Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "concerts in the park"

Friday Night Concerts in the Park

2011-05-31T05:14:59Z

Three bands usually play at the Concerts in the Park series. The scheduled line-up for the Jerry Perry production of the Friday night concerts included the Kings of Sacramento (last minute change), the Freebadge Serenaders and Rick Estrin and the Nightcats headlined the show.

The all-ages show, as always, is free to the public and starts at 5 p.m., at Cesar Chavez Plaza.

The beer garden was about a third full when the first band was preparing to take the stage. On this evening the Kings of Sacramento were the first band scheduled to perform.

I liked the fact that a brass section was on-stage. Accompanying them was a guitar, a keyboard, drummer and a stand up bass. The Kings of Sacramento had participated in the Jammies and this was the first time I’ve listened to them. I was looking for a place to watch from the beer garden as they started to play. The sounds of Tower of Power came to mind as these young teenagers started their set.

The Kings of Sacramento soulfully played their set sounding like a much older band. Simon Petty, keyboardist and lead vocal, announced who they were and noted that they were happy to see the large audience in attendance.

Petty, introduced their next song “This is Also Sprach Zarathustra” he said in a slow and low voice pausing for a couple of seconds in between words. These young reincarnated masters of funk impressed many in the audience and I became an instant fan. Their rendition of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” was pure delight.

Simon Petty introduced the band members that includes Richard Whitney, trumpet, the Mesich brothers Emery, alto sax, and Taylor, guitar, Morgan Childers, trombone, Jacob Sweadlow, drums, Kaitlyn Madrid, bass and Simon Petty, keyboards and vocals. The 7 member band played as if they’ve been together for years.

After introducing the band they played AWB’s “Pick up the Pieces” A soulful trumpet began the Instrumental. The Kings of Sacramento are, I believe, in high school and the drummer said he was in junior high.

Before the Freebadge Serenaders came on stage I talked to a couple fo the members from the Kings of Sacramento. Each has come into the current lineup at different times and Simon was one of the last members to join. Petty said, “I joined about a year and a half ago. Emery has been doing this for years.” Simon Petty is the son of Peter Petty ~~Perry~~ who plays with Harley White. Music seems to be at the heart of many of the Kings of Sacramento players and many of them have played together for a while now.

The busy schedule of a high schooler sometimes makes it a struggle to get together. One of them was in Ashland and could not practice for a week and actually came from Ashland directly to the show. I asked them about their experience with the Jammies after making it to the semi-final round. The response was, “We didn’t fit in, and we’re a completely different band than most other participants. We’re not a garage type band.”

One of the members was playing at the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee adn had to leave and others were going to attend to support their mate.

The Freebadge Serenaders were the second band to take the stage. The Serenaders are Greg Sabin (playing banjo, kazoo, and vocals) and Patrick Skiffington (playing washboard, kazoo, slide-whistle and vocals). Zachary Proteau played with the Serenaders on tuba. They were also joined on stage by Bria Skonberg on trumpet for several songs.

Since the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee was in town, Sabin and Skiffington encouraged everyone to go out and enjoy the sounds of jazz in Old Sacramento.

The Serenaders started off their set with their opus “Discount Jazz.” If you’re ever feeling down or have case of the Monday’s put some Freebadge Serenaders music and you’re bound to feel better seconds after you listen to this band. They are pure unadulterated fun.

Their music comes with delightful whimsical lyrics. Using instruments such as a washboard, cowbells, banjo, kazoo and a slide-whistle they brought their party music to Concerts in the Park. For the first time, as they put it, they brought a tuba to the Friday concerts.

As they played their rendition of “Nobody’s Sweetheart” it was great to hear Bria Skonberg on trumpet and Zach Proteau on the tuba. “Cigarette Stew” was a hit with the audience. Cigarette stew could, as their lyrics indicate, provide 3 squares a day and a cigarette too.

Playing their rendition of songs going back to the 1920’s was very enjoyable. At one point during their set they asked the audience if anybody liked rock and roll. Just to show they could play some modern music they embarked on their wonderful interpretation of a horseless carriage band. As they played “Just What I Needed” by the Cars they used just about every instrument they had. A kazoo started off the song with cowbells, banjo, tuba and the slide whistle playing along.

Their classic “Sacramento, CA USA” was the song they decided to end their show with. This is another fun-filled song about our town. Their selection of this song was a great choice to cap a wonderful performance by the Freebadge Serenaders.

Matias Bombell, Master of Ceremonies extraordinaire, filled in between sets and was a wonderful addition to the Concerts in the Park. I’m not sure if this will be his only appearance but he was a great addition to the event. Wearing a straw Matias reminded me of a great MC ala Ed Sullivan. He is a very eloquent MC and his precise use of words was delightful, at times he sounded like a walking encyclopedia.

Matias, as he was ready to introduce the headline act of the evening, relayed a story to the audience. As he was trying to describe what Rick Estrin looked like to a girlfriend of his, Matias said: “If you can remember an old Tex Avery cartoon. Do you remember the wolf with the zoot suit? That would be Rick Estrin.” perfectly stating how I would describe Estrin as well.

As Rick Estrin and the Nightcats came on stage many fans came to the forefront of the stage to dance. Rick Estrin told the audience there was a table set up where Twisted and other of their CDs were for sale.

Estrin played the harmonica when he was not singing. Kid Anderson, guitar and vocals, Lorenzo Farrell, bass and keyboards, and J Hanson, drums and vocals accompanied Estrin on stage.

As soon as they started their energetic performances it brought cheers and shouts of admiration from the crowd. Many dancers, both young and not so young, came closer to the stage to dance to the rhythms of the Rick Estrin and the Nightcats. The band has been around for a long time and are considered Sacramento’s premier blues band.

They played a few songs from their last CD to go along with several of their older tunes. Their performances are always captivating and their shows are exiting. As Rick Estrin played brilliant blues style harmonica performances it’s easy to see how captivating they can be.

Kid Andersen’s great guitar performances ala Jimi Hendrix (playing guitar behind his back and with his teeth) also had J Hanson using one of his drum sticks to play Andersen’s guitar.

Rounding off the band are the rhythmic tunes played by Lorenzo Farrell on the stand up bass and keyboards. J Hanson’s drums cannot be overlooked as he keeps the beat for this great ensemble.

As Estrin and the Nightcats continued their play they made it difficult for the audience to remain seated. People on the beer garden, close to the stage, by the Plaza fountain and all around moved to the music. Blues enthusiasts were treated to a great performance.

Their last song of the evening was “Dump That Chump” which everybody in the audience seemed to know the lyrics to, if not the whole song at least those three words.

Jerry Perry closed the show and summarized the Rick Estrin and the Nightcats performance by saying, “They’re the gold standard of blues in this town, that’s what they are. This is the 20th year of the concerts and every year they’ve been here, or seems like they’ve been here.”

Concerts in the Park continue on June 3 with the great blues maestro Mick ~~Rick~~ Martin and the Blues Rockers. Tess and the Hip Trash along with the Kyle Rowland Band will share the stage with Mick ~~Rick~~ Martin.

The Golden Cadillacs bring local honky-tonk to Concerts in the Park

2011-05-16T05:14:16Z

Locals boogied to music from Miss Lonely Hearts, Keri Carr and The Golden Cadillacs at Cesar Chavez Park for Concerts in the Park Friday night.

The host said that several audience members shook their hips like “country zumba dancers” to each of the bands. Mothers danced with their sons and daughters, couples boogied down and children ran in front of the stage.

Around 1,000 people came out to buy food and drinks and enjoy the music.

Miss Lonely Hearts band is an experimental country and roots band from Davis. The band includes Wyatt Hesemeyer as the lead singer, Patrick O’Connor on suitcase percussion, Doug Keen on bass and vocals and Keith Cary on lap steel and mandolin.

Hesemeyer’s low and husky voice made it easy for people to wave their hands up in the air and sway to the music.

Several vendors sold hot dogs, Chinese food and tie-dyed gifts. There were also beer tents.

Keri Carr, formerly of the Rowdy Kate band in Sacramento, sang several blues and Spanish-language songs.

Couples started swing dancing while Carr sang and clapped her hands.

The Golden Cadillacs, describe themselves as “honey baked country soul” from Sacramento. The band includes Adam Wade on bass and vocals, Nick Swimley on lead guitar and vocals, James Neil on drums, Aaron Welch on vocals and guitar and Joe Davancens on pedal steel guitar and organ.

Their style of honky-tonk has a California influence, with slow, smooth sounds. The band had a laid back style and wore sunglasses and tennis shoes.

One memorable song was “Rodeo Clown” with slow, bluesy sounds.

“Clap your hands with me you want to have another drink,” Swimley said. “Clap you hands with me if you’re going to bring us to the bridge!”

Roman Funerals and Golden Ghosts will join headliner Agent Ribbons for the next Concert in the Park on May 20.

The Concerts in the Park are free every Friday night from May 6 until Aug. 12, 5 to 9 p.m. at 10th and J streets.

Agent Ribbons, Musical Charis and Exquisite Corps at Harlow's

2011-05-12T22:44:31Z

Harlow’s hosted an outstanding evening of music Tuesday night with Exquisite Corps, Musical Charis and Agent Ribbons performing. Jerry Perry put on another great promotion for the many guests that attended the show.

Exquisite Corps started the show; actually they did an extended sound check so those who were there got to enjoy some great pre-show music. I’ve seen Exquisite Corps play a couple of times and was intrigued the first time I saw and heard them play. I thoroughly enjoy the mix of the orchestral strings in their music. It makes them unique not only for that but for their overall sound.

Their mixture of violins and the deep cello sounds gives their music a rich dramatic sound. Their string instruments combined with guitar, bass, drums and Bryan’s rhythmically soothing vocals give them an exquisite sound.

As with most local bands playing the local scene they had a merchandize for sale at a table towards the entrance. Bryan indicate that one of their friends, Melissa, had designed their t-shirts being sold along with CDs. He also thanked Jerry Perry for this promotion.

Musical Charis followed Exquisite Corps’ short set. As Musical Charis was setting up on stage there was an unfamiliar person in the front. At first I thought it was one of the guys from the band but it turned out to be someone by the name of Hobo Sapien. He spent a few minutes on stage warming up the audience. He did some poetry which was actually pretty good, he turned out to be a pretty well versed and smart hobo.

Musical Charis played musical chairs on stage as many of their members switched instruments going from one instrument to another. I thought that was pretty awesome as they showed off their versatility. Another thing I thought was awesome was the trumpet player, especially when they played their version of "Ring of Fire".

Musical Charis is a fairly large group and they pretty much used every inch of the Harlow’s stage. After finishing up one of their songs they announced that their set required audience participation and that pretty much summed up the evening very nicely. At one point one of them said “A lot of good musicians in the house tonight. Support local music, keep it going Sacramento it’s [freaking] awesome!" It reminded that you can download and purchase many of their songs via their webpage.

Soon they launched into "Anatomy" followed by "Jezebel" with Jeremy’s guitar starting the song off. One of their songs was dedicated to everyone alive in America and outside of America. The large ensemble played a lively, fun and energetic set. As they finished off their set they played "Changed" and "Catwalk".

Their variety of instruments and their presence on stage is truly enjoyable. Musical Charis is a talented bunch of individuals who seem to always have as much fun (if not more) than their fans. Their musical talents and performances are truly a musical gift.

The prodigal daughters, Agent Ribbons, returned to Sacramento and were welcomed back with open arms by the Harlow’s crowd. They started off with “Shoe Shine Boy” followed by “Buried With You” warming up the audience as more and more people gathered around the stage.

“Man it’s so good to see most of you people in this room.” said Natalie Gordon as she welcomed the audience. A few guitar notes later “Grey Gardens” was qickly followed by the catchy rifts of “I’m Alright”.

Natalie told a story about a show at the Storyland in Fresno, their equivalent of our Fairytale Town and how there were probably more people at Harlow’s. She continued to say that as they played, a spider landed on Natalie’s guitar and scared her. As she continued she said she then dropped her guitar pick and as she was picking it up she stepped on her dress and fell over. The audience laughed as she kept telling her Miss Muffet type story.

Their set also included “Birds and Bees”, “Wallpaper of Skin”, “Obituary” and “Chelsea, Let’s go Join the Circus”. After that they immediately launched into one of their most widely recognized songs, “Don’t Touch Me.” Members in the audience joined in singing the lyrics. This song showcases Natalie’s wonderful voice range.

Lauren Hess’ was recovering from a cold but showed her radiant smile as she played. The Folsom High School graduate played energetically through the set. As their show came to an end they played “Wood Lead Rubber”. Natalie said that when they played a show in Portland everyone formed a conga line and danced. Someone said “Sacramento does not conga” but he was mistaken a conga line was formed and moved in front of the stage.

Agent Ribbons’ à la mode outfits, as always, were truly awesome and their demeanor is very enjoyable. Their 12 song set was fantastic and delighted the audience. The prodigal daughters successfully returned to thrill the Sacramento crowd at Harlow’s show. One of their next shows will take place at Concerts in the Park (CIP) on May 20.

