116 Santa Monica Bl, Santa Monica, CA; 310-451-1402; www.yeoldekingshead.com
* At 4 pm, it's midnight in the British Isles, "Then do it all again at Midnight."
* Music here is a DJ and a Bagpiper, and they have party favors.
* They are also open on Monday, 1/1/2018 for New Years Day breakfast at 9 am; 9:30 am Everton v Manchester United, then the Rose Bowl at 1 pm).
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Sun, Dec 31:
4:30 pm-7:30 pm "SANTA BARBARA IRISH SESSION" is a weekly event that may or may not be happening today; check with the venue's contact: La Arcada Bistro, 1112 State St., Santa Barbara, CA; info, Willie Quinn, at 805-965-5742
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Sun, Dec 31:
5 pm "NEW YEAR'S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA" is "an elegant black tie and gown event celebration" in "a HUGE heated tent" at Big Shotz Bar & Grill, 227 W Pillsbury St, Lancaster, California 93534
* Live music by THE FULCOS.
* Cocktail hour 6-7 pm, followed by dinner at 8 pm.
* Soup and salad bar: soups, antipasto, salads, variety of breads; carving station: prime rib or filet mignon, roasted turkey, ham, horseradish sauce, red wine reduction mushroom sauce; meats: roasted pork loin, roasted chicken; seafood bar: crab legs, shrimp, mussels, bacon wrapped scallops, white wine caper tilapia or sole; vegetables: loaded mashed potatoes, roasted red potatoes with garlic and rosemary, pancetta and chestnut stuffing, vegetable medley, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce; Italian: pasta pomodoro, penne a la vodka, meatballs, Italian sausages and peppers; Viennese dessert table: chocolate fountain, pastries.
* Complimentary Midnight Champagne Toast.
* At 1:00 am, included, is an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet.
* Parties of 6 or more get a top shelf bottle for their table: choice of Grey Goose, Crown Royal or Bacardi Superior.
* Tix $65 per person; limited seating. Advance tix required, at: 661-948-0115; more info, http://www.bigshotzbar.com/new-year-s-eve.html
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Sun, Dec 31:
6:30 pm MONTHLY OPEN MIC at the Folk Music Center, 220 Yale Av, Claremont, CA 91711; 909-624- 2928.
* Check with the venue to see if this is happening tonight.
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Sun, Dec 31, F-R-E-E-:
7 pm "MARINA DEL REY’S NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS & GLOW PARTY" is FREE in Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA
* Participate in "a Glow Party for the whole family" with "DJs, face painting, bubbles, a photo booth, giveaways and food trucks," starting at 7 pm.
* Starting at "30 seconds before 9 pm," view the Times Square ball-drop and enjoy a fireworks display.
* At "30 seconds before midnight," do another countdown and celebrate the New Year with a 10-minute fireworks display.
* More info, parking & shuttle info, downloadable flyer, all at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marina-del-rey-new-years-eve-fireworks-glow-party-tickets-40167181120?aff=CVB
* Chace Park rules in force: NO ALCOHOL, NO SMOKING, NO unpermitted vending/sales.
* Free event!
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Sun, Dec 31:
7 pm "NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY AT GINO'S" at Gino's in the Lancaster Marketplace, next to the 14 Fwy between Lancaster Bl and Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93534.
* This one is a traditional celebration evening with a big dinner, cocktail bar, and live band.
* Live music with Rat Pat Ricky, large delicious buffet dinner hour, stand-up comedy, party favors and raffle tickets for all / drawings all night.
* Cocktail hour at 7 includes extensive hors d'oeuvres.
