Friday, November 28, 2008

End o' week musings


This week was another milestone in my life, as I had to relinquish my reign as Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade queen. Inside I was a mix of emotions during the event, but outside I tried to keep a big smile on my face. And heck, it was party... I could have cried if I wanted to. For the full story, visit my other blog


There's links to photos and video there too.

Stepping backward. I did the smart thing and stayed home Friday night. I nursed my bad knee and finished deciding what I would wear for the Doo Dah Party.

Sunday Angela and I took a trek to see Joe Walla in Pinon Hills. Boy! Were those boyz surprised! The show was very good and the crowd was appreciative. We managed to score a table by the side of the stage so we got some extra attention from Joe- he would stroll over to us for some of his solos and let us watch his guitar prowess.

Sunday you know about, so I'll continue on to the rest of the week. Monday I took my mom with me to the store to buy what we needed for our Thanksgiving feast. Perhaps that doesn't sound all that exciting, but it actually was kinda fun. The cashier and bagboy - both cute and young - teased us about the bottles of liquor we were buying and made us laugh. They also thought I was younger than I am, which made me smile. Yeah, I'll be going back to that store from now on....

Tuesday I received an invitation from my friend Roc to see the Australian Pink Floyd performing "The Wall" at the Gibson Amphitheatre at Universal. Having endured an afternoon at the dentist, I was a little reluctant, but it seemed too good to miss... and it was! The show was phenomenol!! The musicianship was tremendous, the acting good, the backup singers voices and dancing terrific, the video and light show interesting, but what impressed me most was the timing. All these different aspects had to be coordinated and presented perfectly or the rest of the performance would have been off. It was truly amazing and I would recommend this show to even a minor Pink Floyd fan (like myself).


Turkey Eve I went to Cafe 322 to see Aluminum Marshmallow & the Age of Aquarius Horns and Mercy & the Merkettes. Man, was the club full! The music was so good, that people couldn't resist getting up to dance. The prices at the venue for food and drinks were very reasonable, but this time round I was disappointed with the service.

Usually I have a good experience at Cafe 322, musically this night was there, otherwise it was lacking. There seemed to be plenty of waitstaff and we were even seated quickly despite not having made a reservation. The drinks took a tad long to get, but I was OK with that because of the large crowd. We were asked if we wanted to order food and we said we would a bit later. After about a half-hour of not ordering food (although we weren't asked again), a waiter grabbed our menus off the table as he walked by without saying a word. When we finally got someone's attention, they seemed unable to understand that we wanted the menu again, so we just winged it and described the dish. This guy had to go get another waitress to take our order, which took her a few tries to decipher. Why they couldn't just bring a menu, I don't know.

It took quite a while to get our food and we had to go to the bar to get another drink. Around 10 p.m. the waitstaff went around the venue whisking everything off the tables without any explanation. I believe the kitchen was closing, and if so they should have stopped at each table and told us a few minutes before, as their chosen approach was downright rude. They took a plate off our table and I had to get it back, as we weren't done-- there was food on it still too. They also tried to take our unfinished drinks several times. I have not had this problem before, so I hope it is not becoming the norm for what has previously been a true gem in Sierra Madre.

OK, I guess I should be fair and discuss the sounds too. Aluminum Marshmallow offered up two great sets of classic rock and more with a full group of horns. They turned out many favorites and the crowd didn't want them to leave the stage. Mercy & the Merkettes were tight and hot as always. These girls and their band boyz know how to dish out R&B, Motown and lots more with sass and style.

Thanksgiving, lest we forget, was very nice. My mother and I went to my Carin and Tom's. We began our day by drinking mimosas and playing croquet. My Brit mom claimed that she hadn't played croquet since she was a kid, yet she skunked us at the end. Yeah, we got hustled by my mom! lol! Dinner was steaks, yams, asparagus and warm sourdough bread. We relaxed for a while in the living room before taking a nice long soak in the hot tub complete with martinis and cigars. After we were thoroughly relaxed it was time for homemade key lime pie and eggnog ice cream. Needless to say I slept well last night!

This week my focus is on the upcoming art weekend at McGinty's Gallery at the End of the World. I will be hanging some of Robert "The G-Man" Shields' work as a memorial to him and I'm so honored and excited.

The show will be open noon-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4 through Sunday, Dec. 7. Free admission.

Other events include:

Friday Art Night - 8 p.m. til late Dec. 5 Music by Wreck N Sow and Ric Sarabia and belly dance performances by Almase Arabesque (that's me!). $5 includes refreshments.

Saturday Potluck BBQ - Noon-dusk Dec. 6. Hang out with artists and art lovers. Bring a pot luck dish to share.

Sunday Brunch - Noon-dusk Dec. 7. Hang out with the usual suspects and others. Nibble on delights dished up by Chef Cliff.

McGinty's Gallery at the End of the World
2475 N. Lake Ave.
Altadena


In rotation this week: Beat Union, HorrorPops, Paddy's Pig, Tom Petty and Dead Trees.


Photos we got 'em: Just a couple of strange - and possibly disturbing - pet pics and a photo I found on the Web to honor my Pink evening.

Thought of the week: Not everything is as you expect. I was a little put out on pre-turkey night, as some of my friends who had promised to come to the show didn't make it and the service (let's not go there again). But, as my usual wont, I made a good time of it anyway. I had other great friends hanging with me and we enjoyed the music and the company. It's up to you to put the right perspective on things and sunshine is where you find it... (I'll be here all day lol!)

Keep on rockin'
Mickie









Jim Curry to offer three holiday shows

Jim Curry's first full-length Christmas show. He will be performing a lot of Holiday songs that John Denver either wrote or recorded.

Tuesday, December 9, 7:00 show “At the Grove” in Upland, CA
www.grovetheater.com
or call box office: (909)920-4343

Thursday, December 11: Country Roads Estates, Yuma, AZ
2 shows: 4:00 and 7:30
**NOTE** This is our normal tribute show with
A few Christmas songs added.
Call for reservations: (928) 344-8910

Saturday, December 13: Afternoon Concert, 1:00pm in Big Bear Lake, CA
Call for reservations: (909) 585-5916


www.jimcurrymusic.com

The Dead Trees continue US tour

The Dead Trees follow up to their much loved Fort Music EP this fall with King of Rosa and kick off the second leg of their US tour

The Dead Trees play Troubadour on 12.7 in Los Angeles

The Dead Trees bring you a bit of early Christmas Cheer with their ditty “Sit Fuzzy”
NPR featured Dead Trees song “OK Standby” as their Song of the Day

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=97302965&sc=nl&cc=sod-20081121

Tour dates with Little Joy!
NOV 26- The Lounge @ Elm Street - Dallas, Texas
NOV 28- Warehouse Live- Houston, Texas
NOV 29- The Parish -Austin, Texas
NOV 30 - Tulsa, OK - Cain's Ballroom 2nd Stage
DEC 02 - Denver, CO - Larimer Lounge
DEC 04 - Scottsdale, AZ - Martini Ranch
DEC 05 - San Diego, CA - H.O.B. - 5th Street Side Stage
DEC 06 - Costa Mesa, CA - Detroit Bar
DEC 07 - Los Angeles, CA - Troubadour
DEC 09 - San Francisco, CA - Slim's
DEC 11 - Seattle, WA - El Corazon
DEC 12 - Vancouver, BC - The Plaza Club
DEC 13 - Portland, OR - Berbati's Pan

When it all started out, Matthew, Noah, Tad and Michael weren’t really a ‘band’ exactly but the fruits this “not band” ended up being the much loved Fort Music EP earlier this year.

Last spring, The Dead Trees self released Fort Music EP was widely supported through the Coalition of Independent Music Stores and landed these friends from Boston to supporting Albert Hammond, Jr. on a national tour. They just about burned down the Metro in Chicago, abandoned a broken down van somewhere in Iowa (which is heavily chronicled in Daytrotter.com) along the way playing shows that LA’s The House Of Blues in LA and Webster Hall in NYC.

The band plan on touring in support of King Of Rosa throughout the fall/winter of 2008, and into 2009.

Matthew Borg - guitar
Noah Rubin - drums/vocals
Tad Dahlhoff - bass/vocals
Michael Ian Cummings - vocals/guitar

Songsalive! Showcase Dec. 5

Songsalive! Los Angeles Showcase
Featuring talented songwriters from around the globe, the Songsalive!

Showcases are the best industry secret, a great happening all around the world. Songsalive! Showcases are a very cozy, intimate and acoustic environment where media and music industry representatives often drop by to check out the latest talent. Showcase your music and support our Songsalive! national and international live events and showcases presenting songwriters and artists of original music. Showcases are conducted globally.

WHEN: Friday, December 5
Show starts 7:30 pm

WHERE: Hallenbeck's & Cahuenga General Store
5510 Cahuenga Blvd
North Hollywood, California 91601-2919
On Caheunga Blvd. 1/2 block north of Chandler on the right.
www.hallenbecks.net
Light meals available

DONATIONS: $8 cover at the door.
Supports the venue and our non profit efforts.
As Songsalive! is a 501c)3) non profit charity, it is tax deductible. Ask for a receipt if necessary.

ABOUT THE SHOWCASE: The Songsalive! Los Angeles Showcase features a new venue, a new date, and a new format! Songsalive returns to Hallenbeck's after a couple of years. Hallenbeck's is an well known venue for acoustic Los Angeles Songwriters and performers - they have a small stage with a great sound system, great food and drinks, it is family friendly too, with free parking on the street.

