Mickie's Zoo

Support local music at Mr. T's Bowl in Highland Park

2012-01-31T11:31:00.001-08:00

Thursday, Feb. 9

"56" - Bands and DJ's that Rock

Friday, Feb. 10

Below The Surface Productions Presents DJ's and Bands
www.Facebook.com/818oz

Saturday, Feb. 11

9pm - The Vim Dicta
www.facebook.com/thevimdicta?sk=app_178091127385
10pm - Craters
http://soundcloud.com/cratersband
11pm - Captions
www.myspace.com/youlikecaptions
12am - Twin Owl
http://soundcloud.com/twinowlmusic
1am - The Orange Rev
www.facebook.com/theorangerev?ref=ts&sk=app_204974879526524

Mr. T's Bowl

www.mrtsevents.com

http://mrtsbowl.tripod.com

http://prem.calendars.net/mrtsbowl - CALENDAR

Upcoming concerts from Nederlander week of Jan. 31

2012-01-31T11:30:00.001-08:00

Below are the on-sales for Nederlander Concerts this week. For a complete schedule please visit www.nederlanderconcerts.com.

City National Grove of Anaheim

The Fenians

ON SALE Fri., Feb. 3 @ Noon

SHOW DATE Sat., March 17 @ 8:00 PM

TICKET PRICES: $25.00 / $22.50

Avalanche Tour featuring Shinedown

Plus special guests Adelitas Way / New Medicine

ON SALE Fri., Feb. 3 @ Noon

SHOW DATE March 27 @ 7:00 PM

TICKET PRICES: $29.50 / $32.50 (day-of-show)

Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band

ON SALE Fri., Feb. 3 @ 10:00 AM

SHOW DATE April 26 @ 7:30 PM

TICKET PRICES: $100.00 / $67.00

Amezaiku at AM2's anime con June 15-17 in Anaheim

2012-01-31T11:18:00.000-08:00

AM2 ANNOUNCES MORE FUN FOR ATTENDEES WITH ITS MATSURI SUMMER FEST 2012

The Rodin of Lollipop Returns and Brings the Ancient Candy Making Art of Amezaiku to this Summer's Most Anticipated Anime, Music and Manga Convention in Southern California, June 15-17, 2012 in Anaheim, California! Get your Passports Today and Experience the Difference!

The ancient folk art of candy sculpting, Amezaiku ("sweet candy craft"), is one of the most beautiful art forms that involves delectable edibles in which only a few master performers
exist in the world. One of these masters is Shan Ichiyanagi aka the Rodin of Lollipop will be attending this summer's most anticipated animation, music and manga events, AM2, Summer Festival to the delight of attendees. More info can be found at www.am2con.org

With a large palette of boiling corn syrup and a variety of precision tools,
Shan utilizes highly choreographed gestures and flourishes as he dips,
molds, pinches and pulls at the jewel-toned "goo" while it cools and hardens
into astonishingly intricate sculptures of fantastic animals and objects
that are worthy of almost any mantel. While he has sculpted well over 100
different objects, Shan can sculpt any object his audience can think of. A
unique and appealing candy sculpture can be magically made in less than 5
minutes as you watch with fascination!

"Fans are in for a real treat," states Chase Wang AM2 representative,
"Shan is an amazing artist that will create some of the most beautiful
pieces of edible art. Come check out one of the few remaining masters of
candy art. Get your Passports today and experience the difference!"

Attendees can avoid the anticipated huge lines at autographs, premiere
screenings, workshops, main events, concerts and panels by purchasing a
Passport fast pass for the event. The Passport fast pass will also provide
holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as
well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!

AM2 current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV's, Arcade, Summer Festival,
Behind the Voice Actors Studio, Masquerade, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table
Top, Console Gaming, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more!

Follow us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AM2Con

Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/AM2Con

About AM2
Located in Anaheim, California AM2, established in 2010, is a multi-day (3
days) 24 hour event with no general attendance/badge purchase requirement
and is aspiring to be a key meeting place for fans that share a common
interest in Asian music, Animation/Anime, and Comics/Manga. Nominal fees
are charged for certain activities that attendees choose to participate in.
AM2 will be held on June 15-17, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention Center in
sunny Anaheim, California. More information can be found at www.am2con.org

Mrs. Nelson's launches Young Writers Contest

2012-01-31T11:15:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Nelson's in La Verne will be holding our annual Young Writers Contest February 1 to March 15. The first place winner of each age group receives a $50.00 gift certificate to the store!

We also have some events coming soon:

02/09- Valentine Storytime and Craft. 4:00. $15.00 lets you plant your own "pot of love" and a valentine gift from us!

02/21- Katherine Applegate here at the store at 5:00. She has written, The One and Only Ivan. Katherine, along with her husband Michael Grant, are known for the popular Animorph series.

02/24- Marissa Meyer will be here at the store at 5;00. She has written a wonderful Young Adult book called Cinder. A new twist on the Cinderella tale!

Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop

(909) 599-4558

www.mrsnelsons.com

Wearable Art Connection event Feb. 18 in Claremont

2012-01-31T11:11:00.000-08:00

THE WEARABLE ART CONNECTION OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIAwww.wearableartconnection.org

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

PresentsART TO WEAR FOR ALL OCCASIONS - NICK COMANSATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2012

WAC all day program meetings are quarterly: free to members, $10 non-members,
$5 students. The meetings are on the 3rd Saturday of February, May, August and November.

See the website for complete program info: www.wearableartconnection.org

THIS MONTH: SATURDAY FEB. 18, 2012
VENDOR MARKET 9:00-10:00 a.m.
BUSINESS & REPORTS 10:00 10:30 a.m.
SPEAKER PRESENTATION 10:30 Noon
LUNCH Noon 1:00 p.m.
AFTERNOON PROGRAM 1:00 4:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Alexander Hughes Center, in the Padua Room, 1700 Danbury Road, Claremont, CA 91711, (909) 399-5490. Directions: From the 210 freeway exit at N. Towne Ave and go south (away from the mountains). Turn left at the first light onto Scripps Drive. Right onto Danbury Rd. The center is on your left about 100 yards from the corner. From the 10 Freeway exit at N. Towne Ave and go north (towards the mountains). Turn right onto Syracuse Drive then left onto Danbury Road. The center is at the northern side of the park on your right. Parking is free.

MORNING PROGRAM 10:30 - NOON: ART TO WEAR FOR ALL OCCASIONS - NICK COMAN
What is "Art to Wear" and is it appropriate for all occasions? Absolutely! This lecture centers around the current "Art to Wear" scene, and through lecture, slide and actual garments, we will discuss the do's and don'ts of ATW in social situations, and how things have changed over the years with the steady rise of "disposable clothing". Nick is a FIDM graduate.

AFTERNOON PROGRAM DIANE RICKS STUDENTS FASHION SHOW
Diane Ricks Student Fashion Show: This is a not-to-be-missed event. Come and invest your time ohhing and ahhing at the marvelous wearables the students have concocted after Diane inspires them to even greater powers of creation. Diane Ricks is a popular and creative teacher filled with a repertoire of skills teaching silk screening, dye and paint methods, and variety of sewing techniques. Her students will present their works of art in this free style fashion show. Feast your eyes on the vibrant colors and varied textures of the luxurious garments.

THIS MONTHS WORKSHOP: FEB. 19 & 20 (2 DAY)
NICK COMAN ART TO WEAR FROM THE BOTTOM UP
How many of us make amazing tops, vests, tunics, jackets and just to slap on a pair of jeans or black pants because that's all we have? Wouldn't it be nice to actually have an entire outfit, something that looks and feels cohesive? In this two-day workshop, you will have the opportunity to produce a custom pattern for a pair of pants that fit. Then we will take that pattern and alter it into a number of different styles, with details that will reflect back on you as an artist. We will talk about and actually create patterns for "Bifurcated Garments" that take your unique sense of style from your head all the way to your ankles (shoes are not included but they will be discussed!)

WORKSHOP LOCATION: Pasadena
COST PER DAY: $60 for members, $70 for non-members

Workshop Contact: Leslie Strollo: leeandleslie@verizon.net

*****See WAC website for supply list - www.wearableartconnection.org *******

1. COMING EVENTS: 2012

Speaker List:

Feb NICK COMAN - ART TO WEAR FOR ALL OCCASIONS

May LINDA SCHMIDT FLAMBOYANCY RISING FASHION SHOW

2. WAC ANNUAL CHALLENGE - TBA

3. WAC-NEWS SUBMISSION GUIDELINES -

WAC has a 24 page newsletter that is published quarterly: February, May, August & November.
Email deadline is the 14th of the month before publication.
WAC NEWSLETTER EDITOR: Sarah Jackson - jackson.sb295@yahoo.com
Check the WAC website for exhibitions, contest, events, etc. www.wearableartconnection.org

We are happy to list your events in our calendar. Please indicate WAC NEWS as the subject heading and indicate the topic area: Book/Magazine Reviews, Calendar, Workshops, Exhibitions, Shows, Tours, Opportunities, Competitions, etc.

4. ABOUT WAC

WAC PROGRAMS ARE QUARTERLY:

3rd SATURDAY IN FEBRUARY, MAY, AUGUST, NOVEMBER

Locations vary with each meeting. Meeting Cost: non-members - $10, students $5, free to members. Membership - $40 annually, $20 newsletter only.

Contact Membership Chair: Diane Ricks: bobbydi@charter.net

Adrian Smith & Mikee Goodman release album

2012-01-31T11:07:00.000-08:00

Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith & former SikTh front-man Mikee Goodman have joined forces for a brand new studio project PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION, and their debut album, ‘Awoken Broken’,

will be released in the U.S.A. on April 17, 2012 through Spinefarm Records…

VERY OFTEN, musicians – especially established ones – like to remain within their musical comfort zone, preferring to walk the tried an’ tested path rather than breaking out in search of pastures new. Primal Rock Rebellion don’t fit that bill.

The brainchild of Adrian Smith and Mikee Goodman, UK musicians with different stories to tell, this is a fresh new project that manages to be both reassuring and unexpected at one and the same time…

On the one side, there’s Adrian, a key member of the Iron Maiden set-up, a band he first joined back in 1980; and since that time, Maiden has gone on to become one of the biggest hard rock bands the world has seen, playing to vast and staunchly committed crowds all over the world, opening exciting new doors in parts of the globe many people will never even have heard of! Their last studio album, ‘The Final Frontier’, hit the No 1 slot in over 28 countries!

With Maiden’s reputation having been forged through their ability to blend well-crafted vocal & guitar melodies with the sheer brute force of prime heavy metal, it will surely come as no surprise that the debut Primal Rock Rebellion album, Awoken Broken, delivers fully on both fronts, but with an extra nod to the underground, the alternative and the downright edgy – an aspect of the music that is enhanced from start to finish by the presence of one-time SikTh frontman / lyric-writer / spoken word maestro, Mikee Goodman.

With SikTh now universally lauded as one of the major inspirations of the new Djen movement, it’s perfect timing for Mikee to return to the music scene in full force, following that band’s decision to take

a break after their second Death Of A Dead Day album back in 2006; Mikee’s unique vocal approach – an arresting, signature blend of spoken word plus a wide variety of vocal tones (some dark and disturbing, others that owe a debt to the world of animation) was very much a part of what made SikTh stand out from the chasing pack, and fans will be delighted to know that his key vocal mannerisms have been both retained and honed for Primal Rock Rebellion, in a form tightly bound to the structure of the songs themselves.

Yes, there are spoken word elements, and yes, there are more extreme vocal moments peppered throughout the tracks, but generally speaking, this is a more mature and experienced Mikee, showcasing a strong, melodic voice plus an impressive vocal range, using the more ‘adventurous’ end of his repertoire as a way of providing contrast and effect.

In essence, Primal Rock Rebellion is the meeting of different minds, different mentalities and different musical backgrounds, but the end result is very much a cohesive, self-produced whole… albeit one that reflects the individual talents of the musicians involved: Adrian provides the guitars, the bass and the advanced song-writing skills – the sense of drama, of light and shade, of music designed to stir the senses, all of them.

Right from the start, it’s been very much a labor of love…

Adrian: “It was great working at my own pace and in my own studio with no time constraints. I think during the making of this album I went around the world twice with Maiden, working on the project in between. In the process, it allowed for a bit more of an experimental approach.”

Meanwhile, Mikee goes head to head with this renowned player as a full writing & production partner, adding new (sometimes surprising, often experimental) layers to the tracks, and ensuring that the music glistens with an inherent contemporary sheen.

Mikee: "Adrian inspired me in many ways. I learnt the importance and the power of choruses in songs. Adrian also gave me a lot more belief in myself melodically. I think we pulled each other out of our comfort zones, creating something fresh and exciting along the way. We co-produced the album together, and the whole recording process was very relaxed – no deadlines, just honing the songs naturally as we recorded them, a new experience for both of us.”

IN ADDITION to the Primal Rock Rebellion pair, there are backing vocals on three of the tracks (delivered by Tarin Kerry, discovered by Mikee while he was acting as producer for a band she was in), viola on the bulk of the songs (provided by Abi Fry of Bat For Lashes), plus original SikTh member Dan ‘Loord’ Foord on drums.

Awoken Broken was produced by Adrian and Mikee, and mixed by Simon Hanhart, whose previous credits include everyone from Tin Machine to Saxon. The album features 12 tracks top to tail, and it will be available in digi-pak CD and digital download. The track-listing runs as follows:-

1. No Friendly Neighbour 4.53

2. No Place Like Home 3.06

3. I See Lights 4.59

4. Bright As A Fire 6.21

5. Savage World 3.38

6. Tortured Tone 5.08

7. White Sheet Robes 5.16

8. As Tears Come Falling From The Sky 0.47

9. Awoken Broken 4.58

10. Search For Bliss 4.13

11. Snake Ladders 4.43

12. Mirror and the Moon 5.04

Those who like their music with power, passion and the occasional twist ‘n’ turn will certainly be in for a double-headed treat! You can hear and download for free the album track ‘I See Lights’ by simply going to www.primalrockrebellion.com. Keep checking the website for further announcements coming soon about this exciting new collaboration.

Kevin Wall to partner with Tadasana Fest April 20-22 in Santa Monica

2012-01-31T11:06:00.000-08:00

Kevin Wall, producer of the most watched concerts in history—including the opening concert for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Live Earth: the Concerts for a Climate in Crisis and Live 8—is now partnering with the Tadasana Festival. The first person to ever win an Emmy for an interactive event has joined forces with Tadasana founders Fabian Alsultany and Tommy Rosen to help spread the teachings of yoga and the beauty of international music at this groundbreaking gathering on the Santa Monica beachfront over Earth Day Weekend, April 20-22, 2012.

“With Fabian and Tommy we have an opportunity to set the gold standard as we launch our first major urban yoga and music festival,” says Wall. “We will bring together the best mix of yoga, music and environmentalism and spread the message throughout the community.”

“I am incredibly excited to be working with Kevin as our influence on the cultural landscape will be much greater,” says Alsultany. “With Kevin’s help we are going to be able to produce an event that points towards where global cultures are heading. This expression has never been put forth in the way that Tadasana offers. Kevin Wall is enabling Tommy and I to express this vision as we have always dreamed it.”

Wall has been an expert in high-profile events since his early days in Indiana playing DJ at his parents’ popular roller-skating rink. To date he has produced over 300 concerts, including Bob Dylan's 30th Anniversary Concert Celebration featuring Eric Clapton and George Harrison, Michael Jackson’s The Dangerous Tour in Bucharest and special events for Prince and Elton John.

He is best known for his activist work, however. Helping raise awareness of important social and political events remains Wall’s greatest inspiration, evidenced by his creation of Live Earth after watching Al Gore’s unprecedented survey of climate change, An Inconvenient Truth. Live Earth concerts were held on seven continents and reached an audience of two billion. Wall has also been a part of other important activist events, including Amnesty International: Human Rights Now, and as a producer of the Inaugural Green Ball, sponsored by Al Gore and hosted by Van Jones.

All of this consciousness-raising work makes him the perfect partner for Tadasana Festival, which brings together a host of international influences through the celebratory mechanisms of yoga and music looking to forge a healthier, happier and more progressive 21st century global culture.

“We are thrilled that Kevin Wall has partnered with Tadasana Festival,” says Rosen. “We’re ecstatic that he sees the global calling for this kind of transformative event, which combines yoga, world music, environmentalism, and the lifestyle of health and wellness. Our partnership signifies a positive evolution within the yoga industry and gives the festival significant leverage in producing events internationally, with the intention of unifying the global yoga and music communities.”

Tadasana Festival is unique in that it pairs the most respected yoga teachers with some of the top world and spiritual musicians in every class taught. A number of names on the Tadasana Festival roster are immediately recognizable: Shiva Rea, Seane Corn, Elena Brower and Kathyrn Budig are among the most highly regarded yoga instructors of today. Pairing these teachers with international music luminaries, such as Karsh Kale, Hassan Hakmoun, Cheb i Sabbah, Vieux Farka Toure’, Idan Raichel, and Vishal Vaid, is revolutionary. For the full schedule of yoga classes with their musical pairings please see http://www.tadasanafestival.com/yoga-schedule.

Tadasana Festival is taking place on April 20th through 22nd beachfront in Santa Monica at 2600 Barnard Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405 near the corner of Ocean Park Blvd and the beach. For more information on festival please go to http://www.tadasanafestival.com.

2 Bears album out today

2012-01-31T10:51:00.000-08:00

Today sees the US release of The 2 Bears’ debut album, Be Strong, which is available on vinyl and CD from the DFA store, and digitally via iTunes. In celebration of the full-length release, the Bears are sharing a new mix, “Whatever The Weather,” which premiered on Spinner RPM. The mix features new tracks from DFA labelmates Factory Floor, as well as tracks from Armand Van Helden, Henrik Schwarz, Gino Soccio, Davina and more. You can still snag the first free single from the album, “Work,” via DFA’s Soundcloud too!

A London record through and through, Be Strong ducks and weaves to the myriad sounds of the city, as The 2 Bears pursue the perfect party record. Raf Daddy – aka Raphael Rundell – met Joe Goddard (taking time out from his day job as one fifth of Hot Chip) through a party scene that saw them share deck duties at the legendary Greco-Roman parties. Upon venturing into the studio in an attempt to replicate some of the records that they’d lost themselves in the night before, Raf found himself laying down vocals over Joe’s skipping, bassomatic backing tracks safe in the knowledge that they’d soon be replaced by someone with sweeter, more melodious tones. In the end, it was Raf’s voice that characterized and personalized The 2 Bears.

Over its ten tracks, Be Strong conjures up that elusive spirit of the dancefloor without pretension, and with ultimate precision. It’s a soul record in that it’s from the soul, wearing its imperfections with pride. It’s a dance record in that it’ll get you off your seat. It’s a London record in that it couldn’t have come from any other city in 2011, echoing the glorious schizophrenic sound of a late night cab ride listening to a radio with a mind of its own.

With minimal effort and maximum respect from their peers, tracks began to be hammered in clubs and on radio by the likes of Andrew Weatherall, Erol Alkan, Pete Tong and Annie Mac. This summer’s Bear Hug EP cranked things up yet another notch with Chris Moyles giving the track some early morning airings and Elton John and Paul McCartney declaring themselves fans.

Opeth, Mastodon and Ghost to tour

2012-01-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

This is one tour that rock fans will be talking about for years to come and if you miss it, you'll be terribly sorry. Opeth and Mastodon will be embarking on a co-headline tour this spring, which kicks off April 4 in Portland, Maine and runs through May 12 in Atlanta, Georgia. It's the first time these two titans of progressive and forward-thinking hard rock have hit the road together and it's going to be one for the ages. Ghost will serve as the opener of the tour, which has been christened the "Heritage Hunter."

About the tour, Opeth frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt, in his trademark deadpan wit, stated, "We're touring North America together with Mastodon soon. Nice! One of the very few metal bands of today that I genuinely like. Good people too! Ghost are coming with us as well, and they are one of the hottest new bands to come out of Sweden in recent years, and I dig them too. I sound like an old fart, don't I? Well, I am.”

He continued, "Yet, am I right in thinking that this tour, this line up, is pretty decent? Would you all agree? Not complete s---, is it? Hope to see y'all out there! What are we playing? Not sure yet, but considering the company, maybe we'll have to pull out the big guns from time to time. In order to keep up, I mean."

Opeth released Heritage in September 2011, garnering critical acclaim from Rolling Stone ("a career record that reimagines prog as actual rock 'n' roll"), Pitchfork ("a pretty, well thought out collection"), AV Club ("wholly absorbing"), Decibel (which featured the band on the cover, in somewhat of a tradition for the band and the magazine), PopMatters ("Opeth still continues to make especially phenomenal music") and more.

Dates for this momentous trek are as follows. Pre-sale ticketing begins on February 1, with public on sales to follow on February 3.

April 4 – State Theater – Portland, ME

April 5 – Orpheum Theater – Boston, MA *

April 6 – Metropolis – Montreal, QC *

April 7 – Sony Centre – Toronto, ON *

April 9 – Electric Factory - Philadelphia, PA

April 10 – The Dome – Wallingford, CT

April 11 – Roseland – New York, NY

April 13 – Riviera Theater – Chicago

April 14 – Intersection – Grand Rapids, MI

April 15 – Stage AE – Pittsburgh, PA

April 16 – TN Theater – Knoxville, TN *

April 18 – Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK

April 19 –Palladium – Dallas, TX *

April 20 – Backstage Live – San Antonio, TX *

April 21 – Concrete Street – Corpus Christi, TX *

April 23 – Fillmore – Denver, CO *

April 25 – House of Blues – Las Vegas, NV

April 26 – Gibson – Hollywood, CA *

April 27 – Fox Theatre – Oakland, CA *

April 28 – Grand Sierra Resort – Reno, NV

April 30 – Paramount Theater – Seattle, WA *

May 1 – Orpheum – Vancouver, BC *

May 3 – Edmonton Events Centre – Edmonton,AB *

May 4 – MacEwan Hall – Calgary, AB

May 5 – The Odeon – Saskatoon, SK

May 6 – Burton Cummings – Winnipeg, MB *

May 9 – The Fillmore – Washington, DC *

May 10 – The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC

May 11 – House of Blues – Myrtle Beach, SC *

May 12 – Masquerade Music Park – Atlanta, GA

*Denotes Opeth close the show

Jerry Joseph & the Jackmormons to release album and tour

2012-01-31T10:45:00.001-08:00

For more than 30 years, Jerry Joseph has been strapping on a guitar and chasing down truth, understanding and soul with tenacity and resonant skill. Joseph is the archetypal musician’s musician - something that’s resoundingly clear on his sweeping new double album Happy Book, to be released March 20, 2012 on Response Records. Look for Joseph and his band to tour this spring in support of the album’s release. The list of currently confirmed tour dates is listed below – with many others still to be announced.

Captured with muscle and blood by Joseph’s longtime trio The Jackmormons, Happy Book presents Jerry Joseph & The Jackmormons at their most diverse and confident; it’s a record with a wide swing that dexterously moves from whisper closeness to Technicolor expansiveness. Produced by Joseph’s former Little Women band mate Gregg Williams (Dandy Warhols, Blitzen Trapper), Happy Book is an emotional and sonic wallop fueled by the tightest, tastiest playing the Jackmormons have ever captured in the studio. “After 17 years, this album brings together a lot of things I’ve always wanted on a record,” explains Joseph. “This sounds like a band that’s been together 17 years and has evolved along the way.”

Happy Book incorporates horns and other choice elements from guests - Jenny Conlee-Drizos and Chris Funk (The Decemberists), Eric Earley (Blitzen Trapper), Dan Eccles (Richmond Fontaine), Wally Ingram, Little Sue Weaver and Paul Brainard - into The Jackmormons’ tight-knit chemistry to create an expansive work that captures Joseph’s startlingly broad musical range in a roughly graceful, swiftly intoxicating way.

The currently confirmed list of tour dates for Jerry Joseph & The Jackmormons is as follows:

Friday, March 16 Dante's Portland OR
Saturday, March 17 Player's Bar and Grill Bend OR
Sunday, March 18 Sam Bond's Garage Eugene OR
Wednesday, March 21 Great Northern Bar Whitefish MT
Thursday, March 22 The Palace Missoula MT
Friday, March 23 - Saturday, March 24 Whiskey Jack's Big Sky MT
Friday, April 6 - Saturday, April 7 The Mint Los Angeles CA
Wednesday, April 11 Moe's Alley Santa Cruz CA
Thursday, April 12 Cafe du Nord San Francisco CA
Friday, April 13 Mystic Theatre Petaluma CA
Saturday, April 14 Humboldt Brews Arcata CA

Additional dates to be announced.

www.jerryjoseph.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com
www.twitter.com/CosmoSexSchool

Cab Calloway saluted on PBS Feb. 27

2012-01-31T10:43:00.000-08:00

Cab Calloway: Sketches premieres nationally Monday, February 27 on PBS (check local listings)

Preview videos & connect with other cultural icons at

http://pbs.org/americanmasters

"Hi de hi de hi de ho!" Charismatic music and dance pioneer Cab Calloway (12-25-1907 - 11-18-94) is an exceptional figure in the history of jazz. As a singer, dancer and bandleader, he charmed audiences around the world with his boundless energy, bravado and elegant showmanship. Calloway was also an ambassador for his race, leading one of the most popular African American big bands during the Harlem Renaissance and jazz and swing eras of the 1930s-40s. American Masters celebrates "The Hi De Ho Man's" career and legacy during Black History Month with the new documentary Cab Calloway: Sketches premiering nationally Monday, February 27 at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) on PBS (check local listings). In the New York metro-area the film airs Sunday, February 26 at 8 p.m. on THIRTEEN.

Emmy-winning filmmaker Gail Levin explores Cab Calloway's musical beginnings and milestones in the context of the Harlem Renaissance and segregationist America using archival footage, animation based on caricatures by famed illustrator Steve Brodner and French cartoonist Cabu, and interviews. The animated Cab dances alongside Matthew Rushing, choreographer/principal dancer of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (Uptown), who explains how modern Calloway's movements were and his impact on hip-hop. Additional interviewees include Calloway's daughters Cecelia and Camay; grandson and Cab Calloway Orchestra bandleader Chris "Calloway" Brooks; horn player Gerald Wilson; and The Blues Brothers (1980) director John Landis and band members Steve Cropper, Lou Marini and Donald "Duck" Dunne. The film introduced Cab and his music to a new generation, when he acted and performed as The Blues Brothers's mentor, Curtis.

"I am especially delighted to bring Cab Calloway to younger audiences -- and he does become quite alive through the inventive animation in this film," says Susan Lacy, American Masters series creator and executive producer. "He, and his era, are such a vital part of our musical cultural heritage -- and such an energetic one!"

"This film is not just another biopic in the sense of interviews and recollections, but a reinvigoration of the whole Calloway presence -- a reprise of a timeless virtuoso," adds Levin.

With The Cotton Club -- where Blacks could perform but not attend -- as his home stage, Cab became a star of New York's jazz scene, and then a household name with his signature song "Minnie the Moocher." Despite its tragic, taboo subject matter, the song broke into the mainstream and was even used in Max and Dave Fleischer's Betty Boop cartoon of the same name, along with Cab's dance moves. Breaking the color barrier with this "hi de ho" hit, Cab was one of the first Black musicians to tour the segregationist South. He published a Hepster's Dictionary of his jive slang in 1938, starred in films including Stormy Weather (1943) with Lena Horne and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and played Sportin' Life -- a role George Gershwin modeled on him -- in a 1952 touring production of Porgy and Bess, making "It Ain't Necessarily So" an enduring part of his brand. With his zany theatricality -- scat singing, jive talking, zoot suit wearing, straight-hair, head-shaking, and backslide dance (a precursor to Michael Jackson's moonwalk) -- Cab transcended racial specificity on his own terms.