* Dinner buffet at 8 pm features appetizers: Sausage and Peppers, Gorgonzola walnut salad, Caesar Salad with Almonds; main courses: Prime Rib Carving Station; Parmesan Crusted Halibut; Petite Lamb Chop with mint jelly; chicken Cordon Bleu with prosciutto; Cheese Tortellini Primavera (Vegetarian); Roasted Baby Potatoes with Rosemary; Mixed vegetables; Desserts: Bindi Chocolate Fudge Cake, Lemoncello Cake, New York Cheese Cake, House Made Cannoli.
* Midnight: Complimentary Pizza and Baron's Buffet
* Party Favors, Champagne Toast, Photobooth, Raffles and Prizes.
* Reservations: 661-942-1300
* Tix are $60, advance only.
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Sun, Dec 31:
7:30 pm WE THE FOLK may or may not be playing their every-Sunday residency tonight at the Culver Hotel, 9400 Culver Blv, Culver City, CA; 310-558-9400
* Check with the band's contact, Sean O'Hara, at 925-216-8993, or email at: wethefolkmusic@gmail.com
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Sun, Dec 31:
7:30 pm & 10 pm "THE ICE HOUSE NEW YEAR'S EVE SHOW" at the Ice House, 24 N Mentor Av, Pasadena, CA
* Enjoy the comedy of Amir K, Eric Schwartz and more, plus party favors and a champagne toast.
* Two shows: 7:30 and 10 pm.
* Tix prices, $35-$250, includes passes to future shows.
* Reservations required, two-drink minimum, ages 18 and up: 626-577-1894
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Sun, Dec 31:
7:30 pm & 10 pm "FLAPPERS COMEDY CLUB & RESTAURANT NEW YEAR'S EVE SHOW," at Flappers, 102 Magnolia Bl, Burbank, CA
* Enjoy the comedy of Michael Rayner, BT Kingsley, Matt Kirshen, Dana Eagle, Brian Kiley and more, plus party favors and champagne.
* two shows: 7:30 and 10 pm.
* Tix price, $39, plus two-item minimum.
* Tix (scroll to the correct show; David Letterman is playing the EAST COAST show) choose the Burbank tix at: http://flapperscomedy.com/site/indexT.php?pg=showdetail_pageT&meetid=014c517228c18c8&id=43760
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Sun, Dec 31:
Time tba "NEW YEAR'S EVE WITH THE FENIANS" at The Harp Inn, 130 E. 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627; www.harpinn.com
* The Fenians are a top local Irish band.
* No details of the night are on the venue's website, so phone them for info: 949-646-8855.
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Sun, Dec 31:
8 pm DONAVON FRANKENREITER plays The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675; 949-496-8927
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Sun, Dec 31, F-R-E-E-:
8 pm-1 am "N.Y.E.L.A. AT GRAND PARK," is free in the huge, terraced park at 200 N Grand Av, Los Angeles, cA
* Dance your way into 2018 in downtown L.A. with a festive event that includes food, live music and photo booths "in an event that brings the whole community together."
* This is an alcohol-free, family-friendly celebration and there will be security checkpoints, so please don’t bring prohibited items such as fireworks, glass, umbrellas, or anything else that common sense tells you won't be allowed into the event.
* Ride the Metro Red/Purple subway to the Civic Center/Grand Park Station. But BE AWARE that whatever you rode to reach that line is probably shut-down many hours before the event is over!
* more info at: https://nyela.grandparkla.org/
* Price: Free
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Sun, Dec 31, F-R-E-E-:
8 pm-1 am "HERMOSA BEACH NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATION" is free at Pier Plaza, Redondo Beach, CA
* Live music by LOU GIOVANNETTI AND HIS BIG BAND.
* Experience both the ball drop in Times Square and the arrival of the New Year in Southern California.
* It's the Hermosa Beach "GLOW NIGHT" NYE Celebration, so feel free to wear your glow-in-the-dark necklaces, bracelets, etc. Glow sticks and other glow-accessories will be available at the event.
* More info: http://business.hbchamber.net/events/details/new-year-s-eve-celebration-3492
* Price: FREE.
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Sun, Dec 31:
