Acoustic Americana Music Guide, March 31 to April 7 edition (PART 1 of 2), 2009

Tied to the Tracks Posted On March 31, 2009

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There are more ACOUSTIC AMERICANA / ACOUSTIC RENAISSANCE music performances EVERY week in the Los Angeles area than the COMBINED TOTAL of ALL OTHER KINDS OF MUSIC!
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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MARCH 31-APRIL 7, 2009 EVENTS
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Updated March 31, 2009; recurring events are included through April 7.
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WELCOME! And after reading this little section of relevant stray facts, if you feel lost or mystified about any of this, write to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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THIS is the place for acoustic music that’s REAL MUSIC, from blues-to-bluegrass-to-borderlands, Cajun-to-cowboy-to-Celtic-to-Cape-Breton-to-Quebecois, new-old-trad-alt-post folk, and the exciting artists of today’s acoustic renaissance! People who love real music tend to love all real music. So, yes, we do include listings for many classical music performances. (When is a fiddle a violin? We’ll leave that to you.)
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We are, of course, true to the nature of live acoustic music, “keeping it real.” So, if you’re looking for that Britney Lohan sh-thump-thud, revolving-door-rehab, pop-tart-du-jour junk that infests the radio and is recorded one note at a time, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
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Here you will find news of live performances of acoustic music and musicians, events that we know you’ll enjoy attending. We include festivals everywhere, and provide a comprehensive guide to concerts, club gigs, coffeehouse performances, and more in the Los Angeles region, from Santa Barbara to Orange County. The Guide includes musicians’ workshops, music conferences, seminars, panel discussions, and more.
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This is the “big half” of what we publish. The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE and the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS post separately. The latest edition of the NEWS, published March 25, is available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/03/news-edition-march-25-acoustic.html
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IF YOU USED A SPECIFIC URL to reach this edition of the Guide, and more than a few days have passed since the date it posted, THERE MAY BE A NEWER EDITION. Use the basic url – http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com – and check the side bar on the left to look for THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events.
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FUTURE MONTHS are published separate from the current month. If you’re looking for “long looks ahead,” remember they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list and tabs to the left for guidance. And we occasionally post a Guide / calendar of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.)” events, for those great festivals and special happenings in other parts of the country, and to help everyone include music with travel plans.
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THE MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES, as well as other recent news posts that are often still relevant, are always available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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WHAT’S IN THE NEWS THAT WE COVER? Our latest news features always include things of interest to acoustic music fans AND artists (musicians and songwriters). Topics include trends in the industry, radio, internet radio, music conferences, artists who have recently won awards and recognitions, charity benefits, festival lineups and booking information, our picks for on-line music videos, music-related books, things that are fun to know, and more – but NEVER any “who’s-sleeping-with-who” gossip crap. (That’s YOUR business, and it’s not the public’s business just because you work in show biz.) Current and recent news editions are found at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. Old archived editions are on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), accessible by using the “View All” and the “older entries” button and scrolling all the way back to when acoustic music happened because dinosaurs got rambunctious.
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UPDATES TO THE CURRENT MONTH’S GUIDE / CALENDAR are made at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events get booked into a vast number of venues, with more added all the time. And, we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, workshop presenters, etc.
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FUTURE EVENTS are currently posted past mid-2009, and will soon go farther than that.
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RECURRING EVENTS include residencies, series, showcases, and open mics, and all these are numerous in the Southern California acoustic music universe. We generally add them to the Guide’s calendar one week at a time, as dates approach, because there are so many of them, AND because it gives us a chance to learn who is playing.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana music shows (send us gig notices in our format, please; see any listed show for an example) please DON’T expect us to re-type info that you have locked into a jpg – send us plain text, so we can work with it! Send to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM after a long presence on MySpace, because that site now accepts only short posts. The Guide is waaaay too comprehensive to fit anywhere that imposes limitations. We began posting to Blogspot in early 2008.
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Our MYSPACE PAGE (www.myspace.com/laacoustic) has current news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and what’s happening with its TV counterpart. And it’s where you can find archived Acoustic Americana Music News editions published prior to Spring, 2008.
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PLEASE DO COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Americana Music Guide and / or the Acoustic Americana Music News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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PLEASE DON’T send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, it cannot be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. (Myspace “friends” are great, and we DO welcome you there!) But, communicate through email only at the above address. And, yes, we get HUNDREDS of emails every week, so please give us as much advance notice as possible for your event!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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MARCH 31-APRIL 7, 2009 EVENTS
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IN THIS EDITION: Look for our popular “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks, plus NEW, for artists – “PICK OF THE WEEK” for artists, spotlighting the best workshops, seminars, and more!
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Recurring events are included through April 7.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 31
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Tonight, there are two “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks back-to-back at 7 & 8 pm at the Hotel Café in Hollywood, and one at SOhO in Santa Barbara at 8 pm.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, Mar 31:
6-9 pm KELLY FITZGERALD solo acoustic at Jaqu’s, 16334 Beach Bl, Huntington Beach; www.jaqus.com. Kelly was named by L.A. WoMen in Music as the female singer-songwriter of the year. Her music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.kellyfitzgerald.net
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Tue, Mar 31; every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni’s, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, Mar 31; every Tue:
6:30-11 pm “SOUP JAM,” Don Rowan’s country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, contact Don, 562-883-0573. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice; soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is first entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, Mar 31; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
7 pm ALI MARCUS, from Seattle, plays her first L.A. show at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. Ali earned a “Listener Favorite” for her original, “The Most Autobiographical Song,” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” before NPR discovered the song and pcked it up. We have long and anxiously awaited for Ali to include an L.A. performance in one of her frequent tours.
