Ventura Music Scene 5/3/23 – 5/16/23

Ventura Music Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.comartwork

As of press time, the 2023 Ventura County Fair had not announced their entertainment yet, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t entertainment to be had at the fairgrounds in the meantime. First off, Surfer’s Point Live will host Boots & Brews in the parking lot with headliners Chris Young and Joe Nichols on Sunday May 7.

artworkAnd then…Anderson .Paak announced on April 25 that .Paak House 23 will be held at the fairgrounds on Friday, May 12. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, .Paak, aka Brandon Paak Anderson, grew up in Oxnard and attended Foothill Technology High School. Two of his albums were named Oxnard and Ventura, both produced by Dr. Dre, the latter earned him a Grammy for Best R&B Album. The fact that .Paak could hold this event anywhere, but chose Ventura, speaks volumes about this talented homegrown artist. Find out more about .Paak House and the Brandon Anderson Foundation at PaakHouse.org.

photo of Beth HartThe new season kicks off at Libbey Bowl with Beth Hart on Saturday, May 6 performing an intimate pared down show. Her back stories are entertaining enough, but I’m sure she’ll be really putting it out there without a full band backing her up.

And speaking of Libbey Bowl, the Ojai Music Festival dates include several concerts at Libbey Bowl. The festival runs Thursday June 8 through Sunday, June 11, with Rhiannon Giddens, Music Director, at the helm. I noticed at least one event has already sold out, so don’t wait until the last minute to try to snag a ticket. Find out more at OjaiFestival.org.

Bombay Bar and Grill will host a celebration of life in honor of Chris Husted who passed away last month. Chris was so a great guy, so well respected throughout the music scene. He had been doing sound on the road with Yachtley Crew recently. Friends will gather on Saturday May 13 from 2-8 with music from Shawn Jones, Guy Martin, Brion Shearer, Aaron Orbit, Rising Son, Yachtley Crew and more. 20% of the sales will go to the Chris Husted fund.

Quick Notes: Rey Fresco plays Tony’s Pizzeria Thursday, May 4; The Knotty G’s from South Carolina make a stop at Surfers Point Café on Sunday, May 7; there’s a free show featuring Old-Timey Country Bluegrass at Poinsettia Pavilion on Sunday, May 7; an in store meet & greet with Ohgeesy will be held at Salzers on Wednesday, May 10; it’s all about the punk rock on Friday, May 12 when Youth Brigade, Stalag 13, False Confession, The Afraid and Crucial Thought play the Oceanview Pavilion; Julie Christensen will perform an intimate show at the Ojai Underground on Saturday, May 13; and new dates added to the Ventura Music Hall calendar include Grateful Shred on June 15, Save Ferris on July 29, and Powerman 5000 on October 20.

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 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 17, 2022
No Class (Photo credit: Patrick Bakody)
No Class at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2022
Raging Arb and the Redheads
Raging Arb and the Redheads at Surf Rodeo 2022
Surf Rodeo
– July 16, 2022
Guy Martin
Guy Martin at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2022
Sitting on Stacy
Sitting on Stacy at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2022
Free Love Project
Free Love Project at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 16, 2022
Fido
Fido at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 15, 2022
Hirie
Hirie at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 15, 2022
Rey Fresco
Rey Fresco at Surf Rodeo 2022

Surf Rodeo – July 15, 2022
The Pitts

The Pitts at Surf Rodeo 2022

Tequila and Tacos Music Festival – July 9, 2022
Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray (Photo credit: Felix Cortez)

Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray

 

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze – 1/13/21 – 1/26/21

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

Ventura Rocks artwork

We all have high hopes for 2021, so don’t let the first week of political turmoil get you down. I’ve been thinking about Ventura’s music scene over the past decade and at one point there were over 30 venues available for live music from the East end of town to the Harbor to Downtown to the Avenue. I miss places that would pack the joint like Bernadette’s, Billy O’s, Zoey’s, Blackbeard’s at the Harbor, Amigo’s, Green Art People, Surf Brewery, the Winery, Yolies, and now the Hong Kong Inn.

