Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "music"

Trash Film Orgy fundraising event

2012-02-08T07:30:37Z

Sacramento’s Trash Film Orgy Productions (TFO) is preparing to make a new feature film this spring. In an effort to bring the film to the big screen, TFO will hold a kickoff fundraising event this Friday, February 10 at Sacramento’s On the Y.

TFO is a Sacramento-based film production company that specializes in creating high quality, low budget horror films. TFP also produces the annual Trash Film Orgy Midnight Movie Film Festival. The Crest Theatre has been home to the event since 2001.

Friday’s Super-Special Fundraiser Show will feature a special screening of TFO’s hit, “Monster from Bikini Beach.” The film, shot in Sacramento, includes clips of several Sacramento landmarks.

The 2008 film is an entertaining carnage and mayhem B-movie meant for an over 21 crowd. The movie combines B-movie elements of other beach party films such as “Beach Blanket Bingo,” 1950’s monster movies, slasher type elements and some awesome humor to bring a truly amusing local indie film to the screen.

The monster lives in the river banks and caves of Camaroville and comes out in search of bikini-clad beauties. Elsewhere in Camaroville, a nightclub go-go contest takes place, a crooked cop and mobsters try to fix a drug deal gone wrong while a local news team looks into the current crime wave.

TFO Productions continues to bring fun events to various Sacramento sites giving audiences a chance to participate in different contests and entertainment. The TFO team of Darin Wood, Christy Savage and Amy Slockbower understand what local fans want and strive to bring that type of entertainment to town. TFO is also commonly credited with inventing the ever-growing Zombie Walk in 2001.

The Pyronauts were featured in the movie and will be playing live music on Friday night. A go-go dance-a-thon will be part of the evening’s fun events as well. As usual, when a TFO event is brought to the Sacramento stage, audience participation will be encouraged.

The go-go dance-a-thon will give participants a chance to win some exciting prizes and a go-go queen will be crowned.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show begins at 9. Tickets are $10 and the event is for the 21 and over crowd. Monster drink specials will be featured and will include live drinking games and Bikini Beach Bingo. Proceeds from the event will go towards TFO’s new movie production.

Come to On the Y, located at 670 Fulton Avenue, and partake in the screening of Monster from Bikini Beach. Enjoy an evening of fun, dance, live music and entertainment while supporting TFO’s next film.

New venue The Cave to host live music, comedy, other events

2012-02-08T02:04:31Z

The Cave is a new music and multi-use venue coming to Stockton Boulevard, moving in next door to the Colonial Theatre.

Formerly a shoe store, The Cave is currently used to hold wrestling events put on by Total Wrestling Federation, and starting Feb. 24, it will be opened to live music, standup comedy, art exhibits and other uses, said Mike Flanagan, who books the venue.

“We want this to be a public space where people can come and see a show, hear some comedy or see an art exhibition,” he said. “We have no intention of getting a liquor license, because we want this to be an all-ages place.”

Flanagan, who owns Bad Current Records and has been involved with the local music scene, said he wants to make the roughly 1,000-square-foot space available to neighborhood kids after school as well.

“I have a friend who refurbishes old arcade games, so we could have some of those, and they could come in here and play them for basically free, and they would have a place to go instead of getting in fights and that kind of thing,” he said.

Flanagan said keeping the cover charge down between $5 and $10 is key, and he wants to provide another venue for local musicians at a low cost. A tentative rental rate of $200 for a day is planned to make it affordable for local acts to get exposure.

The grand opening party Feb. 24 will include music from four musical acts including local singer Autumn Sky, two local comedians and photography exhibits from local photographers. For more information on the event, click here.

While the venue is still waiting on final inspections, Flanagan said he hopes to be able to fit about 100 people into the space in addition to the bands and other performers, who will be on a raised stage.

Total Wrestling Federation will continue to hold training and events at the space, with a removable wrestling rink brought in when the space is not being used for other events.

“I’m excited to be able to expand it,” said TWF owner Jake Sherman. “It’s going to be great to get live music in here, and I really think we can do a lot with the space.”

Flanagan said he wants to be able to offer light refreshments at the place, but it does not have a kitchen or food preparation facilities. Working with local food trucks to provide eats and drinks on event nights is something he said he wants to pursue.

A recent talk at Time Tested Books about the state of Sacramento’s music scene touched on the need for more venues, and while Flanagan said that most agree more medium venues are needed, he hopes to be able to expand the possibilities for local artists and those interested in seeing music shows in more intimate settings.

For more information about The Cave, visit the Facebook page.

The Cave is located at 3512 Stockton Blvd. Shows are anticipated to be held from 8 p.m. - midnight. For booking information, email Flanagan at indiehelpsindie@gmail.com.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Keep the arts in your heart this Wednesday

2012-02-07T18:18:48Z

At this Wednesday’s Hearts for the Arts Benefit Event (6pm-9pm at Alex Bult Gallery) artists, community leaders, and Sacramento’s finest convene to celebrate and raise funds for Any Given Child Sacramento. This initiative, spearheaded by For Arts’ Sake, strives to ensure that art experiences are accessible to every child in grades K-8.

As a part of this fun, alternative event you can treat your Valentine to a night like no other, all while supporting a great cause and enjoying an evening of art, music, cocktails, and refreshments.

Esteemed auctioneer David Sobon will auction off “heart-works” donated donated by over 24 local artists, including Raphael Delgado, Shane Grammer, and Micah Crandall-Bear. Live music will be provided throughout the evening by Clemón.

All proceeds from the $30 tickets ($40 at the door) go to support Any Given Child.

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Sacramento Ballet's Cinderella

2012-02-04T04:06:51Z

Sacramento Ballet’s in-studio previews for “Cinderella” sold out, and these performances created a delightful show for children and adults. The in-studio performances were held at the Sacramento Ballet Studios on Thursday and Friday.

The preview shows gave guests an opportunity to see an up-close and personal view of the wonderful talent the Sacramento Ballet has to offer. This unique perspective allows viewers to appreciate the effort that goes into each movement.

On Thursday afternoon, artistic director Ron Cunningham welcomed ballet enthusiasts to the event held at their studio at 1631 K St. Cunningham introduced several of the dancers performing in “Cinderella.”

Richard Smith and Rex Wheeler are cast in the roles of Cinderella’s ugly stepsisters, giving them a comic role. Their dance moves brought laughter from the audience at various points. They were also dressed in costume for the performance, while most of the rest of the cast wore casual ballet outfits.

Cunningham noted that his version of “Cinderella,” originally created in 1976 for the Boston Ballet, has been seen by audiences around the world. A Chinese national TV station also televised the ballet to over 30 million viewers.

“Cinderella” is divided into three acts. Act 1 begins with Cinderella, played by Alexandra Cunningham, working hard performing unending chores. The ungraceful stepsisters try outfits for the royal ball, and later a dance master attempts to teach them dance moves and social graces.

As the stepsisters attempt to dance, a viewer cannot help but notice how much effort it takes to move and dance like someone who does not know how to dance. The stepsisters’ moves are made to look clumsy and funny, and their whimsical facial expressions are very comical and are sure to delight the audience at the Sacramento Community Center.

Act 2 takes place at the royal ball as guests await the arrival of the prince. The court jester, played by Christopher B. Nachtrab, entertains the royal guests. Dancers gracefully waltz around which again shows their classically trained adagio moves and balance. Their fluid movements hypnotize the audience.

When Cinderella arrives at the royal ball, guests are impressed by her natural grace and beauty. Once the prince, played by Stefan Calka, arrives and sees Cinderella, the two instantly fall in love.

Calka’s performance is physically demanding, and his moves are classic and elegant. During one of his solo dances, Calka’s glissade movements used the whole studio floor, as he danced to impress Cinderella, but the whole audience was impressed by his fluid dancing.

Cinderella continues to dance with her new love as time seems to have stood still. The beauty of ballet transcends on the ballet studio, making this fairytale come to life in front of the audience.

Soon the clock strikes midnight. As Cinderella races home, the second intermission arrives.

We all know the story of “Cinderella,” but the Sacramento Ballet brings music, dance and love to the studio and will do the same at the Community Center. Cunningham’s choreography is a joy to watch. This will be a love story for ballet enthusiasts of all ages.

“Cinderella” will play at the Sacramento Community Center Theater from Feb. 9 to 12, with two shows on Feb. 11.

Of Music and Passion

2012-01-31T21:06:58Z

“After silence, that which comes closest to expressing the inexpressible is music.”
–Aldous Huxley

What does it take to start a company? Passion? Enthusiasm? Drive and determination? A killer idea? Music Moves Me™, (http://www.mmmlifestyle.com) has all that and more. Co-founders and Tower Records alumni Eric Jordan, Stephany Jordan and Eric Fowler brought their mutual love of music together to create a true music lifestyle brand. Music Moves Me™ celebrates our emotional, spiritual and physical connections to music. Whether you’re an accomplished musician, an amateur who plays for fun or a devoted listener, team MMM believes music makes the world a better place. They believe music speaks to us, for us and about us.

Music Moves Me™ is about the power of music to heal and inspire. It’s about that deep connection with an artist who says exactly what you feel exactly when you need to hear it. It’s about music’s ability to help you through a trying time and give you hope for the future. Stephany Jordan, a former Tower Records Vice President, chose the name in 2004, when she and husband Eric decided to purchase a camera and film a documentary about why music is so vitally important in the lives of so many people. The Jordans quickly realized they had something with enormous potential on their hands.

The time to launch their labor of love arrived last year when Eric Jordan suffered a massive stroke. Together, Eric and Stephany have learned first hand what music truly does to heal and inspire. Months of rehabilitation with music playing in the background have brought Eric back. “I have a deeper connection to music now. It’s like a friend who understands you, doesn’t judge you, and helps you sort things out when you are lost and confused,” says Eric. “Now, I play it every day just to celebrate life in general”. So with partner Eric Fowler, a music business veteran, Stephany and Eric set about creating a brand. The website, complete with online store and blog, was launched in August, 2011. Facebook fans and Twitter followers multiplied exponentially, indicating that the message was resonating.

Giving back is very important to the team, which is why Music Moves Me™ proudly supports the Joy of Music School (http://www.joyofmusicschool.org/index.php/history/,) a non-profit organization that provides free instruments and music lessons to children who cannot afford them. When asked, “why music?” Stephany defers to Tower Records founder Russ Solomon, who had this to say about his former employees’ project, “Music does move people, I don’t know how anyone gets through it without it…”

What’s next for Music Moves Me™? Continued work on the documentary, which currently includes footage with Dick Dale, Jan and Dean, Jim Fuller and Russ Solomon. Interviews with veteran musicians as well as those just getting started are in the works. Plans for an apparel and accessories line are underway, illustrating Stephany’s keen understanding of marketing a brand. That so much has been accomplished in just six months is impressive. But consider this: Eric, Stephany and Eric have day jobs. Much of the work for Music Moves Me™ happens after normal business hours. When asked why she would put in so many extra hours to start another business, Stephany replied, “Music is a symbol of so many good things, culture, creativity, and our connections to each other. Our efforts will result in a brand that celebrates all of this and more, I can’t think of a better way to spend my time, can you?” Those who worked with Stephany at Tower know that her passion and enthusiasm are infectious. Big things are on the horizon for Music Moves Me™. Stay tuned, this is just the beginning…

Disclosure: In addition to being close friends with the founders, I am also Content & Social Media Manager at Music Moves Me™.

"Diamonds" ladies night out at the guild theater

2012-01-31T09:05:08Z

The 2012 premier of the Ladies Night Out series of events returned to the historic Guild Theater in Oak Park Saturday evening. The headlining act was veteran singer, songwriter, producer and actor Danny Boy.

Best known for his work as a backup singer during the heyday of Death Row Records, Danny Boy’s solo music is grounded in his musical roots of R&B and gospel as he ably demonstrated to an appreciative audience.

“In 2012 we are taking the Ladies Night Out concept to a new level,” said poet Terry Moore, the T-Mo Entertainment founder who was responsible for bringing Danny Boy from Atlanta to Sacramento. “It is the vision of T-Mo Entertainment to bring outstanding artists to Sacramento while still showcasing our local talent.”

“The Diamonds” Ladies Night Out event also featured nationally recognized poet Ner City (pronounced “inner city”) from Oakland, along with Annie Jay, Sacramento’s reigning “Queen of the Mic.”

Also included on the program was Sacramento-based artist Carla Fleming, who joined forces with homegrown saxophonist Garrett Perkins for a brief set.

Before the curtains opened for the show to begin, poet Steve Morgan graced the audience with two heart felt poems, “Gift from God” and “B-girl Rap.

The always hilarious comic Dru Bruks was introduced as the emcee for the evening and immediately had the crowd in stitches.

Providing the live music for the night was LSB (Love Somebody), which features Leon “Scrap” Gray on the keyboards and Brian Randle on the drums. Joining LSB for the evening was Charles Andrews on lead guitar and Robert Williams on percussion.

Annie Jay was the first featured performer. Her music displayed influences ranging from neo-soul, jazz, gospel and R&B, with a little funk thrown in. She brought composer and guitarist Russell Brown with her, along with percussionist Dominic E. Garcia, who displayed his talents throughout the set playing a wooden drum box known as the cajón.

She opened her set with strong sultry vocals, covering “The Way” by Jill Scott. The “Queen of the Mic” showed her musical sensitivity, covering “Afro Blue” by John Coltrane, “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin and “Brown Skin” by India Arie.

The remainder of Jay’s set consisted of her original music. She frequently acknowledged Brown for his contributions in composing. Her down-to-earth lyrics reach out and speak to all who have experienced life and love.

Those who were introduced to the “Annie Jay Live” experience for the first time were in for a surprise with her stunning vocal range and ability on the songs “Shine,” “Lotus,” and “Caramel.” Her down to earth lyrics reach out and speak to all who have experienced life and love.

Annie Jay closed her 45 minute set with a funk based song entitled “Beast,” which had the audience moving and grooving while Annie Jay cut loose on stage showing her dance moves.

Annie Jay conveyed her love for performing in Sacramento after the show and wanted to be sure to let her growing legion of fans know she is hard at work in the studio on her upcoming debut album.

Dru Bruks introduced local singer Lenoris (P-Dub) Louis, whose vocal skills were frequently met with spontaneous applause and catcalls from the female-dominated audience.

Louis made a difficult task look easy while covering “Lady in My Life” by Michael Jackson. While singing Babyface’s hit song, “Whip Appeal,” Louis interacted with the ladies in the audience, bantering back and forth with them and having them laughing and applauding in response.

LSB did an admirable job with the live music during Louis’ set, and they really shined during his final number, “Do Me Baby” by Prince. Louis flawlessly hit all of the difficult falsetto notes.

After his set, Louis expressed his appreciation for the support and indicated that he will soon be featured in local venues around town with his own live band.

Intelligent, poignant, hard-hitting, heartfelt and often gut-wrenching: Those are the terms that describe the poetry of Ner City, who closed out the first half of the event.

As the recipient of numerous spoken word awards and multiple poetry slam competition victories, Ner City smoothly and flawlessly flowed between poems. He introduced himself to the audience by reciting the poem “My Bio,” explaining his qualifications as a wordsmith and detailing his experiences growing up nurtured by the dichotomy of formal education and education learned only through experience in the streets of Oakland.

In the poem “For Tre,” Ner City describes the challenges and pride he feels by living up to the role of father to his stepson. He was eloquently profound when stating the “job of being a father” is the one that is always available but far too few are willing to accept. The theme of fatherhood extended to his own father, whose virtues he extolled in the poem “My Father.”

To close out his set, Ner City recited his piece called “Letter to the Ex,” wherein he exposed his vulnerability to love and the manipulations and machinations that occur between the sexes.

“I thought the spoken word tonight was excellent,” attendee Candice Johnson said. “Ner City was truthful and touching in his poems and his remarks.”

During the brief intermission, Moore and Burks took charge of handing out gratuities from event sponsors including ladies clothing from Konceited Boutique.

Vocalist Carla Fleming and Garrett Perkins took the stage together after intermission. Fleming performance featured some beautiful vocals and inspirational lyrics from her soon to be released track and video entitled “Rise Again.” On this first track of their set, Perkins, put on exhibition the musical talent on the saxophone he developed while attending the Berklee School of Music.

Followed by another original tune called “Ooh Wee,” Fleming showed her sensual side with the help of Perkins who displayed the skills he has honed through his years of experience touring around the world playing music.

Fleming and Perkins then covered the Ashford and Simpson composition, “You’re All I Need to Get By,” made famous by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. They combined Fleming’s strong and versatile vocals with the influences of neo-soul and jazz to arrange the well-known R&B song in their own unique way.

Dru Burks then brought local R&B singer Kaleo to the stage for a brief appearance to sing Maxwell’s hit song “Ascension.” Backed up by LSB, Kaleo put his heart into the well-loved track, much to the appreciation of the audience that seemed visibly disappointed that he only performed one song.

It was evident that the evening belonged to Danny Boy once he took the stage and took command of the audience.

From the moment of his introduction by Burks, it was clear that Danny Boy is a man whose love of music is the passion of his life.

After thanking T-Mo Entertainment for putting on the show and inviting him to perform, he began singing Bobby Caldwell’s, “What You Won’t Do Love.” Backed by LSB, Danny Boy exhibited the vocal skills that made him famous while demonstrating that his days as a youth at Death Row Records are securely in his past.

While talking to the audience after the opening song, Danny Boy thanked God first and explained how it was his belief that music “touches us, helps us and heals us.”

He then took the crowd on a musical voyage by singing “Rocket Love” by Stevie Wonder.

Danny Boy’s professionalism and status as a veteran singer was apparent to all in attendance when he ventured into some of the original material from his upcoming album “Love Offering,” a two-CD release that will include one disc devoted to R&B (“Love”) and the second devoted to gospel music (“Offering”).

In between his original songs entitled “A Song for Love,” Thunderstorm,” “Some for Love,” and “I Can’t Wait,” Danny Boy showed his versatility switching between love songs, gospel music to the crowd mostly had never known this aspect of his musical journey.

The depths of Danny Boy’s personal struggles in the music business also became evident as he candidly discussed his free-wheeling days and the fact that he left Death Row in debt and was forced to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

In true artistic fashion, he turned his misfortunes into music and displayed how from his faith came the songs “Nothing” and “Emotional Bankrupt.”

As his set was winding down, Danny Boy had everybody in the audience on their feet dancing with his rendition of “My Girl.” Much to the crowd’s delight, he came down from the stage and brought a grandmotherly member of the audience from the front row onstage to boogie with him.

He ended his set by covering the gospel songs “Grateful” by Marvin Sapp and “God Is Good” by Regina Belle. He completed the evening with a heartfelt blessing to the audience that included a prayer for healing and help for everyone to become better in their roles in life as husbands, wives and members of the community.

While Burks attempted to close out the show, a request for Danny Boy to return to sing a few hooks from some of his Tupac Shakur songs quickly turned into a spontaneous rendition of Luther Vandross’ “Superstar,” as LSB picked up the cue and joined in after the first few lines.

After a final prayer offered by Moore, who thanked all in attendance and who performed, the easygoing Danny Boy came out from his dressing room and signed autographs and CDs and posed for photos.

“It was an awesome show,” exclaimed local poet and educator Claudia Epperson who attended the event and was waiting in line to meet Danny Boy.

“The show was wonderful,” Ingrid Pinkett said. “I appreciate the fact that Danny Boy reminded us that we always have to remember where everything we have comes from and to give thanks and praise.”

The Ladies Night Out series will resume on March 31. Contact Moore well in advance at (916) 208-POET or fromtheheart1@hotmail.com to purchase tickets. The event is guaranteed to be another inspirational and fun evening of entertainment.

Disclosure: Othello Curry was an active participant in this week's Ladies Night Out Event. Othello worked as a member of the event staff.

Lukas Nelson Sparks Up Powerhouse

2012-01-31T04:30:18Z

Think Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton and Willie Nelson rolled into one, and yet you can only begin to imagine the sensation of a Lukas Nelson performance.

Hitting the stage at the Powerhouse Pub in Folsom, with his talented band Promise of the Real, Nelson immediately captured the respect of his audience with his opening poetic dirge, “Let Me Smoke My Pipe.” He spent the evening rolling them into his powerful, soulful, rockin’ blues concert that left all satisfied with a truly smokin’ hot afternoon, indeed.

At 23, showing off his recent clean-shaven face and shorter locks, the strikingly handsome yet still boyishly charming son of music legend Willie Nelson is not ashamed to admit he loves and respects the man and the music of his famous father. But, as far as comparisons go, except for the noticeable “Willie Twang” in his voice and his down-home smile and welcoming personality, the younger Nelson stands on his own as an evolving guitar maestro.

From inside Willie’s old bus which Nelson bought from his father to replace the van and motor home he used to tour with, I got the opportunity to find out some of his influences.

“Besides my father, who first taught me how to play and has and continues to inspire me with his writing and music, I also enjoy listening to and have had the opportunity to play with such great musicians as B.B. King, Neil Young, Pink Floyd’s David Gilmore — great musicians and writers who all have inspired my writing and playing,” Nelson said. “There is no one song I’m particularly fond of. It’s the same with my dad’s music. I can’t name just one favorite song. It all depends on the day and my mood.”

I mentioned I saw his duo with his father during the country “Throwdown” tour this past summer in Murphys. Nelson said the tour inspired him to write most of the music on his upcoming album, effectively titled “Wasted.”

“It’s how I and some others felt about that particular tour, not wanting to step on toes” Nelson admits. “I loved playing with my dad, but the mix of musicians, for me, was not a good fit. Except for writing and spending some time playing with my father, I felt the time was, well, wasted.”

Nelson has not wasted any time, however, perfecting his presentation skills over the last year with stellar appearances on “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and his recent gig playing with one of his musical heroes, Neil Young, at Young’s annual Bridge School Benefit Concert.

Listening to Nelson’s music, wasted time, I far as I can perceive, has creatively been time well spent.

Sacramento Area Youth Speaks (And The World Listens)

2012-01-30T21:10:46Z

A young black male raised without a father, expelled for assaulting his teacher in fourth grade finds poetry mentors who help cultivate his gift for words and turn him into a beacon of hope in his community. It's the kind of adversity-overcoming story that fuels the inspirations of Hollywood filmmakers. It is also the real-life story of Sacramento Area Youth Speaks poet/mentor Andre Tillman, otherwise known as Dre-T.

"I would say ages six through eight were my troubled years," Tillman says, recounting the incident that got him expelled from grade school, "I remember knowing it wasn’t my teachers fault." It was right around this time that a young, frustrated Andre Tillman would discover what would become his life's work.

At the age of nine Tillman began putting his thoughts down on paper. "I started off writing about my pain or writing little funny poems," Tillman describes, "With the absence of my father and my mom working I didn't have a lot of people to talk to and I'd take that time to document my thoughts and experience."

From the beginning, music and poetry went hand in hand. His grandfather was a percussionist and a teacher, not to mention the primary male influence in his grandson's young life. While grandpa played the rhythms, Andre's older cousin taught him to write his rhymes in a traditional 16-bar hip hop format.

One day in high school, while on a field trip to Sac State for an African-American student leadership conference he stumbled upon a Sacramento Area Youth Speaks workshop. He was immediately hooked.

As the group of teens shouted their poems from every corner of the room in a guerilla poetry spectacle called Griots (which are an ancient West African tradition that S.A.Y.S has adopted) Tillman was captivated. "I'd always been hungry for knowledge," he explained, "S.A.Y.S had the food for the thought I was starving for and they knew I was hungry."

Tillman signed up for S.A.Y.S. in the spring of 2010. That year his S.A.Y.S. poetry slam team would go on to compete at the international level taking part in the Brave New Voices competition in the Bay Area sponsored by HBO and Russell Simmons and place in the top ten. Tillman also competed at Brave New Voices as a solo poet, under the moniker of Dre-T, and placed in the top ten in a class of over 60 lyricists from all over the world.

Upon graduating high school, Dre-T was offered a chance to continue his work with SAYS, only this time in front of the classroom as a poet/mentor. “To sit in and observe one of his classes is beautiful; the way he interacts with the youth,” described seasoned S.A.Y.S mentor Denisha Bland, “To be a black man in America, stay positive, do right, and focus on your dreams, while raising a newborn and giving what he does to the youth; I mean, It’s breathtaking. To see Dre-T, only 19 and doing what he is doing, coming from a single-mother home, gives me hope for my son.”

The day before his eighteenth birthday, which coincided with the release party for his mixtape, Done Right Every-Time, Tillman found out his life would again change forever. The birth of his daughter Audrey Auro Tillman, on May 6, 2011 would shape the way his words would come out from that moment on. “It’s made me think more critically about how I talk about women,” said Tillman, “Every time I write she is always on my mind.”

Two months after the arrival of his daughter, Tillman coached the 2011 S.A.Y.S. poetry slam team all the way to the back to HBO’s Brave New Voices. While busy coaching and mentoring the next generation of young poets, Dre-T also managed to make his way back as a solo act, repeating his performance and again placing in BNV’s top ten on the international stage.

As an educator and performer who is also a parent he takes the responsibility of inspiring the next generation very seriously. Soft spoken and attentive, the reason he fell in love with poetry makes him the perfect person to aid at-risk youth in finding their voices. “There’s so much trauma that the youth go through,” he describes, “My most important message is to love yourself. Then love the people so they can love themselves. We are in a time where selfishness is increasing and we’re traumatized by things we're not supposed to be afraid of. There are too many of us that are divided by our skin color, our status, or our age. I really love revolutionaries but where did all the hippies go? I wonder that all the time.”

While today’s radio and television push the image of rappers as drug dealing misogynists hustling to get by, emcees like Andre Tillman are quietly hard at work behind the scenes preserving the positivity and community empowerment the Hip Hop culture was built on. And they're doing it in our backyard.

To hear the latest music from Dre-T go to www.dre-t.com and to find out more about Sacramento Area Youth Speaks go to www.says.ucdavis.edu or come to Sol Collective on the second Monday of every month when S.A.Y.S hosts Microphone Mondays.

Disclosure: I met Dre-T through an open Mic that I host at Sol Collective every Monday night 8-10 p.m. Sacramento Area Youth Speaks hosts every second Monday of the month.

Broadacre Coffee debuts live music

2012-01-30T03:27:35Z

Broadacre Coffee hosted their first live music night this past Friday night, featuring the musical talents of Exquisite Corps and Garrett Pierce, along with dj sets by Nico Turner and Sister Crayon's Terra Lopez and Dani Fernandez. Over 100 people turned out for the all ages show, making it a huge success. The next show at Broadacre will be February 24, so mark it on your calendars!

Art Songs of Unity

2012-01-30T01:54:22Z

The music recital hall at California State University, Sacramento was filled with the sounds of guests happily chatting and laughing in anticipation of the evening’s presentation, The Art of American Song. Even among the noise of the families and groups of students finding their seats, the empty stage maintained an ethereal glow, with a soft light illuminating a cardboard backdrop surrounding a grand piano.

Once the lights dimmed and the crowd fell silent, the hall was entered by two well-dressed faculty members who would be the entertainment for the evening. Hatem Nadim, an accomplished pianist, and Robin Fisher, a well known soprano, took their places on the stage.

The smiling Ms. Fisher began with a short introduction, describing the music they were going to share as “art songs you probably haven’t heard before.” An art song is a poem set to music, usually for the airing of a vocalist and pianist.

She then penetrated the room with her powerful rendition of the poem entitled, “Fantasy,” by Richard Nickson. Her sweet and clear soprano notes were constantly changing with the mood of each piece. With some songs she conveyed a haunting sense of sad thoughtfulness, while others were infused with a thunderous passion. At some points she would make comical faces and gestures to coincide with the more humorous pieces, such as “Shelling Peas” by Jessica Jackson. Fisher definitely succeeded with her comedic timing, receiving several chuckles from the audience.

Nadim held his own on the stage quite well with intricate solo parts and swift changing of mood for the accompaniment of each piece. His fingers fluttered effortlessly along the high keys for the energetic rendition of “Robin Song” by Emily Dickinson.

This awe-inspiring pair poured much spirit and emotion into every work of art by American greats such as Langston Hughes, Dorothy Parker, John Duke, Mary Howe and many others. They managed to breathe life into old poems that may possibly have been forgotten by younger generations.

Though stunning and elegant as a performer, Fisher did not forget her role as a teacher. Toward the end of the show, she encouraged the diverse audience, made up of elderly couples, families and groups of college students, to read the poems on their own in order to grasp the full meaning of them.

In just an hour-long performance, Fisher and Nadim helped convey so much more than just an appreciation of classic American music and poetry. With this melting pot of poets and composers, parents and children, performers and audience, exchange students and immigrants, they promoted the spirit of unity; the heart of American culture. They showed the common ground among the differences. Though they are both world travelers (and Nadim an immigrant from Egypt), they demonstrated a love for this country’s immense selection of art. Though they are both older than the students they teach, they exuded a shining spirit of youth.

The final selection of songs was written by Emily Dickinson, whom Fisher believes to be one of the finest American poets ever to have existed.

“She says so much with so little,” said Fisher.

At the last note of “I’m Nobody!” the audience members were on their feet in applause, showing they did not agree with the title of that song one bit.

Getting Righteous at Thunder Valley

2012-01-30T01:30:28Z

Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame member and legendary Righteous Brother Bill Medley brought a crew of extremely talented individuals to Thunder Valley Casino Resort Friday, including daughter McKenna.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Righteous Brothers. The second half of the duo, Bobby Hatfield, died of a heart attack back in 2003; Medley now tours with the 3 Bottle Band and McKenna.

Kicking off the show was a video showing Medley as he made appearances in various shows throughout his career, including the David Letterman Show and the hit television series, Cheers. As the video ended, Medley started to sing “A Song for You” while he was still offstage. After about a minute he started to make his way to the stage, providing for a nice dramatic entrance.

71 year old Medley’s voice has taken a beating over the years. While sounding coarser and a bit rough at times, he was able to make it work. The audience was enthralled with Medley from the start as he continued with “Ready, Willing and Able” and “Soul and Inspiration.” In between songs he would talk about life and joke with the crowd.

For his hit song, “Time of My Life,” from the movie “Dirty Dancing,” Medley brought out McKenna to perform Jennifer Warnes’ part. McKenna did an awesome job and has a very melodic voice with a bit of a country/blues flavor.

McKenna went on to perform solo, singing “Silk Flowers” and “Give Me One Reason.” When McKenna completed her set, Medley sat down at the keyboards and called on band member Bob Gulley to sing some songs with him and McKenna. This is where Medley shined, providing the audience a glimpse of what it’s like to jam with the best.

3 Bottle Band has been playing together with Medley for over 35 years, and it shows. This is a very talented group of musicians including Gabe Rabben (drums), Bob Gulley (bass), Tim Lee (keyboards) and Larry Hanson (lead guitar). Also a member of the band is America’s Got Talent winner Michael Grimm. However, Grimm was not present at Friday’s show.

'Forbidden Broadway' vet Selby sings praises of Cosmopolitan Cabaret's game-for-anything cast

2012-01-27T03:04:26Z

William Selby remembers well when he first heard about a little cabaret show that was generating buzz among New York theater fans.

“I was a full-time actor at the time, and I had a roommate who was a waiter at this place – Palsson’s (Supper Club) on West 72nd Street,” Selby said. “He came home one night raving about something called ‘Forbidden Broadway’ and did a number for me.

“I fell off the bed laughing – I knew I loved it right then and there.”

Selby wasn’t the only one who embraced Gerard Alessandrini’s concept of a satiric revue that both celebrated and skewered musical theater.

Since its opening 30 years ago this month, “Forbidden Broadway” played almost continuously in New York (after more than 9,000 performances and 20 editions) before closing in 2009. Additionally, Alessandrini’s parodies of both popular and pompous Broadway tuners have spawned a worldwide cult fueled by a continuously updated score and countless tours and special engagements.

One such production, directed by Selby, opens in Sacramento Jan. 27 for an eight-week run at California Musical Theatre’s Cosmopolitan Cabaret.

Selby joined his first “Forbidden Broadway” cast in 1985 when he was selected for a Washington, D.C., production.

Just as he imagined, Selby found it was love at first spoof.

Beyond the joy of performing twisted versions of the Great White Way’s greatest hits to wildly appreciative audiences, Selby said he became a part of something more permanent than a Playbill listing.

“One of the nice benefits of being part of ‘Forbidden Broadway’ is that it’s a family,” he said. “I’ve made some of the truest friends I’ve had.”

“I’ve always come back to it because I love it,” Selby continued.

After 15 years of playing dozens of theater legends in their best and worst roles from San Diego to Singapore, Alessandrini and producer John Freedson suggested Selby join the team’s directorial staff.

“By that time, you know what works,” said Selby.

Since making his directorial debut in Minneapolis in 2001, he has led shows in New Orleans, Chicago, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Long Island, N.Y., and at sea onboard a Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines voyage.

The production at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret marks his 15th show at the helm.

While he said he keeps “pretty busy” with “Forbidden Broadway,” both as a director and performer, the Emerson College alumnus continues to take acting gigs that are far from his “FB” roles, including playing the prompter opposite Keith Baker in “Barrymore.”

Selby said working on both sides of the “Forbidden Broadway” footlights gives him invaluable insight on what works – and who works – on stage.

He said he was quick to pick the four performers ultimately selected for Sacramento’s production from the L.A.-based auditions.

“I know in the audition if they can do it – it’s a matter of confidence,” Selby said.

Freedom from fear of failing is an important trait shared by successful “Forbidden Broadway” cast members, he continued. Most of those who try out aren’t professional impressionists, “But as we always say, you don’t have to be a great impersonator, just be willing to try.”

Selby gushed about the way his cast (Marc Ginsburg, Jerry Lee, Jessica Reiner-Harris, Melissa WolfKlain) has shed all self-doubts and vanity to take on the diverse numbers (and costumes) demanded of “Forbidden Broadway” performers.

Jerry Lee and Jessica Reiner-Harris have River City roots, and WolfKlain recently spent eight months at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret performing as the soubrette in “A Grand Night for Singing,” and Cindy in “Suds.”

Ginsburg is a Philadelphia native and former New Yorker now living in Los Angeles ~~Sacramento~~ .

“These guys have totally nailed it,” Selby said of the quartet that escorts their audiences through a whirlwind tour of classic and contemporary musicals from “Hello, Dolly!” to “Hairspray,” and from “Man of La Mancha” to “Jersey Boys.” “Even after all of these years, I don’t take the show lightly. They have to perform the numbers as if they’re actually doing the original shows.”

Selby stressed that one does not need to be a fan of said original productions – or musical theater in general – to enjoy a “Forbidden Broadway” revue.

“You don’t even need to be aware of all of the shows,” he said. “The costumes alone are hysterically funny.”

Selby said Alessandrini and his creative team are very conscious that their audiences aren’t all New Yorkers with easy access to the Times Square TKTS booth, and dismiss more-obscure titles from their list of shows ripe for mocking.

One of the things his New York-based team does in tailoring a “Forbidden Broadway” show for a particular city is to look at what tours recently played in that area. (“Mary Poppins,” which recently played at the Sacramento Community Center Theatre under the California Musical Theatre banner, is featured in Sacramento’s “FB” revue.)

But he also said they try not to underestimate audiences as they’ve found audiences in the hinterlands who were crazy for numbers culled from lesser-known shows.

Call “Forbidden Broadway” a parody, a spoof or a mock-musical, but Selby said it’s not an all-out farce.

“You can play it too broadly,” he said, switching gears to offer up an example of a Carol Channing impression gone awry.

“It can be grotesque,” he said. “There’s a level, and you have to keep that level.”

It’s a balancing act his current cast has perfected, he said.

“They’ll give you what you ask for – they’ve found capabilities even they didn’t know they had.”

Selby said all four shine as newly minted mimics.

“Jessica does a tremendous Patti LuPone. Marc’s Mandy Patinkin … well, I was proud of mine, but his is better. … Melissa – her Carol Channing is so funny. ... Jerry is a terrific Robert Goulet. These four have very strong voices.”

Along with kudos to his cast, Selby applauded the California Musical Theatre/Cosmopolitan Cabaret creative team, including Executive Producer Richard Lewis, Artistic Director Glenn Casale and ~~Company Manager~~ Cosmopolitan Cabaret Associate Producer Marlene Shire-Anderson.

“I’ve decided this is the best team by far that I’ve ever worked with,” said Selby. “They dot every ‘I,’ cross every ‘T.’”

JUST THE FACTS
WHAT: “Forbidden Broadway,” a musical revue parodying classic and contemporary musical theater hits from “Man of La Mancha” to “Wicked.”
WHEN: Jan. 27-March 18, 2012 (7 p.m. Wednesdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays)
WHERE: Cosmopolitan Cabaret, 1000 K St., Sacramento
TICKETS: $33-$43; call (916) 557-1999 or go online at www.tickets.com
FOR INFO: www.calmt.com

Editor's Note: Edits have been made to this article after publication.

The Art of Fashion

2012-01-26T09:41:55Z

The fashion industry continues to grow in Sacramento. Trunk shows, boutique openings, fashion shows, fashion students exhibiting their designs from San Francisco to Sacramento continue to wet the appetite of fashionistas in northern California. Next month will also bring Sacramento Fashion Week to the Elks Tower Ballroom. These events will make an impact in our local economy.

This past Friday night "The Art of Fashion" was hosted by Lounge ON20. The event included a fashion show and was also a mixer benefit event for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of the greater Sacramento area.

A new campaign was launched by BBBS “100 Men, $100,000, 100 Days” that seeks to raise critically needed funds. The campaign is looking to put males in the lives of 107 young men waiting for a big brother. BBBS hopes to match a big brother to a kid that can benefit from a relationship with their mentor and create awareness of how BBBS improves our community. Ticket sales and donations during the event went to BBBS. A table was also set up for guests to view more information about becoming a big brother or big sister.