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Check out her performance videos on YouTube:
”Daily News,” Ali’s new take on the old Tom Paxton song, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3ym-lZ_duU
”Hey John” at www.youtube.com/watch?v=u020ZbkHRyI
”Frank Mills at” www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyYRNAmjsQg
”Wayfaring Stranger / Summertime” with Christy Cameron, (Ali on left) at www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmzVC16iFkE
And, very significantly, “Minnesota,” about which Ali says, “this is an anti-war song. It’s a protest song. It’s a campaigning song for Barack Obama. It’s a folk song. I think it’s a little dark but ultimately uplifiting. Like America. To be clear, ‘That’s the Change We Need, Minnesota’ was the ‘chorus’ of Obama’s speech in Minnesota the night he won the nomination.” Check it out, at www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZ8sPG97GkA
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Ali has an old-time folk band, THE OLD BAY WARBLERS, along with her solo singer-songwriter “urban folkster” identity. More at www.myspace.com/theoldbaywarblers
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Ali’s new record, “The Great Migration,” is due in April. Her previous albums have earned accolades from Harp Magazine, the Seattle P-I daily newspaper, and NPR’s “All Songs Considered.” Across the board, she wins high marks for her songwriting and lyrical skill. With a band, “The Great Migration” brings her songs to fruition – something that folks have been waiting for all this time. In the past year, Ali has toured 15 states, playing NYC’s CMJ, Nashville’s Bluebird Café, DC’s IOTA Café, Cambridge’s Lizard Lounge, Berkeley’s Starry Plough, and Seattle’s Experience Music Project. She has recently wrapped up a four-month tour of the Pacific Northwest with a trip to Oregon and California, performing in places like the MakeOut Room in San Francisco, the East Village in Monterey, and along the way, amid the high redwoods.
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A reviewer in “Listen to This” says, “The music is quite beautiful. It’s just Marcus and an acoustic guitar and that’s all you need…Driven by a pretty voice that occasionally recalls Jenny Lewis these are some of the best songs I’ve heard from a new artist in an age.”
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Dave Beck of KUOW 94.9 FM says, “Ali casts a skeptical look at life’s supposed certainties – religion, success, domestic content. She suggests any of these values could someday crash into that big, jagged iceberg of the unknown.”
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“Folk music with heart and soul.” – Gene Stout, Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
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Critic Oliver di Place says, “Ali Marcus displays a wonderful command of the English language. These are sung poems.”
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Writing in “Womenfolk,” Robbie McCowan says, “Appropriately titled, ‘The Great Migration’ amplifies Marcus’ talent as a continually burgeoning, confident songwriter.”
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This is her ONLY L.A. gig on this road trip, and you owe it to yourself to see her perform. Catch the Red Line subway an avoid traffic and parking charges. More at www.alimarcus.com.
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And stick around for HORSE STORIES, playing a second “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick at 8 pm at the same venue (see listing); pay the cover to see Ali, and you’re in for Horse Stories.
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Tue, Mar 31; last Tue, every month:
7-8:45 pm GILLI MOON plays her monthly residency and “SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE” at Genghis Cohen, 740 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90046; 323-653-0640. It’s a mostly-acoustic event with guest artists. Gill says, “It features ‘moi,’ plus a couple of cool cats from Songsalive! – and we all perform in the round on stage. It’s really a wonderful night, and starts early, 7 pm stage time.” Venue is known for its Chinese food; call for dinner reserv. Plenty of parking, $7 cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC – Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you’d like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
ON HIATUS, PENDING VENUE’S BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS: 7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing host GARRET SWAYNE. The two featured artists are followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com. MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, Mar 31; every week; in the Inland Empire:
7 pm “LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY OPEN JAM” at Loma Linda University College Market Patio Pantry, 24905 Anderson St, (at Mound & Anderson St, near US Post Office, behind other buildings), Loma Linda. Every Tue in 2009.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome “All unplugged acoustic players.” Venue has great ambience, food “made from scratch and about 95% organic.” No cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; cool book signing:
7:30 pm HANK ROSENFELD speaks about his new book on Irv Brecher, “THE WICKED WIT OF THE WEST: THE LAST GREAT GOLDEN AGE SCREENWRITER SHARES THE HILARITY AND HEARTACHES OF WORKING WITH GROUCHO, GARLAND, GLEASON, BURNS, BERLE, BENNY, AND MANY MORE!” a talk and signing at Village Books, 1047 Swarthmore, Pacific Palisades. Info & reviews, www.benyehudapress.com/catalog/rosenfeld-gfj/blurbs.html. Free event.
