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SAN DIEGO ROUBADOUR Alternative country, Americana, roots, Tfolk, gospel, and bluegrass music news

January 2004 Vol. 3, No. 4

what’s inside EEaarrll TThhoommaass

Welcome Mat ………3 Sings the Mail Box Mission Statement Contributors Full Circle.. …………4 Liggins Brothers Lou Curtiss Front Porch …………6 BLUES Earl Thomas Parlor Showcase... …8 David Maldonado Russell Hayden Java Joe Ramblin’... …………10 Bluegrass Corner Radio Daze José Sinatra Highway’s Song... …12 San Diego Folk Alliance Fire Victims Benefit Concert Of Note. ……………13 Philip Treas Skip James Boon Companion Dominic Gaudious Gato Papacitos ‘Round About ...... …14 January Music Calendar The Local Seen ……15 Photo Page oubado tr ur y he h rt sic and m th o a u er at liday p M riment

Chuck Schiele & Sven-Erik Seaholm

Tommy Pressley & Ed Douglas

Bart Mendoza & Jeff Berkley

Jim McInnes

Will & Kristen Edwards

Marcia Staub Dani Carroll & Chuck Schiele

Bart Mendoza, Derek & Lyle Duplessie, Phil Harmonic

Lyle Duplessie, Liz Abbott Sage Gentle-Wing, Meghan La Roque

Jose Sinatra & Phil Harmonic Randy Hoffman

Jimmy Duke & Lyle Duplessie Greg & Lois Bach, Sage Gentle-Wing, Lynn Douglas

Ed Douglas, Gary Ràchak, Tommy Pressley

Laura & Peter Bolland, Robin Henkel e l e i h c S

k c u h C

: o t o h P Lou & Virginia Curtiss, Liz Abbott

Jeff Berkley, Sven-Erik Seaholm, Marcia Staub

Danny Cress Chuck Schiele & Ellen Duplessie Derek Duplessie

Ashish & Hanna San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 wweellccoommee mmaatt

MAILBOX SAN DIEGO ROUBADOUR Alternative country, Americana, roots, folk, gospel, and bluegrass music news T Dear Troubadour, Hi Lou [Curtiss], I want to thank you for giving I really enjoyed reading your Andrew’s [Beacock] article recent article in the San Diego (November issue) a chance to shine. Troubadour about the Bostonia MISSION CONTRIBUTORS Your paper gets better and better. It Ballroom and the Pacific Ballroom To promote, encourage, and really is an informative, intelligent [November 2003]. provide an alternative voice for the FOUNDERS read! Over the past several years I have great local music that is generally Lyle & Ellen Duplessie Sincerely, been working on a concert archive Sandra Castillo for the city of San Diego. I have overlooked by the mass media; Liz Abbott Dear San Diego Troubadour, researched the old local periodicals, namely the genres of folk, country, Kent Johnson Thank you for your wonderful Dear Editor, reviewing microfiche for advertise - roots, Americana, gospel, and feature article on our Museum and Just a note to say how much I’ve ments announcing upcoming shows bluegrass. To entertain, educate, PUBLISHER current exhibits. We have received enjoyed the new Troubadour ... and and noting the dates for my archive. and bring together players, writ - many inquiries and visitors as a result Lyle Duplessie I’ve only gotten to page three!! The I wonder if you could possibly of your article, and we greatly ers, and lovers of these forms; to Bart Mendoza article about Harold help me? I have had a difficult time EDITOR appreciate your interest. explore their foundations; and to Land is terrific ... what a musician. A discovering shows for both the You have a great publication and expand the audience for these Ellen Duplessie couple of my co-workers are real jazz Bostonia Ballroom and the Pacific we wish you the best of luck in the types of music. buffs and said how much they Ballroom. These are the dates I have future. Thanks again! GRAPHIC DESIGN enjoyed it. One of them remembers located so far . . . . To receive advertising rates and Liz Abbott Sincerely, the Creole Club and also saw Land Bostonia Ballroom information, call 619/298-8488 or Carolyn Grant, Executive Director at various times around town here. 2/5/60 Bill Monroe e-mail [email protected]. PHOTOGRAPHY Museum of Making Music But then just opposite that is Lou’s Paul Grupp first part of his folk music club Pacific Ballroom San Diego Troubadour Dear Troubadour, 7/31/60 The Drifters Millie Moreno article. I remember well The Upper P.O. Box 164 Having had the pleasure of inter - Cellar ... I would pass it when I 8/21/60 Ray Charles/Raelets La Jolla, CA 92038 DISTRIBUTION viewing Andrew Beacock live on the walked home from Horace Mann 11/27/60 The Coasters E-mail: [email protected]. air at KCR at SDSU, it is wonderful to Junior High School. I always thought 12/11/60 Sam Cooke Ellen Duplessie see him getting some much that funky canted cellar door 3/17/61 B.B. King, Joe Turner Kent Johnson deserved publicity. He really entrance was very cool. But I was 9/23/61 Jimmy Reed SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR, the impressed me with the depth of too young to go in ... or I didn’t 6/17/62 Etta James local source for alternative coun - ADVERTISING feeling and emotion he brings to his dare. I also remember Circe’s Cup, 10/18/64 Little Richard try, Americana, roots, folk, gospel, Kent Johnson playing. Listening to him play live at but there were rumors around that It’s been really tough finding show and bluegrass music news, is pub - the radio station and hearing him the tiny rooms above it were also dates. Do you have any concert lished monthly and is free of WRITERS talk about the music was a great used for nefarious purposes. Hubba dates from these or other local ven - charge. Letters to the editor must Benjaminn experience. Here’s hoping that hubba! ues? I would really like to learn be signed and may be edited for Lou Curtiss others soon jump on the Beacock Best Wishes, more. wagon. content. It is not, however, guaran - Phil Harmonic Jan Tonnesen I would greatly appreciate any Yours, teed that they will appear. Paul Hormick information you can share. Do you Wyman Brent know of resources that could All opinions expressed in SAN Frederick Leonard possibly lead to more concert dates DIEGO TROUBADOUR, unless Jim McInnes being discovered? otherwise stated, are solely the Bart Mendoza Best regards, opinion of the writer and do not Cathy Radcliffe Jon Moore represent the opinions of the staff or Bill Richardson P.O. Box 5959 management. All rights reserved. Chula Vista, CA 91912 José Sinatra [email protected] ©2004 San Diego Troubadour. Robert Woerheide D. Dwight Worden Cover photography: Phillip K. Ensley John Philip Wyllie

WRITE TO US! We want to hear from you! Send your comments, feedback, and suggestions to: [email protected] or to San Diego Troubadour, P.O. Box 164, La Jolla, CA 92038-0164.

3 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour ffuullll cciirrccllee Band of Brothers: The Liggins Brothers by Bart Mendoza recorded two duets for it in 1965, but their hit days were lthough they were both well over. They continued to born in Oklahoma (Joe release recordings on their own A in Guthrie on July 9, imprints, with Jimmy also 1915, and Jimmy in Newby on recording blues for Duplex October 14, 1922), band lead - under the name Big Moose ers Joe and Jimmy Liggins relo - McDowell and the Tornadoes. cated here as youths. Revered He eventually opened a music by lovers of jump blues, swing, school in Durham, North and R&B, they soon began Carolina in 1975. Sadly, Jimmy their musical apprenticeship in passed away on July 18, 1983. the clubs of 1930’s San Diego. Although the brothers’ As all brothers do, they had a music was no longer selling at friendly rivalry, which led to an the rate it once did, it’s impor - incredible series of hits during tant to note that their hit tunes the early fifties. continued to emerge in new As teenagers and still at renditions, with Joe’s tunes Hoover High School, they being covered by a range of played the local night spots, artists, including Hank with Joe eventually joining the Williams Jr., Dr. John, Mose house band at the Creole Allison, and many more. Palace circa 1934. By all Jimmy, for his part, attracted accounts this band was at the the likes of Albert Collins, Joe Liggins (far right) and the Honeydrippers, ca. 1945 forefront of San Diego’s first Canned Heat, and Doug Sahm, musical renaissance and at one to name just a few. In 1981 one (for 18 weeks!!) as well as Wing and then to Vita. But by time or another included such R&B fanatic Robert Plant bor - the biggest R&B record in then his star had faded. soon to be legends as Fro rowed the Honeydrippers’ 1945. But perhaps most Younger brother Jimmy Brigham, Harold Land, and band name for a successful important, “The Honeydripper” was indeed a band leader, but Little Willie Jackson just to recording and tour, though Joe has been cited by many as one he was also a professional name a few. The Palace itself Liggins continued to tour with the earliest examples of what boxer. Notably, he trained with was located in the Hotel his own Honeydrippers. The was pointing toward what another local legend, pugilist Douglas at the corner of BBC even filmed one of his we’ve come to know as rock ‘n’ Archie Moore, whose infamous Market Street and Third concerts for a TV special in roll. boxing glove-shaped pool can Avenue and, in the name of 1983. Joe Liggins continued to Joe racked up an amazing be still be seen off the freeway progress, the building was tour until his untimely death ten hits between 1945-48, near the juncture of I-15 and I- demolished in 1985. on August 1, 1987. including “I’ve Got a Right to 94. He started out as driver for After years of playing the Luckily for music fans, The Cry” (Exclusive 210). In 1947 his brother’s band but soon local circuit as well as dates up Liggins brothers’ music has he guested on his bandmate formed his own band, The and down the coast, Joe even - been extensively re-issued, Jackson’s solo album and when Drops of Joy, signing with tually headed to the greener experiencing a serious resur - Executive Records folded in Specialty Records in 1947. He pastures of Los Angeles in gence in popularity due to the 1950, he jumped to Specialty scored a top ten hit in 1948 1939, gigging with a variety of swing revival of a few summers Records, continuing his hit with “Tear Drop Blues” and fol - groups, notably Sammy back. One of the earliest pre - streak until 1954. He scored lowed up with “Don’t Put Me Franklin’s California Rhythm cursors to rock ‘n’ roll, and it another R&B number one sin - Down” in 1949. Jimmy Rascals. No, really. Matter of has its roots right here. Who’d gle with the classic “Pink switched to Aladdin in 1954, fact it was that group’s decision a thunk it? Champagne,” which was heavi - recording his classic “I Ain’t to pass on one of Joe’s tracks ly bootlegged at the time, and Drunk” as Jimmy Liggins and — his soon-to-be debut smash, followed it up with a tour as his 3D Music for the label. “The Honeydripper Parts 1 and part of the Big Four R&B His brother would join the 2,” which enabled Joe to go off Revue alongside Jimmy imprint in 1950, but by the and start up his own outfit. Witherspoon and others. He turn of the decade Jimmy In 1944 he signed up with switched labels to Mercury in found himself label-less, so he indie Exclusive Records and 1954, the same year he took did what any good artist has never looked back. His sound part in a benefit for the wife of always done in this sort of was a smash from the get-go, Stan Getz, and in 1960 he put emergency— he started up his starting with the afore-men - out a best of, using remakes, own, Duplex, which ran from tioned track (Exclusive 207). It before being transferred to 1965 to 1978. The brothers was an instant R&B number

