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Topanga Banjo•Fiddle is a week away (it's Sun, May 15). But Festival season is already in full swing RIGHT NOW.
Plus, there are exceptional concerts this weekend, and a fun outdoor theatre event, tonight only. All that, a wonderful new DARRYL PURPOSE album, and more NEWS FEATURES, in this edition.
Note...
If you're headed for SANTA ANITA RACETRACK to catch the big screen live feed from the KENTUCKY DERBY and wager on th' ponies running hither an' yon? There's a fun FREE FESTIVAL in nearby Sierra Madre! So you can split the day and catch tunefulness, too. It's our # 1 feature.
Let's get started!
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Contents / in this edition...
1) FREE FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND
2) BIG TIME FESTIVALS THIS WEEKEND & NEXT
3) SATURDAY WORKSHOP
4) OUTDOOR THEATER EVENT AT INDIAN MUSEUM / STATE PARK, IN THE DESERT, TONIGHT ONLY
5) CONCERT / GIG PICKS THIS WEEKEND
6) POLITICIANS HIJACKING MUSIC
7) IMPENDING CELTIC FESTS
8) MUST GOOD BANJOS BE HEAVY?
9) AUCTION ITEMS ANNOUNCED FOR "ADOPT THE ARTS" BENEFIT CONCERT, COMING MAY 12th IN HOLLYWOOD
10) ACCLAIMED SINGER-SONGWRITER DARRYL PURPOSE's "STILL THE BIRDS" RELEASED MAY 6th
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# 1 news feature...
FREE FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND
The 54th annual "SIERRA MADRE ART FAIR" is May 7 & 8, from 9:30 am-6 pm Saturday and 9:30 am-5 pm Sunday. With plenty of live acoustic music, this quality event is sponsored by the Friends of the Sierra Madre Library,and is held in Memorial Park, 222 W Sierra Madre Bl, downtown Sierra Madre (about three miles above the 210 Fwy.
A little rain is predicted for Saturday afternoon, between 3 and 4; the morning should great, and there is no rain predicted Sunday.
Live Music is featured throughout the weekend in the band shell and on the southeast lawn.
Band Shell
Saturday:
• 11 am-1 pm Evan Marshall, Mandolin Maestro
• 2-4 pm Steve Trovato & Tim Kobza (Jazz-Rock-Country-Blues).
Sunday:
• 11 am-1 pm Liam Lewis & Zac Leger (Celtic-Americana fiddles, mandolin, guitar)
• 2-4 pm Shawn Oshmiansky presents International House of Jazz with guests David Naiditch and Tommy Davy.
Southeast Lawn
Saturday:
• 10 am-noon Luckpenny (Irish)
• 1-4 pm Bravo Celli (Cello Trio)
Sunday:
10 am-noon Banna Beag Mall (Irish)
1-3 pm Mark Heyes & Phil Salazar (Bluegrass).
Food vendors offer a variety of food & drinks. Scheduled: Taquito Lover, Korean BBQ, and the Gourmet Genie Food Truck. A Wine & Beer Garden is on the front lawn of the Park, open Saturday 11 am-6 pm and Sunday 11 am-5 pm.
The Friends of the Library has a booth selling their popular "sweet ‘quick breads" and the Sierra Madre Historical Preservation Society is selling their famous lemonade made with rangpur limes.
For the children, instructors from the Creative Arts Group have planned a craft activity called ‘Watercolors and Sunshine.’ Children will be using watercolors to create beautiful images of the sun.
80 artists, including 18 newly juried, display and sell their works of art. Mediums include oil paintings, jewelry, watercolors, glass, wood, metal, wearable art, photography, pottery, ceramics, mixed media and weaving.
Featured Artist this year is Sarah Moore. Her “Raven’s Jar” pottery piece appears on all post cards, posters, flyers, and other promotional materials. Her work is in booth # 4. The Fair this year is in honor and remembrance of Nancy Doyle, much accomplished and talented artist who participated in the Art Fair for over 20 years.
There's a Silent Auction where 35 artists have donated "lovely, one-of-a-kind pieces; you have an opportunity to bid on some really beautiful artwork" and support the Library.
All Proceeds from the Art Fair benefit the Sierra Madre Public Library. For more information call 626-355-7186. More at:
http://sierramadrelibraryfriends.org/the-54th-annual-sierra-madre-art-fair-may-2-3-2016/
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# 2 news feature...
BIG TIME FESTIVALS THIS WEEKEND & NEXT
You really didn't think you were nesting at home, did you? Topanga Banjo•Fiddle is a week away. But Festival season is in full swing NOW. (Plus, there are exceptional concerts this weekend, listed in a different section.)
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Here's THIS WEEKEND's festival action...
√ Annual "PARKFIELD BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL" through Sun, May 8, in Central California, at V6 Ranch, 70410 Parkfield Coalinga Rd, Parkfield 93451; 805-994-0929. Music by Bean Creek, Amber Cross, Sidesaddle & Co., Next Generation, Amaya Rose & the Gold Rush, Bluegrass Etc, Next Generation, Joe Craven & the Sometimers, Snap Jackson & Knock on Wood Players. Saturday sched. is 9:30 am-midnight.
√ Annual "GATOR BY THE BAY FESTIVAL" is a very big deal with multiple stages that continues through Sun, May 8, at 2326 India St, San Diego 92101; 619-234-8612; www.gatorbythebay.com. Music by (take a deep breath) Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble, Bonsoir Catin, Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, Roy Rogers, Johnny 'V' Vernazza, John Nemeth, Sugaray Rayford, Curtis Salgado Blues Band, The 44's with Kid Ramos, Billy Watson & International Silver String Submarine Band, Sue Palmer & Her Motel Swing Orchestra, Bill Magee Blues Band, Robin Henkel, Motordude Zydeco, The Euphoria Brass Band, Joe Sans Fontenot Cajun Creole Band, David Sousa & Zydeco Mudbugs, Bayou Brothers, Billy Lee & the Swamp Critters, San Diego Cajun Playboys, Theo & Zydeco Patrol, Three Chord Justice, Gregory Page, Palominos, Manny Cepeda, Kimba Light, Todo Mundo, Todd Waits Pigpen. Voulez les bonne temps roulez! Runs Sat, 11 am-11 pm. (Also an adjunct evening dance in a nearby venue; see concerts & gigs listings.)
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Festivals AFTER this weekend...
√ Annual "LOS ANGELES OLD-TIME SOCIAL" runs Thu, May 12-Sat, May 14. Concerts, workshops, dances, in an immersion in the good time roots music that preceded bluegrass.
√ Annual "TOPANGA BANJO•FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 15, at Paramount Ranch in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, near Agoura. The best one-day folk fest anywhere. Full info at:
www.topangabanjofiddle.org
√ Annual "CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 22, is already SOLD-OUT.
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# 3 news feature...
SATURDAY WORKSHOP
BRUCE MOLSKY does a fiddle workshop Saturday morning, 10-11:30 am, at Fiddler's Crossing, 206 East F St, Tehachapi 93561; call for your spot, 661-823-9994.
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# 4 news feature....
OUTDOOR THEATER EVENT AT INDIAN MUSEUM / STATE PARK, IN THE DESERT, TONIGHT ONLY
It's a California State Park like no other. The Antelope Valley Indian Museum SHP, on Saturday, May 7, hosts an event that harkens back to what happened there in the 1930s.
The full evening, running 6-9 pm, includes food, a very rare chance to tour the museum at night, and the outdoor play. It's an encore performance of the Native themed production, "Owl and the Bear."
The event is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Antelope Valley Indian Museum. You can enjoy theater under the sky and support the museum.
"Owl and the Bear" is based on Ted Garcia’s version of a traditional Chumash story. The play is performed outdoors by local Antelope Valley kids at “Little Theatre of the Standing Rocks.” From 6 to 7 pm, the museum will be open. Food will be available for purchase from 6-9 pm, so you can enjoy dinner either before or after the play. The play starts at 7 pm. After the performance, the museum will reopen until 9 pm.
The museum highlights American Indian peoples of California, Arizona, and New Mexico. The history of theater at the museum dates back to 1932. Museum founder H. A. Edwards wrote an Indian pageant. It was performed outdoors, near the museum, annually from 1932 to 1935. Edwards’ drama students from Lincoln High School played the main roles, and local friends and neighbors played the secondary roles. Edwards named his outdoor stage "Theatre of the Standing Rocks." You'll know why when you see the dramatic natural landscape.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids age 6 to 12. Kids age 5 and under are free.
The museum is located at 15701 East Avenue M, near Lake Los Angeles. That's east of Lancaster, California.
From the 14 Freeway in Lancaster, go east on Avenue K to 150th Street East. Turn right and go south for two miles to Avenue M. Turn left and go east on Avenue M for 1 mile to the museum.
No pets allowed. For more information, phone the museum at 661-946-3055 (711 TTY relay service), or check the website at www.avim.parks.ca.gov
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# 5 news feature...
CONCERT / GIG PICKS THIS WEEKEND
Saturday...
√ ★★★ STRING FEVER plays Sat, May 7, 3 pm matinee, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations a must, and only by phone (10 am-10 pm, 7 days) 626-798-6236.
√ ★★★ WITCHER, RECUPIDO, LEVITT & WITCHER plays Sat, May 7, 7 pm, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations a must, and only by phone (10 am-10 pm, 7 days) 626-798-6236.
√ ★★★ SEAN WATKINS of Nickel Creek plays Sat, May 7, 7 pm, at the Museum of Making Music, 5790 Armada Dr, Carlsbad 92008; 760-438-5996.
√ ★★★ ALBERT LEE and JERRY DONAHUE play Sat & Sun, May 7 & 8, 8 pm, at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
√ ★★ MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE plays Sat, May 7, 8 pm, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
√ SHIP OF FOOLS plays their "Acoustic Songs of Depravity," Sat, May 7, 8 pm, at the Buchanan Arms Restaurant & Pub, 2013 W Burbank Bl, Burbank 91506.
√ ★★ INCENDIO plays the "Brogden Bay Concert Series," Sat, May 7, 8 pm, at Hillcrest Center for the Arts, 403 W Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks 91360; 805-381-2747.
√ ★★ "GATOR BY THE BAY DANCE" is an adjunct to the festival, Sat, May 7, 9 pm-midnight, with MotorDude Zydeco, Curly Taylor & Zydeco Trouble, and Jeffrey Broussard & Kristi Guillory, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, 1380 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego 92101.
√ G BURNS JUG BAND plays Sat, May 7, 10 pm, at Black Cat Bar, 4246 University Av, San Diego 92105; 619-280-5834.
Sunday...
√ BLUEGRASS GHOSTS play the Sunday "Bluegrass Brunch" series, Sun, May 8, noon, at Cody's Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-845-2425.
√ ★★★ BRUCE MOLSKY with PAULA BRADLEY & ALLISON DE GROOT play the "Da Camera Society" series in L.A. harbor, Sun, May 8, at 2:30, 3:30, & 5:30 pm, at Banning Museum Stagecoach Barn, 401 East M St, Wilmington 90744.
√ ★★ MOIRA SMILEY plus HONEY WHISKEY TRIO play "Brad Colerick's Cellar Sessions," Sun, May 8, 3 pm, at Old Oak Cellars, 2620 East Foothill Bl, Pasadena 91107. Signs on buildings are confusing; use the address.
√ ★★★ PETE ANDERSON, a legendary musician, play Sun, May 8, 3:30 pm, at Cody's Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506; 818-845-2425.
√ JEFF BERKLEY plays Sun, May 8, 4 pm, for the FREE monthly "Red Rock Concerts Series" at Crown Books, 6100 Topanga Canyon Bl, #1340, Woodland Hills 91367. (Be sure you park at the correct mall.)
√ ★★ DIMITRIS "JIMMY" MAHLIS & JAMIE PAPISH play Sun, May 8, 7:30 pm; this is Greek and Middle Eastern Music, and these guys are very impressive. It's at Niroj Kurdish Cuisine, 30313 Canwood St, Agoura Hills 91301.
√ ★★★ ALBERT LEE & JERRY DONAHUE play Sun, May 8, 8 pm, at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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# 6 news feature...
POLITICIANS HIJACKING MUSIC
We go through this every election cycle. Some office seeker — usually a Republican — is called out by a famous musician, band, songwriter, or combination of these folks. And it's always the same story: prominently playing hijacked music to promote a campaign.
Eight years ago it was Ann and Nancy Wilson, songwriting sister duo of the band Heart, who had to threaten a high-dollar lawsuit to make VP candidate Sarah Palin stop using "Barracuda" as her theme song. A few months ago, it was presidential candidate and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie hijacking a sizeable chunk of the Bruce Springsteen catalog. Just this year, Jeb Bush, Scott Waker, and Mike Huckabee are among those called out who, having all been elected as governors, should have known better, but apparently didn't.
But if we get started on all the history, we'll be here awhile. So let's get to the now.
The problem derives from painfully stupid music licensing. The rules must be changed. Right now, anyone — including a politician — can buy a blanket license for all the material in a catalog, and arguably use it at their rallies. It's a short stretch to crafting their identity with music by someone they don't know and have never met. And now we have pseudo campaign theme songs / campaign soundtracks, and artists and songwriters wondering, WTF?
That's just plain wrong. The context in which your music is used? It's at least as definitive to your identity as to the politician playing it. No one can do that to advertise a product. You have negotiation and refusal rights for your music to sell soy sauce, software, soap, and tampons. So what's the difference with a politician who can brand you with your music at least as much as your music can brand them?
Well, as a specific thing you CAN do, that exists. The problem is the flip side — that you can't always play it that way. Because there's that nebulous territory that you think ASCAP or BMI or SESAC has covered for you, until you see a particularly repulsive politician's rally where they're playing your song.
Even when a campaign pays for a blanket license — and many don't even do that — artists can only do four things:
• be flattered by it.
• grimace and bear it.
• send a cease and desist order.
• threaten, then enact, a lawsuit.
These should all be replaced by just one thing: soecifically license it. Or not.
Instead we get a surprised, or horrified, artist spending money calling their publicist to issue a statement, after learning the hard way that their songs are promoting some politician.
Unless that politician is, say, Bernie Sanders, who is endorsed by two-thirds of Crosby, Stills & Nash and licensed to use their music.
Otherwise? Expect embarrassment, resentment, a sudden contingent of fans that are really disorienting, and inevitably, some encounter with vitriol.
Or, if you're the one needing tunefulness to pump-up crowd excitement? You might think you're a clever exploitive politician and steal from a dead guy.
Donald Trump just committed that sacrilege. Having been told by everybody from Neil Young to the Rolling Stones to cease and desist using their music at his rallies? He's now using the music of someone who can't object, because he's dead.
But there can be no doubt that departed artist would condemn Trump's lack of ideology, Trump's characteristically opportunistic ways, and condemn them every way he could, if he were here to do it.
That artist wasn't just a champion of most of what Trump has badmouthed.
That artist wasn't simply a passionate voice for protecting the planet — musically and as an activist, testifying before Congress, serving on a Presidential commission, active on the boards of many nonprofit environmental organizations.
That artist was the first one, not just from music, but all the arts, to play such a major role and mobilize the popular consciousness about caring for our little blue planet. And leading that awakening wasn't limited to his role in the U.S. — he played that role worldwide and was celebrated by the U.N. for doing it.
You see, the ever-exploitive, opportunistic predator with the uncontainable ego, the bloviator who not only doesn't know when to shut-up, but who can't and won't shut up — when what he most needs to do is listen, which he won't — the guy so arrogantly rich that he takes whatever he wants because he believes himself entitled to it — all those things that are Donald Trump? At his campaign rallies, the SOB is now playing the music of John Denver.
Y'know, Bill & Taffy Danoff have co-writes on "Take Me Home, Country Roads," the song Trump was using as a campaign singalong that made the global tv broadcast. Adding to Trump's two-billion dollars (and counting) in free media promotion for his campaign. Free coverage that includes phoners with him that pre-empt scheduled programs.
Of course, Trump, the man who can't ever be wrong about anything, has been blasted by plenty of artists whose music he has hijacked. Most recently by Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, for hihacking "Start Me Up" as his de facto campaign theme song. Like any predatory opportunist devoid of moral compass or conscious, Trump just moves on to another Borg-like assimilation of somebody else's music.
But — not having learned his lesson when he briefly stole James Taylor's music — Trump is back to messing with folk music again. The music of an artist who can't tell him what he thinks of him and his climate-change denial, xenophobia, racism, arrogance, and general odiousness.
But arrogance is always a gateway to stupidity. We suspect it's also the route to the John Denver Estate, which carefully protects the late artist's music from exploitation and use by individuals or causes the fair-haired country boy would have found objectionable.
And as we mentioned, there's also Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert Danoff, co-writers whose voices and instrumentation are on that most recent famous recording that Trump has plundered. We hope those two cloud up and rain all over him.
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# 7 news feature...
IMPENDING CELTIC FESTS
Just quickly, so you can get your kilt pressed and your bagpipes tuned (wait: those things can be TUNED?)
√ Annual "SCOTTISH FEST USA" is Sat & Sun, May 28 and 29 (part of Memorial Day Weekend) at the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. Tix and schedule are now online:
www.scottishfest.com
√ Annual "IRISH ARTS FAIR" is Sat & Sun, Jun 18 & 19 (Father's Day Weekend) at El Dorado Regional Park in Long Beach. Tix, and schedule filling-out online:
www.irishfair.org
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# 8 news feature...
DO GOOD BANJOS NEED TO BE HEAVY?
Our friends at Deering offer this as "Banjo Shopping Advice." We present it as part of our series on all things banjo and fiddle to get you ready for the Topanga Banjo•Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival, coming Sunday, May 15. Where you can Deering in their booth; the instruments they make in the hands of contestants, jammers, recreational music-makers and pros all over the site; and the Guide's founding editor doing his stage emcee duties.
See you there. Meantime, enjoy.
(BARRY HUNN, author of this feature, is Worldwide Sales Manager for Deering Banjos, a position he's held for 18 years. He has over 40 years in the music industry. He has taught five-string finger picking at the Univ. of Idaho and performed with many iconic artists, including EARL SCRUGGS, DOC WATSON, THE MAMAS & THE PAPAS, DANNY O’KEEFE, and more. He developed Deering's “TWO FINGER METHOD” to show non-musiciand that they can play the banjo. Several music historiand credit him with selling more American-made banjos than any person, ever.)
