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

August 2004 Vol. 3, No. 11

what’s inside

Welcome Mat………3 Mission Statement Contributors History of the Banjo SUMMMERGRASSERGRASS Full Circle..…………4 Homegrown Recordially, Lou Curtiss Front Porch…………6 Guitar Artistry Opossums of Truth Hot Monkey Love Cafe Parlor Showcase...…9 Summergrass Ramblin’...…………13 OB’s New Music Wave Mudcat.org’s Blue Plate Specials Bluegrass Corner Zen of Recording Hosing Down Radio Daze Highway’s Song... …16 Jennifer Spector FAR-West Regional Conference Of Note.……………17 Fragment Ron Spears & Within Tradition Tim Flannery Bearfoot Bluegrass ‘Round About ...... …18 August Music Calendar The Local Seen……19 Photo Page

Pull out section with complete Summergrass information: featured bands, schedules, children’s activities, map, museum attractions, and directionsdirections on pages 9-12.

San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 welcomewelcome matmat

Despite Its African Origin, Today’s ROUBADOURSAN DIEGO Alternative country, Americana, roots, Tfolk, gospel, and bluegrass music news Banjo is an All-American

by Kent Johnson of the largest producers MISSION CONTRIBUTORS of banjos in the world today. During the mid- To promote, encourage, and FOUNDERS rowing up provide an alternative voice for the ’70s, my friends Gino Ellen and Lyle Duplessie loving music great local music that is generally more than and Sam from overlooked by the mass media; namely Liz Abbott anything, but not American Dream the genres of folk, country, roots, Kent Johnson G Guitar sent me out to Americana, gospel, and bluegrass. To knowing anything entertain, educate, and bring together PUBLISHERS about it, just about Lemon Grove to take players, writers, and lovers of these Kent Johnson describes my life up to my guitar to two guys forms; to explore their foundations; and Liz Abbott the age of 30. Luckily, who repaired and built to expand the audience for these types education and experi- instruments. Who of music. EDITORIAL/GRAPHICS Liz Abbott ence came into the pic- would have thought For advertising rates, call 619/298- that Greg (Deering ADVERTISING/DISTRIBUTION ture and I finally knew 8488 or e-mail [email protected]. a little about music and Banjos) and Bob Kent Johnson had some experience per- (Taylor Guitars) would San Diego Troubadour had five strings, which is considered P.O. Box 164 PHOTOGRAPHY forming as well. By the time I was in go on to develop that little shop into part of our American heritage. The La Jolla, CA 92038 Millie Moreno my late thirties, a seasoned veteran, I the two incredible, world-class compa- reporter asked, “What’s that thing E-mail: [email protected]. was still of the opinion that the banjo, nies that exist today? WRITERS called?” The guy said, “It’s a banjer.” along with the Appalachian dulcimer, Ain’t history great? Living it is even Liz Abbott The reporter, knowing that these peo- were the only original American better. SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR, the local Bob Biscoli ple didn’t say potato but potater and instruments. Wrong! source for alternative country, Peter Bolland didn’t say tomato but tomater, thought Today most people know that the Americana, roots, folk, gospel, and Lou Curtiss that the guy must have meant banjo, bluegrass music news, is published banjo came from Africa, and took Phil Harmonic not banjer. So that’s how the name monthly and is free of charge. Letters many different forms. The Africans, Paul Hormick banjo came about. Well, it’s possible to the editor must be signed and may Kent Johnson who were brought to the new world in be edited for content. It is not, howev- that this story is true. Jim McInnes bondage, called these instruments ban- er, guaranteed that they will appear. Because of the recent interest in the zas, banjars, banias, and bangoes to Bart Mendoza five-string American banjo, bluegrass All opinions expressed in SAN DIEGO name a few. Thus, the concept and the Dennis Roger Reed music, one of the main influences of TROUBADOUR, unless otherwise stated, Sven-Erik Seaholm name (or variation of) are African in are solely the opinion of the writer and do rock and roll, has made a comeback. Chuck Schiele origin. not represent the opinions of the staff You might call it a revival, since I like to tell the story about a New or management. All rights reserved. José Sinatra today’s growing interest has prompted Steve Thorn York reporter who was traveling in the ©2004 San Diego Troubadour. many people to learn how to play the Appalachian mountains and came Betty Wheeler instrument. across a guy who was just sittin’ there, D. Dwight Worden Here in San Diego we are lucky to playing a banjo. This particular banjo have the Deering Banjo Company, one The San Diego Troubadour is dedicated to the memory of Ellen and Lyle Duplessie, whose vision inspired the creation of this newspaper.

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

3 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour fullfull circlecircle

San Diego’s Homegrown: A Bumper Crop of Local Talent

by Bart Mendoza and Steve Thorn Thus the Homegrown albums were [filmed] right in front of the born, enjoying a run from 1973-79, Mission at seven in the morning,” with an additional volume that Intravaia recalls with more than istory buffs know that came out in 1984. touch of amusement. “We did things rarely ever happen in “Hundreds of people turned in ‘Where is San Diego?’ I remember H a straight line. A case in tapes,” says long-time local radio we were facing down the hill of the point is the Homegrown albums of 1973 host Jim McInnes. “I was involved Presidio as we were being filmed the 1970s. These local artist compi- with every one of them, except the in our Yes outfits with capes and so we thought, ‘There are all lations with a twist were produced first, mostly in the selection of spangly things, when our keyboard these great bands out there; by KGB-FM. 1972 was an impor- tunes. Most of them had probably Let’s pitch the station a tant year for KGB. The station had never recorded before — you know, Homegrown return, only with a been recycled. No, it didn’t have the kind of stuff you hear on the different idea.’ So we did it anything to do with old newspa- outtakes from American Idol,” he and it failed. We ended up pers or beer cans. This was a recy- says with a laugh. “We’d have sep- with an album that only sold cling of the airwaves; the station arate boxes to put them in — one about 10,000 copies.” dropped its old Bill Drake “boss was labeled ‘listen to again’ and 1974 Ironically, McInnes himself radio” format in favor of a more the other one was labeled ‘broken may have been partially to blame. progressive sound. During one and battered dreams.’ And that’s “I started the Homegrown show on extraordinary weekend, KGB-AM where most of them ended up.” KGB-FM in 1984 to go along and KGB-FM stripped their Famously, one song that was with that. In fact I played that “money-cash-giveaway-top-40” rejected would soon be a hit item. whole album on the first show, sound and instantly evolved into a Oscar-winning songwriter Stephen and I think I cut into sales.” progressive format that was more Bishop was among those vying for Although the series ended, in tune with the 1970s. a slot on the first volume. His song McInnes continued with his Another major KGB event took 1975 was turned down, but after the Homegrown show for the next place in November of 1972, when opening line was changed from five years. the station arranged and presented “Down in La Jolla,” to “Down in Today, Homegrown albums are its one and only Charity Ball at Jamaica,” “On and On” became a collectors’ items, despite the fact San Diego’s Jack Murphy Stadium top 40 staple in 1976. that (or maybe because) many of (now Qualcomm Stadium). For the Despite this miss, the albums the songs included on the price of $1.01, 51,778 rock fans were a huge success, selling over records are dated. There is a cer- spent a long afternoon under the 50,000 copies each year. “We were 1976 tain charm in hearing a collec- sun enjoying the sounds of Jesse selling them at $1.01 and all the tion of songs about your home- Colin Young, Boones Farm, Doctor money town, and they were always an Hook and the Medicine Show, was going eclectic mix that featured music Quicksilver Messenger Service, to United ranging from country to punk. For Foghat, and the J. Geils Band. Way. We every less than memorable Despite raising a large donation would moment, there are numerous gems for the United Way through the make to be found with popmeister Gary great turnout, the station ran into them 1977 Hyde, singer-songwriter C.J. bureaucratic red tape from the San available Hutton, and punk from Ronnie Diego Fire Department. Although at 7-11 as and the Respectables among others the rule has long since been impulse who are ripe for rediscovery. rescinded by the management of items, and These albums are also the place Qualcomm Stadium, at that time people to look for exclusive tracks from fans were not permitted on the really the Penetrators, Listen, the Beat field, making a stadium show less loved the Farmers, and many more. “It was attractive. 1979 records,” 1978 fun weeding through those boxes KGB still wanted to stage an says McInnes. of tapes, but what I liked about the event to help out the United Way The second edition of albums was that they propelled the as well as to promote its new Homegrown included liner notes original run was station into everyone’s conscious- sound. Out of their dilemma came from a teenage Cameron Crowe Homegrown VII and that ness at a time when radio was still the birth of the Homegrown album. and featured the first of many would be it, at least for the fun and trying new things,” In 1973 the station’s morning man, appearances in the series by Marc time being. The reason was McInnes remarked in closing. He’s “Cap’n Billy” (aka Bill Hergonson), Intravaia, today a guitarist with the simple economics. Quoting right, of course. Homegrown did was playing a record that sounded Eve Selis Band and then a teenager from McInnes’ liner notes make KGB a contender in the like a reject from Dr. Demento’s in the band Listen. The members 1978 from the 1984 edition: 1970s, but more important, it inad- radio show but was nevertheless of Listen were the MVPs of the “Seven original albums and vertently gave rise to the local generating a lot of listener Homegrown series, appearing on all player Leslie started rolling down one Greatest Hits LP later, music radio show as well as a response. The song was “Chula the albums save for the first and the hill! Someone had to run and Homegrown fell victim to the oil legion of local compilations that Vista” and the group was Rose and last. stop it.” embargo. The price of vinyl was have followed, preserving a slice of the Arrangement. Request for the Notably, Intravaia also appeared Subsequent shows went better. just too high to produce an album San Diego’s pop culture in the song was so great that Cap’n Billy on all four of the Homegrown televi- Listen performed “City of Love” on at reasonable cost to be able to process. began an annual contest that sion shows. A year after the the the second show, which was filmed make any contribution to a San would allow listeners to send in first album came out until 1978, at UCSD’s Mandeville Auditorium Diego charity.” tunes about their favorite part of KGTV-10 aired the first of four spe- with another TV host, “Captain” The 1984 Homegrown, with a San Diego. cials called Homegrown and Greene, Mike Ambrose. He also remembers change in criteria for inclusion, Not surprisingly, the station was which were hosted by former local taking part in the filming of Carey would be the series’ last hurrah. barraged with stacks of tapes, and TV personality Harold Greene, now Fox’s O.B. Bop on Newport Avenue McInnes adds, “Scott Chatfield and the terrific response started the infamous as the inspiration for the in Ocean Beach and in 1977 film- I lobbied to do another one with a wheels turning in the heads of lead character in the film ing at Studio West for an in-the- different concept, which was more KGB programming executives Ron Anchorman. The shows have long studio clip, as well as taping a new like a talent search.” Despite a line Jacobs and Rick Liebert. Why not since been lost to time, but version of “Where Is San Diego?” up of the era’s top club bands, the create a series of albums containing Intravaia has fond memories of in 1978 for a Greatest Hits show on album was not a success. “In retro- songs about San Diego that are per- them. “They were shot all over San the steps of the Julian Hotel in the spect, I think that it was more like formed by San Diegans, with pro- Diego,” he remembers. “The first Cuyamaca Mountains. a vanity project for Scott and me. ceeds going to a San Diego charity? was shot in Presidio Park; we were In 1979 the last album in the We wanted to do a collaboration,

4 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 fullfull circlecircle n o s d r a h c i R

l l

Recordially, Lou Curtiss i B

: o t o h P BITS AND PIECES Avenue Street Fair, my radio show, and call at Folk Arts (619/282-7833) if you then there’s the Constitution’s First just the presence of a quality collectible can help or have ideas about grants, Amendment rights. To me, both of heard a joke about how President record store on our street. non-profit foundations, or whatever them seem to be a higher authority Bush walked into the White House At any rate, I can’t afford to move works. Please don’t waste my time with than ASCAP. Iwith two pigs under his arm. The and I’ve got to figure out ways to make sympathy. I’ve got more than enough I’d like to say to the people at the marine at the door said, “Nice pigs, sir.” a little more income to stay here and of that. I need friends who will get the Golden Goose that I don’t know you Bush proudly told him, “These aren’t continue to provide the kind of services word out about me and the work we folks but I’ve heard good things about just pigs, son, they’re genuine Texas I’ve offered these many years. Many do. Thanks. you from the likes of Patty Hall, Tanya people have come and talked to me I hear that ASCAP (the American and Larry Rose, and John Bosley. Don’t Razorback hogs. I got one for Cheney Lou Curtiss and one for Ashcroft.” The marine said, after I wrote about my problems a few Society of Composers, Authors, and let the Music Gestapo shut you down. “Nice trade, sir.” I heard that joke back issues ago. They said they were going to Publishers) has done one of their typi- Stand up to them! Folk Arts. You can join the San Diego during the Clinton years (I’m sure it go right out and put together a corpo- cal numbers on another fine music I’d like to say that the San Diego Folksong Society for $10 a year and get goes back further than that.), only the ration or a conglomerate to buy the establishment in our area, namely the Folk Song Society’s newsletter (c/o Larry this great newsletter and go to their pigs were Arkansas Razorback hogs and property and keep me in business at a Golden Goose coffeehouse in Lakeside. and Tanya Rose, 4924 Wood St., La monthly sings, camp outs, and lots of the trade was for Hilary and Chelsea. reasonable rent. Of course, nothing Their little scare tactic has done far Mesa, CA 91941-5432) is a delight to other great stuff. In this past issue, Doesn’t that say something about the happened and now, at the age of 65, more to hurt the music scene, especial- receive and read each month. I always along with alerting me to the Golden two parties in America? With the I’m stuck with this problem. ly folk and old-time music, than it ever find out about events in time to do Goose’s ASCRAP problem, I found out Democrats, it’s about political If anyone out there can think of has to help. I have a few suggestions: something about them even if it’s only about the Star of India Sea Chanty appointees and with the Republicans, ways to help a broke, but not bent, First, ask them for evidence that any to spread the word to people I think Festival, the Great American Bluegrass it’s about family members (family val- music historian with one of the best money you pay will get to those people will be interested. Each month I post and Acoustic Music Festival, a Song ues?). music collections in San Diego, I would who wrote the songs. Second, ask them the newsletter on my front porch at surely appreciate it. I can also write a for a list of the songs you are not sup- Circle at Sam Hinton’s house, the P h

