Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Cool Statue of Liberty facts

Here’s a trivia question for the 4th of July. Why is the Statue of Liberty green?

Give credit to the 31 tons of copper that make up the Statue of Liberty. Over the last 124 years, the copper has naturally oxidized, creating the patina which protects Lady Liberty from wind and wear.

If you visit the State of Liberty this year, check out her copper visage. Just like the Statue of Liberty, copper is a mighty metal that has stood the test of time – and continues to be a sustainable, recyclable material widely used today.

Copper Use in the Statue of Liberty
Some 80 tons of copper sheet, originally about a quarter-inch thick, were cut into 300 pieces and hand hammered. The hammering reduced the copper pieces to about 3/32nds of an inch thick -- the thickness of two pennies placed together.

The copper skin sections are attached to the armature, the secondary frame that conforms to the contour of the statue, by 1,500 U-shaped copper saddles, using 300,000 copper rivets.

The Statue of Liberty was the largest use of copper in a single structure at the time. And the most resilient. The Statue of Liberty was the largest use of copper in a single structure at the time. And the most resilient. When the Statue of Liberty underwent a renovation in 1986, the copper corrosion rate was only 5% -- after 100 years of battling the elements. Now that’s a testimony to copper’s sustainability over time.

And Lady Liberty’s figure?

Height: 305 feet, one inch from the ground to the tip of the flame (about the height of a 22-story building).

Width of hand: 16 feet, five inches.

Head: 17 feet, three inches.

Length of right arm: 42 feet.

Nose: 4 feet, six inches.

Mouth: 3 feet.

And yes, her bust is a perfect 36 – feet!

Sources: www.copper.org & www.nps.gov

About the Copper Development Association
The Copper Development Association is the market development, engineering and information services arm of the copper industry, chartered to enhance and expand markets for copper and its alloys in North America.

Learn more at our blog www.coppertalk.org.
Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/coppertalk

Avenged Sevenfold's new album available for pre-order

An exclusive digital edition of Avenged Sevenfold's upcoming album Nightmare will be available for pre-order beginning on Tuesday, June 29th, on the iTunes Store. The Southern California band's fifth studio album, produced by Mike Elizondo, is due from Warner Bros. Records on July 27th.

In addition to the full Nightmare digital album, this very special iTunes edition is jam-packed with features including a non album exclusive bonus track ("Lost It All"), 20 exclusive photos, the "Nightmare" music video plus its written treatment, behind the scenes footage from the video shoot, the "Nightmare" lyric video, an audio interview with album producer Mike Elizondo, type-set lyrics with hand-written notes for "Lost It All," and sketches of the album art concept.

Avenged Sevenfold are riding high on the success of Nightmare's first single and title track, which has enjoyed airplay at Active Rock, Mainstream, and Modern Rock radio stations across the country and was the No. 1 Rock Song on iTunes in the U.S. and the U.K. in its debut week. A lyric video of "Nightmare" that premiered via YouTube on the band's website received more than 275,000 plays in 24 hours and has since racked up more than two million views.

In August, Avenged Sevenfold will set out co-headlining the first annual Rockstar Energy Drink UPROAR Festival with Disturbed. Also on the bill are Stone Sour, Halestorm, and Hell Yeah. The UPROAR tour, which will hit amphitheatres and arenas, marks the band's first tour since the passing of beloved friend and drummer Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. Mike Portnoy from Dream Theatre plays drums on Nightmare and will also tour with the band for UPROAR. Please visit

Pre-order Nightmare here:
Nightmare (Deluxe Version)

www.avengedsevenfold.com

Boston Pops to release live recording of "The Dream Lives On"

On July 4, the Boston Pops will release a CD featuring the live recording of the world premiere performances of The Dream Lives On: A Portrait of the Kennedy Brothers, which took place at Symphony Hall May 18 & 19 with guest narrators Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Ed Harris, and Cherry Jones, and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, under the direction of Keith Lockhart.

The album includes a new recording of the Boston Pops signature, John Philip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever. The CD will be released on July 4th in connection with the Boston Pops 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, among the nation's largest and most historic Independence Day celebrations, and will be sold along the Charles River Esplanade, in addition to traditional CD outlets described below. The Dream Lives On will be performed during the July 4 concert with WBZ-TV’s Jack Williams and Lisa Hughes, and acclaimed local actors Will LeBow and Jeremiah Kissel.

The Dream Lives On, priced at $3.99, will be available for purchase by the general public on July 4 in various locations along the Charles River Esplanade and online at www.bostonpops.org/shop.

The CD will also be available for purchase at the Symphony Shop and on Amazon.com.

The CD of The Dream Lives On is now available for pre-sale at www.bostonpops.org/kennedy.

The album will also be available for download as a complete CD www.bostonpops.org/digital.

Music sold in HD stereo AIFF and WMA formatting will cost $3.49. Music sold in MP3 formatting will cost $2.99. The MP3 album will also be made available on iTunes, CDBaby, and Amazon.com.

BACKGROUND ON THE DREAM LIVES ON: A PORTRAIT OF THE KENNEDY BROTHERS
Celebrating the legacies of these three influential and inspiring Massachusetts native sons, The Dream Lives On—composed by Peter Boyer with Tony Award-winning lyricist Lynn Ahrens—was commissioned by Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops. The Dream Lives On pays tribute to the towering achievements and singular spirit epitomized by the Kennedy brothers—the call to public service, drive for social change, and the legacy of optimism for America’s future. The title of the work was taken from the closing lines of Ted Kennedy’s speech at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Commissioning of The Dream Lives On: A Portrait of the Kennedy Brothers was made possible by generous support provided by Paul and Catherine Braverman and Robert and Evelyn Doran.

Jordan McGraw signs with Organica Music Group

Adding to an already impressive roster of outstanding talent, Organica Music Group (OMG) has announced the signing of accomplished artist and composer Jordan McGraw. Joining as a primary songwriter to the label’s publishing division, McGraw will work with various artists writing and recording songs, as well as scoring films.

Passionate about his craft, Jordan has immediately contributed by co-writing a song to be featured on the upcoming album of breakthrough OMG artist Margo Rey—whose current single “Habit” is currently #1 on the Perfect Beats Dance Charts and continues to rise on the Billboard Charts. The song, whose name has yet to be released, was written together with Margo Rey and highly successful music producer and 5-time Grammy nominee, Michael Blakey.

About JORDAN McGRAW:
Jordan McGraw originally hails from Dallas, TX and began playing the piano in the first grade. At the age of 15, Jordan moved to Los Angeles with his family when his father, Dr. Phil McGraw began hosting a daytime talk show. It was at this time when Jordan fell in love with his current instrument of choice, the guitar.

In April of 2005, Jordan formed the band “The Upside” and was their lead guitarist and also sang vocals. Following their debut at the legendary ROXY in Hollywood, the quartet played several gigs throughout the Los Angeles area that summer and then the following year under the name of “72.”

Jordan McGraw currently serves as ambassador to Little Kids Rock Across America—an initiative designed to restore, revitalize and enhance musical programs in schools in 10 cities across the country. In this role, Jordan represents the program at various schools and events.

For more information on OMG:
http://www.organicamusicgroup.com

Lydia Burrell album released

Removador Recordings and Solutions, the record label co-founded by My Morning Jacket frontman Yim Yames and former MMJ guitarist Johnny Quaid, has just released Lydia Burrell, the debut effort from producer Alexander Smith under the moniker Lydia Burrell. The album is a juxtaposition of richly detailed electronic production and his earnest voice. Aside from recording and production assistance from Yames and another friend, Ben Mundane, the collection of songs is a DIY affair, entirely the product of Smith’s creation.

Smith has been writing and performing music since high school. His interests led him eventually to pursue a masters degree in music theory and composition from University of Louisville. Taking the name from a character in an abandoned screen play, Smith eventually chose “Lydia Burrell” as his musical persona when he began experimenting with electronic music. He has spent the last eight years building, tuning, and maintaining church pipe organs – an experience that has been an impact on his approach to music. “I think it’s helped me to understand and appreciate the craftsmanship and process of building things,” Smith explains.

Some of the album’s tracks, like “No One,” feature gloriously dirty, chunky basslines in the center while others, such as “That Light,” eschew head-nodding grooves in favor of complex, glitchy rhythms. “Ring” may be the album’s most pop-leaning moment, but the track still features the decidedly gritty drums and lo-fi synth sounds that define the rest of the album. That glue that holds each song together is Smith’s vocals, which are soothing despite carrying a trace of the sadness that informs many of the lyrics. Amidst a sea of synthetic textures, Smith’s themes of heartache and loss sound especially human.

Upcoming concerts around California

WEST HOLLYWOOD:
7/7- 36 CRAZYFISTS @ HOUSE OF BLUES-8430 SUNSET BLVD-323 848 5197-7:00PM D/7:30PM SH-$23 ADV/$26 D
36 CRAZYFISTS http://www.myspace.com/36crazyfists
ON TOUR W/ FEAR FACTORY, AFTER THE BURIAL, DIVINE HERESY
*NEW ALBUM COLLISIONS AND CASTAWAYS – JULY 27TH ON FERRET MUSIC


SAN BERNADINO:
7/10 - ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL @ SAN MANUEL AMPHITHEATRE **venue change**
LAMB OF GOD www.myspace.com/lambofgod
PLAYING THE *MAIN STAGE
* NEW ALBUM WRATH #2 BILLBOARD TOP 200 out NOW on Epic records
2010 'Best Metal Performance' GRAMMY Nominee
CHIMAIRA www.myspace.com/chimaira
PLAYING THE *JAGERMEISTER STAGE
*NEW ALBUM THE INFECTION OUT NOW on Ferret Records
Debut #30 on Billboard Top 200
SHADOWS FALL www.myspace.com/shadowsfall
PLAYING THE *JAGERMEISTER STAGE
*NEW ALBUM RETRIBUTION OUT NOW Released on their OWN label Everblack Industries
*DEBUT # 35 ON BILLBOARD TOP 200
3 INCHES OF BLOOD www.myspace.com/3iob
PLAYING THE *MAYHEM FESTIVAL STAGE
*HERE WAITS THY DOOM OUT NOW On Century Media
BIG JAY OAKERSON www.myspace.com/bigjayoakerson
Performing stand-up comedy, MCing, and interacting with the crowd!
*NEW ALBUM BIG JAY OAKERSON: AN AMERICAN STORYTELLER out NOW on Comedy Central Records (digi only)