By Barry Hunn
Beginning and intermediate banjo players who are shopping for their first professional level banjo often ask the question, “do good banjos need to be heavy?” The answer lies in understanding what the parts of the banjo do to create the tone or the voice of the banjo.
Contrary to popular belief, the resonator of the banjo, while adding a pound or two to a banjo, is not the primary source of the weight that creates these questions.
Everything is a Recipe
The tone of a musical instrument is created by a combination of ingredients. The resulting weight of any instrument is not from a desire to make something heavy but to use ingredients that create a specific tone or voice for an instrument. This is true of violins, guitars, banjos and every other instrument.
The Banjo Ingredients
Bell bronze cast tone rings, like Deering’s -06- tone ring, are designed to pronounce, increase and enhance midrange frequencies which tend to give a banjo a “punchy” or strong midrange sound. This pronounced midrange helps the banjo “cut through” or be heard above other instruments.
Lighter and more hollow brass tone rings like the Vega tubaphone or Vega Senator tone rings have softer more subdued midrange frequencies, but have good low frequencies and reasonably good high frequencies which makes them sound rounder or fuller.
These have been used by folk singers, plectrum banjo players and some jazz players as solo instruments because their depth enhances a singer’s voice.
However, just because a tone ring is heavy, it does not automatically create the punch of the -06- tone ring. A case in point is the Deering Twenty-Ten brass tone ring that is featured on the Deering Eagle II banjos. It weighs almost the same as the -06- tone ring, but because of its design, it does not have the pronounced “punch” in the midrange frequencies. The midrange frequencies are flatter and the high frequencies are very strong. This unique tone comes from the alloy used and part of this comes from the shape of the tone ring.
A wood tone ring, like Deering’s John Hartford model banjo, has a very flat midrange but does not have the pronounced midrange “bump” of the -06- tone ring. This gives the wood tone ring, though it is lightweight, a strong midrange without the high-frequency enhancement that comes from the brass or bronze tone ring.
It doesn’t have the “brightness” of a brass or bronze tone ring, but the midrange is clear and easy to record and can either stand out or blend in with other instruments beautifully. Its inherent clarity or “well defined” tone allows it to “cut through,” but it does so without the brightness of a bronze or brass tone.
Tone rings like the -06- or the Twenty-Ten weigh about 3 pounds, give or take a few ounces. A Vega Tubaphone tone ring like the one featured on the Vega #2 banjo is probably closer to 2 pounds. A Vega Senator tone ring or a Hartford tone ring made of wood is probably closer to one pound or perhaps even a pound and a quarter.
The Other Weight in a Banjo
The one-piece cast zinc flange that is found on many modern banjos (like the Deering Sierra, Deluxe, Calico, GDL, etc.) weighs in the neighborhood of about 3 pounds.
There are other flange styles like bracket shoes with individual platelets or light brass tubes with thin brass plates or light brass tubes with spring steelclips (like Deering’s pop on resonator attachment).
The heavy one-piece flange is musically inert. It is designed this way so that it does not vibrate with a sound of its own. This would interfere with the sound of the tone ring vibrations and the rim and even the neck. But since it’s attached to the banjo, it does increase the mass of the pot assembly and therefore does tend to increase the sustain of the banjo. This is in addition to providing a foundational attachment for the bracket hooks.
Bracket shoes, also made of zinc alloy, are usually screwed to the rim with machine screws that are tightened from the inside of the rim. The zinc keeps them from vibrating, and they are also a foundational attachment for the bracket hooks. However, they are very lightweight, so their contribution to sustain is very limited.
The Sum of the Parts
When most customers ask why good banjos are so heavy, it is virtually always in response to picking up a modern resonator banjo with a one piece zinc flange and a resonator. Since a bell bronze tone ring is about 3 pounds, and a one piece flange is about 3 pounds, that’s 6 pounds just in those two parts.
Legends of professional banjos weighing 25 or 50 pounds are exaggerations.
A modern banjo with a bell bronze tone ring and a one piece flange usually weighs no more than 12 to 14 pounds, depending on the design of the tailpiece, the tension hope, the armrest, and the wood used in the neck, rim, and resonator. Still, 12 pounds is heavier than most acoustic guitars or violins, so the contrast makes the difference seem greater than the reality.
Not Every “Good” Banjo is Heavy
Most bluegrass banjo players prefer banjos that have a bell bronze tone ring (like the Deering -06- tone ring). So, bluegrass players have learned to recognize that a “good” banjo has a heavy tone ring and a heavy flange and weighs 12 to 14 pounds.
Many jazz and Dixieland jazz players consider a “good” banjo to be built with Tubaphone tone rings and other lightweight tone rings which translate to banjos that weigh 8 to 10 pounds.
Folk players like the Kingston Trio and Pete Seeger have traditionally considered longneck banjos with Tubaphone tone rings to be “good” banjos which weigh in the 8 pound range.
Many claw hammer players prefer open-back five-string banjos with no tone ring at all: they just want the head stretched over a Maple rim. These banjos might only weigh 5 to7 pounds, and yet they are considered “good” banjos.
The Tone is the Goal
A “good” banjo is not necessarily heavy any more than a “good” pizza crust must be thick. The tone of the banjo is determined by the choice of the tone ring, the flange design, the tailpiece design, the wood used in the rim, the neck, and the resonator, and one of the most important ingredients: precision craftsmanship. A great tone ring, not correctly fitted, will make a very mediocre sounding banjo.
Traditional and Nontraditional Choices
A 12 pound resonator banjo with a bell bronze tone ring and a one-piece zinc flange is usually, but not always, chosen by banjo players who play bluegrass music. This is often considered a “good” banjo.
A 6 pound open back banjo with no tone ring and no flange is often, but not always, chosen by banjo players who play old-time “claw hammer” style banjo.
I have met claw hammer players who loved playing 12 pound resonator banjos, and I have met fingerpicking bluegrass players who enjoyed playing lighter weight open back banjos.
The Art of You
If possible, choose a banjo with your ears and your hands and not with someone else’s predetermined ideas. Who among us would tell Leonardo da Vinci “put some teeth in that Mona Lisa smile”.
Choose the banjo based on your ideas. You are, after all, the artist.
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Originally published May 6, 2016, at:
http://blog.deeringbanjos.com/good-banjos-need-to-be-heavy/
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# 9 news feature...
AUCTION ITEMS ANNOUNCED FOR "ADOPT THE ARTS" BENEFIT CONCERT, COMING MAY 12th IN HOLLYWOOD
Since the systematic defunding of arts and music programs in public schools nationwide, school districts that value and want programs for their students have had to innovate. In the LAUSD, one such innovation — and one uniquely suited to work in a city with a huge population of famous music-makers — is the "Adopt the Arts" Benefit Concert and its auction of donated instruments from famous players.
It happens Thursday, May 12, at the Henry Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Bl, in Hollywood.
Live auction were announced late this week. And it was issued in all caps:
MUSIC LUMINARIES TO HONOR AND PERFORM WITH 2016 ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES GLENN HUGHES & ROBIN ZANDER
RED CARPET (6 PM)
CONCERT BEGINS (7:30 PM)
ADOPT THE ARTS PROCEEDS CREATE MUSIC AND ARTS PROGRAMS IN LAUSD SCHOOLS
One auction item: a METALLICA guitar signed by the band. Keep reading.
ADOPT THE ARTS will launch a live benefit concert and live auction for LAUSD elementary schools. Music luminaries will gather to perform with and honor 2016 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees GLENN HUGHES (Deep Purple) and ROBIN ZANDER (Cheap Trick) for their contributions to American art and culture. Proceeds from the concert and auction will be donated to ADOPT THE ARTS music programs in LAUSD elementary schools (see VIP ticket/donation below).
Tickets are on-sale now at http://www.axs.com/events/308980/glenn-huges-robin-zander-tickets?skin=thefonda.
Comedian HAL SPARKS will be a part of the night's festivities.
Musicians confirmed to perform include ADOPT THE ARTS founder MATT SORUM (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, Hollywood Vampires) along with GEEZER BUTLER (Black Sabbath), STEVE JONES (Sex Pistols), COREY TAYLOR (Slipknot), GILBY CLARKE (Guns N' Roses), BILLY DUFFY (The Cult), DEAN DELEO & ROBERT DELEO (Stone Temple Pilots), STEVE LUKATHER (Toto), CHAD SMITH (Red Hot Chili Peppers), FRANKY PEREZ (Apocalyptica), STEVIE SALAS (Mick Jagger), PAUL III (Tina Turner, Disreputable Few), DAMON FOX (Big Elf and The Cult,) and DJ MORTY COYLE.
The Auction
Between live performances, guests will enjoy a live and silent auction featuring some of the following items from ADOPT THE ARTS supporters:
• ADOPT THE ARTS: Two Signed Concert Event Guitars (signed by all musicians above).
• SHEPARD FAIREY: Fine Art piece, "Black Sabbath," Print on metal (retail $3000.00).
• WOODY GUTHRIE: Signed Canvas Screen Print, 18' X 24" (numbered, edition of 450)
• 2010 IGGY POP Signed Raw Power Screen Print, 18' X 24" (numbered, edition of 650)
• 2010 BLACK SABBATH Signed Silver Black Crescent Print 18' X 24" (numbered, edition of 125) 2013 (www.obeygiant.com)
• METALLICA: Guitar signed by the band Metallica.
• SLASH: Guitar signed by Slash (Slash Featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators, Guns N' Roses).
• JOE PERRY: Guitar signed by Joe Perry (Aerosmith, Hollywood Vampires).
• BRIAN MAY: Guitar signed by Brian May (QUEEN).
• DAVE GROHL: Guitar signed by Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters).
• JOURNEY: Guitar signed by Journey, Paul Reed Smith Se14 played by Neal Schon.
• MAROON 5: Guitar signed by the band Maroon 5.
• ELTON JOHN/DAVEY JOHNSTON: Signed guitar from Davey Johnston, legendary Elton John guitarist.
• MATT SORUM: Three signed Guns N' Roses drumheads signed by Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses).
• PRINCE: Color print photo of Prince from rock photographer Gene Kirkland (signed). (www.genekirklandphotography.com)
• JOAN JETT & CHEAP TRICK: VIP Meet and Greet package at Los Angeles concert, August 23 at The Forum.
• CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG: 1974 box set.
• RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE: deluxe box set.
• AFRICAN SAFARI: All-inclusive eco-luxury African safari trip.
• LAGUNA MONTAGE: Two-night luxury hotel stay and lunch with drummer Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses).
• SAMMY HAGAR: signed cook book, two bottles of Bum Rum and two t-shirts.
• JOHN VARVATOS: Four 4.2 oz colognes, "Vintage," "Artisan," "Dark Rebel," "Artisan Acqua." One pair of Aviator sunglasses (retail $295.00). Signed copy of John Varvatos' limited edition book, "Rock In Fashion" (retail $495.00). Weekender duffle bag (retail $1595.00).
• KLIPTSCH SPEAKER SYSTEM: Kliptsch Designer Speaker System (Retail $1,500).
• ZALEMARK (jewelry): Sterling 925 Silver: Crayola Colored Inspired Ladies Bracelet set 5.24 cts Natural African Amethysts & White Sapphires (Retail $ 1494.00). Sterling 925 Silver: Crayola Colored Inspired Ladies Ring set with 9mm Princess Cut Natural Madera Citrine & 1.10cts of White Sapphires (Size 7, Retail $ 1632.00). Sterling 925 Silver: Set of 5, Crayola Colored Inspired Ladies Stackable 5 bracelets set (Made in Italy) with magnetic clasps (Retail $ 1215.00).
__________
Ticket prices for the ADOPT THE ARTS event are below and all donations are tax deductible:
• GA/Standing room - $40 Tickets
• Balcony seating - $75
• Special floor seating - $125
And there are expensive options:
Meet & Greet tables & tickets -SOLD OUT!
VIP TABLES - $2500 (2 left)
Floor Tables - $1500 (2 left)
All tix are on-sale now and can be purchased at :
http://adoptthearts.org
and at:
http://www.axs.com/events/308980/glenn-huges-robin-zander-tickets?skin=thefonda.
ADOPT THE ARTS (www.adoptthearts.org) is a Los Angeles-based charity co-founded by musician Matt Sorum and activist Abby Berman, and actively supported by artists like actress Jane Lynch (founding board member). The organization works to preserve arts programs in U.S. public schools.
To raise awareness, ADOPT THE ARTS honors individuals who've had a long-lasting impact on music culture and who inspire young musicians to follow in their footsteps. The ADOPT THE ARTS advisory board includes: SLASH, JOHN STAMOS, BILLY BOB THORTON, STEVE STEVENS, JULIETTE LEWIS, DANNY MASTERSON, SHEPARD FAIREY, ADRIAN YOUNG and GINA GERSHON.
According to Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), there are still not enough teachers, equipment or instruments for every child to receive an arts education of any kind. As in many school districts around the country, LAUSD has been slowly eroding its commitment to arts education, reducing the budget incrementally. The LAUSD district also estimates that 80% of its student body is living at or below the poverty line, which means the vast majority of these elementary school children will not have access to the arts outside of school.
"I'm extremely honored to be accepting an award from such an admirable charity, Adopt the Arts," explains GLENN HUGHES. "Matt Sorum has gone to great lengths to help create a program for children to have musical instruments in their lives and in turn to provide love and harmony in our lives. I'm humbled and grateful. See you at the event at the Henry Fonda Theatre in Hollywood on Thursday, May 12. I'm really looking forward to performing for you all, let's make it a magical night."
"All of my career I've been involved in promoting the arts in elementary schools and I'm proud to be part of Adopt the Arts Honors," adds ROBIN ZANDER. My thanks goes out to the foundation and I hope that fans everywhere will come and join us for a successful evening of fun, music and fundraising. See you there."
"Adopt the Arts was born out of the frustration for my own children losing education in the arts," explains ADOPT THE ARTS co-founder Abby Berman. "When the system is failing, we have to take action. With influential people like my co-founder Matt Sorum adopting schools, we can preserve this valuable component to childhood development, which is also known to boost test scores. Because Federal and State funding is falling short, the responsibility is upon us as concerned parents and citizens to ensure we're raising a new generation of healthy and well-rounded individuals."
ADOPT THE ARTS Chair and Co-founder Matt Sorum adds, "We're starting in our own backyard here in Los Angeles, and we'll continue to adopt schools across the nation. We believe that music and art are universal and necessary languages that unite us all, regardless of our backgrounds."
www.adoptthearts.org
https://www.facebook.com/adopt.the.arts
https://twitter.com/AdopttheArts
++++++++++
# 10 news feature...
ACCLAIMED SINGER-SONGWRITER DARRYL PURPOSE's "STILL THE BIRDS" RELEASED MAY 6
"Yes, Darryl Purpose sounds like James Taylor. And, yes, he has an amazing backstory... These songs are so good they eclipse all that. Purpose has a rare flair for writing memorable mellifluous melodies, and on 'Still the Birds' he pairs them with marvelous lyrics by Paul Zollo, who has written a rhyming dictionary and shows it by pairing 'Halloween' with 'gabardine.' Purpose's folksy tunes enchant thanks to their surprising twists, such as the octave-and-a-half leap in the chorus of 'When Buddha Smiled at the Elephant.' Elsewhere he sings about gangs, devotion, Dylan Thomas, and wars today and two centuries ago. Keep this up, and someday folks will say James Taylor sounds like Darryl Purpose." — Steve Wine, Associated Press.
"Fascinating, ingratiating, controversial, interesting, deep and somewhat off-center…" — Frank Roberts, Virginian-Pilot.
Before we share or say more? The proof is always in the listening. Preview DARRYL PURPOSE's "STILL THE BIRDS" at:
https://soundcloud.com/darryl-purpose/sets/stillthebirds/s-2hbFs
Out now on Blue Rock Artists is songwriter-singer DARRYL PURPOSE’s "STILL THE BIRDS," his 7th solo release. Produced by Billy Crockett at Blue Rock Studios in Wimberly, TX it features 11 songs co-written by Darryl Purpose and L.A. musician, songwriter, and photographer Paul Zollo.
Purpose does the vocals and plays the acoustic guitar. Joining him in the studio were a stellar lineup. There's Roscoe Beck on bass (Leonard Cohen, The Dixie Chicks, Robben Ford); Eric Darken on percussion (Jimmy Buffet, Carrie Underwood); Daran DeShazo on electric guitar; Grammy-winning accordion and keyboard player Joel Guzman; and Billy Crockett.
"STILL THE BIRDS" features a duet with Eliza Gilkyson (“The Meaning Of My Love”), with additional guest vocals by Jonathan Byrd, Carrie Elkin, Matt Nakoa, Betty Soo, and others.
The 11 songs on "STILL THE BIRDS" paint compelling vignettes exploring the human condition — the tension between dark and light, despair and hope, vulnerability and triumphs. There's a Vietnam draft-dodger coming unhinged ("Hours in a Day"); the gangs of L.A. ("Evergreen Avenue"); twists on literary icons Dylan Thomas ("Prince of the Apple Towns") and Edgar Allen Poe ("Baltimore"); to Buddha ("When Buddha Smiled at the Elephant"); the Civil War ("Shiloh"); and the redemption of love ("Everywhere At Once"). Zollo's tales explore the tension amidst triumph and vulnerability.
The songs on the album are as unique and diverse as the stories from Darryl’s kaleidoscopic life. An internationally-acclaimed touring musician, Darryl is also a member of the Blackjack Hall of Fame. He’s walked across the country for peace, been banned from casinos on six continents, played the first stadium rock concert with Santana and Bonnie Raitt in the former Soviet Union, studied with global spiritual leader Thich Nhat Hanh, and co-founded The Second Strings Project, an organization that has delivered over 20,000 sets of strings to musicians of third world and developing countries.
Exactly how many musicians can start out their story with, "I left home as a teenager and became a professional gambler"-? There really is only one…. Darryl Purpose.
Before Darryl started touring, during a period of playing open mics and showcases around L.A., he found himself in a tough situation. "I cashed a couple of checks for a 'friend' that I owed a favor to, and ended-up getting arrested for laundering drug money. I didn't have great boundaries with the law in those days."
