End o' week musings

I'm looking forward to this weekend so I can get some rest before everything gets crazy again... I laid low this week, nursing my ankle back to health and I've made progess-- I'm off my crutches!

Saturday night I went to see the Fullerton Guitar Orchestra in concert. They were phenomenol. It's truly amazing what sounds can come from what appears to be such a simple instrument. I also stepped next door in the wine bar for the after-party and sat at a table with several of the musicians. We had a terrific chat over beautiful glasses of red wine. I toast to FGO, wishing them a happy and safe journey on their Bulgarian tour!

On Tuesday I interviewed Michael Anthony (Van Halen bassist) about his new band Chickenfoot. The group is rounded out by Sammy Hagar on vocals, guitarist Joe Satriani and drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers). Their self-titled album was set for release June 7, but has been moved up to June 5.

I have spoken briefly with Michael before at NAMM and he was gracious and funny. When we talked Tuesday, he was a joy. We discussed Chickenfoot, his childhood and college years, a touch of Halen, his love affair with cars and his other businesses- Bonspeed Wheels and Mad Anthony's Hot Sauce. For more info on Michael, visit http://www.madanthonycafe.com/ also watch for my story next weekend or so at http://www.sgvn.com/.

Wednesday I had to take my car back to the body shop again to let them fix the things they should have the first time. What a pain! But they gave me a pretty nice rental, so I'll live. In the afternoon I attended Aage's memorial/funeral. It was heartwarming to see that he touched so many people, as the chapel was sooo full that people were crowded, standing in the aisles. He will be missed. I won't say more, as I'm starting to tear up again.

Thursday morning I called Casey Crescenzo of Dear Hunter for an interview. If you haven't checked out this band you should. They are closest to the progressive rock genre because of their approach to their music and in that their material is more of an entire story per album rather a bunch of songs stuck together.

The band is going on tour in support of it's third album in a six-album series that relates the life story of a fictional character who is an everyman in a way. This effort focuses on war, not taking sides, but presenting feelings and reactions from various points of view. Dear Hunter will be at the Glass House in Pomona June 21, so my story should be at http://www.sgvn.com/ that weekend if you're curious. I also know that there will be an interview with Casey by Dave Schwartz posted on http://www.dabelly.com/ in July. It might be fun to compare the two!

Tonight I am going with my friend Cindy to the Pasadena Playhouse (http://www.pasadenaplayhouse.com/ ) to see "The Little Foxes." My interview with Julia Duffy is now up at http://www.sgvn.com/ , along with my story on the upcoming "Traffic" exhibit by photographer Benny Chan at the Pasadena Museum of California Art (http://www.pmcaonline.org/ ). Cindy is moving up north next week and this will be our last soiree. We're going to go out to dinner and make a nice evening of it.

Next week I will getting ready for the four-day Group Exhibit at the Gallery at the End of the World. It opens Thursday and runs through June 7. I will be dancing there June 5 with Zaynah and our drummer Ric Sarabia. Here's the info so you can mark your calendar:

Friday Art Night

Event: 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday, June 5

Several performances by Almase Arabesque with drummer Ric Sarabia, also guest band

Art show and sale

$5, all ages

McGinty's Gallery at the End of the World

2475 N. Lake Ave.

Altadena

http://www.galleryattheendoftheworld.com/

In rotation this week: Tom Petty, Orange Sky, Chickenfoot, Janis Joplin and "World Reggae."

Photos we got 'em: Only two cool kitty photos from http://www.stuffonmycat.com/

Thought of the week: Is it really a right? As a rule I post almost every comment I receive on my blog even if the writer has something negative to say. There are a few exceptions- really bad language, an ad or other distasteful stuff. This week I had a person leave a comment that part of a post had been repeated and they felt the artist whose gig it was listing wasn't worthy of a posting to begin with. I let it go and responded that I was merely passing on information.

The writer commented back rudely and negatively. I allowed this and I explained, as most of you are aware, that this blog was created first to provide information. When the newspapers I work for had to start cutting back in content, there were many interesting items that would never see the light of day. My answer was to post these press releases on a blog as a service to our readers and others who might want to be in the know. I never claimed to write everything I post, I include sources when I feel it's merited and have often clarified this fact when I have not written something for which a reader has given me kudos.

However, I do add personal comments when I have something to say, I reference to my own articles elsewhere on the Web and I always write at least one fully "personal" blog entry each week. So far, the majority of my readers seem pleased with this and understand my goals here.

But this particular person just couldn't get it and was even more debase with his comments. I kindly encouraged him to find another site more fitting to his needs. I also admonished him for only signing Anonymous (if readers give a real contact name, I sometimes e-mail them directly for a better conversation), stating that it is bad manners to be mean to others and not be honest about yourself. Again, I encouraged him to go elsewhere with a wish for "happier surfing."

He retorted with some very hurtful and abusive comments about my character and that of the artist in question, adding that the Internet gives you the right to say whatever you want without disclosing who you are.

I finally gave up wasting my energy on the matter and deleted the entire series of comments, as I realized that the writer was just trying to provoke me and, for some unknown reason, attack and discredit me and the artist who started his snit.

I believe that although you can be anonymous on the Web, this doesn't give you free rein to be nasty to others. If you don't like a site or a blog, move on~ there's zillions more!

I think people like Mr. Anonymous are unhappy with themselves and have found yet another venue where they can lash out... thank goodness I don't have to live next door to the miserable guy!

As for my readers, I still will welcome your comments, suggestions and other thoughts and am more than happy to post them to share with others for a meaningful discourse or just a fun flow of chat (see MTV to launch "Rail n' Rock Saturdays" posted April 29, 2009).

Mickie's Zoo is for you, readers, as a source of information you may not find elsewhere, along with a sprinkling of my adventures. Please continue to help me make this blog among your favorite daily stops for entertainment news.

Keep on rockin'

Mickie

Support local music at Juanita's

JUANITA'S
5930 York Blvd
Highland Park CA 90042
--------------------

Sun june 7th
Every Sunday
Mariachi Trio "Ellas Son"
12:30p & 1:30 pm
-----
7:00p "Noches Prehispanicas"
Full Moon Celebration Featuring
Live Aztec Dancers, DJ's Spinning 80's and Rock En Espanol, Live Art and More
--------------------

Mon June 8th
TBoor Baar Percussion Trio,
Falcon Eddy,
The Keith Walsh Experience
No cover
-------------------

tue june 9th
The Mormons Presents
Various bands

Web site
http://www.juanitasrestaurantandbar.com

for booking gigs write to Gus at culturalenabler@gmail.com

Its a cool place, with coffee, beer and wine bar (wine cocktails), great food...and a great outside area to chill.. no cover most nights... Don't park in Carrow's parking lot you will get towed park on York or across the street in the auto garage lot center

3rd Annual Pirates for Children benefit for CHOC Hospital June 5

Friday, June 05, 2009 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM PDT
195 W. Center St.Prom
Anaheim Ca.
(1714) 999-8699

This is the 3rd annual Pirates for Children benefit. We aim to raise money for CHOC Hospital. If you were there last year, you know how much fun it was. If you are into Pirates show up! If you are into Surfing or Board Sports show up! If you are into Music show up! If you are into a Good Time and doing something Good then SHOW UP! It's FREE! What else are you doing?!

This event is to Celebrate Pirates and Children

Come Meet Some Of The Actors From

Pirates Of The Caribbean in Person
Dance and Party with:
The Doxie Chicks

The Pirates Of The Black Swan

The Pirate Charles
And Mommy's Little Monsters a tribute to Social Distortion

Shimmy Showcase Sunday in Long Beach

Abraiha presents the beautiful May, Akiko, Jennelah and the dynamic Leon at Shimmyshowcase this Sunday and we hope you’ll come down to see this fabulous show!

SEE BELOW FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND MORE UPCOMING PERFORMANCES!

ATTENTION DANCERS: We have openings for dancers where noted below, so PLEASE contact us at shimmyshowcase@yahoogroups.com if you’d like to perform

Everyone is invited to this cozy haven for a relaxing evening among friends. Select your favorite beverage, hot or cold, from an assortment of coffees, teas, smoothies or juice; add to that a tasty sandwich or pastry; and then seat yourself alongside our magic carpet to enjoy some really great dancing at NO cover charge!

The SHIMMY SHOWCASE begins at 7 p.m. at the COFFEE HAVEN in Long Beach (1708 E. Broadway -- 562-437-3785).

Below is our upcoming schedule for the next several Sundays at the Coffee Haven in Long Beach. If you are a dancer interested in performing at an upcoming showcase, please check out the schedule below for open dates and then email us at
shimmyshowcase@yahoogroups.com
with the dates on which you'd like to perform.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UPCOMING SHOWCASE CALENDAR
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

June 7: The scent of incense; the sound of chimes—Saviya brings “Asian Spice” to Coffee Haven with Delilah, Devon, Saphira, Gaea, and Richie bringing their own unique interpretations of the mystery and enchantment of the Far East to the Shimmyshowcase magic carpet. Please come join us for a mystical and exotic evening.

June 14: No Shimmyshowcase this weekend due to Cairo Caravan at the Queen Mary in Long Beach. You can see Shimmyshowcase dancer Najma perform at Cairo Caravan (Saturday, 2:11 pm). For more info about Cairo Caravan, check out www.mecda.org.

June 21: The long, hot days of summer are upon us, and the cooler evenings offer refreshing relief and a time for fantasy and magic. Alexiis presents a Mid-Summer Night’s Dream with dancers Madrid, Masa, Mariyah Basimah, and Dana who will be sharing their dreams and fantasies with you.

June 28: Coordinator Abraiha presents Nichole, Veronique, Annakiya and Meryem Vani.