ANAHEIM:
7/18-THIS OR THE APOCALYPSE @ CHAIN REACTION-1652 W. LINCOLN AVE-7146356067
THIS OR THE APOCALYPSE www.myspace.com/thisortheapocalypse
ON TOUR W/ FOR THE FALLEN DREAMS, LEGEND, I DECLARE WAR
*NEW ALBUM ‘HAUNT WHAT’S LEFT’ OUT JUNE 22ND ON GOOD FIGHT MUSIC


LOS ANGELES:
7/31 - THE COOL TOUR @ HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM -6215 W. SUNSET BLVD-2139627600-3:30PM D/4:30PM SH-$29.50 ADV/$32 D
*THE COOL TOUR – FEATURING AN AMAZING LINE UP!
~As I Lay Dying, Underoath, Between the Buried and Me, Blessthefall, The Acacia Strain, Architects, Cancer Bats & War of Ages~
* http://www.cooltour10.com/


LONG BEACH:
8/30 - TESTAMENT @ LONG BEACH ARENA-300 EAST OCEAN BLVD-(562)-436-3636-5:30 DOS/7:00 SHO
TESTAMENT www.myspace.com/testamentlegions.com
ON TOUR on the AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR
*REUNITING CLASH OF THE TITANS LINE UP *TESTAMENT*SLAYER*MEGADETH*
*TOUR EDITION OF THE FORMATION OF DAMNATION w/BONUS MATERIAL
AVAILABLE ON THE CURRENT TOUR & IN RETAILERS NOW

Testament adds to VIP packages

Bay Area thrash lords TESTAMENT are set to deliver the heaviest metal on AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR with Megadeth and Slayer, as all three bands hit the same stage for the first time in over 20 years on the historical AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR!

In celebration of this heralded event, TESTAMENT is offering an amazing chance to meet metal’s legendary thrash kings on tour before they head into the studio to record the follow up to their Golden God Album of the Year, Nuclear Blast release titles The Formation Of Damnation! Now, the Testament VIP package offers some great additions, including an exclusive TESTAMENT Affliction T-shirt!

The band is offering a limited number of VIP Packages for every United States date on the tour. Act now and make sure to take hold of this great opportunity to meet legendary TESTAMENT!

The exclusive AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR VIP package includes:
- One general admission ticket with early entry (where available)
- Exclusive Meet & Greet with the members of TESTAMENT
- Personal photograph with the band
- Autograph session (includes 8X10 photo)
- Exclusive TESTAMENT Affliction Shirt
- Collectible Tour Poster (limited, numbered)
- Exclusive TESTAMENT Music Skin
- Official VIP Meet and Greet Laminate
- Official set of TESTAMENT Guitar Picks

Front man Chuck Billy reflected on the VIP experience that TESTAMENT fans can expect this summer: “If there is one thing true about us, we love our fans so much that we want to hang out with them, give them special shit and then throw them INTO THE PIT! This tour is huge, with three of the greatest bands in metal reuniting on the same stage after 20 years. We want to make you a part of this special event. So hook yourself up with a TESTAMENT AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR VIP Packs.”

See below for all AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR dates, as well as more recently announced international dates:

CATCH TESTAMENT ON THE 2010 AMERICAN CARNAGE TOUR
7/23 Quebec City, QC @ Pavillon de la Jenuesse
7/24 Montreal, QC @ Heavy MTL @ Parc Jean Drapeau
7/26 Halifax, NS @ Metro Centre
7/27 Moncton, NB @ Moncton Coliseum
7/29 Toronto, ONT @ Molson Amphitheatre
7/30 London, ONT @ John Labatte Center
8/11 Albany, NY @ Glen Falls Civic Center
8/12 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center
8/14 Boston, MA @ Tsongas Center at UMASS Lowell
8/15 Camden, NJ @ Susquehanna Bank Center
8/16 Wallingford, CT @ Chevrolet Theater
8/18 Cleveland, OH @ Time Warner Cable Amphitheatre
8/19 Detroit, MI @ Joe Louis Arena
8/20 Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavilion
8/21 Minneapolis, MN @ Roy Wilkins Auditorium
8/23 Kansas City, @ Cap Fed Park @ Sandstone Arena
8/24 Denver, CO @ Magness Arena
8/25 Albuquerque, NM @ Tingley Coliseum
8/27 Phoenix, AZ @ Dodge Theatre
8/29 San Diego, CA @ Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre
8/30 Long Beach, CA @ Long Beach Arena
8/31 San Francisco, CA @ Cow Palace
9/1 Sacramento, CA @ Arco Arena
9/3 Seattle, WA @ Wamu Theatre
9/4 Portland, OR @ Washington County Fairgrounds

SEE TESTAMENT ON THEIR INTERNATIONAL TOUR DATES! EUROPE
7/2 Helsinki - Finland - Tuska Open Air Festival
7/4 Plezen - Czech Republic - Basin FireFest AUSTRALIA
8/6 Melbourne, AUS @ Billboard
8/7 Sydney, AUS @ The Manning Venue
8/8 Brisbane, AUS @ HiFi INDIA
10/30 Bangalore, INDIA @ Rock In India

TESTAMENT’S highly successful and award-winning album The Formation of Damnation was recently reissued in a deluxe tour edition in celebration of ‘Rust in Peace’ and AMERICAN CARNAGE. See below for information on the album!

The Formation of Damnation (Deluxe Tour Edition)2-disc deluxe tour edition of the band’s comeback album! Includes bonus footage of classic tracks + more:

Disc 1:
1. The Persecuted Won’t Forget
2. Killing Season
3. Afterlife
4. The Evil Has Landed
5. The Formation Of Damnation
6. Henchmen Ride
7. More Than Meets The Eye
8. Dangers Of The Faithless
9. False Evidence Appearing Real (F.E.A.R.)
10. Leave Me Forever

Disc 2
• The New Order *Audio and Video
• Practice What You Preach *Audio and Video
• Souls Of Black *Audio and Video*Recorded in Alcatraz for their MTV “52/52” special
• More Than Meets The Eye music video

For more info on TESTAMENT be sure to visit:
http://www.myspace.com/testamentlegions
http://www.testamentlegions.com

36 Crazyfist release single from upcoming album

Alaskan metallers 36 CRAZYFISTS are pleased to name their first single from their new Ferret Music release, Collisions and Castaways, poised for release on July 27th of this year. The track will be available for purchase digitally starting today, across all digital providers, including iTunes. Click the iTunes link to download the track!

‘Reviver’ has begun airing on Sirius XM Liquid Metal this week, and one listen is sure to bring back memories of 36 CRAZYFISTS tracks of the past, as well as turn the heads of new fans. Head over to the 36 CRAZYFISTS MySpace to listen to ‘Reviver’ now!

36 CRAZYFISTS is offering a pre-order of Collisions and Castaways, available here. The pre-order packages include your choice of an individual CD, a CD + exclusive pre-order shirt, or a CD + pre-order shirt and flag. All packages will include a signed booklet, only while supplies last.

Collisions and Castaways is a fierce, dark, crushing collection of eleven tracks that rip from the speaker like a runaway train. Arguably the band’s heaviest effort to date, it also happens to be a melodic affair and the kind of record 36 CRAZYFISTS and vocalist Brock Lindow have wanted to write ten years ago.

“If this was the end of the band, this record is exactly what I wanted our band to do at one time,” states Lindow. “Maybe a lot of people will think we’re just metalcore, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a heavy record with some big choruses and everything we’ve been about for a long time with a cool metal feel to it that I’ve been wanting.”

36 CRAZYFISTS will be touring for much of the rest of the year and hope to launch their first headlining tour during this upcoming record cycle. Fans will be able to witness 36 CRAZYFISTS in two weeks when they hit the road with FEAR FACTORY and more! See below for all current tour dates:

36 CRAZYFISTS:
w/ FEAR FACTORY, AFTER THE BURIAL
7/7-West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues
7/9- Portland, OR @ Roseland Theatre
7/10-Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven
7/11 Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
7/13-Calgary, AB @ Flames Central
7/14-Edmonton, AB @ The Starlite
7/15-Regina, SK @ Riddell Centre
7/16-Winnipeg, MB @ The Garrick
7/17-Maplewood, MN @ The Rock
7/19-Des Moines, IA @ People’s Court
7/20-Chicago, IL @ Metro
7/21-Detroit, MI @ Harpo’s Concert Theatre
7/23-Toronto, ON @ The Opera House
7/25-New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
7/26-Towson, MD@ Recher Theatre
7/27-Allentown, PA @ Crocodile Rock

w/ STRAIGHT LINE STITCH, DIRGE WITHIN
7/28-Albany, NY @ Bogies
7/30-Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection
7/31-Dayton, OH @ McGuffy’s House of Rock
8/1-Lake Station, IN @ Lake Station Eagles Club
8/3-Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
8/4-Salt Lake City, UT @ Club Vegas
8/6-Couer D’ Alene, ID @ The Grail Event Center
8/7-Olympia, WA @ The Vault



For more information on 36 CRAZYFISTS, please visit these sites:

http://www.ferretstyle.com/
http://www.myspace.com/36crazyfists

Ringo Starr, Ben Harper and Joan Osboure on "Live from the Artists Den" in July

The acclaimed, innovative music series Live from the Artists Den launches its second season with a once-in-a-lifetime performance by the legendary Ringo Starr, backed by folk-funk star Ben Harper and his band, Relentless7, plus special guest Joan Osborne at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Ringo Starr’s episode will air nationwide on public television beginning July 5, 2010—the same week Ringo celebrates his 70th birthday (7/7/40)

Live From The Artists Den airs nationally on public television stations including:
New York: WNET Fridays at 9:30 pm (beginning July 9)
New York: WLIW. Saturdays at 10pm (beginning July 10)
Los Angeles: KLCS Sundays at 10 pm (beginning July 11)
Chicago: WTTW Sundays at 12 am (beginning July 11)
Philadelphia: WHYY Thursdays at 10 pm also Saturdays at 11:30 pm (beginning July 8th) Philadelphia: WYBE Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8pm
Dallas: KERA Thursdays at 10pm (beginning July 8)
San Francisco: KCSM Fridays at 9:30 (beginning July 9)
San Jose: KTEH Thursdays at 11 pm (beginning July 8)
Boston:WGBX Saturdays at 11 pm (beginning July 10)
Atlanta: WGTV July 28th, David Gray at 7pm
Washington DC: WETA Sundays at 12 am (beginning July 11)
Houston: KUHT Saturdays at 8pm (beginning July 10th)
Check local listings for the rest of the country.