He was facing eighteen years mandatory sentence (he would have been getting out about now) until the prosecutors figured out that he wasn't a big time criminal and reduced the charge. They sentenced him to three months in a halfway house. During the intake meeting there, they told Darryl that this was a work-release program, and that he could go home during the day if he had a job. Thinking quickly, he told them he was a nationally-touring singer-songwriter, and he would have to go home during the day and work on his career. So he did, and in that three month period he found himself a record label and a booking agent, and started touring nationally.
He was now a professional songwriter and musician. “That brush with the criminal justice system lead to my career” he says.
Starting in 1996, Darryl clocked in thousands of miles, playing for tips, sleeping in his truck, and basically getting his music out there any way he could. By 2004, and about 1500+ shows later, he had played many of the top venues in North America and Europe and had released 6 albums that all did well on folk radio. Then in 2004, “I won a couple million dollars within a few months and bought a house in my favorite place in the world - Nederland, Colorado, where I still live.”
All of which he says rather casually.
That winning year changed his life in many ways, including being able to concentrate more on his music.
Darryl likes to say that luck is a residue of design — and he has been crafting his own luck for some time now, out of whatever wreckage has come his way. Though he always wanted to be small, the universe gave him acromegaly, a disease of excess growth hormone. So he went big, and lived his life for the story.
DARRYL PURPOSE's "STILL THE BIRDS" had taken flight and is available now.
"Darry Purpose's music hits all the vital areas; the heart, the mind and the gut." — Michael Tisserand, Gambit Weekly.
Recommended.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
More music news is in numerous recent editions. More on upcoming FESTIVALS and events is in the April 16 edition, available at a separate click.
Much more, soon, on additional topics.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, arts and industry events, and ticket alerts, available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
Direct to the current editions /
MOBILE-DEVICE-FRIENDLY
editions load quickly at
.
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
CONTACT US at / send Questions / Comments to: . Tiedtothetracks (at) Hotmail (dot) com
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
Contents copyright © 2016, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative 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, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
.
The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Sunday, May 1, 2016
True Storytelling: a May 1st, long ago... when people actually DID things (not virtual things)...
.
.
Saturday's FULL EDITION has today's festivals
— including today's 26th Annual "DYLANFEST"
— plus concerts, music news and feature stories, and more. It's right here at a separate click.
This edition? It's a special. A story of May 1st.
The Guide brings you storytelling festivals and events. Being based in journalism, we don't get opportunities to do much storytelling here. Unless the story is true. Presto and voila.
So we're sharing a fun true story of a time when people actually got out and DID THINGS. Real things. Like building the Empire State Building as the tallest in the world, and opening it on May 1st, 1932.
Being that it's a tale of May 1st sweetens it, because it's a much longer-standing worldwide celebration of two things:
• an ancient blessing of nature's abundance as Spring hits its stride — "Mayday;" and,
• a centuries-old celebration as "Workers' Day," or a similar title, which nutty Americans decided was some communist thing because Russia has long been among those who celebrates it.
__________
Today, our society deludes ourselves with the idea that "work" is sitting on one's derrier gazing for prolonged intervals into glowing screens.
That's the right place to contrast too much that's "fake" with the VERY REAL of going out to make or experience LIVE MUSIC (!)
It's the Guide's most oft visited theme.
The REAL is going out to actualize one's activism, to do, to interact, to learn, to advocate, to experience, to make things better.
__________
Does our story of May 1st cover all that? Well, no. But May 1st occasions the opportunity to read and go forth energized by its fun.
__________
Does this sound a bit like one of those Garrison Keillor admonitions? Well, okay. Except his are works of fiction.
Either can bring motivational, inspirational, hope-to-help-you-make-others thoughtful, let's-change-the-world aspect. It's also a story that's a whole lot of fun.
Because ...
Physically DOING exciting things — instead of "virtual" things — was what everyone did more recently than, say, thirty or forty years ago. Before all discretionary time got devoured in Cyberia. Used to be that people actually went places, smelled the scents of flowers in the air, the sudden close pass of a honeybee, the gentle rush of a breeze in a tree where birds sing, the gentle raindrops... the sound of crawfish shells bouncing off the railroad ballast (wait for it)... and when you went somewhere, you interacted with those who lived there.
In our tale, they brought important and real historical objects along, to show and to share. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s preacher's robe and vestments. Jamie Wyeth's portrait of JFK. George Washington's working copy of the U.S. Constitution as the founders were crafting it. Lincoln's stovepipe hat and his personal lawbooks. The 1904 automobile that won the first transcontinental race. Not pictures on a little screen. The real stuff.
Native American heritage was represented. Those who endured the slave ships and survived and endured and overcame. European immigrants. Asian immigrants. Latinos, Eastern Europeans, Pacific Islanders. Iconic objects important to each of these groups and their positions. The first U.S. Patent models. The Louisiana Purchase Treaty. The originals. So much more.
It happened only once, taking it all to the 48 contiguous states, bringing appreciation and imparting tangible memories.
And, well, it seems its crew even brought things beyond what anyone expected.
And that's our story of 40 years ago today.
Best of all, it is a tale with a train, AND from a very special time of celebration and excitement when America needed it as badly as any time we've ever needed something — anything real — to restore our spirit.
It was, in terms of the ability to actually do it, made possible by generations of people doing REAL work, in the construction and maintained presence of the nation's railroad network. Something which enabled all kinds of work to be done — including the journey of one unique train. Enjoy.
+ + + + + + +
(A DISTANT) MAY 1st... ABOARD THE AMERICAN FREEDOM TRAIN
Set the wayback machine. We’re doing this in the present tense. It's forty years ago today: May 1, 1976. It's the Bicentennial of the founding of the U.S., and the only project observing it that's nationwide in scope, is well into its journey.
Dubbed the American Freedom Train — AFT for short — it's a one-of-kind cutting-edge multimedia museum-and-beyond on rails, dramatically pulled by one of three vintage, massive steam locomotives. Which engine you get, based on where you are.
It's a chance for ordinary citizens to see key artifacts and experience pivotal moments from their country's history and heritage, right in their own hometowns. In the immediate wake of Vietnam, Watergate, '60s assassinations, hard-won civil rights struggles, the pride of going to the Moon but once again left with a hollow sense that it isn't going to mean anything, the nation hasn't gotten its poop in a group in time to celebrate its 200th birthday, and it isn't clear it wants to.
The American Freedom Train is proving otherwise. It's taken the West Coast, Midwest and Plains states by storm, after beginning in the East.
As night falls today, May 1, 1976, the AFT has just completed its final display day in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, its 79th city. Now the crew sits aboard the train, its doors secured and boarding ramps, concessions wagons and field paraphernalia packed-up and ready to go. But this night, the crew sits pensively, unsure whether a very special delivery will arrive in time.
Suddenly, bouncing wildly over the rutted field through the rain, it's headlights of a full-size station wagon, a locally-supplied courtesy-car. Its driver seems on a drunken sailor course to avoid puddles that might be mud bogs. It's erratically racing for the train's car number 110, the Exit Car.
The long station wagon wallops to a stop below the big baggage door. Its occupants jump out even as — over the onboard generators' roar — two blasts are heard on steam locomotive 4449's steamboat whistle. The signal for stay clear: this train is leaving NOW. Frenzy. A rapid transfer — hurling and throwing — it's all being caught, up there on the train, without loss. The crew is feeling surprised satisfaction at their prowess. All aboard: a great many brown paper shopping bags, each stapled at its top. And a whole lot of canned beer. Jax Beer from New Orleans, perhaps, but no chance to read the label. it's flying aboard in a blur. And the train has started moving.
Somehow, all the cargo, plus personal gear and the young crew, all make it up through that baggage door into the train. The station wagon is left running with lights on and keys in the ignition. The wipers are on. It disappears into the distance as the train rounds a slight curve. The train's advance person, acting in the opposite role, will have to get it.
Those brown paper bags have mostly disappared aft to the Preambles for crew who chipped-in there. Remaining portions are opened tout suite, dispensing crawfish for the Exit Car contingent.
All of it originated 60 miles away, other side of the Atchafalaya. It's a take-out special from the annual big festival of crawfish and Cajun and zydeco revelry that most of the crew, while hosting AFT visitors, missed that weekend down in Breau Bridge.
Aboard the train, consumption of crawfish has ensued. Tentatively at first, since few really know how. Jay Bumpus, whose self assurance always conveys a natural knack for anything, quickly gets everyone qualified. Bobby Skillman, raised in Baltimore on Chesapeake blue crabs, adapts rapidly. Remember these two.
Others catch on to the Bumpus crawfish-eating coaching as he chides, "Don't throw that away — you need to crack it open with your teeth. Hey! You didn't suck everything out of there! You're missing the best part!"
All of which is received with hillarity and instructional value.
On board, Sunday is rapidly becoming the wee hours of Monday. The AFT is out of Baton Rouge and soon in the middle of nowhere, en-route to its next exhibition, in New Orleans.
The train is moving especially slow on this ride. Low-lying spongy ground doesn't invite rapid conveyance of a 26-car train chockful of historical treasures.
But the rain has stopped, clouds mostly gone, and the moonlit swamp makes disposal of crawfish shells simple — with the Bumpus assurance that "the gators will eat and appreciate them." And that big open baggage door is the broad side of a barn that's not there.
The Exit Car's open baggage door, being a fishbowl for gawkers while still in Baton Rouge, gets closed and reopened several times. Each cycle, things accumulate inside. Finally, the door stays shut. Either it's a tad chilly for somebody, or it's too many bugs drawn inside by the light. Or something. It's a small accommodation amidst shared distraction and gastronomical exploration. Whatever the impetus, the door rolls shut just as the Spanish moss-draped magnolias, poking out of the swamps, are getting fairly dense and interesting with the Moon brilliant on the patches of still waters.
The tracks are probably skirting the banks of Lake Pontchartrain. But the Exit Car contingent doesn't know. They're deep in the throes of their All-Board Crawfish Festival, complete with cassette tape recorder playing Beau Jocques or Clifton Chenier or Doug Kershaw or somebody's Cajun music they've never heard but really like.
Meanwhile, the fiery spiced crustaceans necessitate prodigious quantities of beer to cool the palate. That's surely true in whatever other parts of the train are participating in parallel. Isn't it?
But aboard the Exit Car, demolished exoskeletal structures begin to appreciably accumulate by that closed sliding baggage door. Better make that, the used pile from the fresh brown bags is reaching into quite a heap. And since none of that is being cast overboard any longer, all those empty beer cans are following a similar in-car trajectory, pumping up the volume of the pile. It's now sort of a linear berm along the closed door. What archaeologists seek as broken pottery shards and ancient meal remnants from the fall of some civilization.
Of course, ingesting spicy food raises the temperature. So excess clothing starts to shed. The youthful crew's usual train-ride-in-the-Exit-Car mode — assembling a communal warren of sleeping bags — is soon populated with underwear bedecked denizens. Their faces are smeared with Louisiana hot sauce. Bellies full of crawfish, cornbread hush puppies, sweet potato pie — and beer. Ears distantly aware of Cajun music and Willie Nelson's new "Red Headed Stranger" tape, alternating on the cassette player, it's tired batteries slowing the tempo.
It's taken hours to break open and eat all that crawfish. And fight the spicy fire. There's more? Such exausting enterprise. Fade to black.
The Exit Car doesn't have any windows. When the AFT sets-up at a display site, this car is there as the place to get the visitors out of the train before they wander into two cars of big diesel-powered electric generators.
Two of those four generators are always on. Always. Meaning, they prevent you from hearing much of anything that's outside, so you need to roll-open the big door and look.
If you ride a train all the time, you can sleep when it moves. If something changes, you wake up. And there is a realization among the Exit Car's crawfish-indulging ferroequinologists that the train has stopped moving. And now there seems to be a bullhorn or something out there somewhere, but you can't make it out over the generators.
The intrepid Jay Bumpus reckons he should determine night or day and location. Clad only in his boxers, he grabs the lock lever and throws the two-armed thrust needed to propel the sliding door, voicing a playful "Open Says-me."
Whereupon daylight blindness strikes; as a clattering and hollow clunking rain of empty beer cans and crawfish fragments depart the car, accelerated by gravity onto the tracks' gravel ballast, steel rail, and freshly-installed concrete sidewalk. Surrounding the base of the brand-new spiffy New Orleans Superdome.
Where the welcoming ceremony is underway with the mayor of NOLA, governor of Louisiana, dignitaries, luminaries, functionaries, and two senior management bosses of the American Freedom Train. The official aspects — the tableau thousands have come to see — supplanted by a cacaphonous clatter advertising the open door's raised dais of boxer shorts. It begins to pivot the tv cameras — as giant as battleship turrets in 1976 — from the intended scene to the latter spectacle.
It's the moment in life when cacophonous horns instantly blare inside your head.
A leaping Bobby Skillman is on it in a flash, reaching the door, crushing the last empty transient can or two, as it slams shut with the salvation of a loud metallic thud. Total elapsed time the door is open? A six or seven second lifetime.
Ahead here in New Orleans, in the shadow of the Superdome, the rest of the day is maintainence. The steam locomotive crew will do an al fresco annual heavy servicing and inspection regimen — to federal standards — that warranted a roundhouse 20 years earlier, in steam days.
All that will consume the arrival day and May 3-9, 1976, when the train sends thousands of thrilled visitors through the exhibits aboard its display cars. Most will say the moving rubber sidewalks — "the belts" — "went too fast."
Then New Orleans, the 80th host city, will be in the history books. Many more stops lie ahead, including a three-month foray all the way up into New England again. Before the train closes forever in the final minutes of 1976, completing its 138th display site in Miami, Florida.
In January, 1977, Jimmy Carter will be inaugurated as President of the United States, and the steam locomotive will begin its trip home to Portland, Oregon, where it had been rescued from being stuffed-and-mounted in a park, and rebuilt to do the work — all the way to Washington, D.C., and eventually, Miami.
But as May begins and the pile of trackside detritus is swept-up in New Orleans, the American Freedom Train has eight months to go.
And the belts will go too fast, to the very end. But there'll never be another clattering rain of crustaceans and aluminum to accompany a dedication ceremony like the one outside Louisiana's brand-new Superdome the morning of May 2nd, 1976. Voulez les bon temps roulez.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
Music news, FESTIVALS, and events are in the UPDATED edition originally published April 16 and available at a separate click.
Much more, soon, on other topics.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, arts and industry events, and ticket alerts, available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+
Direct to the current editions /
MOBILE-DEVICE-FRIENDLY
editions load quickly at
.
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
CONTACT US at / send Questions / Comments to: . Tiedtothetracks (at) Hotmail (dot) com
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
Contents copyright © 2016, Lawrence Wines & Tied to the Tracks. All rights reserved.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative 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, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
.
The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
.
<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>-<^>
.
.
Saturday's FULL EDITION has today's festivals
— including today's 26th Annual "DYLANFEST"
— plus concerts, music news and feature stories, and more. It's right here at a separate click.
This edition? It's a special. A story of May 1st.
The Guide brings you storytelling festivals and events. Being based in journalism, we don't get opportunities to do much storytelling here. Unless the story is true. Presto and voila.
So we're sharing a fun true story of a time when people actually got out and DID THINGS. Real things. Like building the Empire State Building as the tallest in the world, and opening it on May 1st, 1932.
Being that it's a tale of May 1st sweetens it, because it's a much longer-standing worldwide celebration of two things:
• an ancient blessing of nature's abundance as Spring hits its stride — "Mayday;" and,
• a centuries-old celebration as "Workers' Day," or a similar title, which nutty Americans decided was some communist thing because Russia has long been among those who celebrates it.
__________
Today, our society deludes ourselves with the idea that "work" is sitting on one's derrier gazing for prolonged intervals into glowing screens.
That's the right place to contrast too much that's "fake" with the VERY REAL of going out to make or experience LIVE MUSIC (!)
It's the Guide's most oft visited theme.
The REAL is going out to actualize one's activism, to do, to interact, to learn, to advocate, to experience, to make things better.
__________
Does our story of May 1st cover all that? Well, no. But May 1st occasions the opportunity to read and go forth energized by its fun.
__________
Does this sound a bit like one of those Garrison Keillor admonitions? Well, okay. Except his are works of fiction.
Either can bring motivational, inspirational, hope-to-help-you-make-others thoughtful, let's-change-the-world aspect. It's also a story that's a whole lot of fun.
Because ...
Physically DOING exciting things — instead of "virtual" things — was what everyone did more recently than, say, thirty or forty years ago. Before all discretionary time got devoured in Cyberia. Used to be that people actually went places, smelled the scents of flowers in the air, the sudden close pass of a honeybee, the gentle rush of a breeze in a tree where birds sing, the gentle raindrops... the sound of crawfish shells bouncing off the railroad ballast (wait for it)... and when you went somewhere, you interacted with those who lived there.
In our tale, they brought important and real historical objects along, to show and to share. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s preacher's robe and vestments. Jamie Wyeth's portrait of JFK. George Washington's working copy of the U.S. Constitution as the founders were crafting it. Lincoln's stovepipe hat and his personal lawbooks. The 1904 automobile that won the first transcontinental race. Not pictures on a little screen. The real stuff.
Native American heritage was represented. Those who endured the slave ships and survived and endured and overcame. European immigrants. Asian immigrants. Latinos, Eastern Europeans, Pacific Islanders. Iconic objects important to each of these groups and their positions. The first U.S. Patent models. The Louisiana Purchase Treaty. The originals. So much more.
It happened only once, taking it all to the 48 contiguous states, bringing appreciation and imparting tangible memories.
And, well, it seems its crew even brought things beyond what anyone expected.
And that's our story of 40 years ago today.
Best of all, it is a tale with a train, AND from a very special time of celebration and excitement when America needed it as badly as any time we've ever needed something — anything real — to restore our spirit.
It was, in terms of the ability to actually do it, made possible by generations of people doing REAL work, in the construction and maintained presence of the nation's railroad network. Something which enabled all kinds of work to be done — including the journey of one unique train. Enjoy.
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(A DISTANT) MAY 1st... ABOARD THE AMERICAN FREEDOM TRAIN
Set the wayback machine. We’re doing this in the present tense. It's forty years ago today: May 1, 1976. It's the Bicentennial of the founding of the U.S., and the only project observing it that's nationwide in scope, is well into its journey.
Dubbed the American Freedom Train — AFT for short — it's a one-of-kind cutting-edge multimedia museum-and-beyond on rails, dramatically pulled by one of three vintage, massive steam locomotives. Which engine you get, based on where you are.