ARTISTS: We have four performers who will be doing mini-sets in two rounds - so nice you hear them all twice! And we'll have a short intermission in the middle for food, stretching, and conversation. Featuring:

Zachary Provost
Grammy-winning producer David Foster places Zachary Provost at the top of his list of talented musicians, saying "the depth of his musicianship is endless and his great songwriting, arranging and production skills make him a triple threat." In addition to recording and performing regularly throughout world and a 5-year stint as Josh Groban's musical director, Zachary has also performed alongside Elton John, Carlos Santana, Quincy Jones and Willie Nelson among many others. Signed copies of Zachary's critically acclaimed debut "Alive" and the "Heart of the Moment" EP are available exclusively at
www.zacharyprovost.com www.myspace.com/zacharyprovost

John Stowers
John Stowers has been called one of the most promising singer/songwriters in Southern California. A Rootsy Pop Rocker with surprising soul. Songs filled with original thoughtful lyrics and melodies that soar. John's songs reflect his passion for the music that inspired him back when he was growing up in rural Missouri. Unable to tune in radio stations from surrounding cities, John grew up listening to his older brother's classic rock and soul collection. He draws from this rich musical history when writing his songs. There are echoes of everything from Liverpool to Memphis in his music. John recently won a 2004 Billboard World Song Contest award. "Jimmy's Song" won 3rd place in the R&B/Blues category. It's gratifying validation for a performing songwriter who's been out there playing bars/coffee houses and patiently honing his craft. John's currently completing production of his record which is due to be released by the end of this year. Stay Tuned!
www.myspace.com/johnstowers

Sabrina and Craig
Craig Lincoln, an Olympic Diving Medalist, is keeping the tradition of contemporary folk music alive and well in a very pure form. He writes original songs of wry, thoughtful observation drawn from a life rich in experience and passion, and accompanied by a variety of tasty acoustic guitar styles.

Sabrina Schneppat --Sabrina started her musical solo career at age five. Since then she has regularly performed in choirs, musical theatre, and as a solo artist in jazz and country. She has expanded her love of music into songwriting and most recently as a duo with Craig Lincoln.
www.myspace.com/sabrinaandcraig

Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements:
The group is made up of Tracy Newman, Lorie Doswell and Gene Lippmann. The beginnings of this satisfying combination were completely organic. Several 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 the song “Laraine.” It sounded great. Tracy invited them to come up on stage with her, and the rest is history. They recently put out a CD called “A Place in the Sun” which you can hear and/or buy at
www.cdbaby.com/cd/tracynewman

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’s CDBABY page.A word about Tracy’s songs: You’ll be able to understand the words. They’re sung clearly. This group has fun singing these songs and you get to be in on it. Whether it’s “Laraine” (the loving tribute to Tracy’s sister, Laraine Newman, from the original cast of SNL (check out the video of this song at www.myrecordlabel.net/tracynewman,) or the award-winning song “Waffle Boy” about a father/son relationship, or “Mama, I Know You Ain’t Santa,” a truly original Christmas song -- or any of Tracy’s songs, you’ll be handsomely rewarded for the time spent listening.Tracy was a founding member of the LA based improv company, The Groundlings, and moved on from that to writing and producing TV. She won the EMMY in 1997 for co-writing the ground-breaking coming-out episode of the sitcom “ELLEN.” In 2001, Tracy co-created the ABC sitcom, “ACCORDING TO JIM.” She was a songwriter before her TV career, and now she’s back to it full time.

Lorie Doswell is a wonderful singer/songwriter on her own (www.loriedoswell.com ) and is just finishing up her solo CD called “Dream Drivin’.” Gene Lippmann is a harmony junkie and livin’ the dream, with Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements. Come see them!www.tracynewman.com www.myrecordlabel.net/tracynewman www.myspace.com/tracynewman1
www.cdbaby.com/cd/tracynewman

MORE DETAILS AND CONTACT: www.songsalive.org/losangeles for details . Also check out our Meetup group listed on the website

CALL FOR ARTISTS: - booking for Jan./Feb./Mar.
* You must be able to guarantee a min. of 5 guests
.* 6 song acoustic set
* You must be a Songsalive! member www.songsalive.org
* Showcase application at www.songsalive.org (log in and follow the link for apply for a showcase)

NOTE: Please also come out and support our 10th Anniversary Showcase and Holiday Party at The Mint on December 17th - A Free Show! Raffle! And More!!

Details at www.songsalive.org/losangles

Dave Harvey
Songsalive Communications Director
(also booking the LA Showcases)

Songsalive! supporting and promoting songwriters and composers worldwide www.songsalive.org

Sarah McLachlan video aids animals

Sarah McLachlan has released a new Silent Night video to support the ASPCA. You can watch it here:

http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=rzAcoYGmKS1zPzm2_KtHbw..

Luanne Hunt's Christmas CD added to ORS Radio lineup

ORS RADIO has added all the songs from Luanne Hunt's new Christmas CD to their holiday music channel. ORS RADIO is the largest music network on the Internet, with DJs in the U.S. and around the world.

Here's the link: www.orsradio.net

Click on the "Christmas Mix" link on the homepage to listen.

Subaru "shares the love" with the ASPCA, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, Meels on Wheels and National Wildlife Federation

Just in time for the holidays, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that it will be a part of a unique new campaign from Subaru of America. Appropriately called the “The Subaru Share the Love event,” the automaker will share the love Subaru owners have for their vehicles with several worthy causes.

Through the program, Subaru new vehicle customers will have the opportunity to select one of five charities – including the ASPCA – to receive a $250 donation from Subaru of America following the purchase or lease of a new vehicle. The program is expected to generate up to $5 million for the charities during its duration.

“The ASPCA is thrilled to partner with Subaru for their ‘Share the Love’ event,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “It is heartwarming to be on the receiving end of such generosity – especially during this holiday season. Subaru customers who select the ASPCA as their charity of choice will know that this donation will help us continue the life-saving work we do each day.”

“We wanted to create a program that not only stands out from the crowd but is also relevant to our customer’s value system – that of giving back to the community,” said Kevin Mayer, director of Marketing Communications for Subaru of America. “The program is also timely in that many charities are feeling the effects of the recent economic troubles. So we are pleased to be helping charities during this difficult period.”

Along with the ASPCA, the four charities participating in the program are: Habitat for Humanity International, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Meals on Wheels Association of America, and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The “Subaru Share the Love event” will run from November 24 to January 2.

For more information on the ASPCA’s programs, please visit www.aspca.org.

Check out ASPCA best-dressed dog winners

ASPCA Photo Contest Winners: Meet the Best-Dressed Dogs of 2008!

http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=6qcc4G3cDuaEw9JCkBk7OA..

In celebration of Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month this past October, we asked you to show us your pooches decked out in their finest apparel. Judging from the number of entries we received, there's no shortage of stylin' canines out there! Congratulations to our fierce and furry fashionistas. Check them out here!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Heroes of the Dancefloor's newest albums proceeds to benefit Picture the Homeless and Coalition for the Homeless

According to the Coalition for The Homeless, in March 2008 there were 34,638 homeless people living in the Municipal Shelter system in New York of which 14,715 were children. The inspiration for Torch by Heroes of The Dancefloor came from a homeless woman on the street of New York who was about 36 weeks pregnant and who was begging in the rain. She looked completely desperate.

Heroes of The Dancefloor will release Torch and the lead single “Same Scandal” on INgrooves the week of Thanksgiving, this Tuesday November 25th. ALL of the proceeds from the sale of Torch will go to two charities working with the homeless in New York: Picture The Homeless and Coalition For The Homeless. NO money will go to the musicians including any mechanicals, royalties or publishing.

Torch features Gary Alesbrook who tours with Kasabian and Scissor Sisters on Trumpet, James Morton on Sax and Dan Moore on Keyboards and Bass (who both tour with former James Brown sideman Pee Wee Ellis), Guitar by Alex Hutchins and Vocals by Mamazu. Mixes and remixes have come from top US DJs such as Nick Chacona and Anthony Mansfield and top US and UK engineers including Adam Noble in the Strongroom, Joe Fields and Sam Dillon in Soho Studios, Doug McBride in Gravity Studios in Chicago, Grammy-award winning Thom Russo in Los Angeles and Grammy-award-winning Mick Glossop in London.

Picture The Homeless is an award winning grass roots organization in New York City that was founded and is led by homeless New Yorkers in 1999. They are the only organization in NYC, and one of the few nationally, that is led by homeless people. Their organizing campaigns focus on changing the structural causes of homelessness as well as making improvements in the delivery of life sustaining services to homeless individuals and families. As a complement to the soup kitchens, shelters and advocacy organizations, it is critical that homeless people themselves have a seat at the table where public policy decisions are made that impact our lives and communities. Picture The Homeless is proud to have been selected for a Harry Chapin Self-Reliance Award. Their motto is Don't Talk About Us, Talk With Us!

The Coalition For The Homeless is the nation's oldest advocacy and direct service organization helping homeless men, women, and children. They believe that affordable housing, sufficient food, and the chance to work for a living wage are fundamental rights in a civilized society. Since 1981, they've fought successfully for lasting solutions to homelessness through our renowned advocacy. They provide housing, food, job training, crisis services and children's programs to over 3,500 New Yorkers each day.

Previously, Heroes of The Dancefloor released its debut album Momentum the proceeds of which benefited the San Francisco-based organization Coalition On Homelessness, the sister charity of New York’s Picture The Homeless.