Jerry Perry came to the stage to close out the show and say that Agent Ribbons would be performing for free at Cesar Chavez Plaza Friday, May 20. He thanked everyone for coming to the show and bid everyone goodnight. It indeed was a good night to be at Harlow's and enjoy a great evening of fun and music.

Tangled up In Ribbons- An Interview with Lauren Hess of Agent Ribbons

2011-05-09T17:51:40Z

Fresh off a tour of Spain and Europe, and having one of their songs featured on a national television show, Agent Ribbons will play Sacramento twice this month. The band is touring the West Coast in support of their 2010 release “Château Crone”

The Austin, Texas based duo is playing Harlow’s on May 10 and ten days later at Caesar Chavez Park. The band consists of Lauren Hess (drums, vocals) and Natalie Ribbons (guitar, vocals) and both are Sacramento-area natives, Hess is from Folsom and Ribbons is from Land Park.

Hess, 29, lived in Folsom for 15 years and graduated from Folsom High in 2000. In addition, she had her first band while in high school called Miss Conduct.

Their music has been described as sultry, vaudeville/Victorian-punk; fashion also plays a role in their presentation as they are fans of vintage dresses. They tend to shop for these hard to find clothes at second hand stores across the country and are often photographed sporting them.

The band began life in Records; a vinyl record store now located on Broadway but then had its home on Sacramento’s K street mall. That chance meeting turned out to be the beginning of the Ribbons. “I was shopping there when Natalie was helping them paint the walls. We struck up a conversation after I helped her dump out a bucket of rainwater out onto K Street. I had recently purchased a drum set and Natalie asked if I would be down to play a show with her. Even though I had barely started playing drums, I agreed! We had one practice and a week later, played our first show in San Francisco,” Hess explained.

And how did that show turn out with only one practice under their belts? “I remember it all went pretty well considering…at least it went well enough for us to keep going!” exclaimed Hess.

Their song “I’m Alright” was aired on the CW Vampire Diaries this past January and is one of the high points for the band which includes performing at a music festival in Europe.

The band began in 2006 in Sacramento and moved to Austin in March of last year.

“Originally, (the move) was because of our band mate Naomi. She was the violinist in our band for about two years and was living in Austin. It was just too much to keep flying her into Sacramento for tours and practices, so Natalie and I decided to move to Austin. Naomi ended up leaving the band in November of 2010, but luckily, we love Austin and are happy to stay here for the time being!”

Hess went on to share a thought about her hometown and their move was not predicated on dissatisfaction. “Both Natalie and I grew up in Sacramento and are really proud of that fact. We still absolutely love and miss that city, but it was time for us to try something new that is far enough away to reach new fans in a whole different part of the country.”

Hess explained that after the current tour ends in June, the band is looking to write and record again later this year and possibly tour in the fall, with a possible trip back to Europe.

The band has not forgotten their roots and knows what it is like to struggle at the beginning and keep functioning. Hess has advice for those just starting out and is looking to make music their jobs or passion in life.

“You have to sacrifice to make things happen, quit that job, relationship or bad habit that is keeping your dream from being a reality.”

IF YOU GO: May 10, 2011
Where: Harlow’s 2708 J Street, Sacramento
Time: 7pm
Cost: $7
Contact: (916) 441-4693

IF YOU GO: May 20, 2011
Where: Caesar Chavez Park, 910 I St. Sacramento
Time: 5pm
Cost: Free
Contact: (916) 808-5200

Rock & Roll Tour and Pub Crawl

2011-05-09T09:54:54Z

The Downtown Sacramento Partnership (DSP) conducts several walking Tours in the downtown area. The walking tours introduce visitors to people, places and events that have created California history. DSP’s mission is to establish downtown Sacramento as a vibrant business, cultural and entertainment destination in Sacramento via private and public partnerships consisting of residents, visitors and investors. This Friday they conducted a Rock & Roll History Tour and Pub Crawl.

The tour began at the corner of 9th and J Streets at one of the entrances to the Concerts in the Park held at Cesar Chavez Plaza. The walk began at 6 in the evening. By this time, Wahnder Lust had begun their set at the first Concerts in the Park event. This year marks the 20th year anniversity of Concerts in the Park and Jerry Perry has been promoting the event for the past 15 years.

The series of walks around downtown Sacramento being offered includes one especially for kids, a Speakeasy tour, a Sacramento architecture and art tour as well as the Rock & Roll History Tour and Pub Crawl. It's a walk that explores the history of Sacramento’s music scene. This tour is still being developed but it will run every Friday until the end of May. The day of the tour may or may not change after that depending on how it develops.

The tour guide for the walk is Shawn Peter who’s been with DSP since 2000. John, who also works for DSP, was on hand for the tour as well. Shawn has been part of the Downtown Walking Tour Program since its inception. Besides his vast knowledge of Sacramento’s Gold Rush-era and historical architecture styles, Shawn is well versed in music and is a member of a band named Single Second. His music knowledge of Sacramento and bands who have played here allow him to discuss many genres and time periods of music. During the tour, performers such as Frank Sinatra, the Beach Boys, the Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones, Nirvana, Beastie Boys, Tesla, and many others are discussed and how they fit in the Sacramento music scene.

As we started the walking tour Shawn began by saying, “A lot of people seem to think Sacramento is a really boring town where nothing really happens. You know what? It’s quite the opposite really.” Shawn’s personal knowledge of the Sacramento music scene is immense and through the walk it was apparent that this would be an educational and fun walk as we departed from the corner of 9th and J streets.

Shawn talked about the two radio stations that started the music scene in Sacramento. One of the stations was KBFK who Shawn said had a house band that ended up playing for many of the touring acts that came through town including Frank Sinatra, Jack Benny and others. Shawn was very enthusiastic while relating this and other stories.

As we walked down J Street away from 9th we could still hear Wahnder Lust as they continued their set. Shawn related that the other local station that helped the Sacramento music scene was KROY. KFBK and KROY were basically the only two stations, both AM stations, that played popular music. Shaw continued and passed on information spanning the 1920’s to the 50’s and the places where the bands played.

The tour becomes alive with Shawn’s storytelling as he relates stories that helped create the history of rock music in Sacramento and everywhere else. His stories were so intriguing that I feel like I should relay them to the reader in this article but the best part of the tour is the exchange of questions and stories. You kind of have to experience the tour yourself to get the most from it.

As Shawn talked about rock artists we were able to exchange stories about the artists who came from Sacramento as well as those who visited our town. These exchanges during the walk become meaningful as everyone was able to relate to the subject. We talked about the bands that visited Sacramento and the bands that could attribute their success to Sacramento.

The Memorial Auditorium has been one of the primary venues for bands coming through town and if you have a friend that loves music you’ve probably heard of a story about a band that played at the Memorial. How about you, do you have a memory of attending a musical event at the Memorial that left a lasting impression? One of my first recollections of the Memorial was taking a couple of my kids to go see Offspring and Cypress Hill at a show and seeing Scott Pollard while he was the Sacramento Kings at the concert. I’m sure many readers have a memory of their first concert in Sacramento or one that’s memorable.

KZAP, as Shawn tells it, was one of the first Sacramento FM stations and their original station was located within the Elks Tower on 11th and J. At the time KZAP had a free form format where they played everything from Frank Sinatra to Frank Zappa.

As the walk continued on J Street we turned left on 15th. The Memorial Auditorium was on one side of the street and since this is called a Rock and Roll Tour and Pub Crawl, Shawn talked a little about the Torch Club as we entered the first pub of the evening to enjoy a drink.

Shawn talked about Tesla, the Deftones, Cake and other Sacramento area bands. After the Torch Club, we passed by other venues that have moved to their current site from another part of town. Some of these clubs were the Capitol Garage, the Torch Club and others,

Other venues that have hosted music events were the Cattle Club, Lush, Cal Expo, ARCO, the Convention Center, Tower Records, the Crest Theatre and St. Paul's Church among others. Many of the clubs have a rich music venue history that continues to this day. We also discussed the new clubs that have recently opened and host music venues.

A couple of more pubs were visited and many other rock and roll stories were told. As we winded down the tour we talked about how the walk could be improved as well as what can be left out of the tour. The music scene from the 20’s to present came to light as we talked about Sacramento and music during the tour.

It turns out that there's a lot of history in the few blocks that we walked. Shawn Peter was a great guide and is very knowledgeable about the local music scene. He has over 25 years playing music and says that he does about 100 shows a year with his band.

As we came back to Cesar Chavez Park it was apparent how much fun these type of tour/walks can be. It's also a great way of meeting people and getting to know the downtown area as well as some of its pubs.

This tour takes place each Friday evening during the Friday Night Concerts in the Park season and it's scheduled to run from May 6 thru August 12, 2011. Guests must pre-purchase tickets via Event Brite to secure their place in the tour. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and participants must be 21 years of age or older. Ticket prices does not include the cost of drinks.

Once back at Concerts in the Park there was still time to enjoy more live music. The tour was scheduled to end in time for the headline act and that was the case. Aaron King & The Imperials had already performed and a young lady by the name of Gabriela was playing when we returned to Cesar Chavez Plaza. Gabriela wasn’t on the schedule and after she finished her set the Tattoo Love Dogs came on stage to end the first day of Concerts in the Park for 2011.

Log on to the Downtown Sacramento Partnership website to view other tours and walks being offered as well as to purchase tickets for the Rock and Roll History Tour and Pub Crawl.

American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music

2011-03-27T20:16:39Z

The Sacramento Public Library, located at 828 I Street, will host an exhibition by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES). The exhibition titled “American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music” highlights the contributions of Latinos in American music and will be on exhibition from May 25 to August 7, 2011.

American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music is a creation by Experience Music Project (EMP) and organized for travel by SITES. The exhibition, its national tour and related programs are made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund.

A luncheon preview event was held at the Sacramento Public Library on Thursday to introduce the exhibition. Representatives from SITES, Sacramento Public Library, Ford, Congresswoman Doris Matsui and other community leaders were on hand to introduce the exhibit partake in the festivities.

The Smithsonian traveling exhibition highlights the musical contribution of Latinos from the 1940s to present. The individual creativity of stars such as Tito Puente, Ritchie Valens, Celia Cruz, Selena, Carlos Santana and many others are highlighted.

The exhibition is a collaborative effort by the SITES, the Experience Music Project (EMP) and Ford Motor Company. This exhibition was developed by the Experience Music Project and SITES. The Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic division of Ford Motor Company makes this exhibition possible and will be on tour for the next 4 years.

The exhibition will be free for viewing at the Central Library. The exhibit will visit San Francisco after its stay in Sacramento. Detroit, Dallas, Chicago, Charlotte, Los Angeles and Kansas City are also part of the tour.

American Sabor highlights the innovations in various musical genres by Latinos. Five major centers of Latino popular music production; Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Antonio, New York and Miami are also highlighted. A website complements the exhibition and was recently completed.

Sabor in English means taste, savor or flavor and is commonly used to describe good music. If you listen to Santana’s Oye Como Va, it’s the first spoken word uttered as the song starts. I’ve always enjoyed that song and it was the first thing that came to mind when I heard about this exhibit. That particular song, in several variations, has been around since the 1940s and not all versions start the same way.

At the luncheon I had the opportunity to speak with Lynn M. Quigley, Manager, Community Relations for Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. I asked for information on her involvement and that of the Ford Motor Company in the American Sabor exhibit.

Lynn started by saying, “The Ford Motor Company Fund is the national sponsor of American Sabor which is going to be visiting 12 cities around the country. It’s an exhibition that looks at the impact of contributions from Latino musicians in post World War II and five cities in particular; New York, Miami, San Antonio, San Francisco and L.A. The exhibition has panels that look at each of those cities and what was going on in those cities at the time.”

She continued, “We have a fully interactive web site which we’re going to demonstrate here today. It just launched yesterday.” Lynn went on to talk about other aspects of the exhibition. She noted that some interesting programming will also take place at the library such as having performers during certain hours on certain days. A dance floor will also be integral part of the exhibit. I couldn’t help but take note that something like that can be happening at the library, but it is.

I asked if the venue was meant for adults, children or both. Lynn went on to say, “It’s really family related for all age levels. There’s an education section on the website that has teacher guides and lesson plans. There’s a lot to it.” She went on to say that there’s also a Music Mixer on site to experiment with the different sounds made by instruments, “That’s something kids will like as well.” Lynn said.

“It’s almost like this music just makes you want to move. I don’t care what your age is. When we were setting up the tables we were kind of dancing around a little. The exhibit opens May 25 and runs until August 7.” Lynn said. I mentioned that we have Concerts in the Park going on around the same time period as the exhibition at Cesar Chavez Plaza and maybe the exhibition can be promoted there as well. We talked a little about the possibilities.

Lynn ended up by saying, “At Ford we really see the arts as a powerful tool to enrich people’s lives and to promote cross cultural exchange of community. Some exhibitions are more fun than others; this one you’ll see is a lot of fun. Another thing you can do is share your stories so people are encouraged to share their own stories about Latino music.”