It's a chance for ordinary citizens to see key artifacts and experience pivotal moments from their country's history and heritage, right in their own hometowns. In the immediate wake of Vietnam, Watergate, '60s assassinations, hard-won civil rights struggles, the pride of going to the Moon but once again left with a hollow sense that it isn't going to mean anything, the nation hasn't gotten its poop in a group in time to celebrate its 200th birthday, and it isn't clear it wants to.
The American Freedom Train is proving otherwise. It's taken the West Coast, Midwest and Plains states by storm, after beginning in the East.
As night falls today, May 1, 1976, the AFT has just completed its final display day in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, its 79th city. Now the crew sits aboard the train, its doors secured and boarding ramps, concessions wagons and field paraphernalia packed-up and ready to go. But this night, the crew sits pensively, unsure whether a very special delivery will arrive in time.
Suddenly, bouncing wildly over the rutted field through the rain, it's headlights of a full-size station wagon, a locally-supplied courtesy-car. Its driver seems on a drunken sailor course to avoid puddles that might be mud bogs. It's erratically racing for the train's car number 110, the Exit Car.
The long station wagon wallops to a stop below the big baggage door. Its occupants jump out even as — over the onboard generators' roar — two blasts are heard on steam locomotive 4449's steamboat whistle. The signal for stay clear: this train is leaving NOW. Frenzy. A rapid transfer — hurling and throwing — it's all being caught, up there on the train, without loss. The crew is feeling surprised satisfaction at their prowess. All aboard: a great many brown paper shopping bags, each stapled at its top. And a whole lot of canned beer. Jax Beer from New Orleans, perhaps, but no chance to read the label. it's flying aboard in a blur. And the train has started moving.
Somehow, all the cargo, plus personal gear and the young crew, all make it up through that baggage door into the train. The station wagon is left running with lights on and keys in the ignition. The wipers are on. It disappears into the distance as the train rounds a slight curve. The train's advance person, acting in the opposite role, will have to get it.
Those brown paper bags have mostly disappared aft to the Preambles for crew who chipped-in there. Remaining portions are opened tout suite, dispensing crawfish for the Exit Car contingent.
All of it originated 60 miles away, other side of the Atchafalaya. It's a take-out special from the annual big festival of crawfish and Cajun and zydeco revelry that most of the crew, while hosting AFT visitors, missed that weekend down in Breau Bridge.
Aboard the train, consumption of crawfish has ensued. Tentatively at first, since few really know how. Jay Bumpus, whose self assurance always conveys a natural knack for anything, quickly gets everyone qualified. Bobby Skillman, raised in Baltimore on Chesapeake blue crabs, adapts rapidly. Remember these two.
Others catch on to the Bumpus crawfish-eating coaching as he chides, "Don't throw that away — you need to crack it open with your teeth. Hey! You didn't suck everything out of there! You're missing the best part!"
All of which is received with hillarity and instructional value.
On board, Sunday is rapidly becoming the wee hours of Monday. The AFT is out of Baton Rouge and soon in the middle of nowhere, en-route to its next exhibition, in New Orleans.
The train is moving especially slow on this ride. Low-lying spongy ground doesn't invite rapid conveyance of a 26-car train chockful of historical treasures.
But the rain has stopped, clouds mostly gone, and the moonlit swamp makes disposal of crawfish shells simple — with the Bumpus assurance that "the gators will eat and appreciate them." And that big open baggage door is the broad side of a barn that's not there.
The Exit Car's open baggage door, being a fishbowl for gawkers while still in Baton Rouge, gets closed and reopened several times. Each cycle, things accumulate inside. Finally, the door stays shut. Either it's a tad chilly for somebody, or it's too many bugs drawn inside by the light. Or something. It's a small accommodation amidst shared distraction and gastronomical exploration. Whatever the impetus, the door rolls shut just as the Spanish moss-draped magnolias, poking out of the swamps, are getting fairly dense and interesting with the Moon brilliant on the patches of still waters.
The tracks are probably skirting the banks of Lake Pontchartrain. But the Exit Car contingent doesn't know. They're deep in the throes of their All-Board Crawfish Festival, complete with cassette tape recorder playing Beau Jocques or Clifton Chenier or Doug Kershaw or somebody's Cajun music they've never heard but really like.
Meanwhile, the fiery spiced crustaceans necessitate prodigious quantities of beer to cool the palate. That's surely true in whatever other parts of the train are participating in parallel. Isn't it?
But aboard the Exit Car, demolished exoskeletal structures begin to appreciably accumulate by that closed sliding baggage door. Better make that, the used pile from the fresh brown bags is reaching into quite a heap. And since none of that is being cast overboard any longer, all those empty beer cans are following a similar in-car trajectory, pumping up the volume of the pile. It's now sort of a linear berm along the closed door. What archaeologists seek as broken pottery shards and ancient meal remnants from the fall of some civilization.
Of course, ingesting spicy food raises the temperature. So excess clothing starts to shed. The youthful crew's usual train-ride-in-the-Exit-Car mode — assembling a communal warren of sleeping bags — is soon populated with underwear bedecked denizens. Their faces are smeared with Louisiana hot sauce. Bellies full of crawfish, cornbread hush puppies, sweet potato pie — and beer. Ears distantly aware of Cajun music and Willie Nelson's new "Red Headed Stranger" tape, alternating on the cassette player, it's tired batteries slowing the tempo.
It's taken hours to break open and eat all that crawfish. And fight the spicy fire. There's more? Such exausting enterprise. Fade to black.
The Exit Car doesn't have any windows. When the AFT sets-up at a display site, this car is there as the place to get the visitors out of the train before they wander into two cars of big diesel-powered electric generators.
Two of those four generators are always on. Always. Meaning, they prevent you from hearing much of anything that's outside, so you need to roll-open the big door and look.
If you ride a train all the time, you can sleep when it moves. If something changes, you wake up. And there is a realization among the Exit Car's crawfish-indulging ferroequinologists that the train has stopped moving. And now there seems to be a bullhorn or something out there somewhere, but you can't make it out over the generators.
The intrepid Jay Bumpus reckons he should determine night or day and location. Clad only in his boxers, he grabs the lock lever and throws the two-armed thrust needed to propel the sliding door, voicing a playful "Open Says-me."
Whereupon daylight blindness strikes; as a clattering and hollow clunking rain of empty beer cans and crawfish fragments depart the car, accelerated by gravity onto the tracks' gravel ballast, steel rail, and freshly-installed concrete sidewalk. Surrounding the base of the brand-new spiffy New Orleans Superdome.
Where the welcoming ceremony is underway with the mayor of NOLA, governor of Louisiana, dignitaries, luminaries, functionaries, and two senior management bosses of the American Freedom Train. The official aspects — the tableau thousands have come to see — supplanted by a cacaphonous clatter advertising the open door's raised dais of boxer shorts. It begins to pivot the tv cameras — as giant as battleship turrets in 1976 — from the intended scene to the latter spectacle.
It's the moment in life when cacophonous horns instantly blare inside your head.
A leaping Bobby Skillman is on it in a flash, reaching the door, crushing the last empty transient can or two, as it slams shut with the salvation of a loud metallic thud. Total elapsed time the door is open? A six or seven second lifetime.
Ahead here in New Orleans, in the shadow of the Superdome, the rest of the day is maintainence. The steam locomotive crew will do an al fresco annual heavy servicing and inspection regimen — to federal standards — that warranted a roundhouse 20 years earlier, in steam days.
All that will consume the arrival day and May 3-9, 1976, when the train sends thousands of thrilled visitors through the exhibits aboard its display cars. Most will say the moving rubber sidewalks — "the belts" — "went too fast."
Then New Orleans, the 80th host city, will be in the history books. Many more stops lie ahead, including a three-month foray all the way up into New England again. Before the train closes forever in the final minutes of 1976, completing its 138th display site in Miami, Florida.
In January, 1977, Jimmy Carter will be inaugurated as President of the United States, and the steam locomotive will begin its trip home to Portland, Oregon, where it had been rescued from being stuffed-and-mounted in a park, and rebuilt to do the work — all the way to Washington, D.C., and eventually, Miami.
But as May begins and the pile of trackside detritus is swept-up in New Orleans, the American Freedom Train has eight months to go.
And the belts will go too fast, to the very end. But there'll never be another clattering rain of crustaceans and aluminum to accompany a dedication ceremony like the one outside Louisiana's brand-new Superdome the morning of May 2nd, 1976. Voulez les bon temps roulez.
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Music news, FESTIVALS, and events are in the UPDATED edition originally published April 16 and available at a separate click.
Much more, soon, on other topics.
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, arts and industry events, and ticket alerts, available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative 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, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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Saturday, April 30, 2016
Adieu April, Welcome May! News, Weekend Events (and Beyond), and More, within...
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Here's a nice, full edition with PLENTY of fun options this weekend and way beyond, and other good stuff.
• Interested in your Saturday & Sunday? Check out features 1, 2, 4, 5, & 8.
• Number 3 is about a Saturday deadline to perform at FAR-West in October.
• And features 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 are about music topics or future events.
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Specifically, this is what awaits you here...
1) 26th Annual "DYLANFEST" IS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 1st
2) SCHEDULE: CONCERT PICKS, FESTIVALS, ARTS & ACTIVISM, THIS WEEKEND & ONWARD
3) DEADLINE for FAR-West Official Showcase Submissions 2016 is SATURDAY, APRIL 30
4) MUSIC OF MASSIVE CONCERT ORGAN RE-CREATES ORIGINAL 1920 "ZORRO" SOUNDTRACK FOR SCREENING THIS SUNDAY
5) McCABE'S ADDS SHOWS, BOLSTERING STRONG CONCERT SCHEDULE
6) BANJO VIDEO FROM DEERING "WOODROOM SESSIONS" WITH GRAMMY NOM ELLE KING
7) CLASSICAL CONCERT PICK OF THE MONTH, MAY 19-21
8) TRAD FOLK-AMERICANA EXCELLENCE AT COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE: THIS WEEKEND, INTO MAY
9) 30th annual "LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL" coming June 18 & 19, 2016
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Let's get started!
★★★★★★★★★★★★★
# 1 news feature...
26th Annual "DYLANFEST" IS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 1st
Whether you come from the deeply steeped traditions of Folk-Americana, or anyplace else tangent to the Great American Songbook, there's no argument that Bob Dylan is one of our greatest and most prolific songwriters, whose catalog includes more instantly recognizable classics than anyone else's.
And if there's a better annual tribute festival, to any artist, we haven't found it. This event reliably brings wonderful musicians — including top L.A. studio musicians, some prominent touring types fresh off the road, and award-winning top local bands. Numbering more than 60, they meld into ensembles and deliver plenty of panache, artistry and energy to 60 Bob Dylan originals — without a single repeat, all day.
Personally, we're thrilled that two of our seldom-performed favorites are in the program — "The Hour When the Ship Comes In," and "Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again." Plus literally dozens of songs everybody recognizes.
Dylanfest is held in the spacious outdoor courtyard of the Torrance Cultural Center complex (address below). It's under a peripheral, partial canopy, of trees that doesn't block views of the stage. The sound system is excellent. There's plenty of accessible adjacent indoor space where you can find the photo gallery of all 25 past Dylanfests, and cool surroundings if you want them. It has great facilities, good food and libations are available, and a whole lot of fun awaits singing along with dancers costumed as characters from the songs.
We bring you the full story every year, and our first feature this year was more than two months ago. But if you missed all that, tix ARE still available.
Here's the full schedule, right after these LATE DETAILS.
√ Save $5 off the door price with online tix purchase at www.andyandrenee.com
√ You can stay for as much or as little of the festival as you like and can come and go as you please (but why would you want to miss anything?)
√ Because of insurance and permit issues, pets or outside food or drink are not allowed at Dylanfest.
√ Cash or credit cards for tickets and merchandise at the show. Food is CASH ONLY.
√ Want to see what's in store for you? Their website has music videos of last year's 25th anniversary Dylanfest. You can watch:
"Queen Jane Approximately"
"Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues"
"Every Grain Of Sand"
All, plus tix and info, at:
www.andyandrenee.com
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DOORS / GATES open at 11:45 am, MUSIC STARTS at 12:30 pm.
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2016 DYLANFEST SET LIST:
(Print or copy into your phone and take it with you)...
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
1) Love Minus Zero/No Limit
2) The Hour When the Ship Comes In
3) Workingman's Blues #2
4) Girl From The North Country, feat. Evyn Charles
5) Emotionally Yours
Uncle John's Band:
6) Up to Me - John Rosenberg
The Batti Family:
7) It Ain't Me Babe
Daniel Leanse:
8) One More Cup of Coffee
Brax Cutchin:
9) Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You. Steve w/ bass
Catalina Kings:
10) Thunder on the Mountain
11) Cry Awhile
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
12) For Ramona
13) My Back Pages
14) I Shall Be Released
15) Caribbean Wind
16) The Mighty Quinn, feat. Fuzzy Thurston (Craig Gross)
17) Born in Time - Terry Buck
18) Slow Train Comin' - Paul Zollo
19) Watching the River Flow - John Brown
20) You Ain't Goin' Nowhere
Bob Hawkins:
21) One Too Many Mornings
John Hoke w/ Bob Hawkins:
22) Make You Feel My Love
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
23) True Love Tends to Forget
24) Is Your Love in Vain?
25) Senor - Al Diesan
26) Changing of the Guards
27) It's All Over Now, Baby Blue - Renee
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
28) Things Have Changed
29) Every Grain of Sand
30) Tambourine Man w/ John Hoke, Dave Crossland, Andy
Bellylove:
31 Leopardskin Pillbox Hat
32) Man of Peace
Dave Leahy:
33) Florida Key
34) Wagon Wheel
Patti Orbeck:
35) I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
36) I Believe in You
Jack of Hearts:
37) Days of 49
38) Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again
Renee / Marty / Andy:
39) With God on Our Side
Hard Rain / Trish Gomez:
40) Subterranean Homesick Blues
Pillow of Wrongness:
41) Positively 4th Street
42) From A Buick Six
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
43) Rainy Day Women
Davey Allen:
44) Maggie's Farm
Dave Crossland - w/ Bob Hawkins:
45) Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
46) Don't Think Twice - Renee
47) Hurricane w/ Jamie Daniels
Karen Nash:
48) I Want You
Bob Malone:
49) Tangled Up In Blue
Barley:
50) Forever Young
51) Paths of Victory
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
52) Blowin' in the Wind
Scott Gerber:
53) Ballad of a Thin Man
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
54) Chimes of Freedom
55) Knockin on Heaven's Door
56) Blind Willie McTell - Fuzzy Thurston
57) Silvio
Luis Oliart:
58) All Along The Watchtower
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
59) Serve Somebody - Renee
60) Like A Rolling Stone- Andy
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THE VENUE...
The Torino Plaza at the Torrence Cultural Center complex, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance 90503. Ample free parking.
Tix (discounted in advance) and more info:
www.andyandrenee.com
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# 2 news feature...
SCHEDULE: CONCERT PICKS, FESTIVALS, ARTS & ACTIVISM, THIS WEEKEND & ONWARD
(Notes: (a) shows at the Coffee Gallery Backstage have full write-ups in a SEPARATE feature, and (b) events with individual feature story write-ups — at various venues — are NOT double-listed here.)
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Saturday,
and Sat & Sun
events
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√ Annual "ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED FESTIVAL," Sat & Sun, Apr 30 & May 1, noon-10 pm Sat, noon-7 pm Sun, has stages and various performance locations along Adams Avenue in San Diego 92116. With Nathan & Jessie, Patty Hall & Gregory Martin Campbell, Fanny & the Atta Boys, Yale Strom & Hot Pstromi, Bill Dempsey, Jeff Berkley, Joe Rathburn, G Burns Jug Band, Gregory Page, Sara Petite & The Sugar Daddies, Ross Altman, and more.
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√ Annual "STAGECOACH FESTIVAL" runs through Sun, May 1, at Empire Polo Club in Indio. Two stages of the best of roots-Americana. Publicized headliners are all Nashville pop-country acts.
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√ Annual "New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival" is happening all weekend through May 1st in "the other LA," Louisiana.
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√ Annual "BAY AREA STORYTELLING FESTIVAL" Sat & Sun, Apr 30 & May 1, in Northern Cal at the Orinda Community Center, 28 Orinda Way, Orinda 94563.
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√ Annual "Spring Concert" by the SCOTTISH FIDDLERS OF LOS ANGELES, Sat, Apr 30, 3:30 pm at the Pasadena Central Library, in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101.
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√ BURNING HEART BLUEGRASS plus CHRIS CERNA & BLUEGRASS REPUBLIC, Sat, Apr 30, 8 pm, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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Sunday-only
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√ "MAY DAY," Sun, May 1, noon, at 11th & Figueroa (near Staples Center / L.A. Live / Grammy Museum), downtown L.A. Not specifically a music event; centers on social activism and a call for action to "protect our families, jobs, and future." Los Angeles County Federation of Labor Central Labor Council is taking part. Info, 213-353-1784.
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√ Latin Grammy nom Sandra Sandia plays the "Matinee Kids' Show" Sun, May 1, 11 am, at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl (at 31st St), Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com
Those with little ones will want to catch this show with Sandra Sandia. Sandia performs original Spanish music with her band. Her debut album, "Sandra Sandia," was released in 2008 and was a nominee for the 2010 Latin Grammys in the Children's Music Category. Sandra recently released her second CD,"Alegria," which provides an explosive fusion of Samba, Axe, Cumbia, Bossa Nova, and Funk,creating a joyous musical experience. She brings an eclectic collection of instruments to the stage for a joyous musical vibration. When not on stage, Sandra facilitates drum circles for children and adults (in Spanish and English) as a means to get happy and empower individuals with music. "Con Alegria se gana La Loteria!" ("With happiness you win the lottery!")
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√ Live Music Accompanying Classic Silent Film, Sun, May 1, 3 pm, at the Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa. See feature story in this edition.
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√ RODNEY CROWELL plays Sun, May 1, 7:30 pm, for the AMSD Concerts Series, in the Laura R. Charles Theater at Sweetwater High School , 2900 Highland Av, National City (San Diego Co.) 91950.
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Post-Weekend...
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√ Andy & Renee & Hard Rain, Thu, May 5; fresh from Dylanfest (May 1), they play the "Cinco de Mayo" show at Don the Beachcomber in Long Beach. Check www.andyandrenee.com for details.