As we grapple with Covid-19, it will still be a while before we’re able to embrace live music like we use to do. And when we can, it’s totally up to music lovers to support the scene. If you ask any one of the past owners of any one of the venues who had to shut their venue down this past decade, they would tell you there was nothing like offering live music to a packed house with people spending money to keep their doors open. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, it takes three elements to make a music scene, the artists, the venues, and us music lovers. We can do this!


Photo of Guy MartinMeanwhile, I thought I would check with Ventura’s own, Guy Martin, to see what he’s been up to the past year. You can’t get much more homegrown than Guy, from the bands and projects he’s been a part of for over three decades, he’s seen it all. And now he has put together his own studio, Black Couch Studios, as another choice for musicians to record.

Pam: How has the pandemic affected you personally?

Guy: I’ll keep this one short because I have my own personal views on this pandemic, that could be argued otherwise. However, with my day job as a contractor, it has had no effect. Music on the other hand, we all know it has had a tremendous effect on this business. I’m lucky, I have my “essential” day job to lean back on. My other peers and colleagues that actually rely on music and performing to make a living….well, they are really feeling the effects of this pandemic. I feel bad for the entire performing arts industry. It’s going to be hard moving forward for anyone relying on performing to make a living. It’s so sad. I could go on and on about how I feel about these strict lock downs…but that’s another story for another day. It truly is a bit of a downer mentally for a lot of people, including me at times. We just have to persevere and keep our heads up as much as we can. Love your family, love your close friends, and while you’re at it…just love everybody. Love always wins.

Pam: It seems your Black Couch Studios has been doing well. Who has been in there recording new music this past year?

Guy: I am blessed to have such a professional and functional studio in my own home. I literally count my blessings every time I walk into my studio. With the shutdown of the performing industry, I feel blessed to still be able to keep my feet in the pool with use of my studio, both for my own projects and other’s as well. The pandemic has slowed the projects coming into the studio for sure. As of late, I did a project with a young talented player named Jayden Secor. He just released his debut EP, of which was recorded, mixed, and mastered here at BlackCouch. There is another artist, Court Kellum that is in the process of tracking some of his original songs here as well. He is another talented vocalist trying to release his music to the world…soon. For now, that’s about all. I’ve had several consultations with other artists about recording here at BlackCouch. That was before the pandemic hit, so a lot of artists are on hold with that. They are at home fine tuning their material with small bedroom setups, hopefully getting ready to record in a pro facility when they feel safe to do so.

Pam: What extra precautions (if any) have you been taking to ensure client’s safety?

Guy: I wouldn’t call it “extra” precautions, other than the usual. If both the client and I have been tested negative and feeling well, then it’s business as usual. If a client feels more comfortable with a mask during a session, then that’s what we do. Of course, everything is cleaned on a daily basis in the studio. Everything from drum sticks to microphones.

Pam: What projects have you been working on personally? Who have you been collaborating with?

Guy: Ah…my personal projects. You mean the projects we’ve discussed in the past, maybe 3 years ago that aren’t finished yet? Those projects? Lol. I have a whole album worth (and more) of original material that is just waiting to be finished. GOOD STUFF too!! I can’t wait to release a full-length record again. It’s been since 1997 since that has happened for me. So sad once you really think about it. But it will happen…soon, I promise. I still have a couple covers that are waiting to be released as well. One of them being “Gimme Shelter” by the Stones. Such a cool version too.
Collaborations have come to a halt with the pandemic in play. But that doesn’t stop us from talking about it and planning for it down the road. I plan on collaborating with a lot of my local peers and friends. Players like Shawn Jones, Alastair Greene, Mikey Mo, Jen Leigh… just to name a few. Jayden Secor is even on board for some future works. Looking forward to that all happening.

Pam: What do you miss most this past year?

