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

May 2003 Vol. 2, No. 8

what’s inside

Welcome Mat………3 Mission Statement Contributors

Full Circle..…………4 Indian Joe Stewart Lou Curtiss

Front Porch…………6 Fire on the Mountain Angela Correa Sam Hinton Folk Festival Julie Marie and Makeda

Parlor Showcase...…8 Hatfield Rain

Ramblin’ …………10 Bluegrass Corner Radio Daze José Sinatra Paul Abbott

Of Note.……………12 Angela Correa Taylor Street Grey de Lisle Frank Williamson Cactus

‘Round About ...... …13 Local Yokels Asylum Street Spankers May Music Calendar

The Local Seen……15 Photo Page Phil Harmonic Sez:

Life is much too serious to be taken seriously

The Lou Curtiss Sound Library Presents Roots Music Video Showcase Rare • • • Cajun & Zydeco • Latin • Roots • Rare Music on Film

third friday of the month May 16 • 7-10 p.m. LeStats Coffee house • 3343 Adams Avenue • normal heights

The Lou Curtiss Sound Library at Folk Arts Rare Records 3611 Adams Avenue, , CA 92116-2213 • Phone: 619/282-7833 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003

welcomewelcome matmat

Alternative country, Americana, roots, folk, gospel, and bluegrass music news

SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR, WRITE TO US! MISSION CONTRIBUTORS the local source for alterna- tive country, Americana, We want to hear from you! To promote, encourage, and roots, folk, gospel, and Send us your comments, provide an alternative voice for PUBLISHER WRITERS bluegrass music news, is feedback, or suggestions to: the great local music that is Lyle Duplessie Liz Abbott generally overlooked by the published monthly and is Paul Abbott [email protected] mass media; namely the genres EDITOR free of charge. Letters to Lou Curtiss or write to: of folk, country, roots, Ellen Duplessie the editor must be signed Emily Davidson San Diego Troubadour Americana, gospel, and blue- and may be edited for grass. To entertain, educate, GRAPHIC DESIGN Tim Day P.O. Box 164, content. It is not, however, and bring together players, Liz Abbott Chuck Deluxe , CA guaranteed that they will writers, and lovers of these Ellen Duplessie 92038-0164 PHOTOGRAPHY appear. forms; to explore their founda- Lyle Duplessie tions; and to expand the audi- Ellen Duplessie All opinions expressed in Phil Harmonic ence for these types of music. Mildred Moreno SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR, Paul Hormick unless otherwise stated, To receive advertising rates and DISTRIBUTION Beverly Keel are solely the opinion of the information, call 619/298-8488 or Kent Johnson Jim McInnes writer and do not represent e-mail [email protected]. Ellen Duplessie Tom Paine the opinions of the staff or San Diego Troubadour José Sinatra management. All rights P.O. Box 164 ADVERTISING La Jolla, CA 92038 Gus Williker reserved. Kent Johnson E-mail: [email protected]. D. Dwight Worden ©2003 San Diego Troubadour Ellen Duplessie John Philip Wyllie

3 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour fullfull circlecircle

Indian Joe Stewart: Local Music’s Little Big Man by Lyle Duplessie top. Punished for playing the play a lick. Joe struck a deal ing students at the contraption at inopportune with the kid—he would teach boarding school music idden amongst the times, which was just about him how to play in exchange for by the Beatles, Stones, boulders and brush most of the time, the little brave use of the guitar. Once a day at Kinks, Dave Clark Hhigh atop Mount nevertheless felt it was still 5 p.m. the top ten hits would be Five, and others, Woodson is the lodge of one of worth all the risk. on the radio. Relying on his always in exchange for local civilization’s stellar musi- As fate would have it, and Indian ingenuity and keen sens- the use of their cians, Joseph Stewart. Those though oblivious to it, much of es, Joe could listen to a song just instruments. who have made music with him, what his father did seemed to one time, then play it note-for- Also, while at the and there’s a heap many musi- direct young Joe more and more note. Surf guitar instrumentals school, Joe was put in cians who have, know him as toward realizing the musical were the rage at the time, and charge of its newly as a master guitarist in both Indian Joe. Part musician, part portion of his vision. Since his this music gave Joe plenty of acquired pool table. Experience technique and theory to count- mystic, this noble savage has family owned a furniture store, opportunity for exercising his at the table would provide Joe less students around the county. been a colorful feature in the he was in one of the few homes guitar playing skills. with a lucrative way to earn Moreover, he’s a quick and music scene for many moons. for miles around that had a tele- some extra wampum down clever lyricist, tune smith, and Born in New Brunswick, vision. With it Joe vividly recalls future trails. By the time Joe and arranger. His absolutely stun- Canada of Scottish and Native seeing Elvis’ appearance on the the school parted company, he ning and brilliant ability as a American parents, Indian Joe Steve Allen Show. In 1958 he had become legendary for his composer and guitarist can be learned at an early age to follow received a build-it-yourself crys- guitar and pool-playing prowess. heard by those fortunate enough his Indian wit and instincts. Joe tal radio set for Christmas. Soon After escaping the reserva- to get their hands on a copy of describes the small, isolated vil- Joe learned how to pull in rock tion-type life of college in the his acoustic, finger-picking mas- lage of his boyhood days as ‘n’ roll music from the American early ’70s, Joe realized that terpiece, Visions of the Southwest. “having more moose than peo- side of the U.S.-Canadian bor- music wasn’t in his future on the Over the decades Joe has been a ple.” When not much older der. About 1961 when Joe was Canadian side of the border. He visionary bandleader as well as a than a papoose, he received his 13, his parents reluctantly took to the road on his motorcy- solid, faithful partner in such first of many visions. In this bought him his own guitar. As cle, guitar strapped to his back, outfits as Ricochet, the Legends, vision he saw a guitar, a pool he recalls, it was “classically and traversed the U.S. He spent Tumbling Dice, the Hygh table, and a motorcycle. At the unplayable.” Many of us know time shopping his skills in Lonesome Band, and Indian Joe time, of course, he didn’t under- the kind: inch-high action, flexi- Nashville and Austin. The cul- and the Chiefs. stand it, and there was no tribal ble non-reinforced neck, impos- ture and timing in those cities If you or someone you shaman around to interpret. sible to keep in tune. It was just weren’t right for a long-haired, know is looking to improve When he told his family elders the kind of monster seemingly In the spring of 1962 Joe clear-eyed Indian type like Joe. their guitar chops, bone up on about it, their response was to built with the sole purpose of and his parents took a trip to So rather than making good theory, or come up with a great take the boy to the doctor, who dissuading any young, aspiring England. That’s when he first music, the situation only made solo artist or band for just the prescribed some big pink pills. artist from fulfilling a musical heard of the Beatles. When their for bad medicine. It was time to right occasion, send Indian Joe a So much for white man’s medi- dream. Yet Joe learned from this music reached the New World break camp. smoke signal or, better yet, cine! But in time this vision guitar that it was much more in late ’63 and early ’64 he was In the summer of ’78, Joe e-mail him at would take Indian Joe down a about the music in the player’s primed, prepped, and prepared set up his teepee in San Diego. [email protected]. trail of music and adventure. mind and heart than even the for their impact. With the He’s been here since. He has Although there was a piano playability of the instrument. In British Invasion, Joe was teach- passed on his considerable skills in the parlor of Joe’s boyhood time Joe got this guitar to sing home, it was seldom used. In as few could have done. fact his very practical business- About this time his parents man father didn’t want his son thought Joe needed the civiliz- to have anything to do with ing influence of a proper music. When about six years English-style boarding school. old, Joe met a neighbor who Of course they wouldn’t let him lent the youngster a little no- take his guitar along, but little name dime store guitar. It wasn’t did they imagine that he would long before the boy began to meet plenty of kids at the school discover on his own the musical with guitars. He soon met a stu- secrets hidden in that little flat dent with a guitar who couldn’t