Filmed in high-definition, Season Two of Live from the Artists Den also features singer/songwriter David Gray, filmed in the Wall Street neighborhood at the Broad Street Ballroom; British R&B star Corinne Bailey Rae at lower Manhattan’s Japanese-themed Hiro Ballroom; southern rock legends The Black Crowes at The Lyric Theatre in Oxford, Mississippi; new-school country superstar Dierks Bentley surrounded by classic cars and neon signs at Chicago’s Ravenswood Billboard Factory; and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Booker T. and the Drive-By Truckers, with special guest Bettye LaVette, at the gloriously restored Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans.

The series is a co-production of Artists Den Entertainment and WLIW21 in association with WNET.ORG – one of America’s most prolific and respected public media providers. Live from the Artists Den is distributed by American Public Television and funded in part by Grey Goose Entertainment.

Upcoming concerts around California from Golden Voice

On Sale Thursday!

Ra Ra Riot
October 20th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $22 / on sale 7/1 @ 10am

The Pleasure Principal Tour (the record start to finish!)
Gary Numan
November 3rd & 4th / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $35 / on sale 7/1 @ 10am

Added Support

Joanna Newsom with Robin Pecknold
July 31st / The Orpheum / Doors: 8pm / $28 / on sale now

The Walkmen with Japandroids, Dan Mangan
September 15th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $22.50 / on sale now

The Canadian Tenors with Due Voci
October 8th / Club Nokia / Doors: 7pm / $25, $45 / on sale now

Four Tet with Jon Hopkins
October 15th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $20.50 / on sale now

Superchunk with Telekinesis
October 19th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $26 / on sale now

http://www.goldenvoice.com
http://www.myspace.com/goldenvoice

everyBoy to release album

At 17, everyBoy (aka Bruce Nathan) entered Brown University with the goal of learning Japanese before graduation. Four years later, he was fluent enough to find himself working in Japan, studying classical Japanese literature, haiku poetry, and Buddhism. He remembers the delicious irony of riding in the back of a stretch Mercedes with his mentor — an old Zen monk named Shin. Several wealthy laypeople who wanted to lunch with Shin provided the car. everyBoy loved how Shin-sensei relished the luxury, yet remained extremely humble to the experience. This is a lesson that has served everyBoy well and informs his debut album, The Last Lala’s.

everyBoy is a New York based songwriter crafting catchy folk-pop tunes not unlike George Harrison in style and certainly similar in message. Clearly a disciple of the Dylan school and follower of that Harrison way, everyBoy’s debut welcomes you on a spiritual journey addressing life, love and our place in the universe. In addition to attracting new fans to his sound -- everyBoy recently performed to a full house at the El Ray in Los Angeles as a featured act on the David Lynch Foundation’s tribute to Donovan -- everyBoy is also working with top notch talent in the studio.

The Last Lala’s wouldn’t have been possible without the gracious and generous input of guitarist Ben Peeler of The Wallflowers, bassist Tom Freund who has long played with Ben Harper, keyboardist Brian LeBarton who plays with Beck and drummer Adam Topal, an original member of Jack Johnson’s band. The tracks were mixed by Grammy Award-winner, John Holbrook who has worked with the likes of Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and Fountains of Wayne. Like his Shin-sensei, everyBoy is humbled by the support and his inspirations remain innocent. “My Uncle Richie used to change the lyrics of ‘Rocky Raccoon’ to ‘Brucie Raccoon,’” everyBoy recalls. “To a kid, that was magic.”


everyBoy
The Last Lala’s
Release Date: 7/27/10

Grinderman to release album in August

Heathen Child, the new single from the band Grinderman, will be released on August 31st. The premiere offering from their new studio album Grinderman 2, Heathen Child will be released through Anti- with the complete album following on September 14.

The song Heathen Child cuts a deep seductively heavy groove interjected with dazzling squalls of saw-tooth distortion. It abounds in lyrical imagery at turns lascivious, paranoid, philosophic, absurd and flat out abusive. The video, vividly directed by long-time collaborator John Hillcoat, brings the ominous sensuality and surreal malevolence of the lyrics to life; but it also demonstrates clear evidence of the fun and imagination Grinderman have working together.

Grinderman are Nick Cave, Warren Ellis, Martyn Casey and Jim Sclavunos. They have forged a distinctly different way of working together. Grinderman have cast off musical baggage, shrugged off accepted wisdom, and tested pre-conceptions about who they are as musicians. Grinderman is no hobby, no dalliance, and clearly no one-off: it is a crucible, an experimental workshop, a disciplined orgy of ideas and action. Grinderman is the one-of-a-kind band Nick, Warren, Martyn and Jim have waited all their life to be, and only now at this moment in time can have become.

Streetlight Manifesto at the Key Club July 12 and 13

Ska stalwarts STREETLIGHT MANIFESTO will be performing in West Hollywood at the Key Club on Monday July 12th & Tuesday July 13th... The Ship Of Fools Tour is their national headline tour featuring The Supervillains, The Wonder Years, Crime in Stereo, and Dan Potthast. Their new record 99 Songs of Revolution, Vol. 1 was released mid-March on Victory Records. It features renditions of songs by Paul Simon, NOFX, Bad Religion, The Dead Milkmen, The Postal Service, etc.

7/12 & 7/13
Key Club
9041 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310.274.5800
All Ages 6:30pm $17
Opening acts: The Wonder Years, Supervillians, Dan Potthast

Upcoming concerts around California from Live Nation

ON SALE AT HOUSE OF BLUES SUNSET STRIP

ON SALE NOW

The Kraneos, Forever Farewell, Rolling Radio, Discos Rotos, Sistema Siete - July 2

Rick Ortiz Presents: Latin Fusion with Santos de Los Angeles, The Latin All-Stars - July 3

Rick Ortiz Presents: Noches Rockeras - July 9

Can of Jam - July 10

Mighty Mighty Bosstones - August 19


ON SALE SATURDAY JULY 2 AT 10AM:

Guitar Center Presents: King Of the Blues Grand Finals feat: Derek Trucks Band, Honeyboy Edwards - September 2

ON SALE AT HOUSE OF BLUES ANAHEIM
ONSALE FRIDAY JULY 2 AT 10AM:

Led Zepagain - September 3

SongVote launches SongVote.com playlist and social tool

SongVote is proud to announce the launch of SongVote.com, a new collaborative playlist tool that gives users the ability to start theme-based playlists and invite their friends to participate. SongVote.com functions like an open election for the perfect music for an upcoming party, event, radio show, wedding, reunion or any other situation that calls for some crowd-sourced jams.

Creating a playlist and inviting your friends to collaborate is a very simple process; Simply choose a theme or event, start it off by picking a song (or leave it blank) and then invite friends to join with the ability to import contacts from Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo or share the link with them directly on their Facebook wall. Friends, fellow party-goers or wedding guests can then submit a song to the playlist and cast their vote on other users songs, affecting the rank and order of the songs within the playlist, thus creating the internet's first music democracy!

“SongVote connects people by reflecting the diversity and similarity of musical tastes of the group,” says SongVote Co-founder James Fontana "People can express their taste in music with votes, explore and affirm the votes of friends and strangers, and have some serious fun with the music they love"

SongVote can be utilized for any occasion that calls for music but can also just be a fun way to connect and collaborate with friends who share a love for music. Users can create a contest to see what music their friends are into this month, to get new ideas for any type of playlist, or to show off their indie knowledge and discover new bands and artists.

Uses for SongVote:

--Create a playlist like 'Roadtrip Songs'

--Invite friends to add their choices and vote on the others

--See the best songs rise to the top

-BBQ's/Weddings/Parties

-As a way to get music fans involved with your site/content by asking them to 'pick' the music for an upcoming event/radio show

-As a fun tool for friends to share new music and old music 'gems'

Jane Krakowski to release album

DRG RECORDS is proud to announce the solo album debut of JANE KRAKOWSKI, the Tony Award winning Broadway star of Nine and Damn Yankees and the Emmy Award nominated star of “30 Rock” and “Ally McBeal.” The Laziest Gal In Town is the delightfully sexy CD captured last fall during her nightclub debut at the Park Avenue hotspot Feinstein’s at Loews Regency. The disc will be in stores and online July 13, 2010.

The Laziest Gal In Town – named for the droll Cole Porter title cut – lets Jane shine in a charming variety of standards, show songs and rarities. She recreates her acclaimed theatrical triumph as the evil temptress “Lola” in Damn Yankees with “A Little Brains, A Little Talent.” A medley of two zippy Jazz Age ditties, “Wacky Dust” and “When I Get Low, I Get High” – first popularized by the young Ella Fitzgerald – playfully sends up drug culture. Her modernized version of “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is furnished with clever new lyrics from The Wedding Singer co-writer Chad Beguelin.

The bouncy mod-60s classic “Thirteen Men” pays homage to the sensual screen siren Ann-Margret. The highlight of the evening – the number that brings down the house every night – is “Tweet,” a reworking of Rodgers and Hart’s “Zip” from Pal Joey with new lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray, Catch Me If You Can). She ends the disc with an adult take on the “Sesame Street” favorite “Rubber Duckie,” in a way that only Jane could do.

All arrangements are by music director Michael Kosarin, who is joined by Jay Leonhart on bass; John Redsecker on drums; Kevin Kuhn on guitar and ukulele; and Lawrence Feldman on flute, clarinet and saxophone. The album, produced by Hugh Fordin, also features liner notes by author and Wall Street Journal music critic Will Friedwald.

JANE KRAKOWSKI stars as “Jenna Maroney” in NBC’s Emmy Award-winning “30 Rock,” a workplace comedy where the workplace exists behind-the-scenes of a live variety show. Krakowski, along with the “30 Rock” cast, won the 2008 Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. In 2009, she received an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy for her portrayal of Jenna.