Donations for this worthwhile cause can still be made at their 100 Heroes Wanted donation page.

The Art of Fashion featured three local designers who continue to make an impact on the Sacramento fashion scene. Designs from Electrik Trice, Samuel Parkinson and Faatui Toele were showcased on a red carpet runway.

Electrik Trice was the first designer of the evening and presented her Romance in Paris Collection. The collection showcased the great talent of the designer and the passion and beauty of her impressive designs. Her elaborate designs included several exciting evening dresses. Electrik's designs also included elegant pant suits as well as one and two piece outfits for an evening out on the town.

Several of her outfits solicited shouts of approval and applause from the audience. Part of the Romance in Paris Collection featured glamorous form fitting outfits. Electrik’s designs were accentuated by exquisite accessories.

Electrik’s new 2012 collection was a big hit with the crowd. One member of the audience was very excited about a red outfit saying, “I want that one!” and as she turned to her companion said, “Honey, please get that one for me.” I don’t know if they bought the dress but several of Electrik’s outfits evoked similar comments.

Samuel Parkinson’s Woodsy Scholar line was showcased next. Parkinson’s KingsTribe Clothing has become a popular brand in Sacramento and his talent has been showcased at several fashion shows in the area including last year’s Designing Dreams.

The Woodsy Scholar line was inspired by letterman jackets and were accented with wool and leather. KingsTribe Clothing continues to bring men’s fashion to the runway and the Art of Fashion event showcased the designer’s versatility and sense of fashion.

KingsTribe Clothing continues to emerge in the Sacramento scene and Parkinson’s outfits continue to live up to their motto: “Made with pride to be worn in pride.” Parkinson’s designs will eventually bring Sacramento fashion pride to our area.

A lively performance by singer and songwriter Tia Ferrera was included as part of the show. During this intermission performance Ferrera, along with dancers Divina and Talissa, entertained the crowd and kept things moving. This was the first time I’ve seen or heard Ferrera and her energetic performance impressed the audience.

The last designer of the evening was Faatui Toele whose 2WEE designs have graced many fashion shows in Sacramento. Toele’s Fall in Love 2012 Spring/Summer Collection included various trendy and sexy outfits. The fashions showcased were eye-popping and included some amazing trends for evening wear.

The Fall in Love line showcased several red and black outfits that received loud applause from the audience. Several outfits were very ornate and detailed and were well complemented by accessories worn. Models also wore some very exotic hairdos.

These three designers have collaborated together in other fashion shows and all have attended Sacramento’s Academy of Design and Technology. Their exquisite designs are available for sale and they continue to grace the fashion scene in Sacramento. Don’t be surprised when one or all of them become well known designers in the larger fashion markets of California and the nation.

These types of fashion shows not only help local designers receive recognition and exposure but designers in turn work to give back to the community by partnering with charities and the Sacramento community. These events also showcase the talents of photographers, models, entertainers, clubs, hair and makeup artists and help foster economic growth in the local economy.

Doom Bird Performs The Crocker Art Museum's Thursdays 'Til 9 Series

2012-01-25T22:27:09Z

Sacramento Raks!

2012-01-25T06:00:37Z

Stunning dance skills were exhibited by 15 belly dance performances on Sunday night. Dancers in gorgeous and very colorful outfits took the stage and delighted a full house at the Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse.

The Sacramento Raks! Belly Dance Gala Show returned to the Clubhouse for a delightful evening of alluring dance performances. Live, authentic Middle Eastern music was provided by Flowers of the Nile. Middle Eastern cuisine was also available for guests to purchase during the show.

Dancers Ayre Briar and J.R. performed an inaugural performance as Shupa Da. The music of Pink Floyd’s “Goodbye Blue Sky” accompanied their first dance. The Shupa Da dancers wore similar outfits and a purple veil covered their face. Their rhythmic dance was captivating from the start. As they finished the first part of their dance, they removed their veils and started to dance to the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” and received loud applause.

Shupa Da’s choreography was created by Briar. Their fusion belly dance performance mixed elements of modern and belly dance along with vintage flair that gave elegance to their act.

Once the dancing started one belly dance troupe after another took their place on stage. Tasha from El Dorado Hills was the second dancer to display her marvelous dancing skills.

Tasha danced to a song that told the story of two lovers who are sad and lost without each other. Wearing all white, Tasha’s flair and dance allowed her to use the whole stage as she performed.

Tatheer was the third performer of the evening. The Auburn based dancer performed two pieces. The first performance was done to the Bollywood dance, “Jai Ho,” from the “Slumdog Millionaire” soundtrack. Tatheer’s second performance encompassed Rachel Brice choreography.

Ayre Briar also came back to the stage to perform a solo act. Briar’s performance was inspired by 1960’s belly dance as portrayed in popular cinema. Briar, dressed in gold attire, performed fluid movements to songs that were reminiscent of James Bond movies of the same era. Indeed it incorporated some music from “Goldfinger” and “You Only Live Twice.”

Sacramento based Badia performed next. Dressed in all black, Badia took the stage. She came to centerstage wearing a black veil covering her face. The only part of her face that could be seen behind her costume was her alluring eyes.

Captivated by her dark mysterious eyes, Badia hypnotized the audience as she began to dance. As she danced, she reminded me of a cobra moving out of a basket, and as she moved around the stage she reminded me of a twister moving in the sands of the Sahara.

Kaira Haneem is from nearby Chico. As she came on stage it was announced that she would perform to an Arabic pop song and then a drum solo that utilized her ballet and jazz influenced style of American cabaret belly dance.

Wearing a red outfit that almost matched her hair, Haneem’s performance was well-received. As with the dancers before her, the audience was able to participate by rhythmically clapping along with the music.

The special guest star of the evening was Aubre Hill, who hails from Los Angeles. Hill has performed internationally and is a much sought after master teacher and choreographer. She has a background in ballet, dance, hip hop, musical theatre, folk dance and other dance styles. Hill has also won several international awards and has hosted her own belly dance fitness show on Fit TV.

Hill is currently the Artistic Director of the Lumina Bellydance Company. Her extensive background was brought to the stage as Koop’s “Strange Love” played. Hill’s exquisite movements were fine tuned to the drums of “Strange Love,” and allowed her to show her unique style.

The Henna and Kohl Bellydance Company of Sacramento performed next. The Sacramento based dance troupe is directed by Adriane and they performed a debut dance.

As the company came on stage they each came up with a tray of lit candles atop of their head. The maneuvers for this dance were deliberate and at times exotic as they danced. They were able to maneuver themselves into sitting and lying down positions on stage while the trays remained on their heads restricting their movements. This allowed them to show their balance and dance skills.

The Henna and Kohl Bellydance performance was divided into two or three different dances and as the first set ended, the audience once again clapped in rhythm as the dancers sped up the tempo of music and dance.

Intermission gave the audience time to stretch and get something to eat or drink from the food court in the back of the community clubhouse. The Flowers of the Nile musicians set up their instruments on stage and from this point forward, live music would accompany the dancers.

Several of the dancers during the second half of the Gala Show returned from last year’s Sacramento Raks event. First to perform after intermission was Edemia from Sacramento, who interacted with the musicians on stage. The addition of Flowers of the Nile on stage, in my opinion, was a welcome addition.

Sacramento’s Janene followed, performing a traditional Egyptian style dance to a traditional Egyptian love song. Besides Janene’s fluid dancing, the audience was able to enjoy Philip Gabriel’s voice as Flowers of the Nile played on.

Another Sacramento native now residing in the Chico area, Mychelle Crown combined her love of Egyptian cabaret belly dance with her American jazz and ballet background to create her unique representation of this art. Sunday night she performed to a classic Egyptian song.

Davis’ Nyla Crystal, who was also at last year’s Sacramento Raks event, brought her precision Egyptian style dance to the stage. Her long red hair waved as she danced wearing a red outfit. To top it off, she used a long red veil to accompany her movements. Her fiery performance was well choreographed and executed.

Crystal will be conducting a workshop on April 29 at the Brazilian Center of Sacramento. The workshop is called Beauty and the Sword, and Crystal will cover balancing techniques and sword choreography.

The next performer was Maria, who hails from Santa Clara. Maria wore a lovely white outfit adorned with colorful flower patterns. The flow of the outfit during her alluring dance moves created the illusion of ballroom dancing. Maria’s exotic moves and choreography, along with the live music, once again had the audience clapping as she performed certain moves.

Maria will also be conducting a workshop on April 29, where participants will learn a solo fun drum choreographed dance as well as little tricks to keep the audience surprised and engaged.

Adriane, producer of the Sacramento Raks Belly Dance Gala Show, took the stage for a solo performance. As soon as Flowers of the Nile began playing, the audience clapped to the rhythm of the percussion and Adriane used the whole stage to dance and charm the audience.

Adriane’s fluid dance movements generated audience participation during several parts of her performance. Her charismatic enthusiasm for dance, performance and teaching are evident on stage and off. Adriane’s performance was quite entertaining from beginning to end.

Hill was the last performer of the evening. The special guest did not disappoint and brought the end to a wonderful evening of belly dancing.

The audience that gathered for this Gala Show seemed to have enjoyed it quite a bit. The show brought beautiful music, dance and culture to Sacramento, allowing people of many ethnicities to enjoy an entertaining evening.

One member of the audience, Edwin Hakimi, summed up the evening saying, “I heard about this event a few months ago from one of my friends who was here in May at the last performance. He’s been talking about this for a long time and everything he said was true. There was great food, great dancers and very beautiful, I have to say. I loved it, I will bring my whole family next time; it brings back memories of home.”

Beautiful costumes, choreography and music made this a very enjoyable show. The producers of the show are to be commended for their hard work and wonderful lineup of entertainers.

HELLACAPPELLA 2012: Northern California’s Premier Showcase of Collegiate a Cappella Groups

2012-01-24T01:17:48Z

HellaCappella, the most highly anticipated a cappella concert of the year, will take place Saturday, February 4th, 2012 at 7:30pm at the ARC Pavilion on the UC Davis Campus. Hosted by UC Davis’ amazing, all-female a cappella group, The Spokes, HellaCappella is an exciting collaboration between a cappella groups of all shapes and sizes. Hailing from various northern Californian universities, this year’s dynamic lineup includes show-stopping performances by two-time champions of the International Competition of Collegiate a Cappella, The Men’s Octet from UC Berkeley, Cloud Nine from UC Santa Cruz, NBC’s The Sing Off a cappella competition finalists On the Rocks from University of Oregon, and more!

HellaCappella has been gaining momentum and selling out more and more seats each year. Now, for the first time ever, this eighth annual HellaCappella is proudly being held in UC Davis’ premier entertainment venue, the ARC Pavilion following the likes of chart-topping groups such as Ke$ha and LMFAO! HellaCappella’s audience continues to grow, attracting music lovers across generations from the greater Davis and Sacramento community.

The Spokes are the only all-female group at UC Davis. Founded in 2004, the group currently consists of 13 talented and dedicated girls whose shared passion for music and performing shines when they take the stage. Their repertoire includes a wide range of music styles, from top 40 (She Wolf by Shakira) to jazz (Smile by Charlie Chaplin) to alternative (Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes) to R&B (I’ll Be Waiting by Adele). The Spokes love to entertain the UC Davis campus and local community as well as all of California, and their enthusiasm for singing can be clearly heard in their latest album, On the Wall, which is now available on iTunes.

This HellaCappella, The Spokes have committed to raising funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society, the leading community-based health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Last year’s HellaCappella raised over $1500 for Daraja Academy, the first free all-girls secondary school in all of East Africa. The Spokes hope for even greater success this HellaCappella, as we rally our community to help support the American Cancer Society.

HellaCappella is a one day, must-see event that will premiere on Saturday, February 4th, 2012 at 7:30 pm in the UC Davis’ ARC Pavilion. Tickets can be purchased at the UC Davis Ticket Office located at Freeborn Hall on campus, by calling (530) 752-1915, or at tickets.com. Presale tickets are $7 for students and $10 for non-students. At the door, tickets are $9 for students and $12 for non-students.

On the night of the performance, doors open at 7:00 p.m. Parking can be found in Parking Lot 25 directly across from the ARC or the West Entry Parking Structure, located on the corner of La Rue Boulevard and Hutchinson Drive.

For more information, visit www.davisspokes.com.

Disclosure: Camille Martinez, author of this article, is the Publicity and Philanthropy Director for The Spokes, and hopes to see you at our next show!

Saturday: Verge Ahead into 2012

2012-01-19T20:28:22Z

Verge Center for the Arts has remained a consistent hub of creativity for Sacramento since they first opened their doors as a private art gallery in 2009. In 2010 they expanded into their current space—a 22,000 square foot warehouse in Downtown Sacramento—and organized as a nonprofit. Now home to 30 resident studio artists, plus extensive gallery and event space, Verge continues their mission of exposing Sacramento to the contemporary art and artists of the region.

2011 was a particularly big year for Verge. Among many other achievements, they had a more-than-successful Kickstarter campaign ($9,165 raised on a $7,500 goal!), won the First Place award of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission and Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s Arts Innovation Fund, and Executive Director Liv Moe was named Arts Executive of the Year at the Arts & Business Council’s “Prelude to the Season” event.

This Saturday, celebrate Verge’s 2011 successes and help them “Verge Ahead” into 2012 at the “Verge Ahead Success Party” (6pm-Midnight at Verge, 625 S Street, Sacramento). If you have yet to check out this innovative local arts spot, there’s no better time than this!

In addition to exploring the studios of resident artists, you’ll be able to play “Art Golf” (each hole is specially designed by a Verge artist, and be sure to try for a hole-in-one at the Sac365 hole!), get your photo taken at the photobooth for instant sharing of the fun on your social media networks, see live performances by a multitude of bands (Mom, Christine Shields, Fine Steps, Gentleman Surfer, and Ganglians), and dance the night away to tunes spun by DJ Scott Soriano and DJ Hailey. If that’s not enough, arts collective Future Art Notables will take over the temporary gallery with their installation “Assorted Spaces”, which allows viewers to walk among the pieces, fully immersing themselves in the art.

And, don’t worry, tasty beer is provided for the evening by local brewers Ruhstaller, as well as coffee from Insight Coffee Roasters (each $15 ticket includes two refreshments!). Plus, receive free giveaways throughout the night, and a little something extra if you're among the first 50 to arrive.

Come enjoy this soiree and celebrate Sacramento’s burgeoning arts community.

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Find more detail on this event along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Second Saturday art and events

2012-01-18T20:49:33Z

Midtown’s first Second Saturday event of 2012 saw smaller crowds this weekend. The smaller crowds however made it easier to talk to artists who exhibited their work.

A number of establishments also appeared to have closed down or moved from Midtown's J Street and surrounding area since last month. This situation has created a new environment where several businesses are collaborating to bring events to a storefront during Second Saturday.

This Saturday, Dragatomi, Metro PCS, tokidoki and Unseen Heroes teamed up for a Metro PCS and tokidoki Phone Release Party.

Unseen Heroes Events Coordinator, Maritza Davis, described the event saying, “This is a tokidoki and Metro PCS release collaboration that brings new phone technology to Sacramento. These events are typically done in Los Angeles and larger cities but because we have an established vinyl toy store here in Sacramento, Dragatomi, they were willing to let us link up with them so that we could feature the phone and introduce it to the public.”

The event ran from 5 to 9 p.m. and a line formed to receive free swag bags that included a tokidoki t-shirt and other goodies. Customers were also given the chance to buy the exclusive phones and sign up for a prize drawing. Several yet to be released phone cases were also available for purchase.

Roshaun Davis, creative alchemist, at Unseen Heroes highlighted the fact that only three launches have been done for the tokidoki phone release and they chose Sacramento as one of the sites. The first release was in New York, the second in L.A. and then Sacramento.

When Metro PCS and tokidoki first partnered they celebrated the partnership by introducing the phone at the New York Comic-Con which is the largest POP culture event on the East Coast. The launch on Saturday night coincided with the SacAnime Convention in town and several visitors who passed by Dragatomi had the SacAnime badges still hanging from their neck.

Inside Dragatomi an art exhibit by Martin Hsu had several of his “Dragon Boy” series art work. The Hsu exhibit will run until February 4.

Down the street at the corner of K and 22nd Street artist Conrad Lawrence had a street art exhibit of bikes and metal art work. Lawrence also created a bicycle powered art mechanism that allowed people who passed by to create a “swirl” art piece that Lawrence hopes to soon have on display. Other finished pieces lay on the ground.

Intrigued by his bicycle art idea I asked how he came up with the concept. “It was inspired by Burning Man. I did a show with tall bikes. In June I had 20 of them and I asked myself how else can I make the bikes interactive? So this idea came up and I built it. Then I thought of the shrink stand over there making everything interactive art.”

Another piece was created by Lawrence’s mother and people could pass by and fill in the unfinished piece. Lawrence said, “The project here is just to fill it in with whatever in order to finish this unique piece of art."

A separate area had a Peanuts comic strip style psychiatry booth called Lucy’s Shrink Shop. The station would allow people passing by to take either the psychiatrist or patient role and initiate conversation between two people. I thought this to be a clever idea and probably one that many corporations could install in a break room or something similar. Street art at times seems to offer more but January’s Second Saturday offered both.

Gallery 2110 and the Sacramento Art Complex had their gallery open for a showing of James Mullen’s work and several resident artists were on hand at their studios. Clare Bailey, Gallery 2110 owner, introduced me to Mullen and showed me some of his work.

Mullen is a Grass Valley artist whose work will be featured at the gallery that runs through February 3.

His artwork was truly fascinating and when I asked him how long he’s been an artist I got an answer that I was expecting after walking around the main hall admiring his work. Mullen said, “For as long as I can remember. Before I went to kindergarten I knew I was going to be an artist.” I’ve talked to other artists who have said similar things indicating they knew they wanted to be an artist going back to grade school. I often wondered if that’s the case only with artists or if extends beyond that. To me it’s astonishing to know someone that young can have that drive. It’s especially amazing since as I’ve become older I still don’t know what I want to be.

Mullen operates a studio out of his home in Grass Valley. His exhibit opened on Thursday and will run for approximately a month. He indicated that much of his work on exhibit goes back to 2005 and more recent work was also on display.

His work, on a smaller scale, reminded me of the Watts Towers that were close to where I lived growing up in Los Angeles. Mullen’s artwork is made up of materials found around where he lives. When asked how he gathered his materials for his artwork Mullen said, “I stop by places near home that I know. I like fencing and I like rusted sheet metal and copper so when I ride my bicycle and I see someone has a bunch of rolled up fencing in their pasture I knock on the door and say, hey you want to get rid of this? A lot of times they say yeah, so I haul it away and take it home.” Mullen said he works with those materials and stretches them out, cuts it up and reshapes it to make his brand of art.

Mullen is always looking for pieces and his friends know that and they too gather up these items and give them to him. He’s been primarily involved in this form of art for the past four to five years and before that he worked with clay for many years. He hears from friends and friends of friends who see his work and they approach him saying, “Hey I have a box of junk you’re going to like and they bring him a box of stuff.” It just goes to show that art is everywhere and discarded items or “junk” with the right imagination can be turned into great pieces of art.

Mullen’s creative art pieces occupy the main hall at the 2110 Gallery and can be great inspiration to students and established artists. The materials he uses come not only from the Grass Valley area but he’s also acquired items from a Navajo reservation in New Mexico and when he has a concept in mind he may search eBay for items in other places.

Live music at the 2110 Gallery was provided by Sean Paul Mee and his music was great ambiance for the event.

Eateries and "Drinkeries" wanted for Sacramento Chef Challenge

2012-01-18T19:00:41Z

2012 marks the tenth anniversary of our region’s premier culinary competition the Sacramento Chef Challenge, and organizers are inviting local restaurants, wineries, breweries and specialty shops to showcase their fare at the June 23rd event.

The Sacramento Chef Challenge is a culinary extravaganza featuring two live cooking competitions, lavish food, wine and beer sampling, live music, raffle prizes and more. The event is expected to draw a crowd of over 1000 guests in celebration of INALLIANCE, a local nonprofit that has provided support to people with developmental disabilities for 60 years.

“Our vendors draw a huge crowd each year by providing a variety of samples to our guests,” says INALLIANCE Executive Director Diana DeRodeff, "It is a great way for both fledgling and established companies to connect with community members, while supporting the organization.” Most event booths are free of charge, and vendors have the opportunity to win prizes.

The Sacramento Chef Challenge will see some exciting changes for 2012, including live entertainment and a new venue. The event will be held outdoors at INALLIANCE, where both vendors and guests will have a little more room to move. “We have just outgrown our old venue,” says DeRodeff, “And, we are eager to share our beautiful campus with the community.”

INALLIANCE has been in the Sacramento area since 1952, but few people know about the nonprofit’s work, because they tend stay in the background promoting the abilities of their participants. The programs INALLIANCE provides to people in the community focus on independence, quality of life and choice. “People with developmental disabilities are very capable. When given the opportunity they flourish, and that makes for a happier and a healthier community,” says DeRodeff.

The Sacramento Chef Challenge will be held on Saturday, June 23, 2012 beginning at 4:30pm, and tickets are only $25. If you are interested in becoming a vendor or purchasing tickets, visit www.chefevent.com or call 916-381-1300 x 170.

Disclosure: Jessica Bean is an employee of INALLIANCE

Sometimes All It Takes Is One

2012-01-18T18:21:18Z

The first question presented to the panel was "What does Sacramento have that other cities don't have, and what don't we have?", and with that, the passionate discussion about 'The State of Live Music in Sacramento' was off and running. It was one question that fueled one-and-a-half hours of enthusiastic discussion.

On Sunday evening The Sacramento Living Library (curated by Time Tested Books' Peter Keat and hosted by Midtown Monthly Editor Tim Foster) brought together five notable Sacramento music industry insiders to talk about music, politics, venues, history, and demographics. Jerry Perry (legendary Sacramento promoter), Brian McKenna (Abstract Entertainment), Rick Ele (KDVS), Mindy Giles (Swell Productions), and Olivia Coelho (Bows & Arrows), comprised the panel of promoters with Dennis Yudt (contributing writer for Midtown Monthly), acting as moderator. Among the audience members were other promoters, musicians and many, many fans.

Addressing the packed house, the one and only Jerry Perry picked up his mic and responded to the query knowledgeably and passionately, "First of all, Sacramento has the bands, bands that other cities don't have." Certainly Sacramento's music scene has had its ups and downs, but one thing that hasn't changed over time is the fact that there are an impressive array of really, really talented people in this city. Everyone on the panel nodded in agreement with Jerry's succinct and simple answer.

From that point on the conversation tried to answer other portion of the question - "What doesn't Sacramento have?" And over the course of the next eighty-nine minutes it became clear that mainly due to policies and politics that make live music venues the "red-headed stepchild" in a city that has a golden opportunity to become another Austin or Portland (cities that embrace their musical culture), there simply aren't enough venues showcasing live music in Sacramento.

Listening to Olivia Coelho recount her recent trying experiences with the permit process in bringing live music to Bows & Arrows, it's no wonder we don't have more venues. As Olivia put it, "minors have been criminalized"; crackdowns in the downtown area on minors who violate Sacramento’s 10pm curfew make it hard to fill seats at all-ages gigs. Those curfew crackdowns were spawned by Second Saturday incidences which had nothing to do with live music. Additionally, venues with a capacity over 49 persons must provide (i.e. compensate) two security guards on show nights; whether or not there are 5 or 100 people in attendance. (The higher the occupancy the higher the number of security guards is required; however, Olivia was able to work with city and received a modification of this requirement for her 105 person occupancy business.) Still the issue seems to be a lack of respect for businesses that offer live entertainment. Regardless of a venue's record of incidences, any place wanting to bring the art of "amplified music" to the community is instantly subjected to far more regulation and scrutiny than say, a gallery, or a diner.

As fans it is our duty to show support for the venues by showing up, paying the cover, and acting responsibly. But is there more we can do? Mindy Giles cited an article from Irvine.org titled "Getting Into The Act", which promotes an entrepreneurial shift towards 'arts participation': Traditional media outlets are laying off arts & culture reporters so if you want to help your favorite band or artist get noticed you must take matters into your own hands and help spread the word; share invites to shows on Facebook, Twitter a link to a favorite artist’s latest release, write a review, join a street team, start a fan club, start a record label, and if you have the ways and means, by all means open a live music venue.

One audience member pointed to a lack of diversity in Sacramento's live music scene. Mindy’s response made a lot of sense, "There are many diverse and talented bands from Sacramento and coming through Sacramento, but they need "a home." In other words, as Rick Ele reiterated, hip-hop doesn't really have a "home" in Sacramento, nor does traditional Dixieland or a multitude of other genres, so music lovers seeking a place to consistently be able to listen to their favorite type of music face a challenge locating where reggae, or grind-core, or bossa nova, might be happening on any given night. Adding multiple smaller venues to the current mix would greatly benefit the promoters, the bands, the fans, and this city.

Getting those venues approved (let alone encouraged) is another matter entirely. Sadly, it appears that rather than supporting live music in Sacramento, the city is currently planning to charge an even larger "entertainment permit" fee, raising the rate from $1400.00 to a whopping $4000.00. This is a permit that must be renewed every two years! Every promoter, every musician, and every fan in attendance decried this as unfair, unjust, and unnecessary. An unidentified gentleman suggested that a petition be circulated and presented to the city council renouncing the fee increase. All in attendance applauded in agreement. Another participant suggested creating an association which would act as a lobbying group when it came time to publicize and challenge city policies, and champion city politicians whose cultural agenda echoes those of live music proponents in Sacramento.

The State of Live Music in Sacramento boiled down to four major points that are in need of support from the city government and from music lovers across the region are:
1) A larger, scalable all-ages venue; seating 300 - 1500.
2) Many smaller venues to give local and touring musicians a place to call "home" in our fair city.
3) Policy changes to enable business owners to provide "amplified music" without going broke.
4) A way to reach people and get them excited about live music in the city. As Jerry Perry pointed out, the city seemed more "alive" when postering and flyering were acceptable forms of communication. The connection between the band, venue, and fan was made right there on every street corner via those flyers - we need to breathe that colorful life back into the Sacramento music scene!

One question was asked tonight, and after ninety minutes of impassioned, intelligent, inspiring responses, the unified answer I heard from promoters and audience members alike was, ‘The possibility is there, it’s time for everyone and anyone who appreciates live music to participate.’

Disclosure: I am a live music fan. I am not a critic, nor a musician. Just a fan that would love to see Sacramento embrace is wonderfully talented pool of bands and musicians and become a nurturing "home" for more of them.

Winter 2012 SacAnime

2012-01-18T07:44:55Z

The Woodlake Hotel, located on 500 Leisure Lane in Sacramento, hosted this weekend’s Winter 2012 SacAnime convention. Formerly known as the Radisson Hotel, the Woodlake Hotel opened its doors to over 5,000 visitors who came to see several of their favorite voice actors and celebrity panels, enjoy Café Hoshi, play games, and attend how-to workshops, music video contests, and live concerts. Most important of all was the time spent enjoying each other’s company.

The event began on Friday morning and had many well organized activities for the thousands of fans that attended.

The multi-talented Vic Mignogna was the first guest to participate in a question-and-answer (Q&A) session with polite fans who waited in anticipation of their voice actor heroes. Mignogna is well-known for his roles as Vega in Street Fighter II, Edward Elric in Fullmetal Alchemists, Dark in DN Angel, Kurz in Full Metal Panic, Broly in Dragonball Z, Hikaru in Macross, Takanaga in Wallflower and many other roles.

Presently, Mignogna is involved with the new Iron Man and Wolverine series on G4. His impressive résumé in the anime world is well-known. Mignogna is also a music composer, singer and producer. As the SacAnime Concert Series opened on Friday night he was the opening act and sang a few songs to commence the concert.

During his Q&A, a fan gave Mignogna a phaser from Star Trek II and a hand written script modeled from the Real Fans of Genius web series.

In describing the Real Fans of Genius Mignogna said, “Steve Blum and I decided that we were going to make a bunch of parodies about Real Men of Genius similar to the Bud Light commercials. We made a whole bunch of them that were based on the kind of people you would meet at an anime convention. Steve Blum did the narration and I did the singing parts and I even created the music track underneath it. It sounds exactly like the originals, they’re all on YouTube.” Mignogna noted that the fan had written him an email that he had written another parody. After they finished Mignogna said, “That was awesome. Thank you!” and hugged the fan.

Mignogna’s interaction with his fans was quite remarkable and made his fans feel appreciated. Fans asked for suggestions on voice acting, asked questions about his other live and anime works, and other personal questions. He answered them all in kind, patient and encouraging words.

“I never even planned to be a voice actor. I have been acting ever since I can remember and I was involved doing church plays, school plays, Community Theater, drama camps and anything I could do to build up that skill because I loved doing it. I never even thought about voice acting. What’s funny to me, now that I look back on my life, is when I was 15 or 16 years old my friend and I were running around all the time imitating characters from Speed Racer. How surreal that many decades later I would be a voice actor sitting in a chair beside the guy that voiced Speed Racer and be working in the same industry that created Speed Racer and Kimba the White Lion and the things that I loved as a kid. I never planned to be a voice actor that was never my intent. “

Mignogna shared how he became involve in voice acting saying, “I’ll tell you exactly how it happened. I had done all this theater work, my minor in college was theater and I was always acting in something or another and then I was working for a video production in Houston, Texas and a friend of mine that I was working with said, ‘You’ve done a lot of acting haven’t you?’ I said, ‘Yes, a lot.’ ‘You have to go to this place and audition. There’s this company in Houston called ADV films and they buy these Japanese animated shows and they dub them into English and they need actors.’ ‘I was like, you’re kidding, that sounds fun.’ I didn’t ask how much it paid; I didn’t ask anything about that it just sounded like fun. It was another opportunity to act. Voice acting required a different set of skills but it sounded like acting to me. I auditioned and I got cast as Vega in Street Fighter II and that was the first thing I ever did.”

As Mignogna continued to share his voice acting training he said, “For those of you interested in voice acting, acting has 30 percent to do with your voice and 70 percent with acting. Every one of the people you’re going to meet this weekend and 99 percent of the voice actors that I know have huge backgrounds in theater; in acting they’re all actors who got an opportunity to voice act so if you’re interested in voice acting get into acting, drama and theater classes and audition at your schools, universities, community colleges, churches, any place that you can develop those skills.”

Mignogna shared that the markets for voice acting are in Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Vancouver and New York. He also shared that voice over opportunities done mostly for commercials can be found anywhere.

Mignogna does not have an agent and shared that everyone else at the convention has one.

“My understanding is that when an agency takes you as a client they want you to make them money. They’ll send you scripts, radio, commercials, voice over as well as video games, animation. I don’t want to do commercials. I’m afraid, and I know this for a fact, you do what they tell you. Your job is to make money for both.”

Pixar, Simpsons and Family Guy roles are spots Mignogna says he probably won’t get without an agent. Without an agent he knows he’s limiting himself in getting certain roles.

“God has been so good to me that I can hardly stand it.” Mignogna said and continued, “I’m so thankful, I am so profoundly grateful for the opportunities in my life. If nothing else happens I have been more than blessed. I am so grateful for the things I get to do and yeah, I would love to do bigger things but it doesn’t drive me, I’m not obsessed with it.”

According to Mignogna, being rich is overrated.

“I know people who are multi-millionaires who jump out of windows. I know people that hate their lives and they have yachts and houses all over the place; that is not the answer. It’s a lie. It’s cool to have money but at the end of the day when you put your head on your pillow and you’re alone with yourself there is a sense of satisfaction you have and no amount of money can change that.”

Following Mignogna’s Q&A the Gaia Online Variety Hour ensued. Chris Castagnetto, also known as DJ Helsing, hosted the event. During the Variety Hour fans participated in interactive games and it allowed everyone in the audience to participate in at least one event. One of the things that makes SacAnime such a popular event and that keeps fans coming back is the feedback that’s solicited from the audience. In the Gaia Online the host made a point to ask the audience which games they liked in order to bring them back, and which ones to replace.

SacAnime brings people of all ages to the convention. The devotion of fans is tremendous, not only to the characters they dress up as, but also to the celebrities that attend. Many fans stand in line an hour or longer to get autographs. The actors that attend and sit in Q&A sessions and panels are just as devoted to their fans and show their appreciation as they interact with guests.

One of the most apparent things about SacAnime Winter 2012 was the amount of people who attended the panels, Q&A sessions, gaming, workshops, Artist Alley, Sac Café, Sac Club Raves, the Vendor Hall and other gatherings around the hotel. People on hand made up a large all-ages crowd. Many of the attendees were dropped off by parents and I was pleasantly surprised and somewhat astonished as to how well they got along. I think that parents who may worry about dropping off their kids can rest assured that their kids are well behaved and are in good hands with the SacAnime staff.

SacAnime’s Director of Programming, Jodon Bellofatto, hosted the opening ceremonies that were held after several Q&A events in which Vic Mignogna, Quinton Flynn and Tara Strong participated. Bellofatto went over the weekend program and encouraged the audience to visit the gaming rooms and check out the tournaments, attend and participate in the art contest, and view the arts and crafts created by artists.

Bellofatto answered questions and shortly thereafter the AMV contest took place with three categories open for voting: drama, romance and comedy. He noted that winners would be announced on Sunday. One fan asked if they would post the entries online and Bellofatto indicated that they would like to do that if it’s possible.

Friday night’s Sac Anime Concert Series had three acts on hand. Vic Mignogna opened the concert series by singing on the floor with the audience. He never set foot on stage. Mignogna played a couple of songs and introduced Kazha and Lemon Drop Kick.

Kazha is a Japanese band and its spokesperson is Kazuha Oda, who has a history of working with different performers. Earlier in the day I spoke with Oda and asked her a few questions. I learned they are from Tokyo, Japan and it appeared she was the only member of the band who had a command of the English language. Her personality was very pleasant. The other members happily signed autographs and tried to answer questions but relied on Oda to translate.

When asked if they were going to be playing both concerts (Friday and Saturday) she said, “We’re going to be here for the full convention but we’re going to perform tonight and tomorrow night.”

Kazha is made up of four members and has been performing for two years. They have previously performed in the U.S. and have played at other anime conventions but this was their first performance in Sacramento.

With guest drummer Mike Kim, Hideki Matsushige, Shintaro Kasahara and Kazuha Oda took the stage to bring their brand of rock to the concert. They began their set with a melodic pop tune, “Close to You,” that was brought to life by Oda’s smooth vocals. One thing that’s quite noticeable is how well the music moves to the rhythm of Oda’s singing.

Fans were delighted by the Kazha set. After their first song, Oda addressed the audience.

“It’s our first time being in Sacramento and we are so happy. Thank you very much. We are from Tokyo, Japan. Are you guys having fun at SacAnime?”

Fan reaction made Oda smile and she thanked them.

The last act of the night was Lemon Drop Kick. They are based out of Los Angeles and are described as a Japanese rock band influenced by different musical influences and cultures. They energized the crowd and invited several audience members to the stage as they performed.

Lemon Drop Kick had the audience jumping up and down and moving. Their beat included several genres of music including rock, pop, metal and others. They were a great choice to end the evening’s concert series.

A swap meet, a club rave, open gaming and karaoke contests kept the evening alive for guests, who gathered at different spots throughout the hotel to chat about their experiences and share stories.

A designer that I have met before known as Carlyfornia had a station set up to showcase her designs and new items. When asked what new items she was showing at the convention she said, “I brought a lot more steampunk stuff. I brought a lot of fun stuff including furry ears like little kitty stuff, doll clothes and more dolls.”

Carlyfornia will be exhibiting more of her work at the upcoming Animation on Display (AOD) in San Francisco February 18-19. When asked if she had a store front Miss Carlyfornia noted that she doesn’t have one because, as she put it, “I don’t have a storefront because I can’t keep up merchandise because I sell, sell, sell so fast and I’m at a different city almost every weekend. “

One of the last panel events I attended at the convention was “From Fan Art to Creator: How to Make and Publish Your Own Comic.” The panel was hosted by Heather Jaeger and Melissa McCommon.

McCommon and Jaeger were quite enthusiastic about hosting the panel and offered numerous pointers to help the comic publisher want-to-be’s. They covered the various common drawing programs used to create comics as well as the various tablets used to illustrate.

Their passion for comic book creation was quite evident and their knowledge was quite immense, giving audience members a wealth of information to get started and insights into what can make comic publishing a good experience.

Low budget tools, programs and tips were also discussed and they mentioned several programs that are free.

The tips and information passed on by McCommon and Jaeger also included a section called the Language of Panels and what it takes to be successful at sketching, coloring and making story bubbles as well as printing and publishing. The advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing were also discussed and their valuable insight was well received.

The passion for anime comic drawing and illustration as well as passing on their knowledge was priceless. Jaeger and McCommon emphasized the need to draw on a regular basis, motivate yourself, not give up, write, and practice as much as possible.

There is always a lot to do and see at the SacAnime conventions and the staff is to be commended for the topics they choose, the guests they bring in, the panels they put together and the feedback they solicit from attendees. Organization continues to make SacAnime a great event year after year. Fans are the best ambassadors for conventions such as this, and if they continue to follow and attend SacAnime it helps the community grow and flourish.

Bellofatto hosted the closing ceremonies where the AMV winners were announced. Third place went to Yosef Ghiassy for Manly Tears, second place was Erinn Thompson for Say Good-bye to Yesterday and first place went to Shelby Nickles for Oran I’m Sexy and I Know It.
Volunteer positions for the next convention were discussed. Bellofatto also solicited comments from the audience as to what worked and what did not work during the convention and he made note of the comments on a laptop set up on the stage.