o bit, play the autoharp and harmonica posed to sing. Summergrass Festival, and all the won- t s o : a

derful concerts that Carey Driscoll puts g R (my wife plays guitar and banjo), and About 95 percent of the folk and o O

b l on at the Normal Heights United e know something about putting togeth- country material is licensed through e i r t n

a Methodist Church (coming up: Groove R er music festivals and concerts. I also BMI or the Country Music Association, a D

e : Lily, Lowen and Navarro, Doug l

know quite a bit about old records, not ASCAP, and yet it’s ASCAP that o t o

tapes, radio transcriptions, and the gen- always tries to pick on the little guy. h Haywood, Chris Proctor, John McEuen, P eral history of old-time music of vari- When I was doing concerts at Folk Arts Peppino D’Agostino, and Dave Stamey). ous kinds. You’d think someone would during the 1970s, ASCAP tried to pull You can get all the information and consider me a valuable resource; I seem their little number on me. We made a background stuff in the San Diego to think so because everyone tells me I point of carrying out the two sugges- Folksong Society News by emailing rail- Adams Avenue am, but it’s hard to take compliments tions above and then held several con- [email protected]. You won’t be sorry if you like to meet good people who like Well, I just got word at my business, to the bank. certs, playing only BMI or public music. Folk Arts Rare Records (which is also I got my notification on July 13 and domain material. It took a little I guess that’s it for this time around. where my wife, Virginia, and I make by the time you read this, Folk Arts research (I’d be glad to help you with our home), that the property has final- Rare Records, born on July 31, 1967, that at Folk Arts), but we learned a few Recordially, will be 37 years old. Since then the rent new tunes in the process. The concerts ly sold and I have two options: I can Lou Curtiss either take a $700 raise in my rent or I has gone from $250 a month to $1,700, were fun to put together. We made a have to get out within 30 days. I’ve the most recent raise of $700 coming point of including “no material been here for 27 years and feel that I all at one pop. I’ve never taken money licensed by ASCAP will be used in any have been at least part of the reason for for doing festivals in terms of a salary. of these concerts” on the posters. After Tanya Rose property growth on Adams Avenue It’s always been something I do for the about two weeks they backed off and because of my work on the Adams love of the music and this city, but never bothered us again. I remember Avenue Roots Festival and the Adams right now I need ideas and, more telling the ASCAP rep about the Bible’s important, I need income. Give me a notion of “making a joyful noise,” and

5 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour frontfront porchporch

Guitar Artistry: OB’s Hidden Gem Showcases Vintage Guitars

Story and photography by Chuck Schiele acoustics, semi- Michoacan, hollow bodies, Mexico. Arnie hen Mango Music left and electrics. later sold it to Ocean Beach in the mid- And on the floor use the money W is a small arsenal toward the pur- to-late ’90s, the guitar-play- er-infested beach community of old vintage chase of a found itself having to drive over amps as well. Martin 0-16 NY. the hill to take care of business for My eyes bug He still owns the several years. Making note of the out as soon as I Martin and void, Arnie Gallegos opened Guitar can smell how marks that gui- Artistry Music Co. on Newport Ave. old they are. But tar as the begin- that’s not all ning of his play- there is to it. ing, collecting, Arnie also offers buying, and sell- instrument and ing guitars. equipment repair After working cially enjoyed providing him with as well as guitar 35 years in the the right musical instrument.” instruction, construction As a player himself, Arnie has which serves as an industry, Arnie been writing songs since his mid- integral part of music development felt the time was right to change teens, which make up the majority as well. There are books, acces- careers. Since Mango Music in of his repertoire, and plans to sories, rentals, consignments, and “The most typical Ocean Beach had closed, it left OB record a CD soon. In the mean- “other” stringed instruments. It’s a without a store dedicated to the time, he maintains a focus on the cozy little shop, but there’s a lot customers are people guitar and its artistry. So with that, entire San Diego music communi- going on inside there. he opened Guitar Artistry in ty. The store is connected with the I routinely stop in this place who realize that a January, 2003. arts community through the simply because I like looking at I asked him about his clientele, Museum of MaKing Music in guitars aside from strats in a maga- quality guitar can be a his patrons; who comes by? Carlsbad and recently had the zine. I try ‘em out, see what they He told me that people who prefer opportunity to provide the Old Globe with a banjo to be used in Arnie Gallegos do, talk to Arnie. On this occasion life-long friend and a instruments that have stood the I stopped by to ask him a few ques- test of time and are still in great one of their productions. I buy some strings, look at the in January of 2003, not far from tions and get to know him a little. demand are his most typical cus- good investment.” hollow bodies. I have to ask him: the old Mango. And with him He told me that when he was tomer: “People who realize that a “Hey Arnie, What's your favorite comes an assortment of rare, hard- 15, his father purchased a Mexican quality guitar can be a long-life guitar in here?” to-find gems of guitars. Old classical guitar for him on a trip to friend and a good investment.” He went on to say that specialty items “That one’s at home on my and specific services, such as wall.” appraisals and/or repairs are rou- I figured he’d say that. “What's tine business. your favorite guitar in the shop?” While I’m visiting, Arnie’s “My favorite axe is a 1950s repairing a guitar while, at the Silvertone arch top with a single same time, a lesson is letting out. A pick up.” kid walks out the door with stars in You can find this cozy little gui- his eyes, shaking everyone’s hand. tar den at 4967 Newport Ave, Suite We just keep talking. 7, in Ocean Beach. Maybe you’ll With the air of a purist, Arnie find your next guitar of distinction explained, “I take great pleasure in while you’re at it. matching an instrument with a player and so I offer a wide variety for all types of players, and I main- tain a ‘want list’ for those who have a specific request.” Additionally, Guitar Artistry provides jazz, rock, blues, folk, clas- sical, and flamenco guitar instruc- tion. The specialty here is to encourage, enable, and empower people to support and explore the fine art of music through the medi- um of guitar in all its forms and functions. While I may never per- sonally own a digital guitar, I am committed to supporting the guitar and its evolution. But this shop specializes in used and vintage gui- tars and tube amplifiers. Last summer, Bobby Whitlock of Derek and the Dominos (“Layla”) and Kim Carmel came by the store while staying in Point Loma. It was a thrill to meet them both. Two weeks ago Steve Poltz came in and bought a 1960s Kay guitar, which he planned to use the next night at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach. It was a pleasure meeting him, but I espe-

6 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 frontfront porchporch The Science of

Gospel Music they are accurate. But, if you think says. not, let him With four CDs already released, know. As his all of which present the Doc’s origi- web page also nal scientific gospel music, the states: If you Opossums of Truth are well- see a fact that known in the science communi- you know to be ty, having performed at a num- false, please send ber of important gigs in San us proof, and we Diego, Los Angeles, Colorado, will make correc- and elsewhere. The Doc and tions. We are proud his wife/manager report that scien- that Scientific Gospel is aware of and tific gospel is especially popular with such responsive to data. Unitarians, Humanists, and astronomers as the big bang The other mem- for whom the Opossums of Truth have theory or black holes. One bers of the Opossums of preformed many concerts. day he read a fateful letter from Dr. Truth include several tal- This stuff is fresh and different. To Eugenie Scott in Science News, noting ented and well-known local acoustic listen to an Opossum concert live or to that the other side (creationists) have all musicians. Ron Jackson — who teaches hear an Opossum CD will, guaranteed, the good songs. This prompt from a fel- at Buffalo Brothers in Carlsbad and has make you giggle if not laugh out loud. low scientist was the catalyst the Doc played with a variety of local bands The lyrics are all scientifically accurate, needed to focus serious energy (and Left to right: Dave Collins, Given Harrison, Dr. Stephen Baird, Ron Jackson, Danny Baird including Unstrung Heroes — plays thoroughly researched, and subject to believe me, he’s got energy to make banjo, guitar, and mandolin and helps validation by anyone who cares to con- SDG&E jealous) on the long neglected by Dwight Worden wherever he sees it: in religion, in poli- with harmony singing. Daniel Baird, the duct a double blind, placebo controlled, but simmering problem of a pronounced tics, and in daily life. He says, “I don’t Doc’s son, plays guitar and dobro and protocol to test them out. But, more than absence of scientific gospel music. know who or what is in charge of the contributes harmony singing when he is crisp, white lab coat hangs on that, these songs are full of insight, Hallelujah! Evolution!, released in universe ... but what pisses me off is so not working for MusicMatch. On bass is the back of a chair in the clut- mirth, irony, clever turns of phrase, and 1995, was the first Opossums of Truth many people who claim they do know well-known and respected bass player tered research office of Dr. unexpected rhymes presented in a deli- CD, and the result of these initial efforts. A and that they are so certain about it.” As and singer Given Harrison. Contributing Stephen Baird at the Veterans cious phrasing that shows off the Doc’s Containing such original chestnuts as he sees it, the issues of who we are and on fiddle is Dave Collins, whose classical Administration Hospital in La Jolla. At gift for song writing. “Bang! There was Light,” which recounts where we came from are simply too training and experience with everything first it seems odd that there is a Taylor Stephen Baird was born in Boston the big bang theory in the creation of the important to be decided with shallow from the La Jolla Symphony to con- Auditorium Model 710 guitar sitting in during World War II and raised in the universe, and “Hallelujah! Evolution!” thinking. tradance music and bluegrass brings a the corner among the books and lab Bible Belt for 12 years where he grew up with clever phrases like “evolution’s the For example, the Doc took a shot at melodic element to the Opossums’ paraphernalia, but then one notices there on country and gospel music. After mov- solution from microbes to man” and “did the creationist’s dogma that God created music. And, of course, there is the Doc are also CDs amid the piles of stuff. ing to California and attending Stanford the god of the Jews form us from primal the earth 6,000 years ago by noting in who plays guitar and does the lead Enter “the Doc” himself, a man who talks University, he underwent a conversion to ooze, or did Darwin improve on our his “Ode to the Bristlecone Pine” that singing. a mile a minute, launching words about rationalism. Almost immediately he Biblical views?” these unique pines are older than that: On their just-released fourth CD, science and music through the big warm noticed the dearth of scientific gospel Exactly what is scientific gospel “Did God make the earth 6,000 years Breaking the Rules, the Doc and the smile on his face. music. He reports lacking the means to music? In the words of its creator: ago? Bristlecone pines say ‘I don’t think Opossums have raised their own bar. The Doc is as conversant with the do anything about correcting this defi- “Scientific Gospel is a unique musical so.’” You get the idea. Recorded at Spragueland Studios in details of Darwin’s work on evolution ciency, being a lapsed cello player (which genre created to impart scientific knowl- Baird is the renowned chief of Leucadia under the watchful guidance of and the genetic discoveries of Gregor was forced on him), so the problem lay edge, discuss social and political issues, pathology and laboratory medicine at the maestro Peter Sprague, one can hear the Mendel as he is with American bluegrass, unattended. and argue for rational inquiry and V.A. Hospital and founder and leader of maturation of Baird’s songwriting skills. folk, gospel, and roots music. His mind Instead, Baird spent a few decades thought. Evolution, gravity, water, heat, the Opossums of Truth, his American The chord progressions have a new com- is like a great attic brimming with fac- earning an M.D. degree, marrying, rais- time, sexually transmitted diseases, false roots band that performs what he likes to plexity, and the lyrics, always his strong toids, ideas, and theories about science, ing children, getting tenure, and achiev- gods, and heroes of science all are wor- call “scientific gospel music.” Baird is, in suit, have an even greater impact. Added current events, and music. Is there water ing financial security and happiness, but, thy and appropriate subjects for scientific fact, the inventor of scientific gospel to the mix are contributions from Jerry on Mars and, if so, life on Mars? He as he reports wryly, not much else. After gospel.” Dr. Baird’s aim is to combine music, a new subgenre of American roots Waller, an outstanding keyboard player; wrote a song about that. Remember acquiring a modicum of competence on Man’s intelligence with the majesty of the music. “The religious folks of all persua- Peter Sprague on guitar; Dwight Worden Stanley Miller who, in a successful the guitar in the 1980s he actually began universe as he champions science and sions have their long tradition of reli- on fiddle, mandolin, and backing vocals; attempt to repeat the creation of life on to enjoy music again. The songwriting rational thought infused with humanistic gious music presenting their views, and and Robert Zelickman on clarinet. earth, zapped a jolt of electricity through and birth of the Opossums of Truth had essence. Scientific gospel can be consid- it bothered me that there was no music The new CD also has a more serious a test tube of primordial soup and their genesis while the Doc was teaching ered part of what is now called roots by and for the scientists and rational side to it. There are several powerful showed how life could have originated, medical school classes in immunology, music. It stems from our beginnings and thinkers, so I created scientific gospel by tunes in which the tongue-in-cheek annoying the creationists to no end? The his specialty at the time. He acquired the conveys it in a gospel/bluegrass sound. writing accurate scientific lyrics telling of humor prevalent on most of the earlier Doc wrote a song about that too. habit of reducing medical and other sci- However, the best way to explain it is to the wonderful discoveries of science to CDs is temporarily stowed away, as is While respectful of, and very conver- entific concepts to popular song form, hear it. complement melodies of my own cre- befitting the subject matter. These new sant with, the earth’s major religions, the shamelessly perverting the original intent In typical Opossum fashion , the ation, or sometimes to the melodies of tunes include the Doc’s haunting song Doc often takes aim at shallow thinking of Christmas carols by using them for Doc has also peppered his web page the great hymns and gospel tunes,” he about 9-11, “Great Big Hole in melodies. The number of scientific con- (www.scientificgospel.com) with what he Manhattan,” which presents an original cepts to teach being large, he soon calls totally useless random facts. Here melody and moving, thought provoking exhausted Christmas carols as sources of are some samples: melodies and moved on to gospel and words. When referring to the hijackers 1. In 1904, the head of the patent office well-known hymns. who died for their view of God’s plan said that the office should be closed In this manner the Doc created a rel- and the New York Fire fighters who died down because everything that could atively large body of song material for trying to rescue those trapped in the possibly be invented had already been medical students on such arcane subjects World Trade Center, the song notes that invented. as cytokynes, interleukins, gene function, they all lie in a common grave at the chromosome structure, and cellular 2. A cockroach will live nine days with- scene and then asks “who do immunology. In song he occasionally out its head before it starves to death. Continued on next page. The Opossums of Truth performing at the Carlsbad Village Theater for Darwin’s Birthday 2003 addressed additional cosmic subjects There are more, and you can bet