July 5: DARK

July 12: Once again, Shimmyshowcase is fortunate to have our favorite band, ANSUZ, playing live music with creative coordinator Saviya and multi-talented Richie performing his magical dance and violin act. Plus, we have the vivacious Sabrina and Kamar and Coffee Haven’s newest male dance sensation Leon performing as well! You won’t want to miss these super sensational dancers perform to our favorite band, so please come to Coffee Haven and join us for a wonderful evening of entertainment.

July 19: PARTY PARTY PARTY! Coordinator Abraiha celebrates a big milestone birthday with a big bash –and you’re invited. Dancing along with our honored coordinator will be May, Tehani, Akiko and other guest dancers.

July 26: Saviya presents “Bluesy Jazz” with Ilana, Saphira, Kalila, and Marie Elena If Blues or Jazz moves you, please join us at Coffee Haven this evening for a sizzling summer evening of great dancing inspired by a great theme.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Please allow time for parking to avoid missing any of the fun. Since street parking around Coffee Haven is scarce, we recommend you try the perimeter of the park located two blocks west of Coffee Haven at Broadway and Cherry. Please try to arrive before 7:00 PM (earlier if you’re a performer!) as we try not to start the show until everyone has settled with a tasty beverage.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

for additional information, please visit our website at: www.ShimmyShowcase.com

We look forward to seeing you soon at the Sunday Shimmyshowcase!

Beastly Ball to benefit L.A. Zoo set for June 20

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) presents the Beastly Ball, called "one of L.A.'s biggest and most popular fund-raisers" by FOX News, on Saturday, June 20, 2009, 6 p.m., under the stars at the Zoo. The 39th annual event honors philanthropist and GLAZA Trustee Laura Z. Wasserman for her commitment to animals and celebrates the theme "For the Love of Animals."

Chairing the Beastly Ball are leading entertainment attorney Kenneth Ziffren and GLAZA Trustees Nancy Dennis (a Los Angeles attorney), Kathy Nelson (president, Film Music, Universal Pictures) and Dana Walden (president, Twentieth Century Fox Television). KNBC TV's Fritz Coleman serves as celebrity auctioneer. The fund-raiser marks more than 45 years of GLAZA's success in supporting the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden's work as an educational resource for the citizens of Los Angeles, and as an international center for the conservation of endangered wildlife.

Known as "one of the best parties in Los Angeles" (KCAL TV News), the Beastly Ball is a festive evening for guests, invited to dress in casual or safari attire, as they stroll through the grounds after hours to view Zoo inhabitants. There are animal feedings and "animal walkabouts," which include chats with keepers and the chance to observe small animals up close. Bountiful, delicious fare is provided by some of L.A.'s most popular restaurants, all donating their services, including Bar Celona, Celestino Ristorante, El Cholo, Fabiolus Café, Green Street Restaurant, Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana, La Poubelle, Maison Akira, Malo, Pink's Famous Hot Dogs, Parkway Grill, Arroyo Chop House, Cafe 140 South, Smitty's Grill, Spitfire Saloon, Smoke House Restaurant, Typhoon, Villa Sorriso and Yamashiro. Entertainment by world music groups and dancing to a live band are all part of the fun.

The Beastly Ball's Silent and Live Auctions include hundreds of remarkable items and one-of-a-kind opportunities. Among the lots sure to incite bidding wars are the "Ultimate Sports Package" (AON Construction Services' private Luxury Suite at the STAPLES Center for a 2009-10 season Clippers game, Kings game, and Lakers game, as well as a baseball game in the firm's suite at Dodger Stadium); a personal tour of the Zoo with rock icon Slash and Ian Recchio, the Zoo's Curator of Reptiles (plus a signed signature top hat and Guitar Hero guitar set from Slash); courtside seats for a Lakers game; an LAPD helicopter ride-along; and a private cocktail party at the Zoo with Betty White.

Celebrity Auctioneer Fritz Coleman, the popular KNBC TV weathercaster, devotes much of his free time to charitable activities and has won a number of awards and honors for his dedication to community service.GLAZA provides support for Los Angeles Zoo exhibits, conservation, capital projects, education programs, community outreach, research, and more through fund-raising and an endowment, membership, special events and more.

GLAZA currently has 65,000 member households, the second largest membership base of a cultural organization in Los Angeles. Many of its nearly 300,000 individual members have sustained their GLAZA support for more than 20 years. The Los Angeles Zoo is an international leader in the conservation of endangered species and one of the city's major cultural and entertainment resources.

Tickets to the Beastly Ball are $1,000 per person; individual and corporate sponsorship opportunities at higher levels are also available.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive in Los Angeles' Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways.

For tickets and information, call (323) 644-4753.

Mike E. Stone and Triage-Nine, plus Steel Rod at Rude Dog Saturday

Hey come check out Mike E. Stone and Triage - Nine
THIS Saturday 5/30/09 @
The Rude Dog
114 N. Citrus ave.
Covina 626-332-8922
9pm

After that it's the awesome sounds of Steel Rod and friends!!
Come on down and Party with us !!!!
The new and improved Rude Dog rules !!!

www.myspace.com/rudedogbar

The Builders and the Butchers to tour, including Lollapalooza

The Builders And The Butchers Announce US Summer Tour, Play Lollapalooza

Sophomore Record Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well On Gigantic Music June 30th


It was a typical rainy Portland afternoon at Ray Rude’s house (who plays “drums” in The Builders), hanging with friends when Ryan decided to show them what he was working on. Something clicked that afternoon and within minutes everyone in attendance found something to play. Alex Ellis happened to have an old acoustic bass, and Harvey Tumbleson had borrowed a Mandolin, Ray sat down at the piano and they just started playing. Paul Seely joined the band a week later as a drummer and instrumentalist and the Builders and The Butchers were born.

Starting innocently enough as a fully acoustic rambling bunch, seeking out audiences on street corners and outside of venues, make no mistake this is not another story of busking come good, The Builders were not looking for money nor were they looking for fame, they were just playing the music they wanted to on their own terms. The band didn’t work out parts on these early songs, they were developed playing on the street, and this philosophy carries through today, by choosing to develop songs live or at rehearsal.

Ryan Sollee says “Something special happens when we get in a room and try to work out a song. If I come in with a developed song it never seems to sound as good or it does not sound like The Builders.”

In particular it was at these performances that Ray and Paul worked out their unique “deconstructed” drum style.They played in the rain and cold of Portland winters until instruments were warped and broken, then one day the Builders sold out and booked a real show, then another, and crowds soon were seeking the Builders out.

At the early shows it was hard to distinguish the band from the audience, nothing was mic'd or amplified, and seemingly everyone in the audience had a shaker, washboard, or were just beating on the wall and singing. All in attendance saw something special happening, a Portland audience was having fun, singing along and participating, the music demanded a celebration.

Within a year, the Builders would win the Willamette Week’s “Best New Band of 2008” and Seattle Sound’s “Best Live Performers 2008”and completed supporting tours with the Helio Sequence, Brand New, Langhorne Slim, Amanda Palmer, Dax Riggs, Murder By Death and Port O’brien.

The Builders don't pay homage to old America, they channel it. All of the basic instruments are there, acoustic bass, drum, guitar, banjo, and mandolin. They mix gospel, blues, and bluegrass and howl desperate story-songs that latch onto your brain and demand immediate attention.

The timeless sound of their songs, harkens back to a time long passed in music, but reflecting the dark times of the present.

Their self-titled debut was released in 2007 and showcases the bands early raw sound. Their latest release titled “Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well” is a much more complete work showcasing the bands full potential. On Salvation, the Builders worked with producer Chris Funk from the Decemberists who brought with him a throng of expertise, patience, instruments, and some of the best musicians in Portland.

Salvation record combines the immediacy of the Builders early work with more a developed songwriting, each one with its own personality and story to tell. In the vein of the Southern Gothic tales Ryan weaves stories of struggle with the usual cast of characters God, the Devil, soldiers, branches, wind, rain and hell fire. The record starts with a piano chord and an eerie wind escalating into the thunderous “Golden and Green”, stomp and grinds its way through “Devil Town” and “The Short Way Home”, to the Spanish tinged “Barcelona and “Raise Up”, and the soaring chorus of “In The Branches”, ending with a lesson of hope in the gospel homage“The World is a Top”.

The story of “Salvation is a Deep Dark Well” is that there’s joy and celebration through the darkness, there’s light in the hardest of times, and when you reach the bottom may salvation light your way.

Summer 2009 US Tour
* Illinois Supporting
Thursday 06/18 Portland Wonder Ballroom
Friday 06/19 Seattle Neumos
Wednesday 07/15 San Francisco Bottom of the Hill
Thursday 07/16 Visalia Cellar Door
Friday 07/17 Los Angeles Spaceland
Saturday 07/18 San Diego Casbah
Monday 07/20 Salt Lake Urban Lounge
Tuesday 07/21 Denver Larimer Lounge
Wednesday 07/22 Wichita Fischhaus
Thursday 07/23 Lawrence Replay Outside
Friday 07/24 St Louis Off Broadway with those darlins
Saturday 07/25 Cincinnati Mad Hatter
Monday 07/27 Cleveland Beachland
Tuesday 07/28 DC DC 9
Wednesday 07/29 Philadelphia Johnny Brendas
Thursday 07/30 Brooklyn Bell House
Friday 07/31 New York Pianos
Saturday 08/01 Boston TT the Bears
Monday 08/03 Detroit Pike Room
Tuesday 08/04 Pittsburgh Brillobox
Wednesday 08/05 Columbus Skully's
Thursday 08/06 Indianapolis Vollrath
Friday 08/07 Chicago Lollapalooza
Sunday 08/09 Madison High Noon TBA
Monday 08/10 Minneapolis 400 Bar
Wednesday 08/12 Missoula Palace

http://www.myspace.com/thebuildersandthebutchers

Mean Creek on tour and rto elease album

Old Flame Records Records announces Mean Creek’s debut album The Sky (or the Underground) on September 1st
Recorded on their home turf of Boston and produced by Chris McLaughlin of Aberdeen City


On Tour Now!
May 31- TT The Bear's w/Rock Plaza Central- Cambridge, MA
June 1- Cake Shop w/Rock Plaza Central- New York
June 26- The Paradise w/Buffalo Tom- Boston
July 14- The Space w/Cotton Jones- Portland, ME
July 15- Club Hell w/Cotton Jones- Provedence
July 16- The Space w/Cotton Jones- Hamden, CT
July 17- Loft w/Gunfight- Brooklyn
Aug 8- Middle East (Downstairs) w/Drug Rug

Mean Creek is a genuinely unique rock band from Boston, Massachusetts. They combine the energy and edge of rock music with the earnestness and sincerity of folk music to create a passionate and intense sound. Their songs leave a lasting impression that is sure to rattle even the most jaded of music fans.

