Ventura Music Photos – November 2022

The Victorian House (Formerly The Tavern, A Bar Called Country) – November 29, 2022
Jayden Secor
Jayden Secor

Topa Topa Brewing – November 11, 2022
Anchor and Bear (album release party)
Anchor and Bear

Ventura Music Hall – November 10, 2022
Shane Alexander (photo: Ariel Sri)Shane Alexander

Majestic Ventura Theater – November 5, 2022
Gogol Bordello (photo: Chris Jensen)
Gogol Bordello

Ventura Music Scene 11/2 – 11/15/22

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

Good Kids artworkIt didn’t surprise me at all when I heard that several members from Army of Freshmen had taken on a new project, an album for children, called Good Kids. It features 14 high-spirited, multi-genre songs that speak to children. If you know the band, then you know what quirky high energy fun-loving free spirits they are, so this totally makes sense!

A few factors help mold the project, the most important one being that

Army members

they are parents themselves, but then the pandemic hit and it was the perfect time to fill in all that free time they now had on their hands. To accompany the release of Good Kids on November 4, will be a new web series of the same name offering four-minute episodes hosted by a different band member interviewing a “real” good kid, as well as comical vignettes of the band taking on the subject themselves from sports to going to school to starting a band. Way to go boys!

Expect frivolity, over-the-top theatrics and just an awesome stage show when punk legends Gogol Bordello hit the stage at the Ventura Theater on Saturday, November 5; and then Canadian indie pop duo, Tegan and Sara (twin sisters) play the Majestic on Friday, November 11.

Meanwhile just a few miles away on Thompson Blvd, this is the Ventura Music Hall line up for the next two weeks:
Sammy Johnson on Thursday, November 3
Tai Verdes on Wednesday, November 9
The Longest Johns with Shane Alexander opening on Thursday, November 10
Big Head Todd and the Monsters on Friday, November 11
The Sinseers on Saturday, November 12
Flamingosis & Blockhead on Sunday, November 13
Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore with the Guilty Ones on Tuesday, November 15

anchor and bear artworkI’m looking forward to the new release from Anchor & Bear. You can see them perform “No More Nights on the Roof” at Topa Topa Brewing, downtown Ventura on Friday, November 11, with Looking West opening the show. By the way, if you haven’t been to this Topa Topa Brewing location in a while, you need to check it out. They cleared out the back room where they use to have their brewing equipment and now they have a spot for live bands, open mics and screenings. I’m hoping this will become consistent listening room for artists to perform.

Quick Notes: Danny Carey of Tool returns to the Grape with the Doug Webb Group on Thursday, November 3; Poseidon Brewing’s First Friday is offering up the CocoKnots with a Hawaiian vibe on November 4; the final free Ojai Pops Concert Series show of the season will be Sunday, November 6, at 3:30 pm at Libbey Bowl with Larktown & Friends; Jodi Farrell’s live performers’ workshop at Namba will be on Sunday November 6 (donations appreciated); Michael Falcone does a tribute to Sinatra on Thursday, November 10 at the Manhattan in Camarillo; David Franz album release party will be at the new Feros Ferio Winery in Ojai on Saturday, November 12; local singer/songwriter, Krystal Park, performs a set at Surfers Point Café on Sunday, November 13 (1 pm); and tickets are on sale via eventbrite for Dr. Know & Stalag 13 at the Oceanview Pavilion in Port Hueneme for Saturday, January 7, 2023;

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.

Topa Topa Folk Fest 2017

Two days of awesome artists in gorgeous downtown Ojai at the Libbey Bowl.
Saturday, October 7, 2017
Lucinda Williams
Shane Alexander
Leslie Stevens
Bright Wright
Ladies Gun Club

Justine Bennett

Friday, October 6, 2017
Bryan Titus

Timmy Curran

Jamie Drake

The Brambles

Danny McGaw

Miscellaneous Backstage, Crew and Volunteers

 

Ventura Rocks in the Ventura Breeze – 9/28 – 10/11

Ventura MusVentura Breeze logoic Scene
Folk fest to Metal fest
by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com
Pam@VenturaRocks.com

High at the top of my list of things to do over the next few weeks is the Topa Topa Folk Fest being held at the beautiful Libbey Bowl in Ojai on Saturday, October 1. Ticket sales have been brisk, which is great because I’d love to see this one sell out as it also helps to benefit the Turning Point Foundation. Headlining the folk fest will be Jake Smith better known as The White Buffalo whose music has been featured on such TV shows as “Sons of Anarchy” and “Californication.” I’m also excited to see Grizfolk after watching local talent Brendon Willing share his adventures via social media after joining the band over a year ago. Actually, the whole lineup is pretty cool with Jaime Wyatt, Todd Hannigan, Shane Alexander, Lee Koch, Bryan Titus and so many more talented folks. Find out more at www.OnesToWatchProductions.com. You can help make a difference while enjoying a great day of music, hope to see you there!