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Tue, Mar 31:
8 pm “LOS ANGELES MUSIC AWARDS SHOWCASE” featuring MISTER B & HIS BAND, CAROLANN AMES, THERESA FLAMINIO, & ROBERT POPA, at Life on Wilshire, 6311 Wilshire Bl, L.A. Mister B’s music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He tells us, “I sent the new CD, ‘Just Like This,’ off to the Los Angeles Music Awards to see what would happen and they called me up and invited me and the band to do a showcase for the judges. Apparently they get about 10,000 CDs sent to them and some of the past showcase acts include No Doubt, Korn, System of a Down, and the Black Eyed Peas. So getting a shot at the showcase was freaky cool. The band’s really excited and we’re starting to rehearse like mad now.” $ 10 cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm HORSE STORIES at Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. Described as “Indie / folk / two-step,” HORSE STORIES is the main band project of singer, songwriter, composer, producer and writer TOBY BURKE. He’s compellingly melancholy, without having that droll, monotonic whatever-it-is that afflicts too much of today’s music. Burke has released three Horse Stories albums to date (www.myspace.com/horsestories), one solo record, an experimental instrumental record (and accompanying photography project) under the title, “Perfect Black Swan” (www.myspace.com/perfectblackswan) as well as working on musical scores and art installations, and publishing fiction (sometimes as TB Hemingway). He did all this while spending time living in London, in Melbourne (his place of birth), and in his more permanent base, L.A., where Horse Stories first formed. The most recent (and most critically-acclaimed) Horse Stories record, “Everyone’s A Photographer,” was engineered and produced by Pall Jenkins of The Black Heart Procession in San Diego. Toby is currently spending far too much time at home, working on songs for the new Horse Stories record, “November, November,” due for release in 2009. “Expertly judged chamber-pop, twang swapped for painstaking production… Burke’s vocals evoke Joe Pernice, gentle, wracked, velvety exhalations that sweeten his powerfully bleak pieces.” – MOJO.
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Come early and catch “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick ALI MARCUS, from Seattle, at 7 pm; pay the cover to see Ali, and you’re in for Horse Stories.
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Tue, Mar 31:
8 pm SURFIN’ SURFARI at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue – The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. They’re a faithful recreation of what it would have been like to see The Beach Boys live, in concert, in their prime. This 5-member lineup is unrivaled in their sound, presentation, and professionalism. There are no backing tracks or extra musicians playing off-stage. The ibeauty of their vocal harmonies, the crashing back beat that sounds like Dennis Wilson’s drums with the soaring surf guitar of Carl Wilson and the genius of Brian Wilson’s music? Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “It is all here. The uniband choreography, the Fender guitar line up, the famous custom striped shirts, right down to the black suede Beach Boy boots, it’s all here. SURFIN’ SAFARI provides you with a great show, a great time, and fun, fun, fun till our Daddy takes the T-Bird away!” $15.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone’s, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue, Mar 31; in Santa Barbara; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm MANDA MOSHER (aka MANDA) at SOhO, 1221 State Street Suite 205 Santa Barbara 93101. Just back from showcasing at Austin’s giant SXSW Music Festival, Manda plays at Santa Barbara’s premier music venue.
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In “Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange,” reviewer Mark S. Tucker wrote, “A scratchy old tape recording composing the Intro belies the fully engineered recordings that follow, each one delivered in vocals as smooth and sweet as honey but with a knowing of the world…’Lay Me Down’ being exactly what you might hope and imagine and a rocker finding some good leadwork in Ido Sasson. Manda Mosher’s purry pipes are a perennially slinky seduction into her brand of lush soft rock that amps up in various songs building and layering. There’s a lot of Aimee Mann and bit of Martha Bates in her writing. …Mosher never resorts to [shouting], preferring the melodious, sultry, moody, and mellifluous. She was, not long ago, chosen to tributize Neil Young and Pete Townshend in respective CDs, and a Townshend cut appears here, his ‘Blue, Red, and Grey.’ ‘Everything You Need’ is a breezy CD, not a burner or a depressoid set of opuses for a dark fall afternoon. The disc is more a summertime outing, driving up Pacific Coast Highway, heading for Zuma Beach and points beyond, cares well behind with prospects of life and love ahead. There’s a goodly share of wistfulness to shade the collection, and any number of cuts could easily find their way onto the charts. Manda Mosher has everything going for her: the looks, the sonorities, the chart sound, and any number of winning aspects no matter how you approach her work.”
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In the “Charleston (West Virginia) Gazette,” reviewer Michael Lipton wrote, “The debut from this comely Los Angelino starts out with a short, low-fi acoustic teaser, but it doesn’t take long to realize there’s nothing low-fi about Mosher. More inspired by the rock side of pop, Mosher seems more informed by smart pop gals like Marti Jones than by the bumper crop of sensitive Americana darlings. Even when she’s breathy and cooing on ‘It Can’t Be Wrong’ and singing with nothing but an acoustic guitar on the intro to the title track, she has an attitude and an unmistakable undercurrent of fire. The lone cover is a version of Pete Townshend’s gorgeous ‘Blue, Red and Grey,’ which she performed at a Townshend tribute at Austin’s South By Southwest. That starts out true to the original with guitar instead of ukulele and gradually adds full instrumentation. ‘One True Love’ and ‘Wash it All Away’ are melodic, jangle rockers with plenty of Dylanesque harp on the former. While Mosher’s recipe is soaring pop-rockers that always stay within the lines, the back porch-sounding bookends on the disc indicate that she’s got some soul and perhaps even a few rough edges.”
