Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 8/26/20 – 9/8/20

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

CONCERTS IN YOUR CAR

Moorpark has thrown their hat in the ring and the City has hosted a handful of live drive-in style concerts at Arroyo Vista Community Park (4550 Tierra Rejada Road). They’ve hit a couple of bumps in the road and had to cancelled their most recent one, but let’s keep our fingers crossed for their next scheduled concert on Sunday, September 13 featuring The Trip with Rock ‘n’ Roll from the 60s to today. The show runs 6 -8 pm and the cost is only $20 per car; preregistration is required which can be found on the City’s website at Moorparkca.gov on their Parks & Rec’s page.

The Canyon at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center continues offering reggae on Sunday evenings dubbed Reggae Knights as well as other shows coming up such as Little Willie G (the voice of Thee Midniters) on Friday, August 28, Queen Nation on Saturday, August 29 and Led Zeppagain on Friday, September 4.

And of course, our own drive-in concert venue here in Ventura at the Ventura Fairgrounds continues to offer live shows with Fitz and the Tanrums on Saturday, August 29, A-Trak, Ruckus and Tay James on Sunday August 30 and Tower of Power with Los Lobos on Sunday, September 6. For the FAQ and ticket information as well as other dates for movies and such, go to the official website ConcertsinYourCar.com.

Another Sky – Q&A with Kelly Zirbes of Kelly’s Lot

The uber talented Kelly Zirbes of Kelly’s Lot never ceases to amaze me with her seemingly never-ending supply of energy and creative outflow. She is always working on new projects, writing and performing and keeping in touch via social media as much as possible with her fan base. She sent me her latest release called Another Sky which only solidifies my opinion of this woman. Kelly and Perry from Kelly’s Lot will be my next guests on the VenturaRockSpot (VenturaRocks.com), but meanwhile, I thought I’d ask her a couple of questions for the Breeze.

Pam: I’m mostly familiar with your blues releases, how would you describe the genre of this release?

Kelly Z: Another Sky is mostly a Contemporary Folk and Americana release.

Doug Pettibone, Kelly Zirbes and Perry Robertson

Was this something you’d been working on, or did the recent pandemic, social unrest, or elections have a part in your songwriting choices?

Kelly Z: I had already written these songs when the pandemic started but two songs were written about the frustration in politics today. “Freedom” was written about how extremism robs you of your freedom and “Hurricane” was written about the madness of a divided country. We had also written an Irish jig for Ventura’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade but that was canceled. Back in March I didn’t think these songs would be recorded for a couple years. We were planning on doing a full band blues recording but because we were locked down it was going to be difficult to get everyone together to work out the parts. So, we decided to try and do something acoustic and we reached out to our neighbor Doug Pettibone to see if he would like to co-produce and play on the project. He was on board having had lost a few jobs himself.

So then, who all gets producing credit

Kelly Z: It was recorded in Doug’s studio in Oxnard and in the Kelly’s Lot studio in North Hollywood.

Who all were involved in the project and in what capacity?

Kelly Z: Deciding and arranging what instruments we wanted to put on these songs was very organic. We first started with Doug and Perry both on acoustic guitars; Doug then added pedal steel, slide guitar, and mandolin. After that the songs started to feel a certain way and we could hear what was missing. We also wanted to make sure we included every member of the band on at least one song and that helped fill in many gaps. Art Mendoza on drums, Matt McFadden on bass, Rob Zucca on guitar, Bill Johnston on clarinet, Aviva Maloney on penny whistle, Frank ‘Cisco’ Hinojosa on harmonica, Jeri Goldenhar doing some background vocals and for standup bass we used Paul Kennedy and David Grover. We brought in Aubrey Richmond on violin and Phil Parlapiano on accordion to round it all out. We ended up with two duets featuring Doug Pettibone and Rick Monroe from Nashville.

You’ve been sharing a lot about the song “Butterfly;” what’s the inspiration behind it?

Kelly Z: “Butterfly” was written the day after Prince died. Like I do every once in a while, I have asked my fans on Facebook to give me a word. Butterfly and Purple came up right away and the song was written rather quickly. As I wrote it, I remember thinking of my mom and my brother and so many musicians we have lost in the past couple years. It is a song to lift up someone form the grief of losing a loved one or maybe even a musical mentor.