Guy: Most? Just being normal, which encompasses a lot of things rolled into one. Hanging with friends without worry or issue. Dining out, going to a movie, and most of all…being on stage. I’ll admit, I started to get a little burned out on the “scene” and the politics of playing out and getting gigs. But now that it’s not even an option currently, I miss it so much. I can’t wait to make people happy with some guitar playing again, hopefully soon.


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 – 4/22/20 – 5/5/20

CrookedEyeTommy.com/Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com
Ventura Rocks artwork
As we continue in shutdown mode and our town is a virtual ghost town at night (as it should be), I’ve reached out to a number of musicians to get their thoughts and updates on how they’re managing the stay home mandate.

Tommy Marsh of Crooked Eye Tommy

Are you still working your day job?

Tommy MarshTommy: I was off for two weeks but I’m back to work now.

How’s the Covid-19 Stay Home order affecting you as a working musician?

Tommy: So far 20 shows have been cancelled totaling at least $3,500 in lost revenue. To date, the Ojai Blues Fest is still on for June 6th but that is subject to change. I also had to cancel my trips to both the Nashville and Cincinnati areas where I was booked in April. It’s been tough.

Is there any upside to it?

Tommy: I have been blessed to spend time at home with Tammy which has been very nice, I’m usually so busy that it’s all a blur. I have been getting lots of sleep which is also elusive during a busy life of working and playing. I have been writing and that is always good.

What are you doing to fill the time?

Tommy: I’m working on the artwork for our new album, the theme is sort of a comic book style. We have also been getting things done around the house as well as planning our retirement to Tennessee. Plus, we’ve been watching lots of live music shows of our friends and supporting them with $ as we are able. We are so blessed, and I know many out there are not as lucky.

Tell me about the new record and when it will be released.

Hot Coffee & Pain is completed and will be released in August. It’s been a long time coming. I just got the masters and I’m VERY PLEASED and feel it is better on many fronts than Butterflies & Snakes; big guitars and big horns will be the hallmark of this one.

CrookedEyeTommy.com/
Facebook.com/CrookedEyeTommy/
Twitter.com/TommyMarsh805
Instagram.com/CrookedEyeTommy/


Jodi Farrell, Singer/Songwriter and owner of Jodi Farrell’s Music Studio

How badly has the Stay Home mandate affected you economically? Are you able to keep your students engaged with video music lessons?

Jodi FarrellJodi: I consider myself one of the lucky ones to be able to continue working from home.
Although there have been a few students who have opted not to continue music lessons via Zoom, most of my students have welcomed this opportunity and are doing an amazing job adapting to this new format. I believe, just like me, they welcome any sense of normalcy and continuity in their lives during this unprecedented and upheavaled time. Being able to continue music lessons not only fulfills this desire, it also provides a sense of joy and happiness in a way only music can.

Are you doing anything to stay connected to the music scene?

Jodi: Anytime I click on Facebook and come across someone sharing a song or streaming live music or posting a musical collaboration through Zoom, I feel uplifted. I’ve also posted videos singing songs with the intent to uplift the community’s spirit. I am also pleased to see fellow musicians such as, Jerry Breiner and Colette Lovejoy (Déjà vu Too), Karen Eden, Mark Masson (Shaky Feeling), Shawn Jones, Alastair Greene, Jon Gindick, Kelly’s Lot, Polly Musicmuse, Karyn 805, Crooked Eye Tommy and so many others utilizing social media platforms to continue to share their music and talents with all of us.

Have you been inspired to write new music about this experience, or not so much?

Jodi: Funny you should ask, I am in the process of writing a melody to some lyrics given to me from another talented writer (and illustrator), Linda Silvestri. It’s going to be a blues song that will make you smile. I look forward to recording and posting it upon its completion.

Would you like to add anything else?

Jodi: I would like to express my gratitude to you for all that you do in supporting live arts in Ventura. Even in this time, when no performance is able to occur in our local establishments around town, you are still working to inform, and bring the musical community together through articles such as these and in so many other ways. Together, and with music, we will get through this!

