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SAN DIEGO ROUBADOUR Alternative country, Americana, roots, Tfolk, gospel, and bluegrass music news
March 2003 Vol. 2, No. 6
Lis Proves a what’s t Sa ha nders inside t Ar t is Go Welcome Mat………3 od Mail Box Mission Statement Contributors
Full Circle..…………4 Jan Tonnesen Lou Curtiss
Front Porch…………6 Kenny Edwards Skelpin’ Carlos Olmeda Truckee Brothers
Parlor Showcase...…8 Lisa Sanders
Highway’s Song... …10 Jim McInnes’ Radio Daze Bluegrass Corner
Ramblin’...…………11 José Sinatra Paul Abbott
Of Note.……………12 Lisa Sanders Randy Phillips Blues Anthology Taylor Guitar’s new Expression System
‘Round About ...... …13 Local Yokels March Music Calendar
The Local Seen……15 Photo Page The
PRESENTS Darlin’ and Rose Newest Release!
TomorrowTomorrow YesterdayYesterday See them live at InCahoots! March 13, 9 p.m. Come see what the buzz is all about! COMING IN APRIL! AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT
THE LONG-AWAITED REUNION OF THE on line at www.darlinandrose.com Scottsville Squirrel Barkers o Chris Hillman, Bernie Leadon, Kenny Wertz, Ed Douglas, and Larry Murray appearing in concert with Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen
Friday, April 25 • 8pm Carlsbad Village Theater 2822 State Street, Carlsbad
Tickets: $15 $18 at the door
available at Buffalo Brothers Guitars 760/431-9542 Carlbad Theater 760/729-0089 or by email: [email protected] Phil Harmonic Sez:
Take the train! The Amtrak station is right across the street from the theater! “There is no religion higher than the truth.” ᵮᵙᵗᵙᵗᵙᵗᵙᵗᵚ —Helena Petrovna Blavatsky Watch for details in the April issue of the San Diego Troubadour Author and Founder, Theosophical Movement San Diego Troubadour • March 2003
welcomewelcome matmat
SAN DIEGO MAILBOX ROUBADOUR Alternative country, Americana, roots, Tfolk, gospel, and bluegrass music news Dear Troubadour instruments whose ranges Celebrating music and the would not collide were people that make it is our paired onto the different slogan at Shadowlight tracks: tenor sax and piano MISSION CONTRIBUTORS Studios. The Troubadour on track one, bass and trum- To promote, encourage, and does a great job at doing just pet on two, and alto sax and provide an alternative voice for PUBLISHERS that. Thanks for showcasing drums on the third. Although the great local music that is Lyle Duplessie such a wealth of local talent. two mics were used on the generally overlooked by the Thom Vollenweider With love and music, drums (one on the snare and I appreciate Sven’s cross-ref- mass media; namely the genres an overhead for the cym- erencing. I was obviously mis- of folk, country, roots, EDITOR Jamie and John Paul bals), they were not mixed in informed about the exact tech- Americana, gospel, and blue- Ellen Duplessie shadowlightstudios.com grass. To entertain, educate, and stereo. However, due to the niques for the Kind of Blue GRAPHIC DESIGN Hi there! fact that there was consider- session. However I still would bring together players, writers, and lovers of these forms; to Liz Abbott First off, let me say thanks able “leakage” between all consider a seven-mic/three- explore their foundations; and to the mics and the large space channel recording to be mini- for all the kind words pub- expand the audience for these PHOTOGRAPHY in which they were recorded, malist, especially by modern lished in the Troubadour types of music. Mildred Moreno regarding some of my the stereo mix of the result- standards. recordings (Darlin’ and Rose, ing three tracks does have Regarding the technical fea- To receive advertising rates and DISTRIBUTION Bruce Dale Betz, Dead Rock quite a bit of dimension. Also sibility of a stereo mic: I use information, call 619/298-8488 or Kent Johnson providing some added depth the term “stereo mic” fairly e-mail [email protected]. West, etc.). I really appreciate ADVERTISING it, and I know the artists do is subtle usage of an echo generically to refer to either a San Diego Troubadour Ellen Duplessie too. chamber on some of the true stereo mic or a pair of P.O. Box 164 solos, most apparently on mono mics wired for stereo. La Jolla, CA 92038 Kent Johnson I noticed several errors in E-mail: [email protected]. Paul Abbott’s column entitled Coltrane’s. Due to the fact However, for historical accura- E WRITERS that stereo recordings were cy, Neumann introduced its “Recommended Listening” Paul Abbott still inching their way into SM2 in 1957. SAN DIEGO TROUBADOUR, the wherein he lists three record- Lou Curtiss ings he feels best represent the marketplace and stereo Regarding the 5.1 surround local source for alternative Pam Diehl minimal mic-ing techniques, mic-ing techniques were in sound version of Kind of Blue, country, Americana, roots, folk, Ellen Duplessie specifically with regard to their infancy at best, I doubt no recording (to date) is a gospel, and bluegrass music Miles Davis’ remarkable that a workable stereo mic completely accurate dimen- news, is published monthly and Lyle Duplessie album Kind of Blue. was even in existence at that sional representation of the is free of charge. Letters to the Phil Harmonic Abbott states that it is “a time. music performed, and listeners editor must be signed and may Jim McInnes classic example of how to Many of these facts were should not be content to be edited for content. It is not, Laura Preble capture a small ensemble culled from the book Kind of accept a recording’s limitations however, guaranteed that they Britta Lee Shain with just three mics — a Blue: The Making of the Miles “as is.” I believe this surround- will appear. José Sinatra stereo mic for the band and Davis Masterpiece by Ashley sound version to be a very All opinions expressed in SAN Steppin’ Eddy a spot mic for the soloist.” Kahn, an excellent compan- engaging, viable experience DIEGO TROUBADOUR, unless Jim Wakefield that’s worth experiencing. This is totally incorrect. ion guide to this wonderful otherwise stated, are solely the Gus Williker album. In fact, this is a three-track Paul Abbott opinion of the writer and do not D. Dwight Worden With regard to the sur- represent the opinions of the recording, which at the time John Philip Wyllie (early 1959) was the state of round sound version, I rec- staff or management. All rights the art. The sessions for the ommend caution when lis- reserved. tening to any album that was album were recorded using ©2003 San Diego Troubadour. Cover photography by Marshall seven microphones, one for not recorded with that as its Harrington each instrument and two for intended medium. Much like the drums. The mics used the Beatles’ “simulated were primarily Telefunken U- stereo” releases, some things WRITE TO US! 49-tube mics (which were a are better left as is. We’d love to hear from you! brand new item then, and Thanks again for all you do, Send your comments, feedback, still amongst the sweetest Sven-Erik Seaholm or suggestions to: sounding ever made) and Artist/Producer [email protected] subsequently mixed amongst Kitsch & Sync Production or to San Diego Troubadour, the three tracks so that www.kaspro.com P.O. Box 164, La Jolla, CA 92038-0164.