To take American Masters beyond the television broadcast and further explore the themes, stories and personalities of masters past and present, the companion website (http://pbs.org/americanmasters) offers streaming video of select films, interviews, essays, photographs, outtakes, and other resources.

In 2011, American Masters earned its eighth Emmy Award for Outstanding Primetime Nonfiction Series in 11 years. Now in its 26th season, the series is a production of THIRTEEN for WNET, the parent company of THIRTEEN and WLIW21, New York's public television stations, and operator of NJTV. For nearly 50 years, WNET has been producing and broadcasting national and local documentaries and other programs to the New York community.

Cab Calloway: Sketches is a co-production of Artline Films, ARTE France, and AVRO, in association with Inscape Productions and THIRTEEN's American Masters for WNET. Gail Levin is director and executive producer for Inscape Productions. Jean-François Pitet and Gail Levin are co-writers. Olivier Mille is producer for Artline Films. Susan Lacy is the series creator and executive producer of American Masters. This program is made possible in part by the support of CNC, PROCIREP, ANGOA, and SACEM.

American Masters is made possible by the support of the National Endowment for the Arts and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Additional funding for American Masters is provided by Rosalind P. Walter, The Blanche & Irving Laurie Foundation, Rolf and Elizabeth Rosenthal, Cheryl and Philip Milstein Family, Jack Rudin, Vital Projects Fund, The André and Elizabeth Kertész Foundation, Michael & Helen Schaffer Foundation, and public television viewers.

Two exclusive music videos are now available on the American Masters website featuring famed illustrator Steve Brodner creating caricatures of Cab Calloway set to Cab's music as seen in the new documentary Cab Calloway: Sketches premiering nationally Monday, February 27 at 10pm (ET/PT) on PBS (check local listings) in honor of Black History Month:

1) "Everybody Eats When They Come To My House"
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/episodes/cab-calloway-sketches/steve-brodner-sketches-cab-to-everbody-eats-when-they-come-to-my-house/1964/

2) "Minnie The Moocher" -- At the end Brodner's completed sketch comes alives and dances alongside Matthew Rushing, choreographer/principal dancer of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/episodes/cab-calloway-sketches/steve-brodner-draws-cab-calloway-to-minnie-the-moocher/1966/

Punk Rock Bowling & Music Fest May 25-28 in Vegas

2012-01-31T10:41:00.000-08:00

14th Annual Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival

Announces First 5 Bands: Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, the Adicts and the Briefs

3 Days of Festivals + 4 Nights of Club Shows

+ 2 Days of Bowling + Texas Hold ‘Em + Pool Parties

= Biggest Punk Rock Party of the Year!

This Year’s Event to Take Place Memorial Day Weekend

May 25-28th in Downtown Las Vegas

More Bands To Be Announced Soon!

A sneak peak at some of the confirmed bands to perform in downtown Las Vegas over Memorial Day Weekend (May 25-28):

Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, the Adicts, the Briefs

More bands to be announced soon!!

NEW THINGS ARE HAPPENING FOR PUNK ROCK BOWLING 2012!!
Punk Rock Bowling was started back in 1999 as a way to bring the independent music community together for an annual party. It has since grown into a 3 day festival in downtown Las Vegas that brings out fans and bands alike from all over the world. Make no mistake, this is a PUNK ROCK festival that features some of the best bands over the past 35+ years, from the old school pioneers and classics to mainstays and up and comers. Founders Shawn and Mark Stern of BYO Records and seminal SoCal band Youth Brigade have been heavily involved in the PUNK ROCK community since the late ‘70’s and spend countless hours scouring their record collections, memories and abilities to reach out to old friends and new to put together an amazing line-up every year.

This is a 3 day outdoor festival starting in the late afternoon and featuring 8 great bands each day on Saturday, Sunday and Monday celebrated with 5,000 of your close personal punk rock friends. And if that’s not enough, their will be 4 late night club shows each night in smaller more intimate surroundings featuring more great bands as well as some special surprises. All in all, over 60 bands will perform throughout the weekend.

HOTELS:
Most of our hotels will be located downtown this year. Punk Rock Bowling has struck a deal with some of the best hotels in the downtown area. Our main hotel will be the Golden Nugget, while the pool party hotel will be the Gold Spike. Our budget hotel is the Las Vegas Club. PRB rates are now available! Book your room early, these deals will not last.

BOWLING:
The tournament is expanding! In an effort to accommodate more bowlers and to eliminate night bowling, for the first time PRB will be bowling in two different locations. Buses will be provided to shuttle bowlers to each bowling alley from downtown. If you want to bowl, you have a great chance this year since we are expanding. Just sign up on the wait list by going to punkrockbowling.com.

For more information, visit: www.punkrockbowling.com

Lamb of God guitarist auctioning guitar to benefit Myotonic Dystrophy

2012-01-31T10:38:00.001-08:00

Heavy metal fans now have a chance to own a piece of musical history and help find a cure for Myotonic Dystrophy (DM). LAMB OF GOD lead guitarist Mark Morton has donated the custom-designed and autographed Jackson guitar from his personal collection, and the strings and LAMB OF GOD guitar picks he used to record four of the songs from the band’s album Wrath, to the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF). All proceeds from the sale of the guitar will support research into treatments and a cure for this devastating disorder.

This auction will be run through eBay MissionFish. Bidding begins at 5:00 PM PST on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 and ends at 5:00 PM PST on Saturday, February 4, 2012.

Three-time Grammy-nominated LAMB OF GOD has been helping MDF raise funds for DM research since 2009, when Randy Blythe (lead vocals) donated his Grammy nomination medallion as an auction item. Randy and Mark support MDF in honor of their friend Todd Stone, an MDF board member who has two young sons who are living with the disorder. In the last decade, great success has been achieved in DM research and potential breakthroughs are on the horizon. Your successful bid for this one-of-a-kind guitar will help make those breakthroughs a reality. Bid now!

eBay auction: http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270901495975

Or our site where the video is available:
http://www.myotonic.org/community/latest-news/lamb-of-god-auctions-autographed-guitar/

Jay & the Americans and The Association in Cerritos March 9

2012-01-31T10:37:00.001-08:00

Jay & The Americans and The Association

Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos

Date: Friday, March 9, 2012, 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $63/$51/$41

Ticket Information: Tickets are available only at the Cerritos
Center for the Performing Arts’ Ticket Office, at
www.cerritoscenter.com , or by calling (562) 467-8818.

Arboretum invites you to cook with Xanh Bistro Feb. 8

2012-01-31T10:35:00.000-08:00

Fresh: Celebrating The Table

Cooking at the Arboretum

$45 members / $50 non-members

Pre-registration required; please call 626.821.4623

XANH BISTRO with Chef/Owner Haley Nguyen

A Vietnamese Experience

Wednesday, February 8 from 3-5pm at the Arboretum

301 North Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007

Join us for a very special cooking class here at the Arboretum featuring dishes from Xanh Bistro, voted one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Orange County. The jewel-like beauty of the dishes suggest that some elements might be drawn from beyond the realm of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. But Haley, who has owned other restaurants in the past, and also teaches classes on a variety of Asian cuisines at the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of California, insists her repertoire remains firmly within traditional borders. www.xanhbistro.com

MENU:

Fresh Rice paper rolls with crab meat, jicama, cucumber, pickled daikon carrots, basil, served with lime, cilantro vinaigrette

Sizzling rice crepe with pork, mushroom and bean sprouts served with lettuce & mint

Seared sea bass with green mango & lemongrass rice

Tapioca pudding with baby banana.

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

301 North Baldwin Avenue

Arcadia, CA 91007-2697

Phone: 626.821.4624

Jill.Berry@arboretum.org

www.arboretum.org

Radiohead book to be released in USA

2012-01-31T10:31:00.000-08:00

EXIT MUSIC

The Radiohead Story

Updated Edition

by Mac Randall

Available for the first time in North America: the best book on Radiohead

On sale March 6, just in time for Radiohead’s U.S. tour

Radiohead doesn’t play by the rules of rock stardom. When conventional wisdom urges a turn to the right, Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, Colin Greenwood, and Phil Selway unfailingly turn left. Despite this, or perhaps because of this, Radiohead has become one of the world’s most famous bands, unique in style, themes, and ability to connect to a loyal fan base.

But Radiohead’s journey to fame over more than a decade has been fraught with tension. As the quintet continues to search for sounds that haven’t been heard before, each new album and tour is a potential crisis point, threatening to split the band apart. Through it all, the consummate outsiders have revealed little about themselves. “You should never assume that people are paying attention to you because of who you are,” bassist Colin Greenwood once said. “Nobody knows who we are, and I hope they never do, on one level, obviously.” But Exit Music: The Radiohead Story ($19.99, Backbeat Books) by Mac Randall uncovers the details behind their songs.

Since the first edition of this book eleven years ago, Radiohead’s audience continued to grow, their albums regularly debuted at the top of the sales charts, and the music industry began looking to them for artistic hints. Acts like Travis, Coldplay, Doves, and Muse took their inspiration from different phases of Radiohead’s career. This edition also includes coverage of the band’s recent studio album, The King of Limbs.

Exit Music: The Radiohead Story is a record and product of its time. No one can say what Radiohead will do next. That is what makes them such an exciting band to listen to and read about. Their story so far will whet your appetite for the many surprises that are undoubtedly still to come.

Mac Randall is editor in chief of Music Alive! and Teaching Music, the magazine of MENC, America’s National Association for Music Education. He was formerly the senior editor of Musician and Guitar One magazines. In his over 20 years as a journalist and critic, he has written about music of all genres for publications including Rolling Stone, Mojo, Q, Vanity Fair, Details, and the New York Times. He lives in New York City.

March 6, 2012 $19.99 Paperback 6” x 9” 9781617130472 320 pages B&W and color photo inserts

Backbeat Books
http://www.backbeatbooks.com/
http://www.facebook.com/backbeatbooks
http://www.twitter.com/backbeatbooks
http://onstageandbackstage.wordpress.com/

Adelet to return to live stage at Grammy Awards

2012-01-31T10:26:00.000-08:00

Current GRAMMY® nominee Adele will make her much anticipated return to the live stage on the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards (www.grammy.com ). This will be her first time performing live in nearly five months since being forced to cancel a sold-out U.S. tour to undergo surgery on her vocal cords. Music's Biggest Night® — hosted by two-time GRAMMY winner LL COOL J — takes place live on Sunday, Feb. 12 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in high definition and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio worldwide via Dial Global, and covered online at GRAMMY.com and CBS.com, and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/thegrammys. Additional performers, presenters and special segments will be announced soon. For GRAMMY coverage, updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy®'s social networks on Twitter and Facebook: www.twitter.com/thegrammys , www.facebook.com/thegrammys.

"I'm immensely proud to have been asked to perform at this year's GRAMMY Awards," said Adele. "It's an absolute honor to be included in such a night, and for it to be my first performance in months is very exciting and of course nerve-racking, but what a way to get back into it all."

Two-time GRAMMY winner Adele has six nominations: Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Best Short Form Music Video for "Rolling In The Deep"; Album Of The Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for 21; and Best Pop Solo Performance for "Someone Like You."

Previously announced performers for the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards include Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson; Glen Campbell with The Band Perry and Blake Shelton; Coldplay and Rihanna; Foo Fighters; Bruno Mars; Paul McCartney; Nicki Minaj; and Taylor Swift. Aldean, The Band Perry, Minaj, and Shelton will perform on the GRAMMY telecast for the first time, while Adele, Campbell, Clarkson, Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Mars, McCartney, Rihanna, and Swift are returning to the GRAMMY stage. LL COOL J has hosted "The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!! — Countdown To Music's Biggest Night" since its inception in December 2008, and this is his first time hosting the annual GRAMMY Awards telecast.

The 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by John Cossette Productions and AEG Ehrlich Ventures for The Recording Academy®. Ken Ehrlich is executive producer, Louis J. Horvitz is director, and David Wild and Ken Ehrlich are the writers.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs on Twitter, like "The GRAMMYs" on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on YouTube, Tumblr, Foursquare, GetGlue, and Instagram.

'Ring of Fire' in Riverside Feb. 17 and 18

2012-01-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

MC COY RIGBY ENTERTAINMENT & FOX OPERATOR BILL MALONE OF FX ARTS are thrilled to announce the third in its brand new “Broadway Series” of shows, with the songs of one of the most iconic figures in the history of music, RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH, with musical direction by Jeff Lisenby, choreography by Jane Lanier and directed by and starring from the original New York production, Jason Edwards. RING OF FIRE will open on Friday, February 17, 2012 and perform for three performances only through Saturday, February 18, 2012 at the Fox Riverside Performing Arts Center, 3801 Mission Inn Avenue in Riverside.

RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH uses the music of the man to bring to life the joys and sorrows of this music legend. Says Jason Edwards, the show’s director and star, “RING OF FIRE is the only theatrical show Mr. Cash ever gave his approval for and endorsed. The show’s concept was never to have someone impersonate Mr. Cash, but to get underneath his image and present what he was trying to say in his lyrics. And to select performers who in some way might convey the essence of his southern style and roots.”

RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH boasts a cast of ten performers and musicians, all nationally recognized for their work. Joining Edwards onstage is Kelli Provart, longtime Southern California theatre mainstay and recent Ovation Award nominee; Broadway veteran Troy Burgess; and recording artist Trenna Barnes. They join a gathering of musicians with generations of experience in the theatre, concert, and recording worlds. Together they weave a musical portrait of Johnny Cash, culminating in a concert that will both move and exhilarate.

RING OF FIRE will open on Friday, February 17, 2012 at 8pm and will also perform on Saturday, February 18 at 2pm & 8pm.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or at the Fox Performing Arts Center Box Office which is located at 3801 Mission Inn Avenue in Riverside.

Ticket Prices range from $30 - $65.

The Box Office is open Monday -Friday from Noon to 6:00 PM, Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and on all show days from 10:00 AM to Show Time.

The Box Office Phone number is: 951-779-9800.

THE SEASON CONTINUES WITH:

MISS SAIGON- May 11, 2012 – May 12, 2012

PETER PAN – June 29, 2012 - July 1, 2012

Herb Ritts exhibit opens at Getty Center April 3

2012-01-31T10:22:00.000-08:00

Herb Ritts (American, 1952–2002) was a Los Angeles-based photographer who earned an international reputation for his unique images of fashion models, nudes, and celebrities. From the late 1970s until his untimely death from AIDS in 2002, Ritts's ability to create photographs that successfully bridged the gap between art and commerce was not only a testament to the power of his imagination and technical skill but also marked the synergy between art, popular culture, and business that followed in the wake of the Pop Art movement of the 1960s and 1970s. On view at the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center, April 3–August 26, 2012, Herb Ritts: L.A. Style explores Ritts’s extensive photographic career, including a selection of renowned and previously unpublished photographs, as well as his directorial projects. A major portion of the works in the exhibition was newly acquired by the Getty Museum through purchase and in the form of a generous gift from the Herb Ritts Foundation.

“Through hard work and an imaginative vision, Herb Ritts fashioned himself into one of the top photographers to emerge from the 1980s,” says Paul Martineau, curator of the exhibition and associate curator of photographs at the J. Paul Getty Museum. “This exhibition will reconsider and broaden our understanding of Ritts’s career, particularly in the areas of fashion and figure studies.”

By the mid-1980s, Ritts’s aesthetic had coalesced into a distinctive style. His creative output was enormous, and he appeared to be able to switch gears effortlessly between his jobs in fashion and portraiture and his personal work with the nude. After shooting a commercial job, Ritts often took advantage of the location, props, and models to make his own pictures. To accommodate his growing business, Ritts established a studio in Hollywood and assembled a creative team of assistants, stylists, and printers who strove to exceed his high expectations. Like his contemporaries, Ritts rarely printed his own work. Through a pain staking selection process, he editioned his best pictures and had them printed in gelatin silver or platinum, varying the papers, levels of contrast, and tone to realize his artistic vision.

Ritts’s portraits of celebrities such as Richard Gere, Britney Spears, Mel Gibson, and Madonna introduce the exhibition. His anti-glamour style of portraiture made celebrities look more natural and allowed them to reveal inner qualities, making them more accessible to fans. By the late 1980s, Ritts’s reputation as a shaper of fame made him a celebrity in his own right, and the iconic status of such photographs as Richard Gere, San Bernardino (1977) and Madonna, Hollywood (1986) made a photograph by Ritts a rite of passage among Hollywood insiders.

The exhibition continues with Ritts’s fashion photographs, many of which drew inspiration from painting, sculpture, film, and the work of such leading fashion and portrait photographers as Richard Avedon, Horst P. Horst, George Hurrell, Irving Penn, and Louise Dahl Wolfe. Ritts had an extraordinary ability to synthesize and incorporate these influences into a new and easily recognizable style. As hundreds of magazine spreads demonstrate, Ritts kept top fashion editors happy by providing dazzling pictures designed to sell clothes along with others that simply celebrated beauty. Ritts also made use of locations around Los Angeles and especially loved Southern California’s natural light. For instance, Ritts harnessed the forces of nature, strong sunlight and gale-force wind in Versace, Veiled Dress, El Mirage (1990) to create an unforgettable image that communicates feminine strength and beauty.

Turning to Ritts’s work with the nude, the exhibition examines how Ritts—along with his contemporaries Robert Mapplethorpe and Bruce Weber—provoked a radical change in how the nude was depicted. His forte was an ability to analyze the body from a variety of angles and create compositions that abstracted it in ways that communicate strength and poise. Working mostly outdoors, Ritts enjoyed relating the body to the natural world and rendered his nudes with a verve and elegance that became the dominant hallmarks of his pictures. In Man with Chain, Los Angeles (1985), model Tony Ward is seen bending at the waist, as if struggling under the chain’s massive weight. The extraordinary sense of movement is not only forward but also upward in a tortuous S-curve that has been long associated with the dramatic, writhing bodies of seventeenth-century Baroque painting and sculpture.

Ritts’s work also includes portraits of well-known athletes and dancers. In the exhibition are a series of photographs of the critically acclaimed American dancer and choreographer Bill T. Jones. In these photographs, Ritts captured Jones while he danced, framing him against a pure white background, making his muscled body look like a piece of sculpture. He also photographed famous athletes including Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Olympic gold-medalist Greg Louganis. For Louganis’s portrait Ritts positioned the diver on a makeshift pedestal and placed a low spotlight on him. The carefully arranged pose and lighting show off Louganis’s muscled torso and back, while the prominent shadows recall the mysterious aura of film noirs of the 1940s.

Although Ritts had no prior experience with film, Madonna convinced him to direct his first music video for her song “Cherish” (1989), which is included in the exhibition along with other music videos and commercials. Ritts enjoyed the creative challenge that film presented, allowing him to extend the sense of movement so important to his still photography to the moving image. From 1989 until 2002, Ritts directed thirteen music videos and more than fifty commercials. Some of his music industry clients included Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Britney Spears, and Shakira, while his commercial clients were mainly fashion and cosmetic companies such as Chanel, Lancôme, Estée Lauder, and Calvin Klein.

Ritts’s intimate portraiture, his modern yet classical treatment of the nude, and his innovative approach to fashion brought him international acclaim and placed him securely within an American tradition of portrait and magazine photography that was begun by Richard Avedon and Irving Penn.

Herb Ritts: L.A. Style is organized by the J. Paul Getty Museum and curated by Paul Martineau, associate curator of photographs. Following its showing at the Getty, the exhibition will be on view at the Cincinnati Art Museum from October 6 to December 30, 2012 and at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Florida from late February 2013.

About The Herb Ritts Foundation

The Herb Ritts Foundation was established under directives set forth by the artist. The charitable purposes reflect Herb Ritts’s beliefs and commitments during his lifetime. The Foundation offers support to organizations which reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS and provide awareness, assistance and care for those affected by HIV/AIDS. The Foundation also promotes Mr. Ritts's great passion for photography through offering assistance to institutions and educational programs that advance the art of photography.

RELATED PUBLICATION

Herb Ritts: L.A. Style

Paul Martineau

With an essay by James Crump

A seductive collection of portraits and nudes from the famed fashion photographer is beautifully reproduced in this handsome volume.

Hardcover, $59.95

The Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
www.getty.edu

Super Bowl commercial to see!

2012-01-30T10:35:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is the big game and I'm planning to watch, especially the commercials and one ad in particular. My drummer Ric Sarabia is starring as the Sand Man in the Kia commercial.

For a little tease, visit http://www.kia.com/

There you can see him scampering across the screen and click on a sneak-peek video featuring a Victoria's Secret model and Motley Crue.... Sounds like a sweet dream for sure...

Now, I just need to garner an invite to a good Super Bowl party!

Ben Vega single release party Feb. 10

2012-01-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

“A Year Ago” Single Release Party:

February 10th, 2012, 8:00pm. Streaming on the Internet will be a release party for the new music single of R&B/Soul singer Ben Vega. This southern California native is using the power of the web to share his music with more people across the U.S. By visiting www.Facebook.com/BenVegaMusic or www.YouTube.com/BenVegaMusic on February 10th, 2012, everyone could be a part of an exciting event. Ben Vega will premiere his new single “A Year Ago”, which will be available on CDBaby.com, iTunes and Google music. He will also answer questions that are submitted via his Facebook and Twitter, he will discuss his history as an artist, and there will be special guests of fellow musicians that appear on the recording.

Ben Vega has been performing for years in so Cal. He has appeared from Hollywood nightclubs, to street fairs in the Inland Empire, to Orange County charity events. Singer, songwriter, pianist, and now producer, Ben wears many hats all in the pursuit of his music. Formerly a jazz artist, Ben is taking a new direction in his career by substituting jazz standards to his original written songs. He still holds true to “his” sound by using rock guitar with big band horns.

Ben Vega, inspired by a relationship, has written his first self-produced single titled “A Year Ago”. Looking back on the then and now, recognizing the everyday life can be two separate worlds of one man. This song was written after a two-year relationship ended and remained in Ben’s journal until now. Ben is now excited to take one of his most powerful songs and bring it to life for the world to enjoy.

Artists from several So Cal groups lend their talents for this tune. Adrian Vega Jr., former lead guitarist of the Disrepair, performs an emotionally expressive solo. Adrian Vega Sr., lead trumpet player of the 3 Generations, provides an ending that captures the essence of this song in a heart throbbing fashion. Also on the track is Roman Arreola, bassist of the Beerman, supplying the perfect groove to the song, making the sound uniquely Ben Vega. Both Adrian senior and junior are father and brother of Ben, a musical family line that Ben is proud of.

Visit www.Facebook.com/BenVegaMusic and www.twitter.com/BugzBenny for more info on Ben Vega and to submit questions to be aired at the “A Year Ago” single release party.

Barry Big B Brenner performances this week

2012-01-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

Barry Big B Brenner
this week at ...
********* ********* ********* *********
Sonny McLeans
TUESDAY NIGHT
JANUARY 31st from 8:30-11:30pm

2615 Wilshire Blvd.
SANTA MONICA
(310) 449-1811
http://www.sonnymcleans.com

********* ********* ********* *********
Wednesday
Braille Institute of Los Angeles
Noon Time Concert
********* ********* ********* *********
Firefly Bistro
THURSDAY NIGHT
BURGERS, BEERS & BLUES
February 2nd from 6-9pm

1009 El Centro Street
SOUTH PASADENA
(626) 441-2443
http://www.eatatfirefly.com

********* ********* ********* *********
Herzog Wine Cellars
SATURDAY NIGHT
FEBRUARY 4th from 7-9pm

3201 Camino Del Sol
OXNARD
805-983-1560
http://www.herzogwinecellars.com
********* ********* ********* *********
Firefly Bistro
SUNDAY MORNING
BLUES BRUNCH
FEBRUARY 5th from 11am-2pm

1009 El Centro Street
SOUTH PASADENA
(626) 441-2443
http://www.eatatfirefly.com

********* ********* ********* *********

For a Complete List of Big B’s Upcoming Shows,
Go to...
SHOWS http://www.myspace.com/barrybigbbrenner/shows
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/BigBBrenner
YOUTUBE http://www.youtube.com/bluesriff
WEBSITE http://www.bigbbrenner.com

The Huntington to celebrate Chinese New Year Feb. 4 & 5

2012-01-30T10:12:00.000-08:00

Visitors can experience the beauty of Chinese music, dance, and culture at a Chinese New Year festival on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 4–5, at The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. Celebrating the Year of the Dragon, the festival gets under way Saturday at 11 a.m. (grounds open at 10:30 a.m.) with an exuberant performance by dragon and lion dancers on the lawn near the north entrance to the Chinese Garden. Other activities will include mask-changing performances (bian lian), painting and calligraphy demonstrations, noodle pulling, musical performances, children’s book readings, martial arts, and more. Visitors on Saturday can also purchase freshly cut flowers—a traditional way to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Activities on both days will be ongoing until 4 p.m.

The Huntington’s Chinese Garden, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance 流芳園, will be one of the focal points of the festival. Inspired by the traditional scholar’s gardens of Suzhou, China, this breathtaking landscape features a large lake, tile-roofed pavilions, stone bridges, a tea shop, and native Chinese plants set against a wooded backdrop of oaks, redwoods, and pines.

Program Highlights (except where noted, activities are offered both days)

Dragon and lion dancers

11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Martial arts & Qigong

11 a.m. & noon

Musical performances

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chinese brush painting demonstrations

11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Calligraphy demonstrations

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chinese landscape painting

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Children’s book reading and signing:
Oliver Chin, Year of the Dragon

11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Noodle pulling

11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Martial arts

12:30 p.m. (Sunday only)

Tai chi demonstrations

12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. (Saturday only)

Mask changing (Bian Lian)

2 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Flower market

All day (Saturday only)

Penjing display (miniature trees & rockery)

All day

All festival activities are included with general admission to The Huntington: $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students (age 12–18), $6 youth (age 5–11), and free for children under 5. The group rate is $14 per person for groups of 15 or more. Members are admitted free. For additional information call (626) 405-2100 or visit www.huntington.org.

East West Bank is the corporate sponsor of the event. Additional funding provided by the Justin Vajna Memorial Fund for Educational Programs in the Chinese Garden.

About The Huntington

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens is a collections-based research and educational institution serving scholars and the general public. More information about The Huntington can be found online at www.huntington.org.

Visitor Information

The Huntington is located at 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, Calif., 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles. It is open to the public Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Summer hours (Memorial Day through Labor Day) are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed Tuesdays and major holidays. Admission on weekdays: $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 12–18 or with fulltime student I.D.), $6 youth (ages 5–11), free for children under 5. Group rate $11 per person for groups of 15 or more. Members are admitted free. Admission on weekends and Monday holidays: $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students, $6 youth, free for children under 5. Group rate $14 per person for groups of 15 or more. Members are admitted free. Admission is free to all visitors on the first Thursday of each month with advance tickets. Information: 6264052100 or www.huntington.org.

Tribute bands in La Mirada Fridays beginning March 2

2012-01-30T10:10:00.000-08:00

LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is thrilled to present the latest and greatest in its Friday Night series of happenings, TRIBUTE FRIDAYS 2012, featuring some of the most amazing tribute bands around and this time paying homage to the music of Aerosmith, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John and Billy Joel! TRIBUTE FRIDAYS dates are Friday, March 2 and Friday, March 9 at 8pm. The lobby bar will open for Happy Hour at 6:30pm. Party on!