Another Turning Point Foundation fundraising was held at the Traveler’s Café on Thursday, September 22 when Shawn Jones entertained the room. It was the perfect opportunity for people to check out one of Ventura’s newest restaurants offering up live acoustic music on select days. Shawn by the way heads back to Europe the first week in October for about a month with shows in Italy and Ireland.

The highly anticipated return of Cirth Ungol (their first show in 25 years) is finally upon us as they headline Frost and Fire II at the Ventura Theater on October 8, and to sweeten the deal even further, Metal Blade Records released the band’s classic “Paradise Lost” on CD and vinyl. Frost and Fire II actually spans three days (October 7-9) and three venues (Bombay’s, Sans Souci and the Ventura Theater). This heavy metal festival isn’t for the light of heart and will most likely sell out (Day one already sold out at press time). To get the full line up of bands and schedules go to www.FrostAndFireFest.com.

Plan B will be celebrating their 4th anniversary with their popular Second Sunday Supper for October (on the 9th), featuring The Vonettes. The venue is also working on Friday nights for live music on a regular basis.

Squashed Grapes is excited to welcome Ronnie Hudson on Saturday, October 8. Hudson is most notable for his hit song “West Coast Poplock” which would later appear on Dr. Dre and Tupac Shakur’s song, “California Love” and Snoop Dogg’s “Poplock 2”. Hudson also played bass on the legendary Grammy-winning soundtrack “Shaft” by Isaac Hayes, and his work is featured in other films including “The Social Network”, “Iron Man II” and “South Central.”

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.

New Year’s Resolutions

It’s New Year’s resolution time again.  To make promises to better ourselves or to quit doing things that we feel are harmful to us or to others.  This tradition dates back to ancient Babylonia and was first celebrated in March. Then those feisty Romans changed it to January in honor of the God Janus.  He was the patron of arches, doorways, beginnings and endings.  I contacted several locals to see what they are resolved to do and was buoyed by their positive messages and the notion that 2014 is full of promise and inspiration.  We hope you and yours have a very happy New Year!