Another person I had the pleasure to talk to was Evelyn Figueroa, Project Director of the SITES. Again, I asked about her involvement in the exhibit. She started by saying, “Today we are going to present the educational interactive website that we developed along with the exhibit and it was launched yesterday. You’ll get a taste of this key piece of the project. It talks about the content of the project and gives a lot of information in terms of the music, its history and the musicians.”

Evelyn continued to speak about the web site content, “It encourages visitors to participate. It has a section called ‘Share Your Story’ and it’s for the community to interact. It contains instructions that specifically guide the visitor through the steps to write their story and share. They can share videos, photographs or information they’re willing to share and that would be posted on the website for the public to see and learn more.”

We talked about the generational gaps of music but also talked about the commonalities. Evelyn indicated that the website will show some of the connections between the older and newer musical traditions and genres.

Discussing Latino influences Evelyn said, “Ritchie Valens was the first rock star and influenced the Beatles. People think that the Beatles had an influence on everybody but this Mexican-American from Los Angeles had a big influence on the Beatles. If you listen to the early Beatles they had Ritchie Valens rhythms.” Evelyn Figueroa was very passionate as she talked about Latino inspired music. “The new generation needs to know that and that we have been in the popular music tradition since the beginning. From the ‘tejano’ music in Texas where musicians came across the border and gathered at the small cantinas to sing and compose to today with hip-hop guys dancing in the streets, Latino music has been there.”

Besides the website a blog is available for sharing. Evelyn also pointed out that a radio station is available where the public can listen to music from a wide variety genres and different music from different time periods.

Another interesting section on their website includes a mixer Evelyn said, “We also include the ‘Sabor Mixer’ a section that can be used to compose. You can play with it and would love your feedback.” Evelyn has been very involved in the conceptualization of the website and came across as being very enthusiastic and proud of the site. She went on to note that the website will be up and running during the exhibit and well beyond it as well.

Evelyn conveyed that this exhibit is a smaller version of an exhibit prepared in 2005 by a Seattle music project. The project was a collaboration between the Experience Music Project and the University of Washington. The exhibit was downsized in order for it to become a traveling exhibit and provide a more flexible format.

I asked Evelyn about the exhibit being held at a library and how the music would fit in, she said “Latino music is extremely rich on rhythms and it’s not music that is for contemplation, it’s for listening and dancing. It’s music that moves your soul to dance and if you keep the volume too low then it doesn’t do much.”

As we spoke about the actual exhibit Evelyn indicated that an original 1960 jukebox will be part of the exhibit. The jukebox has been reprogrammed to function on a digital system. A dance floor will be created as dance is an integral part of Latino music. We talked about how music and dance are a major part of Latino celebrations starting with baptisms, quinceñeras, weddings and parties of all kinds.

“Music is simply the soul of the people,” Evelyn said as she quoted the Cuban poet José Marti, “He said ‘Music is the soul of the people.’ Music is a neutralizer, music has no boundaries it crosses borders, it crosses races and it crosses social status.”

As the luncheon started Rivkah Sass, Director, Sacramento Public Library welcomed everyone in attendance and said a few words about the exhibit. She also recognized Smithsonian, Ford and Sacramento Library representatives. Anna Cohn, Director, SITES followed and also recognized other dignitaries at the luncheon.

Ms. Cohn introduced Congresswoman and Smithsonian Regent Doris Matsui. “This is very exciting,” Matsui said as she thanked those in attendance and continued, “I want to thank the Ford Motor Company for being such a dedicated sponsor and having that special commitment. I’d also like to thank the Sacramento Public Library for hosting American Sabor. We appreciate everything you’re doing. I’d like to thank all of you for joining us today in this windy, rainy day and I just want to make an announcement that the levees are fine.” As she said this the audience laughed.

Matsui continued saying the levees were fine, nothing was broken and things were under control. “Thank goodness the system operates the way it should. The Yolo Bypass is working so I just have to say everything works and it’s reassuring.” Matsui said eliciting more laughter.

“American Sabor allows us to learn more about, and to celebrate the long lasting impact and contributions that Latinos have made to our society.” Matsui said as she talked about the exhibit. “It helps tell a story of Latinos in America through music, song and dance and in doing so tell the American story.” Matsui said.

Congresswoman Matsui has been involved as a Smithsonian Regent since 2007 and noted that it’s great to see the Smithsonian bring their resources to the community via exhibits such as American Sabor.

“I’m happy that once again the Smithsonian has chosen our community to launch another exhibit and I love the fact that we’re first, San Francisco will be jealous. Sacramento has a lot offer. I’ve always believed that one of its strengths is our diversity, and our diversity gives us strength.” said Matsui.

As the audience listened Matsui continued to talk about the exhibit. “It will showcase the accomplishments of the Latino community from important events in the arts to the strength of their culture and it is a part of our American history and I’m positive this will bring tremendous success and with your support American Sabor will help us celebrate Latino influences here in Sacramento.”

The last speaker during the luncheon was Lynn Quigley of the Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. She started off by saying, “It’s my pleasure to be here with you to celebrate Latino achievements and the influence of Latino music in American popular culture. Our partnership with SITES expands many years and we’re proud to partner with them once more on American Sabor. I’d like to thank the Sacramento Public Library for hosting the launch of this 12 city tour and for all their work planning the exhibitions.”

Lynn continued to enthusiastically thank all involved in this exhibit. “American Sabor is a project all of us at Ford are really excited about.” Lynn said and emphasized the commitment of Ford to cultural community events such as this one. A video was shown highlighting Ford’s commitment to the Hispanic community and their work with educational institutions and the many ethnic communities in our country.

Lynn ended by saying, “I’d like to share something with you that we are really proud of one of the many components of the American Sabor initiative, its website. With American Sabor we knew we had a great opportunity to reach a wide audience especially since the exhibition’s subject was music something that everyone can relate to.” Lynn went on to indicate that the website will allow participation outside of the exhibit and bring it to communities everywhere.

Ms. Quigley guided the luncheon guests the opportunity to experience some of the website features. A glimpse of the American Sabor’s personal experience through the website shows the history and influences of Latino music in the U.S. Biographies of over 80 Latino musicians from the 1930’s to present are available for exploration as are the many genres of Latino music from East L.A. Punk to Reggaetón and hip-hop.

Educational materials are also available for teachers to download and use in the classroom. A jukebox, mixer and Radio Sabor are other features available on the website. She ended by saying “I’ve saved this section for the last because I’m going to ask you a favor. This is the section of the site for stories from the public, from you. Now I’m going to ask you to tell us your personal story about Latino music. Your story can be about a great concert you saw or when you learned to dance salsa.” Lynn tried to emphasize that web interaction and sharing music stories can bring satisfaction to readers and viewers.

Although interaction is solicited Lynn went on to say that they’re very protective of email addresses and no spam would be tolerated. At this point guests were able to enjoy their lunch and talk about American Sabor and other things as they enjoyed the company and music playing over the sound system.

This exhibition will run during the summer months giving families the opportunity not only to enjoy the exhibit but also give them the opportunity to enjoy the Sacramento Public Library and all the resources it offers. As will most libraries the Sacramento Library offers community information with much material available regarding services provided and other community events.

Now you can read a book, enjoy entertainment and music at your public Library. Enjoy the exhibit and follow it to its second stop in San Francisco.

CIP Last Show of the Year

2010-08-14T20:33:41Z

The last show of the year had 3 bands playing that evening, This Luxury, Phantom Jets and the Brodys performed Friday night. I got to Cesar Chavez Plaza too late to see This Luxury. Traffic from Folsom to downtown was pretty slow today.

Thanks to Jerry Perry for putting on a great lineup week after week.

Some of the same people showed up week after week and others were there for the first time, both are included in the shot below.

(Mariana, DJ, Amanda, Brendon, Gabe, Damien)

The begining of the Concerts in the Park in May signals, to me, the beginning of summer. The last concert of the season likewise may not be the end of summer but for many it's back to shool. Thanks to everyone that makes this possible year after year.

Photos:

1 to 4 - Phantom Jets

5 to 9 - The Brodys

10 to 14 - The Fans

Concerts in the Park

2010-08-01T08:06:24Z

We’re down to the last 3 Concerts in the Park. After the Bastards of Young, Final Summation and Whiskey & Stitches show on Friday the last two shows will be in August. Last year there was talk of the Concerts in the Park going for several weeks after the scheduled events but it only went one week then it stopped. Folsom and El Dorado Hills have Friday Night Concerts as well and they will also end their series in the next couple of weeks (if they haven’t already).

For the Friday Night Concert the crowd was small when the Bastards of Young began their performance. With no big crowds, there were no lines to buy beer tickets or to get your beer. Security seems to have increased this week and it may be due to the bigger crowds in the beer garden. The bands playing, for certain, inspired beer drinking. The Bastards of Young rocked through their show. They played a couple of songs with some guests helping out on stage. The Hills brothers (bass, guitar, vocals) and their group went through a series of fast paced songs. You can listen to some of their songs and watch some videos on their web site.

I’ve always enjoyed Final Summation since the first time I saw them play. Their punkish tunes always get the mosh pit going. The three member band is also getting ready for a very busy European tour next month (always a good sign indicating the growth of their following). As with Bastards of Young, Final Summation brought guests on stage. I did not catch the name of the band members from an Austrian band but they sounded almost as good as Final Summation.

I thought Final Summation was going to be the headline band but that honor went to Whiskey and Stitches. Their set brought more audience members to the mosh pit and you could also see the people in the beer garden bob their heads up and down in unison as Whiskey and Stitches played. Beer cups were raised in a toast-like position as the beer garden crowed moved to the music.

Sometimes audience members are as interesting as the bands that play in the Concerts in the Park series. I notice that some of the same people show up to these concerts depending on the genre of music being played. The photos on this article are of the bands that played tonight and some of their fans. Shaunee, Matt, Steve, Facies, Spider and Blake were some of the audience members in the mosh pit tonight. The diversity of the audience at these concerts makes the whole evening a joyful and entertaining evening. Two more Jerry Perry shows to go on the Concerts in the Park series. I think you’ll have fun at either or both shows and would highly recommend it if you have not been able to make it out. Next week The Golden Cadillacs, Light Rail and Johnny Guitar Knox and the Soothers will be on stage.

More information on up coming shows for the bands that played tonight as well sample music and videos can be found at the following sites. Myspace pages can be found at: Bastards of Young, Final Summation and Whiskey and Stitches.

Photos:
1 to 10 - Musical Acts

11 to 14 - The Fans

Concerts in the Park

2010-07-25T06:55:28Z

One of my favorite Sacramento bands was on the line-up for Friday’s Concerts in the Park. Musical Charis, Prieta and Lite Brite were the headline acts for the evening. We got to Cesar Chavez Park on time (almost) to catch Musical Charis on stage. The weather, as it has been true in the past few days, was still very warm.

Musical Charis had 7 members on stage. Several instruments were being used; a bass, 2-3 guitars, 2 keyboards, drums, and several lead and backup vocals. A definition of charis indicates that it means “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speech”. I couldn’t think of anything in that definition that did not fit while Musical Charis played.

As they played their set of what I think were original songs, their music was soothing and also got many people in the audience dancing in front of the stage. They have a recently released cd that was on sale and for those who did not have money, I believe, could get a cd with one of their songs or they could download a free mp3 from their website. Overall their show had a great variety of sounds and their on-stage presence was very upbeat, their set was very enjoyable.

After the Musical Charis played their set it was, again, time to patronize the vendors in the beer garden. At this time it was already beginning to get crowded. Pietra started to play while we were at the beer garden. Their brand of music was a bit more on the hard rock side. Their guitar players (Mat Woods and Henry Skyler) impressively had a hard hitting sound. Vocals were provided by Alex Ayers (also at keyboards) and Brian Breneman played drums.

Prieta has been around the Sacramento area for a while. They were scheduled to play at Old Ironsides on Saturday July 24. At the Concerts in the Park they rocked the audience for quite a while and even if the weather was not so hot their music heated up the place. Their vocals and guitar playing, at times, sound like Soundgarden Sometimes I wonder if some bands, that hear others say that they sound like another band, take the observation as an insult or a compliment. My comparison is meant as a compliment. Follow Prieta on their myspace web page, if you go to one of their upcoming shows, I can assure you that they won’t disappoint.

Friday’s concert was another great Jerry Perry Downtown Sacramento Partnership production. Tonigh I noticed that some venues that take place over a certain amount of time in the same place bring new crowds to the shows. At other events such as Concerts in the Park you see some of the same faces (like mine) over and over. There were some kids walking around that I see time after time so today I decided to ask these kids a few questions. At first I thought they were like interns or something like that because they go backstage quite often. I talked to this kid named Eli who was telling me he was a musician with a band in the works and introduced his bass player, “This guy over here, he’s my bass player Dylan”. Eli was saying that they had taken the place of the Musical Charis at Thursdays Hot Lunch Concert Series and he seemed very enthusiastic as he mentioned that. It turns out that Eli is, in a sense, another Jerry Perry production. Jerry Perry is his dad.