4 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 ffuullll cciirrccllee n o s d r a h c i R

Recordially, Lou Curtiss l l i B

: o t tion of women in country music on the and jazz during the ‘50s and ‘60s. I do Boys, the Scottsville Squirrel Barkers, o h

P Town Hall Party , L.A.’s premier country know that Joe and Jimmie Liggens ran a Claire Hart, Cliff Nimen and Hilary, and a barn dance show during the ‘50s). I con - club here for some time in the late ‘50s whole lot more. tinue to look for things I’ve heard about and ‘60s, and Slim Gailliard was here for If you have any of this material for or hope might exist to add to the library a period of time, playing in local clubs — sale or loan (I can make copies), please and hopefully make available as the in fact he owned his own club in the get in touch. Thanks. opportunities arise. ‘50s. Thomas Shaw, the Texas bluesman Recordially, I am looking for the following we recorded in the ‘70s, broadcast regu - Lou Curtiss material: larly over a Tijuana radio station during the 1930s and there were probably other San Diego Folk Festival jazz and blues radio broadcasts during THE LOU CURTISS SOUND LIBRARY Any videos made at one of the 20 that period as well. The San Diego Folk The Lou Curtiss Sound Library goes San Diego Folk Festivals. A recording of Music foundation (a.k.a. San Diego back to its beginnings with a couple of the Bill Monroe concert at the first folk Friends of Old Time Music) hosted a boxes (about 200 78s) that my Dad col - festival. Any recordings from the third series of concerts in the late 1960s with lected in the late 1930s and ‘40s. I added folk festival (the man who made the Mance Lipscomb and Bukka White. Did a few 78s and a whole lot of 45s in the tapes that year skipped town with them). anyone tape any of these? 1950s, and in the ‘60s I got into long- Unusual interviews, workshops, or out - Videotapes play records big time. When I opened side jams that took place at that festival. Do any of Sam Hinton’s television Folk Arts Rare Records in 1967, I was Folk Music shows exist for our video library? Do any already picking up things on tape like the Audio tapes of folk concerts that other TV shows featuring folk or tradi - first San Diego Folk Festival that we put took place in San Diego during the ‘50s, tional blues, jazz, or San Diego home - on that same year. Today the Sound 60s, or 70s at clubs like The Heritage, town stuff still exist? Wouldn’t it be great Library (not counting what I have in the The End, The Candy Company, In the to find a copy of Smokey Rogers’ Western shop for sale) contains some 6,000 reel- Alley, Circe’s Cup, The Upper Cellar, The Caravan television show from TV8 circa to-reel tapes, which include live concerts, Zodiac, The Kontiki, The Ballad Man, 1953 or maybe Slim Gailliard on one of record chronologies ranging from Fats Occam’s Razor (Hedy West in particular), his local TV appearances in the 1950s? Waller to Roy Acuff to Bob Wills and his Jordan’s Alley, Pearl Street West, The Texas Playboys, vintage radio broadcasts Voodoo Man, La Bohème, or any others I Country-Western Music with a bent toward the musical, live might have missed. I’d also be interested Does anyone have tapes of live interviews, traditional field recordings in other concert series that took place in shows at the old Bostonia Ballroom or from the Library of Congress and many guitar shops, such as the Blue Guitar’s any of the direct live broadcasts out of other sources, and of course all the San series of concerts put together by Walt Mexico border stations with the Maddox Diego Folk Festivals. The library includes Richards and crew at various YWCAs, Brothers and Rose, Tex Williams, or oth - some 6,000 LPs; about 3,000 video book stores, guitar shops, etc. ers? Some of these might be on 16-inch tapes; about 1,000 78 rpm discs; and a The Sign of the Sun bookstore did a transcription discs. I have equipment to fair amount of books, song folios, maga - series of excellent concerts in the mid- transfer them. For a time in the late ‘30s zines, discographies, and other related ’60s with such artists as Mississippi John Woody Guthrie and his cousin Jack did stuff. Oh yes, there are a bunch of CDs Hurt, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Sonny Terry broadcasts over station XELO in Tijuana. as well. Quite awhile back I wrote up a and Brownie McGee, Mike Seeger, Skip Wouldn’t it be wonderful to find one of listing of some of the things that might James, Jean Ritchie, the New Lost City those programs? be out there that I’d be interested in. Ramblers, and others. I know tapes were Do any tapes exist of early rock ‘n’ Please understand that the purpose made and I’d sure like to have them if roll at clubs like the College Inn, featur - of all these things is not just to sit in a they exist. I’ve managed to rescue tapes ing such artists as Johnny Hammer and back room at Folk Arts and gather dust. of the Sign’s Bessie Jones, Jean Redpath, the Fireballers, Jody Reynolds, the The material in the library has generated and Reverend Gary Davis concerts. When Medallions, the Nomads, or any others? some 27 long-play records and 30 CDs I got those reels, they were on very brit - Folk Personalities on such labels as Rounder, Flying Fish, tle acetate that was near self-destruction. There are many folk personalities I’d Country Routes, Flyright, Heritage, Krazy I managed to transfer them to a more like to have in the library, including early Kat, Testament, and Harlequin. The types durable tape that hopefully will stand the live concerts of Sam Hinton (the earliest I of music range from country blues to test of time. have is from about 1967), Kathy Larisch swing, jazz, rockabilly and Western Blues and Jazz and Carol McComb (particularly their swing, cowboy songs, and gospel music. It’s harder to know what was out Carter family stuff and things not includ - I am currently working on CD number there in San Diego in the way of blues ed on their fine Elektra recording), Robb 31 for the Country Routes label (a collec - Strandlund, Ray Bierl, the Kern County

5 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour ffrroonntt ppoorrcchh

David Maldonado: A Passionate Performer

percussion. A young woman bran - and I thought everybody could play dished her long flowing skirt and like this,” he says. stepped out the rhythms. I was fully The size of the band varies from awake and braced for the day, without the trio of David and his brother a drop of coffee. Hector on guitar, with Vince Escalara Maldonado has taken traditional on bass guitar, to the everything-but- flamenco, the Gypsy-inspired rhythms the-kitchen-sink ensemble of this and passions of Spain’s Andalusian morning’s performance. Joining the trio South, and mixed in elements of are Patric Petrie on violin; Tim Foley Arabic, Spanish, Mexican, Irish, and on the cajon, a Peruvian percussion some modern influences for his hot instrument; youngsters Kylie and Brother Hector grew up playing rock, contemporary sound. You might com - Maldonado’s daughter, Peyton, adding blues, and classical music with David pare his music to the Gipsy Kings, but the exciting handclaps; and Dalia and shares the spotlight on lead guitar. with a lot more variety and polish and Ferrer dancing flamenco with the Although his study of the instrument without the bad vocals. He writes and band. isn’t as extensive as his brother’s, he arranges all the compositions for his Both of the women in the band maintains the same intensity and fire. band, each tune reflecting emotions he enjoy the lively nature of Maldonado’s He credits the long history of perform - play for their 15 minutes of KUSI fame has experienced in his life, which he music. Petrie says that it has much in ing with his brother with their ability and needed a jolt of caffeine to get me by Paul Hormick compares to colors added to a canvas common with the traditional Irish to play so well together. “Because we’re going for the day. I raised the cup to when creating a work of art. music she plays in Skelpin, one of the brothers, we have more of a connec - my lips as the stage director cued the n the sound stage for KUSI, Maldonado switched from violin to five bands she plays with. According to tion,” he says. band. …. Three, two, one, Go! as the good looking and guitar at the age of ten and by 16, he her, “this music is very passionate. It If you want a caffeine-free jolt in Before I got a really good sip, smiling hosts of the morn - was studying with Pepe and Celine speaks to the heart.” Ferrer dances in a the morning, or any other time of day, O David Maldonado and his band ing show went from news, to weather, Romero. The well-known classical gui - number of settings, including a dance you might check out Maldonado’s CD launched into his rousing flamenco- to human interest story, I sipped some tar dynasty didn’t intimidate troupe of belly dancers. The reason she Danza . You can also find Maldonado inspired music. Classical guitars coffee that I had picked up from the Maldanado.“I didn’t know that they says she enjoys performing with the and his music at www.maldonadomu - strummed, hands clapped, and the vio - TV station’s break room. I had come to were famous. I had already been per - band is because “they have this great sic.com lin wailed, driven along with bass and hear David Maldonado and his band forming at the University of Arizona energy.”