The New Jersey-born beauty is an accomplished actress, dancer and singer with numerous awards and credits to her name from film, theatre and television. She won Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics awards for her stunning and sultry portrayal of “Carla” in Broadway’s Nine opposite Antonio Banderas, and won an Olivier Award while starring in Guys and Dolls with Ewan McGregor in London’s West End. She earned her first Tony nomination for her work in the production of Grand Hotel, and has also starred in Company, Once Upon A Mattress, Tartuffe and Starlight Express. Most recently, Krakowski starred in the Encores! revival of Damn Yankees opposite Sean Hayes.

During her five-year stint on the Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG award-winning series “Ally McBeal,” she received a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of “Elaine Vassal.” Other television credits include appearances on NBC’s “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Everwood.”

Making her film debut as “Cousin Vickie” in National Lampoon’s Vacation with Chevy Chase, Krakowski has also starred alongside Jude Law in Alfie, and in Pretty Persuasion with Evan Rachel Wood and James Woods. In addition to lending her voice to the animated film Open Season from Sony Pictures, she co-starred opposite Abigail Breslin in the family film Kit Kittredge: An American Girl, and in the NBC Christmas Special “Muppets: Letters to Santa.” She next appeared in the Universal feature, Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant, from director Paul Weitz.

In addition to singing on several original Broadway cast recordings and the “Ally McBeal” Christmas episode compilation CDs, Krakowski recorded the hit single track “You” with Jim Brickman on his album Lovesongs and Lullabies.

Wake Up Lucid coming to California

L.A.’s Wake Up Lucid delivers the “raunchy rock” Rolling Stone Magazine expected.

Trio of Cali dates announced. Debut EP out now; new single “Black Hair Woman” available here.


“Black Hair Women” is the new single from the Look Alive People EP by Wake Up Lucid
http://www.fanaticpromotion.com/projects/wakeuplucid/mp3/wakeuplucid-blackhairwoman.mp3


Wake Up Lucid
Look Alive People
(Self-Released)
Release Date: OUT NOW


More About Wake Up Lucid
L.A.’s Wake Up Lucid started as a vision of singer/guitarist Ryan Baca’s father who had passed. In the dream they wrote a song together, and the name of the song was “Wake Up Lucid.” Since that fateful night in 2008, Ryan and his two cousins Ian (bass) and Jamie Baca (drums) have quickly burned their name into the rock and roll conscience of Southern California with their old school brew of savage blues, heavy rhythm, and the kind of down home sincerity long lost to middle aged ponytails, how-to-play-guitar videos, and ten thousand dollar “vintage” guitar amps.

In the two years since Wake Up Lucid’s inception, the band has already seen two mentions in Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Smoking Section” and won Urban Outfitters’ “Your Band Here” contest -- two achievements made without a record label or a professional recording. Now, Wake Up Lucid has cut their first EP, Look Alive People, at the fabled Village Studios in West Los Angeles onto two-inch analog tape (what else?) The band continues to gig around the west coast while planning a national tour for the fall. Obviously, the future is definitely bright for this rock and roll family.

As Ryan Baca says, “Our dads were brothers. We grew up watching them play together, doing this just keeps up that family tradition.”


Wake Up Lucid Live
07/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Spaceland
07/09 Ventura, CA @ Billy O's
07/10 San Luis Obispo, CA @ Frog and Peach

JK/PK comedy and music show Friday in Hollywood

Hey Everyone,

Are you ready?

Its The JK/PK Show. This Friday, July 2, 8PM.Huge guestlist building up for this show. Please email your full name (+ up to 5) to this email address, pkguestlist@gmail.com to receive
Free admission to the special July 2 show. (Regular tickets are $20,VIP are $30)

Come watch the legendary duo, BART and JOE from JK FILMS(http://www.youtube.com/user/JustKiddingFilms - 100,000 subscribers and counting!)
and PK (Founder and Exec. Director of Kollaboration)

Host: ANDY HUR (Dehydrated Comedy)

Music: DJ Ignite, JACOB ALVAREZ DEL CASTILLO

This show will be taped.

First 10 people in line will receive a DVD from HBO worth $25!

First 100 people in line will get a Free Blacksheep Comedy shirt worth $15!

T-shirt giveaways during the show from Neoclassics, Timeless, and My Ninja.The line starts at 7pm and The Guestlist CLOSES AT 8:30pm To be safe, come before 8pm. Please check in at the door first before getting in line. Regular tickets are $20 (VIP $30) but if you're on the Guestlist, admissionis FREE.

For Directions and information about The World Famous Laugh Factory, go to: www.laughfactory.com
Address: 8001 Sunset (Corner of Sunset and Laurel. tip for those coming from the east: use Fountain or Franklin to get to Laurel when Sunset gets packed)
- Two Drink (or food item) min.-
Valet Parking is available for $7.

Get ready to LAUGH!
See you FRIDAY, 8pm!

Laughter is medicine,
JK Films and PK

The Okee Dokee Brothers to release new family album

End the Midsummer Doldrums! Get on Board with The Okee Dokee Brothers and
TAKE IT OUTSIDE
New Family Music Release from Twin Cities Duo Aims for Active Fun
Coming August 3rd!

Just when the dog days of summer arrive and the family needs a pick-me-up, The Okee Dokee Brothers will deliver their newest collection of energetic songs called Take It Outside. Featuring 13 original songs designed to get families on their feet and out of the house, Take It Outside offers enough witty wordplay, musical sophistication and food for thought to engage listeners of any age.

The Okee Dokee Brothers is the acclaimed Twin Cities duo of Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing, who won national notice for their first release, Kids with Beards (2008). Coolmompicks pointed to the “smart, funny lyrics that are equal parts hillbilly, seven-year-old boy and your favorite teacher,” The national Fids and Kamily poll of children’s music critics included Kids with Beards in its Best Kids and Family Music of 2008 selections. A School Library Journal reviewer said, “Hopefully they will continue to craft their musical magic and spread their message.”

Take It Outside does continue the magic, capturing one full day of childhood, from waking up for a little “Bluegrass for Breakfast” to hitting the hay at night with “Sweet Dreams.” Mailander and Lansing blend a little bit of country, quite a bit of bluegrass, and add in pop and funk influences for good measure. The crisp new sound for Take It Outside is helped along by Grammy award nominated producer Tor Hyams (known for creating Kidzapalooza and Austin Kiddie Limits, among other kindie music events).

Guest artist Adam Levy (Honeydogs and Bunnyclogs) performs the rocking lead electric guitar on the song “Hero.” Stefan Shepherd of Zooglobble.com contributed liner notes.

Take It Outside provides themes for thought, trending toward both the silly and the serious. Whether it’s the memorable bluegrassy “Wash Your Face” sing-along song, or the bare-naked folksiness of “The Naked Truth,” kids and parents will find a lot to sing and laugh along with.

Some songs are educational in the broadest sense, such as the introduction of the longest word in the English language (“Antidisestablishmentarianism”) or the fast-talking challenge of “Auctioneer.” Others offer important messages delivered without preachiness, as in the environmental theme of “What We Got” and the social acceptance of “Neighbors.” Some songs tell a little story (“Lucy and Tighty”) and others simply jump to zany flights of fancy (“The Extraterrestrials”).

“We think kids deserve quality music,” says Mailander. “We put a lot of heart and soul into this recording and all of our live performances. From start to finish, we want to encourage kids to get outside and have fun with their families.”

Lansing adds, “We believe that by going outside and enjoying nature, we are able to gain a greater understanding of the world around us. This can only lead to respect for our neighbors, cultures and earth.”

Indeed, lifelong friends Mailander and Lansing are outside and enjoying nature most days of the year, amid performing at libraries, schools, festivals and theaters. This summer, they returned to their home state of Colorado for several shows. On August 7th, they'll celebrate the CD release with a free concert in Minneapolis. They’ll also perform in 35 public libraries throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. In September, The Okee Dokee Brothers full band will perform at the Every Family Rocks Festival in Des Moines and at the Minnesota State Fair. They will be featured performers at Austin Kiddie Limits (a stage of the larger Austin City Limits festival) in October.

For a complete list of performances, visit www.okeedokee.org.

To view the duo performing songs from Take It Outside, visit their Youtube channel.

Antony & the Johnsons to release album and book

Antony and the Johnsons will release their new album, “Swanlights”, on October 12th in the US via Secretly Canadian. Abrams Image will simultaneously release a special edition of “Swanlights” which will include the CD inside a 144-page hard cover book containing Antony’s paintings, collages, photography and writing. The album only version of “Swanlights” on Secretly Canadian will also include the song “Flétta”, a duet with Björk. The album and book are a continuation of Antony’s work exploring his connection to the natural world.

While I Am a Bird Now is compelling in its vulnerability, and The Crying Light is a masterpiece of austerity, Swanlights may be Antony's most wide-rangingly emotional work to date. It is a record that is at moments heartbreakingly tender, and at other times has a joyful gleam to its teeth.

Unlike previous work, which was often quite sparsely voiced, on Swanlights the vines in the garden are overgrown and the sound palette has become more exotic; strange percussive elements, John Cale-esque string drones, heavily distorted guitars and symphonic winds and strings thread the song cycle together.

“Everything is New” opens the album with a newborn piano melody that quickly gathers in momentum and excitement. Strings and bursts of percussion carry the song forward in a feral cacophony of sound. Later on the album, the title track “Swanlights” finds us navigating a primordial and hallucinatory world of hazy guitar tones. The enigmatic layered melody of “Swanlights” emerges from a glistening soundscape.

A central image on the album, Antony explains what he means by the word “Swanlights”: ”It's the reflection of light on the surface of the water at night. It’s the moment when a spirit jumps out of a body and turns into a violet ghost.”

On “Thank You For Your Love”, Antony expresses a soul-infused sentiment of gratitude, but the song progresses into urgency, leaving behind the 4/4 rhythmic structure and breaking into an emotional gallop that reveals an underlying pathos.