7 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour frontfront porchporch

Hot Monkey Love Cafe: A Haven for Music Monkey Love. The Hot Monkey Love people to be stronger.” When Alma talks brand name soon spread to their produc- about music and the scene, words like tion company, Hot Monkey Love honesty, purity, integrity, and respect take Productions. When they fell in love, got the place of draw, door take, drink sales, married and bought a cafe, it didn’t take and profit. She sees her role as a commu- them long to think of a name. nity builder. She dreams of one day col- Hot Monkey Love Cafe offers music laborating with other venue owners to from across the board and around the coordinate a collective to nurture both world, from reggae to raga, heavy metal the interests of the venues and the inter- by Peter Bolland changed the musical landscape of the to hip-hop, punk rock to Persian, jazz to ests of the musicians who perform there. San Diego scene. bluegrass, Latin to Lebanese. And of Like a lot of great things, Alma was- ’ll never forget what a club owner There is one simple reason why Alma course there are plenty of acoustic, n’t even really looking for it. After eating once told me when I first started out and Rick Felan opened Hot Monkey singer-songwriter showcases. What mat- lunch in the neighborhood, she found in the music business. “Look,” he Love Cafe. They love music. To them, ters is music, any kind of music — as herself inexplicably drawn toward the I music is as important as life itself. The said, “let me tell you something. Most long as it’s real. building. She went in. There was a stage. club owners would bulldoze their clubs Felans believe that musicians and anyone Alma goes out of her way to give She offered her services as a band man- and put up a car wash in a heartbeat if with a gift for expression are obligated to stage time to anyone who wants it, ager and promoter to the owner. The they thought they could make $10 more share their talents with the world. It’s regardless of experience. The couple runs owner said thank you very much but a month.” The uneasy truce between that simple. And as musicians, songwrit- two open mics a week — on Tuesday told her, “Actually, the place is for sale.” commerce and art stands forever at the ers, and promoters themselves, they felt and Wednesday nights. If you want to They got to talking about the history of brink of war in most clubs, and the first duty bound to create a place in the com- play, they’ll give you a shot. And if you’re the building. Dating from the ’50s, it was casualties are usually the musicians. Hot munity where passion and pragmatism in a band with a decent draw, you can known as Funky Quarters, and in the Monkey Love Cafe is different. It is an come together. Their unbridled idealism have a choice slot on a weekend night. ’60s and ’70s, acts like Janis Joplin and oasis of peace where art and creativity manifests itself in myriad concrete ways. The biggest mistake an artist can Cheech and Chong played here. Then always come first. And somehow the Hot Monkey Love Cafe is a musi- make? “Attitude,” says Alma. “Having a there was a fire and a remodeling in the bills still get paid. You can come here for cian’s dream. They have a real stage with big head, treating people badly. That’s the ’80s. But the room still has the vibe of great music and coffee and food. But lights, a complete sound system, (includ- biggest mistake I see artists make. If you greatnes and a real feeling of warmth and don’t come here to get your car washed. ing the ability to record shows), as well have a great voice and great songs but comfort. It’s probably just the spirit of its Turns out Hot Monkey Love Cafe is as what in the business is known as a you don’t really try to connect with your current hosts, Alma and Rick Felan. not such a ridiculous name for a cafe back line. That means they have a bass audience, if you don’t carry yourself Their passion for music is the only fire after all. Alma and Rick Felan, the amp, a guitar amp, and a drum set on humbly, no matter how famous you are, on the premises now. That and a whole hands-on owners and visionaries behind stage at all times for anyone to use. This nobody is going to care.” lot of hot monkey love. this up-and-coming music venue have is extremely rare and speaks volumes Alma’s idealistic activism moved from Hot Monkey Love Cafe, located at more in mind than simply getting your about the Felan’s commitment to musi- the macrocosm to the microcosm. “My 5960 El Cajon Boulevard, is open every attention. They want you to feel some- cians. daughter and I were very strong activists, night from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Check their thing in your soul. Naming their cafe Alma moved to San Diego from all the time looking for solutions to save website at www.hotmonkeylovecafe.com Hot Monkey Love seemed like a good Florida in 1997 and began working as a the world,” Alma said, laughing. “And place to start. promoter, manager, publicist, and jour- now, I put everything I believe into my Celebrating their second anniversary nalist in the local music scene. Soon she family and into my business. There’s a on August 14, Hot Monkey Love Cafe met Rick and began managing his band, mission and a purpose for being here. I has already, in these two short years, which, incidentally, was named Hot have to be stronger in order for other

Continued from page 7. finally jumped up and yelled, “If English was good enough for Jesus Christ, it’s you think God forgave, those who died good enough for me!” to kill or those who died to save? There are ignorant people in this Another serious original is the Doc’s world...these are their stories. ballad of Flight 103, the Pan Am flight Ah, it is delicious to read the unbe- blown out of the sky over Lockerbie, lievable but true stories that follow about Scotland, by terrorists. These must be our fellow Americans. And, it is heard to be appreciated. And for those unapologetically and quintessentially who like the traditional Opossum fare of American for a respected doctor and clever, humorous lyrics about science, researcher to have used them as fodder Peter Sprague at work on the Opossum’s new CD religion, and topical events, the new CD for his wonderful songs. But it has not Breaking the Rules has some wonderful new pieces. These always been a cake walk. include the “Gefilte Fish Messiah,” the The doc reports troubling incidents on a faith-based approach to important Doc’s song about a story in USA Today in of local censorship. Although his songs issues of the day. He cites sobering poll which New York kosher fish mongers are never mean-spirited or derogatory — statistics: reported that a carp they were about to and he doesn’t play favorites but rather In 1999, 16 percent of those in the behead began speaking Hebrew and challenges shallow thinking wherever he U.S. surveyed believed in Creationism offering apocalyptic prophecies. And sees it — he and his Opossums have only, 13 percent believed in Creationism “Making Whoopie,” a song for which the been turned down by one local radio sta- plus Evolution as valid science, 17 per- Doc has penned devilishly clever, and tion and by at least one local gig venue cent thought of Evolution as a science accurate, lyrics about the details of the as “too controversial” and “potentially and Creationism as religion, and only 20 procreation process, including fertiliza- offensive to money supporters who percent believed that we arrived here by tion of the ovum by the sperm, all set to might not see the humor in this materi- Evolution only. Five percent had no the classic “Making Whoopie” jazz al.” At a recent Darwin’s birthday concert opinion. According to the Doc, “We need melody of the 1920s. at the State Theater in Carlsbad, cars to educate our children in rational think- If you like this kind of stuff, utilizing belonging to band members and visitors ing without losing their spiritual and the foibles and follies of real people as were all leafleted with flyers urging them artistic qualities. Life is not black and song fodder, you will enjoy the section to “repent, repent!” and similar blather. white. We must learn to judge situations, on the Opossum’s web page that contains If putting accurate science to music knowledge, and activities by facts, not by hyperlinks to a number of goofy but true is “too controversial,” we all best give belief only. Aristotle said, ‘It is the mark stories like the gefilte fish story. The some thought to our current circum- of an educated mind to be able to enter- lead-in to this collection states: At a stances. Baird’s music is fun and informa- tain a thought without accepting it.’” school board meeting in the South, a tive. And, at a deeper level, it expresses By listening to the Opossums of debate raged about whether or not to his commitment to supporting and Truth, one will learn something about teach foreign languages in high school. teaching rationalism in the face of what science for sure. But more important, One exasperated parent in the audience he sees as American society’s increasing their music will cause you to grin until tendency to accept ignorance and to rely your lips hurt.

8 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 parlorparlor showcaseshowcase

Bluegrass Music Festival

FRIDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, AUGUST 20-22

Hello! On behalf of the San Diego Bluegrass Society, the San Diego North County Bluegrass & Folk Club, and the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, welcome to Summergrass San Diego for 2004! We’re really glad you could join us for our second “Pickin’ in Paradise” event and are very proud to bring you a great week- end of music, family activities, and enjoyment in our wonderful setting, the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum! Inside this program you’ll find a performance schedule, background on each of our . bands and performers, and other important information to help you enjoy your visit. While you’re here, don’t miss the GREAT food selections at the various Museum restaurants; after that, be sure to treat yourself to an ice cream cone or maybe some goodies from the bake shop! ● . We’re also excited to have a wide selection of vendors with us so we know you’ll want to visit their locations whether to pick up a new CD, some new clothes, musical instruments and accessories, or other fine products on display. Truly something for everyone! ● ● A new feature for this year is our very special “Kids Camp” where young folks of all skill levels will have the opportunity to learn and experience music personally ● in a supportive environment. Thank you to all who registered for this event and best wishes for an enjoyable and productive time! ● Thank you as well to our major supporters, Taylor Guitars, Deering Banjo Company, and Gibson Original Acoustic Instruments for providing some mouth- ● watering raffle prizes again this year! We know there are going to be some real happy winners come Sunday! Finally, special thanks to the many volunteers from all three of our organizations without whose able assistance, Summergrass would be impossible. Have a Great Time!

Mike Tatar Roger Gagos Festival Chairperson Festival Co-Chairperson President, San Diego Bluegrass Society North County Bluegrass & Folk Club

Sandy Beesley, President Tom Garrison, President North County Bluegrass & Folk Club Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

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

Cummins-Allison Corp.

You’ll be able to buy CDs from your favorite artists at the Summergrass Mercantile, Tricopolis Records and all our other great vendors.

9 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour parlorparlor showcaseshowcase

Chris Hillman with Bluegrass Etc. (Saturday, 9:00 p.m.) (Saturday, 2:00 and 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, A Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer on the 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) Summergrass stage? It makes perfect Summergrass is bringing the finest blue- (Friday, 4:00 and 7:00 p.m.; sense if that musician is Chris Hillman, a grass music to San Diego — listen to Saturday, 1:00 p.m.) versatile guitarist, mandolinist, vocalist this outstanding bluegrass band from the and songwriter whose musical journey has Czech and Slovak Republics! Formed in Audience favorites at included the Byrds, the Flying Burrito 1983 in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, Summergrass I, Bluegrass Etc. has Brothers, the Desert Rose Band, three Fragment has released seven CDs and been described as “a wild roller gold records, and musical collaborations appeared at such prestigious venues as coaster ride” with exquisite blue- with Emmylou Harris, Stephen Stills, Bob the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, the grass guitar, mandolin and fiddle licks, breakneck banjo playing, strong vocals, and a Dylan, Dan Fogelberg, Gram Parsons, IBMA Showcase in Louisville, stage presence that will have you thoroughly in stitches. Don Parmley, Vern Gosdin, and many Kentucky, and the International Bluegrass Etc. is really a “home town” band. Two of its musicians, John Moore and more. Summergrass is delighted to wel- Bluegrass Festival in Guthrie, Oklahoma Dennis Caplinger, went to the same Junior High School in Vista. Another Vista connec- come Chris home to San Diego, where he formed his first band, the Scottsville and took first place in the European tion...John and Dennis were the earliest bluegrass teachers of Vistans now best known as Squirrel Barkers, as a teenager. Bluegrass Music Association band com- Nickel Creek. Bluegrass Etc. needs no introduction to San Diego or to bluegrass aficiona- petition. Lead singer Jana Dolakova’s Branched out considerably with regular festival, concert and club work, they also dos anywhere, but if you haven’t heard them perform together with Chris beautiful vocals will be a highlight. She has been honored as Vocalist of the Year by have had a ten-year contract at Sea World and a four-month stint at Tokyo Disneyland in Hillman, you’re in for a special treat on Saturday night. both the Slovak and Czech Republic bluegrass associations. Instrumentally, these are the ’80s, annual European tours, and work in the movie and television industries. some of the hottest pickers to be found on either side of the Atlantic: founding mem- Bassist/vocalist Bill Bryson joined John and Dennis in 2000. Bryson is a founding mem- ber Henrich Novak was named Best Dobro Player at the European Bluegrass Band ber of the Desert Rose Band and the Laurel Canyon Ramblers, and is a two-time Laurel Canyon Ramblers Championship in 1998 among many other awards; Richard Cifersky was named Grammy winner. Slovak Banjo Player of the Year in 1999 and 2000. Tomas Jurena is a flatpicking phe- nom, and Milan Manek adds great mandolin and vocals to the mix. Bearfoot: Gen Y Bluegrass from Alaska! (Friday, 2:00 and 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, 4:00 p.m.; Sunday, (Saturday, 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.) 2:00 p.m.) The Witcher Brothers, a California band, was Bearfoot is a lively, fast-ris- formed in 1985 by Dennis Witcher, his then ing bluegrass band from six-year-old son Gabe and a few friends. They Alaska. Though the oldest combined a unique blend of bluegrass, coun- (Sunday, 1:00 and 6:00 p.m.) band member is only 21, the try, blues and western swing to create the dis- band has been together since Virtuosity and ultra-smooth vocal harmonies have made the Laurel Canyon tinctive Witcher Brothers sound. Now, after 1999, winning the Telluride Ramblers one of the most successful groups performing tradition-rooted blue- three albums and over 14 years of performing, Bluegrass Festival band com- grass. The LCR came together with Herb Pedersen’s return to bluegrass in 1994. the Witcher Brothers are considered one of the hottest bands in the Southwest. In recent years, petition in 2001 and appear- Mandolin player and vocalist Kenny Blackwell was a member of Richard ing at many festivals around the country. Their three-part harmonies range from Bill the band has included Gabe’s younger brother, Greene’s the Grass Is Greener. Guitarist and vocalist Roger Reed, formerly a Monroe’s high lonesome sounds to originals written by band members. Michael, one of the top dobro players in the member of Byron Berline’s Fiddle Band and Sundance, recorded with Earl Bearfoot has also developed a peer modeling method of teaching bluegrass to kids country. Their powerful, energetic instrumental age 6-16 at all ability levels. Summergrass offers a special Bluegrass Camp for Kids this Scruggs, Tony Trischka, and others. Fiddler Gabe Witcher is also a longtime solos, tight three-part harmony and heartfelt year, with three hours of instruction each day, an opportunity to play on stage at member of the Witcher Brothers and the Jerry Douglas Band. Bill Bryson, the original material spans a wide range from tra- Bearfoot’s closing Sunday set, and a special Sunday performance by the Bluegrass Academy of Country Music’s Bass Player of the Year in 1990, was a member of ditional to contemporary, as well as original Camp bands on the AGSEM grounds after the camp ends. Desert Rose, Country Gazette and the Bluegrass Cardinals. bluegrass compositions and gospel. A talented songwriter, Bryson wrote several well-known tunes including “Riding on the L & N” and “Girl at the Crossroads.”