TRIBUTE FRIDAYS 2012 will include:

AEROMYTH / THE RISING
Tributes to Aerosmith and Bruce Springsteen
March 2 - 8pm
$10 - $40

AEROMYTH has become known as the top Aerosmith Tribute band worldwide! Performing all over the USA and International dates such as Mexico, Canada, Honduras, The Dominican Republic and El Salvador since 2002. Chris Vandahl does an amazing portrayal of Steven Tyler, including all of his dance moves, costumes, stage show and amazing recreation of Tyler's outrageous vocals!

Chris Vandahl is often mistaken for Steven Tyler, being stopped for photos and autographs in public places such as airports and malls. Not only does AEROMYTH have an amazing Steven Tyler look alike, but all band members really look and sound like the Aerosmith band members they portray as band members, walk, talk, act, perform, and look like AEROSMITH.

In fact at a recent Aeromyth performance at the Key Club in Hollywood, Dave Navarro was quoted as saying, "I thought I was hearing an Aerosmith Album!" Performing all of their greatest hits, from classic songs such as "Walk This Way," "Sweet Emotion," and "Toys," to more current hits like "Dude Looks Like A Lady," "Jaded" and "Don't Wanna Miss A Thing."

THE RISING is a brotherhood of friends, some with ties that date back nearly two decades. Much like Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, they take the stage more like a gang, than a band. They collectively roll up their sleeves and go to work, night, after night. They were all cut from the worn denim of blue-collar towns, and paid musical dues playing dive bars, and juke joints. What you hear is the musical truth. What you see is the embodiment of friendship, and what you feel is the “spiritual healing,” that can only be supplied by a great rock ‘n’ roll band.   The word "tribute" is defined by Webster’s as such: “Something given, done, or said to show gratitude, honor, to praise.”  Honor must come with responsibility, and that responsibility is to maintain the honor you bestow. It would be easier to kind of, sort of care, or take a bunch of short cuts, and pretend you are respecting an artist, and more importantly their fans. The Rising does not pretend.

Their passion is real. Their talent is real. Their blood, sweat, and tears are real. There are no pre-recorded tracks, or pretend playing. There is no make-up, or make believe voices. The band uses all of its collective power to hold true to the artistic vision, to both honor the artist, and the fans.

Performing songs spanning the nearly five decades of Bruce Springsteen's catalogue; from "Greetings From Asbury Park" through Springsteen's 2009 release "Working On A Dream", they deliver each song with the same power, heart, and soul as Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band.   C'mon up to The Rising - the "House-Rocking " "Earth -Shaking", "Heart-Stopping", tribute to Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band.

PIANO 2 PIANO LIVE!
Tributes to Elton John and Billy Joel
March 9 - 8pm
$10 - $40

PIANO 2 PIANO LIVE - The Tribute to Sir Elton John & Billy Joel Show is a night of hit songs, energetic performances, outrageous costumes, and true Rock and Roll at its finest!

Tribute Artist David James (Billy Joel), and Jeffrey Allen (Elton John) capture both artists in their high energy, interactive rock ‘n’ roll show.

Just like the original tour, each artist performs a solo set with their incredible rock ‘n’ roll band then joining together on stage, Piano to Piano rockin’ out respectively to their greatest hits…also adding funny performance bits, sing-a-long parts, and spontaneous humor.

Jeffrey and David through their performance, capture Sir Elton John and Billy Joel through the years starting in the 70‘s to current day. Jeffrey is especially known for his captivating entertainment prowess and his unbelievable recreation of Elton’s outrageous costumes; David, for his dazzling fast and furious finger work showing what a monster piano player Billy Joel really was with songs like Root Beer Rag and Angry Young Man. See you there Honky Cat!
TRIBUTE FRIDAYS 2012:

AEROMYTH / THE RISING • March 2, 2012 • 8PM
Tributes to Aerosmith and Bruce Springsteen

PIANO 2 PIANO LIVE! • March 9, 2012 • 8PM
Tributes to Elton John and Billy Joel

Ticket prices for TRIBUTE FRIDAYS at LA MIRADA are $10 - $40; Tickets are now available by calling the Box Office at 562-944-9801 or 714-994-6310 or online at www.lamiradatheatre.com.

LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is located at 14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada. Parking is free.

Vitello's to celebrate Black History Month with music

2012-01-30T10:07:00.000-08:00

In celebration of Black History Month, Upstairs at Vitello’s Jazz and Supper Club announces the following special tributes:

MELENA’S NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH TRIBUTE
Thursday, February 2 – Melena in performance with Jorge Carbonel- drums, Jorge “Sawa” Perez –bass, Jeff Goodkind-Piano, Louis Van Taylor-Sax/Flute, Brian Schwartz-Trumpet. Showtime is 8 PM/ Tickets are $15.

Saturday, February 4
Melina’s Percussion Workshop – Buffet luncheon and Networking/Bring your instruments! 11:30 a.m.registration, 12 – 2 PM Workshop – Tickets $30.

Melena,, known as one of the top female percussionists of our time, has mastered the traditional rhythms that have traveled from Africa to Cuba, to the dance floors of America. Her Afro-Cuban sound is a conversation of melodies which she plays with fierce passion on Congas, Timbales, Bata Drums, and Shekere. She is an artist who exemplifies the sound of legendary players from the past, to the modern sound of today and has performed with legendary artists such as Barry White, Stevie Wonder, Macy Gray and Julio Iglesias. Melena also conducts Master Classes nationally and internationally and will be conducting a special workshop at Vitello’s sponsored by the International Society of Black Latinos, ISBL, Rhythm Tech and Vic Firth,. All ages are welcome to this special afternoon event.

A VERY SPECIAL EVENING! JUDY McHUGH PRESENTS AN EVENING OF JIMMY McHUGH MUSIC SALUTING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Wednesday, February 29, Showtime 8 PM, Tickets $20

John Proulx – piano/vocals, featuring Sherry Williams – voice, Chuck Berghofer—bass,
Joe LaBarbera–drums, guest appearance by Deana Martin (god-daughter of Jimmy McHugh).

What do all of the following popular songs have in common?
“I’m In the Mood for Love”, “On the Sunny Side of the Street”, “I Can’t Give You Anything but Love, Baby”, “Let’s Get Lost”, “Don’t Blame Me”, “When My Baby Walks Down the Street”, “I Feel A Song Coming On”, “It’s A Most Unusual Day” , “I Won’t Dance”, “(This is) A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening”, “I Can’t Believe That You’re in Love with Me”, “Cuban Love Song” and about 250 other outstanding tunes that everybody knows and loves. All of them were penned by one of the most prolific songwriters of the 20th century, the late, great Jimmy McHugh. He was a rehearsal pianist in Boston who headed for New York, wrote revues for The Cotton Club, created sparkling Broadway shows, then came west to Hollywood where he contributed to some of the best movie musicals of the ‘30’s and ‘40’s. While working for Mills Music Publishing as a song-plugger in the early 20s, Jimmy met Walter Brooks, a highly successful Producer of African American Musicals at the Famed Cotton Club in Harlem. He was hired on as an in-house songwriter at the popular Club. Jimmy McHugh was the only white man employed at the Cotton Club and became a fore-runner and spear-head for The Black Movement! He introduced Duke Ellington, Ethel Waters, and discovered a 16 year old dancer in the chorus, Lena Horne, who he mentored as a singer! The rest, as they say, is history. Duke Ellington, always gave McHugh credit for this introduction……

Jimmy McHugh died in 1969 but his music will live as long as singers want to sing! The composer’s grand-daughter, Judy McHugh, is a fan and supporter of Upstairs at Vitello’s jazz concerts. Jimmy McHugh Music’s Salute to Black History Month will feature performers John Proulx , piano & vocals, Chuck Berghofer bass, Joe LaBarbera drums Sherry Williams, vocals. Vocalist Deana Martin, goddaughter of Jimmy McHugh will make a guest appearance.

'The Science of Magic & Illusion' in Pasadena March 2

2012-01-30T10:03:00.002-08:00

Bob Friedhoffer will present The Science of Magic and Illuion on Friday, March 2, at 7 p.m. in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium.

Art and science come together as Friedhoffer performs one feat after another, and proves that our senses can truly be fooled. Obvious, but amazing, tricks our mind plays on us are revealed. Friedhoffer answers questions, such as: how are people really fooled by magic? Is it principles of physics, chemistry or biology? Or is it the science of our mind, psychology and neurology?

Tickets to this performance are priced at $15; youth (high school age and younger): $10.00 (unreserved seating). Senior rush tickets will go on sale for $10.00, beginning one-half hour before the performance (subject to availability). Tickets can be purchased at the Caltech Ticket Office, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Parking for Beckman Auditorium is located at 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena (south of Del Mar Boulevard). For further information, call the Caltech Ticket Office at (626) 395-4652.

http://www.events.caltech.edu/

Arcadia Chamber offers all access pass to events

2012-01-30T10:03:00.001-08:00

The Arcadia Chamber of Commerce has launched a first-of-its-kind All Access Pass that provides a hugely-discounted, single-purchase, year-round admission to all Chamber events, as well as the biggest and best local entertainment activities, and more.

In addition, 10% of the cost of each All Access Pass will be donated to local non-profit groups, potentially generating thousands of dollars for member organizations that sell the Pass as a fundraiser.

The Chamber’s All Access Pass, offered exclusively to Chamber members, provides admission to high-profile annual Chamber events such as The Taste of Arcadia, the Citizen of the Year/Installation Dinner, monthly Networking Breakfasts, quarterly Ambassadors Business Lunch Connections, the annual Planning Conference, and Business Mixers.
That’s more than 20 annual Chamber events with a total value of more than $400.

In addition, the new All Access Pass also gives cardholders admission to the following:

· * The Pasadena Pops concert ticket at Arboretum: one performance - up to $96 value

· * CalPhil concerts at Santa Anita Park – $50 gift card, good for one or two admissions

· * Arcadia Blues Club: approx. 90 admissions to regular $10 Friday/Saturday shows - $900 value

(Two additional tickets available for the price of one.)

· * Renaissance Pleasure Faire: adult season pass - $125 value

· * Arcadia Fitness Center: 10 free visits valued at $15 each - total value $150

· * Los Angeles County Arboretum: 50% off $75 family season pass - $37.50 value

That’s hundreds of admissions each year with a combined value of approximately $1,700.

The Chamber’s All Access Pass for all of these admissions is available to members for only $250, and allows holders to pay only once for dozens of tickets that they would otherwise buy separately.

Moreover, a donation of $25 will be made to any non-profit member group pre-approved by the Chamber for each and every $250 All Access Pass sold by the organization.

To purchase a ticket, to add your organization to the approved list, and for additional information, contact the Chamber at 626-447-2159.

Membership in the Chamber is $115 for residents and non-profit organizations; $185 for home-based businesses; and starts at $260 for traditional businesses.

The Arcadia Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 90th Anniversary of Creating Community Pride Through Business since 1921.

Conduits to release album

2012-01-30T10:01:00.001-08:00

CONDUITS: DEBUT S/T LP (TEAM LOVE, 3/20), US TOUR W/CURSIVE

HEAR "TOP OF THE HILL" MP3 http://www.riotactmedia.com/mp3/01%20Top%20of%20the%20Hill.mp3

PRE-ORDER: http://teamlove.myshopify.com/products/tl057

TEAM LOVE: http://team-love.com/

CONDUITS ON FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/ConduitsMusic

The music scribes and bloggers that have already caught on to the band Conduits have all enjoyed bandying about the word "shoegaze" like a ball of yarn when talking about the band.

It's an understandable and easy shorthand for a group that prefers darker, dreamier sounds carried to the apex by a female vocalist who sounds haunted and enraptured. And it's a descriptor that this Omaha-based sextet wouldn't necessarily mind as they do list Jason Spaceman (Spiritualized, Spacemen 3), Beth Gibbons (Portishead), and Slowdive among their varied musical inspirations.

Truth be told, though, shoegaze only scratches the surface of what's behind the music of Conduits. These aren't affected youth staring at their guitar pedals and hoping that the audience in front of them would just go away. This is music that pulses and crackles with energy and incident.

But let's not get too far ahead of ourselves. Let's talk about how this all started.

The original Conduits demos were the creation of JJ Idt and Nate Mickish, two guitarists already busy in the Omaha music scene with their anxious pop and rock outfits. Working together, the pair found much more to express than just inner angst. They were aiming for soundscapes that embraced drones, psychedelia, and a fervent rhythmic punch. And the more they played the more they heard a female voice filling in the empty spaces in these songs.

Enter Jenna Morrison. Best known for her work as a member of indie rockers Son, Ambulance, Morrison brought that rare combination of attainability and remoteness (think: Gibbons, Hope Sandoval, Trish Keenan, Sandy Denny) to her vocal performances. It was the perfect element to help spark these already tempestuous creations into full-blown blazes.

The band - rounded out by bassist Mike Overfield, keyboardist Patrick Newbery, and drummer Roger Lewis - has taken off like a shot since those first demos. They've secured a number of amazing support slots in their hometown, sharing the stage with acts like The Hold Steady and The Appleseed Cast, as well as doing a short, well-received jaunt opening for Bright Eyes.

Now, Conduits is looking to take on the rest of the U.S. and beyond with the release of their debut self-titled album. The eight-song dreamscape flows with a cinematic ambition. Songs like "Top of the Hill" and "Limbs and Leaves" provide the soundtrack for slow motion dance scenes, while "Last Dirge" and "Misery Train" are all fast edits and racing hearts.

The point here is for you to stop starting at your own feet, and cast your eyes towards Conduits. Enjoy the spectacle. Get caught in the whirlwind of sound and ideas. Move with them.

Blues Traveler CD retrospective to be released

2012-01-30T09:57:00.001-08:00

Over the course of their illustrious 25-year career, Blues Traveler have sold more than 10 million combined units worldwide, played over 2,000 live shows in front of more than 30 million people, and, in “Run-Around,” had the longest-charting radio single in Billboard history, which earned them a Grammy® for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. A television favorite, they have been featured on Saturday Night Live, Austin City Limits, VH1’s Behind the Music and they hold the record for the most appearances of any artist on The Late Show with David Letterman.

On March 6, 2012, Hip-O Select/Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) releases Blues Traveler: 25, a 2-CD retrospective that spans the first 25 years of the band’s incredible recording career. 25 features a total of 29 tracks including a newly recorded cover version of Sublime’s “What I Got,” their greatest hits, B-sides, unreleased demos and rarities— among them a remix of “Run-Around” by acclaimed electronic producers Gunslinger, and excerpts from the band’s online concept album Decision of the Skies: A Traveler Tale of Sun and Storm.

Remarks vocalist John Popper, “In a quarter century, through every possible kind of high and low, through every dream realized, through every hope dashed, always there was a return to that dedication and belief in the music and in each other. On behalf of all of Blues Traveler, I am privileged to express how honored we are, how deeply proud we are to share with you the first of our quarter-century celebration and appropriate look back at some favorites you may find familiar as well as rarities that for some reason or another have yet to see the light of day. In our hearts we view this as a time to step back to look at what we’ve done. We hope you will share that experience with us with as much satisfaction as we have had in bringing it to you.”

Originally from the suburbs of New Jersey, Blues Traveler moved to New York in the late ’80s where they became an integral part of a new wave of artists coming up in the jam-band scene, packing clubs like Nightingale’s, Wetlands and Mondo Cane. The band’s live reputation landed them a deal with A&M Records and over the years they released a string hit albums including their 1990 self-titled debut; 1991’s Travelers & Thieves; 1993’s Save His Soul; the platinum selling Straight on till The Morning; and their massive, 1994 multi-platinum breakthrough release Four.

Disc one of Blues Traveler: 25 features the band’s biggest hits and staple tracks representing all nine of their studio albums. Included are their No. 1 hit single “Run-Around,” and their top 20 hit “Hook.” Both songs were taken from 1994’s Four which climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard 200 and has now sold over six times platinum. Other tracks featured are the No. 4 hit single “Carolina Blues” from 1997’s Straight on till Morning, which reached No. 11 on the Billboard 200; the band’s first top 20 hit “But Anyway” plus “Gina” and “100 Years” taken from their 1990 self-titled debut; “Amber Awaits” and “After What” from their top 50 album Bastardos!, an album produced by former Wilco member Jay Bennett; the hard-rocking, Led Zeppelin-esque track “How You Remember It” and “You, Me And Everything” from their most recent 2008 release, North Hollywood Shootout; plus a new 2011 recording of Sublime’s “What I Got” which is only available on this two-CD set.

Disc Two of 25 is a collection of rarities including B-sides, unreleased demos and studio tracks. Featured are early demo versions of “But Anyway” and ”Trust In Trust” recorded in 1988; the quirky “The Poignant and Epic Saga of Featherhead and Lucky Lack” which was recorded in 1993 but never made it to an album; the unreleased studio track “Demon” which was written in 2000 during a songwriting session in Austin; plus the tracks ”12 Swords,” “The Sun and the Storm” and the 20-minute odyssey “Traveler Suite,” all taken from their 2000 concept album Decision of the Skies: A Traveler Tale of Sun and Storm, which was originally only made available as a download through the band’s website.

As Blues Traveler prepares for the next 25 years, they are currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on their tenth studio album. They are about to embark on a nationwide tour celebrating 25 years of making music, and Blues Traveler: 25 offers a glimpse into the evolution of one of the most beloved artists to come out of the jam-band scene.

Disc 1-Greatest Hits

1. Run-Around

2. Hook

3. The Mountains Win Again

4. But Anyway

5. You, Me and Everything

6. Amber Awaits

7. After What

8. Back In The Day

9. Girl Inside My Head

10. Carolina Blues

11. Let Her and Let Go

12. Gina

13. 100 Years

14. What’s For Breakfast

15. NY Prophesie

16. Unable To Get Free

17. How You Remember It

18. What I Got (bonus track)

Disc 2-B-sides/Unreleased

1. The Demon

2. The Poignant and Epic Saga of Featherhead and Lucky Lack

3. Blue Hour

4. Trust In Trust

5. Didn’t Mean To Wake Up

6. But Anyway’88

7. Random Amounts

8. Twelve Swords

9. The Sun and The Storm

10. Traveler’s Suite

11. Run Around (Gunslinger Remix) (bonus track)

'Sex & the City Zoo' benefit for LA Zoo Feb. 12

2012-01-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

"SEX AND THE CITY ZOO 3," a wildly romantic Valentine's Day event celebrating animal mating, dating and cohabitating, is presented by the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) on Sunday, February 12, 2012, 5 pm, in the Zoo's Witherbee Auditorium. The lighthearted, adults-only affair begins with a reception featuring tempting desserts, alluring wines and "animal walk-abouts," which include chats with keepers and the chance to observe small animals up close. Then, the heart of the evening is a provocative presentation – with audience participation -- by Zoo veteran Jason Jacobs, who offers insights about relationships in the animal kingdom. "Sex and City Zoo 3" climaxes with an optional four-course dinner at Reggie's Bistro inside the Zoo. Proceeds from the fund-raiser, the third annual, support the Zoo’s mission of wildlife preservation and conservation.

Jacobs, L.A. Zoo's director of public relations and marketing, has worked in zoos since he was 13 years old and describes himself as "coming of age amid a menagerie," adding, "Spending almost every day of my life in a zoo for more than twenty years and has given me a unique perspective on the birds and the bees." He promises a humorous and enlightening evening.

Dinner guests receive a long stem rose per couple and a glass of house champagne or sparkling wine per person. The meal begins with an "Amuse" course of Fresh Watermelon, Dungeness Lump Crab and Micro Cilantro; followed by a selection of Artisan Breads served with Sundried Tomato Tapanade, then a salad course of Grilled Fresh Costa Rican Hearts of Palm, Lola Rossa Lettuce and Oven Roasted Campari Tomatoes with Passion Fruit Dressing. The three Entrée Choices are Peppered Filet Mignon, Yukon Gold Potato Pave, Cabernet Truffle Reduction; Herb Grilled Fresh Atlantic Salmon, Du Puy Lentils, Baby Fennel, Port Wine Shallot Sauce; or Italian Risotto, Saffron, Grilled Local Vegetables, Vermouth Cream. Dessert is a special "Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate" dish. Iced tea and sodas are included, and guests may purchase Napa Valley Wines: Cabernet, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel.

"Sex and the City Zoo 3" is generously sponsored by Whole Foods Market West Hollywood, with chocolates provided by Madécasse.

For nearly five decades, the private, non-profit Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association, founded in 1963, has funded exhibits, plant and animal species conservation, capital projects, and education and community outreach programs at the Los Angeles Zoo, an international leader in the preservation of endangered species and a conservation center for the care and study of wildlife. GLAZA also builds and invests endowment funds and operates five essential departments on behalf of the Zoo, including development, publications, membership, volunteers and oversight of the Zoo's food/retail concessions. There are currently 72,000 GLAZA member households representing more than 300,000 adults and children, the largest membership base of a cultural organization in Los Angeles, and a volunteer corps of over 700.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027, in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways.

Tickets are $25 per person for GLAZA members, with the dinner option an additional $65 per person, and $35 per person for non members, plus an additional $75 for the dinner option. (Adults only, age 21 up.) Seating is limited, and reservations are required by February 8. Call 323 644-6042 for reservations. www.lazoo.org

The Lumineers to release album and tour

2012-01-30T09:53:00.000-08:00

Denver band The Lumineers are proud to announce the release of their self-titled debut album, out on April 3rd via Dualtone. The band's style of emotive, powerful folk-rock has garnered comparisons to Edward Sharpe and Mumford and Sons, and is in line with Dualtone's history of supporting talented folk acts. The album was produced and mixed by Ryan Hadlock (Foo Fighters, Ra Ra Riot, Metric) at Bear Creek Studios, with additional mixing by Kevin Augunas (The Black Keys, Cold War Kids, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros) at Fairfax Recordings, and follows the band's eponymous self-recorded EP that was released earlier in 2011.

The Lumineers will be touring in support of the debut, beginning in March and playing through the end of April. The tour will start along the West Coast with stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, and will run through other major markets including Chicago, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia. For a full list of tour dates, please see below.

The Lumineers were formed by Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites in New York. Their story begins in 2002, the year Jeremiah's brother and Wesley's long-time best friend, Josh, died from a drug overdose at 19. Amidst the loss and grief, Wes and Jeremiah came together and found solace in music, writing songs and playing gigs around New York. After battling the city's cutthroat music scene and impossibly high cost of living, the two decided to expand their horizons. They packed everything they owned and headed for Denver, Colorado. It was less a pilgrimage than act of stubborn hopefulness.

The first thing they did in Denver was place a Craigslist ad for a cellist, and the first person to respond was Neyla Pekarek, a classically trained Denver native. As a trio, they began playing at the Meadowlark, a gritty basement club where the city's most talented songwriters gathered every Tuesday for an open mic and dollar PBRs. Neyla softened Wes and Jeremiah's rough edges while expanding her skills to mandolin and piano. And so The Lumineers sound took shape; an amalgam of heart-swelling stomp-and-clap acoustic rock, classic pop, and front-porch folk.

The Lumineers Tour Dates

Wed-Mar-21 - San Diego, CA @ The Casbah

Thu-Mar-22 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hotel Café

Sat-Mar-24 - San Francisco, CA @ Café Du Nord

Sun-Mar-25 - Santa Cruz, CA @ The Crepe Place

Thu-Mar-29 - Eugene, OR @ Axe & Fiddle

Fri-Mar-30 - Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios

Sat-Mar-31 - Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern

Sun-Apr-01 - Vancouver, BC @ Media Club

Wed-Apr-04 - Boise, ID @ Neurolux

Thu-Apr-05 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room

Fri-Apr-06 - Bellvue, CO @ Misawaka Indoors

Sat-Apr-7 - Boulder, CO @ Shug's

Mon-Apr-09 - Ames, IA @ The Maintenance Shop

Wed-Apr-11 - Minneapolis, MN @ 7th Street Entry

Thu-Apr-12 - Madison, WI @ The Frequency

Fri-Apr-13 - Chicago/Evanston, IL @ SPACE

Tue-Apr-17 - Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground Lounge

Wed-Apr-18 - Northampton, MA @ Iron Horse

Thu-Apr-19 - Fairfield, CT @ StageOne

Fri-Apr-20 - Berklee, MA @ Café 939 (festival)

Sat-Apr-21 - Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg

Sun-Apr-22 - Vienna, VA @ Jammin' Java

Tue-Apr-24 - Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brendas

Thu-Apr-26 - Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506

Fri-Apr-27 - Nashville, TN @ The Basement

Sat-Apr-28 - St. Louis, MO @ Blueberry Hill

Sun-Apr-29 - Kansas City, MO @ The Record Bar

www.thelumineers.com

Pacific Rose Society auction Feb. 4 at the Arboretum

2012-01-30T09:51:00.000-08:00

Pacific Rose Society will hold its annual rose auction on Saturday, February 4th at the Los Angeles County Arboretum (301 North Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007; www.arboretum.org )

This annual event will start at 10:00 a.m. with a silent auction of rare and hard-to-find roses. These are one of a kind roses --- most of which are no longer available commercially.

At 12:00 noon, the live auction will start. These are, for the most part, field grown bare root roses and have been donated by Star Roses, David Austin Roses, Certified Roses and Weeks Roses.

One of the highlights will be the auctioning of the very rare and exciting new Hybrid Tea ‘Pacific Celebration’. This fabulous new rose from Frank Strickland will surely be in high demand among exhibitors due to its perfect form and breathtaking beauty.

Among the other highlights of the live auction, will be the opportunity to obtain some exciting new varieties from Weeks Roses.

· Among them are ‘Bull’s Eye’ and stunning new shrub. Ivory semi-double blossoms with a cranberry center;

· ‘Diamond Eyes’ and new black-purple miniature with a white ‘eye’;

· ‘Love Song’, a lovely ruffled lavender floribunda;

· ‘Oh My!’ a breathtaking red floribunda that produces a stunning display of ruffled red blossoms in lovely clusters;

· ‘Sparkle & Shine’ a dramatic yellow floribunda that will be a standout in any landscape;

· ‘Twilight Zone’ and scrumptious deep velvet purple grandiflora with old-fashioned very double flowers with an intense Spice – clove and lemony fragrance;

· ‘Whimsy’ and painted pink and white miniature producing a lovely display of very double and formal blossoms;

· and finally ‘Yabba Dabba Doo’ a mild-mannered shrub with masses of orangey pink flowers with a yellow ‘eye’.

People who register and participate in the auction will be treated to a potluck lunch that will begin at 11:30 a.m.

Entrance to the auction is no charge, but participants will need to pay for admission to the arboretum at the main entrance.

Nneka to tour in support of upcoming album

2012-01-30T09:48:00.000-08:00

It's been over two years since Nigerian-German songstress, Nneka, has toured the United States, and with the upcoming release of her third album Soul Is Heavy she's more than ready to return.

Nneka has also just released the Coki (Digital Mystikz) remix of “My Home” (premiered on Fader) which offers listeners a lively rendition of the heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals derived from the original track. Nneka explains the song as the realization that “there is no peace on Earth until you accept that both bad and good are part of life.”

Encompassing a combination of hip hop beats, reggae grooves, brass riffs and African-pop, Nneka's album Soul Is Heavy is a raw and honest window into her beliefs of love, pain, politics and God. The album will be released on February 28th on Yo Mama's Recordings/Decon.