Mean Creek have been constantly on the road, sharing stages with everyone from the Ting Tings to Straylight Run, Cotton Jones, Dear and the Headlights, Dear Tick, Sea Wolf, Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s, Black Lips and on and on. Mean Creek's "The Sky (Or The Underground)" available on Old Flame Recprds September 1st, 2009

www.myspace.com/meancreek
www.oldflamerecords.com

Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band to release new EP

Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band To Release DON’T STOP ME!
EP Out On Chimera Music June 9th Via iTunes Exclusive Digital Download

June 6 - Yoko Ono receives Golden Lion lifetime achievement award at the Venice Biennale
June 14 - Meltdown Festival, Royal Festival Hall, London, YOKO ONO PLASTIC ONO BAND with special guests Ornette Coleman, Antony Hegarty & Mark Ronson.

From Fluxus and performance-art pioneer and Two Virgins to chart-topping dance-music heroine (inspiring punk rock along the way!), Yoko Ono has been an innovative and influential force on music and art, while simultaneously campaigning for peace on the world's stage. At 76 years young, Yoko continues to kick ass -- and is preparing to release Don't Stop Me!, a career-defining album made with her new Plastic Ono Band. The record is a gorgeous, mind-melting blend of styles, restating and sharpening themes while plunging into the always-mysterious future.

The sessions happened at NYC’s Sear Sound, the same studio that used to house the old Hit Factory, where Double Fantasy was recorded. Sean Lennon both produced and acted as musical leader for a group evenly divided between Japanese avant pop musicians, and downtown Manhattan improvisers. In the Japanese contingent is Yuka Honda of Cibo Matto, plus the current group led by Keigo “Cornelius” Oyamada, which includes Yuko Araki and Hirotaka Shimmy Shimizu. Cornelius and Ms. Ono performed together in Tokyo in January, and Yoko was so happy with the result she invited them over to record. In the Manhattan improv camp we find Shahzad Ismaily (guitar, bass, percussion), Erik Friedlander (cello), Michael Leonhart (trumpet, vibes), Daniel Carter (reeds) and Indigo Street (guitar) -- a singularly gifted group of instrumentalists.

As Sean says, “Yoko unleashed a deluge of new songs, writing about 16 songs in six days. The most prolific day peaking out at six songs written and tracked in an afternoon. The recording session was like a tornado of inspiration. Some of the best lyrics on the record Yoko actually 'freestyled' as if she were a lyrical divining rod.”

The results are pretty amazing…
DON’T STOP ME! Tracklisting
The Sun Is Down! (Cornelius Mix)
Ask The Elephant!
Feel The Sand
CALLING

HOWL signs with Relapse Records

Relapse Records is proud to announce the signing of Providence, RI’s HOWL.

HOWL (Vincent Hausman – guitars, vocals, Andrea Black – guitars, Robert Icaza – bass, Timmy St. Amour – drums) formed in 2006 and have already toured extensively with many like-minded bands including KYLESA, TORCHE, YOUNG WIDOWS, COLISEUM and more.

HOWL’s Hausman commented on the signing; “We're very excited to be signed to Relapse. Right from the start, we've gotten the sense that the folks at Relapse care about the bands and their creative vision first, which is important in an industry too often concerned purely with profit, image, and commercial viability. Relapse also has an impressive roster of former and current bands, many of which we grew up listening to. It's humbling to now be part of that family.”

Relapse will first issue HOWL’s debut, self-titled EP this summer as the band continues writing for their first full-length. Audio samples taken from the EP can be heard now via the band’s MySpace page: MySpace.com/HowlHeavyMetal.

Hausman also commented on the reissue and forthcoming material: “We're very happy about the tremendous response we got from the demo, and we’re excited it will see a proper release. In the meantime, we've been writing new material for our upcoming full-length and if you liked what you heard on the demo, you'll love what you'll hear on the album! The new stuff is darker, more developed, and everything is more extreme. Expect faces to melt.”

HOWL recently confirmed to perform as part of the official BrooklynVegan-BBG showcase on June 14th in Brooklyn, NY as part of the inaugural Northside Festival. They’ll play alongside DOOMRIDERS, ZOROASTER, SOURVEIN, CLOUDS, and more.

Stay tuned to www.RELAPSE.com for forthcoming HOWL news / album release / tour information. Additional information will be made available via the HOWL MySpace page: MySpace.com/HowlHeavyMetal and Facebook.

HOWL Tour Dates:

June 13 Philadelphia, PA Kung Fu Necktie (w/ CLOUDS, DOOMRIDERS)
June 14 Brooklyn, NY Europa (BrooklynVegan-BBG showcase @ Northside Festival)
June 27 Providence, RI KC’s Tap (w/ SIN OF ANGELS, BOG OF THE INFIDEL, more)

NPR Music to stream Dirty Projectors new album prior to release

NPR Music is streaming the entire new album from the Dirty Projectors ahead of its release date, beginning June 1 at 11:59PM (ET). The album, Bitte Orca, is being made available for free, on-demand listening a full week before it arrives in stores as part of the site’s “Exclusive First Listen” series.

Dave Longstreth formed Dirty Projectors in 2002, and the group now also counts Angel Deradoorian, Amber Coffman and Brian McComber as principal members. The band has a well-earned reputation for dismantling standard melodic forms and chord structures and rearranging the elements until they no longer resemble the kinds of songs most people are used to hearing. Bitte Orca is their fifth studio album; NPR Music calls the record “awe-inspiringly executed and marked by sparkling imagination.”

Complete track listings and album information are available at NPR Music, where there are also extensive archives of concerts, interviews and reviews of Dirty Projectors, including the band’s set during NPR Music’s SXSW showcase. Dirty Projectors also performed with David Byrne during the recent Dark Was the Night Concert in New York City; that entire concert is streaming now at NPR Music.

NPR Music introduced its “Exclusive First Listen” series last year with Bob Dylan’s 2-CD set Tell Tale Signs. The series is now one of the site’s most popular features, and has offered pre-release streams of albums from artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Dan Deacon and St. Vincent. The series will next feature the upcoming album from the trailblazing electronic music artist Moby.The “Exclusive First Listen” series is one feature of NPR Music, a free, multimedia music discovery Web site at www.npr.org/music

The site offers content from NPR and 12 NPR Member public radio stations, including live performances, studio sessions, first listens to new albums, interviews, reviews and blogs. The site’s continuously expanding sections are dedicated to rock/pop/folk, classical, jazz/blues, world and urban music. NPR Music culls from NPR’s and the stations’ extensive music archives to present thousands of features; more than 250 new features are added to the site every month.

Mooving story, call for cat photos, jobs and more from the ASPCA

ASPCA Happy Tails: The Great Escape
http://www2.aspca.org/site/R?i=ezXHxg0yB3CE5SezFdzanw..

On May 6, a 500-pound Black Angus cow made history by escaping from a Queens, NY, slaughterhouse. Guess where she is now?

Your Cat Photos Wanted: Let's Get Physical!
http://www2.aspca.org/site/R?i=qkA-pCbhgRLIIt0p4ut-kw..

June's Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat Month, and we want to see yourfavorite feline caught in the act of "cat-ercising." Send us your bestshot of Fluffy doing the midnight sprints or dozing with the dog!

Stop Horse Slaughter from Returning to U.S.
http://www2.aspca.org/site/R?i=Sm7VVcBPinsbum8SeG5GhA..

You can help keep horse slaughter out of the U.S. by urging Congressto vote for the Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act.

Your Wedding Can Change a Homeless Animal's Life
http://www2.aspca.org/site/R?i=z1Vw9lruA-77UcEPFu4O1A..

ASPCA Job of the Week
http://www2.aspca.org/site/R?i=8DtIugi18zR5jc4Kx8chDw..


www.aspca.org

Songalive! song critique workshop Sunday

SONGSALIVE! ORANGE COUNTY SONG CRITIQUE WORKSHOP WITH GUEST SPEAKER ELISABETH HOWARD

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.

Details: www.songsalive.org/orangecounty

WHEN: Sunday, May 31, 2009

TIME: Starts 7:00 pm SHARP. Ends at 10 pm. Please be on time.

WHERE: Spires Resturant
(in the meeting room)
13030 Goldenwest Ave.
(corner of Garden Grove Ave)
Westminster, CA 92683

Directions: Southwest corner of Goldenwest Avenue and Garden Grove Boulevard. Exit the Garden Grove (22) Freeway at "Knott Avenue". There's plenty of free parking.

Phone for directions only: 714-636-0442. (Songsalive! contactbelow)
(Please consider ordering dinner before or after the workshop!
It helps to make our hosts happy if each person orders about $8.00 worthof food for the night. They’re paying for the lights and air conditioning!)