(Friday, 3:00 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00 a.m.) Local favorites, the 7th Day Buskers are a five-piece acoustic band playing original and traditional roots music. These influences can be heard on their (Sunday, 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.) debut CD, Long Live the Caboose, as well as their second release Born to Pick Formed in 1993, Lighthouse chose their name to identify with San . The band’s live shows are foot-stompers and have attracted a wide fan Diego and their passion for gospel music. Guitarist and lead singer base all over the West Coast. Band leader Shawn Rohlf’s most recent coup Rick Kirby founded is adding to his band Weiser fiddle champion Melissa Harley. “Pacific-ly Bluegrass,” a legendary San Diego band for more than 15 years. Banjo player/ Our Emcees: (Saturday, 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.) vocalist Wayne Rice, (one of our emcees!), involved in bluegrass music since the 1960s, was an The Southwest Bluegrass Association’s current President T J Lyons has a bluegrass Silverado was formed in early 1996 in Lake Elsinore, California and original member of Brush Arbor in the 1970s. For 28 years, Wayne has hosted radio show, “Bluegrass Sunday Night,” which airs every Sunday night at 7 PM PST. The Bluegrass Special blends the high lonesome of traditional bluegrass vocals with smooth , a local radio program on KSON-FM. Active in San Listen on station KTTD 1350 AM “The Toad” or on the Internet at http://www.toad1350.com. harmonies of country music. Fred Wade of Escondido is an outstanding Diego bluegrass and folk music for almost 30 years, bass player/vocalist Pete His show features lots of traditional and contemporary bluegrass music from national, bass player, David Dias plays a bluesy dobro, and band leader Mike Varhola, was also in Pacific-ly Bluegrass. Mandolinist/vocalist Noel Taggart regional and local bluegrass bands. Nadolson adds his outstanding Tony Rice-style guitar to the mix. San played banjo with Blue Skies, a popular 1980s San Diego group, Higher Diegan Dan Sankey contributes fine mandolin and fiddle work. Dave Ground, and Rose Canyon. Playing the dobro and singing bass is Kim Weeks, Continued on next page. Richardson on the banjo rounds out this band’s sound, for rock-solid also a former member of Blue Skies and several other regional bands. Tom bluegrass you’re sure to enjoy. Cunningham, a virtuoso on guitar and mandolin, is the band’s fiddler. T.J. Lyons

10 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 parlor showcase

full circle

(Friday, 8:45 p.m.) urday, 2:00 and 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, Tim Flannery’s 0 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) journey from the mergrass is bringing the finest blue- green grass of music to San Diego — listen to major league base- outstanding bluegrass band from the ball to the bluegrass h and Slovak Republics! Formed in music of his in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, Kentucky roots has ment has released seven CDs and been fascinating for ared at such prestigious venues as Padres fans and Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, the bluegrass lovers A Showcase in Louisville, alike. His latest ucky, and the International CD, Kentucky grass Festival in Guthrie, Oklahoma Towns, pays tribute (Sunday, 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.) ook first place in the European to the “ancient tones” that were honored in Tim’s childhood grass Music Association band com- home where, he says, “We were raised on Bill Monroe.” One of our most popular entertainers in 2003, this great band will be back this year. Ron Spears began a career in bluegrass on. Lead singer Jana Dolakova’s Brother harmonies, bluegrass classics, and originals pay tribute music at age 17 and has spent the rest of his adult life chasing the bluegrass dream. Formed in 1994 this energetic and orig- Bluegrass Unlimited honored as Vocalist of the Year by to the “ancient tones” central to the special music of Tim inal bluegrass band has wowed crowds throughout the United States and Canada. magazine called Ron Bluegrass Now ociations. Instrumentally, these are Flannery & Friends. Spears “one of the most promising new talents to emerge on the bluegrass scene.” said “Warm vibrant har- ide of the Atlantic: founding mem- Musical phenom Dennis Caplinger, who produced Kentucky monies and five stellar string wizards make this band one to keep an eye on.” The band includes San Diego’s own Mike at the European Bluegrass Band Towns, will join Tim on stage along with a talented roster of Tatar, Jr. Richard Cifersky was named other friends for Friday evening’s closing performance. . Tomas Jurena is a flatpicking phe- ocals to the mix. SUMMERGRASS SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL SCHEDULE (Subject to Change) Ticket Booth opens at 12:30 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday

(Saturday, 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.) MAINSTAGE WORKSHOPS & MORE! The Witcher Brothers, a California band, was formed in 1985 by Dennis Witcher, his then ◆ 2:00 - 2:50 pm Bearfoot six-year-old son Gabe and a few friends. They ◆ 7th Day Buskers combined a unique blend of bluegrass, coun- 3:00 - 3:50 pm try, blues and western swing to create the dis- ◆ 4:00 - 4:50 pm Bluegrass Etc. tinctive Witcher Brothers sound. Now, after ◆ 5:00 - 6:00 pm Dinner Break/AGSEM exhibits & three albums and over 14 years of performing, demonstrations the Witcher Brothers are considered one of the ◆ Gone Tomorrow Get Acquainted Jam hottest bands in the Southwest. In recent years, 6:00 - 6:50 pm 6:15-7:00pm: , Les & Lou Ann Preston the band has included Gabe’s younger brother, ◆ 7:00 - 7:50 pm Bluegrass Etc. Michael, one of the top dobro players in the ◆ 8:00 - 8:30 pm Bearfoot country. Their powerful, energetic instrumental ◆ Tim Flannery & Friends solos, tight three-part harmony and heartfelt 8:45 - 10:00 pm original material spans a wide range from tra- ditional to contemporary, as well as original bluegrass compositions and gospel. MAINSTAGE WORKSHOPS & MORE! 7th Day Buskers ◆ 9:00 - 9:50 am 10:30am-noon: Instrument “Petting Zoo,” hands-on fun with ◆ 10:00 - 10:50 am Silverado bluegrass instruments to try out! Located in the Farm House. (Friday, 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 3:00 p.m.) ◆ 11:00 - 11:50 am Witcher Brothers 10:30am-11:15am: Mandolin, John Moore, Milan Marek One of the more recent additions to the San Diego ◆ NOON Lunch Break/AGSEM exhibits Guitar bluegrass scene is Gone Tomorrow, though its & demonstrations 11:30am-12:15pm: , Mike Nadolson, Tomas Jurena individual members are all bluegrass veterans. Get Acquainted Jam ◆ 1:00 - 1:50 pm Bluegrass Etc. 1:30pm-2:15pm: , Les & Lou Ann Preston Featuring Richard Burkett on guitar and vocals, 2:30am-4:00pm: Instrument “Petting Zoo,” hands-on fun with ◆ 2:00 - 2:50 pm Fragment John Highkin on mandolin and vocals, Lisa Burns bluegrass instruments to try out! Located in the Farm on upright bass and vocals, and Beth Mosko on ◆ 3:00 - 3:50 pm Gone Tomorrow House. fiddle and vocals, this popular San Diego group Contest & Bluegrass Fiddling ◆ 4:00 - 4:50 pm Bearfoot 2:30pm-3:15pm: , Dennis Caplinger, plays a wide variety of material, from Bill Gabe Witcher, and Melissa Harley (Weiser fiddle ◆ Monroe, the Stanley Brothers, and Hank Snow to 5:00 - 6:00 pm Dinner Break/AGSEM exhibits champion) contemporary bluegrass and fiddle tunes. & demonstrations 3:30pm-4:15pm: Dobro, David Dias, Michael Witcher, Henrich Novak ◆ 6:00 - 6:50 pm Silverado 4:30pm-5:15pm: Vocals/Harmony, Jana Dolakova & Fragment ◆ 7:00 - 7:50 pm Witcher Brothers ◆ 8:00 - 8:50 pm Fragment Chris Hillman with Bluegrass Etc. ay, 3:00 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00 a.m.) ◆ 9:00 - 9:50 pm favorites, the 7th Day Buskers are a five-piece acoustic band playing al and traditional roots music. These influences can be heard on their MAINSTAGE WORKSHOPS & MORE! CD, Long Live the Caboose, as well as their second release Born to The band’s live shows are foot-stompers and have attracted a wide fan ◆ Lighthouse (gospel set) 9:00 - 9:50 am 8:00-8:50am: Sunday Chapel Service, led by Wayne Rice all over the West Coast. Band leader Shawn Rohlf’s most recent coup ◆ Fragment Bass ing to his band Weiser fiddle champion Melissa Harley. 10:00 -10:50 am 10:30am-11:15am: , Bill Bryson, Fred Wade Get Acquainted Jam ◆ 11:00 -11:50 am Ron Spears & Within Tradition 11:30am-12:15pm: , Les & Lou Ann Preston Vocal Technique and Care ◆ NOON Lunch Break/AGSEM exhibits & 1:30pm-2:15pm: , Rosy-Dawn Selwitz. demonstrations Learn vocal practice techniques and how to take care of your voice from this versatile singer, ◆ Laurel Canyon Ramblers 1:00 - 1:50 pm whose performances range from bluegrass ◆ Bearfoot and jazz to the chorus of the San Diego Opera! n’s current President T J Lyons has a bluegrass 2:00 - 2:50 pm 2:30pm-3:15pm: Vocals/Harmony and Band ht,” which airs every Sunday night at 7 PM PST. ◆ 3:00 - 3:50 pm Lighthouse Dynamics: Ron Spears & Within Tradition The Toad” or on the Internet at http://www.toad1350.com. ◆ Fragment 4:00 - 4:50 pm 3:30pm-4:15pm: Kids’ Camp Bands performance, Workshop Area. and contemporary bluegrass music from national, Ron Spears & Within Tradition ◆ 5:00 - 5:50 pm 4:30pm-5:15pm: Banjo, Herb Pedersen, Wayne Rice. ◆ 6:00 - 6:50 pm Laurel Canyon Ramblers Continued on next page.

11 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour parlorparlor showcaseshowcase

SPECIAL HAPPENINGS FOR KIDS MMM...FOOD... Friday: Bearfoot Bring your appetites to Summergrass 2004, as the food 2:00pm — Don’t miss this young band (21-and-under) on stage! offerings are outstanding! 6:15pm-7:00pm Get Acquainted Jam: All ages; kids welcome! The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum offers a variety Saturday: of food to festival attendees at their several locations throughout the site, including the following: Great homemade, slow 10:30-Noon Instrument “Petting Zoo” — hands-on fun, with bluegrass cooked BBQ at the BBQ Hut, hamburgers, veggie instruments to try out! burgers, hot dogs and the like at the Snack Shack, Get Acquainted Jam and authentic Mexican food at the Mexican stand. 1:30pm-2:15pm : All ages; kids welcome! Ice cream, soft drinks, water and snacks are 2:30pm-3:15pm Bluegrass & Contest Fiddling — All ages; kids welcome! Come available along with kettle corn and various sun- learn the ins and outs of contest and bluegrass fiddling from two young fiddle champs, dries. For campers and early morning arrivals, the Gabe Witcher and Melissa Harley (Weiser fiddle champion) plus fiddler extraordinaire Museum serves breakfast on Saturday and Sunday Dennis Caplinger. morning. See the site map in this program for the location of the various food premises. 2:30pm-4:00pm Instrument “Petting Zoo”— hands-on fun, with bluegrass Sunday: instruments to try out! 11:30am-12:15pm Get-Acquainted Jam: All ages, kids welcome! 2:00-2:50pm Bearfoot on stage; special appearance by Kids’ Camp participants 3:30-4:15pm Kids’ Camp bands performance, Workshop Area NEW...BLUEGRASS CAMP FOR KIDS Nothing is more fun than seeing the youngest gen- erations get into bluegrass, and this year, we’re offering kids a chance to jump into bluegrass in a big way. Bearfoot, a lively, fast-rising Gen Y blue- grass band from Alaska, will be teaching up to 34 lucky kids, ages 6-16, in Summergrass’ inaugural Bluegrass Camp for Kids. With a two-hour session on Friday, followed by an additional three hours of instruction on Saturday and Sunday, camp participants can get instruction in fiddle, twin fiddles, banjo, vocals,mandolin, bass, guitar, or, for those who are just starting out, an instrument overview that lets you check out a variety of bluegrass instruments. Rumor has it that camp participants will be joining Bearfoot on the Summergrass stage over the weekend for some special performances. The camp is open to everyone ages 6-16, from beginners to advanced stu- dents. Pre-registration is required. Go to www.summergrass.net for more information.

Our Emcees: Continued from previous page. WAYNE RICE has GARY KENNEDY discovered bluegrass music on hosted a weekly August 3, 1974 in Ottawa, Ohio radio program on and became an instant fan. Other than that, you San Diego's top know the basic plot. “I can’t play guitar, can’t sing, country music sta- and have no sense of timing, tuning, tone, taste, or tion, KSON-FM talent. Oh, yea, in the ’70s I proved that I can’t for the past 27 play the fiddle, and in the ’80s I proved that I can’t years. Besides play the mandolin.” leading featured “I’ve been a bluegrass MC for about three band Lighthouse, years. Also, contrary to popular legend, I don’t he also plays banjo know the words to every Stanley Brothers song. I in a fun group called Grassology, which know a lot of them, though.” performs at local elementary schools. He also co-produces the IBMA’s yearly NEED DIRECTIONS? awards show. The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum is located in North County San Diego community of Vista. From Interstate 5 (North or South) take Highway 78 East. Exit at Melrose and turn left. Follow Music fans enjoy a Melrose to N. Santa Fe Ave and turn right. The Museum is located 1 mile further on the right picnic at last year’s hand side. Summergrass San From Interstate 15 North take Highway 78 West, exit at Escondido Ave in Diego. Vista and turn right. Go to Santa Fe Ave (3rd stoplight) and turn left. Continue approximately 4 miles and the Museum is on the left. From Interstate 15 South to Highway 76 West, take Highway 76 to N. Santa Fe Ave and turn left. The Museum is located approximately 3 miles further on the right.