Nneka Tour Dates

3/6: Vancouver @ The Biltmore Cabaret

3/7: Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile

3/8: Portland, OR @ Doug Fir Lounge

3/10: San Francisco, CA @ Red Devil Lounge

3/11: West Hollywood, CA @ Troubadour

3/13 – 3/17: Austin, TX @ SXSW

3/18: Houston, TX @ House Of Blues Bronze Peacock

3/21: Chicago, IL @ Double Door

3/23: Toronto @ Virgin Mobile Mod Club "Canadian Music Week"

3/24: Montreal @ Cabaret du Mile End

3/26: Cambridge, MA @ T.T. The Bear's

3/27: New York, NY @ Gramercy Theatre

3/28: Philadelpha, PA @ Johnny Brenda's

3/29: Vienna, VA @ Jammin Java Music Club & Cafe

3/31: Atlanta, GA @ Vinyl

www.nnekaworld.com/

www.twitter.com/NNEKAWORLD

www.facebook.com/NnekaWorld

End o' week musings

2012-01-27T10:49:00.000-08:00

OK, I know it really should be "End o' two weeks musings" but tradition is tradition... Plus it has really been more like ONE really, really long week.

Last week I was all systems go in preparation for the NAMM (International Association of Music Merchants) trade show in Anaheim. I had lots of stories I was seeking and miles ahead of me in the convention center to find them.

But before that I had the pleasure of interviewing Anthony Raneri of Bayside, who is on the "Where's The Band? Tour," a solo acoustic performance concert series featuring members from an assortment of popular groups. Raneri was smart and charming with just a touch of sass. (Just the way I like my guys lol!). I like his music, which runs the gamut of musical genres, and suggest checking it out.

I also spoke with Sally Struthers, who is currently co-starring in "Always... Patsy Cline" at the Covina Center for the Performing Arts. I always enjoyed seeing Struthers in "All in the Family" as a kid. I might not have got all the jokes, but I looked up to her strong woman values and understood her vulnerability too. It was a joy to talk with her and discover that she's actually quite a bit like her character Gloria.

Struthers is very much an independent woman, yet she has a soft side and a very pleasant sense of humor. She's also very appreciative of her succes and her fans. Learn more about her and her show at http://www.sgvn.com/

On the 20th, I was ready for my first day of NAMM. Photographer/videographer Keith Durflinger and I covered a smattering of tech stories and then followed Tom and Rich from the Fret House in Covina to learn what the small retail stores do at the show. It was quite interesting.

Perhaps the most exciting part of the day for me was meeting my Twitter friend, guitarist Xander Demos (you can also check him out on Facebook). He was true to his boasts and can really wail on his axe, plus he's an all-around great guy. It's so awesome to meet people in person who you only know online and find out that they're someone you'd enjoy hanging out with. (We hung out a little on Sunday and had a great chat!)

The next day, Keith and I followed Mike Davis (bassist for Dramara and Halford) to get the musician's perspective. I'll admit that Mike focused more on networking and finding fellow musicians than checking out products, but it was still intriguing. I spent that afternoon returning to the booths of the tech products we had videotaped Friday to do interviews with representatives for my print story, which will run in the business section of http://www.sgvn.com/ next week. You can visit the site now to see a little preview of NAMM and hear a few cuts of some good music in the tape as well. (Ooo and look for my friends, guitarist Xander Demos and drummer Chris Batton in the video too).

The evenings of the 20th and 21st, I went to my friends Carin and Tom's house because they live so much closer to Anaheim than I. They took me to dinner and we soaked in the hot tub before I curled up in bed with their purring cat Tuffy for a good night's sleep. Thank you!

Sunday I returned to NAMM to catch anything I might have missed that would make a good story and to enjoy myself a little. I hung out with the staff of Barefoot Music News ( http://www.barefootmusicnews.com/ ) for part of the day, which was fun. They have a slightly different perspective on music than I, so it was interesting to see what they covered story-wise. I always enjoy the exchange of ideas with fellow journalists and musicians too.

At the end of the day, I joined the ukulele circle. It was geared to also for never-before players, but I was seriously surprised that I remembered some of the chords I have learned~ coolness! We had a nice time strumming and singing. Ukulele Barrt joined us and led us in a couple of songs. He told everyone on the left to sing, then everyone on the right, then the people in the middle and then "just you" and pointed at me. What do you know? There was Dan Grigor, one of my friends from Barefoot Music News, on the scene with his trusty videocamera to catch it too! Undaunted, I warbled out the song and tried to play the chords correctly-- I hope it came off OK.

Ukulele Barrt is going to be at the Coffee Gallery Backstage ( http://www.coffeegallery.com/ ) in Altadena 7 p.m. Feb. 5. He will also lead a ukulele circle there prior to the show at 6 p.m., so grab your git and have some fun.

This week began with a 9 a.m. Monday call from Michael Romero of Symphony X. Geez, what rockstar calls you that early on a Monday? I kept quipping words like that all weekend to my friends and discovered one of the nicest rockstars is the answer. Romero was up early packing for his tour and spending a little time with his family... and willing to spend some of that time talking with me. He was extremely gracious and we were soon talking like old friends. I am looking forward to catching the band live if I can, as their album rocks.

In the evening, I went to a house concert in Fullerton where Muriel Anderson was playing. She performed on guitar and harp guitar and was amazing! Muriel did original music, as well as songs by the Carpenters, Beatles and Steve Wonder... and more. She is a national fingerpick champion and doesn't need a band backing her, as she covers it all with her strings. She often comes to the Coffee Gallery Backstage and other SoCal venues, so if you get a chance to see her, I recommend that you go.

The rest of my week has been quieter, with the highlight being a good checkup from my dentist. Yay! No going back to spend time in the evil chair!! That flossing pays off.

I will be going to the Bill Word & Friends comedy show tomorrow night in Whittier, as my friend Carin is performing. If you come out, please say hello. All the info is in the post below.

This week I will also catch "Art" at the Pasadena Playhouse ( http://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/ ) and be back to hula class~ Aloha!

In rotation this week: Symphony X, Owl City, The Tierney Sutton Band, Anthony Raneri and Taylor Swift. (That's eclectic, huh?!)

Photos we got 'em: A couple of cut pet pics, my cell phone shot of the gecko on the Geico float in Covina the evening of the company's commercial shoot and a photo of me at NAMM by Terry Miller as he rode the escalator and looked down into the press room (notice the long-haired rocker sitting near me? That's Mike Davis. We were chatting before heading out on the floor).

Thought o' the week: Cool, boy, cool. This morning the news guy on the radio remarked how "cool" President Obama is about things. When someone yells at him (as during one of his speeches), he may pause, but then he goes on as if nothing happened. If Obama has a temper, he certainly doesn't let it flare. We could all take a cue from this attitude.

It is hard not to stand up and fight back to defend your opinion, but it's not always the best course. You can say things you don't really mean or just be overly vicious. Like Obama, it is sometimes better to take a breath and let it go. Or at least take pause and then speak calmly, making your point clearly without being in "attack mode."

Discourse is healthy, as is sharing differing opinions. We learn not only about others, but about ourselves, plus it makes for a more interesting world. It's OK to share your thoughts and OK to respond to someone else's, but in a rational, serene way rather than with aggression. And it's also OK to let things go and turn the other cheek.

Making the world a more peaceful place starts with you... and me too. Be cool, boy, cool and

Keep on rockin'

Mickie

Bill Word & Friends comedy show in Whittier Jan. 28

2012-01-27T10:48:00.001-08:00

Bill Word and Friends
Saturday, January 28, 2012, 8:00 PM
$10 cover, two beverage minimum
http://www.killerkomedy.com

Norwalk Moose Lodge

13305 Imperial Highway

Whittier, CA 90605

More info call (949) 223-0298

Host: Bill Word

Headliner: PJ Walsh

THE FRIENDS:
Featuring the comedy of:

Rico

Will Rodgers

Mark Sexton

Donita Smith

Charlene Ward

Carin P. Webb

Shomari Williams

Pasadena PinotFest Grand Tasting Feb. 11

2012-01-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

The fourth-annual Pasadena PinotFest—sponsored by Pasadena's top-rated Noir Food & Wine—will culminate on Feb. 11 with a Grand Tasting at the Altadena Town & Country Club.

Surrounded by the scenic San Gabriel Mountains, the Altadena Town & Country Club is the ideal setting for what promises to be a memorable afternoon featuring both fine wines and fine dining. Guests will have the opportunity to taste 200 pinot noirs from 100 leading wineries in California and Oregon, including: Alma Rosa; Arcadian; Ampelos; Brewer-Clifton; Carr; Clos Pepe; D'Alfonso-Curran; Dutton-Goldfield; Flying Goat; Hitching Post; Marimar Torres; Melville; Sojourn; Stephen Ross; Vergari; Williams-Selyem; and many more. Those on hand also will be treated to exquisite cuisine from top-area restaurants such as Noir Food & Wine, AKA Bistro, Altadena Town & Country Club, Bistro 45, The Cheese Store of Pasadena, and Polka Tots Cupcakes.

Tickets for the event—which runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.—can be purchased online at http://www.PasadenaPinotFest.com. Two levels of tickets are available: general admission for $89 and VIP admission for $119 (the latter comes with admittance to the event at noon as well as access to the VIP lounge and celebrity sommelier host George Skorka). For additional information call (626) 795-7199.

Tickets also are available for a series of pinot noir wine tastings being held at Noir Food & Wine. The events, which all begin at 3:30 p.m., are scheduled for Jan. 28, Feb. 4, and Feb. 10. Tickets—which are $15—can be purchased online at http://www.PasadenaPinotFest.com.

A portion of the PinotFest proceeds will benefit Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services—the largest provider of children's mental-health services in Los Angeles County www.hathaway-sycamores.org.

Beauty and the Beast in Cerritos March 2-4

2012-01-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

NETworks Presents
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos

Date: Friday, March 2, 2012, 7:00 PM
Saturday, March 3, 2012, 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Sunday, March 4, 2012, 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $64/$54/$40 Friday & Sunday Evening
$75/$60/$50 Saturday Matinee & Sunday Matinee
$68/$55/$45 Saturday Evening

Ticket Information: Tickets are available only at the Cerritos
Center for the Performing Arts’ Ticket Office, at
www.cerritoscenter.com or by calling (562) 467-8818.

Larry O. Dean and Malcontent albums to be reissued

2012-01-27T10:40:00.000-08:00

Two reissue releases are upcoming from the Zenith Beast label:

Larry O. Dean "Throw the Lions to the Christians" (out March 6th)

Malcontent "Embarrassment of Riches" (out March 20th

Larry O. Dean was born and raised in Flint, Michigan. As a young man, he worked with Academy Award-winning filmmaker Michael Moore, was widely published in the alternative press, and also worked as an underground cartoonist. He attended the University of Michigan at
Flint and Ann Arbor, where he won three Hopwood Awards in Creative Writing, an honor shared with fellow poets Robert Hayden, Jane Kenyon, Frank O'Hara, and John Ciardi, among others; and Murray State University's low-residency MFA program. He teaches literature and
composition as an adjunct English instructor, and is a Poet-in-Residence in the Chicago Public Schools through the Poetry Center of Chicago's Hands on Stanzas program. He was a recipient of
the Gwendolyn Brooks Award for teaching excellence in 2004. In addition, he is a singer and songwriter, working both solo as well as with several "hard pop" bands. He has released numerous critically-acclaimed CDs, including "Throw the Lions to the Christians" (1997). He is currently working on his third solo album, "Good Grief", with producer Chris Stamey (The dB's). Since 2001 he has hosted a monthly songwriter showcase, Folk You! After living in San Francisco for over a decade, he makes his home in Chicago.

Malcontent (1994-1995) was a short-lived indie pop quartet from San Francisco. The band formed after leader Larry O. Dean's previous band, The Fussbudgets, splintered with the departure of co-songwriter Chris Lehmann. Drummer James Coil had played with The Fussbudgets in their last phase, as had bassist, Ned Doherty. Guitarist Tony Maxwell
was a friend of Larry's from high school in Flint, Michigan. Maxwell brought a tighter pop feel to his guitar parts (in opposition to The Fussbudgets' more shambolic work ethic), as well as a tendency toward bluesiness in his leads, most noticeably on "Perversity." The band gigged infrequently in the Bay Area, recording a four-song EP dubbed "Embarrassment of Riches" with producer Greg Freeman at Lowdown Studios. The four principals were augmented by Christine Wall (Chris Isaak, The Movie Stars, El Sob) on vocals, and Sheila Schat (Dandeline, Tiny, Liar) on violin and viola. "Embarrassment of Riches" was briefly released on cassette in 1995, but its four tracks were later appended on Dean's solo debut, delayed but ultimately released in 1997, after he had moved to Chicago and started the band Post Office.

Shimmy Showcase Sunday

2012-01-27T10:38:00.001-08:00

January 29 – Amber hosts this Shimmyshowcase and welcomes newcomer Ingrid, Siraj and Good Witch dance troupe to the Viento y Agua stage. Sunday evenings at Viento y Agua with Shimmyshowcase are a perfect way to relax and enjoy great food, great coffee, and fabulous entertainment, so why don’t you come join us! Come early so you can order your sandwich and drink in time to catch the first performance at 5:30.

Everyone is invited 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 in the entertainment area to enjoy some really great dancing at NO cover charge!

SHIMMY SHOWCASE begins at 5:30 p.m. at Viento y Agua Coffee House in Long Beach at 4007 East 4th Street; 562-434-1182.

Note—N405-W22 (7th St) transition is closed for construction, so for those coming from the south, the best way is to exit the 405 at Westminster as the detour indicates. Then take Westminster through the PCH intersection until it turns into 2nd street. Take the first right immediately after the bridge and an immediate left. That street will turn into 4th and Viento Y Aqua will be on the right.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before show time (earlier if you’re a performer!), so you can first stop at the refreshment counter to get a delicious beverage, snack or sandwich; then head for the show area and grab a seat so you don’t miss any of our great performers!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Below is our upcoming schedule for the next several weeks. Note that with our March 10 Anniversary party, Shimmyshowcase for the first time will be on a Saturday! If you are a dancer interested in performing at an upcoming showcase, please read on to see whether we have openings in any upcoming showcases and send an email with your preference to Shimmyshowcase@gmail.com

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

February 5 – DARK -- No SHIMMYSHOWCASE

February 12 - As Valentine’s Day draws near, our newest coordinator Draca welcomes guest dancers Reba, Siraj, Bella and Tehani to the Shimmyshowcase stage.

February 19 – DARK -- No SHIMMYSHOWCASE (Belly Dancer of the Universe Competition)

February 26 – Shimmyshowcase will be taken over by the ever-popular JJ & the Habibis troupe on this night, and coordinator Saviya couldn’t be happier to host this wonderful, versatile troupe. Be sure to join us as the Habibis are sure to put on a delightfully fun program.

March 4 – Abraiha returns to coordinate another Shimmyshowcase with lovely guest dancers May, Liz, Shauntel, and Janice.

March 10 – (that’s right—a SATURDAY!) --Shimmyshowcase celebrates its 9th anniversary with a special program featuring Shimmyshowcase coordinators, past and present! For the first time, Shimmyshowcase will be on a SATURDAY evening so we have more time to celebrate. We’re also starting a little later—around 6:30 p.m. Saviya has the lead in planning for this year’s anniversary party and already has one of Shimmyshowcase’s founders, Alexiis, on tap to perform, as well as current coordinator Ilana and the Om Sisters. Please mark your calendars so you won’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Shimmyshowcase’s reincarnation in our new home, Viento y Agua Coffee House!

March 18 – DARK –No Shimmyshowcase. Instead, we hope you can attend Saviya’s “Gypsy Fire” show in Long Beach! More details to follow.

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for Shimmyshowcase information & pictures, please visit our Blog at http://shimmyshowcase.blogspot.com/

The Jealous Sound to release album and tour

2012-01-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

LA indie rock band The Jealous Sound (http://jealoussound.com ) is releasing a new album (“A Gentle Reminder”) this Tuesday, 1/31.

The record was made in the Foo Fighters' Studio 606 with John Lousteau producing, A Gentle Reminder features founding members Blair Shehan and guitarist Pedro Benito working alongside the Foos' Nate Mendel (filling in on bass for the departed John McGinnis) and new drummer Bob Penn.

About The Jealous Sound:

Blair Shehan says that his time away from The Jealous Sound wasn't a matter of losing his way. It was a matter of finding it.

"I got zeroed out, and I had to figure out how to do things in a healthy way," the singer-guitarist says, recounting the long, strange trip it's been to 2012, when the Los Angeles quartet will release its first album in nine years, A Gentle Reminder. "I've been humbled, and now I'm a very different person than I was in 2003. I've learned a lot about just being in the world."

Many of those life lessons are revealed in the grandeur of the new album, a poignant and emotional triumph that not only proves a worthy successor to Kill Them With Kindness — named one of Spin's best albums of ’03 — but reveals the foursome at the top of its craft. Open-hearted, yes, but not really gentle at all, A Gentle Reminder represents a 44-minute epiphany set to cascading guitars, thundering rhythms and Shehan's evocative vocals.

Made in the Foo Fighters' Studio 606 with John Lousteau producing, A Gentle Reminder features founding members Shehan and guitarist Pedro Benito working alongside the Foos' Nate Mendel (filling in on bass for the departed John McGinnis) and new drummer Bob Penn.

How the quartet coalesced to recapture the magic is a labyrinthine tale that covers three states and includes a lot of emotional baggage, but the first turning point came in late 2004 after rigorous touring behind Kill Them With Kindness. A major label was poised to come on board and help with a follow-up. "But we were simply out of gas," Shehan says. "I was spent. I remember John telling me, 'You know, you don't have to feel bad if you don't want to do this."

A half-hearted attempt at carrying on yielded only 2005’s Got Friends EP, and it was painfully evident The Jealous Sound had stalled completely. So Shehan set aside the band life, moved to Las Vegas and got a day job.

"There's a sense that I flipped out and left; people thought I went crazy," Shehan says. "But what's crazy? Staying in a band at my age with no stability? Ignoring the normal parts of becoming an adult? People don't necessarily understand what we do, and the commitment it takes to do what we do."

After two-plus years in Las Vegas, "things there fell apart in very dramatic fashion," Shehan says, so he moved to Florida and at one point was even poised to take the LSAT. He bought a guitar instead, and reconnected with Benito, whose friendship with Mendel helped The Jealous Sound land a spot opening a 2009 tour for the bassist's previous band, emo pioneers Sunny Day Real Estate. The old juices started flowing.

When that tour ended, The Jealous Sound began meticulously piecing together the ideas that would become A Gentle Reminder, an experience that at once thrilled and horrified Shehan. "Sometimes I'd be writing a song and think, 'Oh, man, I don't really want to say this, do I?'" Shehan says. "But the process of writing removes any filters you have — you're not as in control of things as you'd like to be. It ended up being very liberating.”

That sense of freedom rings throughout “A Gentle Reminder,” which finds Shehan taking inventory of the past, for better or worse, and looking stoically toward the future. He acknowledges the weight of his regrets in “Here Comes the Ride” but sounds up to the task of bearing it. The effervescent “Your Eyes Were Shining” seems on the surface directed to a sweetheart, but when Shehan sings “The heavens opened wide / and let you in,” he could just as easily be talking about reconnecting, happily, with his songwriting muse. That theme of renewal re-emerges in the “beating drum” and “beating heart” of “This Is Where It Starts.” There, as he likens his visions and dreams to “a rush of blood,” fans of The Jealous Sound’s open-hearted buoyancy will be happy that the quartet has once again opened a vein.

Indeed, after almost a decade, Shehan is still spilling blood. It's just more mature blood.

The Jealous Sound on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thejealoussound

THE JEALOUS SOUND

A GENTLE REMINDER

MUSIC IS SUBJECTIVE / FONTANA DISTRIBUTION

RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 31, 2012

TRACK LISTING:

1. BEAUTIFUL MORNING

2. CHANGE YOU

3. PROMISE OF THE WEST

4. YOUR EYES WERE SHINING

5. THIS IS WHERE IT STARTS

6. HERE COMES THE RIDE

7. EQUILIBRIUM

8. PERFECT TIMING

9. A GENTLE REMINDER

10. WAITING FOR YOUR ARRIVAL

The Jealous Sound Tour Dates:

Feb 03 Soda Bar San Diego, CA

Feb 04 Rogue Scottsdale, AZ

Feb 06 The Mohawk Austin, TX

Feb 07 Lola's Sixth Fort Worth, TX

Feb 08 Stickyz Rock'n'Roll Chicken Little Rock, AR

Feb 09 The EARL Atlanta, GA

Feb 10 Local 506 Chapel Hill, NC

Feb 11 Strange Matter Richmond, VA

Feb 12 Rock and Roll Hotel Washington, DC

Feb 14 Great Scott Allston, MA Tickets

Feb 15 Knitting Factory Brooklyn Brooklyn, NY

Feb 16 MilkBoy Philly Philadelphia, PA

Feb 17 Grog Shop Cleveland, OH

Feb 18 Subterranean Chicago, IL

Feb 19 Triple Rock Social Club Minneapolis, MN

Feb 20 The Riot Room Kansas City, MO

Feb 21 Marquis Theater Denver, CO

Feb 22 Kilby Court Salt Lake City, UT

Feb 24 Hawthorne Theatre Portland, OR

Feb 25 El Corazon Seattle, WA

Feb 27 Bottom of the Hill San Francisco, CA

Feb 28 The Satellite Los Angeles, CA

Willie Adler (Lamb of God) web site launched

2012-01-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

Premier online guitar community All Axess (www.allaxess.com ) and Willie Adler have joined forces to launch the official Willie Adler website at www.willieadler.com

In a recent video about the site, Willie Adler said, “I’m going to be updating the site personally on a regular basis from the road, while recording or while I’m at home. I will be giving personal tours of my gear, specs on everything, anything new I might be coming out with, even just the music I’m currently listening to. This is the place for all things Willie.”

It does not stop there, as the ever-growing guitar community is now managing social media for world renowned guitarists; through Twitter, Facebook and developing ‘Official’ websites. All Axess has promised a relationship between professional guitarists and fans alike that is revolutionary and exists nowhere else on the World Wide Web.

With the launch of Willie Adler's official website, All Axess has once again expanded on its goal of creating a more interactive online guitar community. In addition, All Axess will continue to bring the viewer lessons from professionals, rig rundowns and a consistent blog and news section.

Jeff Kendrick, the site's co-owner states, “In response to the ever growing social media revolution, All Axess has now initiated the management and collaboration with professional guitarists in the development and management of their official Facebook, Twitter, Youtube accounts and websites. We are very pleased to announce the recent collaboration with Willie Adler as the inaugural guitarist of our social media program. LAMB OF GOD is one of the most respected metal bands in the world and Willie is one of the most sought after guitarists in the metal genre. All Axess is continuing its reign as one of the largest forces on the net for guitar playing and the guitarist lifestyle. All Axess is creating a place where fans can go to find out information about their favorite guitarists, leave comments and also ask them questions with a very realistic chance that their favorite guitarist will respond.”

For more information, visit www.allaxess.com and www.willieadler.com

MozART Group in Cerritos March 7

2012-01-27T10:32:00.000-08:00

MozART Group

Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos

Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2012, 7:30 PM

Ticket Prices: $40 Adults/$25 Students

Ticket Information: Tickets are available only at the Cerritos
Center for the Performing Arts’ Ticket Office, at
www.cerritoscenter.com or by calling (562) 467-8818.

Arboretum offers plein air painting class starting Feb. 5

2012-01-27T10:31:00.000-08:00

Plein Air Painting at the Arboretum with Marion Eisenmann

Once a month on the following Sundays, 1-4pm

Sunday, February 5,

Or Sunday, March 4,

Or Sunday, April 15

$60 per Sunday for Arboretum members / $70 per Sunday for non-members

Please call (626) 821-4623 for reservations.

Capture the ever-changing moods of nature in this outdoor painting class with artist Marion Eisenmann. Bring your portable folding stool and your watercolors, and learn how to create an interesting composition while expressing your own style as you experiment with different watercolor techniques. Open to both beginning and advanced students, painting at the Arboretum offers a wealth of vistas and a variety of moods that is sure to spark imagination and creativity. Supply list available upon registration.

Marion was born and raised in Germany where she developed her classical foundation in music and the visual arts. Her specialties are story-driven lifestyle illustration and character development. She currently teaches at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California and also gives workshops in plein air painting.

Please visit www.marioneisenmann.com

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

301 North Baldwin Avenue

Arcadia, CA 91007-2697

Phone: 626.821.4624

Jill.Berry@arboretum.org

www.arboretum.org

Carmelite Nuns in concert in San Gabriel Feb. 19

2012-01-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

“Seasons of the Soul”

Sunday, February 19, 2012; 7 p.m. San Gabriel Mission Playhouse

320 South Mission Drive, San Gabriel, CA 91776

Music Director:

Sister Marie Estelle, OCD

Guest Music Director:

James Drollinger and Legacy Vocal Ensemble

Program:

An evening of inspiration and hope, with music including Gregorian Chant, hymns, praise/worship, and contemporary Christian

Tickets: Tickets are available on-line at www.carmelitesistersocd.com/events or call 626-289-1353, ext. 246.

Price: $40/person to $100/person

On Sunday, February 19, 2012 . . . the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, invite you to a concert that will take you through the changing seasons of the human soul as it journeys through life. Tickets are available on-line at www.carmelitesistersocd.com/events or call 626-289-1353, ext. 246.

To Pope Benedict XVI “the joy of song and music is a constant invitation to people of good will to commit themselves to give humanity a rich future of hope." And, as friends of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles have long known, the Carmelites would agree with that. Not only does the order have a tradition of incorporating music into its daily work, worship and discipline, but, on Sunday, February 19, at 7 p.m. forty Carmelite Sisters will come together from all parts of the Southland to share their music with those outside their convents’ walls when they present “The Carmelite Sisters in Concert: Seasons of the Soul.”

“We want this evening to be an uplifting time of hope,” explains Mother Regina Marie, OCD, Superior General. “The Carmelite Sisters love music and our lives are filled with music --- chanting the psalms three times a day, composing, singing together and playing instruments. Because music can reach deeply into both heart and soul, the concert will have an inspirational and prayerful tone, coupled with moments of playful fun.”

“The Carmelite Sisters in Concert: Seasons of the Soul will take place at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, San Gabriel, CA. Songs will range from Gregorian chants to contemporary Christian. “The unifying theme for the concert is hope,” says Mother Regina Marie. “As the saying goes, ‘it is always darkest before the dawn. Our concert takes you from the dark night of the soul to the dawn of resurrection. It sings about the journeys of life from fearful, uncertain steps to the joyful confidence of walking in God’s light.” Joining Sister Marie Estelle, OCD, in directing “The Carmelite Sisters in Concert: Seasons of the Soul,” is James Drollinger, a 10-year member of the renowned choral ensemble, the Los Angeles Master Chorale, who received a Grammy nomination for his duet recording of Morton Lauridsen’s “Dirait-on” on the CD “Northwest Journey.” Mr. Drolligner will direct the acclaimed “Legacy” Vocal Ensemble, who will perform during the concert.

In addition, The Carmelite Sisters are also grateful for the support of Studio City Sound, a full-service recording studio owned and operated by Grammy Award winning mixer Tom Weir. Studio City Sound has recorded all of the CDs of the Carmelite Sisters.

Tickets are available on-line at www.carmelitesistersocd.com/events or call 626-289-1353, ext. 246.

For more information about the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, visit www.carmelitesistersocd.com.

The historic San Gabriel Mission Playhouse is located at 320 South Mission Drive, San Gabriel, CA 91776

'Facial Expressionism' exhibit opens in Cerritos Jan. 31

2012-01-27T10:26:00.000-08:00

The Cerritos College Art Gallery is pleased to open the year of
2012 with the exhibit Facial Expressionism.