4 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003 fullfull circlecircle

Recordially, Lou Curtiss

ell, as you‘re read- ing any more. care about how much it’s Wing this, the 30th Del Rey has been a part of worth and that they have it Annual Roots so many festivals and is one and you don’t. If you’re a Festival is history, but as I’m of the better blues revival collector and have what writing it, it’s still a week singer/guitarists. She’ll be you think is a good collec- and a day away. You’re all back in the future. Add to tion, you should be taking probably talking about how that Utah Phillips, Jon every opportunity to expose good everyone was, but I’m Bartlet, Ray and Ina others to your music. I’ve mostly going to talk here Patterson, Sam been doing that most of my about a few people that Chatmon, and so many life and probably more than should have been here for others who came so many a few people have thought I Number 30. times and always brought was a pain in the ass (or Hank Bradley and something new. ear) but a lot more people Cathie Whitesides: These Lately I’ve been going have been exposed to vari- are two of the nicest people though all the tapes of ous kinds of music that they have become fans of and a you’ll ever want to know. those early festivals and Lou Curtiss Hank is, in my opinion and I playing them on my Melting lot more have become think a lot of people agree Pot radio show (www.world- music collectors themselves. with me, just the best musicwebcast.com). I’ll be It all keeps the music alive revival old-timey fiddler to doing that throughout this and makes you want to come out of my generation 30th year celebration. Listen hear it. yet he hasn’t gotten nearly in on the Web. This is Recordially, the credit he’s got comin’. mighty good stuff. Much of Lou Curtiss Cathie is a super Irish and it is by folks who aren’t Del Rey Scottish fiddler. Of course around any more and never they both play a wide vari- got heard enough when ety of other music, and they were here. My philoso- their work with Frannie phy has always been that Leopold in the Balkan Café any kind of recording I have Hank Bradley Orchestra is something you should be shared. I’ll either never get tired of. At least I sell it at my store or play don’t. I want this group to the videos at our Lestat’s record a CD and make lots Roots Nights on the third of money. Then they’ll be Friday of the month. It real- so grateful to me for sug- ly rubs me the wrong way gesting it that they’ll come when I see collectors who to the Roots Festival every hoard their music. It’s the year into the foreseeable I have it and you don’t syn- future. They’ll be here next drome. Being a music col- Cathie Whitesides year if I have to kick local lector is about keeping Sam Chatmon butt to make it happen. So whatever kind of music you U. Utah Phillips many others should have collect out there and alive. been here too, because If you don’t do that, you’re they’ve been a big part of not a real collector, you’re a this festival’s history. hoarder. You don’t care Sam Hinton performed at about the music, and you all of the Roots Festivals up ought to be ashamed of until last year (only Curt yourself. The ones who real- Bouterse is in that category ly gall me are those guys now), then retired on me. who collect stuff and never San Diego is certainly listen to it. They don’t care Sam Hinton poorer for his not perform- about the music, they just

5 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour frontfront porchporch

A Musical Mountain-Top Experience by Ellen Duplessie of movie whose music is so unique people’s lives were so often director and co-playwright Dan to the time and setting of the film expressed and even reconciled with Wheetman, who will be down pon viewing the and such a welcome change from the use of the one medium that has in the orchestra pit throughout promotional material for the perfected production of today’s always been free: music. With their this musical journey, has U music. What I’ve seen and read of God-given vocal chords and mostly displayed incredible versatility the world premiere roots musical, Fire on the Mountain, which this new musical so far has conjured homemade instruments, every on fiddle, banjo, mandolin, opens May 9 at the Lyceum Theater, up in my mind a realistic story of aspect of the lives of these people harmonica, dobro, and several thoughts came to mind. the American coal miners, with the was expressed through their music. guitar. Straight away I took this to be some inseparable connection to the No one ever tried to write a “hit” In Fire on the sort of offshoot of “Down From the soulful back hills’ music of their song. They just sang, and it was Mountain, Myler relates M Mountain,” the musical tour of lives. I suspect that the mood of this amazing, and it was beautiful. songs and stories, many of olly An drews fr om the c songs from the Grammy-winning musical may be much closer to that Backed by the creative genius which were collected from ast of Fi re on the of the more realistic Songcatcher of Randal Myler (writer/director of the Smithsonian Institute’s Folk Life Mounta soundtrack of the movie O Brother, heartache. in than to the humorous O Brother, Love, Janis and co-author/director of Center. Myler insists that the songs Where Art Thou? And then there was Through the artistry of Where Art Thou? It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues) and his begged to be joined to the photo of a couple of old-time some of the nation’s top roots Just listen to the description Blues co-writer Dan Wheetman, Fire the stories. Appalachian coal miners, bringing musicians, the real stories of miners, written by the producers: “Featuring on the Mountain is certain to strike “You couldn’t separate one my thoughts back to the people and and the music of a lost generation, heart-breaking melodies and stun- an emotional chord in the viewer from the other.” Myler explains. music of the back hills of Kentucky audiences will experience the hopes, ning fiddle and banjo licks, this that is undeniable. Randal Myler’s Myler shifts our place in time or West Virginia. dreams, and heartache of the sweeping tapestry illuminates the most recent sensation, Lost through musical stories as old as the I read on to discover that this American miner. The show songs and stories of coal miners Highways: The Music and Legend of hills and as current as the headlines; was something different, namely a previews May 3, opens May 9, and reaching for their piece of the Hank Williams, was met with rave these are the stories of the men, roots musical at the San Diego runs through June 3. Order tickets American Dream. Based on the reviews by New York City media. women, and children who helped Repertory Theater! Though I’m not by phone 619/544-1000, on line at stories of American miners, Fire on The show will also feature four build America. Like beautifully usually a big fan of musicals, www.sandiegorep.com, or at the the Mountain portrays a vivid picture of the nation’s most talented crafted monologues, the songs tell everything about this show grabbed Lyceum box office at 79 Horton of mine life in the bluegrass era.” musicians, including “Mississippi” stories about Appalachian musical my attention. Plaza. I’ve seen O Brother, Where Art Something within me sparks Charles Bevel and Molly Andrews, history, i.e., how it was brought Thou? and liked it. But I much such a keen interest in the culture both world-renowned talents in over to America, how it survived, preferred Songcatcher, a similar type of the Appalachians, where the their respective genres of blues and and how and why the people sang simplicity (and often poverty) of bluegrass. In addition, musical during times of terrible stress and

range. You don’t want to be put in a Indie Girl: Angela Correa box. It might make it easy for people to comprehend, but I think the music I am doing is a little bit hard to cate- gorize. I know it has got some coun- try influence going on, but in my by John Philip Wyllie Monkey. Filled with wanderlust, cians is local rising star Tom Correa left the band, packed up her Brosseau, who sings on and co- heart of hearts I feel that it has an guitar, and lived abroad for several wrote “Play Awhile,”one of the indie-rock vibe to it.” here was a time not too years in places like France, Chile, songs on her CD. Correa’s next project will find long ago when singer/ Russia, and Guatemala. She “Red Room Songs was record- her in the studio recording some- Angela Correa absorbed her experiences like a ed in December and was meant to thing with which she has become wasT playing open mic nights and fascinated: murder ballads. Despite sponge, while at the same time hon- be a demo.” Correa explained. She dreaming about having her own ing her guitar and songwriting skills. sent it out to college radio stations her musical tendency to dwell upon show one day. “It was a revelation when, after across the country, thinking they life’s darker side, Correa’s real life “I remember thinking, oh my a while here [in San Diego], I got up might be a little more receptive to personality is filled with a youthful God, this is so amazing, maybe one the courage to be Angela Correa the music of a relative newcomer. enthusiasm, a sense of humor, and a day I’ll get to do a [full-length] show. alone on stage accompanying Correa’s CD has been warmly clever wit. That would be so cool!” With a year myself on guitar. I was really scared received, especially in the Boston “I don’t intentionally write sad of performing the San Diego coffee- to do that at first. With a band, the area where its frequent airplay led songs, it just kind of happens that house circuit under her belt, Correa responsibility falls on everybody. It’s to several live bookings and a radio way. I guess I just tend to reflect is gaining popularity and receiving totally different when you’re out interview. “I wanted it to sound the more on the sadder things in life. radio airplay. She has also just there by yourself. I’m really glad I way I sound when I play live,” Obviously, I’ve not been murdered released her first 11-song CD titled did it though. Now, I really enjoy it.” Correa said. “It has a sort of and I’m not going to go out and kill Red Room Songs. Following a well- Correa also enjoys the cama- intimate feel.” somebody, but once I started listen- received hour-long performance at raderie that exists among many of Like most musicians, Correa ing to [murder ballads] I found them Twigg’s on April 19, the San Diego San Diego’s singer-. dislikes being pigeon-holed into any very interesting. I just can’t stop Troubadour sat down with Correa “At this point I’m sort of the particular category. The sparse, playing them. I’m obsessed,” she and talked about her past, present, ‘newbie’ on the block, but the uncluttered arrangements; her vocal says with a chuckle. and future. [music] community here in San range; her edgy and sometimes dis- Correa can be found online at: “I’ve played music ever since I Diego is really wonderful. It’s similar turbing lyrics; and her tendency to www.angelacorrea.com. Her May sched- was little kid [growing up in the rural to what they have in Olympia, write songs filled with pain and ule includes an art opening May 2 community of Yuba, California]. Washington, where they have a heartache suggest a strong Jewel for ceramic artist Jennifer Meale in When I was younger, it never really group of small labels and the musi- influence. Correa bristles at the Ocean Beach, a performance May 9 occurred to me to play music on my cians all work with each other. I’ve comparison. at Café 1134 in Coronado, then a own. I always thought you needed met and I know a few musicians “Sometimes people compare mini-tour of the Northeast, playing to be part of a band.” Correa played here. It’s a really good thing when me to Jewel, but I don’t really several dates in Worcester and in a variety of ensembles and you’re an independent musician and appreciate the comparison,” Correa Cambridge, Massachusetts. Correa’s enjoyed a certain measure of suc- people help you out. I’ve been play- said. “I don’t really think that I am CDs are available at Lou’s Records, cess during the mid-’90s as primary ing a lot, trying to forge my way. like Jewel at all other than the fact M-Theory, Off-the-Record, and songwriter for the Sacramento- When people help me out, I am that I am a girl who plays a guitar online at cdbaby.com/correa. based band Chocolate Honey totally grateful.” One of those musi- and has a voice with a very big

