Monday, December 31, 2007

Don't miss Prince Andrew's Birthstravaganza & Pre-Doo Dah Party

Prince Andrew's Birthstravaganza & Pre-Doo Dah Party
8:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12
Gem City Grill
115 E. Olive Ave., Monrovia
$1 cover, which will be donated to Tree People U.S.A.
(626) 358-0346

Get ready for the upcoming 31st Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade and celebrate the birthday of one of its own, Prince Andrew. The night will include performances by Andrew's Bad Stuff, Aluminum Marshmallow and the Age of Aquarius Horns, Surrender the Pink, Mornin' Wuud and Count Smokula and his rock n' roll accordion, plus belly dancing by Almase Arabesque. There will be appearances by reigning Doo Dah Queen Naughty Mickie and other Doo Dah denizens.

Song critique workshop

LOS ANGELES SONG CRITIQUE WORKSHOP with GUEST SPEAKER: Sun Feb 3, 2008
With Song critique session first half, followed by Guest Speaker, Moses Avalon.
Topic: The Secrets of Digital Distribution
Songsalive! holds workshops where songwriters gather to share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the songwriting communities we have created around the world. The first half is solely dedicated to an in-the-round workshop where writers present one song each - either on tape, CD or live - followed by a guest speaker/industry discussion in the second half and plenty of time to talk and network. Moderated by Paul Lawrence Moyer.
Details: For more info: http://www.songsalive.org/losangeles
WHEN: SUNDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2008 - FIRST SUNDAYS OF THE MONTH.
WHERE: THE MAGDALENE CENTER
4822 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Directions: www.themagdalenecenter.com
Just north of the Vineland/Lankershim/Camarillo intersection, on East side of Vineland.
From West, take 101 to 134, exit Vineland. Go north.
From Hollywood, take 101 to exit 12C, Vineland. Go north.
Ample parking in front on street or in back of building (accessed by side street off Camarillo)
See map: http://tinyurl.com/359lhz
TIME: Starts 12:00pm SHARP. Ends at 3pm. Please be on time.
COST: $5 for non-members, free to Songsalive! members. You can join Songsalive! to participate in the workshops at http://www.songsalive.org go Join.
REGISTER: Pre-registrations helpful but not necessary. Call: 818-506-3850 or email paul@songsalive.org. You will be automatically registered by contacting us. Or just turn up, but get there early to be considered forsong critique.

FIRST HALF SONG CRITIQUE - RULES & WHAT TO BRING:
1 song either on tape, CD or live (bring own guitar or keyboard) and 20 copies of your typed lyric sheet with contact details clearly displayed. Read the RULES athttp://www.songsalive.org/workshoprules

SECOND HALF GUEST SPEAKER: MOSES AVALON
Mr. Avalon began his career as a New York record producer and recording engineer. His combined work with Grammy® award-winning recording artists has earned him RIAA Platinum record awards as well as other awards. Today he is an artist’s rights activist and the author of a top selling music industry reference, Million Dollar Mistakes and also Confessions Of A Record Producer which is required reading in the music business curriculum of over 40 schools, including UCLA, Loyola Law School, Fullsail and NYU. Mr. Avalon is a court-recognized music business expert in New York, California and Florida
in their campaign to help legitimize areas of the music business. His awardwinning website which discusses controversial issues in the music business and his advocacy efforts can be visited at www.MosesAvalon.com. His syndicated newsletter, MOSES SUPPOSES, which features informed editorials on the inner workings of the music business, reaches over 13,000 subscribers each month.
TOPIC: The Secrets of Digital DistributionMoses Avalon will discuss and reveal the secrets of Digital Distribution, what DRM is and why it's important for any songwriter to understand the issues. Also how to avoid getting ripped off by correctly interpreting the contracts of several leading Digital Distributors.
All speakers biographies can be read at http://www.songsalive.org/speakers

For Songsalive! information, media and membership inquiries (not Workshop inquiries, use contact above) – call head office at 801-838-5411 or Email usa@songsalive.org
Join our email list and discussion groups at www.songsalive.org/community.
Be reminded of this event by joining eNotes discussion group on that link.
Songsalive!Songsalive! is a non-profit organization dedicated to the nurturing, support and promotion of songwriters and composers worldwide.
http://www.songsalive.org
http://www.songsalive.org/losangeles

Chamber Orchestra Kremlin to perform

Chamber Orchestra Kremlin, under the baton of conductor Misha Rachlevsky, performs at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) on Friday, February 1, 8:00 PM.
One of Russia’s leading ensembles, the orchestra will perform Edward Elgar – Serenade in e minor, Op. 20; Dmitri Shostakovich – Symphony for Strings, Op. 118; and Johannes Brahms – Sextet No. 1 (orchestral version).
Tickets are now on sale at the CCPA Ticket Office, by calling (562) 467-8818, or at www.cerritoscenter.com . Ticket prices range from $37-$20.
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA KREMLIN was founded in 1991 by MISHA RACHLEVSKY, who assembled some of the finest young musicians for an extensive recording project in Moscow. The ensemble’s initial recording, as well as its performances, earned rave reviews, and the orchestra became a full-time entity, now under the auspices of the Moscow City Government.
On February 13, 2006, Chamber Orchestra Kremlin celebrated its 1,001st concert at the Great Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. The 1,000 previous concerts included 400 performances in Russia, 300 performances in the United States and Canada (on as many as 20 tours), and the balance of performances in Europe, South America, and the Far East.
The orchestra has released 16 CDs on the Swiss label Claves, garnering numerous international reviews and awards, including the “Diapason d’Or” in France, “Record of the Year” in Hong Kong, and The New York Times “Critic’s Choice” Award. Chamber Orchestra Kremlin has also self-produced numerous live performance CDs.
Last year marked the orchestra’s 12th season performing its popular annual Christmas at the Kremlin International Festival, presented in late December through early January in Moscow.
Rachlevsky’s lifetime affinity for chamber music and the chamber orchestra repertoire began in Moscow, where he studied violin. In the 1970s he left the Soviet Union and eventually settled in the United States, where he founded the New American Chamber Orchestra (NACO) in 1984. In the 1980s he was invited to create a chamber orchestra for the City of Granada, Spain – a multi-year project under which NACO became the resident orchestra of Granada while, concurrently, Rachlevsky established a chamber orchestra for the city.
In the early 1990s Rachlevsky returned to Moscow as a guest conductor. While there, representatives from Claves approached him about developing a recording project of Russian works. When it was agreed that the recording should feature Russian musicians, Rachlevsky held auditions for the group that was to become the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin.
Tickets are now on sale for Chamber Orchestra Kremlin’s performance at the CCPA. For tickets call (562) 467-8818, or go to www.cerritoscenter.com

Jason Walsmith is hot on YouTube.com

Jason Walsmith of Iowa's own roots rockers, The Nadas, has recorded the season's most timely ditty. Together with Kyle Munson of the Des Moines Register, Walsmith authored and recorded "Get Outta Our Town (Caucus Lament)," which has become a YouTube.com sensation in four short days.
Over the past few days The Nadas have been fielding calls from the political desks of the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, not to mention a host of regional papers. Today, Jason appears on NPR's "Day To Day." Tonight, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton's press secretary will be in the audience when The Nadas kick off 2008 with a New Years' Eve performance in Des Moines.

Focus on Photo L.A. 2008

17th Annual International Los Angeles Photographic Art Exposition
January 10-13, 2008

Coinciding with Golden Globes Week, Highly Anticipated Event Moves to Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Airport to Accommodate More Art and Larger Crowds
Opening Night Reception January 10 to honor Julius Shulman and Benefit Photography Department of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

artfairs inc., producer of the highly acclaimed art fairs photo MIAMI and ART LA, is pleased to announce that photo l.a. 2008, the 17th Annual International Los Angeles Photographic Art Exposition, which will take place January 10-13, 2008. artfairs inc. also announces that this highly anticipated event—popular among collectors and curators alike—is moving to a larger location: the 35,000 square foot Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport. The new event space will allow for larger booths and an improved lighting system, producing a clean, modern backdrop against which to display more photo-based art, including digital and video art, than ever before.
The Barker Hangar, located at 3021 Airport Avenue in Santa Monica will comfortably accommodate a crowd in excess of 10,000 people—a necessity as photo l.a. has become one of the country’s most popular art fairs and will coincide with Golden Globes week in January 2008.
The exhibition will be open to the public Friday, January 11 and Saturday, January 12 from noon to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, January 13 from noon to 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 for a one-day pass and $30 for a three-day pass.
The Conversations with Artists series of lectures is co-sponsored with LACMA and free to the public. The Conversation with Julius Shulman and The Photobook: A Discussion moderated by Paul Kopeikin will cost $10.
On-site collecting seminars are $80 (includes a three day pass and catalog). AARP and student discounts for the fair are available with valid I.D.
At the opening night reception scheduled for Thursday, January 10 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., artfairs inc. will welcome to Los Angeles, and photo l.a. 2008, the new Department Head and Curator of Photography at LACMA, Charlotte Cotton. Renowned architectural photographer Julius Shulman will be honored with photo l.a.’s inaugural lifetime achievement award in association with The Center -- a nonprofit organization that honors, supports and provides opportunity for gifted and committed photographers.
Proceeds from the opening night reception will benefit the Photography Department of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Tickets to the opening benefit reception are $80 (price includes a one-day pass to the show). To order tickets to the benefit reception, email the Photography Department of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art at photola@lacma.org or contact the event hotline at (323) 932-5846.
All exhibition, lecture and preview reception tickets are available for purchase at the door or in advance. Seminar tickets should be purchased in advance.
For additional information on photo l.a. 2008, visit www.artfairsinc.com

Friday, December 28, 2007

End o' week musings


I've planned my weekend just right-- sleeping in, run a few errands, work on my Web site (http://www.dabelly.com/ ), do some sewing and basically take it easy. This is because my next few weeks are going to be blur. I'm on final countdown now for my big day as Queen of the 31st Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade, which is Jan. 20 and I have many duties to fulfill along the way. You can read my Diary of a Doo Dah Queen at www.insidesocal.com/doodah to follow my adventures and my thoughts during this time.