8 pm-1 am "NEW YEAR’S EVE ABOARD THE QUEEN MARY" docked at 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802; 877-342-0738.
* Ring in the New Year with Las Vegas Showgirls as they kick-off the evening’s celebrations.
* Dance the night away with live music including a performance from Sir Mix-A-Lot, Los Chicas del 512, a Selena tribute band, and more.
* Fireworks, billed as the largest show in Southern California, happen, too.
* Age 21+.
* Tix are $119 for general admission, $199 for VIP, at: http://www.queenmary.com/events/new-years-eve/
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Sun, Dec 31:
9 pm-2 am "PROHIBITION NYE" at the iconic L.A. Union Station, 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA
* Live music: special performance by GOLDROOM.
* This 1920s-themed New Year’s Eve celebration returns to historic Union Station in DTLA for the sixth year in a row.
* Guests will be brought back to the Prohibition era with theatrical burlesque performances, live jazz bands, DJs and a premium open bar.
* NOTE: an Amtrak or Metrolink train or Metro subway (Red/Purple) or bus can GET you to this massive train station, but... nearly all of those shuts-down before the event ends. So, have a hotel reservation or be sure your travel arrangements don't have gaps to get you home.
* Tix, $175, at: http://prohibitionnye.com/
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Sun, Dec 31:
9 pm ANDY & RENEE play their annual New Year's Eve Party with musical special guests, at 208 Terraza Pl, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
* Advance tix required, at: www.andyandrenee.com
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Sun, Dec 31:
9 pm "DITA VON TEESE’S GALA SHOW" at The Ace Hotel, 929 S Broadway, Los Angeles
* Spend New Year’s Eve at the Ace Hotel as contemporary icon Dita Von Teese hosts this hour and 45-minute burlesque showcase.
* Check out the costumes in the lobby, or splurge on a meet-and-greet ticket to snap a photo with the Queen of Burlesque herself.
* Tix, $49.50-$225, at: https://theatre.acehotel.com/events/dita-von-teeses-new-years-eve-gala-show/
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Sun, Dec 31:
9 pm "NEW YEAR'S EVE MASQUERADE BALL" at Fresco II, 1311 Rancho Vista Bl, Palmdale 93551
* Live On-Stage "The Greg Mack Show." It's "A black, silver, & white masquerade ball featuring GREG MACK & DJ SHY."
* The Guide cannot vouch, in any way, for what this will be like, musically. But a masquerade ball is innovative.
* Two options:
- A Limited 75 Couples will be seated for a five-course dinner and a full evening of dancing and bringing in 2018 in style, starting at 9 pm.
- Limited "Dancing Only" tickets available as well - doors Open for those at 10 pm.
* Tix are $100 and $30, available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/old-school-935-brings-in-2018-at-fresco-ii-tickets-40034828249
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Sun, Dec 31:
10 pm "THE ICE HOUSE NEW YEAR'S EVE SHOW" at the Ice House, 24 N Mentor Av, Pasadena, CA
* Enjoy the comedy of AMIR K, ERIC SCHWARTZ, and more, plus party favors and a champagne toast.
* Two shows: 7:30 and 10 pm.
* Tix prices, $35-$250, includes passes to future shows.
* Reservations required, two-drink minimum, ages 18 and up: 626-577-1894
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Sun, Dec 31:
10 pm "FLAPPERS COMEDY CLUB & RESTAURANT NEW YEAR'S EVE SHOW," at Flappers, 102 Magnolia Bl, Burbank, CA
* Enjoy the comedy of Michael Rayner, BT Kingsley, Matt Kirshen, Dana Eagle, Brian Kiley and more, plus party favors and champagne.
* two shows: 7:30 and 10 pm.
* Tix price, $39, plus two-item minimum.
* Tix (scroll to the correct show; David Letterman is playing the EAST COAST show) choose the Burbank tix at: http://flapperscomedy.com/site/indexT.php?pg=showdetail_pageT&meetid=014c517228c18c8&id=43760