12 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 ramblin’ramblin’

by OB Bob Biscoli

or some time now, a pack of musi- cians, artists, and other creative A New Wave of Music types have been making quite an impactF on the Ocean Beach music scene. Independent musicians, artists, writers, studios, venues, and other interests are banding together as a cooperative, which Rolls into Ocean Beach they loosely but affectionately refer to as the Beach Music Mafia. Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach Until now, Ocean Beach music has been well noted for Winstons and the says Aguirre. “They’re a flash back to the Ocean Beach Chili Cook-Off. In the past backyard surf parties of the ‘60s with few years, Oktoberfest has also become a great music, art and a free love attitude great idea. You can always count on a that has been missing from the OB music weekend keg party with some featured scene since the ‘70s. What we offer is a unknown reggae or punk band to send truly social music scene with all the spec- you staggering home. Aside from that, trum of San Diego’s enlightened resi- dents. The OB Underground was created there is Dream Street, but OBcians don’t The Beach Music Mafia (l. to r.): Chuck Schiele, Jose Maldonado, Richard Aguirre, Sean Simpson, Cathryn Beeks really go there. And that’s pretty much it. to give the community the ‘60s free love Enter the Mafia. Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Del Mar, your bikini. It’s what the California week- and more every week. And you know and music feeling on a regular basis — Over the past year, Chuck Schiele has Encinitas, and even as far east as Allied end dream is all about. In one visit most what else? OBcians love original music. and to bring out the incredible musical been chipping away at a barely existing Gardens. folks are hooked, so they go tell their Even the music biz vultures are begin- and artistic talent existing in OB. Ocean Beach music scene and, by now, Schiele coordinates music for the friends. We see them the following week. ning to circle, looking for a way to get a Furthermore, it is presented in an envi- is involved with bringing well over 30 Ocean Beach Farmers Market every piece of the action. That alone tells me ronment that doesn’t represent the epit- new artists to Ocean Beach at a rate of Wednesday afternoon on Newport what we’re doing is working. As far as ome of oppressive American capitalism 15 plus new dates each month to four Avenue at the Bacon Street intersection, Sunset Plaza goes, there’s been an empty but rather as a breeding ground for open venues, two of them new. With a mob of bringing in new talent every week that plaza there for years. I always looked at expression, free thought, and a new other industry-related associations based generally would never make it into the that thing and imagined music and pret- wave of ideas that not only address our in and outside of this seaside community, Ocean Beach loop. The people seem to ty people eating lunch at tables with community needs but is also an outward music and art are beginning to fill the love the new artists as well as the fact umbrellas, drinking mimosas. I wondered movement to spread this social attitude streets of Ocean Beach in a big way. that they are not just jam bands accord- why nobody ever did anything with it. I to the rest of the country.” While the energy of this new movement ing to their typical expectations; the ven- saw that they had somebody play one Also based out of Ocean Beach is is generated, propelled, and functioning dors just plain like it, and the bands love day but they were doing it wrong; it did- SDAM.com whose mission is to make in Ocean Beach, it reaches Mission to play here because they find hungry n’t work and it dissolved. So, I went over local musicians available to the world People gather for OB Sun Jam new audiences. there one day and proposed the idea. with their on-line menu of San Diego tal- On Saturdays and Sundays Schiele has “Even though there is only one real They said, ‘okay, how ‘bout next week?’ ent. According to OB resident/icon, Sean turned the Sunset Plaza at Santa Monica scene here, Ocean Beach wants more It’s been a hit and growing ever since. By Simpson, “Our website not only serves as Avenue and Abbott Street into what is music. I thought about it for a short now everyone at the plaza is enthusiastic a complete resource of musicians but it’s called the O.B. Sun Jam, which goes while, found the right people, and start- and doing their part to make this go. also a resource to musicians. Even if you from 11a.m. until 6-ish every weekend. ed building another scene altogether, And I found out they love original music, aren’t a serious musician interested in our He says, “It’s perfect, because you can knowing the people will come.” explains too. Original music, in fact, is what gets ‘serious musician’ services and tools, we have lunch in the sun, make new friends, Schiele. “For the musicians it’s perfect requested most, and I see people I don’t still list you or your band with your con- check out the locals, have a few brews, too, because this community is salivating know singing along to original songs. tact information because we know it take in the music, and watch surfers. You for something new. And it shows, How cool is that? It’s fun. Everybody wins encourages the overall wealth of the Flowers at OB Farmers Market can even bring your kids. Or show up in because we see them coming out more and everyone is happy. We’re already music scene. After all, we live by the talking about bigger things.” credo that the musician comes first.” Then there’s José Maldonado who SDAM.com also gets involved with local owns and operates OB Cooperative concerts, including the annual OB Chili Records, a multimedia recording studio. Cook-Off, and even throws a few of their Amos Jessup Cooks Up He observes that Ocean Beach itself is a own events every year while acting as an cooperative in action and therefore has integral networking presence. become “a natural spawning ground for Meet Cathryn Beeks. She’s the Pacific Blue Plate Specials for independent musicians.” He recently Beach hottie who’s been booking bands recorded Emilio Camacho y Sus at the Coaster Saloon for about a year, as Rhumberos and the well-noted OB band well as other beach venues for several the Mudcats Vegetation, whose recording has been years, and recently became involved with spinning over at 94.9-FM in recent the OB scene. She’s pretty much her own by Paul Hormick Wales, Canada, and of course the U.S.” weeks. José also maintains a heavy gig scene, all by herself as a booking mavin The Mudcat website uses the profits and singer/songwriting performer in a from its CD sales as one of the ways it schedule while serving as a contributor to “It’s a folk community. You’ll find Amos Jessup number of projects. So, with her pres- raises money. Since orders were first the OB Sun Jam, not to mention the OB everything on here from discussions on ence comes a huge wealth of talent and taken for the disks, their sale has raised a also interested in representing the scene in general. He makes music videos. the size of Paul Bunyan’s feet to the poli- resources, especially with the OB Sun sum somewhere between $3,000 and incredible breadth of diversity in this Recently he even began a promotional tics of New South Wales,” says Amos $4,000. community,” he says. Closing each disk video production for the Main Street Jam. Jessup as he mouses, clicks, and double Not wanting to give the is “The Song,” a tribute to music’s ability Association in association with And so, this new wave of music rolls clicks one of his favorite sites on the impression that any of the to bring us smiles and tears. SDAM.com. Aside from recording proj- into one of the world’s coolest neighbor- Internet. disks had priority over You can find the bit of cyber space ects and the demands of a steady gig as hoods. A neighborhood so completely Jessup, a picker, balladeer, and another, Jessup chose where all this happens at a drummer/percussionist (Able-Minded bathed in paradise, no one ever feels the folk music enthusiast, is demon- not to number the http://www.mudcat.org/. Jessup explains Poets, Andy Burri, Chuck Schiele), José need to leave, making it more its own strating the Mudcat.org website. He disks but rather dis- that the site was started in 1999 by Max and his perpetual grin are an integral cultural and social bubble. Now, instead discovered the site and became a tinguished them Spiegel, a blues enthusiast who lives in of leaving the paradise bubble member back in 2000 when part of making the beach music scene by color: Pennsylvania. For a time the Xerox to find something new, all searching for the lyrics to “My flourish. Orchid, Corporation underwrote the site, but you have to do is stick Home Beyond the Blue Ridge There’s Richard Aguirre, head honcho Strawberry, now it’s supported by the sale of the CDs your head out the Mountains.” Jessup says that a of the OB Underground, an event much Violet, Plum, and other forms of fundraising. great deal of the site is like a ‘60’s Happening with a rave quality door and listen. and Rose. He There are lots of things to click on, intended for and used by to it. In past years he was the organizer was also magnani- such as searching the databases for songs people who, like himself, of Find the Flowers, an Ocean Beach art mous in his selection of about trains or motherhood. Part of the are looking for words and music festival that eventually songs. “If someone took to trou- site features a forum for discussion that to a song from their evolved into the Underground event. ble to submit something, I would is separated into music and the section childhood that they Transforming the local Masonic Hall include it,” he says. He wound up with designated B.S., which can cover just have forgotten. on Sunset Cliffs Boulevard (at Santa For 100 shanties, ballads, work songs, and about anything people want to write Jessup takes credit for Cruz) into a pulsating Taj Majal, further information love songs for the compilation. about. Jessup points and says, “Look compiling the Mudcat Café Blue Plate Richard and his posse bring you belly on the OB music scene Jessup was unconcerned whether here. We have an obituary for the man Specials, a five-CD set that is one of the dancers, comedians, go-go dancers, and music events, the submissions came from professional who was the voice of Woody first things to click on as you enter the contact Chuck musicians who sent in studio-quality Woodpecker. There’s stuff about the surf movies projected onto the exterior site. In May of 2002 he posted notices Schiele at mysteri- recordings or from amateurs whose Pentagon, global warming, and there’s of the building, psychedelia, art, outra- on the website requesting submissions [email protected]. access to technology was not much bet- lots of Bush stuff.” You can also read geous jewelry vendors, stage projections, for the compilation. “I got all sorts of ter than what Edison might have fooled what people have written as well as take crazy lighting, a tiki beer garden, three people sending me things,” says Jessup. around with. Rather, he wanted “a cer- part in the discussions. Membership bands per show, plus a house jazz band “Professional musicians, lawyers, every- tain genuineness” in the songs he select- does have its privileges, but doesn’t cost to play in between sets. And there’s body. And the submissions came from all ed. “I wanted them to have an emotional anything. more. over: Australia, France, England, France, impact, to penetrate in some way. I was “This is more of an event than a gig.”

13 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour ramblin’ramblin’