One of the final announcements was that because of the large crowds that came to the convention (breaking the 5,000 mark) it was decided that a larger venue was necessary to accommodate the growing crowds and that the 2013 Summer SacAnime was going to be held at the Sacramento Convention Center.

More photos from the SacAnime Winter 2012 convention can be found here.

Motown comes to Thunder Valley

2012-01-16T02:45:19Z

Armed with 20 vocalists, six band members and four crew members impersonating the legends of Motown, RPM Crown Productions brought their Hitsville USA Legends of Motown Tribute Show to Thunder Valley Casino Resort on Saturday.

There was a sold-out crowd of diehard Motown fans there to enjoy some of the greatest hits from the Motown era. It was perplexing that more people weren’t up on their feet during some of the performances. However, after each performer finished their set they were met with more than a few people giving them a standing ovation.

The all-star lineup included acts such as The Four Tops, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and even a brief break from Motown for a little bit of Prince’s “Purple Rain.”

With the plethora of tribute shows currently playing across the country, it’s refreshing to see a solid lineup of talented individuals bringing not just one, but nine legendary acts to the stage in one spectacular show.

I was worried that with so many acts playing on one stage we’d be there all night slogging through hit after hit. That wasn’t the case. Each act played full versions as well as shortened versions of their respective hit songs, keeping the show moving at a pretty good clip.

Emceeing the event was Nick Harper, a radio personality from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. As he introduced each act he provided a brief history and highlighted some of their hits.

Kicking off the show was The Four Tops. Decked out in white suits and moving in perfect harmony, they sang their hits, “Sugar Pie Honeybunch,” “Standing in the Shadow of Love” and “Ain’t No Woman Like the One I Got.”

Following The Four Tops were The Supremes in evening dresses singing, “Just Keep Me Hanging On,” “You Can’t Hurry Love” and “Love Child.”

Al Green was handing out roses to a number of the female audience members as he sang, “I’m so Tired of Being Alone,” “Let’s Stay Together,” and “Love and Happiness.”

And so it went throughout the evening as nine artists entertained the crowd bringing hit after hit.
Don’t miss the next tribute show at Thunder Valley Casino Resort, the Legends of Soul Tribute Show. These shows sell out fast, so get your tickets ahead of time.

Below is a complete list of artists and the songs performed.

The Four Tops
“I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)”
“Standing in the Shadows of Love”
“Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got)”

The Supremes
“You Keep Me Hangin’ On”
“You Can’t Hurry Love”
“Love Child”

Al Green
“Tired of Being Alone”
“Let’s Stay Together”

Smokey Robinson
“More Love”
“Ooo Baby Baby”
“Tears of a Clown”

The Spinners
Intro to “I’ll Be Around”
“Ghetto Child”
“Sadie”
“Rubberband Man”

Chaka Khan
“Sweet Thing”
“I’m Every Woman”

Prince
“Purple Rain”

Gladys Knight
Intro to “Use My Imagination”
“Save the Overtime”
“You’re Number One (in My Book)”
“Midnight Train to Georgia”
“Neither One of Us”

Stevie Wonder
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours”
“My Cherie Amour”
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life”
“Superstition”

The Temptations
“Getting Ready”
“I Can’t Get Next to You”
“Cloud Nine”
“Don’t Let the Joneses Get You Down”
Intro to “Super Star”

Photo Essay: The Wedding Singer Musical

2012-01-14T23:06:52Z

On Friday, 13 January, Runaway Stage Productions began its 2012 season with the Broadway rendition of "The Wedding Singer," at the 24th Street Theater in downtown Sacramento. The adaptation of Adam Sandler's 1998 film tells of a romantic comedy set in the 80's where wedding singer, Robbie Hart attempts to win the heart of Julie who is to marry the wrong man.

The musical adaptation is rife with dedications to the 80's: from style to pop-culture references as well as the dancing and the music to help illustrate the era for the audience.

The production runs through February 5 with tickets available through Runaway Stage Productions, contact: (916) 207-1226 or go to www.runawaystage.com for more information.

Ways to spend your MLK, Jr. Day in Sacramento

2012-01-12T21:22:34Z

Not everyone has this coming Monday off (alas!) but for those that do, Sacramento has a few options for using your day off to celebrate the man it honors—Martin Luther King, Jr.

MLK365 is presenting the 31st Annual March for the Dream, which includes a peaceful march (choose to begin from the Oak Park Community Center, Grant High School, or Sacramento City College) that convenes on the Sacramento Convention Center for an afternoon of celebration. There will be something for all ages and interests—vendor booths, kids’ crafts & activities, entertainment, an art village featuring local artists, and more.

The Crocker Art Museum is opening their doors for their free Holiday Monday program. Monday’s event—“MLK Day – Lift Every Voice”—is a music-infused celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr, with regional choirs performing throughout the day. The event concludes with a screening of Not in Our Town, a documentary about the movement to stop hate.

If you think both those celebrations look fun—and you're also looking to listen to some jazz—consider signing up for Sacramento Wine & Nightlife Tours' MLK Day Experience & Smooth Jazz Celebration. This event meets for the March in front of Sac City College, attends the Celebration at the Convention Center, and then shuttles you to "Lift Every Voice" at the Crocker. From there, the shuttle will take you out to the Old Sugar Mill to enjoy musical performances by Tony Elder & Westbound Groove, Cynthia Douglas, DJ Rock Bottom, and more. This is a great way to make the most of your day!

Also open for the Holiday Monday, though not MLK-themed, is the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center, which is celebrating the opening weekend of their new Blast from the Past Exhibit. Kids can enjoy a day of hands-on fun learning all about dinosaurs! There’s a Dinosaur Train creative play area, dinosaur bone replicas on display, a “dino-nest” photo opportunity, and a dinosaur diorama craft.

If you are looking to give back with your day off, consider one of Hands On Sacramento’s volunteer opportunities for MLK, Jr. Day of Service.

Disclosure: Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

Michael Jackson lives on with "The Immortal World Tour" by Cirque du Soleil

2012-01-11T22:58:58Z

Michael Jackson: "The Immortal World Tour" by Cirque du Soleil opened to chants of “Michael! Michael!” The near sell-out crowd at Power Balance Pavilion on Tuesday night sat almost breathless through two hours of a show that had the feel of a Michael Jackson concert, but with the incredible performances for which Cirque du Soleil has become revered.

An awe-inspiring collection of contortionists, acrobats and dancers from around the world took the stage in this moving tribute to an artist whose music, moves and iconic image will forever define pop music, with a soundtrack that spanned Michael Jackson’s incredible career.

The show easily transitioned from a thrilling rendition of “Wanna Be Starting Something,” with dancers and acrobats careening across the stage in tribal wear, to the tender “Ben,” a tribute to Jackson’s love of animals, with performers in elephant costumes swaying gently to the ballad.

The backdrop was formed by a compilation of screens that flashed images from Jackson’s music videos and appearances, along with photos of the artist and a live video feed of the show.

Jackson’s tragic death in 2009 left his fans stunned and saddened, just three weeks from the start of his “This Is It” tour. For enthusiasts of the late artist, the show brings in elements from the ill-fated tour, including a reenactment of a routine that features soldiers in robot suits dancing to “They Don’t Really Care About Us” and an impressive array of musicians who worked with Jackson throughout his career.

The first act ended with “Thriller,” and the stage filled with dozens of performers in a foggy graveyard scene that revived the famous moves of the King of Pop. There were times when it seemed that Michael Jackson himself would appear on stage.

In the “Human Nature” performance, artists in multicolored LED costumes were suspended in front of a backdrop of the night sky and appeared to float and fly as a 3D image of a young Michael Jackson, perched on a crescent moon, hovered above the stage behind a sheer curtain.

One of the most impressive performances came from Jean Sok, a French amputee whose break dancing was featured throughout the show – including the incredible way he manipulated a basketball with his only foot.

For some, the most memorable performance may have been that of Australian Felix Cane, whose scantily clad pole dance to “Dangerous” was received in awed silence by the crowd.

Following a video of young Michael Jackson singing “I’ll Be There,” the grand finale was a multi-cultural blend of dance, acrobatics and music, with a melange of some of Jackson’s most famous songs. And as the performers took their bows to “Man in the Mirror,” the mime who lead led us through the journey to Neverland Ranch, shed his cap to don a fedora and single silver sequined glove, striking the pose Jackson immortalized – head tilted down and one arm raised in salute.

The overwhelming theme of the show was Jackson’s passion for social and humanitarian causes, and his voice narrated parts of the show.

Casual fans of the artist may not receive “The Immortal World Tour” as well as other Cirque du Soleil shows, as the focus is definitely on the music and dancers rather than the acrobats and contortionists.

The show runs in Sacramento for just two nights, and tickets are still available for the second show on Wednesday at 8 p.m. Cirque du Soleil’s “The Immortal World Tour” heads next to the Bay Area, performing in San Jose this Friday through Sunday and in Oakland from Jan. 17-18.

Second Saturday Chinese New Year Celebration

2012-01-10T06:52:06Z

Please join Jinan, the Sister Cities Council of Sacramento, and the Chinese New Year Culture Association (CNYCA) for a Second Saturday of traditional Chinese music and art as well as new works by Zimei. The event will take place at the Courtyard, 1322 O Street from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday, January 14th, 2012.

Enjoy live music from one of the most ancient Chinese musical instruments, a Guzheng, which is a Chinese plucked zither (think piano meets violin).

Whether you come to view the traditional Chinese opera costumes, the dragon puppet, shop for Chinese souvenirs, or take home Chinese folk art, you are sure to see and hear some wonderful art at this event!

Disclosure: I am the Communications Manager for CADA, the property manager of the Courtyard rental facility.

DMTC's 'Chicago'

2012-01-10T05:28:37Z

The latest offering from the Davis Musical Theatre Company is an enthusiastic production of the blockbuster musical “Chicago.” At Friday’s opening night performance, DMTC handled the show with sufficient grit and guts to bring the tale of crime, celebrity and sensationalism in the Jazz Age alive with fun and razzmatazz.

Chicago in the 1920s was a wide-open town where corruption and crime, scandal and bootleg gin filled the headlines. Women were crashing out of their sheltered roles as demure wives and mothers to smoke and drink and wear short skirts, to rouge their lips and bob their hair and demand their freedom to behave as boldly as their men.

For two women this freedom extended to murder, and their story was fictionalized in a 1926 play by Chicago Tribune reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins. This play was the basis for the musical, which opened on Broadway in 1975 and was revived in 1996. The show is still playing on Broadway, for over 16 years and 6,200 performances. Many audience members are familiar with the 2002 film version, which won six Oscars, including best picture.

In the DMTC production, director John Ewing has brought all the excitement of the Broadway musical to the small stage.

The talented cast sails through the fast-paced show with high energy. The onstage orchestra, under the direction of co-producer Steve Isaacson, has a good feel for the jazz and blues score, and Pamela Lourentzos’ choreography captures the bawdy flavor of the 1920s with her cast of scantily clad dancers.

Accused murderesses Velma Kelly (Jennie Ribadeneira) and Roxie Hart (Amber Jean Moore) await trial in the Cook County jail. Roxy’s husband, Amos (Dan Masden), hires celebrity attorney Billy Flynn (Tony Ruiz) to defend Roxy. Flynn is also Velma’s lawyer. His strategy is to make headlines for his clients and drum up interest and sympathy from the press — a famous client is an innocent client.

With help from the matron “Mama” Morton (Andrea Eve Thorpe) and the radio gossip broadcaster Mary Sunshine (D.A. Holmes), Flynn makes Roxie famous while making Velma jealous.

The play is riddled with flashy dance numbers as numerous and arresting as machine-gun bullets, and the dance troupe is skilled and sexy.

Both Ribadeniera and Moore have lots of vocal talent, although “All That Jazz” challenged Ribadeniera’s range on opening night, and “Funny Honey” didn’t have the power one would have wished from Moore. Thorpe’s solo “When You’re Good to Mama” was a showstopper, a fine showcase for her strong voice.

Ruiz plays Flynn with strength and style, and his tenor is smooth and easy as the slick lawyer’s patter to the press. Surrounded by feathery fan dancers, he almost convinces the audience that “All I Care About” is love.

Masden turns in a solid performance as the long-suffering patsy Amos Hart, and his “Mister Cellophane” was sad without being maudlin. Holmes brings a strong comic dimension to the slightly ridiculous Mary Sunshine role, with a unique performance of “A Little Bit of Good.”

DMTC has a 27-year history of ambitious productions and successful performances of Broadway musicals, and the all-volunteer company always turns in an impressive product. This is definitely one of the area’s most consistent values in musical entertainment.

Chicago runs until Jan. 29, with Friday and Saturday performances at 8:15 p.m. and Sundays at 2:15 p.m. Tickets are $18 general, $16 students and seniors and $14 per person for groups of 10 or more. Tickets are available online atdmtc.org or by calling (530) 756-3682. The PerformingArts Center is located at 607 Pena Dr. in Davis.

Emotion in music

2012-01-10T02:11:26Z

Ricky Berger pours out her heart and soul through her music at Harlow's on November 25, 2011.

G Hum Parade through Midtown, Southside Park

2012-01-06T01:26:56Z

Southern Midtown will be its own “G” Street Saturday as an experimental musical event composed of an expected 100-plus people all playing the G chord on various instruments winds its way from Bows & Arrows at 19th and S streets to Southside Park.

Daniel Trudeau, a 26-year-old musician from Placerville, said he wants to create a community and play a pleasant sound walking through Sacramento, calling it the G Hum Parade.

“It’s basically just for our ears,” he said. “Ambient noise is pleasing to the ear, and when you’re part of the energy of what’s going to be going on, it’ll be really special.”

He said he’s had the idea since he was a teen, thinking it would be a funny experiment, and in the age of Facebook, where an event can be created with a few mouse clicks and keyboard strokes, he decided to make it happen.

“The G chord was the first chord that came to mind,” he said. “It was the first chord I learned, and it’s the first chord most people learn.”

Starting in Bows & Arrows, the group – toting guitars, clarinets, battery-powered keyboards and anything else its members want to carry – will play the G chord for 15 or 20 minutes before heading off to Southside Park.

The continuous sound won’t be directed, so it is expected to be an ongoing hum, Trudeau said.

“It’s going to be played as sporadically as possible,” Trudeau said. “It’s a rising tide. It’ll rise, and we’ll hear how it sounds in Bows & Arrows, then we’ll hear how it sounds on the move, then we’ll hear it stopped outside at Southside Park.”

Bows & Arrows co-owner Olivia Coelho said the event fits with the store’s idea of unifying people into a community around art.

“I like the route,” she said. “It’s a beautiful part of Midtown that is under construction right now, so it’s sort of being born into its new identity, and there’s lots of amazing businesses already located there, even though other parts of Midtown have been getting more attention.”

Coelho said she thinks events like the G Hum Parade are necessary to bring people together in an era where they are increasingly separated by technology.

The parade starts at 1 p.m. Saturday at Bows & Arrows, 1815 19th St., and is scheduled to end at 4 p.m. in Southside Park, 2115 Sixth St. The timeline is loosely set, with the first 15 or 20 minutes taken to gather and get things going at Bows & Arrows, and some time at the end in Southside Park. For more information and to sign up, click here for the Facebook page.

“It’s totally artsy,” Trudeau said. “It’s going to just be about how the people are feeling about it.”

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Photos: New Year's Eve with Mickey Avalon

2012-01-03T07:10:46Z

Hollywood rapper Mickey Avalon headlined a New Year's Eve show at Ace of Spades on Saturday.

Supporting Avalon on the bill were 2ME, Richard the Rockstar, and producer Big Chocolate.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Wallpaper. at Ace of Spades

2012-01-03T02:48:13Z

A couple hundred people wanting to get an early start on 2012 partying headed down to Ace of Spades on Friday, where Oakland musician and frequent Sacramento visitor, Wallpaper., headlined an eclectic bill.

Starting the show was Chaotic Fusion, a drummer and DJ duo. DJ Oasis spun radio hits – "Teach Me How To Dougie," "Ghosts 'n' Stuff," "Last Resort" – while Radio 94.7 on-air personality Casey Lewis drummed along to the beat.

Performing next was Oakland-by-way-of-Panama Latin rap duo Los Rakas. Rhyming in Spanish over dancehall and hip-hop beats, the up and coming young pair were well-received by the slowly growing crowd.

Headliner Wallpaper. took the stage next, with the men of the group dressed to the nines in cheap tuxedos.

Wallpaper. is the solo project of Eric Frederic, who performs as Wallpaper. vocalist Ricky Reed.

Frederic received a music degree with a focus in composition from the University of California, Berkeley and now creates poppy party songs with lowest common denominator lyrics.

"That's a grown ass woman with a grown ass," is one example from the song, "Butt2Butt” (feat. Too $hort).

Although his two LP’s are called "Doodoo Face" and "#STUPiDFACEDD," the songs are well-produced and have sharp hooks. MTV uses Wallpaper. songs on shows like Jersey Shore, and sometimes this type of music resonates with everyone (see: LMFAO).

Kicking things off with the song, "Shotgun," Reed worked to establish a connection with the Sac crowd early, referencing past visits to the city.

"We're gonna take you right back to Press Club, Town House, Luigi's!"

Flanked by two drummers, a standing percussionist in the back and a female vocalist/dance partner, Reed and Wallpaper stayed hyphy the whole set and made sure the crowd did too.

At one point Reed lamented the fact that it was the day before New Year's Eve, and had the crowd do a mock countdown before performing the catchy, "Okay."

Later it was a short cover of Prince's "1999," played with a ukulele, before another sing-along ditty, "FUCKING BEST SONG EVERRR."

After Wallpaper. came back on stage for the encore, Reed let the crowd know that the band has a tradition where they finish a bottle of Jameson before coming back on.

Stupid, but fun.

Not bad for New Year's Eve eve.

Photos by Steven Chea

CD review: Nathan Dale's "Major Keys Parade"

2012-01-03T02:47:34Z

Nathan Dale is a singer, songwriter and guitarist from Sacramento. Some locals may remember Dale as the founding member of Sweet Vine back in the 90’s. The band went on to sign with Columbia Records, recording their self-titled CD at the famed Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York. The band toured nationwide before separating in the late 1990's.

Dale currently tours with The Jackie Greene Band and has recently release his own CD, “Major Keys Parade.” After listening to his new CD, it became quite obvious that Dale is an extremely diverse musician. The album has a little something for everyone including a little rock, folk and even a tad bit of a Hawaiian sound.

The CD starts off with “Him,” a brief instrumental with the sound of an old style film projector starting up. As it happens, the last song, appropriately named, “The End,” is another brief instrumental which winds down with the sound of the same old style film coming off the reel. Nice touch.

As you get into the meat of the album with “Ten Tiny Fingers,” you feel like you just walked under the big top. Sounding more like a circus waltz, this song might have been better played on a calliope rather than a piano. I didn’t care for the circus beat, but about halfway through it faded into the background.

Next was “Major Keys Parade,” which has an awesome driving beat with some equally awesome guitar riffs. Couple that with some great background vocals playing off of Dale’s chorus and you have one pumped up song that is deserving of the title slot.

“My Wonder Girl” is a great tune that really brings home the folk rock, weaving a tale of a young boy in love with a young girl. Followed by “Oh Messiah,” they are both great folk style tunes.

The CD takes a turn to the darker side with “One Bad Day,” followed by an even darker tune, “Way Down.” The latter has some really awesome guitar riffs bringing out the hard rock side of Dale. This song reminds me a lot of some of Alice Cooper’s work - yes it’s that dark - exquisitely so.

“With the Sea,” is a Hawaiian style tune that really rounds out the CD, showing just how diverse of a sound Dale has.

Using his music as his canvas, Dale paints his heart and soul into everything he writes, each song painting a story for all to hear. His latest CD is worth a listen. It’s a great album with some very diverse songs, leaving you wondering what other sounds Dale might have up his sleeve. I guess we’ll have to wait for his next CD to find out.

You can find out more about Dale’s latest projects at http://www.nathandale.com

Catch Nathan Dale at Naked Coffee in Sacramento on January 4th at 8:30. They are located at 1111 H Street.

Sinbad

2012-01-03T02:41:36Z

The purple one was in-the-house at Thunder Valley Casino Resort Friday.

Okay, not The Purple One (as in Prince), but the 55 year old standup comedian Sinbad, who was decked out in a freshly tailored purple shirt. I also wouldn’t say “in-the-house,” more like in-the-tent, since it was held in Thunder Valley’s Holiday Pavilion. While it’s a tent, it’s extremely spacious and exquisitely decorated, complete with several bars, restrooms and a whole lotta seats.

Sinbad put on a great show, playing to a full house of young and old alike. As soon as he hit the stage, he started talking about how this was such a great location for a casino like Thunder Valley.

There’s nothing around for miles except for cornfields and a landfill, he joked. He warned everyone that they should hold their breath when they walk outside and then come back inside and gamble some more, referring to the occasional minor aroma coming from the landfill a few miles down the road.

Continuing his rant about the location, he explained that after he put the address into his GPS, it asked him why he wanted to go there.

Sinbad wanted to know why it is 1200 Athens Road when there’s nothing around. Who came up with the number 1200, he wondered. There’s nothing around for miles, so why not a 1?

As he was going through his routine, bantering back and forth with audience members, he asked the ladies in the audience what made them angry. Several shouted out “Cheating!” To which he replied, if a man cheats or if he leaves the cabinet door open, you’re just as pissed. It’s the same thing, so why not cheat.

He’d rather not, but give us some options, he pleaded.

He also wanted to know why it is that everyone says it’s the man that’s cheating. There’s always a woman he’s cheating with. Sinbad used Herman Cain as his specific example for the evening.

Continuing with his questions for the ladies he asked them what they wanted and in time, dealt with a number of responses; money, communication, sleep and sex among them.

The best part of Sinbad’s shows will always be his interaction with the audience, responding without skipping a beat, and joking about real life situations. A fun time was definitely had by all in attendance.

As Sinbad ages like a fine wine (in his purple shirt), his jokes remain fresh. Add to the mix his quick wit and audience participation, and you end up with a very entertaining night out.

It’s refreshing to listen to a comedian who doesn’t believe he has to be crude to make people laugh. Sinbad is one of the few remaining comedians that puts on a clean and entertaining show.

Say hello to 2012 at these New Year's Eve nightlife events

2011-12-29T22:06:32Z

Can you belive 2011 is practically over? New Year's Eve is this Saturday and if you're still searching for plans, we here at Sacramento365.com have gathered up some activities for you.

If you're looking for a great, family friendly New Year's Eve experience, complete with fireworks, be sure to head to Old Sac for the New Year's Eve Sky Spectacular.

But, for those of you who are looking for some adult celebrations--no kids allowed--here're a few options to greet 2012 (see even more in our Top 10 & Holiday Event Section). Sacramento nightlife is kickin'!

1. New Year's 2012 Bash with Mickey Avalon: Ace of Spades, 7pm
Hailing from Hollywood, Mickey Avalon is known to the world as one of the hottest underground American rappers and has become a fan-favorite.

2. New Year's Eve Gala: Chicago: Davis Musical Theatre Company, 8pm
Ring in the New Year with Broadway favorite: Chicago. The Tony Award winning performance of the “truth-is-stranger-than-fiction” play is opening for a special preview, accompanied by a catered buffet dinner, champagne, dessert, party favors, a live DJ, and more.

3. Townhouse New Year's Eve Party: TownHouse Lounge, 8pm-2am
On the 365th day of the year, The Townhouse presents a very special NYE party with some of your favorite DJs on both floors: Electro/House/Progressive with Mike Diamond & My Cousin Vinny & Indie/Pop/Dance with The X-GVNR (Pop Freq, Get Wet) & Jon Droll.

4. NYE at the Hyatt Regency: Hyatt Regency Sacramento, 8pm-2am
Start the evening with a cocktail in the acoustic lobby lounge listening to the sounds of Quinn Hedges and Ryan Hernandez, then enjoy a gourmet four course meal in Dawson’s, followed by the big event in Sacramento’s largest nightclub with DJ Rated R and the Cheeseballs.

5. New Year's Eve 2012: The Golden Bear, 8pm
What better way to welcome 2012 then spending your evening partying it up at The Golden Bear? There is no better way! Live and direct--DJ Crook on the 1s and 2s spinning all your favorite joints and jams. Cheers with a champagne toast at Midnight, plus take advantage of New Year's Eve drink specials all throughout the night.

6. NYE 2012 Celebration: MiX Downtown, 8:30pm
Celebrate the end of 2011 and the start of 2012 inside Sacramento's favorite rooftop nightclub and lounge, which is also celebrating its third year of amazing parties and fabulous events. Complimentary champagne at Midnight, party favors, and lush decorations get you in the mood for a hands in the air night of dancing and partying with friends.

7. New Year's Eve Bash with John Nemeth: Torch Club, 9pm
John Németh is a rising blues star; a singer steeped in the tradition and reminiscent of B.B. King, Ray Charles and Junior Parker, and a harmonica player of riveting intensity and virtuosity.

8. NYE Dance Party with DJ Larry Rodriguez: Fox & Goose, 9pm
DJ Larry Rodriguez's Dance Party celebrates its 15 year anniversary on New Year's Eve with round, warm sould & funk. DJ Larry Rodriguez is bringing some of Sacramento's favorite dance party kings Mike C. and Tim Matranga to round out the night.

9. Roaring '20s NYE: Crescent Club, 9pm
Take a trip back in time to America's glorious Prohibition Era as you celebrate the New Year with gangsters, glamour, and gambling. The evening’s entertainment includes a Speakeasy Casino, Ballroom Swing Dancing, Gypsy Jazz, Blues, & Cabaret, featuring live music by the notorious Crescent Katz.

10. D30 New Year's Eve with DJ Serafin: District 30, 9pm-3am
In addition to the innovative sound of DJ Serafin, enjoy a huge balloon drop, dazzling confetti rain, complimentary champagne toast at Midnight, delectable confections at Midnight, and complimentary party favors.

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Find more detail on these events along with many more at Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Disclosure: Rachael Lankford is the Managing Calendar Editor for Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Ringing in the New Year

2011-12-29T16:36:36Z

Looking to celebrate the New Year in style? The Sacramento Press has compiled a list of New Year's Eve events that will start 2012 off with a bang.

Sacramento New Year’s Eve Dinner Gala
Hornblower Yacht
1206 Front Street
Boarding at 6:45 p.m. Cruise is from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
$128 per person. Discounts are available for seniors and children

Get a private viewing of the fireworks on the river aboard the Hornblower Yacht. Hornblower Cruises and Events offers a three-hour cruise that includes a four-course seated dinner, a cocktail bar that includes dinner liqueurs and house champagne. There will be a DJ on board for guests who have their dancing shoes on.

For more information, visit the website or call 446-1185.

Sacramento New Year’s Eve Midnight Cruise
Hornblower Yacht
1206 Front Street
Boarding at 10:45 p.m. Cruise is from 11 p.m. – 1 a.m.
$90 per person. Discounts are available for seniors and children

For those looking to ring in the New Year on the river; there is a later two-hour cruise, which also offers a private viewing of the fireworks. Hors d’oeuvres such as a local artisan cheese display and mini crab cakes with spicy remoulade will be served. There will also be free-flowing house champagne and a DJ on board for dancing into the New Year.

For more information, visit the website or call 446-1185.

Sacramento New Year’s Eve Sky Spectacular
Corner of J and Front streets
6 pm - 12:30 am
Free

Sacramento 365 and the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau have come together to sponsor the 12th annual Spy Spectacular. Families are encouraged to visit the tent under Waterfront Park for kid-friendly entertainment from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Radio Disney Rockin' Road Crew and SING Inc., Pop Academy will be playing kid-friendly jams.

There is a break at 9:00 for the first fireworks display, which will be set to children’s music. Then, Too Smooth will be playing R&B and Motown hits through the final fireworks display at 12 a.m. Street entertainment will be provided by Robo Party Band and Live Band Karaoke with Kiss N Tell. from 6 p.m. - 11:55 p.m.

Prepaid parking is available in Old Sacramento, and there are hotel packages available.

For more information, visit the website or call 808-7777.

The Roaring '20’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
Crescent Club Speakeasy
1150 Firehouse Alley
9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
$50 online/ $65 at door
21+

The Crescent Club, an underground Prohibition era Speakeasy, is located in Governor Newton Booth’s Historic Mansion, built in 1848. The event is based on the ‘20’s. and guests are urged to dress in gangster and flapper attire and there will be awards for the best costumes.

Guests who are feeling can play poker with an Al Capone look-alike or spin the roulette wheel. Live jazz music will be played by the Crescent Katz and there will be complimentary champagne and appetizers at 12 a.m. Special pricing will be offered on the Prohibition and Boardwalk Empire cocktail menus. Complimentary valet is available.

For more information, visit the website or call 498-9098.

New Year’s Eve and Day 5k and 10k Walks
Pioneer House
415 P St.
Day: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. / Eve: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
$3

The Sacramento Walking Sticks organization is walking straight into the New Year with day and evening walks. The walks go through the city streets and by historic landmarks. Participants are urged to bring flashlights for the night walk.

The Sacramento Walking Sticks membership is not mandatory and neither is the $3 fee. However, all participants must sign an Amateur Athletic Waiver and Release of Liability at the beginning of the event and parents or guardians must sign for minors. A start card will be given to participants at registration and they must have it validated at control points and then turn it back in upon completion.

For more information, visit the website or call 961-0937.

Suspects New Year’s Eve
Suspects Murder Mystery Dinner Theater
1000 Front St.
$70/ $99 for Delta King Party Package

Guests are welcomed to dine on New York steak and Scampi style prawns, pan roasted half-chicken, salmon or seared polenta and grilled vegetables while they enjoy a murder/mystery dinner show and then are invited to stay around for the midnight fireworks display in Old Sacramento.

For those who purchase the Delta King Party Package, they can test their luck with Black Jack, Roulette and Craps for prizes or can boogie down on the dance floor to live music. Then it’s time to toast to the New Year with champagne and party favors.

“For more information, visit the website or call 443-3600.

Fox and Goose Public House
1001 R St.
9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
$10
Ages 21+

Fox and Goose Public House is partying with DJ Larry Rodriguez for New Year’s Eve. The live show starts at 9 p.m., and tickets are $10 each. While there will not be any drink specials, guests are welcomed to a complimentary glass of champagne.

Bartender Michael Henning said that Fox and Goose has always had a New Year’s Eve celebration since they opened in 1975 and this will be the third consecutive year with DJ Larry Rodriguez.

“Last year was good,” Henning said. “It was busy.”

As for this year, Henning said he is ready to have a good time again.

“I’m looking forward to a fresh start to the new year,” Henning said.

For more information, visit the website or call 443-8825

New Year’s Eve with Utz! and the Shuttlecocks
Harlow’s Restaurant and Nightclub
2708 J St.
10:00 p.m.
$45
Ages 21+

Utz and the Shuttlecocks, a local self-described drunken cover band that has been playing for five years, will be celebrating its last live show on the last day of 2011. Utz will be playing eight new songs but promises to bring the same dance moves and white pants, and an extra fog machine.

For more information, visit the website or call 441-4693.

End of the World Party
Luigi’s Slice and Fungarden
1050 20th St.
8:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
$5
All ages

Luigi’s is hosting a New Year’s Eve party with local bands Lite Brite, Musical Charis, Mondo Deco and The Trees. The bands will be playing in the Fungarden, and pizza slices will be served next door.

For more information, visit the website or call 447-1255.

Black and White Purrball
Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
6001 Folsom Blvd.
12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Free

Happy Tails is holding a Black and White Purrball, where the adoption fees for black and black-and-white cats over 1 year old are waived with a cat food donation.

Happy Tails told The Sacramento Press that these cats are often overlooked, so this gives them special attention. Black and black-and-white cats under a year old can be adopted for $25 at this event.

All felines are tested, vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and microchipped. Cats over 1 year old can be adopted at their adoption center at 6001 Folsom Blvd. from noon - 6 p.m., and kitten adoptions are held at PetSmart at 1738 Watt Ave. from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more information, visit the website or call 556-1155.

Bows with Booty Jams
Bows and Arrows
1815 19th Street
8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Free

Bows and Arrows, which opened its new location on June 4 of this year, will be blasting jams from the Oh Dang! crew for their New Year’s Eve party. There will be drink specials at the Beer and Wine bar throughout the night.

For more information, visit the website or call 822-5668.

Editorial Note: This article was updated after it was published.

Roaring into 2012 at the Crescent Club

2011-12-29T02:10:40Z

Earlier this year, Woody Allen allowed all those who desired to take a step back into Paris in the 20’s with his hypnotizing film, “Midnight in Paris.” This New Year’s Eve at midnight, an underground speakeasy in Sacramento will play host to another world as well. The Crescent Club Speakeasy in Old Sacramento will host a Roaring 20’s party from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Upon entering the concealed back door through the Firehouse alley, visitors will enter an enchanting underground world complete with prohibition era cocktails and appetizers.

Music for the evening will be the Crescent Katz. The six-piece group has performed in the past at events such as the New Orleans Jazz Festival and the French Quarter festival. Throughout the night a Burlesque dancer will perform as well, bringing vogue old and new to the evening, considering the recent popularity of Burlesque groups of all kinds.

The speakeasy will also serve as a speakeasy casino for the night. Visitors ringing in the New Year will receive $500 of gambling “cash” upon arrival and are encouraged to dress for the occasion by donning flapper or gangster attire. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed flapper, the couple with the finest attire and the person who wins the most money at the casino. Champagne and appetizers will be served at midnight in celebration of the new year.

The Crescent Club is located at 1150 Firehouse Alley in Old Sacramento. The speakeasy shares its ownership and management with the Café Americain just up the stairs and hosts live music; namely gypsy swing, jazz and blues; every Friday and Saturday night.

Buy tickets for the New Year’s Eve event by visiting the Crescent Club website. Currently there are less than 20 tickets left at $50. If tickets remain on December 31, tickets will be sold at the door for $65. In addition, a New Year’s Eve dinner will be hosted by the Crescent Club Speakeasy and Café Americain starting at 6 p.m.

For those who dare to be involved in the illicit activities at the Crescent Club this Saturday night, be sure to read the fine print on your registration. Without the password, you may find entrance to this secret and exclusive night in the 20’s unattainable.

The Beatles are in town! Broadway Sacramento's "Rain" delights--for one week only.

2011-12-28T18:27:09Z

Travel back through time with Broadway Sacramento's Rain, a Beatles tribute show that began as an offshoot of the Broadway production of Beatlemania. Rain ran on Broadway for 300 shows and 8 preview performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in New York City and has also been a hugely successful national tour for years. Together longer than the Beatles, Rain has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance.

This multi-media show begins by taking us away to a time when four young men stepped on stage at the Ed Sullivan show and changed music as we knew it. Rain chronicles the journey America took with the Beatles, showing us footage of screaming fans, interviews, and historical happenings that changed us all.

Looking around the room, I saw three generations of Beatles fans, all singing along, dancing, and screaming like it was 1964. When it came time for the last number to be performed, I didn’t want the show to end. And neither did anyone else, Rain went on to perform two encores.

This show is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles. Who knows, you might just learn a new song or two!

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles continues at the Community Center Theater through January 1. Show times: Wed 8pm; Thurs 2pm & 8pm; Fri 3pm & 8pm; Sat 2pm & 8pm; Sun 2pm.

The Broadway Sacramento season continues with West Side Story (Jan 24-Jan 29), Mamma Mia! (March 13-March 18), Million Dollar Quartet (April 17-April 22), and Wicked (May 23-June 17).

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Written by Sacramento365.com Intern, Aimee Steffen
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Surf's Up for Thunder Valley New Year's Celebration!

2011-12-28T16:49:56Z

It may be winter, but the warm sand and cool surf are calling, and what better way to ring in 2012 than a trip down to Kokomo with the legendary Beach Boys.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and recent California Hall of Fame inductees will be showcasing their fun in the sun songs that are set against a backdrop of surfing, girls and cars at Thunder Valley Casino 's Toast of The Coast-New Year’s Eve 2011 Celebration” in the Holiday Pavilion this Saturday in Lincoln.

Founded in Hawthorne, Calif. in 1961, The Beach Boys were originally comprised of the three Wilson brothers: Brian, Carl and Dennis, their cousin Mike Love, and school friend Al Jardine. Neighbor David Marks joined the group in 1962 for their first wave of hits on Capitol Records, leaving in late 1963, returning again to tour with the group in the mid ’90s. In 1965, Bruce Johnston joined the band when Brian Wilson took an extended break from touring. On December 28, 1983, shortly after his 39th birthday, Dennis Wilson drowned at Marina Del Rey, Los Angeles. Carl Wilson died in 1998 from a combination of brain and lung cancer.

Celebrating their milestone 50 years as America's first pop band, the Beach Boys will be performing the music that is fondly referred to as the world’s favorite "Soundtrack to Summer," including such classics as “Good Vibrations,” “Little Deuce Coupe,” “In My Room,” “Surfin’ Safari,” as well as other choice selections from some of their most critically acclaimed albums, “Sounds of Summer,” “Smile,” Surfs Up,” “Holland,” and of course, “Pet Sounds.”

Iconic writer, singer and founding member Brian Wilson, who returned to touring on his own about 15 years ago, sadly will not be at the Thunder Valley show, but will re-join the group for their 50th anniversary tour starting April of 2012.