The last act of the evening was Lite Brite. I have seen them play before and they were the band I was looking forward to seeing. I had once read they were branded as a band playing indie rock. When I’ve seen them, to me, they have a much harder sound more like hard rock or punk and at times I can hear the Robert Plant and Kurt Cobain influences in Eddie Underwood’s voice. Matt Underwood plays the drums and they’re complemented with Robert Lander’s bass playing. I’ve seen Robert working at the Starbuck’s on J Street across from the Spaghetti Factory. Seeing some band members at “regular” jobs sort of throw people off. Lite Brite's upcoming shows can be found at their myspace website.

This was one of my favorite nights of the Concerts in the Park series. On Sunday July 25 all the bands that played here will also be on hand at the Beatnik Studios with Goodness Gracious joining them for a benefit concert. Beatnik is located on 2421 17th Street.

Photos:

1 - Jerry Perry Presents Concerts in the Park

2 to 6 - Musical Charis

7 to 10 - Pietra

11 - Eli Perry (left) and Dylan (right) with friends (Megan, Nikki, Sarah and Haley)

12 to 14 - Lite Brite

Concerts in the Park

2010-07-17T08:31:46Z

Over one hundred degree weather seemed to have kept many Concerts in the Park aficionados at home (or at least indoor at bars across Sacramento). Concerts in the Park’s line up for Friday included Juliana Zachariou, Autumn Sky, Gerald Pease and Kate Gaffney.

As I approached Cesar Chavez Plaza tonight I could hear Juliana Zachariou singing in the background. Juliana was runner up in the Jammies 2010 held earlier this year and I've been lucky enough to have seen her performance before. I heard her singing in the distance as I waited for a traffic light to turn green on the corner of I and 10th streets. Just as I was about to cross the street an ambulance was heading toward the intersection and cars sped off as the ambulance approached. The ambulance came and went but had to slow down for vehicles to move out of the way. I walked the one block to Cesar Chavez Park and by the time I was about to get comfortable in the shade Juliana’s performance ended. That was very disappointing but I was lucky enough to hear two of her songs.

Autumn Sky (her real name) started her act a few minutes after Juliana Zachariou finished her set. It was still pretty warm but there was a lot of shade around the stage. The saying “there’s a story behind every song” can be taken quite literally when Autumn Sky performs. She actually tells a story before almost every song making it seem like the audience knows more about the song and Autumn makes it seem like you can relate to the song. This was the first performance I’ve seen her where she shared a stage.

I did not get a chance to see her whole show as I had to go over to the Mix Downtown (on 16th and L) to see an art exhibition. Every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. they showcase a local artist during those hours. Tonight’s featured local artist was my daughter Mariana. She had 12-15 pieces showing. Her four brothers and some friends were there to show their support. We were able to enjoy the atmosphere and meet some interesting people. It gave me a chance to meet a fellow Sacramento Press contributor Hannah Jones who’s an intern for the Press.

After the art show ended a little after 7 p.m. I made my way back to Cesar Chavez Plaza to enjoy a little bit more music. I missed Gerald Pease, who played with some of his other Bucho band members, and part of Kate Gaffney’s show. She performed on Thursday at the El Dorado Hills Town Center and it looks like she has a full schedule in Sacramento next month. You can follow her shows by going to her website. Anyway, I was able to enjoy several of her songs and she too connected with the audience by telling us a little more about her songs. The singing was excellent but they also had a musical jam session towards the end that had audience members kicking up some dust.

Although the weather seemed to keep many people away this evening, a cool breeze here and there, and cooler music made the evening quite enjoyable nonetheless.

Photos:

1 - Juliana Zachariou

2 to 5 - Autumn Sky

6 to 11 - Kate Gaffney

Join us at Concert in the Park, July 16

2010-07-15T23:20:22Z

After a small break, The Sacramento Press will be back at Cesar Chavez Park, 10th and J Streets, for Concerts in the Park featuring Kate Gaffney.

This free, all-ages outdoor concert series will run every Friday until Aug.13. This week’s show runs from 5-8 p.m. with acts Juliana Zachariou, Autumn Sky, Gerald Please and headliner Kate Gaffney featuring a full, live band.

In its 19th year, Friday Night Concerts in the Park still attracts huge crowds from all walks of life. Interesting vendors, delicious food stands, great live music and the ever-popular beer garden make for a fun and inexpensive summer evening.

Stop by the Sac Press booth to spin our prize wheel, enter a raffle, and sign up for our weekly newsletter and brand-new promotion, Deal Ticket. We will also be live-streaming, which can be found here on the day of the show:

Free live streaming by Ustream Free video chat by Ustream

Come by and check out the festivities!

Friday Night Concerts in the Park

2010-07-10T09:30:05Z

Heavy traffic and having to stay over time at work caused us to miss the first act of the night. It gave me and one of my sons time to get a beer before sitting to enjoy the second act though. In the beer garden, of all places, I met a friend from back when I was an elementary school teacher. My friend, Kathy, was also a teacher at the same school and we taught together for a few years. Her husband Steve was there as well and we got a chance to catch up. It so happens that two of my students from the same school were there as well, although at first glance I did not know who they were. Karlee and Katie Wootan were in the (it hurts to say if since it made me feel a lot older) beer garden enjoying the sounds and beverages of the evening. It turns out they are friends of members of The Inversions so they gave me information about the band.

The Inversions are made up of Will Comstock (vocals, guitar), Adam Varona (guitar and vocals), Ryan Offield (bass) and Scott McConauchey (drums). The band has been together for about 10 years. Adam indicated he joined the group about three years back and Scott about two years ago. As with many other bands some members come and go The Inversions, as they are presently made up, are three years reincarnated. Visit their site at www.myspace.com/theinversions and http://theinversions.com (seemed to be down when I tried to access the URL).

Walking Spanish was the second act. They have a full schedule of shows in Sacramento this month. Their MySpace site gives more information on the band and upcoming shows at http://www.myspace.com/walkingspanish. They have a very upbeat sound with quite of mix of instruments and keyboards giving their songs a rich sound. I don’t think they sang a song in Spanish but they were very good. We got to enjoy most of their show from the beer garden.

During the show some members from Children of the Grave, billed as the world’s only Zombie Tribute to Black Sabbath was out handing out fliers to their show on July 10 (Second Saturday) that will coincide with the Trash Film Orgy as well. I was able to talk a little bit with Johnny Deadly and Randy Roadkill (pictured) about their show. They will be performing at the Sub Q at 9 p.m. during this month's Second Saturday art shows. They will perform at the Sub Q Piercing located at 1715 I Street.

The Brother From Another Planet (pictured) was performing around the fountain area again this week. After watching him perform for tips Izabella took the stage as the last act of the evening. As soon as they started playing more and more people started to dance. Happy feet were all around the stage. Sam Phelps (vocals and keyboard) indicated they were going to be playing at Marilyn’s (on K Street) that same evening. They will split their time doing shows in Nevada and northern California in July and August. The link to their website is at http://izabellaband.com. They were the perfect closing act for the evening.

Sometimes you meet some people that you feel some type of connection. After the show was over a young family was gathering their things and getting ready to move on. They called themselves modern day nomadic travelers. Sunny and her two boys, as well as her partner Dillon were at the show and were making their way north. They were full of positive energy and Sunny seemed like a very caring mother. They also happen to be musicians and they had a 6 song cd. The handmade cd cover read “Sunny and the Grateful Hippies”. They had been on the road for the past 3 weeks and will continue their travels. You can view their blog at thegypsyamore.blogspot.com. Since they’re trying to keep their blog up and updated they were in need of a laptop. So, if there is anybody out there upgrading to a newer laptop and would like to put your old laptop to use drop Sunny a line at thegypsyamore.blogspot.com and maybe something can be arranged. On the way home I listened to their cd making the drive home a little more pleasant.

Photos:

1, 2 - The Inversions (with the Wootan sisters)

3, 4 - Walking Spanish

5 - Johnny Deadly and Randy Roadkill of Children of the Grave, 6 - The Brother From Another Planet

7, 8 - Izabella

9, 10, 11, 12 - Fans, 13 - Fans with friends Kathy and Steve in the background

14 - Sunny and family

CIP July 2, 2010

2010-07-03T09:32:38Z

The first Concerts in the Park venue for July included four bands for the evening. The Sea of Bees, Chelsea Wolfe, Sister Crayon and the New Humans made up the line up for the evening. This was the first time I’ve seen or heard the Sea of Bees and I don’t remember seeing their name in the line-up for Friday’s show. The four member group played a very impressive set. Some members of the audience took to the dance floor and this continued through all sets.

Chelsea Wolfe is another band I had not heard and their presence on stage was quite dramatic. Chelsea was dressed in mourning including a black veil that prevented the audience, or at least me, from getting a glimpse of her face. Their music followed suit and was different enough to instantly click in my heard. The mystery behind the veil also served a purpose, I don’t know about anybody else but I paid close attention to the lyrics trying to find hidden meanings but no obvious ones were to be found. I enjoyed their set and will probably look for more of their material.

I have seen Sister Crayon before and I’ve enjoyed their sets. Their Indie sound is full of great music that includes synthesizer sounds. The audience bobbed their head and tapped their feet in approval of the rhythmic beat. Terra Lopez, the lead singer, indicated one of their members was doing their last show with Sister Crayon but did not hear who that was.

The last act of the evening was the New Humans who’ve I’ve been fortunate enough to sit at a couple of their previous performances. By the time they started their set the audience had moved closer to the stage and soon begin to dance in front of the stage. The New Humans did not disappoint when they performed. One thing I’ve noticed is that very few of the acts perform encores. I think tonight may have been a good night for that.

Sometimes what goes on in the beer garden and other areas of Cesar Chavez Park make the whole evening that much more interesting. Tonight, Mayor Kevin Johnson walked around for a little while meeting with the audience and posing for some pictures. A group of people walked around with cardboard signs for Free Hugs. Kassandra Johnson, Jen Pearson, Amanda Massengill and Shane Gordon were here tonight to give out hugs. Abigail Jones was lucky enough to get free individual hugs as well as a group hug. A golden Human Robot performed for tips around the fountain area and I believe he’s been here before.

Another great Jerry Perry promotion with lots of great music and entertainment. Next week Izabella headlines the concert with opening performances by Walking Spanish and the Inversions.

Photos:

1-7 Sea of Bees, Chelsea Wolfe, Sister Crayon (2), New Humans (3)

8-14 Fan, Free Hugs (2), Mayor Johnson, Human Robot, Silly Dilly, Fan

Concerts in the Park

2010-06-19T15:51:11Z

The capitol mall area was filled with activity Friday Night. A cool breeze was a nice relief after the hot weather from earlier in the week. At Cesar Chavez Park the Concerts in the Park crowd began to gather for an evening of energetic music. The headliner for the night was The Secretions, one of the area’s best punk groups, and a favorite of many who gathered at the park.

The Enlows was the first band we saw tonight and they warmed up the audience pretty quick. They seemed to have had a much too quick performance. After The Enlows played their set it was time for the first mandatory beer of the evening. Right after I got my drink (remembered to patronize the vendors at the park) I heard some drumming and noticed a bunch of soccer players kicking a ball around a Budweiser logo mat. It turns out that the Budweiser Fútbol Kings were putting on a soccer skills performance show while the Samba drumming kept a steady pace in the background. The Budweiser Fútbol Kings are a bunch of international soccer players who are out promoting the South African World Cup. It turns out that Budweiser is the official beer of the FIFA World Cup. Players on the Kings are from Brazil, Chile, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, and Cuba. Their tour manager Jeff Davis, Cynthia Harding (a Budweiser Community Outreach Manager), and a couple of pretty models were there to help promote the exhibition.

The Four Eyes, another great band, took the stage. Their act is a little hard to describe but it included a dancing Transformer and white gorilla looking thing. I forgot what they called it. Needless to say their act was great mostly though because of their punkish sound. A couple, Alicia Whetstone and Robert Faison, sat by the side of the stage as the Four eyes played their set. After the Four Eyes closed their set, another Fútbol Kings exhibition followed.

The Schruggs took the stage and I caught a couple of their songs but had to leave and go to the West Steps of the State Capitol to catch Aurora playing at the Dyke Nite event. This, I believe, was the start for Saturday’s Pride Parade. I met my fried Melissa and her friends and enjoyed Aurora’s show. They had a Kittie like sound. This was the first time I’ve heard them play but after listening to them they’ve made another fan.

We all rushed back to catch The Secretions at Cesar Chavez Park which was only a couple of blocks away. The park was packed by now and the mosh pit in front of the stage started and stopped several times. At one point Mickie came down to play his bass in the mosh pit for a little while. The Secretions’ set was great, as usual, and am looking forward to their next show.

Photos:

Secretions headline Concerts in the Park

2010-06-17T18:10:44Z

The Secretions will be headlining Friday at Cesar Chavez Plaza for Concerts in the Park, playing alongside three other Sacramento local bands.