This week was busy. Last Friday I went to Mr. T's Bowl in Highland Park and saw Andrew's Bad Stuff, See It Through, Rover's Pinky, The Thingz and Punk Whores. It was a good show and there were lots of people in the venue- most stayed for the entire thing too!

Saturday I went with my friend Byron (he's also the creator of the Naughty Mickie comic strip you see here) to his family's Christmas gathering. Oh my goodness! There must have been 50 people in his sisters' house. Many of them remembered me and we caught up from when we last saw each other. I also met new members of his family. We ate a wonderful feast and played Catch Phrase -- I kicked butt, by the way.

On Sunday, Valerie and I got together for our little Christmas "party." We drank coffee (she makes the best), watched "Myth Busters" on television and chatted and giggled. When it came to present time I was totally shocked- Valerie gave me a beautiful wood jewelry amoire. I have wanted one for years! Adding to her sweetness, she told me to open the drawers and I found two pairs of pretty earrings, a bracelet set and three animal print hair scrunchies. Thank you again, Valerie, words cannot truly express my appreciation and surprise!

Christmas Eve I went with Andrew to his family's celebration. What a meal! There was prime rib, turkey, tons of side dishes, pies, fruit and more. Later, Andrew's brother's sons distributed the gifts and wrapping paper and ribbons flew all over the living room. I haven't seen anything quite like it, as my family is more reserved (read on and you'll see). It was fun, though. I laughed as I watched everyone going crazy and then showing off their gifts with plenty of thanks and hugs to go around. They all seemed to like what I had given them and I was moved by the thoughtfulness of the gifts they had given me.

Tuesday - Christmas - was family day for me. My mother and brother share a house in Fontana. It's a good deal for them, as my mother doesn't drive and my brother takes care of her and her errands, while my mother keeps the house clean, does laundry and all the other things that my brother doesn't have time for because he works so much. Jason was totally bummed out because he was planning to deep fry a turkey, but the winds were gusting so hard that it wasn't safe. He had marinated it overnight in cajun seasoning and popped it in the oven with a sigh. Meanwhile, I plunked myself in their jacuzzi for an hour. Oooooo! It was sooo nice!


Dinner was served late afternoon and it was wonderful. Jason was funny because he was carving the turkey and trying to entice me into taking a leg. When I finally gave in, he said, "Yes, that's my sister!" The turkey came out moist and tasty and the sides were nice too. I ended up taking home most of the leg and my mother packed a baked potato, some fancy bread and a few other goodies for me, including what was left of the wine.
Our gift exchange was quite different than my previous affair. We sat in a circle of sorts and unwrapped our goodies one by one with the others watching. My mother took her time smoothing the paper so she could save it for next year. We really stretched it out, even though there were plenty of little gifts to keep us busy for a while. My best gift was a check for my car payment. My best gift to my mom was a fuzzy blanket with a wolf design and for my brother a thing for his car that will give it a jump start, inflate a tire and more. It has a flashlight and a plug so you can run a worklight or other electrical item from its power.

As I said before, this weekend is on the much-needed quiet side. I still haven't made plans for New Year's as there was a chance I would be working.

Photos we got 'em! Enjoy these two fun pics I found at two of my favorite spots on the Web, plus the comic.

In rotation this week: Same holiday tunes as last week, plus Tha Riks, Ross Anthony and Orange Sky.

This week's thought: We're on the verge of a new year so I guess I should offer a few words about resolutions. I think it's good to start off thinking about what you like and don't like about yourself and considering how you can change for the better. But I don't suggest trying to do anything drastic or too quickly, as this often leads to failure. Set your goals and make them do-able. Small steps or one tiny tweak of change each week (or month) will make it easier for you and will also turn trials into triumphs. Things become habit over time - slowly - so bear this in mind whether you vow to lose weight, not get mad in traffic, quit smoking or whatever. Good luck to you. I wish all my readers a wonderful New Year filled with happiness, health, success, prosperity, laughter and love.

Keep on rockin'
Mickie




Chris Brown to host New Year's Eve bash in L.A.

Following his Up-close & Personal Tour featuring Bow Wow, Soulja Boy, Sean Kingston, Shop Boyz and Lil' Mama, Multi-platinum R&B singer, dancer and actor Chris Brown will host a star-studded, red carpet New Year's Eve bash at Crash Mansion LA with celebrity guest appearances and surprise performances. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets are $75.00 for general admission and $125 for VIP and available by going to www.chrisbrownNYE2008.com or calling the Crash Mansion box office at 213-747-0999.
In 2005, the American pop and R&B singer, dancer and actor released his self-titled debut, Chris Brown, and his single, "Run It!" became an instant number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Scott Storch and featuring Juelz Santana, Chris Brown, spawned four successful top ten and top twenty hits in the United States, sold three million copies worldwide and a staggering 1,920,665 copies in the United States. His second studio album, Exclusive, was released November 6, 2007 and debuted at number four on the U.S. Billboard 200 charts.
Originally titled Graduation, but changed because of Kanye West's scheduled release of an album of the same name, Exclusive sold roughly 295,000 copies in its first week, achieving even higher first week domestic sales than his freshman effort. With Exclusive perched at #34 on Rolling Stone's Top 50 Albums of 2007, and the hot singles, "Wall to Wall," "Kiss Kiss" (featuring T Pain) and his most recent release "With You" burning up the national airwaves, Chris Brown shows no sign of slowing down.
Also an accomplished actor, Chris made his film debut in 2007's dance movie, Stomp The Yard, and later that year landed a role in This Christmas, a family drama starring Regina King. Chris has also made appearances on UPN's One on One, the pilot episode of UPN's The Brandon T. Jackson Show, and played a "band geek" in the fourth season of FOX's, The O.C.

When: Monday, December 31st, 2007
9pm-3am
Red Carpet Arrivals at 10pm

Where: Crash Mansion LA
1024 S Grand Ave., Los Angeles CA 90015
(213) 747-0999

Tickets: $75.00 general admission/$125 for VIP (VIP Ticket includes Red Carpet entrance, wristbands for VIP room with Chris Brown, champagne toast, hors d'oeuvres 9pm-11pm)
Tickets available at www.chrisbrownNYE2008.com

ABOUT CRASH MANSION: In a space once occupied by the historic Myron Ballroom, the Bowery Restaurant group has transformed this 1940's swing club into a state-of-the-art, three-part performance haven. An 8,000 square-foot main stage accommodates headliners with lofted ceilings and a fully digital sound room, while two adjacent rooms--the Burn Lounge and the Foyer Gallery--cater more to low-key performers and the local artist scene. With five bars, three distinct atmospheres, and a fully operative kitchen, this industrial chic club caters to the rich diversity of art and music lovers in Los Angeles. Crash Mansion LA is located at 1024 Grand Ave (at W. Olympic). For more information, go to www.crashmansionla.com or www.myspace.com/crashmansionlosangeles.

Cabo Radio ready to launch Monday

Sammy Hagar, known worldwide for his explosive talent, feel good energy and exciting live performances, is proud to announce the official launch of a revolutionary breakthrough in rock radio, “All UP, All Rock, All Party, All the Time” streaming online from Mexico to the world. On New Year’s Eve, Monday, December 31st, Redheads and music fans everywhere will be able to experience “Rock Radio the Way God Intended It” and the way only Sammy Hagar can do it.

Sammy Hagar presents “CABO WABO RADIO” and the biggest party of the year LIVE beginning at 7pm pacific time from the legendary Cabo Wabo Cantina. From that night on, the party will continue 24 hours a day, LIVE from one of the most beautiful vacation spots in the world, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

The online radio station, designed and built by co-founders Shadoe Stevens and Woody Nelson, will feature high energy New Rock, Hot Rock, Cutting-Edge, and Classic Rock around the clock. The New Years Eve Party will be broadcast LIVE featuring surprise guest stars in concert and hundreds of special guests from around the world.

“The coolest thing we can do is to expose fans to good music they’ve never heard before” said Hagar, “if any radio station is going to get my attention in life, it’s going to be one where I’m going, ‘Who is this? I like that song. Wait a minute, who is that?’ I’ll listen to that radio station all day. That’s what Cabo Wabo Radio is all about!”

The new studios are built behind glass right next to the stage in the Cantina, making every audience part of every broadcast. “The Cantina, an institution in Cabo for nearly 20 years and packed every night of the week, is the perfect location for the most exciting radio station in the world,” said co-founder Shadoe Stevens. “People are there to party and we’ll be there to capture the excitement and deliver it to the world around the clock.”

The station will feature interviews with stars on vacation and interesting people from around the world, plus live concerts with major stars and the hottest new artists on Earth. It’s a world party of Biblical proportions.

Sammy encourages fans to log onto www.cabowaboradio.com to become a V.I.P Member. Members will get access to LIVE concerts from the Cantina; concert videos, behind the scenes and unreleased videos; unreleased music and lost music from the archives; advance notices on new music and hundreds of pictures from shows from all over the world and preferred tickets to Sammy Hagar shows.

If Members want a vacation in paradise, they’ll get huge savings on hotel accommodations, VIP prices on golf, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, paradise tours and adventures; preferred seating in the Cabo Wabo Cantina and discounts on food and merchandise; and be able to listen to CD quality, Feel-Good Rock 24 hours a day, “guaranteed to make you feel better whether you want to or not.”