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Monday, January 1, 2018

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

***** The best music in town? It's all the marching bands in the ROSE PARADE in Pasadena. Go if you can; if you can't, we recommend you choose KTLA Channel 5 on TV, because it has no commercials that cause you to miss huge pieces of the parade while corporate America tries to sell prescription drugs and catheter cowboys.


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# 2 feature...


♪ ONLINE CONCERT ALERT / TOUR ALERT -- TRAD FOLK FAVORITES


Sat, Jan 6:
5 pm (PST) Vermont-based STEVE GILLETTE & CINDY MANGSEN play Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs, NY, with a LIVE STREAM on Concert Window.
* At press time, the Concert Window link for this show was not yet up, which is bad, because you DO need to sign-up early; first-timers must get registered, pay method validated, etc.; it'll be listed in the site's extensive pay-per-view web watch offerings at: https://www.concertwindow.com
* Cindy tells us: "Between the two of us, Steve and I have been playing at Lena's for almost 90 years (we must like it)! The building renovations are complete, and have made the room much more comfortable without losing the original spirit Lena created. So no matter where you are (or what time zone you're in), you can tune in and be there in spirit."
* Learn more about this favorite folk duo at:
- www.cindymangsen@comcast.net
- www.www.compassrosemusic.com
* NOTE: They're performing in SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA in February. Get tix now:
- Sat, Feb 17, 7:30 pm at The Living Tradition in Anaheim, CA; concerts@thelivingtradition.org or 714-202-7330
- Sat, Feb 24, 7 pm at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, CA; 626-798-6236
- Sun, Feb 25, 7:30 pm at the Noble House Concert series in Van Nuys, CA; 818-780-5979.
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# 3 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 1: McCABE'S 60th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT SEASON


Fri, Jan 12... McCabe's kicks-off its "60th Anniversary Concert Season" with RICHARD THOMPSON on Friday, January 12, 2018.

The music store and concert and teaching venue tells us, "Like all of our scheduled special 60th anniversary performances throughout the year, a portion of tonight's proceeds will go to the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation, whom we've partnered with to help keep music alive in our schools, through instrument donation and funding vital services."

They continue, "In fact, McCabe's will be a designated drop-off zone for your unwanted musical instruments that will be refurbished and donated to schools throughout the Southland. Starting in 2018 you can bring your unwanted gear to McCabe's and we'll see it gets to someone in need. It's a great cause," and you can read more about it at:

http://www.mhopus.org/

Ticket prices are higher than you're accustomed to seeing at McCabe's for this 60th Anniversary series of "big star" shows. They tell us: "In keeping with our sexagenarian theme, these special shows will have a good amount of tickets specially priced at - you guessed it - $60, with a VIP ticket price of $125.00, which in this case includes preferred seating and a meet and greet after the show."


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# 4 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 2: THE COCKAMAMIE QUARTET


Fri, Jan 5, 8 pm AND Sat, Jan 6, 7 pm... THE COCKAMAMIE QUARTET with New Christy Minstrels founder RANDY SPARKS "and the talented nuggets" of that group, at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena, CA. Tix, $20, either show. Sure to sell-out quickly. Phone For Reservations, 7 days, 10 am-10 pm: 626-798-6236.


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# 5 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 3: "WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL"


With two venues and two dates, Sun, Jan 14, in San Pedro AND Sun, Jan 28 in Hermosa Beach...

The 2018 "WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL" kicks-off at 4 pm on both Sundays. Buy tickets directly from organizer / get all the info, at: www.pvplc.org

Locally, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy returns with this singular, annual "on tour" film festival, which calls itself "the largest of its kind in the U.S."

It started in 1983, and the festival features "15 movies in 2 hours...[with] engaging hosts who jointly raise awareness of preservation issues in nature."


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# 6 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 4: JACKSON BROWNE plays a benefit


Friday, February 9... JACKSON BROWNE has announced that he will play an 8 pm Benefit Concert at the Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro.

Proceeds from the concert benefit the non-profit organization Grand Vision Foundation, and its youth music education program, Meet the Music. Meet the Music partners with underserved Harbor Area elementary schools to provide music education in schools where it would not otherwise exist. Through inspirational live world music concerts and professional instruction, Meet the Music introduces music education to over 1800 students, teaching them to read music, play their first instrument and discover that they are music-makers.