The Lou Curtiss Sound Library Presents Roots Music Video Showcase Rare Country Music • Blues • Jazz • Cajun & Zydeco • Latin • Other • Roots • Rare Music on Film XTREME COUNTRY RADIO SHOW hosted by Mike Vlack Americana, alternative country, and classics Sunday evenings, 7-10pm
Stay tuned for the Wayne Rice The Lou Curtiss Sound Library LeStats Coffee house at Folk Arts Rare Records Bluegrass Special at 10pm 3343 Adams Avenue 3611 Adams Avenue third friday monthly San Diego, CA 92116-2213 KSON 97.3-FM 7-10 p.m. Phone: 619/282-7833
3 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour fullfull circlecircle
Memoirs of a Local Teen Rock Star by Lyle Duplessie by Axton that Tonnesen set out to other teenage job options like mowing become a folk troubadour (as long as he lawns or delivering newspapers. an Tonnesen, better known to could come home at night for a hot, Though each bandmate owned their some by his alter ego Troy Dante, home-cooked meal). Among his own equipment, Mr. Bolan would Jis not just a premier guitar slinger mementos is an autographed handbill arrange with local music stores to lend but a storehouse of knowledge on San from that memorable evening. the Contrasts amps and other sound Diego’s music heritage from the early Soon after, his parents bought him a apparatus. Having a hot young combo ‘60s to the present. His ranch-style Goya nylon-stringed guitar. In short to sport a music store’s wares was a spread in La Mesa is a virtual treasure order he was playing and performing savvy business move during the heyday trove of classic vinyl, CDs, books, maga- live at his father’s company picnics. Also of neighborhood garage-rock rock zine, photo- as a testimony to enlightened parenting, bands. After all, between ‘64 and ‘67 graphs, and his folks encouraged his record most red-blooded American male teens every other type collecting and had visions of becoming rock ‘n’ roll of artifact that even stars, and local music stores wanted a documents the pur- piece of that market. American con- chased During this time in the local spot- tribution to him light, the Contrasts played on the folk, jazz, mem- Saturday afternoon television show, TV blues, and bership 8 Dance Time with host Bob Howar. rock. But in the They also appeared a few times on the José Sinatra and the Troy Dante Inferno, l to r: Gregory Page (aka Justin Case), Jan more Colombia Channel 8 morning show Sun Up, with Tonnesen (Troy Dante), José Sinatra, Miff Laracy, and Owen Burke (aka Buddy Pastel Jr.) Records host Bob Mills and channel 39’s KAAR à important- Nevertheless, Tonnesen was there to see went to different high schools. Tonnesen Club. that Go Go. Mr. Bolan was so optimistic ly for this the Stones play that was scheduled to go to Helix, while the article, gave him about the potential success of the band The Co evening. other members went off to Crawford. Tonnesen ntrasts l access to the that he even footed the bill Arno to r: Bi Another Rolling Not much happened musically in high ld, Jan ll Keller works of for a and his Tonnese , Skinny n, and K Bolan, Stones story took school except for a short-lived stint with enny Ji Donny Dylan, Dave Constrasts private archives provide a ampa place on the a local psychedelic band called the Luv Brubeck, recording ses- primary source record of our own local evening of May 17, Children, whom some readers might Thelonious sion at the leg- music scene for the past four decades. 1965 in Golden remember playing at the Sunday after- Monk, and Carolyn Hester. endary L.A. stu- Furthermore, much of what is chroni- Hall at the noon Presidio Park Love-Ins around the Around the time Tonnesen turned dio Goldstar cled in the Tonnesen tomes was lived Community spring of 1967. Tonnesen was also half 15, folk music gave way to surf twang Records and out by the man himself. Concourse. This of a folk duo specializing in Simon and and with it came the need to go electric. Capitol Records. So much music history can be was the date of Garfunkle covers and were regulars at He was soon playing lead in a surf band Tonnesen has pos- gleaned from Tonnesen that it was diffi- the Stones’ sec- the Candy Company on El Cajon Blvd. cult to narrow the area of focus for this called the Avengers. When the British session of that ational ond San Diego In 1969 Tonnesen went off to Invasion swept America in early 1964, acetate recording e First N piece. But being a product of the ‘60s, I sen at th tour. Tonnesen Denmark for a short time to attend col- the Avengers evolved into the Contrasts. with the band’s orig- n Tonne felt a natural gravitational pull toward nage Ja 1964. A tee picnic, and other lege. By the time he returned, he was a Though just young junior high pups, inal number, “She omapny that decade. Bank c Contrasts band members, full-blown hippie. He pretty much the Contrasts became a very credible, Didn’t Care.” This Tonnesen was born in Wisconsin and dressed in their matching rock ‘n’ roll stayed out of bands until 1984 when he polished working band. 1966 recording still moved to San Diego with his family in band outfits, sat right on the front row. hooked up with local icon and Skinny Bolan, the Contrasts’ rhythm sounds very cool, with Tonnesen infus- 1959 when he was nine. Both his par- The show opened with the long-time Troubadour columnist José Sinatra. For guitarist, had a father who was an ing a Jeff Beck/Yardbirds influence into ents were music lovers, and as such he local group, Sandy and the Accents fol- better or worse, and in both duo and enthusiastic it. Alas, however, the song was never was surrounded by music. Being the lowed by the Byrds, whose rendition of band formats, he has maintained this supporter of pressed and sold as a single. first in the neighborhood the Dylan classic, “Mr. Tambourine unholy alliance as Sinatra’s sizzling lead the boys. The Tonnesen, an avid Rolling Stones fan, to see Man,” was making its way up the charts. guitarist right up to the present. father, Bill had a few interesting stories from that the ben- After playing their agreed-upon warm- Unfortunately there is not enough room efits of Bolan, era, revolving around the famed group. stereo, his scored The first was in November 1964 when folks pur- them local the Stones arrived to play at the Starlite chased a gigs play- Bowl in Balboa Park. He related how, home unit. ing after being the first to call the Radio Moreover, school KDEO hotline, he won a “press pass” unlike many dances, and the opportunity to meet Mick and parents of military the boys. This was the Stones’ first Tonnesen’s enlisted appearance in San Diego and of course men’s there was much anticipation for the vintage who Howar ith Bob trasts w clubs, and teenage night clubs event. Tonnesen recounts that he got to disapproved of The Con post-war musical like the Cinnamon Cinder in the old Lindbergh Field in plenty of time and trends and the effects it had on their Commanche Bowl in La Mesa and Big saw the plane land. Then the band children, Tonnesen’s parents were hip. Sur on El Cajon Blvd. and 55th St. members got off the plane—the time Tonnesen recalls that Mr. Bolan gen- had finally come to meet the Rolling At a very early age they encouraged up set, the Byrds remained on stage. erally arranged gigs consisting of four Stones! In seconds a car drove up and The Byrds, 1964 their son’s forays into the root sounds of The Rolling Stones had been delayed in one-hour sets. The whisked the band away while “press the time. traffic and the Byrds were needed to here to document the adventures and band would get pass” holders were left abandoned As a boy Tonnesen’s musical tastes take up the slack until they arrived. misadventures of Jan Tonnesen’s dark paid $50, with at the terminal were eclectic. He recalls that the first When the band ran out of Byrds songs, side: Troy Dante. That will have to wait each member tak- gate. two 45s he bought with his own money they took to playing Stones songs. for another time. ing home $8.08 So were Tennessee Ernie Ford’s “Sixteen According to Bill Wyman in his autobi- after taxes. much Tons” and Peggy Lee’s “Fever.” His vistas ography Stone Alone, when the Stones Though it does- for that were again expanded when his babysit- finally did arrive, they enjoyed seeing n’t sound like touted ter introduced his innocent ears to Elvis. the Byrds playing Stones music so much much now, in “press By the time Tonnesen turned 13, he that they remained in the wings and those days confer- was exploring American folk music. watched. making that ence.” With his parents’ blessing he attended The Contrasts also went on to win his first-ever concert at the Land of kind of José S inatra a their share of local “battle-of-the-bands” money play- Con nd Jan a Oden, a coffeehouse music venue in La ventions t one of contests but despite their local notoriety, , El Cor the firs Mesa. The featured act for the evening ing guitar tez Hot t Comic el, 1975 the group broke up when its members The infamous press pass was Hoyt Axton. So impressed was he sure beat the heck out of
4 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003 fullfull circlecircle
Recordially, Lou Curtiss
he 30th Annual You can find great old-time The best contemporary pop TAdams Ave. Roots music on vintage 78s and music draws on roots music Festival is coming up LPs. Why do so many people for lyric content and hot April 26-27 right here on write dismal songs with two- licks. There’s nothing wrong Adams Ave. in the Normal chord accompaniment and with that. To be a compleat Heights area of San Diego. think they are accomplished performer, you’ve got to Since it’s been call the Roots performers? Lots of the cof- have all these things. To be a Festival these past 10 years fee houses hire such people unique performer, you’ve got (the first 20 were called the and they develop a follow- to put them together with San Diego Folk Festival), I fig- ing, and some give me a bad your own stuff, whether it be ure it’s about time that roots time because I don’t hire interpretive or original, to get Lou Curtiss music got a definition. them to play at the Roots what works right for you and Because I’ve booked the pre- Festival. However, just for those who want to hire (3611 Adams Avenue: and Cliff Carlisle, Frankie vious 29 and I’m booking because some misguided you. Listening to a wide shameless plug). I also did Armstrong, Kenny Hall, this one, I guess that I should people out there with range of my first radio show in 1967 Robert Pete Williams, Lydia be the one to do that. little or no for KPRI. Along the way, I’ve Mendoza, Joel Sonnier, and Well, we start with our taste in been on KGB and KDEO so many more. It’s been a own traditions, ranging from (remember Radio Kay- big kick for me to revisit so blues, jazz, country, gospel, Dee-Oh). For the past many of these fine people cajun, tejaño, and zydeco, 16 years I’ve done we’ve had at festivals over and add to that all the ethnic “Jazz