It’s High Energy Rock Radio Smuggled Across the border from Mexico and it all starts at 7pm pacific time New Year’s Eve at www.cabowaboradio.com. Don’t miss it! Cabo Wabo Radio.

Park Seed launches recipe contest for gardening cooks

Do love gardening and cooking? SuccessWithSeed.org is offering $25 Park Seed gift certificates to the gardener/chefs who submit the best recipes showcasing their horticultural handiwork. The contest is open to anyone who enjoys cooking and has a tasty recipe incorporating at least one edible item that can be grown using products from Park Seed Company (www.ParkSeed.com ).
One $25 Park Seed gift certificate will be awarded in each of the following categories: appetizer, main course, side dish, and dessert.
To submit your entries, visit SuccessWithSeed.org and click on the Submit Recipes Here button.
The contest runs from January 7th through February 15th, 2008. Complete rules are posted on the SuccessWithSeed.org site, which is sponsored by Park Seed Company, Wayside Gardens, and Jackson & Perkins.
The SuccessWithSeed.org website is hosted by award-winning gardening writer Anne Moore, who provides weekly articles of interest to gardeners who start from seed, hosts discussion forums on seed-related topics, and gives personal answers to questions submitted to Ask SwS.
According to Moore, "Most gardeners I know spend the winter months dreaming over seed catalogs and wishing they could be in the garden. This contest gives all those restless dreamers something fun to do when they can't play in the dirt! We also hope this will introduce those who love gardening at every level to the resources available on www.SuccessWithSeed.org.”
SuccessWithSeed.org is based on the popular Park's Success with Seed book (second edition 2006), written by Karen Park Jennings, granddaughter of Park Seed Company founder George Watt Park. The site, like the book, offers step-by-step instructions to help every gardener master seed-starting. It also provides extensive reference materials, including an encyclopedia of more than 400 genera of plants, illustrated with more than 1,000 pictures of seeds, seedlings, and mature specimens.

Concerts for troops to be shown New Year's Eve

AEG Network LIVE, in cooperation with the American Forces Network and many committed artists, managers and labels across the music industry, will present a special New Year's Eve block of programming for the men and women of the Armed Forces serving worldwide. As a show of gratitude for service members' selfless dedication and bravery, three concert films featuring Beyoncé, Garth Brooks, and Celine Dion will be broadcast on December 31, 2007 starting at 9:00pm Iraq local time. Capturing the superstars in recently recorded live performances, this spectacular entertainment event will send some much-needed holiday cheer to the troops.

Participating programs include:

· 9:00 PM** Celine Dion - "A New Day" - The show has closed its unprecedented five year run in Las Vegas but her amazing performance which premiered in cinemas this December will delight the troops again in this special New Year's Special;
· 11:00 PM** Music World Entertainment's "New Year's Salute to the Troops" - a special three hour program featuring The BeyoncĂ© Experience LIVE which premiered in cinemas this November, plus special performances by Jay Z, Destiny's Child Reunion, Lyfe Jennings, Kelly Rowland, Sunshine Anderson, Michelle Williams, T57, Trent Willmon, Billy Joe Shaver and James McMurtry;
· 2:00 AM** Garth Brooks - "One Artist, One City, One Time" - the spectacular live performance beamed to cinemas across the US and Canada this November;
**Local time in Iraq (UTC +3).

"For our troops who give so much all year round, this is our chance to thank them the best way we know how, by providing them some of this year's finest entertainment," said John Rubey, President of AEG Network LIVE.

"On behalf of our service members stationed around the world, AFN would like to thank AEG and all the artists involved for providing this fantastic seasonal morale-boost," said Larry Marotta, Chief Television Division, AFN. "Our troops will truly be delighted with this star-studded entertainment."

About American Forces Network
American Forces Network (or AFN) is the brand name used by the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) for its entertainment and command internal information networks worldwide. The AFN is part of the Department of Defense, and is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. The AFRTS mission is to communicate Department of Defense policies, priorities, programs, goals and initiatives. The AFRTS vision is to provide multi-channel broadcast quality radio and television services and expanded internal information products to all DoD members and their families stationed overseas, on contingency operations, and onboard Navy ships around the world. AFRTS uses seven satellites along with digital compression technology to provide multiple television and stereo audio services to over 1,000 outlets in more than 175 countries and U.S. territories, and on board U.S. Navy ships. Its approximate viewership is 1 million. Visit www.myafn.net for more information.

About AEG Network LIVE-AEG Live
AEG Network LIVE is the division of AEG LIVE responsible for creating, marketing and distributing digital programming on broadband, cinema, wireless, television, DVD and other platforms worldwide. AEG Network LIVE has completed successful tour & CD launch campaigns for AEG Live clients including Bon Jovi, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart & Prince. Recently AEG Network LIVE worked with Garth Brooks on the release of a live cinema performance from the Sprint Center in KCMO to support the new Ultimate Hits CD release, with Celine Dion on the cinema premier of the A New Day DVD and with Linkin Park on the release of the Minutes to Midnight CD release which resulted in record CD and digital download sales.

AEG Live is the live-entertainment division of Los Angeles based AEG is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performance, touring for a variety of programming and multi-media production. One of the largest concert promotion and touring companies in the world, AEG Live is comprised of special event, broadcast and exhibition divisions, and operates and owns numerous state of the art venues nationwide. Current AEG Live tours and productions include Celine Dion 2008 Taking Chances Tour, Bon Jovi 2008 Tour and “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs,” an international tour of the artifacts of King Tut. Recent and current promoted concert tours include Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Prince, Bon Jovi, Usher, Nickelback, Kenny Chesney, Rod Stewart, and Paul McCartney. AEG Live also co-produces the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Goldenvoice, the company’s southern California-based regional promotion division, created and operates the award winning annual Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. The performances being distributed live by Garth Brooks & AEG Network LIVE for digital cinema and other outlets.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Tequila invites you to Club Fluffer tonight

Don't miss this night of fun hosted by my friend Tequila Mockingbird:

O! Serious Seekers of Elucidation!
It is with great pleasure that we present Madame Pamita's Salon of the Supernatural
This Thursday!
The 27th of December
Commencing at Nine o'clock in the Evening
At Club Fluffer
In the Hyperion Tavern

Meet the illustrious cast of characters who promise to entertain and delight you in this bastion of the Silver Lake demimonde

Mlle. Tequila Mockingbird, your Mysterious Mistress of Ceremonies:
You are destined to be entranced as she presents the odd and unusual and magically spins black discs of auditory enchantment!

Miss Angel, the Barmaid:
Angel's powers of mesmerism have driven innocent patrons to madness and the destruction of the fabled Hyperion barber pole. Be sure to check your beer for mickies.

Mr. Raymond Herron, the Wizard of the Washboard:
What wonders will he produce from his magic satchel of musical implements as he accompanies Mme. Pamita?

Madame Pamita, the World's Foremost Specialist in Auditory Cartomancy:
You are bound to enjoy her captivating music hall ditties but are you bold enough to step forward and have your fortune revealed?

And, of course.... the most important person there...The Delightful and Alluring YOU:
It is with the greatest anticipation that we all await the pleasure of your charming company! Join Us! For an evening like no other in the world!

Club Fluffer
The Hyperion Tavern
1941 Hyperion Avenue (near Lyric)
Silver Lake Los Angeles, CA 90027
http://hyperiontavern.com/

Do call on Mme. Pamita at
http://www.madamepamita.com
http://www.myspace.com/madamepamita

See "Honeydripper" for free

A cool opportunity from Sin City Social Club:

NEW JOHN SAYLES MOVIE “HONEYDRIPPER,” OPENING DECEMBER 28, FOCUSES ON BLUES OF THE DEEP SOUTH IN THE 1950’s
Stars include Danny Glover, Charles S. Dutton, Lisa Gay Hamilton, Stacy Keach, Mary Steenburgen, Yaya DaCosta and Sean Patrick Thomas, as well as musicians Keb’ Mo’, Dr. Mable John, Eddie Shaw (Howlin’ Wolf’s band) and Austin upstart Gary Clark Jr.

You KNOW you wanna take your honey to the juke joint!
5 lucky SIN CITY SOCIAL CLUB members in both LA & NY will win a pair of tickets to see HONEYDRIPPER this week. The first 5 folks to reply to me with “TAKE ME TO THE JUKE JOINT” in the subject line will win a pair of tickets for NY or LA.
Screening passes are good to see the film Mon.-Thurs. (offer valid from 1/31/07 – 1/3/08) only – any show time - at the theater of your choice! See theater details & show listings for each city below!
Please be sure to include your FULL NAME specific info. on the date, theater and time which you would like to see the movie so we can put your name on the SCREENING PASS list for the show you wish to see!
Winners will be notified with an emailSome info. on the film...