Hayden a Sight and Sound to Behold by John Philip Wyllie about three sizes too small. Mascara gave “Melissa” and Bob Dylan’s famous “I performed the ‘70’s Mott the Hoople hit his eyes a peculiar look. He arrived bare - Shall be Released” as he accompanied “All the Young Dudes.” I later learned y first impression upon enter - footed, but quickly stepped into a silver himself on his banjo. that the pair are members of a rock band ing North Park’s Claire de pair of women’s high-heeled platform All the while, he spoke not a word. called the Millionaires, a band that had Lune one Saturday evening in shoes and slipped on a black derby hat. While I was by this time over the shock played the previous night at the Casbah M Needless to say, he was quite a sight on of his unconventional (or incredibly in Midtown. December was that perhaps I had misun - derstood my writing assignment. I was the stage of the University Avenue bizarre according to some) appearance, I “My rock band, the Millionaires, is there to interview a man previously coffee house. was still not positive who I was listening primarily what I do,” Hayden told me unknown to me named Russel Hayden. My teenage daughter shot me a puz - to. Sometime later, a member of the audi - afterward. “I’m from L.A, but I grew up Having done this for a while, my precon - zled look and I just shrugged my shoul - ence addressed him as Russel, so I knew here surfing the waters of Pacific Beach. I P

ders and smiled, not knowing what to then that I was, in fact, in the right place come from a long line of white color peo - h ceived notion was that this Russel o t o

expect. Saying nothing, Hayden picked on the correct night. ple going way back, but somehow I got :

Hayden would look and act much like J o h

up one of the four instruments he carried Hayden played three sets during the this Okie mountain music in my blood. I n

the many other singer/songwriters I have P

with him and opened his first set with a course of his two-hour performance, love this mus ic and that is why I do it. I h i had the pleasure to interview. l i p

skillfully rendered bluegrass tune on the playing primarily instrumentals with an just do it for fun about once a month What I saw instead was a tall man with a W y l

dobro. This was followed by a second occasional vocal thrown in here and here on a Friday or Saturday.” l i clean-shaven head completely covered in e instrumental, a banjo and harmonica there. He was joined at one point by a The mostly younger audience warm - tattoos from the neck down, wearing a Russell Hayden denim military-style shirt that looked number. In a gravelly, Dylanesque voice, guitarist named Joey and together they ly received his music. Coming from a he then sang the Allman Brothers’ classic, generation and living in a world in just something about it that turned me which the unusual is often willingly on more than anything that was on the accepted, nobody seemed the slightest bit radio. A lot of my influences — Neil concerned about Hayden’s highly uncon - Young, CSN& Y, and Dylan — come from ventional appearance. the folk rock music of the early ‘70s. Hayden began his musical career You’re not supposed to say it, but the with the violin while still in kinder - music out today just isn’t as good,” garten. A year later he exchanged it for a Hayden shared. “I’m a rock ’n’ roll per - guitar, but his musical “break” didn’t son first and foremost,” he added. And come until many years later. As an ado - then he proceeded to tell me about the lescent, Hayden shattered his leg in a Millionaires. serious motorcycle accident. “We dress in drag,” Hayden “I was laid up for quite a while, and explained. “We have a good following in people started bringing me instruments San Diego, but we also have a large fol - [to help pass the time],” Hayden lowing of people who really hate us. It’s explained. “I learned to play a lot of dif - beautiful to see all those tough guys in ferent instruments during that time.” the back howling at us, but I’ll kick their The skill he acquired following his butt even with my high heels on. At least accident was certainly evident on this I’ll try,” he added. “I love it. I’m just a night. He is an immensely talented musi - normal guy,” he said with a smile.” cian, playing guitar, slide guitar, dobro, banjo, and more. He’s not only a skillful artist, but a very soulful one as well. Hayden was nominated Best Acoustic Artist this year by the San Diego Music Awards and deservedly so! “I started listening to a lot of Stanley Brothers and bluegrass music from the ‘50s and ‘60s around that time. There was

6 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 ffrroonntt ppoorrcchh

opened its doors, after moving a block north on Bacon Street. In the new space, such performers as José Sinatra and the Troy Danté Inferno, Anya Marina, and Tristan Prettyman The Return of would augment the eclectic fair, which was replete with performers Joe had first presented even back in the Poway days. There was a movie the Return of night (not video; real celluloid — who’s done that lately?), many superb songwriter showcases, and eventually a Thursday night residen - cy by a magnificent young talent named Jason Mraz. After one particular summer show that the audience refused to let Java Joe end, Jason brilliantly suggested that by Bill Richardson regulars as well. One of the waitress - everyone follow him out to the es, Jewel Kilcher, began revealing her beach for a bonfire. It was a night t first, the former tuna fisher - own very noticeable musical talent at Java Joe recalls as a highlight of his the weekly Open Mic night and soon career. Suddenly regulars from Java man loathed his sister-in- n o s

created a powerful buzz. Joe’s audiences over the years began d law’s suggested name for his r a h

A (Interestingly, reports have her still c to meet socially. The Mraz bonfires new business. He hadn’t wanted any i R

l

playing music all these years later, l part of his name connected to the were a popular weekly event soon i B

:

having apparently dropped her sur - enough, engendering a wonderful s public’s perception of his proposed o t o

name.) sense of community. Many lasting h

coffee house. But more and more of P his friends began insisting that he’d Moving his business to the cor - friendships were made during that be crazy not to go with “Java Joe’s.” ner of Newport and Bacon in Ocean summer. So, accepting that he might Beach in 1993 (at the site of Rumors Jason Mraz ended his Thursdays indeed be a bit crazy (and crazy cafe), Joe accomplished the quite in September of 2002 to hit the enough to do the wrong thing) and remarkable feat of closing his Poway road. Java Joe 3 closed its doors two appreciative of the concern of his shop one morning and opening the months later, when Joe decided he’d loved ones, Joe Flammini opened his new one (JJ-2) that very same after - like to try another location away first shop in Poway in February 1991. noon. The existing Rumors staff met from the beach — downtown per - Crazy or not, Flammini was, in their new boss that day; the cultural haps, or maybe North Park. He did - the nineties, to become a sort of San garden Joe Flammini had established n’t foresee the search taking too Diego mini-version of legendary pro - up north didn’t miss a ray of sun - long. moter Bill Graham. Steve Poltz has light. But it did. Months turned into a famously stated that without Java Mainstays at JJ-2 included Page year. Joe was determined not to Joe, the San Diego music scene and Poltz (often with their band the announce anything until all his plans Thursday, January 8 is the offi - Normal Heights. would resemble a three-legged dog Rugburns), Frank Drennen and his were in place and JJ-4 was ready to cial opening of Java Joe’s Pub, locat - Sundays at Java Joe’s Pub will trying to pee without a hydrant. band Loam, Cindy open. Spurious ed at 6344 El Cajon Blvd. near SDSU. feature an open jam beginning at 6 Joe healed the dog, potty- Lee Berryhill, The Mraz bonfires reports in the Most recently known as Kelly’s Pub, p.m., hosted by the magnificent Miff trained it, and gave it culture. Maybe Elizabeth Hummel, “ press would it’s a few blocks east of College Laracy (West Coast Pin-ups, Troy it’s true that all the world can love a Joy Eden Harrison, were a popular weekly occasionally take Avenue. (This reporter remembers Danté Inferno). On other evenings lunatic. and the Raindogs him by surprise, fueling his student energies at this the entertainment starts at 9 p.m. Joe’s coffee house soon was like (which would event soon enough, with one partic - location during the mid-seventies C.J. Hutchins will be lending his sub - a camouflaged launching pad for whelp into Berkley engendering a wonderful ular writer when it was known as the Quaff stantial presence as host of Open Mic increasingly sophisticated, chart- Hart). seemingly intent Barrel. Yes, that’s when the average night on Tuesdays. The band aimed musical missiles. It was friend - Sometime in sense of community. on provoking student knew what the word “quaff” Vertibird will be dropping in every ly fire hitting the mark and returning 1994, Joe himself and aggravating meant.) Thursday in January. to base for further action while the underwent a curi - Many lasting friendships Joe when news The word “pub” is easily recog - Of course, being a pub, the public marvelled at the maneuvers. ous change: he were made during that of progress was - nized but Java Joe would like to biggest change is that admission is At that first Poway venue (let’s stopped minding it n’t forthcoming. supremely define it. For the past few restricted to the 21-and-up crowd. call it JJ-1 to keep things simpler) the when people summer. He still months, while managing the loca - Yes, it’s a beer bar — and a splendid ” tion, he’s experimented with various one at that. Java Joe will always have early performers floated in from addressed him as had the friend - Escondido’s venerable Metaphor “Java Joe” or ship and encour - entertainment ideas and has been a supply of special hot coffee avail - Cafe. They were happy to have “Double J” or just plain “Java” (Steve agement of the many musicians breaking in a new modest, yet versa - able if only as a friendly concession found another North County play - Poltz settled on “Javinski,” perhaps who’d played for him in the past. tile sound system. The compact to the adage that those who forget ground, and the new sandbox was for notable psychological reasons). And he had wonderful memories, stage area may soon be moved and the past are destined to mistreat it. invaded by the energetic likes of No matter. He was always addressed certainly — particularly one evening expanded, perhaps into a room But what about the kids who John Katchur, Jeff Berkley, and Dave with affection. a few years ago when he took his where one of two pool tables cur - always made up a portion of the Howard. They were soon joined by Joe brought out-of-town and teenaged daughter to see Steve Poltz rently stand. audiences at Java Joe’s coffee some new kids in town like little national acts like Dan Hicks and the and Jewel at Coors Amphitheater. He A truly beautiful bar, long and houses? Stevie Poltz and Gregory Page. Robin Negro Problem to Ocean Beach. was acknowledged from the stage inviting, graces the venue. And, as Ever the optimist, Java Joe Henkel and C.J. Hutchins became In January of 2000, Java Joe 3 (as Jewel has done many times of with JJ-3, a number of large TVs are explains that he’s given them a late) and his daughter was thrilled to mounted throughout the main special gift: something to look be invited with her dad backstage to room. And there’s a patio in the forward to. meet with the performers. back, open to everyone, and it’s On a trip to Padres spring train - huge — with canopies, lamps, tables, ing in Peoria, Arizona, along with ashtrays, and at least one other mon - Phil Harmonic Sez: friends Poltz, Berkley, and John ster television. It’s a wonderful area Edwards, Joe met Allan for a smoky wilderness escape, and Vanryckeghem, a young entrepre - Joe has further plans for the space, “Be at war with your neur from Troy, Michigan. Striking which he hopes to fully realize by up a friendship, Vanrycheghem late spring. vices, at peace with became Joe’s business partner and He’s retained much of the the search for a new venue contin - Kelly’s staff: Johanna Geiger, Phil your neighbors, and let ued to mark the year. DeMarco, and John Williams. As far as much of the public was (DeMarco has been there seven years every new year find you concerned, Java Joe just seemed to and Williams 17!) He’s added two have vanished. The press was getting valuable assets from JJ-3: smiling a better man.” itchy. giant John Edwards and courteous — Benjamin Franklin Now in 2004 the magician’s gendarme Chance. The lovely, gra - back and ready to scratch the itch. cious Wendy and Lisa have been JJ-4 has finally arrived! enlisted from Lou Jones’ Bar in