COST: $5 for nonmembers, free to Songsalive! members.You can join Songsalive! to participate in the workshops atwww.songsalive.org/join

REGISTER:Pre-registrations helpful but not necessary. Register your attendance through our Meetup group at www.songsalive.org/orangecounty

GUEST SPEAKER:
ELIZABETH HOWARD
Elisabeth Howard holds a B.S. and M.S. in voice from the Juilliard School and a Graduate Assistantship from Indiana University. Elisabeth has been called a “vocal chameleon.” Her expertise and ability to sing in styles from blues, R&B and country western, to jazz, music theater and opera has taken her to 23 cities in ten countries presenting Vocal Power workshops at national and international voice teachers conferences.

Ms. Howard was on the voice faculty of Pepperdine University for seven years and has been on the faculties of Hunter College and a guest faculty member at the University of Southern California. Elisabeth is founder of the Vocal Power Academy in Los Angeles and in 2006 established a branch in Las Vegas. Vocal Power Instructors are in Italy, Germany and Brazil. Her students have been on American Idol, Star Search, Broadway and National tours.

As singer/song-writer in New York, Elisabeth had a contract with MCA Music. Ms. Howard has had lead roles in over 25 musicals and operas. Elisabeth is the author of the new SING! book and CDs and ABCs of Vocal Harmony book and CDs and co-author of the Born to Sing DVD exclusively distributed by Alfred Publishing Co.

NEW RULES FOR SONG CRITIQUES AT OUR WORKSHOPS

1. Must be on time - 15 minutes after the start time is too late to be considered for a song critique.

2. Current financial members get priority. Non-members can present once all members who want to present have been accounted for.

3. First timers can sit and watch, but not present a song.

4. Non-members pay only $5 to come; free to members (keep your membership current by logging into your profile at www.songsalive.org)

5. We are no longer doing first come first serve, but rather pulling numbers out of a hat. This will keep it fair. However, you need to arrive early/on time to even be considered to present a song.

6. Read the workshop rules at www.songsalive.org/workshops and download a PDF flyer on how to give and receive critique.

7. Come prepared! 1 song either on tape, CD or live (bring own guitar or keyboard for an unplugged performance) and up to 20 copies of your typed lyric sheet with contact details clearly displayed.

8. Come with writing paper and a pen.

YOUR HOST IS ROD O’RILEY OF SONGSALIVE!
Rod O'Riley is the writing and performing name of Rodney Dean Stansfield. RDS is a guitar salesperson by day, songwriter by night, and many other things in the hours in between. A native of Los Angeles, raised in his parents' native Vancouver, BC, and schooled all over the West Coast. Currently learning the fine art of bass playing, producing, and letting the computer take care of the hard parts. Active as an organizer in science fiction fandom, he also keeps himself busy as an activist for animal rights, gay/lesbian/bi rights, and anarchism. And, of course, for the continued viability of live music and the venues that support it. Rodney has been involved with Songsalive! since 2002. In 2007, he was honored to assist with the creation of the new Songsalive! chapter in Orange County, California.All Songsalive! speakers biographies can be read atwww.songsalive.org/speakers.

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.For information on this event and more in Southern California go to:www.songsalive.org/orangecounty

Songsalive! is a non-profit organization dedicated to the nurturing, supportand promotion of songwriters and composers worldwide.

For Songsalive! information, media and membership inquiries (not Workshop inquiries, use contact above) call head office at 800-871-901 2 Extension 73615#
or Email usa@songsalive.org

OUR WEBSITE: http://www.songsalive.org

http://www.songsalive.org/orangecounty for local events
__________________________

Songsalive! Orange Countysupporting and promoting songwriters and composers worldwide

GOT SONGS?
www.songsalive.org
www.songsalive.org/orangecounty

Era series to open at Oviatt Penthouse in L.A. with '20s theme

Jenn Laskey/ RedLight Special Events & Kim Koury/ SPIN PR proudly presents “ERA”, a monthly, upscale, era-inspired event series under the stars featuring the most talented musicians and DJs in the industry. The private location is in an 1928 art deco gem called THE OVIATT PENTHOUSE, also known as 'The Art Deco Castle in the Air', adjacent to the famed “Cicada” restaurant. In the past, the space has only been available for weddings and private events, and now has opened its penthouse doors for the first time for RedLight & SPIN to create a party like no other.

RedLight & SPIN’s vision for “ERA” was to create a summer special event series/ club alternative in the vibe of an authentic 1920’s event; fully embracing the glamour and splendor of the vintage era when the building was erected, with mesmerizing 1920’s art deco architecture, original penthouse furnishings, DJ & live music blending the past with the present, and an artistic and gorgeous crowd urged to dress in cocktail and/or 1920’s theme attire. Surrounded by 360-degree views of downtown Los Angeles, "ERA" aims to transport guests back in time, creating a party unlike anything else in LA.

WHO: RedLight Special Events & SPIN PR

WHAT: “ERA”- An exclusive, invite-only nightclub at an art deco castle in the sky. Music by resident DJs, Beat Ventriloquists, surprise guest DJs and special live
musical guests performing 13 stories up on rooftop terrace.

WHEN:
LAUNCH -- Saturday, June 6th, 2009
9pm to 2am.
Event series continues, July 25th, August 15th, and Sept 19th.

WHERE: The Oviatt Penthouse
617 S. Olive St,
Downtown LA, CA 90014
(www.oviatt.com ) // (www.cicadarestaurant.com )

COVER: $20.00. Must RSVP to www.redlightpromotions.com/era to request an invitation. Admittance fee includes open Marani vodka bar from 9-10pm.
To reserve a table, call 213.321.5886.
Capacity is limited to 150 guests at a time.

OTHER: Cocktail attire recommended / 20's theme encouraged

Dance Gavin Dance to release album and perform on Warped Tour

Dance Gavin Dance To Release Happiness June 9 On Rise Records
New Song Debuts On MySpace
Catch Them On Warped Tour This Summer


Sacramento, CA’s Dance Gavin Dance has unveiled a new track from their forthcoming release Happiness on their MySpace page.

Stream the song, “Don’t Tell Dave” now at www.myspace.com/dancegavindance.

With combined sales of over 50,000+ units in the US, over 16,000,000 total plays on MySpace and a successful headlining tour behind them, Dance Gavin Dance’s 4th album for Rise Records is a progression and it clearly shows. They are able to play with just about any band out there and are often referred to as a “bands band”. Blending a myriad of genres into their songs, Dance Gavin Dance is always pushing the envelope, while somehow maintaining a sense of melody and urgency. Featuring artwork from famous Swedish artist Mattias Adolfsson, Happiness is their proudest moment and it clearly shows.

Happiness will be released on June 9th. That same day, the band will appear at a CD signing at Dimples Records in Sacramento, CA, as well as playing a free CD Release Party show at Club Retro in Orangevale, CA. This will be followed by a run of dates with The Audition, Closure in Moscow and Endless Hallway.

Starting June 26, fans can catch Dance Gavin Dance on the SmartPunk stage on the Vans Warped Tour.

www.myspace.com/dancegavindance

Dance Gavin Dance Tour Dates:

Jun 6 2009
7:00P
Rockin Roots Festival- Taking Back Sunday, Of Mice&Men Bakersfield, CA

Jun 9 2009
5:30P
In Store Signing @ Dimple Records Sacramento, California

Jun 9 2009
6:00P
Club Retro CD RELEASE!!! FREE SHOW!!!!!! Orangevale, California

Jun 10 2009
8:00P
Club Underground w/ The Audition, Closure In Moscow, Endless Hallway Reno, Nevada

Jun 11 2009
8:00P
Empire Theatre w/ The Audition, Closure In Moscow, Endless Hallway Stockton, California

Jun 12 2009
8:00P
Modesto Virtual w/ The Audition, Closure In Moscow, Endless Hallway Modesto, California

Jun 13 2009
8:00P
All Pro Pizza w/ The Audition, Closure In Moscow, Endless Hallway Visalia, California

Jun 14 2009
8:00P
Downtown Brew w/ The Audition, Closure In Moscow, Endless Hallway San Luis Obispo, California

Jun 16 2009
8:00P
The Crossing w/ The Audition, Endless Hallway Palmdale, California

Jun 17 2009
8:00P
Karma w/ The Audition, Endless Hallway Victorville, California

Jun 18 2009
8:00P
Soma w/ The Audition, Endless Hallway San Diego, California

Jun 19 2009
8:00P
The Box Office w/ The Audition, Endless Hallway Las Vegas, Nevada

Jun 26 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Pomona, California

Jun 27 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 San Francisco, California

Jun 28 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Ventura, California

Jun 30 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Phoenix, Arizona

Jul 1 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Las Cruces, New Mexico

Jul 2 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 San Antonio, Texas

Jul 3 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Houston, Texas

Jul 5 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Dallas, Texas

Jul 7 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Indianapolis, Indiana

Jul 8 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Jul 9 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Cleveland, Ohio

Jul 10 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Toronto, Ontario

Jul 11 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Montreal, Quebec

Jul 12 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Hartford, Connecticut

Jul 14 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Washington D.C., Washington DC

Jul 15 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Scranton, New York

Jul 16 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Buffalo, New York

Jul 17 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Camden, New Jersey

Jul 18 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Uniondale, New York

Jul 19 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Oceanport, New Jersey

Jul 21 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Boston, Massachusetts

Jul 22 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Virginia Beach, Virginia

Jul 23 2009
12:00P
VANS WARPED TOUR 2009 Charlotte, North Carolina

Hornblower offers Summer Sunset Cocktail Cruises

Hornblower is celebrating summer by offering Summer Sunset Cocktail Cruises! You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset from the deck of a Hornblower yacht and a front row seat to view the sailboat races.

Hornblower’s two-hour Cocktail Cruise features complimentary appetizers, drink specials and amazing views. The appetizer menu varies but may include favorites such as, chips and salsa, fresh garden crudites with herbed ranch dressing, jamaican seasoned beef skewers with mango-pineapple salsa, firecracker chicken with chili mayonnaise, and vegetable spring rolls with ginger plum sauce.