Torch Tracklisting:
Release Date: Novmber 25th, 2008

01. Ricky
02. Same Scandal
03. Sugar
04. Hooky
05. The Knack
06. Nicotine
07. Composure
08. Show Me
09. Saviour
10. Cool
11. Catch 22

On The Web:
www.heroesofthedancefloor.com
www.myspace.com/heroesofthedancefloor
www.ingrooves.com
www.myspace.com/ingrooves
www.picturethehomeless.org
www.coalitionforthehomeless.org

Support local music with Sin City Social Club

From Sin City Social Club:

Greetings from Austin,

I started putting together a gratitude list to share with you all for Thanksgiving but to be honest, I'm a lucky girl and that list is way too long. I wanted you to know though, that you're all on that list and I thank you all for being a part of our community! I wish you joy, health & happiness and hope that you're bellies get fed with delicious food and your hearts are nourished by the love of family and friends - and then you go out and feed your soul with the music that you love!
On with the show!
* * * * *

We've found our home in Austin!

Sin City Social Club officially gathers in Austin the last Saturday of every month at The Scoot Inn (East Austin) - mark your calendars and tell your friends! We're working on our bookings now but in the coming months we're working on performances from: Jesse Dayton, Heybale!, Dave Insley, Shurman, Shiny Ribs, Shawn Nelson, Austin Collins, Mother Truckers and many more! If you're interested in playing one of our shindigs - give me a shout!

To kick things off...
Saturday, November 29th
Sin City Social Club
The Scoot Inn
1308 E. 4th Street
9pm doors
** only $5 **

We'll give you one day to digest your meal and then we'll meet you for adult beverages and an evening of
"CosmicAmericanSouthernGothicPsychedeltaBlues"
... come shake yer possum and hang out with yer buddies

Featuring :
11pm
The incomparable Pehr Smith on the national ...
He's been playing with his inner goth lately - consider yourselves warned!
www.myspace.com/pehrsmith
10 pm
Charlie Terrell
My all time favorite Southern gothic songwriter/playwright makes his Austin debut with The Sin City Social Club
www.hopefulsinner.com
www.takingthejesuspill.com
9pm
Madelyn Cascio
www.myspace.com/madelyncascio
* * * * *

LET IT BE KNOWN!
Mike Ness know how to book a damn tour!
West Coast shows in December have some "Sin City All Stars" in tow...
Ok - so not only do our boys Chris Lawrence and Dave Raven play in his band but...
Check out some of the artists Mike has comin' to open the shows!
It looks like one of our Social Club samplers ;)

12/2 - Dead Rock West - Bakersfield @ Buck Owens Crystal Palace
12/5 - Jesse Dayton - LA @ The El Rey Theater
12/10 - James Intveld - San Juan Capistrano - The Coach House
12/12 - Ryan Bingham - LA @ The El Rey Theater
12/13 - Mike Stinson - LA @ The El Rey Theater
12/14 & 12/16 - The Mother Truckers - San Juan Capistrano - Coach House /Solana Beach - Belly Up
12/17 & 12/19 - Lonesome Spurs - Solana Beach - Belly UP/San Juan Capistrano - Coach House
12/20 - Dave Gleason Band - San Juan Capistrano - Coach House

AND more...Many shows are SOLD OUT but check out Mike Ness' website for details
www.mikeness.com
* * * * *

An American, a Canadian, and an Alaskan walk out of a bar...
It's no secret...

I'm a big fan of Tim Easton's, and have been shouting from the tops of mountains about his talent for years now. Earlier this year, Tim turned me onto The Whipsaws as they were touring together and he "knew" this was a band that was right up my alley. They played our SXSW party in March and I was mesmerized. It came as no surprise that these troubadours would collaborate and come up with something this warm and beautiful.

Those of you lucky enough to live on the West Coast will have an opportunity to catch them live in January. The rest of you will have to wait.

For now, I wanted to share their story - you can go check them out on their myspace page.
www.myspace.com/eastonstaggerphillips

EASTON STAGGER PHILLIPS:
DEBUT ALBUM "ONE FOR THE DITCH"

Part time troubadours will come and go. For Tim Easton (JOSHUA TREE, CALIFORNIA), Leeroy Stagger (VICTORIA, CANADA) and Evan Phillips (ANCHORAGE, ALASKA), traveling the world and singing songs isn't just a diversion. It's a way of life. It is how they survive in this world, and it is what caused them to cross each others paths.

The three singer/songwriters first came together at Easton's Joshua Tree desert home in 2007. They had mutual respect for each others work but the thought of forming a band was the last thing on their minds. Fast forward to January 2008 where Easton and Stagger are the support acts for Phillips' band The Whipsaws on their Alaskan CD release tour and the three start to collaborate. With the assistance of Anchorage resident and recording engineer Greg Benolkin, the three musicians found themselves laying down tracks during a winter storm in a cabin in Girdwood, Alaska. The snow was falling and the tape was rolling and what came out of that three day session was a lifelong friendship plus a beautiful record of songs the three had been stockpiling.

The majority of ONE FOR THE DITCH was recorded at that session, and on the third evening, their first performance as Easton, Stagger, Phillips took place at Vagabond Blues in Palmer, Alaska. The trio later reconvened in the lower 48 in March 2008 for a cross country drive from Austin to Joshua Tree in order to add the finishing touches on the primarily acoustic recordings. Hunkering down at Easton's home cabin studio as well as Victoria Williams' Chapparal Bottoms studio, ESP recruited Bobby Furgo (Leonard Cohen band)on violin, and took turns overdubbing organ bass pedals on some of the songs, using a vintage Gulbransen Pacemaker organ that Easton had scored for $50 at a local thrift store, to finish what was to be ESP's debut album "One For The Ditch."

ONE FOR THE DITCH is being released by REBELTONE RECORDS, and this introduction to the band showcases the kind of song writing tradition that brought the three together in the first place. From the classic, Townes Van Zandt inspired storytelling of Leeroy Stagger in the opening track "Hell of A Life," which chronicles the life and times of the wayward troubadour, to the mountain stream vocals of Evan Phillips in northern life inspired songs such as "Highway 395" or "Walk Away," to the optimistic sing along "Festival Song," which has all three members of the band taking turns at verses written by Tim Easton, with the three voices blending as one generation for the chorus shout out "It feels like the world is gonna be alright."

This acoustic debut album is the begining of a life long collaborative effort and dedication to making music and traveling the world together as Easton, Stagger, Phillips.

"These three troubadours have been playing and writing songs on their own and with others long enough to know what counts. They write what they know, record how they see fit on the hardware at hand, and play the chords that they like best. Upon first listen to their joint effort, One For the Ditch, it's easy to tell that this album isn't about attaining the widest possible audience, it's about winning hearts." - ESTER REPUBLIC

SUNDAY, 1.25.09 TRACTOR TAVERN SEATTLE, WA
TUESDAY, 1.26.09 ALBERTA STREET PUB PORLAND, OR
WEDNESDAY, 1.28.09 HOTEL UTAH SAN FRANCISCO, CA
FRIDAY, 1.30.09 HOTEL CAFE LOS ANGELES, CA
SATURDAY, 1.31.09 CLAREMONT FOLK CENTER CLAREMONT, CA

* * * * *

Callin' all friends...there's a really cool auction running and you should know about it!

From Jed Hilly at The AMA

Dear Friends,

I start this note to say thank you for all your efforts to support the
Americana Music Association. As you know, we are a non profit organization
dedicated to advocate for Americana music and to promote the public
awareness of the genre. We rely heavily on the generous support of
volunteers and the kind and varied contributions so many.

Starting today, Thursday November 20th, we have launched an Americana
Auction site that we plan to offer opportunities and memorabilia donated by
friends... items like an autographed hatch print from Levon Helm's Ramble at
the Ryman and a pair of tickets to experience Levon's Ramble at his home in
Woodstock, NY; an Hatch Print signed by Alison Krauss and Robert Plant; a
seven day 'Americana Cruise" presented by Cayamo and featuring artist
performances by Lyle Lovett, Patty Griffin, Buddy Miller and so many other
amazing artists. This auction will be continuous and we will be adding new
items every two to four weeks.

Please visit the Auction page at www.AmericanaMusicAuction.com.

Thank you to our friends who have donated some really cool items (Tim Easton will have one of his guitar paintings up there soon along with some other items generously donated by some of our Sin City folk)

It's a great place to shop for that special someone!

Blessings,
Shilah
Shilah Morrow
Sin City Social Club
LA * Austin * Nashville
7800 Indian Ridge Dr.
Austin, TX 78737
213.840.3865

For more info. on events & projects please visit:
www.sincitysocialclub.com
www.myspace.com/sincityshilah
www.glencampbellshow.com
www.jessedayton.com
www.justicerecords.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 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! **

Lamb of God and Five Finger Death Punch on tour In California

Anaheim
December 16
LAMB OF GOD
headlining @ The Grove
/ 2200 E. KATELLA AVE. – 714 7122700 – Doors: 7:00pm/show: 8:00pm/ ONSTAGE: 10:00pm / Tickets: $25/$28
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Chico
December 11
LAMB OF GOD
headlining @ Senator Theater
/ 517 Main St / Doors: 7:00pm/show: 8:00pm/ ONSTAGE: 10:15pm / Tickets: $26/$28
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Fresno
December 13
LAMB OF GOD
@ Save Mart Center
/ 2650 E SHAW AVE – 5593473401 / Doors: 7:00pm/ Tickets: GA - $55.50/$77.50
w/ Metallica
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Oakland
December 20
LAMB OF GOD
@ Oracle Arena / 7000 Coliseum Way / 510.569.2121 / Doors: 5:30pm / Show: 7:00pm / Tickets: $59.50/$79.50
w/ Metallica
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Ontario
December 12
LAMB OF GOD
@ Citizen’s Business Bank Arena / 4000 ONTARIO CENTER PARKWAY – 909 4842020 – Doors: 6:00pm/show: 7:00pm/ Tickets: GA - $57.50/$77.50
w/ Metallica
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