7 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour ppaarrlloorr sshhoowwccaassee

by Robert Woerheide Photography by Millie Moreno said, “That’s what I want to do.” songs back to the arl Thomas could His first formal musical training blues . . . to have told you he occurred when he attended take white was going to be a Humboldt State University as a music singer, even as a voice major. There he studied a and boy in Pikeville, classical repertoire, polished his bring Tennessee. He vocal techniques, and even dab - it to cEould have told you the lifeless bled in opera. After graduation a rabble of furniture and the candle - Thomas moved to San Diego and stick in his hand would someday began what has become a formi - be replaced by a real audience, a dable professional music career. real microphone. He could have Thomas still credits his forma - told you all this because he’d been tive years, surrounded by music, infected by soul music. Today he’s with instilling the passion which established himself as a versatile drives him to this day. Thomas’ songwriter and a remarkable mother (Jewell Bridgeman) was a singer. And it’s still soul, blues, gospel singer and his father (Earl and good old rock ‘n’ roll that “T”) was a fiery harp-playing inspire him. Blending them and blues singer. It was a childhood black entertaining audiences across the filled with Wilson Picket, Otis audi - country—those are the things Earl Redding, and Bobby Blue Band, ence” Thomas is all about. along with the Stax recordings—a are suc - It began modestly enough: in family of music Thomas calls “the ceeding. a darkened movie theatre watch - language of our people.” Like all good ing Soul to Soul with his father. Thomas has done a lot to add music, however, After Ike and Tina Turner sang the to that language. His attempts to, Thomas’ songs defy ment title song, the ten year old as he puts it, “be a rock singer but the boundaries of culture, doesn’t go Thomas turned to his father and more soulful, to take rock ‘n’ roll race, or social status. They unappreciated by demand a wider audience. The Thomas, quite the contrary in fact: proof is in the pudding—to contin - “When someone like Etta James— ue the adulteration of Cervantes’ as if there were someone else like Don Quixote —and in Thomas’ case her—does your song, it legitimizes there’s plenty of pudding. His you as an artist.” songs have been recorded by Etta Not long afterward, Solomon James, Solomon Burke, Screamin’ Burke recorded not one but three Jay Hawkins, and Fleetwood Mac’s Earl Thomas songs on his Peter Green. Homeland album. The late It was, in fact, Etta James who Screamin’ Jay Hawkins covered gave Earl Thomas his earliest and Thomas’ “I Am the Cool,” and highest praise. Recording Thomas’ Peter Green agreed with Etta song “I Sing the Blues” and per - James, recording his version of “I forming it on CNN, James stamped Sing the Blues.” her approval on his music in no With his most recent studio uncertain terms. Thomas was in a release, Soul’d! (Memphis Norway hotel room when James’ International Records, 2003), Earl performance aired. “Oh my God,” Thomas is a busy man these days. he said. “Etta James is performing Playing shows up and down my song on CNN!” Her endorse - California, Thomas peddles his

Earl T, Earl (center), and Tomcat Courtney Mr. Soul Earl’s father, Earl T playing live in the KSDS studio, SD City College.

8 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 ppaarrlloorr sshhoowwccaassee

Jolla responded to their polished three decades now. presentation, or more likely to the The good news is that his sounds of their delta blues, Earl audience can catch a ride on that Thomas and the Blues groove, Earl Thomas style. If they EEaarrll TThhoommaass Ambassadors achieved regular aren’t afraid to dance with that successes at Prospect and Southern twister, to cozy up to unique rock ‘n’ soul. He’s learned Herschel. Thomas’ particular abandon, to to accept his role in a musical At the heart of Earl Thomas’ get funky and free, they just might genre that doesn’t catch the atten - Sings the music, pulsing like a determined touch the magic with which tion of the pop charts and in Hammond B-3, is the captivation Thomas has always felt a special which there are a few great artists. of that Pikeville ten year old. It’s proximity. It’s a talent Thomas Thomas is wise enough to sepa - about soul, and always has been. isn’t afraid to credit to something rate them from his own musical The fact that Thomas feels as more powerful than himself, endeavors. As he recently told Joel comfortable on stage as anywhere something spiritual: “Musicians Selvin of the San Francisco else—more comfortable perhaps— and artists are mediums, we con - Chronicle , “I’ve had reviewers say does nothing to take away from nect people with the Divine.” Earl Thomas is no Solomon Burke BLUES the real focus: his singing, his or Joe Tex. No, I’m not. I’m not music. If it were just about per - trying to be. I’m trying to be Earl forming, he would have been sunk Thomas. I appreciate what all belting out Southern soul, he’s long ago. Thomas admits to a cer - those other artists do. But what captivating audiences all over the tain compulsion when it comes to I’ve gained from listening to all state and he’s doing it with the his chosen profession. “The writer those artists is that one has to effortlessness of a consummate has to write,” he says, “the performer. All his time practicing painter has to paint, and I have to as a young boy in tiny Pikeville, . . . when sing. It’s been proven to me time “ Tennessee is paying off in silver and time again that this is what dollars. “When I finally got on I’m on stage God wants me to do.” stage for real,” he admits, “I really Apparently the success he’s I feel like felt at home, and now when I’m achieved so far is a sign of things How I Met a Blues on stage I feel like I’m in my living Singer with a Positive I’m in my to come. How many artists, after room.” Attitude all, can afford to pursue their Thomas’ penchant for handling living room . music full time? That is what Earl by Phil Harmonic an audience manifested itself ” I first came to meet Earl Thomas Thomas is able to do, living in quickly, once he began performing downtown San Diego and immers - under unusual circumstances, with present oneself.” in San Diego. When he formed a touches of intrigue, respect, angst, ing himself in music—the music of and, finally, trust. About 10 years Critical to that presentation— delta blues band in the acoustic his people, the music of his youth, ago, my wife Liz (aka Tipsi Holiday) inexorably linked to his music—is vein—Earl Thomas and the Blues the music of his soul. and I were renting a condo in Thomas’ voice; therein lies his Ambassadors—and began playing University Heights that had a garage In San Diego he’s certainly got in the back, facing the alley. Across greatest talent. It’s a voice that shows in affluent La Jolla, he knew his following. He’ll be performing the alley were garages belonging to drips with blues and tingles with all too well about the importance at La Jolla’s Hard Rock Café older homes on the street one block soul. All the while, just under the of presentation. “We wanted to west of us. throughout January every One day as I walked out to the surface, Thomas seems to have look like we didn’t need the Thursday (January 4,11,18,25) alley to empty the garbage, I noticed harnessed something powerful money,” he explains. It led to a where he’ll no doubt wow his that a garage across the way stood and maybe even dangerous—a statute within The Blues wide open and completely empty. I audience with songs from his went up to the back door of the Southern twister that threatens to Ambassadors: always wear a suit Soul’d! album, and probably put house in front and knocked, relating make landfall at any moment. This and keep those dress shoes his own spin on some soul clas - to the resident that his garage doors edginess imbues his music with shined. Whether the folks in La were wide open. His eyes grew sics. He’ll be riding a groove that’s both passion and legitimacy, and large and his mouth dropped open carried him from Pikeville, as he yelled, “the equipment!” He it is unmistakably Earl Thomas. Tennessee, to Humboldt State dashed through the long back yard It doesn’t seem to matter to the alley, I behind him. We both University, to San Diego, and whether he’s singing the blues or stood speechless, peering into the along the coast of California for empty old wooden garage. He was devastated at first and over the next 30 to 45 minutes, we went through who I was and how did I discover the empty garage, and a thousand other questions. By the end of our meeting, we had both gained a sense of each other. His mood became more positive and accept - ing, reasoning that this was just another stumbling block on his care - fully navigated plan to be the man who sings the blues. Earl Thomas and the Jezebelles, 2003 S.D. Music Awards. Earl with the Blues Ambassadors Earl at Balboa Park

9 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour rraammbblliinn’’