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√ "KEITH URBAN: INSIDE THE SONGS OF RIPCORD" is Tue, May 10, 8 pm, at the GRAMMY Museum, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6800. Tix: AmEx card only, now. General on-sale starts Fri, May 6 at noon.
On May 10th, four-time GRAMMY Award winner Keith Urban celebrates the release of his eighth studio recording "RIPCORD," live in the GRAMMY Museum's Clive Davis Theater. The one night only event includes intimate performances and stories behind the writing, producing and recording of Urban's new album. It has already produced Urban's 19th and 20th No. 1 songs, "John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16," "Break On Me." From Pitbull and Nile Rodgers to Carrie Underwood and Dann Huff to Jeff Bhasker, Greg Wells and Busbee, Urban's nearly 18-month journey creating "RIPCORD" has included influential and celebrated musicians. The evening is moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares.
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√ Annual "LOS ANGELES OLD-TIME SOCIAL" runs Thu, May 12-Sat, May 14. Concerts, workshops, dances, in an immersion in the good time roots music that preceded bluegrass.
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√ Hard Rain opens for Iron Butterfly at Saint Rocke, May 12. Check www.andyandrenee.com for details.
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√ "A Conversation With Claudette Robinson And Warren 'Pete' Moore," in conjunction with the opening of "Legends of Motown: Celebrating The Miracles," is Fri, May 13, 7:30 pm, at the GRAMMY Museum, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6800. Tix avail. now.
The GRAMMY Museum welcomes "First Lady of Motown" Claudette Robinson and fellow founding member of The Miracles, Warren "Pete" Moore, to the Clive Davis Theater for an intimate conversation surrounding the enduring legacy of "Motown and The Miracles," moderated by GRAMMY Museum Curator Nwaka Onwusa.
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√ "The Art of Singing," Sat, May 14, 3 pm, in the Recital Hall (Music Building) at L.A. Valley College. Tix, $10, at 818-517-4102; seating is limited. It's a rare opportunity to see a true international operatic star conduct a Master Class in vocal technique and style with five up-and-coming young singers. Renowned mezzo-soprano Milena Kitic, most recently seen in L.A. Opera's recent production of "Madama Butterfly," is the special guest master teacher. More: www.centerstageopera.org
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√ Annual "TOPANGA BANJO•FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 15, at Paramount Ranch in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, near Agoura. The best one-day folk fest anywhere. Full info at:
www.topangabanjofiddle.org
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√ "Confronting Progressive Politics & the Black and Brown Vote" is not music but an L.A. Progressive Forum, Mon, May 16, 7-9 pm, at Ward AME Church, 1177 W 25th St, Los Angeles. FREE with RSVP to:
http://black-and-brown-vote.eventbrite.com
Topic: "An alliance of progressive voters across racial lines would be a political force to be reckoned with but a vacuum exists between social movements and electoral politics. Why?"
Speakers / panelists: Melina Abdullah, Chair, Pan-African Studies Department at Cal State L.A.; Black Lives Matter; Erin Aubry Kaplan, Journalist, Author of "I Heart Obama;" Mark-Anthony Johnson, Dignity & Power Now; Unai Montes-Irueste, SEIU and ACLU SoCal; Sharon Kyle, Moderator, Professor of Law, People’s College of Law, and Publisher, LA Progressive. Sponsors - Beautiful Trouble, LA Progressive, Ward AME Church.
Info: Dick & Sharon at dick_and_sharon@laprogressive.com
or phone, 213-434-4643; or Chelsea Lee Byers at chelsea@codepink.org.
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√ 12th annual "MusiCares MAP Fund® Tribute Concert Honoring GRAMMY® winner Smokey Robinson" at The Novo (formally Club Nokia) in Los Angeles, is May 19. Proceeds benefit the MusiCares MAP Fund, which provides members of the music community access to addiction recovery treatment regardless of their financial situation. Performers include Tamar Braxton, Backstreet Boys, El DeBarge, Kem, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, and Cee Lo Green. Robinson will give a closing performance. Cedric the Entertainer hosts the event. Tix now available at 213-765-6800.
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√ "The Delight of Light Opera" on Sat, May 21, two performances, 2 & 7 pm, at L.A. Valley College's Main Stage Theatre, 5800 Fulton Av, Valley Glen. Tix at 818-517-4102; $25 gen'l, $15 for students and seniors (open seating). Center Stage Opera and The Valley Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Michael Arshagouni, team-up to present highlights from FOUR all-time favorites of operetta: Gilbert & Sullivan's "The Mikado" and "The Pirates Of Penzance," Strauss' "Die Fledermaus," and Lehar's "The Merry Widow."
More: www.centerstageopera.org
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√ Annual "CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 22, is already SOLD-OUT.
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√ "An Evening of Sacred Music with Annmarie Soul" is May 22, 7 pm, at Yoga Desa, 120 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga. Tix, $15 adv., $20 at door. Adv. tix: annmariesolo@yahoo.com. It's a warm spring evening of music in beautiful Topanga Canyon, and she is joined by David Bergeaud, Steve Postell, Nacho Arimany, Idan Meyer, Marla Leigh Goldstein and addt'l musicians. More: www.annmariesoul.com
+++++++++++
# 3 news feature...
DEADLINE for FAR-West Official Showcase Submissions 2016 is SATURDAY, APRIL 30
Saturday, April 30, at 11:59 pm (PDT), applications close to perform at an "Official Showcase" at the Folk Alliance Region-West FAR-West 2016 conference held this coming October in Bellevue, Washington.
The application e-form, tips for applying successfully, and all the guidelines are on the FAR-West site, at:
http://www.far-west.org/showcase2016.html
Questions? Contact:
farwestfolk@gmail.com
++++++++++
# 4 news feature...
MUSIC OF MASSIVE CONCERT ORGAN RE-CREATES ORIGINAL 1920 "ZORRO" SOUNDTRACK FOR SCREENING THIS SUNDAY
An afternoon of action, mystery and romance awaits when organist Dennis James performs the thrilling soundtrack to the 1920 silent movie classic, “The Mark of Zorro” on Sunday, May 1, at 3 pm, in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.
Swashbuckling musical adventures and exciting swordfights explode on screen when this acclaimed organist returns to the home of the Pacific Symphony to re-create the soundtrack to the 1920 silent-film masterpiece.
The groundbreaking film stars the legendary Douglas Fairbanks, Sr., in the double role of Don Diego Vega / Señor Zorro, while the Symphony’s concert organ sets imaginations ablaze and sensations reverberating.
The 4,322 pipes of the mighty “King of Instruments” thunders forth for this special movie matinee. In the skilled hands of James, indescribable sounds emanate from the commanding William J. Gillespie Concert Organ to provide the film’s original score, as the classic movie plays overhead.
Fairbanks biographer Jeffrey Vance writes, “ ‘The Mark of Zorro’ is a landmark, not only in the career of Douglas Fairbanks, but also in the development of the action adventure film.”
“Silent films were never meant to be presented silently,” says the organist, James, currently the living embodiment of the silent-film/music tradition.
“From the beginning of the motion picture era at the turn of the 20th century, music was an expected element of the presentation, whether supplied by pianist, organist or band," he adds.
“The Mark of Zorro,” a nearly century-old film starring Fairbanks as the bumbling Vega, son of wealthy ranchero Don Alejandro, is set in 19th-century Spanish California (present-day San Juan Capistrano!). Don Diego despises the oppressive colonial government and takes on the masked identity of Señor Zorro to act as a champion of the people. With surprising humor and athleticism, Zorro slashes his trademark “Z” into the faces of his enemies and leads the way for justice for all.
This promises to be a memorable revival.
Tix, $10-$50, at 714-755-5799. More at www.pacificsymphony.org
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# 5 news feature...
McCABE'S ADDS SHOWS, BOLSTERING STRONG CONCERT SCHEDULE
McCabe's, that Santa Monica sanctuary for music, has just added some amazing shows. Tix are available now, until sold-out. Which won't take long.
Newly announced first:
√ Two shows with amazing gee-tar slinger Junior Brown on June 3.
√ It's "a night with one-man Brill Building" Dan Bern on June 12.
√ There's virtuosity with the California Guitar Trio on June 24.
√ Rock 'n roll legend Mitch Ryder plays two nights, July 1 & 2.
√ The great Slaid Cleaves returns on July 9.
√ Americana all-star Jim Lauderdale has been added on July 24.
Previously announced McCabe's schedule:
• Sun, 5/1: Matinee Kids' Show with SANDRA SANDIA, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 5/6: CRYSTAL BOWERSOX, 8 pm. $25.
• Sat & Sun, 5/7 & 8: ALBERT LEE with special guest Jerry Donahue, 8 pm both nights. $26.50.
• Fri, 5/13: DIRK HAMILTON, 8 pm. $20.
• Sat, 5/14: JANIVA MAGNESS, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 5/15: DARRYL PURPOSE plus Paul Zollo, 8 pm. $16.
• Fri, 5/20: THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL, 8 pm. $20.
• Sat, 5/21: JOSH ROUSE, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 5/22: TIM O'BRIEN, 8 pm. $25.
• Sat, 5/28: PHRANC, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 5/29: Matinee Kids' Show with PEANUT, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 6/3: JUNIOR BROWN, 8 & 10 pm. $28.50.
• Sat, 6/4: HAPPY TRAUM presents "Coming Of Age in the Folk Revival," a multimedia event featuring live performance, rare visuals, and personal anecdotes. 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/5: Matinee Kids' Show with PETER ALSOP, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Sat, 6/11: CHARLIE HUNTER TRIO featuring Scott Amendola and Kirk Knuffke, 8 pm. $24.50.
• Sun, 6/12: DAN BERN, 8 pm. $20.
• Fri, 6/17: SARAH JAROSZ, 8 pm. $22.50. SOLD OUT.
• Sat, 6/18: DAN NAVARRO, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/19: PETER CASE, 8 pm. $22.50.
• Fri, 6/24: CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/26: Matinee Kids' Show with THE HOLLOW TREES, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 7/1 & Sat, 7/2: MITCH RYDER, 8 pm, both nights. $25.
• Sat, 7/9: SLAID CLEAVES, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 7/10: Matinee Kids' Show with MISTA COOKIE JAR, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Sun, 7/24: JIM LAUDERDALE, 8 pm. $20.
It's all at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl (at 31st St), Santa Monica 90405; tix, 310-828-4497 or www.mccabes.com
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# 6 news feature...
BANJO VIDEO FROM DEERING "WOODROOM SESSIONS" WITH GRAMMY NOM ELLE KING
In the run-up to the annual "Topanga Banjo•Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival," the Guide is running features on those instruments and people who play them.
Elle King played banjo for a recent "Woodroom Session" — aptly named, since these special musical experiences are held in the Deering Woodroom, where the wood is prepared for use in crafting instruments.
Did you know that the incredibly talented Elle King plays banjo? She performed, armed only with a Sierra model banjo. The Ohio born songstress is emerging as a rising star and has seen great success in the last year, receiving a Grammy nod for her platinum selling track, "Ex's & Oh's." She's created buzz with several prominent performances including "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon, and on the big festival circuit at Bonaroo and SXSW.
Of course, Deering makes world-class banjos at their Southern California factory in the North San Diego County of Spring Valley. They provided the video in their latest e-newsletter.
Jamie Latty, Deering's Vice President for administration, writes, "Elle is often seen on the road playing her Eagle II Woody (a standard Eagle II without a tone ring) but dropped by the factory to place her order for a very special banjo while in San Diego. While she was here, of course we had to ask if she would like to record a Woodroom Session."
Jamie adds, "Luckily for us, Ms. King is a true pro, and couldn’t have been more gracious with her time," adding that she "picked out a custom Sierra with a pop-on resonator and Kavanjo pick up to play."
You can watch the interview to accompany a song on their site, where they also give you Elle King and a solo rendition of her song, “Good to Be a Man,” all at the same link.
Watch and enjoy at:
http://blog.deeringbanjos.com/elle-king-plays-banjo
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# 7 news feature...
CLASSICAL CONCERT PICK OF THE MONTH, MAY 19-21
It's billed as "Two Epic Journeys in One Night: Vivaldi’s 'The Four Seasons' with Violinist Philippe Quint and Strauss’ 'An Alpine Symphony.'" Two all-time favorite pieces will provide a feast for the ears, while stimulating imaginations with their vivid, arresting beauty.
Pacific Symphony performs one of the most beloved works of the Baroque repertoire, then takes a stunning excursion through the Alps.
First, Vivaldi’s lyrical masterpiece “The Four Seasons,” which paints tantalizing pictures of the changing seasons, is performed and led by award-winning Russian-American violinist Philippe Quint. It's a revel in the celebration of the autumn harvest, the warmth of the winter fire, and the languor of the summer sun, as Vivaldi’s Venetian tour de force unleashes all of the drama and splendor of the Baroque period and the lyrical beauty of the strings.
Then, led by Music Director Carl St. Clair, the Symphony retraces the majestic, musical depiction of a dawn-to-dusk hike up and down the Bavarian Alps, as brought to life by Richard Strauss’ lush, splendid musical descriptions in his fine work, “An Alpine Symphony.”
To illustrate Strauss’ grand masterpiece, each movement is introduced by breathtaking images from acclaimed filmmaker Gregory MacGillivray’s “National Parks Adventure,” marking the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.
Also on the big screen, live image magnification (IMAG) of the musicians performing onstage brings an up-close-and-personal experience of both symphonic pieces.
“Overall, this program celebrates Earth’s nature and its deep influence on composers and their music throughout the ages,” says Maestro St. Clair. He continues, “Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ is as permanent and important a part of our orchestral repertoire as the seasons themselves are to our daily lives. This far-reaching concerto has become such a rich staple on concert stages.”
The concert runs for three performances, Thursday through Saturday, May 19-21, at 8 pm in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. A preview talk with Assistant Conductor Roger Kalia begins at 7 pm.
Tix range from $25-$110, at 714-755-5799. More info at: www.pacificsymphony.org
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# 8 news feature...
TRAD FOLK-AMERICANA EXCELLENCE AT COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE: THIS WEEKEND, INTO MAY
Show biz veteran Bob Stane is irrepressible, and that's a very good thing. His club, The Coffee Gallery Backstage, is the best intimate acoustic music venue in L.A. Even though it's actually in the highlands above Pasadena, at 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. Always make reservations or you risk a "sold-out" sign. That's by phone only, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days, at 626-798-6236.
Here's this weekend through next.
• JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS, Sat, Apr 30, 7 pm. Tix, $20.
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"Obscure, Naughty and Lovely tunes of the 1910s, 20s & 30s" is a rollicking feast for the ears, eyes and heart. Janet and her distinctive musician pals deliver a bundle of spirited and inspired renditions of cleverly fun but forgotten Tin Pan Alley, early hot jazz, saucy bits and late ragtime gems. Adding to the band's already extensive repertoire these merrymakers zestfully branch into obscure vaudeville and Vitaphone numbers, Hawaiian, Yiddish novelty tunes, French and Italian knock-out ballads.
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Bob Stane calls it, "So much fun it should be illegal. And maybe it was once, but now you can enjoy them on a Saturday night. Big Time Merriment."
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Check out www.JanetKlein.com for tunes and info on their latest CD, "It's The Girl."
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• 2 GUYS NAMED BEN, Sun, May 1, 3 pm matinee. Tix, $15.
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In the fall of 2014, Ben Townsend, a renowned storyteller and traditional musician from the Appalachian mountain region, and Ben Guzman, a native Angeleno, known for his involvement in the Los Angeles Old Time Social, The Bicycle Kitchen, and Triple Chicken Foot, rode their bicycles across the country, playing music, and filming regional musicians and artists along the way.
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2 Guys Named Ben performances blend storytelling, live music, film to take the audience on a multimedia bicycle tour starting in Hampshire County, West Virginia through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Louisiana Bayou, along the Mexican border, through the southwestern desert, finally landing in Los Angeles. At the end of their journey, they recorded an album of music, "Deep End Sessions Volume 3: Ben Townsend and Friends."
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Check 'em out: http://smallmediumlargeproductions.com/SML/2GNB
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• JASON HAWK HARRIS and NATALIE NICOLES, Sun, May 1, 7 pm. Tix, $12.
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Young virtuosos, one from THE SHOW PONIES, one from THE WILD REEDS.
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Jason Hawk Harris, born and raised in the swampy forests of southeast Texas, is the current guitarist of that outstanding roots outfit, The Show Ponies. His appearance at the Coffee Gallery marks his debut performance as a solo artist. While many modern guitarists regard themselves as emancipated from the “strictures” of classical music, Harris credits Queen for kindling his interest in Bach and Mozart. He couldn’t have predicted what came next: “I went to school for music composition and had planned on going the academic route until I heard a bluegrass guitar solo a week after I graduated and decided I didn't want to do anything else.” When he heard Co-Lead vocalists Andi Carder and Clayton Chaney perform together, he became enamored of their duet Americana sound and traded his electric guitars and Brian May solos for a Martin acoustic and flatpicking lessons with Michael Daves.
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NATALIE NICOLES says, "My musical journey began as early as I can remember; feeling, experiencing, and processing through music. I grew up singing, but started experimenting with songwriting in high school. I wasn't quite finding a musical endeavor that was satisfying, and continued my growth into college. In fall of 2010, while at college in Southern California, in a living room full of people singing with us, Branches formed. I am currently part of this amazing musical project and have five wonderful brothers in music to share the journey with. We are SO privileged to travel all over the country to sing with our friends on the road, and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We can't wait to see where we end up next!"
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"Also close to Branches forming, The Wild Reeds began to take shape in December of 2009. Knowing Kinsey since first grade, and singing with her since fifth, it came as no surprise when we found Sharon and happened to form what looked like a band.
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"With three-part harmonies that we could feel all the way down to our toes, we set out to be strong women in music, and to bring joy and light into a dark industry. In January of 2013, after three years with The Reeds, I played my final show and decided to step down from The Wild Reeds. I recorded two full length albums, 'Songs for the Morning, Afternoon, and Evening,' and 'Even When The Strong Winds Blow,' with these ladies, as well as a Christmas E.P.