6 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003 frontfront porchporch

OLD WEST MEETS NEW WEST AT THE and the Western Music Association and won the 1999 Will Rogers Award for Best Duo/Group in Western Music. SAM HINTON They’ve been featured at the Elko Cowboy Poetry Gathering; the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas; and FOLK HERITAGE the Strawberry Music Festival. Between acts, Cici Porter will sing. After spending the majority of her adult life turning angst into music, FESTIVAL New West Oceanside-based singer-songwriter Cici Porter knows how to make her demons by Tim Day Children’s School, 2225 Torrey Pines chance meetings at the L.A. Celtic Arts work for her. “Music was always how I Road. Admission is $15 for the day and Center’s legendary Monday night ses- dealt with things and usually I was just or many years the San Diego an additional $15 for the evening sions. In the five years that they’ve been coping with bad relationships. But then Folk Heritage Festival has been . The evening concert, beginning together, the group has played to enthu- the music I was writing started dealing one of the highlights of the local at 7pm, features Ken Graydon, who is siastic audiences at festivals, fairs, and with much heavier stuff. When I wrote F as much a part of the West as they folk scene. Last year the name of the Ken Graydon highland games gatherings; in pubs and ‘Don’t Say a Word,’ I remember I wrote festival was permanently changed to the come. Raised on a ranch in the San clubs up and down the West Coast; in it, then threw it aside, and never played Joaquin Valley, Ken practically lived on Sam Hinton Folk Heritage Festival in and historic events. He has four record- Las Vegas; and beyond. it for anyone.” Eight years later, the horseback for as long as he can remem- honor of Sam’s lifelong commitment to ings to his credit, including the recently New West, an innovative trio that song she couldn’t bear to keep is the ber. His father was a working cowboy in traditional music and to the folk arts. released The Way I Heard It; Windmill; has garnered praise for their tight cornerstone of her yet-unnamed CD. the Seligman, Arizona, area during the This year the festival honors the music Coyote Special; and Elissa, Spread Your harmonies, brilliant instrumentals, and But it has already taught the singer an 1920s whose antics became grist for and poetry of Ken Graydon on Saturday Wings. wonderful original songs, includes invaluable lesson: Sometimes you find Ken’s poetry. Although Ken spent his May 10th. The day-long events, held Craicmore will share the bill with Michael Fleming on rhythm guitar and the song, and sometimes the song finds time after school training quarter horses between 9:30am and 5pm, will feature Ken Graydon at the evening concert. vocals; David Jackson on bass and you. with his father, he didn’t go on to two stages of pickin’ and singin’ with The word Craicmore is a blend of craic, vocals; and Raul Reynoso on lead guitar, May 10th promises to be a day of become a working cowboy himself. the best of both local and traveling an Irish word for fun, and mor, Irish for mandolin, and vocals. Western music immersion in wonderful music and sto- Survival took him toward another kind artists. The evening concert includes big or great, which reflects the group’s has its roots in the great cattle drives of ries. It’s an opportunity to hear some of horse power: cars, with a specialty in performers who will also play during approach to its music. They draw their the nineteenth century and the B-movie fine performances by some fine musi- wiring hot rods. Today he writes poetry the day. Three tracks of workshops offer words and music from the traditional westerns of the 1930s and ‘40s when cians. It’s also a chance to pick and and ballads and performs in western instruction in guitar techniques, song- music of Ireland and Scotland, drawing such artists as the Sons of Pioneers and strum with old-time, bluegrass, and writing, and spoons! The jams, which from influences as diverse as the Bothy Gene Autry made their mark. Celtic musicians. Attendees can also run all day, include some of the featured Band, the Chieftains, and the Pogues, in Performing songs that pay tribute to the pick up tips on playing or else explore musicians. Don’t forget to visit the addition to rock, country and R&B rancher, the vaquero, and the men and an instrument for the first time. For musical instrument petting zoo (not just music. Craicmore’s members, John women of the American West, they have more information and the schedule of for kids), sponsored by Deering Banjos MacAdams on guitar, percussion, and won three awards for best songwriting events, check the website at and Carvin Guitars, who were generous vocals; Nancy Johnston on vocals and from the Academy of Western Artists sdfolkheritage.org. enough to donate a Carvin C350 bodhran; Dave Soyars on bass and mahogany guitar for the raffle. All festi- vocals; and Richard Cook on tin whistle val events will take place at the La Jolla and Irish fiddle, came together through WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT THE Craicmore SAM HINTON FOLK HERITAGE FESTIVAL Saturday, May 10, 9:30am-10pm The Children’s School, 2225 Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla

Julie Marie and Makeda: PERFORMERS Using a Partial Capo: Dave Decker Kent Lee Brisby 9:30am Open Tuning: Bill Dempsey Dennis Roger Reed 9:30am Choosing a First Instrument/Songs for GREATER THAN THE SUM OF THEIR PARTS Beginners: Bill Dempsey, Connie New Lost Melody Boys 10:15am Allen, Windbourne Harmonija 10:15am WORKSHOP III Los Californios 11am Swing Songs on Banjo: Bill Dempsey she adds playfully, emphasizing just each one of them has been imbued Strange Woods 11am Songwriting: Dennis Roger Reed how open they are to where they with music from an early age. Black Rose 11:45am Old Time Music: New Lost Melody Boys get their inspiration. Makeda credits the musical heritage Mark Jackson Band 11:45am Whatever genres of music Julie of her family in her musical devel- Ken and Phee Graydon 12:30pm Balkan Yodeling: Harmonija Marie and Makeda may borrow opment. Her father was a preacher Celticana 1:15pm Songwriting: Ken Graydon/New West from, the lyrics are the starting in the Church of Christ, where she Andy Hill/Renee Safier 1:15pm Music for Hambos: Marci Phelan point for all their songs. Julie Marie sang in the church choir. Julie Marie Larry and Joann Sinclair 2pm Saws and Spoons: Butch Hibben says that Makeda will give her a adds that all of her family is artistic Craicmore 2pm Civil War songs: Butch and Jean Hibben poem or lyrics that she has written, in some way. She started playing Jim Earp 2:45pm and those words serve to inspire the music in her native Jamaica at Raw Courage 2:45pm STORYTELLING music. Because their music is so “about five with a Mickey Mouse New West 3:30pm Tales of Magical Transformations hard to pin down and the lyric guitar.” Les and LouAnn Preston 3:30pm Tales to Tickle Your Fancy by Paul Hormick content so important, they call their Julie Marie still strums the guitar Leo Kretzner and Friends 4:15pm Tales of Old and New repertoire of original compositions for the duo, although the one she Homeward Bound 4:15pm Riddle Stories hen they sing, you can an “acoustic poetic sojourn.” plays now doesn’t have big black Tales of the Seaside hear bits of folk and the That the words come first is no ears. She also plays a number of WORKSHOPS Trickster Tales blues in their blended surprise, as Makeda is first a poet. “I other instruments, all of which she W WORKSHOP I Tales of Lizards and Wizards voices. Sometimes there is a hint of still have poems that I wrote in the taught herself to play. “I play any- ’50s’ doo-wop and maybe even a Vintage Video: Lou Curtiss Stories from the Heart sixth grade,” she says. As a matter of thing — guitar, congas, even Fiddle Workshop: Kevin Carr Storytelling Workshop Beatlesque chord change from time fact, she hadn’t considered herself a spoons,” she says. A number of their Piano Accompaniment: Story Swap: Bring Your Own Story to time. This is the music of Julie songwriter until a friend convinced songs, such as “What About You?”, Barbara Magone Marie and Makeda, a duo whose her to try her hand at the craft after composed for a film about abused Irish Folk Songs: Kris Colt DANCE voices are so strong that you may reading her poetry. And a perform- women, a meditation on all forms of Animal Song Swap: Leo Kretzner Balkan Line Dance find it hard to believe that all that ance by Julie Marie and Makeda will abuse that we inflict on ourselves Scottish Instruments: Craicmore English Country Dance music is coming from two people. usually include spoken readings of and others, are performed either a TBA: Ken Graydon and Craicmore Family Dance “Soul, R&B, salsa — we borrow her poetry. capella or only with hand claps or WORKSHOP II French Dance from all forms. In our music there is Makeda and Julie Marie were percussion as accompaniment. Fiddle Tunes on Guitar & Mandolin: Contra Dance no color, no class,” says Julie Marie, performing in Oakland with the all- Makeda sums up what they are Les Preston the soprano and instrumentalist of woman ensemble Spirit Drums trying to achieve as simply Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar: Kent Lee Brisby EVENING CONCERT the duo. Makeda, who sings alto, Uprising when they noticed that the “beauty — just being able to share agrees that their musical influences Using a Microphone: Greg Gross Ken Graydon, Craicmore, two of them had a certain musical our music, to share our energy with Stage Presence: Windbourne New West, Cici Porter 7pm are diverse. “Our inspiration can chemistry, so they decided to form anyone who has a moment to Vocal Arranging for Duos: come from anywhere,” she says. “It their duo. This chemistry must have listen.” Homeward Bound can come from watching cartoons,” been brewing for a long time, as