Bluegrass RTORIESaCULdLED FRiOM oTHIS DEEDJAY S aYzEARS e IN THE BIZ S ’ 30+

CORNER by Jim McInnes ing to minimize any possible problems. Meanwhile my wife Sandi, who was going to videotape portions of Modern by Dwight Worden The Rain, the Park, Rhythm’s historic set, was in another part and Other Things of Balboa Park, schmoozing and video - This is shaping up to be an exciting “Bluegrass’s reigning female (coincidentally the name of the taping the behind-the-scenes work of the winter with lots of great bluegrass for vocalist...” Cowsills’ first single) crew from WB News at Ten (that’s where San Diegans. On Sunday, January 18 , the USA Today she works). Jim McInnes San Diego Bluegrass Society and the Del When it was time to play, my wrists “ A glorious vocal range, which n 1999, the Modern Rhythm Band Mar Foundation are presenting a concert were okay, thanks to a heating pad and a acknowledges the soul hidden in blue - (see San Diego Troubadour , dead.” by two-time couple of shots of Jack Daniels! As the grass. ...” September 2003) landed a choice “Let’s watch what you got, anyway”, grammy win - I band launched into its second Chicago Sun-Times gig playing at the Millennium Bash in said I, inserting the tape and pressing the ner Todd song,”Trouble,” the rain began. No, hold “Pure and soul satisfying...” Balboa Park. My day job, as the mid-day play button. On came about nine min - Phillips on on ... it wasn’t rain, it was a deluge! Detroit Free Press deejay on a popular rock radio station, utes of Sandi asking questions and chat - bass, three- Somehow I wasn’t getting wet, but, coupled with my being in a pretty good ting with WB News at Ten’s Dave Carlin time IBMA San Diego’s own Virtual Strangers glancing to my right, bassist Johnny Gun band, plus the fact that I could give free and his crew. Then blank space. “It’s guitar player will open the show, which starts at 7:30 was soaked and singing his lungs out. Todd Phillips plugs for the event on my show, made it next”, she said. of the year pm. Tickets are $20 in advance and $24 The same went for guitarists Don and easy for us to get on the bill. I think The screen flashed a video of me say - David Grier , two-time Winfield national day of the show. Tickets are available at Andy. Then I looked at Jack — splashes that’s known in broadcasting as “value ing, “Thank you” to the crowd at the mandolin champion Matt Flinner , and fid - all SDBS events, at the House of Strings shooting up from his snare drum — as added.” end of “T-Bone Boogie.” “How ‘bout a dler extraor - on Ray St. in North Park, at the La he grimaced at me with an expression And what a sweet deal it was: a 45- hand for Don Story, Andy Vereen, dinaire Gabe Paloma box office, and on line at somewhere between pain and death. The minute set at the Organ Pavilion (it was John....” Witcher in a www.lapalomatheater.com. This promis - crowd had moved to the covered sides of just our 16th gig!), starting at 10:30 p.m. Silence. special con - es to be a great show. I hope to see you the Organ Pavilion. It was eerie to finish following a non-musical act (shades of No more video. cert at the there! a song and hear the applause from an The Ed Sullivan Show !) for $2,000 in front It was the greatest gig we’ve played Del Mar Word has it that the East County unseen audience. of a potential crowd of 100,000, with to date. A historic occasion in beautiful Powerhouse. Performing Arts Center will present We plowed through our set, and with time to pack up the gear and get home Balboa Park. What do we have to show Eric Fidler of Ralph Stanley and the Lonesome River the last notes of the final song echoing before midnight! for it? No recording. No photographs. the Band in concert sometime in the next throughout the park, the rain stopped ... Matt Flinner We had a sound check at 3 o’clock Just five seconds of the band after a song! Associated few months. This concert is not posted of course! that afternoon. The wind was howling On the bright side, though, playing Press had this to say about Phillips, Grier, on their web page yet, so look for more I love irony. beneath dark, ominous clouds ... and it drums in the rain broke Jack’s fever and and Flinner: info in this column next month as details As we broke down our equipment, I was f***ing cold! Sound checks are the he was fine the next day. become available. asked the stage manager for our pay - “Each is a virtuoso capable of most tedious and repetitious rituals After you attend these great con - check. (It was 11:30 p.m. and I had been reeling off mesmerizing solos. ... known to musicians. They are also the certs, you will no doubt be fired up and having some concerns about the [now Phillips, Grier, and Flinner create a most important! Without a sound check, ready to play, so be sure to come to one laughable] Y2K Bug. I wanted to get special kind of magic when they play as even the greatest artist can sound horri - or more of the regular SDBS jams . We home by midnight, watch the video of a band. ... Exquisite.” ble during a performance, because the meet every second Tuesday of the month our set, and deal with any Y2K prob - sound man will have to raise and lower And, I will add that Gabe Witcher , in at Fuddruckers in the Grossmont Center. lems.) He said, “Wait just a minute” the levels of many microphones, trying my opinion as a fiddler, is one of the very Beginning at 7 p.m. we have open mic every one of the nine times I asked for to balance the sounds from many instru - top fiddlers playing today, whose tone, and bluegrass karaoke, where you can our dough! We almost got into an alter - ments. Then, the audience hears (or precision, and exciting phrasing will get up and play or sing a tune of your cation. I’m glad that didn’t happen. I doesn’t hear) fragments of what should bring great excitement to these concerts. choice with back-up from SDBS’ Full don’t like fighting, I only like fun! So, 20 be a cohesive whole! If you don’t already have a ticket, I sug - Deck band. A featured band plays from minutes after we finished our set, I got When we did our sound check, the gest you get one! There are two shows 8-9 p.m., and then more open mic from 9- the check and we raced home, getting guy running the P.A. spoke to each band at the Del Mar Powerhouse, a wonderful 10 p.m. There is also jamming outside to there just in time for nothing Y2K-relat - member individually, asking him to play community center on the beach in Del which everyone is welcome. Bring your ed! as loud as he intend to get during the Mar. The first show is at 3 p.m. and the instrument and join the fun; if you want to I asked Sandi how much of the show gig. When my turn came, I sucked big second is at 5:30 pm, with a wine and play the open mic or karaoke, call Gary she had videotaped. She replied, “Not time ! Because it was so cold, and because cheese reception in between for atten - Kennedy at 619/296-0455 to sign up, or, too much, because the battery went I had arthritis, my guitar playing during dees of either show. Tickets are $15 in space permitting, sign up at the event. the sound check was limited to holding advance or $20 at the door. Seating is Every third Tuesday sees SDBS at my left (fretting) hand in one position limited so don’t wait! Call Betty Wheeler Fuddruckers in Chula Vista, with open while my right (picking) hand tried to at 858/481-2609 to get your tickets. mic, bluegrass karaoke, and sign up slots move in any direction. I was frozen with for bands. Contact /Les Preston at On February fear, thinking, “I’m gonna embarrass 619/267-2020 to sign up, or space permit - 9, the La myself, the rest of the band, the people ting, sign up at the event. Lots of jamming Paloma who hired us, and the radio station I outside here too. Theatre and work for (whose call letters I can no Don’t forget to come to Shirley’s SDBS will longer recall)!” Kitchen at 7868 El Cajon Blvd in La Mesa present But it’s not “all about Jim,” as my on the fourth Tuesday for more SDBS- Rhonda wife likes to remind me. sponsored jamming, open mic, band per - Vincent and Jack Pinney, our drummer, had a formances, and Shirley’s great food at the Rage in mean case of the flu that day, running a great prices. You’ll like the music and the concert. Rhonda Vincent is at the top of temperature of 102 degrees. Trooper that atmosphere at this family restaurant. her game, and her game is good! She is he is, Jack shrugged off the fact that he If you live in the North County, try the the current IBMA female vocalist of the was deathly ill, vomited, and proclaimed, North San Diego County Bluegrass and year (an award she has won in several “The show must go (retch) on!” Folk Club’s jam at the Roundtable Pizza prior years), in 2001 she was voted IBMA Our guitar virtuoso, Don Story, had on Washington St. in Escondido every entertainer of the year, and this year she driven our “tour bus” to Balboa Park first Tuesday. You will see a featured is up for a handful of grammy awards. after the sound check, assuring the band band and a variety of other performanc - Rhonda Vincent and the Rage puts on of a place to tune up for the perform - es, with lots of jamming outside. And for one heck of an exciting show. Live and in ance. After the rest of the guys went those in coastal North County, all are person she is even better than on home to change clothes and ready them - welcome to stop by Banjo Bob Cox’s jam recordings. Here is what the press has to selves, Don called everyone to say that every Thursday, 6-9 p.m. at the New York say about this great group: rain had begun pouring in the park and Pizza Place on Santa Fe in Encinitas for to remind us to prepare for possible elec - “Powerhouse vocals, expert mandolin. great group playing and lots of fun. trocution. ...what we have here is perfection.” So, enjoy your winter. Get out and When our turn to play came, we Billboard hear some great music, and hey, come moved our gear as far back as possible, on down to one of the jam events and (beneath a three-foot wide lip overhang - find out how much fun it can be to play. ing the Organ Pavillion’s band shell) hop -

10 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 ramblin’ n o t s e W

n o v Hosing Down s t o o T

: o t o

varied as Godzilla, Mothra, and h by José Sinatra P Rodan. Or that in 1967, she I’ve decided to come clean became the Beatles’ manager and confirm what many of you after Brian Epstein “accidentally” have suspected for so long. Now died. that the Beatles have at last Yes, she hired me, a young regrouped, releasing a pathetic teen, as personal and creative modern remake of an album they consultant to the Fab Four during recorded 34 years ago, they might the filming of Magical Mystery The debonair Mr. Sinatra Tour (in fact, the legs and white benefit from this public chastise - ourselves silly listening to this one “knickers down” flash is me). Her ment from one they once in the bath last month. Our noises intelligence and libido kept me employed and loved. Others — and splashes were recorded and employed nearly three years. readers such as yourself — will will be released on our own CD Those were magical days. The have nagging questions soon, titled Starting Over . . . lads and I used to refer to Yoko as answered. And I will be able to Again ). The very title, Let It Be . . . the “sixth Beatle.” She was a give you a taste of the many reve - Naked , is substantially meaning - great boss. In January 1969 she lations included in the second vol - less; the original artwork was secretly had me call the cops ume of my autobiography, My pulled at the last second after when the group started playing a Body, My Self, to be published by someone pointed out that concert on a rooftop, doing a Harper and Row this coming although the idea of the four nude group of songs that both Yoko and August. icons all posing together as I truly hated — songs that would Of course, it’s already known Michelangelo’s David was “cool,” eventually be released as Let It that I have one of the most exten - McCartney looked a bit pudgy and Be . sive collections of Beatle memo - Lennon, on closer inspection, a bit Lennon hasn’t done anything rabilia on my street, if not the too . . . “happy,” the last flaw ren - since 1980, Harrison hasn’t been world. Treasures like the rare dering the product Wal-Mart- heard from in years, and Abbey Road with a cover depict - unfriendly. Oh sure, the album is McCartney and Starr seem nearly ing Paul barefoot , or an early somewhat “naked,” I guess, just worthless without them. So they English pressing of Meet the like a famed emperor who had no finally all get back together and Beatles where the word “meet” is clothes. And it wasn’t Hirohito. remake that same old uninspired incorrectly spelled as “with” are For now, perhaps we should set of low-tier dirges in a project virtually uninsurable it would forget about the Beatles. At least that seems to have been cursed, seem, yet for decades I’ve been there are still other artists in the finally releasing it as Let It Be . . . paying substantial monthly premi - world who aren’t afraid to offer up Naked . Cursed? You be the judge: ums on these and other similar their own genius and a public the voices haven’t aged well at all. treasures if only to be able to eager to bestow their heart-felt The foggy geezers forgot to sleep soundly whenever the mood thanks. To all of the latter, the include all those choirs and arrives. Hose can only continue to say, strings that had originally made I suppose I have Yoko Ono to “You’re welcome.” thank more than anyone. Few many of the songs nearly listen - people know that as a little girl, able. Oh yeah, there’s one new Yoko personally convinced track — on a bonus CD. It’s a Emperor Hirohito to surrender and pathetic, rambling attempt at no- effectively end World War II. Or rhyme rap that is rendered mean - that in the fifties she became a ingless because some idiot pro - celebrity agent in Tokyo, ushering ducer completely mixed out the into world-wide stardom artists as beat track ! (Yoko and I laughed