  • Cheryl HeitmannCHERYL HEITMANN
    Mayor Ventura, CA – “Better time management!”
  • ShelbySHELBY FIGUEROA
    Singer/Songwriter – “Spend more time with friends & family and to take more pictures!!”
  • SHANE ALEXANDER
    Musician/SingerShane Alexander/Songwriter – “I’m a Buddhist so I literally start EVERY day with resolutions – to be the best man I can be, to be the best artist I can be, to develop and maintain a blissful life condition and to keep my home-life balanced and flourishing.”
  • bill locey_100BILL LOCEY
    Music writer Ventura County Star – “I live as if every day is New Year’s Eve, Christmas and my birthday”
  • DOUG PETTIBONE
    Doug PettiboneMusician/Singer/Songwriter John Mayer band – “This year I will try to be the best father, husband, friend I can be.”
  • GUY MARTIN
    Blues/Rock Musicianguy martin_t – “My New Year’s resolution is to write, record and produce a long overdue original album. My last effort was in 2000.  Lots of unfinished music has been written since then!”
  • MB HanrahanMB HANRAHAN
    Artist/Muralist – “Never do something ‘only for the money'”
  • KYLE HUNT
    Musician/Singer/Songwriter – “Aside from the usual resolutions like trying to live Kyle Hunthealthier and get in shape, I’d really like to release the new songs I’ve been working on. I’m looking forward to sharing them with everybody. On top of that I’d like to go see a lot more live shows. I’d like to check out some of the bands I haven’t had a chance to see.”
  • Todd HanniganTODD HANNIGAN
    Musician/Singer/Songwriter/Producer – “No resolution this year.  I usually end up breaking them all year.”
  • MARK MASSON
    Mark MassonMusician Shaky Feelin’ – “My New Year’s resolution is to live everyday to the fullest appreciate all my friends, family and even all of my lovely acquaintances around Ventura. Life is short and we never know when it’s going to be taken away from us. Oh yeah and work out and stay in shape, drink only the best beer and keep on playing my music and rocking hard to pursue my dreams for me and other people who are pushing for me. Basically my resolution is to just try and be a better person.”
  • Jodi FarrellJODI FARRELL
    Music/Voice teacher/Singer -“To thine own self, be true”
  • LISBET FREY
    Owner/Partner Green Art People – “I can tell you this I have Lisbet Freyresolved to have more fun (unrelated to work) and to connect authentically with friends, family and music. I want to be more present and live and make connections out of love, not obligation. I also plan on working on my own music this year and getting back into singing/writing.”
  • Brendan Willing JamesBRENDAN WILLING JAMES
    Musician/Singer/Songwriter Member of Grizfolk- “I resolve to be conversational in Swedish by the end of the year, to meet Steven Colbert, and eat sushi in Japan.”
  • Christina DiazCHRISTINA DIAZ
    Artist/Editor in Chief E-Volved Magazine – “My 2014 resolution is to continue to stay sober (I have a 15+ months) and keep moving forward.”
  • Amanda PeacockAMANDA PEACOCK
    Rock Photographer –“I think my New Year’s resolution is: Less time spent on social media, less time spent in bars (did you know that I don’t even drink?), more time with Family and friends, connecting on a deeper level. The past year has brought me new insight to what matters most.”
  • DiegoDIEGO GAMBA
    Manager Bombay Bar & Grill – “To make downtown (Ventura) safe and thriving and to provide quality local entertainment in a safe and fun environment.”
  • PerlaPERLA BATALLA
    Musician/Singer/Songwriter/Producer – “Every moment counts so I plan to pay close attention and take regular tech breaks for goodness sakes!! And most importantly I plan to continue to love big, always love big!!!”
  • Jim RiceJIM RICE
    Executive Director Bell Arts Factory – “My resolution is to have a new resolution every day …not just once a year….but a lifestyle resolved to simply be… “BETTER”.
  • TOMMY MARSH
    Blues/Rock Musician “My resolutions are many…Tommy MarshLOL, lose some weight… Love my friends and family more apparently and deliberately… To give more of my time and substance or help others find their path or get back onto it… And of course the biggie…To WIN IN MEMPHIS!”
  • John ReeseJONNY REESE
    Owner Amigo’s Surf Cantina  “I am resolving to take better care of myself and the people I love. Be more open to new and different music styles!”
  • Samantha RossSAMANTHA ROSS
    Comedian/Acct Exec VC Reporter – “I’m looking forward to 2014. Although this year was positive creatively, 2013 was challenging professionally. I was afraid of change, but in the end it was the best thing for me. This next year, I’m going to embrace new experiences and focus on a little thing called follow through.”
  • Tom HiltonTOM HILTON
    Radio personality KVTA Tom & Sandy’s 805 – “My New Year’s resolution it’s to lose 10 LBS without cutting down on beer LOL!”
  • pamPAM BAUMGARDNER
    Owner VenturaRocks.com – “My New Year’s resolution is to create and maintain a well organized office. It will help smooth the way for getting more projects done. Oh! and dance more!”
  • POLLY HOGANSON
    Music Advocate and Writer VenturaRocks.com – “Well I hope to travel to where ever Paul McCartney is and enjoy a once in a lifetime live concert.  Pick up an instrument, I think I have time now, and live a simple, healthy life, physically, mentally and spiritually. Here’s to 2014!”

Steve and Polly Hoganson

Top Ten Gift Ideas

The holidays are fast approaching and maybe you’re like my friend Lynn who finished shopping for perfect gifts months ago, or like me, you are still psyching yourself up to hit the shopping centers dreading the hordes of people, long lines and canned Christmas music.  Before you contemplate slipping into body armor, I have an idea!  (And if you know me you know what I’m about to say) Give the gift of music!  I’ve put together a list of a few artists who call the 805 their home or play in the area regularly.