You’ll be hosting a CD release party at Four Brix?

Kelly Z: Yes we are doing a live online acoustic concert at Four Brix Winery in Ventura (Friday, August 28). Because of Covid, there will be no “in winery” audience. It will be a Facebook live concert hosted on the Four Brix Facebook page. They are offering a meal and wine for pickup to enjoy during the concert at home or in your backyard. We are both promoting it on Facebook and through our mailing lists. If you want more info call the winery at 805-256-6006, visit the Facebook page or email them at info@fourbrixwine.com.

Is there anything else you’d care to share?

Kelly Z: It feels good to go back to my singer/songwriter roots and do an album of folk, roots rock and americana. Luckily Doug and Perry guided me through this in a way that brought out a deeper yet brighter version of my songs. They are both great at arranging and even participated in some of the writing. I also brought in my team from other releases, mixer Fred Paragano, mastering engineer Mike Michner and graphic artist Evie Cook. You can buy the CD or a download at my website KellysLot,com or a download at iTunes on August 28. It will also be on Spotify, Apple Music and a few other online platforms.

A BIT OF THIS AND THAT

Congratulations to 50 Sticks of Dynamite on their 10-year anniversary together as a band.
Alastair Greene will have a new release this October called The New World Blues produced by Tab Benoit. Dan Grimm has a new EP ready to release, as does the Colette Lovejoy Band; details coming soon.

Tommy Marsh’s Crooked Eye Tommy CD release party was a bittersweet affair as he introduced the band’s sophomore release, Hot Coffee and Pain, but the show was also his final show as a resident of Ventura County. We wish him well on his new adventures as he and Tammy pack up and move to Nashville. But not to worry, he assures us that he will return for shows after this pandemic is over.

And finally, Serena Ropersmith just sent me new music to play on the Pam Baumgardner Music Hour. She recently released Sideways which was mostly inspired by her experiences at Ventura High School (she now attends Cal Poly) and she plays piano on every song. I love that her dad is Kent Bones, drummer for Birdbrain, and he plays on a couple of her songs and it was recorded with Armand (Night Demon, New Liberty) at the Captains Quarters.

Don’t forget my radio show airs Tuesdays and Fridays at 5 pm and Sundays at noon at 104.1 FM here in Ventura on KPPQ-LP, or you can use your smart device and listen using the MyTuner radio app or listen online at CapsMedia.org/Radio.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows (online or live) you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 10/11 – 10/24

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

There are a couple of high profile events coming up. Let’s start with The Seaside Highland Games (a Scottish/Celtic Festival) which hits town every Fall. They’ll have all kinds of games and activities including music all day long on several stages over the weekend of October 14th and 15th at the fairgrounds. Some of the acts performing will be Blackwaterside, The Angry Brians, Hidden Fifth, Slingo Rags, Highland Way, and Three for Joy.

The Ventura Beach Party in conjunction with the Ventura Marathon will be held down along the promenade at the Ventura Pier. There is no charge for this one and there will be music during the day over the weekend of October 21 and 22nd with Lightnin’ Willie, Sunnie Paxson, Sonic Boom, Paul Mars Black and Acoustic Generation performing.

Then there is the C.A.R.L. fundraiser on Saturday, October 21 at the Hong Kong Inn. This one donates all proceeds to the Canine Adoption and Rescue League and has Kelly’s Lot, Orphan Jon and the Abandon featuring Johnny Main, along with special guests all evening long including performances from Ray Jaurique, Michael Golden and Jerry McWorter.

Hi Hat Entertainment as a couple of weeks of amazing nights of music you won’t want to miss at the Hong Kong Inn. First on Friday, October 13, it’s The Forty Fours; then the following week, October 20, it’s Alastair Greene’s CD release of Dream Train. Greene has embarked on his solo career after playing with the Alan Parsons Project for the past 7 years.

Speaking of new music, Kelly Z (Zirbes) has a brand-new CD just released called Rescue. Kelly said that all 8 tracks were recorded in 2011 by Chuck Kavooras at SlideAway Studio; however, the project was never finished, that is until Kelly was asked to provide the vocal tracks. It really is quite impressive!