San Diego
December 4
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH
headlining @ House of Blues / 1055 5th Avenue / 619.525.1925 / Doors: 7:00pm / Onstage at 9:20pm / Tickets: $17.50/$20
www.myspace.com/ffdp

December 15
LAMB OF GOD
@ Cox Arena / 5500 CANYON CREST DRIVE – Doors: 7:00pm – Tickets: GA - $59.50/$79.50
w/ Metallica
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Ventura
December 19
LAMB OF GOD
@ Majestic Ventura Theater/ 26 SOUTH CHESNUT ST. – 805 6530721 – Doors: 7:00pm/show: 8:00pm/ ONSTAGE: 10:00pm / Tickets: $26/$28
w/ Metallica
www.myspace.com/lambofgod

Sergio Mendes to play Club Nokia

Brazilian Music Legend SERGIO MENDES
To Play CLUB NOKIA in Los Angeles on November 29th

Mendes’ Critically Praised Album Encanto Recently Held The #1 Spot On Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart For EIGHT Consecutive Weeks

“Sergio Mendes' spirited keyboard work and surging, samba-tinged rhythm section [are] rich with the percussion sounds of carnival” – Los Angeles Times


Who: Chart-Topping Brilian Music Legend SERGIO MENDES
What: Performs In Eagerly-Awaited Return To Los Angeles Concert Stage
Where: Club Nokia – 800 West Olympic Blvd – Los Angeles, CA
When: 7:00 PM - November 29, 2008

See The Video For First Single Funky Bahia At:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=pTHNH6VSmCk

Iced Earth and Saxon join for tour

Titans among themselves: 1 February 2009 will see the launch of a four-week tour by the two metal legends, Saxon and Iced Earth, in Paris. This sensational co-headlining package is certainly among the strongest of recent years and will take the two bands through countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxemburg, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, Austria, Hungary and Italy.

Fans can look forward to dynamic power metal at its very best, especially since both groups will also present thoroughly exciting new releases to accompany the tour. Tickets for the concerts are available from ticketing agencies.

Saxon are considered one of the most charismatic acts of today's metal business. Their latest album release, Into The Labyrinth, out on 12 January 2009 (Germany: 9 January 2009, US: 13 January) via Steamhammer/SPV proves that Saxon mark 2009 haven't lost any of their expressiveness, enthusiasm and inspiration. Along with numerous classics, vocalist Biff Byford & Co. will present the strongest tracks from their new album during the tour, expertly combining present and past.

For Iced Earth, this will be the first full European tour since the return of frontman, Matt Barlow.

"I am pleased Matt is back," explains guitarist and songwriter Jon Schaffer. "We are brothers with a long, meaningful relationship behind us"

The band will present songs from their current album, The Crucible Of Man, and for spring Schaffer has also announced the release of a new DVD.

TOURDATES
01.02. F-Paris - Bataclan
02.02. B-Brussels - AB
03.02. NL-Tilburg - 013
04.02. D-Cologne - Essigfabrik
06.02. LUX-Luxembourg - Den Atelier
07.02. D-Herford - X
08.02. D-Hamburg - Docks
10.02. NO-Oslo - Rockefeller
11.02. SE-Stockholm - Annex
12.02. DK-Copenhagen - Pumpehuset
13.02. D-Berlin - Huxleys
15.02. PL-Warsaw - Spodac
16.02. CZ-Zlin - tba
17.02. A-Vienna - Gasometer
19.02. HU-Budapest - Petofi Hall
20.02. SI-Ljubljana - Mediapark
21.02. HR-Zagreb - Boogaloo
22.02. I-Milan - Rolling Stone
24.02. CH-Zurich - Volkshaus
25.02. F-Strassbourg - La Laiterie
27.02. E-Bilbao - Rockstar Live
28.02. E-Madrid - La Riviera
01.03. E-Barcelona - Razzmatazz

www.saxon747.com
www.icedearth.com
www.spv.de

John Mayer concert to benefit the Grammy Museum

Five-time GRAMMY® winner John Mayer will perform a one-hour exclusive concert at NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE on Dec. 3 (7 – 8 p.m. PT) in celebration of the grand opening of The GRAMMY Museum — the one-of-a-kind 21st century museum boasting more than 30,000 square feet of music exhibits.

Following the one-hour concert, the original members of The Time (featuring Jerome Benton, Morris Day, Jimmy Jam, Jellybean Johnson, Jesse Johnson, Terry Lewis, and Monte Moir) will reunite for a historic performance at Club NOKIA, with DJ Mick Boogie at the turntables, as part of The GRAMMY Museum's official gala after-party.

Both events will take place immediately following "The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!! — Countdown To Music's Biggest Night®," the new one-hour CBS TV special on Dec. 3 (9 – 10 p.m. ET/PT) announcing nominations for the 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards. Tickets to "The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!!" (which includes the one-hour concert with John Mayer) and The GRAMMY Museum gala after-party are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets, via phone at 213.480.3232, or online at www.ticketmaster.com, and proceeds will benefit The GRAMMY Museum.

"The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!! — Countdown To Music's Biggest Night" will announce nominations in several categories, feature performances by past GRAMMY winners and nominees, and will set the stage for the 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 8, 2009 (8 – 11:30 p.m. ET/PT). In addition, it will help celebrate the grand opening of The GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE. The GRAMMY Museum explores and celebrates the enduring legacies of all forms of music, the creative process, the art and technology of the recording process, and the history of the premier recognition of excellence in music — the GRAMMY Award.

The music facility features interactive, permanent and traveling exhibits with four floors of dynamic and engaging multimedia presentations as well as interesting and thought-provoking educational and public programs such as films, lectures and performances in its 200-seat state-of-the-art GRAMMY Sound Stage. The Museum officially opens to the public on Dec. 6. For additional information on The GRAMMY Museum, please visit www.grammymuseum.org.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture.

For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com.

Upcoming concerts around California from Live Nation

ON SALE THIS WEEK AT HOUSE OF BLUES SUNSET STRIP

On Sale NOW :

Cage9, The Bangkok Five, Opus Dai, Kaura, Sleepmask - December 5

Sweet and Tender Hooligans , The Curse, Fangs on Fur - December 13

Marc Broussard, Jessie Baylin, Josh Hoge - January 16

Femi Kuti - January 23

Brett Dennen , Angus & Julia Stone - March 24 and 25



ON SALE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 AT 10 am:

Tarja - May 8

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

ON SALE THIS WEEK AT HOUSE OF BLUES ANAHEIM

On Sale NOW:

Wild Child - December 26

Chrisette Michele - December 28

Pato Banton - January 3

Marc Broussard - January 15

Celebrity designed Trina bags to aid Project Angel Food

This year at Divine Design, the West Coast's premiere fashion and home shopping event, 100% of proceeds from sales will directly benefit Project Angel Food's mission to nourish the body and spirit of men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other life-threatening illnesses.

At the event, leading designers donate gorgeous fashions, furniture, beauty and gift items that are sold 50%-90% off retail. Trina, a line of luxury cosmetic bags, is donating close to $20,000 worth of product for the event but will also be raising additional money for Project Angel Food in a special auction on E-Bay starting December 5.

Auctioned off with be several fabulous Trina bags signed by your favorite celebrities including:
v John Mayer
v Adam Sandler
v Neil Patrick Harris and the cast of How I Met Your Mother
v Vanessa Williams, Eric Mabius, Michael Urie and Ashley Jensen from Ugly Betty
v Ryan Seacrest
v Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill and Judd Apatow, producer of Step Brothers, Superbad, and 40 Year-Old Virgin
v Actors from LOST

Help those in need by logging on to www.ebay.com, keyword “Trina for Project Angel Food” and start bidding today!

ASPCA speaks out against possible new veterinary service taxes

From ASPCA:

Dear California Advocates,

At a special legislative session held earlier this month to address the state's budget crisis, Governor Schwarzenegger proposed new taxes on certain services-- including an approximate nine-percent tax on veterinary services. If this should happen, it will have a negative impact on the health and welfare of California's pets.

During this economic downturn, animal owners are already being forced to make tough choices. Animal shelters are at capacity, but the number of homeless pets continues to rise as people lose their homes to foreclosure and unemployment rates climb. A tax on veterinary services will lead to a decline in routine wellness visits -- even by responsible owners -- which are vital for catching health problems in the early, treatable stages. It will also lead to an increase inpet abandonment, putting more financial strain on California's state-funded animal shelters. Taxing veterinary services is a quick-fix, short-sighted solution that will hurt animals and could cost the State more in the long run.

What You Can Do

Please visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center to send a letter to Governor Schwarzenegger that asks him to delete the veterinary tax provision from his budget proposal.
http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=aadtVqOIAW5MZxI-d8Xj7g..

Thank you for caring about animals, California!

Donate Now
http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=ynNYVfN0Mol7c7Wu7QAhYg..

Become an ASPCA Guardian
http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=-RGG3D_Os8CXk3N6-oJeMw..

Forward to a Friend
http://www.aspca.org/site/R?i=Ov9u5UXkw0xldG0yzp1-bg..