  • White BuffaloThe White Buffalo’s latest release “Shadows Grey & Evil Ways” is deep, powerful, hypnotic. If you’re an avid fan of the popular biker saga Son’s of Anarchy you’ll recognize The Buffalo’s songs/voice woven beautifully into the storyline. Genre: Americana/Folk   www.thewhitebuffalo.com
  • Shane AlexanderShane Alexander  A voice blessed by the Gods along with amazing guitar work his newest effort “ Ladera“ will want you pressing repeat again and again. Genre: Folk/Pop/Rock www.shanealexandermusic.com
  • Delaney GibsonDelaney Gibson’s 3rd full length album “Tall Like the Tree” reflects her growth since moving out of Ventura and maturing through experiences in life and love.  Fans still get the satisfaction of her soaring vocals but with the added bonus of a fully formed lyricist. Genre: Pop/Theatrical  www.delaneygibson.com
  • john fullbrightJohn Fullbright’s first record was Grammy nominated and rightly so.  A brilliant songwriter we are waiting with bated breath for new stuff ‘cause we can’t get enough.  Until then “From the Ground Up” will do nicely. Genre Americana/Folk www.johnfullbrightmusic.com
  • Reverend Tall Tree Reverend Tall Tree & the Blackstrap Brothers, AKA Chris Pierce’s newest musical project, has finally recorded their soul stomping sounds. The self-titled album is in limited release. Snap them up quick.  Genre: Driving Blues/Gospel/Howling harmonica www.reverendtalltree.com
  • LissieLissie – On a world-wide tour in support of her newest record “Back to Forever”, smoky, explosive vocals, crazy-amazing hooks, Lissie harkens comparisons to Janis. But know this – she is absolutely her own woman.  Genre: Rock/Pop/Folk   www.lissie.com
  • Milk Carton KidsThe Milk Carton Kids – Joey Ryan & Kenneth Pattengale were solo artists who then joined forces a short three years ago and are conquering, bludgeoning, slaying the Americana world.  Zoey’s was honored to have been a part of their very first live recording “Retrospect “.  Pick that up along with “Prologue” and their latest “The Ash and Clay.” You’ll thank me later.  Genre: Folk/Americana   www.themilkcartonkids.com
  • Brian WrightBrian Wright thoughtfully weaves imaginative tales of pain, love and woe. Close your eyes and enjoy the ride of “Rattle Their Chains” Genre: Americana/Rock-n-Roll www.brianwrightmusic.com
  • MassengerMassenger. The ultimate Ventura Indie band their record “Massenger” is all things good about Ventura beach life. With the able bodied vocalist Sasha Green and support by Seth Pettersen this is a gem. Genre: Surf/punk/pop/rock www.massenger.bandcamp.com/
  • 50 Sticks of Dynamite50 Sticks of Dynamite – A fan of their live shows we do have to recognize the hardest working band in the city and their latest record “Love, Dream, Truth, Love”.  If only for the fact that lead singer Ian MacFadyen plays electric banjo! Genre: Banjo fueled Rock N Roll.  www.50sticks.com

Heart & Soul Benefit Concert for Polly

The concert was held at Bombay Bar and Grill in Ventura, CA, on Sunday, November 24, 2013.
Polly
Sometimes it just feels good being able to help someone else.  But, it feels even better when you’re giving back to someone who has done so much for others; and that is why the music community came together for Polly Hoganson.  They came because she needed assistance.  They came because they felt indebted for what she and her husband Steve had done for them and for the music community.  They came because they wanted to help.

There were over 100 items donated for the Silent Auction and Raffle. The items were as small as Blenders in the Grass gift certificate, to a custom-made Willing Guitar. We had t-shirts, and CDs as well as house concerts from our local artists (Shane Alexander’s went for $250); we had wine, gift baskets, dinners, artwork, jewelry, drum hardware kits, voice lessons, drum lessons, violin lessons, trips to the Channel Islands…we had great stuff!

The White Buffalo -  photo: Cliff Montgomery

But more than the stuff? We had the talent in the house.  The White Buffalo was the headlining act and he brought down the house. Surf pro/musician Timmy Curran was amazing; Nathan McEuen was outstanding; and we also had Zoey favorites like Shane Alexander and Justine Bennett. 50 Sticks of Dynamite played, I heard one of their first gigs was at Zoey’s.  Tommy Marsh did a set with Steve “Smokey” Hinojosa. Guy Martin played with longtime friend Lee Koch.  The rest in no particular order were simply fantasitc, there wasn’t a single bad act all day and night; they all shone:   Kyle Hunt, Todd Hannigan, Ray Jaurique and the Uptown Boys, Jade Hendrix, Jamie Drake, Shelby Figueroa, Pi Jacobs, Xoc Moraza, Roger Keiaho, Salty Suites, Max Kasch, Seth Petersen, Calico the Band and many of them brought additional talent to back them up!  They all played for free.  They all played for Polly.

And of course there is the back story of those who help to pull this event together, making the callings for auction items and picking them up, putting up posters (thank you Where2Print.com for donating them), gathering all materials for the day, rallying the troops, contacting the media, writing the stories, going on the radio.  And let’s not forget Diego and Bombay’s for offering up the day for the event!  Two sound guys who worked their asses off (Thank you Robin and John), security, and offering up either gratis items (thank you Firestone 805) or seriously reduced items for the bands.

photo by Amanda PeacockAnd the volunteers showed up.  Some for a few hours, but others all day long from 10:30 until midnight, plus, there were only a few minor hitches!  No matter what was thrown at us in the middle of trying to get through the day, we did our best to keep smiles on, and keep everything in perspective.

It was truly a night to remember for many reasons. But what I took away from the day was the love and generosity this community showed for one of our own.  Polly feels the love and support and is so very appreciative.

Thank you Ventura Music Community.  It was a great day indeed!

See: previous story about concert (before event).
See: Zoey’s The Heart of Local Music No Longer Beats

Photographers who donated their time and photos:
Amanda Peacock


Bob Muschliz

Cliff Montgomery


Albert Munoz

Gene Dunn