"Honeydripper," the new film written, directed and edited by John Sayles and produced by Maggie Renzi, takes us back to the genesis of rock 'n' roll - namely '50s rural blues from the Deep South. The story depicts a second chance for an aging bluesman, a kickoff to a young guitar turk's career and the rise of rock 'n' roll itself.
"Honeydripper" grew out of Sayles' fascination with the genesis of rock 'n' roll.
"There was no single moment when R&B, blues, gospel, jazz and country all came together to create this thing called rock 'n' roll," he said, "but a big change came with the advent of the electric guitar. Before that, piano ruled. Suddenly a poor boy like Sonny (played by Gary Clark, Jr.) could travel around with a portable, cheap, high-volume electric guitar and peel the paint off the walls."
The Honeydripper All-Star Band, made up of musicians who act in the film, have been touring the blues festivals since early Summer. The band consists of Gary Clark Jr. on guitar, Stax Records veteran Dr. Mable John on vocals, Henderson Huggins on keyboard, Howlin' Wolf/Muddy Waters band alumnus Eddie Shaw on saxophone and Arthur Lee Williams on harmonica. The band will continue to tour in support of the movie through the rest of the year and into the Spring.
The movie also contains music by legendary artists Memphis Slim, Lil Green and Hank Williams.
The soundtrack recording will appear on a label to be announced shortly.
"Honeydripper" is John Sayles' 16th feature film and the 13th produced by longtime collaborator Maggie Renzi. It was shot in the southern Alabama towns of Greenville, Georgiana, Anniston and Midway in the late summer and early fall of 2006.
To view the trailer and learn more about the film visit www.honeydripper-movie.com


HAPPY HOLIDAYS from your friends at SIN CITY!
Shilah Morrow
Sin City Social Club
LA * Austin * Nashville
www.sincitysocialclub.com
www.myspace.com/sincityshilah
www.myspace.com/topangadays
www.jessedayton.com
www.stagrecords.com
www.americanamusic.org

The Sin City Social Club is a renegade collective of musicians, fans, artists and industry executives brought together by shared appreciation of the art and culture that blur the lines between classic, outlaw & alt. country, punk rock, americana, blues and indie singer songwriters. We turn fans around the globe onto the music and art we love thru our Sin City Social Club Cd Samplers, live events, In flight audio programming and thru our home away from home on the internet.
** Wherever you are, Sin City is a state of mind! **

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Support local music

Here's the latest from my friend Sierra Madre Sue:

If I go out at all on New Year's Eve, it's gotta be somewhere close and hassle-free. I'm usually at home getting ready for the house full of football fans & friends who will be coming over the next day. This year I hope to finish my chores early so I can go see a couple of great local bands and still get home at a reasonable hour Monday night. Always a good time, Snotty Scotty & the Hankies will be at the 1881 Club in Pasadena on Washington Blvd., and I don't have to cross the parade route to get there. Even closer is CAFE 322 in Sierra Madre, where LIGHTNIN' WILLIE & THE POORBOYS will be puttin' on an energetic blues show, complete with champagne & dancing. Reservations are being taken now for two dinner seatings: 626-836-5414. The bar area is open seating. More info. on both of these NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS below...... and a photo of Lightnin' Willie and me.

FRI. 12/28 - DAVE OSTI @ McMURPHY'S TAVERN IN PASADENA, 5pm - HAPPY HOUR! 72 N. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-666-1445. Full bar, drink & appetizer specials 4 - 7pm. Solo guitar & vocals, mostly originals.

FRI. 12/28 - STEEL ROD @ BARNEY'S GRILL & PUB IN PASADENA. 93 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-577-2739. Full kitchen. No cover. Rock to Salsa.

FRI. 12/28 - LISA FINNIE & FRIENDS @ BEAN TOWN IN SIERRA MADRE, 8 - 11pm. 45 N. Baldwin Ave. 626-355-1596. Sandwiches, soups, pastries, ice cream, coffee, etc. No cover charge, all ages. Country/Folk/Classics.

FRI. 12/28 - "SWING DANCE PARTY" with FLAT TOP TOM @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. Call for time: 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food, no cover, DANCE FLOOR! http://www.flattoptom.com/

FRI. 12/28 & SAT. 12/29 - "THE SUBS" (Better Than Blue's acoustic alter ego) @ the DOCKSIDE in WEST COVINA, 7:30 - 11:30pm. 3057 E. Garvey Ave. North. In the bar area, but you can order food also. All ages ok. Joe Velosa, Danny Hesse, Felicia Bright. Acoustic rock, soul & blues. 626-915-3474. www.wearethesubs.com/

SAT. 12/29 - ACOUSTIC MUSIC JAM @ SIERRA MADRE BOOKS STORE, 7pm. FREE! 18 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. - DOWNSTAIRS. 626-836-3200. All are welcome - bring your instrument and/or voice and join in the music making! http://www.sierramadrebooks.com/

SUN. 12/30 - BARRY "BIG B" BRENNER @ FIREFLY BISTRO IN SOUTH PASADENA, 11am - 2pm. 1009 El Centro. 626-441-2443. All ages. BLUES Brunch under a big breezy tent. http://www.bigbbrenner.com/

SUN. 12/30 - Have lunch with NEW ASTROTURF @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 1:30 - 4:30pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food in a comfy setting. Bring the family - Vargas' Mom & Dad will be in town! Acoustic folk/rock, classic country. yee haw!
SUN. 12/30 - "OPERA TO BROADWAY" VOCAL PERFORMANCES @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 7pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food. Every Sunday evening.

MON. 12/31 - NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION @ CAFE 322 with LIGHTNIN' WILLIE & THE POORBOYS. 3-course Dinner & Show, Dancing. 2 seatings - 6 & 9 pm. $45 per person. Champagne included. Reservations available now: 626-836-5414. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. Blues.

MON. 12/31 - NEW YEAR'S ROCKIN' EVE with SNOTTY SCOTTY & THE HANKIES @ THE 1881 CLUB IN PASADENA, 9pm. 1881 E. Washington Blvd., near Allen Ave. 626-794-3068. Some street parking and there's a Vons parking lot next door, with access to the bar's back door. This bar is not for the meek, but the show will be worth it (in more ways than one!) Garage Rock, one-hit wonders, childish antics, FUN!

JANUARY 1, 2008 - HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Football Bingo anyone?

FRI. 1/4 - MERCY & THE MERKETTES @ THE BUCCANEER LOUNGE IN SIERRA MADRE, 9pm. 70 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-355-9045. Full bar, no cover, pool table, free parking, 21 & over. R&B, Rock, Soul, Disco - with rich harmony vocals & choreographed moves! I never thought I'd be promoting disco, having worked in a record store during its heyday, but these guys are great!

FRI. 1/4 & SAT. 1/5 - "THE SUBS" (Better Than Blue's acoustic alter ego) @ the DOCKSIDE in WEST COVINA, 7:30 - 11:30pm. 3057 E. Garvey Ave. North. In the bar area, but you can order food also. All ages ok. Joe Velosa, Danny Hesse, Felicia Bright. Acoustic rock, soul & blues. 626-915-3474. www.wearethesubs.com/

SAT. 1/5 - ACOUSTIC MUSIC JAM @ SIERRA MADRE BOOKS STORE, 7pm. FREE! 18 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. - DOWNSTAIRS. 626-836-3200. All are welcome - bring your instrument and/or voice and join in the music making! http://www.sierramadrebooks.com/

SAT. 1/5 - SENSATIONAL VOCALIST JUDY PLATT @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 8 - 11PM. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. No cover, full bar, great Italian food. Jazz/Pop standards.

SUN. 1/6 - BARRY "BIG B" BRENNER @ FIREFLY BISTRO IN SOUTH PASADENA, 11am - 2pm. 1009 El Centro. 626-441-2443. All ages. BLUES Brunch under a big breezy tent. http://www.bigbbrenner.com/

SUN. 1/6 - GRANT PARK SOFTBALL - ALL ARE WELCOME! NOT A LEAGUE - JUST FOR FUN & THE LOVE OF THE GAME! CORNER OF CORDOVA & MICHIGAN IN PASADENA, 3 BLOCKS WEST OF PCC. BATTING PRACTICE 12:30, GAME TIME ASAP. BRING YOUR GLOVE, BAT, CHAIR, ICE CHEST, GUITAR, UKULELE, ETC. EVERY SUNDAY...

SUN. 1/6 - THE MERCY POWELL QUARTET @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 1:30 - 4:30pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food. No cover, all ages. Mercy, Josh, Marc & Peter Burke doin' some standards & jazzy stuff for your dining & listening pleasure! This ain't no disco!

SUN. 1/6 - WRECK 'N' SOW @ BARN BURNER IN PASADENA , 5 - 8pm. 1000 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-403-RIBS. BBQ, beer, wine. BLUEGRASS.

SUN. 1/6 - "OPERA TO BROADWAY" VOCAL PERFORMANCES @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 7pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food. No cover charge, all ages. Every Sunday evening.

TUES. 1/8 - WRECK 'N' SOW @ THE PIKE IN LONG BEACH , 9pm - 1am. 1836 E. 4th St. 562-437-4453 . Fun Bluegrass stuff.

Please remember to call and verify all info. before making plans. Everything is subject to change. This is show biz, after all. For example - I was completely mistaken about Job Striles playing at the Buc last Sat. night, but I warned you that it wasn't for sure!

Hope to see you out & about,
SierraMadreSue
FOR EVEN MORE COOL SHOWS & INFO., CHECK OUT THESE SITES:
http://cafe322.com/
http://www.swhillcountry.com/

Ditch promotes new effort

Hey all its Hip Hop Recording Ditch. Its going to be a huge year for me. The new cd features Bishop Don Juan, Shock G from Digital Underground, Hot Dollar, Ekk-a-Mouse, and others. Were set to hit platinum when the cd debuts worldwide early 2008. The new commercial is a must see at www.youtube.com/ditch420 the new single will be " Lean to tha Side".