Roots” on the years. I’m trying not to minorities that brought KSDS (now on talk too much but I’m hoping their music here. Now we Sunday the occasional story puts add to that the fact that nights, 8-10 some of this music in con- this is “roots” music, so p.m.) and text. Listen in if you can. And what we look for is for the past you musicians/performers, lis- music the way it was three years ten to what these people are and music that was I’ve ben doing. This is the best of the influenced by that doing best in roots music. I find so music. For instance, “The many wannabe performers we book a bluegrass Melting who don’t know how to lis- band for the old-timey Pot” on ten. I spend most of my life content of their music. World Music (whether by selling records, We book a singer-song- Webcast playing music on the radio, writer whose songs are (www.world- or presenting music at festi- influenced by old-time musicweb- vals and concerts) giving you songs and whose way of caset.com), opportunities to listen. Most playing them sounds old which runs about of these opportunities don’t timey. four times a week cost you anything, and the The interesting thing is (Saturday, 8-9:30 a.m.; rewards are what ever you that my concepts of “old Sunday, 1-2:30 p.m.; make of them. As the old time” and “roots” have music Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m.; plus harmonica player said: “Go changed in the years I’ve tell you a floating show that might thou and blow now.” Good been doing this festival. how great you music wind up anywhere). This win- luck. There are people being are doesn’t mean that you can do one of ter and spring “The Melting booked today who play in a are. Learn five or six more two things. It can teach you Recordially, Pot” has been rebroadcasting style I didn’t consider old chords, listen to songwriters how stuff is done or it can Lou Curtiss tapes of some of the early time 30 years ago. My tastes like Cole Porter, Bill Monroe, discourage you from wanting Folk Festivals we did. There’s have changed and the music Bob Dylan, Mary McCaslin, to perform. If the latter is the great stuff here from such I consider old timey and Bob Nolan, or Lalo Guererro. case, then maybe you don’t artists as Jean Ritchie, Ray worth preserving certainly Learn a couple of their songs. want to be a performer. and Ina Patterson, Roscoe have too. Add to that the Learn a couple of new tun- Maybe we’ll actually hear Holcomb, Mike Seeger, fact that 30 years ago it was ings on your guitar, man- some roots music in the cof- U. Utah Phillips, Wilbur Ball still possible to get artists dolin, accordion, or whatev- fee houses. who were performing music er. You might wind up at the At any rate, festival num- in the 1920s and ‘30s, but Roots Festival. ber 30 is coming up. Along that is mostly past us now. I find that different kinds with that are several other We need to locate the sur- of roots music often tug on anniversaries for me. Festival vivors, but I’m seeing fewer each other. Cajun accordion number one took place 35 and fewer of them every guys learn stuff from tejaño years ago, which was the year. There is more old-time accordion guys. You’ll hear same year I opened Folk Arts roots music available today an old-time Blind Lemon Rare Records, and for 25 on CD reissues, on the Jefferson lick in a tune by Bob years Folk Arts has been Internet, and on the radio. Wills and his Texas Playboys. located on Adams Avenue
5 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour frontfront porchporch Kenny Edwards: A Rock of American Folk-Rock by Britta Lee Shain and Later he produced other and his wonderful musi- Jim Wakefield records too and was fre- cianship. quently called upon as a Kenny Edwards will be n case the name does session musician for many performing at Wynola Pizza not immediately come great artists, a practice that Express (3.5 miles west of to mind, behind-the- I continues to this day. A par- Julian) on Friday, March 21, scenes player Kenny tial list of Kenny’s session 6-9 p.m. For more informa- Edwards has long been an credits includes the names tion, call 760/765-1004. Kenny Edwards influential force in the Don Henley, Brian Wilson, Join Kenny on Saturday, American folk-rock move- Gaslamp Quarter, where dile or the soup! Yummy. Stevie Nicks, Warren Zevon, March 22, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. at ment. A native Californian, you can eat the finest cajun There is no cover charge. Art Garfunkel, Vince Gill, the Bayou Bar and Grill, at who early on developed a and creole food west of the For dinner reservations call Mac McAnally, David Lee 329 Market Street in the passion for blues, Gulf Coast. Try the croco- 619/696-8747. Murphy, Jennifer Warnes, Appalachian music, blue- Danny Kortchmar, Bonnie grass, rock, and all kinds of Raitt, and Lowell George. ethnic and roots music, Now, Kenny has come Kenny Edwards, along with Who, or More Likely, What Is Skelpin’? into his own with the Linda Ronstadt and Bobby Skelpin’: Gaelic for a spanking; to thrash about wildly; or the sudden chill that sweeps over a body unexpectedly reuniting of Bryndle, whose Kimmel, co-founded the due to a disembodied spirit having just passed through you. Of course, then there’s the other translation of critically acclaimed albums Skelpin’ — a form of hanky-panky involving the back seat of a car. Stone Poneys. A superb gui- are almost entirely co-writ- tarist, mandolin player, bass ten within the group and player, lyricist, composer, the recent release of his first by Pam Diehl singer, and arranger, Kenny solo CD. Released in the went on to perform and co- art of the fun of seeing summer of 2002, Kenny’s write with Ronstadt for Skelpin’, one of the region’s self-titled album, which best-known Irish bands, is a many years, playing on her delves deep into his blues tossupP — just which one of these defi- records and touring exten- and folk roots, was pro- nitions is the right one? Fiddler Patric sively. He is often credited, Petrie, the band’s own high-energy duced by Freddie Koella, along with Andrew Gold, as “Wild Irish Rose,” is quick to shrug musical director for Willy the backbone of the her shoulders and claim that Irish Deville and mastered by music has a life of its own — and Ronstadt sound. Gavin Lurssen who also what happens once the band kicks mastered the O’ Brother, into a tune is nothing but magic. “It’s easily the most fun you can have . . . Where Art Thou? sound- and still get paid for it,” Petrie chor- Skelpin’, l to r: Steve Peavey, Richard Tibbitts, Harold Southworth, and Patric Petrie track. “Its pretty intimate tles. Not to say there isn’t a serious and homey sounding and I side to what Skelpin’ plays, but this Franklin’s saying “Beer is proof that for Skelpin’. I don’t think we’ve ever isn’t your father’s “Danny Boy.” like that after all the band God loves us and wants us to be played in a place where people were “Traditional music isn’t a museum oriented music I’ve been happy”; and Patric, lilting singer of out on the street scalping tickets for piece nor a fly stuck in amber,” she romantic songs with an Irish twist, our concert.” involved with over the explains. “What Skelpin’ does is make who says, “I don’t care. It doesn’t On a lighter note, Skelpin’ has years.” the music come alive again. Every count as a love song unless someone just finished its CD, Whiskey Before In an interview in piece we play takes on the character dies.” Breakfast and has high hopes it will do of the musician performing it. And Kenny Edwards (left) with Linda Performing Songwriter last Besides multiple gigs clustered well. Petrie smiles as she explains when you love the music, that comes Ronstadt and Andrew Gold in the ‘70s December, Kenny laments, around Saint Patrick’s Day in March, about the title, “While it is a well- through as well. What could be more the band is often showcased with the established fact that the band has “At the peak of Linda original than that?” she asks. During L.A.’s world’s best-known Irish band, the been known to enjoy a drop or two— Ronstadt’s career when we Skelpin’ has been performing Chieftains, who visit San Diego several for medicinal reasons only—it is sheer “Troubadour days,” a time around Southern California for several were playing these huge times a year. coincidence entirely that one of our that solidified the years and has been the featured arenas, we never had much “My family is from Achill Island,” favorite tunes is the aforementioned California country-rock house band at Dublin Square Irish Pub contact with the audience. Petrie explains. “And when I go back, whiskey title.” in San Diego’s Gaslamp District for the sound forever, Kenny met the cousins and I drive down the coast Other Skelpin’ favorites include I’m trying to have this past year and a half. Karla Bonoff. Together with to Westport where Matt Malloy (the “Whiskey in the Jar,” “Whiskey, You’re experience now of touring Part of the beauty of Skelpin’ is Chieftain’s flute player) has a pub. It’s the Devil,” “Patric’s Farewell to Andrew and Wendy watching the band members do a on my own, getting in the a great place for picking up a session. Whiskey,” and not to show prejudice Waldman they formed the musical version of a Vulcan mind- van and playing some cool- Almost all the musicians on the West or favoritism, the band has decided to meld—Steve, a guitar virtuoso equally band Bryndle. Kenny, who Coast [of Ireland] seem to stop by on a call its next CD Beer: Not Just for er little places.” at home laying down a driving rhythm is responsible for supplying regular basis and you just never know Breakfast Anymore. Kenny Edwards is a or amazing the audience with his deli- who’ll turn up for a tune.” Petrie points out that sometimes Linda Ronstadt with several cate fingerwork; Richard, the band’s remarkable, articulate per Back here in the States the band you have to give credit where credit’s of Karla Bonoff’s songs, musical cut-up who suddenly launch- son—passionate and knowl- seems to be equally at ease on either due. After all, talent will only get you then went on to produce es into the theme song of Leave It to edgeable about music. side of the border. “Just over the holi- so far. Beaver or “Locomotive Breath” while three classic Bonoff albums, days we played a concert in Mexico to Audiences don’t know how in the middle of polka set; Harold, bold Karla Bonoff, Restless Nights, raise money for the orphanage in very familiar they are with disciplinarian of pub songs and T-shirt and Wild Heart of the Young. Rosarito,” Petrie said. “It was a first the sound of Edwards’ voice philosopher whose credo is Benjamin S
6 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003 frontfront porchporch