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"Lastly, I continue writing songs under my own name, and perform my own material in my free time from touring with Branches. I am excited to say after many attempts at releasing my own recorded solo material, my full length project 'Lucent' has finally been released. It's available on all of the musical internet platforms! I create to make people feel in hopes that these projects fester in the deepest parts of your soul and to warm the smallest cockles of your heart. Thank you for reading, and being part of my story!" —
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• MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE, ACOUSTIC GUITAR VIRTUOSO, Fri, May 6, 8 pm. Tix, $20.
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He is the only guitarist ever to win First Prize in the world's top competitions in both the Classical and Fingerstyle genres; the Guitar Foundation of America International Classical Guitar Competition and the National Fingerstyle Championships at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival in Winfiled, Kansas.
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His performances, played on both steel string and classical guitars, include musical styles ranging from blues to Bach to country and beyond.
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In the '80s and '90s, Michael proved himself to be one of the world's finest classical guitarists, twice winning the coveted National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant,and taking First Prize in both the Guitar Foundation of America's and the Music Teachers National Association's Guitar Competitions. He also won the Silver Medal in Venezuela's VIII Concurso International de Guitarra "Alirio Diaz".
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Check him out: You tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz4pWE-2iug9aUF2_PXgaHg
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This is about the fifth encore for Michael at The Coffee Gallery Backstage. He first came as a college instructor in guitar and well-known prize winner in all the contests that make a difference (see above). He of the shock of hair and foot of bare entertains with the best of string plucking and sly wit.
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Recently, he completed a tour of Asia (amongst many world wide). Youthful and fun, he has a delightful style and fills the room.
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Again and impossibly, The Coffee Gallery Backstage ensnares the best in the world for you to watch and listen from 6 feet away.
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Check out the Web Page and the youtubes. A treasure trove of musical gems.
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• WITCHER - RECUPIDO - LEVITT & WITCHER, Sat, May 7, 7 pm. Tix, $18.
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That's right, a band name with eleven syllables, two dashes and an ampersand, and those two Witchers are WITCHER BROTHERS. This is Bluegrass at its best, great harmonies, exciting instrumentals and some of the finest original material around. Dennis Witcher, founder of the legendary Los Angeles based bluegrass band The Witcher Brothers, and long time Witcher Brothers band mate and songwriting collaborator Tony Recupido, team up with Banjo stylist extraordinaire Dan Levitt to form this must see, exciting new Los Angeles bluegrass band.
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For more that twenty years, Dennis Witcher and Tony Recupido have been mainstays on the West Coast bluegrass circuit. Their amazing songs have touched audiences across the country for years with soul grabbing melodies, lyrics that touch the heart and harmonies that are as close to sibling harmonies as you can get without having the same last name. When you add Tony's amazing work on the guitar and Dennis' distinctive mandolin style, that's a pretty complete act in itself.
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BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! Dennis and Tony have teamed up with the amazing and innovative banjo stylist Dan Levitt. Having developed and mastered a banjo style he calls “Contemporary Clawhammer” with a melodic frailing style that incorporates elements of bluegrass, ragtime, folk, classical and blues, Dan makes an enormous contribution to the unique sound of the band. And if that's not enough, of course Loren Witcher will be holding everything together on bass and wowing you with an occasional song of his choice. A MUST SEE.
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• FORTUNATE SON, with special new star act, THE LICATA BROTHERS doing a 30 minute opening stint, Sun, May 8, 2 pm matinee show. Tix, $20.
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Since 1994, Brad Ford has starred as John Fogerty, pioneering the ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute, FORTUNATE SON. This show quickly became known as "THE PREMIER" act celebrating the music of CCR & John Fogerty and was recently singled out by AXS-TV’s hit show “World’s Greatest Tribute Bands” for which the band performed their show, live from Hollywood and broadcast to millions of viewers.
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The longest-running tribute to CCR, FORTUNATE SON continues to perform across America, Canada, Europe, and Asia rocking rocking fans around the globe with timeless hits like BORN ON THE BAYOU, GREEN RIVER, BAD MOON RISING, LODI, LOOKIN’ OUT MY BACKDOOR, PROUD MARY, CENTERFIELD, HAVE YOU EVER SEEN THE RAIN and so many more. Check 'em out: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=1WUtS7e_P84
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Bob Stane says: "This is an encore appearance for FORTUNATE SON. A big hit here with the fab Licata Brothers. A great afternoon."
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• JIM "KIMO" WEST and KEN EMERSON......A HAWAIIAN FANDANGO, Sun, May 8, 7 pm, tix $20.
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Jim Kimo West and Ken Emerson are both living legends in the world of Hawaiian slack key and acoustic steel guitar. They strive for freshness and spontaneity in there duet shows, often performing without a set list or any idea of what comes next. Their diverse musical influences venture beyond the islands toward the land of blues, ragtime and even jazz and both have played on Grammy-winning records. Ken played on the first-ever winner in the Hawaiian category as well as Donald Fagen’s Grammy-winning “Morph The Cat.” His many other touring / recording credits include Jackson Brown, Boz Scaggs, Todd Lundgren, Taj Mahal, Charlie Musselwhite and Elvin Bishop as well as Hawaiian slack key legends Gabby Pahinui, Moe Keale and Raymond Kane.
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JIM "KIMO" WEST: Besides his solo slack key career, Kimo is long-time guitarist on CDs and tours for the world’s most famous musical satirist, “Weird Al” Yankovic whose recent CD, “Mandatory Fun” debuted at #1 on the Billboard charts and won the Grammy for Best Comedy Recording. http://www.jimkimowest.com/lndex.html
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Kenton Robert Lopaka Emerson is a San Francisco bay area born/Hawaiian island bred guitarist who covers many musical genres. He has played his special blend of Blues/Jazz Hawaiian guitar for 40 years and running..His original compositions and performances on 'Slack Key Guitar Vol 2' (Palm Records) helped bring in the first ever 2005 GRAMMY award for Hawaiian music. 'KE' most recently played on Donald Fagen's 2007 GRAMMY winning "Morph the Cat" album. Born into a musical family, Ken grew up with his fathers' extensive record collection of jazz, swing, Hawaiian and world music styles. In early 1968 Ken's family moved to Hawaii. Absorbing the Hawaiian culture, Ken and his brother Phil began studying Hawaiian language and music. They learned to emulate the players of the 1920's and ‘30s era by listening to vintage Hawaiian 78 rpm records, zeroing in on the jazz and blues styles of Sol Ho'opi'i and Sol K. Bright. By the mid'70's Ken and Phil were playing alongside such legendary performers as Gabby Pahinui, Genoa Keawe, Raymond Kane, Auntie Alice Namakelua, Sol K. Bright and George Ka'ainapau, and recorded and toured with Moe Keale. In between his love of traditional Hawaiian music, Ken has played and/or toured with many luminaries in the musical world beyond Hawaii including Todd Rundgren, Taj Mahal, Boz Scaggs, Jackson Browne, Donald Fagen, Dave Mason, Charlie Musselwhite, Elvin Bishop, Graham Nash, San Francisco's Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann, Pablo Cruise Band and The Rowan Brothers. Dividing his time between Kaua'i and San Francisco, Ken plays many local venues and festivals and is a frequent visitor to the east coast of the United States as well as Europe and Asia.
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"Emerson writes pieces that update the classic sounds of Hawaiian Slack Key guitar. His unaccompanied songs have an open, relaxing quality to them, moving forward in a gentle rhythm.." ( http://www.kauaimusicscene.com/a/ken-emerson ) — Jessy Terry, Rolling Stone Magazine.
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You owe it to yourself to stay informed about who's playing this venue. Shows can be seven nights a week, plus multiple matinees on weekends.
www.coffeegallery.com
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# 9 news feature...
30th annual "LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL" coming June 18 & 19
The Long Beach Bayou Festival is a Zydeco,Blues, Creole & Cajun festival chockful of music, food, and fun. Befitting a milestone anniversary, this year's always excellent festival has a strong lineup, featuring Guitar Shorty, Big Jay McNeely, Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners, Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters, Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys, The Sai Whatt Band, Mark St Mary Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band, and more.
There's Cajun & Creole cuisine, dance instruction & continuous dancing, a "Mardi Gras Parade," Watermelon Eating & Crawfish Eating Contests, activities for kids and teens, and more. There's a popular Mardi Gras atmosphere and music everywhere.
It all happens at Rainbow Lagoon Park, (Linden Av & Shoreline Dr), Long Beach, on Saturday, June 18th and Sunday, June 19, 2016.
Headlining an incredible Blues Stage lineup Saturday night is legendary guitarist-vocalist Guitar Shorty. Shorty is credited with being an influence to Jimi Hendrix and Buddy Guy.
Setting the stage for Shorty on Saturday are Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters starring Leon Hughes from the original Coasters - known for classic hits such as "Poison Ivy," "Charlie Brown," and "Yakety Yak."
Headlining the Blues Stage on Sunday is "King of the honkin’, squealin’, bar walkin’, flat-on-his-back Blowin’ (saxophone) tenor men" Big Jay McNeely.
Before McNeely's finale are the popular smooth jazz / R&B outfit, The Sai Whatt Band. Formerly known as "Prime Time," they scored a massive hit with their single "I Owe it to Myself," which went to no. 19 in the US and no. 1 in Europe. Their TV appearances include "American Bandstand" and "Soul Train."
Andy Hill and Renee Safier's Hard Rain brings a roots flavor to the Blues Stage. Their ensemble won "Americana Group of the Year" at the Los Angeles Music Awards in 2007, and they host theday 26th annual "Dylanfest," happening this year on May 1st.
Rounding out the Blues talent is Kenny Sara & the Sounds of New Orleans, with bristling New Orleans Jazz, R&B, and '70s and '80s funk, and William "Soul" Porter & the Porterhouse BJS with their Tribute to B.B King, who bring their blues, jazz and soulful inspiration to celebrate the sound of the "King of the Blues."
The Zydeco Stage features the most popular artists in the Cajun and Zydeco genre.
International Zydeco stars Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners add their own flavor to "old school Zydeco" and have eight CDs to their credit.
Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys add highly innovative contemporary Zydeco while still respecting tradition.
"The Delta King", Mark St. Mary and His Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band, bring their infectious, award-winning (Bay Area Blues Society's "Best Zydeco Band" 2007) traditional Louisiana blues and Zydeco sounds.
The stellar lineup includes La Recolte Cajun Band, whose decidedly danceable Cajun styling made them winners for “Best New CD of the Year” at the Annual “Le Cajun Awards 2014."
The Revelers, the Louisiana supergroup whose tonic of swamp-pop, Cajun, country, blues, and Zydeco was called “Groove bound and dance compelling …” by Offbeat Magazine.
There's J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts, whose combination of the Blues styles of Clifton Chenier and the funky Beau Jocque moves everyone.
West Coast favorite Bonne Musique Zydeco draws upon the influences of the blues and New Orleans artists of the '50s, '60s and '70s to create a blend of music designed for dancing.
As always, the large shaded wooden dance floor will be filled all weekend long. The easy dance instruction for all ages is always a popular feature, so even the most inexperienced dancers can join in the fun.
Popular festival traditions continue with a colorful costumed Mardi Gras parade led each day by the New Orleans Traditional Jazz Band,and a delectable French Quarter marketplace with gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, hush puppies and other Cajun and Creole delights, plus coffees and desserts such as sweet potato pie, beignets and an array of cobblers. The popular crawfish and watermelon eating contests also return this year.
Children of all ages appreciate the Kids Corner featuring storytelling, sing-a-longs,arts and crafts,magic, and costume and mask making for the Mardi Gras Parade. The Kids Corner also features kids shows and games and activities for older kids are also featured.
Rainbow Lagoon Park is located on the North side of Shoreline Drive, between Shoreline Village Drive and Linden Avenue. Parking is available on the Marina Green Lot across from Rainbow Lagoon Park.
The event is presented by Benoit Entertainment Group. A portion of the profits benefit LALA (Louisiana to Los Angeles), a non-profit organization which raises educational funds for local youth to attend college.
Here's who you'll enjoy each day...
CAJUN/ZYDECO STAGE:
• Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners (Sat,Sun)
• Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys (Sat,Sun)
• La Recolte Cajun Band (Sat)
• Mark St. Mary's Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band (Sat)
• Bonne Musique Zydeco (Sat)
• The Revelers (Sun)
• J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts (Sun)
BLUES STAGE:
• Big Jay McNeely (Sun)
• Guitar Shorty (Sat)
• Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters (Sat)
• The Sai Whatt Band (Sun)
• Jimmy Hewitt & the Soul Dogg Band featuring Lyrica Garrett (Sat)
• Hard Rain (Sun)
• Kenny Sara & the Sounds of New Orleans (Sat,Sun)
• William "Soul" Porter BJS Band Tribute to B.B. King (Sat)
Plus, there's a "Mardi Gras Parade" each day with New Orleans Traditional Jazz Band, and Dance Instruction throughout the day.
Festival is Sat & Sun, June 18 & 19, 11 am-9:30 pm Sat, 11 am-8 pm Sun. Tix are available now at 562-912-4451, or at www.longbeachbayou.com. Tix: Adults, $25/day-advance, $30/day-gate; Seniors (age 60+) and Students (age 18+) are $20/advance, $30 at the gate; Children age 12 & under are free. Active Duty, Retired and Reservists of the Military are free with current,valid Military ID.
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Music news, FESTIVALS, and events are in the UPDATED edition originally published April 16 and available at a separate click.
Much more, soon, on other topics.
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, arts and industry events, and ticket alerts, available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative 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, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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Here's a nice, full edition with PLENTY of fun options this weekend and way beyond, and other good stuff.
• Interested in your Saturday & Sunday? Check out features 1, 2, 4, 5, & 8.
• Number 3 is about a Saturday deadline to perform at FAR-West in October.
• And features 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 are about music topics or future events.
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Specifically, this is what awaits you here...
1) 26th Annual "DYLANFEST" IS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 1st
2) SCHEDULE: CONCERT PICKS, FESTIVALS, ARTS & ACTIVISM, THIS WEEKEND & ONWARD
3) DEADLINE for FAR-West Official Showcase Submissions 2016 is SATURDAY, APRIL 30
4) MUSIC OF MASSIVE CONCERT ORGAN RE-CREATES ORIGINAL 1920 "ZORRO" SOUNDTRACK FOR SCREENING THIS SUNDAY
5) McCABE'S ADDS SHOWS, BOLSTERING STRONG CONCERT SCHEDULE
6) BANJO VIDEO FROM DEERING "WOODROOM SESSIONS" WITH GRAMMY NOM ELLE KING
7) CLASSICAL CONCERT PICK OF THE MONTH, MAY 19-21
8) TRAD FOLK-AMERICANA EXCELLENCE AT COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE: THIS WEEKEND, INTO MAY
9) 30th annual "LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL" coming June 18 & 19, 2016
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Let's get started!
★★★★★★★★★★★★★
# 1 news feature...
26th Annual "DYLANFEST" IS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 1st
Whether you come from the deeply steeped traditions of Folk-Americana, or anyplace else tangent to the Great American Songbook, there's no argument that Bob Dylan is one of our greatest and most prolific songwriters, whose catalog includes more instantly recognizable classics than anyone else's.
And if there's a better annual tribute festival, to any artist, we haven't found it. This event reliably brings wonderful musicians — including top L.A. studio musicians, some prominent touring types fresh off the road, and award-winning top local bands. Numbering more than 60, they meld into ensembles and deliver plenty of panache, artistry and energy to 60 Bob Dylan originals — without a single repeat, all day.
Personally, we're thrilled that two of our seldom-performed favorites are in the program — "The Hour When the Ship Comes In," and "Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again." Plus literally dozens of songs everybody recognizes.
Dylanfest is held in the spacious outdoor courtyard of the Torrance Cultural Center complex (address below). It's under a peripheral, partial canopy, of trees that doesn't block views of the stage. The sound system is excellent. There's plenty of accessible adjacent indoor space where you can find the photo gallery of all 25 past Dylanfests, and cool surroundings if you want them. It has great facilities, good food and libations are available, and a whole lot of fun awaits singing along with dancers costumed as characters from the songs.
We bring you the full story every year, and our first feature this year was more than two months ago. But if you missed all that, tix ARE still available.
Here's the full schedule, right after these LATE DETAILS.
√ Save $5 off the door price with online tix purchase at www.andyandrenee.com
√ You can stay for as much or as little of the festival as you like and can come and go as you please (but why would you want to miss anything?)
√ Because of insurance and permit issues, pets or outside food or drink are not allowed at Dylanfest.
√ Cash or credit cards for tickets and merchandise at the show. Food is CASH ONLY.
√ Want to see what's in store for you? Their website has music videos of last year's 25th anniversary Dylanfest. You can watch:
"Queen Jane Approximately"
"Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues"
"Every Grain Of Sand"
All, plus tix and info, at:
www.andyandrenee.com
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DOORS / GATES open at 11:45 am, MUSIC STARTS at 12:30 pm.
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2016 DYLANFEST SET LIST:
(Print or copy into your phone and take it with you)...
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
1) Love Minus Zero/No Limit
2) The Hour When the Ship Comes In
3) Workingman's Blues #2
4) Girl From The North Country, feat. Evyn Charles
5) Emotionally Yours
Uncle John's Band:
6) Up to Me - John Rosenberg
The Batti Family:
7) It Ain't Me Babe
Daniel Leanse:
8) One More Cup of Coffee
Brax Cutchin:
9) Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You. Steve w/ bass
Catalina Kings:
10) Thunder on the Mountain
11) Cry Awhile
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
12) For Ramona
13) My Back Pages
14) I Shall Be Released
15) Caribbean Wind
16) The Mighty Quinn, feat. Fuzzy Thurston (Craig Gross)
17) Born in Time - Terry Buck
18) Slow Train Comin' - Paul Zollo
19) Watching the River Flow - John Brown
20) You Ain't Goin' Nowhere
Bob Hawkins:
21) One Too Many Mornings
John Hoke w/ Bob Hawkins:
22) Make You Feel My Love
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
23) True Love Tends to Forget
24) Is Your Love in Vain?