Al Stewart presents pre-Christmas treat to fans at Harlow's

2011-12-27T09:03:36Z

Photographs by Barry Wisdom

There's a wee bit more gray in the thinning hair of Scottish singer-songwriter Al Stewart, but the 66-year-old performer best known for such hits as "Year of the Cat" and "Time Passages" presented a note-perfect pre-holiday show to a packed crowd at Sacramento's Harlow's Dec. 18.

His wry sense of humor was on full display – as was his guitar virtuosity – as he shared the stage with fellow guitarist David Nachmanoff.

The long hair from the mid- to late-'70s may be gone, but his voice and nimble fingers seemed to have been frozen in time.

Here are some shots from the Dec. 18 show – frozen in time.

Arts in River Park presents a New Year's Eve-Eve party

2011-12-22T01:33:08Z

Party hats and horns are part of the outfit this time of year, but they’ll be doubly appropriate Friday, Dec. 30, when Arts in River Park presents a New Year’s Eve-Eve party that celebrates 10 years of the arts-and-music festival organization.

And talk about horns – musical entertainment at the event will be provided by ReUnion as Bump City, a Tower of Power tribute band. Just like Tower of Power, this tribute band is funkified and horn-driven. ReUnion was begun in 2005 and began its Bump City tribute to Tower of Power in 2009, quickly becoming one of the few TOP tribute bands. Its repertoire includes all the familiar TOP hits, including “Down to the Nightclub,” “So Very Hard To Go,” “What Is Hip?” and “Still a Young Man.”

The concert and attendant arts show and sale (which also will mark the birthday of Arts in River Park co-founder Brenda Waters) will begin at 7 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church, 5265 H St. Tickets are $15, and checks may be made payable to Arts in River Park, P.O. Box 191312, Sacramento, CA 95819.

Saxophonist/singer Billy Sims, one of the founders of ReUnion, is a protégé of Tower of Power’s original lead trumpet and trombonist Mic Gillette. “ Being the son of a sax player and having an uncle who was a member of Lionel Hampton’s trombone section, I grew up listening to big band music,” Sims said recently. “When I reached my teens, James Brown and Ray Charles had big bands that featured horn sections. Then there was Blood, Sweat & Tears and Chicago, too. When Tower of Power arrived, with their five-piece horn section blending with the tight rhythm section and vocals, I wanted to play in a band just like that.”

When fellow ReUnion co-founder Matt Martinez suggested a Tower of Power tribute, Sims was immediately on board. The group, whose other members include Sacramento native (and CSUS music grad) Christopher J. Tootle and Stockton-reared vocalist Jerry Littlejohn, “eats, sleeps and drinks Tower of Power’s music,” Sims said. “Mic Gillette is our mentor. He even helps contribute arrangements to our music. And when Mic attends our practices, I call it boot camp,” he said.

ReUnion’s Bump City tribute also includes music of another horn-driven Bay Area musical group, Lydia Pense and Cold Blood. Singer Christine Acosta dispenses the Pense vocals.
The Arts in River Park organization spent its first two years as the H Street Festival, a multimedia event (arts, crafts, information booths and entertainment) held first at a shopping center in River Park and then at the Masonic Scottish Rite center. Its first event was a multicultural fair held exactly one year after 9/11. For the past eight years, it has functioned as Arts in River Park and staged a couple of events a year.

In addition to music by ReUnion, the Dec. 30 event will feature handmade items including ceramics by Robyn Slakey, crafts and paintings by Deborah and Michael Smith and Joy Gee, jewelry and art by Matrix Arts, jewelry and crafts by Sister Sheba and purses by Anastasia Kryukova.

For more information and reservations, e-mail Brenda Waters at BjewWaters@aol.com or call her at (916) 457-3337.

Disclosure: I have dealt with Brenda Waters for many years in my former job as entertainment writer and editor. She asked me to work with her on getting the word out on this event.

A day in Sacramento

2011-12-20T04:00:47Z

Yes, there are a few gems in Sacramento. Times when you can honestly say, living here can be good after all. The thing is you have to know is where to look.

This Sunday, we decide to share some of the glow.

Continental plays Blue Lamp

2011-12-19T08:40:56Z

It was a foot-stomping good time at the Blue Lamp on Saturday, Dec. 17 when a crowd of about 50 gathered together to seek refuge from the cold and watch local musicians Alex Dorame, Whiskey and Stitches and City of Vain perform. And what better way to fight the cold than dancing, right?

But, there was another reason to celebrate: Rick Barton, the original guitarist from Dropkick Murphys was there with his new band, Continental.

Dorame was the first to get on stage, and he played an acoustic set for the intimate crowd.

Continental drummer Tommy Mazalewski was impressed with Dorame’s acoustic set.

“Sometimes I get a little uneasy with an acoustic guitar and a solo gig, but I really liked it,” Mazalewski said.Whiskey and Stitches, who describe their sound as “non-traditional traditional Irish American flavored rock and roll goodness,”have gotten used to their label as a punk band.

“We’re surprised we won the Sammies for the best punk band,” said James Wilson, who plays multiple instruments for the band. “We didn’t put ourselves in that category, and we don’t know exactly how that happened, but we appreciate it.”

Wilson, who played the tin whistle, button accordion and the electric and acoustic mandolin, reported that even though he had a little trouble with the mandolin, the sound was great.

Whiskey and Stitches frontman Mike McCarrick added that not only was the sound great, but so were the fans.

“We were on and the fans were fantastic,” McCarrick said.

McCarrick and Wilson agreed that the brotherly love that emanated from them on stage continues while they are off stage, as well.

“We’ve been together for four or five years, so we’re getting to the point where we can pretty much feel each other out,” McCarrick said.Next on stage was City of Vain, a punk band that has only been together for about a year but has already built some fan base. They picked up the pace with faster and heavier punk rock and got the crowd dancing.

Adam Price, who is a Target employee by day and music enthusiast by night, has been a fan of City of Vain since they started, and he had one word to say about their performance.

“They did awesome, awesome.”

Keyboardist Minh Quan has been with the band for about six months, and while he started as a back-up for the guitarist when he broke his band, he is now a permanent fixture.

“We have a good rapport going, and we’re really grateful for that,” Quan said.Finally, Continental returned to the last stage they played in Sacramento, when they were here in 2008. Barton got on stage and in his heavy Boston accent, he asked the crowd, “It’s a great night for rock and roll, right?”

By this time, several of the audience members decided they had enough punk rock for their night and had left the venue, but that didn’t bother Barton at all.

“I wouldn’t care if all of you left, and only (Mike) stayed here,” he said with a laugh.

Barton explained that he loves to create music and he loves to record, but he has never gotten completely comfortable on stage.

“I like writing, I like driving the van, I like hanging out with the guys. My least favorite thing is probably being on the stage,” Barton said. “It’s nerve-wracking because I’ve never been the front of the band. I’m learning more and more.”

Luckily for Barton, his band is his family, literally. Barton plays alongside his son, Stephen, who plays bass. Mazalewski reported that it was actually Stephen who gave his dad the idea to start Continental.

“(Rick) wasn’t interested in starting a full touring band, but he had written all these songs that weren’t like any other songs he wrote before,” Mazalewski said. “(Stephen) told him to put together a band, so that’s what they did.”

Mazalewski joined Continental two years ago and this was his first time playing in Sacramento so he was interested in the variation of music styles.

“I really like the show tonight because it’s all under the umbrella of punk rock, but it’s not just punk rock - it’s a lot of different styles,” Mazalewski said. “We’re out by ourselves for the first time not supporting anyone, and every night we play with different bands. It’s nice to get fresh music.”

Editorial Note: A spelling correction has been made to this article after it was published.

Jingle Bells Rock Thunder Valley

2011-12-17T02:39:29Z

Sixty-two-year-old veteran rocker Eddie Money brought his Jingle Bell Rock tour to Thunder Valley Casino Resort on Thursday. Scheduled to appear was former Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm and former Jefferson Starship lead singer Mickey Thomas.

The day before their performance at Thunder Valley, it was announced that Gramm would not be performing for the remaining tour due to acute laryngitis, so Gramm was not in attendance.

As the concert kicked off with Money and Thomas taking the stage, the audience immediately started chanting, “Lou! Lou! Lou!” Money responded by explaining the situation and said they had added a couple of songs to their setlist to make up for the missing Gramm. This was followed by more than a few polite boos – is there really such a thing as a polite boo?

Money exited stage left while Thomas started singing “Jane.” Thomas wore a striped shirt with a loosely worn red Christmas tie, while he banged out “Sara,” “We Built This City,” “Nothings Going to Stop Us Now.” Thomas ended his set with “It’s Christmas Time Pretty Baby,” singing in the style of Elvis Presley.

The 62-year-old Thomas’ vocals really stood out throughout his set, sounding just as good as he did all those years ago, in particular when he sang Annie Lennox’s “Winter Wonderland.”

Backing Thomas was Money’s regular crew consisting of longtime band members Tommy Girvin (lead guitar) and Glenn Symmonds (drummer), with more recent additions Lee Beverly (bass) and Chris Groves (keyboards).

Following Thomas, Money came out singing “Baby Hold On” and “I Wanna Go Back.” As Money sang, he shuffled back and forth across the stage and even pulled out the saxophone to show everyone he can still play.

Rounding out the show, Money and Thomas took the stage together singing “Jingle Bell Rock” and a rocking version of “Jingle Bells.” For their encore they performed John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).”

While Money’s vocals were not as pristine as Thomas’, he made up for it with his overall stage presence, sense of humor and kindness toward the audience, reaching out to shake hands with a few people in the front row.

Offstage, Money is extremely generous and cordial to all those around him, introducing himself to anyone standing near. His generosity doesn’t stop there.

Money is a strong supporter of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which helps support families of military personnel lost in service to our nation and for severely wounded service members and veterans.

Money is hoping fans will help bring some holiday cheer to heroic members of the armed forces by going to eddiemoney.com and purchasing his single “One More Soldier Coming Home.” All the proceeds will go to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

Airport provides music to travelers

2011-12-16T01:59:59Z

Sacramento International Airport’s new Terminal B echoes with the sounds of local musicians this holiday season, with airport officials saying they want to add to the flying experience, especially since travelers are recommended to arrive earlier.

“Under normal circumstances, we advise them to get here 90 minutes earlier,” said airport spokeswoman Laurie Slothower. “For the holidays, we’re saying two to two and a half hours early because there are so many little stresses that can be alleviated if you get here early.”

Travelers who haven’t been to the new terminal – which opened in October – should check the airport website to be sure they know where their airline is located.

Anyone traveling with gifts might want to leave them unwrapped, as Transportation Security Administration officials may search the packages, and Slothower said snow globes are another holiday item to be wary of, as they typically cannot be taken in carry-on luggage due to their liquid content.

Bustling holiday traffic has a new soundtrack on Thursdays and Fridays – more harmonic than the typical footsteps, clacking luggage wheels and security announcements.

A number of local musicians perform on the third floor of Terminal B Thursdays and Fridays, giving travelers on layovers – as well as people waiting to meet passengers – something to listen to before they jet off.

For a schedule of all performers, click here.

“It’s something the airport wants to do to sort of thank customers,” Slothower said. “It’s something that’s pleasant for them.”

Ron Goldberg, a musician from Davis, sang and alternated playing a ukulele, guitar and mandolin Thursday afternoon.

Goldberg said he has been playing at the airport during the holidays for five years.

“My music is varietal,” he said. “I’ve tried lots of different styles in my lifetime, and I try to mix it up as best I can – folk and blues and country, reggae, calypso and a couple other directions.”

He added that the new terminal is quieter than the baggage return in the older Terminal A, allowing the music to be more pure.

“This is really a lovely spot,” he said. “This is a musically much more conducive sight.”

Passengers listening to Goldberg Thursday said the music gave them something to do during their downtime.

“If you’re not in a hurry, it’s a great thing to take a minute with,” said Mike Kolesar, a 55-year-old salesman from Elk Grove who travels through the airport about three times per week.

“This was perfect,” he said. “(Goldberg) interacted well with the audience and engaged us and asked us what we liked to hear.”

Kelly McDonald, a 50-year-old saleswoman from Seattle, said she thinks airports with live music provide a better experience.

“It’s a must,” she said. “It adds such a great level of charm to the atmosphere. Not a lot of airports are doing it, but it seems like more and more are, and it’s very enjoyable.”

The musicians performing at Sacramento International Airport are paid for their performances, with a total entertainment budget this holiday season of $18,500.

Ticketed passengers in Terminal B can spend their layovers or preflight waits getting free photos with Santa Claus at gate B17 until Dec. 23, Slothower added.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Masterful Master Singers Program

2011-12-13T23:14:44Z

People will go through a lot to hear beautiful music.

Each December, the line of people snaking around St. Francis Church grows. People arrive up to 90 minutes before curtain for the annual holiday performance of the Sacramento Master Singers. Many clutch their seat cushions as they chat with friends and friendly strangers waiting to enter the chilly church. They have braved rain, wind, and cold in years past; this year the autumnal weather lingering on into mid-December was a blessing.

Sunday’s matinee performance of “Glory to the Newborn King” once again hosted a near-capacity crowd. People came in groups and alone; multigenerational families crowded into the hard wooden pews. There were annual visitors from Napa and Yuba City and Richmond, and there were first-timers who decided to try something new this year.

The beauty of the old church, huge and ornate—and cold!—arrested their attention before the program began. It is a superlative setting for the Master Singers’ traditional candlelight processional, this year featuring both haunting plainsong and a gorgeous antiphonal double choir “Ave Regina Caelorum” by Elizabethan composer Peter Philips. The pure tones of the bells the choir plays as they assemble is precise and delicate, a fitting complement to the clear interplay of beautiful voices.

As the program progressed, the music advanced through the centuries, and the international flavor embraced by the Master Singers expands. Director Ralph Hughes has searched for music which brings the human experience of Christmas to all who hear it, the season of hope born in the darkness of winter.

By presenting old standards rearranged for interesting meter, audiences are welcomed into new music with ease. Jackson Berkey’s arrangement of “Joy to the World” was delightful.

As is usual for the Master Singers, the women sang two selections, including the audience favorite “Gaudete!”. When the men took the stage, their luscious “The First Noel” exemplified the rich depth of male voices blending in harmonies both haunting and exuberant.

The full choir finished the concert with a solid serving of lovely tunes and a spirited pantomimed “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” that brought chuckles from the audience and a thunderous applause.

And in time-honored tradition, the singers circled the hall and signed the words to “Peace, Peace”, which blended beautifully into “Silent Night” sung by the audience.

Hughes coaxes extraordinary performances from his 48 singers, and Hughes showcased several soloists throughout the program, notably sopranos Sara Haugland and Eva Cranstoun. The small size of the chorus fosters a feeling of familiar relationship with the singers; personalities are allowed to shine through the music, as in the interplay between soprano Elizabeth Johnston and alto Michelle Iwase in the beginning measures of “Gaudete!”.

Part of the enduring appeal of the Master Singers is the sense that these are friends bringing this lovely music into our lives. One can imagine inviting these talented singers into one’s home to bring meaning, beauty, and warmth to the holidays.

"Glory to the Newborn King" will be performed agin on Saturday, December 17 at 8:00 pm, Sunday December 18 at 3:00 pm, and Wednesday December 21 at 7:00 pm. All performances will be held at St. Francis Church, 26th and K Strees, Sacramento. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit the Master Singers at www.mastersingers.org or call 916-788-7464.

Second Saturday events

2011-12-13T22:30:02Z

Sacramento art galleries hosted small crowds of visitors during the last Second Saturday of the year. Many visitors took advantage of the smaller crowds to do Christmas shopping. Galleries and other businesses sold art, crafts, gift certificates and other items to Christmas shoppers.

Festivities in Sacramento began earlier in the day with the annual Santa Parade. Thousands of children, along with their parents, lined the parade route. The parade started at the corner of 9th and I Streets and an anticipated crowd of over 25 thousand watched.

The annual parade began at 10 a.m. and participants included marching bands, cheer squads, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, several floats, car clubs, horses, community organizations, beauty queens, dancers, actors and other performers. Santa and Mrs. Claus were the most anticipated and popular members of the parade.

Another holiday event also took place later in the day during Second Saturday festivities. La Raza Galería Posada staged a community posada “Las Posaditas” on Saturday and will bring the event to Midtown again on Saturday, December 17.

The posada (lodging) is a re-enactment of the story of Joseph and Mary searching for lodging. Volunteers played the parts of an angel, Joseph and Mary.

The posada started with Galería Posada’s Program Coordinator Roberto Lopez welcoming guests and giving a little history about the posada and where the procession was going to take place.

Posada participants caroled the Midtown area with several songs that included “Jingle Bells,” “El Niño del Tambor,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and other songs.

Following the biblical story of Mary and Joseph seeking lodging and going from inn to inn the posada made a couple of stops. The first destination was Casa de Español located at 2115 J Street.

The number of carolers was around 65 when they began and each of them entered Casa de Español for some chocolate and drink treats after singing several songs.

The second stop of the evening for the posada procession was Gallery 2110 and the Sacramento Art Complex. Several visitors to the Sacramento Art Complex enjoyed the carolers who ended their singing with “Feliz Navidad.”

The procession made one final stop at the MARRS Building on 20th Street. By this time the carolers had grown in size as others joined in. A piñata awaited the carolers where they sang several more holiday songs.

Children took turns as they tried to break a piñata and afterwards tamales were provided for the posada carolers.

The posadas will take place once again at the Galería Posada on Saturday, December 17. I’m not sure if they will follow the same route but visit their website to find more information.

Choral Society is Home for the Holidays

2011-12-13T07:17:23Z

The holiday choral music season is in full swing. On Saturday night, the Mondavi Center in Davis was host to the 15th annual “Home for the Holidays” concert presented by the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra.

This festive event demonstrates the close community connection between SCSO and its many faithful friends, sponsors, and fans. It is eagerly anticipated by the throngs who come from as far away as Modesto, the San Francisco Bay area, and even neighboring states.

They come to hear one of the largest choral groups in the United States, the only one to employ its own orchestra.They come to thrill at the harmony and majesty of the season’s most beautiful music performed with joy and precision by some of the most skilled musicians and singers around. They come to watch the elegant and animated Donald Kendrick direct with passion and great grace.

And they come to sing along with this august body, to be drawn fully into the magical experience of making music that lifts the spirit and moves the heart.

The program this year again featured sacred and secular works, most quite familiar works arranged for the complexity of a large choir.

The chorus sang the lilting “Personent Hodie”, a carol written in 1582 to a melody from the 14th century while ranged throughout the audience; and it took the entirety of Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival”, a sprightly long medley of familiar Christmas tunes for the massive 170-voice chorus to take their places on the risers. This is not a gather-‘round-the-piano informal chorus; to achieve the huge and masterful sound they produce, every voice is needed.

In the next three sections, the chorus gave the audience a wide sampling of different musical styles, from the quick and intricate “Carol of the Bells”, to a charming John Rutter composition, “Donkey Carol”, a shambling tale in 5/8 rhythm of the humble beast who bore Mary to Bethlehem.

The audience rose, as is traditional, for G.F.Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus”—after a caution from Kendrick that this was not a singalong version.

After the intermission, the audience was delighted to sing a medley of well-known carols with the chorus and orchestra. This audience participation is a much-loved feature of the Home for the Holidays Concerts, and is one of the many ways that the SCSO has connected the community with the joy of singing and the love of great music.

One highlight of the remaining three sections was Barlow Bradford’s beautiful arrangement of the old Austrian carol “Still, Still, Still”. He also arranged four other selections in the program. Bradford is a distinguished conductor and composer from Utah; he has worked extensively with the Utah Chamber Artists and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

The evening ended with a cheerful rendition of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, and the crowd mingling and chatting with the musicians and singers in the lobby carried their good cheer out into the night, heading home for the holidays.

Autumn Sky to Perform at the Crocker on December 15

2011-12-13T00:58:28Z

The Crocker Art Museum will host local indie darling Autumn Sky for a night of original folk and pop on Thursday, Dec. 15. Sky is an award-winning, multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter from Sacramento. She will play songs from past releases and her soon-to-launch sophomore album, "The Hallelujah Chorus.” The concert will take place in the Museum’s Setzer Foundation Auditorium at 7 p.m.

At 23 years old, Sky has been playing for Sacramento crowds for over six years and has garnered much local acclaim for her lively and engaging shows. Her unique style mixes pitch-perfect and deeply emotive vocals with indie and pop sensibilities. She released “Diminutive, Petite EP” in 2007, followed by her debut album “All Which Isn't Singing” in 2008. Sky has performed at the California State Fair, Downtown Sacramento’s Concert in the Park series, and the Crest Theatre. Most recently, she received the Outstanding Singer-Songwriter and Readers’ Choice Artist of the Year awards at the 2010 and 2011 Sammie Block Party and Music Awards.

Tickets are $6 for Museum members and $12 for nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling (916) 808-1182.

The Crocker Cafe will offer a themed drink special that evening in honor of the concert. The “Sky Crock-tail,” a Skyy Vodka dirty martini, will be available for $7 from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Playlist is part of the Museum’s Thursdays ‘til 9 program series. The Crocker is open every Thursday until 9 p.m. for film screenings, social gatherings, concerts, and art happenings presented in collaboration with regional art groups. For more information, call (916) 808-7000 or visit crockerartmuseum.org.

The Crocker Art Museum was the first art museum in the Western U.S. and is now one of the leading art museums in California. Established in 1885, the Museum features one of the country’s finest collections of Californian art, exceptional holdings of master drawings, a comprehensive collection of international ceramics, as well as European, Asian, African, and Oceanic art. The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in Downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday–Sunday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thursdays. Every Third Sunday of the month is “Pay What You Wish Sunday.” For more information, call (916) 808-7000 or visit crockerartmuseum.org.

Disclosure: Kathleen Richards has been a fan of the Crocker Art Museum since her very first visit in fourth grade, and she now serves as the Crocker's Marketing Coordinator.

Tia Fuller Quartet Inspires Audience

2011-12-12T06:26:28Z

Low lights and a sultry combination of magenta, fuchsia and violet lighting provided the ambiance for the evening. A glance around the room showed an audience of seasoned listeners: a mature, diverse crowd of jazz enthusiasts. At center stage, donning a shimmering purple sequin dress and fishnet stockings stood the quartet's leader, Tia Fuller.

The Tia Fuller Quartet starred in a four-day run at the UC Davis Mondavi Center Wednesday through Saturday, sponsored by the Capital Public Radio Studio Jazz Series.

Fuller emits a raw charisma, sassiness, an uncanny edginess and outright star quality onstage. She picked up her saxophone and began to play her first set. The opener "Decisive Steps," a magnificent composition, delivered a gut-busting solo where Fuller seemed to pour all of her energy into the instrument. Immediately, one gets a sense that "Decisive Steps" is a journeyer's soundtrack, one of perpetual movement and determination.

Afterward, the warm musician welcomed attendees and spoke with the audience.

The song "Wind Soar" delivered an inspirational message to the audience about elevation, pursuing one's dreams and visualizing accomplishments.

The quartet also treated the audience to "Katrina's Lullaby," a tribute to those affected by Hurricane Katrina. The track is not on the new album, “Decisive Steps,” but it allowed the musicians to show their range of musical style. "Katrina's Lullaby" has gospel and blues influences peeking through the composition.

The solid groove "Ebb and Flow" has a funky, upbeat tempo and sends the message of "just go with it."

"It's a difficult time in our economy right now," Fuller said. "There's job loss, money issues, obstacles, but we've got to move forward through them with faith and not fear. Keep your eye on the prize.”

Audience members clapped through the song and some danced in their seats.

"Kissed by the Sun" was another audience favorite. The lead musician spoke about the inspiration behind the piece, saying that it was reminiscent of a "sunbeam and a kiss, warm and juicy."

Fuller's saxophone is haunting when it echoes in silence and has a clear “voice.” She definitely has the chops and really knows how to make a saxophone “talk.” Each note captivates your attention. It is a delightful auditory treat to absorb the abrupt musical breaks and intricate scales, accompanied by the complimentary sounds of the piano, bass and drums.

Quartet members Rudy Royston (drums) and Mimi Jones (bass) really impressed the audience with their stunning solos. Unfortunately, the third member, Shamie Royston (Fuller's sister), was unable to attend. Pianist Rachel Eckroth filled in for Royston.

Overall, the Tia Fuller Quartet has great chemistry and takes listeners speeding along and sending them free-wheeling and somersaulting through notes executed with precision. The group's chart-topping album “Decisive Steps” is a testament to the devotion of sound. Listeners can sense enjoyment and a subtle boldness that finds its way inside to their soul.

Fuller ended the evening on a positive note.

"Move forward with decisive steps, with faith and not fear," she said. "I hope you remember that and take that with you."

Air Supply in demand at Thunder Valley

2011-12-12T03:12:11Z

Wow. What the hell happened out at Thunder Valley Casino Resort Friday night?

It seems soft rock group Air Supply, playing to a packed house of lovesick fans, actually came out and rocked the house.

I know. I still don’t believe it, but it’s all true! It was bedlam, I tell you.

“Here I Am” thinking “Sweet Dreams.” What are the “Chances” I would find myself in a “Sanctuary” where “Me Like You” can feel “The Power of Love” “Everywhere,” only to have a real rock concert break out. Seriously!

Air Supply started out innocently enough with “Even the Nights are Better,” and then segueing into “Every Woman in the World.”

OK so far, but as veteran performers Russell Hitchcock (lead singer) and Graham Russell (lead guitar) weaved their hits through the guise of soft rock, I should have noticed the younger band members standing at the ready. That should have been my first clue.

The newest members to the band could have been playing for Papa Roach the way they were attacking their instruments, running and jumping around the stage. This should have been my second clue.

Jonni Lightfoot (bass guitar), CJ Burton (drums), Amir Efrat (keyboards) and Aaron McLain (guitar), all kicked out some serious tunes.
As the band made their way through their repertoire, the crowd started to react more and more with every hit played, but that all changed when Russell went acoustic with their new song, “Everywhere.” Just prior to the song, Russell requested that some audience members crowd down on the floor in front of him, having them sit on the floor.

While everyone was gathering around Russell, he explained how he enjoys sitting on his balcony at home and looking off into the mountains. He pointed to the spotlight, saying it represents the sun going down, and you all are the mountains.

“This song is about how love is all around us, and it’s called ‘Everywhere,’” he said.

Now I know you’re asking yourself, how is this not soft rock? Well, it is, but it’s really rocking in a Tesla/Eric Clapton unplugged kind of way.

But really the trick here is how Air Supply corralled a large portion of the audience to the very front of the stage and between the aisles. As soon as Russell was done with “Everywhere,” the band struck up “The One that You Love,” and Hitchcock headed out into the sea of madness, followed by Russell on guitar, neither of them missing a beat. That’s when they begin working the crowd into a complete frenzy.

Hitchcock was handing out hugs and kisses as he made his way up one aisle and down another. Women were grabbing at him as his crew fought to keep them at bay. Once they made their way back onstage, it was too late for the audience. They were under Air Supply’s spell, swaying to the music, with the periodic fan jumping up to grab Russell as he came close to the edge of the stage.

For their encore they played “Me Like You” and “All Out of Love.” It was quite obvious the crowd was not ready to leave, and there could only have been a handful of people who left before the end of the show.

I hate to say it, but Air Supply is a master of entertainment. There, I said it.

I like Air Supply.

Fuller Quartet Comes To Mondavi Center

2011-12-08T04:23:09Z

Tia Fuller and the Fuller Quartet are scheduled to perform at the UC Davis Mondavi Center tonight through Saturday, with daily show times at 8 p.m.

Tickets range from $19 to $38. The group’s recent accolades include the chart-topping album “Decisive Steps,” ranked No. 1 and touting the nomination for best jazz album in Jazz Week.

Fuller made time in her demanding schedule to speak with The SacPress to give audiences a glimpse into the heart and soul of this jazz sensation.

Fuller's passion for music is literally “in her blood” — the gifted saxophonist hails from a family of musicians. She said it is this personal connection that is the source for her inspiration.

She is a musician with a finely tuned sensitivity to her craft of creating music for her audience. Her reason for being so passionate about jazz music is due to its unlimited expression.

"It's the freedom," she said, "the freedom to express yourself even if it changes on a nightly basis. It's the ability to have a different voice based on how you feel."

Her candor is unwavering, a signature of authenticity. In another word, Fuller is an honest musician.

"I want people to be inspired, to feel connected and encouraged to move forward in spite of any challenges or differences they may face,” she said.

Jazz lovers and concertgoers will be moved by her riveting and energetic performance. It's a rare treat not to be missed.

Sacramento Central Library hosts holiday concert

2011-12-07T04:40:30Z

The Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music enchanted an audience of approximately 350 guests at the Tsakopoulos Library Galleria. The free holiday concert was hosted by the Central Library on Sunday afternoon.

The Sacramento Public Library invited the public to celebrate music performed by the 85-member ensemble. Musicians played to a full house which has been common for many of the events held at the Central Library.

Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music’s Artistic Director, Michael Neumann, presented the Academic Orchestra and the concert also featured the Saltarello Flute Ensemble and the Clarion Clarinet Ensemble.

Neumann addressed the audience by welcoming and thanking them for attending the event.

“I’m very happy that you’re here today and I’d like to start you right off the bat with our first group, the Saltarello Flute Ensemble conducted by Alice Lenagham.”

The group, consisting of nine flutists, performed from the second floor of the Tsakopoulos Galleria and entertained guests with “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" by P.I. Tchaikovsky, Mykola Leontovych’s composition, "Carol of the Bells" and two other compositions.

Before the next group took the stage Neumann asked the audience if anyone played the flute. Less than five people raised their hand. He asked the same question about clarinet players and this time a few more raised their hand.

The Clarion Clarinet Ensemble, conducted by Sandra McPherson, walked up to a sitting area in front of the Academic Orchestra. The four clarinet players pleased the audience with four pieces that included “Over the Rainbow” and “Jingle Bells.”

Neumann once again came to the microphone to point out a couple of table in the back that had information on the Youth Symphony and volunteer opportunities. He also asked who had and who had not heard the Sacramento Youth Symphony play before. Most of the audience raised their hand, indicating that most of the audience had previously heard them play. I was one of the few who had not heard them perform before, but I soon became an avid fan.

The last group of the evening to perform had been sitting down since the beginning. Neumann introduced Angelo Moreno who was to conduct the Academic Orchestra. The Orchestra began by giving fans a great rendition of Girolamo Frescobaldi’s “Toccata.”

The audience showed their appreciation and responded with great applause as the orchestra ended their first piece.

Moreno continued to conduct with great enthusiasm as the Youth Symphony played their second performance, Jerry Lehmeier’s arrangement of Gioachino Rossini’s “William Tell Overture,” showcasing the young musicians’ talents.

Violins appeared to have the most number of musicians and they were accompanied by several violas and cellos. Flutes, oboes, basses, clarinets, horns, trumpets, trombones, percussion and a harp player completed the orchestra ensemble.

The Academic Orchestra continued their performance with Claude T. Smith’s Prelude on an Early American Folk Hymn, “My Shepherd Will Supply my Need,” which showcased the only harp in the orchestra. The last piece performed was “March Slav” by P.I. Tchaikovsky.

As the music program was about to conclude, Neumann addressed the audience, saying that what the audience saw was only about 50 percent of what the Sacramento Youth Symphony is all about. He noted that other ensembles that did not attend also existed and more information on those groups can be found on their website. Neumann concluded by inviting guests to talk to him and ask questions and he would answer them at the back tables after the show.

A Christmas sing-along concluded the event with the audience joining in and singing “Oh Christmas Tree,” “The First Noel” and “Jingle Bells.”

The Central Library once again hosted a great event that continues to make this a great venue for music, art and community events.

The concert was very well put together and the kids did a terrific job performing in front of friends, family and other guests. After all the performances were over I spoke with Neumann.

When asked how the kids are selected to play in the symphony, Neumann said, “The kids are selected by going through an audition process and every year we go through this audition process not just for the new kids that want to join but for everyone. At the end of the year every seat is vacant and everyone has to re-audition.”

Neumann also mentioned that there are different levels of orchestras, saying that the group who performed is the middle level. There’s a level above and one below.

Describing the selection process, Neumann noted that there is one audition process and afterward each musician is placed in the level best suited for them. Again, Neumann said that if they want to continue they have to re-audition and be placed according to their level.

The number of spots open for each of the orchestra levels is fairly open but there are some limits on some positions and those limits are up to the Artistic Director (Neumann).

The Sacramento Youth Symphony has been around for 55 years and Neumann noted that this is his 33rd year with the organization. Neumann also shared that they have grown since he took over in 1979 from having only one orchestra and having 65 members to 400 people.

Neumann’s passion and dedication to the organization has put the orchestra in a position where future growth continues. He attributes the growth of the program to many factors but one in particular.

“We continue to grow because we have something of great quality,” said Neumann. “We have good teachers and we have great quality and I believe people want to be involved with quality and that’s why we continue to do well.”

A quality performance was given by the Sacramento Youth Symphony and Academy of Music. Their exquisite performance was greatly appreciated by those who were able to witness the program. Their collaboration with the Sacramento Central Library was like an early Christmas present to the Sacramento community.

The partnership highlights two organizations that continue to offer their resources to the Sacramento community and the performance on Sunday showed how well it can work. The Sacramento Central Library and Sacramento Youth Symphony show themselves to be a great cultural destination for the community. Both also offer the resources that help transform young people.

Blame Sally performs at KVIE

2011-12-07T02:30:05Z

Public Broadcasting’s KVIE studios in Sacramento was transformed into a concert venue Saturday night as Blame Sally took the stage for a fundraiser.

This was not your run of the mill fundraiser either. KVIE recorded the performance and will be using the footage to produce a PBS Special, which will ultimately be used in pledge drives across the country and made available in DVD format.

So why choose Blame Sally for such an event? KVIE is using Blame Sally to show women of all ages, middle age in particular, that you can accomplish so much more. In their 30’s and 40’s they put their individual careers on hold to start Blame Sally. As a role model, Blame Sally proves that women in their 30’s and 40’s can get together and form, of all things, a rock band. Let me add – a successful and great sounding rock band.

Not only are they an inspiration to women around the world, but to anyone out there who has thought about walking away from their career to pursue their bliss.

Blame Sally had a large contingent of diehard fans in attendance, with most traveling from the San Francisco Bay Area by car, train and bus. Okay, not so sure if anyone took a bus, but I did talk to someone who took the train from Berkley. It took her four cabs to finally find a driver who knew how to get to the KVIE studios.

This was my first Blame Sally concert, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had listened to some of their music prior to attending the show to see what I was in for, so I knew I was going to enjoy their sound, which I did – immensely.

What I didn’t expect was the relaxing back and forth banter amongst the group. They looked completely at home as no less than eight cameras were rolling, including a boom camera reaching out over the audience zooming in on unsuspecting band members and concert goers alike.

Blame Sally kicked it off with “Big Big Bed” off of their latest album, “A Speeding Ticket and a Valentine.” Pam Delgado was on percussions, Renee Harcourt on guitar/bass, Jeri Jones on guitar/bass and Monica Pasqual on piano and accordion. All band members share the responsibility of lead vocals and switch off as the song dictates.

I totally missed the fact that there was a man playing bass. Rob Strom, who recently joined Blame Sally, could be seen in the background. All I had to do was focus and look beyond all the stunning beauty at the front of the stage. Not to say Rob isn’t stunning, he is – at least when he’s playing with Blame Sally.

The only case of nerves I noticed? As they were a few chords into their second song, Pasqual shouted “Cut!” stating she started off with the wrong chords because she was just noticing all the cameras.

Pasqual didn’t leave it at that either. Just prior to “Orange,” she was ready to go with her accordion at the ready. Only problem was, the song called for keyboards. It was comical as the band members would exchange barbs back and forth during times like this.

They had plenty of time to exchange those barbs too. Why? In between songs Jones and Harcourt would tune their guitars. Okay, Harcourt would sometimes tune her guitar and then wait for Jones to finish tuning hers, but that was all good. During those times it was as if I was at a comedy club with the jokes going back and forth.

Let me see, there were comments about someone’s new hairdo, wardrobe malfunctions, instrument malfunctions and so much more. You’ll have to wait for the DVD.

For their last song, Delgado led the audience through a chorus of do-da’s and da-doo’s or some such nonsense. Did I say nonsense? I don’t think so. The result was nothing short of amazing. She taught the audience their part and explained that everyone was to start as soon as she signaled to them. The audience started right on cue. As the song started to come to a close, the instruments started to slowly die down with the audience still singing. It was a serious goosebump moment. The song? Again, you’re going to have to wait for the DVD!

If you’re in the Bay Area make sure you catch Blame Sally at Berkeley’s Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse on December 9th. They will be touring out of state during January and February, returning to California in March. Their complete schedule can be viewed at http://blamesally.com/shows/

Give them a listen – you’ll be glad you did, and if for some reason you don’t like them? Blame Sally, not me.

Musical Charis releases a new music video

2011-12-05T22:39:51Z

Musical Charis has released their first official music video. The video was produced and directed by Ryan Todd and Patrick Egan. The song chosen for the video is the very catchy “East West.”

Musical Charis released their CD Ace of Space this past August which included “East West” and to keep things local they shot the video at Beatnik Studios. I sat down with Musical Charis’ Blake Abbey, Jessie Brune and Shawn King to discuss the video release.

Abbey indicated the video was being released first on the UK music blog "For Folk's Sake" a few hours before it was released here.

Todd and Egan, who were also at Beatnik, have been producing and directing videos for six years and have worked together for the past three years. Abbey stated that he saw Todd's work at a Sacramento Film Festival a few years back and had been trying to get him to do a video for Musical Charis. Brune added that their video work can be seen on YouTube’s popular Smosh channel.