Carlos Olmeda Finds Variety the Spice of Life by John Philip Wyllie “My ears have always paid atten- unique brand of folk-pop. tion to good songs whether they “Everybody I have ever or Puerto Rican-born Carlos were simple or complex. It may brought to hear Carlos perform Olmeda, music was a con- sound very P.C. [politically cor- has told me that he has the most Fstant feature of life from the rect], but I didn’t have one specif- amazing voice,” says percussionist time he could sit up in his crib. ic [musical] hero. Every good Scott Lee. “So it is not only his The wide variety of music he was songwriter and performer made songwriting, but also his amazing exposed to at an early age made a an impression on me. From Elvis singing style that people find profound impression. Blessed Costello to Pearl Jam to They attractive.” with an acute sense of hearing Might be Giants to Cat Stevens to Olmeda believes there are and a desire to absorb all that he Frank Sinatra to Billy Holiday and two things that set him apart. “My heard and regurgitate most of it, Glen Miller, there was always music is pretty syncopated and it the die was cast that one day something special about a good is not genre specific. I don’t write Olmeda would be a musician. song when it came along. They only one style of songs. If people “Ever since I was a little kid, [good songs] are what my ears want to hear a series of songs that if I’d hear a sound enough times, I have always been attuned to.” are not going to sound the same could mimic it. I guess I’m kind Olmeda’s critically acclaimed form beginning to end, they of a mockingbird by nature,” he 1999 release Sensitive Groove, like should come out and hear me admits. his more current music, draws play. They will come away saying, “My Mom had us listening to upon a number of sources for you don’t hear that every day.” everything as kids,” Olmeda inspiration, but his meticulous Olmeda’s February 7th per- recalled following his regular first attention to detail, the warmth in formance at Lestats found him in Friday of the month gig at Lestat’s his voice, his vocal range, and his substantial pain, still recovering Carlos Olmeda Coffeehouse on Adams Avenue. stylish guitar playing enhance his for a recent motorcycle accident, but his discomfort did not prevent [but when they are] we’ll do origi- him from putting together a thor- nals with a lot of jazz-blues oughly enjoyable show. chords in them and some cool Truckee Brothers in Overdrive Accompanying himself on guitar, vocal harmonies. The genre we the highly personable Olmeda had are working in is just pure fun,” the intimate coffeehouse crowd Olmeda says. by Ellen Duplessie eating out of his hand by night’s Having abandoned at least end. temporarily what was once a hec- he unique, edgy duo Displaying his amusing sense tic travel schedule of playing clubs known as the Truckee T of humor, Olmeda threw in a throughout California and Brothers are making slightly bawdy audience participa- beyond, Olmeda now relies on their presence known in the San Diego music scene. Patrick tion Irish pub song entitled “Mike several of his many talents to pay Dennis and Christopher Hoffee Rotch” at one point and playfully the bills. bring together a mix of original chastised an unsuspecting late “I’m doing voiceovers and style, soul, and honesty that is arriving patron by bellowing, writing voiceovers for TV com- refreshing in these days of over- “close the door and sit down!” mercials for a group called L-7 produced, pre-packaged sound. midway through a song in his best Creative,” he explained. “I sup- The Truckee Brothers in concert With an undeniable magnet- Marine Drill Instructor voice. ported myself totally through ic stage presence, these two sing wrote and recorded his first solo music. It’s clearly not about Later on after doing another Irish music for many years, but I just their original songs either togeth- album Spun for indie label Cargo them, but rather it’s about their song, Olmeda slipped into a dead- got tired. Now I do a number of er with a Byrds-esque harmony, Music. Patrick has also per- creative musical endeavors. An on Irish brogue and facetiously things like writing music for com- or solo backing each other with formed with acts like Clem Snide example of this can be seen on explained to his audience that mercials.” their added instrumentation. The and Luka Bloom. the www.atomorr.com website, Puerto Ricans back in his home- “Right now, I’m just chillin’. music is perhaps best categorized Christopher Hoffee has cre- under biography, where the land often sit beside their camp- Up until a couple of years ago I as alternative rock, but played on ated a solo music persona description reads: “Christopher fires and sing songs in Gaelic. spent a lot of time on the road older style acoustic instruments, known as Atom Orr. His first has been in bands since 1990, Using a gravelly Cat Stevens touring with Jason Mraz and Toca namely guitar and mandolin album Wake, along with and has opened for such acts as among others. his second album Noir, are both Radiohead, Oasis, Blur, Cracker, voice on one tune and crystal Rivera. We had a lot of fun, but Patrick Dennis’ new EP, complete originals, with all Cake, blah, blah, blah.” clear falsetto reminiscent of Dan right now I’m just chillin’ and Atlantic, his third solo release, is songs written, performed, engi- Not only do the Truckee Fogelberg on several others, writing songs.” just that—a solo release in the neered, mixed, and produced by Brother create their own music, Olmeda provided something for Fortunately for his San Diego purest form. All six songs are him. Christopher describes but they also work together in everybody. While he sings prima- audience, Olmeda performs those written, performed, and pro- Wake’s music as “Pock,” while the role of producer. Their most rily in English, Olmeda acknowl- songs live on the first Friday of duced by Patrick, showing off an the music from Noir he describes recent work is none other than edged his Hispanic roots on sever- every month at Lestats. edge to his multi-instrumental as “Left-of-center Pock.” Both that of Lisa Sander’s new album, al occasions including a slowed abilities to match the energy of records are due out this month. Hold On Tightly, due out for down version of the old time clas- his songwriting. Joined by his That’s right . . . two releases in release on April 12 (see CD sic “Besame Mucho.” fellow Truckee Brother, Atlantic one month! Hoffee is also a review on page 12). While he has no immediate delivers a powerful combination member of the local alternative This creative duo has the plans to return the recording stu- of bombastic attack and intimate rock band, Fivecrown. curiosity to experiment, while dio, Olmeda is currently working confessions. An appealing aspect of the retaining the roots and longetivi- with local bluesman Richie Blue Cutting his teeth while play- Truckee Brothers is the combina- ty of the musical heritage that on some songs he hopes to per- ing in old school punk bands, tion of their intimate yet power- has preceded them. My hope is Patrick soon joined the Byrds- ful music mixed with a self-effac- that these Truckee Brothers will form with a couple of new rock ‘n’ inspired Homer Gunns, and also ing sense of humor that displays continue to “keep on truckin’” roll bands he is putting together. toured as band leader for Dave their pure enjoyment of the for a long, long time. “I don’t expect the bands to Sharp (the Alarm). He then music just for the sake of the be ready for another six months,
7 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour parlorparlor showcaseshowcase
full circle by Laura Preble
t’s an unseasonably hot ande day, even for California S r winter, and Lisa Sanders a s Isits in the window of a coffee- s P house sporting sunglasses and a i short-sleeved shirt. Under a r water-beaded glass of iced tea, L the hand-painted table where o r
she sits displays a motto that fits e d i e
w v the San Diego singer-songwriter: n e l ART IS GOOD. l o
V e t
Lisa isn’t in it for the money, m o s h a T although that would be nice. : o
t h
o t
She’s not in it for the fame, h P which she deserves.After a recent split with her small Tyrone But describ- record label, Cargo, the self- sang ing what Lisa described creator of Black Motown Sanders does Cowgirl Pop music is in it for hits on as ‘cowboy herself, making art the way she summer music’ isn’t quite wants to, despite an industry nights with right either. Hold geared toward indifferent teens, a group of on Tightly is a valen- disposable tunes and the seven or eight tine to a time when almighty quick buck. friends. She says she radio was good, when you “Grownups don’t buy wrote her first song at could actually click on an FM records because the record com- age nine. Lately, she’s been lis- station and hear innovative, panies don’t give them anything tening to a lot of Aretha Franklin, But anyone cross-genre tunes.“I set out to to buy,”she says.“But all of a sud- Etta James and Billie Holiday, who’s seen Lisa Sanders perform make a retro record in modern den you have Steve Earle, Bonnie women who have knows that her self image isn’t times. I wanted it to have a sum- Raitt, James Taylor, always been exactly what her fans see.A mertime flavor, with things that and thousands influences but dynamic guitarist and singer, Lisa meant a lot to me musically.”It upon thousands of I’m a who now res- has the ability to connect with does have that quality — it people are in the “ onate even more an audience in an intimate way careens from the title track, a audience for their woman and I’m with her new — almost as if she were your shows.” direction.When best friend and the two of you Like those black and I’m o n e
she performed were sharing stories over a bottle r stars packing o M at the last Lilith of wine. Combine that with the e
singing cowboy i arena shows, Lisa l l Fair with the accessibility of her songs and i M
Sanders can’t be : o music and that is likes of Sheryl you have anything but uptight. t o easily pigeon- h Crow, Sarah What you have is Black Cowgirl P holed. Her music not usual. MacLachlan, and Pop. is tinged with ” the Dixie Chicks “I’m a woman and I’m black blues, folk, coun- in front of 17,000 and I’m singing cowboy music try, pop and rock — pretty much screaming fans, she knew her and that is not usual,” she laughs anything she finds interesting.“I direction was the right one when asked the origin of BCP need a little variety.Wherever my Her latest effort, Hold on and the cool but quirky image of mind and heart is, that’s how Tightly, was “an exercise in step- a dark Dale Evans diva.“I mean, music comes at the time.” ping outside the bubble. I still I’m from Poway, what do you Lisa was drawn to the street can’t figure out why it hurt. I want me to play?! I finally came corners of Philadephia in her wanted to stretch out, and it was up with this. I like to let my early years where her brother painful.”In her typically low-key music speak for itself.” way, she smiles, arches an eye- brow and says “I’m one uptight Lisa at the Adams Ave. Street Fair last year chick.”