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More at www.mandamosher.com. $7 cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, Mar 31; every week; in Laguna Beach:
8 pm weekly “SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” features guest artists and BETH FITCHET WOOD, who plays the opening set each week, at the The Marine Room Tavern, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027.
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Tue, Mar 31; every Tue:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Tue, Mar 31; every Tue:
9 pm-12:30 am “BLUES ROCK JAM” night at Music Club Mogul, 351 N Fairfax Av, L.A. 90048; www.mogul.am; reservations, 323-428-8471. Open for dinner at 7 pm; those not there by 9 pm lose priority seating. Venue has a capacity of 250, with ample free parking (wonderful news in this part of town!) and full dinner menu including exotic Russian cuisine and lighter fare, and full bar. Big patio for those still afflicted with smoking. Their goal is to present “great, energizing live music, local artists and bands as well as international acts.” They note, “As can be seen from the 2009 Grammy Awards, half the winners were indie artists. Club Mogul supports this trend.” Music Club Mogul is the brainchild of Surge Mogul, music industry veteran and entrepreneur, with his partners Vova Mogul as musical director and Shadow Sky doing the booking.
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Each night brings different styles and genres:
Monday – Singer-Songwriter “Create” night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Tuesday – “Pro-Jam, Tribute/Cover Bands night,” 9 pm-12:30 am
Wednesday – “Platinum Divas Live!” night, 8 pm-12:30 am
Thursday – “Blues, Blues/Rock, Funk night,” 8 pm-12:30 am
Sunday – “Pop, Rock, Indie Rock, World Music” night, 8 pm-11:30 am
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All shows are $10 cover.
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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It’s APRIL!
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Hard for our modern reckoning to believe, but April was the second month of the Roman calendar until 45 BCE. The origin and meaning of the word “April” brings considerable debate. Jakob Grimm, one authority, says it may have originated from the name of a hypothetical god or hero named Aper of Aprus. Other scholars believe it originated from the Latin verb apeire, meaning “to open.” That would refer to the opening of buds and leaves with the arrival of Spring. Speaking of which, the official flower for April is the sweet pea, in case you wanted to know.
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POEM OF THE MONTH FOR APRIL
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from Shakespeare’s “”Merry Wives of Windsor”
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He capers,
he dances,
he has eyes of youth,
he writes verses,
he smells April and May.
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APRIL 2009 events
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Updated March 27, 2009; recurring events included through Fri, Apr 3.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1
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Today is April Fool’s Day. So, other than what you read in the Guide, take care that the apparent veracity of what you see and hear may not necessarily be warranted.
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Tonight, there is one “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena at 8 pm.
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Wed; every Wed; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
ON HIATUS: 3-7 pm “ROOTS MUSIC JAM SESSION” with TOM SAUBER at the Sierra Madre Farmers’ Market, in the parking lot behind the shops on the south side of Sierra Madre Blvd., just west of Baldwin Av, in Sierra Madre. Take Baldwin Av exit N from 210 Fwy. Turn W off Baldwin onto Mariposa and you’ll see the tents. Tom tells us, “It won’t take the place of Frank & Joe’s [the long-gone Wed night jam] and I know it’s not convenient for most, but it’s something as long as the weather’s nice.” Info, masaw48@earthlink.net
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Tom tells us, “It won’t be meeting again until the weather warms up.”
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Wed (& Thu), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
5-8 pm New “CLAREMONT WEDNESDAY GREEN MARKET” features acoustic music with RON ELY doing seafaring songs and more, inside the Packing House in the new West Claremont Center, 532 W First St, Claremont 91711; www.claremontpackinghouse.com/home.htm . Ron tells us, “It’s all about ‘going GREEN,’ and should be promoted and supported. They are going to expand with a Farmer’s Market each Wednesday evening. That will be outside this same venue, The Packing House, a fully rehabilitated old building, a real packing house, Historical Landmark. It’s put-on by the non-profit ‘Claremont Forum,’ (www.claremontforum.org) that sponsors the “Prison Library Project,” sending books to those incarcerated.”
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Wed, Apr 1; in Santa Barbara:
6-7 pm “GUITAR WORKSHOP” with MURIEL ANDERSON at Jensen’s Music, 2905 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara; info & reservations, 805-563-3200. Muriel, who lives in Maine, is an accomplished and delightful artist who has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.murielanderson.com
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
7-10 pm (started Jan 7) “KULAK’S WEDNESDAY NIGHT SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” at Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Marc Platt wrote, for Music Connection, “Your Wednesday Nights will never be the same after participating in this Group Workshop. The weekly cost is $20, which goes to Kulak’s to help pay the rent. The Workshop… is open to the public for the first four weeks. We will then set our 12-person group writing roster until the end of March. The workshop will be limited to 12 writers. We will break up into groups and work on many styles, genres and topics. You will find it challenging and exhilarating. You can bring instruments and will need to have your own small recording device, as well as a pen and notepad. Marc Platt (from the Sunday Night Performance Workshop) will facilitate with help from Steve Schalchlin. Marc has written music for TV Shows like ‘Queer Eye For The Straight Guy’ and others for many years. Steve Schalchlin ran similar workshops for the NAS (National Academy of Songwriters) in the 1990s and is a very accomplished songwriter. His ‘New World Waking’ show is currently running in San Francisco. If you are interested, please email Marc Platt at rotn60@aol.com.”