11 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour tthhee hhiigghhwwaayy’’ss ssoonngg

Folk Alliance Conference Strategies: San Diego Plays Host Know Yourself, Show Yourself

by Benjammin DEMOS With vocal pitch correction and other digital The International Folk Alliance wizardry now so ubiquitous, many venues no to 2004 Folk Alliance Conference (www.folk.org) is an amazing expe - longer trust studio recordings when making rience, with workshops that provide valuable booking decisions. Most bookers now prefer a by Cathy Radcliffe insight into both the creative and business well-recorded live demo that shows how you sides of the music scene. The music—more actually sound on stage. They also want to than 2,000 performances by hundreds of hear you interact with an audience, so include nce a year, a large percentage of the acts—will delight your ears. Opportunities for your intros (on separate tracks, ideally). folk music and dance community— career advancement for the singer/songwriter Oand the cottage industry around it— are everywhere. FOLLOW UP converge at a hotel for what business people Always get contact info when you give bookers call a convention. Held in a different city SHOWCASING a demo. Ask how long you should wait before (and region) each year, it’s an event unlike Use whatever connections and relationships following up and whether you should call or e- any other. Where else can the folk communi - you have to get into whatever showcases you mail. Then do what they say! ty count on coming together every year to can. A post to the Folk Alliance listserv SIDEBAR : K NOW WHERE YOU ’RE GOING exchange ideas, information, and, of course, (http://www.folk.org/ListServes/FolkAllianceLis Folk is a word that everyone seems to define share music and dance? And where else can t.htm ) offering to swap slots should bring you differently. I call it emotionally authentic, several replies. Inviting well-known performers one hear literally hundreds of great music Darol Anger & Mike Marshall Otis Taylor mostly acoustic music that doesn’t fit a main - performances in the intimate confines of a into your showcase will enhance its credibility. stream radio format. This embraces hundreds hotel room? POSTERING of traditional, ethnic, and modern subgenres. The 16th Annual International Folk Print full-color posters to promote your Authenticity. Folk is the opposite of main - Alliance Conference will be held at San Diego’s showcases. Your poster will have lots of com - stream, corporate music in one especially won - Town and Country Resort and Convention petition, so make sure your name and face(s) derful way: rather than changing yourself to fit Center February 26-29. It has been 15 years jump out. Include your most impressive the current trend, your chances of success since the organization, founded by Elaine and quotes and accomplishments. You probably increase the more you fully embrace who you Clark Weissman, held their conference in won’t know the showcase room numbers until really are! Folk audiences tend to be small, Southern California. Folks from all over the you get to the conference, so bring Sharpies to intimate, and perceptive, and they want a world look forward to coming here. write them in. unique and authentic musical experience. HANDOUTS Identify what really excites you and put it out WORKSHOPS AND MORE Print full-color postcard-sized handouts with there whole-heartedly. Others share your point This year’s conference offers workshops; men - your showcase and contact info on the front of view, and you will find your audience if you toring; and coaching sessions that provide and your best quotes and accomplishments on persist. powerful information, ideas, and skills to the back. (Don’t forget to include your pic - Patience. Overnight success does not exist in help further individual goals in the folk Terri Hendrix Christine Kane ture!) I recommend pre-perforated, four-to-a- this market, even if you’re God’s gift to music. music business. Workshops include: SPECIAL EVENTS organization that brings performers, media sheet postcard stock. These are most effective Let’s face it, folk constitutes less than one per - • Songwriting Ahead of the Curve I with people, presenters, and enthusiasts together when personally handed out. cent of the American music market. Radio play Bob Franke THE 2004 L IFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS to exchange ideas, information, and, of and media exposure are great when you can • Sound Recording Copyrights Workshop Each year, Lifetime Achievement Award hon - EXHIBITING course, share music and dance. Members get them, but you will only build a fan base orees are selected by a committee of electors Exhibit tables are not that expensive and sig - • Publicity for Musician and Venues include performers, agents, media, record through extensive touring and building a mail - in a process overseen by LAA chairman Mark nificantly increase your visibility. Your primary • Goal-Setting companies, merchandisers, presenters, and ing list. There’s a whole lot more journey than Moss. These awards are given to individuals goal as an exhibitor is to get people who can • An Introduction to the Diversity of other organizations and individuals actively destination, so be sure you enjoy the traveling! and organizations that have achieved defini - book you to attend your showcases! Many ven - Native American Music promoting and fostering culturally diverse Keep learning. tive leadership in their field and, over the ues will not book a performer they haven’t • They Are Getting Younger All the Time: traditional and contemporary folk music, www.bjbmusic.com/For%20Musicians.htm Cultivating a New Generation of span of their lifetime, have indelibly con - seen live, so do whatever you can to entice dance, storytelling, and related performing links you to a universe of great sites for per - Festival Goers tributed to the advancement of folk music them to hear you at the conference. arts in North America. forming songwriters. Jeri Goldstein’s book How • How to Run Your Own Mail Order and/or dance. An important consideration is Your second goal is to distribute demos. When the annual conference comes back to Be Your Own Booking Agent is an indispensa - Business also the degree to which their influence is Bookers and radio are top priority, but don’t be around each year, what stands out is the fact ble resource for indie performers. • Touring/Performing in Europe multiplied through others to affect the field of stingy — a buzz can spread fast when enough that the folk music and dance community Persistence. Attend the international confer - • How Dance Can Benefit Your Festival, folk music and/or dance far beyond their people get excited about you. Also, many per - can now count on coming together, face to ence every year and the Folk Alliance confer - Event, or Concert direct contribution. Previous honorees formers book venues, so you never know who face, every year. Before Folk Alliance was ences in regions you want to tour. • Yoga Between Two Beds: A Guide for include Ralph Stanley, Hazel Dickens, Doc may be a booker in disguise! formed, this never happened. Now it has Excerpted from an article that originally appeared Touring Musicians Watson, Utah Phillips, Woody Guthrie, and At your table, set up a couple of CD play - become the way the folk community does in Singer magazine (May/June 2003). • How to Release More than CDs: Pete Seeger. ers, with headphones, continuously spinning Introduction to the World of Books, business. ©2003 Singer Magazine, reprinted here by per - As in previous years, one Folk Alliance your demo. Bring plenty of demos and several DVDs, and Film For more information about the Folk mission. For information, visit http://www.singer - Lifetime Achievement Award will be present - hundred one-sheets. To enhance your visibility, Alliance and conference registration, check magazine.com. BOOKING AGENT TRAINING SCHOOL ® ed each night during the Folk Alliance out their website at http://www.folk.org/. hang a six-foot vinyl banner featuring your Coordinated by Jeri Goldstein, long-time Showcases. name and website on the front of your table. agent and author, The Folk Alliance Booking Agent Training School ® is designed to edu - 2004 F OLK ALLIANCE SHOWCASES cate and inspire new agents to take their This year more than 600 artists submitted place within the entertainment industry and applications for a chance to perform at the keep artists touring. As a result of our first 2004 Folk Alliance Showcases. The line-up two years, many new agents have joined the represents a broad, international spectrum of Concert Planned to Help Fire Victims professional ranks, establishing their own folk music’s finest. support, and a lot of musician friends planned, featuring items donated by the agencies and helping artists tour successfully. ast October, in San Diego County’s • British Columbia Marc Atkinson Trio willing to play for free. I’ve been pleas - local business community, and there will This program is aimed at teaching budding backwoods, a small fire touched • California Axiom of Choice agents how to create a business, develop a Loff what was to become the antly surprised at everyone’s generosity.” be gift baskets, gift certificates, and even roster of artists, book a tour, route a tour, • California Berkley Hart largest wildfire in the state’s history. The concert is scheduled for some power toothbrushes and teeth negotiate, write contracts, and market an • California Christina Ortega There is no one in San Diego who hasn’t Saturday, January 24, at Creekside whitenings contributed by a dentist agency as well as the artists. • California Kitka Women’s Vocal been affected in one way or another. In School, 12362 Springhurst Dr., Poway friend of mine. People out there who Ensemble the fire’s aftermath, many in the commu - (Sabre Springs), 7-10:30 p.m. Doors open want to contribute but may not think their ORAL HISTORY WITH SAM HINTON • California Mike Marshall & Darol nity came forward and led the call to at 6:30 p.m. A $20 donation for adults and product or service appropriate. Well, this Meet legendary folksinger, folklorist, aquari - Anger: The Duo help their friends and neighbors, result - $10 for kids under 14 is suggested. ALL gives them a chance to donate some - ologist, educator, and author Sam Hinton. • California Talya Ferro ing in a response from the community by proceeds go to the Rotary Club of thing, with proceeds going directly to the Hinton, 86, is one of the most respected • Colorado Otis Taylor way of food drives, clothing drives, and Poway’s Fire Relief Fund. Performers Rotary Fund, so everyone benefits.” folksingers in the world and has recorded • Indiana Tim Grimm calls to construction folks to help in the include such local favorites as Those interested in donating items to some 200 songs on 12 albums. Over the past • Ireland Karan Casey Band re-building process. There appears to be Schmooze, the Rarities, D.R. Auten, KEV the raffle or who have questions about the six decades, Hinton has performed at school no shortage of community spirit in San (aka Kevin Rones), Jim Earp, the Gandhi concert can e-mail [email protected] or assemblies for over two million students • Manitoba James Keelahan Diego; everyone wants to lend a hand. It Method, Tom Boyer, and finally Modern go to www.poway.com/concert.htm on the across Southern California. Sam served on • Mexico Sonaranda is in that spirit of community that a group Rhythm. Web . the board of directors of Sing Out! magazine • North Carolina Christine Kane Castor goes on to say, “The sched - “All in all, it should be a really fun and has written numerous articles for various of local musicians has organized and • Ontario The Arrogant Worms uled musicians are all truly class acts. On evening and I encourage everyone to science and folklore journals. In his 65-year have planned a benefit concert in Poway. • Quebec David Francey any given night you can find them doing come out and join us. See you there!” career as a professional performer he has “I wanted to do something to give • Quebec Les Charbonniers de L’Enfer given thousands of concerts all over the U.S., back to the community and this is the what they love doing in coffeehouses, in Canada, Mexico, and Europe. He has host - • Scotland Jim Malcom best way that I knew how,” says local churches, house concerts, and so on. ed his own radio and television programs, • Texas Billy Joe Shaver musician and concert organizer, Rex They give their all whether it’s for 10 peo - and has appeared at most of the major folk • Texas Terri Hendrix Castor. “My friends thought I was kidding ple or 10,000. There should be a little festivals. at first, but then I started calling people something for everyone, and we may ABOUT FOLK ALLIANCE and before you know it, I had a room, a even have a few drop-in guests during Folk Alliance is dedicated to promoting folk great sound company, local business the evening. A raffle has also been music and dance in all its forms — the