Monday, December 24, 2007

Craby Joe's to close forever tonight

URGENT- Craby Joe's, LA's Last Skid Row Bar, to close forever on Christmas Eve

WHAT: A wake for Skid Row's last bar, Craby Joe's
WHERE: Craby Joe's, 656 South Main Street, Los Angeles
WHEN: December 24, 10pm till last call

As Musso & Frank is a living testament to Hollywood's golden age, so Craby Joe's is to downtown Los Angeles' Main Street tenderloin. Both are family-owned, and both have contributed greatly to the social culture of their neighborhoods.
At the corner of 7th and Main since 1933, Craby Joe's will close it doors for good on Christmas Eve, 2007. A group of local historians and preservationists, including representatives from Esotouric and 1947project, will gather at 10 pm on December 24 to share what Hemingway wrote of the custom in his beloved Spain, "La Penultima--the next to last drink," for the last one is too bitter a thought.
Craby Joe's has served as a watering hole to John Fante, Charles Bukowski, and many other great souls who drew from this well of characters and atmosphere from the wrong side of the tracks. Its now-dead neon sign blinked gaily in the opening credits for "Barfly," and its pickled eggs were the day's only protein for too many. Gentrification has come to Skid Row, and now Craby Joe's, the final holdout among the dozens of bars that once lined Main Street, is being shoved into history's dustbin. Its neighbor the Cecil Hotel, already on the skids when Raymond Chandler described it in early short stories, is now a self-described boutique hotel, a destination for the discerning European traveler.
This fragile coral reef of artists, galleries (the hub of Art Walk is two blocks away at 5th and Main at Bert Green's), SRO hotels and their long time residents will suffer a severe blow with the close of Craby Joe's, and its fans and friends will miss the unpretentious neighborhood bar and its gruff-but-lovable co-owner Jenny.

Songsalive! events

UPCOMING SONGSALIVE! CALENDAR OF EVENTS
All these events and more details below can be found at www.songsalive.org/chapters and remind yourself on our calendar www.songsalive.org/calendar
Songsalive! takes a break for the rest of December, celebrating Christmas and the New Year.

Wednesday Jan 9, 2008 7:30pm San Francisco Showcase - Cafe Trieste
Thursday Jan 10, 2008 6pm Austin Workshop & Showcase - Cafe Caffeine - 909 W. Mary St.
Tuesday Jan 15, 2008 6:30pm Las Vegas Workshop - Saxby's Coffee (Note, changed to third Tuesdays)
Wednesday Jan 16, 2008 8pm Grass Valley, CA Songsalive! Showcases - Rhythm's Cafe
Thursday Jan 17, 2008 7:30pm Seattle Showcase - World Cup
Saturday Jan 19, 2008 8pm Songsalive! Showcase Los Angeles, CA - Karma Coffee House - Hollywood, CA
Sunday Jan 20, 2008 2pm Boston Songwriters Workshop - ALL ASIA BAR
Monday Jan 21, 2008 7pm Grass Valley Workshop - Lode Line Music Studio
Wednesday Jan 23, 2008 8pm BIMA/Songsalive! Bellingham Showcase - The Wild Buffalo
Sunday Jan 27, 2008 7pm Orange County Workshop - Bombshelter Rehearsal Studios
Monday Jan 28, 2008 8pm Amsterdam Holland Showcase - @ The Waterhole

Sydney Chapter takes a break with no Showcases or Workshops in December or January.
Orange County Chapter takes a break in December with no workshop on 30th
And Los Angeles Workshop takes a break with no workshop in Jan (resumes Feb 3 with Moses Avalon as guest speaker)

HOT!
San Francisco Showcase looking for artists. Apply at www.songsalive.org/sanfrancisco
Los Angeles Hollywood Showcase looking for artists. Apply at www.songsalive.org/losangeles
Grass Valley CA Showcase (1 hr Nth/East of San Francisco) looking for artists. Apply at www.songsalive.org/grassvalley
Seattle WA Showcase looking for artists. Apply at www.songsalive.org/seattle
Austin TX Showcase looking for aritsts. Apply at www.songsalive.org/austin

Enjoy Timothy Howard's organ recital

Event Organ recital by Timothy Howard
When Friday, January 4, 2008 - 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Where Trinity Lutheran Church
1340 Eleventh Street, Manhattan Beach CA
(3 blks east of Sepulveda & 1 blk south of Manhattan Beach Blvd.)
Admission Free, donations appreciated.
Box lunches, with sandwiches made from special-order bakery bread and farmers-market-fresh produce, are available afterwards for $5 to enjoy at the Church with the artists or take back to the office.
(310) 937-7275
www.PalosVerdes.com/TLCmusic/TLCmbbl.htm

Background
Lecturer in Music at California State University, Northridge, Timothy Howard holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from USC. He is theorganist at the Pasadena Presbyterian Church and for thirteen years held the position of Associate Organist-Choirmaster at All Saints Church in Pasadena.

Friday, December 21, 2007

End o' week musings















This week, things didn't happen as planned, but I made new and better plans and had a great time. As you recall I was supposed to go to San Luis Obispo, but it didn't work out and then Valerie's car died Thursday night, so it was Plan C-- when all else fails, go shopping!!

Friday and Saturday, we hit the stores. We got some great deals on Friday, but Saturday was the best because we explored the Block at Orange. I really liked Hilo Hattie's and found some great gifts there, including some fancy tea for my mother. Saturday night I ventured up to the Dockside Grill in West Covina to see Chico's Bail Bonds- they were pretty good and the crowd was into them, which is always a nice thing. Sunday I took fairly easy and Monday I ran some needed errands, but got a little extra rest.
Tuesday some of my co-workers got together at Northwoods Inn in Covina and we enjoyed drinks and dinner. I had my favorite- dirty vodka martini and tried the baked potato and salad dinner. Yummy!!
Wednesday I stayed up late wrapping presents and got so into it that I could barely get to sleep! I love making others happy and I'm excited to see them as they open the different things I thought they would like.
Last night I headed out to the Stardust in Downey to catch my friends, Phonic Euphoria. Unfortunately their drummer fell ill and they had to cancel, but there were five other bands so the night wasn't a loss. One of the groups, Lamarque Street, was on tour from New Orleans and they were very good. Smooth and happy rock reminiscent of REM and similar bands, yet quite danceable with good lyrics. They are supposed to be back this way in February, but you can find out about them now at www.myspace.com/lamarquestreet




Today I interviewed two indie artists - Hans York and Koah. This evening, I'm heading out to Mr. T's Bowl in Highland Park to catch Andrew's Bad Stuff, Punk Whores, The Thingz, Rover's Pinky and See It Through. It will be fun because Acid Andy is emceeing and that means a trivia contest with lots of prizes. Don't worry, you won't have to compete with me-- I helped him with some of the questions, so I'm out of the running.

The rest of my weekend will include two gatherings with friends, dinner and jacuzzi time at my mother's on Christmas, shopping for a Doo Dah Parade (http://www.pasadenadoodahparade.info/) dress with my friend Cindy and appearing at the Gilded Age tour and tea at the Pasadena Museum of History (http://www.pasadenahistory.org/ ) on Friday.
Photos we got 'em- my usual goofy animals- enjoy!

In rotation this week: Music from Quantum Leap, Santa and Satan: One and the Same, Ren & Stimpy: You Eediot, Jon Boy and Billy's Christmas Album, A Wild-Eyed Christmas Night, A Wilderness Christmas, Brides of Destruction and Orange Sky.
This week's thought: Make a list. Yeah, I'm one of those - a list maker - and I'm darn proud of it too. I find that writing lists keeps me organized and helps me sleep better at night. I had a list while shopping, while wrapping presents and in my calendar. If I didn't keep a calendar I'd be lost! Work toward creating a stress-free new year by getting organized in whatever way works best for you... and...

Keep on rockin'
Mickie

Still time for Operation Christmas Child

Holiday sales may be down this year, but Christmas giving to needy kids overseas is still strong. Millions of U.S. kids, families, businesses, churches, schools and scout troops have already filled more than 7 million empty shoe boxes with simple gifts for underprivileged children in 100 countries. Through Operation Christmas Child - the world's largest Christmas project - project participants know that the brightly colored boxes with toys, pens, paper, necessity items and notes of encouragement might be the only gift these hurting children receive.
THERE'S STILL TIME TO HELP!
To personally pack a shoe box gift through Operation Christmas Child, go to www.samaritanspurse.org for more information.
"Millions of people have already made this a brighter Christmas for a hurting child overseas, but we welcome others to start a new holiday tradition and share the joy of Christmas with boys and girls around the world," said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the international Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse.
Operation Christmas Child is an annual project of Samaritan's Purse.This year millions of shoe box gifts have been inspected and prepared for overseas shipment in 6 major centers across the United States: Boone, N.C.; Charlotte, N.C.; Minneapolis; Atlanta; Denver; and Orange County, Calif. Then, the shoe box gifts are loaded onto some of the world’s largest cargo planes, trucks and sea containers bound for the far reaches of the earth.
Once the gifts are transported to countries around the world, Samaritan's Purse teams and partners transport them by truck, bus, train, helicopter, boat, foot, dog sled, mule and even camel to hand-deliver the gifts to hurting children.
More than 250,000 volunteers worldwide, including some 126,000 volunteers in the United States, have joined forces to prepare the boxes for transport to distant lands.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, a project of international Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse, has delivered more than 60 million gift-filled shoe boxes to needy children in 120 countries thanks to the generosity of people in 11 giving countries.
For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child, call (828) 262-1980 or visit www.samaritanspurse.org.

Upcoming concerts around California from Live Nation

ON SALE AT HOUSE OF BLUES SUNSET STRIP

On sale NOW:

New Year's Eve with Nas - December 31

Pato Banton + Eek-A-Mouse - January 9

Gamblers Mark with Viernes 13, The Hench Men - January 20

Robin Trower - February 1

Bad Religion - March 5


On Sale Saturday, December 22nd at 10:00 AM:

Colbie Caillat - February 7


On Sale Saturday, December 29th at 10:00 AM:

Third Day - February 19

Super Diamond - March 8

Horrorpops - March 22

Throwdown with Soilwork, Thru The Eyes of The Dead, War of Ages - April 2

=======================================================================

ON SALE AT HOUSE OF BLUES ANAHEIM

On Sale Tuesday, January 1st at 10:00 AM:

The Fenians - March 15

Andrew's Bad Stuff is back

Andrew's Bad Stuff returns from hiatus tonight!