7 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour parlorparlor showcaseshowcase

full circle by Beverly Keel Still a bit weary from the two-hour Sunday drive back from Birmingham to Nashville, Jackson settles into a chair at Fido, a coffee shop about three minutes from the s Dawn Jackson glances outside the famous Music Row. Surrounded by students windows of the trendy coffeehouse with laptops and poets with journals, Jackson Ato see if the cold, dreary rain has sips from her yellow mug as she ponders her finally abated, she’s reminded once again that future. she’s not in San Diego anymore. “Ultimately, I would love to be a singer- The tall blonde has ventured across the songwriter, playing and touring around with country, from her home in the warm California the band, but I also love producing; being in paradise to her hometown of Nashville, to the studio and being on-stage are both where continue the growing momentum of her music I feel most comfortable. I do enjoy the label career. She could be considered Southern- and publishing sides of things but more as a squared, because her musical roots and means to an end. That and the challenge of it influences are both in the South and in all. I’m kind of enjoying dabbling in all the bits Southern California. While many aspiring and pieces of it. I want to learn as much as I California singer-songwriters are doing their can. It’s not that I want to make a bazillion best to mimic the perceived Nashville formula, dollars. I just want to make a comfortable she’s the real thing, a combination of the best living doing what I love, which is music.” of both worlds. “Everybody talks about how horrible the “People say, ‘What are you doing out here music business is, and there are certainly in California if you want to be in the music aspects of it that are very vicious, but still, I business?’” she says. “And I thought, ‘Well, love it,” she says. “This is the only thing that I yeah…’ so I started coming back to Nashville, really see myself doing; I don’t see that I could mainly to turn over some stones and promote go back to doing anything else. Even if it’s not our new CD. But I don’t feel that Nashville is as a performer, even if it’s another role, I still the right place for me to be, not full time. I’m see myself being in the music business.” not Nashville country. Besides, my band is in Rather than following the traditional San Diego.” route of moving to Nashville in pursuit of a A relative newcomer to the music major label deal, Jackson is taking the road business, she is quickly establishing herself as a less traveled by building a career in San Diego, formidable presence in the studio, behind the which will make the music industry take microphone, and in a conference room. She’s a notice. Over the last year, she’s made about strong triple-threat: a woman who writes, four or five trips to meet with sings, and runs a company. various music industry executives, most of She’s established her own publishing whom have reaffirmed that she’s doing it the company and , Sho-Bud Music, right way. “I don’t want to get a record deal Inc., which has released Hatfield Rain’s first by selling my soul to the devil and doing any- CD, Matter of Time, a band she also fronts. The thing necessary to get it,” she says. “The guys pendulum is in motion: The Jackson-penned in the band have played the label-courting Matter of Time’s song “Reflection of You” game before and after a year or so of negoti- Hatfield Rain, left to right: Robert Fedeli, Ted Stern, Dawn Jackson, Bob Sheehan, snagged the top songwriting honors in the San ating walked away with a pretty bad taste in Kyle Ince, and Mark Tucker Diego Songwriters Guild’s 2003 song contest; their mouths. They always remind me of that health insurance, for that matter). “Going from good thing to try and live up to. Plus, I’m “Our Town,” written by the band’s founder and when I start talking about record deals.” that,” she says of her previous employment, proud to be a part of that legacy.” Shot lead guitar player, Kyle Ince, was recently the “That’s why I started my own label in the “to a job where all I’ve been doing is spending probably didn’t know his granddaughter would number four song in MP3.com’s Americana first place. I know it can be done. A lot of money, yeah, that’s scary.” revive the Sho-Bud name in the next century, category for four consecutive days; and “I people get big record deals early on, and you But in some ways, Jackson especially since he was not privy to her Mean Well” and “Radio Girl” have both don’t ever hear of them probably had little choice interest in music as a child. received airplay along the California coast. again. They give up every- in her ultimate career path “It was really very normal,” she says of When she’s not creating or promoting thing, their record gets since music is in her blood. her upbringing in Nashville. “No one pushed. Hatfield Rain’s music, she’s busy boosting the shelved, and then they “Her grandfather, Her grandfather, Shot Even though my grandfather and dad built careers of others. She’s signed Alabama-based become bitter artists for Shot Jackson, Jackson, played dobro with guitars and the company Christmas parties songwriter Ken Johnson to a publishing deal the rest of their lives. It’s the Band on the were with and Tammy Wynette, and is busy promoting his Southeast tour. She not the label’s fault, it’s played dobro with and on the no one ever pushed me into the music even took a break from her Nashville meetings not the artist’s fault. It’s TV show Hee Haw. During business. In actuality, they pushed me away with executives from such companies as Sony just the way the business the Roy Clark the 1950s, he and partner from it. Even though I always wanted to sing, and EMI to join him onstage in Birmingham, is. (It is a business, after founded it was always something that other people did. Alabama. all.) I guess I’ve learned Band on the Sho-Bud, which became I never realized I could do that. It took that if you can create your Grand Ole Opry the leading pedal steel getting out of Nashville to realize that I could own stir, they [the bigger guitar manufacturer for be a musician. I look back and say, ‘Hey, why labels] will come looking and on Hee Haw.” several decades before didn’t they teach me how to play guitar? Why for you. At that point, being bought out by didn’t they have me on the Grand Ole Opry you’re in a position to help Baldwin, then sold to playing?’ I think they wanted to keep me as far one another out and it’s more Gretsch. Shot’s handcrafted “ShoBro” now away from the sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll as of a win/win situation. If they don’t come, resides in the Country Music Hall of Fame, possible.” that’s okay, too. My goal is to live every day right next to a Sho-Bud guitar. “He really She didn’t write her first song until a year doing what I enjoy, which is writing, playing, wasn’t much of a business man, but he sure after she earned a biology and chemistry and working with other artists.” did leave a good legacy.” she says. “He flat out degree from Mercer University in Georgia in Jackson’s determination and accomplish- knew how to build a guitar and he shared that 1990. “I came back to Nashville after college ments are even more impressive given the fact knowledge with many people who are still to be a singer,” she says. Thanks to her father’s that she abandoned a very lucrative career in incorporating his designs in pedal steel guitars connections, she met with Frances Preston, the health care industry last year to follow a today. I’ve never heard anyone say a negative who was then the head of BMI’s Nashville dream that offered no guarantees (or even thing about him. I thought that would be a office. “I didn’t know how to go about getting