The Swanlights book is a collection of thought-provoking paintings, drawings, collages, photography, and writings. Dreamlike and often bleakly environmental, Antony depicts a natural and spiritual world under siege. Much of the work aches with a forlorn romanticism. In some pieces, the artist draws together fragments of the past, the present and the future to create a ghostly sense of omniscience. One image features a portrait of the artist with his great grandmother’s face projected upon his own, creating a ricochet through time and genealogy.

Found images of natural landscapes are stained with scrawls of ink, indicating invisible presence and movement. Some pieces are more conceptual; in “Cut Away The Bad”, the artist removes corrupted elements in an attempt to restore balance. In pieces like “I Want To Help” Antony sews a torn landscape back together with a magical intent.

Music and visual art intersect in these two presentations of Swanlights to create an arresting vision of the world through the artist’s eyes.

Swanlights is the fourth Antony and the Johnsons album and the follow up to the critically acclaimed “The Crying Light” which entered the European Chart at #1 was included in year-end best of lists across the globe in 2009. Antony burst into the international spotlight with his second album, “I am a Bird Now”, which won the UK’s prestigious Mercury Music Prize.


Swanlights Track-List
1. Everything is New
2. The Great White Ocean
3. Ghos
4. I'm In Love
5. Violetta
6. Swanlights
7. The Spirit Was Gone
8. Thank You For Your Love
9. Flétta (with Björk)
10. Salt Silver Oxygen
11. Christina's Farm

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Photos sought for Doo Dah contest and exhibit

The Doo Dah Parade Invades Altadena

While the world renowned spectacle known as The Pasadena Doo Dah Parade took place on May 1st of this year…the party continues as we celebrate the photographers that creatively captured some amazing moments.

Event: The Doo Dah Parade Photo & Memorabilia Exhibit
Hosted by Queen Skittles & Queen Naughty Mickie

When: Saturday, July 17th – 6:00pm until Midnight

Where: Gallery at the End of the World
2475 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena CA 91001

Featuring: Entertainment, refreshments, photo contest and silent auction
to benefit the Light Bringer Project, a non-profit arts organization.

Admission: $5 – (Doo Dah attire is encouraged)


Guests to this festive event will be treated to a wall of Doo Dah photographs provided by professionals and amateurs alike, all vying for the top title award ‘Spirit of Doo Dah’.

Meanwhile, stroll through this eclectic gallery, discovering colorful parade items in every corner including the memorabilia center, featuring fascinating items such as royal dresses worn by several Queens during the various parades.

Amid all this excitement will be a Silent Auction with a bevy of gift basket items donated by locals to raise funds for Light Bringer Project, a non-profit community arts program that also produces the Doo Dah Parade and Pasadena Chalk Festival.

For more information on Gallery at the End of the World, please contact:
Ben McGinty, proprietor – 626-794-8779 or visit galleryattheendoftheworld.com

For more information on Light Bringer Project, please contact:
Patricia Hurley, managing director – 626-590-1134 or visit lightbringerproject.com

To enter the Doo Dah Parade photo contest, please contact:
Gary Barbuto, coordinator – e-mail: garyb@recycler.com

Note: Deadline for photo entries is Monday July 12, 2010.

Esotouric offers Bukowski tour July 24

Explore the Gritty Side of L.A. Literature With A Charles Bukowski Bus Tour

WHAT: Esotouric's "Haunts of A Dirty Old Man: Charles Bukowski's L.A." bus tour

WHEN: Saturday July 24, 12pm-4pm, departs from Philippe The Original, 1001 N Alameda, Downtown LA

COST: $58/person, includes coffee and donuts served at Bukowski's favorite Pink Elephant Liquor Store.

MORE INFO: visit http://www.esotouric.com or call 323-223-2767

RELATED TOURS: Esotouric's July literary series also includes RAYMOND CHANDLER'S L.A. on July 10. Discounted two-tour tickets ($30 off) available at http://www.esotouric.com/hankChandlerCombo

On July 24, Esotouric rolls out its popular and occasional Charles Bukowski bus tour, HAUNTS OF A DIRTY OLD MAN. The tour departs from Philippe The Original, the legendary downtown sandwich shop where postal worker Bukowski often ate while employed across the street at the brutal Terminal Annex sorting facility.

The tour is hosted by Richard Schave, one of the forces behind the recent successful campaign to have Bukowski's one-time bungalow on De Longpre Avenue in East Hollywood declared an historic-cultural monument.

HAUNTS OF A DIRTY OLD MAN spans Bukowski's personal city, from the Skid Row bars where he tuned his young writer's ear to the voices of old rummies to the once-genteel Crown Hill apartments where he fought with his first love Jane, favorite bars and liquor stores, "Barfly" locations to the downtown library, where he discovered his "God," novelist John Fante (recently honored with a Square in his name outside that library, a designation that was initially proposed to City Council by tour host Richard Schave).

German born, Charles Bukowski spent most of his life in L.A., working for the US Postal Service, as "Notes of a Dirty Old Man" columnist for the underground press and writing the screenplay for the autobiographical "Barfly." The city and its characters are everywhere in the work, so this tour celebrates the artist within his city with visits to places that were important to him and to his work. The tour includes a stop at Pink Elephant Liquor in East Hollywood for complementary coffee and donuts, though many riders also pick up a little something stronger for the road.

Esotouric has made its name with true crime bus tours (Black Dahlia, Pasadena Confidential) and explorations of literary LA (Raymond Chandler, John Fante, James M. Cain). Here they'll turn their creative attentions to Bukowski, the prolific poet, novelist and screenwriter whose rough-hewn tales of boozing, wild women and rotten jobs never obscure the deep vein of sweetness and hope that runs through all his work.

Upcoming Esotouric bus tour and special event schedule
Sat July 10 - Raymond Chandler's Los Angeles
Sat July 24 - Haunts of a Dirty Old Man: Charles Bukowski's L.A.
Sun July 25 - LAVA Sunday Salon (info at lavatransforms.org)
Sun Aug 1- Reyner Banham Loves LA: South Los Angeles
Sat Aug 7- Reyner Banham Loves LA: The New Chinatowns
Sat Aug 28 - Reyner Banham Loves LA: The Lowdown on Downtown
Sun Aug 29 - LAVA Sunday Salon (info at lavatransforms.org)
Sat Sept 11 - Hotel Horrors & Main Street Vice crime bus tour
Sat Sept 18 - Pasadena Confidential crime bus tour
Sat Sept 25 - The Real Black Dahlia crime bus tour

For more info on Esotouric, visit http://www.esotouric.com

Esotouric's Richard Schave and Kim Cooper are proud members of LAVA - The Los Angeles Visionaries Association. http://www.lavatransforms.org

Roots & blues concert in Long Beach Saturday

On Saturday, July 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., a slice of the Southland’s finest folksy, bluesy roots will show at the first Summer And Music (SAM) event of July—Roots & Blues—where three
legendary acts will break your heart and own your eardrums thrice over on an outdoor stage at the intersection of Pine Avenue and Broadway.

Americana Roots music—sometimes called Americana Folk, and used to describe everything from Bluegrass, to Appalachian folk, to moonshine jug bands—is a comingling of sounds that either originated or developed in the United States and served as the foundation for every kind of music from rock-n-roll to jazz. Roots music took the stage during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, when Americans were at their most raw, vulnerable moments.

Blues—if you’ve been living under a rock that doesn’t roll—are the ever-evolving sounds and stories of the deep south, originating at the tail end of the 19th century and typically following distinctive chord progressions that can walk a man gently through heartache and woman through childbirth. In short, it’s the only music in the world that will make you shake your head in sorrow and joy at the very same time.

Headlining this evening of Roots and Blues collision is James Harman, a self-defined full-service
Bluesman since 1962. Originally from Anniston, Ala., Harman grew up with the likes of his father’s Hohner harmonicas and at age 18 cut his first 45 RPM—a collection of singles that put him on the map, got the attention of the band Canned Heat, and eventually brought him to California. His own ensemble, The James Harman Band, has been graced by the likes of Phil Alvin and Bill Bateman, who went on to form The Blasters.

Harman tours ferociously – playing in as many as 23 different countries in a season, his original songs have been featured in 17 movies, and he has been nominated for 19 W. C. Handy awards. His harmonica chops have been tested by the likes of ZZ Top and over the years have appeared on many well-known labels such as Enigma, Rhino, Black Top, Continental, Cannonball, Pacific Blues and Gulfcoast Records.

Another living Blues legend, showman and wit, King Cotton will close out the night with his band Cold As Ice. Cotton—an original member of the 1980s Los Angeles Worldbeatnick band The Bonedaddy’s—has a commanding stage presence and character that warrant the title of King. He has even performed with theBlues God Bo Diddley. Cotton’s sound takes on a roots-country vibe that commands respect and provokes fat-sided laughter all at once.

Opening the night, The Dibs, a Long Beach-based folk rock-roots band stacked with seven talented songwriters and instrumentalists—including Chris Hanlin, Brett Bixby, Mark Romans, Mark Jones, Chris Paul Overall, Rae Enrico and JR Rittermal—will set the vibe. With music inspired by staples like Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Credence Clearwater Revival, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and Led Zeppelin, The Dibs are sure to kick off the night with some symphonic energy. The music may be Blues, but your face will be ruddy red from dancing.

Alternative transportation to the event is encouraged, with several public transit options offered by Long Beach Transit. Local cycling advocacy group Long Beach Cyclists will also be offering free bike valet parking throughout the evening. Before the show, or in between sets, be sure to drop by Pine Avenue’s array of fine dining establishments and causal eateries for some soulful supper.

After an enormously successful inaugural season in 2009, Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA) and the Long Beach Redevelopment Agency (RDA) are bringing SAM back for a solar-powered sequel.

Scheduled to run from June to August, the line-up for SAM 2010 is estimated to draw 34,000 people throughout the summer.

This year’s itinerary features 13 eclectic music events, including some favorites from last year, such as Funk Fest and BuskerFest. Concerts will span the genres of folk, jazz, pop, rock, funk and beyond, bringing together artists and art enthusiasts of all kinds. Classical Beats for example, will be an innovative August show bridging the gap between classical string arrangements and hip hop overdubs, set to the scene of public art displays.

Showcasing a renewed focus on environmental concerns, all concerts will be held on self-contained solar-powered stages. The DLBA and RDA, in conjunction with SAM founding members, are partnering with Sustainable Waves, a San Diego/Austin-based all-solar staging, lighting and sound company offering 100 percent pollution-free concerts.