Fifteen contemporary artists participating in Facial Expressionism at
the Cerritos College Art Gallery produce innovative aesthetic
deterritorializations of faces that purposefully over-spill the
limits of any singular signifying system, thereby resisting a simple
complicity between a face and the evolving metrics for 'knowing' it.
Merging baroque vision with haptic thought, the works on display
exist as embodied (de)formations that explore the ontogenesis of a
particular face with its various expressive manifestations, the
gestalt of insular figuration with the nonorganic vitality of ground,
the immanence of representation and materiality, and the entanglement
of emotive gesture and pre-responsive affect.

As gestures migrate from body to body, and from one medium to
another, confusing the etymologically linked concepts of passion and
passage, it is difficult not to be reminded of the individualistic
humanism of the early 20th-century art historical movement of
Expressionism (Die Brücke, Der Blaue Reiter, etc.).

But while there are certain stylistic similarities to this modernist
namesake, the work on display in Facial Expressionism must also be
repositioned against the unfolding backdrop of recent para-humanist
and object-oriented concepts of expressionism in contemporary
philosophy (for example, theorist Brian Massumi argues that a kick is
as much an expression of the ball as the player).

EXHIBITING ARTISTS: Michael Alvarez, Jeremy Bailey, Maya Bloch,
Justin Bower, Guy Denning, Kim Dorland, Paul Gillis, Annie Lapin,
Gerardo Monterubbio, Buddy Nestor, Rachel Niffenegger, Kambui
Olujimi, Dominic Quagliozzi, Phoebe Unwin, and Eric Yahnker
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Galileo Gonzalez

WHEN: January 31st, 2012 to March 15th, 2012
Opening Reception: Tuesday, January 31st, 2012, 5-8PM

WHERE: Cerritos College Art Gallery
11110 Alondra Blvd
Norwalk, CA 90650
A map of the campus is available at
www.cerritos.edu/guide

Daily Parking is available for $2.00 in lot C-10 in the student white
stalls only.

COST: Admission and events are free and open to the public.

Skrillex, Digitalism and more remix song for Syndicate

2012-01-27T10:23:00.000-08:00

Famed electro music producers Skrillex, Digitalism, Flux Pavilion and DJ Scattle have remixed the theme song for Syndicate, the cyberpunk action game from Electronic Arts.

You can download the future installments in the Syndicate DJ Remix series by “liking” the Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/Syndicate?sk=app_290625924286234

In the world of Syndicate, everything is wired, including the people. Through DART 6 bio-chip technology, gamers can take down their foes by breaching the wired world around them. Force enemies to turn on themselves via the DART chip installed in their heads, or harvest their technology for upgrades. The player’s arsenal of weapons is not limited to the guns in their hands. This fast action, sci-fi first person shooter will have gamers instantly wired into its unique gameplay. Syndicate will be available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on February 21st.

Go Country 105 announces new format

2012-01-27T10:21:00.000-08:00

Furthering its commitment to country radio in Southern California, Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters, Inc., with its flagship GO COUNTRY 105, has announced the launch of its new GO COUNTRY CLASSICS format.

Based on popular demand for country classics, many songs from the 1960s, 70s, 80s and early 90s, which are not played on a regular basis on contemporary GO COUNTRY 105, are now being featured 24/7 with GO COUNTRY CLASSICS.

Programmed by GO COUNTRY 105 Program Director Tonya Campos, GO COUNTRY CLASSICS is now available online at www.GoCountryClassics.com , and beginning next week will also be presented on-air in Southern California on 105.1 FM HD3.

Women in Folk Music show Feb. 25 in South Pasadena

2012-01-26T10:33:00.000-08:00

Women in Folk Music
8 p.m. Feb. 25
Fremont Centre Theatre, 1000 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena
$15, reservations recommended
626-969-0778
tedromu@earthlink.net

Performances by

Jill Freeman with Joel Wachbrit

Sandy Ross

LisaMania! - Lisa Johnson, Lisa O'Kane and Lisa Nemzo

Ukulele retreats in May and August

2012-01-26T10:31:00.001-08:00

West Coast Ukulele Retreat
Asilomar, California - on the Monterey Peninsula
May 16-20
www.ukuleleretreat.com

Camp OoKooLayLay
Family summer camp for ukulele players (includes free babysitting!)
Lair of the Golden Bear
Pinecrest, California
Aug. 18-24
Register by Feb. 14
www.campookoolaylay.wordpress.com

Young London launches remix contest

2012-01-26T10:28:00.000-08:00

Boston-based electro-pop duo YOUNG LONDON (who were recently named one of “Boston’s Best New Band’s” by local alt-weekly the Phoenix) has partnered with their record label Fugitive Recordings and Indaba Music, the pioneering online music creation site, to launch a unique remix contest that allows users to download stems of the act’s latest single, "Let Me Go", and submit their own remix of the track. Indaba’s international community of more than 600,000 musicians can then vote and comment on the remixes - but ultimately Matt and Sarah of YOUNG LONDON will choose the grand prize. The winning remix will receive a $1,000 cash prize as well as on official release of the track, amongst other things (see below for details).

The submission period begins today, January 26th and ends on February 23rd. The voting period will commence on Feb 23rd and conclude on March 8th, after which the winning remix will be chosen on March 29th.

For more information or to submit a mix, visit:
www.indabamusic.com/opportunities/young-london-let-me-go-remix-contest

Prizing:

1 Grand Prize Winner

The Grand Prize Winner, as chosen by the Judges from all of the submissions, will:

Receive $1,000
Have their remix included on an official Young London release by Fugitive Recordings
Receive a signed copy of Young London's self titled album
Receive a 1-year Pro Membership to Indaba Music
5 Honorable Mentions

The 5 Honorable Mentions, as chosen by the Judges from the 10 most popular remixes, will each:

Receive a signed copy of Young London's self titled album
Receive a 1-year Pro Membership to Indaba Music
Timeline:

Submissions Period: 1/26 - 2/23

Public Voting Period: 2/23 - 3/8

Winners Announced: 3/29

About Young London (www.facebook.com/younglondonmusic ):

Matt Rhoades and Sarah Graziani of electro pop duo YOUNG LONDON began writing music together in 2011. They quickly realized that their writing styles combined to form a unique, catchy, dance-inducing style. After their explosive debut at South by Southwest, and a subsequent tour this past summer, they headed into the studio to start working on their first full-length album.

With the direction of producer Mark Maxwell (Blake Lewis, Boys Like Girls), YOUNG LONDON completed their self-titled debut, which was released on January 10 via Fugitive Recordings. The Boston Phoenix recently featured the duo on the cover of the paper and called their sound, “Euro-thumping, anthemic techno-pop…dance music with a bull's-eye on the back of the Top 40.”

View YOUNG LONDON’s latest music video (“Celebrity”) here:
www.vevo.com/watch/young-london/celebrity/USTN11100409

Young London’s new album is now available on iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/young-london/id482310150

About Indaba Music (www.indabamusic.com ):

Indaba Music pioneered the online music collaboration space, enabling anyone with internet access to connect with musicians from around the world to create, edit and mix studio-quality music online. Indaba Music then expanded to provide musicians with opportunities from iTunes distribution and other sales tools to remix contests, original song contests and commercial music licensing. Indaba Music’s community has over 600,000 members from 205 countries and territories.

www.fugitiverecordings.com

Primal Rock Rebellion to release single

2012-01-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION release their debut single, ‘No Place Like Home’, via Spinefarm Records on Monday, February 6, 2012. The single will be released as a Limited Edition 10” colored vinyl and digital download.

The video accompanying the song has been co-directed by Mikee Goodman and Meats Meier, a renowned CGI artist based in Los Angeles who provided the illustrations for both the single and album artwork.

The album, ‘Awoken Broken’, features ‘No Place Like Home’ along with 11 other tracks, and has been co-produced by Adrian & Mikee; it is set for release internationally on February 27th (U.S. release date coming soon).

‘Awoken Broken’ was heralded with a free download track, ‘I See Lights’, which can be found on www.primalrockrebellion.com.

The video for 'No Place Like Home' is showcasing now on Vevo, and can be viewed at www.vevo.com/artist/primal-rock-rebellion or on www.primalrockrebellion.com.

Miles Davis and Edith Piaf to be honored with Forever stamps

2012-01-26T10:20:00.000-08:00

The United States Postal Service today announced the joint issuance of new Forever stamps honoring two of the world’s greatest musicians, Miles Davis and Edith Piaf. The stamps will be issued with the French postal service, La Poste, in June.

“We look forward to issuing these great stamps jointly with La Poste, continuing a tradition of international celebration of stamps,” says USPS Manager, Stamp Services Stephen Kearney.

“On behalf of the Miles Davis family, we are honored that the U.S. Postal Service and La Poste are paying homage to the timeless legacy of Sir Miles Dewey Davis,” says Cheryl Davis (daughter of Miles), Erin Davis (son of Miles) and Vince Wilburn, Jr., (nephew of Miles), representatives of Miles Davis Properties, LLC.

Miles Davis was in the forefront of jazz musicians for decades, setting trends and exploring musical styles from bebop through cool jazz, fusion and funk. His restless musical exploration made him a hero to many, while sometimes confounding critics and fans. Among his many influential recordings are Birth of the Cool, Kind Of Blue, Sketches Of Spain and In A Silent Way. He was also a great bandleader, and many important musicians rose to prominence in his bands, including saxophonists John Coltrane and Wayne Shorter, drummers Tony Williams and Jack DeJohnette, and pianist Bill Evans, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock.

Davis’ music will long be remembered for its profound depth of feeling. By the time of his death in 1991, he had won many prizes and honors, including a GRAMMY Award for Lifetime Achievement. In 1984, he received Denmark’s prestigious Leonie Sonning Music Prize. In 1989, he was awarded the Grande Medaille de Vermeil by the city of Paris, which was presented to him by Jacques Chirac, then mayor and later president of France.

The most recent Miles Davis release entitled The Miles Davis Quintet – Live In Europe 1967: The Bootleg Series Vol.1, continues to rake in accolades. The critically acclaimed volume tops many critics’ year-end picks, and it also landed in first place in both the Jazz Times Critics Poll and the Readers Poll. Slate calls it one of the Best 10 Jazz Albums of the year. The Bitches Brew Deluxe Edition is also earning accolades with a recent win for “Best Historical Package” in the Down Beat Reader’s Poll. On June 27, the LA Philharmonic presents A Miles Davis Celebration at the Hollywood Bowl featuring Marcus Miller “Tutu Revisited,” Miles Electric Band and Kind Of Blue: Jimmy Cobb’s “So What” band.

Americans may know Edith Piaf best for her cheerful song “La Vie en Rose” (“Life In Pink”), about the experience of falling in love and seeing life through rose-colored glasses; the tune is still heard on the streets of Paris today. Piaf’s tumultuous life got off to a stormy start.

Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamps using a black-and-white photo of Davis from 1970 by David Gahr and an undated black-and-white photo of Piaf made by Studio Harcourt Paris.

The Miles Davis and Edith Piaf stamps are being issued as Forever stamps in self-adhesive sheets of 20 (10 of each design). Forever stamps are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate. At the time of issuance, the Miles Davis and Edith Piaf stamps are being sold at a price of 45 cents each, or $9 per sheet.

Customers may view the Miles Davis and Edith Piaf Forever stamps, as well as many of this year’s other stamps on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USPSStamps, through Twitter @USPSstamps or on the website Beyond the Perf at www.beyondtheperf.com/2012-preview. Beyone the Perf is the Postal Service’s online site for background on upcoming stamp subjects, first-day-of-issue events and other philatelic news.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expences and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For more information on Miles Davis, please visit the official website http://www.milesdavis.com/.

'Star Wars' event with Brisk Iced Tea in LA Feb. 3

2012-01-26T10:19:00.001-08:00

BRISK ICED TEA SHOWCASES STAR WARS’ INFLUENCE ON POP CULTURE WITH A 24 HOUR POP-UP EXPERIENCE IN LOS ANGELES
Exhibit Will Include Exclusive Star Wars Memorabilia From the Vaults at Lucasfilm

WHAT:
Brisk Bodega, a pop-up gallery celebrating the heritage and culture of Star Wars, all through the Brisk creative lens.

WHEN:
Open to the public on Friday, February 3, 3:00-11:00 p.m.

3:00-8:00 p.m. Open Gallery (all ages)
-- Exhibit featuring original artwork inspired by Brisk and Star Wars, with a Dark Side vs. Light Side theme. Artists include: Artek, Mark Dean Veca, Jasper Wong, Pose, Leo Eguiarte, Dual Forces, Eye One, and Tristan Eaton.

-- Star Wars props and memorabilia, including original Darth Maul and Yoda costumes and Podracers from the Episode I: The Phantom Menace set.

-- Play Brisksaber—the mobile gaming app where your finger becomes a lightsaber—on a bigger screen.

-- Sample Brisk Iced Tea in exclusive Star Wars cans.

-- Watch the 30-second TV spot in which a Briskified Darth Maul and Yoda face off for the first time, as well as the behind-the-scenes making of the video.

6:00-8:00 p.m. Art of Cantina (all ages)
-- Chance to interact with the artists, hosted by Juxtapoz.com.

8:00-11:00 p.m. Guest DJ (21+)
-- Special guest DJ performance and open bar.

WHERE:
722 N Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

Paw It Forward event in Pomona Feb. 15

2012-01-26T10:14:00.000-08:00

Carrington College® California Pomona will host Paw it Forward on Feb. 15 offering complimentary veterinary and spa services to pamper dogs and cats in honor of pet dental health awareness month in February. Services will include teeth brushing, ear cleaning, nail trimming, grooming and flea application. Veterinary technology program director, faculty, and students will be on-hand to share tips with owners on proper dental care including how to brush to combat plaque and tartar buildup.

“With pet dental awareness month right around the corner, Carrington wants to make sure that pets are pampered and owners understand the importance of routine veterinary check-ups,” said Rebecca Appell, executive director of Carrington College California Pomona. “Most people have no idea that dental health is crucial to their pets’ overall health so we are educating owners on how to properly care for their animals for a long and prosperous life.”

The event is free and open to the public with local area animal shelters and pet supply stores being invited to attend Paw it Forward. All pets must be leashed or kenneled. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/carringtoncollege or contact the campus at (909) 868-5800 to schedule your pet’s spa time.

WHO: Carrington College California Pomona

WHAT: Paw it Forward

WHEN: Wednesday, February 15 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

WHERE: 901 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 125, Pomona, CA 91768

For more information about Carrington College California Pomona, visit www.carrington.edu/california or call (888) 720-5014.

About Carrington College® California

Carrington College California is a leading provider of educational programs in California that prepares graduates for careers in fields such as accounting, criminal justice, dental assisting, dental hygiene, architectural design drafting, general business, graphic design, medical assisting, nursing, pharmacy technology, diagnostic medical sonography and veterinary technology. The nine Carrington College California campuses are located in Antioch, Citrus Heights, Emeryville, Pleasant Hill, Pomona, Sacramento, San Jose, San Leandro and Stockton. Carrington College California is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC-WASC). For more information about Carrington College California, visit www.carrington.edu/california.

Carrington College California is a part of DeVry Inc. (NYSE:DV) a global provider of educational services.

Ventriloquist Kevin Johnson in Cerritos Feb. 26

2012-01-26T10:12:00.000-08:00

Kevin Johnson

Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos

Date: Sunday, February 26, 2012, 3:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $30 Adults/$25 Children (12 and younger)
Four or more tickets to a single performance: $20

Ticket Information: Tickets are available only at the Cerritos Center
for the Performing Arts’ Ticket Office, at www.cerritoscenter.com , or
by calling (562) 467-8818.

Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra concert Feb. 18 in LA

2012-01-26T10:11:00.000-08:00

At first it might not seem like the French writer, Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette, best known as the author of the popular 20th century novel Gigi, and baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach would have much in common. But Bach may well have appreciated Colette’s assertion that “music is love,” as audiences will discover when Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra presents “Bach’s Wedding Cantatas” on Saturday, February 18 at 8 p.m. at AT&T Center Theatre in Los Angeles and Sunday, February 19 at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Santa Monica.

The program will include Bach’s Cantata No. 202 “The Wedding Cantata” and Cantata No. 210 “Oh, lovely day, longed for time.” Soprano Mary Wilson, hailed as “a gift from the gods” for her “exquisite singing” by San Francisco Classical Voice, will join the renowned orchestra as guest soloist.

“The Bach Wedding Cantatas are extremely poignant as they explore all the emotions that one experiences when approaching that life-changing event – everything from self reflection to bursting joy,” explains Wilson. “As a happily married woman, I especially find personal connections to this music. These cantatas are so beautiful and still as relevant as ever. If you've ever experienced any love at all, you will be able to personally relate to this music.”

But the wedding cantatas celebrate more than love, adds General Manager Laura Spino. “It’s almost impossible not to think of spring when you think of weddings,” Spino explains. “Both celebrate hope and new beginnings. As the opening line of The Wedding Cantata says, ‘Yield I say, ye brooding shadows, frost and tempests, take your rest!’ ”

Also on the program is J.S. Bach’s Concerto for Oboe in D minor, after BWV35/156, featuring oboist Gonzalo Ruiz.

“The Oboe concerto is a reconstruction from two of Bach's Cantatas – the outer movements from Cantata 35 and the inner movement from Cantata 156 – which prominently feature the oboist as soloist,” says Ruiz, who has served as principal oboist of Musica Angelica since its inception. “It is speculated that Bach himself recycled the oboe work into his cantatas and that the original manuscript was lost. Of all the Bach reconstructions for oboe, this one is the most spectacularly challenging for the oboist, a stunning showpiece that tests the soloist's virtuosic abilities.”

Musica Angelica’s Cynthia Roberts will appear as a guest soloist as well, when the baroque orchestra rounds out its evening of works by J.S. Bach, presenting the Violin Concerto in A minor BWV 1041. Roberts, a leading advocate of the baroque violin in the U.S., recently appeared at the Mostly Mozart Festival in a solo performance of Bach's Sonatas for Violin & Violin & Harpsichord and has participated in recordings of the complete Brandenburg Concertos.

Musica Angelica is especially grateful for the generous sponsorship received from The E. Nakamichi Foundation and Frank & Betty Pinkerton in support of these concerts. Tickets for The Bach Wedding Cantatas are reasonably priced, ranging from $29 to $49/person, with seniors receiving a 10% discount ($26 to $44) and students a special price of only $15 with valid identification. In addition, members of KUSC and SCEMS receive $10 off single ticket prices. For more information or to order tickets, visit www.musicaangelica.org or call 310.458.4504.

AT&T Center Theatre is located at 1150 South Olive Street in Los Angeles, 90015.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 1220 2nd Street in Santa Monica, 90402.

The Huntington acquires Civil War telegraph message collection

2012-01-26T10:05:00.000-08:00

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens has acquired an extensive and extraordinarily rare collection of Civil War telegraph messages, including a number of coded communiqués between Abraham Lincoln and officers of the Union Army. The collection is a near-complete archive of Thomas T. Eckert, the head of the military telegraph office of the War Department under Lincoln. The archive, which until recently was thought to have been destroyed, includes crucial correspondence that has never been published.

"The Huntington is one of the premiere institutions for the study of the Civil War and is the repository of two of the so-called Big Five collections of Lincolniana, material by and about the 16th American president," says David Zeidberg, the Avery Director of the Library. "The Eckert archive promises to add fresh insight into one of the most heavily mined scholarly subjectsthe American Civil War."

Selections from the archive will go on public view for the first time in the fall, when The Huntington presents two exhibitions relating to the war- the major "A Strange and Fearful Interest: Death, Mourning, and Memory in the American Civil War" (Oct. 13, 2012-Jan. 14, 2013) and the focused "A Just Cause: Voices of the Civil War Era." (Sept. 22, 2012-Jan. 7, 2013).

The Eckert materials were among the purchases over the weekend at the 15th annual meeting of the Library Collectors' Council. Other purchases include three rare photographs of San Francisco in 1867 by Carleton Watkins (two of which were not previously known to exist); a family archive that includes documentation of the first congressional action to limit slavery in the United States; a bound set of two 17th-century works of astronomy by a German rival of Galileo; and a 15th-century decorated manuscript containing dozens of Gregorian chants in musical notations.

The Library Collectors' Council is a group of 35 member families who help support acquisitions. It was formed to augment the collections by helping to purchase materials that the institution otherwise couldn't afford.

The council purchased the following items:

The Civil War Telegraph Archive of Thomas T. Eckert

The papers of Thomas T. Eckert range from 1862, during the early months of conflict between the North and South, through 1877, at the close of Reconstruction. The sizeable archive of 76 books includes 35 manuscript ledger books of coded telegraphs sent and received by the War Department, including 7 full ledgers of ciphered telegramsthat is, coded messages sent from Washington, D.C. Taken together, the books contain more than 100 messages from Lincoln. Also among the materials is a number of cipher books, which reveal the complex coding system used to decipher messagesincluding code names for Lincoln: Ida and India, among others. The Confederate Army never cracked the Union Armys code.

It is impossible to overestimate the importance of this collection, says Olga Tsapina, the Norris Foundation Curator of American Historical Manuscripts. This is a new and largely untapped resource that will, no doubt, provide a new impetus to Civil War studies as well as to the history of telegraphic communications in the United States.

Though a small portion of their contents had been published, until recently, it was thought that the Eckert materials did not survive. In fact, they had been kept intact in private hands since Eckerts lifetime. Zeidberg contacted David Ferriero, Archivist of the United States, at the National Archives and Records Administration in Washington, D.C., to see if it was interested in the records; it deferred to The Huntington, agreeing that the institution would be an appropriate home for the materials, providing ready access to scholars for studying them.

Photographs of San Francisco by 19th-Century Master Carleton E. Watkins

The council added three rare photographs to the extensive archive of 19th-century photographer Carleton E. Watkins (18291916) in an ongoing drive to select strategically and to fill gaps in the holdings. Over the years, The Huntington has continued adding to its Watkins holdings through gift and purchase, building a collection of more than 350 mammoth views (produced from 18-by-22-inch glass-plate negatives) and hundreds of smaller format photographs. Of the three photographs purchased by the council, all made in San Franciscos elite neighborhoods around 1867, only one is known to exist elsewhere and that in but a single copy.

Opening Salvo in the Political Battle that Would Lead to the Civil War

Also purchased by the Library Collectors Council is a family archive that includes documentation of the first congressional action to limit slavery in the United States. Daniel Gott (17941864), a U.S. Congressman from western New York, proposed a resolution in 1848 banning traffic in human beings as chattels in the District of Columbia. The Gott resolution was approved by the House but repealed three weeks later after Southern lawmakers threatened secession.

Christoph Scheiner, Galileos (Not-so) Secret Ally

The history of science is another major strength of The Huntington, and for the second year in a row the council has added a significant item related to Galileo Galilei (adding to the purchase last year of a book considered to be the first attack on Galileos famous work that dared to reinforce the Copernican observation that the earth revolved around the sun). The new acquisition is actually two works bound into one volume, each authored by Christoph Scheiner (15751560), a Jesuit priest, astronomer, and Galileos best-known competitor.

Fifteenth-Century Church Manuscript

An illuminated manuscript from the 15th century completes the remarkable set of purchases. The Huntington has an extensive collection of medieval manuscripts produced in England in the 14th and 15th centuries, including liturgical books used in regulating the worship, rites, and ceremonies of the late medieval English Catholic church. The new acquisition, a portion of what is called a Sarum Manual, is written in Latin and set out the prayers, music, and rituals for the priest or monk who officiated at critical turning points marking the main stages of a life: at baptism, marriage, final illness, death, burial, and requiem mass. The Huntingtons acquisition is of 60 leaves called the Office of the Dead, a sizeable part of the original book that deals with the end of life (final illness, death, funeral, burial, and requiem masses).

The manuscript is handsomely produced on vellum, with prominent rubrics (stage directions for the priest, written in red ink), intricately decorated initials, a colorful floral spray illuminated with gold leaf, and extensive selections of beautiful Gregorian chant.

About The Huntington

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens is a collections-based research and educational institution serving scholars and the general public. More information about The Huntington can be found online at www.huntington.org.

Visitor information

The Huntington is located at 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, Calif., 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles. It is open to the public Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 4:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Summer hours (Memorial Day through Labor Day) are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed Tuesdays and major holidays. Admission on weekdays: $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 1218 or with full-time student I.D.), $6 youth (ages 511), free for children under 5. Group rate $11 per person for groups of 15 or more. Members are admitted free. Admission on weekends and Monday holidays: $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students, $6 youth, free for children under 5. Group rate $14 per person for groups of 15 or more. Members are admitted free. Admission is free to all visitors on the first Thursday of each month with advance tickets. Information: 626-405-2100 or www.huntington.org.

Pinkunoizu to release album

2012-01-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Following the brilliant PEEP EP, the spectral Pinkunoizu are set to release their debut album, Free Time! , on Full Time Hobby. Named after the Japanese word for “pink noise” and based in Copenhagen and Berlin, multiculturalism is at the forefront of this band’s world – they play an exotic mixture of lo-fi, high-life, nu-folklore, ’60s Asian pop and post-apocalyptic future rock.

“Most of what I write comes from picking up exciting words or phrases from wherever I stumble upon them,” says chief songwriter Andreas Pallisgaard. “Or maybe it simply comes from floating around like some empty receptor, open to letting the language of the world flow through me.”

Self-recorded in the rehearsal rooms in the German and Danish capitals, Pinkunoizu’s debut album is a meditation on the concept of time filled with hazy pools of feedback and repetitive beats.

“We were trying to look into alternative experiences of time as something elastic, expandable, modal,” says Andreas. “Aspects of remembrance are of course connected to this theme, and runs like a disturbed signal through most of the record as well.”

It’s been a constant theme in the band’s work since the first song they penned together, Time Is Like A Melody , which opens the album.

“It connects the listener to one of the most incomprehensible mysteries of being,” says Andreas.

Elsewhere, songs deal with subjects ranging from the Arab spring to cyborgs and feminism – the country twang of Cyborg Manifesto.

An unpredictable, involved but nonetheless ear-friendly listen that establishes deep, immersive grooves, Free Time! represents the far-ranging recording processes of this unusual band.

“I like the idea of taking little snatches from the world that surrounds us and putting those into the music,” says Andreas. “We've recorded random sounds from around our homes and used them as textures.”

Comprising Jaleh Negari (drums), Jeppe Brix (guitars) Andreas Pallisgaard (guitars, vox) and Jakob Falgren (guitars, keys, foot pedal bass), the four members of Pinkunoizu formerly played together in the acclaimed Danish post-rock group Le Fiasko. With eight people in that band, improvisation was difficult. In Pinkunoizu, the foursome form a flexible core.

“Starting Pinkunoizu was a great relief for us, since we could feel that we were nurturing a space where we could play music for real and have a great say – all four of us,” says Andreas. It allows room for guests, such as Nils Gröndahl, who plays violin and bowed saw, and reflects the prevailing scene in Copenhagen. “Copenhagen people tend to play music with each other in temporary constellations, and some of that old-fashioned band structure has withered away a bit,” says Andreas.

Outside of the band, Andreas and Jaleh are preparing to do a soundtrack for a documentary on the Danish artist Das Beckwerk. Aside from that, “Some are working, some study, some have studied, some have worked, some are looking for work to do to earn money. Some like to play ping pong.”

Tracklisting 1. Time Is Like A Melody
2. Myriad Pyramid
3. Cyborg Manifesto
4. Everything Is Broken Or Stolen
5. Parabolic Delusions
6. The Abyss
7. Death Is Not A Lover
8. Somber Ground

Pasadena State of the City event Jan. 26

2012-01-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

“Spotlight on Performance” is the theme of Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard’s 2012 State of the City event scheduled Thursday, Jan. 26, at A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd.

Doors to the theater will open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. with Vice Mayor Margaret McAustin serving as master of ceremonies.