8 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003 parlorparlor showcaseshowcase d n r a e e d i S r e w n
s e l l a o V
m
P o
s h T
d i oo : o G t o h r Is P L t Young people who’ve grown o r up musically in a stilted corpo- v A rate radio environment have missed out on some of the best Despite the sunny tone of e t and most innovative artists the record, Sanders says it threw s a around. her into one of the deepest th “I wanted to do something depressions of her life.“It was a that has the flavors of the things mix of nostalgia and my feelings they’ve missed,”she says. about how the world’s been radio rock tune, to “Ever Find a “Because a lot of the kids missed changing,”she Way” with its out on Marvin Gaye and all that for some Black Cowgirl Pop and says, her mega- George Harrison- stuff.The rappers talk about it a return to music that doesn’t fit watt smile esque guitar Hold On Tightly but I don’t think they really into someone else’s narrow defi- dimmed for a work (done by “ know.” nition of what’s “marketable.” is a valentine to a moment by Sanders herself) After all, art is good. the unspoken to “Crumble,”a Hold on Tightly will be offi- time when radio sadness that cross between cially released on April 12, with a seems embroi- flower power was good, when release party at the Seaside dered at the Simon and Church in Encinitas at 8 pm. hem of every- Garfunkel and you could actually Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 one’s con- punk Pretenders. at the door.An artist’s reception click on an FM sciousness Listening to the begins at 7 p.m. with wine and today.Who album is like tak- light hors d’oeuvres. Reception station and hear wouldn’t want ing a long car Lisa and Sarah McLachlan at Lillith Fair and concert tickets are $20. Call to go back to trip cross coun- innovative, 760/598-3996 or email those days try, punching And this is the first record [email protected]. The cross-genre tunes. before — those radio but- she’s done on her own after Seaside Church is located at tons and finding ” before terror- departing her record label and 1613 Lake Dr., Encinitas. ists, before cor- that each new starting Pathfinder Records, porate scandals, station is playing something cool named for a farm owned by a before suicide bombings and that makes you do that front seat friend. Plunging into the cold anthrax mail? “I want people to shimmy. and calculating world of music be boppin’ down the highway, without the backing of a label is reminiscing, having the same scary, but Sanders relishes the feeling they’d have if they were chance to let people hear what
o kids again.” n
e she wants to say. She’s primarily r
o Maybe one of the biggest M
marketing her music through the e i
l achievements to come from l i internet, at LisaSanders.com, and M
: Hold on Tightly is the fact that o
t she’s hoping to work up a tour- o
h she gave a copy to her 23-year-
P ing schedule in the near future, old daughter “and she flipped.All maybe opening for some nation- these young women are freaking al acts. for the record. It’s nice that the At the time of this writing, kids like it too, and for the first she’s getting ready to hit time I’m getting feedback from Nashville for the national Folk kids in a positive way.” Alliance, where her music will get a well-deserved listen.Who Lisa with drummer Nucci at the Whistle Stop knows, maybe the world is ready
9 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour
ramblin’ramblin’
he Last but not least was the aptly T named Last Chance, showcasing Radio Daze Bluegrass Corey Miller on mandolin, veteran FIRST IN A SERIES Ken Tagame on bass, pro-Yukon Jack on guitar, Don Hickox (7th Day by Jim McInnes CORNER Buskers) in his second appearance on fiddle, and Bob Arsenaught back Travels with Jimmy FIRST IN A SERIES for more on guitar. They closed the competition with a rousing bang! y career in broadcast- by D. Dwight Worden Tension mounted as the judges ing has enabled me to including Kenny Wertz (of Country huddled in final consultation. Then M do things I’d have Mixed Company Steals the Gazette and Down the Road fame) came the announcement: Mixed never thought possible…like Audience Award at the San on banjo, Jim Murphy on mandolin, Company was declared the winner going to the good old U.S.S.R. Diego Bluegrass Society’s Dan Sankey (of Silverado) on fiddle, by a narrow five-point margin, who By way of introduction, why “Jamuary Bandscramble” Michael O’Malley on guitar, Mary played out a couple of “winner don’t I backtrack? Good! On January 14 the SDBS Birkitt on bass, and Mr. Specialty tunes” to end the evening. As the In high school (during the Bandscramble was held at John Deckard (leader of Full Deck) happy but exhausted players Cold War) the U.S.S.R. was the Fuddruckers in La Mesa where on jaw harp. These two hot bands packed up and headed for home, “enemy,” so I chose to learn not more than 30 names were drawn got everything off to a great start, murmurs were heard calling for a only the Russian language, but Jim McInnes from a hat and formed into six and the judges were seen huddling “rematch” and “I’ll bring my whole also an entirely new (Cyrillic) show in Copenhagen, Denmark “instant bands.” The drawing ran- carefully in contemplation. family, including the dog, to make alphabet. I carried on with my (a fantastic city!). The day after domly mixed seasoned pros from The Complete Strangers were noise next time.” Russian studies through my third year at Lawrence University in the concert, which reminded us nationally recognized bands with a next up, sweaty palms and all, feel- Ron Spears and Within Tradition upstate Wisconsin. The coolest of life-sized wax Stones man- variety of other players ranging from ing the pressure. Keeping the action Brings National Bluegrass Band thing about Lawrence was that it nequins with remote-servo-oper- serious amateurs to beginners and hot were Phil “Doc” Levy on banjo, to San Diego had a REAL10,000-watt FM radio ated life-like movements trying young people. The bands were Jim Blakemore on mandolin, Dwight February 7th saw a successful station…the place where I got to appear like they gave a shit, given 15-30 minutes to meet each Worden (of Bigger Fish and the 7th Day Buskers) on fiddle, Bob concert by nationally recognized my REAL education! The main we all went to Moscow anyway. other and work up a few songs Ron Spears and Within Tradition, We were gonna PARTY with the Arsenaught on guitar, and Mike problem was that I was a mathe- before performing them on stage to which was held at the Poway Russkis! And a party it was! The Phillips on bass. Rumor has it that matics major, so when I flunked a packed house. Competition was Community Center. More than 100 Russians somehow stole 75 per- bribes to the judges were passed by out of Lawrence, I went to fierce for the coveted Audience happy bluegrass fans enjoyed the Southern Illinois University, cent of the gazillion cases of Bud other competitors after they heard Award, to be determined by the vol- great vocals and instrumentation of earned my B.S. in communica- we had brought from the States this hot group! this outstanding group. (See the ume and raucousness of the audi- tions, and began my dream and, within an hour of our Charging up next was O’ February issue of the San Diego ence’s response to each band as career in radio and television. arrival, were selling the beer on Troubadour for more information on judged by SDBS’s respected and Brother; the Green Tatars, sporting the street outside our hotel. That this band.) The show opened with Fast forward to 1990… experienced audience professionals SDBS president Mike Tatar (of the was when we realized that Virtual Strangers) on banjo; Bob San Diego’s own Down the Road, Twenty years after leaving Emma and Deedee Radcliffe. SDBS who put on a stellar show. college, the good people at VODKA was now our beverage Cool (back for more!) on fiddle; Mr. certificates of participation were Stay tuned for upcoming issues Budweiser offered to fly me, of choice! Denny on specialty; Becky Green (of given to all entrants. of the San Diego Troubadour, which KGB’s Promo guy Scott We listened to a few Russian Down the Road fame) on bass; and First out the box was the band will feature more reviews of local Chatfield, and 138 others from rock bands. They all wanted to Les and Lou Ann (“you can’t sepa- Mixed Company, featuring John performances, including dates and around the U.S. to see the be The Scorpions. rate us”) Preston on guitar and Cherry on mandolin, Bill Paul on who’s coming. Rolling Stones perform in We saw many beautiful Russian banjo, Bob Cool (and was he ever!) vocals. Great job and great vocals! Moscow. San Diego’s KGB was women. They were for hire. on fiddle, the evening’s Master of Following was the evening’s going to Moscow to be tailed by We visited many drab monu- Ceremonies Gary (“I’m open to classical wannabe entry of Isaac the other KGB! Alas, after a yak- ments honoring many drab bribes”) Kennedy on guitar, and the Stearns comprised of a load of wrangling, the Soviets commie functionaries. Nashville visitor John Bellar on young and daring Isaac Finklestein denied the permits for the Ho-hum. bass, and Ida Denny on dobro. They on guitar, an only slightly older Andy Stones concert in Moscow, so all BUT the regular Russians we set the standard in generating wild Lohr on mandolin, veteran Don 140 of us had to settle for their met were terrific people who audience applause. Hickox (of the 7th Day Buskers) on knew how to PARTY! When we Next up was Partial Deck, who fiddle, Bob Pearson on bass, and were ready to head home, we presented a powerhouse line-up, Dan Sankey (Silverado) again, this put KGB radio stickers on the time on banjo. Quite a show! Ron Spears and Within Tradition walls of the Moscow airport. And sure enough, the other KGB was on our tail, removing those stickers as quickly as we had stuck ‘em up. Luckily no political incident occurred and we all lived to tell about it. I’ll never forget that trip. I wish you had been there, comrades. Call me nostalgic, but, given the current world situa- tion, I kind of wish the Cold War and the USSR were still around.