Pam: Aw shucks. 😊

JodiFarrell.com
www.facebook.com/jodi.farrell


Jon Gindick, Singer/Songwriter, best-selling musical
instruction author, and owner/operator of the Blues Harmonica Jam Camp

Is the Covid-19 Stay Home order affecting you as a working musician?

Jon GindickJon: I’ve had to cancel five gigs and postpone my five-day Mississippi Delta Blues Harmonica Jam Camp in April; it’s a small price to pay for defeating this virus.

Is there any upside to it?

Jon: Yes, short term, I feel released from my mundane responsibilities, free to develop new songs, and time to research and create new material. Long term, we shall see.

What are you doing to fill the time?

Jon: I’m giving lessons online, advertising my seminars, providing customer service,
playing music, creating videos, reaching out to old friends, and trying to figure what to do with myself next. Luckily, I have a good teaching and publishing business, so my finances have not been damaged.

Gindick.com 
Facebook.com/Gindick


Licity Collins, Singer/Songwriter

How badly has the Stay Home mandate affected you economically?

Licity CollinsLicity: I have complex feelings about the stay-home mandates. We’ve all lost a lot. For many people the reasons might feel theoretical. For me it is not. One of my two best friends in the world contracted the novel coronavirus and came down with COVID-19. She is in one of the high-risk categories. So, my “stay home” time has included a harrowing two-week vigil of holding back tears every day worried for her life while she walked the slow intense path through a “mild case” of the illness which was actually quite brutal. I am grateful for her life today, knowing she has just recently recovered. Her voice has never sounded so sweet. I am happy to stay home so that as few people as possible must go through that illness or that vigil.
I am also hoping that the powerful exposure of the massive flaws in the music economy will, in the end, benefit musicians. We all know that the industry was broken. We lost our ability to earn money through our recording sales in the MP3 transition, leaving only performance as our main way of making money. That system was also starting to fall apart, with smaller musicians expected to play too many shows for free, concert ticket prices getting so high, and major artist fees becoming unaffordable for even the largest festivals. It is my deepest hope that this challenge we are going through will shine a light on the devaluing of music— and correct it. I hope that musicians will begin to receive our true value for all we do.

What are you doing to stay connected with the music scene?

Licity: I have been really focused on staying connected to my community of supporters and fans. I‘ve been sending frequent messages of love and inspiration to my email list and creating new intimate opportunities for them to connect with me and each other.
In asking for donations (which everyone is) I’ve made the decision to pass along 22% of my donations to working musicians in need. I know that many of lead artists have fan bases that we can turn to for support. But a lot of the amazing band members that make us sound like rock stars don’t have that kind of name recognition. I’ve been able to pass along a small amount, and I hope it has helped.

Have you been inspired to write new music about this experience, or the opposite?

Licity: I need a lot of mental space to write music. This time has been anything but that! In addition to worrying/trying not to worry about my friend and my income, I have been extremely busy creating new ways for people to connect to themselves, me and others, as a part of all I do as a music maker. I am very excited to announce those new projects in the coming weeks.

Would you like to add anything else?

Licity: You know I’m a big advocate for love. This time is an opportunity for us to choose love, in every moment. Choosing love looks like so many different things, but this time there is a major focus on unselfishness, while understanding that we have to care for ourselves and our own needs. This is one of the greatest challenges of humanity—to understand both our individuality and interconnectedness.

LicityCollins.com/
Facebook.com/LicityCollins/


Guy Martin, Singer/Songwriter and owner of BlackCouch Studio

Are you still working your day job?

Guy MartinGuy: Most definitely; my day job is a general contractor.

How’s the Covid-19 Stay Home order affecting you as a working musician?

Guy: Well for me, the timing of this pandemic hasn’t affected my gigs at all, simply because I have been focused on building the new BlackCouch Studio for the last 6 months. I had done a few sit-ins and benefit performances in between, but lately I haven’t pushed any Guy Martin Band shows at all. So, when Covid-19 hit, the only thing that really changed was the social interaction.

Is there any upside to it?