The Pasadena Police Department Honor Guard will present the colors, a scene from Michael Frayn’s classic British farce “Noises Off” will be performed and accomplishments of the past year in Pasadena will be presented in a video narrated by a community leader.

During his remarks to the community, Bogaard will provide updates and future plans regarding the ongoing weak economy, redevelopment, environment, arts and culture, public safety, transportation and more.

The event is free and open to the public. Spanish interpretation will be provided. The program will be videotaped for future broadcast on KPAS and via streaming video on the Internet. A replay schedule will be announced.

Transportation on the Metro Gold Line is encouraged since A Noise Within is less than a block from the Metro Gold Line Sierra Madre Villa Station; free self-parking is also available at the station’s parking structure with entrances on northbound Sierra Madre Villa Avenue and southbound Halstead Street. Handicapped parking and drop-off will be available in front of the theater on Foothill Boulevard.

For more information email lnagahiro@cityofpasadena.net or call (626) 744-4311.

Robot competition in Long Beach March 15-17

2012-01-26T09:57:00.000-08:00

Robots big and small are set to compete head-to-head at the Long Beach Arena once again Thursday, March 15th through Saturday, March 17th, 2012. The world competition is presented by For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST).

It is said that “The engineer has been, and is, a maker of history,” and with the help of FIRST the young adults involved in this competition may very well be the makers of the future. FIRST is a program that helps young people discover science and technology outside the classroom.

By utilizing science, technology, engineering, and math, this event encourages the students to dream big, be creative and develop problem solving skills. This competition is designed to exercise young adults’ minds to their full extent. Regardless of their socio-economic background, each student has the opportunity to create something amazing and revolutionary.

The battle of the young brains is comprised of short games played by autonomous and remote-controlled robots and is as close to the “real world” of engineering as a student can get. The robots are designed and built in six weeks, from a common set of parts, by teams of 15 to 25 adolescents and a handful of mentors. The students remotely control the robots in competition rounds on the field.

FIRST reaches over 248,000 students each year with more than 22,000 teams that create over 20,000 robots. This huge collection of science-minded students and mentors create incredible contraptions that utilize mechanics ranging from garage door openers to PS2 controllers. Their ingenuity only affirms the FIRST vision: to transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.

Teams have just six weeks to build a functioning robot to be eligible to compete. Competitions take place every March where 40 to 70 teams are cheered on by thousands of fans over two and a half days. A championship event caps the season, complete with judges and referees. Awards are presented for design, technology, sportsmanship, and commitment to FIRST.

“This event combines science and technology to create a unique sport for the minds of young people,” said Dan Spellens, Director of Theaters & Entertainment for SMG at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. “We warmly welcome back the U.S. FIRST Robotics Competition to the Long Beach Arena,” concluded Spellens.

This event is free and open to the public.

www.longbeachcc.com

'The Matchmaker' in Long Beach March 30

2012-01-26T09:55:00.000-08:00

Long Beach Performing Arts Center/SMG welcomes the heart-felt comedy of “The Matchmaker” to life on Friday, March 30th at the Long Beach Terrace Theater at 8:00PM. This is a Predestined Entertainment production.

A complex love affair is unraveled in Tamera Hill’s original story of a matchmaker that gets more than she bargained for. Starring Grammy nominated artist and actor Tony Grant (Tyler Perry’s, The Marriage Counselor), Gospel Recording Artist, Yvette Williams (My Sister’s Keeper), Brian Hurst (Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail), and acclaimed comedian, Lester Barrie, this production is guaranteed to have you smiling and captivated the entire time.

“The Matchmaker” promises a colossal explosion of laughter from the drama of two people coming together with an unexpected twist. Most importantly, this is a story comes with a message, “NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF LOVE!”

“We look forward to hosting the star-studded cast in our premises,” said Dan Spellens, Director of Theaters & Entertainment for the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. “We warmly welcome this production to the Long Beach Performing Arts Center,” he concluded.

Ticket prices range from $25-50 dollars. To charge by phone, please call TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center Main Box Office located at 300 E. Ocean Boulevard. The Box Office is open from 10:00AM to 6:00PM Monday through Friday and 12:00PM to 4:00PM on Saturday.

Gerald Albright, Norman Brown & Boney James in Long Beach Feb. 11

2012-01-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

Celebrate the day of love with Rainbow Promotions’ Valentine’s Day Concert featuring performances by distinguished artists Gerald Albright, Norman Brown and Boney James. Treat your loved one to a romantic evening of soulful jazz at the Terrace Theater/Long Beach Performing Arts Center on Saturday, February 11th at 7 PM. Tickets are available for the performance and the VIP Dinner Package.

Gerald Albright

Gerald Albright has received several GRAMMY® Nominations, sold over 1,000,000 albums in the U.S. alone and garnered notoriety within the industry for his multiple talents. His self-produced music features him on bass guitar, keyboards, flutes, drum programming, and background vocals. He is a remarkable musician that has the ability to surprise audiences with something out of the ordinary every single time he mounts a stage. Friends and lovers rejoice because on Saturday the 11th Albright will give the audience what they come for - a fantastic show!

Norman Brown

GRAMMY® Award winner Norman Brown is on close intimate terms with his audience and his upcoming performance at the Terrace Theater will be no exception. For almost two decades the multitalented guitarist, composer and singer has been offering tasty sonic tidbits of classic R&B and contemporary jazz, melting into satisfied aural bliss with every succulent, jazz inflected note. This innovative vocalist and guitarist has been front and center in the fast evolving fusion of pop, R&B and jazz that has captured the imagination of true music aficionados across the world.

Boney James

Boney James has four Gold albums, three GRAMMY® nominations, a Soul Train Award and an NAACP Award nomination to his credit. He also received his ninth #1 Contemporary Jazz album with Contact released on March 29, 2011 on Verve Records. Currently, Boney is enjoying a #1 single with the song “Spin,” his twentieth single to hit No.1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Chart. This February the talented musician will warm hearts and soothe souls with his most intimate and memorable tracks.

"It is an honor to have Jazz musicians of this caliber come together for this special concert," said Dan Spellens, Director of Theaters & Entertainment for the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. "We are thrilled to welcome them back to the Long Beach Terrace Theater.”

Ticket prices for the performance start at $40. VIP dinner packages are available for $125. To charge by phone, please call TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com. The Box Office is located at 300 E. Ocean Boulevard, and is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Ravi Shankar in Long Beach March 25

2012-01-26T09:53:00.001-08:00

Maestro Ravi Shankar, the legendary sitarist and world music phenomenon, will mesmerize the Long Beach Terrace Theater on Sunday, March 25th at 7:30PM. This event is a promotion of the Ravi Shankar Foundation.

Shankar is India's most esteemed musical ambassador and prodigious composer. He is a true icon in the classical music worlds of East and West. As a performer, teacher and writer ,Shankar has done more for Indian music than any other musician. He is well known for his pioneering work in bringing Indian music to the West.

"Ravi Shankar is the Godfather of World Music." - George Harrison

“It may be hard to imagine that one person through the force of his talent, energy and musical personality could have almost single-handedly altered the course of contemporary music in its broadest sense. But that is actually and simply what happened.”- Philip Glass

Always ahead of his time, Shankar has authored violin-sitar compositions for Yehudi Menuhin. He’s written music for flute virtuoso Jean Pierre Rampal, Japan’s celebrated Shakuhachi player Hozan Yamamotoand for Russian Maestro Mstislav Rostropovich. He has also collaborated with high-profile composer Phillip Glass (Passages). George Harrison produced and participated in three of Shankar’s albums, "Shankar Family & Friends", "Festival of India" and “Chants of India.” Shankar has also composed for ballets and films in India, Canada, Europe and the United States.

“It’s a true honor to host one of the world’s most prestigious musical pioneers,” said Dan Spellens, Director of Theaters & Entertainment for the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. “We welcome this renowned talent to the Long Beach Terrace Theater,” he concluded.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow and prices range from $35-$70 dollars. To charge by phone, please call TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center Main Box Office located at 300 E. Ocean Boulevard. The Box Office is open from 10AM to 6PM Monday through Friday and 12PM to 4PM on Saturday.

Dalai Lama speaking in Long Beach April 21

2012-01-26T09:52:00.001-08:00

His Holiness the Dalai Lama will be delivering a public talk on ‘Peace of Mind in Troubled Times’ on April 21st, at 1:30PM, at the SMG managed Long Beach Arena. This event is hosted by Gaden Shartse Thubten Dhargye Ling (GSTDL), a Tibetan Buddhist center in Long Beach.

International peace icon Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, will return to Long Beach to deliver a public address at the Long Beach Arena. Titled “Peace of Mind in Troubled Times,” the speech will cover how to cultivate generosity, humility, and equanimity—universal themes that have made him one of the world’s most beloved spiritual teachers. A tireless advocate of social justice and nonviolence, the Dalai Lama continues to travel widely to promote a more open, just, and democratic world. The Tibetan leader officially devolved his political leadership last year, but remains the head of Tibetan Buddhism.

Although the Dalai Lama was in the Southland last May, travel delays caused the cancellation of several engagements, including a public talk at the Long Beach Terrace Theatre. Local organizers were able to reschedule the event — and this time, at the larger, neighboring Long Beach Arena.

Geshe Lobsang Tsultrim, Director of GSTDL, believes “It’s an incredible blessing that His Holiness will be returning to Long Beach. It’s a great privilege for us to host this public talk at the Arena and this will allow many people to see him.”

"It is with extraordinary pleasure that we welcome His Holiness back to Long Beach on one of his rare visits," said Dan Spellens, Director of Theaters & Entertainment for the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. “We thank Gaden Shartse Thubten Dhargye Ling for working with us on this one-of-a-kind event,” he added.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at all TicketMaster locations and the Long Beach Performing Arts Center Main Box Office. Ticket prices are as follows: $20, $37, $64, and $94. To charge by phone, please call TicketMaster at (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. The Box Office is located at 300 E. Ocean Boulevard and is open Monday through Friday from 10:00AM to 6:00PM and Saturday from 12:00PM to 4:00PM.

GSTDL is offering the public and interested organizations the unique opportunity to become event sponsors. The sponsorship package includes preferred seating at the event, brunch at the Westin Hotel on Friday, April 20th and a small gift of recognition. Contact (562) 726-2789 or hhdl2012@gstdl.org for more sponsorship information.

Lindy Groove dance Thursdays in Pasadena

2012-01-26T09:51:00.001-08:00

This Thursday January 26th 2012
Guest DJ Augie Freeman (Los Angeles)
Guest DJ Steve Sayer (Los Angeles)
DJ Vicky Chan (Los Angeles)

Lindy Hop Lessons:
Beginning Lindy with Jason Vaughan & Erin Byrne 7:30 to 8:30
Intermediate Lindy with Ben & Sheri 7:30 to 8:30
Advanced Intensive (Audition required) with Debbie Gitt and Patrick Fredrickson
Lindy Techniques with Neil Figuracion

LindyGroove Birthdays:
Neil Figuracion
Darren Gates
James Streeter
Kim Tran
Lars Lindstrom
Olga Toprover
Paul Jemielita
Richard Ressler
Ryan Harvey
Vincent Fry
Christina Coffey

Welcome visiting dancers by including them in our Birthday/Visitor Jam (Email us names/cities or tell the DJ)

LindyGroove Details:
*Every Thursday dance to the best swingin Jazz and Blues DJ's from around the country.
*Grand Ballroom of the Historic Pasadena Masonic Lodge 200 S. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101
*5,400 sq. ft. floating wooden dance floor
*Complimentary Beginning and Intermediate Lindy Lesson 7:30-8:15
*Dancing until Midnight.
*Complimentary Parking until 12:45 AM (Lot is locked at 12:45 AM)
*All Ages
*Cover $8.00 (Except for special events)

www.LindyGroove.com

Knott's offering Twogether is Better specials for February

2012-01-26T09:42:00.000-08:00

Knott’s Berry Farm will be celebrating the season of love this February with special events for teens, kids and adults as well as savings when you bring a friend.

Knott’s believes that everything is better when you share it with someone – your friends, your kids, your date, so they invite guests to bring someone they love anytime during the month of February and purchase online admission for only $34.99 each! Knott’s Season Pass holders can bring a friend for only $24.99. Upcoming events for “Twogether is Better” include:

February 12: K-Earth 101 will invite their listeners to get remarried at Knott’s Berry Farm’s Church of Reflection. 25 lucky couples will be re-hitched and enjoy a special reception from 1-3 pm.

February 18: Knott’s will showcase the up and coming boy band, Midnight Red. These five talented young men – Eric, Colton, Anthony, Thomas and Joey, released their first single this summer, “One Club at a Time” on Interscope Records. Known for their stellar harmonies and electrifying dance moves, Midnight Red will be appearing live in concert in Calico Square at 5:00 pm.

February 25: The Anaheim Duck’s Wild Winger Kids Club will storm the park for their end of the year party. The festivities which will take place in Calico Square from 1:30-3:30 and will feature an autograph session and a Q&A session with Wild Winger Kid’s Club Captain, George Parros, as well as several other Anaheim Duck’s players.

Both the Midnight Red concert and the Anaheim Duck’s Wild Winger Kids Club end of the year party are included with general park admission.

Additional activities during “Twogether is Better” include a brand new stage show, “Love Is In the Air, Charlie Brown!”, Cupid’s Craft Corner where children 11 and under can create special tokens for the ones they love, and a special Peanut’s Hugging Booth all of which take place in Camp Snoopy.

Families wishing to spend the night at Knott’s Berry Farm can book one of the Knott’s Resort Hotel Vacation Packages that include park tickets, breakfast and more by calling 1-866-752-2444 or booking online at knottshotel.com.
www.knotts.com

Jon Byrd in South Pasadena Feb. 8

2012-01-25T10:06:00.001-08:00

Nashville-based Americana artist, Jon Byrd will be making two appearances in Los Angeles this February in support of his soon to-be-released record, Down at the Well of Wishes:

Wednesday, February 8th with Brad Colerick's Wine and Song Night
Firefly Bistro 7-10 pm 1009 El Centro Street South Pasadena, CA 91030
(626) 441-2443 http://www.wineandsong.com/

Thursday, February 9th as part of the “The First Picture Show”:
Music Photographs by Deone Jahnke Artist Reception & Live Music
Viva Cantina, 7-11 pm 900 W. Riverside Dr., 818-845-2425

In this time of style over substance––of reality with a capital "R"––Nashville singer-songwriter Jon Byrd gives us something we can actually use: honesty. Down At The Well Of Wishes, the Alabama native's second solo recording, is a remarkably above-board piece of work that demonstrates his world-class songwriting and performing skills while remaining refreshingly devoid of pretense. If you can imagine Gram Parsons or The Byrds had they actually been accepted by the country music establishment, then you have an inkling of Down At The Well Of Wishes' straightforward mix of barroom exuberance and front porch restraint.

As with Jon himself, there's nothing forced about Down At The Well Of Wishes––no miasmatic caterwauling; no high speed picking; no obligatory reggae track. On Down At The Well Of Wishes, the songs do the work. From "When it Starts to Rain," a heartfelt acknowledgement of the trials we all share, to "In a Chest of Skin and Bone," written with longtime collaborator Butch Primm, its tracks get right to the heart of the matter––and tend to stick in your head long after the listening is through.

Recorded at Ocean Way studios in Nashville, Tennessee, Down At The Well Of Wishes pulls together some of Nashville's most respected talents, including Shannon and Adam Wright (The Wrights), Milan Miller (Patty Loveless, Grayson Capps, Gary Bennett), Pat Severs (Bill Anderson, The Everly Brothers), Marty Lynds (Marah, Last Train Home), Ed Adkins (The Derailers), and Jimmy Lester (Webb Wilder, Los Straightjackets)––all under the watchful eye of veteran producer R.S. Field (Billy Joe Shaver, Sonny Landreth, Justin Townes Earle).

Down At The Well Of Wishes comes as no surprise to those who've watched Jon work over the years. During the 90s, he was an integral part of Atlanta's storied Redneck Underground movement. His inventive yet understated Telecaster bending with bands like Slim Chance and the Convicts, and solo artists like country traditionalist Greta Lee, stands as a testament to that heady scene.

In 2001 Jon relocated to Nashville and began working with some of that city's finest songwriters and performers, including Davis Raines, Buck Jones, Stephen Simmons, and Suzette Lawrence. He co-produced Greta Lee's critically acclaimed recording You Must Be Present To Win and furthered his reputation as an empathic musician who can dazzle and support with equal measure.

But the move to Nashville had an ulterior motive. As a sideman, Jon had been long been performing his own compositions––if only one or two a night––but now he was ready to jump in with both feet. In 2004 he debuted Byrd's Auto Parts, a rambling collective of in-demand players who set about fleshing out Jon's original material. A self-titled cd followed, and the critics loved it: "A terrifically accomplished, versatile country singer," reported No Depression magazine.

Since then, Jon's songs have appeared on three Red Beet Records compilations––Red Beet is an East Nashville label known for their support of quality, if under-sung, songwriters like Peter Cooper and Fayssoux McLean. A duet with Amelia White, "Morning Song," was highlighted on that singer's 2009 recording, Motorcycle Dream. In the fall of 2010, Jon's composition "Silent Night" was the first single from Master Sessions, an Eric Brace and Peter Cooper recording that also featured steel guitar legend Lloyd Green. This year Jon's voice can be heard on I Love: Tom T. Hall's Songs Of Fox Hollow, a tribute to Hall and that legendary recording, which also includes Buddy Miller, Patti Griffin, Jim Lauderdale, Lloyd Green, Elizabeth Cook, Duane Eddy, and Bobby Bare. David McGee of The Blugrass Special says: "In the lilting pop-country of 'How To Talk To a Little Baby Goat,' a tale told gently by Jon Byrd makes an important point about tolerance and respect."

Down At The Well Of Wishes will be released to US radio in February of 2012 following a successful UK tour. If you've been left cold by what passes for country singing and songwriting these days, give it a spin. Call it country, Americana, roots-rock, folk, or what have you, this record delivers––honestly.

Upcoming concerts from Live Nation week of Jan. 25

2012-01-25T10:05:00.000-08:00

ON SALE THIS WEEK:

On Sale Saturday January 28 at 10 AM:

VAN HALEN

With Special Guest: Kool & The Gang

Staples Center – June 1

Honda Center – June 12

On Sale Friday January 27 at 10 AM:

DRAKE

With Special Guests:

Kendrick Lamar – A$AP Rocky

Galen Center (Los Angeles, CA)

March 5

On Sale Friday January 27 at 12 Noon:

DRAKE

With Special Guests:

Kendrick Lamar – A$AP Rocky

SaveMart Center (Fresno, CA)

March 8

On Sale Friday January 27 at 1 PM:

UNA FAMILIA CON SUERTE

Gibson Amphitheatre

March 16

On Sale Friday January 27 at 1 PM:

AVENTURERA

Gibson Amphitheatre

March 24

On Sale Friday January 27 at 10 AM:

BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE

The Wiltern

May 12

On Sale Friday January 27 at 10 AM:

INGRID MICHAELSON

With Special Guest

The Wiltern

April 27

On Sale Thursday January 26 at 10 AM:

HARD Presents:

DUB POLICE

Featuring: Caspa & Trolley Snatcha

The Wiltern

March 3

On Sale Thursday January 26 at 10 AM:

HARD Presents:

HARD LA

Featuring: A-Trak

With: Jack Beats - Oliver

The Wiltern

March 31

On Sale Friday January 27 at 10 AM:

“I Get Wet” 10 Year Anniversary Tour

ANDREW W.K.

Performing entire “I Get Wet” Album live w/full band

Avalon

March 8

GO TO www.LIVENATION.COM for tickets, show information and more

Drake to tour

2012-01-25T10:04:00.001-08:00

Multi-platinum selling, Grammy® nominated recording artist Drake kicks off his 18 city Club Paradise Tour on February 14 in Miami, FL. The North American college tour is in support of Drake’s critically acclaimed album TAKE CARE.

The tour will visit Los Angeles on March 5 with a performance at USC’s Galen Center. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, January 27 at 10 AM. They will be available at www.LiveNation.com.

Plus, USC students will have the opportunity to purchase tickets in advance, prior to the public on sale, via a special student pre-sale. Tickets for this will be available online at

http://ev10.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetEventList?groupCode=GC&linkID=usc&shopperContext=&caller=&appCode

starting Tuesday, January 24 at 10 AM until Wednesday, January 25 at 10 PM (* 8 ticket limit per customer on the pre-sale. USC student ID # required. While supplies last).

TAKE CARE (Young Money / Cash Money / Universal Republic), Drake’s sophomore album was released November 15 and debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart with 631,000 copies sold. Acclaimed by fans and critics alike, the album has been praised as one of the best releases of the year, with The New York Times dubbing Drake “hip-hop’s current center of gravity.” The album has since been certified Platinum, having sold over 1 million copies in the US.

TAKE CARE follows Drake’s full length album debut, 2010’s THANK ME LATER, which also bowed at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart week of release and has been certified Platinum by the RIAA. The album earned Drake multiple Grammy® nominations, including Best New Artist, Best Rap Album and Best Rap Solo performance.

For more information, details and updates, visit Drake’s official Facebook www.facebook.com/drake and website http://www.octobersveryown.blogspot.com.

Frank Gambale and Boca release labum

2012-01-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

GRAMMY-winning guitar virtuoso Frank Gambale teams up for the first time with his wife and soul mate, singer/songwriter, BOCA, to create and deliver his first all-vocal, crossover Adult Contemporary album, "Frank Gambale Soulmine featuring BOCA." Luring listeners to “stir their soul,” this release features sexy, strong and evocative vocals, inviting lyrics, R&B jazz-funk stylings, and Frank Gambale’s signature sweep-picking prowess and soulful guitar playing.

“Music is a channel to move people and has the power to heal. I love vocal music and popular music and groove. I’ve had vocals on various solo albums, but I always wanted to record an entire album of well-crafted songs with cool changes, sophisticated vocal harmonies and serious melodic grooves,” said Gambale. “This is the album I’ve wanted to make for 30 years and now, in BOCA, I have the perfect voice, writing partner and performer. We can‘t help but be sexy when we‘re together and I think that magnetism is all over the music.”

Soulmine comprises soulful, contemporary songs appealing to a variety of music genre lovers as well as guitar aficionados and nostalgic 80s music fans who have followed Gambale’s career and rise to fame. The album bridges the musical gap between R&B stylings, jazz and funk overtones. An Adult Contemporary album, Soulmine crosses myriad genres ranging from Jazz-Rock, Smooth Jazz, Funk, Pop and World all the way to Spiritual.

Called by Gambale the “love-child” of two artistic soul mates who believe in the power of love, the album inspires with titles such as “Love Set Me Free,” “Live Your Dream,” “Be The Change,” “Open Your Mind,” “Sun Will Shine” and “Saved Me From Myself.” “Sun Will Shine” sings of optimism, inspiring confidence with the lyrics “… try to start each day knowing who you are… you know what you know, don’t need to be told, go with that…” And “Enchanted Love” sings to newfound joy with grateful confessions “…we lose track of time, lost in the loveliness, the passion I’ve longed for exists…” Gambale and BOCA’s passion for each other and their music comes alive through their lyrics, rhythms and saucy feel-good vibrations heard on this ten-song collaboration.

“Soulmineis a reflection of all the best parts of me,” says BOCA. “It’s always an enormous pleasure for me to record an album. Yet, to record an album with my soul mate and write about the impact of this love and my experiences thus far is exceeding my expectation of ‘love in action.’ My present life is nothing short of being in dreams awake.”

Evidence that the music’s messages are in tune with a new era and mindset now reaching critical mass, Gambale and BOCA are embarking on a world tour commencing in Europe in April 2012 with dates soon to be announced.

Soulmine and more information are available today at www.frankgambalesoulmine.com ,www.iTunes.com , www.CDBaby.com , www.amazon.com and select music stores, priced atUS$20.

Gibsom releases Ace Frehley Signature Series guitar

2012-01-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Gibson Custom, a division of Gibson Guitar, today announced the release of the Signature Series Ace Frehley Budokan ’74 Les Paul. For the new recreation of this one-of-a-kind instrument, Gibson Custom worked directly with the current owner to analyze the guitar and replicate it down to the tiniest detail.

Making its debut in 1977, the Budokan Les Paul became Ace’s main guitar when KISS’s fame was exploding around the world due to prime-time television appearances, a sold-out debut at Madison Square Garden and the release of their classic album, Love Gun, which included Ace’s signature hit, “Shock Me” (named in Guitar World's “100 Greatest Guitar Solos”). For KISS fans, this year is also remembered as the year KISS sold out four nights at the Nippon Budokan arena in Tokyo, Japan, breaking the record held by The Beatles since 1966. Ace returned to Japan with his Budokan Les Paul the following year for the Alive II tour, where KISS broke their own record with a sold-out, five-night stand.

Each signature series guitar is a near-perfect recreation of nearly mythical guitars. The recreation process involves passion, skill, science and community as Gibson Custom works directly with high-end collectors and engineers to methodically build guitars, like the Budokan, by capturing the tone and feel of the guitar and every minute detail of the guitar. For this recreation, Gibson Custom worked directly with Frehley and current owner of the guitar.

While at Gibson Custom in Nashville for a final review, Frehley said, “When I played the aged Les Pauls, it was very difficult for me to tell the difference between one from the other. They all were remarkably similar. Even the scratches and worn-off finish was replicated just like on the original. The feel and play ability of the necks appeared to be just like my Budokan Les Paul Custom.”

“Ace is an icon and we’re extremely grateful that the current owner, Matt Swanson, was so passionate about sharing his find that he was willing to work with us and help make this a reality,” says Henry Juszkiewicz, Chairman and CEO of Gibson Guitar. “Ace inspired so many musicians and we’re very proud to be able to recreate a guitar behind some many classic songs.”

Visit Gibson’s website at http://www.gibson.com/. Follow Gibson Guitar at www.twitter.com/gibsonguitar and www.facebook.com/gibsonguitar.

Help control feral cat population growth

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

When temperatures rise each spring, it marks the beginning of “kitten season,” the time of year when millions of kittens are born and brought to animal shelters nationwide. Unfortunately, few of these kittens find adoptive homes. Many, if not most, are killed in shelters.

Cats have an approximately 60-day gestation period, so spring kittens are being conceived right now, in January and February. In addition, cats can become pregnant as early as age four months of age, so last year’s kittens can be producing this year’s litters.

“Before the ice thaws, the cats are already pregnant,” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. “The time for prevention is now—preventing new litters and preventing the needless deaths of millions of cats in animal shelters.”

Alley Cat Allies urges community members to have their pet cats spayed or neutered as soon as possible. Not only does neutering prevent new litters of kittens, it improves the cat’s health.

“This is also a crucial time to neuter neighborhood stray and feral cats,” said Robinson. “Through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), we are able to stabilize the population and decrease the number of cats entering shelters. The cats that remain no longer undergo the stresses of mating and pregnancy.”

Trap-Neuter-Return is a long-term, comprehensive community program that stabilizes the feral cat population humanely. Cats are trapped, neutered, vaccinated, and returned to their outdoor homes. Trap-Neuter-Return is official policy in cities from Washington, DC to Chicago to Oklahoma City, and it is successfully practiced in every landscape nationwide.

Alley Cat Allies provides a number of resources on their website (www.alleycat.org) including step-by-step instructions and videos on how to carry out TNR. Individuals can find more help at www.alleycat.org/GetHelp or request a list of local resources and feral cat organizations at www.alleycat.org/response.