Quick Notes: Vintura at the Wine Rack will be hosting a special fundraiser for the Ventura Cancer Resource Center on Thursday, October 12th from 7-10 pm with singer/songwriter, Karen 805 entertaining; Spencer the Gardener returns to Discovery on Friday, October 13; One Square Mile featuring members of the Circle Jerks and Saccharine Trust will be at the Garage on Saturday October 14 and Motörbabe (female Motörhead tribute band) on Friday October 20; after playing at the Highland Games, The Angry Brians will be jamming at Grapes and Hops on Saturday, October 14 then Shawn Jones recently back after another European tour will be playing the next day on Sunday afternoon, October 15; and The Jelly opens for The Motels on Sunday, October 22 at the Canyon Club.

And finally, CAPS Media’s radio station is now streaming live at www.capsmedia.org/radio. You can catch The Pam Baumgardner Music Hour every Tuesday at 5 with a rebroadcast on Friday at 5 and Sunday at noon.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 6/7 – 6/20

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

The Ojai Music Festival is underway taking over several venues and running June 8 – June 11. You’ll need tickets for most events, but there are several free concerts throughout the week. You can get information at OjaiFestival.org.

Rene Ponce gave me the lowdown on Goodnight Kiss when they recently played at Ollie’s Duck and Dive in Malibu. He told me they’ve played there several times, but this last time Kid Rock was in the crowd and accepted the band’s invitation to join them for a couple of tunes. How cool is that? The guys return to Ventura on June 17th when they open for Brothers Fortune at Bombay’s.

The Ventura Beach Club has been booked on Saturday, June 17th by Stay True and ideal Music Collective hoping to alleviate those “No-Warped-Tour-Again-This-Year-Blues” by lining up bands and DJs indoors and out. On the bill includes Split Second, Love Thing, Yearbooks, No Advisory, Two Brothers and Pretty Well. If you love punk, ska, emo & pop, you won’t want to miss this one.

Ones to Watch Productions (O2W) have announced that Grammy Award winning artist Lucinda Williams will be headlining this year’s Topa Topa Folk Fest at the Libbey Bowl in October. Leading up to the event, O2W will be hosting a folk fest showcase on June 17 at Topa Mountain Winery featuring Justine Bennett, Tim Curran, The Brambles and Shane Alexander. Get more information on all their events at TopaTopaFolkFest.com.

Quick notes: You can get your tickets for Roadshow Revival with Los Lobos headlining on Saturday, July 1 at Discovery at RoadShowRevival.com; The Wine Rack is rebranding itself as Vintura Tasting Room & Wine Rack; the Boatyard Café is undergoing some upgrades and I understand renaming itself as the Boatyard Pub; Alastair Greene is heading out to jam at the Chicago Blues Fest on June 10; Shawn Jones returns from Europe and will be at Grapes and Hops on Saturday, June 17; and finally don’t miss Alex Nestor when she plays at Café Fiore, on Friday, June 16, she opened Sunday (May 28) at the Simi Valley Cajun and Blues fest.

And finally, I’ve officially made a name change for my radio show on CAPS Media’s KPPQ-LP, 104.1 FM. I seriously thought about calling it Pam on the Rocks, but out of respect to Rodney Bingenheimer (Rodney on the Roq), I opted against it; and because I can’t use Ventura Rocks, my third chose, and apparent final choice is: The 805 Music Scene with Pam Baumgardner. The name alone encompasses more than Ventura, even more than Ventura County which is good. I still play indie artists from outside our area who have caught my ear, and I spin tunes from bands who have come here to play. Tune in and support local music Tuesdays and Fridays 5-6 pm.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 5/10 – 5/23

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
Local Music and More!
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

Ready for a beer festival with a surf twist? Then you’ll want to check out Surf ‘N’ Suds on Saturday, May 20, at San Buenaventura State Beach (901 San Pedro Street entrance). They’ll have over 50 breweries represented and of course live music to entertain while sipping on your suds; this year it’s Synrgy, Crosscut 805 Band and DJ Hecktik. There will be a free bicycle valet, you can catch the free Ventura Trolley, or check out the other shuttles available to get to the beach. For ticket and more general information go to SurfBeerfest.com.

The Rubicon Theater is hosting “Music for Changing Times” a weeklong festival bringing together three generations of activist artists in a series of events celebrating music. It runs May 8-13 which includes performances from Grammy winners Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey (Peter, Paul and Mary). Go to RuiconTheatre.org for more information.

This year’s “Rising Stars” concert from the Ventura Music Festival will be held on Friday, May 12, at the First United Methodist Church (1338 E. Santa Clara) and it’s free to the public. Expect an outstanding mix of young choral, classical and jazz performers including the Ventura College Chamber Singers and the 2017 Student Jazz Competition winner Angelo Velasquez with his trio.

Alastair Greene has announced that he has left the Alan Parsons Live Project after seven years touring with the band. He said he’s had the opportunity to see much of the world because of his guitar and a generous man named Alan Parsons. He’ll be focusing on his solo career and other musical adventures.

Local artist, Kyle, who has been certified platinum for his song “iSpy” had a concert Saturday, April 29 at the Ventura Theater. It was great to see so many kids lined up around the block to support their local friend. You’d expect that kind of turn out from his hometown, but he’s sold out shows in Salt Lake City, Detroit and Chicago. Way to go Super Duper Kyle!

It’s finally been revealed that Los Lobos will be headlining this year’s Roadshow Revival. Don’t forget its new location is at Discovery Ventura and will be held on Saturday, July 1. Other bands on the bill include Raging Arb and the Redheads, The Walking Phoenixes, The Rockin’ Rebels, Phantom Pomps, Hard Six, and more. Get the lowdown at RoadshowRevival.com.

Quick notes: Cask Alehouse (5952 Telegraph Rd) is featuring Adam Tunney with jazz, standards and lounge tunes every Monday; Medicine Hat can be found at Cork (1930 E. Main St) Fridays 5/12 and 5/19; September Begins CD release party is Saturday, May 20, at Bombay’s; Black Dragon will open for Foghat at the Canyon Club on May 26;

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze – 2/1 – 2/14

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
Bringing on the Blues, Jazz and more…
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

The line-up at Squashed Grape is getting hotter and hotter as we get further into 2017.  Karl Hunter (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy) and friends return on Thursday February 2 with his band mPhaka; Bobby West (Wynton Marsalis, R.Kelly, Smokey Robinson) returns on Saturday, February 4; it will be a night of hot jazz with the international jazz manouche and Balkan music band Het Hat Club with Laura Lackey on vocals Wednesday, February 8; and Mike Garson (Bowie) and David Liebman (Miles Davis, Chic Corea) return on Thursday February 9.  If you were there the last time Garson played, then you too were blown away when Garson played “A Space Oddity” on the piano.

Discovery has several noteworthy shows lined up including Shaky Feelin’ on February 3; a Bowie tribute band, The Band that Feel to Earth on the 4th; several local musicians will be on hand to honor the late great reggae artist on Bob Marley day, February 9; the Hubcap Stealers will be there on the 10th; and finally, a Black Sabbath tribute band on Saturday, February 11. Go to the Discovery’s website for tickets and times as they vary.

As you probably know, there’s a wonderful Blues community supporting this genre of music and nobody does a better job at bringing notable Blues artists to town than Hi Hat Entertainment. You’ll want to mark down on your calendar that following dates: Friday, February 3, it’s James Intveld; February 10th, Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps; Carl Sonny Leyland’s on Friday, February 17; Alastair Greene & Deanna Bogart on Friday, February 24; and a special show on Sunday, February 26 with Karen Lovely with Lisa Mann & Ben Rice. Get the lowdown at HiHatEntertainment.com. All Hat Hi shows are at the Hong Kong Inn where you’ll find one more concert to add to your calendar, RJ Mischo has a special blues party on Saturday, February 4 with Hashbrown, Fred Kaplan, Rick Reed and Johnny Morgan. All shows start at 8; covers vary.

Topa Topa Brewery launches their open mic night February 1 and thereafter on the first Wednesday of the month. Signups at 6 and it runs 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

The legendary David Nigel Lloyd is reuniting after 30 years with Jonathan Mako Sharkey for a special performance on Saturday, February 11. Nigel Lloyd, one of the pre-eminent Acid Folk performers in the world will hold a songwriting workshop at 6 pm, then he’ll join up with Sharkey (musician and Port Hueneme Councilman) for a concert at the Loft in Camarillo.

And finally, CAPS Media is launching a low-powered FM station here in Ventura and it’s schedule to launch in mid-February. I’ll be hosting a weekly hour-long program highlighting independent artists including local artists from the area, and artists who have played in town. I’ll let you know when we’re live and on air at 104.1 FM.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Music Photos: July 2016

Music Under the Stars at Historic Olivas Adobe – July 30, 2016
Queen Nation

Queen Nation

Members of Queen Nation with Pam Baumgardner, Loree Price, Eve Mimiaga & Tammy Mullins

Members of Queen Nation with Pam Baumgardner, Loree Price, Eve Mimiaga & Tammy Mullins


Four Brix Winery – July 29, 2016
Kelly’s Lot
Kelly's Lot

 


W20 at the Watermark – July 24, 2016
Alastair Greene
Alastair Greene


Tequila and Taco Music Festival – July 24, 2016
Metalachi
Metalachi


Surf Rodeo – July 17, 2016
Raging Arb and the Redheads (Photo credit: Felix Cortez)
Raging Arb and the Redheads


Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2016
Hy Brasil
Hy Brasil

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2016
Spencer the Gardener
Spencer the Gardener


Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2016|
The NaVaNaX
The NaVaNaX

Pam Baumgardner (Ventura Rocks) interviewing Shayne Mihalka (The NaVaNaX)
(Photo Credit: Elizabeth Rodeno)
Pam and Shayne

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2016
Herbal Rootz
Herbal Rootz


The Star Lounge – July 15, 2016
Whiskey Stone
Whiskey Stone


Margarita Villa – July 10, 2016
The Swillys (Photo credit: Maggie Ramos McKinney)
The Swillys


The Wine Rack – July 7, 2016
Ian Soloman Duo with Hans Ottsen
Ian Soloman Duo


Squashed Grapes – July 6, 2016
Sheldon Brown (Publisher Ventura Breeze), Bobby West, and Pam Baumgardner (Owner VenturaRocks.com).  Photo credits: Rich Barth (VenturaCountyJazz.com), and Jack Lee.


Downtown Ventura – 4th of July Street Fair – 2016
Raised on Vinyl and UnUsual Suspects


Grapes and Hops – July 2, 2016
Doug Pettibone w/ Herman Matthews
Doug Pettibone

Ventura Music Photos: October 2015

Bombay Bar and Grill – October 31, 2015
50 Sticks of Dynamite CD Release Party
50 Sticks of Dynamite


W20 at the Watermark – October 23, 2015
Kiefer Sutherland Band
Kiefer Sutherland Band

Pam Baumgardner, Kiefer Sutherland, Staci Brown

Pam Baumgardner, Kiefer Sutherland, Staci Brown

Mark Hartley & Kiefer Sutherland

Mark Hartley & Kiefer Sutherland


The Wine Rack – October 19, 2015
Mike Cregan
Mike Cregan


The Seaside Highland Games at the Fairgrounds – October 11, 2015
Highland Way
Highland Way Highland Way


Star Lounge – October 10, 2015
Drunken Monkeys
Drunken Monkeys


Discovery – October 9, 2015
Alastair Greene
Alastair Greene


Amigo’s – October 4, 2015
The Tossers
1004_Amigos_Tossers


Bombay’s – October 4, 2015
Ventucky String Band Ventucky String Band


Discovery – October 3, 2015
Agent Orange
Agent Orange


Boatyard Cafe – October 3, 2015
Camp Franco (photo credit: Candace Marshall)
Camp Franco


Squashed Grapes – October 1, 2015
Bruce Forman w/ Tierney Sutton

Taken from the Ventura Rocks Music Scene article:
“…Oh! And I have to share about the extraordinary night recently at Squashed Grapes when Bruce Forman performed the Red Guitar. The place was at capacity, and you literally could have heard a pin drop the audience was so captivated. The second set Forman brought up his special guest whom he had teased earlier on social media stating he couldn’t say who it was for “contractual reasons.” Well it turned out to be Tierney Sutton who sang requests the entire second set. Five time Grammy nominated and the 2005 Jazzweek Vocalist of the year, Sutton heads up the Tierney Sutton Band who have headlined the Hollywood Bowl, the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Yeah, it was intense and a privilege to witness.”

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 8/5 – 8/18

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
It’s Fair to Say Ventura Rocks
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

Rachel Flowers

Rachel Flowers to perform at Scan Health and Wellness Center August 14, 2015.

I’m a tad giddy with anticipation for the 2015 Ventura County Fair: cinnamon buns, corn on the cob, livestock, carnival rides, vendors and of course another fine line up of music. I’m personally looking forward to the B52’s, Kevin Costner and the Modern West, The Band Perry, Lean Rimes, and call me goofy, but there’s no way I’m missing Huey Lewis and the News! Full line up of musical entertainment can be found on their ad here in the Breeze.

Squashed Grapes is bringing back Emmy Award Winning guitarist, Chieli Minucci and the Special EFX, on August. 7th; then the following morning you can cheer on the Squashed Grapes float in the Ventura Fair parade. Those same players will be appearing that evening at the Grape featuring Karl Hunter and Dirk Shumaker of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Franklin Murphy of Shaky Feelin’, Jacob Scesney, Trey O’Toole and RJ Root.

I’m super curious to see Gygax at Bombay’s on Friday, August 14, the band features Armand John Lizzy, Bryant Throckmorton, Justin Dempsey and Eric Harris. Members from local bands getting together to create a new band isn’t necessarily newsworthy in this town; however, this band is for the nerd in all of us as they center around the fantasy imagery and creation of role playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons. Too weird? I seriously hope so!

Growing in popularity are the Second Sunday Suppers at Plan B. The next one is scheduled for Sunday, August 8 from 4:30 – 7 pm featuring Donna Greene and the Roadhouse Daddies.

Taking the place of over two decades of Bowlful of Blues, is the Inaugural Ojai Blues Festival scheduled for August 15 at the Ojai Art Center featuring Deb Ryder, Crooked Eye Tommy, Shawn Jones and Alastair Greene.

Just a few of the upcoming shows to look forward to at Discovery include Whitey Morgan on August 15, Eric Hutchinson on August 18 and Los Lonely Boys on August 23.

The Scan Health and Wellness Center at 6633 Telephone Road in Ventura is hosting its first ever Jazz Night on August 14, 5:30pm. Rachel Flowers is the featured artist with E’nuff Said opening. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Call Scan at 805-658-0365 for information and to secure tickets.

The music lineup for the California Blues and Brews Festival on September 20 includes Walter Trout, blues for the modern daze, Mr. Sipp, the Mississippi blues child; and Mingo Fishtrap out of Austin, Texas. You can get more information on the three-day beer festival event and line up your tickets at www.CaliforniaBluesFestival.com.

And finally, I’m sorry to report that Gladys Dietz passed away July 20. She opened Gigi’s cocktails 30 years ago, on New Year’s Eve 1985.

Do you have any music related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com, and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com .

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze – 10/29 – 11/11

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
Ventura Continues to Rock!
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

Army of FreshmenChris Jay of Army of Freshmen is totally looking forward to their upcoming UK tour with the band Lit. Jay told me, “I just love being on tour. We don’t get to do it nearly as much as we used to so I think we tend to enjoy it more and appreciate it. Every night is like a big party. It’s more like vacation than work.” The dates in the UK run from November 13 through the 23 so it looks like the guys will be back in time for Thanksgiving. See complete interview with Chris Jay at VenturaRocks.com

No news yet on the Discovery entertainment permit appeal. We have our fingers crossed this matter will be settled sooner than later and with Discovery retaining the right to have live music in their venue.

Way to go for The Velveteen Band who has been invited to play the Steampunk Worlds Fair in Piscataway New Jersey. The SPWF is the world’s largest gathering of steampunks. After only six months of being a band, the Velveteen has gained national attention with their Puppets, Rabbits, and big rock band sound. You can find them playing locally at Bombay’s The Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, party on November 1 with Cirque Noir, Angie’s Curse and Fangboy and the Ghouls.

Kelly’s Lot will be holding a fundraiser for one of Kelly Zirbe’s favorite charities, C.A.R.L. at the Patio at The Player’s Club which will raise money for Canine Adoption and Rescue League. Look for appearances by Teresa James, Guy Martin, Steve Hinojosa, Lenny Mazzotti and Bobby and lee Orgel. The event will be held on Saturday, November 8 from 6 – 10 pm. $10 donation plus 15% of food sales donated.
Looking forward to hearing the new song that 8Stops7 has been recording. Bass player, Cory Tarallo, says, “This song is straight up awesome!” I can’t wait to hear “Center of Our Universe” after they put on the finishing touches.

Jan McWorter of Hi Hat Entertainment reminded everyone, “When one door closes, another one opens,” after Hi Hat said goodbye to over six years at Yolie’s on October 17 with the R&B Bombers. But after just a couple days of searching they found their new location just a stone’s throw away, at the newly renovated facilities at 281 W. Main Street at Ventura Beach Club (formerly Fuegos). Just a quick head’s up as Ventura Beach Club already had a previous obligation, on Halloween, Hi Hat’s James Harman party will be at Peirano’s on October 31.

There will be a cool fundraiser at Bombay’s on Saturday, November 1, to help raise funds for Dawn (single mom) and Damian (7 years old) and their battle with Cancer. There will be lots going on all day but on the music side of it there will be Alastair Greene, James Harman, Morganfield Burnett, Hot Roux and more.

And finally, I’d like to wish Ken Winters, “Happy Birthday!” Ventura’s jazz scene will be helping to celebrate his 88th birthday on November 4th during the bi-monthly jazz jam at Squashed Grapes. I’m sure cake will be involved.

If you have any music related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Send all information short or long to Pam@VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Music Photos: June 2014

Amigos – June 29, 2014
Medicine Hat & Matt Armor
Medicine HatMatt Armor


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 28, 2014
Derek Jennings, Shane Alexander & Alicia Murphy


W20 – June 22, 2014
Shawn Jones
Shawn Jones


Ventura Fairgrounds, Vans Warped Tour – June 22, 2014
Linkin Park with Jeremy of the Devil Wears Prada
Linkin Park


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 21, 2014
Rey Fresco
Rey Fresco


Squashed Grapes – June 21, 2014
50/50 Band with Rachel Flowers (keyboards and flute), Tom Buckner (sax), Domenic Genova (bass) and Tina Raymond (drums)

50/50 Band


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 20, 2014
8Stops7
8Stops7

Bloody Mary Morning
Bloody Mary MorningBloody Mary Morning



VENTURA MUSIC WEEK PHOTO GALLERY

Miscellaneous Shots

Discovery Ventura – June 15, 2014
Ventura Music Week Wrap Party
VMW Wrap Party


Winchesters Grill and Saloon – June 15, 2014
The Catterwailers
The Catterwailers


Saloon BBQ Co. – June 15, 2014
Ted Waterhouse
Ted Waterhouse


The Star Lounge – June 15, 2014
Robert Thomas Band
Robert Thomas Band


Ventura Harbor Carousel Stage – June 15, 2014
DejaBlu
DejaBlu


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 14, 2014
Mandex   Mandex

SolTree on back stage

Soltree


Sans Souci, June 14, 2014
Iron Outlaws


The Hong Kong Inn – June 14, 2014
The New Vibe
The New Vibe


W20 at the Watermark, June 14, 2014
Drunken Monkeys
Drunken Monkeys


Discovery Ventura, June 14, 2014
Jonny Two Bags
Jonny Two BagsThe Americans
The Americans


Billy O’s – June 14, 2014
Whiskey Stone
Whiskey Stone


Winchesters Grill and Saloon, June 14, 2014
Camp Franco
Camp Franco


Squashed Grapes – June 14, 2014
Barrelhouse Wailers
Barrelhouse Wailers


Four Brix – June 14, 2014
Kelly’s Lot
Kelly's Lot


The Sandbox Coffeehouse – June 14, 2014
Mitchell Blake
Mitchell Blake


Amigos, June 13, 2014
Spencer the Gardener


Grapes & Hops – June 13, 2014
Otis Hayes III
Otis Hayes III


Yolies, June 13, 2014
Alastair Greene Band – CD Release Party
Alastair Greene


W20 at the Watermark, June 13, 2014
Mini Driver
Mini Driver


Saloon BBQ Co. – June 13, 2014
Mighty Cash Cats
Mighty Cash Cats


Peirano’s – June 13, 2014
Tony Ybarra and Friends
Tony Ybarra


Keynote Lounge – June 13, 2014
Crosscut


Squashed Grapes – June 13, 2014
Fausto Cuevas
Fausto Cuevas


Bombay Bar & Grill, June 12, 2014
Musicians Brew with Coso, Brian Nicolet, Joe Baugh, Adam Clark & Josh Myers
Musicians Brew


Amigos, June 12, 2014
Gypsy Blues Band with special guest BB Chung King
Gypsy Blues Band


Rookees, June 12, 2014
Rubberneck Lions
0612_RNL_001


Golden China Restaurant, June 12, 2014
Carl Sonny Leyland Trio: Swing Night
Carl Sonny Leyland


Saloon BBQ Co., June 12, 2014
Mark Sellers
Mark Sellers


Pulse Drumming Drum Clinic at Squashed Grapes, June 12, 2014
Brad Dutz & Nick Mancini
Drum Clinic Q&A


Squashed Grapes, June 11, 2014
Karl Hunter’s Jazz Hates Johnny

Rufus Philpot, Karl Hunter, Aaron McLendon, Andy Langham & Hans Ottsen.

Rufus Philpot, Karl Hunter, Aaron McLendon, Andy Langham & Hans Ottsen.


Discovery Ventura, June 11, 2014
Dylan Schmidt and the Rhythm Souls
Dylan Schmidt


Green Art People – June 11, 2014
Shaky Feelin’


Milano’s Italian Restaurant – June 10, 2014
Bluegrass Jam (Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month)


Historic Ventura City Hall, June 10, 2014
Visual Arts Event celebrating local photographers & videographers who capture our live music.  Special screening of “Drummer Wanted:  Dean Zimmer”
Dean and Stanley


Amigos, June 9, 2014
Joey Billingiere blues jam with special guest Tommy Marsh
Joey and Tommy


Century Theater 10 Downtown – June 9, 2014
20 Feet From Stardom Screening


Amigos – June 9, 2014
Karen Eden, Bill Macpherson & Doug Johnson
Karen Bill and DougKaren Eden


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 8, 2014
Ray Jaurique and the Uptown Brothers CD Release party

 


Amigos – June 8, 2014
Jen Staves and the Bluzfish
Jen Staves


The Sandbox Coffeehouse – June 8, 2014
The Space Band
The Space Band


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 7, 2014
Los Dudes
0607_LosDudes


Bombay Bar and Grill – June 7, 2014
Deer Leg
Deer Leg


W Gallery – June 7, 2014
The Global Guitar Greats Tour:  Shawn Jones, Stephen Inglis, Thomas Leeb
Global Guitar Greats


Museum of Ventura County – June 7, 2014
SRO Benefit – Highway Starr
Highway Starr


Pulse Drumming – June 7, 2014
Bongo Workshop with Fausto Cuevas


Grapes and Hops – June 6, 2014
Jade Hendrix
Jade Hendrix


W20 at the Watermark – June 6, 2014
The Legalizers
The Legalizers


The Patio at Players Casino – June 6, 2014
Teresa Russell
Teresa Russell


Yolies – June 6, 2014
Babylon Social Club
Babylon Social Club


The Wine Rack – June 6, 2014
Warren Takashaki and Friends
Warren Takashaki


Poncho’s Mexican Restaurant – June 6, 2014
The Latin Touch
The Latin Touch805 Bar and Grilled Cheese – June 6, 2014
Unkle Monkey
Unkle Monkey


Gone West Cellars – June 6, 2014
Dave Blanchard
Dave Blanchard


Discovery Ventura – June 6, 2014
Alligator Dave, Dave Grizzle
“First official act performing during Ventura Music Week!”
Alligator Dave