Guy: On a personal level, somewhat. Now is the time to get those nagging little things done that I’ve never made the time to do before. On a global level, there is definitely a silver lining in this dark cloud; the world has a common enemy that we are fighting together as one. I do think that after the chaos is over, people around the world will have a renewed outlook on what is important in this life. The downside is I miss my immediate family and close friends. I’m tired of having to use mobile devices and technology to communicate. I would love to have a physical hang, and get together soon. Nothing beats that.

What are you doing to fill the time?

Guy: I have a list of to-dos that I’m stoked to get done. And BlackCouch Studio has a small list of things as well. I just re-wired the BlackCouch Studio’s entire preamp section to exactly how I want it. I have the time to analyze what my perfect workflow should be like in a recording session and make any necessary adjustments to accommodate that. I also now have the time to try and set up and record more social media content, both for Guy Martin Music and BlackCouch Studio. Will it get done how I want? Probably not, because I am my own worst critic and usually get in my own way.

GuyMartin.com
BlackCouchStudio.com
Facebook.com/GuyMartinMusic
https://twitter.com/GuyMartinMusic


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. For updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze 3/14 – 3/27

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

You won’t want to miss the return of the Preachers Blues Band when they reunite for Thomas Fire relief show at the Hong Kong Inn on Saturday, March 17. It’s been almost five years and it may not happen again for who knows how long! I’m hearing many musicians who have sat in with the band in the past are on board to perform too including Rick Reeves, Guy Martin, Ashford Gordon, Ray Jaurique, Preston Smith, Kelly Zirbes, Perry Robertson, Glade Rassmussen, John Fincham, Jerry Breiner, Ian McFadyen, Jodi Farrell and more!

A popular event every year as a precursor to the Ventura Music Festival is the Student Jazz competition. Judges will award cash prizes to three of Southern California’s best high school jazz musicians and they’ll be invited to perform during the Festival’s run. The competition this year will be held at Squashed Grapes on Sunday, March 18, at 2 pm. While this one is free, donations for the Young Artists Fund will be gratefully appreciated.

Beware the bagpipers throughout the day at different venues on Saturday, March 17, but as St. Patrick’s Day actually falls on a Saturday, there will also be plenty of music during the St. Patrick’s Day parade on Main Street downtown Ventura. Get the entire family there early so you can get a good seat to cheer on the participating entrees. It’s always a hoot!

Quick notes: Opera Santa Barbara is offering a free performance on Friday, March 16 during the lunch hour at EP Foster Library; Donavon Frankenreiter plays Discovery on Friday, March 16; The Galactic Polecats play Sans Souci on Saturday, March 17;
Cranberry Sauce debuts at Grapes and Hops on Sunday, March 18, offering music by The Beatles; The Majestic Ventura Theater has Flogging Molly on Monday, March 19, and Ministry on Friday, March 23; The Phantom Pomps CD release party at the Hong Kong Inn is on Saturday, March 24; Tickets for Frost and Fire IV have gone on sale for three nights at the Ventura Theater October 4, 5 and 6th with Cirith Ungol, Gygax, Night Demon, Screamer and more on the bill; the Ventura County Concert band holds one of their annual free shows at the Ventura High School Auditorium on Sunday afternoon, March 18, at 3 pm, this one is called “Simply…the Masters”; and ARC of Ventura is holding their annual “Let’s Go Out” event at Bombay’s on Sunday, March 24, with Fish Fry, the Vonettes and Seth Pettersen and Friends.

And finally, VenturaRocks.com is celebrating their 9th anniversary serving the community. There are a number of changes coming soon including the listing of only live music along with the inclusion of venues from neighboring cities.

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 1/17 – 1/30

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

The Thomas Fire benefit 805 Love Notes concert at the Ventura Theater on Sunday, January 14, was an amazing day of talent celebrating first responders and raising money for Help-California.org, a grassroot efforts to help our community recovery. Just a few of the highlights were performances by Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket, the return of Shades of Day and Franklin for Short as well as all the artists who donated their time. I can’t thank Steve and Polly Hoganson enough for inviting me to emcee the day.