Concerts in the Park is a free summer concert event for local bands that goes until Aug. 3, every Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. The Secretions will be rocking the stage, along with The Shruggs, The Four Eyes and The Enlows.

"I'm definitely excited to play with the other bands on Friday," said Danny Secretion, drummer and vocalist for the Secretions. "Each of the bands don't play shows that often, so to have all three of them playing in one place, it's going to be awesome."

The Enlows, The Four Eyes and The Shruggs have all been around since the '90s and their music each has a different variation of punk rock.

Secretion, along with bassist Mickie Rat and guitarist Paul Filthy, has been playing together since 1991. Secretion said they hope to do something "crazy and stupid" in celebration of their 20th anniversary next year.

Both The Secretions and Concerts in the Park have lived 19 years ago, according to Jerry Perry, who has been coordinating it for the past 14 years.

"I have actually worked with all four bands before," Perry said. "I worked with The Secretions all over [the Sacramento area], but I have only worked with The Enlows once before."

The bands look to the Ramones as a major influence and inspiration for their music. The Secretions also included Motörhead and the Queers as an inspiration.

"I wouldn't change a thing about us," said Secretion. "I mean, being in this band hasn't always been candy canes and lollipops. There has definitely been pit falls in this band. But even through all of that, I wouldn't change any of it. I'm having the time of my life still playing."

Located on 10th and J Street, Concerts in the Park is split between an all ages area and the Beer Garden, with food vendors. $5 parking at City Hall garage at 10th & I streets and free valet bike parking provided by Sacramento Area Bicycle Advocates.

"I hope ideally that people enjoy the bands that are playing and come out and support them," said Perry. "I hope that they remember the bands that played and will bring people together and bring downtown to life."

Friday Night Concert at Cesar Chavez Park

2010-05-22T09:53:43Z

The weather looked quite threatening with dark clouds hovering over Cesar Chavez Park. After a short shower period the clouds began to move away from the Concerts in the Park event. Desario opened the show and they ended up being the only band that the rain dropped in on. Their indie melody music made you forget about the rain. The four member band played several songs and although this is the first time I’ve heard them play I will, for sure, follow the local band.

Con of Man was the second act on stage. Straight out of Woodland these boys brought an energetic beat and played a few songs that brought the audience closer to the front. They seemed to have quite a following. The band itself is made up of two sets of brothers. Beto Villegas played the bass while his brother Coki masterfully played the guitar. The drummer is Cassidy Garcia and his brother Rubin is the quite impressive lead singer. Other Garcia family members were in the audience. Gabe Garcia took pictures while Junior Garcia modeled an original Con of Man t-shirt.

Third billing went to Phallucy who, as promoter Jerry Perry indicates, recently got together again. This is their third reunion according to some followers of the band. I’m not sure how long they’ve been together this time but I hope they stay together and develop their hard edge sound.

As the last band was about to set up on stage the audience grew larger. I walked around and as I talked to people in the audience it was clear that the vast majority of the audience came to see Dance Gavin Dance. They did not disappoint their adoring fans. The excitement of the audience became uncontrollable for a while as they pushed their way to the stage and pushed the barriers set up to keep the audience back. Promoter extraordinaire Jerry Perry had to stop the show to ask the audience to settle down and the audience obliged for a few seconds. Dance Gavin Dance was a good closing act for the evening and they finished with a bang.
This was a wonderful show, with an impressive musical lineup, fantastic fans, and a great beginning to the weekend.

Pictures:

1. Desario

2. Jerry Perry

3-4. Con of Man

5. Con of Man Fans

6. Con of Man Junior

7. Phallacy

8-9. Dance Gavin Dance

10-12 Dance Gavin Dance Fans

"Kepiland" kicked off Concerts in the Park

2010-05-10T04:45:20Z

Friday marked the day many local musicians and fans had been waiting for: the first show of the 2010 Concerts in the Park series.

The 15-week-long summer event takes place annually at Cesar Chavez Plaza at 5 p.m. every Friday. It is free and all-ages. There are also booths complete with henna tattoos and food to purchase, and a beer garden for those 21 and up.

This year, 31 bands will take the stage. Friday, four of those bands showed the crowd what they were made of, and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. The four bands were SIMPL3JACK, Dog Party, The Kelps and Kepi Ghoulie.

Alternative punk rock band SIMPL3JACK kicked off the series by opening the show. All the age of 12, the all-male trio didn't show any hesitation running out on stage. They knew their places and knew what they were doing. The audience started supporting them right away; the cheers and whistles started halfway through the first song. Lead vocalist and guitarist Cole Apperson even ended it with a guitar riff that ended with him laying on his back. The attire was definitely thought-out and they meant business. Bassist Ryan Kendell wore a worn-out dirt bike helmet. Apperson had on a black leather jacket, complete with at least 15 pieces of "flare." SIMPL3JACK played a song called "Terrance is an Alien" toward the end of the set. Terrance is Dog Party's pet pug from which Dog Party derived its name. SIMPL3JACK left the audience craving more.

Dog Party, which has been known to the Sacramento music scene going on three years, was next in line. Fourteen- and 12-year-old sisters Gwen and Lucy Giles' vibrant-colored garage rock look matches their personalities and has a way of instantaneously captivating the crowd.

For many, it was the first time hearing the band preform, and it definitely won't be the last.

"I really like the girl's voice," Sacramento resident Heather-Lynn Curtis, 35, said, referring to Lucy. "It's very edgy."

"...And the pants...not many people can work them," said resident Erin Tan, 31, referring to Gwen's neon yellow skinny jeans.

Friday was Dog Party's second time playing the series, and the sisters couldn't ask to be part of a better lineup.

"We love Kepi," Lucy said. "We listen to him all the time, because he's, like, totally awesome."

"Total awesomeness," Gwen agreed.

Dog Party's original songs are filled with catchy lyrics and beats, but when the duo covered Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit," the audience started roaring. Many sang along, and numerous people danced. Then Dog Party was joined on stage for its last song with none other than Kepi and his band.

"It was great to have Kepi join us," Lucy said.

The Kelps followed Dog Party by performing to a park full of people. The audience was already hyped, and The Kelps just gave them more. The three members, whose genre they like to leave open for audience interpretation, did one thing that could be described without a doubt: they rocked. Tony Reyes, 19; Cory Barringer, 18 and Cameron Betts, 20, didn't hesitate to show everyone attending what their band is made of.

"(Friday) was everything we wanted and more," guitarist/singer Barringer said. "All three bands are great, and just to be able to play a show with Kepi was quite something."

Still young to the music scene, The Kelps are obviously doing something right and making their name known. This is the first year they have played the Concerts in the Park series, but if things keep going the way they are, fans will keep flocking to their shows.

As the sun was setting, the punk rock was rising. It was time for Kepi Ghoulie to take the stage.

Strutting an Iron Man mask, Kepi introduced himself as Iron Man, asking the audience over the mic, "Why aren't you at my movie?" Then he tuned his guitar.

Former member of the legendary local band Groovy Ghoulies, Kepi got back from a month-long acoustic tour in Europe on Wednesday. Kepi has played the Concert in the Park series many times in the past, but that didn't take away from the energy portrayed on stage Friday night.

"It's always fun. You play to an audience that isn't normally at your regular shows, so they get to peek into Kepiland!" Kepi said. "Plus, you get family, friends, kids and hi-jinx! Awesome!"

Kepi played a set with his band, which is a rarity, and the audience loved every moment of it. There was even a repeat of the first song, complete with three people dressed in banana costumes who took over the stage. A mosh pit crowded the front few rows of the audience.

Everyone had a good time. The weather was great, the music was entertaining and the musicians were completely supportive of one another. What a wonderful way to kick off the season-long series.

Visit the band's websites:

Photographs:

1. SIMPL3JACK

2. Dog Party

3. The Kelps

4. Kepi Ghoulie

5. SIMPL3JACK

6. Dog Party

7. The Kelps

8. Kepi Ghoulie as Iron Man

9. Kepi Ghoulie and the audience

Concerts in the Park kickoff show this Friday

2010-05-06T04:22:34Z

Friday marks the kickoff of the 2010 Concerts in the Park series at Cesar Chavez Plaza, located on 10th and J streets. Concerts in the Park is an annual free, all-ages event that runs during the summer at 5 p.m. every Friday and features local bands of various genres.

Leading off this year's series is a lineup of four bands that fall under the indie/punk/hard rock genre.

Headlining the show is none other than local legend and pop punk artist, Kepi Ghoulie. Bassist and lead vocalist of the former band, The Groovy Ghoulies, Kepi has continued his musical career and kept his fans. The full band consists of Kepi as guitar and vocals, Dino as bass and vocals, and Atom as drums and vocals. Friday's show will be an electric set for Kepi, which doesn't happen all the time.

Three-member band The Kelps has been around for just over a year and is playing its first Concert in the Park show. Residing in Lincoln, The Kelps' members are Tony Reyes, 19, on drums and percussion; guitarist/singer Cory Barringer, 18, and Cameron Betts, 20, on bass and "second howl."

They said they are extremely honored to be leading the crowd into Kepi's set.

"We're enormous Kepi Ghoulie fans," Barringer said. "There's such an aura around the local music scene regarding Kepi....He's a hometown hero."

The Kelps started out three years ago, playing their first show at a battle of the bands under the name The Captains of Spaceship Earth. They decided to change their name after figuring they'd better "grow up."

Though they usually don't like having expectations for shows, they have no doubt that this one will be good.

"Kepi's playing full electric. He usually plays acoustic," Barringer said. "This is quite something." The band members, who said they like to leave their music genre label open to interpretation by their fans, said it doesn't matter how big the crowd is; they just enjoy playing.

"We'll play to 10 people just as if we were playing to 10,000," Barringer said.

Also playing the show are two garage rock sisters who call themselves Dog Party. Gwen Giles, 14, plays guitar and back-up vocals while Lucy Giles, 12, jams out on the drums and carries the lead vocals. Gwen has been playing guitar since she was 9 years old, and Lucy has been practicing drums for about three years. Their first performance was at a school talent show.

According to their father, Sam Giles, his daughters are "excited out of their minds" about the lineup, seeing as they are "super into Kepi." The girls agree.

"We're friends with SIMPL3JACK and have played with Kepi a few times," Lucy said.

The plan is to play on stage with Kepi Ghoulie again on Friday. They will be assisting him with tambourine and back-up vocals.

When asked how they came up with the name Dog Party, the sisters said, "We have a pug, and he's kind of crazy."

SIMPL3JACK is kicking off the 2010 Concert in the Park series. The three 12-year-old members put down an alternative punk rock sound that, like Dog Party, started out with a grammar school talent show. They have been around as SIMPL3JACK for a little over a year. The band members are friends with Dog Party and have played many shows together. This will be their first show playing with both The Kelps or Kepi Ghoulie. The three members include Cole Apperson on lead vocals, Ryan Kendell on bass and Wyatt Cermak on drums.

"We're going to rock out hard," Apperson said in regards to Friday's show. "I'm way happy with Kepi."

Friday's lineup is full of true rock.

Kepi was unavailable for comment due to being on an international tour.

The 2010 Concerts in the Park Series complete lineup, according to booker and promoter Jerry Perry is:

May 7 – Kepi Ghoulie, The Kelps, Dog Party, Simpl3jack

May 14 – Rick Estrin & The Nightcats, Low Down Dirty Dogs

May 21 – Dance Gavin Dance, Phallucy, Con of Man, Desario

May 28 – Mike Farrell, Aaron King & The Imperials, One Eyed Rhyno

June 4 – Method Echo, The Nibblers, Live Manikins

June 11 – The Nickel Slots, Los Blazing Hangovers, Mae McCoy & The Neon Stars

June 18 – The Secretions, The Shruggs, The Four Eyes, The Enlows

June 25 – Mumbo Gumbo, Not An Airplane

July 2 – The New Humans, Sister Crayon, Chelsea Wolfe, (Sea Of Bees - pending)

July 9 – Izabella, Walking Spanish, Inversions

July 16 – Kate Gaffney, Gerald Pease, Autumn Sky, Juliana Zachariou

July 23 – Lite Brite, Prieta, Musical Charis

July 30 – Whiskey & Stitches, Final Summation, Bastards of Young

Aug 6 – The Golden Cadillacs, Light Rail, Johnny “Guitar” Knox and Dave Croall with The Soothers

Aug 13 – The Brodys, The Phantom Jets, This Luxury

Photographs:

1: The Kelps - Courtesy of The Kelps

2: Dog Party - Courtesy of Dog Party

3: SIMPL3JACK - Courtesy of SIMPL3JACK

Richard March and Tyler Ragle to perform CD-release concert

2009-12-17T05:29:05Z

Local Americana musicians Richard March and Tyler Ragle are not afraid to get political.

Their new song "Gold Star Café" includes a café conversation about politics, praises for President Obama and criticism of the public for not being involved enough in politics.