8 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003 parlorparlor showcaseshowcase Hatfield Rain Takes San Diego by Storm into the music business,” she says. “I didn’t all a matter of doing it. It taught me the types realize I could just get a guitar and go out and of steps you need to take and the necessary start playing. I thought there was some perseverance and persistence, because people magical formula to it and somebody could tell aren’t going to return your phone calls. Half of it certainly doesn’t adhere to any country Jackson immediately corrects herself, “I’m a me what it was. When I met with Frances, I it is just having the courage to pick up the format. “It started out about my mom and San Diegan now. Either way, I’m still a didn’t even know what BMI did; I just wanted phone and make the call. And then to pick it really ended up as a sort of ode to my family,” Southerner.” to sing. We chatted for about 30 minutes and up and call again.” she says of the song. “Unfortunately, the then I left. I was expecting somebody to give She began singing, writing, and learning Cranberries already had a claim to that song me this answer and they didn’t, so I thought, to play the guitar about five years ago and 445 title. It’s about a mentor, someone you look up “I need to get out of Nashville.’” soon formed a band with several girl friends. to and sort of fashion yourself after, whether So she moved to San Diego in 1991 to “We were just awful,” she laughs. “I only knew consciously or subconsciously. Even though a begin a job in health care software sales for about three guitar chords. We got better and certain person might not be around anymore, ENVOY Corp and later McKesson Corporation. we had fun, but there was always a lot of a part of them still lives through you. That’s Although it seems as though such a position drama.” The band stayed together for about a the theme of the song: ‘When people see the might kill the artistic soul, year, but disbanded when it good in me, they’re simply seeing a reflection Jackson says it was actually became apparent that of you.’” a rewarding experience everyone was headed in “When you sing Whatever they see—singer, songwriter, that offered amazing travel different directions. About producer, business woman—there’s one thing and networking opportuni- that time, Jackson saw an with a twang and they’ll certainly see when they look at Jackson ties. “I kept telling myself, ad in the San Diego for many years to come: a Californian with a ‘This is not what I want to Reader placed by a band you have pedal group of extremely talented ‘California’ be doing,’ but in any busi- called Usual Suspects who musicians backing her up. “A big part of my ness, you’re selling some- , people were in search of a singer heart is still in Nashville and I love it here and thing. I’m in sales more similar to Lucinda I love coming back here, but mainly in the now than I’ve ever been.” just assume you’re Williams. After she joined spring and the fall,” she says with a grin. “I “The weird thing is the band two years ago country.” guess I’m a fair-weather Nashvillian now.” that I’m selling myself, they soon changed their which is so much harder name to Hatfield Rain. than selling someone or The band consists of something else. It’s difficult to do because you Jackson on lead vocals and guitar; Robert feel extremely egotistical. There’s a real fine Fedeli on Hammond organ; Kyle Ince on lead Where Hatfield Rain line between believing in yourself and putting guitar; Bob Sheehan on drums; Ted Stern on yourself out there and being an egomaniac.” violin, pedal steel, and slide guitar; and Mark Got Its Name She can apply many of the skills she Tucker on bass. They perform locally once a acquired in software sales to her current month or so at venues such as the Hard Rock San Diegans may be eight-foot extension for his tanks and other profession. “One of the main things is just Cafe, Twiggs, LeStats, Claire de Lune, and the surprised to learn gear next to Morena Dam, 60 miles east of knowing that if you want to talk to someone, Field. In June, the band will tour the that at the turn of San Diego. you just do it,” she says. “Not being afraid of Southeast, hitting such cities as Nashville, the century (the 20th When it finally began to rain, it rained calling the CEO of Cigna, not being afraid to Memphis, Chattanooga, and Atlanta. They are century, that is), the hard. Five days later it poured and kept on call the CEO of Sony, it’s the same thing. It’s also currently working on their second album. city hired its very own raining for five more days. The downpour The band’s music, which can be heard on rainmaker. His name: caused dozens of cancellations, including KPRI, is alt-country with a bit of pop flavoring Charles Hatfield. the opening day races at the new Agua that pays homage to such influences as the Referring to himself a “moisture accelerator,” Caliente Race Rack in Tijuana. Dry river beds he was regarded as as a folk hero by many Pretenders, Wilco, Bonnie Raitt, and Sheryl filled so fast that some of the smaller bridges Southern Californians. Having studied and Crow. “We’re rock with a slight country flavor,” disappeared. Rising waters marooned a researched meteorology, he conducted Santa Fe train just north of the city. Homes she says. “I think the twang is a huge part of experiments with chemicals and evaporating flooded. Muddy waters covered farms and that. When you sing with a twang and you tanks and was actually successful in fulfilling ranches. have , people just assume hundreds of rainmaking contracts in Los Hatfield never got his money. In fact, you’re country. But really we don’t follow the Angeles and throughout the Central and San three and a half million dollars worth of country format. If you go to a country song- Joaquin Valleys. lawsuits followed. In two court decisions, the writing seminar, they’ll say, ‘Here’s how you In 1915 the city of San Diego hired flood was ruled an act of God, not Hatfield. write a country song,’ and we don’t exactly Hatfield to fill the Morena Dam, which was Hatfield died in 1958, his secret follow those guidelines. If anything, Kyle, the barely one-third full, a problem for a city rainmaking formula with him. That same year, other writer in the band, uses those guidelines whose growth hinged on an ample water The Rainmaker, was released, which starred as to what NOT to follow.” supply. They agreed to pay him $10,000 once Burt Lancaster as a character patterned after A good example is the song “Reflection the reservoir filled up. So, with the help of Hatfield. of You,” which features Stern’s pedal steel Hatfield’s younger brother Joel, he went to work building a 20-foot tower base with an guitar and a hint of an inescapable twang, but

9 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour

ramblin’ramblin’

Radio Daze

Bluegrass Corner by Jim McInnes How It All Began

hen I was 14 I by D. Dwight Worden Bluegrass Jam on fourth California web site: received a Sony Tuesday. Open mic, 7-8pm http://members.aol.com/intune- Upcoming Bluegrass Events AM/Shortwave Bluegrass Music for Fun with news/regevents.html#anchor722619. W Here is a quick rundown on just Banjo Bob Cox at: radio for Christmas. The short- some of the local bluegrass This site has a searchable listing of New York Pizza wave portion was alien to me, resources, jams, and coming blue- ; jams; pickin’ parties; I-5 and Santa Fe Dr., Encinitas bands; and band contacts by region, because all I used to listen to grass music events. Get out and Thursdays, 7-9pm date, and type. It’s easy to find were the two competing hear some great music or, better $5 donation includes pizza. where your favorite band is playing yet, take your instrument to one of All players welcome. Call Chicago Top 40 AM stations: the jams and join in. You won’t 619/481-2100 for info. next, what’s happening this month in WLS and WCFL. One day, out of your area, or where to locate a band Jim McInnes regret it! sheer boredom, I switched the The North County Bluegrass and to book for your next party. Sponsored by the San Diego Folk Club meets monthly at: radio to the shortwave bands. Bluegrass Society, the following For great bluegrass music on local Wow! I was hearing radio rule; the mad scientist who regular events present a featured Round Table Pizza radio, don’t miss The Bluegrass 1161 E. Washington Ave., loved making bottle rockets; the band, open mic, bluegrass karaoke Special, hosted by Wayne Rice stations broadcasting from Escondido every Sunday night, 10-midnight on (you pick the tune and play/sing with Bulgaria, Ecuador, South Africa, homely girl hoping to meet Featured bands for May are KSON 97.3-FM. Check out Wayne’s the SDBS Full Deck band), and lots and all around the globe! I was homely boys; and me, the Celia Lawley and Harmony Hill at Bluegrass Special Web page to see of informal jamming. Events are free perfect human with no faults 7:30 and the Bluegrass Redliners, what’s playing: hooked. I’d send reception with a suggested $5 donation. If you who will play at 8pm. www.kson.com/jox/bluegrass_spe- reports to the stations I’d heard whatsoever. haven’t been to one, its time! cial.cfm. You should also take a look California State Old Time Fiddlers’ and they’d send back spiffy Fuddruckers (La Mesa) at his Bluegrass Bulletin Board, a Association meets monthly on the collectible cards, buttons, etc. 5500 Grossmont Center Drive great source for local happenings: second and fourth Sunday, noon- La Mesa www.waynerice.com/kson/bgevents.htm. I also began to tune into the Bluegrass Jam on second 4pm. Call 619/441-1680 for info. amateur, or “ham,” signals. Tuesday, 7-10pm. Featured band Wells Park Center Listening to a couple of guys for May is Cliff Wagner. 1153 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon. who were hundreds (or thou- Fuddruckers (Chula Vista) Bluegrass Information Resources sands) of miles apart carrying on 340 3rd Ave., Chula Vista Want to keep informed about what’s Bluegrass Jam on third Tuesday happening in San Diego’s bluegrass a conversation was cool...subver- 7-10pm world? Try these: sive, even. I thought, “I gotta Shirley’s Kitchen San Diego Bluegrass Society and find out how to do this! I wanna 7868 El Cajon Blvd., La Mesa Bluegrass Association of Southern send MY voice into the sky!” After a trip to the library and a bit of research, I discovered that After high school I needed I needed an FCC license. To get more POWER than ham radio the license, I had to take a could offer, so I studied broad- friggin’ TEST and be able to casting. I graduated from understand MORSE CODE! Southern Illinois University with I took the test and did the the aptly-named B.S. in commu- code and at age 15, I was on nications and began my illustri- the air. I was now an official ous career almost immediately. NERD. I joined the ham radio I am currently out of com- club at high school. These guys mercial radio (er . . . between were the social retards: the tall engagements), but I am STILL a skinny guy who pulled out his HAM!!! own hair when he was upset; the fat kid with the “schpeechss” impediment; the braniac with the pocket protector for his slide

McInnes and fellow nerds in high school Amateur Ham Radio Club

10 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003 ramblin’