Mark Hartley gave me the head’s up for the Thomas Fire Benefit Festival (www.ThomasFireBenefit.com) to be held at Plaza Park on Saturday, February 3. He said this one will be one for the books, and I can’t disagree as the headliner will be Kevin Costner and Modern West along with Olivia Newton John, Colbie Caillat, Super Duper Kyle, and Ventura’s own Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. When asked what it means to be a part of the fundraiser, BBVD front man, Scotty Morris, told me, “It means everything to us! We were on the road when the Thomas Fires kicked in and it was personally one of the most painful tours of my career. Watching my city burn on [social media] is hard to put into words. To see my family and my friends and my community facing such unbelievable horrors in our beautiful city was heartbreaking. All we wanted to do was get back home and help.” I also hear more acts may be added, so keep tuned!

And yet another Thomas Fire benefit will be held this month at Discovery on Friday, January 19, with The Delgado Brothers, Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps, Guy Martin and Ray Jaurique & the Uptown Brothers. 100% of the funds raised will go to Ventura County Food Share Food Bank, The United Way Thomas Fire Fund and the Red Cross Thomas Fire Fund.

Quick notes: The Boatyard Pub now offers live music Tuesday through Saturday, Yachtley Crew continues their Thursday night residency at Bombays, Cubensis returns to Ventura for a show on Saturday January 20 at Discovery, Tariqh Akoni and Curt Bisquera play Grapes and Hops on Thursday, January 18 as The Groove Lounge; Made West celebrates their 2-year anniversary Saturday, January 27 with Skin & Bones; and the Ventura County Concert Band has a free concert for the family on Sunday, January 28 at Ventura High School’s auditorium.

I’ll be spinning new music over the next few weeks from Karyn 805, Anchor & Bear and Brent Franklin on the Pam Baumgardner Music Hour which airs weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays at 5 and Sundays at noon) on KPPQ-LP 104.1 FM here in Ventura, and worldwide on the internet, at www.CapsMedia.org/Radio. Help support real local radio supporting local artists in the 805.

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 7/22 – 8/4

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
No Need to Panic!
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

Jon Reese of Amigos with columnist Pam Baumgardner of the Ventura Breeze celebrating Cinco de Mayo earlier this year.

Jon Reese of Amigos with columnist Pam Baumgardner of the Ventura Breeze celebrating Cinco de Mayo earlier this year.

Just so you know, notices have gone up on a couple of key venues in town indicating ownership changes.  I thought it prudent to go to the source before I panicked, so I spoke to Diego at Bombay’s and he said they had to post behind-the-scene changes for legal reasons, but nothing changes in the bar and all the same familiar faces will continue to keep things popping (thank God!); but there will be a change of ownership in the next month or so at Amigo’s when Jon Reese hands over the keys to new owner, Mike Toler (barring any major roadblocks).  Toler has asked Jon to stay involved and to continue to book bands nightly, which is why Jon loves Amigos in the first place and why we love Jon.

Todd Hannigan and Xoco Moraza returned recently from Japan where they performed while supporting screenings of the film The Fisherman’s Son.   The short film was scored by Todd Hannigan, Xocoyotzin Moraza, Dave Palmer and Jesse Siebenburg.  I asked Xoco about performing in Japan and he told me that the coolest thing he experienced was being able to share his musical art with such an appreciative country. He said, “It was a great feeling. It reminds me that music is a universal language that transcends any borders. It was a great cross cultural experience.”

There are a number of CD and EP release parties to support over the next few weeks:  Sleepercub, July 25, at Bombays; Hy Brasil, August 1, at Bombays; Medicine Hat, August 2, at Saloon BBQ; and Crooked Eye Tommy, August 7, at the Plaza Playhouse Theater in Carpinteria.

The Mighty Cash Cats will team up with Island Packers on Saturday, July 25 for a musical dinner cruise out of the Ventura Harbor.

The Ventura Fair kicks off August 5. Pre-sale tickets are available through the 4th. Don’t forget that all concerts are included in the price of admission.