Referring to Todd, Abbey said, "He's probably the best local film guy, so we asked him if he could do a video for us, we asked him for a couple of years and we finally got together. Persistence pays.”

The concept for the video came from Todd and Egan and they did the shoot in one day. “Fun” is a word that describes the video. It looks like Musical Charis had a lot of fun making the video and its fun to watch. The concept worked great and the collaboration of Musical Charis with Todd and Egan may inspire other local bands to do similar projects.

When asked as to why “East West” was chosen Brune said, “They chose it,” pointing to Todd and Egan. Brune continued, “We left it up to them. They listed to the album and decided on the concept and chose the song.”

Abbey noted that it came down to two songs saying, “I think they came up with ‘Pop Culture’ and then they changed it, a last minute idea. We left the project pretty open for them.” Both songs are popular fan choices and it will be interesting to read fan comments as the video gets more hits.

As you watch the video look for the white gold fish in the shots and although there is not a disclaimer, no fish were harmed in the making of the video. The white gold fish was named Waldo and viewers are challenged to play “Where’s Waldo” as they watch the video.

Musical Charis has all their songs available on iTunes and CDs can be purchased by visiting their website. Musical Charis will be on a 60 day U.S. tour during March and April of 2012 and will be joined by Zuhg.

The music video is family friendly and in Abbey's words, "Support your local artists and go watch Musical Charis' new music video."

Sacramento Ballet's The Nutcracker

2011-12-05T08:38:03Z

There are many holiday traditions that we all have and share. A tradition held by many around the world is listening to, participating in or performing “The Nutcracker.”

Friday night the Sacramento Ballet hosted “Inside the Director’s Studio, Through the Dancer's Eye: The Nutcracker,” where dancers talked about “The Nutcracker” and shared their personal points of view.

Artistic director Ron Cunningham welcomed guests to the event, saying the dancers would talk about their experiences and how they prepare for shows.

Cunningham also called the audience’s attention to a Sacramento Ballet calendar featuring the photography of resident photographer Keith Sutter. Cunningham noted that the calendar would make a wonderful Christmas gift and several of them were later sold at the lobby. Dancers available after the show were happy to autograph calendars purchased.

Dancers sat on the floor of the Sacramento Ballet Studios facing the audience. The setting was very casual, and approximately 25 dancers participated. Christopher Brian Nachtrab and Alexandra Cunningham served as moderators of the event.

“The event is entitled ‘Inside the Director’s Studio,’ but tonight it’s ‘Inside the Dancers’ Studio,’” Nachtrab said. “It’s a perspective of how we deal with ‘The Nutcracker,’ year after year after year after year…” Nachtrab continued drawing laughter.

Nachtrab’s insight to their performances was very intriguing, and events such as this allow guests to learn more about the dancers. It also gives the audience an idea of what goes on behind the curtain.

“The Nutcracker” has a large cast of members and dancers who may have to perform as more than one character. How do the dancers spend their time backstage when not performing? What’s the hardest part about performing? Who does hair, makeup and costumes? Those were some questions answered as dancers talked about their experiences.

Nachtrab shared that since this is so close to Christmas many of the dancers have to skip holiday parties they’re invited to because of rehearsals and performances. Their last performance is the day before Christmas Eve and if they have to travel it becomes a little burdensome.

Nachtrab said, “Since I live across the country I don’t get home until Christmas Eve and I really can’t tell my family I have to go out and buy presents so I have to be well prepared. Another thing that the dancers have to cope with is makeup". Nachtrab stated, “The ladies have to put on lots of makeup and it becomes very demanding on them.”

Other dancers noted that they get into character mode with the help of other dancers and try to keep limber. One of the dancers noted that there’s a lot of bouncing, jumping and stretching backstage. If dancers are not on stage they’re busy doing their own hair and makeup, changing into different costumes and preparing for their performance.

“The Nutcracker” has been performed around the world for over 100 years, and generations of fans continue to follow ballet performances. The dancers at the Sacramento event shared some of their experiences when they saw their first “Nutcracker” performance.

Nachtrab said he saw his first performance when he was 5 years old.

“I sat on my mom’s lap because there was a gentleman who was way too tall sitting in front of me,” he said. “I enjoyed the whole thing, and after I walked out of the theater, I said that I just loved it. “

Dancer Lauren Breen shared that her mom had taken her to watch “The Nutcracker” when she was 3 years old, but she did not remember it.

It was interesting to note that several of the dancers are originally from other countries, and it was interesting to hear about their exposure to the production.

Dancer Rick Porter, an Australian native, said his first introduction only happened four years ago since he did not experience it back home, but he’s found that it’s, as he put it, “a fun ballet.”

Nicole Haskins told a story about a video of her at 18 months old choreographing her own Sugar Plum Fairy dance, running to her dad. She has been performing as one character or another from the age of 9 to 18. Now, she says, there’s always something different at every role and every performance that keeps her performances fresh.

It was also a great experience to have dancers share their enthusiasm for dance, performing and their view on life. The dancers are very close to each other and their friendship is quite evident.

The audience learned that the dancers usually practice several hours a day until the day of the performance, and then they have to adjust as they practice later in the day for the evening performances.

Besides rehearsals, the dancers have to apply stage makeup, make wardrobe changes and other adjustments in between dances. In essence, there are many things going on backstage that the dancers need to make allowances for and they all show camaraderie by helping other dancers when they can.

The audience was asked to look for the performance of the maids, as this was described as a fun role. The experiences of wearing the mouse or nutcracker heads and costumes were fascinating to listen to as well. Almost every aspect of what goes on backstage was discussed, and it’s remarkable how much goes on that the audience just doesn’t know about.

As I listened to the dancers share their stories, I remembered my introduction to “The Nutcracker” when I was 7, when I danced in a school production, and that memory has remained. Do you remember the first time you saw or participated in “The Nutcracker”?

Ron Cunningham’s “The Nutcracker,” with live score performed by the Sacramento Philharmonic, opens on Friday and runs through Dec. 23 at the Sacramento Community Center. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 808-5181.

Jingle All the Way with SGMC

2011-12-05T05:06:48Z

For 27 years, the first weekend in December has been marked by the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus singing in the season with their signature brand of holiday glee.

On Friday night, the tradition continued, bringing a substantial and happy audience to Midtown's First Methodist Church for another evening of high spirits, close harmony and popular musical entertainment.

This year’s event was just as jolly and campy as SGMC’s audiences would expect, opening with some of the most outrageous holiday headgear to adorn a stage this side of Beach Blanket Babylon, as choristers waltzed, pranced and swayed to a lively rendition of the classic “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”

“Christmas Angles” juxtaposed a cheery holiday-loving contingent with a cadre of Grinches who insisted that they hate Christmas.

The 38 tuxedo-clad singers then settled into a comfortable series of Chirstmas classics and poignant ballads and finished the first set with a lively percussion-assisted Nigerian Christmas song, “Betelehemu.”

Amid the traditional music with a twist in the second set, a charming and very humorous surprise was “Pop Goes the Season,” a medley of top 40 hits of the past 30 years rewritten to fit the holiday motif. Just imagine Joan Jett’s stomping bop-bop-BAM, bop-bop-BAM intro to belting out “I love Channukah/ Put another spin on the dreidl, baby!”

After a stylistic sampler of “Variations on Jingle Bells” and a jazzy, soulful "Hallelujah Chorus" that would have left G.F. Handel mystified and delighted, the concert ended with SGMC’s signature “Rhythm of Life” and a brief audience sing-along.

SGMC has found a new degree of sophistication with this production. The stage set was clever, the program diverse and well-sung, and the addition of drumming, percussion and a poignant tenor saxophone accompaniment added depth.

Principal accompanist Kay Hight added a splendid dimension to the event. The accomplished young woman was playing her first concert with the chorus, but her talent as a pianist has been honed over 20 years and far belies her tender age — she is just 24.

Artistic director Paul Jones has led the chorus for many years, and he is already starting work on the group’s spring show, “Glitter.” His energetic enthusiasm is as infectious as his brilliant smile.

A satisfied audience shuffled out into the brisk evening air, assured by this Sacramento tradition hallmark that the holiday season has now officially begun.

California International Marathon draws huge crowds in 28th year

2011-12-05T04:16:27Z

Early Sunday morning, over 4,000 runners from around the world participated in the California International Marathon, a 26.2-mile race from Folsom to downtown Sacramento. As the runners scaled the greater Sacramento area into the afternoon, hundreds of supporters lined the route carrying signs of support and yelling words of encouragement.

Meadow Bailey, a 34-year-old homemaker from Rancho Cordova, was one of the many who came out to show their support. She said that although this was her first time coming, she had an enjoyable experience.

“Everybody is cheering, and there’s a great sense of unity,” she said.

Starting near Folsom Lake, participants headed east down Oak Avenue. Passing through Orangevale, Citrus Heights and Fair Oaks, runners gradually traveled downhill, a signature element of the CIM that makes it one of the fastest races in the country. Taking Fair Oaks Boulevard all the way into Midtown, runners eventually turned onto L Street, where they raced to the finish line located on the west side of the Capitol. A full map can be found here.

Several events were held concurrently to the marathon. A shorter relay was held where participants worked in teams. Another event, the MaraFUNrun, was a 2.62-mile run for children and families.

The winners of the marathon were recognized at an award ceremony that started at 3 p.m. For the men, Erick Monyene, a 24-year-old from Keller, Texas, came in first place with a total time of 2:11:50. He was followed by 30-year-old Ryan Bak from Bend, Ore., in second place and Joseph Mutinda, 37, from Santa Fe, N.M., in third place. Their times were 2:14:17 and 2:14:53, respectively.

For the women, Abrha Serkalem, a 24-year-old from Eth, took first place with a time of 2:33:40. In second was Atalelech Asfaw, 20, from Albuquerque, N.M., with a time of 2:33:56. In third place was Nuta Olaru, a 41-year-old from Antioch with a time of 2:37:13. A complete list of finishing times can be found here.

As the runners raced toward the Capitol, the streets were lined with many people who came out to show support. Many bands played at several points throughout the race, including folk singer Willie Ames, hip-hop artist Crazy Ballhead and various high school marching bands. As the runners passed, musicians and supporters alike cheered out in their support.

Sara Nylin, a 29-year-old teacher from Rancho Cordova, participated in the marathon for the first time this year. She said if it weren’t for the people who came out in support, she wouldn’t have been able to pull through.

“It’s a big marathon, and there’s a lot of people,” she said. “I had people supporting me, and now I’m supporting my friends as they finish.”

Other people participated in the relay and later stood on the sidelines supporting the marathon runners. Faith Caplan, a 30-year-old teacher from East Sacramento, was one of them.

“The course is nice and the weather is usually beautiful,” Caplan said, adding that this was why she has participated for the last five years.

Tammy Cortopassi, 48, is a medical assistant who lives in Midtown. Having come to watch the race and support the runners for the first time, she said she believes the runners who come in last place deserve the same respect and recognition as those who come in first.

“No one waits for the last person,” she said after most of the runners had passed her spot along Alhambra Boulevard. “The last is just as important as the first.”

Cortopassi’s compassion for all racers was evident all throughout the day. Phrases such as “You can do it!” and “To the finish line!” were yelled by people who were watching the race and others who were simply walking by it.

When the runners reached the finish line, they were greeted with more cheers, lots of water and massages. Sweat darted down many of their foreheads, and others laid down in the grass surrounding the Capitol, catching their breath.

“The race was a lot of fun to watch,” Bailey said. “I’m just glad I wasn’t doing it.”

Selena Gomez, Gym Class Heroes at Jingle Ball

2011-12-03T02:32:21Z

107.9 The End's Jingle Ball 2011 went down at Power Balance Pavilion on Thursday night.

The concert featured performances by JoJo, Breathe Carolina, Cobra Starship, Gym Class Heroes, and Selena Gomez.

Photos by Steven Chea

Natomas tree lighting suffers gusts, but boasts gusto

2011-12-02T03:22:34Z

photographs by Barry Wisdom

Wednesday's Grinchy wind storm may have turned the centerpiece of the South Natomas Community Center's holiday tree lighting into a slightly bent, Whoville caricature, but the shiny bright ornaments, entertainment, refreshments and neighborhood fellowship were straight-up festive.

Emceed by Sacramento Councilmember Steve Cohn, the ceremony featured music by the drummer boys and girls of the Natomas High School Drum Corps, as well as the Natomas Middle School Choir and the Heritage Park Chorale.

"Santa Claus" also made an appearance to lend an ear to the whispered wishes of the children during the event's post-lighting reception in the community center.

Young Sacramento Performers Put on 40th Anniversary Performance of Local Holiday Showcase

2011-11-30T04:32:47Z

Galena Street East will be celebrating 40 years of bringing “Joy to the World” at this year’s annual performance of “Holiday Tapestry.” Comprised of young adults from throughout the Sacramento metro area, Galena Street East is preparing to light up the stage with songs and dances that celebrate the spirit of the holidays here in the United States and all over the world.

Variety is what Galena Street East is known for. The exciting repertoire for this year’s show, entitled, “A Season of Miracles,” includes partner dances with advanced lifts, American Clogging, international folk dances from around the world, holiday-themed musical numbers, vocal solos and even a dance number in the style of the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes.

Under the direction of Richard and Jeri Clinger since 1971, Galena Street East has become a staple in the local performing arts scene for many years.

“When Richard and I began Galena Street East, we did so with the goal of enriching the lives of young performers by developing their talents, and teaching them how to serve,” said Jeri Clinger. “We truly feel this year is a ‘Season of Miracles’ for us as we celebrate and reflect on 40 years of performing for the Sacramento community. It is very exciting for us.”

The group includes students from all over the Sacramento area, including Dixon, Yuba City, Elk Grove, Lincoln, Folsom and Rancho Cordova. Members of the ensemble are between the ages of 4 and 18, and are trained weekly in vocal performance, ballet, jazz, clogging and other performing styles. Some of the current students in the program are “second generation” performers, having been enrolled in the program by their parents who performed with the group in its early years.

“I was a performer with Galena Street East when I was a teenager, and now two of my daughters are performing with the group,” said Kelli Bertagnini, the “Holiday Tapestry” Chair and a resident of Elk Grove. “I personally gained so much from this program that I had to share it with my children. It has been awesome for me as a parent to see them learn to appreciate music and dance like I did when I was their age.”

Bertagnini is not the only alumnus who has children in the group. Several other local men and women have enrolled their children in the program to help them develop their skills and talents in vocal singing and dance. Many of them have also volunteered within the organization and helped make the program the success it is today.

Galena Street East is a non-profit organization and relies heavily on the parents of performers to help the show come together. Parents commit to managing committees such as advertising and publicity, ticket sales, costuming, program production, lighting, stage design and production, and various other tasks.

“Galena Street East is a labor of love for all who are involved,” said Clinger. “We spend a lot of time training these youth not only to become skilled performers, but also to give back to their communities. Together as families, these young adults and their parents give back so much by making this show come to life.”

Driven by their passion for music and dance, the Clingers have worked over the years to ensure that Galena Street East performers receive the best instruction possible. Galena’s main choreographer is local dance instructor Ron Cisneros, who currently directs and choreographs many local productions for various groups. Galena also brings in renowned choreographers from throughout California and the United States to train the students in various forms of dance, including international folk dance.

“Each year, we perform a section of international folk dances that celebrate the various cultures from around the world. We bring in renowned choreographers and stylists to help us master and project the styles of these diverse cultures, and it is very educational for our performers and for the audience,” said Clinger.

On Thursday, December 8 and Friday, December 9, Galena Street East will perform a shortened version of the show during the day for local schools, highlighting the international folk dances as cultural education for students. Many of the students who attend the school shows during the day bring their families back to the evening shows because they enjoy the production so much.

The mastery of technique is what has set Galena apart for all these years. Since 1972, Galena Street East has toured the United States and other international countries on an annual summer tour. The group has performed in Mexico, Germany, Switzerland, France, England, Ireland, Scotland and the Czech Republic. In 2008, Galena Street East went on tour to China and performed in pre-Olympic events as representatives of the United States. The most recent tour was to Hawaii, where they served as guest performers on the USS Missouri for the commemoration of the 70th year of Pearl Harbor.

The ensemble has also performed at several local events including the opening of the Railroad Museum, the renovation of the Crocker Art Museum, the launching of the Light Rail System and the Sacramento Community Center Opening. They will perform again at this year’s ceremony for the lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree.

“In 40 years, we have accomplished so much, and it truly has been a miracle for us to perform all over the world and right here in Sacramento, our hometown,” continued Clinger. “We invite everyone to come to the show and celebrate with us the joy of the Holiday Season through music and dance.”

Tickets for the show are $15 for general admission and $12 for students. Those interested in purchasing tickets can do so by visiting www.galenastreeteast.org, calling 916-731-4090 or by purchasing them at the door. All performances will be held at the Hiram Johnson High School Auditorium in Sacramento with shows at 7 p.m. on December 9, a 1 p.m. matinee on December 10 and a 7 p.m. evening show on December 10 as well. Group discounts are also available.

Disclosure: Clay Merrill is the Publicity Chair for Galena Street East, and is actively involved in the Performing Arts in the Sacramento area.

KVIE PBS Teams up with Blame Sally

2011-11-29T04:17:06Z

I was recently approached by Todd Wagner at Ninth Street Opus to help publicize an upcoming event over at Public Television’s KVIE in Sacramento. Ninth Street Opus represents a San Francisco all-female group, Blame Sally, scheduled to perform at the KVIE TV station on Saturday, December 3.

KVIE and Blame Sally are working together to create a pledge program to help raise money for Public Television on a national level. KVIE will be filming Blame Sally during their performance and using the footage to produce a PBS special which will ultimately be used in their pledge drives across the country.

I don’t think I need to go on about the value of public television and what it means for the community as a whole, but I do want to make sure that everyone understands who Blame Sally is and why they were chosen to perform at KVIE.

PBS wants to use Blame Sally as a role model for women everywhere. They are an example of healthy, authentic women, proud of their age and defying the odds by forming a successful rock band in their 40’s and 50’s. What they have accomplished is an inspiration to women across America.

Blame Sally is a little bit country, a little bit of rock, a little bit of folk and a whole lot of heart. They have been compared to the Indigo Girls, Dixie Chicks and even Radiohead - but forget about all that, because one day some all-female band is going to come along and they will be compared to Blame Sally.

The band is made up of four young women, alright, let’s say four not-so-young women. They bring a lifetime of love, happiness, disappointment, trials and tribulations, and really just a whole lot of life to the table. It shows in their music, especially in their latest album, “A Speeding Ticket and a Valentine.”

A few tracks really stood out on their fifth album, “Living Without You,” named for a hard-rocking song about a woman uncertain whether to be devastated or exhilarated by a relationship’s end. “Countdown,” with its driving beat and “Big Big Bed,” which you gotta love simply because of the washboard playing in the background, are just a couple of them.

So who are these women of wisdom and why do they work together so well?

Pam Delgado, on percussion and vocals, wishes she still owned the family car from when she was just a kid. It was a Lavender Pontiac Bonneville complete with a Clamshell from Sears.

Renee Harcourt on guitar, bass and vocals is really the talented one out of the four, but don’t tell the others that. She can juggle, ride a unicycle and whistle loudly with or without fingers, though not all at the same time and hopefully not onstage.

Jeri Jones is on guitar, bass and vocals. I tried to call Jeri but never did get through. All I heard on the other end of the phone was, “Who the &$@%# is calling me before I’ve had my morning coffee!”

I did hear she’s prone to pre-coffee accidents. Luckily all their performances are late in the day.

Monica Pasqual, on piano, accordion and vocals, has started a billion songs and never finished them. There’s something about being superstitious when it comes to songwriting. She has to have at least two good verses and a chorus before she can walk away, otherwise it’s a lost cause.

All the other songs she’s completed? Perfection.

Together these women make up Blame Sally. Granted, they are an odd bunch and there’s not a Sally in the lot, but it doesn’t matter as long as they keep pumping out some really awesome tunes.

Get out there and show your support for Public Television and Blame Sally.

I'll see you there.

You can get more information here.

Where:
KVIE TV Station
2030 W. El Camino Ave. Sacramento, Calif. 95833

When:
Saturday, December 3
7:00-8:30 p.m. and 9:00-10:30 p.m.

Cost:
Regular Admission: Per Show: $25 / Both Shows: $45 (150 seats available)
VIP Seating: Per Show: $100 (Only 50 VIP seats available!)

Dirt Nasty at Ace of Spades

2011-11-28T05:15:20Z

If you don't know Dirt Nasty (aka ex-MTV VJ Simon Rex), take a look at some of his song titles and you'll know what you're getting into: "Suck My D***," "Baby D***" and "F*** Me I'm Famous."

It was all about the lowest common denominator at Ace of Spades on Saturday, as Nasty rapped for a crowd that was about half full. In addition to genitalia and sex, he also covered themes like cocaine use ("1980") and bestiality ("Animal Lover").

But that’s his shtick, so you were either there for the juvenile party raps or maybe to catch a glimpse of the actor who was in “Scary Movie 4” and an episode of “MTV Cribs.”

"He's hot! I don't even know his music. I came for him!" said Melissa Renee, 19.

Nasty had a lot of interaction with the crowd; making reference to the different drinking sections at Ace of Spades, talking about how drunk he was ("If I throw up on stage don't judge me!") and praising the quality of the females in Sacramento: "There's something in the water. Sacramento's got the hottest women ever. Why y'all have to have the hottest women in the Bay?”

Leaving the stage after a short 30-minute set with his DJ, Killer Cam, Nasty came back for a quick two-song encore, bringing a bunch of guys and girls on stage to dance and finish with the appropriately titled song "My D***."

Opening for Dirt Nasty were DJ Fedi, Status Goes, Richard the Rockstar and Rock & Rhyme.

Photos by Steven Chea

Christmas with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra

2011-11-21T03:25:35Z

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra mesmerized the audience Saturday afternoon at Power Balance Pavilion in the first of two Christmas shows.

For those of you who may not be familiar with TSO, they are a progressive rock band that incorporates classical, orchestral, symphonic and progressive elements into hard rock and heavy metal. They are famous for their series of rock operas and storytelling.

This was a high-energy show with a combination of lasers, lights, pyrotechnics and video screens all synchronized to TSO’s music.

Dressed in black, the orchestra made their way on stage while chimes were playing. As they were assembling onstage, there were clips of Martin Luther King Jr. from the famous "I Have a Dream" speech, as well as John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and others, with each round of new faces drawing applause and cheers. Once onstage they started playing “Who I Am,” with video screens and lights blazing in perfect unison.

The talented storyteller Phillip Brandon started weaving a tale of an angel coming down to Earth on Christmas Eve. Brandon’s phenomenal voice, reminiscent of the famous James Earl Jones, drew the crowd into the tale as a hush came over the audience. After the introduction, the orchestra started playing “An Angel Came Down,” complete with lights and lasers.

As the orchestra began “First Snow,” it actually started to snow in the arena. OK, not really snow, but the pretend kind of snow. You know the one with tiny bubbles raining down? Couple that with all the video screens filled with snow added to the sensation of real snow. It was quite breathtaking, leaving the audience in complete awe as they listened to an extremely talented line-up of musicians.

A newcomer to TSO, violinist Asha Mevlana was off the charts rocking it with her purple high-tech violin. As she ended a solo routine, the crowd gasped in unison as she snapped her bow in half over her knee, ending the song. This was so much more dramatic than smashing a guitar to smithereens, since it was completely unexpected.

As they wrapped up the story, the orchestra treated the audience to a number of songs, including a mix from one of their albums, “Christmas Canon Rock,” at which point they brought out founder, composer and producer Paul O’Neill.

This was my first exposure to TSO, and I have to say they left me wanting more, even after a two-and-a-half-hour performance.

Chippendales seducing the ladies

2011-11-18T02:56:36Z

OMG! I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to write this after the Chippendale’s performance at Thunder Valley Casino Resort Wednesday night.

It was only after taking a cold shower and having a glass – scratch that – a bottle of wine that I was able to start thinking clearly.

What? No! The water heater went out and a “glass” of wine is how I like to end my day.

My intent on writing this is to warn any unsuspecting women who may decide to take in a show like the Chippendales’. Don’t. Seriously, nobody liked the show!

It was quite obvious that every woman in the place, which was around 99.9 percent of the people, couldn’t stand the show. I couldn’t believe it! I was completely dumbfounded. They were screaming “Get off!” almost the entire show. The Chippendales never got the message. They stayed onstage the whole time!

The strange thing is when they finally ended the show and did get off the stage, all the women started screaming “More, more, more.” I know, I find women confusing, too. They say one thing and mean another. (Come to think of it, they may have been screaming “Take it off!”)

As for the men onstage, I felt bad for these guys. It appeared to be a little chilly in the room, but that didn’t seem to dampen their enthusiasm. All I can say is I was feeling a tad inadequate at this point.

The biggest criticism I have of the show? It was the most disgusting display of pure animalistic behavior I have ever witnessed. It was really quite a sight to see. None of the women could keep it together. They were falling over in the aisles, standing on chairs, trying to get back stage, onstage, or anywhere close to those big hunks. Now hold on a minute! I’m only referring to them as big hunks because I know that’s how women refer to those large glistening bodies of pure muscle and all their gyrating ways.

I will say there was definitely an excitement in the air as the show progressed, but it’s difficult for me to explain the atmosphere. I liken it to when I receive a package from FedEx that I have to sign for because I know it’s got to be something really cool, otherwise I wouldn’t have to sign for it. Well, that’s the way all the ladies were acting, but I guess they weren’t interested in a FedEx package.

Speaking of packages – the Chippendales were the complete package, with eight of the most physically perfect male dancers all competing for the audience’s attention, all dressed in their trademark bow ties and shirt cuffs with bare torso, at least some of the time.

The opening was quite dramatic with the stage dark and ominous and smoke filling the air. One by one they took center stage with a lone spotlight lighting their muscular curves and superior physique. Is it getting hot in here?

The first few routines found these delectable morsels stripping down to pretty much nothing – why do I keep writing like this? Delectable morsels? Now I’m starting to worry.

As each layer came off, the decibel levels in Pano Hall rose exponentially. People were gathering outside trying to get a glimpse of the show. Quite the curious crowd.

A couple of times during the show, they danced around the audience, going down aisles and over chairs. One of the Chippendales was looking for someone to give an autographed poster to. He found her when he exclaimed she deserved it for grabbing his penis. Yes – there you have it. I said it, now it’s out there for all to see.

Several people had the opportunity to jump onstage. In one case three ladies were in a game show where they were told to complete a task. The first one had to perform her best lap dance on one of the Chippendales. The second had to demonstrate her favorite position when making love, and the third had to demonstrate her favorite way of putting on a condom. The third won due to her technique and the timely fashion of completing her task. Oh – I should clarify. She put it on a banana.

This was definitely ladies’ night out. There were a few men in attendance, and you could tell which ones were straight. They were carrying a ball and chain and didn’t look all too happy. I believe my count was two husbands/significant others in attendance.

The show was so successful that Thunder Valley had to provide additional seats to accommodate the larger-than-expected crowd.

After the show, the Chippendales remained onstage so audience members could have their photos taken with their favorites. I declined. They also announced they would be going to Thunder Valley’s Falls Bar for an after-party. [Insert loud cheers here.]

So at the end of the day I feel like I was able to embrace my inner gayness and survive. As I’m sitting here writing this, I’m convinced that I have no lingering side effects from the show.

Skates, trains and automobiles

2011-11-16T23:47:35Z

November’s Second Saturday attendance appeared to have decreased this month. Two hot spots however thrived and attracted visitors to the monthly Second Saturday Art Walk. Art galleries and other establishments on 20th Street as well as businesses on K Street attracted large crowds.

Downtown Sacramento’s K Street, in another effort to jump start the commercial area, opened for vehicle traffic on Saturday.

A stage was set up on 12th and K Streets to accommodate an opening ceremony, a car parade, and other entertainment to celebrate the event.

Classic cars paraded down K Street for the first time in over 42 years. Reminiscent of cruising down the boulevards of San Francisco or Los Angeles several dozen cruisers delighted onlookers who gathered for the event.

After the parade Butoh Dancers, courtesy of Rowena & Takashi, took the stage to showcase their hair and makeup talent.

Mariachi Latino, courtesy of Mayahuel, played their brand of music as patrons of the restaurant and guests enjoyed being serenaded.

The Smirkers, courtesy of Marilyn’s on K, also performed for fans and friends.

The Spazmatics were the last act to take the stage at 12th and K and they thoroughly delighted the audience. They started their performance singing “Cars” by Gary Numan. Their performances of 80s rock are very whimsical, energetic, popular choices for dancing, great to listen to and a lot of fun to watch.

The Spazmatics’ performance was a great official ending to the Cars on K event. As the 12th and K Street stage closed down, so did many of the venues and art galleries that participate in the monthly Second Saturday Art Walk events.

Just down the street on K and 11th a skateboard course was set up and several people skated. The course was provided to coincide with Omar Salazar’s Nike SB shoe launch celebration. The shoe launch included a red carpet event hosted by District 30.

As I stopped to watch kids skateboarding on the made up course a skateboard piece of art was being created by Eddie Stein.

Stein’s piece was created using a metal loop and skateboards were attached to it creating art. Stein used skateboards he’s collected over the years. A plaque attached to the artwork indicated that another local artist, Ianna Frisby, helped create the concept.

Mehrad Saidi had been at the skating course early in the day and was on hand to show me around, as we discussed the significance of K Street and skateboarding and how appropriate it was to be there to have an Omar Salazar shoe launch event.

Saidi said, “K Street was a popular spot for skaters back in the 80s” and as he said this, Stein - who was working on his art piece -interjected, saying “I skated it.”

Discussing skating in the 80s, Stein said, “I’m not really an expert but I know they changed K Street Mall and they built all these concrete structures which we called tape barriers because that’s what they looked like. There were also all these fountains and different embankments that we used when we came to skate at night.”

Stein indicated they skated at night because they did not want to get in trouble with the authorities. He indicated it was considered a skate friendly place in the sense that they could meet other skaters and was a place to hang out and learn from others.

As Stein continued to work on his structure, he noted that it was an untitled piece and was going to be using 23 skateboards to complete the work. He noted that a Hobie skateboard used in the display was from the time period we were discussing. Stein also noted that his piece had been exhibited at the California Auto Museum. Stein noted, “In fact it was the very first installation art piece ever allowed in the California Auto Museum.”

People passing by stopped to look at the art piece and asked Stein questions. In the meantime skaters of various generations and ethnicities continued to skate the course. The love of skating was a common link.

District 30 was hosting the Salazar shoe launch later that evening and at their entrance Alma Campos of Forum Boutique had a table of her boutique designs on display. Joaquin Razo, the event planner for the Salazar event took me inside District 30 to reveal the set up for the evening’s red carpet event.

Luke Shawver of District 30 conveyed that several things were going to transpire during the evening in the club and surrounding establishments. He mentioned that DJ Chris Harnett would provide music for the evening and that drink specials were being offered at District 30, Pizza Rock and the Dive Bar.

District 30, along with other surrounding clubs, theaters and eateries on K Street look forward to increased traffic and hopefully increased business.

Legendary skateboarder Curtis Franklin was on hand to help the Salazar crew with the event. Franklin talked about skating in the 80s in Sacramento and said, “We used to come down to Sacramento and that’s how many of us met as kids.” Franklin noted that he skated with Stein saying, “He was a big guy back then and it’s still cool seeing him. Some of those boards are what I was doing when I was a kid.”

Franklin continues to skate and noted he has a skating set up in his back yard. I relayed that a neighbor of some friends had built a ramp in his backyard in Folsom and to my surprise Franklin knew who I was talking about.

Rekindling memories, Franklin stated with much enthusiasm, “Yeah, my buddy Roger, we all know each other. His last name is actually Folsom. When I was a kid, Roger and my buddy Randy Katen and others hung out with each other. Some of the guys you lose track of but everyone just keeps skating, or they stop and start skating as their kids begin.”

When asked why he was at the event, Franklin noted that he was there to support Salazar. Franklin’s passion for skating is quite evident and he noted the skating community is very tight. Franklin said, “Omar has the ability to bring people together, he’s really connected with the kids and he's a down to earth kid as well.”

In regards to the skateboarding community, Franklin explained that he was glad to see Salazar and others giving back to Sacramento. Franklin ended by saying, “It’s good that he’s giving back. If you don’t give back to this community you get kind of excommunicated. You have to know where you came from. I remember Omar skating with me when he was a little kid. He has a good family, good friends and a great foundation. He’s a positive and genuine kid.”

Pablo Salazar and Saidi later presented Franklin with a display board that read, “Their Perseverance Paved the Way for This Generation's Acceptance” and included the names of Sacramento skaters who continue to give back to the community. Names on the board included Matt Rodriguez, John Cardiel, Omar Salazar, Ricky Windsor, Brandon Biebel, Curtis Franklin, Stefan Janoski, Matt Palles and Mako Urabe.

Skaters enjoyed the ramps created by Casey Lindstrom. The Livermore native has lived in Sacramento for the past 14 years. When asked how long it took to build the ramps Lindstrom said, “It took about three days to put together the ramps and course. I build a lot of ramps for 28th and B (Skate Park).”

Lindstrom has been skating for over 25 years and also runs Casey’s Restoration, a construction business. He noted that lately he’s had a lot of free time and donates wood and other materials he may have during times of slow business. His commitment to skateboarding runs deep. “If I’m not working I’m doing something for the B,” Lindstrom said. Skaters keep him going and he explained, “Business has been slow and it’s a dog-eat-dog world. Skateboarding keeps me going and keeps people happy and that’s what it’s all about.”

District 30 celebrated the Cars on K Street after party that included the Nike SB shoe release and birthday party for Omar Salazar. Salazar celebrated with fans, friends and family.

Javalounge returns to rule the roast at 16th and Broadway

2011-11-16T22:59:23Z

To the dismay of musicians and coffee enthusiasts alike, Javalounge closed it's doors in December 2009 for what many believed to be the last time. A few brave souls tried their hand at harnessing the force of that location, but none could prove strong enough.

After watching coffee shops come and go, Javalounge owner Jake Albus decided it was time for round two. Alerting passersby with blood-like graffiti-style paint on the front window reading "Javalounge Lives", word spread like wildfire.

October 22 marked the official grand re-opening, complete with live acoustic performers, free cookies and turkey dogs, and the slightly updated beverage menu. This night set the tone for what is to come with Javalounge version 2.0.

Many remember the array of metal, hardcore, and punk bands that brought shaking walls, crazy mosh pits, and backflips off the infamous orange couch. However, Albus aims for a more universally appealing approach this time around. The art on the walls follows in the footsteps of the Skinner mural that once filled them, but the furniture has been tastefully updated, as has the menu and coming attractions.

Just months before their closing, Javalounge introduced beer. Version 2.0 has expanded that adult beverage list to include a variety of beers in addition to wine in the near future. To accompany this new found class, Albus hopes to mix up the genres of music he brings to the stage.

Prepare for art exhibits, Sunday brunches, live music, and the Old Soul coffee that got this landmark started. Come and see what they're all about at 2416 16th Street, near Broadway.

The Causeway Classic moves to art

2011-11-15T09:21:55Z

On every second friday of the month the small city of Davis, home to one of the most prestigious colleges in the state, is taking a great idea from Sacramento's "Second Saturday" and is spinning it there own way. Instead of music and art inside bars, resteraunts, cafe's, and art galleries like Sacramento does, Davis does it like a small town and puts the music outside at the E. St. Plaza and Central Park. The art is contained to one art Gallery named "John Natsoulas Center For the Arts".

In the Central Park they had a group of local DJ's spinning up and having a ball, while the E. St. Plaza had what sounded like a mariachi band but they were all white.

"It is great to know that you live in a town that wants to spend its second friday night together as a community." says Charles Gibson a UCD Student "It also gets my creative juices running"

Some Second Saturday super serious supporters might think of Davis as a parot of Sacramento's good ideas. Davis might be the first small town to have such a strong art following that they have there own art walk and you could have an art filled weekendsince Davis is only 15 miles away from Sacramento and vice versa

Disclosure: i went to the show but am not affiliated at all

Ladies Night Out VI at the Guild Theater

2011-11-15T07:09:41Z

The Historical Guild Theater in Oak Park featured this year’s final Ladies Night Out event this past Saturday evening. Host Terry Moore put together a program that featured music, poetry, comedy, dancing, a fashion show and motivational speaking.

“I listen carefully to the feedback I receive from each event and respond accordingly,” stated Moore when commenting on how he determines the lineup of entertainment for each show.

“Our patrons request many of our performers who have been featured at previous events, but I always make it a point to bring in new artists who are working hard and deserve the opportunity to be showcased in front of their hometown,” said Moore.

The special guest host for the evening was Lee Perkins, best known as the DJ host of the morning show at V101.1 radio. Perkins’ debonair personality and easygoing style was accentuated by his well tailored appearance. He joked easily with the performers while complimenting each act for their contributions to the evening’s success.

During the preshow, two local poets came out and warmed up the crowd with their heartfelt original compositions.

First came Poet Dan Blake who recited a poem entitled, “It.” This was followed by a piece entitled, “I love you,” wherein he expressed his deepest sentiments about the woman in his life.

Poet La Roc then took the stage and debuted her newest poem, “Black Queen.” In it she expressed why it is so important for Black women to maintain the dignity, poise and self-respect of a queen, even in the face of what may sometimes seem to be the overwhelming circumstances of life.

Before the show officially got underway, models from Javonne Soder’s Live to Model modeling school put on a dazzling display of fashion. Their outfits ranged from street wear casual to formal wear, and were designed to catch the eye of and compliment women regardless of their age or figure.