To that end, SAM is a homegrown development on all fronts. It’s founded by two Long Beach residents with strong musical connections to the city: Justin Hectus, founder of Schooled In Song, and Rand Foster, owner of popular local record shop Fingerprints. SAM features an abundance of local and regional talent, including Long Beach musicians, photographers, graphic designers and media professionals. And, it generates enormous support from and revenue for local businesses and community organizations. In short, SAM is of the people and for the people.

For more information, visit www.summerandmusic.com or call (562) 436-4259.

Ronny North at Paladino's Friday


Ronny North will be playing a special solo performance at Fretboard Alchemy . The show will be at Paladinos in Tarzana. Fellow shredders Dallas Perkins and John Huldt will also be playing...It all kicks off at 11:30pm...

The String Cheese Incident concerts to be broadcast through iClips

Coming off of The String Cheese Incident’s huge return to the stage last summer at ROTHBURY, the band will play a handful of select dates in 2010: Colorado’s historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre on July 23rd, 24th and 25th, Horning’s Hideout, outside of Portland, Oregon on July 30th, 31st and August 1st, and Hampton Coliseum during Halloween weekend.

Tickets for Red Rocks and Horning’s Hideout sold out in just minutes, and Hampton Coliseum seats are moving quickly. But there is good news for SCI fans who can’t make it to the shows - iClips has teamed up with The String Cheese Incident to broadcast every show in 2010.

Broadcasts are available for $7.99 per show, or bundle your purchases: $15 for all three Red Rocks shows, $20 for 3 nights at Horning’s Hideout (including streaming of other acts on the bill), $10 for both Halloween shows. Also, choose a $45 all access pass for every show in 2010, $60 premium all access which includes every show and one show poster, or $100 premium all access which includes every show plus signed posters from each venue.

All options are available now at www.iclips.net.

Tickets for The String Cheese Incident’s Hulaween shows on October 29th and 30th are still available, please visit www.stringcheeseincident.com for ticketing information.

www.iclips.net
www.stringcheeseincident.com

American Ballet of Los Angeles to appear at Bastille Day Festival

On Sunday, July 11, 2010 the American Ballet of Los Angeles (ABLA) will make its official L.A. debut at this year’s Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival. As homage to the French holiday and to France’s major significance in the formation of classical ballet, ABLA will be performing flirtatious and fun dance vignettes set to the musical styling of Brigitte Bardot.

Headed by Artistic Director Eddy Hawks and Associate Director Kat Hawks, ABLA was founded in Spring 2010 as a company aimed at infusing classical ballet with touches of sexy, fun, and excitement while melding contemporary, raw and avant-garde beauty to the structured art form. ABLA is a composed of twelve professional dancers whose mission is to create synergy and collaboration through dance. These dancers have worked with such internationally recognized companies as the Hamburg Ballet, Lines Contemporary Ballet and Moscow Classical Ballet.

ABLA’s first offering came in May 2010, as Eddy Hawks re-imagined “Alice in Wonderland” into a twist and turn full-length ballet performed in Thousand Oaks, California.

“We are quite excited to welcome ABLA’s dancers to the ninth edition of the Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival,” comments Faz Brahimi, Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival’s Entertainment Producer. “ABLA will be premiering “A French Love Story,” with music by Brigitte Bardot and choreography by Eddy Hawks, “Lady Muse,” with music by Edith Piaf and choreography by Josie Walsh, formerly of the Zurich Ballet, and who knows maybe a special rendition of “The Can Can!” Faz adds.

A Passions Productions event, the Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival promotes the French heritage and culture, and celebrates the undying ties between French and American citizens. In France, Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille in 1789, marking the beginning of the French revolution. In Los Angeles, the event is one of the most attended community festivals and has been since its inception. The idea of great French food, music, art, dance, people, and the summer’s sun all together for one day to celebrate France’s Independence is a beautiful idea… and Angelenos agree, eight years and growing.

Besides the American Ballet of Los Angeles, live performers at Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival will include Destenee and her band ensemble "2Morrow" Destenee has opened for acts ranging from Stevie Wonder and Brian McKnight to The Chi-Lites and The Eagles. Also on stage throughout the day: Tahitian dancers Fetia Rangi, singer-tap dancer Ginger-Ann de Paris, R&B artist Tim James, alternative singer-songwriter Astrid Chevalier, Franco-American singer Xavier Nathan, young composer Yael and much more.

The 9th Annual Bastille Day Los Angeles Festival will be held Sunday, July 11, 2010 at the Elysian Park (Monticello Old Lodge – De Leo Politi), Los Angeles, California from Noon to 9 PM. The Event is FREE for kids. Adults: $5

To purchase tickets, please visit: www.bastilledaylosangeles.com

Best Buy Movie Mode free app launched

Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) today unveiled Best Buy Movie Mode, an exclusive first-of-its-kind mobile application designed to transform the way moviegoers engage and interact with the films they enjoy. Available as a free download, Best Buy Movie Mode comes to life via “The Minionator,” created as part of an exclusive collaboration with Universal Pictures and tied to the July 9 release of its must-see RealD 3-D CGI feature “Despicable Me produced by Chris Meledandri.”

“The Minionator” is Movie Mode’s first film enhancing experience and offers fans a deeper connection to “Despicable Me” by translating for audiences what the film’s mischievous little yellow characters, the Minions, are saying. The app acts as a translator during the 3-D theatrical end credits for the special language of the Minions. The app will also translate the Minion language throughout the entire movie on Best Buy’s exclusive “Despicable Me” DVD released later this year.

Best Buy Movie Mode uses new patent-pending technology to provide enhanced content to movie lovers during both the theatrical and DVD viewing experience. Additionally, it serves as a locator for both theaters showing “Despicable Me” in 3-D and Best Buy stores while also providing an interactive interface to unlock exclusive free digital content, courtesy of Best Buy.

A phone in Best Buy Movie Mode automatically dims the mobile screen, silences the ringer and discourages texting to ensure audiences have a positive movie-going experience. Beyond The Minionator, Movie Mode will offer users new movie enhancing experiences and exclusive content for future theatrical and DVD releases.

“Best Buy Movie Mode changes the way audiences connect with great entertainment, both inside a theater and at home,” said Chris Homeister, senior vice president and general manager of the home entertainment group at Best Buy. “The innovative technology, unique to Best Buy, provides us with an opportunity to evolve with customers into the growing digitally connected world. We are thrilled our first partnership is with Universal and ‘Despicable Me’ producer Chris Meledandri. The collaboration throughout this process has been a delight.”

“Throughout the planning for this film, we have been impressed with Best Buy’s vision and its desire to create an innovative experience for moviegoers,” said Stephanie Sperber, president Universal Partnerships & Licensing. “We can’t wait for fans to finally experience ‘The Minionator.’”

Added James Meredith, vice president of marketing for Cinemark Theatres, “Movie theaters and cell phones have never been friends—until now. Because Best Buy Movie Mode disables the ringer, discourages texting and dims the phone screen, all moviegoers can now enjoy a delightful theater experience free from cell phone distractions. Joining forces with Universal to bring ‘The Minionator’ to life, Best Buy is giving movie lovers a truly compelling reason to experience ‘Despicable Me’ in RealD 3-D on the big screen”

Leading up to the film’s debut, Best Buy’s Reward Zone Silver members will have an opportunity to attend one of several exclusive pre-screenings of “Despicable Me” in 20 markets across the country.

RZS members can also visit www.myrewardzone.com to enter for a chance to win tickets to the film’s world premiere in Los Angeles on June 27.

Best Buy Movie Mode is expected to be available on most mobile platforms this week including iPhone, Android, Blackberry and Windows Mobile. To learn more and to download The Minionator app, visit www.BestBuyMovieMode.com
or text MINION to 332211.

"Piano-K' offers self-teaching fun for kids

Piano-K is spreading the joy of music to thousands of children in extra-curricular activities, music centers, summer camps, special needs education offices, and many homes with preschool and kindergarten children.

Play the Self-Teaching Piano Game for Kids by Victoria Mandly is a groundbreaking, user-friendly game-book series which do not require any previous music skills for either parents or children, thanks to the colorful animal stickers that allow players to associate the notes on the keyboard with their place and names in the score without realizing that they are learning to read music: Ant, Bird, Cat, Dog, Frog, Elephant and Giraffe.

Over-sized (11 x 17 inches) pages help kids to follow the game effortlessly and from the very first moment they are able to play songs which they can recognize and sing along. Level 1 uses a set of stickers (seven notes) so the child gets a basic overview of the keyboard, sound and notes. In Level 2 another set of stickers broadens the keyboard area played. Level 3 adds a third set of stickers and several sounds are played at the same time with both hands.

The all time favorites to play and sing include 36 titles, such as Mary Had a Little Lamb, This Old Man, Pop! Goes the Weasel, Ode to Joy and many others.

Play the Self-Teaching Piano Game for Kids is available at School Specialty catalogs (Special Needs) and at www.amazon.com .