Tickets are $28 per person plus tax. Boarding begins at 6:00pm and cruises from 6:30pm- 8:30pm. The cruise is open to the public and reservations are required. Cruises depart every Wednesday from Marina del Rey beginning June 3 through September 2, 2009 and depart every Thursday from Newport Beach beginning June 4 through September 3, 2009. For more information or to book your cruise visit www.hornblower.com or call 800-ON-THE-BAY.

Celebrating 30 years of excellence on the water, Hornblower has 32 charter yachts throughout California in Newport Beach, Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, San Francisco, and San Diego. Hornblower’s popular Newport Beach and Marina del Rey port offers private charters, Public Weekend Harbor Dinner Cruises, and Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruises.

The 88 add tour dates with the B-52s

Los Angeles-based band The 88 (www.the88.net), which has spent the better parts of both of April and May opening for the B-52s, 311 and Matt Costa, announced today the addition of the following West Coast dates with the B-52s:

6/17 @ Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA
6/19 @ Oregon Zoo Amphitheater, Portland, OR
6/25 @ Canyon Club, Agoura Hills, CA - (previously announced)
6/27 @ Robert Mondavi Winery, Napa Valley, CA
6/30 @ The Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA
7/19 @ Pacific Amphitheatre, Costa Mesa, CA - (previously announced)

Additional dates to be determined.

Tracks from the band’s last release Not Only…But Also have made waves on television, video games and online, continuing a trend The 88 began on their prior releases. Lead track “Coming Home” was heard in the premiere episode of 90210, while Gossip Girl showcased the piano-driven rocker “It’s A Lot”. The super-charged “Sons And Daughters” is a challenge to Rock Band 2 gamers. And in keeping with their DIY roots, their unique video for “Coming Home”, in which they spent the bulk of the video’s budget on free fuel for passing motorists at a local gas station, was featured on Spin.com and Yahoo’s “Who’s Next”.

Fans attending the band’s recent shows have been treated to a taste of new music from The 88’s unreleased album This Must Be Love, including the song “Love Is The Thing”, now streaming at http://www.myspace.com/the88. Buzz is already building around This Must Be Love: well before a release date has been confirmed: influential Los Angeles radio station KCRW has already played new music from the project on “Morning Becomes Eclectic” and the band performed “Love Is The Thing” live to a Philadelphia audience on NBC affiliate WCAU’s “10!” morning show earlier this month.

ABOUT THE 88
Founded in Los Angeles in 2002, The 88 have released three albums – Kind of Light, Over and Over and Not Only… But Also. The band is perhaps best known for their staggering number of music placements in film (Failure to Launch, You Me and Dupree), television (ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, CBS’ How I Met Your Mother) and advertising (Sears, Target, Microsoft Zune) among others. Aside from extensive touring in North America, they have appeared on numerous national talk shows including Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson, Jimmy Kimmel Live and Last Call With Carson Daly. The 88 are lead singer/guitarist Keith Slettedahl, pianist Adam Merrin and drummer Anthony Zimmitti.

The Dodos launch world tour

The Dodos Announce World Tour / US Shows

2009 Summer World Tour
5/24 - Sasquatch! Music Festival - George, WA
6/14 - Northside Festival - Brooklyn, NY
7/1 - Landmark - Bergen, Norway
7/2 - Revolver - Oslo, Norway
7/3 - Tavastia - Helsinki, Finland
7/4 - Roskilde Festival - Roskilde, Denmark
7/9 - Phoenix Theater - Toronto, Ontario
7/10 - Ottawa Blues Festival - Ottawa, Ontario
7/11 - Metropolis Theatre - Montreal, Quebec
7/16 - Plage de Rock Festival - St. Tropez, France
7/17 - Melt Festival - Berlin, Germany
7/18 - Dour Festival - Dour, Belgium
7/19 - Valkhof Affaire - Niljmegen, Netherlands
8/8 - Getty Museum - Los Angeles, CA
8/14 - KEXP Mural Amphitheater Summer Series - Seattle, WA
8/29 - Outside Lands Festival - San Francisco, CA
9/1 - Glee Club - Birmingham, England
9/2 - Thekla - Bristol, England
9/3 - Bush Hall - London, England
9/4 - King Tut's - Glasgow, Scotland
9/5 - Ruby Lounge - Manchester, England
9/7 - Maroquinerie - Paris, France
9/8 - Botanique Rotunda - Brussels, Belgium
9/10 - Molotow - Hamburg, Germany
9/11 - Magnet - Berlin, Germany
9/12 - Melkweg - Amsterdam, Netherlands
9/13 - End of Road Festival - Dorset, England
10/4 - Austin City Limits - Austin, TX


http://www.myspace.com/thedodos

CMT announces "Summer of Music" lineup

Cool off with country music’s hottest stars as CMT rolls out its CMT SUMMER OF MUSIC lineup filled with an array of original new programs including music specials, live concerts and music-based competition. Beginning Tuesday, June 16, CMT kicks off summer with a bang at the CMT MUSIC AWARDS, followed by the premieres of CAN YOU DUET and THE SINGING BEE later that same week.

The CMT SUMMER OF MUSIC lineup is as follows:

2009 CMT MUSIC AWARDS (premieres live Tuesday, June 16 at 8:00 p.m.) – Country music’s biggest stars will rock Nashville’s Sommet Center when the 2009 CMT MUSIC AWARDS premiere LIVE on CMT and CMT.com with performances by Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban and British rockers Def Leppard. The awards are country music’s only fan-voted awards show, and last year more than five million votes were cast to determine the night’s big winners.

CAN YOU DUET (premieres Saturday, June 20 at 8:00 p.m.) – CMT searches for country music’s best new duo with eight new episodes of the weekly music competition series, CAN YOU DUET. Each contestant will compete as part of a duo, and viewers will witness first hand the on and off-stage drama in creating a dynamic musical duo. In addition to critiquing each performance and deciding who will advance to the next round, judges Naomi Judd, Big Kenny of the multi-platinum duo Big & Rich and Big Machine Records’ President and CEO Scott Borchetta will serve as mentors to guide, groom and develop the duets along the way.

THE SINGING BEE (premieres Saturday, June 20 at 10:00 p.m.) – CMT re-introduces THE SINGING BEE, the game show that tests contestants’ knowledge of lyrics to well-known songs and eliminates those who fail to accurately sing the song lyrics correctly. Hosted by comedic actress Melissa Peterman (“Reba”), this new CMT version of THE SINGING BEE will focus on top country music hits and popular favorites.

CMT CROSSROADS: BRYAN ADAMS AND JASON ALDEAN (premieres Friday, June 26 at 9:00 p.m.) – Global mega-platinum-selling singer-songwriter Bryan Adams will share the stage with platinum selling and chart topping country rocker, Jason Aldean, when the pair team up for a new installment of the critically-acclaimed series, CMT CROSSROADS.

INVITATION ONLY (premieres Friday, July 3 at 11:00 p.m.) – A departure from the typical concert special, INVITATION ONLY features country music’s biggest stars performing before a small studio audience in Nashville, taking questions from fans and delivering revealing and candid answers. Three new episodes are slated to air this summer:

· Darius Rucker on July 3 at 11:00 p.m. ET.
· Brad Paisley on August 3 at 9:00 p.m. ET.
· Reba McEntire on August 21 at 9:00 p.m. ET.


CMT’s SUMMER OF MUSIC will also include regularly scheduled programs such as CMT TOP 20 COUNTDOWN, CMT INSIDER, CMT POWER PICKS and #1 MUSIC AND A MOVIE. In addition, the network will encore popular episodes of CMT CROSSROADS, and feature the special JOHNNY CASH IN SAN QUENTIN, among other programming. CMT SUMMER OF MUSIC will conclude on Labor Day with a one-of-a-kind, to be announced, concert special.

Gallery at the End of the World to hold group show June 4-7

JUNE 4, 5, 6, 7th 2009

gallery open daily 12-6pm

Thursday- artist reception 6-9pm

Friday- 1st friday art club 7pm-1am $5.00 cover

Saturday- potluck bbq

Sunday- brunch

Featured Artist- Kathi Oshima

Artists Include: Cathy Tharp, Lauren R. Tharp, Bright, Joe feinblatt, Nancy Armitage, Richard Davies, Karen Sachs, Evans NJoroge, Todd Bank, Christian Velasquez, Rick Strieck, Christy Roberts, Matt Carter, Adrianne Walker, Jeannie Pool, Amber Bilow, Alex Scheafer, Joseph Stauffer, Peter Adamyan, Michael Gibson, Deborah Blanco, David Goldberg, Jeni Carle, Lisa george, Jeffrey R. Kibbe, Kathleen Swaydan, David Von Noppen, Eve Kessler, Dorette Amell, Dave Lovejoy, Johnny Fox, Ngene Mwuara, Kai Samuels-Davis, Matt Foote, Kristen "Blaze" Carley and Ben McGinty

Performances by:

Thursday- Crane Lake Serenaders

Friday- Wreck n Sow and Alamase Arabesque with drummer Rick Sarabia

Dj Radiant Child

Free nature photography class offered in Pasadena

FREE CLASS IN NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY OFFERED

Professional photographers and naturalists will team up Saturday, June 6, from 8 to 11 a.m. to lead a free outdoor class and walk at Hahamongna Watershed Park.

The workshop is open to photographers and nature lovers at all skill levels and is the final event in the Arroyo Seco Discovery Days series designed to deepen the public’s appreciation of the park’s uniqueness.

City of Pasadena naturalists and Armory Center for the Arts photographers will combine a walk with instruction on capturing nature on film or digitally.