Spencer MacKenzie’s annual end-of-summer block party falls on August 29 and 30. This year there will be no cover charge.  Bands will be lined up both days with performances from the Guy Martin Band, Mandex, Brothers Fortune, Bloody Mary Morning, Honey Owl, and more including new comer on the scene, André. Get out, enjoy the free music, but be sure to support the event by buying some delicious fish tacos and cool beverages.

And finally, the third annual Key to the Highway Blues Benefit will be held at Rookees Sports Bar on Saturday, August 1 from 6 til 9 pm starring Tommy Castro and the Painkillers supported by Guy Martin. Proceeds benefit the Khepera House rehab and recovery program.

If 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 Music Photos: December 2014

Discovery – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Guy MartinGuy Martin


Discovery – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Crooked-Eye Tommy
Crooked Eye Tommy


Grapes and Hops – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Shawn Jones
Shawn Jones


Saloon BBQ – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Mark Sellers
Mark Sellers


The Wine Rack – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Mark Heyes with Brad Swanson (singing)
Mark Hayes


Bombay’s – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Mandex!


Amigo’s – December 31, 2014
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Iron Butterfly Experience


Bombay’s – December 20, 2014
Kiss Mas
Kiss Mas


Bombay’s – December 20, 2014
Bloody Mary Morning
Bloody Mary Morning
Amigo’s – December 20, 2014
Ray Jaurique and the Uptown Brothers
Ray Jaurique and the Uptown Brothers


Gigi’s Cocktails – December 20, 2014
Pull The Trigger
Pull the Trigger


Billy O’s – December 19, 2014
The NaVaNaX
The NaVaNaX


Peirano’s – December 19, 2014
Ruben Estrada and Friends
Ruben Estrada


Hi Hat Entertainment at Ventura Beach Club – December 19, 2014
Kim Wilson, Carl Sonny Leyland


ddd

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

Crooked Eye Tommy Fundraiser

logoBombay Bar and Grill
Sunday, January 12, 2014

Ventura came together yet again to help.  This time it was to help get Tommy Marsh and the band to Memphis to compete in the International Blues Challenge in a couple of weeks.  The line up was phenomenal with Guy Martin, Mikey Mo, Kelly’s Lot, 50 Sticks of Dynamite, Ray Jourique & the Uptown Brothers, 4 on the Floor, Donna Greene & the Roadhouse Daddies.  Plus Tommy’s two bands played.  First Tommy Marsh and Bad Dog opened the show, and then the band of the hour, closed the show as Crooked Eye Tommy and fellow bandmates, brother Paddy Marsh, Jimmy Calire, Tony Cicero and Glade Rasmussen tore it up.

The fans showed up, danced, and bought raffle tickets.  They also entered to win a Gibson SB Robot guitar which after all was said and done went to Lester Gray.  Congratulations you bastard.  I thought for sure one of my two tickets would be lucky!

Crooked Eye Tommy FundraiserWe had a blast hanging with good friends and family. Loved how Ventura Singles Rock showed up to support. Several local musicians showed up to show the love.  Kat from Totally Local VC and Sandy from the Tom and Sandy Show were on hand to make announcements. And though Kelly and Perry from Kelly’s Lot performed early, they stayed to the very end keeping it extremely lively.  Kelly, you’re a hoot. Thanks for sporting the shirt babe!  And the volunteers were all cheerful and enjoying the music.  And again Diana Boydstun, your such an asset.  Every time I’ve called to ask for your help on a fundraiser, you have never hesitated.  So glad to see that you had a blast and just know, I’ll be calling on you again! And Seth Brandes, thanks so much for being there helping and taking such great photos!

Diego and the staff at Bombay’s are a class act.  Armand John Lizzy and Chris Husted  did a terrific job running sound on the two stages.

And Tommy couldn’t have been more humble.  He sincerely deserves this show of support.

Now it’s MEMPHIS BABY!!!  Good luck Crooked Eye Tommy, do Ventura proud and represent us well.