12 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 ooff nnoottee

Various Philip Treas Boon Dominic Gato Artists Midnight Blue Companion Gaudious Papacitos by Rock Soledad Baby, That’s Rock by Phil Harmonic All Hopped Up Portofino It’s amazing what a talented Of the many genres of music, ‘n’ Roll guy with an ear for production by Frederick Leonard by Frederick Leonard the area of alternative country and a bit of engineering where - has yet to be defined. I haven’t by Lou Curtiss withal can do nowadays on his For those who dig guitar I had to obtain a second copy been exposed to many bands, own home recording set up. La assault, this is for you. This 10- in order to review this CD other than Cowboy Nation and With 27 tracks lasting 75 min - Jollan Philip Treas’ new CD, track, fourth-release CD from because my girlfriend liked it so Bartender’s Bible, who fit into utes, this is a fabulous collection Midnight Blue , is totally a home- Atlanta-based Dominic Gaudious much — she wouldn’t give it that category. One group on the of blues, jazz, country, and vocal grown product, and a very good is an ambrosia of acoustic back to me. She just loves the rise is Boon Companion, whose groups, whose recordings con - one at that. aggressiveness. He’s all over the sunny Spanish guitars. Its defi - new 16-song CD blends country tained the phrase “rock ‘n’ roll” Midnight Blue is comprised of neck with an obvious demonstra - nitely a “sunny” record. It makes and alternative rock into the long before Alan Freed invented 18 original, quirky compositions tion for flamboyance, for chops, her feel really good. fusion to help establish its the term. The set opens with that demand, yet defy, any exist - for a lot going on. It makes me feel good, too. authenticity. Trixie Smith’s 1922 recording of ing categorization. Treas accom - He wrote it, arranged and pro - First, it’s a beautiful and ambi - Derek Papa (vocals, guitars, “My Man Rocks Me with One panies his fresh, unique, and duced it. All songs feature tious playlist that includes rendi - banjo, lap steel, resonator, and Steady Roll” and ends with doo altogether pleasant vocals on 6- Dominic on acoustic/electric gui - tions of “Jessica” (Allmann harmonica) and Mark Panighetti woppers Clarence Palmer and and 12-string acoustic guitar tars, guitar synth, keyboards, Brothers) and the Gershwin clas - (bass, guitars, lap steel, man - the Jive Bombers’ 1952 cover of while his melodies and tonal bass guitar, didjeridoo, drums/ sic, “Summertime” (in 3/4, no dolin, piano, organ, and backing the Dominoes’ “60 Minute Man” qualities frame his lyrics nicely. percussion programming, and doubt), both of which, by now, vocals) use traditional instru - (“rock me, roll me all night Treas plays a cat-and-mouse more — except where indicated. have achieved hallmark status. ments to create a fresh and long”). There are four more ver - game, hinting at his influences This music is replete with riffs, Interestingly, Johnny Cicolella and unique sound. On the first track, sions of “My Man Rocks Me,” while never allowing himself to programmed rock beats, exotic company deliver respectable revi - “Mini Corks,” you feel the world including another version by be cornered. These songs are beats, clay drums, Native sions on both. With the slant of closin’ in. The whine of the lap Trixie Smith from 1939 and sometimes folksy, sometimes American flutes, didjeridoos, and Sevilla all over “Jess” I have to say steel and the vocals cry together. Tampa Red’s Hokum Jug Band jazzy, and might even have a Kargyraa throat singing. Its fair with all due respect to Mr. Betts The guitar (acoustic) joins in and version from 1929, with an out - whiff of Caribbean breeze. Songs to say he’s no folkie. The overall that a Spanish attitude on his properly goes slightly out of rageous vocal by Frankie “Half include tongue-in-cheek social effect is Michael Hedges sort already gorgeous tune suits my tune with its empathic answer. Pint” Jaxon. There’s also an unis - commentary (“Life in a Trailer of — meets Gary Hoey sort of — preference. The “Summertime” On “The Puddle and the Coat sued acetate of Merline Johnson Park”), dark humor (“Dancing meets Alan Parsons sort of. And, take reminds me of the groups Forever,” the use of proper dis - doing “Rock and Rollin’ Daddy” on My Bones”), and goofy play - it has a soundtrack quality to it. that play pick-up jazz in sonance adds elements to distin - in 1939, which is an early form fulness (“Peanut Butter Jelly The main thing to keep in Manhattan’s Washington Square. guish this style. Overall, there of the blues favorite “Rock Me.” Sandwich”). I thought I heard mind is that this is a guitarist’s “Beethoven” is a real treat; I are a few cryptic lyrics and There are also songs from coun - some Cat Stevens and maybe record. Its not so much about could write an entire review on jagged song forms or structures, try singer Buddy Jones (“Rockin’ some Beatle influence from time songwriting. Even though the that one. Just listen to it. but on the whole, it is recorded Rollin’ Mama”), The Boswell to time. And could it be that I compositions are cool, they Moreover, the compositions well and produces that needed Sisters (“Rock & Roll”), Benny even heard some acoustic psy - aren’t necessarily compelling. rendered here by Cicolella him - essence that all of us music risk- Goodman (“Rattle & Roll”), Wild chedelia strains à la Quicksilver And even though the dude has self are smart, oftentimes bril - takers are seeking — a feel that Bill Moore (“We’re Gonna Messenger Service? astonishing talent, I get the liant, well-executed, and always reaches inside and tweaks your Rock”), Anita O’Day (“Rock and Midnight Blue comes across sense he’s still auditioning, via gorgeous. The knack for beauti - heart and influences your brain Roll Blues”), Jimmy Noone, Joe as a labor of love, and taken as a too many notes now and then, ful melodies seems a natural or consciousness to broaden Turner, Erskine Hawkins, Hal whole, it’s a little gem of a CD. somehow, ever so slightly. one, and he and his Gatos deliv - your perception and heighten Singer, Li’l Son Jackson, and a It’s kind of eccentric, but eccen - “Looking Back” is the most er one right after another. The your understanding. As in most whole lot more. There have been tric in a good way. The music noticeably confident of the production is modest, but on cases, you must find out for similar collections in the past, will definitely grow on you. jumpier stuff. Incredible work. those terms very well done. yourself. but I’ve never seen one so wide Oh yes, I almost neglected to But for me, the best moments Gatos Papacitos keep things Boon Companion will perform reaching and well thought out. mention that the lovely, surreal - are when he slows things down interesting by way of arrange - at M-Theory Records, 30th and istic art work was also done by and lets things roll a little more ment over studio wizardry. It’s Juniper St., South Park, on Treas. Talk about a multi-talent - slowly — on “It’ll Be OK,” not super slick. It is well execut - January 14, 8pm. ed guy. ”Looking Back,” and “Drive ‘til ed and creative. These cats can Midnight Blue is available Dawn.” And I dig the throat play. And through the thick of all Skip James through www.cdbaby.com. singing on “Never Ending the chops, it sounds to me like Battle.” they are having one helluva He and his trippy-cool double - great time. Rare and neck acoustic guitar are worth Now that I’ve reviewed the ❂❂❂❂❂❂❂❂❂❂❂ checking out at CD, my girlfriend wants my Unreleased www.DominicGaudious.com copy. One for the car, you know...

by Lou Curtiss Mississippi bluesmen. Not only “Bumble Bee,” “Let My Jesus feeling of knowing what the are all the performances unre - Lead You,” and even a strange blues is all about. You won’t It’s so great when you discover leased but most of the songs are but wonderful version of Hoagy want to miss this one. additional material by an artist also ones he never recorded any - Carmichael’s “Lazy Bones.” Skip’s long passed who is one of your where else. Most of them are performances are anything but favorites. This is certainly the blues and gospel standards like standard. That eerie high voice case with this newly released CD “One Dime Was All I Had,” and lonesome, unique guitar and of unissued sides from 1967 by “Backwater Blues,” “Keep Your piano gives us a collection of one of the greatest of all the Lamp Trimmed and Burning,” unparalleled beauty and a real