Andrew's Bad Stuff with Punk Whores, The Thingz, Rover's Pinky and See It Through. Emceed by Acid Andy. Special appearance by 31st Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Queen Naughty Mickie. Trivia questions and prizes.

8:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21
$3 cover, ages 21 and up
Mr. T's Bowl
5621 1/2 Figueroa
Highland Park
(323) 256-7561

Upcoming concerts around California from Live Nation

On Sale Friday December 21 at 1 PM:
PEPE AGUILAR
The Theater at the Honda Center
Saturday March 8

On Sale Friday December 21 at 10 AM:
JUANES
Save Mart Center at Fresno State
April 30

On Sale Saturday, December 22 at 10 AM:
MOLOTOV
The Wiltern
January 31

On Sale Friday, December 21 at 12 Noon:
DRIVE BY TRUCKERS / NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS
Avalon
February 12

Artists of all kinds sought by FameCast

Bands, solo artists, filmmakers, dancers, comedians and poets who’ve resolved to kick their careers into overdrive in the new year have a prime opportunity awaiting them at FameCast (www.FameCast.com), the world’s leading online talent competition and entertainment community.

FameCast today announced the opening of its Season 4 submission period, offering artists a chance to compete for international exposure; a piece of a $120,000 cash prize pool; forums for receiving feedback from and networking with A-list entertainment journalists, producers and songwriters; and major industry opportunities.

To enter, artists need only to put down the eggnog, upload a performance video (featuring original material; no cover songs allowed) to www.FameCast.com, and select one of 12 categories of competition. Categories are Rock, Pop, R&B/Hip-Hop, Singer/Songwriter, Country, Christian/Gospel, Latin, Electronic, Film & Animation, Dance, Comedy and Spoken Word. Entry is completely free, and those who submit their performance videos between Dec. 24 and Jan. 1 will be eligible for a random lottery drawing to win a bonus $500.

Standard Season 4 submissions are accepted through Jan. 21 - Feb. 2, depending on chosen category. From now until April 26, visitors to FameCast.com will vote for their favorite artists in each category through various rounds of competition. Those who make the Top 5 will be flown to Austin, Texas, to perform live at a showcase-style event in front of industry panelists. The winner of the popular vote wins $10,000 and the title of FameCast FÄ“nom. “Critics’ Pick” winners earn incredible industry opportunities throughout competition, such as exclusive mentor sessions with A-list managers and industry tastemakers, critiques from A&R personnel and high-end equipment.

FameCast’s live Season 3 Finals just wrapped up and the shows are now being webcast on www.famecast.com along with reality show-style specials with behind-the-scenes featurettes. The announcement of the winners is occurring nightly at 9 p.m. EST through December 22.

Past FameCast FÄ“noms are already on the move in the entertainment industry. Season Two Rock FÄ“noms Tripdavon recently had a song featured on HBO’s Entourage, while Season Two’s Short Film FÄ“noms were featured at the L.A. International Shorts Festival. Season One R&B FÄ“nom Melissa Suzanne’s was featured on a Sony compilation disc. Season One Country FÄ“nom Eric Michael Hopper rocketed to #1 on Clear Channel Radio’s New Music Country Chart, and also found success with FameCast’s Big State Big Star contest, through which he earned a spot on the lineup of the inaugural Big State Festival where he joined Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson and 50 other acts to entertain more than 50,000 fans.

Dave Mustaine and wife organize toy drive

Lucky to have his own home spared in the recent Southern California wildfires, MEGADETH frontman DAVE MUSTAINE and his wife Pam recently organized the donation of toys to the Toys For Tots organization, which is being distributed to families affected by the fire. This month, pallets of toys bought in a joint venture with Hasbro Toys were delivered to Camp Pendleton, the town of Fallbrook and the North Coast Church, which the Mustaines attend. “We live in a little town,” says Dave, “and this is nothing any neighbor wouldn’t do for another neighbor.”

Donita Sparks readies solo effort and on tour

Donita Sparks' solo debut, “Transmiticate,” is set for release on 2/19/08. Donita and her band The Stellar Moments are hitting the OC and LA proper for 2 shows before we ring in the new year and these are fairly last minute so take a gander:

12/23/07 @ House of Blues, Anaheim, Ca. (w/ Social Distortion)
12/31/07 @ Safari Sam’s, Los Angeles, Ca. (Veruca Salt & Run Run Run)
More dates coming in 2008...
Lots more music, info, photos here:http://www.donitasparks.com/press/

Also On Tour:
Dengue Fever (www.myspace.com/denguefevermusic.com )
12/31 @ Temple Bar, Santa Monica, CA 0
3/12/08 @ UCLA Live, Los Angeles, CA. (w/ Angelique Kidjo)

Gram Rabbit (www.gramrabbit.com/b2b )
12/31 @ The Echo/Ex Plex, Los Angeles, Ca.

Donita Sparks
12/23/07 @ House of Blues, Anaheim, Ca. (w/ Social Distortion)
12/31/07 @ Safari Sam’s, Los Angeles, Ca. (Veruca Salt & Run Run Run)
02/20/08 Brazillian Tour
02/29/08 @ Safari Sam’s, Los Angeles, Ca.

NPR announces year's best music selections

NPR’s much-anticipated annual end-of-the-year best music selections and polls have grown this year following the November 5, 2007, launch of the NPR Music website. In addition to the annual All Songs Considered “Best Albums” list – to be released today – the free, comprehensive music discovery site www.NPR.org/music is offering new Top 10 lists covering every genre, every day this month; a special holiday music section; and the opportunity to listen to featured songs from listeners’ and critics’ best picks.

Today at 4:00PM (ET), All Songs Considered will count down “The Best 25 Albums of 2007,” as voted on by listeners of the top-rated weekly program. The special edition of the show will be available on-air and online at NPR Music. All Songs Considered host Bob Boilen hints that this year’s voting trends toward well-established independent artists, Canadian bands and groups with animal names. NPR Music users will be able to listen to a featured song from each of the top albums or download the free All Songs Considered podcast of the entire list.

This year, NPR Music’s tradition of annual Top 10 lists has grown: every day this month, NPR Music will feature a different list of the year’s best music, covering every genre, as chosen by public radio tastemakers. Selections include WNYC New York’s “Top 10 Genre-Busting CDs of 2007,” WDUQ Pittsburgh’s “Top 10 Jazz Jewels of 2007,” WGUC Cincinnati’s “Next Generation Classical,” “Folk Alley’s Favorite CDs of 2007” and WXPN Philadelphia’s “Top 10 Kids’ CDs of 2007.” Dozens of listening sets of rock/pop/folk, classical, jazz/blues, world and urban music are currently on the site, with more being added during the month.

The site is also a destination for live holiday concerts, music specials and gift-buying guides. The Holiday 2007 section – www.NPR.org/holidays – offers seasonal concerts from the Blind Boys of Alabama, the Morehouse and Spelman Glee Clubs and the Klezmatics; critics’ picks for tolerable Christmas albums; and jazz, classical and rock holiday music lists.

NPR Music features content from NPR and 12 NPR Member public radio stations, as well as original-to-NPR Music features such as live performances, studio sessions, interviews, reviews and blogs. www.NPR.org/music also offers the exclusive NPR Media Player, allowing users to create a playlist for most video and audio across the site.

Thursday, December 20, 2007

The Mercy Powell Quartet to perform Sunday

From my friend Mercy (you should check this out- the rock ... ummm... jazz!):

Just a Reminder....
Dec. 23rd
"The Mercy Powell Quartet" featuring Peter Burke, Marc Doten and Joshua Balbien
Sunday 1:30 to 4:30
at Cafe 322
322 Sierra Madre Blvd.
for menu info. www.cafe322.com
Jazz,Blues and Surprises!

Hope to See You There!
Mercy
www.mercyandthemerkettes.com

Make plans for First Fridays Series at the Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum First Fridays Series Returns January 4, 2008 with Conscious Minds and the Minds of Others: Popular Music and Discussion Series Features Dr. Antonio Damasio, Director of the Brain & Creativity Institute at USC; Performances by Sea Wolf and afternoons

WHAT
On the first evening of this season’s First Fridays, NHM provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of the human brain. A public forum led by guest speaker Dr. Antonio Damasio will cover how the brain processes memory, language, emotions and decisions. The evening will begin with a curator-guided tour of Treasures from the Vault, an exhibition of some of the Museum’s most rare and delicate objects. DJs Allen and Hoseh will spin throughout the night in the Museum’s grand foyer, home of the famous Dueling Dinos, and indie-rock groups Sea Wolf and afternoons will perform in the Mammal Halls.

WHEN
Friday, January 4, 2008 from 5:30 pm until 10 pm
Guided Tour 5:30 pm Treasures from the Vault led by Margaret Hardin, Ph.D. (Curator of Anthropology)
Discussion 6:30 pm Antonio Damasio, M.D., Ph.D. (David Dornsife Professor of Neuroscience, Director of Brain and Creativity Institute, USC) Michael W. Quick, Ph.D., Moderator

Performances 8:00 pm Sea Wolf & afternoons
DJs (throughout the night): Allen & Hoseh (dublab.com)

EXHIBITION
In celebration of its 94th year, the Natural History Museum has selected some of its most remarkable and rarely seen artifacts and specimens for Treasures from the Vault, on view November 18 to January 21, 2008.

WHERE
The First Floor Galleries of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles are located at 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90007. (213) 763-DINO, www.nhm.org Convenient parking is available across the street, near the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

HOW
Admission is free for Museum members, $9 for adults, and $6.50 for children. Advanced tickets for First Fridays will be sold via Ticketweb.com. Tickets go on sale December 17, 2007.