"Thank God this young man got the vote/But he alone won't save this boat/Gonna take 'all hands' to get her right/So we can sleep at night," March writes.

Saturday at Javalounge, the local country-influenced folk duo will play a CD-release concert for their five-song EP Kings and Thieves, their first release as a duo. Davis-based singer-songwriter Nat Lefkoff will open the show.

March lived in the Bay Area until age 30, when he moved to Nashville to pursue a music career.

After only two months there, he came back to California and settled in Sacramento because his wife was from here, he said. Currently living in West Sacramento, March spent time recently as a substitute teacher and still commutes to the Bay Area every weekend to play music in church.

Ragle grew up in Roseville and worked Skip's Music in Sacramento for five years before becoming a school aid helping autistic children in Orangevale. He has played in several "serious" local bands over the years, which he defined as bands that have played many live shows.

March, on the other hand, has a Bachelor of Arts in Popular Styles from San Francisco State, and hasn't stopped writing songs since he was 18. In 2007, he won a SAMMIE award for best male vocalist.

About a decade ago, March and Ragle met at an open mic night at Old Ironsides, where March asked audience members to name the artist he was covering. Ragle, a self-described music trivia fan and snob, shouted "Springsteen!" and March gave him a free CD as a reward.

The two have been playing music together ever since.

March has four albums, two with Ragle playing bass, but Kings marks the first time the duo have released a collection of songs they wrote together.

With harmonica, guitar, vocals and an occasional piano, Kings has a touch of Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel and the Eagles. The duo's chemistry is apparent on the album and they complete each others' sentences over coffee like an old married couple.

Writing political songs is difficult, said Ragle, 31, in part because certainly the pair are not foreign policy or politics experts. But opinions tend to be best expressed through song, he said.

"There are a couple of songs that people walk away from (when played live)," March said.

"We've had a good reaction to 'Gold Star Café' so far, but it will be interesting how that reaction will change in a year or two," Ragle added.

They both agreed some of their favorite moments in music included opening for folk music legend Ramblin' Jack Elliot and playing Concerts in the Park with Jackie Greene.

In addition to recording another full album, March said he is ready to hit the road and start some serious touring.

"I've never been one to throw caution to the wind," he said. "I'm a square-ass suburban white boy that's fairly comfortable. But at the ripe age of 40, I'm starting to try and tour, travel and focus on (music) full time."

The show begins at 8 p.m. and will cost $5. CDs will be available for $5. Javalounge is located at 2416 16th Street.

'End of Summer Fest' canceled

2009-09-03T21:52:50Z

Promoter Jerry Perry confirmed with The Sacramento Press Wednesday that the remaining three shows scheduled for End of Summer Fest have been canceled. According to Perry, the first two shows did not draw nearly enough people, resulting in a loss of money.

In fact, the shows were about 2000 people short for the event to even break even, Perry said. "Attendance was about half of what I call 'break even,'" he said. "[During Concerts in the Park] there were times when we had over three times as many people."

As a last ditch effort, Perry tried to relocate Friday's show featuring The Secretions to Old Ironsides, but the band declined the offer. The Secretions, a Sammie Lifetime Achievement Award-winning punk band who have been together since 1991, were to headline the show.

Secretions' fans, also known as "Secretins," can still catch the band this Saturday night when they will be premiering their music video for "Back in the Day Punk." Click here for information on the all-ages show at the Shire Road Club (5525 Auburn Blvd.), which also includes Aroarah, Flip the Switch, The Phantom Jets and DJ Rob Fatal.

"I can't continue to lose money [because] attendance is down," Perry said. He noted that the California State Fair is going on at the same time, but the State Fair has also been suffering from low weekday attendance.

Perry originally thought the low attendance on the first End of Summer Fest show was due to the show being held on a Furlough Friday. But last week's show lost money due to a low turnout as well, he explained.

"I'm surprised that even a free event wouldn't draw a crowd," he said. "I don't know what it was -- the State Fair, furloughs, hot Fridays [or if] people thought the event was over."

Perry confirmed that he will definitely continue Concerts in the Park and End of Summer Fest next year, but he plans to make some changes. Though he did not specify changes, he explained that Furlough Fridays are supposed to end by June 2010, and that may drive up attendance.

The Nickel Slots, who were scheduled to headline next week's show (Sept. 11), are still scheduled to be playing next week at Old Ironsides as part of a CD release party for their self-titled debut album. Fans can celebrate the album release and view opening bands King Cab and Golden Shoulders for $7 (click for details).

Jackpot, scheduled to headline the Sept. 18 show, currently has no shows or other upcoming performances scheduled.

The Sacramento Press was an official media partner with End of Summer Fest.

Photographs credit Sonny Mayugba. Photographs: Kai Kln headline the inaugural End of Summer Fest show.

Kai Kln to headline first End of Summer Fest concert

2009-08-21T04:40:53Z

"Unfortunately, I'm the idiot [who] came up with the world's worst f***ing band name," said Kai Kln drummer Neil Franklin. "It comes back to haunt me when I have to explain this name and try to pronounce it."

Kai Kln (pronounced "kai" as in "kaiser" and "klin, but ignore the vowel," Franklin said) formed in Carmichael and played its first gig in August 1989 at Southside Park. When the four-piece headlines the inaugural End of Summer Fest concert in Cesar Chavez Plaza, it will be the 20-year anniversary of the band's first performance.

Friday's concert, which is a continuation of Concerts in the Park, will also feature opening band Prieta, a 2009 Sammie award winner for best rock band. Prieta plays fast-paced rock 'n' roll, sounding like a cross between Led Zeppelin and Soundgarden.

Back in the late '80s before Scott Anderson, Neil Franklin, Sherman Loper and Gene Smith adopted it as their band name, "Kai Kln" was a character from a story Neil Franklin wrote in detention. "I had to do something in Saturday detention every week, so I started to write these stupid stories about this character I made up," he explained.

Despite having the "worst" name, in the first year that it existed, Kai Kln quickly made friends with Sacramento promoters Jerry Perry and Brian McKenna, both of whom found the band gigs. After opening for Primus, the band grew in popularity and began selling out gigs in Sacramento and all over Northern California.

By 1992, Kai Kln had already released three cassettes: Rhythm of the Strange, 1990; Hair of the Bud, 1991; and Vigoda, 1992. The songs featured punk and psychedelic rock with a grungy Seattle tint.

The band shared the stage with other big-name local acts such as Deftones, Cake and Oleander, and opened for rock legends such as Sublime, Bad Religion and Nirvana. However, at that point (June of 1991), said Franklin, "[Nirvana] were not the powerhouse they became."

In fact, Nirvana was opening for a larger band named Dinosaur Jr. The show took place at the Crest Theatre.

"Nirvana [consisted of] vegetarians, so we got to drink all their beer and eat all their food downstairs at the Crest," Franklin recalled. "That was my favorite part of playing with Nirvana."

"I still thought they had their first drummer from their Bleach album Chad Channing," he added. "It turned out to be Dave Grohl, and I was a huge fan of the punk band Scream that Grohl played with right before Nirvana. So we talked about Scream for a little while. He ran off chasing girls, and the rest is history."

But Kai Kln's successes didn't stop there. In 1992 the band became the first unsigned band to sell out the 975-seat Crest Theatre.

Lead singer Gene Smith had quit a number of times by 1993, with the other members talking him back into the band every time. But one day, "I just couldn't talk him back into it for some reason, but that's how s*** happens sometimes," Franklin explained.

The breakup lasted for two years, and then the band got back together in 1995, but it "wasn't as fun," Franklin admitted. "Everybody had kids at the time, and it took a shift: All of a sudden it just became a real job, and it's the job you think you want to have, but we got sick of each other I guess."

Kai Kln released another a album, The Matter of Things, in 1997 but played only sporadically from 1998 to 2000. Then the members didn't play any shows until 2007, when they reunited and started playing again on a tour that they named "The Grandpas of Rock Tour."

At Friday's concert, the members expect to bring back an old ritual that they haven't performed since their early years: having a drunk roadie introduce them while covered in costumes and props from thrift stores. An emcee named "Young Jimmy Telethon" will introduce the group to the crowd wearing a "wacky outfit," Franklin said.

Joining the band will also be local musicians Mike Farrell and Nicole Burdock, one of Smith's guitar students. Their set will be the band's first album Rhythm of the Strange, played front-to-back, plus a few extra songs they put on the tail end of the album for the CD re-release in 1995.

"It's the best damn gig in town," Franklin added, referring to Concerts in the Park/End of Summer Fest. "It's so much fun, there are so many people and the sound is great."

End of Summer Fest takes place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday through Sept. 18.

Photograph credits:

Photographs 1, 2 and 3 credit Ilsa Hess.

Photograph 4 credit Denise Wentzel Dunning

Photograph 5 credit Greg Savalin.

Photograph 6 credit Marc Malakie.

Sol Peligro to headline final Concert in the Park

2009-08-14T02:22:44Z

"People are probably going to give me [s***] about this," said Sol Peligro lead singer Sam Miranda. "Watching John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever [at] eight years old, I thought, 'This guy is cool.'"

Though his band Sol Peligro plays reggae-influenced cumbia music -- not disco -- Miranda points to this moment as the first time he knew he wanted to be in a band. Friday night, Sol Peligro will be headlining a Concert in the Park that includes Retrograde Revolution and La Noche Oskura (click links for MySpace).

Retrograde Revolution sounds like a Yellowman-influenced reggae/hip hop outfit, while La Noche Oskura combines punk and ska to sound like a Mexican Sublime.

Miranda formed Sol Peligro in 2004, a year after leaving his previous band, Raigambre, because he was going to be a father. Raigambre had been a success, winning a Sammie, his band mates often practicing up to four times per week.

As soon as Miranda found out that a baby was on the way, he left the band on good terms. It allowed the band to focus on music and allowed him to take a full-time job at a dental insurance company to prepare for the baby.

After 20 years of performing as a musician, Miranda reflected on why this was the wise choice. "Now I have a family to think about," he said.

"Music was a fun thing to do, [but] years ago I used to catch myself being bummed out about it," he added. "I was trying too hard to make it a living, and it took the fun out of it."

So when Miranda formed Sol Peligro, he vowed that the band would simply be in it for the fun. In the first year of its existence, he invited members of different Sacramento bands like Bucho, Sinclair and Filibuster to accompany him.

Once the band made a name for itself and recorded an album, Gritos de mi Pueblo, 2005, Miranda sought out more permanent members. One thing that all 10 of the current band members have in common is a full-time job.

Besides Miranda, the band features a four-piece horn section: two trumpets, sax and trombone. The rhythm section includes a keyboard player, two guitarists, a bass player, percussionist and drummer.

As for the band name, which translates literally to 'dangerous/threatening sun,' "it doesn't mean [anything], it's just a cool name," Miranda said. "It's just a name, so our music, and the content of our lyrics speak for what we stand for."

In 2006, the band won a Sammie for best World/Latin band. "That to me was cool; I contributed enough [to the music scene] that I got recognized," Miranda recalled.

Besides the Sammie, the biggest moment for the band so far was "doing a show at Harlow's with a group out of Texas called Grupo Fantasma," Miranda added. Grupo Fantasma occasionally backs Prince and was nominated for a Grammy earlier this year.

Miranda said he is happy to be playing the last Concert in the Park for the season, but equally excited for the End of Summer Festival, which will continue for the next five Fridays in Cesar Chavez Plaza.

"I saw the lineup and I [thought], 'Oh yeah, that's frickin' great,'" he said. "It's a great opportunity for people to get in there, and it's a great venue, especially for somebody who's starting out."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday until Aug. 14. The season continues as "The End of Summer Fest" at Cesar Chavez Plaza every Friday night from Aug. 21 through Sept. 18.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel: $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bedroom. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

photograph credit Stephen Bingen

Concerts in the Park: Rowdy Kate to headline

2009-08-07T03:06:48Z

"Country" music means different things to different people. To Rowdy Kate lead singer Keri Carr, it means feeling at home.

She recalled that during her childhood, her father was a cowboy who rode horses and bulls and listened to country music. After her parents divorced, Carr and her mother moved away, distancing her from her father.

"I missed him a lot when I was growing up," she explained. "It feels like home to me when I sing country music."

Friday night, Rowdy Kate will bring the "back home" country spirit to Concerts in the Park. The band will headline a show that also includes Hellbound Glory and Flounder (click links for MySpace). Hellbound Glory members describe themselves as, a "scumbag country" band that "builds on the roots of honky tonk, bluegrass, rockabilly, and outlaw country." Flounder plays a diverse style of indie rock.

Keri Carr spent her youth moving around with her mother from San Francisco to Ohio, Virginia and Spain before settling in Sacramento in 1990. Her mother taught her how to sing, and was the biggest influence on her singing, Carr said.

"With my mom, I sing rancheras and boleros, and those are representative of my mom's side of the family, which I was distanced from in my upbringing as well," she explained.