13 January 2004 • San Diego Troubadour tthhee llooccaall sseeeenn

JANUARY CALENDAR

Dizzys, 8pm. 30th & Juniper, South Park, 8pm. Sue Palmer w/ Blue Largo , Patricks, 4th thursday • 1 & F Streets, 9pm. WEEKLY Ipso Facto , Metaphor Cafe, Escondido, Old Town Jazz Band (Dixieland) , 8pm. Metaphor Cafe, Escondido, 7pm. thursday • 15 sunday Radio Free Earth , Hot Monkey Love Cafe, wednesday • 21 every Sue Palmer/Candye Kane , Calypso 5960 El Cajon Blvd., 8-9pm. Traditional Irish Music , Tom Giblin’s Restaurant, Leucadia, 7:30-9:30pm. Jay Farrar & Canyon , Belly Up Tavern, Pub, 640 Grand Ave., Carlsbad, 3pm. Renata Youngblood/Tyler Hilton/Laura Solana Beach, 8pm. friday • 2 Meghan La Roque/The Femurs/Tim Taylor/3 Simple Words/Howie Statland , Irish Dance , 3pm/ Michael McMahon , Sara Bancroft/Josiah/Tiana/J. Turtle , Mudd/Toria/Travis Norman , Twiggs, Sage Gentle-Wing , Lestats, 8:30pm. Twiggs, 8:30pm. 7pm, Dublin Square, 554 Fifth Ave. Twiggs, 8:30pm. 8:30pm. Tristan Prettyman , Java Joes Pub, 6344 El Celtic Ensemble , Twiggs, 4pm. Rock Trio w/ Joey Harris , Java Joes Pub, Magnuson Band , Honey Bee Hive. Call for Cajon Blvd., 9pm. 6344 El Cajon Blvd., 9pm. info. thursday • 22 Cobblestone (Irish Music & Dance), Billy Watson , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., The Field, 544 Fifth Ave., 5-6:30pm. Debra Dun/Snow on Roses , Lestats, 9pm. Sue Palmer/Candye Kane , Calypso 9pm. friday • 16 Restaurant, Leucadia, 7:30-9:30pm. Jazz Roots w/ Lou Curtiss , 9-10:30pm, Annie Dru CD Release , Lestats, 9pm. Gerard Nolan-Toby Ahrens Quartet , KSDS (88.3 FM). saturday • 3 Sue Palmer & Motel Swing Orchestra , The Femurs/Lucy’s Falling/Snow on Twiggs, 8:30pm. The Bluegrass Special w/ Wayne Croce’s Top Hat, 5th & F Sts., 9:30pm. Roses/Toria/Chris Carpenter , Twiggs, Rice , 10-midnight, KSON (97.3 FM). Nathan Welden/Suzy Reed , Golden Goose, 8:30pm. 10001 Mine Ave., Lakeside, 7pm. Robin Henkel , Java Joes Pub, 6344 El friday • 23 Avocado Moon , Metaphor Cafe, saturday • 10 Cajon Blvd., 9pm. Judy Fjell/Deborah Liv Johnson , Christ Escondido, 8pm. every monday Jeff Moats , Old Poway Park, 7pm. Info: Ray Condo & his Ricochets , Tio Leos, 5302 Lutheran Church, 4761 Cass St., 7:30pm. Tristan Prettyman/Brian Karscig/ Open Mic Night , Rosie O’Grady’s, 858/566-4040. Napa St., 9pm. Peter Sprague & Pass the Drum , Dizzys, Mundaka , Twiggs, 8:30pm. Normal Heights, 7pm. Annie Bethancourt , Metaphor Cafe, Berkley Hart , Lestats, 9pm. 8pm. 34 Below , Java Joes Pub, 6344 El Cajon Open Mic Night , Lestats, 7:30pm. Escondido, 8pm. Leigh Taylor Band , Metaphor Cafe, Blvd., 9pm. Jenn Grinels (Irish music), Blarney Rosanna Lee/Steve Collins/Tyler Escondido, 8pm. Blue Rockit , Tio Leos, 9pm. Stone, Clairemont. Hilton/Corey Wilkins/Emerson Band , saturday • 17 Jim Bianco/Tristan Prettyman/Annie Kovo/Renata Youngblood , Lestats, 9pm. Twiggs, 8:30pm. Gaelic Storm , CA Ctr. for the Arts, Bethancourt/The Biddy Bums , Twiggs, José Sinatra & Troy Danté Inferno/Hatchet Escondido. Info: 800/988-4253. 8:30pm. every tuesday Brothers , Java Joes Pub, 6344 El Cajon sunday • 4 Allison Lonsdale (6-8pm)/ Gregory Page Hank Williams III , Casbah, 8:30pm. Open Mic Night , Casa Picante, 10757 Blvd., 9pm. (9-11pm), Lestats. Rock Trio w/ Joey Harris , Java Joes Pub, Marlow/Shey Stratton , Lestats, 9pm. Woodside Ave., Santee, 7:30-9:30pm. Urban Tribal Dance Company , Lestats, Peter Case , Normal Heights United 6344 El Cajon Blvd., 9pm. Sue Palmer w/ Blue Largo , Patricks, 4th Traditional Irish Music , Blarney Stone, 9pm. Methodist Church, 4650 Mansfield St., Blazers , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. & F Streets, 9pm. Clairemont, 8:30pm. Flying Putos , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., 7:30pm. Info: 619/303-8176. Robin Henkel , Lestats, 9pm. Traditional Irish Music , The Ould Sod, 9pm. Janet Rucci Band , Metaphor Cafe, Normal Heights, 8:30pm. tuesday • 6 Escondido, 8pm. sunday • 11 The Femurs/Jack the Original/Jesse/Jen saturday • 24 Steve Pulvers , Metaphor Cafe, Knight Band/Holiday & the Adventure Pop Vocal Workshop for Women , Christ every wednesday Escondido, 8pm. Tom Brosseau/Gregory Page/Angela Collective , Twiggs, 8:30pm. Correa/Ryan Blue/Roy Ruiz Clayton , Lutheran Church, 4761 Cass St., 10am- Open Mic Night , Metaphor Cafe, Blues All Stars w/ Sue Palmer/Deejha Lestats, 9pm. 1pm. Info: 858/270-7922. Escondido, 8pm. Marie/Len Rainey/Candy Kane , thursday • 8 Radio Free Earth , Wynola Pizza Express, Humphreys, Shelter Island, 8:30pm. Sue Palmer Supper Club w/ Deejha Sue Palmer/Candye Kane , Calypso 4355 Hwy 78, Julian., 6-9pm. Marie & Sharon Shufelt , Caffe Cindy Lee Berryhill & Wigbillies , Java Restaurant, Leucadia, 7:30-9:30pm. tuesday • 13 Fire Victims Benefit w/ D.R. Auden/ Calabria, 3933 30th St., 6-8pm. Joes Pub, 6344 El Cajon Blvd., 9pm. Meghan La Roque/Josh Hall/Alex Tomorrows Son/Trophy Wife (CD Schmooze/the Rarities/KEV/Jim Earp/the Open Mic Night , Twiggs, 6:30pm. Esther/Late Night Waiting , Twiggs, release)/Shambles , Casbah, 9pm. The Joey Show w/ Joey Harris , Tio Leos, Gandhi Method/ Modern Rhythm/Tom 8:30pm. 5302 Napa St., 9pm. Boyer , Creekside School, 12362 Open Mic Night , Adams Ave. Studio of the Arts, 2804 Adams Ave, 8pm. Baja Blues Boys , Patricks Irish Pub, Springhurst, Poway, 7pm. wednesday • 14 Poway, 9pm. Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen , Normal Skelpin , Dublin Square, 554 Fifth Ave., friday • 9 8:30pm (also on Saturday night). Dave Matthews w/ Brady Blade/Tony Earl Thomas CD Release , Hard Rock Heights United Methodist Church, 4650 The Band in Black (Johnny Cash tribute) , Hall/Ray Paczkowski/Tim Reynolds/ Cafe, La Jolla, 9:30pm. Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: 619/303-8176. Brehon Law , Tom Giblin’s Pub, 640 Cask & Cleaver, 3757 S. Mission Rd., Emmylou Harris , Cox Arena, SDSU cam - Light the Night , Metaphor Cafe, Grand Ave., Carlsbad, 9pm (also Wed. Fallbrook, 8pm. Info: 760/728-2818. pus, 7pm. sunday • 18 Escondido, 8pm. & Sat. nights). Adam Hurt/Dakota Dave Hull , Fellowship Eric Himan , Adams Ave. Studio of Arts, Jim Bianco/The Inside/Mermaids Live Taping of San Diego’s Finest TV of San Dieguito, 1036 Solana Dr., Solana 2804 Adams Ave., 8pm. Info: 619/594-3593. Todd Phillips/David Grier/Matt Flinner/ Journey/Third Coast Jazz Band/Hugh Show , Lestats, 8:30pm. Beach, 7:30pm. Reservations & info: Gabe Witcher , Del Mar Powerhouse Gaskins , Twiggs, 8:30pm. Hatchet Brothers , The Ould Sod, 9pm. 858/755-9225. Comm. Ctr., 1658 Coast Blvd., 3&5pm. Boon Companion , M-Theory Records, Anya Marina , Java Joes Pub, 6344 El Peter Sprague & Blurring the Edges , John McCutcheon , San Dieguito United Cajon Blvd., 9pm. Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Carol Ames , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., every thursday Encinitas, 7:30. Info: 858/566-4040. 9pm. Rockabilly Thursdays w/ Hot Rod K-23 & Orchestra/Kevin Tinkle , Lestats, Lincoln , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., Call Eleonor England/Blue 44 , Lestats, 9pm. 9pm. for info. Celticana , Dublin’s Town Square, thursday • 29 Gaslamp, 9pm. Open Mic Night , Just Java Cafe, 285 Sue Palmer/Candye Kane , Calypso Third Ave., Chula Vista, 7-10pm. Restaurant, Leucadia, 7:30-9:30pm. Talent Showcase, Lestats, 9-11pm. Meghan La Roque/Toria/Laura Taylor , Twiggs, 8:30pm. every saturday friday • 30 Open Mic Night , Coffee Bean & Tea Indie by Design w/ Danielle LoPresti , Leaf, 9015 Mira Mesa Blvd., 8pm. Dizzys, 7:30pm. Broken Chains , Metaphor Cafe, Escondido, 8pm. The Coyote Problem/Lauren DeRose/ Alicia Champion/Kova , Twiggs, 8:30pm. Blue Largo , Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. K-23 & Orchestra/Jamie Jenkins , Lestats, 9pm. saturday • 31 David & Rebecca Randall , Twiggs, 8:30pm. Rockabilly Show , Lestats, 9pm.

14 San Diego Troubadour • January 2004 tthhee llooccaall sseeeenn o n e r o P M h

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