Reconsidering Hosing Down Digital Audio Tape

by José Sinatra complexion), I began to by Paul Abbott focus on those less fortu- DATs (digital audio tapes) have The practice of nate than moi même. And in caught a lot of flack over the past necrophilia and bestiality short order I was once few years. As random access media among celebrities has been again able to do my happy (the hard drive) becomes more receiving increased atten- dance and make out with ubiquitous and affordable for music, tion in the news lately. As my mirror. digital audio tape seems to be going food for thought, it may I had imagined what it The inimitable Mr. Sinatra the way of the Dodo. However, indeed make for some must be like to be cowering there may still be a few advantages to using DAT, even when compared mighty good eatin’, but I’m in some unknown place, someday. And Women in with computer media’s major selling not about to let its question- trying to devise a way to points: convenience, reliability, and able nutrients taint my stay alive while my pur- Love, King of Kings, and quality. So if you’re one of the many monthly meditation. suers ruthlessly, relentless- Day for Night have all just musicians whose DAT machine is Paul Abbott Instead, I’d like to focus ly hunt me in all corners of come out in superb, extras- collecting dust, read on. on a recent personal set- a land I had proudly called packed DVD versions. And CONVENIENCE doesn’t mean you should overlook digital audio tape’s potential reliabil- back, which would have my own. Then, while the there’s an amazing new Probably the biggest issue people ity issues, but realize that all media – been monumentally tragic James Bond doll that is a have with DATs today is their slower, whole world watches, they including hard drives and CDRs – is miniature George Lazerby. manual-style interface. This is had it happened to a lesser pull down my favorite stat- susceptible to error. Just out of And Blind Melon’s has because the architecture is modeled superstar than The Hose. ue of myself and party like after an analog cassette: not neces- curiosity: does anyone have a hard No sooner had my most it’s 2099. Now I really know asked me to host their Rock sarily cutting-edge. If you think drive from 1990 that still works? Star Karaoke Orgies recent single “Bush Lovers what it’s like to be dissed. about it, though, this is as much a QUALITY and Saddamites (A Plea for How terribly embarrassing. (Tuesdays at 9pm, 710 benefit as a liability. Has anyone ever Probably the biggest issue that sig- Unity)” begun to climb the Rosanne at the Murph had Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach). accidentally deleted a computer file? naled the end for digital audio tape I have on numerous occasions, and Iraqi pop charts, than war nothing on this. I’ve become Be there! And Elaina inches is the lower resolution and fairly flat closer to 18 . . . when I think about how it hap- sound compared to modern, higher started and the radio sta- impotent . . . pened, the answer is usually that I What foods these density formats. While 16-bit is not tions shut down. I decided My reverie quickly halt- was too impulsive to take a moment today’s preferred resolution for to carry three or four hun- ed. My empathy can be morsels be! and think before acting. However, if mix-down, it’s now fairly common dred copies over there to prodigious but is unable to I’d been forced to take a tape out of knowledge that the sound quality of personally distribute, only to grasp the concept of impo- its case, read the label and insert it those early era DATs had to do with into a machine (not to mention flip- find that Princess Cruises tency or similar ideas alien the analog-to-digital converters, not ping the copy-protection tab), that just the bit rate/sampling frequency. doesn’t even make any to my personal biological moment I didn’t have with my As proof of this, I commonly receive stops anywhere in that constitution. It was funny computer may have given me pause current 16-bit mixes at country for reasons they while it lasted, though. to think about what I was doing ZenMastering that sound as good – refuse to disclose. Suddenly my own situa- instead of just doing it. Basically, the if not better – than some 24-bit files. Rather than lose myself tion didn’t seem that bad “inconvenience” of physical media This is because resolution only cap- puts in a dummy-proof layer that in the gooey mud of frustra- after all. Hell, there’ll be tures what a human being has doesn’t exist in the immediate world created. And if you know how to tion (which is murder on the other radio stations in Iraq of computers make a great recording, the bit rate,

RELIABILITY resolution and mix-down format are Many critics claim that DAT mix- all secondary issues. downs done years ago have been Now I’m not suggesting that compromised over time through people stop using computers for digital dropouts. With tape, this audio mixes, or that they go out occurs as the media oxidizes and and buy a new DAT machine. physically loses some of its informa- Tape-based media certainly has tion. While incidents like this do more limitations than hard drives. occur, all of my DATs – from varying But realize that along with those manufacturers dating back to 1990 limitations come some inherent – are in good working condition. design advantages that don’t exist And they haven’t spent the past 13 in a computer. In the technological years in dry storage, either. They’ve race called progress, sometimes the moved across the country a few baby is tossed out with the bath times and spent most of their lives water. in a shoebox in the garage! This

11 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour ofof notenote

Angela Taylor Street Grey de Lisle Frank Cactus Correa Self-titled Advance Home Wrecker Williamson Can’t Stop Copy Campin’ Red Room Songs by Chuck Deluxe Under the by Chuck Deluxe Here's a girl who’s perfectly by Emily Davidson by Phil Harmonic comfortable driving her country- Circumstances This energetic CD opens with time tractor lyrically through the If you love to soak up the sun No one knows what musical “The Crooked Mile,” getting city streets of production value. by Tom Paine or are planning a road trip soon, trend lies in waiting around right down to business with Grey de Lisle's Home Wrecker Can’t Stop Campin’, is for you. future’s corner. We seem to be in acoustic guitar, smart lyrics, and sounds kind of “country,” espe- If you like your songs smart, You will feel inspired to pack up the middle of a singer-song- ambitious vocal harmonies. cially in terms of the lyrics that dark, and funny, you’re in for a your gear, crank up the stereo, writer renaissance that started in Two people can make a lot of demonstrate a graceful knack for treat. And if San Diego is already and head down that long, the ‘90s and continues to grow. noise, and this San Diego-based the metaphoric irony that goes internationally known as a hot windy road. This CD is filled As terms like “new grass” appear duo most certainly does. With into the country hook equation. bed of great songwriters, then with songs written “during (Nickel Creek), I’ll coin the enthusiasm and confidence, And she does so right off the bat this record is like a bucket of desert and mountain camping phrase “new folk.” This wonder- their readings are simple, con- in “Borrowed and Blue.” gasoline. Here’s a heads-up for trips or in anticipation of trips,” ful surge of writers has been like taining complex themes and Something old, something new. all the other songwriters in which is easily recognized due a contagious disease spawning occasional unexpected solutions Baby you're still borrowed, and I'm town: the bar just got raised. to song titles like “Mountain an abundance of creativity. Now that suggest an astute grasp of still blue. A lot. Mike,” “Cacti, Go Wild,” and that’s one disease I wouldn’t the creative musical process. However, while the bones of Frank Williamson’s debut “Buttes Pass Road.” mind becoming chronic. With “Searching for Destiny” is a this song (and the rest of the release, Under the Circumstances, Simple rhyme schemes and such a plethora of creators, it has poignant moment, which casts CD) are country, the boots are is an artful display of just how interesting guitar arrangements reached the point where it has Lisa Pollack as the heartfelt very slick and surreal in terms of powerful good songwriting can are featured throughout the become too difficult to judge street-wise folk poet over the the arrangement and clean pro- be. In 12 taut, tight tour de mix. “Hey Hey Hey” shows off what you hear; you can only top of a “Dust in the Wind-ish” duction. A strong theatrical qual- forces, Williamson conveys the the band’s strong vocal har- know if it appeals to you or not. set of better guitar changes and ity permeates the overall feel of hungers and frustrations of life monies although sound effects, Listening to Angela Correa’s new thematic ideas. this collection of well-written with startlingly vivid imagery as heard in “Chariot Canyon,” CD is quite appealing and “Rain” is a sonic riposte with a tunes while maintaining a vari- and heart-breaking wit. Utterly seem unnecessary and detract becomes more so with each lis- piano introduction, again featur- ety of sonic scapes. free of the manipulative, phony away from the song. Elements of tening. She writes highly intelli- ing Lisa’s solo vocals in a way In “Black Cat,” de Lyle stretch- sentiment and pointless nostal- humor are found both in the gent lyrics and has a knack for that summons the melancholoy es out a bit with a sexy grind gia so common in most country lyrics and instrumentation phrasing her poetry to music. influence of Tori Amos while that would have been a cool music, Under the Circumstances is choices. This is best displayed in Natalie Merchant of 10,000 reminding me of local vocal addition to the Superfly sound- a vivid illustration of why alter- “Bullhead City,” which features Maniacs, whose poetry was powerhouse Laura Preble and track. What's impressive is the native country is pushing its way Jeff Larson’s stylized vocals. expertly transferred to the musi- her “Mystery” take. honesty of this vocal take, which further and further into the San Diego is blessed with cal song style, is a perfect exam- One of the most interesting allows us to meet the lady. Here mainstream. Like Lucinda temperate climate and diverse ple of how phrasing can make things on Taylor Street is the use she relies more on emotion than Williams and Steve Earle, landscape. The next time you the lyric much more powerful of counterpoint vocals. These calculation in a way that Joan Williamson finds redemption head out on the open highway, and effective. Correa’s “Too are articulate designs, with Osborne might handle things. and grace in the deep cracks of consider Cactus as a traveling Drunk” and “Only a Word” emit impeccable executions by Although she is mostly a calcu- the broken lives of his companion. a sound reminiscent of Merchant Thomas Lee who, meanwhile, lating singer, make no mistake: characters . . . all within the and the Maniacs. maintains a steady handling of here is a highly-trained singer compact potency of the pop continued from previous column In “Only a Word,” a favorite smart guitar. For the most part, with a pristine voice. song format. of mine, Correa states, “that one “Home Wrecker,” in all its Demonstrating again and swing, they pull you in, but they you can expect the rock/folky never lose sight of the focal little phrase could ease my ache, guitar with an occasional salt honky-tonk “Elvis-ness,” would again his mastery of language fascinate and tempt me to lose be better off with a little more and an instinct for the perfect point: Williamson’s poignant, and pepper of jazzier harmonic powerful songs. it all.” Correa writes about let- routes, which are refreshing in anarchy, even though it features chord change, Williamson leads ting go on “glorybelt” and about fun performances by Benmont his crack band right into the At once traditional and that they allow the vocals new thoroughly contemporary, a expressing yourself in “South San avenues of their own. And this Trench (Tom Petty and the sweet spot every time. Recorded Juan” and how you can’t win for Heartbreakers), Rami Jaffee at Big Rock Studios in Escondido timeless sense of beauty perme- duo is not at all afraid of this ates this record, making it very losing in “Consent/Coercion.” sort of adventure. (Wallflowers), and her husband, by coproducer Andy Machin, She is even current with Old 97’s bassist, Murray Under the Circumstances features appealing to a wide range of “On the Moon” is a dreamy audiences. forensic science, using traces of little number that defies the like- Hammond. “The Hole” seems a Kevin Hennessy on bass; Duncan gun powder that she can’t get distracting departure from the Moore on drums; Andrew De Like John Hiatt, Bruce ly pretensions of 'common' writ- Cockburn, Neil Young, Jackson rid of as a metaphor to the ing. Instead it seems to come CD’s overall musical center of Grasse on keyboards; and the memory of an ex-love, which gravity but manages a novel ubiquitous Dennis Caplinger on Browne, Bruce Springsteen, and from a strong inspiration, nur- a hundred other masters of the will never go away. tured to ensure fulfillment of its stroll through L.A.’s metal shop fiddle, dobro, mandolin and Correa is one talented writer sensibilities, if you can imagine electric guitar. Also on board are genre, Williamson works in true individual beauty, thus familiar territory, yet manages, and songwriter and since “birds demonstrating a rare maturity that. “Twas her Hunger” is a Peter Bolland on lap steel guitar, of a feather flock together,” who charming gem that again acoustic slide guitar, and back- like those other writers, to find and a delicious lightness. Its ele- something totally new and vital. else but Tom Brosseau, another gance suggests the elements of embodies something earthy and ing vocals, a chore he shares rising talent, should appear on real within a theatrical sound with his long-time collaborator And here’s the thing, when timelessness [in fact It is a you’ve got Under the tracks “Play Awhile” and “If You delight to review and report quality. I can almost envision the Marcia Staub. At the center of it Hear Music,” the latter being play it might support. The lyrics all is Williamson’s high-impact Circumstances turned up loud, such a thing...]. and you’re tracing the veins of pure Brosseau. When you hear With sparse arrangements in a and feel serve as one of the CDs guitar work and his lonesome, their harmonies, you’ll definitely brighter moments. evocative voice. The crisp, gold through the musical land- glossless, no-frills production, scape Williamson creates, you crave more. When they sing, “if Taylor Street displays a loyalty to This CD tries some new and focused mix and mastering by you hear music, clap your some not-so-new things. It's Andy Machin bring out the won’t remember any of those the medium and a respect for other artists. Under the hands,” listen closely and you those who influenced them. And safe, making it perfect for morn- numerous shimmering strengths will still hear me applauding the ings when you're in the mood of the band. They rock, they Circumstances is available at that’s perfect because they're www.frankwilliamson.com. talent of this singer-songwriter. doing the music very right. for a mellow start of a nice day. continued on next column ²