The Sacramento Soul Line dancers were the first performers to come on stage. The audience responded with appreciation as they demonstrated the well-choreographed moves of the “El Paso” line dance to the remix of Mary J. Blige’s hit song “Just Fine.”

The dancers’ outfits were all black with pink trim and each of them wore a matching t-shirt that displayed a nickname. Ladies Night Out host Moore was a surprise guest dancer who had the name “Poet” emblazoned across his back.

House band Ear Candy displayed their customary level of talent and professionalism while playing behind the curtains before the show began and providing live music for artists whenever asked.

Ear Candy features Brother Gary on the bass, Lemont Kelsey on percussion, Ray Shamsid-Deen on drums and Jordon Tholmer on the keyboards. Singer J’Neen accompanied the group and provided lead and background vocals during the evening.

Ear Candy band leader and lead guitarist Norman McDaniel showed his skill and experience on the Roland synthesized guitar during their rendition of the Quincy Jones’ track, “Secret Garden.”

Singers Tony R., Remy, Lanoris Louis and Tone Malone each took a turn on lead vocals while setting a sensual atmosphere as they crooned to the ladies in the audience.

During their extended interpretation of the classic hit song, the ladies of Live to Model surprised the audience when they emerged dressed seductively in lingerie. The models used the aisles as their catwalk and were well-received and appreciated by both the men and the women in the audience.

Guest Host Perkins then brought the vendors that were present at the event onstage and asked each to describe their wares or the nature of their services.

Comedian Steph Sanders took the stage next and had the audience laughing immediately after he acknowledged the recent loss of boxer Joe Frazier and rapper Heavy D.

Sanders displayed a wide range of comic ability with his jokes. He went from poking fun at the Soul Line Dancers to describing the difficulties of bouncing back from a night on the town partying after the age of 30.

Sanders demonstrated comedic spontaneity when he broke out dancing and perfectly mimicked the video routine of New Edition’s “Cool It Now” in the moments after he experienced a brief microphone malfunction.

Motivational Speaker Theodry Carruth was then introduced to the audience. Carruth was immaculately dressed in a business suit that symbolized the serious nature of the subject matter of her talk entitled, “How to Keep Your Man at Home.”

Carruth had both male and female members of the audience mesmerized as she described to the ladies how she surveyed and obtained her information from a wide variety of men from all around the county.

Her advice to the ladies ranged from simple things to demonstrate appreciation, love and affection, to suggestions of a more serious nature. Her ideas included such things as leaving love notes in his homemade lunch and preparing homemade meals as often as possible, to practical advice on how to stop nit-picking and make him feel miserable and “less than.”

Throughout Carruth’s presentation, the audience frequently responded audibly to the many points she made. This was especially true when she advised the ladies to stop telling their friends what he’s not doing and instead, let him know. Carruth counseled that a woman should compliment her man often, treat him to a night out once in awhile and to stop using him like a personal ATM machine.

Popular singer and musician Tone Malone, aka Soulfish McGee, took the stage and treated the crowd to a demonstration of his unique talents by playing the piano and singing an original composition entitled, “Funk Song.” During the tune, the audience reacted with spontaneous applause to the stellar solo performance of Ear Candy’s McDaniel on lead guitar.

Tone Malone completed his set with a soulful performance of D’Angelo’s track entitled, “Chicken Grease.”

Just before the intermission, Tina B’s Men of Soul had the ladies in the crowd cheering in approval as they took the stage and performed the line dance, “Act Like You Know,” to Jaheim’s hit track, “Ain’t Leaving Without You.” The Men of Soul followed this up with some smooth coordinated steps to the song “Can you Feel It,” by Kem.

“It’s my first time here and I had no idea all this was going on,” said Marty Long while catching a breath of fresh air in front of the Guild just before the intermission.

“The show is very entertaining and I’m enjoying myself. I’ll be back at the next event,” stated Long.

During the intermission, host Lee Perkins took the stage with the ladies and gentlemen of the Tina B’s Soul line and had a fun time stepping to the song “Wobble Baby Wobble” by V.I.C.

While the dancers were clowning around on stage during the break in the show, a long line formed in front of the Guild Theater as the patrons patiently waited for the opportunity to obtain some delicious barbecue. Simply Southern Café owners Michael Mullins and Lynnis Woods-Mullins parked their catering truck just outside and made sure no one who needed food or refreshment when away without it.

“This is a very classy event,” said Pamela Talacon who was attending Ladies Night Out for the first time with her husband Joe.

“I came with no ideas or expectations,” stated Talacon during the intermission. “It has been an uplifting evening and I particularly enjoyed the comedy and the Sacramento Soul Line Dancers.”

Immediately after the break, guest host Perkins introduced comedian Dru Burks as the featured performer for the second part of the show.

Burks, a seasoned veteran of the local comedy scene, demonstrated his comedic chops by immediately teasing those audience members who might confuse Oak Park with the midtown area of Sacramento.

Burks then requested a showing of those who loved their women. He received a huge laugh after he challenged all the men who responded to turn over their cell phones to their lady. He went on to describe with great humor how women are far smarter than men when it comes to cheating on their mates.

House band Ear Candy immediately responded to Burks’ request for some gospel music, whereupon he started making jokes about his troubles with ushers whenever he shows up late for church in order to avoid the multiple times the plate is passed.

The surprise of the evening came from Robert Lee, J-Styles and Trei-Knoxx, three young male singers who call themselves True Stylez.

True Stylez took the stage and captivated the audience with a brief a cappella rendition of the Boyz II Men standard, “The End of the Road.”

Throughout their set, the three young men were rewarded with intermittent spontaneous applause for their coordinated dance steps, harmonies and vocal skills. All three songs, “Kick Rocks,” “Drowning” and “Can’t Let You Go,” were original tunes.

The final vocalist of the evening was singer Lady G, who exhibited strong passion and exquisite voice control while singing the track ‘Someone Like You,” by Adele.

Host Perkins thanked the crowd for attending the event before the Men of Soul took the stage for the final time.

“It was a really good show,” stated Katherine Gales as she left the Guild Theater.

“I’d like to see Ladies Night Out more often,” said Gales.

The Ladies Night Out series will resume in the new year on January 28, 2012 with a brand new show featuring more of Sacramento’s local talent.

Be sure to contact Terry Moore well in advance at (916) 208-POET or fromtheheart1@hotmail.com to purchase your tickets. The event is guaranteed to be another inspirational and fun evening of entertainment.

Disclosure: Othello Curry was an active participant in this week's Ladies Night Out Event. Othello worked as a member of the event staff.

British invasion causes riot at Thunder Valley

2011-11-15T02:29:40Z

Herman’s Hermits with Peter Noone played to a full house of old diehard Herman’s Hermits fans at Thunder Valley Casino Resort’s Pano Hall Sunday night. That’s not to say everyone in the audience was old, just older than most.

The Noonatics, those who carry around vinyl albums and old Herman’s Hermits 8-tracks, may have known what they were in for, but I sure as bloody hell wasn’t.

The 64 year old rocker joined the British band as the lead singer (Herman) at the young age of 15. You do the math.

I went to see Herman’s Hermits to relax and enjoy some oldies but goodies, so when Noone took the stage and started singing, “I’m Into Something Good,” I was thinking, “Ahhhh, this is perfect.”

Then the bloody bloke started yapping and from that point on there was no relaxing for anyone. All we could do was laugh at the bugger. He’s completely bollocks!

He explained to everyone that a friend told him that Sacramento, Yuba City and Clarksburg were way out in the country and if he wanted to make us happy he had to play some country music. He started singing Johnny Cash’s, “Ring of Fire,” resulting in the audience laughing throughout the song.

Noone was all over the map, singing songs from Johnny Horton, Tom Jones, Mick Jagger, and of course Herman’s Hermits hits as well.

At one point, one of the noonatics in the front row pulled out an old vinyl album cover from years and years ago. Noone, the mad hatter that he is, grabbed the album and stuck it over his face, displaying the old photo of himself. He then started singing and marching across the stage. It was quite comical.

Another rant was about looking like Nick Nolte. He said as he was coming through the casino someone stopped him and asked about the show. They got all excited, screaming as they pointed at him, “Hey! You’re Nick Nolte.”

In between jokes he actually did sing a hit or two. This guy has a great voice and as soon as the band started up any of their past hits, the audience erupted in cheers and clapping.

Those that could still stand did.

Noone sang most of their hits including "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," "I'm Henry the Eighth, I Am” and “There’s a Kind of Hush.”

Prior to the show, Noone went out of his way to engage people, shaking their hands and saying hi. You could tell he lives for this stuff and thoroughly enjoys it.

After the show, a path was cleared by the ever so diligent security staff at Thunder Valley to make way for Noone as he made his way to the exit. There he started signing autographs and chatting it up with anyone who would listen. The guy just can’t help himself – It’s who he is. After all, what do you expect from the son of an accountant!

Peter Noone is the real deal. Not only does he sing, but he entertains too – with a smile.

Sing-Along Messiah Tradition Returns to South Sacramento Dec. 11

2011-11-14T23:04:30Z

Singers and audience members are invited to a free "Sing-Along Messiah" concert Sunday, December 11, starting 4 p.m. at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5625-24th Street, Sacramento (off Fruitridge Road between Freeport Boulevard and Highway 99). Ample free parking is available.

Choral conductors from area churches and schools will take turns leading the massed volunteer choir, which is expected to consist of more than 100 singers. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Messiah music scores; a limited quantity of Messiah scores will be available for purchase ($10) at the door.

"By popular demand, we are repeating last year's very successful event, says Dr. May Tuan Tucker, Bethany Church music director. "This year's concert will again offer the opportunity of singing solos to anyone and everyone wishing to perform them in group fashion at the front of the church." She points out that most Sing-Along Messiah events feature guest soloists, with participation by all others limited to chorus selections. The 2010 Sing-Along Messiah attracted participation by more than 200 people from throughout the region.

There is no charge to participate as a singer or audience member, and free refreshments will be served following the concert. A goodwill offering will be taken to benefit the South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership Food Closet, which is struggling to provide emergency supplies of groceries to thousands of in-need area residents this holiday season.

The Messiah, composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741, is based on biblical passages that tell the story of Christ. This musical celebration has since become a Christmas tradition in many parts of the world. The December 11 concert will feature primarily the Christmas portions of the Messiah, and will include the triumphant "Hallelujah Chorus."

Singers of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend either or both of the informal "drop in" rehearsals prior to the December 11 concert. Rehearsals are set for Sundays at 4 p.m. at Bethany Church on November 20 and December 4. For more details, contact May Tucker at (916) 428-5281 or e-mail cathy@bethpres.com.

A downloadable flyer is available at www.bethpres.com.

The Sing-Along Messiah is presented by volunteers of Bethany Presbyterian Church, which is the oldest Presbyterian church in the South Sacramento/Land Park area. Bethany has long been known for its "welcoming" attitude and openness to all, regardless of background or faith tradition. The church's guiding vision affirms that in all things church members are to be "authentic, loving, caring, compassionate, courageous, accepting, and people of hope, joy and love." The Rev. Lorie Sprinkle has served as pastor since 2007. Bethany is the host site of the South Sacramento Interfaith Partnership Food Closet and the Southeast Asian Assistance Center, as well as the venue for diverse community group gatherings such as the Sacramento Banjo Band, the Daughters of Scotia and the Capital City Squares square dance club. Bethany, which was founded in Oak Park and eventually relocated to South Sacramento due to freeway construction, will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014.

Disclosure: Cathy is Hospitality Commission Chairperson at Bethany Presbyterian Church.

Cirque Shanghai’s Bai Xi

2011-11-14T04:21:33Z

The Cirque Shanghai’s Bai Xi put on a breathtaking show Thursday and Friday night at Thunder Valley Casino Resort, playing to a standing room-only crowd both nights.

Bai Xi translates to “100 amazing acts.” However, I only counted 16, but they were 16 amazing displays of physical strength and grace. The show was full of spectacular colors, talented young men, women and a number of young girls. It was a magical night with some mind-boggling performances and a variety of visually stunning costumes.

As the show opened, the performers started in the back of Pano Hall dressed in spectacularly colorful costumes. Working their way through the audience with a winking parade-style dragon and waving giant flags, they were saying hi to audience members and shaking hands.

Once onstage they immediately started in with their incredible balancing act with a unicycle riding on top of a red umbrella and then appearing to fall off stage.

These guys had everything from contortionists to roller skating, including juggling pottery and even juggling hats!

The contortionists, dressed in yellow, ranged from little girls to young women. They started by arranging themselves in a single-file row from front to back, with the smallest in the front as they spread their arms out. They started climbing over each other, bending into unimaginable positions. It was quite the spectacle.

Next up was a number of young men balancing on a single ladder. As one man made his way on stage, he was balanced on a ladder, wiggling his way to center stage. Once there another man climbed on from behind and made his way to the shoulders of the first man. They finally ended up with four men balanced on the ladder.

At one point a number of young kids came out stuffed in colorful barrels, and I mean stuffed. These kids were very bendable, and at one point there was one in one end of the barrel and another in the other end and then they would trade off balancing each other on the one end. Crazy!

There was an awesome hat routine that was very well choreographed. These guys made their routine look deceptively easy, until they called a few audience members onstage to help them out.

That was when I noticed Rachel Steele, lead singer of local country rock band Road 88, sitting in the audience. As they were looking for volunteers it was obvious that Steele did not have her hand up, but one of the men went right to her and insisted she come up onstage. It was funny watching Steele, who is used to leading, having to follow these guys as they directed her, and three other audience members through several routines.

I’m thinking with fellow Road 88 band members Scott Prentice and Billy Haggard in attendance that they had prearranged Steele’s selection. Steele was definitely caught off guard and very entertaining.

Steele was doing a great job, and you could tell she felt this was in the bag when they had her dancing and clapping her hands above her head. However, once they started showing her their hat routine, she had quite a bit of difficulty duplicating their moves.

The other two audience members didn’t fare any better than Steele, but kudos to the young lady who actually did a cartwheel, much to the audience’s delight.

This was a fast-paced show with stunning acrobatics, gymnastics and a whole lot of grace. The only downside of the night was the height of the stage. During several acts the stage was so low that it was difficult to see what was going on. Luckily there were only a few parts where it was difficult to see.

I’m sure they will be back to perform at Thunder Valley again, and if they do, you don’t want to miss it!

Minus the Bear: Ten Year Anniversary Tour

2011-11-09T02:49:11Z

With the cover art pattern used on their seminal debut LP, "Highly Refined Pirates," as their backdrop, and a light show on acid, Seattle's Minus the Bear thrilled a packed house at Ace of Spades on Monday night.

The band is wrapping up their 10 Year Anniversary Tour, celebrating a decade of music and performing “Pirates,” released in 2002, in its entirety.

The popular math-rockers put on a tremendous performance for a very jazzed audience. Featuring guitarist Dave Knudson's signature complex finger-tapping guitar work - used on every song on “Pirates,” the band combined powerhouse indie band swagger with down-to-earth Northwestern charm.

Songs like "Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse" and "Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister," which sound good and maybe even a little quirky when recorded, gained heft and intensity when played live. During "'Absinthe," a flashing light sequence kicked in when the verses turned into the more up-tempo choruses. This complemented the music perfectly, although for much of the show, three thin light panels backlighting the band were a bit much and a bit distracting.

"We've been playing our first album across the country," said Snider. "This is the third to last show of the tour. It's been a fucking awesome ten years and thank you Sacramento for being a part of it!"

Opening for Minus the Bear was Santa Rosa's, The Velvet Teen.

Photos by Steven Chea

Thrice tour stops at Ace of Spades

2011-11-08T06:40:20Z

It was a nearly sold-out show at Ace of Spades Sunday night. Thrice, hailing from Irvine, Calif., headlined an excellent post-hardcore bill.

Opening for a healthy-sized audience was the band, Moving Mountains, an intriguing group of musicians who captured the room's attention immediately. With a complex and multi-layered sound, their atmospheric rock songs set a great tone for the rest of the night.
Atlanta-based O'Brother was musically in the same vein; a melodic three-guitar sonic assault marrying the atmospheric with the distorted. A solid showing, but when they went ambient, they went ambient. At times they seemed to meander as some songs drifted slowly past the five minute mark.

Main support was La Dispute, a very impressive five-piece band from Grand Rapids, Mich.

"It's been about a year since we've been out to the West Coast, and that's an absolute crime, because I don't know if there's a place where we have a better time," said appreciative vocalist Jordan Dreyer.

Fist around microphone and microphone cable wrapped around fist, the barefoot and constantly moving Dreyer shouted his spoken-word style lyrics with raw intensity, complemented perfectly with delicately explosive rhythm and powerful, technical guitar work.
A comparison to defunct frenetic El Paso, Tex. band, At The Drive-In, is easy to make because of Dreyer's voice, delivery and the chaotic harmony of the music. On the other hand, the easier-to-swallow guitar melodies and Dreyer's realistic, confessional lyrics are a couple of areas that set this band apart.

"It’s only temporary, that fleeting feeling of warmth. Just a flash before the line gets blurry. Between a longing for more than what the body wants now and what the body wants now more than anything."
Thrice has been around for thirteen years and has a serious and passionate following. To a new fan, the anticipation was thick in the air and when the band took the stage the release from the crowd was palpable.

Opening strong with lead track, "Yellow Belly," from their new album “Major/Minor,” their set was heavy on critically well-received new material, including "Promises," "Call It In The Air" and "Treading Paper." They also played a number of tracks from 2009's “Beggars;” among them, "All The World Is Mad," "The Weight," "In Exile" and "Circles;" taking the audience on a journey through the different styles and nuances the band has experienced lyrically and musically up to this point in their career.

It was clear the older material was held in high regard; the frenzied crowd and their pumping fists were jolted with energy when the band played tracks from 2003's “The Artist in the Ambulance.”

Fans come and go as bands experiment and mature, and after hearing the music and speaking with some fans, Thrice is doing a good job of continuing to delight as they evolve musically.

"The music, the beats, everything," said Sara Molina, 25, of Dixon. "Everything meshes together; their music is amazing!"

The guys in Thrice are also humanitarians, and took a moment to raise awareness about Invisible Children, a group they support and one that is currently on tour with them.

Invisible Children is a movement seeking to end the conflict in Uganda and stop the abduction of children for use as child soldiers. The band specifically asked for support in building radio towers in the Congo for communication directly with the child soldiers in an effort to bring them home. Kudos to Thrice for using their platform to inspire change and educate others about a worthy cause.

Photos by Steven Chea

Crocker Art Museum Presents Art Mix: Funk Lab on November 10

2011-11-07T19:57:57Z

The fantastical world of Clayton Bailey will transform the Crocker Art Museum for Art Mix: Funk Lab on Thursday, November 10, from 5 to 9 p.m. Inspired by Bailey’s robot sculptures and pop ray guns fashioned from discarded aluminum, the evening features a pop ray gun shooting range, dancing to sci-fi film soundtracks, a series of live-action trailers by Scavenger Theatre, and robotic inventions from the University of California, Davis, including iMobot.

“Clayton Bailey’s World of Wonders,” the first career-spanning retrospective featuring the work of the ceramist, sculptor, and self-proclaimed “mad scientist,” is currently on view at the Museum through January 15, 2012.

Tickets for Funk Lab are free to Museum members and free with admission for nonmembers. Tickets are available for purchase at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling (916) 808-1182. Funk Lab is co-sponsored by UC Davis’ K-14 Outreach Center for Computing and STEM Education.

Art Mix is part of the Museum’s Thursdays ‘til 9 program series, sponsored by Bank of America. The Crocker is open every Thursday until 9 p.m. for film screenings, social gatherings, concerts, and art happenings presented in collaboration with regional art groups.

The Crocker Art Museum was one of the first art museums in the U.S. and is now one of the leading art institutions in California. Established in 1885, the Museum features one of the country’s finest collections of Californian art, exceptional holdings of master drawings, a comprehensive collection of international ceramics, as well as European, Asian, African, and Oceanic art. The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in Downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday–Sunday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thursdays. Every Third Sunday of the month is “Pay What You Wish Sunday” sponsored by Bank of America. For more information, call (916) 808-7000 or visit crockerartmuseum.org.

Disclosure: Kathleen Richards has been a fan of the Crocker Art Museum since her very first visit in fourth grade, and she now serves as the Crocker's Marketing Coordinator.

Uptown Fashion Night in East Sacramento

2011-11-07T06:20:52Z

What is chic? A long list of customers found out firsthand Thursday night at “Uptown Fashion Night: Celebrating a Piece of East Sac.”

The event was hosted by Sandra Gonzalez, owner of Sparkle Bridal Couture; Mary Kawano, owner of Krazy Mary’s Fashion Boutique; and Peggy Orr, owner of The Pink House Shoe Boutique. All three shops opened their doors to customers, offering special sales during the evening.

The three shops occupy Folsom Boulevard at 33rd Street, and on Thursday night the area was alive with music, shoppers, friends and neighbors. Pure Entertainment provided DJ services. Delicious food and drinks were also served as guests enjoyed an exclusive shopping experience.

Sparkle Bridal specializes in wedding and special occasion gowns for sizes 14-30. The boutique had many elegant, stylish and sophisticated gowns to fit many tastes.

“We opened this year, but our family has been in the bridal business for 20 years, so we know our stuff,” Gonzalez said. “I wanted to open up something new, something different.”

Gonzalez, Kawano and Orr joined forces to put Uptown Fashion Night together and, as Gonzalez put it, “to remind people that we have boutiques on this side of Sacramento.”

“We’re trying to highlight that there’s downtown, Midtown, and here we are in East Sac, which we’re now calling it Uptown,” said Gonzalez, pointing out nearby coffee shops, eateries and other businesses in the area.

For the fashion show, Sparkle Bridal provided cocktail dresses and bridal gowns. Gonzales pointed out Erica Felton of Haus of Mirth, an in-house designer with exclusive lines and several bridal accessories.

“I used to be the head crafter for the opera in San Jose and other theaters, and I’ve done a couple of Disney productions,”Felton said. “I do a lot of crafting, belts, masks and hats for other people, and then I decided to do my own line.”

The models for the show were all local, and some were even clients and friends. Strands Salon and Spa did the hair and makeup. Strands incorporated their spring 2012 look so people could get an idea of what’s coming up from the salon.

Gonzalez’s enthusiasm for her shop and customers manifested itself as she pointed out a couple of young women who came to support Sparkle Bridal.

The two brides-to-be were Faye Bowles, who has a May 5 wedding date, and Naomi Rubenstein, who will be getting married on May 26. They said their wedding gown selections were already done. They seemed like longtime friends, but they had only met each other half an hour before.

At another station, stylist Robyn Groves from Stella & Dot showcased her fashionable accessories. Customers flocked to her tables and as guests sipped on their Sparkletinis and hors d’oeuvres.

“This is like the perfect venue for this,” Groves said. “The lights are right on it, and customers have a lot to choose from.”

The fashion show included 10 looks from Krazy Mary’s Boutique, and Kawano was busy greeting customers at their booth.

“I love it,” Kawano said. “This is the first time I’ve had to talk to people and mingle. We worked so hard for this event. When you do a group event, you can’t slack even if you want to.”

Kawano, who has been in business for 11 years, is quite an enthusiastic person, driven to make sure her customers are taken care of. She seemed to know most customers by name and was always jovial and caring as she talked to them.

“Coming home to East Sac has been enjoyable,” she said. “I feel my customers are getting older and I’m getting older, and so I have to change with my customers. You have to in this economy.”

Her passionate commitment to her boutique and keeping up with current fashion trends keeps her customers coming back. She feels that in her boutique you’ll find something that you might find in a fashion magazine.

“In fashion you have to get excited and bring great things to our customers,” she said. “I ordered winter stuff five months ago. I want my customers to be excited to see what’s going on for fall and the holidays before they’re here.”

Food and drinks were also available at Krazy Mary’s, with a DJ station manned by Roger Carpio.

Peggy Orr purchased The Pink House last September, but the store has been there four years. She said she used to be a customer, which in itself is a great endorsement.

“I was born and raised in East Sacramento,” she said. “ I just think it’s the best place in Sacramento. It’s a unique place to live.”

Elegant, classy and chic shoes, handbags and accessories were displayed throughout the store, which strives to carry merchandise for all ages. In the fashion show, they showcased handbags, scarves and jewelry.

The fashion show capped the night and showcased things available from each of the three shops. Visiting each of these businesses gave new customers a small peek as to what is available in East Sacramento, or Uptown as it may begin to be called.

The three boutiques continued to entertain guests after the fashion show.

Krazy Mary’s, The Pink House and Sparkle Bridal are great representations of businesses in the area, and Uptown Fashion Night appeared to be a great success.

Day of the Dead

2011-11-04T21:55:13Z

La Raza Galería Posada (LRGP) once again gathered 50 organizations, artists and community members at their annual Panteón de Sacramento (Sacramento’s Cemetery). The event is in commemoration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

La Raza Galería Posada is located at 1022-1024 22nd Street. This year the event moved down the street to 1015 20th Street at J Street.

The event was held on the last Saturday and Sunday of October and had many more hands on activities for visitors. The two day and evening festivities displayed altars dedicated to family members and loved ones who have passed away.

Local not for profit organizations, area artists, families and individuals built colorful altars that were on display and the event attracted several thousand guests.

Roberto Lopez, from LRGP, served as emcee and conducted tours during the event to give more information about the meaning of altars and Día de los Muertos. For readers not familiar with the event Día de los Muertos is a traditional Meso-American holiday dedicated to ancestors honoring both death and life.

In Mexico, and now other parts of the world, neighbors and families gather at graveyards to share food, music, have fun and remember those who have died.

LRGP is also hosting an exhibition honoring Día de los Muertos. The exhibition, funded by the James Irvine Foundation has been on display since October 7 and will close on Saturday November 12.

The gallery exhibit features Danny Correa’s "New Year's Eve at the Rancho Correa." The exhibit celebrates his great grandparents’ ranch near Elk Grove. Personal family heirlooms of the Correa family are part of the exhibit including candelabras, pottery, Correa’s grandfather’s acoustic guitar and life size skeletons dressed in their best New Year’s Eve clothing, jewelry and accessories.

The LRGP’s smaller gallery is hosting an exhibit by Southern California artist Martha Rameriz-Oropez. Original illustrations from the book “The Toltec I-Ching” are featured.

Hands on activities were available at the Panteón de Sacramento for those who attended .Sugar skull decorating workshops, paper marigold flower making, Día de los Muertos mask decoration and face painting were available.

Thirty volunteers from the AmeriCorps were on hand to help with the event. The National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) division of AmeriCorps volunteers spent time helping wherever they could and also enjoyed participating in some of the events.

Assigned spots were given to altar creators who registered up to months in advance. Work started very early as people began constructing their altars beginning at 6 in the morning and NCCC volunteers were there at 7 on Saturday morning.

The Panteón opened for the public at 11:00 a.m. and I noticed that several people who created altars last year returned.

Danza Azteca-Xantotl also returned from last year and conducted the opening ceremony. After several dances they invited the public to perform the Friendship Dance making this a much more delightful experience for those who participated.

Most of the altars were created using the traditional flower of the dead cempazuchitl (marigolds), papel picado, candles, photos of the loved one who have passed away, pan de muerto (Mexican sweet bread), religious artifacts and other items portraying the dead.

There was also a small stage were DJ Larry Rodriguez and DJ Albert Garnica played background music. The stage was also used for a poetry reading by Escritores Del Nuevo Sol. An open mic was also available where other original poetry was read.

The stage was also graced by the presence of Eduardo López Martínez who had flown up from Mexico a couple of days before. Martínez delighted the audience with his stories delivered via song and dramatic performance. His stories touched on many topics as he sang, in Spanish, songs about life, death, politics, family, dance and humor.

Martínez indicated that he had to put his performances together in a hurry. He put a wonderful selection of songs, sayings and stories that would fit the Day of the Dead celebration.

Martínez came up a couple of days before the event at the request of LRGP’s Marie Acosta. He flew in from Cuernavaca Mexico a couple of days before the event. He was planning on spending a week in the area.

As we spoke Martínez said he had not been in the Sacramento area in 15 years. He also noted the altars were very artistic in detail but noted that tradition has been lost on several of the exhibitions. He said, “I believe tradition makes things much simpler. The altars here give the feeling of being more urban and the tradition is more agricultural.” This made me realize that as the tradition moves to the States and other countries that it will change depending on past and present culture.

Martínez also noted that items placed on the altar, he believed, should include food and water for the traveling dead so that they can pass to their next destination and enjoy their brief stay with the living. Photographs, flowers, food, water and things that the deceased enjoyed while living ought to be included while creating altars. He also noted that the marigold flowers or pedals should be put down in a manner that it leads a path to the altar. Candles are also used to light the way to the altars.

Listening to Martinez speak it brought back memories of my childhood. I remember celebrating Día de los Muertos when I was growing up and more distinctively I remember one of my grandmothers had an altar in the corner of a room that remained up all year. Photographs and small memorabilia along with a candle and a fresh flower honored family members who had passed away.

The Panteón also included an altar for the public to place offerings. This altar had many notes to loved ones who had passed away and offered visitors a way to participate.

Marco Ferrero, author/artist/photographer, presented part of his book Hidden Truth - La Viuda de Don Marcos (Don Marcos’ widow).

The story was inspired by factual moments and people in Ferrero’s life. The book will eventually be put to film and his book is only the beginning of a larger project.

Ferrero made a dramatic entrance as he walked around the Panteón with folklorico dancer Julia Wolfe and Trisha Pickerel.

Later their performance began with the magnificent voice of Veronica Esparza P singing several “Ranchera” songs in Spanish. Veronica wore a beautiful golden mariachi style outfit and her face was painted to fit the Día de los Muertos décor.

After a few songs which included Tomas Mendez’ “Una Blanca Palomita” (A Little White Dove) Marco Ferrero took the stage to read a short story included at the end of his book Hidden Truth. The folklore story is included as part of the book he’s been working on for the past 15 years. Ferrero also had an altar devoted to people he’s loved, who have had a great impact in his life and who are no longer with us.

Before Ferrero embarked on his story and in the voice and persona of Don Marco he said, “I was fortunate to run into someone 3 days ago who passed away and she asked me that if my daughter happens to be at the Panteón will you deliver a message to her?”

Ferrero continued to speak as Don Marco, “Even though I’m dead, I still have feelings. My grandmother’s name was Flora and her favorite flower was a lily and the lady that I ran into, her name was Lily and she said can you please deliver a message to my daughter? Tell her I’m okay, I’m at peace now. Now that I can finally move on it’s time for you to move on and it’s okay, it’s time to take care of yourself because you have been taking care of me for many years."

With a compassionate voice Don Marco continued, “I brought with me a lily to give to… I believe her name is Pat Taylor. Is there a Pat Taylor here?” Don Marco gave the flower to the daughter of a dear friend Candice Bima who had passed away.

As Taylor came to the stage to receive the lily tears rolled down her cheeks obviously moved by the offering. Others in the audience felt her emotion and also shed tears as Taylor returned to her seat.

Ferrero went on to read Viuda de Don Marco which told the story of a peasant girl by the name of Esperanza (Hope). As the story continued it told of the girl’s love for a young nobleman by the name of Marco. Esperanza and Marco fell in love and they planned to elope and marry.

Death fell upon Don Marco and no-one knew what caused his death. Ferrero stopped his story at this time and invited Veronica Esparza P to come back to the stage to sing a couple of more songs and he would continue his story after that.

After a couple of songs Ferrero informed the audience that because time had run out he would be unable to continue the story but said the story has a very happy ending.

Ferrero and Wolfe danced on stage as Veronica Esparza P sang "La Llorona."

Close to the stage a young woman dressed as a bride in Día de los Muertos makeup stood by an altar she and her mother had built. Katie said, “My altar is for my dad. I did not have the time to say goodbye to him, this is my way of saying goodbye.”

Bev is a single mother and shared that Leo, Katie’s dad, had passed away on May 25 from advanced liver cancer. Bev said that Leo kept in contact with Katie.

Neighbor Armando Flores told them about the Panteón and Katie said, “This was like the first major loss to me. With the altar we celebrate him and who he was so this way I can still hold on to him even though he’s not here.”

Katie shared that a Sierra Mist and Skittles on the altar was something special for her. She said, “Whenever he came to visit, when he could, he brought Skittles and because my mom said I couldn’t have caffeinated drinks he would bring Sierra Mist or Sprite. That was like our hang out drink and candy.”

The Brown’s touching story was similar to others who had built altars to loved ones. Each altar has a special meaning to those who created them and their stories are in many cases quite emotional and at the same time they seem to bring closure to personal relationships that were cut short.

Boston Takes Over the Naked Lounge This Tuesday

2011-11-03T06:38:39Z

In the mood for a low-country Regina Spektor-meets-Jimmy Buffett-on-whiskey act followed by a Dave Matthews crossed with a beached-out Buddy Holly number? Well, you can... this coming Tuesday, November 8 at the Naked Lounge in downtown Sacramento (1111 H St.), starting at 8:30. This all ages show features two of California's up-and-coming, on-the-scene singer-songwriters, Jo Elless (www.joelless.com) and Mike Macchia & Tyler Canaday (Mike's Lost and Found, http://www.youtube.com/TheMikeMacchia). Midwest and northeastern roots, with a little dixie thrown in for good measure, Jo Elless is a Berklee-trained multi-instrumentalist who arranges her songs for wind orchestra (all of the instruments, of course, she performs herself-- ranging from flutes to tinier flutes to saxophones and various clarinets). Her songs feature musings of foggy, city, subway life and Decemberists-like folk tales of the deserted south. Her latest album, Copley Inbound, received national acclaim, including landing Elless a spot on the cover of the magazine Saxophone Journal. Coincidentally, Boston native Mike Macchia will also perform along with Tyler Canady, in the form of Mike's Lost and Found (it's also his birthday, so join in the party!) follow her with a blend of sultry, acoustic rock sure to get you kickin' back, tapping your toe, and reminding you of past summers in love. It's all this coming Tuesday, November 8 starting at 8:30 at Sacramento's downtown Naked Lounge, 1111 H St. Sacramento CA 95814.

Disclosure: Sacramento music scene columnist

Photos: Foo Fighters at Power Balance Pavilion

2011-11-03T01:24:42Z

After an original Oct. 20 show date that had to be rescheduled, alt-rock powerhouse Foo Fighters performed at Power Balance Pavilion on Tuesday night for about 10,000 fans.

Opening the show was fantastic L.A. punk band The Bronx, playing as their alter-ego Mariachi El Bronx, which is less a gimmick than you might think.

What started as a lark for the punk band has grown into a love that has seen the band release two mariachi albums and gain a following, and, yes, they stay true to the authentic mariachi style of music as well as wear black charro suits.

The band performs in a variety of ways, sometimes incorporating mariachi into their punk set, sometimes performing as a punk band and mariachi band on consecutive nights, and sometimes having one band open up for the other.

Following Mariachi El Bronx was Cage the Elephant from Bowling Green, Ky. The band found success with their 2009 single "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked" and have been touring constantly since then. Vocalist Matthew Schultz is known for stage diving at Cage performances, and this night was no exception.

"Promise me one thing," Schultz told the crowd from the stage. "If I jump into the crowd and get knocked unconscious, I want you to promise to keep passing my body around and having a good time!"

And then it was time for the rock.

With seven studio albums and tons of singles to their credit, the Foo Fighters had plenty of popular material to draw from.

Excited fans in the house received a high-energy 23-song rock 'n' roll set that lasted over two hours and was worth the wait.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Mastodon's Beastly Inspiration

2011-11-02T00:44:22Z

Amongst the buzz saw riffs lies a tale twisted as knotted lumber’s grain. It was chiselled, grinded, and chipped at until the words surrounding that deep woods howl splintered as if to catch beneath your skin.

That, at least, could be one way to look at the fresh cut tune “Curl of the Burl,” from the latest album by heavy metal craftsmen Mastodon. The song’s title refers to the bloated burr growths swelling under the bark of injured hardwood trees. Such deformities hold a special beauty to certain artisans.

“There’s a group of people in the Pacific North West… They get hopped up on meth, get in their trucks and go into the woods with their chainsaws to hunt for the burl in various trees,” Mastodon singer and bassist Troy Sanders says of the strangely gnarly prey these rabidly fiendish predators work to uproot and mow down.

He went on to describe the value of those knots, which warp the wood in such a beautifully rare fashion that furniture makers and sculptors will pay top dollar.

“These meth addicts will fill their trucks up with these burls, take them into town, sell them to these wood sculptors,” Sanders added. “They take the money and re-up on their meth, then go back in the woods. It’s kind of this crazy circle of insanity.”

Such a tightly wound cycle could aptly describe the songs that accompanied “Curl of the Burl,” on their latest album, The Hunter. The band severed out several of those songs in a slipshod matter, leaving a leaner offering than anything their listeners are used to- especially compared to the ten minute operatic anthems that rounded out their previous release, Crack the Skye.

That album was the most complex they’d ever crafted, and not only on a technical level. Its lyrical narrative centered around a quadriplegic’s out of body experience, a celestial journey that helps him see Stephen Hawking’s scientific wormhole theories up close, then glimpse the impending assassination of Rasputin before striving to save the Russian Tsar from that grisly fate.

Those bizarre themes were concocted by Mastodon drummer Brann Dailor. They stemmed from two decades worth of rescue fantasies starring his sister Skye, who succumbed to suicide at the age of 14.

“Brann approached us and said ‘Guys, I think I’d like to explore this though our music.’ And we said ‘Hey man, if you want to go there that’s fine. We’ll go there with you," Sanders says of the band's pledge to their tenacious drummer. "He wanted to ultimately have a record based on her memory, her spirit, and have something that would live forever.”