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®
424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY 10128
Visit us online at www.aspca.org

Afro Funke Thursdays at Zanzibar and more

Afro Funké
WEEKLY FUNK INVOCATION
------------------:~0~:---------------------
Afrobeat, Brazilian, Dub, Reggae, Cumbia, Samba Disco, Batucada, Afro-Latin House, Indian Beats, Makossa & other deep-rooted Funk music from around the world
---------------------:~0~:---------------------

Closed Nov. 27 for Thanksgiving holiday

----------------------------------------------------

December 4, 2008

guest deejay:
SMALL CHANGE (NYC)
$mall ¢hange (aka James Dier) will never stop. A musical addict, he's been collecting and DJing for over 15 years, has 10s of thousands of records, in every conceivable genre and time period. Seriously deep crates in funk, jazz, blues, soul, latin, reggae, dancehall, hip hop, house, breaks, jungle, booty bass, classics, rawk n' roll, punk, vintage RnB, disco, downtempo,ambient, experimental...you get the picture. Some people say they're eclectic--this homeslice lives it, with the skills to mix it all together.
www.djsmallchange.com

+

FEMI KUTI
LISTENING PARTY
9-10pm / giveaways!
Not content to merely follow in his famous father, Fela Kuti’s footsteps, Femi Kuti continues to expand his musical palette with his latest studio release, Day By Day, a hybrid of Afro-pop, jazz and urban influences. The album has been a long time coming: seven years since his laststudio album Fight To Win and four years since the live Africa Shrine, on which he recorded early versions of three of the songs on this new album. On November 18th, Day by Day was releasedon American shores by leading independent label Downtown Records’ newly launched imprint, Mercer Street. The label, Mercer Street, was created as a vibrant outlet for eclectic adult-oriented and world music artists.
www.downtownmusic.com
www.giantstep.net

resident deejay:
JEREMY SOLE
www.myspace.com/musaics
* hear J.Sole on 89.9 KCRW (or kcrw.com) Wednesdays 12-3am
www.myspace.com/branchesradio

resident deejay:
GLENN RED
www.myspace.com/glenn_red

hosted by:
ROCKY DAWUNI
www.rockydawuni.com
www.myspace.com/rockydawunimusic

afro funke' photography, booking & production:
CARY SULLIVAN
www.myspace.com/carysullivan

*Plus Special Guest Deejays & Players of Instruments Each Week!!*
---------------------:~0~:--------------------

Afro Funke' Thursdays
Zanzibar 1301 5th Street @ Arizona
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310.451.2221 / 21+ / 9pm - 2am / $7
www.zanzibarlive.com
www.myspace.com/afrofunke
www.rockydawuni.com/afrofunke.html
---------------------:~0~:--------------------

UPCOMING
December 11, 2008
DJ JOHN DOE
(The Get Back - Las Vegas)
www.thegetbackvegas.com
---------------------:~0~:---------------------

For more Afro Funke' information please contact:
Cary Sullivan
afrofunke@yahoo.com

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Support local music with Sierra Madre Sue


This ain't no disco. This ain't no foolin' around." Well, maybe a little! At least I hope so. Isn't that what Christmas Caroling is all about? Celebrating the season of comfort and joy? And here in Sierra Madre it all starts at 4pm on Saturday, November 29th when Santa Claus arrives in Kersting Court to a line of rosy-cheeked cherubs who can't wait to sit on his lap with their wish list in hand.


Part of the annual "Dickens Village" event, you can also have your picture taken with Santa, sled down a hill of REAL snow, enter to win a live Christmas tree and enjoy music to put you in the spirit of the season - the season of shopping and dining in downtown Sierra Madre!


The carolers who will be foolin' around in Kersting Court from 4 - 6pm, include some locally famous singers and musicians from Snotty Scotty to Mercy & the Merkettes to Better Than Blue to New Astroturf and many more. An all-star cast of characters doing a mixture of traditional and modern holiday tunes. Don't miss it! More info. below.

Pictured here, from left to right are: Paul, Peter, Jessica, Scotty, Danny, Felicia, Steve, Mercy, and Cynthia. Also singing, but not shown are: Jane, Deanna, Jonathan & Michelle. Also shown in the photo, but not singing are: Beethoven & Bob Dylan!
**************************

tonite!!! 11/25 - "TACO TUESDAY" @ MARY'S MARKET & CAFE IN SIERRA MADRE CANYON with RAY HILL, 6:30 - 9pm. Keyboards & vocals, with tunes spanning the decades. "A great guy in his 70's who has a huge repertoire of all kinds of piano tunes. He used to do arrangements for Big Bands and he likes to tell stories about the pieces he plays....a real canyon treasure." 561 Woodland Ave. Limited parking. Yummy tacos & burritos!

WED. 11/26 - ROADHOUSE RON @ MATT DENNY'S ALE HOUSE & RESTAURANT IN ARCADIA, 6 - 10pm. Outside in the heated patio. 145 E. Huntington Dr. 626-446-1077. Full bar & kitchen, No cover charge. Acoustic Guitar/Classic covers from the 60's to the 80's.

check it out - 2 great bands for the price of one! (FREE)
WED. 11/26 - "THANKSGIVING EVE" with ALUMINUM MARSHMALLOW & THE AGE OF AQUARIUS HORNS @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 8 - 11pm. and then MERCY & THE MERKETTES, 11pm - closing. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. Reservations strongly recommended: 626-836-5414. Full bar & great Italian food. Both bands will pack the house and have everyone up and dancing all night long! Better put that bird on automatic pilot!

WED. 11/26 - aka MAX BUDA @ THE OLD TOWNE PUB IN PASADENA, 9pm. Corner of Fair Oaks & Union, behind the big, ugly Container Store that invaded the parking lot and cast a permanent shadow on the Pub's patio several years ago. Enter thru alley off of Holly Ave. 626-577-6583. No cover, beer & wine. Eclectic Jazzy Blues Rock from Chester, Jerry, Tedroy, Bruce, Pete, and Nick on noise-makers.

THURS. 11/27 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! GOBBLE GOBBLE HEY!

FRI. 11/28 - The MELLOW D'z (DAVE OSTI AND DEANNA COGAN) @ THE MAYAN BAR (inside the Aztec Hotel) in MONROVIA, 6 - 8:30pm Happy Hour. 311 W. Foothill Blvd. 626-358-3231. NO COVER. Full bar, food, coldest beer in town! Acoustic Guitar, vocals. "Hot Chick, Cool Dude & Music to suit your mood!" http://www.myspace.com/themellowdeees

FRI. 11/28 - "SWING DANCE PARTY" with FLAT TOP TOM & HIS JUMP CATS @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 8:30 - 11:30pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food. "Pizza, Martinis and dancing the night away to great swing and blues!!" http://www.flattoptom.com/

SAT. 11/29 - BARRY "BIG B" BRENNER @ FIREFLY BISTRO IN SOUTH PASADENA, 11am - 2pm. 1009 El Centro. 626-441-2443 . All ages. Saturday BLUES Brunch under a big breezy tent. The Mission St. Gold Line station is just a short walk away, and makes for a nice outing. http://www.bigbbrenner.com/

SAT. 11/29 - "DICKENS VILLAGE" IN DOWNTOWN SIERRA MADRE, 4 - 9pm. From Kersting Court to Bank of the West. Pictures with Santa, snow sledding, carraige rides, raffle, CHRISTMAS CAROLERS (see opening paragraph & photo.) Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. 626-355-5111. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES!
http://www.sierramadrechamber.com/calendar/Event_Detail.aspx?Eventid=556

SAT. 11/29 - THE SUPERSTITIONS @ CAFE 322 IN SIERRA MADRE, 8:30 - 11:30pm. 322 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-836-5414. Full bar and great Italian food. Blues, R&B, Zydeco. One of Richard Reese's favorite bands! http://www.myspace.com/%20theesuperstitions

SAT. 11/29 - DAVID SERBY @ THE PRESS IN CLAREMONT, 10pm. 129 Harvard Ave. 909-625-4808. FREE. Americana/Country singer/songwriter & really nice guy!

SAT. 11/29 - BETTER THAN BLUE @ MY WAY LOUNGE IN LA CRESCENTA, 9pm. 2959 Honolulu Ave. 818-249-4676. Full bar. Rock, Soul and Blues. Danny, Felicia, Steve and Herb. Did I get it right this time?

SAT. 11/29 - T.C's LIVING ROOM and LUNGBUTTER @ THE BUCCANEER LOUNGE IN SIERRA MADRE, 9pm. 70 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-355-9045. No cover, full bar, cheap drinks! Rock, Alternative. Local guys.

SUN. 11/30 - 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. 11/30 - 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 12:00, GAME TIME ASAP. BRING YOUR GLOVE, BAT, CHAIR, ICE CHEST, GUITAR, UKULELE, ETC. EVERY SUNDAY.

SUN. 11/30 - 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! Acoustic Folk/Rock, Classic Country.

SUN. 11/30 - "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. Get there early - they pack 'em in!

12/2 - "TACO TUESDAY" @ MARY'S MARKET & CAFE IN SIERRA MADRE CANYON with STEVEN RADICE, 6:30 - 9pm. Stringed instruments & vocals. 561 Woodland Ave. Limited parking. Yummy tacos & burritos!