12 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003

‘round‘round aboutabout

Local Yokels Asylum Street Spankers A HAYSEED’S MUSIC PICKS FOR MAY by Gus T. Williker here, or whut?! Cowboy Nation is comin’ to Tio You’ll Laugh,You’ll Cry,You’ll Pee Your Pants! Hello...lo...... lo...... lo. Anybuddy out Leo’s Lounge on Saturday, May 17. thar...out thar...... out thar...... out They don’t make it down to San thar? Diego but every few months, so try [email protected] to take it in. They’ve got a lonesome cowboy sound that’s just awesome. That wus the last piss...and the last moan*. NOW FOR SOME SHOW Deke Dickerson and Big Rig Deluxe DATES! are playin’ Tio Leo’s on Saturday, May 24. I’ve yakked ‘bout Deke plen- The 7th Day Buskers are playin’ at ty before, but I’m not sure if I’ve Claire de Lune on Friday, May 3. This mentioned BRD. Well, it’s the side is hi-quality bluegrass/hillbilly music project of Hot Rod Lincoln bassist that demands yer attention. This is Johnny D’Artenay, and it’s that an all-ages event, of course, and all deep-throated “Convoy” sorta they want is a measly $2-$5 dona- country. Purdy aw rite. tion. Now sprinkle a lil’ Gold Bond Gus and his trucker hat. (Editor’s note: into yer shoes and make the trek Finally, I owe my buddy Jack Look closely. You can see a signed down there, ya big stinker! Johnson a super shout. No, not that nudie girl photo in the background. Looks like the P.B. Block Party might over-played wishwash blues artist, What a frickin’ perve!) be worth goin’ to this year. Oh shore, but the local country singer. He’s doin’ his Hank Williams Tribute yer gonna hafta wade through back- by Liz Abbott wards-capped beer-belly boys (yup, Show at the Pine Hills Lodge and Dinner Theatre on Friday and READER LETTER that barbed wire arm band that n Saturday, May 17, San dobro, banjo, ukulele, steel guitar, DOES make him tough). And don’t Saturday, May 30 and 31. The Lodge You are a pin-up star! I took a look, Diegans will have only one stand-up bass, mandolin, fiddle, saw, fergit the boozed-up bare-ass is located at 2960 La Posada Way in hee hee! Yeah, it was pretty cool. Julian. To make reservations, call Ochance to see the wonderfully kazoo, clarinet, saxophone, train whis- broads (uh-huh, she did hafta shave And ah ha! You’re the Troubadour wacky Asylum Street Spankers, a seven- tle, harmonica, and washboard. her naw-T parts to wear those 760/765-1100, or go to his Web site, guy! I thought your picture looked member group from the musical mecca Something akin to an old vaudeville pants!). BUT, the payoff is some http://www.hankshow.com. familiar. I’ll have to pull out a few of Austin, Texas. With a name derived show, carnival, or band of merry decent quality acts like Convoy, Lee Oh yeah, and if you want a trucker back issues and check out your col- from a combination of the former pranksters, the Spankers perform most- Rocker, Royal Crown Revue, Hot hat that spanks other trucker hats umn. I read the first one or two front name of Austin’s Guadalupe Street, and ly original songs from their huge reper- Rod Lincoln, Steve Poltz, and more. like Sir Mix A-Lot did/does booties, to back, now I just scan for people I spanker, a descriptive term for a vigor- toire, displaying an incredible wit and It goes from 9am-6pm on Saturday, go to my Web site and click on the know. Is that lame? Show dates, I ous style of acoustic guitar playing and irreverent humor with songs like May 10. link that pops up. look at show dates. an allusion to the birthday spankings “Startin’ to Hate Country,” “Winning Or, skip that whole circus and save http://www.WhiteHotTrash.com –G. Stylee they've been known to give to audi- the War on Drugs,” and “Smells Like up yer energy fer Buddy Blue’s CD WRITER RESPONSE xoxo, ence members, the Asylum Street Thirty Something,” as well as naughty, release party at Tio Leo’s Lounge. tongue-in-cheek ditties like “I’m a Bear If iGus iSmashed his iMac into the Gu$ Spankers was formed when Christina The old guy is certainly prolific in his Marrs, the group’s only female, Guy in a Lady’s Boudoir” thrown in for iWall, would anyone iHear an twilight years, so git out there and *Subject to change iFrickin’ iSound?!!!! Forsyth, and slam-poet Wammo all good measure. The group isn’t just support him (his padded underpants met at a party in the early ‘90s. Since about being funny, however. These tal- –Gus T. Williker shore don’t!). Yeah, the show is then, the number of members has ented multi-instrumentalists take their Saturday nite, May 10! waxed and waned over the years; there music seriously and want people to Show dates...show dates...show If yer throwin’ around praise fer have been as many as ten and as few respect the music as much as they do. dates. Okay, shore, my column is country folk artists, Gillian Welch as three. As members take turns singing lead mostly ‘bout show dates, but does should catch much of whut flies. Her and swapping instruments with each anyone give a flyin’ rat’s ass ‘bout This amazing, fun-loving group music is bare and beautiful, and other between songs, they reveal a vir- the rest of my column?! NO! Cuz I delivers a hybrid mix of 1920’s jazz, something to behold. You like tuosity and versatility that expands plead and beg and bribe and piss jug band, blues, honky-tonk, ragtime, Lucinda...you like Krauss? Gillian is their musical boundaries. They can and moan, and NO ONE E-MAILS! and swing music, played on a collec- yer gal too. She’s at the Belly Up play sweet and nostalgic, then switch Kin a bubba git some love ‘round tion of instruments that include Tavern on Tuesday, May 13. to gutsy and growling in a heart beat; the style in which they play changes from one song to the next. What’s more, they are fiercely committed to playing music as “God intended it,” namely without any kind of amplifica- tion whatsoever. However you want to describe these guys, once you see them live, you’ll never forget it. Don’t miss the Asylum Street Spankers at 101 Artists Colony, 25 East E St., Encinitas, May 17, 8pm. Tickets are $12.50 in advance, $15 at the door. Call 760/944-6027 for further info.