full circle Bluegrass cycle up (positive) and then down (negative). If you were to overlay a CORNER duplicate waveform over it, but moved it slightly so that the ‘up’ by Sven-Erik Seaholm peak was lined up with the other’s ’down’ peak, you’d have a signal by Dwight Worden Moving the Mike: that is out of phase. In the worst Adventures in Microphone cases, they cancel each other out, Sven-Erik Seaholm Placement and its Subtle based on simple middle school opinion the best bluegrass band in SUMMERGRASS! Rewards math: (+1) + (-1) = 0. In most Remember, no one listens to an California, will appear on Sunday at 1 pm instances, however, there are just instrument with their ear stuck and 6 pm. The Witcher Brothers, includ- right up next to the instrument Q is the Devil. I’m talking certain frequencies within the sig- ing the fantastic fiddling of Gabe Witcher anyway, so if you’re going for an pitchfork, pointy tail, little nal that are being canceled, often (who also plays with the Laurel Canyon accurate representation of a violin, horns, cloven hooves, the resulting in a muddy snare sound Ramblers) will showcase on Saturday. E for example, you might try pulling whole ensemble. Oh, I know there or a weird grinding in the mid to Ron Spears and Within Tradition and the mic away. In this instance, are a hundred “high end” EQ high frequencies. EQ, right? No! Silverado, two favorites from last year, you’d get less of the sometimes irri- processors out there and a few mil- Move the mics. will also be returning to present their tating scrape of the bow and a bit lion users of them who might ini- If you’re confident that your outstanding shows. Rounding it all out more of how the fiddle sounds in tially disagree with that statement, snare and bass drum mics are posi- will be some of San Diego’s best local the room, yielding a decidedly but, ultimately, equalization is a tioned correctly (snare mic: one bluegrass bands, including Lighthouse, more pleasing tone. Horns also Get ready for San Diego’s great destructive process that introduces inch above the rim, one inch over Gone Tomorrow, and the 7th Day benefit from this approach, espe- Summergrass Bluegrass Festival coming subtle harmonic shifts into your the edge, pointed toward the center Buskers. cially saxophones, whose sound this month, August 20-22 to the Antique signal that degrade it each time it is and slightly down, bass drum just On Friday, the music starts on the emanates from the middle of the Gas and Steam Engine Museum in Vista. utilized. Yes, it’s an audio evil, but a in front and slightly off center), it’s main stage at 2 p.m. and goes to 10 p.m. instrument, rather than the bell. In this column we’ll tell you everything necessary one. You can barely get almost always the overheads that Friday and Saturday and to 6 p.m. on Flutes actually mic best near the you need to know to have a great time at through even the simplest session are giving you trouble. Pull them Sunday. For more information on the player’s lips. San Diego’s premier bluegrass event of without reaching for some knob or outward by a foot and note the dif- bands, ticket info, and the daily schedule, Vocalists often use a micro- the year. another to twist. Whether it’s to ference. Keep doing this in one go to www.summergrass.net. phone’s proximity effect (wherein scoop out the mud at 350Hz, intro- direction or the other until you feel the closer one gets to the mic, more BAND LINEUP duce some “bite” at 2.3 kHz, or things are markedly improved. Tom CAMPING, FOOD, ACTIVITIES bass frequencies are exaggerated) to The band lineup adding some “air” up at 13kHz, it mics can also wreak havoc, as they impart intimacy, but too close and for this year looks invariably happens that some sub- are even closer to the other mics. it’s a muddy road you’re traveling. to be even better tle tweaks are in order. The evil lies I’ve recently found that micing the Move back six inches. How’s that? than last year. in relying on EQ instead of your rack tom on the top and the floor Are you really rockin’ in the cho- Headliners ears. You might be thinking, “I rely tom from underneath yield very rus? Step back two feet. You get the include Chris on my ears when I EQ,” but I’m consistent results. These mics picture. Hillman (yes, that saying that if you really listen as should also be pointed toward the Look at all those subtle you set up the mics, you’ll need to center of the drum but with a Chris Hillman of improvements to the sound, and the Byrds, Flying do less to the signal after the fact. much more vertical angle. As always, try not to listen to each we haven’t even thought about EQ Burrito Brothers, This means less signal degradation Chris HIllman drum mic solo’d separately, but yet. Now, remembering that sub- Scottsville and, hopefully, higher fidelity…and Dry camping is available on site for tent with all of them on. The drums are tracting certain frequencies is Squirrel Barkers, Grand Ole Opry, and all you have to do is move the mic. campers and RVs. Staying on site is essentially one instrument and all almost always preferable to adding Rock and Roll Hall of Fame), who will do Take drums, for example. If EQ great fun, as you can explore the inter- your moves and decisions should others (for all the reasons stated a special set with Bluegrass Etc. on is Beelzebub, this is the fiery pit it esting and funky attractions of the be made within that context. above), you can season to taste. Saturday, August 21. Bluegrass Etc. is thrives in. A typical drum setup Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum, Acoustic guitar too boomy? Yum! hot, and with Chris Hillman, it will truly be includes micing the bass drum, which has all kinds of interesting things, First, move the mic away from the memorable. Tim Flannery and Friends, snare, overheads (for cymbals and Sven-Erik Seaholm is an award-winning including a working period blacksmith “sound hole.” That’s actually a bass recording artist and producer who also fresh off their great new traditional blue- the like), and possibly the toms, as shop, a weaving barn, an old school port, a place to let air and energy writes and performs with The Wild Truth grass CD Kentucky Towns, will close the well as some distant mic placement when he isn’t working with other artists house, and more belching and burping escape from the instrument. The Saturday show. Be sure to read the CD to capture the sound of room. Any through his company, Kitsch & Sync steam tractors and machines dating from true sound of the guitar is radiated Production (www.kaspro.com). review of Tim’s Kentucky Towns in this time you have more than one mic 1850-1950 than you can imagine. It is from the face of the guitar or issue of the San Diego Troubadour. For in the same general area, you run quite a sight to see them come by in the the risk of introducing “phase can- soundboard. Stick your ear where those of you who have dismissed Tim as traditional parade. This whole place is cellation,” which is what happens you would put a mic. Move your “not really bluegrass,” you are in for a fun, even if you don’t care for bluegrass when sound arrives at two micro- head around until you hear where pleasant surprise on his new album. music. The museum also serves up pretty phones at ever so slightly different it sounds the sweetest. Now move good food at reasonable prices, including times. We’re talking milliseconds your head closer and farther away. BBQ, Mexican food, a burger shack here. Try to picture a sound’s wave- When you think you’ve found the (including veggie burgers!), and various form: There are peaks in it that best spot, stick a mic there. other eatables. If you are into shopping, you can expect a good selection of ven- dors selling everything from tee shirts to musical instruments, CDs, crafts, and other items. Fragment WORKSHOPS AND JAMMING Summergrass will hit the ground run- Phil Harmonic Sez: There will be a full complement of music ning on Friday with an outstanding band workshops, including sessions on banjo, from Alaska called Bearfoot, a Gen Y fiddle, mandolin, guitar, bass, and singing group that can flat out do it! And, if that among others, which are taught by the “Accept your experiences; isn’t enough to whet your whistle, performing artists and are free with your Summergrass is presenting a not-to-be- admission. So bring your note pad and Bearfoot move on; always try to missed bluegrass band from the Czeck your instrument. Speaking of bringing and Slovak Republics called Fragment, Saturday and Sunday, culminating in a your instrument, get ready for some seri- whose CD is also reviewed in this issue. chance for the kids to play on stage with better yourself for ous jamming. The museum grounds are This great band has won every important Bearfoot. Kids ages 6 to 16 are welcome, full of great places for informal jams, bluegrass award in Europe, including this from beginners to experts. Enrollees will which are encouraged. Check www.sum- mankind and all of year’s prestigious European World of receive instruction on all the bluegrass mergrass.net for the schedule. Bluegrass competition, and wowed audi- instruments and on band play. Bearfoot humanity.” ences at last year’s International KIDS’ MUSIC CAMP has taught this camp around the country to great accolades. For more information Bluegrass Music Association event in New this year will be a music camp for and to sign up go to www.summer- Kentucky. Fragment’s lead singer sounds kids taught by Bearfoot. Camp begins — Kent Johnson grass.net and click on Bluegrass Camp like Allison Krause, I kid you not! with a two hour class session on Friday For Kids. The Laurel Canyon Ramblers, in my and then three hour class sessions on See you there!

14 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 ramblin’ramblin’

full circle Hosing Down Radio Daze by Jim McInnes get back, and, sure enough, I never did.” n

by José Sinatra o t s

e It was worth every penny when W

n Where are they KGB added “Sensitive Boy” to its To be a celebrated artist — ideal o v

s playlist. t

dream lover of worthy women, inspira- o now? o T

tion to young perverts around the : o 1980: I was hanging out in the t o globe — hasn’t always been a h studio (actually, I lived there!) with P refreshing mouthful of tang, let me tell n last month’s San Diego identical twins David and Douglas you. Troubadour Lou Curtiss wrote Farage, who fronted a band called I Jim McInnes Especially during those frenzied about the many records he had DFX2. They were visiting Randy periods when a stalker intrudes upon produced or had a hand in creating. Fuelle to inquire about doing some either the record company or from one’s perfection. That’s an impressive body of work! recording when they said they want- its manager, Rip Emhoff. (His real She was in her SUV, talking on her I, too, have produced records. ed ME to produce an EP for them! name escapes me, but it sounded cellphone when the light turned green. 1979: The Penetrators were the The twins thought that, because I lis- like the name of a sports car.) The Aimed in the direction I was coming The debonair Mr. Sinatra hottest band in San Diego. I had just tened to so much music, I would Farage brothers quit the music biz from, she had the right of way before I mortgaged my car to raise $5,000 have some idea about what and now run an ornamental iron was to execute my left turn. My turn to invest in a new recording Why doesn’t she just introduce her- direction to take them. works in Seattle. signal was on, and I edged ahead into studio. self to me, I wonder. Maybe she’s Being a big fan of DFX2, 1980: I was approached by a the intersection, awaiting her move. Howard Owens tells been brainwashed by too many femi- I immediately agreed to band called Chuck and the Tigers, She just sat there, her eyes the story (edited by me) nine-type commercials and thinks her work with them. The again to help with recording an EP. appraising mine, her luscious lips on his blog, tongue tastes bad. Gimme a chance, sessions resulted in a Those guys could PLAY! The Tigers caressing her phone with shameless www.hbo3.com : baby, to find out . . . four-song, 45 played often at the Spirit in Bay Park lies. And find out I did two nights later. The Penetrators had rpm EP (now known as Brick by Brick), which Sticking my left arm out to augment Oh, and it didn’t at all. recorded a single on their called, was the scene 24 years ago. They did the message of my blinking turn signal It was in another part of the city, own and issued about 200 Where a killer cover of Dylan’s “Like a (since she was a blonde), I waved and where I eventually had her trapped in copies. It gained little attention, but Are They Rolling Stone” and a fistful of original motioned to her to proceed so that I a cul de sac. What I learned from her local DJ Jim McInnes, who was then Now? hard rocking tunes. They were also might continue to carry out my jet set that night was astonishing. with KGB-FM, knew Penetrators’ drum- The known as “Us” and had been on a lifestyle as ordained. You see, SUV drivers work for a mer Dan McLain from shopping in song couple of KGB HomeGrown albums I might as well have been miming to secret government agency with which McLain’s record store, Monte Rockers. “Emotion” under other pseudonyms. the blind. After about 15 seconds, I they must remain in near-constant McLain would loan McInnes records got played on Instrumentally, the sessions went squealed into my nervy turn, causing phone contact. Their job entails serv- for his Modern Music show, which KGB and most impor- well, but they had no lyrics. (It’s a her, of course, to lurch forward in her ing their fellow citizens as altruistic, back then was the only time lis- tant, on L.A.’s influ- guy thing.) Men listen to the music, Hummer as she lay on the Horn of guardian angels. teners could hear the Sex ential KROQ! The women listen to the words...right? Love. It was surely the Grace of God But why SUVs, I asked, with their Pistols, the Ramones, the band’s exposure in We’d finish a hot instrumental track that allowed me to avoid vicious pathetic gas mileage? Who cares, she Clash, Elvis Costello, or the L.A. landed them and retire to the living room for vehicular intercourse and continue my replied. The government foots the bill. Talking Heads on local radio. a recording con- more beer and other stuff, including journey unscathed. So I told her (Her name was Daisy, McInnes took an interest in the tract with MCA lyrics. Chuck would write and rewrite Much later that night (after another by the way.) of a top-secret fuel addi- Penetrators and brought them to Records (see my ear- the words three or four times during essence-draining session of physical tive that increases mileage nearly a the attention of his new business lier piece in the San a 30 minute break in the session. A counseling with a cherished acolyte), I thousand percent. And I’ll willingly partner Randy Fuelle. The pair had Diego Troubadour about the few listens to their EP will prove it to am heading east on a nearly deserted share it with SUV owners everywhere, opened a recording studio in Fuelle’s “MCA Curse”). On the back of the you. I later played the record for the Highway 8, and I notice the bright months before it hits the market. garage and started a record label, record jacket the EP was dedicated to notorious L.A. producer Kim Fowley, approaching SUV eyes in my rearview Combine four ounces of World Records. On the band’s new sin- “Jim McInnes and Larry Groves who liked “I Do Lie” and advised me mirror. Nearer and nearer it approach- Moorehouse mustard with four gle, “Sensitive Boy,” “Stimulation,” (KROQ) and the spirit of radio.” Rush to couple it with DFX2’s “Emotion” es behind me, as if determined to ounces of paint thinner and two table- McInnes is credited with “spiritual recorded a song about the spirit of as a single. It might have become a French kiss my tail pipe. Or it may be spoons of salt. Combine in a blender guidance.” “They put that in,” said radio a year later as the antithesis of dance hit, but I never followed his just the typical Hummer that wants me along with two large Snickers bars McInnes, “because they didn’t want to DFX2’s comment. The band didn’t advice. to change lanes since, after all, she until a syrupy consistency is achieved. say I loaned them $500. It was $500, sell many records and (as is usually 1984: I was approached by the owns this one. Pour the resultant mixture directly into by the way, that I never expected to the case) never saw a cent from heavy metal band Assassin to help Why can’t she read my “I brake for your gas tank before your next fill-up. produce an album. I won’t mention tailgaters” bumper sticker? Why is her It’s so very inexpensive, so very any of the band members names, cab light on? Why is this the same girl easy. No need to stalk anyone to find because this project taught me to from many hours earlier? And who in out this jealously guarded secret of give up my dream of being a hotshot heck is she talking to on her cellphone the stars. Our very roads will thank record producer, while teaching me now? you for trying it out, and you’ll have that many people are backstabbers. After another five miles or so, I something really neat to call home The irony is that we were working on make a surprise, risky swing off the about after you’ve become one of con- a song called “Backstabber” (which I freeway about 50 feet from an unsus- servation’s newest pioneers. think should be a metal classic!). A pecting exit, a maneuver I’d never few weeks into the project I arrived attempt had there been anyone else at the studio at the appointed time on the freeway but myself and my pur- to find the door locked and the suer. I sail up the exit to freedom as lights off. My calls to everyone else my befuddled leech woman beats her involved were unanswered or not horn into a long, wailing, exasperated returned. I think I was shunned cry that agonizes the very air of the because I’d mentioned wanting a complacent valley, now vanishing in percentage if the song was a hit. the night. It wasn’t. I never got an explanation. I don’t even have a copy of the single. Where are THEY now? TO BE CONTINUED...

15 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour thethe highway’shighway’s songsong

full circle Jennifer Spector: The Girl Next Door First Annual FAR-West Regional Conference Aims to Build Networking by Liz Abbott their voice comforts you. The pleasing Opportunities on the West Coast melodies of her original songs are accen- tuated by a delightful array of instru- by Dennis Roger Reed The conference will feature hen Jennifer Spector ments, including the flute, oboe, banjo, workshops, panels, and seminars; reached the proverbial trumpet, and xylophone, creating a style an exhibition hall; private and offi- crossroads in her life, she re you a folk music artist? A W all her own. You can’t help but like her. cial talent showcases; and, of was faced with choosing between mak- folk music presenter? In the Graduating from college with a course, great volunteer opportuni- ing a good living working in her family’s Arecord industry? Are you an degree in philosophy, she was not exactly ties. This is a chance to make security business or pursuing her pas- agent or a manager? In either the equipped with marketable skills, so she invaluable contacts among the sion to write songs and play music. She print or broadcast media? Arts turned her energies to songwriting and movers and shakers of folk music chose the latter and never looked back. administrator? Member of a folk hit the road. After finishing her studies in the West! A resident of Phoenix, Spector has music society or a folk club? and working for a few years, she packed Preregistration is super reason- been performing throughout the Folklorist or educator? up her bags and headed for Europe in able: $130 for the weekend or $150 Southwest for nine years, earning recog- If you fit into any of the cate- 1996, a lifelong dream of hers, to busk at the door. Single day costs, full nition for her songwriting at various gories above, plan on attending the around Europe. Armed with 500 self- information on the various show- competitions in the area. Hard to pigeon First Annual FAR-West Regional compiled tapes of what she considered cases and a tentative schedule of hole, Spector’s sound borrows from ele- Conference, which will be held her best songs, she sang on the street Jennifer Spector events is available at www.far- ments of many different musical influ- October 29-31 at the Warner corners of 14 different countries over a west.org. In addition, the Warner ences, although acoustic singer-song- served to fuel her passion, bolster her Center Marriot in Woodland Hills. period of three months. To her surprise, Center Marriot is offering special writer seems to fit the best. confidence, and overcome her fear of FAR-West, a regional branch of she sold out half way through her trip. discount rates to those who attend Her voice is so sweet and melodic, performing in front of people. Since North American Folk Alliance, aims That tells you something. the event. it sounds like the girl next door or some- returning to Arizona, she started her to bring various folk shareholders Her experience in Europe only Plan on attending for a fun and one you know so well that the sound of own record label called Bathtub Music, in the West together in order to on which she recorded her first CD, build a communication network, rewarding event! Ahead of the Game. The songs in her 12- support regional activities of mem- song CD are jazzy with that free melody ber organizations, and promote an feel. Along with a bouncy, rhythmic, annual regional conference where punchy, overlapping phrasing of lyrics, all can get together to learn, which are jam-packed into each line, you exchange ideas and music, and might think she has influenced the Jason most important of all, meet and Mraz style — a lot of lyrics without make valuable connections and being wordy. It’s all in the phrasing. Ask friendships. The ultimate goal is to Sinatra. Well, yeah, him too, but I mean raise the awareness of folk music José Sinatra. and dance in the west and make Jennifer Spector will be at Lestat’s the West a better place for enthusi- on August 15. asts, presenters and performers.