Individual instruction will include close-up shots of plants and flowers as well as panoramic views of the Hahamongna flood basin and San Gabriel mountains. Naturalists will teach about the Arroyo Seco’s native plants, how to find animals when you can't see them and the role water plays in the environment.

Participants should bring their own cameras or camera phones, wear comfortable walking shoes, long pants, sun block and dress for the weather. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Reservations are required. Call (626) 744-7358 or email ejackson@cityofpasadena.net to reserve and for information on where to meet.

Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra venue change

MUSICA ANGELICA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA – “VIRTUOSO STRINGS”

Saturday, May 30, 2009; 8 p.m.; Knox Presbyterian Church
225 South Hill Avenue in Pasadena

Sunday, May 31, 2009; 4 p.m.; Santa Monica First Presbyterian Church
1220 Second Street in Santa Monica

Featured soloists:
Janet Strauss and Neli Nikolaeva, violins
Suzanna-Giordano Gignac and Adriana Zoppo, violas
Leif Woodward, cello
Ian Pritchard, harpsichord
Daniel Zuluaga, lute

Program:
Biber - Sonata from Fidicinium Sacro-profanum
Biber - Partita from Mensa Sonora
Rosenmuller - Sonata a 5
Pachelbel - Partie a 5
Purcell – Fantasia, Pavan and Trio Sonata

Tickets:
$39
Call 310.458.4504 or visit www.MusicaAngelica.org

Live Nation to present Fishfest 2009

Public On Sale Saturday May 30 at 3 PM:
FISHFEST 2009
Featuring:
MERCYME – JARS OF CLAY
HAWK NELSON – PHIL WICKHAM
RED – MATTHEW WEST
NEEDTOBREATHE
Francesca Battistelli
This Beautiful Republic – Brandon Muchow
Jana Alayra & Much More!
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Saturday – July 25

The Tumbling Tumbleweeds at the Coffee Gallery Backstage Saturday

THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS


Would Like to Say…..


WAKE UP WESTERN MUSIC FANS!


It’s time for more Western Music fun and good times in the month of May!

Featuring Jean Sudbury & Dan Dungan!

~ ~ ~ ~
THIS SATURDAY!
May 30, 2009 – Coffee Gallery Backstage with Guest John Bergstrom

Location: 2029 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, CA 91001
Time: 7:00 PM
Tickets: $18.00
Call (626) 398-7917 for Reservations
Got to www.coffeegallery.com for more info!


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!

Modern string band shows this weekend

Greetings all,

There will be Two opportunities to see one of the great, modern string bands this weekend. The Brainstormers will be playing Friday night, May 29th at the Fullerton Museum and Saturday, the 30th at the Blue Ridge Pcking Parlor.

The Fullerton Museum is at 301 N Pomona Ave., Fullerton, CA 92832. Doors open at 7 pm, concert at 8:00. $12, museum members $10. Information and reservations at 714-738-6545.

The Blue Ridge Picking Parlor is at 17828 Chatsworth St. (at Zelzah), Granada Hills, CA 91344. Doors open at 7:30, concert at 8:00. Tickets: $15 advance, $20 at the door. Check the Blue Ridge at www.pickinparlor.com or 818-282-9001.


THE BRAINSTORMERS are Mark Graham, Tom Sauber and Patrick Sauber and "in concert they produce a hurricane of Old-Time Music - a perfect storm of instrumental power and brilliant harmony singing illuminated by lightning flashes of lyrical and comic genius. Mark, Tom, and Patrick "brainstorm their way to a new and original sense of the classic sounds of Old-Time Music exemplified by the likes of Uncle Dave Macon, Ed Haley, Dock Boggs, George Pegram and Red Parham. This amazing trio will electrify you with their 'old, timely inventions'"

Visit them at http://brainstormermusic.com/ and give a listen at http://brainstormermusic.com/music.html

Cheers,

Thomas Sauber

Star Chef event at Santa Anita Park to benefit Rosemary Children's Services

From Sea Biscuit to Secretariat, Santa Anita Park has seen its share of winners. On Saturday, June 27, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the racetrack will play host to yet another ‘champion’ when Rosemary Children’s Services (RCS) returns to the historic Art Deco venue to hold its long-running benefit, “An Evening with Star Chefs.”

“There’s a reason we’ve continued to hold Star Chefs for 46 years,” says Jennifer Radics, Director of Development for the agency, which serves abused, abandoned and neglected children throughout Los Angeles County as well as portions of San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange Counties. “The community loves it! I can’t think of a more magical way to spend a summer evening than sampling dishes prepared by ‘star chefs’ from some of the area’s finest restaurants, then dancing under the stars on the grounds of one of the most beautiful and unique landmarks in Southern California.”

Participating restaurants at this year’s Star Chefs gala include Castle Catering, Celestino, Charcuterie, Choctal Ice Cream, El Cholo, Front Runner, Il Fornaio, McCormick & Schmick’s, Mi Piace, Nikki C’s Restaurant and Bar, Pasadena Baking Company, The Raymond Restaurant, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, and The Terrace at the Langham Huntington. Bacardi USA, IZZE Beverage Company, MillerCoors Brewing Company, Peet's Coffee and Tea, San Antonio Winery, Quady Winery Stockholm Krystal Vodka and Whole Foods will provide beverages.

“There’s something for everybody,” says Greg Wessels, Executive Director. “But whether we’re partial to pasta or steak, beer or vodka, we share one desire – to help the troubled and at risk children in our community.”

Joining RCS supporters and staff at this year’s benefit, as Honorary Chairperson, is Congressman Adam Schiff.

"For decades, Rosemary Children's Services has done great work providing a brighter future for Southern California's most vulnerable children," says the Congressman. "I am happy to be a part of this worthwhile event which is vital to improving the lives of so many youth in our communities."

Additional special guests include world-renowned opera singer, Suzanna Guzman, who has appeared on opera stages from the Metropolitan Opera in New York to the Spoleto Festival in Italy and, as an Associate Artist for LA Opera, has performed over 33 principal roles in productions to date. In June 2008, Guzman – a Pasadena-area resident – made a unique ‘special appearance’ as commencement speaker at graduation ceremonies for The Rosemary School, the agency’s non public school. This year, she will introduce her fellow ‘stars’ – each of the “star chefs” participating in An Evening with Star Chefs – to those attending the event, thank them for their generosity and announce the recipient of the “Best Booth Award.”

Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor and host Wendy Burch will play a leading role at Star Chefs as well – appearing as Master of Ceremonies. Burch, who has worked as an Entertainment Correspondent in Hollywood for CBS News and E! News Daily, is currently employed as a freelance reporter for KABC’s Eyewitness News. In 2006, Burch – a longtime volunteer in the community – founded The Good News Foundation, a non-profit organization of television newswomen that awards grant money to individuals and organizations creating ‘good news.’

The Foundation also offers academic scholarships and mentoring programs for young women aspiring to become the next generation of television journalists.

“When we learned about Wendy’s work with the Good News Foundation, we realized that she was a perfect fit for Star Chefs,” Radics explains. “Like Wendy, we’re committed to fostering – and celebrating – good news. There’s nothing that thrills us more than hearing a success story about one of our children.”

Currently RCS’s programs include a Foster Family and Adoption Agency, which helps nearly 400 children annually; a Non-Public School, the Rosemary School, providing specialized education in a small structured environment; a Mental Health Program to provide individual and group therapy and training in various life skills; and a Residential Program for teenage girls. The girls live at either Rosemary Cottage, which houses 19 girls, or one of four smaller group homes located throughout Pasadena.

The agency also supports a Transitional Housing program for emancipated Foster Youth as well as a 24-month program for women ages 18 to 24 who are no longer part of the foster care system but need help increasing their job skills, education, and life skills.

Tickets for An Evening With Star Chefs are currently available for $150/person. For more information, visit www.rosemarychildren.org or call 626.844.3033 ext. 211.

Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia.

Founded in 1920, Rosemary Children's Services provides compassionate and therapeutic support to help children, adolescents and families heal from their pasts and move towards productive and fulfilling futures. To arrange a tour or learn more about RCS, visit www.rosemarychildren.org or call 626.844.3033

Spray 'n Wash launches clothing care site and contest

As the little black dress is for evening wear, the little white t-shirt is the summer wardrobe staple. However, keeping that white t-shirt clean all season is not easy. Before you fight a BBQ sauce stain or dirt from the garden, stop and listen to your clothes!

You may have heard that 97%* of clothing labels warn against the use of chlorine bleach.** What’s even more surprising is that 98% of garment labels on white clothes read the same! This summer, the fabric care experts at Spray ‘n Wash – with more than 40 years of stain fighting experience – recommend new Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White. Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White is a safe and effective alternative to bleach to fight stains and keep your favorite white t-shirt white and stain-free.

For years, consumers have relied upon bleach to treat stained white garments, accepting bleach accidents or spills on colored garments as a potential risk. In fact, 79% of consumers have had bleach accidents while doing laundry that have damaged their clothes. With Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White, cleaning your clothes becomes risk-free. Add Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White to your detergent to successfully remove stains and keep your whites white. And the best part is that it’s safe on colors too!

“Moms have been taught to whiten whites with chlorine bleach,” said Colleen Burns, ‘Mom on the Run’ home expert and Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White spokesperson. “But if moms knew that 98% of labels on white garments warn against using bleach, they would reconsider and choose Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White instead. Listen to your clothes and stop putting your clothes at risk as your mom had done. From the kids’ baseball uniforms to your favorite little white t-shirt, Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White takes the worry and risk out of stain removal.”

Formulated for use on white clothes as well as colored, Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White is safe to use on your favorite garments - even those in which manufacturers instruct against using bleach. Burns encourages consumers to read manufacturers’ care instructions; simply because a shirt is white does not mean it is automatically compatible with chlorine bleach. In addition to solid white garments, Burns recommends the use of Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White on patterned clothing, i.e. a logoed baseball uniform or printed t-shirt.