About Alley Cat Allies

Alley Cat Allies is the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. Founded in 1990, today Alley Cat Allies has more than 260,000 supporters and helps tens of thousands of individuals, communities, and organizations save and improve the lives of millions of cats and kittens nationwide. Their website is www.alleycat.org.

Cut Copy in LA Feb. 10

2012-01-25T09:59:00.000-08:00

Cut Copy are happy to announce that they will be celebrating their recent Grammy Nomination with what will likely be their only US appearance this year, a DJ set at Control, held on Friday, February 10th at the premiere Los Angeles club Avalon.

Come get loose with the band before they put on their tuxes. It should be a messy night!

Tickets are available now here:
http://www.wantickets.com/Events/98171/CONTROL-presents-Cut-Copy-DJ-Set/

Wynton Marsalis releases new album

2012-01-25T09:57:00.001-08:00

RELEASED TODAY - THE MUSIC OF AMERICA: WYNTON MARSALIS

From “Hellbound Highball” to “Happy Feet Blues,” this collection of works is the greatest retrospective of Wynton as a composer.

For the first time, Wynton Marsalis brings you this self-curated 2-CD set featuring ONLY his compositions. Performed by a diverse group of artists including musicians from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Orion String Quartet, Mark O’Connor, members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and Danny Barker.

www.wyntonmarsalis.org

Support local music at Mr. T's Bowl in Highland Park

2012-01-25T09:54:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 27

CENTRAL MUSIC with a Night of Jazz/Hip Hop
Surrealist, Mad Bluntz, Linoski, Patch Nastyy, Prophet

Saturday, January 28

VRA Enterprises Presents:
The Moldie Oldies Party All Night Vinyl Record Hop

with Special Guests Invading the Stage:
Thee Cormans, FV5, DJs ASTRO 138 & DJ Zorch
$5 Cover 21+

Friday, Feb. 3rd

Problem With Dragons
www.problemwithdragons.com
Planetoid
www.planetoidmusic.com
bantamFEATHER
www.myspace.com/bantamfeather
Claudine de Culam
claudinedeculam.wordpress.com
Reason To Rebel
www.reverbnation.com/reasontorebel

Saturday, Feb. 4th

9pm - Miata
www.myspace.com/miatatheband
9:45 - Twoversusone
www.twoversusone.com
10:30 - Knuckles
www.knucklestheband.com
Plus 2 Bands or DJ

Thursday, Feb. 9

"56" - Bands and DJ's that Rock

A new bi-weekly in Highland Park brought to you by the Stones Throw DJs.

http://www.facebook.com/events/177402215695014/

www.facebook.com/MrTsBowlandNightclub

www.mrtsevents.com

http://mrtsbowl.tripod.com

http://prem.calendars.net/mrtsbowl - CALENDAR

Upcoming concerts from Nederlander week of Jan. 25

2012-01-25T09:53:00.000-08:00

Below are the on-sales for Nederlander Concerts this week. For a complete schedule please see the attached calendar of events or visit www.nederlanderconcerts.com

Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band

ON SALE Fri., Feb. 3 @ 10:00 AM

SHOW DATE April 26 @ 7:30 PM

TICKET PRICES: $100.00 / $67.00

______________________________________________________________________________________

Santa Barbara Bowl

Florence + The Machine

Plus special guest Blood Orange
ON SALE Sat., Jan 28 @ 11AM
SHOW DATE Sat., April 14 @ 7:00 PM
TICKET PRICES $50.00 / $43.00 / $34.00

Sally Kellerman in Studio City Feb. 8

2012-01-25T09:52:00.001-08:00

Sally Kellerman, will perform “Something Cool” at Vitello’s Jazz & Supper Club, 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City, CA 91604, on Wednesday, February 8th @ 8:00pm. Tickets are $15.00, Reservations 818-769-0905.

Oscar nominated actress Sally Kellerman proves once again that she has “ it” as she takes the stage in Studio City previewing two new songs (from her cabaret show, which is currently being developed as a national tour) alongside her classic covers and audience favorites. The appearance, dubbed “Something Cool” is all about enjoying the music with style.

“Kellerman doesn't just sing a song, she inhabits it.”

Start with the fact that she has all the basic essentials in place: a sound that reaches easily from dark, intimate low tones to coy, upper register head notes; a solid feel for rhythmic energy; an articulate way with a word and a phrase. Equally important, she brings all her skills as an actress into her story-telling interpretations.

Sexy, sometimes whimsical, blues-oriented tunes such as "I Want To Make Love To You," "Your Mind Is On Vacation," "Don't You Feel My Leg," "Love Potion #9” and "I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl" are red meat for the I-gotcha-where-I-wantcha aspects of Kellerman's style.

Ballads and slower songs bring out a completely different perspective. "Just One of Those Things," for example, is rendered in deeply pensive fashion, illuminating the song in a fashion vastly different from the way it's usually interpreted. "Say It Isn't So" is equally whisper-in-your-ear intimate. And "I've Got a Crush on You" is sung up close and personal, as she strolls through the room, singing directly to the audience.

A favorable ambiance, Vitello’s Jazz and Supper Club offers a wonderful meal, a glass of wine, and a great moment to share with friends.

Sally Kellerman’s “Something Cool”
Wed. February 8th at 8:00pm
Vitellos Jazz & Supper Club - 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City, CA 91604
Tickets are $15.00, Reservations 818-769-0905, www.ticketweb.com

Celtic Thunder CD and DVD to be released

2012-01-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

Surpassing sales of one million units combined, the musical phenomenon that is Celtic Thunder have just been hailed as BILLBOARD’s Top World Music Artist, along with Top World Music Imprint and Top World Album of 2011 for their most current disc, Heritage. Celtic Thunder rings in 2012 with a new CD and DVD concert special, VOYAGE just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. VOYAGE the concert special will be broadcast across the U.S. on Public Television stations during the March 2012 pledge period, with an estimated one thousand airings beginning in late February (check local listings). Both the new CD and DVD will be available February 28th on Decca.

VOYAGE continues to pay homage to the musical culture of Ireland, while exploring the musical journey each soloist has undertaken since the beginning of Celtic Thunder four years ago. Former members Damian McGinty and Paul Byrom have moved on - McGinty’s star continues to rise after securing a reoccurring role on FOX’s hit show GLEE (a result of winning last year’s “The GLEE Project”), while Paul Byrom launches his own solo career as well. Keith Harkin is also working on a solo project while maintaining his integral role in Celtic Thunder. He is the first artist signed to the newly helmed David Foster Verve Music Group, and is readying his forthcoming solo debut wildly anticipated by “Thunder Heads” everywhere. The rest of the ensemble including Keith Harkin, Ryan Kelly, Neil Byrne, George Harrison and Emmet Cahill welcome 13-year-old Daniel Furlong to the fold as a guest artist on this recording.

The group performances highlight the diversity of Irish music and song; from the powerful rendition of “Dulaman” to the love song “Maid of Culmore,” the collection also features a rousing performance of “Galway Girl” and beloved Irish party song “My Irish Molly-O.”

In addition to their impressive sales statics, their official YouTube channel, “Thunder Tube” has received over twenty five million views since its inception in 2008. Celtic Thunder’s successful resume includes performing for President Obama at The White House’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration in 2009, opening New York City’s famed St. Patrick’s Day Parade two consecutive years in a row (2008 & 2009), and most notably six hit Public Television specials and numerous sold out concerts all across America.

Celtic Thunder’s three-week US promotion for VOYAGE will end with the group appearing once again on QVC March 17th. Celtic Thunder have appeared on multiple national TV programs including The Today Show, CBS Early Show’s Saturday Second Cup Café, Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends, as well as numerous regional shows in major cities.

http://celticthunder.com
www.deccarecords.com

Pete Townshend catalog acquired by Spirit Music Group

2012-01-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

Spirit Music Group, one of the world’s leading independent music publishers, has purchased Pete Townshend’s interest in his entire song catalog and has partnered with the legendary rocker in its global promotion. The landmark deal includes rights to five decades of music written for The Who, one of the most dynamic and influential rock bands of all time, and a series of acclaimed solo albums. The career-spanning collection includes more than 30 charted singles featuring such timeless and powerful songs as “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” “Who Are You,” “You Better You Bet” and “Let My Love Open The Door” as well as groundbreaking rock operas “Tommy” and “Quadrophenia.”

The historic deal was conceived and crafted over the last year by Townshend and Spirit CEO Mark Fried with the specific goal of fostering proactive collaboration between the artist, his management team (Trinifold), his record label (Universal Music Group), the original publisher of his earliest works (TRO) and Spirit’s global marketing staff. Spirit has led the music publishing industry in recent years in expanding the publisher’s role beyond royalty collection and song promotion to proactive career and legacy partnership, creating and executing successful marketing plans to revitalize the songs and expand the brands of such iconic artists as Lou Reed, T.Rex and Chaka Khan.

To underscore his commitment to making this breakthrough deal a success, Townshend has signed a multi-year consultancy agreement with Spirit which will see the parties work together on everything from traditional catalog promotion and film, television, advertising and new media licensing to exploring strategic brand partnerships with media and consumer product companies and developing musical stage shows and multimedia installations which shine a light on the power of the songs and the Townshend and The Who brands.

The pact also includes a long-term publishing agreement for Townshend’s future work, including new songs composed for potential solo and The Who releases as well as songs from “Floss,” the artist’s much-anticipated next musical dramatic project.

“The songs of Pete Townshend are the soundtrack of our lives. They’ve been a mirror to decades of cultural growth and change, challenging our sensibilities, inspiring engagement and forever redefining rock and roll song craft and musicianship. We’re thrilled and humbled to have the opportunity to work closely with Pete in the care taking and promotion of his life’s work, and to help inspire his future successes,” said Fried.

Pete Townshend said, “I am very excited about my new relationship with Mark Fried and his team at Spirit. I feel that my song catalogue is at last consolidated with one guiding company, and I’m optimistic that Spirit will keep my music in the public mind. Further, the deal provides me with the resources to start all over again in my creative career – most songwriters don’t get this kind of opportunity, a chance of creative renaissance. I am passionately committed to new projects for rock and for music theater and I can’t imagine a better company with which to be building a new creative life for myself.”

Bill Curbishley and Robert Rosenberg of Trinifold Management added, “We are delighted to be starting a long relationship with Mark and Spirit Music. We feel that they will be of great benefit to Pete’s work both past and future, will focus not only on better known songs but also on the wealth of lesser known gems and prove to be an invaluable creative partner for Pete in his upcoming projects.”

David Cunningham, Partner of Pegasus Capital Advisors, L.P. said, “The acquisition of the collective works of Pete Townshend marks a milestone in the evolution of Spirit, our music publishing partner. Winning the trust of one of rock’s most innovative and influential icons is a complete validation of Spirit’s long history of investing in iconic copyrights and partnering with their creators in promoting their legacies. We look forward to what should be a very exciting year for the company.”

Townshend and Spirit are planning a busy 2012, focusing on reintroducing the deeper song catalog and building The Who brand in partnership with cutting edge directors, producers and tastemakers across the media landscape. Townshend continues to promote the personally curated “Quadrophenia-The Director’s Cut” boxed set released late last year and is finishing a long-awaited autobiography set for release in September, both of which will be paired with media and licensing events developed by Spirit. A series of retrospectives for the Who’s most celebrated albums are expected over the next two years leading up to a global celebration of the band’s 50th anniversary in 2014.

Pete Townshend is one of the most celebrated songwriters and musicians in rock and roll. As principal songwriter for The Who, Townshend helped define the sound of the mid-60’s British rock scene with such explosive singles as “I Can’t Explain,” “My Generation,” “I Can See For Miles” and “The Kids Are Alright.” He was one of the originators of the ‘concept album’, first with “A Quick One” and then with “The Who Sell Out” – a wry observation on music in a commercialized culture. Townshend then took album-length storytelling to the extreme, producing the first rock operas, “Tommy” and “Quadrophenia” – both acclaimed works which spawned successful film and stage adaptations. Meantime, The Who – completed by the larger than life talents of Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle and Keith Moon - established itself as one of the hardest-working live acts in the world, performing incendiary (and infamously destructive) sets throughout Europe and North America – including historic stints at Monterrey Pop and Woodstock – winning legions of devoted fans. Returning to the studio in 1971, The Who produced “Who’s Next”, considered by fans and critics to be one of the greatest rock and roll albums of all time thanks to its thematic and musical innovations and some of Townshend’s most enduring songs including “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” “Baba O’Riley” and “Going Mobile.” The band’s later albums saw Townshend writing more introspective pieces and exploring more varied instrumentation, setting the stage for a series of solo albums ranging from the lo-fi “Who Came First” to the emotionally raw “Empty Glass” (which spawned the ubiquitous pop gem “Let My Love Open The Door”) to the dense think-piece “All The Best Cowboys” and conceptual radio play “Psychoderelict.” 2006’s “Endless Wire,” The Who’s 11th studio album, sailed into the Top 10 on release, demonstrating that Townshend’s songs and Daltrey’s soulful and soaring vocals remain as relevant this century as they were in the last.

In a career filled with milestones and accolades, several Townshend honors stand out including a Brit Lifetime Achievement Award in 1983, a Grammy and Tony award for “Tommy: The Musical” in 1993 and a Kennedy Center Honor in 2008. The Who received lifetime achievement awards from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) in 1988 and from the Grammy Foundation in 2001 and they were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1990.

About Spirit Music

Spirit Music Group, founded in 1995, is one of the world’s leading independent music publishers, owning and/or managing more than 40,000 songs spanning 7 decades and every musical genre. The company’s repertoire reflects some of the most beloved songs and songwriters of all time including hits by Frank Sinatra, Billie Holliday, Elmore James, Elvis Presley, Charles Mingus, Dion, Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Santana, The Beach Boys, Barbra Streisand, Gladys Knight, Alice Cooper, Pure Prairie League, Chicago, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, The Go-Go’s, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Jay-Z, Ricky Martin, Usher, Dido, Jewel and Mary J. Blige, the complete catalogs of such iconic song writers and writer/artists as Lou Reed, T.Rex, Boz Scaggs, The Grateful Dead, The Marshall Tucker Band, Billy Squier, Andrea Bocelli, Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Angela Winbush, Rick Nowels and C&C Music Factory and the breakthrough work of such newer artists as Scissor Sisters, The Naked & Famous and Old Crow Medicine Show. Spirit also represents the master recordings of such classic labels as Brunswick and k-Tel and buzzing independent labels Fat Possum and The End. The company has earned a strong reputation as an aggressive royalty administrator and a peerless promoter of its songs into film, television and advertising productions as well as a wide range of new media. In recent years, Spirit’s creative staff has helped transform the publisher’s role beyond royalty collection and song promotion to proactive career and legacy partnership, creating and executing marketing plans to revitalize its clients’ songs and expand their brands. Spirit Music Group is based in New York with affiliate offices all over the world. For further information about Spirit Music Group, go to www.spiritmusicgroup.com.

Carrie Underwood to release new single Feb. 23

2012-01-25T09:47:00.001-08:00

From one of this year’s most anticipated albums, superstar Carrie Underwood will release her new single, “Good Girl,” to country radio on February 23. The five-time Grammy winner’s new CD will arrive later this spring.

Underwood wrote the track with Chris DeStefano and Ashley Gorley, who co-wrote two of Underwood’s No. 1 hits “Don’t Forget to Remember Me,” and “All-American Girl.” Once again Carrie teamed up with Mark Bright, who produced her two previous albums as well as seven tracks from her debut album Some Hearts.

Since releasing Some Hearts in 2005, Underwood has sold more than 14 million albums with Some Hearts, 2007’s Carnival Ride, and 2009’s Play On. She’s amassed 14 No. 1 singles, six of which she co-wrote, and became the first country artist in history and the only American Idol winner ever to achieve 10 No. 1 singles from their first two albums.

Underwood is a current Grammy Award nominee and a five-time Grammy Award winner, a two-time Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, a three-time Country Music Association and ACM Female Vocalist winner, and a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry.

The Alialujah Choir to release album

2012-01-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

The Alialujah Choir: Debut self-titled album out February 14, 2012 on Jealous Butcher. Pre-order available now via www.alialujah.com.

THE BAND IS DEBUTING THEIR NEW VIDEO FOR "A HOUSE, A HOME" AT THEIR RECORD RELEASE SHOW AT THE DOUG FIR IN PORTLAND, OREGON ON 2/11. Here's a trailer for the video: http://vimeo.com/34647031

The Alialujah Choir is Adam Shearer and Alia Farah of Weinland, and Adam Selzer of Norfolk & Western and M. Ward.

Shearer, Selzer and Farah began writing and recording songs at Portland’s Type Foundry with no commercial ambitions. They simply wanted to take shelter from the chaos of touring and make music together. Ensconced by friendship and solitude, the trio’s shared sensibility to embrace their love for roots folk music has created a beautiful and compelling album.

Upcoming concerts from Goldenvoice week of Jan. 25

2012-01-25T09:44:00.000-08:00

On Sale Now!

Anthony Green with The Dear Hunter, Isodora Crane

February 11th / Fox Theater Pomona / Doors: 7pm / $18.50 / on sale now

Show moved from The Glass House, all originally purchased tickets will be honored

Mickey Hart Band

March 2nd / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $30 / on sale now

Jay Farrar, Will Johnson, Anders Parker & Yim Yames with Sarah Jaffe

March 7th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $22.50 / on sale now

FEED ME with TEETH

March 17th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $32 / on sale now

Arcangel

March 24th / Club Nokia / Doors: 7pm / $35, $55 / on sale now

Esperanza Spalding with Radio Music Society (press release attached)

April 27th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $41 / on sale now

Yann Tiersen

May 12th / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $25 / on sale now

On Sale Friday!

Awesomesauce. Live!

leetUP (press release attached)

March 1st / Club Nokia / Doors: 7pm / Limited amount of $15 & $20 Early Bird tickets available, $20 GA, $50 VIP/ on sale 1/27 @ 10am

Five Finger Death Punch with Soulfly, Windowpane

March 24th / Fox Theater Pomona / Doors: 7pm / $32 adv & $35 dos / on sale 1/27 @ 10am

Kathleen Edwards

March 27th / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $20 / on sale 1/27 @ 10am

Jagermeister Music Tour

Portugal. The Man with The Lonely Forest

May 4th / Fox Theater Pomona / Doors: 8pm / $22.50 adv & $25 dos / on sale 1/27 @ 10am

On Sale Saturday!

Jovanotti

March 17th / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $25 / on sale 1/28 @ 10am

The Black Seeds

April 5th / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $17 adv & 20 dos / on sale 1/28 @ 10am

Trampled by Turtles

May 22nd / The Music Box / Doors: 7pm / $22.50 adv & $27 dos / on sale 1/28 @ 10am

Added Support

MUTEMATH with Canon Blue

February 2nd / Club Nokia / Doors: 8pm / $31 adv, $33 dos / on sale now

Roky Erickson with The Night Beats, DJ Chris Ziegler

March 1st / El Rey Theatre / Doors: 8pm / $28.50 / on sale now

Cults with Spectrals, Mrs. Magician

March 22nd / The Music Box / Doors: 8pm / $22.50 / on sale now

The Magnetic Fields with Bachelorette

March 23rd 2012 / The Orpheum / Doors: 7pm / $30, $35 / on sale now

www.goldenvoice.com

Mayhem Festival announces lineup

2012-01-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL, the world’s largest touring heavy music festival is back for its fifth year, assaulting the senses of United States heavy metal music fans. The ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL is proud to announce this summer’s artists. The main stage will be our strongest ever with the headlining slot occupied by multi-platinum Iowa legends SLIPKNOT. Next up will be legendary thrash metal kings SLAYER and then a major special guest will be playing in the third slot whom will be announced on March 5th. The main stage will also spotlight a ferocious mix of today’s best artists in a rotation, including THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA. In 2012 the tour has upgraded the production on the festival stage and this year the JAGERMEISTER STAGE will feature a special headline set by metal masters ANTHRAX supported by a rotation of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA, along with WHITECHAPEL, HIGH ON FIRE and the JAGERMEISTER opener. Please note that bands may vary per market.

The ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL will make a 26 date trek across the U.S. beginning on June 30th at the San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, California. GET OFF YOUR ASS Pre-sale tickets go on sale Friday the 6th of April, 2012. Tune in to www.rockstarmayhemfest.com and www.livenation.com for up-to-date ticketing information.

Corey Taylor of Slipknot says “You knew we'd be back. Now, you know we're coming. This will be a tour people will scarcely want to miss. It will definitely be a show to remember. Can't wait to see the states again from behind a mask.”

Slipknot’s, Clown states “Slipknot is headlining this summer’s Mayhem festival and it’s going to be unlike anything you’ve ever felt, sensed, or seen. You miss this, you miss everything. Everyone seems to think that there’s a chance we’re gonna go away. This is the farthest thing from the truth. Stay sic and don’t ever judge us.”

“Mayhem 2012 might just be the last and greatest metal festival before the world ends!! So wreak havoc and go out in style!!” adds Tom Araya of Slayer.

Slayer’s Kerry King comments “ We can't wait to get rolling on Mayhem 2012! Been 3 years since we played it last, and it's gonna be brutal!!! You can't go wrong with Slayer and Slipknot, pure fucking mayhem!!!!

The 5th annual ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL will also feature ROCKSTAR METAL MULISHA JUMP TEAM, on select dates.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL is produced by Rockstar Taste of Chaos organizer John Reese, Vans Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman, Live Nation, and Creative Artists Agency. The team has made the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL a standout on the summer concert circuit by following the proven model of utilizing sponsorship to deliver a lower ticket price and an enhanced concert experience. This year sees them joining forces once again with ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK as the title sponsor.

“Metal is ALIVE and WELL in 2012,” states tour producer John Reese. “The fifth year of Rockstar Mayhem Festival will have a massive lineup that will set heavy music fans ears blazing!”

"Some years it all comes together, from top to bottom and this years ROCKSTAR MAYHEM lineup is going to bring it!" adds tour producer Kevin Lyman.

In 2008, the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL bulldozed onto the scene and quickly made itself known as the preeminent summer destination for the hard rock and metal community. ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL boasts the most powerful artist line-ups in heavy music. Artists who have performed on the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL have included hard music legends SLAYER, SLIPKNOT, KORN, ROB ZOMBIE, DISTURBED, GODSMACK, MEGADETH, LAMB OF GOD, MARILYN MANSON, MACHINE HEAD, IN FLAMES, TESTAMENT, HATEBREED, CANNIBAL CORPSE, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE, MASTODON, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, KINGDOM OF SORROW, DETHKLOK and many more. All have pummeled the stage, while delivering the intensity and heaviness that fans have grown to expect year after year.

See below for all current tour dates.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL 2012 TOUR DATES:

6/30/2012

7/1/2012
San Bernardino, CA
San Manuel Amphitheater

Shoreline Amphitheater

San Francisco, CA

7/3/2012
Seattle, WA
White River Amphitheater

7/4/2012
Boise, ID
Idaho Center Amphitheater

7/6/2012
Phoenix, AZ
Ashley Furniture Home Store Pavilion

7/7/2012
Albuquerque, NM
Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque Presents The Pavilion

7/8/2012
Denver, CO
Comfort Dental Amphitheatre

7/10/2012
Dallas, TX
Gexa Energy Pavilion

7/11/2012
Houston, TX
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

7/13/2012
Tampa, FL
1-800-Ask-Gary Amphitheatre

7/14/2012
Atlanta, GA
Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood

7/15/2012
Indianapolis, IN
Klipsch Music Center

7/18/2012
Oklahoma City, OK
Zoo Amphitheatre

7/20/2012
St. Louis, MO
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

7/21/2012
Chicago, IL
First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre

7/22/2012
Detroit, MI
DTE Energy Music Theatre

7/24/2012
Cincinnati, OH
Riverbend Music Center

7/25/2012
Cleveland, OH
Blossom Music Center

7/27/2012
Philadelphia, PA
Susquehanna Bank Center

7/28/2012
Pittsburgh, PA
First Niagara Pavilion

7/29/2012
Washington, DC
Jiffy Lube Live

7/31/2012
Saratoga Springs, NY
Saratoga Performing Arts Center

8/1/2012
Buffalo, NY
Darien Lake PAC

8/3/2012
Boston, MA
Comcast Center

8/4/2012
Scranton, PA
Toyota Pavilion

8/5/2011
Hartford, CT
The Comcast Theatre

For more information on the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL, visit www.rockstarmayhemfest.com

PJ Walsh to headline Bill Word's comedy show in Whittier Jan. 28

2012-01-24T11:21:00.000-08:00

Bill Word and Friends
Saturday, January 28, 2012, 8:00 PM
$10 cover, two beverage minimum
http://www.killerkomedy.com/

Norwalk Moose Lodge

13305 Imperial Highway

Whittier, CA 90605

More info call (949) 223-0298

Host: Bill Word

Headliner: PJ Walsh

THE FRIENDS:
Featuring the comedy of:

Rico

Will Rodgers

Mark Sexton

Donita Smith

Charlene Ward

Carin P. Webb

Shomari Williams

Muriel Anderson in Long Beach Jan. 24, Palm Springs Jan. 25

2012-01-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

Muriel Anderson

Tuesday Jan 24 Long Beach, CA
7:30pm, doors open at 7pm. Concert with Steve Lawson (bass virtuoso from England) All American Melodrama Theater, 429 Shoreline Village Dr. 90802 (562) 495 5900. $15 at door

Wednesday Jan 25 Palm Springs / Desert Edge CA 7:00pm house concert at the community room at Healing Waters Spa, 18131 Langlois Rd (recommended donation $10-20) advance online Reservations and info 760-329-3169 or email

Fri Jan 27 Carlsbad, CA
7:00pm Museum of Making Music, 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA 877-551-9976

www.murielanderson.com

Parry Adams to stream live performance Jan. 25

2012-01-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

Parry Adams believes that you shouldn't have to shed your Wednesday night sweatpants to hear great live music. So, she's coming to you live from her living room.

Avoid lofty drink minimums and the January cold by logging onto Adams' Ustream channel on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. Adams will perform a mix of originals and covers as requested by viewers.

Click the video below for Adams first Ustream performance, with a predetermined set list:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/19210510

Like what you hear? Check out "Parry's Positivity Project" below. Her uplifting song-a-week release is sure to beat even the harshest winter blues:
http://parryspositivityproject.wordpress.com/

For more information, log onto http://www.parryadams.com/

Twin Atlantic to tour

2012-01-24T11:16:00.000-08:00

TWIN ATLANTIC is premiering a new live video on www.InkedMag.com this week. In the clip, the band performs the title track off their new album “Free” in front of a sold out audience at O2 Academy, in their hometown of Glasgow, Scotland. Check it out here: www.inkedmag.com/blog/exclusive-twin-atlantic-play-free-live-o2-academy.

TWIN ATLANTIC return to the States this week to kick off their stint as direct support on the You Me At Six/The Swellers co-headline tour, along with openers We Are The Ocean. The trek kicks off tomorrow in Cleveland, OH and wraps on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles, CA.

Recently dubbed “your new favourite band” on the cover of Kerrang!, TWIN ATLANTIC’s debut album Free was also named the #9 Album of the Year by Rock Sound Magazine who said they “made THE British all-out rock record of 2011.” Additionally, “Free” is currently #1 on the Kerrang! Radio Rock chart.

TWIN ATLANTIC’S critically-lauded debut full-length, FREE, was recorded with legendary producer Gil Norton (Foo Fighters, Pixies, Jimmy Eat World). Free, the follow up to the well-received debut mini-album, Vivarium, expands upon the band’s signature sound, melding angular riffs with energetic choruses. Explosive and hard charging, yet melodic and thoughtful, the tracks cut deep and ring true to the listener, leaving a lasting impression. The album is currently available digitally in the U.S., and will be in stores on March 13.