HGTV to offer Green Home Giveaway

If your passion for your home is tinted "green," then HGTV, the lifestyle network for all things home has a place for you: a custom built "green home," located near miles of popular beaches and an eco-friendly golf course!
HGTV is building its first "green" home in Tradition Hilton Head, a 5,300-acre master-planned community near the popular beach resort of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. During the HGTV Green Home Giveaway 2008, from March 21-May 9, 2008, viewers can enter to win the home and prize packaged valued at approximately $850,000. Fans can get their first on air tour of the home on the HGTV Green Home 2008 special on Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.
The HGTV Green Home Giveaway will complement the 12th annual HGTV Dream Home Giveaway.
"We are aware that many of our viewers are interested in hearing more about green lifestyles," said HGTV President Jim Samples. "The HGTV Green Home Giveaway provides an excellent opportunity to showcase examples of affordable, accessible and eco-friendly approaches to living."
The HGTV Green Home is a traditionally styled, low-country cottage under construction near Hilton Head. At just over 2,000 square feet, the fully-furnished home includes three bedrooms and two and a half baths and features both construction and design elements that are known to contribute to an energy efficient, cleaner and even healthier living environment. Public tours of the home will be available in spring, 2008.
"Our involvement with the HGTV Green Home allows us to showcase our environmental commitment while demonstrating techniques people can use in their own homes to conserve natural resources," said David Page, president of Tradition Hilton Head of South Carolina. "The HGTV Green Home is an important first step in our plans to build Tradition as a green community, a place where our builders are required to utilize green design and conservation elements will be incorporated throughout."
The HGTV Green Home has been registered to receive a significant LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. LEED for Homes, a voluntary rating system, is a project of the U.S. Green Building Council, which plans to launch a nationwide residential LEED certification program later this year.
Jack Thomasson, the HGTV Green Home House Planner who has overseen construction of 11 out of the 12 HGTV Dream Homes says that today's construction materials and building practices provide many options for environmentally-friendly elements that can be incorporated into a home.
"The HGTV Green Home is designed to demonstrate that you don't have to be extreme to be green," said Thomasson. "Through thoughtful design and selection of products, the HGTV Green Home uses the latest building technology and easily attainable materials to create a beautiful, comfortable home that provides affordable examples for an audience passionate about making eco-friendly lifestyle decisions."
The home will be decorated with eco-friendly products and materials by designer Linda Woodrum, well-known for her work on the past 11 HGTV Dream Homes.
Online at HGTV Green Home Central, www.HGTV.com/GreenHome, viewers can learn about the materials and processes that make the home green, and follow the construction process or share their thoughts on the HGTV Green Home blog. Whether constructing a new home or remodeling a current one, they can pick up green-building advice plus Woodrum's tips for earth-friendly decorating. In addition, fans can take a 360 degree online tour of the home beginning Monday, March 3, 2008.
HGTV's sponsor partners who are participating in the HGTV Green Home Giveaway will be able to highlight their eco-friendly products for HGTV's loyal audience. Sponsors include: Shaw Industries, Inc., Sears, General Motors, SCJ, Kohler, Caesarstone and Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation.

About HGTV
HGTV, America's leader in home and lifestyle programming, is distributed to more than 95 million U.S. households and is one of cable's top-rated networks. HGTV's website, HGTV.com is the nation's leading online home and garden destination that attracts an average of 5.4 million unique visitors per month. HGTV owns 33 percent of HGTV Canada and provides much of the Canadian network's daily programming. The network's branded programming also can be seen in 124 territories across all seven continents and its selected programming is available to service men and women on board Navy ships and through American Forces Radio & Television Service (AFRTS) which services more than 1,000 outlets in over 175 countries. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles, Nashville and New York, HGTV is wholly owned by The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE:SSP), which also operates Food Network, DIY Network, Fine Living and Great American Country.

About Tradition Hilton Head
Nestled between the communities of Savannah, Ga. and Hilton Head Island, SC, Tradition Hilton Head is a 5,300-acre master-planned community unlike any other in the Lowcountry. Developed by Core Communities, Tradition Hilton Head provides the convenience and rewards of a total town living environment, featuring a variety of neighborhoods and housing styles, shopping and dining in charming Village Square, a luxurious Fitness Center & Spa and the Tommy Fazio-designed Tradition National Golf Course. For more information, call (866) 459-1422 or visit TraditionHH.com.

About Core Communities
The award-winning developer of the St. Lucie West and Tradition communities in Florida, Core Communities' mission is to create and develop master-planned total-living community environments throughout the Southeastern United States. Its St. Lucie West community is today home to more than 7,500 residences and serves as the Spring Training home of the New York Mets. Tradition, Florida encompasses more than 8,300 acres and serves as a catalyst for job creation on the Florida Treasure Coast. Core Communities, the master planned community development subsidiary of Levitt Corporation (NYSE: LEV) is headquartered in Port St. Lucie at Tradition Station, 10521 S.W. Village Center Drive, Suite 201, Port St. Lucie, FL, 34987. Visit Core Communities on the Internet at CoreCommunities.com.

H&M launches "Fashion Against AIDS" with celeb support

H&M LAUNCHES “FASHION AGAINST AIDS”
H&M and Designers Against AIDS are joining forces in the battle against AIDS and are launching a collection for guys and girls together with Rihanna, Timbaland and other well-known designers, musicians and artists. The aim is to spread awareness about HIV/AIDS, which affects many young people all over the world. The collection “Fashion Against AIDS” will be available in H&M’s Divided departments from February 2008.

The artists taking part in “Fashion Against AIDS” are Rihanna, Chicks on Speed, Good Charlotte, Henrik Vibskov, Jade Jagger, Katharine Hamnett, My Chemical Romance, Rufus Wainwright, Scissor Sisters, The Cardigans, Tiga, Timbaland and Ziggy Marley.
"Supporting YouthAIDS through the Fashion Against AIDS campaign was a great way to encourage my fans to join me in the fight against HIV/AIDS. I love that H&M is providing a fashionable and easy way for young people all over the world to get involved in this worthy cause, "says Rihanna.
The idea for this joint venture was initiated by Designers Against AIDS (DAA), a non-profit
organization that seeks to mold public opinion through collaborations with fashion designers,
musicians and other artists. The desire behind the collection is to draw attention to and increase
young people’s awareness of HIV/AIDS. Twelve million people in the 15-24 age group are now
infected with the virus.
“Fifty percent of the people newly infected with HIV are between the ages of 15 and 24. There is an urgent need to reach this target group. By combining fashion with music we hope to get these young people to ‘Stop and Think,’ as stated by designer Katharine Hamnett on one of the garments in the collection,” says Ninette Murck, founder of DAA.
The artists donated their services, and 25 percent of the proceeds from the collection will go to
HIV/AIDS prevention projects around the world. This will be coordinated by DAA and YouthAIDS, Population Services International’s HIV/AIDS prevention initiative, which reaches more than 600 million young people in 60 countries.
“Every fifteen seconds someone in the 15-24 age group contracts HIV/AIDS. Shopping has never been more important. Every garment sold makes a difference”, says Kate Roberts, the founder of YouthAIDS.
The collection features T-shirts, tank tops and hooded sweaters. All the garments feature an original print, and the neckline label carries the name of the designer. Some of the prints are subtle and “whisper” the message such as Good Charlotte’s design which includes a young couple under a red umbrella. Other prints raise their voices, including Katharine Hamnett’s “Use a Condom!” and “Stop and Think” messaging in big, black, block lettering. Tiga’s checkered print calls for quiet reflection, highlighting multiple squares in a different color to represent those that are living with HIV/AIDS.
The message behind the campaign is summed up by Henrik Vibskov’s print design which states, “Be aware – it is still happening.”
“It’s a collection that’s rich in color, with considerable commitment going into every garment. The artists have created personal prints with a strong sense of style,” says H&M’s head of design Margareta van den Bosch.
Prices vary from to $12.90 to $34.90. All garments are made from 100 percent certified organic
cotton and carry a special hang tag that reads: “This might be the most important piece of clothing you’ve ever had your hands on.”

www.hm.com
For more information about DAA: www.designersagainstaids.com
For more information about YouthAIDS: www.youthaids.org

Charlie Daniels to be inducted into Grand Ole Opry

Legendary country superstar Charlie Daniels will be inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry on January 19, 2008 at the Ryman Auditorium, where the Opry is being held through March 1, 2008. Daniels was surprised with the invitation from Opry member Martina McBride during his annual Christmas For Kids benefit show in November. Opry members Marty Stuart and Connie Smith will help to honor Daniels during this special evening and Del McCoury, Mel Tillis and more of your Opry favorites will also appear.

The Grand Ole Opry® is presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. Opry performances are held every weekend of the year. To plan an Opry visit, call (800) SEE-OPRY or log on to opry.com. About the Grand Ole OpryThe Grand Ole Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn. A uniquely American experience for more than 80 years, the Opry can be heard on 650 WSM-AM, XM Satellite Radio, and opry.com. The syndicated weekly program, America’s Grand Ole Opry Weekend, airs on more than 200 country radio stations across the country and on the Armed Forces Radio Network, and Opry Live airs each weekend on Great American Country (GAC). The Grand Ole Opry is owned by Gaylord Entertainment (NYSE: GET), a Nashville-based hospitality and entertainment company that also owns and operates Gaylord Hotels.
For more information, visit www.opry.com or www.gaylordentertainment.com

National Geographic Music names best of 2007

Nat Geo Music's Best of 2007

It's that time of year again, when music critics cast back through their teetering piles of new releases to come up with their annual 'best of' lists. This year the Nat Geo music team scoured the globe to come up with our favorite releases from around the world, from Belize to Harlem.