For further tips to keep clothes bright this summer, Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White encourages consumers to visit ListenToYourClothes.com. The site shares clothing care facts and tips from Burns, consumer testimonials and a sweepstakes with the chance to win a Luxe Laundry Room Makeover valued at $10,000, including a washer and dryer, a year’s supply of Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White and $8,000 cash! More than 80 additional prizes will be awarded to entrants monthly through December 31, 2009.

To enter, visit http://www.listentoyourclothes.com/ and submit a personal true story of a frustrating bleach accident that happened while doing the laundry. (Photo entries depicting bleach accidents also will be accepted by April 1, 2009.)

Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White is available in 44 oz. (SRP $4.99)*** and 75 oz. (SRP $7.99)*** sizes and can be found in the laundry care aisle at major grocery and mass retailers nationwide.

For more information on Spray ‘n Wash Bright & White, visit www.spraynwash.com/brightandwhite.

For more information on the Listen To Your Clothes Sweepstakes, visit http://www.listentoyourclothes.com/.

Camping spots still available for summer

If you check Recreation.gov for campsites or cabins at your favorite state or national park in California this summer and find that everything is taken, don’t lose hope. Private campgrounds and RV resorts are located near the entrances to the most visited parks in California, including Yosemite, Sequoia, Lassen and Redwood national parks. And many of them have available campsites and cabins during the summer.

“All you have to do is log on to www.camp-california.com and you’ll find plenty of camping options just outside your favorite park,” said Debbie Sipe, executive director of the California Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds.

Consider Yosemite Pines RV and Family Lodging in Groveland, one of many private campgrounds located just outside of Yosemite National Park.

“We do have a lot of bookings this summer. But we still have campsite openings. We also have some cabin openings,” said Mary Bertram, manager of the campground.

And even if Yosemite Pines or other campgrounds in the vicinity are sold out during the days you want to visit the Yosemite area, it pays to keep calling back.

“We have cancellations every day,” Betram said. “I just had a cancellation this morning.”

Some families actually prefer going to private campgrounds outside of national parks.

“We have had some families and groups coming to our park for 40 years,” said Shel Brown, a host at Kaweah Park Resort in Three Rivers, which is located seven miles outside of Sequoia National Park. The park has 83 campsites, including 51 dry campsites and 32 full-hookup sites.

Brown said Kaweah Park Resort is heavily booked on summer weekends, but the campground still has a fair number of campsites available during the week throughout the summer. Other private campgrounds outside less visited state and national parks report even greater campsite and cabin availability.

“Right now, we’re running about 50 to 60 percent occupancy with pre-reservations,” said Joe Bertram, manager of Hat Creek Resort in Old Station, roughly 11 miles north of Lassen National Park. The park, which includes a motel, cabins and four yurts, is the only privately owned campground on Hat Creek, a popular fishing stream with rainbow, brook and brown trout. The Pacific Crest Trail also skirts the edge of campground, which makes it a popular place for hikers.

In northwest California, Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground is bordered on three sides by Redwood National Park and is close to five other state parks, said campground owner Aaron Funk, adding that the campground is adding another 32 tent sites this year to accommodate an anticipated increase in campsite demand as the recession prompts families to search for more affordable vacation options.

Polar Bear Club to tour in support of new album

Poised to be one of the biggest and best bands of 2009, Polar Bear Club recently completed recording their Bridge Nine debut with producer Matt Bayles. This inevitable classic, titled Chasing Hamburg, is currently slated to hit stores on September 8th, 2009.

Polar Bear Club drummer Emmett Menke said, “The new songs are overall a bit shorter and more upbeat, while somehow getting a little darker. Lyrically, they’re a lot more personal than our previous efforts.We're very happy with the final product.”

Formed in 2005, Polar Bear Club initially had no expectations of ever becoming a full-time band. Spread out amongst states and time-zones, the band released the EP The Redder The Better before they hit the studio to record 2008's critically acclaimed Sometimes Things Just Disappear on Red Leader Records. Disappear was also named one of AP's Top 10 Most Essential releases of '08 and called it an “absolutely spectacular post-hardcore masterpiece”.

While Polar Bear Club is currently across the pond with labelmates Ruiner and Defeater, they are excited to announce a U.S. tour beginning August 1st with Four Year Strong and Set Your Goals.

Menke went on to say, “…we’re really excited about getting back out on tour in August and playing some places we've never played before and making some new friends!”

Polar Bear Club will inevitably be showcasing material off of Chasing Hamburg while on the road this summer, making this a tour not to miss! Check out the dates below.

www.MySpace.com/PolarBearClub
www.Bridge9.com

POLAR BEAR CLUB ON TOUR

PBC w/ Everytime I Die
6/27 @ Forward Hall, Erie PA
6/28 @ Scene Music Festival, St. Catherines ONT
6/29 @ Katherdral, Toronto ONT

PBC w/ Four Year Strong, Set Your Goals, Fireworks, Drive A
8/01 @ Ne Brookland Tavern, Columbia SC
8/02 @ Visulite Theater, Charlotte NC
8/04 @ Off The Wagon, Montgomery AL
8/05 @ Rocketown, Nashville TN
8/06 @ Vinyl, Atlanta GA
8/07 @ State Theater, St. Petersburg FL
8/08 @ Culture Room, Ft. Lauderdale FL
8/09 @ The Social, Orlando FL
8/11 @ The High Ground, Metairie LA
8/12 @ Java Jazz, Houston TX
8/13 @ Emo's Alternative, Austin TX
8/14 @ The Max, Dallas TX
8/15 @ The Marquee, Tulsa OK
8/16 @ Launchpad, Albuquerque NM
8/17 @ The Clubhouse Music, Tempe AZ
8/19 @ Soma Sidestage, San Diego CA
8/20 @ Glasshouse, Pomona CA
8/21 @ Slim's, San Francisco, CA
8/22 @ Satyricon, Portland OR
8/23 @ El Corazon, Seattle WA
8/24 @ The Venue, Boise ID
8/25 @ Murray Theater, Murray UT
8/26 @ Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver CO

Lightnin' Woodcock on tour

Following the success of two West Coast efforts in 2008, including dates supporting Bad Religion and The Bronx, Lightnin' Woodcock will be touring across America in June.

"There is no better time than right now to perform dirty, hard-rockin' blues across dive bars in the U.S.," muses Woodcock.

Lightnin' Woodcock was the guitarist and duet-singer for fellow L.A. band Miss Derringer until his departure in late 2008; he now fronts his own dynamic power trio.

For streaming audio, please see
http://www.myspace.com/lightninwoodcock.

Lightnin' Woodcock will be performing at:
May 28 - The Blooze Bar in Phoenix, AZ
May 30 - Atomic Cantina in Albuquerque, NM
May 31 - Hot Rods & Wheels in El Paso, TX
June 1 - The Deadhorse in San Angelo, TX
June 3 - Dixie's in San Antonio, TX
June 5 - Headhunters in Austin, TX
June 6 - Outlaw Drinkers Club in Beaumont, TX
June 7 - Artmosphere in Lafayette, LA
June 13 - Third Street Dive in Lexington, KY
June 15 - Blue Rock Tavern in Cincinnati, OH
June 16 - Bernie's Distillery in Columbus, OH
June 18 - Brighton Bar in Long Branch, NJ
June 23 - Deluxe in St. Louis, MO

More dates TBA.

"Film Riot" added to Revision3 summer lineup

Creating special effects for independent high quality films has never been easier, thanks to Film Riot, the latest show to be added to Revision3’s summer programming lineup. An entertaining exploration into the art of independent digital filmmaking, Film Riot will launch today on the leading Internet TV network at www.revision3.com/filmriot.

“Film Riot gives viewers practical insight, tips and tricks into the ins and outs of Filmmaking 2.0 in the Internet age—and keeps you laughing all the way,” said Ryan Vance, Vice President, Programming and Production, Revision3. “The hosts are real cutting-edge indie filmmakers who will be sure to engage viewers, attract eyeballs and deliver new, exciting content which appeals to our target audience. Plus, they’re hilarious!”

Hosted by film guru Ryan Connolly, the weekly series Film Riot follows a team of indie filmmakers—from scriptwriting to the premiere of their latest film—who provide DIY and how-to tips for making high quality films with little to no budget.

Each episode opens with a short film or hilarious sketch that features a special effect or technique. The hosts then demonstrate how to create the effect by revealing their insider filmmaking tips, tricks and strategies. Experts from the film industry will also join in roundtable discussions about film and the practical implementation of these techniques.

“We wanted to work with an Internet TV network with access to an intense, committed fanbase to further expose our content,” said Ryan Connolly, host, Film Riot. “Revision3 is the ideal platform for Film Riot; the network will help us grow our audience and give viewers new ways to have fun on the Internet—whether it’s learning to blow up a head or crash a car to create their own on-screen action.”

Film Riot will be released every Thursday at www.revision3.com/filmriot.

Judas Priest to release new live album

As the creators of a live release that is considered to be one of the all-time great concert recordings in the realm of heavy metal (1979's 'Unleashed in the East'), whenever Judas Priest announce a new live album, metalheads worldwide instantly take note. And on 'A Touch of Evil - Live' (released July 14, 2009 via Epic Records), the mighty Priest - which includes singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and KK Downing, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer Scott Travis - doesn't disappoint.

Focusing primarily on fan-revered album cuts (all previously unreleased in live form on CD), 'A Touch of Evil - Live' features absolutely scintillating renditions of such Priest gems as "Riding on the Wind," "Beyond the Realms of Death," "Dissident Aggressor," "A Touch of Evil," "Eat Me Alive," and the set-closing "Painkiller."

Also of note are the first live album appearances of standouts from Priest's critically acclaimed 2008 concept double disc, 'Nostradamus' ("Death" and "Prophecy").