The album connected with fans on a level the band hadn’t reached since they released Leviathan in 2004. Both discs featured the intricate song stylings fans had come to expect and adore. And that earlier album also featured a high concept that equalled Crack the Skye's. Leviathan’s lyrical narrative was loosely based around Herman Melville’s classic epic “Moby-Dick.” Songs like “I am Ahab,” and “Seabeast,” still bring crowds to an uproar at Mastodon’s gigs. But the album’s standout track was “Iron Tusk,” named for the rusty harpoon Ahab obsessively longed to pierce the elusive mammoth’s flesh with.

“Within the book Melville refers to the whale as a sea salt mastodon, so it just felt like it was a perfect fit,” Sanders says of the timeless passage that inspired the song title and album’s concept. “It paralleled with how we were feeling in our own band, (after) 200 days a year in our white van. We were like ‘what are we searching for? Are we driven, or are we crazy, or is it a little bit of both?’ It completely mirrored Ahab.”

And just like that fictional sailor’s hulking, floating, elusive muse—or the ghost of Skye that tenderly lingered throughout the recording and tour behind Crack the Skye—the band also pursued a similarly haunting creature on their latest album.

It's a gaping triple jawed beast, its two horns jutting forth like tree branches- a charging minotaur that adorns the album cover of The Hunter. That image didn’t stem from a painting (unlike the cover art for Mastodon's other albums). Instead of a flimsy easel, it was crafted from a burly, curling, warped woodwork.

The towering 3 dimensional wood carving (depicted in a photo on the album’s cover) was the creation of AJ Fosik (who’s work can be viewed at this link http://www.fecalface.com/SF/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1581&Itemid=92). The Philadelphia based wood sculptor’s creations look like psychedelic totem poles, or a perverted taxidermist's rendition of peacock bright muti-eyed carnivores from a forgotten tribal legend.

As the band hammered out fresh tunes for The Hunter near a mixing board, Fosik toiled away on the minotaur in his Philadelphia art studio- his saws and chisels rabidly gnawing at the wood as if they were fangs frothed with sawdust instead of saliva. Those simultaneous projects were captured in a music video for the album's lead single ‘Black Tongue’ (the clip can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwgqenxNUfs).

“We’re big fans of anything prehistoric and mythological. So we knew AJ’s epic wood carvings were a perfect fit for our new, rawer songs,” Sanders says of Fosik’s savage stylings, before pondering what such a ghastly creature could possibly symbolize. “That minotaur, that beast, could represent anything. It could be us, or it could be something we’re hunting for.”

Mastodon will perform at the Ace of Spades on Nov. 2. For more information visit mastodonrocks.com/tour or aceofspadessac.com.

Master Singers' Season Opener is a Gem

2011-10-31T03:33:06Z

The American River College Theater was sold out Friday evening as the Sacramento Master Singers presented a wonderful ensemble concert to begin their 26th season.

“From Sand to Pearls: A Choral Tribute to Perla Warren” honored the longtime music instructor with an ambitious program involving four choral groups, several supporting instrumentalists and a solo jazz pianist.

Many of the musicians were former students of Warren and credited her with the transformation of young voices into accomplished musicians.

Dr. Ralph Hughes, artistic director of the Master Singers and a colleague of Warren, is also the director of the 26-voice American River College Chamber Orchestra. He led his young singers through a quartet of challenging pieces, singing in Italian, Latin, Cuban Spanish and the non-verbal language of Hutcheson’s “Lament for a Lost Child,” performed in eerie darkness with only tiny blue lights held beneath the chins of the singers.

This performance was testimony to the quality of the music program at ARC, and it seems certain that many of these talented students will go on to develop the depth and maturity evident in the alumni singers who followed.

1990-92 alumnus Jim Martinez is a classical and jazz pianist with an impressive résumé. He honored his former teacher with a sparkling medley of Hoagy Carmichael’s “Skylark” and the Harry Warren/Mack Gordon classic “There Will Never Be Another You.”

Another alumnus of Warren’s classes is Julie Adams, who directs the choir she founded in 2000, Reconciliation Singers Voices for Peace. RSVP is a talented group of slightly older singers who donate their time and talents to provide both beautiful music and financial contributions to local charitable organizations.

RSVP began their set with a whimsical, upbeat and complicated tongue-twister involving a poet and bananas, set in very difficult mixed meters. Their lovely rendition of the traditional “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” featured solos by tenor David Saul Lee and alto Gaw Vang.

Moodswing is a jazz quartet from the Bay Area, and Julie Ford and husband Paul Ford were both shaped and trained by Warren. Their sound is very close, tight harmony in a classic jazz idiom. Opening with Al Jarreau’s “Mornin’” and ending with the fabulous “Bernie’s Tune” from the 1950s, they delivered a clear and respectful reading of the genre. Yet it was the powerful and haunting “Calling You” from the film “Bagdad Café” which touched the audience with the strength of this quartet’s connection to their ARC roots.

The Sacramento Master Singers began their set with one of the most sprightly of Bach’s motets, “Der Geist hilft unser Achwachheit auf,” featuring a double chorus in a light and uplifting mosaic of voices.

In an early nod to the Christmas season, the women sang a delightful hymn of praise and rejoicing, “Gaudete!” The men followed with a beautiful arrangement of “The First Noel” and concluded their set with the charming and playful “Yo le canto todo el dia” including some complex hand-clapped rhythms.

As a finale, all the singers formed a mass chorus to present three lovely pieces, including one written by Paul Winter and Paul Halley based on themes heard in the eerie, plaintive recorded cries of a tundra wolf, and then echoed by the choir and soprano saxophonist Jason Galbraith. It was a haunting and unusual Kyrie from a Mass celebrating the whole Earth as a sacred place.

Warren’s choral groups, the American River College Chamber Singers and the American River College Jazz Choir, earned many honors and awards over the 30 years of her tenure as conductor. They performed in several countries and received numerous awards.

In her closing remarks, Warren beseeched the audience to keep music alive, in schools, workplaces and the world at large, especially in the hearts, hands and voices of all people. Her legacy is a dedicated family of musicians who will see that her vision is carried out.

Choral Society “Canticles of Praise” is divine

2011-10-31T03:20:32Z

The chic clubs and restaurants along the K Street Mall were swamped Saturday evening with young adult revelers in extravagant costumes. Yet amid the high spirited chatter of zombies and ghouls, witches and vixens, a more sedate group of celebrants slowly gathered in front of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacramento, intent on a different sort of transformation.

Classical music lovers had been eagerly awaiting the first Stained Glass Concert, “Canticles of Praise,” which opened the Sacramento Choral Society season.

The beautiful cathedral, built in 1889 and renovated in 2005, was packed with a diverse audience. It was a setting worthy of the magnificent sacred music to be performed.

Some 170 members of the choir entered to the strains of the Jongen Chorale, "Quatre Pieces pour Orgue" played on the magnificent pipe organ by David Deffner, who played throughout the program.

Conductor Donald Kendrick took the podium and raised his elegant hands, and the chorus launched immediately into the stunning 1965 composition “Chichester Psalms” by famed American composer Leonard Bernstein.

The three movements of this remarkable work encompass three complete psalms and excerpts from three more. It began joyfully and grandly, with exuberant voices singing in challenging 7/4 meter and punctuated by percussion.

Also featured throughout the work was a quartet including soprano Rachel Sprague, alto Ellen Simonin, tenor Marin Pavliuc and bass Tim Mascarinas.

The second movement included the beloved 23rd Psalm in its entirety and was sung with clarity and pure simplicity by boy soprano Jack Baer, with the entire chorus providing explosive counterpoint to sing excerpts from Psalm 2. The audience was transfixed by the contrast of vocal intensity and the quietly soaring soprano.

The final movement demonstrated Bernstein’s mastery of understatement, with a quietly intense choral passage that draws all the power of the ancient texts into pinpoint focus.

Belgian composer Joseph Jonger wrote his 1945 “Mass” to express his gratitude for the release of his young son from Buchenwald. It is a lyrical and more traditional work, gentle and poignant yet powerful and exultant. The chorus was supported by the SCSO Brass Ensemble throughout the six movements. The Benedictus was particularly moving, and beautifully sung.

The program concluded with “Let the People Praise Thee,” composed by William Mathias in 1981 to honor Lady Diana’s wedding to Prince Charles in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.

The Sacramento Choral Society continues to delight audiences with each successive season. Kendrick doesn’t hesitate to introduce new and challenging works to the public, and the chorus is professional and dedicated to their art. The musicians who play with the SCS Orchestra are of the highest caliber, and each performance is a discrete jewel in the crown of Sacramento arts.

The season continues with the traditional “Home for the Holidays” concerts at the Mondavi Center on Dec. 10 and 11.

For more information on the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra, including schedule and ticket information, please visit sacramentochoral.com.

Midnight Star Shines on Thunder Valley

2011-10-31T03:17:55Z

Seventies musicmakers Midnight Star and A Taste of Honey packed Pano Hall at Thunder Valley Casino and Resort Friday night, keeping the audience on their feet for most of the show.

A late start didn’t dampen the crowd’s enthusiasm as Grammy Award-winning A Taste of Honey, featuring original band member Janice Marie Johnson, stormed the stage. Johnson was decked out in a pink sequin dress and high heels and sporting her bass guitar.

As soon as the band kicked into gear, the audience was on their feet, as the band played all their hits like “I’m Talking About You” and “Disco Dancin’.”

After a quick wardrobe change into an orange kimono, Johnson sang her hit song “Sukiyaki” as the audience settled back in their seats.

The audience catapulted out of their seats as Johnson finished the set with their biggest hit, “Boogie Oogie Oogie.”
Prior to the show, Johnson was backstage meeting some of her fans. I’ve attended a number of meet-and-greets, and Johnson was one of the most down to earth artists I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. She asked everyone their name, repeating it back to ensure she got it right. She would give them a hug and then start asking them questions while they were getting their picture taken. Class act all the way!

After a longer than expected break to change out equipment, the audience was back up on their feet as founding Midnight Star members Belinda Lipscomb (vocals), Melvin Gentry (guitar/vocals), Bo Watson (keyboard/vocals) and Bill Simmons (keyboards) took the stage with longtime bandmates Kenneth Gant (bass) and Bobby Lovelace (drums).

Pumping out their signature R&B electro-funk sound, they had the crowd singing and cheering to “Electricity,” leading into a brief version of “Headlines,” “Wet My Whistle” and “Midas Touch.”

I thoroughly enjoy bands like Midnight Star that take the time to choreograph their moves for each song. It adds a completely different dynamic to the performance, and it just plain looks good. Obviously the crowd agreed, because as soon as the band started moving in sync with each other, the audience responded with a round of applause.

After ending their set with “Freak-A-Zoid” and “No Parking (On the Dance Floor),” it was obvious the crowd was quite satisfied with the night’s performances by both bands.

Día de los Muertos Festivities with La Raza Galería Posada

2011-10-30T01:51:28Z

Día de los Muertos—Day of the Dead--is a Mexican tradition that stems from
Meso-American societies, and was heavily influenced during the Spanish Conquest of Mexico in the XIV Century.

During Día de los Muertos families create ofrendas (offerings) for loved ones who have passed. Día de los Muertos is observed in various forms throughout the American Continent and is an important pillar of Mexican, Latino and Chicano culture in the United States (La Raza Galeria Posada).

Although the Day of the Dead actually falls on November 1st, festivities are being held this weekend by La Raza Galeria Posada in a special location, between J and K, 20th and 21st Streets in Midtown.

The central focus is the display of altars.

They are as diverse as the souls who inspire them; some are small and simple, others large and elaborate. Many are traditional. They include the bread, salt, foods and flowers, and many other ingredients culturally appropriate for sending someone safely into the next life. Others are less orthodox.

All are an obvious labor of love, born of loss.

For the uninitiated, the exhibit may be unique in its blend of sorrow and celebration.

It’s also an opportunity to teach children and young people about grieving and loss.

The festivities resume Sunday morning. Admission is free.

8 am: Panteón Re-opens.
12pm-6pm: DJ-Albert Garnica playing oldies, rancheras, viejitas, and other requests ($1/song)
12-2pm: Cempazuchitl Flower Making Workshop*- ($5/person)
2:30pm-4pm: Mask-painting Workshop*- ($10/person)
4:30pm-6pm: Mask-painting Workshop*- ($10/person)
7:30pm: Closing Ceremony

Halloween sizzles at Thunder Valley

2011-10-29T00:58:44Z

Thunder Valley Casino and Resort kicked off the Halloween spirit Thursday night with the sexy Lodi native and star of the reality TV show “The Girl Next Door,” Bridget Marquardt. DJ D-wrek from MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out” was — you guessed it — the DJ, and Tone Loc made a special guest appearance.

Pano Hall at Thunder Valley Casino was transformed into a nightclub, complete with semi-private lounge areas, a couple of dance floors, a popular DJ, a well-stocked bar and a few hot babes thrown in for good measure.

Most of the attendees dressed for the occasion. Some wore evening wear, while others wore their favorite Halloween costume. Myself: jeans and t-shirt (just thought you’d want to know).

Marquardt was a Playboy Playmate and one of Hugh Hefner’s girlfriends, which was the basis for the TV show. Luckily she brought a few of her close friends and playmates along to show off her new line of Halloween costumes called Bridget by Roma.

Marquardt wore her Peacock costume, which she designed with the help of fellow playmate and Hefner girlfriend Holly Madison.

Prior to the show, a number of the “girls” were working the room and taking pictures with audience members, while DJ Dwerk attacked the turntables. There was even a photo booth where people were taking their pictures and having them printed out.

Once the fashion show started, everyone crowded around the runway to take a gander at the new costumes — or should I say the ladies.

Starting off the show was Branae Whitney, a Playboy Live model wearing the Ring Master outfit. I won’t go into all the details of the ensemble other than to say it was red — hot.

There were 11 costumes in all ending with the Fruit Cup worn by Leticia.

Tone Loc took the stage armed with his deep, gravelly voice, a Nike T-shirt, sunglasses and a towel wrapped around his neck. I’m sure a large portion of the crowd was wondering how the rapper was doing in light of recent events.

A couple of weeks ago, Loc collapsed during a performance in Atlanta while singing “Funky Cold Medina.” He had a similar incident at a Pensacola, Fla. concert back in 2009 while singing the same hit.

If I’m not mistaken, Loc didn’t play “Funky Cold Medina” and ended his set with “Wild Thing.”

Loc’s voice has stood the test of time. He sounded just like he did all those years ago, and the audience ate it up. He walked up and down the runway shaking people’s hands while he belted out his hit songs.

He appeared to be in good health and spirits, joking around with the audience and remaining active most of his performance.

Continuing with the Halloween theme, Thunder Valley Casino is hosting a huge Sinners and Saints party on Saturday at 9 p.m. I have it on good authority that the photo booth will be back. Sorry, guys, the playmates won’t be there, but they will have go-go dancers!

Hangtown to Host 3-Day Halloween Music Fest

2011-10-27T03:05:32Z

Placerville will host a three-day musical jubilee, the Hangtown Halloween Ball, which promoters and the community hope will become an annual event. Festivities begin Friday evening and run through Sunday at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds.

The camping event will feature an all-star lineup on two full stages (both indoor and out): The Funky Meters, Ozomatli, 7 Walkers (featuring Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann), David Grisman Sextet, Melvin Seals & JGB, Zach Deputy, Elephant Revival, New Monsoon, Poor Man’s Whiskey, Head for the Hills, Dead Winter Carpenters and, of course, three nights of Railroad Earth.

For the Friday opening, Railroad Earth will execute a unique original score to the 1922 horror classic “Nosferatu,” while simultaneously projecting the film. The performance will be followed by a full show with Bay Area favorites New Monsoon, plus special guests.

Event organizers have been working tirelessly to create an amazing festival site complete with roving performers, visuals and a spooky Halloween spirit that is sure to excite the imaginations of all who attend. They have planned a number of activities throughout the weekend, including pumpkin carving and some trick-or-treat opportunities for the kids.

“We have a remarkable site,” Promoter Ryan Kronenberg said. “The main stage area is set within an expansive natural amphitheater while the indoor late night hall, located just 100 yards away, is a 2,100-person venue with plenty of room for dancing.”

Conscious Alliance is also happy to announce they will be hosting an “Art That Feeds” food drive at the ball all three days. Patrons who donate 10 non-perishable food items will receive a free Hangtown Halloween Ball poster created by TRiPP.

Conscious Alliance always encourages food donations to be low-sodium and health-oriented products. Organic food donations are especially encouraged. Ramen noodles will not be accepted for the free poster.

There are still a limited amount of single- and three-day event packages available, including VIP camping. Vendors will be on hand serving food, drinks, wine and beer.

Disclosure: Holly Howard is a volunteer promoter for this event.

Big Party 2011

2011-10-26T03:43:07Z

A “Big Party” was celebrated this past Thursday in Midtown Sacramento. The Big Party was Artober's red carpet event held at The Next Door B&L Mulvaney's located at 1215 19th Street.

Approximately 150 people attended the event. The Big Party was put together to celebrate the 2011 Transformational Leader Awards party and was hosted by Tracy Saville and T2 Performance Solutions. The event featured writers, photographers, performers, leaders in the Sacramento community and artists.

Art, culture and business, civic leadership, music and community members joined in honoring and celebrating the work done by many in the Sacramento community. Guests were also photographed by Nicholas Wray, one of Sacramento’s best photographers.

KCRA’s Kristin Marshall started off the evening addressing honorees and guests to the event. Marshall welcomed everyone to the event and spoke about the Transformational Leader Awards and the recipients that were being honored.

Marshall welcomed guests by saying, “Thank you all and thanks to all our honorees, their families and friends.” She also spoke about those being honored and thanked them for sharing their dreams, excelling in the arts and for trying to create a better life for themselves by traveling roads less taken.

Marshall encouraged guests to mingle with the special guests through the evening and to, as she said, “Take from the experience and become motivated to do the same and make a difference if you can in your own way. Celebrating with us this evening are artists from all walks of life including Lonn Friend and Raphael Delgado, named artist of the year and creator of Millennium Scepter.”

Marshall introduced Brian Diamond who told her what to say when he was introduced. Marshall said, “He’s an actor, comedian, speaker, he likes soup, his favorite sport is hacky sack, he’s been a 3-time world champ and one day he aspires to be Rosie O'Donnell. So please welcome Brian Diamond.”

Diamond spent a few minutes doing his standup routine and was quite funny. He thanked the movers and shakers of Sacramento and then told short stories to entertain the audience. I especially liked when he told the audience, “This is actually going to be my last week in the arts and entertainment industry. I came into an awful lot of money. Next week I will have $2.6 million. I’ve been getting these emails from Nigeria and I think I’m really, really close to getting the money because they’re asking for my social security number.” Not only that but he also shared, “I just signed a great deal with HBO,” as guests applauded he said, it’s $14.95 a month and they’re installing it next week.”

Diamond noted he’s from Sacramento but had lived in Los Angeles for 11 or so years and told several funny anecdotes about his experiences down there and then got serious when he talked about the transformation he’s noticed in Sacramento.

Diamond also relayed a story about a gentleman in Sacramento who at the age of 15 witnessed another man address some field workers who were being arrested. This man told the lettuce field workers and the police officers about the freedom to assemble in a peaceful way and their right to exercise the freedom of speech. That man turned out to be Cesar Chavez. The young 15 year old who witnessed this later went on to Cal Berkeley to pursue a law degree as a result of the incident that changed his life.

According to Diamond witnessing certain events, works or deeds can have unintended consequences that can last a lifetime. He then went on and read a poem he called “Risk It” it’s a poem (slightly changed) by an unknown poet and it goes like this:

To laugh is to risk appearing a fool
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental
To reach out to another is to risk involvement
To express feelings is to risk exposing yourself
To place your dreams before a crowd is to risk ridicule
To love is to risk not being loved in return
To live is to risk dying
To hope is to risk despair
To try is to risk failure
But risk must be taken in life
Because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing
The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing
He may avoid suffering and sorrow but he simply cannot learn, grow, feel, change, love and live
Only a person who risks is truly free

Diamond concluded by saying, “and so for those of you who took risks you have made the changes that Sacramento needs and I thank you for that.”

Tracy Saville followed and thanked her guests and showed her usual charisma and enthusiasm as she welcomed guests saying, “This is a very meaningful evening for me but it isn’t about me. This is an evening that I and my family and our company wanted. To begin to do something that would set a different standard and set a new bar for the kinds of things that we saw as quality. We acknowledged characteristics that we admired, respected and helped develop in the leaders that lead our city and our region.”

Saville talked about the transformational leaders in the Sacramento community and in regards to those being honored at the event she said, “We wanted to shine a light on 30 human beings that we thought would be honored for stepping outside the box and for doing extraordinary innovative work.” Saville noted that many of them do these things fairly quietly and humbly and all of them excel in a discipline of perseverance and who perform powerful things even though nobody talks about it.

Saville later introduced rock and roll journalist Lonn Friend who was signing his newest book Sweet Demotion. Friend flew up from Southern California for the event and met many of the guests who talked to him about his experiences as a rock journalist. Friend mentioned a previous visit to Sacramento saying, “I think the last time I was in Sacramento was when I interviewed Tesla in 1991 so that shows you what a journey this is. I’m glad to be here. The last book that I wrote Sweet Demotion, the subtitle says it all How an Almost Famous Rock Journalist Lost Everything and Found Himself (almost) is really written for people who have been through a rough mid life.”

Friend said a few words about his experience as a journalist and mentioned how glad he was to be at the event. Friend also had on hand another book he wrote Life on Planet Rock: From Guns N' Roses to Nirvana, a Backstage Journey through Rock's Most Debauched Decade.

Raphael Delgado also addressed guests and said it was a privilege to be honored and thanked everyone. His work Millennium Scepter was the emblem or icon for the Transformational Leader Awards event. Talking about his works he said, “Thank you for all your support. Show me an artist who’s made it without support, ” and gave everyone time to reflect. Delgado’s work was all around, on the projected screen behind the stage, on the program’s front and back cover and on a table where a large piece of his Millennium Scepter was later unveiled. His recognition was well deserved and received.

Photographer Nicholas Wray talked a little about his photographic project saying, “I’m here because of this project I’m working on called the Sacramento 100. It’s a book that I’m developing. It’s basically about the 100 most culturally influential people in Sacramento that I’m photographing. It will be all in black and white and it’s going to be a coffee table book.” More information about this project and photos of guests during the evening can be seen at his facebook page.

As the program continued Saville returned to address guests and thanked her family for being at the event. Saville spoke about T2 Performance Solutions a private company that Tracy and Tim Saville founded in early January. Saville said, “We’re a traditional personal and professional leadership development company so we do all that, also team building, management staff work and H.R. presentations that your employers make you go to but we do that sort of like in a rock and roll style. What we really do is focus on this idea of personal leadership.”

Recognition and awards were then bestowed upon many honorees and after that the celebration continued.

Clemon Charles provided musical entertainment and Saville’s son Michael Wilson played drums. Wilson and Christopher Karne Frost along with T2 also produced a Clemon Charles video that made its premier and was projected on a screen.

The Big Party continued after the 2011 Transformational Leaders were recognized and who in turn will nominate someone to take their place for next year’s celebration.

Skip Heller, Los Angeles R&B/Blues/Jazz Guitarist and Singer Appears at Shine Cafe in Sacramento - Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011

2011-10-25T16:27:18Z

Skip Heller is an all-American singer, writer and guitar player who hails from Los Angeles. Regarded as as one of Los Angeles' most wide-ranging artists, his approach is traditional but not locked into retro period conventions.

Coming of age in early ‘80s Philadelphia, he learned guitar from local masters of jazz and folk music. Heller has played and recorded with rockabilly legends Wanda Jackson, Ray Campi and Big Sandy; exotica greats Yma Sumac, Les Baxter and Robert Drasnin; Americana masters Dave and Phil Alvin, Billy Swan and Katy Moffatt; plus Todd Rundgren, Stan Ridgway, DJ Bonebrake, Tipsy and Bob Dorough.

Skip did a brief stint on the road with NRBQ as their guitarist. And he's written music for cartoons like “The Flintstones,” “Dexter's Laboratory” and some Disney shorts, several indie films, and even an episode of “The Bernie Mac Show.” He spends roughly 150 days a year on the road with the Skip Heller Trio.

Catch Skip Heller in a rare Sacramento performance at Shine with special guest Debora Iyall (Romeo Void).

When: Sat., Oct. 29, 8 p.m.
Price: $5 at the door
All ages
Where: Shine, 1400 E St. - (916) 551-1400

Second Annual Masquerade Gala

2011-10-25T06:02:27Z

The 2nd Annual Masquerade Gala was held at the Gallery 2110 and Sacramento Art Complex this past Saturday night.

The event brought art aficionados to a masquerade gala evening where guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of fine food, beer, wine and friends. Live fire dancing featuring Gina Rossi and an art gallery auction were also featured. Proceeds from the auction are split between the artists and the Sacramento Artists Council who, among other things, provides scholarships and grants to young artists.

In contrast to the rain that fell during last year’s masquerade, this year’s event was held under sunny skies. The Sacramento Artists Council (S.A.C.) presented the masquerade gala and many of its board members were at the event.

The S.A.C. supports local artists, musicians, photographers, filmmakers and other artisans. It also helps cultivate and inspire high school students while partnering with local business for a greater sense of art community throughout the Sacramento area with an emphasis in the Midtown and Downtown areas.

The 2nd Annual Masquerade was also sponsored by the Midtown Business Association.

A no host cocktail reception was held at the Gallery 2110 sculpture garden and complimentary appetizers were available. Both floors of the art complex were open for viewing and a few resident artists were on hand to greet visitors. The hosts for the evening were Susan and Mark Rabinovitz.

Out in the sculpture garden, a performance featuring a Creative Spirit Fire Dance by Rossi thoroughly entertained guests. Rossi has art in the garden and also donated an art piece for the evening’s art auction.

Rossi addressed the audience during the performance.

“I want to thank you all for being a part of this evening and supporting the arts. It’s amazing to have all of us here together for something that is positive for our community.”

Rossi talked about her role at the gallery and introduced her dance. She indicated that most of her performances are basically improv performances and the reason is because, as she said in a true artistic spirit, “I like to do what comes instinctively since we all move through life with our heart and minds and sometimes there is no rhyme or reason for what we do. Life just carries us on and wonderful things come out of that.”

An impressive performance was given by Rossi, paired with Nick Rosenthal. After the fire dance, performance guests were ushered into the main gallery where several dozen pieces of art, all up for auction, hung on the walls or served as center pieces for the dining tables.

A delicious vegan or poultry dinner was provided and served by Classique Catering with Carvalho wines. Classique Catering also provides services for weddings, corporate parties, balls, galas, events, festival and holiday parties in the Sacramento area.

Mark Rabinovitz took the opportunity to thank guests as they enjoyed their dinner.

“This is our 2nd Annual Masquerade. The first one was a huge success and I think it’s safe to say that this will be too. Thanks to the people who are here. Thanks also to the board, the Sacramento Artists Council and all the artists whose work you see hanging on the walls.”

He noted the partnerships that are being developed through this and other events in the area.

“I think we have years to develop this partnership and there’s more to come, this is just the beginning.”

Rabinovitz mentioned that he noticed a lot of familiar faces at the event, including members from the Sacramento Artists Council. He mentioned the mission of S.A.C., which is to create venues for local artists and to provide grants and scholarships. He thanked all the artists for donating pieces of their work.

A portion of the proceeds from each art piece will be given to S.A.C., who will then give back to artists and help young artists follow their passion.

“It’s one thing to have a community donate money to support artists, but seeing artists support other artists is something incredible and that’s exactly what the S.A.C. hopes to accomplish here,” said Rabinovitz.

“Thank you for coming out as a community. Enjoy the night and enjoy sitting with the people you’re sitting with. Have a cocktail or two, make sure you bid on some art later and enjoy your meal.”

To top off the sit down dinner, Music a Dué serenaded guests as they enjoyed their meal and each other’s company. Guests enjoyed several pieces from the harp and flute duo.

As guests ate dinner they were able to chat with old friends and mingle with several of the artists who had donated art.

Each piece of art had a starting price along with its actual value. Any piece could also be bought before it went up for live auction. Each artist specified an amount that would be donated to S.A.C. and the donations ranged from 20 to 100 percent of the final bid price.

As dinner wound down, Mark Rabinovitz once again addressed the audience to introduce the S.A.C. board and say a few words.

“I want to introduce our Founder and Executive Director, Susan Rabinovitz; our President, Scott Mitchell; I am Vice President, Mark Rabinovitz; Secretary, Wendy Mitchell; our Treasurer, Dylan Swann, could not make it… Thanks also to our board members Jodie Kerhlikar and Karen Dukes. Karen Dukes is also a resident artist in this building and is kind enough to donate 100 percent of her auction proceeds. Our newest member is Denise Coleman, she joined our crew in the last couple of months and she’s been a huge asset. She’s a great vocal person and has a lot of connections as far as art, music and community.”

Rabinovitz also mentioned some of the council’s 2011 accomplishments, which gave guests an idea as to where the money goes. Art Happens, an event held earlier this year, included approximately 10 bands that showcased their talents in front of Sacramento community guests. Nevada Union High School held an art exhibit at Gallery 2110 and Sacramento Art Complex was able to raise $250 that went back to their school art program. Sutter Middle School also had an exhibit there that lasted for about a month and they raised $1,200. Rabinovitz mentioned they were able to help raise about $2,300 with the Art Happens event. As a side note, one of the items for bid was a piece by Sutter Middle School art teacher, Kelly O’Neill.

Following dinner, Music a Dué continued to play for a short while longer and guests were encouraged to take a break and view the art that would be auctioned.

During the break, I took a little time to chat with S.A.C.’s newest member, Denise Coleman. Coleman had worked for the Sacramento Press and indicated that she brought some of the art that was up for auction.

“These four pieces are part of my uncle’s estate. He was an artist and he left 50 years worth of art.”

Coleman’s uncle was Dr. Robert Coleman and Denise explained that she’s trying to put together shows to sell and donate his work. The four pieces from the Coleman Family Estate gave 80 percent back to the Sacramento Artists Council. The Coleman Family Estate art goes back to the 1950’s and Denise is hoping to put together chronological shows in the near future. Her uncle was a prolific artist and the four pieces of art were a great value. A couple of the pieces were later bought by artist Mark Lifvendahl and his partner Marcus Cayson.

Susan Rabinovitz ushered guests back to the main gallery after the break. To encourage competitive bidding, Rabinovitz joked, “I hope everyone has a cocktail or a beverage of their choice on hand.” She also noted that some silent auction items were available.

Rabinovitz noted that money was being raised for “art scholarships, art grants and also helping artists put art in public places. Funds are also put aside to work with some of our children in the city that don’t necessarily get a chance to have an art experience. It’s really good art therapy and gives them a sense of community. It also makes them feel included and helps happy hearts.”

Rabinovitz’ sense and desire to help Sacramento’s art community is very commendable. It is easy to see how she’s able to attract artists and others to become involved in art, family and community.

The first item for auction was a Gina Rossi recycled steel piece called “Absolutely Delicate.” Other work for auction during the first segment included works by Clare Bailey, Karen Dukes, Susan Rabinovitz, Molly Brown, two pieces by Robert Coleman and ceramics from Elizabeth Wocasek.

The first round went by smoothly and brought some entertaining moments when bidding increased on several pieces. Others did not make it to its perceived value.

After a short break, the works of Monica Lunardi, resident artist Marbo Barnard, Kristen Hoard, Christine Conklin, Michelle Brunmier, John Huerta, Paul Oester and Michelle Mackenzie were auctioned off. Several of these pieces did not receive bids.

As the evening went on, pieces by Mark Lifvendahl, David Arnold, Laura Caron, Paul Oester (his piece sold before the auction) and two more acrylic paintings by Robert Coleman went up for bid. Robert Coleman’s “Vacation” brought the most bidding action of the evening and Mark Lifvendahl won the bidding war. Susan Rabinovitz’ enthusiasm during the bidding could not be hidden and although husband Mark did not win the bid, she was happy to watch the bid go up from $75 to $155.

The last set of auction pieces were works by Kelly O’Neill, Cherys Jenkins, Angela Ridgway, Margaret Arnold, Michael Shane, Judith Monroe and a photo package by Carrie See.

The conclusion of the auction came and guests who remained socialized or started packing their new items. Susan thanked all those who attended.

“You guys are awesome! Thanks for bearing with us and we enjoyed seeing everyone here. Thank goodness it was not a rainy day. Hopefully we’ll see you again next year. Thank you for participating and have a good night.”

After the auction I talked with Mark Rabinovitz to get his impression of the event. Rabinovitz shared that the event this year seemed much more relaxed.

“This year’s event was very nice and easy going. There were about 20 less people bidding and I think the auction was well received.”

Rabinovitz continued, “The food was exceptional. For some reason everyone was very pleasant, I was very relaxed speaking. I felt like I was speaking to family and friends and since this was our second annual masquerade, a lot of the people knew what to expect. The harp and flute musicians seemed to fit right in.”

As he reflected on the evening, Rabinovitz said, “I think experiencing the fire show gave some excitement to the mellow classical music and the auction and I think that was great. Everybody had a good time; everyone was smiling and laughing. Everyone seemed to be having a good conversation. It worked out nice.”

Mark and Susan Rabinovitz are great ambassadors for the art community and the artists S.A.C. promotes. They also appear to be very involved in the Sacramento art community.

The S.A.C. and those individuals and organizations that it partners with are making a difference in the community and are helping to build the future.

The inspiration and cultivation of the Sacramento art community is encouraged by the S.A.C and similar organizations. They arouse interest in art and inspire many to become involved and support local artists.

k.d. lang at the Mondavi

2011-10-22T06:31:59Z

k.d. lang and the Siss Boom Bang delighted the capacity crowd at the Mondavi Center Thursday night with a wide-ranging show.

Her legendary voice delivered everything from a sultry growl to a soaring soprano heartache. Throughout the 90-minute set and two encores, lang’s remarkable voice delivered each note with an impeccable sense of timing and emotional nuance.

She never flinched from delivering a song with powerful bravado, as in her 1992 Grammy-winning “Constant Craving,” nor did she shy away from the almost unbearable tenderness and vulnerability of “The Perfect Word.”

The concert was almost evenly divided between songs from lang’s latest CD, “Sing It Loud,” and some of her older tunes, with a smattering of offerings from other artists: “Reminiscing” by the Little River Band (1978), “A Kiss to Build a Dream On” from her duet album with Tony Bennett, and of course Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”

Backed by her first band since The Reclines played on her first two albums, lang showed a sense of playful fun that has been missing from her recent work. Returning to the humor and high-spirited campiness that characterized lang’s early work some 25 years ago, there was no holding back on the enthusiasm and energy of the evening.

Siss Boom Bang is an accomplished group of five musicians with impressive credentials in the rock, pop and country genres. There was an obvious intimacy in the interplay among the players and lang.

This configuration seems to work well for all concerned, particularly the collaboration between lang and guitarist Joe Pisapia on several of the songs from “Sing It Loud.” Not since the early days with Ben Mink has lang had a consistent composing and arranging partner, and the chemistry shows to advantage in their work.

The first encore was a rousing acoustic chicken-scratch rendition of “Pay Dirt” from lang’s very first album, “Angel with a Lariat” (1987), and it exemplified the hoedown feeling of that younger “cow-punk” singer. It was a welcome homecoming, and the crowd embraced it with thunderous applause.

Ryan Adams grows up — well, kinda

2011-10-21T04:47:09Z

Ryan Adams, in his usual black leather jacket and jeans, sat solo on the stage, his long, messy hair seemingly blinding him from his black book of sheet music and lyrics – a thick anthology of prolific work spanning from his first solo record “Heartbreaker” to his Oct. 11, 2011 release, “Ashes & Fire.”

The crowd applauded and whistled, and after an endearingly awkward pause, Adams grinned, saying, “Hello. Thanks for coming to the show. I’m just going to sing some songs about ‘the feelings.’”

Anyone who knows Adams’ music understands that Adams’ feelings are the unabashed, raw type – the kind that tells a relatable yet shocking and often painful story. And if he has no story to tell, you sure as hell will “feel” something nonetheless.

Tuesday night’s show at the Crest Theatre was no exception. In his opening song, “Oh My Sweet Carolina,” his voice flowed from raspy to pristine, masking all evidence that five years ago he was diagnosed with Ménière's disease, a congenital disease that caused partial hearing loss and threatened to end his music-making altogether. His hiatus from music and booze the last few years may have served as just the right anecdote.

“That’s the one that gets people in love with Ryan Adams,” a writer sitting next to me, Peter Zimmerman, said, referring to “Oh My Sweet Carolina.”

I nodded. That was certainly the case for me. I think it happened back in the early years of college, listening to “Heartbreaker” in a cozy uptown cafe, trying to harmonize like Emmylou Harris. With that said, hearing Adams on Tuesday night was like falling in love again with an old flame – comforting, familiar, nostalgic.

In his quintessential quirky way, Adams searched sloppily for a pick, patting down his pants and shaking his guitar until he finally found it wedged in his pocket. “Oh wait. Hello, my little friend,” he said, staring at his pick.

Adams, singing this song and losing picks, is the Adams of heartbreaking youth – the whiskey-slugging, dirty-hair-flowing, reckless Adams who could simultaneously send you to sleep with a quick smoke and a long lullaby.

But the Adams of now is an Adams that some might refer to as more “grown up," managing a marriage (to Mandy Moore), sobriety and his own record label PAX-AM.)

“Ashes & Fire” reflects that shift, which is made most evident in his lyrics to “Lucky Now,” where he asks, “Are we really who we used to be? Am I really who I was?”