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Replaces the DISCONTINUED “ACOUSTIC JAM” night.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome “musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences.” Venue has great ambience, food “made from scratch and about 95% organic.” No cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
CANCELLED – VENUE HAS CLOSED: 7-9 pm ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC, hosted by ALLAN COMEAU, at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica.
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Wed, Apr 1; 1st & 3rd Wed every month:
7:30-9:30 pm twice-monthly “COWBOY WESTERN JAM” at El Trocadero, 24274 Main St (at Market), Newhall 91321; 661-284-6615; www.eltrocaderosteakhouse.com. (Many maps show the street name as San Fernando Rd; the part where the venue is located was renamed Main St in 2007.) Event moved to this venue in Sep, 2008. This is the event that was held at Rattlesnake Slim’s until that venue had a fire, and before that, it was held for years at Vincenzo’s Pizza. All pickers invited. No cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D’Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session in Simi Valley; for location, contact M. Gregory, info@songmakers.org or 805-579-6416. More at www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Harvelle’s, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Wednesday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. $3-7 cover. Start time varies; call venue.
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Wed, Apr 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm TRIO ELLAS at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue – The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Venue impresario says, “Share this discovery with us. Comes with huge recommendations. TRIO ELLAS is a hot female mariachi trio. Cute and great musicians. A south of the border treat.” The promo on them says, “Trio Ellas features passionate violin and cascading guitar, with the heartbeat of the guitarron. The angelic harmonies sung by these sultry ladies will both soothe and enchant you as they combine the romance of the classic trio with the tradition of the Mariachi. This is a truly romantic evening.” $20.
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Note: THE LIMELITERS had to cancel their April 1 date here. Bob Stane says they will be back to play the venue in October.
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Wed, Apr 1; first Wed, every month:
8 pm THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig ‘n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, Apr 1; 1st Wed, every month:
8 pm monthly “ACOUSTICALLY SPEAKING” show with performing host POET RONI GIRL and a full evening’s lineup, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea, L.A. Venue has full bar and light meals (full dinners can be sent-up from Amalfi Ristorante, downstairs.) Cover is $6 if you say “Flyer” or bring their event flyer (otherwise, it’s more).
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, Apr 1; every Wed:
9 pm-midnight “PRO BLUES JAM SESSION” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES band, at the Azteca Restaurant and Bar, 717 S San Gabriel Bl, San Gabriel 91776; 626-287-4645. (New Mar 11, 2009.)
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Wed, Apr 1; 1st & 3rd Wed, every month:
CANCELLED – VENUE HAS CLOSED: 9-11 pm “WESTSIDE SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND” hosted by JEFF KOSSACK & JOHN STOWERS with pre-booked guests, at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. Follows the 7-9 pm weekly OPEN MIC (6:45 pm sign-ups) that’s hosted here by ALLAN COMEAU.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2
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Tonight’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are in Ojai at 7:30 pm, and two closer to home, at the Skirball and the Coffee Gallery Backstage, both at 8 pm.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER’S MARKET” with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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Thu (& Wed), every week; near Santa Barbara:
4 pm-late New “PARADISE STORE TWICE-WEEKLY BLUEGRASS / MOUNTAIN MUSIC JAM” at Paradise Store, N of Santa Barbara on Hwy 154 for 9.5 mi; right on Paradise Rd, 1/2 mile to the store. Directions, www.paradisestoresb.com/directions.asp
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Wed’s include BBQ; Thu’s are a “Mountain Fiddle Hootenanny.” Both hosted by MARK LEWIS. More at www.paradisestoresb.com/entertainment.asp?cmth=2&cyer=2009
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu: in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; 1st and 3rd Thu, every month; in the OC:
6-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM IN THE OC” at Orange County Archery, 18792 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley 92708; 714-965-1125. It’s described as “Open Mics and Jams,” and as an “open bluegrass jam, all pickers welcome, all grinners welcome!” Event info, Shelah Spiegel, 714-962-5083 or ifiddler@yahoo.com. Free.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, Apr 2; series runs every week:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” this week brings DEAN DOBBINS plus DAVE FRASER to Arnie’s Café & Ristorante Italiano, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.ArniesCafe.com. Hosted by Mark “Pocket” Goldberg & “Brother” Randy Sacks; this is not an open mic. Venue has good food, coffeehouse beverages. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
7-10 pm “FLAMENCO GUITAR NIGHT” with award-winning flamenco guitarist STEPHEN DICK at Manchego Food From Spain Restaurant, 2510 Main St, Santa Monica 90405; 310-450-3900; www.manchegoonmain.com. Venue serves great tapas and Spanish dinner plates in an elegant and intimate space. STEPHEN DICK – “Esteban de Los Angeles” – has won numerous prizes for his compositions and performances, including an award from the Sur Jerez Flamenco Competition in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, for his original 1st album, “Naranjas Amargas.” A versatile artist, he is the winner of the Peter Frampton award for excellence in contemporary music, and his compositions for the guitar have been published in Italy, and in the US by Columbia Music Company. He won the Paulo Barsacchi award for guitar composition for his “Sonatina for Solo Guitar,” and a Meet the Composer’s grant for his realization of Federico Garcia Lorca’s romantic ballad, “Romance Sonambulo.” He a 2008/2009 winner of a grant from the Spanish Ministry of Culture and US Universities for a new flamenco concert featuring GarciaLorca’s mystical lullaby, “Nana del Caballo Grande.”