Jim McInnes and KGB’s then promotions manager Scott Chatfield in Moscow
10 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003 ramblin’
Hosing Down Delivery Infrastructure by José Sinatra daunting days, and this sea- son my left ventricle has been by Paul Abbott Any true artist must be leaning toward memories of About 12 years ago a friend of prepared to admit being the unsurpassed joys felt by a mine was working as a tech for a wrong when he/she is in defenseless world during a San Diego-based electronics error. Personally, I’m sure I zealous cultural assault years repair company. His job was to put broken equipment back would own up to any incor- back. Think British Invasion. It together. So, he had the raw rect statement or action I wasn’t really so long ago. The inimitable Mr. Sinatra materials needed to do work on might instigate should that Here was proof of music’s all manner of electronic equip- absurd day somehow eventu- power to unite, to change, to ment. ally dawn. So I’ll still wait for intoxicate. since my phone number is At the same time I was doing pigs to fly, sustained perfect- I’ve never put myself forth unlisted. But if even one of a lot of experimenting with ly by my rigid self-awareness as a learned historian of them is now reading these acoustic guitar amplification as well as a lot of coffeehouse per- that continues to guide my music and its several forms words, then these last couple forming. Since I was using very humility, bravery, and hon- (although I am one) nor have I minutes I’ve invested in them high-impedance pickups for my Paul Abbott esty. ever claimed to chronically, will not have been in vain. acoustic guitar, I noticed a lot of bulk supplies, it’s just a question Oh, there still are pitfalls. consensually finger the pulse She’ll know that there is one interference and noise when I of finding an electronics-savvy My reputation as fashionable of societal trends when the romantic American male who amplified it. I inquired with him friend who is handy with a sol- stud—one, I might add, that I candles of common reason hasn’t forgotten them, at least about custom-building me some dering iron to wire up the cables cables, using higher-quality com- acquired after years of train- have nearly burned out today… one sensitive lounge for you. As a bonus, the cables ponents to see what the differ- can easily be made to lengths ing, study, practice in soli- (though again, I do so happi- metal god who truly loved ence would be. I was amazed at that fit your specific needs. tude—came into question ly). Still, I state without fear them in ways some would the improvement. Quality cable If you have deeper pockets one evening not too long ago, that Time itself can be a bas- consider selfish… or adoles- had better shielding and thicker and want to go with pre-config- gauge wire that translated into and it still rather annoys me. tard. And Time both gilds and cent… or deviant. One man ured cables, there are a plethora better frequency response and a My feelings have been hurt, dims the emotions that who yearns for even a partial of choices. Some companies are more open sound. I was hooked. and occasionally my well- England’s musical messen- reunion, who himself is willing sold on utilizing silver, others on known sensual pout involun- gers so blessedly engen- to fill any opening within the Cables are just as important as oxygen-free copper. The conduc- any other piece of equipment in tarily engorges itself to the dered. For a moment, it group. Any time. But time’s a tive materials and specific trends your recording or performance of cable creation evolve as our point of absurdity. I must dis- seemed, we were one. God, I bastard, isn’t it? environment. Amazingly though, understanding of perceiving charge the truth now in order miss the Spice Girls. When the Spice Girls many people – even professionals sound expands. to reclaim my reputation and Their absence as a group – use fairly cheap off-the-rack invaded, we truly witnessed a Today I use the best quality cable to connect their equip- my beauty. The Truth, the (the group!) continues to miracle: a five-faced pile of cable I can afford to connect my ment. error-free gist of that incident poke and probe the heart in tripe that talked. Time has mastering studio, and I’m always is the perhaps-unfashionable our intestines like an inadver- sweetened the aroma, and I For a lot of people, it’s an on the lookout for better stuff. issue of cost. However, if you fact that intergender group tently swallowed crack pipe. get tingly sniffing it out. What quality cable offers is a know how to put cable together purer, more accurate transference “scenes” (as swingers used They enriched us; now with- Oh, I miss leg warmers from bulk supplies, you can cut of an electronic signal that ulti- to call them) have never been out them, we are impover- too, truth be told. Real posing your expenses in half. Companies mately ends up vibrating a speak- my bag. And I truly meant no ished. Or were they ever real- Hose; absurd fashion, little like Canare and Neutrik sell bulk er and moving air molecules into disrespect to any of the ly here? shame; real posing Hose. cable and connectors (respective- sound. Pretty important, huh? Osmonds or their guests. In No Tiny Spice to imagine ly) that are as good as one can fact, but for their unfortunate playing daddy with. No Rasta ask for. After you’ve procured the expectation, I generally Spice and her soulful jive. No enjoyed my half-hour or so at Ugly Spice to console, no Old their winter solstice “gather- Spice to keep us feeling ing.” Chacun à son goo as young. No Goth Spice to learn Casanova might have said, studied myteriousness from had he been French and (okay, head tilts down, eyes blessed with my enviable way up…got it. Gimme more!) voice. That I haven’t heard a In troubled times the sen- word from any of the “chick sitive soul feels his heart power” girls since their drifting backward to less breakup is understandable,
11 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour ofof notenote
Report from the NAMM Show
Lisa Sanders Randy Various Hold on Tightly Phillips Artists by Phil Harmonic Wild Horses Drunk & Nutty: All of us have had special moments in our lives. What by Phil Harmonic Hillbillies Foolin’ makes a moment special to one is different for another. As musi- Randy Phillips’ latest CD, Wild with the Blues cians gathered at Java Joe’s to Horses, combines different styles The New Taylor Guitar pay tribute to their favorite of music in her eclectic 12-song by Lou Curtiss venue on the last evening before selections. Most songs are writ- closing its doors, the mood was ten by Phillips and/or in collabo- Anthologies of country and Pickup System: You Won’t melancholy. “Lisa, play a song,” ration with Peter Sprague, who old-timey artists who play the rang out Joe’s voice, like an invis- co-produced with Phillips, John blues have been around a long ible boom box. Lisa Sanders, Katchur, and others. On the title time, and they always seem to Believe Your Ears (at first) who emits talent from every track “Wild Horses,” side man appeal to blues fans who might Dennis Caplinger goes from not otherwise buy an old-timey pore of her body, said softly, by Steppin’ Eddy one during a performance or banjo to mandolin to fiddle to album. This 50-track double CD “Here’s a song I just wrote.” As I had to deal with the feedback add his skillful, gourmet flavor. is as good a bet as any, featuring listened, the room became quiet. My dear brother and sister problems, you know what I Katchur’s harmonies blend full all the greats, from Charlie Poole Paralyzed, I closed my eyes and guitarists, it has been my very mean). and mesh well into Phillips poet- through Darby and Tarlton, felt the goose bumps rise. That good fortune to be (peripherally) Although these pickups are ry. Sprague’s acoustic guitar Frank Hutchison, and even the feeling spoke to me: This is what involved with the development ahead of their time, many peo- highlight a South American Carter Family and Bob Wills. life is all about. of the Taylor Expression Series ple expect them to sound like samba flavor on “Down to the Some good instrumental music, This humble singer-songwriter, pickup system for guitars, and behave like everything else Bone.” On the beautiful “Far such as Narmor and Smith’s who has shared the stage with designed by the R&D boys at