Joining Jackson Browne on February 9th are longtime band mates Bob Glaub (bass), Mauricio Lewak (drums), Alethea Mills (vocals), Chavonne Stewart (vocals), and multi-instrumentalist Greg Leisz.

More info at: www.jacksonbrowne.com

Tix sales began Dec 15, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 800-745-3000.


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# 7 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 5: PAUL ANKA


January 14... PAUL ANKA plays the Saban Theatre. They announced, on Dec 30, a "2-for-1 Tickets New Year's Blowout Sale." Get those tix at: https://www1.ticketmaster.com/paul-anka-beverly-hills-california-01-14-2018/event/0B00531DDFDF6E1C
* World renown singer-songwriter-actor Paul Anka first became famous in the late 1950s, continuing through the '60s and into the '70s with hit songs like “Diana,” “Lonely Boy,” “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” and “(You’re) Having My Baby. He also wrote such well-known music as the theme for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and one of Tom Jones’s biggest hits, “She’s A Lady,” as well as the English lyrics for Frank Sinatra’s signature song, “My Way”. He’s worked with a diverse band of acclaimed artists, including Peter Cetera, Celine Dion, Kenny G, Patti LaBelle, and the late Michael Jackson. In fact, Anka co-wrote Jackson’s posthumous #1 worldwide hit, “This Is It.”

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# 8 feature...


♪ L.A. TICKET ALERT... # 6 & 7: DUBLIN IRISH DANCE TROUPE, "STEPPING OUT"


DUBLIN IRISH DANCE TROUPE, "STEPPING OUT" performs in Southern California.

Sat, Feb 24, 7:30 pm
AND
Sun, Feb 25, 3 pm

Feb 24 at Segerstrom Center, Costa Mesa, CA; www.scfta.org/events/detail.aspx?id=16843

Feb 25 at CSUN's Valley Performing Arts Center, www.valleyperformingartscenter.org/

"Follow the evolution of Celtic culture in Stepping Out, a high-energy extravaganza of sights and sounds presented by Dublin Irish Dance. These world champion Irish step-dancers, along with an eight member traditional Irish band and vocalist, take us on a journey, exploring the history of the Celtic cultural experience through song and dance." - Irish Pub Guide (www.pubguide.com)


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# 9 feature... reprinted from Dec 28th edition...


♪ LIVE (recorded) PERFORMANCE ONLINE / ON DEMAND: DUO from THE FREIGHT HOPPERS


Check-out FOLK ALLEY'S "Open Mic Highlight" with FRANK LEE & ALLIE BURBRINK of The Freight Hoppers.

Frank Lee and Allie Burbrink present songs and tunes from the rural Southern tradition, spanning bluegrass, old time, blues, and spirituals. After a few years of collaborating, they took their duo act on the road in January 2016, with Frank playing guitar, slide guitar, and banjo and Allie playing guitar, banjo, and harmonica. They can also be heard trading-off lead and harmony vocals in their duet show and with their old time string band The Freight Hoppers.

A passion for traditional songs and tunes from the rural South has fueled Frank's love of performing for the past 40 years. As a founding member of The Freight Hoppers, he has shared this passion with audiences all over the United States, Canada, and northern Europe. His repertoire has a range of old time music that spans raw Blues from the Mississippi Delta to the hillbilly music recorded in the 1920s.

Allie Burbrink is a founding member of The Whipstitch Sallies, a bluegrass-influenced band from Indiana. She works with the Wernick Method Bluegrass Jamming organization and performs in the duo and with The Freight Hoppers.

Frank and Allie also organize an old time music retreat in the Great Smoky Mountains in early April called the "Banjo-Fiddle Frolic."

LISTEN TO and learn about Frank and Allie on their Folk Alley "Open Mic" page, at:

http://www.folkalley.com/openmic/artist.php?id=4190
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AND of course there's plenty more, including the 24/7 internet radio stations of Ohio-based "Folk Alley," at the basic root url:

www.folkalley.com


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# 10 feature... reprinted from Dec 28th edition...