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven’s SteakHouse, 5332 Steven’s Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, Apr 2:
7-10 pm KELLY FITZGERALD solo acoustic at Delius Restaurant, 2951 Cherry Av, Signal Hill; 562-989-1000; www.deliusrestaurant.com. Kelly was named by L.A. WoMen in Music as the female singer-songwriter of the year. Her music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” More at www.kellyfitzgerald.net
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud…”
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu; in Lancaster:
7-10 pm “CEDAR OPEN MIC” at Cedar Center, 44345 Cedar Av (at Lancaster Bl), Lancaster 93534; www.myspace.com/cedarcenteropenmic. Hosted by Ms. Shell Marie and Cleen. It’s open to all ages, however there is no censorship rule. It welcomes poets, spoken word, “freestylers,” and acoustic musicians. Free.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He’s a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, Apr 2 & Fri, Apr 3; in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm PAUL STOOKEY of PETER, PAUL & MARY plays an added show tonight, in addition to his two completely different shows on Friday, all at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman’s Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; www.ojaiconcertseries.com; 805-649-5189. Series presenters Shane & Kelli Butler tell us, “We are very fortunate to be hosting one of the icons of folk music from the ‘60s & ‘70s.
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Singer-songwriter Noel Paul Stookey has been altering both the musical and ethical landscape of this country and the world for decades, both as the “Paul” of the legendary Peter, Paul and Mary, and as an independent musician who passionately believes in bringing the spiritual into the practice of daily life. Funny, irreverently reverent, thoughtful, compassionate, passionate, Stookey’s vocal sound is known all across this land, from the “Wedding Song” to “In These Times.” At the 1963 “March on Washington” when Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech, Peter, Paul and Mary delivered the compelling “If I Had a Hammer” and “Blowin’ in the Wind”. Noel Paul Stookey has recorded over 45 albums and oversees Neworld Multimedia, presenting new artists and creating children’s TV shows and music. The royalties from his classic “Wedding Song” go to the Public Domain Foundation, where nearly $2 million has been put to work for charitable causes.

“The warm, clowning humor and humanistic sensitivity which characterized the efforts of Paul Stookey in Peter, Paul & Mary remain in joyful abundance in his solo career. Stookey lets his music speak for itself…, his repertoire, more inspirational than gospel oriented, is based in human-scaled topics rather than the outward political activism of PPM.” – Daily Variety.
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“Stookey’s special, infectious and charming brand of humor.., watching and hearing Stookey sing Puff The Magic Dragon as if he were a kid, a pirate, then a kid again brings out the magic” – Music Review.
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On Friday, Apr 3, he plays TWO shows, first a kid-friendly family show – Puff the Magic Dragon was one of his early hits – then, a show for the grown-ups later in the evening.” On-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Se Fri listing for kids show ticket prices. (Though billed as the “adult” show, tonight’s tix for kids under age 15 are 1/2 price at the door, if any tix remain).Tix $20 advance, $22 at door.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
7:30 “MUSIC NIGHT” at Lulu’s Beehive, 13203 Ventura Bl (1 blk E of Fulton), Studio City; 818-986-2233. After a long absence, the singer-songwriter series is back at the fun little venue. Light fare, sandwiches, coffeehouse beverages available. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “BILL FRISELL’S DISFARMER PROJECT: MUSICAL PORTRAITS FROM HEBER SPRINGS” with VIKTOR KRAUSS, GREG LEISZ, & JENNY SCHEINMAN, at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A. 90049; 310-440-4500; www.skirball.org. Grammy Award-winning jazz guitarist Bill Frisell, along with violinist Jenny Scheinman, steel guitar player Greg Leisz, and bassist Viktor Krauss, performs his compositional suite inspired by the life and work of great American artist Mike Disfarmer (1884-1959), the reclusive figure who gained fame for his photographs of rural Arkansas life during the Depression and beyond.
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Drawing in part on traditional Ozark fiddle music, Frisell’s piece echoes the timeless, captivating qualities of Disfarmer’s portraits through atmospheric soundscapes and traditional American musical forms. Adding to the concert’s ambience will be some of Disfarmer’s compelling images projected behind the stage. More, & advance tix, at www.skirball.org/index.php?option=com_ccevents&scope=prgm&task=detail&oid=514&ccmenu=d2hhdcdzig9u
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“Bill Frisell is the Clark Kent of jazz guitar-beneath his mild exterior lurks a supernatural talent.” – The Times (London). “Frisell, make no mistake about it, is one of the most significant improvisers to emerge in the past twenty years.” – The Washington Post.
$30 gen’l; $25 Skirball mbrs; $20 full-time students.