THURS. 12/4 - HELLO FROM RENO @ THE BUCCANEER LOUNGE IN SIERRA MADRE, 9pm? 70 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-355-9045. Full bar, no cover, pool table. Power Pop originals. They're here for the first 3 Thursdays in December. and no - they're not from Reno! http://www.myspace.com/therealhellofromreno

FRI. 12/5 - The MELLOW D'z (DAVE OSTI AND DEANNA COGAN) @ THE MAYAN BAR (inside the Aztec Hotel) in MONROVIA, 6 - 8:30pm Happy Hour. 311 W. Foothill Blvd. 626-358-3231. NO COVER. Full bar, food, coldest beer in town! Acoustic Guitar, vocals. "Hot Chick, Cool Dude & Music to suit your mood!" http://www.myspace.com/themellowdeees

FRI. 12/5 - WRECK 'N' SOW @ the "1st FRIDAY ART CLUB" @ McGinty's Gallery at the End of the World in Altadena, 8pm. 2475 N. Lake Ave. 626-794-8779. $5 admission, includes dinner. The event features exhibits and sales by more than 30 artists from throughout Southern California in a party atmosphere. Bluegrass. http://www.galleryattheendoftheworld.com/

FRI. 12/5 - RICK SHEA & THE LOSIN' END @ THE BUCCANEER LOUNGE IN SIERRA MADRE, 9:30pm. 70 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-355-9045. Full bar, no cover, free parking in back. 21 and over. Honkytonk Country/Blues. Always enjoyable! http://rickshea.com/

SAT. 12/6 - BARRY "BIG B" BRENNER @ FIREFLY BISTRO IN SOUTH PASADENA, 11am - 2pm. 1009 El Centro. 626-441-2443 . All ages. Saturday BLUES Brunch under a big breezy tent. The Mission St. Gold Line station is just a short walk away, and makes for a nice outing. http://www.bigbbrenner.com/

SAT. 12/6 - TIM TEDROW & TERRY VREELAND @ SIERRA CUP IN MONROVIA, 6pm. 409 S. Myrtle Ave. 626-301-4214. Traditional Folk Music. Gotta love the title of their latest CD: "Songs We Stole From Our Friends". Opening act at 7pm is Bob Christian. http://www.trough.com/tedrow-vreeland/default.htm-vreeland/default.htm

SAT. 12/6 - SIERRA MADRE VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION 87th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DANCE @ LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, 8pm - 1am. 3880 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., at Michillinda Ave. Live music from MERCY & THE MERKETTES, featuring CYNTHIA (formerly of Cynthia & the Sweet Potatoes.) Admission $2.50. No host bar. Also - new, unwrapped toys will be collected for "Toys for Tots".

SAT. 12/6 - JOB STRILES @ THE BUCCANEER LOUNGE IN SIERRA MADRE, 9pm. 70 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. 626-355-9045. Full bar, no cover, pool table, free parking. BLUES. Sierra Madre's own Peter Burke on drums.

SAT. 12/6 - JETSTREAM @ THE RANCHO BAR IN ALTADENA, 9pm. 2485 N. Lake Ave. 626-798-7634. Full bar, no cover. This time they'll be settin' up in the pool room so the keyboard player doesn't have to stand in the hallway to the patio! Jet's jammin' hippie rock band. And check out the ongoing "art bender" weekend at the gallery next door. http://www.ranchobar.com/

SUN. 12/7 - 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. 12/7 - 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!

SUN. 12/7 - "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. Get there early - they pack 'em in!

Please remember to call and verify all info. before making plans. Everything is subject to change. This is show biz, after all...
Hope to see you out & about,
SierraMadreSue
FOR EVEN MORE COOL SHOWS & INFO., CHECK OUT THESE SITES:

Support local music at Mr. T's Bowl

http://www.myspace.com/mrtsbowl
Mr T's Bowl
5621 1/2 N. Figueroa St
at Ave 57 in
Highland Park 90042
******************************************************

For Private Parties, Events or Filming please contact:
Website - http://www.mrtsevents.com
e-mail - info@MrTsEvents.com
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Fri Dec 5th
ISGOODMUSIC.COM presents w/
Seasons,
Correatown,
Thailand,
The Dirty City Brothers,
Torches in Trees!!
No cover
------------------------------------------------------------------

Sat Dec 6th
A night of Punk / Indy Rock with...
The Lowclass
http://www.myspace.com/thelowclass
Trashed Idols
http://www.myspace.com/trashedidols
Cellphish
http://www.myspace.com/cellphish
Psychobud
http://www.myspace.com/psychobud1984
Panic Movement
http://www.myspace.com/panicmovement
$5.00 cover
------------------------------------------------------------------

Tue Dec 9th
Never at Night
http://www.myspace.com/neveratnight
Morning Glory
http://www.myspace.com/morninggloryjams
Whispering Pines
http://www.myspace.com/whisperingpinesmusic
and others....
No cover
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Wed Dec10th
Electric Russia
Sleep Tight Suckers!
The Double Dates
Young/Lost Ones
No cover
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Thur Dec 11th
Call for info...

Madame Pamita to perform Sunday

Madame Pamita
to appear at
Lesbo-a-Go-Go
at the Celebration Theatre
Sunday, November the 30th at 7 o'clock

Celebration Theatre presents LESBO-A-GO-GO, a girls night out that you wont soon forget! Join us on the November 30th for a showcase of talent by some of the best butch, neo-butch, femme, lipstick, and lesbian adjacent artists around!

Joining Madame Pamita will be the mysterious Baroness of the Bodacious Beats, Mlle. Laura Ann (who formerly played with Madame Pamita in her Dime Box Band incarnation).

Join us in a safe, supportive environment for a night of wine, women, and song. LESBO-A-GO-GO! You never know who you might see (or who may see YOU!).

Where ~ Celebration Theatre Mainstage

When ~ Sunday, November 30th ~ 7.00 PM

Celebration Theatre
7051 B Santa Monica Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90038

To reserve your seat, call (323) 957-1884

For more information, hie thee over to www.madamepamita.com

New Doo Dah Queen to be feted at Club Fluffer Sunday

Club Fluffer is having a party is Sunday at 1235 Vine street.
32nd Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade Queen Skittles will be there to celebrate her crowning.
9pm-12am

http://blogs.laweekly.com/ladaily/general/over-the-weekend-backstage-wit-1/

http://www.laweekly.com/slideshow/view/193791>

www.rocknrollhollywood.com
www.tequilatattoo@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/tequilaofhollywood
www.myspace.com/clubfluffer
www.rockcitynews.com/lascoop

Tumbling Tumbleweeds win Western Artists of the Year

Dear Tumbleweeds Fans and Friends,

We are SO PROUD and happy to share the great news with all of you! We just got back from the Western Music Association Music Festival and Awards in Albuquerque, New Mexico where we WON the 2008 Crescendo Award for "Most Promising Talent!"

It was an unforgettably exciting night as we sat during the awards show awaiting the results and we were so glad that all of us Tumbleweeds were able to be there together to accept the award!

As you know, the Western Music Association is very near and dear to our hearts so this award is very special to us indeed.

The show itself was a star-studded event with many of Western Music's most luminous stars and we were so deeply honored to have been presented the award by none other than Miss Juni Fisher herself!

It was an evening packed with incredible performances by folks like Dave Stamey, The Texas Trailhands, R.W. Hampton, Joyce Woodson, Juni Fisher & Patty Clayton and a trio consisting of Judy Coder, Audrey McLaughlin and the legendary Marilyn Tuttle!

We were also named Best of Show in the Harmony Contest in which we were presented the 2008 Marilyn Tuttle Harmony Award of the Year! Marilyn has been a firm guiding force for us so to receive an award that bears her name is an honor we will always cherish!

We want to thank our sponsors Jim & Bobbi Jean Bell of Out West Marketing ( www.outwestmktg.com ) for outfitting us for our special night as well as Ralph and Tamara from Ralph's Backporch Radio Show for making it possible for our friends and family to listen in to the awards show "live" from home via the Internet on www.ralphsbackporch.com.

It was a truly wonderful and amazing night!

We are so very grateful! Thanks and Blessings to all!

Your pals,

Rob, Cade, Chris & R.J.

www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com
www.myspace.com/tumbleweeds4
www.cdbaby.com/tumblingtumbleweeds

WINNERS of the 2008 Western Music Association Crescendo Award for Most Promising Talent and WINNERS of the 2008 Academy of Western Artists Western Music Duo/Group of the Year Award!

Gilli Moon and J. Walk Songsalive! Showcase Wednesday

gilli moon and J. Walker’s Songsalive! Los Angeles Showcase
@ Genghis Cohen
Wednesday November 26
The night before Thanksgiving

This will be our final monthly songwriters showcase at Genghis Cohen for the year. Artists, songwriters and the general public, come and check out some really amazing talent, original songs, lots of wild jamming, and yummy Chinese food.

Hosted by gilli moon and j.walker with other extraordinary songwriters and poets in the round. This week we have Jessie Sparks, all the way from Australia, and Bill Dobbins, one of our LA favorites. Read their biographies further down.

WHERE:
@ GENGHIS COHEN
740 N. Fairfax Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Just Nth of Melrose.
Plenty of parking.
www.genghiscohen.com

TIME: EARLY SHOW! Doors open 6.30pm / 7pm sharp start. Ends at 8.45pm

Great Chinese food after the show. Dinner Reservations: 323.653.0640

DOOR: $7 cover ($5 with flyer) at the door for the house, donations for artists appreciated during the show.

MORE DETAILS AT www.songsalive.org/losangeles

FEATURED PERFORMERS FOR WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 26:

gilli moon
President/Co-founder of Songsalive!, gilli moon is the host of the monthly Genghis Cohen Songsalive! showcases. Gilli (pronounced as with a ‘j’) is an australian singer, songwriter, recording artist, pianist, actor, producer, author, painter, motivator, entrepreneur, visionary and empowering community builder. She has been in los angeles for 8 years. Her restless creativity and rebellious nature continually urge her to push the envelope in the studio, on stage and with whatever she touches.

She's an illustrious, energetic poly-media artist and her multifaceted albums and dynamic, entertaining live shows have touched music lovers worldwide garnering high praise from the most jaded of critics, including recently a 4 page spread in Newsweek Magazine about her success as an independent artist.