on the market. As a matter of Away,” less is more. The simplic- materpiece of Mississippi fiddle, many well-known musicians, Taylor and spearheaded by Dave fact, many people don’t even ity of voice and guitar give you “Carroll County Blues.” Some manifests her inspirations into Hosler with the assistance of hear what they’re hearing and chills as this song becomes a great harmonnica, like Tom lyric and melody. Her latest CD, Rupert Neve. A year ago I was it’s only when they compare the prayer. The entire band shows Ashley’s “Haunted House,” Bill Hold on Tightly, is due out April given a guitar equipped with sounds from their old setup with off musicianship of the highest Cox and Cliff Hobbs’ “Oozlin 12. Producers Patrick Dennis and one, but I had to return it the new Taylor system that they level. In my opinion, Sprague Daddy Blues,” and the Prairie Christopher Hoffee (aka the because it was so sensitive, I was hear the difference and, believe and Caplinger are two of the Ramblers’ “Jug Rag.” Lot of slide Truckee Brothers) capture the picking up radio stations! A year me, I was one of them. The dif- finest musicians on the entire guitar too, with Cliff Carlisle and essence that Sanders emulates later, however, all I can say is ference is like night and day. planet. Their contribution is the Allen Brothers along with when performing live and brings WOW! What Dave and the boys People get used to hearing immense. Phillips vocals are Jimmie Tarlton. There’s also some it along as you stroll through this have done is reinvent the things a certain way. For exam- pleasant as she moves from bal- great blues picking by Larry 12-song tour de force. Dennis acoustic pickup, thus raising the ple, in the old days folks got lads to blues to rock, but her Hensley who’s been slicing blind and Hoffee provide all the back- bar so high that there is nothing used to using crappy vocal mics voice, more suited to the slower lemons into his moonshine. We up instrumentation, which else on the market today that and when Shure came out with tunes, really shines on songs like get a little into the birth of coun- blends beautifully with Sanders’ better captures the amplified the SM57 (a vast improvement) “Far Away,” Gypsy,” and “Falling try boogie, and hence rockabilly, vocals. Her remarkable voice sound of an acoustic guitar. I’ve they set about trying to get Star,” her voice in the latter with Al Dexter’s “New Jelly Roll wails and cries, quivers, then had friends tell me, “it’s too sen- them to sound like the mics they reflecting a folkier sound of Joan Blues” and even into the rock era roars, bending notes and tones sitive; all my mistakes come were used to. In other words, Baez purity against Caplinger’s with Prince Albert Hunt, whose while caressing the lyrics. Her through now,” and true enough, there is a learning curve involved Dobro. The song title “Blues in the Bottle” provided sound is crisp, and the richness if you chose to, you can play the with any new technology. People “Troubadour,” which I like for raw material for the Lovin’ and purity of her voice allows pick guard or the tuning pegs scoffed at the first automobile, some reason, was written for Spoonful many years later. the emotion and feel of the song for that matter. But fear not, the first airplane, the first steam Katchur. Richard Tibbitts adds a This kind of anthology is fre- to penetrate and transfer the brothers and sisters. It does not engine, but they quickly became “Middle Ages” feel with quently cited as conclusive repu- feeling to you. change, color, or modify the the standard. Now it’s up to the recorder, flute, and krumhorn. diation to those who insist that My favorites, “All About Love,” acoustic sound of your guitar. If manufacturers of acoustic amps Phillips has written lyrics well white men and women can’t Ever find a Way,” Blind to You, you love the warm responsive to catch up with Taylor to be worth experiencing. Good songs sing the blues. Certainly it’s evi- Baby,” and Cry Me a River” have sound of an unplugged wooden- able to capture all the harmonics deserve many listenings to fully dent that they have always done slow, beautiful melodies that bodied guitar, then I suggest you and range that an acoustic guitar appreciate them. so, although it’s also evident that mesmerize, juxtaposed with lyrics check these out. There are basi- is capable of producing. and go deep. They contrast well So, what are you waiting for? even when they’re as close to cally two sensors in the body with the more upbeat “Skywalk,” the original as it’s possible to be, that pick up the vibration of the “Crumble,” “Astronaut” (a trib- what they’re doing is always body (not just up and down, but ute to Steve Poltz), and the driv- something signicantly different. side to side) and a magnetic ing title song “Hold On Tightly.” This is the blues and it isn’t at humbucker pickup buried in the The effective use of vocal har- the same time, which to me is neck to get the string vibra- monies, from subtle to powerful, just what is so great about it. tions… many leading artists contributes greatly to these top- With well-designed packaging insist that the best way to notch arrangements. Sanders and substantial and reliable enhance the sound of an combines all styles of music to notes by Neil Slaven, this is a acoustic guitar is with a magnet- create her own unique style, and generous package well worth ic sound-hole pickup and a high- she sits at the top of the ladder investigation, especially if hillbilly quality external mic. This setup with the other local great song- blues is something unfamiliar to accomplishes that and more, writers, namely Poltz, Page, you. since you don’t have the Berkley Hart, and Dolan to name unsightly slab of plastic blocking a few. Just listen for yourself and I your sound hole or the nuisance think you will discover that Lisa of being glued to an external Sanders is one “special” moment. mic. (If you’ve ever bumped into
12 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003
‘round‘round aboutabout
Local Yokels A HAYSEED’S MUSIC PICKS FOR MARCH by Gus T. Williker and the Ghost Town Deputies when the Homeland Corporate mix traditional Irish music with are playin’ that night, and that’s Nazi Whores are gonna track punk and hillbilly stylings, and Free Bird ain’t just fer a damn good bill. Cowboy me down fer expressin’ a view- it kicks big time bootie! Skynard no more. Yer favorit Nation is at the top of my list, point that don’t mesh wit’ thar The 7th Day Buskers will be double-wide deejay has busted with a unique, lonesome sound mass consumption, money- at the Whistle Stop on Friday, loose like a rabid goose and that seeps deep into ya like makes-right, piss-on-the-poor March 21. This billygrass band dropped his last gig like seag- Clinique moisturing lotion into mentality!) just simply nails the traditional ull doo on a day-tripper from my desperately dry pores. I luv They don’t play out too stuff, and wit’ Robin Henkel on Des Moines. I’ve got a ton o’ ‘em. often, so I recommend headin’ Dobro and slide, it don’t come music, and no place ta use it! Rise up early on Monday, over to Incahoots on Thursday, as a surprise. If you run a club/coffee- March 3 and tune the boob March 1 to see Darlin’ and You might wanna call house/bar . . . whutever, and tube to channel 9 (uhh…guess Rose. These two sweethearts ahead to check, but the Weary you wanna have a country/ that’s 51 fer you poor slobs pour themselves into thar Boys are supposed to be at roots/rockabilly sorta nite at who don’t got cable). Anywho, music, and it shows. You’ll feel Incahoots on Thursday, March Gus Williker, the “Sexiest Man Alive,” yer spot, give me the proverb according to the media. the Bayou Brothers are gonna their luvin’ vibe and will have a 20. They didn’t make it to San holler. I can git a mess o’ press be on the KUSI Morrning News good time (am I soundin’ like Diego the last time they wus fer yer joint, and if ya give me doin’ a Mardi Gras tune-up. sum kinda smoked out hip- booked, so I’d call first to con- at www.gregorypage.com/ sum time, I’ll make ya proud Zydeco only goes so far with pie…err…whut?) firm. josesinatra/), but José refused and bring out a crowd (okay… me, but I’ll sling a foot this time You got two options on St. to lower himself. He’s a tony so proud don’t pay the bills, but Finally, our own José of year fer shore. San Diego’s Patrick’s Day (Monday, March talent, that one. I can make this thang worth- Sinatra will be makin’ an Mardi Gras celebration gits 17) . . . go down to the Gaslamp while fer ya). appearance with the Troy goin’ on the followin’ nite in the xoxo, and drink over-priced green Dante Inferno at Tio Leo’s E-mail me at: Gaslamp Quarter. Gu$ beer and listen to bad blues Lounge on Saturday, March 29. [email protected] www.WhiteHotTrash.com Buddy Blue is playin’ Friday, bands, or pack into the Casbah Now, you might not think much Now ‘bout that music March 7 at Tio Leo’s Lounge. fer the Downs Family, of José, whut with him down- stuff… Okay, yes, um, well I do pimp Deadbolt, the Scotch Greens, playin’ his skills ‘n all, but trust If you were my lil’ love lem- this fellar just ‘bout every col- Red Eye Gravy ‘n more! If you me . . . this man is a phenome- ming, I’d steer ya toward Tio umn, but good is good, right is like the Pogues, Flogging nal talent! I hear that Brit from Leo’s Lounge on Saturday, right (‘cept Blue leans a bit Molly, and the like, then just American Idol just ooed and March 1. Cowboy Nation, the more left, but let’s not git all think of the Downs Family as awed over his CD (which can Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash politikal rite now … who knows thar bumpkin cousins! They be purchased online
13 March 2003 • San Diego Troubadour
‘round‘round aboutabout
MARCH MUSIC CALENDAR Bitty Bums Showcase, Lestats, Kevin Tinkle/Matthew Foster, Stamets Family Singers, Wynola saturday • 1 8:30pm. Twiggs, 8:30pm. Pizza Express, Julian, 6-9pm. WEEKLY Sue Palmer, Croce’s Top Hat, 9pm. Kahuna Cowboys Jug Band, Cowboy Nation/Bastard Sons of friday • 7 Templar’s Hall, 14134 Midland Rd., Johnny Cash/Ghost Town Deputies, Poway, 7:30pm. Call 858/566-4040 for every sunday Tio Leos. Call for info. Buddy Blue, Tio Leos. Call for info. saturday • 15 info. 7th Day Buskers, Hillcrest Lafayette & the LeaseBreakers, Fat Kinney Reynolds Project, Wynola Robin Henkel Band, Coyote Bar & Mary Black, East County Performing Farmer’s Market/DMV parking Katz. Call for info. Pizza Express, Julian, 6-9pm. Grill, 300 Carlsbad Village Dr., Arts Center, 7:30pm. lot, 10am-1pm. Cedar Mill (bluegrass), Wynola Carlsbad, 6:30-10:30pm. Django Reinhardt/Stephen Grapelli Peter Bolland & Broken Hills/Mark Steve White, Elijah’s, La Jolla, Pizza Express, Julian, 6-9pm. Tribute, East County Performing Arts David Orvics/The Prince Myshkins, Jackson Band, Claire de Lune, 2906 11:30am. Center, 7:30pm. Across the Room/Tim Corely/Malia Twggs, 8:30pm. University Ave., 8pm. Celtic Ensemble, Twiggs, 4pm. Andagan, Café Crema, Pacific Carlos Olmeda, Lestats, 8:30pm. Tim Corley/Saba/Jason Yamaoka/3 Kenny Edwards, Bayou Bar & Grill, Beach, 7pm. Simple Words/Jenn Grinels, Twiggs, 329 Market St., San Diego, 9pm. Extreme Country, hosted by Earl Thomas, Hard Rock Café, La 8:30pm. Katherine Cleary, San Dieguito Mike Vlack, 7-10pm, KSON Jolla, 10pm. (97.3 FM). United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Bayou Brothers, Gallery at the friday • 28 Magdalena, Encinitas, 7:30pm. Call Sue Palmer, Bookworks, Flower Hill Marina, 6-10pm. Jazz Roots, hosted by Lou 858/566-4040 for info. Shopping Center, Del Mar, 8-10pm. Young Dubliners, Belly Up Tavern, Curtiss, 9-10:30pm, KSDS (88.3 Solana Beach, 8pm. Peter Bolland/Katie Strand/Kerrie sunday • 16 FM). Caldwell/Robert Spencer, Twiggs, saturday • 8 Berkley Hart, Croce’s, 9pm. The Bluegrass Special, hosted 8:30pm. Chris Smither, Dark Thirty Joan Berry, Golden Goose Cafe, by Wayne Rice, 10-midnight, Productions, Lakeside, 7:30pm. Call KSON (97.3 FM). The Uprights, Lestats, 8:30pm. Lakeside, 8pm. 619/463-9622 for reservations. saturday • 29 Tom Brosseau, Twiggs, 8:30pm. José Sinatra & Troy Dante Inferno, sunday • 2 Mark Jackson Band, Wynola Pizza monday • 17 Tio Leos. Call for info. every monday Express, Julian, 6-9pm. Swing Dancing, Tio Leos, 5302 Michael Smith, Dark Thirty Bayou Brothers, Patricks II, 9pm. Berkley Hart/Eve Selis/Hatchet Productions, Lakeside, 7:30pm. Call Prince Myshkins, Lestats, 8:30pm. Brothers, Casbah. Call for info. Napa St., 6-8pm. 619/463-9622 for reservations. Richard Greene, Valley Music, 530 E. Bruce Dale Betz, Wynola Pizza Tango Dancing, Tio Leos, 5302 Antie Em, Lestats, 8:30pm. Main St., El Cajon. Fiddle Workshop: wednesday • 19 Express, Julian, 6-9pm. Napa St., 8pm. 2pm. Concert: 7:30pm. Call 619/444- Great Big Sea, Belly Up Tavern, Bayou Brothers, Gallery at the Open Mic Night, Lestats. Call monday • 3 3161 for further information. Solana Beach, 8pm. Marina, 6-10pm. 619/282-0437 for info. Open Poetry Reading, Twiggs, Bayou Brothers, KUSI-RV morning Deborah Liv Johnson/Peggy 8pm. news show, 7-9am. sunday • 9 friday• 21 Watson, First Lutheran Church, 1420 Third Ave., San Diego, 7:30pm. Call Earl Thomas, Humphrey’s Backstage California Guitar Trio/Tom Kenny Edwards, Wynola Pizza 858/566-4040 for info. Griesgrager, Dizzy’s, 8pm. Lounge. Call for info. Express, Julian, 6-9pm. tuesday Cindy Lee Berryhill & Randy every Andrew Beacock, Lestats, 8:30pm. Mark Jackson Band, Golden Goose Hoffman/Kim Fox & Friends, Dizzy’s, Comedy Experiment, Lestats, tuesday • 4 Cafe, Lakeside, 8pm. 7:30pm. 9pm. Atom Orr/Chuck Schiele and the Comedy Experiment, Lestats, 9- wednesday • 12 Young Dubliners, Belly Up Tavern, Zydeco Tuesdays, Tio Leos, Mysterious Ways/Patrick Dennis, Solana Beach, 8pm. 5302 Napa St., 6:30pm. 11pm. Nathan Hubbard, Lestats, 8:30pm. Twiggs, 8:30pm. wednesday • 5 Berkley Hart, Dizzy’s, 8pm. sunday • 30 wednesday thursday • 13 7th Day Buskers, Whistle Stop, 2236 every San Diego Songwriters Guild, Darlin’ and Rose, In Cahoots, Fern St., 9-11pm. Zydeco Spring Fling w/ the Bayou Open Mic Night, Twiggs. Lestats, 8:30pm. Mission Valley, 9pm. Brothers & Friends—music and Sign-ups at 6:30pm. cajun food, Dizzy’s, 7pm. saturday • 22 Hatchet Brothers, The Ould thursday • 6 Sod, 9pm. friday • 14 Billy Walson w/ Robin Henkel, monday • 31 Sue Palmer Trio, Bayou Bar & Neville Brothers, Belly Up Tavern, Ricky Scaggs, East County Coyote Bar & Grill, 300 Carlsbad Bayou Brothers, Patricks II, 9pm. Grill, 329 Market St., 6-8pm. Solana Beach, 8pm. Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm. Village Dr., Carlsbad, 2:30-5pm. Bayou Brothers, Sassafras Bar & Grill, 3667 India St., 6-9pm.
every thursday Will Edwards’ Music Show Twiggs, 8:30pm. Hep Cat Hoedown w/ Gus Williker, Incahoots, 9pm. Hot Rod Lincoln, Tio Leos, 5302 Napa St., Call for info.
14 San Diego Troubadour • March 2003
thethe locallocal seenseen
A Stunning Troubadour Showcase
Robin Henkel
Truckee Brothers
7th Day Buskers
The amazing Steve White
Phil Harmonic and Jose Sinatra
Derek Duplessie
Kitchenfire w/ David Page
Photography by Millie Moreno
The audience loved it!
15 MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM M usic # M M Celtic # e Tr n y # C M im a ia # B tr o T d h lu un w M c e Co d it g b M l i a rass # on al oy unto O a M j M l pp n
Folk # A usic # Co M # M M
M The Adams Ave. Business Association Presents The TH M M
30 ANNUAL M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M Music • Arts • Crafts • M M Food • Workshops • M M Beer Garden • 7 Stages M M M M ! M M M M April 26-27 M M M M Saturday, 10am-9pm and M M
Sunday, 10am-6pm M M Adams Ave. & Adams Park M M 34th to 35th Streets, M M Normal Heights • San Diego, CA M M Friday Night Preview M M M M
April 25, 7-10pm @ Lestats M
M www.GoThere.com/AdamsAve M M PERFORMING ARTISTS M M M M
• Scottsville Squirrel Barkers • Curt Bouterse • New Smokey Mountain Boys M
M featuring Chris Hillman, Bernie Leadon, Budapest Brothers Clark Powell & Wayne Brandon
• M Larry Murray, Kenny Wertz, Ed Douglas, • W.B. Reid M & Herb Pedersen • Roy Ruiz Clayton • Kenny Hall • Tanya Rose M
M • 7th Day Buskers • Mark Spoelstra M • Jon Adams • Robin Henkel M
• Chris Stuart M • Connie Allen & Bill Dempsey • Merritt Herring
M • The Tatters • American Folk Singers • Stu & Gloria Jamison M • Steve White M • Frannie Leopold
• Bayou Seco M Ken Keppler & Jennie McLerie • Los Californios • Mimi Wright M • New Lost Melody Boys • AND MANY MORE! M M M M M
M The Adams Avenue Business Association is partially funded by the City M of San Diego’s Small Business Enhancement Program. M
Music produced by Lou Curtiss and Folk Arts Rare Records M
M Music information: 619/282-7833 • Booth rentals: 619/282-7329 e. abbott / March 2003 MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM M