Ventura Music Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com
With Memorial Day weekend behind us, we’re officially into the “summer” music season though the summer solstice won’t occur until June 20. But that being what it may, the days are warming up and people are heading out to take in live music with an inordinate amount happening in Ojai. The Ojai Music Festival runs Thursday, June 5, though Sunday, June 8 with most of the events being held at the Ojai Libbey Bowl. There are a handful of “off-site” events as well and a few that are totally free to the community. For a full run-down of concerts, special events and pricing, go to OjaiFestival.org.
But before all the hoity-toity classical music descends on this picturesque gem of a town, you won’t want to miss all the down and dirty blues at the Ojai Blues Fest on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31, both days will be held at the Ojai Art Center. Friday night is the kick-off party featuring Crooked Eye Tommy with Grady Clark, then it’s Celso Salim and Darryl Carriere. The following day is a full afternoon of blues featuring amazing artists such as Katie Skene, Teresa Russell, Smokey & Friends, Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps and Joey Delgado of the acclaimed Delgado Brothers. Oh! And don’t forget I get to emcee the festivities both days. Tickets can be purchased via BrownPaperTickets.com. I recommend visiting OjaiArtCenter.org for more information on the bands and what you can bring with you into the venue.
Here’s some interesting news, along with booking artists for the Ventura Music Hall, Ineffable Live has taken over as the exclusive talent buyer for the Majestic Ventura Theater. “We’re thrilled to partner with Ineffable Live as we enter this next chapter at the Majestic,” said Robert Antonini, owner of the Majestic Ventura Theater. “Their passion for live music, deep artist relationships, and commitment to community make them the ideal partner to help us bring even more dynamic music and cultural events to downtown Ventura.”
Quick Notes: the original Wailers have been added to the Ventura Music Hall for a date on July 15; Café Fiore’s Sunday reggae nights are back with Intent on June 1 and Wisdom Tree on June 8; Fido plays Bombay’s on Saturday, May 31; the next 5x5x5 at Art City is Friday, June 6 and will include performances by Bianca Celestina, Thomas Lazo, Rob Goldman and Ben Gold;
one of the original Nardcore bands, Stalag 13, is schedule to play the Mystery Shop in Oxnard on Saturday, June 7; it’s a B3 Funk Party at the Grape with the Brian Charette band featuring Danny Carey (TOOL) on drums Saturday, June 7; and while some venues may have live music, I’m told the Spring Wine Walk will only feature DJs this year.
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.
ic Scene