25) Senor - Al Diesan
26) Changing of the Guards
27) It's All Over Now, Baby Blue - Renee
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
28) Things Have Changed
29) Every Grain of Sand
30) Tambourine Man w/ John Hoke, Dave Crossland, Andy
Bellylove:
31 Leopardskin Pillbox Hat
32) Man of Peace
Dave Leahy:
33) Florida Key
34) Wagon Wheel
Patti Orbeck:
35) I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
36) I Believe in You
Jack of Hearts:
37) Days of 49
38) Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again
Renee / Marty / Andy:
39) With God on Our Side
Hard Rain / Trish Gomez:
40) Subterranean Homesick Blues
Pillow of Wrongness:
41) Positively 4th Street
42) From A Buick Six
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
43) Rainy Day Women
Davey Allen:
44) Maggie's Farm
Dave Crossland - w/ Bob Hawkins:
45) Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
46) Don't Think Twice - Renee
47) Hurricane w/ Jamie Daniels
Karen Nash:
48) I Want You
Bob Malone:
49) Tangled Up In Blue
Barley:
50) Forever Young
51) Paths of Victory
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
52) Blowin' in the Wind
Scott Gerber:
53) Ballad of a Thin Man
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
54) Chimes of Freedom
55) Knockin on Heaven's Door
56) Blind Willie McTell - Fuzzy Thurston
57) Silvio
Luis Oliart:
58) All Along The Watchtower
Andy & Renee & Hard Rain:
59) Serve Somebody - Renee
60) Like A Rolling Stone- Andy
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THE VENUE...
The Torino Plaza at the Torrence Cultural Center complex, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance 90503. Ample free parking.
Tix (discounted in advance) and more info:
www.andyandrenee.com
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# 2 news feature...
SCHEDULE: CONCERT PICKS, FESTIVALS, ARTS & ACTIVISM, THIS WEEKEND & ONWARD
(Notes: (a) shows at the Coffee Gallery Backstage have full write-ups in a SEPARATE feature, and (b) events with individual feature story write-ups — at various venues — are NOT double-listed here.)
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Saturday,
and Sat & Sun
events
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√ Annual "ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED FESTIVAL," Sat & Sun, Apr 30 & May 1, noon-10 pm Sat, noon-7 pm Sun, has stages and various performance locations along Adams Avenue in San Diego 92116. With Nathan & Jessie, Patty Hall & Gregory Martin Campbell, Fanny & the Atta Boys, Yale Strom & Hot Pstromi, Bill Dempsey, Jeff Berkley, Joe Rathburn, G Burns Jug Band, Gregory Page, Sara Petite & The Sugar Daddies, Ross Altman, and more.
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√ Annual "STAGECOACH FESTIVAL" runs through Sun, May 1, at Empire Polo Club in Indio. Two stages of the best of roots-Americana. Publicized headliners are all Nashville pop-country acts.
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√ Annual "New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival" is happening all weekend through May 1st in "the other LA," Louisiana.
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√ Annual "BAY AREA STORYTELLING FESTIVAL" Sat & Sun, Apr 30 & May 1, in Northern Cal at the Orinda Community Center, 28 Orinda Way, Orinda 94563.
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√ Annual "Spring Concert" by the SCOTTISH FIDDLERS OF LOS ANGELES, Sat, Apr 30, 3:30 pm at the Pasadena Central Library, in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101.
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√ BURNING HEART BLUEGRASS plus CHRIS CERNA & BLUEGRASS REPUBLIC, Sat, Apr 30, 8 pm, at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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Sunday-only
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√ "MAY DAY," Sun, May 1, noon, at 11th & Figueroa (near Staples Center / L.A. Live / Grammy Museum), downtown L.A. Not specifically a music event; centers on social activism and a call for action to "protect our families, jobs, and future." Los Angeles County Federation of Labor Central Labor Council is taking part. Info, 213-353-1784.
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√ Latin Grammy nom Sandra Sandia plays the "Matinee Kids' Show" Sun, May 1, 11 am, at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl (at 31st St), Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com
Those with little ones will want to catch this show with Sandra Sandia. Sandia performs original Spanish music with her band. Her debut album, "Sandra Sandia," was released in 2008 and was a nominee for the 2010 Latin Grammys in the Children's Music Category. Sandra recently released her second CD,"Alegria," which provides an explosive fusion of Samba, Axe, Cumbia, Bossa Nova, and Funk,creating a joyous musical experience. She brings an eclectic collection of instruments to the stage for a joyous musical vibration. When not on stage, Sandra facilitates drum circles for children and adults (in Spanish and English) as a means to get happy and empower individuals with music. "Con Alegria se gana La Loteria!" ("With happiness you win the lottery!")
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√ Live Music Accompanying Classic Silent Film, Sun, May 1, 3 pm, at the Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa. See feature story in this edition.
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√ RODNEY CROWELL plays Sun, May 1, 7:30 pm, for the AMSD Concerts Series, in the Laura R. Charles Theater at Sweetwater High School , 2900 Highland Av, National City (San Diego Co.) 91950.
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Post-Weekend...
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√ Andy & Renee & Hard Rain, Thu, May 5; fresh from Dylanfest (May 1), they play the "Cinco de Mayo" show at Don the Beachcomber in Long Beach. Check www.andyandrenee.com for details.
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√ "KEITH URBAN: INSIDE THE SONGS OF RIPCORD" is Tue, May 10, 8 pm, at the GRAMMY Museum, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6800. Tix: AmEx card only, now. General on-sale starts Fri, May 6 at noon.
On May 10th, four-time GRAMMY Award winner Keith Urban celebrates the release of his eighth studio recording "RIPCORD," live in the GRAMMY Museum's Clive Davis Theater. The one night only event includes intimate performances and stories behind the writing, producing and recording of Urban's new album. It has already produced Urban's 19th and 20th No. 1 songs, "John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16," "Break On Me." From Pitbull and Nile Rodgers to Carrie Underwood and Dann Huff to Jeff Bhasker, Greg Wells and Busbee, Urban's nearly 18-month journey creating "RIPCORD" has included influential and celebrated musicians. The evening is moderated by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares.
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√ Annual "LOS ANGELES OLD-TIME SOCIAL" runs Thu, May 12-Sat, May 14. Concerts, workshops, dances, in an immersion in the good time roots music that preceded bluegrass.
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√ Hard Rain opens for Iron Butterfly at Saint Rocke, May 12. Check www.andyandrenee.com for details.
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√ "A Conversation With Claudette Robinson And Warren 'Pete' Moore," in conjunction with the opening of "Legends of Motown: Celebrating The Miracles," is Fri, May 13, 7:30 pm, at the GRAMMY Museum, 800 W Olympic Bl, L.A. 90015; 213-765-6800. Tix avail. now.
The GRAMMY Museum welcomes "First Lady of Motown" Claudette Robinson and fellow founding member of The Miracles, Warren "Pete" Moore, to the Clive Davis Theater for an intimate conversation surrounding the enduring legacy of "Motown and The Miracles," moderated by GRAMMY Museum Curator Nwaka Onwusa.
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√ "The Art of Singing," Sat, May 14, 3 pm, in the Recital Hall (Music Building) at L.A. Valley College. Tix, $10, at 818-517-4102; seating is limited. It's a rare opportunity to see a true international operatic star conduct a Master Class in vocal technique and style with five up-and-coming young singers. Renowned mezzo-soprano Milena Kitic, most recently seen in L.A. Opera's recent production of "Madama Butterfly," is the special guest master teacher. More: www.centerstageopera.org
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√ Annual "TOPANGA BANJO•FIDDLE CONTEST & FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 15, at Paramount Ranch in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, near Agoura. The best one-day folk fest anywhere. Full info at:
www.topangabanjofiddle.org
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√ "Confronting Progressive Politics & the Black and Brown Vote" is not music but an L.A. Progressive Forum, Mon, May 16, 7-9 pm, at Ward AME Church, 1177 W 25th St, Los Angeles. FREE with RSVP to:
http://black-and-brown-vote.eventbrite.com
Topic: "An alliance of progressive voters across racial lines would be a political force to be reckoned with but a vacuum exists between social movements and electoral politics. Why?"
Speakers / panelists: Melina Abdullah, Chair, Pan-African Studies Department at Cal State L.A.; Black Lives Matter; Erin Aubry Kaplan, Journalist, Author of "I Heart Obama;" Mark-Anthony Johnson, Dignity & Power Now; Unai Montes-Irueste, SEIU and ACLU SoCal; Sharon Kyle, Moderator, Professor of Law, People’s College of Law, and Publisher, LA Progressive. Sponsors - Beautiful Trouble, LA Progressive, Ward AME Church.
Info: Dick & Sharon at dick_and_sharon@laprogressive.com
or phone, 213-434-4643; or Chelsea Lee Byers at chelsea@codepink.org.
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√ 12th annual "MusiCares MAP Fund® Tribute Concert Honoring GRAMMY® winner Smokey Robinson" at The Novo (formally Club Nokia) in Los Angeles, is May 19. Proceeds benefit the MusiCares MAP Fund, which provides members of the music community access to addiction recovery treatment regardless of their financial situation. Performers include Tamar Braxton, Backstreet Boys, El DeBarge, Kem, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, and Cee Lo Green. Robinson will give a closing performance. Cedric the Entertainer hosts the event. Tix now available at 213-765-6800.
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√ "The Delight of Light Opera" on Sat, May 21, two performances, 2 & 7 pm, at L.A. Valley College's Main Stage Theatre, 5800 Fulton Av, Valley Glen. Tix at 818-517-4102; $25 gen'l, $15 for students and seniors (open seating). Center Stage Opera and The Valley Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Michael Arshagouni, team-up to present highlights from FOUR all-time favorites of operetta: Gilbert & Sullivan's "The Mikado" and "The Pirates Of Penzance," Strauss' "Die Fledermaus," and Lehar's "The Merry Widow."
More: www.centerstageopera.org
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√ Annual "CLAREMONT FOLK FESTIVAL" Sun, May 22, is already SOLD-OUT.
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√ "An Evening of Sacred Music with Annmarie Soul" is May 22, 7 pm, at Yoga Desa, 120 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga. Tix, $15 adv., $20 at door. Adv. tix: annmariesolo@yahoo.com. It's a warm spring evening of music in beautiful Topanga Canyon, and she is joined by David Bergeaud, Steve Postell, Nacho Arimany, Idan Meyer, Marla Leigh Goldstein and addt'l musicians. More: www.annmariesoul.com
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# 3 news feature...
DEADLINE for FAR-West Official Showcase Submissions 2016 is SATURDAY, APRIL 30
Saturday, April 30, at 11:59 pm (PDT), applications close to perform at an "Official Showcase" at the Folk Alliance Region-West FAR-West 2016 conference held this coming October in Bellevue, Washington.
The application e-form, tips for applying successfully, and all the guidelines are on the FAR-West site, at:
http://www.far-west.org/showcase2016.html
Questions? Contact:
farwestfolk@gmail.com
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# 4 news feature...
MUSIC OF MASSIVE CONCERT ORGAN RE-CREATES ORIGINAL 1920 "ZORRO" SOUNDTRACK FOR SCREENING THIS SUNDAY
An afternoon of action, mystery and romance awaits when organist Dennis James performs the thrilling soundtrack to the 1920 silent movie classic, “The Mark of Zorro” on Sunday, May 1, at 3 pm, in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.
Swashbuckling musical adventures and exciting swordfights explode on screen when this acclaimed organist returns to the home of the Pacific Symphony to re-create the soundtrack to the 1920 silent-film masterpiece.
The groundbreaking film stars the legendary Douglas Fairbanks, Sr., in the double role of Don Diego Vega / Señor Zorro, while the Symphony’s concert organ sets imaginations ablaze and sensations reverberating.
The 4,322 pipes of the mighty “King of Instruments” thunders forth for this special movie matinee. In the skilled hands of James, indescribable sounds emanate from the commanding William J. Gillespie Concert Organ to provide the film’s original score, as the classic movie plays overhead.
Fairbanks biographer Jeffrey Vance writes, “ ‘The Mark of Zorro’ is a landmark, not only in the career of Douglas Fairbanks, but also in the development of the action adventure film.”
“Silent films were never meant to be presented silently,” says the organist, James, currently the living embodiment of the silent-film/music tradition.
“From the beginning of the motion picture era at the turn of the 20th century, music was an expected element of the presentation, whether supplied by pianist, organist or band," he adds.
“The Mark of Zorro,” a nearly century-old film starring Fairbanks as the bumbling Vega, son of wealthy ranchero Don Alejandro, is set in 19th-century Spanish California (present-day San Juan Capistrano!). Don Diego despises the oppressive colonial government and takes on the masked identity of Señor Zorro to act as a champion of the people. With surprising humor and athleticism, Zorro slashes his trademark “Z” into the faces of his enemies and leads the way for justice for all.
This promises to be a memorable revival.
Tix, $10-$50, at 714-755-5799. More at www.pacificsymphony.org
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# 5 news feature...
McCABE'S ADDS SHOWS, BOLSTERING STRONG CONCERT SCHEDULE
McCabe's, that Santa Monica sanctuary for music, has just added some amazing shows. Tix are available now, until sold-out. Which won't take long.
Newly announced first:
√ Two shows with amazing gee-tar slinger Junior Brown on June 3.
√ It's "a night with one-man Brill Building" Dan Bern on June 12.
√ There's virtuosity with the California Guitar Trio on June 24.
√ Rock 'n roll legend Mitch Ryder plays two nights, July 1 & 2.
√ The great Slaid Cleaves returns on July 9.
√ Americana all-star Jim Lauderdale has been added on July 24.
Previously announced McCabe's schedule:
• Sun, 5/1: Matinee Kids' Show with SANDRA SANDIA, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 5/6: CRYSTAL BOWERSOX, 8 pm. $25.
• Sat & Sun, 5/7 & 8: ALBERT LEE with special guest Jerry Donahue, 8 pm both nights. $26.50.
• Fri, 5/13: DIRK HAMILTON, 8 pm. $20.
• Sat, 5/14: JANIVA MAGNESS, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 5/15: DARRYL PURPOSE plus Paul Zollo, 8 pm. $16.
• Fri, 5/20: THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL, 8 pm. $20.
• Sat, 5/21: JOSH ROUSE, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 5/22: TIM O'BRIEN, 8 pm. $25.
• Sat, 5/28: PHRANC, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 5/29: Matinee Kids' Show with PEANUT, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 6/3: JUNIOR BROWN, 8 & 10 pm. $28.50.
• Sat, 6/4: HAPPY TRAUM presents "Coming Of Age in the Folk Revival," a multimedia event featuring live performance, rare visuals, and personal anecdotes. 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/5: Matinee Kids' Show with PETER ALSOP, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Sat, 6/11: CHARLIE HUNTER TRIO featuring Scott Amendola and Kirk Knuffke, 8 pm. $24.50.
• Sun, 6/12: DAN BERN, 8 pm. $20.
• Fri, 6/17: SARAH JAROSZ, 8 pm. $22.50. SOLD OUT.
• Sat, 6/18: DAN NAVARRO, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/19: PETER CASE, 8 pm. $22.50.
• Fri, 6/24: CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO, 8 pm. $20.
• Sun, 6/26: Matinee Kids' Show with THE HOLLOW TREES, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Fri, 7/1 & Sat, 7/2: MITCH RYDER, 8 pm, both nights. $25.
• Sat, 7/9: SLAID CLEAVES, 8 pm. $25.
• Sun, 7/10: Matinee Kids' Show with MISTA COOKIE JAR, 11 am. $10. Kids under age 2 get in free.
• Sun, 7/24: JIM LAUDERDALE, 8 pm. $20.
It's all at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl (at 31st St), Santa Monica 90405; tix, 310-828-4497 or www.mccabes.com
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# 6 news feature...
BANJO VIDEO FROM DEERING "WOODROOM SESSIONS" WITH GRAMMY NOM ELLE KING
In the run-up to the annual "Topanga Banjo•Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival," the Guide is running features on those instruments and people who play them.
Elle King played banjo for a recent "Woodroom Session" — aptly named, since these special musical experiences are held in the Deering Woodroom, where the wood is prepared for use in crafting instruments.
Did you know that the incredibly talented Elle King plays banjo? She performed, armed only with a Sierra model banjo. The Ohio born songstress is emerging as a rising star and has seen great success in the last year, receiving a Grammy nod for her platinum selling track, "Ex's & Oh's." She's created buzz with several prominent performances including "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon, and on the big festival circuit at Bonaroo and SXSW.
Of course, Deering makes world-class banjos at their Southern California factory in the North San Diego County of Spring Valley. They provided the video in their latest e-newsletter.
Jamie Latty, Deering's Vice President for administration, writes, "Elle is often seen on the road playing her Eagle II Woody (a standard Eagle II without a tone ring) but dropped by the factory to place her order for a very special banjo while in San Diego. While she was here, of course we had to ask if she would like to record a Woodroom Session."
Jamie adds, "Luckily for us, Ms. King is a true pro, and couldn’t have been more gracious with her time," adding that she "picked out a custom Sierra with a pop-on resonator and Kavanjo pick up to play."
You can watch the interview to accompany a song on their site, where they also give you Elle King and a solo rendition of her song, “Good to Be a Man,” all at the same link.
Watch and enjoy at:
http://blog.deeringbanjos.com/elle-king-plays-banjo
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# 7 news feature...
CLASSICAL CONCERT PICK OF THE MONTH, MAY 19-21
It's billed as "Two Epic Journeys in One Night: Vivaldi’s 'The Four Seasons' with Violinist Philippe Quint and Strauss’ 'An Alpine Symphony.'" Two all-time favorite pieces will provide a feast for the ears, while stimulating imaginations with their vivid, arresting beauty.
Pacific Symphony performs one of the most beloved works of the Baroque repertoire, then takes a stunning excursion through the Alps.
First, Vivaldi’s lyrical masterpiece “The Four Seasons,” which paints tantalizing pictures of the changing seasons, is performed and led by award-winning Russian-American violinist Philippe Quint. It's a revel in the celebration of the autumn harvest, the warmth of the winter fire, and the languor of the summer sun, as Vivaldi’s Venetian tour de force unleashes all of the drama and splendor of the Baroque period and the lyrical beauty of the strings.
Then, led by Music Director Carl St. Clair, the Symphony retraces the majestic, musical depiction of a dawn-to-dusk hike up and down the Bavarian Alps, as brought to life by Richard Strauss’ lush, splendid musical descriptions in his fine work, “An Alpine Symphony.”
To illustrate Strauss’ grand masterpiece, each movement is introduced by breathtaking images from acclaimed filmmaker Gregory MacGillivray’s “National Parks Adventure,” marking the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.