Founding members Forsyth, Marrs, Wammo 13 May 2003 • San Diego Troubadour

‘round‘round aboutabout

MAY MUSIC CALENDAR Peter Bolland & Broken Hills/Bruce Ray Bonneville, Dark-Thirty Fitzsimmons & Shadowdogs, Productions, 7:30pm. Call 619/443- thursday • 1 wednesday • 7 Lestats, 8pm. 9622 for reservations. friday • 30 Kevin Tinkle, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Essex Green/Oranges Band/Rookie John Mayall/Jimmie Vaughan, 4th & The Hank Show, Pine Hills Lodge, Card, Casbah. Call for info. 2960 La Posada Way, Julian, 6:30pm. Hatfield Rain, Acoustic Indie Night, tuesday • 13 B, 8pm. Call 760/765-1100 for info. Music Mart, Solana Beach, 8:45pm. Angela Correa, KSDT radio Jason Mraz, RIMAC Arena, UCSD. Harp Concert for Peace, Ray and Berkley Hart, Humphrey’s thursday • 8 (http://ksdtradio.org), 8pm. Call 858/534-8497 for info. Joan Croc Corps Community Center, Backstage Lounge, 9:30pm. Hatfield Rain, S.D. Songwriters Gillian Welch, Belly Up Tavern, 6845 University Ave., 7:30pm. Guild, Claire de Lune, 9pm. Solana Beach, 9pm. wednesday • 14 Q2, Twiggs, 8:30pm. friday • 2 Lighthouse, Golden Goose, 10001 Modern Rhythm, Humphrey’s friday • 9 wednesday • 14 Maine St., Lakeside, 7pm. saturday • 31 Backstage Lounge, 6-8pm. Sue Palmer & her Motel Swing Richard Thompson, Belly Up Tavern, Bobby Fantasy/Jefferson Jay & the Mark Jackson Band, Bailey’s Orchestra, Concerts on the Green, El Solana Beach, 8pm. thursday • 22 Family, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Barbecue, Main St., Julian, 8pm. Cajon, 5:30-7:30pm. Drew Norman, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Baja Blues Boys, Cafe Crema, 9- Leigh Taylor Band, Metaphor Cafe, Angela Correa, Cafe 1134, Coronado, thursday • 15 11pm. Escondido, 8pm. 7:30pm. Mosaic, Twiggs, 8:30pm. friday • 23 Mark Jackson Band, Olaf Wieghorst Christopher Prim/Bikini Radim Zenkl, mandolin virtuoso, Museum, 131 Rea Ave., El Cajon. Call Manifesto/Andy Lohr & Christy Dizzy’s, 8pm. Valley Center Western Days, Valley Center, 5pm-midnight. 619/590-3431 for info. Bruneau/Peter Bolland, Twiggs, Peter Sprague, Roxy Restaurant, 517 friday • 16 8:30pm. First Ave., Encinitas, 8pm. Peter Sprague & Pass the Drum, The Hank Show, Pine Hills Lodge, Garrett Thomas/Taylor Street/ 2960 La Posada Way, Julian, 6:30pm. Angela Correa, Claytime Ceramics, Dizzy’s, 344 Seventh Ave., 8pm. 3 Simple Words/Joel Ackerson/Seth Corinne, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Call 760/765-1100 for info. 1863 Bacon St., 8:30pm. Horan/Holiday & the Adventure Pop The Paladins, Casbah, 8:30pm. Kevin Tinkle, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Collective, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Q2, Metaphor Cafe, Escondido, 8pm. Sue Palmer & her Motel Swing Berkley Hart, Lestats, 9pm. saturday • 3 Mark Jackson Band, Hooley’s Irish Orchestra, Croce’s Top Hat, Fifth Hatfield Rain, Hard Rock Cafe, La Pub, 2955 Jamacha Rd., Rancho San Mark Jackson Band, Cinco de Mayo Ave. at F St., 9pm. Jolla, 9:30pm. WEEKLY Diego, 9pm. con Orgullo Parade & Festival, Modern Rhythm, The Tiki House, County Admin. Bldg., 10am-4pm. Rooke Card/Essex Green/Oranges, 1152 Garnet, 9pm. Casbah, 9pm. saturday • 24 Valley Center Art & Music Festival, every sunday Valley Center, 11am-6pm. Valley Center Western Days, Valley 7th Day Buskers, Hillcrest Farmer’s saturday • 17 Center, 7am-1am. 7th Day Buskers, Claire de Lune, saturday • 10 Market/DMV parking lot, 10am-1pm. Asylum Street Spankers, 101 Artists Bob Fest, annual birthday 8pm. Sam Hinton Folk Festival, 2225 Steve White, Elijah’s, La Jolla, Colony, 25 E. E st., Encinitas, 8pm. tribute featuring local artists, Dizzy’s, Ryan BlueAngela Correa & Friends, Torrey Pines Rd., 9:30am-10pm. 11:30am. Mark Jackson Band, Golden Goose, 344 Seventh Ave., 8pm. Hot Monkey Love Cafe, 8pm. Pacific Beach Block Party, Garnet Celtic Ensemble, Twiggs, 4pm. 10001 Maine St., Lakeside, 8pm. Randi Driscoll, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Christopher Prim/Kelly/Rob Carona, St., all day. Extreme Country, hosted by Mike Twiggs, 8:30pm. Declue & Decman/Alix Olson/ Taylor Street, Hot Java Cafe. Vlack, 7-10pm, KSON (97.3 FM). Mark Jackson Band/Derek Pamela Means, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Duplessie, Red Barn, Julian, 6-9pm. Jazz Roots, hosted by Lou Curtiss, Cowboy Nation, Tio Leo’s, 9pm. sunday • 4 Peter Sprague & Blurring the Edges sunday • 25 9-10:30pm, KSDS (88.3 FM). meet the Beatles, Dizzy’s, 344 Ziggy Marley, Belly Up Tavern, Cherchez Les Femmes w/ Sue Valley Center Western Days, Valley The Bluegrass Special, hosted by Seventh Ave., 8pm. Solana Beach, 9:15pm. Palmer Quintet/Romy Kaye Trio et Center, 8am-midnight. Wayne Rice, 10-midnight, KSON al., El Cortez Hotel, 4-9pm. $75. Myshkins, Twiggs, 8:30pm. (97.3 FM). Taylor Street, Cafe Crema, Pacific sunday • 18 monday • 26 tuesday • 6 Beach, 9pm. Derek Duplessie & the Desert every monday Tin Hat Trio, Dizzy’s, 344 Seventh Poets, North Park Street Fair, 4-6pm. Celia Lawley/Harmony Ave., 8pm. Swing Dancing, Tio Leos, 5302 Hill/Bluegrass Redliners, Round sunday • 11 John Hammond, Belly Up Tavern, Napa St., 6-8pm. Table Pizza, 1161 E. Washington Solana Beach, 7:30pm. Peter Sprague Group, Coyote Bar & Tango Dancing, Tio Leos, 5302 Napa Ave., Escondido, 7:30pm. Call Grill, Carlsbad, 5-9pm. St., 8pm. 760/489-0191 for info. Open Mic Night, Lestats. Call 619/282-0437 for info.

every tuesday Zydeco Tuesdays, Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., 6:30pm.

every wednesday Open Mic Night, Metaphor Cafe, Escondido, 8pm. Open Mic Night, Twiggs. Sign-ups at 6:30pm. Hatchet Brothers, The Ould Sod, 9pm. Sue Palmer Trio w/ Deejha Marie, Bayou Bar & Grill, 329 Market St., 6- 8pm.

every thursday Will Edwards’ Music Show, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Hot Rod Lincoln, Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., Call for info. Sue Palmer & Friends, Calypso Restaurant, Leucadia, 7:30pm.

14 San Diego Troubadour • May 2003

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