But the next song of the night, the title track off of the new album, alludes to his still-youthful, untamed disposition. “This is a new song about walking around New York, being incredibly stoned,” he said. “Um... it’s also about nothing!”

Throughout the rest of the evening, Adams “worked the stage,” evenly weaving older classics with newer numbers -- “Sylvia Plath” on piano, “My Winding Wheel” standing, “Invisible Riverside” sitting and roughly 20 other tunes in various positions and with rather witty and whimsical intentions.

In “New York, New York,” he announced that he was going for a sound “like snow on a farmhouse when you have your parents over for Thanksgiving, and you’re playing Spyro Gyra records.” For one Cardinals song, he had “redneck Star Wars” in mind, commenting that the Crest Theatre could be “on the outskirts of Mordor!” With “Two,” Adams requested dimmer lighting “to go with the self-depreciating music.”

In a surprising encore, Adams, clad in a black cape and followed by two candle-lit gothic girls, dedicated an original death metal song to his tour opener, country singer Jason Isbell.

“He brings back my Southern accent,” Adams said of Isbell, who hails from Alabama. “It’s been such a pleasure to play with that dude...He lets me play my semi-satanic Norwegian black metal. It’s Halloween every day on the bus...Somebody has to be the Glenn Danzig of alternative country!”

Adams’ sardonic sense of humor didn’t scare Isbell one bit, nor did it scare the audience whose laughter mimicked the sound of a night at Laughs Unlimited.

“I’m sorry. I’m not supposed to make you laugh. It’s bad for my image," he said.

And like many artists, much of Adams’ humor holds in it a tinge of truth. In another candid act, Adams refused to play the shout-out request from an audience member for “La Cienega Just Smiled.”

"No. Ask me why. Because I said,” Adams bluntly put it.

“Actually, do you want to know why? A song is born the first time you play it all the way through,” he said. “But then 10 years later, they pick up their own identify, and I wonder, can I still bring it back to the day that it was born? Sometimes, you just can’t play it any more, because it’s become so much more.”

His statement made me wonder. Which of his songs have morphed for him mentally and which ones remain pure, if there are any at all? His performance brought me back to the early days, but what do those songs mean to him now? How does he feel about the birth of his new songs?

I was pondering this, wishing i had set up an interview, when he began playing the requested song - a stripped-down, beautifully shaky version. He paused at one point, creating silence as the audience absorbed the song. The woman who asked for the song shouted, "You don't know what this means to me!"

Turning back to his new work, Adams then unsuccessfully tried to tune his voice to his guitar in preparation for his new song, “Chains of Love,” a task that frustrated Adams to the point of pseudo-profanity.

“Crapola! Oh, did I just say ‘crapola?’ Oh, gosh darn it,” he said.

The crowd offered their support. “I love you!” one fan called out.

"I apologized to the audience for my “cussing problem. It goes along with my not-growing-up problem.”

To put it in his own words, perhaps the Adams of today has not “grown up” too much after all. Yes, he’s shown a more-settled, sober and softer side since the wild, whiskey-hound Adams of youth.

But as was illuminated at Tuesday night’s show, Adams has not lost his humor, his hearing or, most of all, his ability to make you “feel” something.

Crocker Art Museum Hosts Esteemed Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet

2011-10-19T20:30:53Z

The Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet will bring their award-winning sound to the Crocker Art Museum on Thursday, Oct. 20. The Quintet will perform select works inspired by the exhibition “Gardens and Grandeur: Porcelains and Paintings by Franz A. Bischoff,” on view through October 23. The concert will take place in the Museum’s Setzer Foundation Auditorium at 7 p.m.

The Quintet—comprised of Alec Watson, piano; Rane Roatta, tenor sax; Malachi Whitson, drums; Tree Palmedo, trumpet; and Bill Vonderhaar, bass—is the winner of numerous DownBeat awards, including the 2007, 2009, 2010, and 2011 awards for best collegiate jazz group in the country. The group has performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival, Brubeck Festival, Detroit International Jazz Festival, and at jazz clubs such as Yoshi’s in Oakland, Herb Alpert’s club Vibrato in Los Angeles, and the Jamboree Jazz Club in Barcelona, Spain.

The Brubeck Institute was established by the University of the Pacific in 2000. Named in honor of the acclaimed American jazz pianist and University of the Pacific alumnus, the Institute’s mission is to promote creativity, education, and dedication to music, as well as advance important social issues. The members of the Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet are in the Institute's Fellowship Program for recent high school graduates.

Tickets are $6 for Museum members and $12 for nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at crockerartmuseum.org, the Museum Admission Desk, or by calling (916) 808-1182.

Playlist is part of the Museum’s Thursdays ‘til 9 program series, sponsored by Bank of America. The Crocker is open every Thursday until 9 p.m. for film screenings, social gatherings, concerts, and art happenings presented in collaboration with regional art groups.

For more information, call (916) 808-7000 or visit crockerartmuseum.org.

The Crocker Art Museum was one of the first art museums in the U.S. and is now one of the leading art institutions in California. Established in 1885, the Museum features one of the country’s finest collections of Californian art, exceptional holdings of master drawings, a comprehensive collection of international ceramics, as well as European, Asian, African, and Oceanic art. The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in Downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Tuesday–Wednesday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thursdays; 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday–Sunday. Every Third Sunday of the month is “Pay What You Wish Sunday” sponsored by Bank of America.

Garibaldi Live: Really. Freakin'. Awesome.

2011-10-19T15:41:24Z

The Crest Theater will soon be filled with adoring and screaming Garibaldi fans once more. On October 26, performing live at the Crest Theatre will be the Sacramento native and world famous performance artist, David Garibaldi.

Garibaldi’s works are known for wowing crowds. The artist travels nationwide and overseas to showcase his talents on something as simple as an empty canvas.

Music feeds into his performances and crowds go wild. Many admiring fans guess and wonder what the painting will be when he is finished, but they are always astounded and amazed. Once he has your attention, that’s it - you’re hooked.

Garibaldi has created everything from the King of Pop to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. His portraits include Barack Obama, Albert Einstein, Jimi Hendrix, Audrey Hepburn and even Mickey Mouse, just to name a few.

When asked how he is able to work so hard, but make it look so easy, Garibaldi answered, “The hardest part of my job would be all the preparation that goes into a show... I am the artist, but I am still incredibly hands on and I have a vision that I want to come across.”

Of course, with any performance, practice makes perfect. The time and effort that it takes for creating just one show is incredible.

Garibaldi Live is one of many shows and performances that Garibaldi has done in Sacramento. Having Sacramento as a hometown, he is devoted to somehow “give back” to his community.

“Sacramento is my hometown and I have planted roots here.”

Garibaldi has given so many great things to the city of Sacramento. He painted a fan-inspired “beHeard” mural at the corner of J and 20th, and he created the well known under-the-sea mural on a small apartment building on N street. It is refreshing to see someone rise to stardom and still be so humble and grateful, an attribute than many star performers have lost.

Garibaldi Live will feature opening acts such as musicians Stevie Nader and Wesley Avery. David’s charismatic performance will surely be in attendance with this new amazing show. He describes the show as a “whole new experience with over the top production, different theatrical elements [and] the largest painting I have done on stage yet.”

When asked how he would describe Garibaldi Live in three words or less, he replied, “Really. Freakin.’ Awesome.”

Garibaldi’s shows always provide something for all age groups. If you have yet to see him live, he will inspire you to create. Garibaldi Live takes place on October 26, 2011 at the Crest Theatre in Sacramento, Calif.

For more information, visit www.garibaldiarts.com. To purchase tickets, please visit www.tickets.com

Jim Brickman to perform at the Crest Theatre Nov. 4

2011-10-19T06:01:20Z

World-renowned pianist and songwriter Jim Brickman will perform at the Crest Theatre Nov. 4 with musical guests Anne Cochran and Benjamin Utecht. Brickman, who also sings at his concerts, said he will be performing romantic melodies, a few Christmas songs, but no breakup songs – that’s just not his style.

"The Gift," "Valentine” and "Love of My Life" are just some of his famous love song compositions.

He has collaborated with various musical talents, including Martina McBride, Olivia Newton-John, Michael Bolton and Lady Antebellum.

"You have to find your own voice, because if you sound like someone else, then there's nothing unique about you," Brickman said.

His distinct style of music comes in the form of inspiration, romance, calm and emotional moments. Something he does not do are breakup songs. He said he likes to promote hope in his music.
Brickman began playing piano at age 5 and did not come from a musically inclined family, but he said his family has always been supportive of his love for music.

In high school, he played with a band performing at weddings. It was not until he moved to California in his late 20s from his hometown of Cleveland when he started getting recognition – a couple years after sending his sample music to radio stations and recording companies.

Since then, Brickman, turning 50 this November, has produced six albums that received gold and platinum status and two Grammy nominations. A gold status is awarded for an album with more than 500,000 units in sales and platinum status is awarded for an album with more than 1 million units in sales, according to the Recording Industry Association of America website.

"I think it’s something that comes naturally. I don't think it’s something you attain or grow into," Brickman said when asked about when he fell in love with music. "In my case, it’s much a part of me like learning to talk."

Playing live is his absolute favorite, he said. He does not have any rituals or special preparations before performing live in his concerts. Instead, he assesses the environment by using the first song he plays as the barometer if the mood of the audience is energetic or calm.

Brickman has performed many times in Sacramento, and the Crest Theatre was the venue of his first performance in this city.

"I always loved that neighborhood in downtown with all the restaurants, and I always have a great time." Brickman said. "I haven't been there in a long time, and I'm really excited to introduce the audience to my special guests."

In his upcoming concert, he will be performing with special guest artists Adult Contemporary Singer Anne Cochran and Pop Singer Benjamin Utecht. Brickman said he enjoys collaborating with other musicians and letting them bring their own style to his songs.

"It’s always a lot of fun. I think sometimes people think it’s going to be a recital or quiet,” Brickman said. “It's actually joyful and sometimes very lighthearted and funny, and there’s a great variety, from the hit songs, a couple of new ones, a little of Christmas, and great guests.

"I sing quite a bit in the shows as well,” he added, “so I think people don't expect as much singing, and I don’t think they expect it to be as lighthearted as it is."

The concert will begin at 8 p.m., and ticket prices range from $30 to $65 and are available at tickets.com. The Crest Theatre is located at 1013 K St.

Demented Salvation

2011-10-19T05:22:10Z

Few might expect to find salvation inside a prison’s walls, but that’s exactly what rap’s most famous supposed Satanist glimpsed.

Tech N9ne (performing at the Ace of Spades on Oct. 24) visited fellow hip-hop eccentric Lil Wayne at Rikers Island while the latter MC served a year- long sentence in 2010 for weapon possession. The three hour dialogue touched on everything. They started with their families and children. Then, their peculiar career paths. Before long, N9ne was opening up about how his success had been hindered by years of anonymous blog posts and whisperings about his supposed 'devil worship.' Then, he revealed to Wayne why those rumours could never be true.

“We talked about spirituality,” N9ne, who was born Aaron Yates in Kansas in 1971, says of the bond he briefly forged with Wayne on that day.

“We talked about how we believe there’s a higher power, how those elderly cats in there (in jail) were tellin’ him it couldn’t be. We have that in common; we wanna believe there’s something there that we’re prayin' to.”

It was towards the end of the conversation, as the guards pointed at the clock and a weary Weezy blinked a little more slowly, that N9ne’s eyes were opened.

“’Fear God.’ It’s on his eyelids, tattooed,” N9ne says of his cohort’s pious emblem. “I think real people recognize other real people. Everybody’s reality is different so I can’t tell you to keep it real, you can’t tell me to keep it real… with me and Wayne it’s different because his reality is bigger than mine, with album sales and business. But on a personal level, we’re right there together, real dudes, and I think that’s what we both sensed when I visited him in Rikers.”

Despite such blessed moments, N9ne has longed for something more from another reality- one that isn’t tangible, but far more spiritual. Much of that hereafter desire stems from the health issues that plague his mother. First there was epilepsy, then lupus, pancreatitis, diabetes and now a blood transfusion to treat a clot in her leg.

N9ne spoke of the doubt that mounted during his mother’s ailments before elaborating on what those qualms of faith led to.

“I thought, the devil tried the righteous, but is she gonna be tried her all her life? Then she dies, is that when she’s worthy? What kinda God is that, when all that happens? I realized [I] needed to find out.”

It was a search that led to his signature song, “Show Me A God." Its verses are tersely bitter, ranging between somber and anger before rising to a seething chorus:

“I’m kinda feelin’ that it is a façade, show me a God.”

Over the years, those kinds of lyrics have left many hip-hop fans dubbing him a heathen.

“People said all that shit then just because I was different. It was never true that I was ‘the devil worshiper,’” he says of the rumours that plagued him since the new millennium and stifled his career right up until he released his first platinum album, “Killer,” in 2008. “They didn’t know that I grew up in the church and I was tryin’ to tell them that, but because of (my dark lyrical) imagery, I was shunned.”

He hopes to convey that upbringing lyrically and in interviews, how his mother raised him to know right from wrong-a value he constantly tries to instil in his own children.

"They’re why I’m still alive. That’s why I got off ecstasy,”

He says that the young ones' creative spirit pushed him to stay clean for more than four years now.

“They love my music. They love Eminem, Adele, Avenge Sevenfold… But I taught ‘em right from wrong, that they’re not supposed to curse. So when they sing along to Eminem and he curses, they make up another word to go (over) it.”

His mother’s approach was much more strict, but not at first. She may have brought home Sugar Hill Gang albums for him to dance to when he was in the fourth grade, or even used rap style vocals for spelling lessons, but soon things changed.

“That’s how my mom and auntie taught me to spell my name, rappin’ the letters in rhythm form. I don’t know how (they realized), maybe I was always beatin’ on stuff, but they said I couldn’t spell my name unless we did it in rhythmic form.”

Those hip-hop beats were quickly replaced by church choirs. N9ne’s devoutly Christian family brought him to weekly mass. Then his pious parents split, his mother remarrying a Muslim when her son was 12 years old. His new stepfather forbade hip-hop in the household as a consequence for the would-be rapper’s slipping grades.

“I had to go sneak and buy it and put it at [a] friend’s house across the street," N9ne says of his father's tough love. “He told me I wasn’t buyin’ rap or tennis shoes, but dress shoes and ties. He was just tryin’ to make me a man, tryin’ to make me intelligent, but I didn’t know it at the time. I was young and dumb.”

Once again, he was left to turn elsewhere- sneaking visits with his biological father’s side of the family, which couldn’t have been a more polarizing influence.

“He was LAPD, but he’d come back to KC (Kansas City) once in awhile. I remember ridin’ on his motorcycle when I was five, then I never saw him again ‘til I was 14. (Meanwhile) I’d go over to his mother’s house and they were hardcore drinkers… liquor everywhere, kids drinkin’.”

“They lived in the hood… I think growin’ up around my mom and aunties made me spiritual. That part of Tech N9ne wouldn’t be here, that big heart, if I’d been raised by my Dad’s side... Mom taught me love, so I know how to put that love in my music to connect with my fans. But if grew up around my dad’s side? Man, I would’ve been Ice Cube, ultra gangster.”

Despite all that wandering through the moral middle ground, N9ne still longed to travel further- to that other reality, that more spiritual level, even if it meant glimpsing actual spirits.

Just over a decade ago, when N9ne had grown into a young man, and fanfare around creepy flickslike “The Blair Witch Project” had grown fervent, the struggling MC rummaged around abandoned buildings with his best friend Brian Dennis.They hoped to capture a ghost on camera, but N9ne had no idea how much his friend would soon literally haunt him.

“We said ‘Let’s go find something.’ Me and Brian wanted to search for something greater, even if it was an alien or a ghost. We wanted to know there’s something here besides us.”

He and Brian set out, visiting broken down insane asylums and caves that were the subject of countless local ghost stories. They went to old hotels like The Eldridge in Lawrence, Kansas-- where the elevator features a picture of a ghost-- and then ride from the top floor to the basement again and again.

“I would stand in the elevator and ride it for like 30 minutes at 4 a.m. and find nothing… I wanted something to startle me, to say ‘Get the hell outta here’ and scare the shit outta me. Then I’d know there’s something here besides us.”

Dennis died before that wish was granted. The rapper says what he misses most about his best friend is his edgy creative streak, rife with dour sounds and creepy lyrics.

“He was always tryin’ to create new music, put the super darkness on me. I was always infatuated with horror films but… he took me under the underground, beyond the catacombs… Brian created that depth and that darkness in my music, and I wish he was still here to enjoy it.”

In a way, N9ne is convinced he still is.

“Sometimes I don’t even know these words comin’ out of my mouth,” the rapper says of his recent freestyles. “I’ll think, ‘Where did I get that word?’ Then I’ll check the dictionary to make sure I’m usin’ it in the right context and it’s always right. It feels like Brian is putting these words in my head. It’s wonderful because I’m getting’ better and better (lyrically).”

By better, he may mean vulnerable as a fresh wound.

“I Love Music,” a highlight from N9ne’s latest lauded album, “All 6’s and 7’s,” features searing, honest lines that detail his burdensome dedication to the rap game that “...saved my life, paid my lights [and] made my wife say, ‘Bye, bye.’”

But much of the album doesn’t stray too far from the demented, edgy imagery he’s famous for. One of its opening cuts, “Am I a Psycho?” features “Why did I let this stripper burn me on the arm with a cigarette, in the same spot 10 times in a row?” as one of its tamest lines.

Aside from switching between such wildly eclectic themes, N9ne’s prowess also lies in his ability to rap backwards on early fan faves like “Absolute Power,” or rhyme at a speed that would leave many listeners wondering if he was speaking in tongues.

With those consecrated microphone skills, he hopes to reach out to each equally twisted fan, together building the new reality he’s always longed for.

“My fans saved my life… I had nothing. I was a bum livin’ in my wife’s mother’s basement, writing my songs,” he says of those dire early days. “She was sayin,’ ‘You gotta get a job; it ain’t workin,’ and I’d say, ‘No I got something.’ Now it’s come to fruition.”

Tech N9ne will perform at the Ace of Spades on Oct. 24.

Occupy Midtown Sacramento a pictorial

2011-10-18T04:41:30Z

Several hundred people showed up to this weekend's Midtown Modern Arts Festival. The event took place on 20th Street between J & K and was enjoyed by children and adults.

Various performances included the Sacramento Ballet, Capital Stage Company, The Sacramento Philharmonic, B Street Theatre, Sacramento Comedy Spot, the Harley White Jr. Orchestra and other acts. Over a dozen arts and performing organizations had stations set up to give those in attendance information about the many art programs offered in Sacramento and surrounding areas.

Several demonstration tables also allowed visitors, mostly children, the opportunity to participate in arts, music and crafts set up by various organizations.

The Midtown Modern Arts Festival achieved their main objective for the event, "The goal of the festival is to create a venue for Midtown to show off what it does best, Art!"

The free event was held under ideal weather conditions. Families enjoyed the festival and meeting new friends.

Cesar Chavez Plaza continues to be the site for "Occupy Sacramento" demonstrations. No matter what side of the fence you sit on this issue Occupy Sacramento is an ideal place to go for a lesson in Civics, Democracy and the American way.

Each day Occupy Sacramento publishes a list of events for the day and a General Assembly is held on a regular basis to go over the agenda, discuss any issues and vote on these if necessary.

Those who have occupied Chavez Plaza located at 910 I Street have been doing so in solidarity with Occupy Wall Street which has now gone global. Many in the Occupy movement face being arrested and are willing to put up with the possibility.

On my short visit to Occupy Sacramento I was able to witness several of our rights we have, as American citizens, including free assembly, free association, free speech and the right to vote.

Grammy Award Winning Dave Alvin comes to Auburn

2011-10-13T17:14:05Z

As Dave says it, “There are 2 kinds of Folk Music, quite Folk Music & Loud Folk Music, I play both”, but as one who has seen Dave in many configurations, this line does not begin to explain a Dave Alvin show. On October 14th, Dave (along with the Guilty Ones) will be making their way up from Sacramento Town to the gold rich foothill town of Auburn, as Dave continues to claim his name as “The King of California”,( at least when it comes to songwriting, rippin’ Fender Stratocaster riffs, and incredible vocal phrasings). The Auburn Event Center (& Roadhouse) will play host for this very special and rare evening of fun! - (BTW if you have not been to Keep Smilin' show at the Event Center you are missing out!)

Dave Alvin first gained international recognition as the driving force behind the classic ‘70’s / 80’s Band The Blasters, which became the standard for “New” American Rockabilly, blending , Blues, Rock N’ Roll with a little Punk attitude and fun, the likes of which no one before or since has been able too trump. Since then Dave has developed a Grammy Winning solo career, while at times dabbling with side projects, including the LA Bands X & the Knitters, both of which feature Xenon and John Doe along with the short lived band The Pleasure Barons featuring the late Country Dick Montana and Mojo Nixon. Along the way , Dave took home a Grammy for best Folk Album with his incredible project “Public Domain".

His "solo" musical path has taken a fun run with some incredible guilty folks, 1st it was Dave Alvin and the Guilty Ones, then the Guilty Women came along which has helped lead to his newest configuration “the Guilty Ones” featuring couple guilty guys and one hell of a great guilty woman! The Guilty Ones just released Dave’s newest album Eleven Eleven, a CD that features “Harlon County Line”, a song featured on the FX hit “Justified”

Opening the fun will be Campbell & Woods, a rare joining of some very old friends and incredible performers Bob Woods and Gary Campbell. Gary’s vocals are second to none & Bob’s guitar work on the B-Bender Fender Telecaster are of legendary status, as those who have witnessed can attest too. They will be performing some familiar songs culled from the dusty horse trails of the South West, as well as from Hobo camps found along the tracks of the old Southern Pacific railways. Do not come late for this show, Bob and Gary are not to be missed, trust me on this one!

The Doors open at 7, the show will start around 8. All ages are allowed, but keep in mind this is an “adult” oriented show, and ID is required for the bar. Seating is limited and no guarantees are given! Mean people and whiners need not show, but if you are up for one hell of a great evening of music – this is gonna be it! Tix are available at Cherry Records & Tribal Weaver in Auburn, Briar Patch Records in Grass Valley, All Dimple Record Locations or online at http://davealvin.eventbrite.com (there were just a few tix left for online purchas at the writing of this) - There will be a limited amount of tickets available at the door.

The Event Center is a short trip froma any valley location, just off of the Elm Exit of 80 in the Liquor Outlet and for more information visit my website at http://www.keepsmilinpromotions.com.

Note that the Auburn Event Center and Keep Smilin' will be bringing several fun shows to close out 2011 - On Sunday Ocotober 30th an early show with Wayne "The Train" Hancock (with Leroy Virgil & the Excavators, the Cash Prophets, Cockfight Kings & Afterlife) * 11-11-11 will be celebrated in a big way with Great American Taxi - Achilles Wheel (Featuring Jonny Mojo & Paul Kamm) & Pete Grant on Pedal Steel for both bands!) - then on Friday 12-2-11 The New Riders of the Purple Sage return along with The Coalition featuring (Poor Mans Whiskey's Sean Lehe, Mind-X's Sean Barfly & Rick Zamora, Brian Rogers and more) - Come on out and join in some fun!

Disclosure: I am the "Purveyor of Fun" for Keep Smilin' Promotions - for which all projects are not for profit, but rather to share some great music and times - Feel free to email me at keepsmilinpromotions@gmail.com of look for Keep Smilin on Facebook

1st Annual Bands, Beans and Brews at Howe Park Oct. 23rd (FREE)

2011-10-12T21:15:30Z

Come join us for our 1st Annual Bands, Beans, & Brews on Sunday, October 23, 2011

in Howe Park, 2201 Cottage Way. Enjoy local bands, including Still Kicking and JackWagon from 1pm until 5pm. For purchase, enjoy the beer garden sponsored by Hoppy Brewing Company (ID required) and additional food vendors.

As an added fun treat, enter the homemade Chili contest for prizes, $5 per entry, please inquire about entry form and rules at www.fecrecpark.com or by calling 916/927-3802. Six categories include meat (mild, medium and hot) and vegetarian (mild, medium and hot).

Chili’s will be available of purchase during the event at $1 a cup…or you can participate in choosing the “fan favorite” for $10 which includes samples of the 6 winners and a chance to cast your vote!

So break out that family recipe to compete in our chili contest or just come out and enjoy a great Sunday afternoon in Howe Park with free live music at Bands, Beans and Brews!

Disclosure: I am currently a Recreation Intern at Fulton-El Camino Recreation and Park District from CSUS.

Panic! at the Disco performs at Ace of Spades

2011-10-12T00:54:16Z

Although the band lost its original guitar and bass player in 2009, it doesn't appear that Las Vegas' Panic! at the Disco has lost any fans.

Performing for a sold out crowd at Ace of Spades Monday night, handsome lead singer Brendon Urie and company had fans in a tizzy from the get-go as a steady stream of clothing landed on stage after the first song.

"Wow. Thank you!" said a surprised Urie.

Panic!'s set focused mainly on their debut album, "A Fever You Can't Sweat Out" and 2011's, "Vices & Virtues."

They played only two songs from 2008's well-received album, "Pretty. Odd." They included "That Green Gentleman (Things Have Changed)" and "Nine in the Afternoon."

The Panic! pop was a bit of nostalgia for some.

"The twelve year old in me is so excited to see Panic!" said college student Amy Lane, 19.

Providing main support was Patrick Stump from on hiatus-Fall Out Boy and his ambitious new self-titled solo project.

Almost unrecognizable from his Fall Out Boy days, Stump strutted out in a neat powder blue suit and bow tie, a cropped blond haircut and black, fingerless gloves.

At times channeling both Prince and David Bowie, Stump tore through an R&B-flavored set that included a cover of Phil Collins' “In the Air Tonight.”

If you're a fan of Fall Out Boy, the new material feels like a departure and at the same time seems completely expected and natural for Stump's next direction. His solo debut "Soul Punk" drops next Tuesday the 18th.

Opening the show and setting the bar for the rest of the night were the crazy characters of Cincinnati rock band Foxy Shazam.

The band sounds good on record, better live, and their fun show is a kick. Highlights included pianist Sky White standing up on his keyboard and playing by stomping his feet, drummer Aaron McVeigh spitting into the open mouth of vocalist Eric Sean Nally (he asked him to), and Nally later lighting and puffing on a nearly full pack of cigarettes before shoving them all into his mouth and eating them.

Stage antics aside, they play good music.

"It's kind of close to pop cabaret," said Sacramento rock music aficionado and photographer Kevin Graft, 44.

Photos by Steven Chea

Ballet, music and art at Midtown's Second Saturday

2011-10-11T08:37:35Z

Summer has come and gone but crowds at Second Saturday still remain large. Second Saturday events have grown in popularity and other communities participate in Second and Third Saturday art events.

During fall several cities stop their art walks. Folsom and El Dorado Hills had their last Second Saturday of the year in September and October respectively.

Popularity of similar events in smaller towns continues to grow. Attendance and art displays expand in the smaller venues but none of these can compare to the popularity of Midtown’s event.

This Saturday I attended a handful of galleries and events. Since there are so many places to view and experience art I made a list of places I was invited to or wanted to see and took the rail from Folsom to Midtown.

My list of galleries or events I had, included the Sacramento Ballet Studios, the Heart Clothing Boutique, Urban Hive studios and places in between depending on time allowed.

The Sacramento Ballet on 1631 K Street held an open rehearsal for their upcoming “Dracula” performances. The dancers either wore full ballet outfits or casual dancing attire for the performance.

The Sacramento Ballet is one of the most delightful pleasures to experience in Sacramento. Ron Cunningham’s troupe always provides great entertainment. It isn’t until an open rehearsal is performed for public viewing that one can see and experience the time and effort spent on practice.

Once on stage however the Sacramento Ballet puts on great performances that showcase the wonderful talent they have and the time and effort they spend practicing.

The audience that attended this art in motion exhibit watched an impressive performance of Dracula that will take place at the Sacramento Community Center. Four performances of Dracula have been scheduled for October 22, 23, 27 and 28. Performances are at 7:30 except for October 23 which plays at 2:00.

Sacramento Ballet’s Artistic Director, Ron Cunningham, sat facing the ballet dancers during rehearsal and gave few directions as they performed. Any directions may have been more for the benefit of the audience as we followed the Dracula rehearsal.

Once the performance ended the audience vacated the dance area while Cunningham talked to the Sacramento Ballet performers. Outside the dance area people began to come in for another rehearsal.

The second rehearsal will eventually turn out to be a Vampire Flash Mob that will take place at a time and location still unknown.

The Vampire Flash Mob will be based on Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance. Dancers from all ages will be participating in the flash mob. Sacramento Ballet’s Christopher Brian Nachtrab was on hand to lead the flash mob rehearsal and the dance studio was packed.

Nachtrab made sure he announced that there was a video on YouTube that went through the choreography as well in case dancers needed further practice. More information as well as the actual time and place of the flash mob will be given on their facebook page.

Heart Clothing Boutique on 1903 Capitol Avenue celebrated their one year anniversary of business. Owner Vanessa Lopez celebrated by thanking her customers and friends by holding a fashion show outside her shop with DJ Esef playing in the background.

Heart Clothing had plenty of guests to help Lopez celebrate her 1 year anniversary. The small boutique is geared to make each shopping experience unique and personal. Byuti Salon and Spa teamed with Heart Clothing to provide hair and make up for the models.

Down the street at the street at the Gay and Lesbian Center on 1927 L Street a Second Saturday art exhibit was being showcased. As I walked around to look at the art I picked up some delicious appetizers that were provided for guests.

On the outside back patio the Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band played. The four member group played to a small audience.

Although I was only there for a couple of songs they showed a wide musical range touching on some folk, rock, indie and Americana. Kenny Rego’s vocals and their lyrics also excelled. Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band have a myspace page and you can sample some of their songs on YouTube and Reverbnation.

Kenny Rego and the Law of One Band played “Working Class Man” as their last song and its great melody, lyrics and vocals was a good selection to end their set.

Over at Barber’s Shop Alfa Romeo on 1116 18th Street, Mike Blanchard and The Californios played. Some fans watched from seats in the garage while others danced just outside on the parking lot.

A protest rally by “Take back the Night” marchers moved on to K Street from 20th. It looked like well over a hundred marchers paraded down the streets of Midtown carrying protest signs and yelling out demonstration chants to bring awareness to their cause and inform the public.

One of my last destinations was the Urban Hive where an Artober Art Show was taking place. The show recognized the art of four magnificent artists; Milton Bowens, Felipe Dávalos, Theresa Fike and Aaron Hagar.

Art filled the walls of the Urban Hive and several guests were on hand to view the work of these four artists. An intimate question and answer period also took place. Felipe Dávalos and Milton Bowens talked about their work and answered questions from guests.

The show at the Urban Hive Gallery runs from October 6 to November 7 and the Second Saturday event served as an inaugural Artober Art Show. The talents of these great artists can be viewed at the Hive and appointments can also be made to view the work.

Bowens and Dávalos, great artists in their own right, delighted guests with their commentary and it’s great to see this kind of interaction between the artist and their admirers. Dávalos’ art and work have been seen in National Geographic and other renowned publications. He has also created illustrations for children’s books, magazines, archeology, art history and several of his pieces are on exhibit.

Bowens has a powerful presence and talked about his work and the work of poets, writers and music performers who influence today’s society and how their communication medium transcends through cultures via their music.

Bowens described his work by saying, “I use text in combination with color and shades. I pretty much deal in history but there are a lot of hidden messages woven into the fabric of my paintings. My paintings are very personal to me to start with but they’re just anchored in what I consider pivotal moments in American history.” With that comment he described his works and what several items common in his art signify. Bowens continued to talk about his work and made the event very real and personal as he indulged the audience in what his work stood for.

A refreshing artist perspective was shown at the Artober Art Show and it allowed for meaningful dialogue between artist and guests.

Guests to the event were encouraged to bring new art supplies and materials to benefit the Stanford Home for Children and the Wellspring Center for Women. To find out more about Artober guests can visit the Urban Hive or Artober websites or contact Veronica Delgado 916-792-4947.

As many of the artist galleries began to close several other establishments remained open keeping the Second Saturday Art Walk spirit alive. Midtown continues to benefit from the event and it could clearly be seen as lines of people stood outside certain venues waiting to get into several of the popular clubs.

To follow other area artists and performers Roseville will host their Third Saturday on October 15. Several galleries in and around Vernon Street will host several artist receptions.

Oktoberfest in SactoBavaria

2011-10-10T04:11:51Z

Dirndls and lederhosen on men, women and children of all ages were abundant this Friday and Saturday at the Sacramento Turn Verein (STV). Friday evening and all day Saturday the organization, founded in 1854 as a gymnastics club, hosted its 44th annual Oktoberfest.

The Turn Verein is a place “where folks with German ancestry and people with an interest in German culture congregate.” From the atmosphere this weekend, the STV has made it easy for families in the Sacramento area to keep their German heritage alive and thriving.

Surrounded by Bavarian blue and white, nearly every moment was filled with great German food, entertainment and company. Differing from typical Oktoberfest celebrations, real German beer brought in from Munich and sausages piled high with sauerkraut were only the tip of the iceberg.

The Gruber Family Band was a great addition to the weekend’s events. The band played throughout, integrating various competitions for Oktoberfest participants, a women’s stein holding contest and a children’s yodeling contest included. Nearly all of the participants wore traditional German dress. One got the feeling that the parents of the young yodelers have been training them for years.

One tiny participant, still too young to officially compete as a yodeler, was 17 month old Riley. Her mother, Cyndi McCluskey, found Riley’s tiny dirndl online. When asked if this was a family tradition, McCluskey responded positively.

“Every year!” She said.

Perhaps Riley will be ready for next year’s yodeling contest.

Later on Saturday night, a supposed men’s stein holding contest was announced. Eager participants gathered only to find that they would actually be participating in a yodeling contest. The results were quite extraordinary, really; the final yodel-off involved some mighty fine yodeling.

The Alpentänzer Schuhplattler, a traditional German folk dancing group, performed numerous times throughout the event. Their dances included a grand march, German hat dance, wooden pole dance and a maypole dance, among others.

Friday evening, the 2011 Turn Verein Oktoberfest maxed out at around a thousand people. This doesn’t usually happen on Friday evening, explained Heinz Ludke, Recording & Financial Secretary of the STV, though they usually reach maximum capacity sometime Saturday evening each year. Already at 4:00 on Saturday, the crowds were larger than usual. The Main Festhalle was full already at 4:30 and only got more packed as the night went on.

A lively rendition of “The Beer Barrel Waltz” really got things going Saturday night. Along with the lulling winding and unwinding of the maypole led by the Alpentänzer Schuhplattler, this perfect Oktoberfest only got better as the night went on.

There were German sing-a-longs and American sing-a-longs, the chicken dance and then the young folk dancers were up again. The dance floor cleared and the strapping young lads remained. There was dancing and box jumping, followed by a go at the Bavarian Hat Dance that broke out into a mock fight between two shirtless lads in lederhosen.

At times, if you found a spot on the dance floor you were lucky; a seat was a near impossibility.

In the upstairs hall, the mood was a bit more modern, with AKAlive rocking the room.

For a quiet escape, you could visit the Kaffeehaus for a cup of Jo(han) and a piece of cake.

Joann Schuler, a member of the Turner Harmonie, the choir that performed several times this weekend, helped man the Kaffeehaus. She seemed delighted to be a part of the event and was perfectly willing to discuss German culture, family stories, and best of all – she offered tips on the best German desserts at the Kaffeehaus.

The fruit basket dessert came highly recommended, as did the Black Forest cake, of course, and the Bienenstich, which Schuler described as containing, “almond and honey and creamy yumminess.”

One of the best parts of the event was the family feeling that filled the air. Everywhere you looked there were children, and large families congregating, usually three generations strong.

“Last time I was forced to wear lederhosen at the age of seven,” said Jordan Hess of Sacramento, “and now at the age of 27, I get to enjoy the beer!”

Hess’s parents were married at the Turn Verein and his grandfather participated in the STV soccer league in the 70’s. Saturday night it was just him and his younger sister Aubrey, who recently returned from a lengthy study abroad in Bremen.

Outside, both sides of the hall were flanked by a beer garden. While the white plastic chairs in the Turn Verein Biergarten were less charming than the wooden picnic tables in Bavarian beer gardens, everything else about the event certainly held its own.

I’ve been to the Hofbräuhaus, to a beer hall in southern Bavaria and a biergarten in Munich’s city park, but I never imagined that I would find such an enjoyable event right here in the middle of Sacramento.

“Durst ist schlimmer als Heimweh!” reads a sign in the main Festhalle.

“Thirst is worse than homesickness.”

There are many Oktoberfests that excel in celebrating drinking delicious German beer a liter at a time, but the Sacramento Turn Verein does much more than that - although there was plenty of good beer to go around. They show off the marvelous methods of celebration in Bavaria, bringing out German American families and friends for a night of celebrating what they are and what they have, a shared German heritage.

Late Saturday evening, while the rest of The Gruber Family Band took a break, Michael Gruber played “Amazing Grace” on what can only be described as a super-length beer bong. I had been there for almost six hours and I wanted to go home so badly. At the same time, I knew that if I went home, this magical German world would disappear.

Until next year.

The next event at the Sacramento Turn Verein will be their annual Christkindlmarkt. The Christmas market will include a unique holiday shopping experience, glühwein (spiced wine) and their usual abundance of delicious German baked goods. Admission is free for the whole family with the donation of a children’s coat.

Besides numerous annual events like the Oktoberfest and its spring counterpart, the STV Bockbierfest, the Turn Verein offers German language classes, athletic clubs and various other social activities.