TWIN ATLANTIC U.S. Tour Dates (direct support for You Me At Six/The Swellers with We Are The Ocean opening):

Jan 24th Cleveland OH, Grog Shop

Jan 25th Chicago IL, Beat Kitchen

Jan 26th Pontiac MI, Pike Room

Jan 27th Toronto ON, Sneaky Dee’s

Jan 28th Pittsburgh PA, Smiling Moose

Jan 29th New York NY, Studio

Jan 30th Worcester MA, Palladium

Jan 31st Philadelphia PA, Barbary

Feb 1st Baltimore MD, Ottobar

Feb 2nd Charlotte NC, The Casbah

Feb 3rd Atlanta GA, Masquerade

Feb 4th Orlando FL, The Social

Feb 6th Houston TX, Warehouse

Feb 7th San Antonio TX, White Rabbit

Feb 8th Dallas TX, The Door

Feb 10th Mesa AZ, The Nile

Feb 11th San Diego CA, Soma

Feb 12th Anaheim CA, Chain Reaction

Feb 14th Los Angeles CA, Troubadour

Official site - http://www.twinatlantic.com

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/twinatlantic

Twitter – http://twitter.com/twinatlantic

Lamb of God partners with Jammit music software

2012-01-24T11:15:00.000-08:00

LAMB OF GOD has partnered with Jammit, Inc.—a music software company founded by renowned producer/engineer Scott Humphrey. Each song from the band’s latest CD, Resolution, will be available on Jammit – an emerging music platform that will give musicians and fans a whole new way to experience LAMB OF GOD. The band’s decision to release their highly anticipated CD simultaneously for Jammit software is a testament to its innovative presentation and rich feature set. Below is a description of Jammit and the link to the LAMB OF GOD artist page.

About Jammit:

Whether you’re an aspiring musician, an absolute beginner or a seasoned professional, Jammit is the easiest way to learn your favorite songs. Jammit delivers a stunning user experience allowing you to virtually practice and perform in the recording studio with your favorite artists. This revolutionary product utilizes the actual multi-track masters from the original recording sessions. Jammit tracks are available for guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and vocals, allowing you to isolate a specified instrument or vocal track from the rest of the band. The software provides note-for-note transcriptions (in standard notation or tablature), instant navigation to any part of the song, adjustable snap-to-grid looping and a slow playback mode (that doesn’t affect the pitch). Once you have learned the song, you can replace the original instrument recording with your own performance. Jammit is currently available for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch with Mac and Windows versions coming in early2012.

Check out Jammit’s video tutorial below:

http://www.skylabdigital.com/etc/Jammit-how-to-overview-v2.mov

Check out the LAMB OF GOD / Jammit artist page for all available tracks:

https://jammit.com/artist/lamb-of-god

Luane Hunt music news

2012-01-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Hope your new year is getting off to a great start!

We’re only 23 days into 2012 and so many wonderful things have already come.

I just received some incredible news this morning about my song “Christmas Without You.” In December, the Lawton Jiles/Buster Beam tune went to No. 1 in three countries – France, Denmark and Austria. It also was the 2nd most played song in all of Europe, right behind George Strait’s “I’m Gonna Be Alright.”

You can view the standings at:
www.europeancma.com

At the moment, “I Want To Stand Where Jesus Stood” (written by Lawton Jiles) is a Top 40 hit on the Europe’s premier Hotdisc chart. It’s at No.8 and climbing! Additionally, it reached the Top 10 in the Ourstage Gospel competition last month and is currently at No. 3, poised to make the Top 10 once again.

Last week, RTV Country Festival in Holland named “I Want To Stand Where Jesus Stood” its “Gospel Track of the Week.”

I am so very fortunate to have had the opportunity to record songs by Jiles and Beam, who also wrote several chart-toppers for Patsy Cline. They are truly among the best and my gratitude for their great talent runs deep.

In other news, I have organized an oldies cruise for November, 2012 that will feature The Royal Guardsmen (Snoopy Vs. The Red Baron), Mercy (Love Can Make You Happy) and Robin McNamara (Lay A Little Lovin’ On Me).

We have just started taking reservations and if you’re interested in coming along, there is more information at: www.theroyalguardsmen.net. It promises to be a memorable and magical time on the high seas!

Lastly, Star Creek Entertainment has expanded and we now have a book publishing division. In April, we will be releasing investigative reporter Frank C. Girardot’s gripping whodunit, “Name Dropper: Investigating The Clark Rockefeller Mystery.”

If you like true crime stories, this is one you won’t want to miss. Find out more at: www.rockefellermystery.com.

Also, look for Frank on Dateline this Friday, January 27 (check local listings for times). The program will focus on Rockefeller’s preliminary hearing, which is going on right now in Los Angeles County. Frank is one of the leading experts in this case.

Before I sign off, I’d like to congratulate my clients “The Holiday Sisters” for their great success in the promotion of their children’s Christmas books, “Jesus’ Birthday Gift” (by Michelle Boggiano) and “The Amazing Giving Tree Secret” (by Mary Fimbel).

Michelle and Mary’s work touched countless individuals over the holiday season. And I know their timely and poignant messages will continue to transform hearts for years to come.

As always, I greatly appreciate your continued support and encouragement.

Wishing you a joyful journey!
Luanne

Monica Mancini & Arturo Sandoval in Cerritos Feb. 25

2012-01-24T11:13:00.000-08:00

Monica Mancini and Arturo Sandoval in
Concert
Featuring The Dick Parent Orchestra

Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos

Date: Saturday, February 25, 2012, 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $68/$56/$46/$36

Ticket Information: Tickets are available only at the Cerritos Center
for the Performing Arts’ Ticket Office, at www.cerritoscenter.com , or
by calling (562) 467-8818.

Livestock Symposium in Antelope Valley Jan. 28

2012-01-24T11:12:00.000-08:00

If you’re interested in learning about working dogs or knowing how to select and feed market sheep, swine, beef and goats, the 2012 Livestock Symposium in the Antelope Valley should provide lots of valuable information. The symposium, which will be hosted by the Antelope Valley 4-H Council, will take place at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds (located at Avenue H and Highway 14) on Saturday, January 28. The event will start with registration at 8:15 am and conclude at 1:00 pm. A donation of $1 at the registration table will be requested.

The symposium will bring together prominent speakers to discuss the challenges of the livestock industry in California and to demonstrate better agricultural practices through presentations and exhibitions. There will be workshops on beef nutrition and selection; feeding and showing of sheep, swine, rabbits and pygmy goats; and poultry basics, to name a few. There will even be a horse showmanship clinic. In addition to the program, attendees will enjoy opportunities to win door prizes.

“This will be quite the livestock event in Southern California. Due to the many wonderful supporters and participants, we will be able to bring a high-quality program to the local livestock community,” says Charlene Moore, UC Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program coordinator.

As part of the University of California Cooperative Extension, 4-H has been active for more than 100 years. 4-H has a rich history of teaching rural children to raise animals; and in recent years, 4-H has had a more urban twist, offering more than 80 projects that range from marine biology to photography.

For more information on this event, please contact Charlene Moore at (661) 974-8824, moore@ucdavis.edu , and for more information on 4-H activities, please visit http://celosangeles.ucdavis.edu/4H_Youth_Development_Programs/

Rumer's album out today

2012-01-24T11:09:00.001-08:00

One of the UK’s most buzzed about artists, Rumer, will be releasing her album “Seasons Of My Soul - which has already hit the top 10 in numerous countries overseas, in the US January 24th.

Rumer kicks off her US tour tomorrow in LA (see dates below) .

Rumer’s sound is an incredible throwback to early singer/songwriters. She has a timeless jazz-soul tinged voice with a musical styling that has drawn comparisons to artists like Carole King, Dusty Springfield & Karen Carpenter. Rumer has already worked with and been publicly praised by legendary artists such as Burt Bacharach, Elton John & Carly Simon! Her album, Seasons of My Soul received extensive critical praise. Rumer's nontraditional musical upbringing has shaped her classic yet contemporary sound. Born in Pakistan and the youngest of seven children living in an expat colony without TV or newspapers, Rumer and her family would often sing and write songs together. There Rumer acquired her first guitar; which she taught herself to play, and years later, she wrote all the songs on Seasons of My Soul. Seasons of My Soul is a stunning, autobiographical yet astoundingly universal record.

Rumer will be in the U.S. touring throughout Jan-Feb of 2012 (see attached press release and below for dates). She was recently featured in the NEW YORK DAILY NEWS as one of the “Best Live Shows of 2011” and as one of 2012’s Best Upcoming Album Releases. Please take a moment to discover this incredible new artist.

Seasons of My Soul

Tracklist (click to stream):
Am I Forgiven
Come to Me High
Slow
Take Me As I Am
Aretha
Saving Grace
Thankful
Healer
Blackbird
On My Way Home
Goodbye Girl

RUMER

North American Tour 2012

JANUARY

24 Los Angeles, CA Hotel Café

25 San Francisco, CA Bimbos

27 Salt Lake City, UT State Room

31 Minneapolis, MN Varsity

FEBRUARY

2 Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall

6 Toronto, ON Mod Club

7 Philadelphia, PA World Café Live

9 New York, NY Le Poisson Rouge

10 Boston, MA Brighton Music Hall

Young Prisms to tour

2012-01-24T11:08:00.001-08:00

In December 2010, San Francisco's young navel-gazers, Young Prisms found themselves stranded in London's Heathrow Airport due to what was considered an epic ice storm. Looking back, It must have surely been a test of wills, especially for a road-weary group of stoned NoCal tykes. I mean, how did they score weed? This and a handful of other eye-opening events paved the way for what would be the band's most prolific songwriting output to date.

A little over a year later, Young Prisms sees the release of their sophomore LP In Between this spring [March 27, 2012] on Kanine Records. Still a five piece, (albeit a different five) the album captures the highs and the lows of the last year. Born out of the traumatizing Heathrow crisis and the death of a loved one, a strong sense of rejection, loneliness, and despair all play a huge role in the creation of In Between.

However, It’s not all doom and gloom and it’s not like childhood friends Gio Betteo and Matthew Allen didn’t see the changes coming (they named their first album Friends For Now). They just didn’t expect it all to happen in such a dramatic fashion. Still united with singer Stefanie Hodapp and drummer Jordan Silbert, the Prisms welcomes a second female vocalist/guitarist, Ashley Thomas.

It’s this addition that brings a softer, more melodic touch to their fuzzed out sound. If Friends For Now yields comparisons to My Bloody Valentine and the Jesus and Mary Chain, In Between lends itself more to the Mazzy Star, Slowdive end of the spectrum – and one need not look any further than lead single "Four Hours (Away)". Its gentle swing and sullen vocal sweep will melt hearts and help pass those cold and dark hours.

To spotlight how the band has made peace with the past year, check out "Runner", which will put a bounce in your step, while "Dead Flowers" has the Prisms stepping on their pedals harder than ever. Album opener "Floating in Blue" will fill your head with swirly dream pop and the guitar-drenched "Midnight’s When" pays homage to the innocent 50’s inspired lullaby that Mary Chain fans will swoon to both awake and asleep

Enlisting the production of Monte Vallier (Weekend, Mark Eitzel) and once again as a full five piece, the Prisms sound refreshed and Young again. With Allen having moved outside the city, Betteo and Allen began traveling back and forth in between homes to write this record. The result is a perfect soundtrack to the loneliest road trip down California Highway 1…where the lights dim and flicker as the sun sets on the pacific while the fog and haze return to the Redwood Forests and Coastal Cliffs.

Young Prisms are heading back on the road this spring in support of In Between, including a trip to SXSW, and they have plans to visit the UK, but not ‘til the summer of course.

Upcoming Tour Dates Feb 22 - Cafe Du Nord - San Francisco, CA $
Feb 24 - Mississippi Studios - Portland, OR
Feb 25 - Comet Tavern - Seattle, WA ^
Feb 26 - The Shakedown - Bellingham, WA^
Feb 29 - The Aquarium - Dempsey’s - Fargo, ND#
Mar 1 - 7th Street Entry - Minneapolis, MN #
Mar 2 - Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL
Mar 3 - Cafe Bourbon Street - Columbus, OH #
Mar 4 - DC9 - Washington, DC #
Mar 5 - Glasslands - Brooklyn, NY #
Mar 6 - Kung Fu Necktie - Philadelphia, PA#
Mar 7 - Great Scott - Allston, MA #
Mar 8 - The Red Door - Portsmouth, NH #
Mar 9 - Le Cagibi - Montreal, QC #
Mar 10 - Drake Hotel - Toronto, ON #
Mar 11 - Paperhouse - Detroit. MI #
Mar 21 - The Echo - Los Angeles, CA *

$ w/ Melted Toys
^ w/ Grave Babies
# w/ Boy Friend
* w/ The Black Ryder

Storytelling and photography at the Getty Jan. 26

2012-01-24T11:07:00.001-08:00

On January 26, noted actress and playwright Anna Deavere Smith joins artists Carrie Mae Weems and Eileen Cowin for an evening of conversation and readings at the Getty Center. They will discuss Cowin’s and Weems’s works on view in the exhibition Narrative Interventions in Photography, and explore how storytelling impacts their art making.

Anna Deavere Smith is currently the artist in residence at the Center for American Progress. She is known for her documentary-theater style, showcased in plays such as Fires in the Mirror and Twilight: Los Angeles, in which she performs multiple roles. Smith has also appeared in numerous films and television programs. In this unique meeting of artists at the Getty, Smith urges the photographers to explore their interest in storytelling through performance.

Carrie Mae Weems's work is part of her 1995 series From Here I Saw What Happened, in which she appropriates historical photographs of African Americans and superimposes her own narrative onto the images. Weems's texts add an additional layer of interpretation to the photographs, which depict racial stereotypes, brutality, and injustice.

Eileen Cowin's 2002 series I See What You're Saying consists of large-scale diptychs in which images of books are juxtaposed with close-up details of faces; together, the pairs explore the tension between what simply exists on the page and what is viscerally understood. The work asks viewers to consider the subjectivity of storytelling, specifically the notion of lying.

Storytelling and Photography
Thursday January 26, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
Harold M. Williams Auditorium, Getty Center

Complements the exhibition Narrative Interventions in Photography, on-view through March 11, 2012

Event is free, but reservations are required. For reservations, visit www.getty.edu or call (310) 440-7300.

Afro Funke Thursdays in Santa Monica

2012-01-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

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

Thursday, January 26, 2012

DJ CAM
(France)
With SEVEN, DJ CAM serves up his most personal album since the acclaimed Substances. Inspired as
ever by the original jazz and hip-hop influences that helped him become one of the founders of the trip-hop scene
back in 1995, this new album is also full of exciting new musical and visual influences.

As a mainstay of the French Touch (he started his career in the 1990s together with Daft Punk, Air, Cassius,
Bob Sinclar...), DJ CAM has released six albums, helmed a number of side projects and given countless performances
all around the world, helping him to acquire global notoriety. His 2002 single “Summer in Paris”with Anggun sold
over a million copies and remains an emblematic tune of the Parisian dolce vita.

He is now based in Los Angeles, where his musical and visual projects can converge, including production and
remixes (Michael Jackson, Serge Gainsbourg, Air, Miles Davis...), sound design (Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Sephora,
Agnès b...), soundtracks for both TV (“CSI: Miami”...) and cinema (Gus Van Sant, Wayne Wang...).

SEVEN has touches of well-crafted pop and folk (“Swim,” with vocals by Stateless’ Chris James and a video
directed by Sonia Sieff, reminds one of Radiohead, one of the album’s major influences. And Chris James is also
present on “Ghost” and “Uncomfortable”), hints of old school electronica (“Dreamcatcher”) and cinematic ambient
tracks that invite you to dream (“Seven,” “California Dreaming”). For a feminine touch, DJ CAM adds the vocals of
Inlove, a new signing on his Inflamable label, and Nicolette, long-time collaborator with Massive Attack, the
legendary group that DJ CAM feels closer to now than ever before, and to whom he dedicates the album.

DJ CAM: “After the acoustic album Soulshine and various projects with high-profile collaborations and large
groups, I wanted to get back to the essentials of being a producer: going into the studio alone, having total freedom,
and allowing my inspiration free reign. SEVEN has turned out to be so intimate because I approached it in the
same way as my earliest tracks; with experimentation and pleasure as the prime motivation.”

Written in Paris and Los Angeles, SEVEN is an album whose enveloping, melancholic tone and wide-open
soundscapes aresupposed to help make your mind wander. The release of the album is the moment for DJ CAM
– who admits to spending as much time in art galleries as he does listening to and composing music – to show us
his talents as a photographer through the Landscape Architecture project, a series of mysterious landscapes
where nature and architecture intermingle in a ghost-likeworld. An exhibition is planned, and the visuals will
projected on a big screen during DJ CAM’s concerts, as revealed for the firs time at the SXSW
festival last March.
www.inflamable.com

+

listening party 9-10pm:
MIGHTY SPARROW
"Sparrowmania!
Wit, Wisdom and Soul from the King of Calypso 1962-1974"
(STRUT RECORDS)

Strut present a brand new retrospective of one of the Caribbean's most towering musical figures, Mighty Sparrow,
covering 1962 to 1974. During a career of over 40 years, Sparrow has been an unmatchable figure in the world of
calypso and a constant backdrop to Caribbean life, recording over 300 albums and winning eleven Calypso Monarch
and eight Road March titles at the annual Trinidad Carnival during one of the most competitive times in its history.

Scoring his first hit, "Jean And Dinah," at aged 20, Sparrow's style drew on influences from US street harmony
quartets to crooners like Nat King Cole, jazz greats – Ella, Sinatra – and the early calypso generation including
Lord Melody and Lord Kitchener. By the late '50s and in his early 20s, he was already an influential figure,
encouraging Trinidad's people to pay taxes with Carnival hit "P.A.Y.E." and highlighting cruelty to animals
on "Russian Satellite."

This new collection hones in on Sparrow's most creative years as he effortlessly surfed musical styles from calypso
party jams to hard-hitting boogaloo and soul. He had become a confident political commentator, tackling
subjects as varied as domestic economic hardship ("Ah Diggin' Horrors"), slavery ("The Slave") and the Cuban
missile crisis ("Kennedy And Kruschev"). Other tracks serve as a vital reference point for today's music. On
"Picong Duel," we hear Sparrow and fellow calypso legend, Lord Melody, trade insults, a direct forerunner to
later mic battles in hip hop culture. Elsewhere, Sparrow just plain rocks the party ("Calypso Boogaloo,"
"Jook For Jook") and turns in the odd choice cover – we feature here his lilting version of Otis Redding's
"Try A Little Tenderness" with Byron Lee. The album also documents Sparrow's fearsome live reputation
with two firing tracks from a late '60s gig at the Barbados Hilton and excerpts from a '70s concert in Brooklyn
featuring Sparrow's dynamite backing band, The Troubadours, at the peak of their game.

This is a long overdue retrospective placing Sparrow in his rightful position as a true Caribbean great, a cultural
and social icon on a par with Fela Kuti in Nigeria or Miriam Makeba in South Africa. As journalist Ric Hernandez
wrote in 1967, "It's all there with Sparrow – wit, wisdom and an earthy irreverence for the established order.
He sings life as he sees it, as one long boisterous contact sport."
http://www.strut-records.com

resident deejay:
JEREMY SOLE
(KCRW / TheLift / Musaics)
www.kcrw.com/jeremysole
www.facebook.com/jeremysolefamily
www.twitter.com/jeremysole
www.soundcloud.com/jeremysole

resident deejay:
GLENN RED
(Afro Funke' / Eclectica)
www.glennred.com
www.facebook.com/glenn.red

host / co:founder:
ROCKY DAWUNI
*Current album "Hymns for the Rebel Soul" on ITunes!
www.rockydawuni.com
www.sonicbids.com/rockydawuni
www.facebook.com/rockydawuni

afro funke' co:founder, booker, photographer & producer:
CARY SULLIVAN
*Currently has photography show at Dan Eldon Center in Malibu
www.facebook.com/afrofunke
www.myspace.com/carysullivan

---------------------:~0~:--------------------
Afro Funke' Thursdays
Zanzibar
1301 5th Street @ Arizona
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310.451.2221 / 21+ (EVERYONE must have ID)
9pm - 2am / $10

(NO CREDIT CARDS FOR COVER !!
Please bring cash or there is ATM in building)

www.zanzibarlive.com
www.myspace.com/afrofunke
www.afrofunke.com

*AFRO FUNKE' is now on Twitter! Please follow us!!
www.twitter.com/afrofunke

---------------------:~0~:---------------------
***UPCOMING***

Thursday, February 2, 2012

AFRO FUNKE' LIVE PRESENTS

"YEMANJA DAY"

featuring

TITA LIMA
(Brazil)
www.myspace.com/titalima

Shaun Hopper in Altadena Jan. 25

2012-01-23T11:26:00.002-08:00

Bob Stane says..."We’re lucky to get this guy!”

The Coffee Gallery Backstage
2029 N. Lake
Altadena, CA
626-798-6236

Presents: SHAUN HOPPER, Wed. January 25th at 8:00 pm
Hand picked by Chris Martin (C.F. Martin Guitar Co.) and signed by Steve Vai (Favored Nations Records) as one of the finest guitar players in America.....

Ticket Price: $15
Call for Reservations: 626-798-6236
http://www.coffeegallery.com/showsat.htm
www.shaunhopper.com

w/Special Guests: The Baron Sisters

Acoustic "Fingerstyle" Guitar wizard Shaun Hopper is in town headlining the "All Star Guitar Night", at the Winter NAMM Show 2012, then heading over to The Coffee Gallery Backstage for an exclusive follow-up performance.

This vibrant Son-of-the South will be bringing along his prodigious mastery of the fret-board, vivacious wit, haunting melodies and neck-popping originals. Whether you're a guitar enthusiast or not matters little, Shaun Hopper always delivers a stunning audio-visual performance which stretches the limits of acoustic guitar...mesmerizing everyone within earshot.

Hopper's repertoire is global in scope, crossing and combining musical genres on the fly. Moving thematically through his set, Hopper takes his audience on a tour from Celtic Imagery and Classical Medley to Soulful Ballads and Jazzy Improvs, all of which he'll counter punch with a Nashville "Hot Licks" session, Fret-tapping original or 70's Pop Song. With listeners caught off balance, he is always able to rouse the crowd with a contagious sing-a-long or two. Expect to hear threads of Bach, Beethoven, Beatles, George Benson, Sting, Segovia, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder, Chet Atkins, Tommy Emmanuel, James Taylor and Queen. Shaun always raises a smile, a glass and if not ....
a standing ovation.

Shaun Hopper is, without question, one of the finest guitar players and solo performing artists in the country.

Mozart concert in Altadena Feb. 3

2012-01-23T11:26:00.001-08:00

A concert in celebration of the birthday of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart will be presented by members of the Tuesday Musicale and Opera Pasadena on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 7:30 pm, at Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calaveras St. Altadena.

The program will include chamber music for clarinet, violin, cello and piano, as well as excerpts from two of Mozart's operas.

Suggested donation: $10.00. For more information, contact Barbara Ebert at 626-398-0658, or he91001@aol.com.

South African Jazz exhibit in Pasadena thorugh Feb. 27

2012-01-23T11:25:00.001-08:00

A new exhibit showcasing iconic photos of the South African Jazz Age,
Apartheid era, and the early life of Nelson Mandela is on display at
the Pasadena City College Shatford Library.

Running through Feb. 27 in the library’s rotunda, the exhibit
displays the work of Jurgen Schadeberg, recognized around the world
as a pioneer of South African photography. It also features native
beadwork and information about literacy and healthcare programs
involving Pasadena teachers and students who have traveled to Cape
Town, South Africa on learning trips.

The exhibit is presented by the Altadena-based nonprofit organization
Art Aids Art. The group serves women and children through programs in
impoverished townships surrounding Cape Town.

Photos and handcrafts are available to purchase at the
exhibit. Income from the sales will be reinvested into the projects
in Cape Town.

For more information, please call (626) 585-7221.

Silent films and gypsy swing at Caltech Feb. 25

2012-01-23T11:23:00.001-08:00

The Hot Club of San Francisco will present Cinema Vivant on Saturday, February 25, at 8 p.m. in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium.

Cinema Vivant is an evening of vintage silent films accompanied by live Gypsy swing.

Before World War I, European filmmaker Ladislaw Starewicz pioneered stop-action animation, creating a never-before-seen movie experience. A storyteller who used the new medium of animation to illuminate his fantastic imaginings of the secret lives of ordinary objects, Starewicz has become an obscure cult hero. Two Starewicz films are featured in Cinema Vivant—The Cameraman’s Revenge, a piece about the marital troubles of beetles and The Mascot, an adventure story about lost toys. On the other side of the Atlantic, American Charley Bowers revolutionized the industry in the 1920s by combining animation with live action. There It Is, a recently rediscovered film by Bowers, is a comedy about a mysterious occurrence investigated by Scotland Yard.

Tickets to this performance are priced at $20; youth (high school age and younger): $10.00. Senior rush tickets will go on sale for $10.00, beginning one-half hour before the performance (subject to availability). Tickets can be purchased at the Caltech Ticket Office, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Parking for Beckman Auditorium is located at 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena (south of Del Mar Boulevard). For further information, call the Caltech Ticket Office at (626) 395-4652.

www.events.caltech.edu

Pasadena Chamber to offer free seminars and workshops

2012-01-23T11:22:00.001-08:00

-In January, the Pasadena Chamber begins a series of FREE informational seminars and workshops. Wired Wednesday is your opportunity to energize and invigorate your business with new ideas, helpful tips on a wide variety of topics, and practical advice on how to enhance your business success.

The free workshops are hosted at Kidspace at 480 North Arroyo Boulevard, near the Rose Bowl, in Pasadena. FREE parking is available in Rose Bowl Parking Lot I.

The first workshop, presented by marketing guru Craig Valine of the Glazer-Kennedy Insiders’ Circle is The Single Most Valuable Thing You Can Do To Ensure Business Success.

The series is produced by the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and Kidspace Children’s Museum for the benefit of businesses throughout Pasadena. Presentations are all FREE OF CHARGE.

The public is invited to bring coffee and hear experts present on a wide variety of topics of interest to business owners, managers and operators as well as entrepreneurs. For information, directions or to RSVP call 626.795.3355 or email Linda@pasadena-chamber.org.

The entire workshop schedule is:

· January 25: The Single Most Valuable Thing You Can Do To Ensure Success-Craig Valine (Glazer-Kennedy Insider’s Circle)

· February 22: Making Social Media Work for You-Margaret Hernandez (Anroma Group)

· March 28: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Presentation Skills-Barbara Rocha

· April 25: Green Your Business Without Spending All Your Green-William Meurer (Go Green Solutions)

· May 23: Power Yourself to Greater Marketing Success-Craig Valine

· June 27: Making Technology Work for Your Business: Shashank Agrawal (Acumor)

· July 25: What Sets You Apart-Creating a Unique Selling Proposition-Craig Valine

· August 22: Making Your Website Do the Best Job for Your Business-Justin Tsui (TeamLogic IT)

· September 26: Healthy Business-Keeping Fit in a Competitive Environment-Dennis Buckley (Health Advantage Health and Wellness)

· October 24: Taming the Technology Monster-Donna Massie (General Networks Corp.)

The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and Civic Association is a professional business organization. Since the earliest days of Pasadena, the Chamber has played a major role in the development of this internationally renowned city. Since 1888, when the organization was founded as the Board of Trade, the Chamber's primary purpose has been the enhancement of both the business climate and the quality of life in Pasadena. The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce serves 1500 members.