16 San Diego Troubadour • August 2004 ofof notenote

full circle

Fragment Ron Spears Tim Flannery Bearfoot Various Meant to Be & Within Kentucky Towns Bluegrass Artists by Paul Hormick Tradition by Dwight Worden Back Home Hillbilly There are still a lot of people Tim Flannery, known as Mr. Honeymoon who claim that jazz is best Carolina Rain Hustle when he plays ball for the by Betty Wheeler played by black musicians. This is San Diego Padres, has a musical a silly premise that leads to a lot side that shines with bluegrass If you’re wondering how blue- by Lou Curtiss of silly arguments. You would by Paul Hormick flavor in his new release Kentucky grass will fare in the hands of think by now, after Chet Baker, Generation Y, there’s no better This CD, subtitled “Manhaters, The largest swath of geogra- Towns. This is Flannery’s sixth CD Bill Evans, Art Pepper, and hun- band to check out than Alaska’s Misogynists, and Marital phy in this country to be left out and, from a bluegrass perspec- dreds of other players who are 21-and-under bluegrass power- Mayhem,” features a fun collec- of the American dream is the tive, definitely his best to date. big on talent yet low on pig- house Bearfoot and their most tion of old timey country songs Appalachians. Postwar prosperity, Having grown up in Kentucky ment, that this argument would recent CD, Coming Home. from the late ‘20s through the the great Society, Reaganomics, and weaned on bluegrass and have ended a long time ago. As winners of the Telluride early ‘50s dealing with the perils and the Thousand Points of Light mountain music, Flannery Culture, art, and heritage are not Bluegrass Festival band competi- and pitfalls of the state of mar- have done little to change the returns to his roots in Kentucky a matter of genetics. tion in 2001, Bearfoot joins pre- riage — mostly from the male economic well being of the folks Towns. This is in contrast to Accordingly, the band vious winners Nickel Creek point of view. Some of these who live up in the hills and much of his other music, which Fragment, with their down- (1995) and the Dixie Chicks tracks have been recorded hollers that stretch from Georgia has been well received but has, home brand of bluegrass, proves (1991) in pairing young energy before on CD but not in this and South Carolina to Kentucky at best, been on the periphery of that music also transcends bor- with superb musicianship for a context. The sound is excellent and West Virginia. bluegrass and is probably more ders and geography. These musi- distinctive take on the bluegrass and the whimsical liner notes by Mix in the Manichaean oulook appropriately classified as pop or cians from Slovakia have a sound genre. Keith Briggs add to the package. of Baptist church into the lives of folk. Kentucky Towns, however, is as high and lonesome as any Annalisa Woodlee and Angela Songs include Bill Boyd’s “I Can’t these people whose best days the real bluegrass deal: high and bunch of whiskey-swillin’ tobac- Oudean offer up twin fiddling Tame Wild Women,” Cliff ended with high school gradua- lonesome vocals presenting sin- co-chewin’ good ol’ boys from that is pure dynamite, along Carlisle’s “Seven Years with the tion and you have a formula for cere lyrics with great instrumen- Kentucky. Unlike Django with harmonies that range from Wrong Woman” and “Payday the darkness and dour fatalism tation, punctuated with banjo, Reinhardt and the Hot Club of classic bluegrass lonesome to the Fight,” Hank Penny’s “White that imbue the bluegrass music dobro, mandolin, and fiddle in Paris, who infused their jazz with sultry, bluesy sound of “That Old Shotgun,” Merle Travis’ “Divorce that is the soundtrack to these addition to Flannery’s guitar. bits of French and Gypsy flavors, Kind of Love,” penned by Me C.O.D.,” Earl Songer’s people’s lives. Kentucky Towns includes seven Fragment stays true to every Woodlee. Mike Mickelson con- “Mother in Law Boogie,” and With the backdrop of country original cuts and three tradition- aspect of the American music tributes stellar flatpicking and Hank Williams’ “You’re Gonna roads, beer joints and, of course, al bluegrass numbers, all worthy they play. Without the liner notes solid rhythm chops on the gui- Change (or I’m Gonna Leave),” rain, Ron Spears and Within of a listen. giving away their eastern tar, and Jason Norris adds and 17 others. Tradition serve up a dozen of “The Road into Town,” writ- European names and production expressive mandolin work, play- these bluegrass tunes on their ten by San Diego local Chris on their disk, Meant to Be, you ing an instrument built from all- CD, Carolina Rain, all of them Stuart of Chris Stuart and might think that all the members Alaska wood. concerning broken hearts and Backcountry, starts with a down- of the band grew up washing With six originals featured on dreams, the mislaid lusts of the-middle strike right over blue- down their grits with Nehi soda this 12-song CD, Bearfoot honky-tonkin’, the righteous grass’ home plate. “Kentucky pop. demonstrates the degree to appeal to God for salvation, and Waltz,” a slow traditional The shining star of the ensem- which they are true musical vet- the pain of incarceration. favorite, showcases Flannery’s ble is electric bassist and Allison erans, incorporating all their The musicianship and arrange- resonant and melodic voice with Krauss sound-alike Jana family musical influences – blue- ments are fully traditional, i.e., a nice seamless transition to Bill Dolakova. Just like Krauss, the lilt grass, old-time, Cajun – into a they sound about as exceptional Monroe’s driving instrumental in Dolakova’s voice keeps a ray sound that is mature beyond Bearfoot Bluegrass, continued. as your handy everyday neigh- “Big Mon,” featuring the fine of sunshine in these songs of their years. Their list of musical borhood bluegrass band picking fiddling of Dennis Caplinger. hard life and love. The arrange- influences include Phillips, Grier heavily in the lower 48 states but on the back porch. This is not On “Bury Me Beneath the ments are similar to Union & Flinner, Ani DeFranco, Bonnie has also taught dozens of blue- bad, but if you’re a fan of some Willow” Flannery projects a rich Station or much of what Tony Raitt, and David Grisman, and grass camps for kids, with bass of the more blister inducing and poignant vocal with a defi- Rice has done, being more spare those influences are definitely player Kate Hamre serving as picking, this disk may not be nite mountain flavor. and open sounding than more diced and sliced into the mix as camp coordinator. (They’ll be your cup of sassafras tea. The Kentucky Towns was pro- traditional bluegrass bands. well. But in the end, the sound is teaching a three-day camp for vocals, neither as high nor as duced by multitalented distinctively their own. kids at Summergrass San Diego lonesome as some of the most Caplinger who plays fiddle, Coming Home was recorded in August 20-22, following a sold- traditional bluegrass, are what banjo, dobro, and mandolin. MARK YOUR CALENDARS! the studio of Grammy award- out camp at Rockygrass in late this CD is all about. You won’t (I’m sure he could make music RESERVE YOUR SPACE FOR winning producer Todd Phillips, July.) They clearly delight in the find a bunch of guys singing with a broomstick if he wanted ADVERTISING who purportedly worked the pleasure of passing their love of about their ocean of tears with to, the man drips with talent.) NOW band members until they music on to kids and in main- more enthusiasm anywhere else. Also backing up Flannery on this “passed out drooling on the taining the “too young to know Next month, the Spears in particular has an great album is a stellar cast, couch.” Phillips lauds the end better” approach that Phillips SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR exceptional voice, at once full which includes Bill Bryson result: “I don’t think they realize admires in their music and work publishes its annual Adams Avenue throated and rough, then sweet (Desert Rose Band, Laurel yet how together this record is. ethic. Guitarist Mickelson says Street Fair issue, which covers the as Southern Comfort. Canyon Ramblers), Sharon months of both September and Whyte (Chris Hillman, Eve Selis They’ll have to relearn it to per- that one of the great things October. This double issue gives us a Band), Jeff Berkley (Berkley Hart) form all the intricacies live.” And about working with kids is, much needed break during the year. and Doug Pettibone (Lucinda learn it they have, for their live “They haven’t been told what to Williams, Joan Baez). shows leave the crowd stomping think about music.” It’s that So mark your calendars and reserve and cheering for an encore. “color outside the box” way of your space early if you plan If you like good ol’ down For the past several years, thinking that gives Bearfoot and on advertising or if you have home bluegrass, you will enjoy Coming Home a truly distinctive September and/or October this fine album. Bearfoot has not only toured gig dates for the calendar. sound that will make this CD Continued, adjacent. stand out in your collection.