Ever since her childhood days, Carr's second creative passion was always hair. She remembers as a young girl always wanting to "fix" people's hair. In 2006 she opened Honey Salon, 818 19th St., where she and her mother have been styling hair ever since. She even styles hair for local music celebrities like Jerry Perry and Kate Gaffney.

"Nick Swimly, the guitarist for the Golden Cadillacs and Hellbound Glory, has got really fun hair," she noted.

Also in 2006, she started Rowdy Kate with her husband Larry Carr, who originally played bass, but now plays drums. The two set out to play rockabilly, but the band naturally moved in a more country direction.

Lead guitarist Geoff Miller, rhythm guitarist Robert Sidwell and bassist Dave Garrity round out the band. Aside from originals that Carr and Miller write, the band covers "old school" country tunes from artists like Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Graham Parsons and Buck Owens, Carr said.

So far, the band has recorded an EP and plans to record a full-length album. The members will schedule their second tour of Europe for sometime in the next year.

A highlight of Rowdy Kate's career so far has been playing Concerts in the Park, Carr explained. "If Jerry Perry likes us, it feels like validation," she added.

The band members said they look forward to Concerts in the Park every year. This will be their third year playing the show.

"It's really different playing in a club where there's two people not even paying attention to you, as opposed to a park where there's hundreds of people all cheering for you," Carr added. "Sacramento should really support Jerry Perry extending Concerts in the Park because he's done so much for the music scene in the town."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday until Aug. 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Concerts in the Park continues as "The End of Summer Fest" at Cesar Chavez Plaza every Friday night from August 21 through September 18.

Concerts in the Park: The Brodys bringing props to the plaza

2009-07-30T17:28:35Z

The Brodys bring more than musical instruments to their Concerts in the Park shows: They also bring props. They like to up the entertainment value of their shows by bringing a little something extra.

One year, they brought a fake 30-foot shark to go with a beach theme. Another year they brought in a Brodys cover band who played the band's instruments while the group listened from the beer garden.

Once, they brought the entire Cal Aggie Marching Band to play a song with them.

"Every year we raise the bar for ourselves; we can't just go back to showing up and playing," said The Brodys' lead singer Tony Brusca. "People coming out will get good music and chuckles, too."

This year they will spend a little extra money building a homemade set out of plywood and paint. "People will not be disappointed," Brusca said, though he did not add any details on what else the set included.

The Brodys will play their 13th Concert in the Park on Friday and will be the headlining band. Opening will be Goodness Gracious Me and The Broken Poet (click links for MySpace).

Goodness Gracious Me plays an indie-garage style rock, while The Broken Poet plays a mixture of piano-based rock.

The Brodys formed in Sacramento in 1994 as a pop-punk rock band. They released their debut album in 1996, playing a number of local shows to support it. In one standout show, they played Old Ironsides with Oleander and Matchbox 20. Then opportunity knocked.

They were invited to open for Cake at Concerts in the Park 12 years ago. Since then the five-piece has played Cesar Chavez Plaza almost 20 times.

"After Jerry [Perry, Concerts in the Park promoter] gave us the opportunity to open up for Cake, people knew who we were," Brusca said. "That [show] put us on the map."

Their 1998 album Goody Goody garnered positive reviews in The Sacramento Bee. Their regional hit "Toss," from an untitled EP released in 1999, was the most requested song on KWOD 106.5 for a month.

Success continued in December 1999 when they played Arco Arena with Incubus, Foo Fighters and 311. In 2001, the band's music was featured on an animated MTV show called "Undergrads."

But after their latest albums, Unexamined Life, 2001, and Stuck in 2005, the band had to change their pace. They were tired of sacrificing everything and making the band priority number one, Brusca said.

"We came to a crossroad where we needed to either reevaluate priorities or call it a day," Brusca explained. "We were a little bit older, some of the guys had families, and being in a local band trying to make it [big] is grueling."

The band decided to continue, but to tone back the schedule. That way the band could keep playing the music they loved while keeping day jobs and families.

"A lot of people ask us why we haven't made it like Cake, Oleander or Papa Roach -- the people around when we started who all made it," Brusca said. "[But] we consider ourselves as having made it."

The band still enjoys one another's company, he added, and have a local following of devoted fans.

"[If we were asked] to tour with Green Day next summer, we would think pretty closely about that, but those days are behind us," Brusca added. "Right now we're just enjoying jobs, kids and life."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday until Aug. 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel: $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bedroom. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

*photographs courtesy The Brodys

Concerts in the Park: Baby Grand headlining

2009-07-23T20:42:11Z

If Baby Grand keeps their current lineup and releases an album this year, it will be a huge first for the band. It will be the first time one of their albums shares the same lineup as their current gigging band.

This Friday at Cesar Chavez Plaza, Baby Grand will bring their most solid unit ever: a six-piece playing mellow organic pop. Opening for them will be Dog Party, The Poplollys and Ricky Berger.

Dog Party is a duo consisting of 11- and 13-year-old sisters who play original songs and covers on drums and guitar. The Poplollys are a local trio who play Americana style country, while another favorite, multi-instrumentalist Ricky Berger, sings mellow folk music.

Baby Grand first formed back in 1999 by husband and wife Tim and Gerri White. Once a power-pop/punk band, their sound has been getting progressively softer.

"At the point that I joined on guitar, we sort of took the band in a different direction," said Cory Vick, who has been with the band since 2004. "We're still a pop band lyrically, but structurally it's much more acoustic-based, folk-pop kind of stuff."

Vick admitted that the band has struggled to keep a steady lineup, but he's proud that the band's current lineup is the strongest they've ever had.

Vick, who has been the guitarist for Baby Grand on their last two EPs, did not appear on their first album back in 2002. But he's excited about the new album, which consists of twelve songs, because having a steady band means being able to concentrate on recording, he said.

"[The upcoming recording] is the first time we've actually really captured what we sound like live," he added. "[By recording this] it's the first time it feels like a real band."

By bringing down the volume, and learning to use dynamics in composing music, the band has been able to feature Gerri White's soft but soulful voice. "We're not louder, but I think our sound is actually bigger," Vick said.

He's also excited about playing Concerts in the Park to reach a new audience. "It's [going to be a] mix of state workers who get off work in their office attire, your downtown street people and younger kids," he said.

The band has played shows with the other acts before, and they've become friends. "I think while all four bands are different musically, anybody who would come to this show would find something appealing in all four bands," he said.

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday until Aug. 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel: $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bedroom. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call (916) 447-2700.

*photographs credit Ted Angel

Concerts in the Park: The Snobs headline

2009-07-16T04:25:12Z

Leading a band is like managing a kitchen, according to Jason Boggs. As both executive chef of The Shady Lady and lead singer of The Snobs, Boggs is qualified to make the analogy.

"A lot of the same stuff that goes on in a kitchen goes on in a band on tour: drinking, bad tempers and egos to worry about," Boggs said. "You're trying to make a group of guys work together and most of the time they're misfits not [fit] for regular society."

In order for the "misfits" to form a cohesive band, The Snobs created rules. Boggs, who played saxophone for local ska/reggae band Filibuster, was banned from playing saxophone.

"It was the other guys in the band protecting themselves from me [playing reggae]," he said of the ban. "But it's worked out great, and the sound has transformed."

Now, after picking up the saxophone again for The Snobs, Boggs also plays the instrument for the more jazz-oriented band Syncro, who played Concerts in the Park June 12.

Boggs will play saxophone and sing this Friday when The Snobs headline the show. Opening are The No Goodniks, Phantom Jets and The Cockfight Kings, all rock 'n' roll bands. (Click links for MySpace)

The Cockfight Kings have a more rockabilly-influenced set, while the Phantom Jets play surf and garage-inspired rock. "Girlie female vocals" give the The No Goodniks a fun pop punk sound, says Laura Winn of the Examiner.

"It's a blast," Boggs says of Concerts in the Park. "It's about the community, and playing on a badass sound system with a whole lot of people watching you."

Back in 2002, The Snobs formed as a straightforward Rock and Roll band. Upbeats, guitar scratches, and reggae of any kind were banned.

For nearly two years, Boggs sang, but never picked up the sax.

This lasted all the way up through the band's first album, Stepping Large, Laughing Easy, 2004. After constantly being bombarded by questions of "where is the horn?", he picked it up again.

"Being in a rock/punk band, it sets us apart because it's unusual to have a horn," he said. "It adds a dimension - the horn is like a bridge, [allowing] all ages to like our music."

The Snobs are currently recording their second full-length album at Track Shack in Sacramento. Because it's being produced by Jeff Tamelier (Huey Lewis, Eddie Money), it has more of a 1980s sound.

For the album, due in September, the band rerecorded two songs from the first album. They've also updated them, adding saxophone.

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel: $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bed room. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

Photo is credit Marc Kallweit

Concerts in the Park: Gaffney to headline

2009-07-10T04:20:29Z

Playing music outside is like playing to the ocean, local musician Kate Gaffney said. "If you're standing near the ocean, anything that's ever bothering you, you can just toss it out into the sea, and the sea will just engulf it and you won't have to worry about it again."

On Friday, the Philadelphia-native singer/songwriter will be headlining Concerts in the Park. Opening for Gaffney are Boulevard Park, West of Next and Christopher Fairman & The Stilts (click on links for MySpace).

Gaffney first visited California during a college internship, instantly deciding it was the place for her. After earning her bachelor's degree from Penn State, she moved here and took a job at Sacramento County's Child Protective services.

Then one night a coworker convinced her see a rock band featuring another coworker's son. That musician was Jackie Greene.

"It was pretty monumental to see somebody at that age doing [music as a career]," she said. "I thought, maybe I should start writing some songs."

"I was young enough at that point where I knew it was not too late for me to make this switch," Gaffney added.

Over the course of a few months, she decided to quit her job at CPS and concentrate on music. Music makes her life fulfilling, she said.

"I'm stoked on life as long as I'm writing songs that make people happy, or makes them think," Gaffney said. "Hopefully it soothes their soul."

Gaffney's latest album, The Coachman, 2008, is named after and inspired by a summer vacation home in Cape May, N.J., where she spent much of her youth. It features an incredible group of supporting musicians including Jackie Greene, guitar virtuoso Steve Kimock and Ben Harper's backing band The Innocent Criminals, among others.

She recently returned from a three-month-long tour that began as only a handful of gigs. On the tour Gaffney played solo and as a duo with local guitarist Steve Randall, 2006 Sacramento Music Awards winner for Best Guitarist.

After two full-length albums and an EP, she is excited to reach a new audience at Concerts in the Park.

"For me playing music is not just about playing music," Gaffney said. "It's about sharing this beautiful light into the world. It's easier to do outside. It just spreads easier. I like that a lot."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up! $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260 Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bed room. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

*Photographs credit Sam Hayashi

Concerts in the Park: Golden Shoulders light it up Friday

2009-07-02T16:08:53Z

Golden Shoulders is a "breakup-proof" band. That's because it consists of Adam Kline and whatever friends are standing near him at any given time.

In the past eight years, there have been 48 part-time collaborators, including former members of local bands Cake and Hella, as well as local singer Joanna Newsom. But one time, it was just Kline.

Headlining Concert in the Park Friday night, Golden Shoulders will be a four-piece. The concert also features openers Radio Orangevale, Jeepster and Trainwreck Revival (click links for MySpace pages).

Back in 2001, Kline formed Golden Shoulders with his friends from Nevada City. Since then they've recorded three albums and one EP, toured the U.S., and have been featured on college radio stations around the country.

"It was fun learning that Jeremy Piven was a fan of the band," Kline replied, when asked about the band's greatest moment. "It was amazing playing shows with heroes of mine like Jonathan Richman, Brendan Benson, and Glenn Tilbrook (of Squeeze)," he added.

Earlier this year, the band released Get Reasonable, which mixes Dylan-esque folk lyrics with The Decemberists' indie-pop sound. But their true style is hard to pin.

Different producers worked on different songs, and the resulting album is a smorgasbord of sound. "I just eased my grip on the reins a little bit and let other producers come in and have their way with some of the songs," Kline said.

Friday marks the fourth time Golden Shoulders has played Concerts in the Park.

"It's fun, strange and a great opportunity to check out the latest in arrhythmic interpretive dance moves," says Kline. "It's a good time, and an opportunity to be heard by people who wouldn't hear us otherwise."

Those who cannot get enough of Golden Shoulders can see them play a second gig right after the show. The band will joined by Cowboy Killers and Whiskey Gentlemen for a 21-and-over show at Old Ironsides.

Located at 1901 10th St., the show begins at 9 p.m., and costs $7. Kline said, "We will be playing a completely different set than we'll play in the park."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up!: $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro: $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K: $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge: $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse: $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th: $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260: Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge: $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar: $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt: $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel: $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen or dual-double-bed room. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

*photograph courtesy Brook Rivera

Concerts in the Park: Mumbo Gumbo

2009-06-26T01:50:12Z

When thinking of Mumbo Gumbo's gig this Friday, the word "regulars" comes to mind. This year marks the 16th year in a row the band will play at Concerts in the Park.