She’s won many songwriting and artist awards including Artist for a Better World, Rock City Music Awards (best female vocalist), Benelux Song of the Year (The Netherlands) and Australian Screen Composers Johnny Dennis Award (best song of the year). A recording artist with 5 albums and in the studio on her 6th, she is also a music producer, author, motivational speaker and artist coach. Check out her websites for more details about how you can interact with the “moon”.
www.gillimoon.com www.myspace.com/gillimoonwww.warriorgirlmusic.com (coaching/record company)


J.Walker
J.Walker is a counselor, a poet, a rapper and a healer. J.Walker is living his dream, working as a self proclaimed RHYMECOLOGIST, he helps "at risk youth work" through their problems by expressing themselves through rap or poetry. The creativity and passion that J.Walker uses has helped him win numerous poetry slams and talent shows all through Los Angeles.
www.rhymecology.com www.myspace.com/jwalker1221

Jessie Sparks
On the back of a nomination for Best Female Vocal at the Hollywood Music Awards 2008 & winning showcase at Victoria s renowned Blue Diamond, Jessie Sparks without doubt is an accomplished Australian Singer, Songwriter & Musician whom continues to gain widespread recognition for her unique sound & awesome live performances. Amidst ongoing gigs & charity performances, Sparks'career has been in serious overdrive since the release of her critically acclaimed indie debut 'Breathe Easy' earlier this year.
www.jessiesparks.com

Bill Dobbins
Bill Dobbins began as a singer/songwriter in the 60s and 70s, working with such performers as Emmylou Harris, Arlo Guthrie, Tim Buckley, John Hammond and Ramblin' Jack Elliott at venues like The Bitter End, Folk City, Cafe Wha?, Izzy Young's Folklore Center and the Gaslight.
www.billdobbinsmusic.com

NEXT SONGSALIVE! LA SHOWCASE
Friday Dec 5 @ Hallenbecks
and
Wednesday Dec 17 @ The Mint (Songsalive! 10 year celebration.
FULL DETAILS at www.songsalive.org/losangeles

WANT TO PERFORM A SONGSALIVE! SHOWCASE?

CALL FOR ARTISTS:
* You must be able to guarantee a min. of 5 guests.
* 3 song acoustic set
* No gigs 2 weeks before or after
* Original music only
* You must be a Songsalive! Elite member www.songsalive.org/join
* Member benefits at www.songsalive.org
* FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS TO PERFORM: Showcase application at www.songsalive.org/showcases

ABOUT SONGSALIVE!
Songsalive! is now the largest internationally based non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing, supporting, educating and promoting songwriters and composers worldwide. Celebrating over 10 years in operation, Songsalive! was founded in 1997 by two Australian artists, Gilli Moon and Roxanne Kiely, who saw the need for a support network for songwriters that could reach the 4 corners of the globe and propel songwriters to the 4 corners of the globe. After 10 years, they have done just that! Established with now over 20 chapters around the world, and over 35 chapter coordinators, Songsalive! is run by volunteer songwriters for songwriters.

Through our grassroots international efforts, we've put a stamp on what "global community" truly is and it's the type of community that is definitely needed in this ever changing music business where songwriting can be a very isolating experience and career. We provide a "home", a family, for songwriters and composers through our programs, resources, community and support, all focused on the art and business of songwriting.

Through Songsalive!, songs and songwriters can be accessed by the whole world and when the hunt is on, Songsalive! is a one-stop song shop! We run our own programs and events for songwriters, and also act as an umbrella, or a link in the chain, for songwriters to know and find out other events, resources and support centers for them, globally.

Check out our events and calendar online www.songsalive.org

More about Songsalive! in Los Angeles www.songsalive.org/losangeles

Songsalive!
Supporting and promoting songwriters worldwide
http://www.songsalive.org

Slacker.com to offer free holiday stations in all genres

Slacker is rolling out a free Rock Holiday station for this festive season: Rock/Alt. Holiday

Get the edgier side of holiday music with a great mix of holiday favorites from Rock, Alternative and Indie artists.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1334

Slacker (http://www.slacker.com) is a free, interactive Internet radio service where users can create customized music stations from their favorite artists while discovering new music in similar genres. Listeners can find the an array of new Holiday stations under the Seasonal folder at Slacker.com.

Below you will find the additional station titles, descriptions and a direct link.

Holiday Hits
The ultimate holiday station that mixes classic holiday tunes from Frank Sinatra, Burl Ives and Johnny Mathis with contemporary artists like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:835

Holiday Classics
This station takes you back in time with traditional favorites from Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Dean Martin and Elvis.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:872

Holiday Jazz
Groove to a jazzier holiday with classic and modern jazz performers including Diana Krall, Tony Bennett and more.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:873

Dysfunctional Holiday
Get a little weird this holiday season with the best in non-traditional and unheard songs that celebrate the special time of year.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:874

Country Holiday
Put a little twang in your holidays with your favorite standards and the latest seasonal releases from classic country artists and todays biggest stars.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1214

Holiday Party
The perfect holiday party mix of music highlighting upbeat holiday songs from classic crooners and soul legends to rock and contemporary favorites.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1354

Contemporary Holiday
Keeping it current, enjoy your favorite holiday music from mariah Carey, U2, Faith Hill, Harry Connick Jr. and many more.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1336

Navidad Latina
Add some flavor to your holiday season with classic Latin holiday favorites and seasonal tunes from today's hottest Latin stars.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1276

Classical Holiday
Enjoy traditional holiday music, Christmas carols and seasonal classics from your favorite orchestras and choirs.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1234

Rock/Alt. Holiday
Get the edgier side of holiday music with a great mix of holiday favorites from Rock, Alternative and Indie artists.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1334

R&B/Soul Holiday
Hear the soulful side of the holidays with classic soul legends, R&B favorites and a little gospel for good measure.
http://www.slacker.com/?sid=prog:1335

Alan Jackson special to air on CMT

CMT honors the extraordinary life and music of the legendary Alan Jackson in the 90 minute special, CMT GIANTS: ALAN JACKSON.

The tribute features live performances by superstars including George Strait, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley, Lee Ann Womack, Miranda Lambert and Martina McBride.

Premieres Saturday, December 6 at 9:00 p.m., ET/PT

Music symposium set for Dec. 6 in Massachusetts

ROCKRGRL Magazine founder Carla DeSantis to present symposium

Institute for Musical Arts in Goshen, Massachusetts
Saturday, December 6th

"I WILL $URVIVE: MAKING IT IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS"

Keynote speaker is the legendary ROBIN LANE of ROBIN LANE AND THE CHARTBUSTERS, recording artist and iconic fixture in the Northeast's music scene of the early `80s.

Here's the scoop:
As the charismatic voice behind Robin Lane and the Chartbusters, she released three albums on Warner Brothers and her video for the hit song, "When Things Go Wrong" was the 11th video ever played by MTV on its first day of broadcast on August 1, 1980.

Robin was dropped from her label when she decided to have a child.

Today, she lends her talents to A Woman's Voice, a songwriting program she created and facilitates for trauma survivors in prisons, women's centers, senior centers and at-risk youth programs. A documentary about her life is currently in the works.

Robin Lane will be interviewed by Carla DeSantis, an advocate for women in music.

The all day symposium will continue with three panels:

• Yesterday: Are the Glory Days of the Music Industry Behind Us?

• Today: How To Make a Living In Tough Economic Times

• Tomorrow: What Will a Career in Music Look Like in the Future?

Esteemed music business panelists include:
• Leah Kunkel (recording artist, entertainment attorney)
• Emily Lichter (Public Emily)
• Beth Tallman (Rykodisc Records)
• Brooke Primont (Cherry Lane Publishing)
• Nini Camps (musician)
• Kristin Bredimus (Ourstage.com, Boston Music Awards, NEMO Music Conference)
• Liz Borden (Musician, DJ)
• June Millington (musician, producer, IMA co-founder)
• Kudisan Kai (vocalist, Berklee College instructor)
• Ann Hackler (Executive Director, IMA)
• Norma Coates (Media and Information Studies, University of Western Ontario)
• Marci Cohen (music journalist, music librarian)

Although the event is geared towards helping women navigate the murky waters of the music business, all are encouraged to attend.

Tickets are $75.00 each ($50 for students) and include lunch and refreshments. Some scholarships are available. Purchase online at: www.ima.org/pages/rockrgrlimaday.html

And all attendees can enter a raffle to win a FREE Luna Guitar and FREE recording software from IK Multimedia.

For up-to-the-minute information, directions to the IMA site and to register online visit www.ima.org

Live Nation to offer $10 discounts on select concerts

LIVE NATION / SO-CAL KICKS OFF
THE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON WITH $10 SAVINGS ON OVER THIRTY SHOWS!

STARTING 10 AM FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
UNTIL 10 PM MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

PLUS: $5 FROM
EACH TICKET SOLD
WILL GO TO SO-CAL FIRE VICTIM RELIEF

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the traditional start of the retail and online holiday shopping season, almost here, Live Nation / So-Cal is getting into the spirit with a great value for area music fans—this weekend, tickets for select shows will be $10 off.

Plus, in light of the recent wildfires and their major impact on area residents, $5 of every ticket sold will benefit fire victims and their families via the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Rick Mueller, President of Live Nation / California said, “We’re proud to bring live music fans of southern California the chance to show their community spirit and save them some money at the same time.”