Recorded by Martin Walker and Brian Thorene during the Judas Priest's mammoth 2005 and 2008 world tours, 'A Touch of Evil- Live' also marks the first Priest album that producer Tom Allom has worked on since 1988 (co-producing along with the band).

It was such Allom-produced albums as the aforementioned 'Unleashed in the East,' as well as 'British Steel' and 'Screaming for Vengeance' (among others) that made Priest not only one of the premier metal acts, but one of the leading global rock acts.

As heard throughout 'A Touch of Evil - Live,' Priest remain a must-see live act…and a must-hear one, as well.

'A Touch of Evil - Live' track listing:
JUDAS RISING
HELLRIDER
BETWEEN THE HAMMER & THE ANVIL
RIDING ON THE WIND
DEATH
BEYOND THE REALMS OF DEATH
DISSIDENT
AGGRESSOR
A TOUCH OF EVIL
EAT ME ALIVE
PROPHECY
PAINKILLER

For more information, visit:
www.judaspriest.com

Sean Bones' movie to premiere at LA Film Festival

Sean Bones Debut Film "Wah Do Dem" To Premiere At LA Film Festival
Announce NYC & LA Summer Dates
Debut LP "Rings" Out July 21st On Frenchkiss Records, Featuring Special Guest Norah Jones

View “Wah Do Dem” Trailer Here :
http://www.wahdodem.comClick Here To View IFC Feature On Sean Bones

The film, Wah Do Dem, will be premiering in the Narrative Competition Round of the LA Film Festival Screenings:
Saturday June 20 9:30pm at the Regent Theater/
Wednesday June 24 4:30pm at the Landmark 4

The Plot: Max's (Sean Sullivan) dream Caribbean cruise becomes a solitary odyssey after his girlfriend (Norah Jones) dumps him days before their departure. Now, he'll have to go with the Jamaican flow in this disarming and incisive debut feature.

The film was directed by Ben Chase and Sam Fleischne and also features Suckers, members of MGMT, Yeasayer, the Congos, and Carl Bradshaw

Upcoming US Dates:
May 28th - Mercury Lounge (Co-Headline w/ Action Painters) - New York, NY
June 12th - Bruar Falls (Northside Festival) - Brooklyn, NY
June 23rd - Space 15 TWENTY - Hollywood, CA
June 26th - The Echo - Los Angeles, CA

It all started with swim trunks, a Summer Reading ‘zine and sunscreen. Oh, and a 7-inch; we can’t forgot that part.

“I’ve always wanted to do my own record,” explains Bones (ne Sullivan), referring to the solo single he released as part of the limited “S/S FRIENDS” fashion line. “I never thought it'd be reggae, but then last summer happened.”

Ah, last summer. At the time, Sullivan was getting restless over the looming release of Sam Champion's Heavenly Bender LP, so he set aside some no-frills studio time. The two-sided result, “Easy Street” and “Act So Casual,” became an easy, breezy mission statement for Sean Bones, a project Sullivan describes as “music that might cause people to scratch their heads a bit, only to realize that scratching their heads would make a good dance move.”

Indeed. Just ask the folks over at RCRD LBL, who got behind Sullivan early on and wrote, “Canvas shorts and reggae music sound like summer spent by the water being lazy. Sean Bones is not lazy.”

Sure enough, Sullivan spent many late nights crafting the dirt-encrusted reggae that drives Sean Bones’ Frenchkiss debut Rings. Named after the pervading influence of such speaker-imploding ‘60s/’70s standards as the Congos, Desmond Dekker and Lee “Scratch” Perry, Rings was first recorded live to a 16-track tape machine with one malfunctioning slot.

“We were working with limitations from the start,” says Sullivan. “I also told the engineer (Jay Braun, who’s also worked with the Stills and Jon Spencer Blues Explosion) to track the music in a way that hit the tape hard, stressing it out and giving us a gritty sound.”

The result is a funky reggae party with feeling. From the sturdy rocksteady groove and sly Phil Spector nods of “Cry Cry Cry” to the dub flavor of “Instigator” to the twilight zone reggaeton of “Smoke Rings” – Bones’s debut seem tailored to summertime-in-the-city. And then there’s “Dancehall,” a friendly sparring match between Barrington Levy and latter-day Blur. So yeah—this ain’t Legend: The Fourth Generation here; it’s something much stranger.

“Even when it’s poppy, reggae is heavy and weird,” says Sullivan. “Especially the early stuff—it’s done on primitive equipment and it’s better for that. To me, that’s punk, and I love it.”

He’s not alone. Remember that early “Easy Street”/“Act So Casual” single? When Sullivan tried to book a Sean Bones show to recoup the costs of vinyl pressings and canvas shorts, he ended up signing a record deal instead. Not to mention scoring the starring role—without auditioning, mind you—in Wah Do Dem, an indie film with loose connections to The Harder They Come and Rockers.

“My character is this hapless guy named Max who wins two cruise tickets, but gets dumped and has to go on this trip alone,” explains Sullivan. “He spends a week on a Senior Citizen’s cruise before getting robbed and lost in Jamaica on his daytrip there. Somewhere along the way, he gets taken in and sees the ‘real Jamaica’.”

You might recognize Max’s ex as a certain Norah Jones. While her character may ditch Max early on, the Grammy winner wound up contributing vocals to the album closer “Turn Them,” a song catered to the film’s storyline. Landing such a high profile guest begs one question, of course: what’s next, beyond a spring 2010 S/S FRIENDS collection involving ponchos and galoshes?

“I'm not closing any doors,” says Sullivan of his past projects, “but when the idea to record my own reggae single came to me, I was so excited I had to stand on my fire escape. It feels right to be doing this.”

http://www.myspace.com/seanbones

Chimaira launches fan video contest

CHIMAIRA is offering fans the chance to put their own spin on the band’s newest video for “Destroy and Dominate.” Fans are encouraged to download the video stem files from http://www.chimaira.com/destroythevideo and edit their own version. The new versions can be uploaded to CHIMAIRA’s YouTube, and the band will hand-pick their favorite three videos. The grand-prize winner will receive the limited edition box set version of The Infection plus tickets to the band’s upcoming US tour! The second- and third-prize winners will receive tickets and/or CHIMAIRA merch.

Singer Mark Hunter commented on the contest: “We’re all really proud of what friend and director Todd Bell put together for ‘Destroy and Dominate’ but we were also curious to see what other people would be able to do with the video. We wanted to give fans the chance to have access to the footage and edit their own version of the video. We are curious to see some other takes on it. Fans can submit their video to our YouTube. We’re gonna pick the best one and give them one of our limited editon box sets. We’ll pick a winner July 10th.”

“I can’t wait to see what you guys come up with. I’m sure we’ll see some amazing, some funny and some terrible versions. We’re looking forward to seeing them all. I can’t wait to do my own version too, hell I might even use the footage to make a new Chimaira video!”

CHIMAIRA recently wrapped up a support run on the Music As A Weapon tour with Disturbed, and are now looking ahead to a string of headlining dates leading up to the Decimation of the Nation tour this summer with Hatebreed. Full US tour dates are listed below.

Be sure to visit www.chimaira.com and www.myspace.com/chimaira for the latest CHIMAIRA news.


Chimaira Headlining
7/22 Columbus, OH- Newport Music Hall
7/23 Madison, WI- The Majestic Theatre
7/24 Toledo, OH- The Zodiac formerly Club Bijou (Toledo Metal Fest)
7/25 Louisville, KY- Headliner's Music Hall
7/26 Asheville, NC -The Orange Peel
7/27 Raleigh, NC- Lincoln Theatre
7/28 Lancaster, PA - Chameleon Club
7/29 Poughkeepsie, NY- The Chance

Chimaira w/ DECIMATION OF THE NATION Hatebreed, Wings of Plague, dying fetus, Toxic Holocaust
7/31 - ROCHESTER, NY - WATER STREET MUSIC HALL-
8/1 – FLINT, MI - MACHINE
8/2 - TRAVERSE CITY, MI - THE TERMINAL
8/3 - GREEN BAY, WI - RIVERSIDE BALLROOM
8/4 - SIOUX FALLS, SD - NUTTY’S NORTH
8/5 - DES MOINES, IA - PEOPLES COURT
8/6 - FT. WAYNE, IN - PIERE’S
8/7 – MOKENA, IL - THE PEARL ROOM
8/8 – SPRINGFIELD, MO - REMMINGTON’S DOWNTOWN
8/10 - FT COLLINS, CO - AGGIE THEATRE
8/11 - GRAND JUNCTION, CO - MESATHEATRE
8/13 – BOISE, ID - KNITTING FACTORY
8/14 – SPARKS, NV- NEW OASIS
8/15 – CHICO, CA - SENATOR THEATRE
8/16 - SANTA CRUZ, CA - CATALYST
8/17 – VENTURA, CA - MAJESTIC VENTURE THEATRE
8/18 – POMONA, CA - GLASSHOUSE
8/19 – TUCSON, AZ - RIALTO THEATRE
8/21 - OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DIAMOND BALLROOM
8/22 – AUSTIN, TX - EMO’S
8/23 - CORPUS CHRISTI, TX - CONCRETE ST AMPHITHEATRE
8/24 – LAFAYETTE, LA - GRANT ST DANCEHALL
8/25 - LITTLE ROCK, AR - THE VILLAGE
8/26 – JACKSON, MS - FIRE
8/27 – KNOXVILLE, TN - VALARIUM
8/28 - N MYRTLE BEACH, SC - HOUSE OF BLUES
8/29 – NORFOLK, VA - THE NORVA
8/30 – SAYREVILLE, NJ – STARLAND BALLROOM
9/1 – MILLVALE, PA - MR SMALLS THEATRE
9/2 – SCRANTON, PA - TINK’S