♪ RECOMMENDED FILM, NOW IN RELEASE: "LAST FLAG FLYING"


"Last Flag Flying" is the new film with Brian Cranston, Steve Correl and Lawrence Fishburn. It's a very different kind of anti-war movie, very poignant, and balanced with bellylaugh humor. It is populated with believably complex characters, each on a journey of reconciliation with his own long-buried past.

You've already seen the words "war" and "his," but this film will appeal to plenty of women, too.

Fact is, before we saw it, the premise did not attract us at all -- a very young Marine is killed in Afghanistan, and his Vietnam Vet father is helped by his own old war buddies to get through all that happens because of it, including how and where to bury the kid.

But if that synopsis sounds like the story line, it sure isn't what the film is really about. This is the best, non-shoot-'em-up movie portraying what war is really all about. And it is very, very well done. This film better be a strong Oscar contender, for most of the key awards.

The performances are outstanding. The writing is outstanding. The cinematography is wonderful. Go.


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# 11 feature... reprinted from Dec 28th edition...


♪ REMINDERS FROM RECENT EDITIONS -- EVENTS STILL PLAYING


Here are some quick "a, b, c's" (and an added "d") for your fun needs.

a) ♪ HOLIDAY ICE RINK AT PERSHING SQUARE: The "Bai Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square" has returned for its 20th anniversary season, outdoors under the palms. That's across the street from the L.A. Biltmore, and Pershing Square has its own Red/Purple Line subway station. The Guide always reports on things there in terms of the free access for everyone to watch and hear the LIVE MUSIC STAGE that accompanies the skate-for-a-fee skating rink -- but they didn't notify anybody this year about the music stage. In any event, LA WEEKLY reports, "The beloved recreational landmark [i.e., the Ice Skating Rink] is open now through January 15th for winter fun in the heart of downtown Los Angeles." Along with being something to do this weekend, the rink has a special event on New Year’s Day. That's the "Polar Bear Skate: The L.A. Edition" on Sunday, January 1, 2018 from 2:30-3:30 pm. Details are in our Dec 23 edition, and tickets for the ice rink or the special event can be bought at the rink's ticket window or in advance online at www.holidayicerinkdowntownla.com.
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b) ♪ "TITANIC" AT THE REAGAN LIBRARY CLOSES JANUARY 7. Because you just saw "Reagan Library," you might think we're using the word "titanic" in its generic meaning as "something large." Nope. It's the word in its most singular iconic usage, because the White Star Steamship line chose that word to name what was, at the time, the world's largest ship. It was, of course, the 882-foot-long R.M.S. Titanic -- the one that sunk on its maiden voyage in the middle of the North Atlantic on April 15, 1912, after striking an iceberg before midnight on April 14th.

Everyone has seen the James Cameron movie, "Titanic." Though 2017 marks the 20th anniversary of the film's release, it was the latest in a long series of movie accounts. Even with the fictionalized romance of Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the biggest wow-factor special effects of the time, and the original song by Celine Deon? The fact remains that the tragedy took the lives of at least 1,517 passengers and crew. Only 705 people survived in her lifeboats, and the possessions they took with them have been treasured, though scattered, relics of the tragedy.

The ship's lifeboats were all that was left of the lost liner herself, until Dr. Robert Ballard led a team in 1985 that piggybacked a search for the Titanic onto a secret mission for the US Navy. They found the ship, but didn't file salvage rights to protect the wreck and the ocean floor around it, which was strewn with artifacts.

Found while Ronald Reagan was President, and because he signed the 1986 "RMS Titanic Memorial Act" to designate the wreck as an international maritime memorial, it is appropriate that this exhibition was brought together at the Reagan Library.

For years, a curated collection of artifacts from the sea floor, recovered by others, has made the rounds of museums all over the world.

But this time it's different. Sets and props from the movie are integrated with possessions of lost passengers in the Reagan Library's exhibition.