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Thu, Apr 2; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm GONZALO BERAGA QUARTET at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue – The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “These guys are world class. This is a return engagement, or two. So fine.” Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Gonzalo is considered one of the best guitar players in America. Bob Stane adds, “You will hear a mix of Gypsy Jazz and Latin acoustic music with melodies you will not forget. Passionate, virtuoso guitar, incredible clarinet player Rob Hardt, and a pumping rhtyhm section.”
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After touring the world extensively next to the John Jorgenson Quintet, native Argentinian Gonzalo Bergara is presenting his new CD, “Porteña Soledad,” with glowing reviews all over the world, including “editor’s pick” by “Guitar Player” magazine; “Vintage Guitar” magazine calls it, “a Masterpiece.”
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Gonzalo began playing professionally at age 16 in Buenos Aires. By 17, he was already fronting his own blues trio on National Television. He arrived in America in 2000 and since then he has performed and recorded with hundreds of artists including Tim Hausser from Manhattan Transfer, Sylvie Vartan, Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks, John Jorgenson, Howard Alden and more. The Gonzalo Bergara Quartet is formed by Gonzalo Bergara on Lead Acoustic Guitar, Jeffrey Radaich on Rhythm Guitar, Rob Hardt on Clarinet and Tenor Saxophone, and David Tranchina on Upright Bass.
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His music is heavily influenced by Django Reinhardt and the Hot Club of France, all the traditional Jazz and hint of his native land Buenos Aires. “Gonzalo Bergara’s music exists in a way that very little music does. He has lavished such care on every phrase, built each arrangement with such lapidary precision and pared away anything extraneous, the music becomes sculpture. It has weight, density, gravity. This is serious. And deeply moving,” wrote one critic. Gonzalo has performed all over the world, including Croatia, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Hungary, Argentina, Brazil, England, Scotland and all of the US. Festivals such as The Montreal Jazz Fest, Playboy Jazz Fest, Sweet and Hot Jazz fest, Django Reinhardt Fest in Germany, Suev guitar fest in Italy, Merle Fest, Strawberry Fest, all four Django Fests in the US, and lots more. $15.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O’ Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; 1st and 3rd Thu, every month:
8-10 pm WINDY RIDGE brings bluegrass to the Coffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Av, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-316-6554. Info, contact Frank Bayuk at 310-567-6321 or windyridgeband@aol.com. Band info, www.windyridgebluegrass.com. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 2:
8-10 pm “TRACY NEWMAN & FRIENDS” is a strong lineup, with TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS, SHAUN CROMWELL, & STEPHANIE BETTMAN with LUKE HALPIN, at Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com – named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. All the performers in tonight’s show have been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and most of them have performed live on the radio show.
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TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS have become venue and house concert favorites. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which brought world premieres of Tracy’s originals, now hard worldwide on many radio stations. The group is Emmy and Peabody award-winner Tracy Newman, joined by singer-songwriters Lorie Doswell and Gene Lippmann. Their beginnings as a trio “were completely organic,” as Tracy puts it. Two years ago, Tracy was doing a gig at the Talking Stick in Santa Monica, and Lorie and Gene were sitting at the front table. They began harmonizing with Tracy in the chorus of her song, “Laraine.” Tracy says, “It sounded great.” So, she invited them to come up on stage with her, and the rest is history. Tracy tells you that she “sounds good alone, but a hundred times better with Lorie and Gene. Add Gene’s weird little Dan Hicks-type guitar style to the mix, and you’ve really got something.” Their CD, “A Place in the Sun,” debuted on “TttT,” and you can hear and buy it at www.cdbaby.com/cd/tracynewman. Tracy says, “Play that little ten-song disc in your car and you’ll feel like you’re on vacation. Don’t take my word for it – read the reviews at the bottom of [Tracy Newman’s] CDBABY page.” More at www.tracynewman.com – www.myrecordlabel.net/tracynewman – www.myspace.com/tracynewman1
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STEPHANIE BETTMAN is a rich songwriter, soulful vocalist and dynamic fiddler. She has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” which brought the world premieres of several of her original recordings, as well. Stephanie Bettman’s music is an engaging mixture of bluegrass, folk, country and jazz. Music Connection Magazine says of her debut CD, “Stephanie Bettman and Co. have plenty of cards up their sleeves and they deal them well, with impressive versatility… a dulcet voice, pure and clear.” And Max Achatz of Germany’s “Country Jukebox” says, “That Stephanie Bettman has reached a level comparable to others like Emmylou Harris, Joan Baez and Alison Kraus so quickly is a bit uncanny!” She and her band were the grand prize winners of the 2008 “Southern California Live Acoustic Music Competition,” among the winners in the 2007 “Topanga Banjo/Fiddle contest,” and performers at the 2007 “Sedona Bluegrass Festival,” where buzz on the street was already calling her “the next Alison Krauss.” Stephanie was selected by the 2008 “International Acoustic Music Awards” (finalist), the “West Coast Songwriters International Songwriting Competition” (honorable mention) and the “Mountain Stage New Song Competition.” Kerry Dexter of “Dirty Linen” magazine says Stephanie is “an artist to watch.” More, including how to get the CD, at www.stephaniebettman.com. Digital downloads are available through iTunes, Napster and Rhapsody.
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LUKE HALPIN joins Stephanie with his own package of multi-talents as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Luke has been compared to such greats as Sam Bush and Tony Rice, and has worked as a touring and recording musician, opening for Lone Star and Merle Haggard.