Play the Self-Teaching Piano Game for Kids Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 by Victoria Mandly; Nonfiction; Soft cover oversized; $19.95; Level 1 ISBN: 978-0-9823115-0-9,
Level 2 ISBN: 978-0-9823115-1-6, Level 3 ISBN: 978-0-9823115-2-3

Fat Man & Little Boy coming to the Echo July 11


Fat Man & Little Boy: the Atomic Duo,” is the latest project from Bad Livers founder Mark Rubin featuring the hot mandolin and plaintive vocals of young Silas Lowe. This release marks Rubin’s first foray into American folk music since the last Bad Livers CD almost a decade ago, and is the first recording he has made as a singer and guitarist.
Inspired by the great “Brother” vocal duets and string bands of the Depression era and formed on a dare, Rubin and Lowe have in a very short time risen to the vanguard of the emerging re-interest in acoustic roots Americana in their home of Austin Texas. Their debut CD was recorded live and without overdubs in the course of 3 hours on lovely spring afternoon, their new CD features instrumental rags and waltzes, breakdowns, blues and ballads marked by hot picking and tight vocal harmonies that harkens back to the rough and ready sounds of both urban and rural songsters.
It was a common interest, nay obsession with, pioneer Texas musical acts like the Dallas String Band, the East Texas Serenaders, western swing crooner Floyd Tillman and others that brought Rubin and Lowe together initially. Playing a guitar and mandolin, graciously provided by the National Resophonic Guitar Company, is when they are most comfortable; performing entirely acoustically, without microphones, much in the same way their musical forefathers found perfectly acceptable. A couple of tracks feature George Carver (who also produced) on harmonica. And unlike many acts today mining a similar vein, they strive to present their music devoid of hokey trappings of nostalgia, infusing the wise old parables of American Song with the intimacy and urgency of the modern era.
Relying on material whose content speaks to the ages, they include in their live sets numbers penned by contemporary songwriters, many of whom they known personally and have worked with such as Don Walser, Danny Barnes, Steve James and others.
Praise for the live show:
"Fat Man and Little Boy excelled at turning heartache into humor, with a vibe on par with White Ghost Shivers and the Gourds."- Michael Hoinski, Austin American Statesman
"Rubin’s musical choices have always been left-of-center, and are often as far out in left field as anyone in roots music goes, so it is somewhat surprising to find Rubin and musical cohort Silas Lowe dipping into rural string-band tunes like “Dallas Rag.” Fortunately, both guys can rip on whatever they decide to play – mandolin, fiddle, tuba, guitar, ukulele – and whatever their fingers don‘t slice and dice, their tongues do"-William Michael Smith, Houston Press.
Praise for the new CD:
"... a masterpiece..."-- John Aieli, KUT Radio
“(this recording) satisfyingly captures the energies and spontaneities of the music - there’s no false nostalgia here, just real music played in a real way, and played very, very well”--Ray Templeton, Mustrad.org
LA DATE:
The Grand Ole Echo
Sunday, July 11/ 7:30 pm/ Free/ All Ages
1822 Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park, CA 90026
(213) 413-8200

eHarmony and REO Speedwagon launch sweetheart contest

In celebration of eHarmony’s 10th anniversary and REO Speedwagon’s summer concert tour, the online relationship site and award-winning band have teamed up for the “Keep on Loving You” Video Contest that will run in select cities across the country during REO’s “Love on the Run” tour with Pat Benatar.

eHarmony success couples in multiple markets will have the exclusive chance to showcase their chemistry and compete for a chance to win an ultimate sweethearts’ VIP package to attend a “Love on the Run” tour date in their town with an experience that includes luxurious first-class dinner served by REO Speedwagon.

In a unique and exclusive partnership, REO Speedwagon and eHarmony have joined together to offer these success couples a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Beginning today, lucky couples who have connected through eHarmony can submit their best rendition of an REO Speedwagon song on YouTube where entries will be voted on by the general public.

The grand prize winner will be personally selected by REO Speedwagon from the three videos with the most votes in each market. The winning couple will receive a pair of tickets to the show and a romantic dinner for two served by the members of REO Speedwagon backstage, complete with VIP transportation.

“So many REO songs come from our exploring the mysteries of love, understanding and surviving the challenges of long term love and finding new ways to say ‘I Love You.’ I feel like our band has a lot in common with eHarmony, so partnering with them seems like a natural fit,” said lead singer Kevin Cronin. “I hear all the time from people who tell me they have fallen in love to our songs, walked down the aisle to our songs, gotten their first taste of love while an REO song was playing. The romantic dinner backstage is going to be so cool. Plus, our wives are going to love the idea of us waiting on someone else.”

Videos can be entered into the competition at http://www.youtube.com/eHarmony. Winners will be selected by REO Speedwagon in the participating markets based off of the votes exactly one week prior to the show in the market they are entered for. For full contest rules and regulations, please visit http://bit.ly/cj2XOf.

“Keep On Loving You” Video Contest Dates:

Date
Show
Location
Venue
Video Deadline

Sat. 7/10
St. Louis, MO
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Fri. 7/2

Sun. 7/11
Kansas City, MO
Starlight Theater
Sat. 7/3

Sun. 7/18
Chicago, IL
Charter One Pavilion
Sat. 7/10

Fri. 7/23
Las Vegas, NV
Thomas & Mack Center - UNLV
Thu. 7/15

Sat. 7/24
Phoenix, AZ
Dodge Theatre
Fri. 7/16

Sat. 7/31
Los Angeles, CA
The Greek Theatre
Fri. 7/23

Thu. 8/19
Cincinnati, OH
PNC Pavilion at Riverbend Music Center
Wed. 8/11

Fri. 8/20
Detroit, MI
DTE Energy Music Theatre
Thu. 8/12

Sat. 8/21
Cleveland, OH
Time Warner Cable Amphitheater at Tower City
Fri. 8/13

Sun. 8/22
Canandaigua, NY
Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Sat. 8/14


**Full “Love on the Run” tour schedule can be found at www.reospeedwagon.com

ABOUT THE “LOVE ON THE RUN” TOUR
Bringing the songs of two historic rock bands to stages all across America, REO Speedwagon and Pat Benatar will visit over 35 cities across the country for their co-headlining summer tour, “LOVE ON THE RUN,” kicking off on June 24th. Their music will take fans back to their early ‘80s explosion onto the Billboard charts, where both artists enjoyed #1 and Top 10 positions for the better part of the decade and will carry on through their career with music that continues to define their excellence in song craftsmanship and performance. Edwin McCain and Keaton Simons will each be joining these two legendary acts on various stops along the tour. All tickets are on-sale now.

“LOVE ON THE RUN” is dedicated to raising awareness about hunger among American school children by partnering with “Blessings in a Backpack,” a non-profit organization that provides weekend meals to school children in need. During their recent “Can’t Stop Rockin Tour,” REO Speedwagon and Styx raised over $300k for school kids, helped to open 20 schools and helped feed nearly 4k children a weekend for a full year as a result of their partnership with Blessings in a Backpack. Benatar and REO Speedwagon hope to add to these accomplishments and help more school children along this tour. For more information, please go to www.blessingsinabackpack.com.

California campgrounds still have spots for weekend

It’s not too late to book reservations for campgrounds, RV parks and resorts for July 4th weekend. Camp-California.com has compiled a listing of nearly 70 parks that have yet to fill up.

“There are privately owned campgrounds, RV parks and resorts all over the state that still have a few spots left for 4th of July weekend,” said Debbie Sipe, executive director of the California Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, which operates Camp-California.com.

As of Friday, in fact, there were close to 70 campgrounds, RV parks and resorts that still had sites and cabins available for the holiday weekend. For the most up to date listing, please visit www.Camp-California.com for the latest information and for online reservations. However, you may also want to call parks of interest to you directly for reservation inquiries.

Parks with vacancy as of Friday include:

n Central Coast
o Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground, Buellton
o Monterey Vacation Park, Aromas
o San Lorenzo County Park, King City
o San Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, Felton

n Central Valley
o Bakersfield Palms RV Resort, Bakersfield
o Bakersfield River Run RV Park, Bakersfield
o Kit Fox RV Park, Pattersono K
o-Ket Resort, Isleton
o Merced River RV Park, Delhi
o Midway RV Park, Vacaville
o The Parkway RV Resort, Orland
o Two Rivers RV Park, Manteca
o Vineyard RV Park, Vacavillen Deserts
o Desert Springs RV Park, Desert Hot Springs
o Desert View RV Resort, Needles
o Sam’s Family Spa Hot Water Resort, Desert Hot Springs
o Shadow Hills RV Resort, Indio
o Sunbeam Lake RV Resort, Indio
o Twentynine Palms Resort, 29 Palms
o Yucca Valley RV Park, Yucca Valley

n Gold Country
o 49er RV Ranch, Columbia
o Angels Camp RV and Camping Resort, Angels Camp
o Auburn Gold Country RV Park, Auburn
o Columa Resort, Columa
o Far Horizons 49er Village RV Resort, Plymouth
o Gold Strike Village, San Andreas
o High Sierra RV & Mobile Park, Oakhurst
o Lake Francis Resort, Dobbins
o Sierra Skies RV Park, Sierra City
o Sugar Pine RV Park, Twain Harte
o Sycamore Ranch RV Park and Campground, Browns Valley
o Yosemite Pines RV Resort, Groveland

n High Sierra
o Cisco Grove Campground & RV Park, Cisco Grove
o Clio’s Rivers Edge RV Park, Clio
o Coachland RV Park, Truckee
o Forest Park RV Spaces, Canyon Dam
o Meadowcliff RV Resort, Coleville
o United Trails RV Park, Truckee
o Wishon Village, Lake Wishon/Shaver Lake area

n Inland Empire
o Reflection Lake RV Park, San Jacinto

n Los Angeles Area
o Camp Williams Resort, Azusa
o Castaic Lake RV Park, Castaic
o Pyramid Lake RV Resort, Gorman

n North Coast
o Dutcher Creek RV Park and Campground, Cloverdale
o Edgewater Resort and RV Park, Kelseyville
o Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground, Klamath
o Klamath River RV Park, Klamath
o Sportsman’s RV Park, Fort Bragg
o The Redwoods RV Resort, Crescent City

n Orange County
o Anaheim Resort RV Park, Anaheim
o Newport Dunes Waterfront and RV Resort, Newport Beach

n Shasta Cascade Area
o Eagle Lake RV Park, Susanville
o Fawndale Oaks RV Park, Redding
o Green Acres RV Park, Redding
o Hat Creek Resort & RV Park, Old Station
o Lassen Pines RV Resort, McArthur
o Mariner’s Resort, Susanville
o McCloud Dance Country RV Resort, McCloud
o Mountain Gate RV Park, Redding
o Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, Lewiston
o Rancheria RV Park, Hat Creek
o Sacramento River RV Park, Redding

n San Diego Area
o Butterfield Ranch Resort, Julian
o Diamond Jack’s RV Ranch, Jamul
o Rancho Los Coches RV Park, Lakeside
o Sacred Rocks Reserve, Boulevard

n San Francisco
o Maple Leaf RV Park, Morgan Hill
o Tall Trees Mobile Home & RV Park, Vallejo

Bernie Pearl performances and workshops

Summer is here, and I'm looking at several exciting events I'll be doing in the coming weeks.