"Titanic at the Reagan Library" combinines real artifacts with the real stories of the people onboard the ill-fated ship, and the film's models and props. This new exhibit tells the story of the unsinkable ship in a way no museum has done before. Artifacts from passengers, dispersed over time, are reunited in this exhibit for the first time in over 100 years.

This brand-new 10,000 square foot exhibition reunites hundreds of "Titanic" artifacts that have not been together since the ship’s fateful night in 1912. With them are materials and artifacts from the 1984-1985 discovery of the Titanic as well as with items from the 1997 movie. Together, this is a first-of-its-kind exhibition not seen anywhere else before.

It allows visitors to compare recovered artifacts and family heirlooms from survivors with the movie's "as built" appearance of things -- the ship still smelled of fresh paint when she sailed. Recovered artifacts, stabilized by conservators, emerge from the sea floor corroded and encrusted with the remnants of deep sea life. The latter even include evidence of the "rusticles" formed by iron-eating microorganisms that are devouring the great ship itself.

Admission includes a ticket to tour the Reagan Presidential Library and all its permanent exhibits. So it's a great place to take holiday visitors and spend the entire day.

Tickets and info:

https://www.reaganfoundation.org/library-museum/special-exhibits/titanic/

Note: Discount tix have appeared on various websites. As always, be careful that you aren't getting scammed!
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c) ♪ IDEAS FOR THINGS TO DO / PLACES TO GO are in The Guide's "Last Minute Gift Ideas" edition from Dec. 24. Hey, just because you didn't want to spring for a gift membership doesn't mean you and those guests at su casa wouldn't like to go! Check out
our recommendations at:

https://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2017/12/last-minute-gift-ideas-plus-tv-show-of.html
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d) ♪ ONE WE LEFT OUT: GO SEE THE SPACE SHUTTLE ENDEAVOUR at the California Science Center, at 901-999 Leighton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90037. Of course, there's plenty of other good stuff to see there, too. Check it out at: https://californiasciencecenter.org/exhibits/air-space/space-shuttle-endeavour


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♪ THAT'S A WRAP FOR THIS EDITION, and for 2017.
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In 2018, The Guide will return with many more inclusive and inquisitive
and informative and pretty dad-burn interestin' features on musical
people, music groups and ensembles and collaborations,
the music industry and crazy music business,
new gear, instruments, and publications,
and all kindsa things, continuing
forward and onward across
the spectrum of the
arts scene,
-- all in our MUSIC NEWS editions.

In 2018, you can expect more interviews, previews, reviews, and investigative pieces on
how regulatory changes and corporate and internet hegemony effect the industry
and effect individual artists,
and more.

Coming your way soon.

Meantime, check in and LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK about THIS edition.

Y'all come back now, y'hear?

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See you next year!

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Seriously...
THIS IS HERE FOR YOU, THE ACOUSTIC MUSIC-MAKER AND FAN, SO LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK!

As always, we invite you to join us and to let us know what YOU are listening to, and what artists or bands just sent you swooning and need to be shared with others.

Doing our part depends on you doing your part. That way, you'll know that a whole lot more is always coming soon — including fresh MUSIC NEWS, PREVIEWS & REVIEWS, and things in the future like our massive guide to the MUSIC FESTIVALS of 2017.

Meantime, we are ALWAYS big advocates of supporting LIVE PERFORMANCE. With everything happening in the big, wide world, and through these festival-packed, waning-of-summer weekends? Go get tuneful!


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LEGALESE, CONTACTING US, 'N SUCH...

Boilerplate? Where's the main pressure gauge? And the firebox? Is it Walschaerts or Baker or Stephenson valve gear? Superheated or saturated? Duplex or Standard stoker? Circulators or syphons in the firebox?

What "boilerplate"? Who came up with that goofy term for basic essential informational stuff... geeez... soon as we take water from the tank, top-off the lubricators, and get beans from the Harvey House, we are sooo steamin' down the line...
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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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