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SHAUN CROMWELL was born in Detroit (Royal Oak, Michigan, actually) and he lived there for many years. In Detroit, he rocked in various jam-type groups while he studied jazz and played in groups where he was a standout swing player. Shaun moved to L.A. when he got fed-up with snow and ice. Here, Shaun began finger-picking his guitar and, he says, “coming up with half-assed arrangements of traditional tunes. Too lazy to actually memorize a piece of music,” he says he “likes to perform his songs in an ‘improvised’ fashion, resulting in slightly different versions each time.” That of course, is the essence of the jazz influence at work. But his musical identity these days is much more that of the bluesman, as he cites primary influences on the guitar as Mississippi John Hurt, Ry Cooder, Rev. Gary Davis. His overall sound is one borne out of his varied musical influences garnered over a lifetime. More at www.myspace.com/shauncromwell
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All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio “Coco” Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, Apr 2:
8:30 pm BONNIE “PRINCE” BILLY, aka WILL OLDHAM, at The El Rey, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-6400; www.theelrey.com. More at www.bonnieprincebilly.com
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Thu, Apr 2:
9 pm ERIC LINDELL at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A.; 323-954-9630; www.themintla.com. More at www.ericlindell.com
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, Apr 2:
9:30 pm KEN O’MALLEY brings authentic and original Irish music to Ireland’s 32, 13721 Burbank Bl, Van Nuys; 818-785-4031. More at www.kenomalley.com
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Thu, Apr 2; 1st & 3rd Thu, every month:
9:30 pm Pianist DANNY HOLT “& friends” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). Called “exceptional” by the Los Angeles Times, pianist Danny Holt performs across the globe in concert halls, clubs, art galleries, churches, living rooms, and wherever else he can find a piano and someone to listen. Whether playing classical music, experimental music, minimalist grooves, or pop/rock, Danny is consistently praised by critics for his energy, wit, and vibrancy. Twice a month, Danny performs here with his invited guests. More at www.dannyholt.net and www.myspace.com/dannyholtmusic
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) happens every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime – you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Thu, Apr 2; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 3
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Tonight’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks are in Ojai at 5:30 & 7:30 pm, and closer to home, a choice of two show times (7 & 9:30) at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, and a show in Dana Point at 7:30 pm.
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Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4; in Nashville, Tennessee:
“NSAI SPRING TRAINING” the Nashville Songwriters International (NSAI) former “Spring Symposium” is back, renamed, at he Millennium Maxwell House Hotel, 2025 Rosa L. Parks Bl, Nashville, TN. Billed as a “Songwriters’ event you can’t miss,” the two-day event offers panels and “performances with star power.” Held during “Tin Pan South” week; it includes exclusive performances by big names in the music industry, vital information from the hitmakers on how to launch your career, one-on-one mentoring and pitch to the publisher of your choice. Info and registration at 615-256-3354 or www.nashvillesongwriters.com.
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Spring Training includes a special opening interview and performance from Hall of Fame songwriter/artist Ray Stevens, as well as the feature segment “If You’ve Got a Dream, I’ve Got a Plan” with #1 hit songwriter Kelley Lovelace (“He Didn’t Have To Be” – Brad Paisley, and “Don’t Forget to Remember Me” – Carrie Underwood) and the return of the “Pro Songwriting Panel” featuring 2008 Hall of Fame nominee Kye Fleming (“I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” – Barbara Mandrell, & “Give Me Wings” – Michael Johnson) and hit songwriter Clay Mills (“Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It” – Darius Rucker, & “Heaven, Heartache And The Power Of Love” – Trisha Yearwood). Mega-hit songwriter-artist-producer Jeffrey Steele (“What Hurts the Most” – Rascal Flatts, and “I Thought I Lost You” from the Disney film, “Bolt” – Miley Cyrus-John Travolta duet) is the closing guest who will perform a few songs.
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Fri, Apr 3; every Fri, on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Fri, Apr 3; in Ojai; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5:30 & 7:30 pm PAUL STOOKEY of PETER, PAUL & MARY plays two completely different shows tonight at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman’s Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Series presenters Shane & Kelli Butler tell us, “We are very fortunate to be hosting one of the icons of folk music from the ‘60s & ‘70s.
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Singer-songwriter Noel Paul Stookey has been altering both the musical and ethical landscape of this country and the world for decades, both as the “Paul” of the legendary Peter, Paul and Mary, and as an independent musician who passionately believes in bringing the spiritual into the practice of daily life. Funny, irreverently reverent, thoughtful, compassionate, passionate, Stookey’s vocal sound is known all across this land, from the “Wedding Song” to “In These Times.” At the 1963 “March on Washington” when Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech, Peter, Paul and Mary delivered the compelling “If I Had a Hammer” and “Blowin’ in the Wind”. Noel Paul Stookey has recorded over 45 albums and oversees Neworld Multimedia, presenting new artists and creating children’s TV shows and music. The royalties from his classic “Wedding Song” go to the Public Domain Foundation, where nearly $2 million has been put to work for charitable causes.

Acoustic Americana Music Guide, March 31 to April 7 edition (PART 1 of 2), 2009

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