17 August 2004 • San Diego Troubadour ‘round‘round aboutabout

full circle WEEKLY AUGUST CALENDAR every sunday 7th Day Buskers (1st, 15th)/Gully (8th, 22nd), Farmers Market, DMV parking lot, Hillcrest, Elliott, Twiggs, 8:30pm. 10am. sunday • 1 Coyote Problem/Grant Langston & sunday • 15 monday • 23 OB Sun Jam, Sunset Plaza, Santa Monica & Supermodels, Coaster Saloon, Mission Abbott, 11am-6pm. OB Street Fair, Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 9pm. The Corrs, Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, LECTURE: How to Listen to Music, Connie Allen, Old Town Trolley Stage, Twigg Beach, 10am-9pm. 7:30pm. Museum of Making Music, Carlsbad, St. & San Diego Ave., noon-5pm. Tom Brosseau CD Release/Roy Ruiz 1pm. Radio Free Earth, Pine Hills Lodge, Clayton, Lestat’s, 9pm. Liz Phair/Cardigans/Charlotte Martin, Traditional Irish Music, Tom Giblin’s Pub, Julian, 10am. 4th&B, 8pm. Dave Alvin, Belly Up Tavern, 9:15pm. 640 Grand Ave., Carlsbad, 3pm. Richie Furay/Jim Messina/Chris Annie Bethancourt/Jennifer Spector, wednesday • 25 Irish Dance, Dublin Square, 554 Fifth Ave., Hillman/Herb Pedersen, Humphrey’s, Lestat’s, 9pm. 3pm. Shelter Island, 6:30pm. sunday • 8 Michael Miller/Itai, Lestat’s, 9pm. Celtic Ensemble, Twiggs, 4pm. Chris LeDoux, Pechanga Casino Theater, Hillcrest CityFest, Fifth Ave. & University, wednesday • 18 Temecula, 7pm. 10am-9pm. thursday • 26 Highland Way, R. O’Sullivan’s, Grand Ave., Escondido, 4pm. Earl Thomas w/ Heine Andersen, Dizzy’s, Buddy Guy/Robert Cray Band, Blue 44, Lestat’s, 9pm. Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, 7pm. Dave Matthews Band, Coors 8pm. Amphitheater, Chula Vista, 7pm. Traditional Irish Music & Dance w/ Cobblestone, 5-6:30pm/Boxty Band, 6:30- Skott Freedman/Kevin Allred, Twiggs, High Society Jazz Band, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., 7pm. Asleep at the Wheel, Belly Up Tavern, 10pm., The Field, 544 Fifth Ave. 8:30pm. monday • 9 Solana Beach, 8pm. Aloha Live, Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, Melissa Etheridge, Palomar Starlight Joe Rathburn, The Galley, 550 Marina Pkwy, k.d. lang, Starlight Bowl, Balboa Park, Jason Webley, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Chula Vista, 5-9pm. 9pm. 7pm. Theater, Pala, 7:30pm. 760/510-4555. Gayle/Dustin Shey/Greg Loswell, Annie Bethancourt/Danielle Lo Presti, Miff’s Jam Night, Java Joe’s, 6344 El Cajon The Nervous/Little World, Lestat’s, 9pm. Lestat’s, 9pm. tuesday • 10 Lestat’s, 9pm. Blvd., 6-9pm. Jazz Roots w/ Lou Curtiss, 8-10pm, KSDS monday • 2 Natalie Merchant, Humphrey’s, Shelter friday • 27 (88.3 FM). Island, 7:30pm. thursday • 19 Ramsey Lewis Trio/Dave Brubeck Big Time Operator, Calavera Hills Park, The Bluegrass Special w/ Wayne Rice, 10- Quartet, Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, Los Lobos/Neville Brothers, Humphrey’s, midnight, KSON (97.3 FM). Shelter Island, 7pm. Carlsbad, 6pm. 7:30pm. wednesday • 11 Coyote Problem, Lanstorm Cafe, Matthew Stewart/Simeon Flick/Danielle every monday Toy Piano Festival w/ Sue Palmer, Lower LoPresti, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Escondido, 7pm. wednesday • 4 Level, Geisel Library, UCSD, 2pm. 858/534- Teitur, Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Connie Allen, Old Town Trolley Stage, Twigg 8074. Acoustic Underground, Lestat’s, 9pm. St. & San Diego Ave., noon-5pm. High Society Jazz Band, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: 619/303-8176. Napa St., 7pm. Harvey & 52nd St. Jive, Organ Pavillion, Sue Palmer, Pannikin/Book Works, Open Mic Night, Lestat’s, 7:30pm. Balboa Park, 6:15pm. friday • 20 Chuck Schiele, Prado, Balboa Park, Flower Hill Mall, Del Mar, 8pm. Summer Organ Festival, Organ Pavillion, 7:30pm. Cowboy Junkies/Shawn Colvin, Summergrass, Antique Gas & Steam Peter Sprague & Friends, Dizzy’s, 8pm. Balboa Park, 7:30pm. Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, 7:30pm. Engine Museum, Vista, 2pm. See p. 9. The Flatlanders/Colin Gilmore, Belly Up Mermaid’s Journey/Ashley Matte/Lauren every tuesday Tavern, Solana Beach, 8pm. Carol Ames, Humphrey’s Backstage Patty Hall, Essentials, Santee. DeRose/Adrianne Serna, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Lounge, Shelter Island, 9pm. Connie Allen, Old Town Trolley Stage, Twigg D.R. Auten/Kyle Phelan/Ron Franklin, Bayou Brothers, Trolley Barn Park, Blazers, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. Sara Petite/Dave’s Son, Lestat’s, 9pm. St. & San Diego Ave., noon-5pm. Lestat’s, 9pm. Adams Ave. & Park Blvd., 6pm. Eve Selis, Humphrey’s Backstage Primasi, Pannikin/Book Works, Flower Lounge, Shelter Island, 9pm. Open Mic Night, Casa Picante, 10757 Woodside Ave., Santee, 7:30-9:30pm. thursday • 5 thursday • 12 Hill Mall, Del Mar, 8pm. Illusion 33/Bushwalla, Lestat’s, 9pm. Leigh Taylor Band, Metaphor Cafe, Traditional Irish Music, The Ould Sod, 7pm. FILM: Theremin: An Electronic Odyssey, Chris Isaak, Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, 7:30pm. Escondido, 8pm. Traditional Irish Music, Blarney Stone, Museum of Making Music, Carlsbad, saturday • 28 Clairemont, 8:30pm. 7pm. AM/Leah/Gayle, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Jane/Coyote Problem/Dave’s Son, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Evening of Songs & Stories, Old Open Mic Night w/ José Sinatra, The Smokey Robinson, Humphrey’s, Shelter Eve Selis, Humphrey’s Backstage Templar’s Hall, Poway Park, 7pm 858/566- Beachcomber, Mission Beach, 8:30pm. Island, 8pm. Lounge, Shelter Island, 9pm. The Joey Show, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. 4040. Crystal Gayle, Sycuan Casino, 8pm. Dehra Dun/Jack the Original, Lestat’s, Dave Stamey, Acoustic Music San Diego, every wednesday 9pm. Radio Free Earth, Borders Books, Beezely, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Gaslamp, 9pm. 4650 Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: 619/303- Pride of Erin Ceili Dancers, Rm. 204, Casa 8176. del Prado, Balboa Park, 7pm. Pete Thurston, Lestat’s, 9pm. The Paladins, Casbah, 9pm. friday • 13 Thomas Lee, Borders Books, Carmel Mtn. Sue Palmer Supper Club w/ Deejha Marie Anna Troy/Angela Correa, Lestat’s, 9pm. Ranch, 8pm. & Sharon Shufelt Caffe Calabria, 3933 30th friday • 6 Jane Burnett & Spirit of Havana, , Calavera Hills Park, Carlsbad, 6pm. Terra Naomi/Randy Russell/Chris West, St., 6-8pm. Celtic Ensemble, Trolley Barn Park, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Coyote Problem, Lanstorm Cafe, saturday • 21 Open Mic Night, Metaphor Cafe, Adams Ave. & Park Blvd., 6pm. Escondido, 8pm. Escondido, 7pm. Summergrass, Antique Gas & Steam Carol Ames CD Release w/ 21 Grams & Li’l Ed & Blues Imperials, Calavera Hills The Coyote Problem, Hard Rock Cafe, La Ron Merritt/Larry Brass, Tabloid Coffee, Engine Museum, Vista, 9am. See p. 9. Open Mic Night, The Packing House, 125 S. Park, Carlsbad, 6pm. Jolla, 9pm. Main St., Fallbrook, 8pm. 9225 Carlston Hills Blvd., Santee, 7pm. Radio Free Earth, Pine Hills Lodge, Lisa Sanders/Joe Rathburn/David Jump Jones, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., George Svoboda, Pannikin/Book Works, Julian, 10am. Highland Way, R. O’Sullivan’s, Grand Ave., Beldock/Dan Conner, Pt. Loma Park, 9pm. Escondido, 8pm. Catalina @ Varona, 6pm. Flower Hill Mall, Del Mar, 8pm. Cactus, Cafe Elyssa, Carlsbad, 7:30pm. Baja Blues Boys, Patrick’s Irish Pub, Open Mic Night, Twiggs, 8:30pm. B.B. King Blues Festival w/ Dr. John, Scratched Vinyl, Metaphor Cafe, The Quimbies, Metaphor Cafe, Poway, 9pm. Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, 6:30pm. Escondido, 8pm. Escondido, 8pm. Highland Way, Tom Giblin’s Pub, 640 Grand Natters/Grey De Lisle, Lestat’s, 9pm. Ave., Carlsbad, 8:30pm. Open Mic Night, Tabloid Coffee, 9225 Thomas Lee, Borders Books, Carlsbad, Cameron Ash/Tristan Prettyman/Jen Carlston Hills Blvd., Santee, 7pm. 8pm. Knight, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Live Taping of “San Diego’s Finest” TV sunday • 29 show, Lestat’s, 9pm. Doug Haywood, Acoustic Music San Curtis Peoples/Shining Thru/Reserved The Fremonts/Arroyo, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Diego, 4650 Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: 16, Twiggs, 8:30pm. Napa St., 9pm. Radio Free Earth, Pine Hills Lodge, every thursday 619/303-8176. Candye Kane/Sue Palmer, Tio Leo’s, 5302 21 Grams, Coaster Saloon, Mission Julian, 10am. Joseph Angelastro, Pannikin/Book Napa St., 9pm. Beach, 9pm. David Byrne, Humphrey’s, Shelter Island, Open Mic Night Just Java Cafe, 285 Third Ave., Chula Vista,, 7-10pm. Works, Flower Hill Mall, Del Mar, 8pm. Eve Selis, Humphrey’s Backstage Riverdogs/Trevor Davis/Gregory Page, 7:30pm. Lite the Night, Metaphor Cafe, Lounge, Shelter Island, 9pm. Lestat’s, 9pm. Tim Mudd, Lestat’s, 9pm. Tony Cummings, Blarney Stone, Clairemont, 8:30pm. (also Fri. & Sat.) Escondido, 8pm. Robin Henkel, Lestat’s, 9pm. Rockabilly Thursdays w/ Hot Rod Lincoln, Thomas Lee, Borders Books, Mission P.J. Harvey, Belly Up Tavern, 10:30pm. sunday • 22 tuesday • 31 Valley, 8pm. Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. Summergrass, Antique Gas & Steam Doobie Brothers/Gary Hoey, Humphrey’s, Brehon Law, Tom Giblin’s Pub, 640 Grand Carlos Olmeda/Jim Bianco/Jack the Engine Museum, Vista, 10am. See p. 9. Shelter Island, 7:30pm. Original, Twiggs, 8:30pm. saturday • 14 Ave., Carlsbad, 9pm (also Fri. & Sat.). Matt Adams/Tim McDonald, Lestat’s, Blue Largo, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., 9pm. Surf Sounds: Music of the Coast, Bebel Gilberto, Belly Up Tavern, Solana Museum of Making Music, Carlsbad, 9pm. Beach, 8:30pm. every friday RAINN Benefit w/ Saba and Friends, 1pm. Lestat’s, 9pm. Connie Allen, Old Town Trolley Stage, Twigg The Band in Black, Pine HIlls Lodge, St. & San Diego Ave., noon-5pm. 21 Grams/OB Underground, Sunset Hall Julian, 6:30pm. 760/765-1100. (Sunset Cliffs at Santa Cruz), OB, 9pm. California Rangers, McCabe’s, Oceanside, John McEuen, Acoustic Music San 4:30-9pm. Diego, 4650 Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: Baja Blues Boys, Zip & Zack’s Filling saturday • 7 619/303-8176. Station, San Marcos, 6:30pm. A.J. Croce/Steve Poltz, Cane’s Bar & Chris Isaak, Pechanga Casino, Temecula, Irish Folk Music, The Ould Sod, 9pm. 8pm. Grill, Mission Beach. Call for info. Open Mic Night, Egyptian Tea Room & Blackout Blues Band, Lake Wohlford Avocado Moon, Metaphor Cafe, Smoking Parlour, 4644 College Ave., 9pm. Cafe, Valley Center, 6pm. Escondido, 8pm. Highland Way, San Dieguito United Ryan Blue/Johnny Love Sound/Matt every saturday Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Curreri/Joanie Men/Split Infinity/ Willenollie, Caffeinds, downtown, 8pm. OB Sun Jam, Sunset Plaza, Santa Monica & Encinitas, 7:30pm. 858/566-4040. Abbott, 11am-6pm. Randy Phillips, Claire de Lune, 8pm. Chris Proctor, Acoustic Music San Diego, Connie Allen, Old Town Trolley Stage, Twigg 4650 Mansfield St., 7:30pm. Info: 619/303- Rebeca Randle/Martin Storrow, Twiggs, St. & San Diego Ave., noon-5pm. 8176. 8:30pm. Open Mic Night, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Tony Bennett, Palomar Starlight Theater, Coyote Problem, Hooley’s Irish Pub, 9pm. 9015 Mira Mesa Blvd., 8pm. Pala, 7:30pm. Info: 760/510-4555. Flying Putos, Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St., Talent Showcase w/ Larry Robinson & the Strange Brew, Metaphor Cafe, 9pm. Train Wreck Band, The Packing House, 125 Escondido, 8pm. Gregory Page, Lestat’s, 9pm. S. Main St., Fallbrook, 8pm. Jim Bianco/Free Dominguez/Collin Christian/Gospel Open Mic, El Cajon. Info:

18 San DiegoTroubadour •August2004 Earl ThomasandHeineAndersonatNBC’s ontheGreen Concerts V

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p p u r G l u a P : o t o h P SUMMERGRASS AUGUST 20-22 ADVANCEq TICKETS are available online at www.summergrass.net or at the following locations: e(Please phone for current store hours and latest ticket availability)E Acoustic Expressions Buffalo Brothers Guitars Scotty's Guitar Shop 2852 University Avenue 4901 El Camino Real 348 E. Grand Avenue San Diego, CA (North Park) Carlsbad, CA 92009 Escondido, CA 92025 619/280-9035 760/434-4567 760/489-9251 Antique Gas & Steam Engine Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor Valley Music Store Museum Gift Shop 17828 Chatsworth St. (at Zelzah) 530 East Main Street 2040 N. Santa Fe Avenue Granada Hills, CA 91344 El Cajon, CA 92020 Vista, CA 92083 818/282-9001 619/444-3161 760/941-1791 (VISA, MC, AE) SUMMERGRASS TICKETS GATE PRICE ADVANCE PRICE

CHILDREN AGE 10 AND YOUNGER ARE FREE WITH ADULT ADMISSION! 3-Day: Fri thru Sun. $42 $36 2-Day: Fri. and Sat. $27 $23 2-Day: Sat. and Sun. $30 $26 1-Day: Sat. or Sun. $15 $13 Friday only $12 $10 Ticket booth opens at 12:30pm Friday and at 8am on Saturday & Sunday “I have a vision, of a nation in which people gather with guitar, SORRY, NO PETS ALLOWED IN FESTIVAL AREA OR DAY PARKING LOT. Pets permitted on leash in campground only. banjo, fiddle, and other instruments, where parents play music with children, husbands with wives, and friends with friends.” QUESTIONS? See the program inside on pages 9-12, surf to www.summergrass.net, or call 858/679-4854 for recorded info. — David Harp, Instant Blues Harmonica q WE HAVE A GREAT TIME PRESENTING: r FREE LIVE MUSIC NIGHTS: First Tuesday of the month, 7-9:30pm, Round Table Pizza, Escondido. CAMPOUTS: Jamming, music workshops, a potluck, learn (usually in April and July) new tunes, visit new and old friends. Come Join the Fun at the CONCERTS: From 1999-2002 we produce the Julian Bluegrass Festival for Julian Lions Club charities. In 2003 NCBFC and SDBS jointly created San Diego Bluegrass Society something completely new: the first We sponsor three regular bluegrass events every month Summergrass San Diego Festival. We’re around San Diego County, plus special concerts featuring delighted to do it again! nationally recognized bluegrass bands. NEWS: Bimonthly newsletter, The Bluegrass and Folk Broadcast, with extensive acoustic music event listings and articles, and The President’s OUR THREE REGULAR MONTHLY EVENTS Half-Time Report for “in-between” updates. 2nd Tuesday: Fuddruckers, La Mesa, 7-10 pm. Open mic, bluegrass karaoke, and a featured band, plus outdoor jamming. P 3rd Tuesday: Fuddruckers, Chula Vista, 7-10 pm. The San Diego North County Bluegrass & Folk Club is a non-profit club dedicated to presenting, playing, and preserving bluegrass and folk music. Open mic. Club members include musicians of all skill levels, from beginners to pros, 4th Tuesday: Godfather’s Pizza, Clairemont Mesa, and those who just like to listen. It’s a great group of fun, friendly folks. 6-9 pm. Open mic. For more information, call 760/489-7720 or 760/726-8380, Become a member! For just $15 per or visit www.northcountybluegrass.org household annual membership fee, you help Great people. We couldn’t do any of it without our volunteers! To our support the San Diego Bluegrass Society and members, SDBS, and the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, thanks to receive all this: the inTune newsletter and the all of you for your hard work! Tweener, plus all the latest information on We invite you to join the fun with NCBFC: Family membership is only $15 per concerts, festivals, and especially Summergrass! year! Visit the club’s booth at Summergrass to join or to pick up a sample newsletter. Come by and say “hi.” We’d love to meet you! Stop by our Summergrass booth, near the audience stage area, and pick up free copies of our newsletters and a membership form. Or call our information line: 858/679-4854. By becoming a member, you get all the inside information on bluegrass happenings in the Southern California area.

THE SAN DIEGO BLUEGRASS SOCIETY SINCERELY HOPES YOU ENJOY THIS YEAR’S SUMMERGRASS AND WILLQ JOIN OUR ORGANIZATION. HAVE A GREAT TIME!

The San Diego Bluegrass Society and the San Diego North County Bluegrass & Folk Club extend their thanks and warm appreciation to the San Diego Troubadour for its generous support of Summergrass San Diego.