Coming right up is our return to the Arcadia Blues Club this coming Friday, July 2. Our first appearance at the ABC, last December in the midst of an incredible downpour, was very well attended - almost a full house. Next appearance, earlier this year in absolutely perfect May weather, we had no where near as many people. Go figure. So, if you possibly can, come on out to Arcadia (see details below) and have a ball with us and the Bobby Bluehouse Band.

You know, we guitarists are not known for great charity of thought regarding other pickers, but I must tell you that one of my very favorite players, Dave Melton, holds the guitar seat with Bluehouse's fine group, and I try to get there early just to enjoy his peerless technique and boundless imagination in playing the blues. I kid you not. See you Friday, I hope.

--------------------------
The Bernie Pearl Blues Band.Friday, July 2, the Arcadia Blues Club will rock to the music of blues guitarist Bernie Pearl and his band. Bernie has played with a virtual who's who of the Blues: Lightnin' Hopkins, Otis Rush, Freddie King, Big Mama Thornton, Big Joe Turner, Willie Dixon, B.B. King with Stevie Ray Vaughan, and numerous others. He has taken the roots of the blues as his own and has come up with an unique and appealing sound. His band, with top veterans Mike Barry, bass, Albert Trepagnier, Jr., drums, and Dwayne Smith, piano, has been together for over 25 years, and they know how to groove the blues.

The great Bobby Bluehouse Band Opens at 8:00. Bernie plays 10:15 -1:30

Pearl will offer his latest CD, "Old School Blues", on a "pay what you can " basis Tickets $10 at door, $5 in advance.

Doors open 7:30, over 21, dancing, menu

16 E. Huntington Dr.
Arcadia 91006.
(626) 447-9349
www.arcadiabluesclub.com
-----------------------------

Next is my return to Iva Lee's in an acoustic setting. Mike Barry and I will play Thursday, July 8 (and August 12 & September 9) 7:00-10:30 at our favorite Southern-style eatery and bar. Iva Lee's, 555 El Camino Real, San Clemente 92672. No cover, all ages. (949) 361-2855

My good friends at the L.A. Blues Society have invited me to lead a guitar workshop before their Sunday, July 11 jam at Zendejas Restaurant, San Dimas. The 11:30-1:30 "Hands-On Blues Guitar Workshop is free and open to players of all levels. While it is geared toward the amplified guitar, acoustic instruments are welcome. My objective is that each person attending the session learn at least one new idea and/or get an answer to a playing or performing question.

I'll discuss jamming etiquette and survival, soloing techniques and orientation, picking and strumming, and any other topic of interest. Guitarists are requested to be on time and in tune, and stay for the whole session. Recording the session is welcome, but emphasis is on playing and listening.

Open jam starts at 2:00. Start Time: Sunday, July 11 at 11:30am End Time: Sunday, July 11 at 1:30pm Where: Zendejas Restaurant, 665 W Arrow Highway, San Dimas, CA (909) 592-6762

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=133142503374616&mid=29329d2G56484f39G1dd1f66G7&n_m=berniepearl%40hotmail.com

Sunday, July 18 I'll be participating in the free annual Boulevard Music Summer Festival at Veteran's Park, Culver City. Staff and friends play music at the annual free picnic. Weather is usually glorious. Spread a blanket, bring a picnic basket, kick back and enjoy everything from Bluegrass to the Blues. Call for information (310) 398-2583.

On Friday and Saturday, August 27-28 Mike Barry and I will be performing and teaching at the 4th Annual Mendocino Acoustic Blues Workshop (concert Friday night, workshops Saturday) at the Mendocino Recreation Center. Fee is $100 for the weekend, $15 for the concert alone. Call (707) 895-3738, or e-mail rick@mendocinoguitars.com

Last item: October 8 Mike and I are going to the Delta area to play the Arkansas Blues & Heritage Festival (formerly King Biscuit), one of the premier events in the blues world. We will stay in the area to perform at various locations, including Huey's in Memphis, U. Mississippi, Oxford, Madidi Bar, Clarksdale, B.B. King Museum, Indianola (and others TBA), and we'll wrap up the tour with a guitar workshop and performance at the Bukka White Festival in Aberdeen, MS on October 16.

Bukka was considered among the last of the classic Delta Bluesmen who, after his re-discovery in Memphis in the early 1960's, began performing nationally. Naturally, one of his first, and most frequent stops, was at the Ash Grove here in L.A. where he became a friend and mentor. I am deeply honored to play in his home town and in his memory.

PetSmart Charities and the ASPCA reach out to Humane Alliance

PetSmart Charities® and the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) have announced that they each will pledge $2.6 million to Humane Alliance in 2011 as part of a five-year commitment totaling $5.2 million to increase affordable spay/neuter services across the United States and prevent the births of millions of pets for whom there are no homes.

This funding will help 80 low-cost, high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics to open across the U.S. Combined with the nearly 70 Humane Alliance clinic already open, the clinics will provide up to 800,000 sustainable spay/neuter surgical slots, preventing an estimated 11 million births through 2013.

“PetSmart Charities is committed to this partnership with Humane Alliance because we know that the Humane Alliance model for effective, affordable spay/neuter services works,” said Susana Della Maddalena, executive director of PetSmart Charities, Inc. “Preventing the birth of millions of puppies and kittens who are unwanted or don’t have homes is key to ending the tragedy of euthanasia, a problem that is greatly underestimated in the United States. We want to help send a clear message that spaying and neutering pets saves lives, and also ensure that affordable services are available.”

“Humane Alliance is the gold standard when it comes to successful high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter,” said Julie Morris, senior vice president of Community Outreach for the ASPCA. “Replicating their model program in cities across the country will help us to make real, measurable progress in the fight against pet homelessness and overpopulation.”

The $5.2 million in funding will be distributed during the next five years to help create thousands of sustainable spay/neuter surgical slots through capacity-building grants and training programs for veterinarians and clinic staff. PetSmart Charities and the ASPCA recognize that adoption alone will not solve the problem of homeless-pet overpopulation.

In the U.S. annually, an estimated 4 million pets are euthanized simply because they don’t have homes. Last year, PetSmart Charities provided more than $8.2 million for spay/neuter efforts nationwide and remains committed to expanding such services for years to come.

In addition to its support of the Humane Alliance, PetSmart Charities has provided more than $5.9 million in grant funding in support of 92 projects to start or expand spay/neuter clinics. Last year, the ASPCA provided more than $4.9 million to support community efforts to reduce the numbers of animals at risk around the country.

The ASPCA has a deep commitment to Humane Alliance, and the Asheville community in North Carolina, where Humane Alliance is based. Asheville is one of 10 ASPCA Partnership Communities and Humane Alliance has been instrumental in piloting ASPCA programs related to feral cats and effective spay/neuter mapping mechanisms which will benefit the county.

“PetSmart Charities and the ASPCA have been instrumental to the success of Humane Alliance,” said Humane Alliance Executive Director Quita Mazzina. “Our continued partnership means that we can continue to provide the spay/neuter services that pets desperately need, as well as the high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter technique training for the veterinary community so that even more pets are sterilized every year.”

Humane Alliance seeks to mentor organizations to open and operate strategically placed low-cost, high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinics across the nation. Humane Alliance operates a National Spay/Neuter Response Team (NSNRT), which has already trained 79 organizations to replicate this model.

About PetSmart Charities®
Established in 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animal welfare issues and promote healthy relationships between people and pets. The largest funder of animal-welfare efforts in North America, PetSmart Charities has provided $110 million in grants and programs benefiting animal-welfare organizations and, through its in-store adoption program, helped save the lives of more than 4 million pets. To learn more about how PetSmart Charities is working toward its Vision of a lifelong, loving home for every pet, visit petsmartcharities.org or call 1-800-423-PETS.

About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. One million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org.

About Humane Alliance
Humane Alliance of WNC, Inc. began as a small spay/neuter clinic in Asheville, North Carolina in 1994. To date, April 2009, we have surgically sterilized more than 195,000 companion animals in Western North Carolina. We know that spaying and neutering is a key component in the fight against pet overpopulation. Sterilizing cats and dogs means fewer animals will crowd the shelter system and fewer animals will be euthanized. Reducing strain on the shelter system also allows shelters to devote more resources to each animal - increasing each animal's chance for a positive outcome.

Tapulous releases Nickelback Revenge app

Tapulous, the leading developer of music games for the iPhone and iPod touch, is extending its wildly popular Tap Tap Revenge franchise with the launch of Nickelback Revenge. The new game features eleven of Nickelback’s most popular all-time songs, including “Rockstar,” “This Afternoon,” and “If Today Was Your Last Day.”

A premium version of Tapulous’ addictive music rhythm game, Nickelback Revenge sets gameplay to the band’s biggest hits and integrates engaging Nickelback graphics and content. The game also includes a popular Bluetooth-based “battle mode” which allows players to wirelessly challenge friends to point-by-point battles for bragging rights.

"The combination of our music and Tapulous’ gameplay is very cool. We're excited to give our fans a fun, interactive way to experience our music," said Chad Kroeger of Nickelback.

To kick off the launch, Tapulous and Roadrunner Records, Nickelback’s worldwide music label, are running a special promotion: The first 2,500 consumers to download the game will receive 25 in-game credits—good towards the purchase of more music—and a chance to win a Gibson Flying V signed by the band.

In addition, players will be challenged to “Outplay Nickelback,” or beat the band members’ highest in-game scores. Players who best Chad, lead guitarist Ryan Peake, bass guitarist Mike Kroeger and/or drummer Daniel Adair will be entered to win weekly prizes, including Dark Horse tour books and premium earphones.

"We’re thrilled to bring Nickelback to Tap Tap Revenge. Our players are always hungry for more great music, and Nickelback definitely fits the bill,” explained Tim O'Brien, VP of business development at Tapulous. "Whether measured by album sales, song downloads or concert attendance, Nickelback is huge.”
Nickelback Revenge features the following eleven hits:
"Animals"
"Animals" (Live)
"Burn It to the Ground"
"Gotta Be Somebody"
"How You Remind Me"
"Figured You Out"
"If Today Was Your Last Day"
"Photograph"
"Rockstar"
"Something In Your Mouth"
"This Afternoon"

Nickelback Revenge is available for $4.99 on the App Store or at http://bit.ly/NickelbackRevenge