1. Andy Palacio "Watina" - Cumbancha RecordsAndy Palacio is a bona fide pop star in his native Belize, but in 2007 he turned in "Watina," a stunning record that explores the roots music of his Garifuna heritage.
2. Manu Chao "La Radiolina" - Nacional RecordsManu Chao, the godfather of Latin Alternative music, returned in 2007 with "La Radiolina," his first new studio album in six years.
3. Angelique Kidjo "Djin Djin" - Razor & Tie RecordsAfropop diva Angelique Kidjo also resurfaced in 2007, with the extraordinary, star-studded "Djin Djin," which featured performances from Carlos Santana, Josh Groban, Alicia Keys and more.
4. Ojos de Brujo "Techari" - Harmonia MundiBarcelona-based musical collective Ojos de Brujo took home a Latin Grammy for their unique blend of hip-hop and flamenco on "Techari."
5. Spanish Harlem Orchestra "United We Swing" - Six Degrees RecordsNew York's own Spanish Harlem Orchestra rocked an album full of old school salsa classics and brand new favorites with "United We Swing."
6. Habib Koite "Afriki" - Cumbancha RecordsMalian singer/songwriter Habib Koite connected the dots between West Africa and the American blues on "Afriki."
7. CeU "CeU" - Six Degrees RecordsCeU emerged as more than the latest
8. Mickey Hart & Zakir Hussain "Global Drum Project" - Shout FactoryEx-Grateful Dead drummer and Indian tabla master Zakir Hussain team up again to deliver the long-awaited sequel to their 1991 Grammy-winner "Planet Drum."
9. Ricardo Lemvo "Isabela" - Mopiato MusicCongolese singer and bandleader Ricardo Lemvo released this indie gem chock full of hip-shaking African rumba, soukous and more.
10. Bole2Harlem "Bole2Harlem" - Sounds of the MushroomWhat happens when you take an Ethiopian rapper and an American producer and let them loose in New York City? "Bole2Harlem" - one of the best world music records to come out of nowhere in 2007.

www.nationalgeographic.com

Concerts around California

CONCORD
DECEMBER 31
NEW YEAR's EVE Show with DUBLIN DEATH PATROL
@ Time Out Bar & Patio - 1822 Grant Street - Doors at 8pm / Show at 9:00pm! - 21 and over -Tickets : $25 Purchase Tickets: Buy DDP NYE Show Tix
http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionDataeventId=228141
www.myspace.com/dublindeathpatrol

Sacramento
January 25
Egypt Central
@ The Kennel Club - 5821 Auburn Blvd -916.339-1675
http://myspace.com/egyptcentral

San Marcos
January 24
Egypt Central
@ The Jumping Turtle - 1660 Capalina Road -760-471-7778
http://myspace.com/egyptcentral

Santa Rosa
January 31
Egypt Central
@ Last Day Saloon - 120 5th Street - 707.545.5876
http://myspace.com/egyptcentral

Spinner.com names 25 best songs of 2007

AOL Music's Spinner.com editors have just named the 25 best songs of 2007. Unlike other lists that focus on the year's biggest hits, Spinner's selections include an eclectic mix of genres ranging from Porter Wagoner's "Satan's River" at #12 to Rihanna's uber hit "Umbrella" at #6 to indie sensation Peter Bjorn and John's "Young Folks" at #11. The editors selected Swell Season's "Falling Slowly" as the best song of the year. The Swell Season in an album by Irish musician Glen Hansard and Czeck singer and pianist Marketa Irglova.

25. Bjork, 'Earth Intruders'
24. Kevin Michael, 'We All Want the Same Thing'
23. Flight of the Conchords, 'Business Time'
22. Interpol, 'The Heinrich Maneuver'
21. Richard Hawley, 'Tonight the Streets Are Ours'
20. Feist, '1 2 3 4'
19. Paul McCartney, 'My Ever Present Past'
18. Blonde Redhead, '23'
17. Maroon 5, 'Makes Me Wonder'
16. Against Me!, 'New Wave'
15. Rilo Kiley, 'Breakin' Up'
14. Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, 'Nobody's Baby'
13. Jens Lekman, 'Postcards to Nina'
12. Porter Wagoner, 'Satan's River'
11. Peter Bjorn and John, 'Young Folks'
10. LCD Soundsystem, 'Someone Great'
9. Lily Allen, 'Smile'
8. Albert Hammond Jr., '101'
7. Justice, 'D.A.N.C.E.'
6. Rihanna, 'Umbrella'
5. Bruce Springsteen, 'Girls in Their Summer Clothes'
4. Tegan and Sara, 'Back in Your Head'
3. Amy Winehouse, 'Tears Dry on Their Own'
2. Kanye West, 'Good Life'
1. Swell Season, 'Falling Slowly'

Pennywise to give away next album for free

Back in 2001, Pennywise called their album Land Of The Free? (the question mark pointed out the inequities of modern existence).

Now, in 2008, Pennywise--one of punk's most credible and influential bands, who’ve sold over three million albums worldwide--will be giving away their next album for FREE. Beginning March 25, 2008, fans around the world will be able to obtain a high quality, DRM-free download from MySpace for a period of two weeks. Longtime PENNYWISE fan and seasoned producer Cameron Webb (Social Distortion, Motorhead, Sum 41) has signed on to produce and mix the upcoming CD.

This music industry precedent is a result of the collaboration between the seminal Southern California punk band, their new label MySpace Records, MySpace.com and Textango (provider of creative solutions for distributing music via text messaging). This marks the first time a U.S. record label has provided an artist with the opportunity to offer a new album free of charge and the first time MySpace has offered a full album download with a worldwide push.

On the same day, PENNYWISE and MySpace Records will also release an enhanced CD/DVD version of the as-yet-untitled disc to retail outlets for sale, with the CD containing the same songs as the downloadable version. There will also be a vinyl version available with two extra exclusive tracks.

To download the album for free beginning March 25, 2008, users simply have to add promotional partner “Textango” (www.myspace.com/textango) as a MySpace friend (anyone can create a MySpace account for free).

“We know that this will piss off a lot of people in the music industry,” says guitarist FLETCHER DRAGGE, “and what do we say to that? ‘Who cares?’ We’ve been pissing people off for 18 years. Why stop now? We have been telling people to get our records by any mean necessary for 17 years. As a band, we decided that it was time to come to terms with the facts. There are a lot of people out there who want their music for free, so we got proactive and with the help of MySpace Records and Textango we found away to make it happen...we couldn’t be more stoked…PENNYWISE FREE TO THE PEOPLE.”

Says lead vocalist JIM LINDBERG: “I think for a band like ours that has put out eight albums already, it's a great way to give back to our fans for their support over the years. We can also potentially expose our music and message to people around the world who may have never had the opportunity to hear it because they either couldn't afford to buy a CD or they didn't have access to music outlets or good distribution. It’s a way for us to instantly expand our music into places it’s never been before. Maybe there's someone in Sri Lanka that is a huge Pennywise fan but just doesn't know it yet.”

Adds FLETCHER: “All on the same day--March 25--you will be able to go out and buy our new record, download it and then go buy it, or just download it for free and sit back and check it out. How cool is that…an option for all ways of thinking?”

“Getting it for free is like being able to take something for a test drive,” says JIM. “There will be some extras that come with the actual physical CD and a few bonus tracks on the vinyl version which we think will help get more people going into their local independent record stores.”

The upcoming disc from PENNYWISE--JIM LINDBERG (vocals), FLETCHER DRAGGE (guitars), BYRON MCMACKIN (drums) and RANDY BRADBURY (bass)--will mark their ninth studio album after having enjoyed a successful lengthy relationship with Epitaph, where they released their self-titled debut album in 1991. The new album “will be a combination of what are fans expect from us with a few curveballs thrown in here and there,” says JIM. “We have to be happy with what we're doing before anyone else, so it will all be about trying to challenge ourselves.”

About MySpace Records
In November 2005 MySpace launched MySpace Records to create an entertainment hub that enables music fans to connect with bands and the record label in new and innovative ways. MySpace Records continues to tap into the still thriving independent music community and operate as a full-service independent label, structured with its own marketing, sales, and A&R departments. MySpace Records has a growing roster of artists that run the gamut from rock to singer/ songwriter to punk to R&B.

About MySpace
MySpace, a unit of Fox Interactive Media Inc., is the premier lifestyle portal for connecting with friends, discovering popular culture, and making a positive impact on the world. By integrating web profiles, blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, music streaming, music videos, photo galleries, classified listings, events, groups, college communities, and member forums, MySpace has created a connected community. As the first ranked web domain in terms of page views*, MySpace is the most widely-used and highly regarded site of its kind and is committed to providing the highest quality member experience. MySpace will continue to innovate with new features that allow its members to express their creativity and share their lives, both online and off. MySpace's international network includes 20 localized community sites in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Mexico, Austria, Finland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Denmark, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Japan and New Zealand. Fox Interactive Media is a division of News Corp. (NYSE:NWS - News, NWS.A - News; ASX:NWS - News, NWSLV - News).

*Among the top 2000 domains comScore Media Metrix, September 2007. For more information on comScore Networks, please go to http://www.comscore.com.

About Textango.com
Textango.com is the revolutionary, patent-pending mobile billing and music delivery platform. Textango allows anyone, anywhere in the United States and 30 other countries to purchase music simply by sending a premium text message with their cell phone. The consumer is billed on their cell phone bill, allowing for impulse purchasing when prompted at concert venues, over the radio, via print advertisements, etc. The music purchased is then downloaded off of Textango.com at any time by entering the mobile number. Some of the countries involved include United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Finland, Sweden, & South Africa.


www.myspace.com/textango
www.pennywisdom.com
www.myspace.com/pennywise