As the name suggests, the New-Orleans-flavored septet blends many genres to create its sound. From soul to Zydeco and from ballad to boogie, the band has covered the gamut in its nearly 20-year history, during which the members have produced eight albums.

They have been a big part of the Northern California concert scene. Many of the band members have even formed successful side projects over the years.

Guitar player Jon Wood, sax player Reggy Marks and bass player Lynn Michael Palmer recently formed The Nibblers. The seven-piece funk/soul band has been playing clubs around town and will open for Mumbo Gumbo on Friday.

Drummer Rick Lotter is part of Capitol Jazz Project, and lead singer Chris Webster has a solo career - well, had a solo career.

That was until a little over a year ago, when a paralyzed vocal cord forced her to stop singing. Luckily the band had another great singer, Tracy Walton.

"We were in a strange time," Palmer said. "We floundered around, not quite sure when and if she would come back."

Eventually the band decided it would be silly to stop playing, and members discovered they could be strong even without Webster. Walton fronted the band, alone, for a year. But after that year had passed, Webster had healed. She is back for every gig now, and this will be her return to Cesar Chavez.

"She's singing as well as she ever did," Palmer said. "This spring has been an exciting time for us."

On Friday, the band will be playing a lot of songs from its latest album, a compilation called "Fun Pack." It's filled with danceable, "party-flavored" tunes, said former keyboardist Bill Fairfield, who now helps the band with booking.

Fairfield's keyboard work is featured on much of the album, which includes tunes spanning the band's 19-year career. The album also includes three new originals and a re-recorded song.

"Businesspeople, families - a whole cross section of the Sacramento community seems to be out there," said Fairfield of Concerts in the Park. "We look forward to that show because it's always a great vibe."

Added Palmer: "I'm just excited about this season coming up and getting to play with the full band again."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up! $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260 Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Friday Concerts in the Park: Middle Class Rut comes out on top

2009-06-19T04:41:14Z

"Exhilarating, like running naked through a bee storm," said music magazine NME of Middle Class Rut, or MC Rut for short. The duo headlines Friday's Concert in the Park in which Lite Brite, Consider The Thief and Early States will also play (click links for MySpace pages).

MC Rut's style has been compared to Jane's Addiction and Rage Against the Machine, but the duo evokes a simpler feel than the The White Stripes, a band with similar instrumentation.

Even so, the two-piece packs a fury of sound that never lets up. They recently released an eight-song EP entitled 25 Years and completed a tour of the United Kingdom.

Lite Brite is a rock and roll trio that exudes a punk attitude, but can turn down the amps and write a beautiful ballad as well. Some say Lite Brite sounds like Radiohead while others say the sound is more reminiscent of Nirvana.

Lite Brite released its debut self-titled album last year, and a three-song EP is a free download from the band's website.

Five-piece Consider the Thief released its debut album Signs and Wonders Tuesday. "We decided we wanted to take a leap of faith and write songs that didn’t rely on what had become a crutch for us: screaming and busy guitar/drum work," said guitarist Sean O'Sullivan in an interview with Submerge Magazine.

That doesn't mean that Consider the Thief doesn't shred. The band still brings a sense of emotional, apocalyptic rock and roll.

Early States sounds like U2, but is fronted by a 19-year-old Roseville man. The band will be on the Warped Tour this summer.

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Park on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up! $4 drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels and 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro $3 drafts, $5 martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K $1 off well drinks, $3 draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge $3 domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse $2 pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and and half-price appetizers

Table 260 Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Friday Concerts in the Park: shake it to Shakedown

2009-06-12T01:41:52Z

This Friday, Shakedown is scheduled to headline a Concert in the Park that includes The Kinetics, a traditional Jamaican Rocksteady group, and Syncro, a "Surf/Dutch pop/Shoegaze" band (click on any band's name to visit its MySpace page).

Shakedown has won "Best Sacramento Band of 2007" from former alternative rock radio station KWOD 106.5, and the single "Love to Get Love" has been featured on a GEICO commercial.

"We released the last record (New Sound Delivery, 2007) in haste because we had a lineup change, and wanted to show people what we had," said Shakedown lead singer Mark Kinyon.

Twelve years, four albums and several lineup changes since their debut, the members of the Sacramento six-piece are "buckling down" and making their best record yet.

Adding to a foundation of reggae-rock built by drummer Mike Wilhelm, bass player Garrett Fonda, D.Q. Hayes on sax and lead singer/guitarist Mark Kinyon, their latest album features two new members, Emcee Bles and DJ Mr. Vibe, who give their style more of a hip hop twist.

"We're always going to have a reggae influence, but we're into a little more hip hop and we tried a little more rock and roll in this, too -- not predictable radio rock. We try different rhythms" Kinyon said.

This will be Shakedown's second time playing at Concerts in the Park. During the 2004 show, said Kinyon, the band was able to introduce itself to a new audience due to the family atmosphere.

But that wasn't the only benefit to playing the show.

"We headline many shows, and a lot of people love Shakedown's music, but we usually don't get to go on until 11:30 [p.m.] or [midnight], so we usually go on past people's bedtimes. Last time [at Concerts in the Park] we ended up selling a massive amount of CDs in one day," said Shakedown's producer Rob Farmer.

"We love doing outdoor shows," Kinyon said. "We can have our friends in the beer garden, but we reach a lot of people that wouldn't be able to go out to [see us at] a club."

Friday Night Concerts in the Park take place at Cesar Chavez Park on 10th and J Streets from 5-9 p.m. every Friday until August 14.

Don't forget that your Friday night festivities continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses:

Brew it Up! $4 Drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels & 3 Olives cocktails, plus half-price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro $3 Drafts, $5 Martinis, plus a selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K $1 off well drinks, $3 Draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge $3 Domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse $2 Pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and & half-price appetizers

Table 260 Half off appetizer menu, 10 percent off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge $2.50 Bud and Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar $3.50 Bud and Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt $1 off Bud, Bud Light and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen, or dual-double-bed room. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call 916-447-2700.

*Image courtesy Shakedown's MySpace.

Friday Concerts in the Park: A Bucho good time

2009-06-04T20:51:19Z

Friday Night Concerts in the Park have filled Cesar Chavez Park on 10th and J Streets with jammin' bands since the beginning of May and will continue every Friday night from 5-9 p.m. until August 14. In this storyline, The Sacramento Press will preview the concerts and help provide additional information on the artists and their music.

Friday, June 5

Bucho will headline the concert, with Righteous Movement and Happy Mayfield opening (click each band's name for a link to their MySpace page with music samples).

Bucho consists of singer and guitar player Gerald Pease, bass player Josh Lippi, Ben Schweir on the Hammond B3 and Fender Rhodes keyboards and Derek Taylor on percussion, as well as a horn section -- Leon Moore and Anthony Coleman on trumpets and Roger Cox on sax.

"Bucho bridges the gap between old school soul and horn bands of the past with the youth twist of Hip-Hop energy," according to the band's biography on Dig Music, a local label on which they released their last album Omit the Harsh. Bucho was also recently inducted into the SAMMIE (Sacramento Area Music Award) Hall of fame.

Righteous Movement is a SAMMIE-award-winning five-piece hip-hop collective consisting of four Sacramento emcees and one DJ. The group recently released their first full length LP While You Wait... described on their website as a "balance of party jams, introspective verses and addictive beats."

"If you are from Sacramento, then you’ve most likely seen Righteous but might not be familiar with Happy Mayfield yet," said Adam Saake in a concert review of an April 18 show in Submerge. "Happy Mayfield, a funk band to be reckoned with, is a harmonious marriage between singer/songwriter Lee Bob Watson and The Park [which consists of ex-members of local favorites Bucho]."

"To my delight, I discovered upon viewing the stage that The Park was set up to play with Righteous as well," Saake added.

Righteous Movement emcee TAIS will be collaborating musically with Saake, who is also a drummer, in concert Sunday at the Press Club. TAIS was nominated for a SAMMIE both in the category "Best Emcee" for his solo work and also with his group Righteous Movement for Outstanding Hip-Hop Group.

So those who visit Cesar Chavez Park this Friday will be treated with music from Bucho, and ex-members of Bucho (The Park) as part of Happy Mayfield and maybe even backing hip-hop act Righteous Movement.

Also, according to the Downtown Sacramento Partnership, your Friday night festivities can continue if you show your wristband to one of the following businesses. Check out these discounts:

Brew it Up! $4 Drafts, Bacardi, Jack Daniels & 3 Olives cocktails, plus half price appetizers

Fuzio Universal Bistro $3 Drafts, $5 Martinis, plus selection of $3 appetizers

Marilyn's on K $1 off well drinks, $3 Draft Bud Light

Parlare Euro Lounge $3 Domestic beers, $5 wine, $4 assorted appetizers

Pyramid Alehouse $2 Pints of Curveball

Sofia on 11th $3 drafts, $4 wines, $4 wells and & half price appetizers

Table 260 Half off appetizer menu, 10% off dinner, $5 drink special on Sac Soul

Toppingz Pizza inside Image Lounge $2.50 Bud & Bud Light, $4 Jack Daniels, appetizers starting at $1

Sheraton Grand Hotel's PMB Bar $3.50 Bud & Bud Light (bottle or draft), $5 nachos or artichoke dip

Amourath Lounge at Hyatt $1 off Bud, Bud Light, and all appetizers

Citizen Hotel $99/night weekend rate for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a deluxe king, queen, or dual-double-bed room. This deal is exclusively for the Concerts in the Park, and for information on how to book the room, call the hotel at 916-447-2700.

*Photographs are of Bucho, courtesy Dig Music/Bucho

Midfest is a go

2009-05-30T01:27:05Z

Midfest is happening this weekend after organizers won two permits early Friday afternoon, less than 24 hours before the event is scheduled to begin.

But Sacramento city staff notified organizers that city employees will be on the lookout for code violations after neighborhood residents complained that a previous event wasn't adequately managed.

The Bloc Concert Series permit was awarded to Paragary Restaurant Group for the festivities being held in Marshall Park, 915 27th St., from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday. A separate permit was issued to the Midtown Business Association (MBA) and T & M Organization for the Arts for Sunday's Midfest Summer Celebration at the park.

In the final hours before permits were handed out, the city's Department of Parks and Recreation held a meeting with organizers to spell out "in no uncertain terms" the regulations and requirements organizers must meet during the festival, said Alan Tomiyama, recreation manager of the department's Community Recreation Services Division.

"If the permittee violates the terms of the permit, the city has absolute authority to shut an event down," he said, adding that organizers will be given one chance to fix a problem on the spo. "Immediately. If they don't, we'll shut them down."

The permits allow the main stage and a VIP tent to be set up next to 28th Street at the alley -- close to 28th Street residences -- and the beer truck and beer garden to be set up on the closed half-block of 28th Street adjacent to Paragary's Centro Cocina Mexicana.

That way, stage speakers face south, away from residential areas, and the noise level can be further dampened by event and traffic noise, said Hindolo Brima, spokesperson for the city Department of Parks and Recreation. That setup also funnels the concert crowd into the south half of the park near businesses.

Permit requirements include:

-- K Permit parking only from 6 a.m. Saturday to 9 p.m. Sunday on I and H streets between 26th and 29th streets; 26th and 27th streets between J and G streets; and 28th Street between I and G streets. Violators will be towed, according to the permit.

-- 28th Street will be closed from J Street to the alley for a beer truck and beer garden.

-- A "reasonable" amplified sound level will be determined by the city's Special Events Services staff the day of the event, metered by police and ended by 8 p.m. However, the permit includes the city code's 98-decibel level for amplified sound being held on a street or sidewalk, rather than the section of code saying amplified sound in a park can't exceed 86 decibels 25 feet from the source, or 55 decibels on any residential property.

-- The Fire Department will set the occupancy load for the beer garden. Alcohol can't be sold after 7:30 p.m.

-- Seven Sacramento police officers, including a sergeant, and at least five private security guards must be hired for the event.

-- Debris and trash must be removed immediately after events on each day.

In recent weeks, the Department of Parks and Recreation pulled together the agencies that need to be involved in enforcing city regulations at the event to coordinate actions that will be taken to address potential problems this weekend, Tomiyama said.

The concerns brought up by residents living next to the park or nearby have never come up with other special events in more than a decade, he said. The park appears to be unique in the central city because it's lined with businesses and busy J Street on its south end but residential neighborhoods on three sides.

Sacramento's central core has undergone much development in the last five years -- including the addition of new bars and restaurants joining stalwarts Centro and Harlow's on J Street facing Marshall Park. Parks department staffers say they're trying to help find a balance with special events to meet the needs of businesses and residents, including Marshall School/New Era Park Neighborhood Association members.

Although it's never happened before, the city is considering those neighbors' request to be included in the permit application process for special events in the area.

"If there needs to be improvement, if there needs to be adjustments, we will do that," Tomiyama said. "At least, we will take a hard look at it."

The city has not awarded permits for any more last Saturday concerts planned for the Bloc Concert Series. The city will evaluate how things go this weekend and base permit decisions on that, he said.