The weekend special will include the following Southland concerts:

Tesla
December 1
HOB Sunset

Bell Biv DeVoe
December 1
HOB Anaheim

Wu Tang Clan
December 4
HOB Sunset

Bryan Adams
December 5
The Wiltern

RBD
December 5
Gibson Amphitheatre

Wu Tang Clan
December 5
HOB San Diego

Aimee Mann
December 6
The Wiltern

Cheech & Chong
December 6 (Late Show)
Gibson Amphitheatre

Meshell Ndegeocello
December 8
HOB Sunset

Meshell Ndegeocello
December 9
HOB San Diego

Los Lobos
December 10
HOB Anaheim

Los Lobos
December 11
HOB San Diego

Los Lobos
December 12
HOB Sunset

Anthony Hamilton
December 12
HOB San Diego

Eddie Palmieri
December 13
The Hollywood Palladium

Cheap Trick
December 15
HOB Sunset

Cheap Trick
December 16
HOB Sunset

Ozomatli
December 18
HOB Sunset

Ozomatli
December 19
HOB Sunset

Ozomatli
December 20
HOB Sunset

Keith Sweat
December 20
Gibson Amphitheatre

Rockapella
December 22
HOB Sunset

Ratt w/ The Donnas
December 26
HOB Sunset

Wild Child–Tribute to The Doors
December 26
HOB Anaheim

Strung Out
December 27
HOB Sunset

Ratt
December 28
HOB San Diego

The Marshall Tucker Band
December 30
HOB Sunset

The Wailers
December 30
HOB San Diego

The Radiators
January 3
HOB San Diego

Boyz II Men
January 15
HOB San Diego

Country Rat Pack
January 25
HOB San Diego

Horrorpops
February 14
Avalon

Styx
February 14
HOB San Diego

Paquita La Del Barrio
March 14
Gibson Amphitheatre


Tickets will be available while supplies last starting 10 AM Friday, November 28th through 10 PM Monday, December 1st. Visit www.livenation.com to purchase tickets.
All dates, acts and tickets prices are subject to change. Additional service charges apply.

Russia's Mumiy Troll to release ninth effort

Russia's biggest band, Mumiy Troll ( http://www.mumiytroll.com/en ) described as "a nuclear meltdown of The Bravery, Tom Petty and The Afghan Whigs" by the Los Angeles Times, have announced the release of their North American debut album Comrade Ambassador on March 24, 2009. This is Mumiy Troll's ninth studio release since they formed in Russia before the fall of the Soviet Union.

Comrade Ambassador will consist of 14 tracks taken from the band's two most recent releases, AMBA (2007) and VIII (2008), and a bonus Russian-language cover of The Mamas & the Papas' classic "California Dreamin'". In fact, all of the tracks on Comrade Ambassador will be in Russian. Although Mumiy Troll have recorded a few tracks in English during their career - band founder and songwriter Ilya Lagutenko is a linguist who speaks Russian, English and Mandarin Chinese fluently - those songs remain unreleased. Track listing for Comrade Ambassador is as follows:

1. Mami Docherey (Mothers and Daughters)
2. Hey Tovarishch (Hey Tovarish)
3. Prospali (We Overslept)
4. Muzikant (Musician)
5. Yadernie Stanzii (Nuclear Stations)
6. Yadovitaya Zvezda (Venomous Star)
7. V Etom Svete (In Our World)
8. Pianaa Struna (Drunken String)
9. Koroleva Roka (Queen Of Rock)
10. Metel (Snowstorm)
11. Svideteli (Witnesses)
12. Pospi Roknroll (Sleep Rock n Roll)
13. Gori Eto Vse (Burn It All)
14. California Snitsa (California Dreamin')

The artwork for Comrade Ambassador features the striking image of a superhero's body crowned with the head of a Siberian tiger surrounded by iconography meaningful to the band.

Lagutenko explains: "I always thought that the traditional symbol of Russia - the big bear - is a bit outdated. We grew up in the Russian far eastern port city of Vladivostok, which is home of brave sailors, tireless explorers, ambitious rock 'n' rollers and, yes, real Siberian tigers. They're the biggest tigers in the world; they're smart, fast and can survive harsh snow winters. That's why our comrade is Supertiger wearing the Mumiy Troll logo! Sputnik, a nuclear case and the oil pump are the symbols of drop-dead original energy Mumiy Troll kept at their secret location and now ready to share with other side of Pacific!"

It is not an overstatement to say that Mumiy Troll is the most significant band in modern Russia since the fall of the Soviet government. With charismatic founder Lagutenko at the helm, Mumiy Troll has changed not only Russian music, but also fashion, hairstyles and the behavior of young Russian music fans. Mumiy Troll literally founded the Russian rock scene as it now exists, and are by far the most successful independent artists in Russia today.

Mumiy Troll's sound is a unique hybrid of rock and pop, deeply influenced by punk and the New York new wave scene of the late 70s, which Lagutenko calls "rockapops" - a moniker he coined to put an end to constant debates in the Russian media about labeling their music with a specific genre.

From being decried as "one of the most socially dangerous bands in the world" by a local Communist party chief to hailed as "Best Band of the Millennium" by leading Russian music critics, Mumiy Troll's ascent has been the result of their unstoppable enthusiasm and determination. They began playing clubs dates in Siberia and have steadily built an audience that now packs arenas in Moscow, St. Petersburg as well as the Baltic States. North American tour dates will be announced shortly.

ABOUT MUMIY TROLL
Originally founded in Vladivostok, Russia in 1983 Mumiy Troll earned early success in Moscow with startling albums and live performances that burst with energy, warmth and debauchery. The band's "rockapops" sound has taken the band to dizzying heights in Russia where they graced the covers of Russian editions of GQ, Time Out, Rolling Stone and Hello! Today, they are set to conquer the United States with their debut release, Comrade Ambassador. Mumiy Troll is: Ilya Lagutenko – vocals, guitars, songwriting, Yuri Tsaler – guitar, keyboards and saxophone, Eugene "Sdwig" Zvidionny – bass, Oleg Pungin - drums.

DBSA and Dave's Spark announce music contest winners

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) and Dave's Spark are pleased to announce the winners of The Facing Us 2008 Music Contest. Online public voting determined the top three songs from a group of 16 finalists of musicians from across the country. The contest winners are:

• First Place – "Nevermind" by Ray Henry Ulrich of Edwardsville, IL.

• Second Place – "Break Your Heart" by S. Miria Jo of Santa Monica, CA.

• Third Place – "Lifetime" by Ben Mitchell Arthur of Montgomery, AL.

"The response to the contest was incredible," says Peter Ashenden, president and chief executive officer of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. "We received hundreds of songs from musicians all over the country. The winning songs represent three incredibly talented artists who use their creativity to better cope with depression or bipolar disorder."

The winning songs, interviews with the musicians and additional musical selections from the contest are now available on the new Dave's Spark Creativity Center on www.FacingUs.org.

Contest finalists' songs are also featured on a compilation digital CD produced by DBSA.

Dave's Spark is a fund that honors the memory of David Kaplan, a musician, mentor, father of three and Chicago business entrepreneur who lived with bipolar disorder. The fund was established to provide support for families and individuals also confronted with this illness.The competition, part of a larger effort to raise awareness of depression and bipolar disorder, celebrated the ways in which people use creative expression not only to cope, but thrive, while living with these illnesses.

All of the music submitted was original work, written and performed by the artist or artists. Though songs did not have to be about depression, bipolar disorder or mental illness, all of the musicians self-identified as having, or having had, a personal experience with a mood disorder.

In addition to the contest, DBSA and Dave's Spark collaborated to launch the Dave's Spark Creativity Center on the Facing Us website, www.FacingUs.org , a unique and innovative website for those living with depression or bipolar disorder. The newly launched Creativity Center features creative avenues for coping with depression or bipolar disorder.

In the Center, you can:

 Hear from musicians, authors, researchers, artists and other experts as they talk about the creative process in the Creativity Center podcasts.

 Participate in workshops like "Sparking Creativity in Healing: Expressing Yourself on Paper," a 50-minute video on how journaling, blogging and/or creative writing can help ease emotional trauma and depressive symptoms.

 Take an online course on creativity as a recovery tool. (Coming in 2009)

 Tune in to Facing Us Radio and listen to the finalists in DBSA's Facing Us 2008 Music Contest. Registered members can create a playlist of their favorites, and listen to them while they visit other rooms in the Clubhouse.

 Be inspired in the Art Gallery, featuring art created by peers that have found strength and purpose through their drawing, painting and photography.

 Create a personal playlist, or buy a digital album, of songs from the '08 Music Contest finalists. The CD features love songs, personal stories and musings that run the gamut of musical styles—rock, bluegrass, instrumental, folk, experimental, country, alternative, hip hop, contemporary piano.

FacingUs.org was launched by DBSA in December 2007 to provide inspiration and support for individuals living with a mood disorder—or anyone seeking help in creating a life of health and well-being. The interactive site allows individuals to create their own personal wellness tools to aid them on their road to recovery. Visitors can create customized personal journals, a wellness plan and wellness books that can be printed with artistic covers, as well as find inspiration and encouragement from an extensive library of personal video stories and informative audio/videocasts.

FacingUs.org is designed to be a "clubhouse," an online community and safe haven for those seeking wellness.

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the nation's leading patient-directed organization focusing on depression and bipolar disorder. The organization, which has more than 1,000 support groups nationwide, fosters an understanding about the impact and management of these life-threatening illnesses by providing up-to-date, scientifically based tools and information.

Assisted by a 65-member scientific advisory board comprised of the leading researchers and clinicians in the field of mood disorders, DBSA supports research to promote more timely diagnosis, develop more effective and tolerable treatments and discover a cure. Nearly 5 million people receive information and assistance each year.

To find out more about the Facing Us Clubhouse, visit www.FacingUs.org.

To learn more about DBSA, visit www.DBSAlliance.org or call toll-free (800) 826-3632.