Ventura Music Scene
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com
It’s not that I hate being the bearer of bad news that summer is officially over as we usher in fall, that’s because fall isn’t so bad for us here in Ventura. The autumnal equinox is September 22 and as far as I’m concerned, the weather is perfect for taking in live music; but let’s be honest, the weather is always perfect for taking in live music!
The Port of Hueneme hosts the 2022 Banana Festival on Saturday, September 24, with live music from Teka Penteriche (Brazilian Bossa), Justo Almario and his Afro Colombian Jazz Ensemble, Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps with her special brand of Texas blues rock, Richardo Lemvoy Makina Loca, with Victor Vega and the Bomb capping off the day. There is no admission and parking is free for this one at 105 E Port Hueneme Road from 10 am to 6 pm.
One of my favorite nights out is also a fundraiser for a great cause, Pier Under the Stars. This ticketed event raises money to help preserve our Ventura Pier providing emergency funds when big waves do their inevitable damage to the pilings. The non-profit is called Pier into the Future and the evening helps to keep their vision alive. From 5-8 pm on Saturday, October 1 on the beachfront promenade next to the north side of the pier, the outdoor event features food, wine, and other beverages from local merchants. The live musical entertainment this year will be from Mid Life Crisis, so plan to dance “under the stars” as well.
It’s an early start to Oktoberfest over the weekend at September 24 at Enegren Brewing in Moorpark features live festive German music. There will also be a stein hoisting competition, axe throwing, vendors marketplace, petting zoo and more! Sounds like fun for all ages; I even spotted a mention of this one on KTLA weekend news.
Marty Van Loan and Jeff Evans are at it again with the release of their CD from the Mini Bar Project. They’ll perform new songs and old favorites in a rare live performance at the Santa Paula Theater Center on October 1.
Congratulations to the one of the original dive-bars in the county, the Rudder Room, as they celebrate their 60th anniversary on Saturday, September 24, with Teresa Russell performing 1-5 pm.
Not quite a 60-year milestone, but it’s a milestone none-the-less as Ojai Valley Brewery celebrates their 1-year anniversary with what they’re calling Croptober Fest 2022, which also falls on Saturday, September 24. Reggae reigns from 5-10 from Cornerstone, Morie & the Heavy Hitters and Jacob & the Good Vibes. This one is a ticketed event and will help to benefit the Humane Society of Ventura County.
And my favorite jazz spot, the Grape, will also celebrate their one-year anniversary on Saturday, October 1 with the return of Casey Abrams.
New shows at Ventura Music Hall
Kabaka Pyramid with Jordant on October 13
Tai Verdes on November 9
Thee Sinseers & the Altons with Rudy de Anda on November 12
Skeggs on March 6, 2023
Mark your calendar (more details next issue) for Surf n Suds (October 8), the Highland Seaside Highland Games (October 8-9) and Boots and Brews with Tim McGraw (October 14).
Quick Notes:
Billy Vera and the Beaters play the Grape on Thursday, September 22; teen band out of Camarillo, No Idea, play El Rey Cantina on Sunday, September 25; Wednesday, September 28, is the next free Rock the Collection concert with Eagles tribute band, the Long Run; Elvin Bishop and Charlie Musselwhite play the Libbey Bowl on Friday, September 30; Fido the band play Leashless Brewing on Saturday, October 1; and the Fatty Vegan hosts a Numbskull Productions show with Powerhouse and End Days on Sunday, October 2 (ticketweb.com).
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