Also on the big screen, live image magnification (IMAG) of the musicians performing onstage brings an up-close-and-personal experience of both symphonic pieces.
“Overall, this program celebrates Earth’s nature and its deep influence on composers and their music throughout the ages,” says Maestro St. Clair. He continues, “Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ is as permanent and important a part of our orchestral repertoire as the seasons themselves are to our daily lives. This far-reaching concerto has become such a rich staple on concert stages.”
The concert runs for three performances, Thursday through Saturday, May 19-21, at 8 pm in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. A preview talk with Assistant Conductor Roger Kalia begins at 7 pm.
Tix range from $25-$110, at 714-755-5799. More info at: www.pacificsymphony.org
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# 8 news feature...
TRAD FOLK-AMERICANA EXCELLENCE AT COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE: THIS WEEKEND, INTO MAY
Show biz veteran Bob Stane is irrepressible, and that's a very good thing. His club, The Coffee Gallery Backstage, is the best intimate acoustic music venue in L.A. Even though it's actually in the highlands above Pasadena, at 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. Always make reservations or you risk a "sold-out" sign. That's by phone only, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days, at 626-798-6236.
Here's this weekend through next.
• JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS, Sat, Apr 30, 7 pm. Tix, $20.
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"Obscure, Naughty and Lovely tunes of the 1910s, 20s & 30s" is a rollicking feast for the ears, eyes and heart. Janet and her distinctive musician pals deliver a bundle of spirited and inspired renditions of cleverly fun but forgotten Tin Pan Alley, early hot jazz, saucy bits and late ragtime gems. Adding to the band's already extensive repertoire these merrymakers zestfully branch into obscure vaudeville and Vitaphone numbers, Hawaiian, Yiddish novelty tunes, French and Italian knock-out ballads.
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Bob Stane calls it, "So much fun it should be illegal. And maybe it was once, but now you can enjoy them on a Saturday night. Big Time Merriment."
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Check out www.JanetKlein.com for tunes and info on their latest CD, "It's The Girl."
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• 2 GUYS NAMED BEN, Sun, May 1, 3 pm matinee. Tix, $15.
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In the fall of 2014, Ben Townsend, a renowned storyteller and traditional musician from the Appalachian mountain region, and Ben Guzman, a native Angeleno, known for his involvement in the Los Angeles Old Time Social, The Bicycle Kitchen, and Triple Chicken Foot, rode their bicycles across the country, playing music, and filming regional musicians and artists along the way.
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2 Guys Named Ben performances blend storytelling, live music, film to take the audience on a multimedia bicycle tour starting in Hampshire County, West Virginia through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Louisiana Bayou, along the Mexican border, through the southwestern desert, finally landing in Los Angeles. At the end of their journey, they recorded an album of music, "Deep End Sessions Volume 3: Ben Townsend and Friends."
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Check 'em out: http://smallmediumlargeproductions.com/SML/2GNB
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• JASON HAWK HARRIS and NATALIE NICOLES, Sun, May 1, 7 pm. Tix, $12.
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Young virtuosos, one from THE SHOW PONIES, one from THE WILD REEDS.
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Jason Hawk Harris, born and raised in the swampy forests of southeast Texas, is the current guitarist of that outstanding roots outfit, The Show Ponies. His appearance at the Coffee Gallery marks his debut performance as a solo artist. While many modern guitarists regard themselves as emancipated from the “strictures” of classical music, Harris credits Queen for kindling his interest in Bach and Mozart. He couldn’t have predicted what came next: “I went to school for music composition and had planned on going the academic route until I heard a bluegrass guitar solo a week after I graduated and decided I didn't want to do anything else.” When he heard Co-Lead vocalists Andi Carder and Clayton Chaney perform together, he became enamored of their duet Americana sound and traded his electric guitars and Brian May solos for a Martin acoustic and flatpicking lessons with Michael Daves.
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NATALIE NICOLES says, "My musical journey began as early as I can remember; feeling, experiencing, and processing through music. I grew up singing, but started experimenting with songwriting in high school. I wasn't quite finding a musical endeavor that was satisfying, and continued my growth into college. In fall of 2010, while at college in Southern California, in a living room full of people singing with us, Branches formed. I am currently part of this amazing musical project and have five wonderful brothers in music to share the journey with. We are SO privileged to travel all over the country to sing with our friends on the road, and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We can't wait to see where we end up next!"
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"Also close to Branches forming, The Wild Reeds began to take shape in December of 2009. Knowing Kinsey since first grade, and singing with her since fifth, it came as no surprise when we found Sharon and happened to form what looked like a band.
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"With three-part harmonies that we could feel all the way down to our toes, we set out to be strong women in music, and to bring joy and light into a dark industry. In January of 2013, after three years with The Reeds, I played my final show and decided to step down from The Wild Reeds. I recorded two full length albums, 'Songs for the Morning, Afternoon, and Evening,' and 'Even When The Strong Winds Blow,' with these ladies, as well as a Christmas E.P.
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"Lastly, I continue writing songs under my own name, and perform my own material in my free time from touring with Branches. I am excited to say after many attempts at releasing my own recorded solo material, my full length project 'Lucent' has finally been released. It's available on all of the musical internet platforms! I create to make people feel in hopes that these projects fester in the deepest parts of your soul and to warm the smallest cockles of your heart. Thank you for reading, and being part of my story!" —
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• MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE, ACOUSTIC GUITAR VIRTUOSO, Fri, May 6, 8 pm. Tix, $20.
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He is the only guitarist ever to win First Prize in the world's top competitions in both the Classical and Fingerstyle genres; the Guitar Foundation of America International Classical Guitar Competition and the National Fingerstyle Championships at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival in Winfiled, Kansas.
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His performances, played on both steel string and classical guitars, include musical styles ranging from blues to Bach to country and beyond.
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In the '80s and '90s, Michael proved himself to be one of the world's finest classical guitarists, twice winning the coveted National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant,and taking First Prize in both the Guitar Foundation of America's and the Music Teachers National Association's Guitar Competitions. He also won the Silver Medal in Venezuela's VIII Concurso International de Guitarra "Alirio Diaz".
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Check him out: You tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz4pWE-2iug9aUF2_PXgaHg
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This is about the fifth encore for Michael at The Coffee Gallery Backstage. He first came as a college instructor in guitar and well-known prize winner in all the contests that make a difference (see above). He of the shock of hair and foot of bare entertains with the best of string plucking and sly wit.
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Recently, he completed a tour of Asia (amongst many world wide). Youthful and fun, he has a delightful style and fills the room.
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Again and impossibly, The Coffee Gallery Backstage ensnares the best in the world for you to watch and listen from 6 feet away.
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Check out the Web Page and the youtubes. A treasure trove of musical gems.
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• WITCHER - RECUPIDO - LEVITT & WITCHER, Sat, May 7, 7 pm. Tix, $18.
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That's right, a band name with eleven syllables, two dashes and an ampersand, and those two Witchers are WITCHER BROTHERS. This is Bluegrass at its best, great harmonies, exciting instrumentals and some of the finest original material around. Dennis Witcher, founder of the legendary Los Angeles based bluegrass band The Witcher Brothers, and long time Witcher Brothers band mate and songwriting collaborator Tony Recupido, team up with Banjo stylist extraordinaire Dan Levitt to form this must see, exciting new Los Angeles bluegrass band.
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For more that twenty years, Dennis Witcher and Tony Recupido have been mainstays on the West Coast bluegrass circuit. Their amazing songs have touched audiences across the country for years with soul grabbing melodies, lyrics that touch the heart and harmonies that are as close to sibling harmonies as you can get without having the same last name. When you add Tony's amazing work on the guitar and Dennis' distinctive mandolin style, that's a pretty complete act in itself.
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BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! Dennis and Tony have teamed up with the amazing and innovative banjo stylist Dan Levitt. Having developed and mastered a banjo style he calls “Contemporary Clawhammer” with a melodic frailing style that incorporates elements of bluegrass, ragtime, folk, classical and blues, Dan makes an enormous contribution to the unique sound of the band. And if that's not enough, of course Loren Witcher will be holding everything together on bass and wowing you with an occasional song of his choice. A MUST SEE.
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• FORTUNATE SON, with special new star act, THE LICATA BROTHERS doing a 30 minute opening stint, Sun, May 8, 2 pm matinee show. Tix, $20.
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Since 1994, Brad Ford has starred as John Fogerty, pioneering the ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute, FORTUNATE SON. This show quickly became known as "THE PREMIER" act celebrating the music of CCR & John Fogerty and was recently singled out by AXS-TV’s hit show “World’s Greatest Tribute Bands” for which the band performed their show, live from Hollywood and broadcast to millions of viewers.
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The longest-running tribute to CCR, FORTUNATE SON continues to perform across America, Canada, Europe, and Asia rocking rocking fans around the globe with timeless hits like BORN ON THE BAYOU, GREEN RIVER, BAD MOON RISING, LODI, LOOKIN’ OUT MY BACKDOOR, PROUD MARY, CENTERFIELD, HAVE YOU EVER SEEN THE RAIN and so many more. Check 'em out: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=1WUtS7e_P84
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Bob Stane says: "This is an encore appearance for FORTUNATE SON. A big hit here with the fab Licata Brothers. A great afternoon."
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• JIM "KIMO" WEST and KEN EMERSON......A HAWAIIAN FANDANGO, Sun, May 8, 7 pm, tix $20.
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Jim Kimo West and Ken Emerson are both living legends in the world of Hawaiian slack key and acoustic steel guitar. They strive for freshness and spontaneity in there duet shows, often performing without a set list or any idea of what comes next. Their diverse musical influences venture beyond the islands toward the land of blues, ragtime and even jazz and both have played on Grammy-winning records. Ken played on the first-ever winner in the Hawaiian category as well as Donald Fagen’s Grammy-winning “Morph The Cat.” His many other touring / recording credits include Jackson Brown, Boz Scaggs, Todd Lundgren, Taj Mahal, Charlie Musselwhite and Elvin Bishop as well as Hawaiian slack key legends Gabby Pahinui, Moe Keale and Raymond Kane.
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JIM "KIMO" WEST: Besides his solo slack key career, Kimo is long-time guitarist on CDs and tours for the world’s most famous musical satirist, “Weird Al” Yankovic whose recent CD, “Mandatory Fun” debuted at #1 on the Billboard charts and won the Grammy for Best Comedy Recording. http://www.jimkimowest.com/lndex.html
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Kenton Robert Lopaka Emerson is a San Francisco bay area born/Hawaiian island bred guitarist who covers many musical genres. He has played his special blend of Blues/Jazz Hawaiian guitar for 40 years and running..His original compositions and performances on 'Slack Key Guitar Vol 2' (Palm Records) helped bring in the first ever 2005 GRAMMY award for Hawaiian music. 'KE' most recently played on Donald Fagen's 2007 GRAMMY winning "Morph the Cat" album. Born into a musical family, Ken grew up with his fathers' extensive record collection of jazz, swing, Hawaiian and world music styles. In early 1968 Ken's family moved to Hawaii. Absorbing the Hawaiian culture, Ken and his brother Phil began studying Hawaiian language and music. They learned to emulate the players of the 1920's and ‘30s era by listening to vintage Hawaiian 78 rpm records, zeroing in on the jazz and blues styles of Sol Ho'opi'i and Sol K. Bright. By the mid'70's Ken and Phil were playing alongside such legendary performers as Gabby Pahinui, Genoa Keawe, Raymond Kane, Auntie Alice Namakelua, Sol K. Bright and George Ka'ainapau, and recorded and toured with Moe Keale. In between his love of traditional Hawaiian music, Ken has played and/or toured with many luminaries in the musical world beyond Hawaii including Todd Rundgren, Taj Mahal, Boz Scaggs, Jackson Browne, Donald Fagen, Dave Mason, Charlie Musselwhite, Elvin Bishop, Graham Nash, San Francisco's Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann, Pablo Cruise Band and The Rowan Brothers. Dividing his time between Kaua'i and San Francisco, Ken plays many local venues and festivals and is a frequent visitor to the east coast of the United States as well as Europe and Asia.
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"Emerson writes pieces that update the classic sounds of Hawaiian Slack Key guitar. His unaccompanied songs have an open, relaxing quality to them, moving forward in a gentle rhythm.." ( http://www.kauaimusicscene.com/a/ken-emerson ) — Jessy Terry, Rolling Stone Magazine.
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You owe it to yourself to stay informed about who's playing this venue. Shows can be seven nights a week, plus multiple matinees on weekends.
www.coffeegallery.com
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# 9 news feature...
30th annual "LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL" coming June 18 & 19
The Long Beach Bayou Festival is a Zydeco,Blues, Creole & Cajun festival chockful of music, food, and fun. Befitting a milestone anniversary, this year's always excellent festival has a strong lineup, featuring Guitar Shorty, Big Jay McNeely, Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners, Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters, Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys, The Sai Whatt Band, Mark St Mary Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band, and more.
There's Cajun & Creole cuisine, dance instruction & continuous dancing, a "Mardi Gras Parade," Watermelon Eating & Crawfish Eating Contests, activities for kids and teens, and more. There's a popular Mardi Gras atmosphere and music everywhere.
It all happens at Rainbow Lagoon Park, (Linden Av & Shoreline Dr), Long Beach, on Saturday, June 18th and Sunday, June 19, 2016.
Headlining an incredible Blues Stage lineup Saturday night is legendary guitarist-vocalist Guitar Shorty. Shorty is credited with being an influence to Jimi Hendrix and Buddy Guy.
Setting the stage for Shorty on Saturday are Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters starring Leon Hughes from the original Coasters - known for classic hits such as "Poison Ivy," "Charlie Brown," and "Yakety Yak."
Headlining the Blues Stage on Sunday is "King of the honkin’, squealin’, bar walkin’, flat-on-his-back Blowin’ (saxophone) tenor men" Big Jay McNeely.
Before McNeely's finale are the popular smooth jazz / R&B outfit, The Sai Whatt Band. Formerly known as "Prime Time," they scored a massive hit with their single "I Owe it to Myself," which went to no. 19 in the US and no. 1 in Europe. Their TV appearances include "American Bandstand" and "Soul Train."
Andy Hill and Renee Safier's Hard Rain brings a roots flavor to the Blues Stage. Their ensemble won "Americana Group of the Year" at the Los Angeles Music Awards in 2007, and they host theday 26th annual "Dylanfest," happening this year on May 1st.
Rounding out the Blues talent is Kenny Sara & the Sounds of New Orleans, with bristling New Orleans Jazz, R&B, and '70s and '80s funk, and William "Soul" Porter & the Porterhouse BJS with their Tribute to B.B King, who bring their blues, jazz and soulful inspiration to celebrate the sound of the "King of the Blues."
The Zydeco Stage features the most popular artists in the Cajun and Zydeco genre.
International Zydeco stars Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners add their own flavor to "old school Zydeco" and have eight CDs to their credit.
Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys add highly innovative contemporary Zydeco while still respecting tradition.
"The Delta King", Mark St. Mary and His Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band, bring their infectious, award-winning (Bay Area Blues Society's "Best Zydeco Band" 2007) traditional Louisiana blues and Zydeco sounds.
The stellar lineup includes La Recolte Cajun Band, whose decidedly danceable Cajun styling made them winners for “Best New CD of the Year” at the Annual “Le Cajun Awards 2014."
The Revelers, the Louisiana supergroup whose tonic of swamp-pop, Cajun, country, blues, and Zydeco was called “Groove bound and dance compelling …” by Offbeat Magazine.
There's J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts, whose combination of the Blues styles of Clifton Chenier and the funky Beau Jocque moves everyone.
West Coast favorite Bonne Musique Zydeco draws upon the influences of the blues and New Orleans artists of the '50s, '60s and '70s to create a blend of music designed for dancing.
As always, the large shaded wooden dance floor will be filled all weekend long. The easy dance instruction for all ages is always a popular feature, so even the most inexperienced dancers can join in the fun.
Popular festival traditions continue with a colorful costumed Mardi Gras parade led each day by the New Orleans Traditional Jazz Band,and a delectable French Quarter marketplace with gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, hush puppies and other Cajun and Creole delights, plus coffees and desserts such as sweet potato pie, beignets and an array of cobblers. The popular crawfish and watermelon eating contests also return this year.
Children of all ages appreciate the Kids Corner featuring storytelling, sing-a-longs,arts and crafts,magic, and costume and mask making for the Mardi Gras Parade. The Kids Corner also features kids shows and games and activities for older kids are also featured.
Rainbow Lagoon Park is located on the North side of Shoreline Drive, between Shoreline Village Drive and Linden Avenue. Parking is available on the Marina Green Lot across from Rainbow Lagoon Park.
The event is presented by Benoit Entertainment Group. A portion of the profits benefit LALA (Louisiana to Los Angeles), a non-profit organization which raises educational funds for local youth to attend college.
Here's who you'll enjoy each day...
CAJUN/ZYDECO STAGE:
• Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners (Sat,Sun)
• Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys (Sat,Sun)
• La Recolte Cajun Band (Sat)
• Mark St. Mary's Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band (Sat)
• Bonne Musique Zydeco (Sat)
• The Revelers (Sun)
• J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts (Sun)
BLUES STAGE:
• Big Jay McNeely (Sun)
• Guitar Shorty (Sat)
• Leon Hughes' World Famous Coasters (Sat)
• The Sai Whatt Band (Sun)
• Jimmy Hewitt & the Soul Dogg Band featuring Lyrica Garrett (Sat)
• Hard Rain (Sun)
• Kenny Sara & the Sounds of New Orleans (Sat,Sun)
• William "Soul" Porter BJS Band Tribute to B.B. King (Sat)
Plus, there's a "Mardi Gras Parade" each day with New Orleans Traditional Jazz Band, and Dance Instruction throughout the day.
Festival is Sat & Sun, June 18 & 19, 11 am-9:30 pm Sat, 11 am-8 pm Sun. Tix are available now at 562-912-4451, or at www.longbeachbayou.com. Tix: Adults, $25/day-advance, $30/day-gate; Seniors (age 60+) and Students (age 18+) are $20/advance, $30 at the gate; Children age 12 & under are free. Active Duty, Retired and Reservists of the Military are free with current,valid Military ID.
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Music news, FESTIVALS, and events are in the UPDATED edition originally published April 16 and available at a separate click.
Much more, soon, on other topics.
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The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, arts and industry events, and ticket alerts, available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative 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, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.
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